#Merrick Brush Bones #Review | #ChewyInfluencer #NationalPetOralHealthCareMonth

February is Pet Dental Health Month & to celebrate (albeit late, due to a illness filling our household for the past month) I'm sharing reviews for two different treats for dogs that will help you take care of your fur babies teeth all year long!

Today I'm sharing my second review, Brush Bones from Merrick. This was sent to us, to try and share our experience with you, from Chewy.

Merrick Lil' Brush Bones come in three different sizes; Mini, Lil', and Big - to fit the needs of most sizes of dogs. Venus received the size Lil' for dogs 15-25 pounds.

Lil' Brush Bones are grain free and gluten free - which is great because I know they won't aggravate Venus' allergies. They contain alfalfa and parsley to help freshen breath, and their texture cleans teeth and gums. These bones are also Made in the USA!

Venus loves these all natural chews, making it easy to keep her teeth clean between brushing all year round.

Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. This blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. 

#Zukes Z-Bones Dental Chews #Review | #ChewyInfluencer #NationalPetOralHealthCareMonth

February is Pet Dental Health Month & to celebrate (albeit late, due to a illness filling our household for the past month) I'll be sharing reviews for two different treats for dogs that will help you take care of your fur babies teeth all year long!

Today I'm sharing Z-Bones, from one of our favorite dog treat brands, Zukes. This was sent to us, to try and share our experience with you, from Chewy.

Zukes Z-Bones come in three different flavors: Clean Berry Crisp, Clean Apple Crisp, and Clean Carrot Crisp. These flavors come in sizes Mini, Regular, Large, and Giant. Venus received the Clean Berry Crisp flavor in size mini, for dogs 10-25 pounds.

Z-Bones contain alfalfa, parsley, rosemary, and fennel to help naturally freshen your pups breath. The texture of these bones help clean teeth and gums, and the antioxidants packed in each treat ensure these bones are healthy for more than just your dogs' teeth.

Made with natural and healthy ingredients in the USA. Venus loves them, and begs for more - but because of her diet we strictly adhere to the "one a day" limit on the bag. I know she'd love to try the other two flavors of these!
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Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. This blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. 

#Mediental 2-Step #SheetMask Sampler #Review

This review is for four masks I received as a sampler from Melody Skincare & Cosmetics. Margaret is a super sweet shop owner and having ordered from her in the past, I was thrilled when she asked if I'd be interested in trying out these new two-step masks she recently added to her site. I've been giving my initial impression on my Instagram recently, but in this post I'm going to share additional photos and a purchase link to grab some for yourself while they're at a great introductory sale price!

In this post:
>Mediental Baek Myeong MPS Mask
>Mediental Hwa-Chim TSA Clinic Mask
>Mediental Maeseon-Tox Mask
>Mediental Taeban Nutrition Skin Renewal Mask

Mediental Baek Myeong MPS Mask
Description:
This mask is designed to brighten your complexion and even our your skin tone.
Ingredients: Ampoule, Mask

Directions:
For this, and the other masks in this review, the directions are the same. You apply the ampoule (step one) after cleansing and toning your face - I also applied my acids beforehand as well (AHA and/or BHA, plus tretinoin). While your skin is still damp from the ampoule you'll remove the mask from the package and apply it to your skin. Relax while the mask is on your face - 10 - 30 minutes is a good rule of thumb, but I sometimes go even longer. Remove the mask and pat in the remaining essence, then continue with your routine.
Performance:
The ampoule is like a thick gel, and turned my skin into a nice canvas for the mask - by applying the ampoule first you are making your skin moist and allowing it to be able to absorb better. This lets the mask essence soak into your skin nicely and more effectively. The mask material is a dense cellulose fabric that adheres to my face like a second skin - the fit is absolutely incredible! The material is thin - but it is dense enough to be strong and durable, it doesn't tear easily.

I wore this mask for about 45 minutes, though there was still enough moisture for longer) and was very pleased with how much brighter my complexion looked. When I walked into the bathroom, my skin genuinely looked luminous. This mask also left a hydrating layer of essence on my skin, even after patting my face for a while. I enjoyed this for my evening routine, and found that it absorbed just fine after massaging in a cream afterwards or just soaked in overnight.

Mediental Hwa-Chim TSA Clinic Mask
Description: Designed to calm irritated skin, control oil production, and tighten pores.
Ingredients: Ampoule, Mask

Performance:
This mask has a slightly difference ampoule but it has the same light scent and thin gel consistency as the others. The mask material is also the same. I wore this mask for about 40 minutes and found that the same hydrating layer of essence was left on my skin. My pores are not a huge issue for me at the moment but I do feel like they looked a little smaller around my nose upon removal.

