MOTHER'S DAY GIFT GUIDE 2020

Mother’s Day is coming up and although we may celebrating a little differently this year, Mom still deserves to be showered with LOVE and GIFTS. And being that you most likely will have to ship presents to her, I rounded up some gift ideas any Mom will be sure to LOVE. I chose a variety of items for whether it’s your own Mother, your Best Friend, Sister or a New Mom to be that you’ll be buying for this year. Happy Shopping!

All items are linked! Click the SHOP button and it will direct you to the site of that item.

Martha Stewart Dutch Oven 6-Qt.

For the Mom who loves to cook. Currently ON SALE for under $75!

SHOP

Crate and Barrel Edge Square Wine Glasses

Every Mom deserves a set of chic wine glasses to drink from.

SHOP

BRUMATE WINESULATOR & TUMBLERS

For the Mom on the go, who likes to keep her Coffee, La Croix or Wine cold.

SHOP

Uncommon James Mommy Bar Necklace

Perfect piece of jewelry for the Momma to be.

SHOP

KENDRA SCOTT ARI HEART GOLD EARRINGS

These earrings would be the perfect gift to say I LOVE YOU, MOM!

SHOP

LANEIGE LIP SLEEPING MASK

A self care beauty treatment any Mom would appreciate.

SHOP

SLY BEAUTY COSMETICS BAG

This cosmetic bag is great for Moms to store their beauty products or use as a makeup bag. Currently ON SALE for under $20!

SHOP

Drybar Double Shot Dryer Brush

For the Mom who loves blowouts. Now she can achieve this salon look at home. Currently ON SALE FOR 15% OFF!

SHOP

TOCCA MINI PARFUM SET

Give Mom the gift of a signature scent. Under $50!

SHOP

Chatbooks Custom Photo Book

Personalized photo book that will be a keepsake for years to come.

SHOP

Made For Motherhood Tank

For the Mom who loves to keep it cute & casual. Under $25!

SHOP

MARK & GRAHAM Travel Jewelry Case

Perfect for travel or storing baubles. Comes in several colors & can be monogrammed with initials.

SHOP

Wine Glass & Coffee Mug Gift Set

For the Mom who loves a good pun. You can choose from 3 different sayings for each item.

SHOP

TARGET WINE DOORMAT

A fun gift that would look great on any doorstep. Under $15!

SHOP

I hope these gift ideas are helpful. And to all the Mommas out there, HAPPY MOTHER’s DAY! 💕

XO, Dana Rae

SEPHORA SALE PICKS SPRING 2020

Happy Friday!! After doing a poll on Instagram stories the other day, several of you said that you were interested in the SEPHORA SALE that is currently going on until 4/27. So I thought I would do a round up and share my SALE picks in case you may be looking for some new things to try.

And if you’re not able to shop the sale at this time, feel free to use this post as a reference to shop from at a later date.

Use promo code: SPRINGSAVE for 10% OFF at checkout.

*Promo code is UNLIMITED, meaning you can use it for multiple online orders*

All products are shopable by clicking on the links below!

MAKEUP

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer - I love the coverage that this concealer gives and that it’s also buildable. It hides dark circles well and applies well on top of foundation or CC cream. I usually apply it and then set it with setting powder and it typically lasts throughout the day. I use the shade: CANELLE

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream w/ SPF 50- I’m not big on foundation so this has been my all time favorite product that I use daily. It gives you medium coverage almost like foundation without the heavy cakey feel. It gives you a natural looking glow + evens out your skin tone + has SPF 50. I wear the shade: LIGHT

Tarte Double Take Eyeliner- I've been using this eyeliner for a few years now. The great thing about this eyeliner is that it's double ended, giving you a pencil and liquid all-in-one. It goes on smooth and easy to apply. And the pencil usually lasts a good bit of time.

Tarte Toasted Eye Palette - My favorite eyeshadow palette! The colors are warm, super pigmented and long lasting. I love the color combinations within the palette and the shades are perfect for everyday or more glam evening looks.

NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment - NARS makes some of the best lip products, in my opinion! I’m never disappointed by their color options and the powermattes are hydrating and long lasting.

FRESH Lip Balm Treatment - A friend gifted me this lip balm and I LOVE it! I usually apply it after I use a lip scrub. It’s super hydrating and can be used as a lip treatment or everyday lip balm.

SKINCARE // BODY

Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream - Love applying this body cream right out of the shower. It helps tighten and smooth your skin. Ideal for applying on your bum and back of legs. Although it smells so amazing, you’ll want to apply it everywhere! Promise you’ll feel like you just stepped into a tropical getaway.

Drunk Elephant Polypeptide Moisturizer - After receiving a travel size of this and using it for a few weeks, I finally understood the hype of Drunk Elephant products. My skin instantly feels hydrated and plump after application. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a new moisturizer to try. Pricey but a little goes a long way.

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Cream - This is an eye cream I always find myself coming back to after trying other ones. It’s lightweight and goes on well underneath makeup. I usually see a difference immediately in reduced puffiness of my under eye.

Sunday Riley Good Genes - I was afraid at first of using a lactic acid on my face but this product has changed my mind! It helps improve the texture of your skin and overall appearance (helps reduce redness, dark spots, pores and even out complexion). Sunday Riley are a little expensive but they’re sooo good and effective with results.

St. Tropez Tinted Body Lotion - My go-to gradual tanning lotion when I need a quick glow. You can see a difference in color immediately upon application + color builds over 48 hours. Love using this for my legs if I’m wearing a dress and want some added color.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Oil - If you buy ONE thing from the Sale, buy this! It’s a facial oil you apply at nighttime and leave on. You wake up to hydrated glow skin. I can’t say what or how it works, I just know my skin feels and looks amazing afterwards. It’s a splurge but you the bottle lasts awhile as you only need a few drops each application.

