Poppy VoxBox: My first VoxBox from Influenster

Tuesday, April 25, 2017


After about three months of being a member, I finally got a VoxBox from Influenster! A small box full of fabulous goodies was sent to me for free for testing purposes. I would like to share what's inside my VoxBox and give you a short review of how I thought about each product after I tried them.

Okay, wait! Before I go discussing each product in my VoxBox, I would like to take some time to give others some idea of what is Influenster, how does it work and what is a VoxBox.




First, Influenster is a product discovery platform that sends out sample boxes to their members so they can try new products for free in exchange for honest reviews and feedbacks. This sample box is called a VoxBox. A Voxbox is a package filled with complimentary products from brands. It can sometimes be an assortment of products from different brands or a box dedicated to one brand. To be able to be given one of these Voxboxes, you have to sign up to the platform. If you want to get started, you can use this link to sign up: Influenster Sign up. Once you are a member, you have to complete your profile and finish all the surveys/snaps available, so Influenster can match you to any future Voxboxes. Also, do not forget to connect all your social media accounts to increase your Impact score. The more followers or friends you may have in each, the higher your impact score would be, and the higher the chances you'll be selected for a VoxBox. Influenster also takes considerations of members that are active on their platform. So review every product you already used, asked as many questions as you can about a product you're interested in trying and help other Influensters by answering some questions they may have about a certain product that you have knowledge about. Tedious it may seem, but it's worth it!

Anyway, moving on to the main topic of this blog post (my first ever VoxBox), I received the so-called Poppy VoxBox. Although it may seem like a tiny box, it is full of fantastic products inside!


Here are the products inside my VoxBox:

1. Nyakio Kenyan Coffee Facial Polish - 4/5
2. 7th Heaven Strengthen Nail And Cuticle Nail Masques - 5/5
3. Eva-NYC Freshen Up Dry Shampoo - 5/5
4. Nivea In-Shower Body Lotion - 5/5
5. Rimmel Scandaleyes Micro Eyeliner - 4/5
6. Rimmel Oh my Gloss! Oil Tint - 3/5
7. Tide Pods Plus Downy - 4/5

So here's my review of each item:

Nyakio (Neh-Kay-Oh) Kenyan Coffee Facial Polish - 4/5
What it does:
"Renew, refresh and revitalize all skin types with this lush, creamy facial scrub. This naturally derived formula combines Kenyan coffee, rich in antioxidants and caffeine, with jojoba and moisturizing shea butter. Gently exfoliate to instantly reveal radiant, youthful-looking skin". ~ from Ulta.com.



It's a whole new level of exfoliating your face with this product. I used this product every morning as part of my morning facial routine. I love how the little beads/scrubs felt on my skin while using it, making me feel it's literally removing the dead skin on my face. It makes my skin smooth and feeling fresh without irritating my sensitive skin, true to its claims that it's suitable for all skin types. I was expecting it would smell like coffee (which I would love), but it did not. It has a pleasant scent that's not overpowering at all. This product cost around $32 for a 4.0 oz tube which is kinda pricey for me. I love this product but being a budget buyer, I am not sure if I am willing to spend for this. But it's definitely a product that is worth a try. 


7th Heaven Strengthen Nail And Cuticle Nail Masques - 5/5
What it does:
"Treat damaged nails and cuticles with the product's nourishing Argan, Macadamia oil, and anti-oxidant rich Pomegranate finger masques. Revitalize and condition in 15 minutes!"


It was my first time to use a nail mask, and it was fantastic! It had a fresh scent and made my fingernails and cuticles so soft and silky without the tingling sensation. However, I had to ask my husband for help in putting the other masks in my other hand. But overall, it's worth trying! No other way to pamper your nails. 



Eva-NYC Freshen Up Dry Shampoo - 5/5
What it does:
"Perfect for busy girls, the Eva NYC Freshen Up Dry Shampoo keeps hair fresh one day longer without even washing! The expert formula instantly revives dull and lifeless hair by removing excess oil and odor leaving it clean, stylish and smooth". ~ from Ulta.com.