The big winning point for me with this mask, was that the next morning there was no excess oil in my t-zone! My face was not dry at all, but the fact this I didn't wake up to an oily mess around my nose and forehead makes me confident that this mask really does help with oil control.

Mediental Maeseon-Tox Mask
Description:
Designed to plump fine lines and wrinkles, and firm saggy skin.
Ingredients: Ampoule, Mask

Performance:
This mask has a slightly difference ampoule but it has the same light scent and thin gel consistency as the others. The mask material is also the same. I wore this mask for over an hour (!) and found that the same hydrating layer of essence was left on my skin.

When I removed this mask my face was plump, hydrated, and bouncy.

Mediental Taeban Nutrition Skin Renewal Mask
Description:
Designed to nourish and moisturize all skin types - especially dry skin.
Ingredients: Ampoule, Mask

Performance:
This mask has a slightly difference ampoule but it has the same light scent and thin gel consistency as the others. The mask material is also the same. I wore this mask for about 45 minutes, but could have worn it longer, and left a slight amount of essence on my skin.

When I removed this mask my face looked brighter and more plump, and felt pleasantly hydrated. This mask gave the highest moisture reading on my moisture meter, and gave the biggest increase in moisture to my skin during the masking time as well. Having oily skin, I can definitely say that I see this being a good moisturizing mask for all skin types.

Verdict:
This was a great sampler of masks to try. Mediental was a completely new brand to me, and I am usually nervous about the ingredients in two-step masks - but these were a real treat! They offer great ingredients without any real irritants, and give real results to my skin. My favorites are the Baek Myeong MPS Mask and the Taeban Nutrition Skin Renewal Mask, but all four are on sale right now at Melody Cosme!
Head over to Melody and grab a sampler of the same four masks I reviewed here for just $10! Or individual masks for $2.50 each. 

Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The Glitter Chic blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. If you have any questions, please contact me at gothickornchic at gmail dot com. This blog contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using one of those links. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Bloomingdale's #RANbeautyBox Unboxing

Four times a year Rakuten Affiliate Network chooses a select number of beauty bloggers to receive an exclusive box filled with goodies that showcase other brands in their network. I've received two of these boxes before, but this time we received a store-specific box - curated for Rakuten by Bloomingdale's! There were 25 of us that received this box, and I am over the moon excited to be able to share these amazing products with you. Today I'm going to show you what came in the box and give you my first impressions of all the products inside.

1. Clinique Pop Oil Lip & Cheek Glow (r.v. $18)
Description: A subtle pop of dewy color for lips and cheeks. Our nourishing tint with safflower, jojoba and sunflower seed oils feels luscious yet lightweight. Fluid-gel formula slips on with ease thanks to a convenient wand applicator that delivers the perfect amount every time.
Directions: Apply the tinted color on your cheeks and lips. Blend quickly with your fingertips.
Performance: This color looks very bright in person, but it sheers out very nicely. By dapping it on with my fingertip I'm able to get a very natural glow on my skin and it doesn't feel oily either.

2. Bobbi Brown Eye Opening Mascara (r.v. $30)
Description: High-drama volume and high-impact curl in the blink of an eye. The jumbo brush fans and pushes lashes up and out, while the rich, carbon-black formula intensely thickens, curls and lifts lashes all day for the ultimate eye opening effect. The unique formula creates a long-lasting curl that holds for 8 hours.
Performance: Mascara with a big brush always makes me nervous because I feel like I create a mess around my eye, and that it doesn't grab my lashes as well as a smaller brush can. Not only does this mascara have a nice black formula, but I was surprised when I noticed how much wider and awake my eyes looked after the first use. This effect doesn't last all day long, but it is very nice in the morning to have this added effect when you might be looking a little more groggy than usual.

3. Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder (r.v. $37)
Description: Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder contains the finest French "cashmere" talc, resulting in a sheer, silky powder that looks and feels natural. A unique light-reflecting ingredient creates a "soft-focus" appearance for fine lines and imperfections.
Directions: Dip the velour powder in the powder and then massage the powder in the puff. Remove the excess by tapping the puff on top of your skin. Use a rolling motion to work the powder into your skin.
Performance: My powder actually did not include a puff. So I'm not sure if the description I received was a misprint or if mine was just missing it upon production. I found this powder works well with a fluffy brush though! I tap a small amount into the cap and dip my brush in. After tapping off the excess I dap the brush onto my face and then blend once I'm finished. It does give a nice "blurring" effect to the skin. I also love that this powder has a screw-on top - it really eliminates any messes in the makeup mag or while traveling.

4. Gucci Power Liquid Liner (r.v. $37)
Description: The Power Liquid Liner defines the eye with a clean line of saturated black color. The innovative nib applicator features a protected fiber core, designed for precise control and remarkable versatility. By combining the high intensity black pigment and the precision applicator, a dramatic long-lasting glossy finish is achieved. Waterproof for 12 hours and smudge-resistant. This is a quick-dry formula that dries down to a saturated glossy finish. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
Directions: For a fool-proof cat-eye, start at the corner and apply inwards along the lash line. Rest the nib on the lashes to help reduce gaps.
Performance: This is such a rich, black formula. The liner nib really is easy to work with and I find it to be very easy to control. It's not super fine, but I get a good thickness in a line when I use this that I usually try to achieve anyway, so this isn't an issue for me. However, I do not find this formula to be waterproof at all. It's smudge resistant in dry cases, but if your eye is damp it will smudge and smear.

5. Malin + Goetz Detox Face Mask (r.v. $42)
Description: Synthesizing complex amino acids and natural almond extract to gently and effectively purify, clarify and balance all skin types. Stable vitamin c, anti-oxidant vitamin e and soy protein help firm and address signs of aging. Oxygenating cleansing agents replace harsh detergents to deep cleanse and purify, lifting dirt, oil and makeup away from the skin, while creating a physical barrier to seal hydration. Natural fragrance and color. Easily integrated into daily maintenance and prevention regimen.
Directions: For deep cleansing and hydration, use a thick layer of gel applied for 5 minutes or until dissipation of foam begins, in place of a cleanser, one to two times per week. Remove with warm wash cloth and water upon oxygenation. Tissue off without water upon oxygenation for optimal hydration.
Performance: This mask has a light tan color and smells of sweet almonds. It has a lotion-like texture that is smooth and easy to spread onto the skin. Once applied it starts to bubble up with tiny little bubbles. I leave it on for about 10 minutes, then rinsed away. It leaves my skin feeling smooth and soft, and looking a little brighter too. I have not tried it with makeup, but it does make a good cleanser as well.

A photo posted by Samantha (@samantha_blogs) on Feb 15, 2016 at 5:11pm PST

6. Kiehl's Tumeric & Cranberry Seed Energizing Radiance Masque (r.v. $32)
Description: An instant facial mask that invigorates skin and brightens appearance in minutes. Recharge skin's youthful glow with this naturally invigorating, skin-energizing masque. Formulated with Cranberry Extract, an antioxidant packed superberry rich in resveratrol, and anti-inflamitory Tumeric Extract, this unique masque also contains micronized Cranberry seeds that can be used to gently exfolaite the skin while washing the masque off after use.
Directions: A rinse-off formula to be used after cleansing and toning skin, allow mask to dry for 5-10 minutes. Recommended for daytime use.
Performance: This mask has a bit of a minty, eucalyptus scent to it (which are both in the ingredients). It's super creamy - I love the texture! After massaging my face with those little cranberry seeds and rinsing the mask off my face really does seem brighter and a bit clearer. I've only used this mask once so far but I'm excited to see what it does with prolonged use.

A photo posted by Samantha (@samantha_blogs) on Feb 15, 2016 at 5:34pm PST

7. SK-II Facial Treatment Mask (r.v. $95 for a set of 6)
Description: A radiance and moisture-enhancing facial mask. This 100 percent cotton mask drenches the skin with pitera's fusion of vitamin, amino acids, minerals, and organic acids, while working to revitalize, comfort, and provide intense hydration. It immediately replenishes dehydrated skin, leaving it refreshed and cool.
Interesting Fact: This product is one of the best sellers of the SK-II line. As a bridal skincare ritual, the Japanese like to soap Facial Treatment Masks everyday for more than 90 days prior to the wedding day.
Performance: This mask is made from a super thick cotton sheet that is too stiff to stick well to my face. I had to pat it down in spots continually to get it to sit flush on top my skin. The essence was nice, soothing and hydrating. The mask lasted about 45 minutes before the material just got too itchy - and then, holy brightness! My skin was so white and bright afterwards! I also noticed after using this mask my skin becomes much softer to the touch. This seems like a great mask, but it needs to be made with softer material.