I never used any dry shampoo before, and I was curious how it works. When I had the chance of trying this product out, I fell in love with the smell! The smell brings me back to my college days (for some reasons). It makes my hair shiny and soft, and the smell last long! I would definitely have this now as one of my must haves! The price in CVS & Ulta for this product is $11.99 for a 5.3 oz bottle. Not bad at all.


Nivea In-Shower Body Lotion - 5/5
What it does:
"In-Shower Nourishing Body Lotion helps revolutionize the daily skincare routine and transforms body care with a different take on moisturizing. It moisturizes instantly with no sticky feel and
leaves skin feeling soft, smooth, and moisturized for 24hr+". ~ from Niveausa.com



I usually have dry skin, but I hate the idea of applying lotion after a shower because I don't like the sticky feel of it on my skin. However, this product was just what I needed! I don't have to deal with putting lotion after a bath since I can do it while I shower using this product! And the best part about it? It moisturizes your skin without the sticky feel! The product design was simple and nice. It has a delightfully fresh scent which I love, and it leaves my skin hydrated and moisturized all day long. My skin feels so smooth and smells so good after a bath. I will, for sure, buy more of this! It is $4.99 for a 13.5 Fl.oz. in Amazon.com.


Rimmel Scandaleyes Micro Eyeliner - 4/5
What it does:
"Rimmel Scandaleyes Precision Micro Eyeliner has an ultra-thin felt tip for a flawless, super-precise line. It's long-lasting, ultra-black color stays put for up to 24 hours and delivers flawless definition with a single stroke". ~ from Walmart.com


I am a newbie learning to create the perfect cat and winged eyeliner look. I can say that I had a hard time at first on using this product because the tip was really thin. I have to re-apply to make it visible. However, I think this product is good and can be a good eye buddy (if I could just learn the secret of applying micro eyeliners). It cost $5.47 in Walmart.com.


Rimmel Oh my Gloss! Oil Tint - 3/5
What it does:
"Rimmel London's NEW Oh My Gloss! Oil Tint is packed with a harmonious blend of four precious oils, for unprecedented nourishing care and comfort with an ultra-glossy finish. It's ultra-light, non-greasy, non-sticky and non-drying". ~ from Rimmellondon.com


It was such an oily lip tint! And when I say oily, it's more of a good thing since it has essential oils that help keep the lips soft and moisturized. I love the cute packaging and the flat and soft applicator that made it easy for me to apply it. I was worried about the color I received, "Orange Mode" because I am more of a red or pink lip-color-girl. I never tried orange colors in fear that it will look weird on me. But it turns out that this color was not actually a heavy orange shade.  I am not thrilled with the smell though since I do not like the strong fruity smell on makeups or skin cares. Although this lip tint is oily, it's not sticky at all. One issue I've encountered is that it bleeds, it can be all over, outside your lips. It doesn't stay long and has a need of re-applying it every once in a while. However, it still leaves your lips hydrated, smooth and moisturized even after it's all gone. Available for $4.26 at Walmart.com.


Tide Pods Plus Downy - 4/5
What it does:
"Cleans and conditions in 1 step, protecting clothes from damage in the wash. It has 4-in-1 technology: Detergent + Stain Remover + Brightener + Downy Fabric Protect. Tide PODS Laundry pacs dissolve in hot and cold water. Designed for standard and HE Washing Machines (front- and top-loaders)". ~ from Target.com.


It's so easy to use, smells amazing and efficiently cleaned my clothes. I did not use any additional detergent or dryer sheets like I usually do, so it will definitely save me some bucks! The cleaning power of Tide and the fragrance of  Downy is clearly a perfect combination. The 32ct pack is sold for $11.99 at Target. 

That's about it! I hope I can receive more VoxBoxes from Influenster and share my insights with you all again! 

Did you receive this Poppy VoxBox too? If yes, what was your favorite product? If not, what product are you excited to try?

Disclaimer: These products were sent to me complimentary by Influenster for testing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Read More

My First Approved CrowdTap Sample Application: Revlon ColorStay Bundle & Super Length Mascara

Wednesday, April 19, 2017


Crowdtap is one of my favorite platforms in getting free stuff. I've got a long list of sites where I get my free products or samples, but I can tell you that Crowtap would be in number 1. I have only been a member for about a month, but I already earned $20 Amazon gift cards and was approved for two fantastic sample applications.  Today, I would love to share with you the first free full-sized sample products I've received.