A photo posted by Samantha (@samantha_blogs) on Feb 10, 2016 at 8:07pm PST

8. Sisley Paris L'Integral Anti-Age (r.v. $525)
Description: Powerful skin care with total anti-aging action: fights all the visible signs of generic aging and those linked to our environmental and lifestyle. Everyday stress, hardship and various excesses deregulate the biological life cycle of cells. This behavioral dimension, the third dimension of aging, affects the face even more than generic or environmental aging. Formulated with a complex of highly effective plant-based active ingredients. Spectacular results on wrinkles, firmness, radiance, density and hydration. Visibly diminishes perceived aging. Morning and evening.
Performance: So after the "stress" of pushing myself to use a cream that costs almost as much as a month of rent, I am ashamed pleased to say that I really do love this cream, and I did before I noticed how much it costs. I should have read the card before use, but I didn't - I was sick and I missed it. A moisturizer that makes me look alive when I'm sick. A cream that soaks into my oily skin like nothing and keeps my skin hydrated and plump day and night. There is a minimal scent that I have a hard time placing - it seems pretty generic, but the formula is something that I've been searching for, and of course found in something I could never afford if it weren't for amazing sponsors like Rakuten and Bloomingdales. I don't have many aging concerns right now, but I am turning 30 in two months, so prevention is key for me, and this cream is going to be on every wish-list anyone asks from me for the rest of my life.

Everything in this post can be found at Bloomingdale's!

 

 (affiliate banner)

Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The Glitter Chic blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. If you have any questions, please contact me at gothickornchic at gmail dot com. This blog contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using one of those links. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

#BlackAndWhiteSunday Couch Potato

#BonVivant Mint + Tea Tree #SheetMask from #Memebox #Review

You guys know how much I love Memebox - to have a blog dedicated to unboxing their boxes and reviewing their products, and of course my family at Memebox Addicts... So you can imagine how excited I get when Memebox releases new products under their house brands. Recently, Memebox released a new house brand all-together called Bon Vivant which showcases a natural side of their skincare line, and they introduced it with three different sheet masks. Tonight I'm sharing one of those three!

Bon Vivant Mint + Tea Tree Botanical Mask Pack
Made in Korea | Purchased from Memebox USA (affiliate)

Description:
This mask is designed to help with pore tightening and sebum control. It is made from an innovative botanical mask sheet that holds a greater amount of moisture than traditional paper masks, and for a longer period of time as well. The material is supposed to be more breathable and have a better fit than paper masks.

Ingredients:
Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Water, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Betula Platyphylla Japonica Juice, Allantoin, Panthenol, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Glyceryl caprylate, Xantham Gum, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Fragrance
Cosdna analysis

Directions:
Remove the mask from the pouch and unfold - remove the center support and apply mask to face. Relax for 10-20 minutes (or longer) - remove the sheet mask and pat in remaining essence.

My skin is oily, dehydrated, acne-prone with hormonal cystic acne from PCOS and sensitive to alcohol, bee venom and propolis.

Performance:
The Mint + Tea Tree mask felt very soft and squishy when I removed it from the package. I could tell it held onto a lot of essence and I couldn't wait to get it on my face. There was a half-sheet mesh support in the middle of the folded mask to keep it from balling up in the packaging, and to help you be able to unfold it easier. Once unfolded I was able to easily apply it to my face. It was easy to adjust and get a nearly perfect fit. The material is thin, pliable, and very soft - but still durable enough to work with easily. There is a bit of a tingling sensation when the mask is on my face - Memebox claims this is from the mask adjusting your skins' pH, but I think it's just from the peppermint and tea tree extracts.

Verdict:
The tingly cooling sensation was actually pretty relaxing and refreshing for me. After removal my skin felt fresh and cool, but I didn't notice any difference with my pores really. After using this mask a few different times I do think it's nice for calming acne though, and will definitely keep some on hand for that purpose.

Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The Glitter Chic blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. If you have any questions, please contact me at gothickornchic at gmail dot com. This blog contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using one of those links. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Two Year Blogaversary Instagram Giveaway!

February is my Blogaversary month - The Glitter Chic has been live for two years! To celebrate I'm hosting a little sheet mask giveaway on my Instagram - @samantha_blogs.