I was fortunate enough to be chosen to try some amazing products from Revlon. I received a total of 5 beauty products complimentary from Crowdtap in exchange for my honest review and opinion.
The products were Colorstay Brow Crayon, ColorStay Brow Pencil, ColorStay 2-In-1 Eyeliner, ColorStay Creme Eye Shadow and the Super Length Mascara.



Revlon ColorStay Brow Crayon in Soft Black
I can say that this was my least favorite among all the Revlon products I received. Due to the huge-crayon-like shape of it and the big tip of the liner (plus the fact that I am still learning this whole new perfect-eyebrow -thing world.), I had a hard time applying it on my eyebrows. It did define and shape my brow but not in one sweep as it claims because the product seems to be a little greasy for me, I had it smudge all over especially when applying it to the edges. One thing to watch out for this product was when you touch it, it smudges easily. It is, however, blendable and because of its unique wax to powder formula, it can stay long in your brows (just remember not to touch it).  I also loved the fact that it is waterproof. You can get it in 4 shades - Blonde, Soft Brown, Dark Brown and Soft Black. 




Revlon ColorStay Brow Pencil in Soft Black
I love this product better than the Brow Crayon.As I've mentioned, I am a beginner in the 'brow-thing-world,' and this Revlon pencil was just what I needed. It was easy to use and didn't give me a hard time applying it. The angled tip did help me out for precise application, and the brush, on the other hand, was a great help in blending the color to my brow. I love the creamy texture of the brow pencil and the fact that it's waterproof and has a 24-hour lasting formula. It's available in 5 shades - Blonde, Soft Brown, Auburn, Dark Brown and Soft Black.


Revlon ColorStay 2-in-1 Angled Kajal in Onyx
This is one of my favorite from the Revlon Colorstay Bundle. I don't always wear eyeliner, but when I do, it's during special occasions, so I spent time perfecting how to apply it. And this ColorStay Eye Liner from Revlon made that easy for me. It was so easy to use because of it's angled tip and with the help of the smudge brush, I was able to achieve a perfect smokey eye. It does not smudge in my eyes and last long as well. It glides smoothly, and you can easily control how thick or thin you want your liner to be. It's also good to know that it is ophthalmologist tested and safe for use on waterline. It's available in 4 sturdy shades - Onyx, Fig, Evergreen, and Graphite.


Revlon Colorstay Creme Shadow in #720 (Chocolate)
I don't usually use eyeshadow especially the powder ones because my eyes are sensitive and can get easily irritated. However, this creme eyeshadow did not give me that irritation. I love how the color looks in my eyes - simple but classy with a matte finish. The packaging design was neat and cute, and I love how it has a built in tiny brush in the bottom. It's pretty pigmented, easy to use, so smooth, waterproof and long lasting. It's available in 4 unique finishes - metallic, matte, pearl and satin. It's also available in 12 stunning shades.



Revlon Super Length Mascara in Blackest Black
I rarely use mascara, so I was thrilled to try this product upon knowing that it has a luscious lengthening formula. Using the long bristles, it glides smoothly in my lashes, and the tapered tip was helpful in coating my smaller lashes. The only thing I do not like about this product is that it won't keep my lashes curled. But overall, I like this product. It's very light and easy to apply, leaving you with a natural look without leaving black spots under your eyes. It has 4 shades - Blackest Black, Black, Blackened Brown, Blackest Black Waterproof.


Using these products altogether, I was able to pull out a fierce and bold look. Keep in mind that I am just starting my makeup journey and a total beginner created this look with the help of Revlon ColorStay Bundle and Super Lenght Mascara.





Have you tried any of these Revlon ColorStay products and Super Length Mascara? What are your favorites?

You can also check out my second Approved Crowdtap Sample Application also from Revlon here.