It's my #blogaversary month! I've been blogging at theglitterchic.com for 2 years, and babyandthechis.com for 6 years! To celebrate my love for skincare and setting free stress and anxiety from the day - I'm giving away a bundle of sheet masks! To Enter: You must be following @samantha_blogs & like this photo. Comment below with something you'd like to see me review on theglitterchic.com this year. For Extra Entries: 1. Tag a friend in the comments you think would like to enter. 2. Regram this photo tagging #samantha_blogscelebrate & have it public so I can see it under the hashtag. You can do either of these once every 24 hours for extra entries. This #giveaway is open to anywhere in the world I can ship to via USPS & ends 2/20. Disclaimer: This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Instagram. I am not responsible for prize delivery! After shipping, delivery is in the mail carriers' hands. #theglitterchic #kbeauty #koreanbeauty #koreanskincare #rasianbeauty #kbeautybloggers #koreancosmetics #koreanskincare #asianskincare

A photo posted by Samantha (@samantha_blogs) on Feb 6, 2016 at 5:47pm PST

Don't worry if you're not on Instagram - I'm planning a giveaway for everyone who follows my blog in April for my 30th birthday! That really snuck up on me...

Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The Glitter Chic blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. If you have any questions, please contact me at gothickornchic at gmail dot com. This blog contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using one of those links. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Skincare Routine Video!

A year ago (seriously... ) I posted a video on YouTube showcasing my AB Evening Routine, and it's still my top video to date. I hate recording myself, and expected no one to watch it except the people who asked if I would do one, but apparently it's been helpful to see someone do their routine and know where to fit products in.

I'm currently hosting a giveaway on Instagram to celebrate my two year anniversary of The Glitter Chic (don't worry if you're not on IG, I'm planning a blog giveaway in April for my 30th birthday) and to enter I asked for recommendations on what you'd like to see reviewed this year. One of the suggestions was another routine video!

So, here you go! I'm as awkward as ever, but if it helps anyone out and you guys enjoy watching videos like this, I'm happy to deliver. Feel free to ask any questions, I'll answer the best I can!



Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The Glitter Chic blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. If you have any questions, please contact me at gothickornchic at gmail dot com. This blog contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using one of those links. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Intro to Asian Beauty | Build Up The Basics

Welcome to step two of my "Intro to Asian Beauty" series! In my first post I covered what I felt were the basics of AB, as in basics to dip your toes into your new skincare journey. Hopefully by this point you've narrowed down a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer that work well with your skin - so in this post we'll move on adding more steps in the Asian beauty regimen.

1. The Basics: Cleanser, Toner, Moisturizer & Checking Ingredients
2. Build Up The Basics: YOU ARE HERE!
3. Individualized Treatments: Essences, Serums, and Ampoules
4. Overnight Healing: Spot Treatments & Sleeping Packs

In this post:
>Oil Cleansers
>First Essences
>Sunscreen

Where they'll fit into a routine:

Oil cleanser > Cleanser > Toner > Vitamin C > BHA > AHA > Prescription Treatment > First essence > Essence > Serum > Ampoule > Sheet mask > Eye Treatment > Emulsion/Lotion > Cream > Spot Treatment > Sleeping Pack or Sunscreen

#BlackandWhiteSunday Venus Takes a Bath

#TheFaceShop Smim Ceramide Hydrogel #Review

The Face Shop The Smim Fermentation Hydrogel Mask with Ceramides
This item was received as a gift.

Description:
This mask is supposed to hydrate the skin and repair damage with fermented ceramides and moisture-rich hydrogel.

Ingredients:
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Ceratonia Siliqua Gum, Chondrus Crispus Powder, Polyisobutene, Polyacrylate-13, Polysorbate 20, Panthenol, Cellulose gum, Phenoxyethanol, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Allantoin, Ceramide 3, Agar, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Potassium Hydroxide
Cosdna analysis

Directions:
Apply the top piece of the hydrogel first, then apply the bottom - I find this helps you get each piece situated perfectly onto your face. Leave on your face for 20-40 minutes, remove, then pat in any remaining essence.

My skin is oily, dehydrated, acne-prone with hormonal cystic acne from PCOS and sensitive to alcohol, bee venom and propolis.

Performance:
This mask was easy to apply - it wasn't too flimsy but it also had enough support where it wasn't a hassle to stick to my face. It had no scent, and covered my whole face, minus a small bit on the sides of my nostrils. This mask felt very soothing, like it was healing my face while I was wearing it. It was a very comforting feeling, and my skin definitely enjoyed it! I was able to wear this mask for ~45 minutes before it dried too much.

Verdict:
This mask not only left my skin feeling hydrated and plump, but I also found it to be very brightening and calming for my skin as well. This is a great mask, and I'll definitely be restocking it in the future!

Available at:
> Jolse; $5.08

Disclaimer: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The Glitter Chic blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. If you have any questions, please contact me at gothickornchic at gmail dot com. This blog contains affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using one of those links. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.