Disclaimer: These Revlon products were sent to me complimentary by Crowdtap for testing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Read More

Review: Cake Decorating Tips Kit by FUNCAKE

Tuesday, April 18, 2017


Are you a professional cake decorator? Or perhaps a beginner like me? Wherever you stand in cupcake or cake making or decorating, the Cake Decorating Tips Kit by Funcake would be perfect for you!
Being someone who's always passionate about the idea of baking but do not know where to start, this kit was just perfect for me. The kit comes with two icing bags, a variety of 24 icing tips, two easy to screw couplers, a clear box to put all your icing tips, free E-book and a generous 1-year warranty from the owner!

 

The clear box was just a perfect place to store the icing tips after use. It has multiple dividers that separate each of the tips and makes it easier to find the icing tip you need. You can also rearrange the dividers inside the box to store larger tips, and you can double up tips to store even more tips that you may already have! The icing tips are made from a strong stainless steel that doesn't get bent or misshapen. From this collection of 24 tips, you won't run out of new icing decoration ideas!



The two icing bags are made from high-quality silicone. It is 12-inch in length and has a secure grip. They are also reusable and easy to clean, and each bag also includes a hook so you can easily hang it up for drying. On the other hand, the two reusable couplers that come with the piping kit makes it easier to screw the tips onto the piping bag, hassle-free.









Upon your order confirmation, the seller will email you to activate your 1-year warranty as well as your free E-book. The E-book was a 39-page Frosting Guide, User manual and tips catalog. A ton of information that will come in handy on your cupcake decorating journey!


This is definitely the perfect and ultimate 30-In-1 Cake Decorating Kit. Ideal for making Cupcakes and Cookies! It's worth the price, indeed.

You can check out this item here: https://www.amazon.com/Decorating-Supplies-FUNCAKE-Decorations-Couplers/dp/B01ITDH4BM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481984662&sr=8-1&keywords=cake+decorating+kit


Read More

Review: Watermelon Slicer & Melon Baller / Fruit Carving Knife

Monday, April 17, 2017


Summer is fast approaching and watermelon season is almost here! Ever wonder how to slice your fruit in style? This tool might be a perfect addition to your kitchen.

I personally love watermelons and melons, especially during hot seasons. So when I came upon this product, I was excited to try it. I received this product at a discounted price in exchange for my honest review and feedback.


The box comes with two tools - the watermelon 2-prong slicer and the melon baller that can also be used as a fruit carving knife. The slicer is made from high-quality stainless steel, and it has a non-slip, comfort grip handle. I am now able to serve beautifully sliced watermelons. Cutting and slicing watermelons has never been easy, quickly serve and mess free!




On the other hand, the 2-in-1 tool scoop and fruit carver have a smooth stainless steel handle with plastic accents. The baller part comes handy when making fancy fruit drinks or scooping many types of fruits or even ice cream! The carving part is perfect for artistic people who find it fun to create cool fruit and food designs. It can also be used to slice or diced other soft, easy to mold food.




Both tools are easy and fun to use. They are sharp enough to cut and slice fruits but not too sharp to be dangerous to use. They have cute designs and vibrant colors too! It's an amazing little helper in your kitchen especially this coming summer!




Interested in owning one? Get yours here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01ETH6UGW/

Disclaimer: I received this product at a discounted price in exchange for my honest review and feedback. All opinions are my own.
Read More

Review: Happy Flight Passport Cover

Sunday, April 16, 2017


Looking for a simple but stylish passport cover to protect your passport and other travel documents? You may want check this out.


I recently received this Happy Flight Passport Cover at a discounted price for my honest review and feedback.

This product is available in up to 7 vibrant colors. I was a little disappointed when the cover arrived because I was not expecting the color to be a dark blue since the one in Amazon was a baby/powder blue color which was far beyond the color I received.



This passport cover has a pretty generic quality and made from Enamel PVC. The cover was larger than my passport with  a dimension of 16.9 x 13.4 x 9.1 inches. It has a slip-in compartment on the left side and two available slots on the right where you can put extra notes or documents you would like to carry.





Although I am not entirely thrilled with this product, it's a good cover that can protect your passport. Due to its waterproof PVC material, your passport and other documents can be protected from getting wet, and it can easily be wiped clean from dirt. The bright color was a plus because it makes it easy to spot on when you need it, with those vibrant colors, you are safe from leaving it behind.

If you want to get one for yourself, you can buy it from this link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F7M63LA



Read More