GLAMGLOW Charcoal Clearing Mask - This is a great exfoliating charcoal mask if you have combination or oily prone skin. I use this about 1x a week to help get rid of any buildup on my skin from makeup and tackle any problem areas or breakouts.

HAIRCARE

Living Proof Color Care Whipped Glaze - If you have blonde hair or highlights- this is a game changer to help keep your color vibrant. As a red head with highlights, my hair tends to fade quicker and this helps remove brassiness and extend my color in between salon visits.

OUAI Hair Oil - Anytime my hair feels dry or frizzy, I’ll apply a few drops of this hair oil to the ends. I’ve also recently starting using it as an overnight hair mask

Drybar Triple Sec 3-in-1 Finishing Spray - One of my favorite texturizing sprays. Also helps give volume and refresh your hair throughout the day. Great for using on second day hair also.

NEW TO ME PRODUCTS (in my cart)

Charlotte Tilbury Highlighter Wand // Drunk Elephant Bronzing Drops // SUPERGOOP! Glowscreen Sunscreen SPF 40 // Laura Mercier Blurring Primer // Summer Fridays Overtime Mask

What are your favorites to stock up on during the SEPHORA SALE?! Any new products that you’re excited to try?

XO, Dana Rae

5 BEAUTY PRODUCTS WORTH TRYING: JANUARY

Today on the blog, I’m bringing back the series “5 Beauty Products Worth Trying”. I plan to post this monthly. Now days with so many products on the market, it can be hard deciding which ones are worthy of spending your money on. So, each month I’ll be testing and trying out 5 beauty products and giving you my honest opinion of them. This way you can hopefully find some new products to try for yourself or recommend for a friend. And if you have any products you want me to test out, let me know in the comments below and i’ll add them to my list to review. I want this to be a resource for YOU. Any feedback is welcomed!

Here are 5 beauty products from this month that have become part of my beauty & skincare routine.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Facial Oil

I’ve been using a sample size version this facial oil on and off for the past year. For Christmas, I was gifted a full size bottle and I have been using it every night as part of my skincare routine. It smells amazing due to the lavender essential oil, which also makes for a relaxing way to help fall asleep. Apply 1-3 drops of this on your skin overnight and you wake up with smoother, more hydrated skin. At first I was hesitant to use an oil on my naturally sensitive, oily skin, however it absorbs quickly and has given life to my skin lately.

Drunk Elephant Polypeptide Moisturizer

I know understand the hype behind this brand. I picked up a sample size of this moisturizer at Sephora in early December and was pleasantly surprised once I started using it. This moisturizer is a little thicker than I typically am used to, but it absorbs quickly and gives your skin hydration + makes it feel and look plump. It also helps with fine lines and wrinkles. And I love that it’s made with protein, which helps restore your skin. I’ll be restocking this product and continuing to use it during Winter months.

Caudalie Vinoperfect Serum

I struggle with redness on my face (mainly on my cheeks). A friend gifted me a travel size bottle of this serum and I’ve been hooked ever since. I noticed a huge difference in my skin even after a few uses. It almost immediately calms down the redness and evens out my skin tone. It’s also known to correct dark spots. I apply it in the morning under my moisturizer or at nighttime after cleansing my face. It’s lightweight, has little to no scent and is a milky consistency that feels great on your skin. I’ll definitely be purchasing a full size of this product.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

After using the same concealer for awhile, I recently was recommended this one while shopping at Sephora. I love the coverage that this concealer gives and that it’s also buildable. It hides dark circles well and applies well on top of foundation or CC cream. I usually apply it and then set it with NYX setting powder and it typically lasts throughout the day. I use the shade: CANELLE

Maybeline Brow Define + Fill Duo

This has been my go to brow pencil for 5+ years. It’s dual ended with a powder on one end (to fill in brows) and a pencil on the other end (for outlining). My natural eyebrows are blonde and almost non-existent, and this is the only brow pencil that gives me natural looking brows. And I’ve tried several different brands, both drugstore and high end. I fill in my brows every morning and I rarely have to touch them up (unless in water). I use the shade: AUBURN.

What products have you tried lately that you love?!

XO, RAE

SHOP PRODUCTS:

FEATURE FRIDAY 9.27.19

It’s the first weekend of FALL, y’all! And the only thing missing, is the cooler temps. Anyone else ready to break out their sweaters and boots?! Me too. I’m also excited for all my favorite tv shows to return. So I can spend my nights cozied up on the couch with a glass of red. I love this season so much. And I can’t wait to do all the Fall things.

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and more.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• If you enjoy watching the Super Bowl only because of the Halftime Show, you’re in luck! The 2020 Super Bowl Halftime Show performers have been announced and it’s bound to be a performance to remember.

• News broke this week that this Real Housewife of Beverly Hills, will star in the role of Roxy Hart in Chicago the musical early next year. Can’t wait to get tickets to the show!!

• Trader Joe’s just dropped their NEW seasonal items for Fall. And the list is everything pumpkin spice and then some.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• I’ve been using this in my coffee every morning and it’s sooo good! Especially if you’re looking for a dairy substitute.

• My go-to weekly charcoal face mask. I love that it’s a mask and exfoliating scrub all in one product. Also works great as a spot treatment, if you have any breakouts.

• Essie has launched their 2019 Fall Nail Polish Colors. And it’s pretty safe to say, I’ll be wearing the color: “Easily Suede”- all Fall long.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• See artists like Alicia Keys, One Republic, Pharrell Williams and more at the Global Citizen Music Festival. Located at The Great Lawn in Central Park, Saturday 9/28. Starts at Noon.

• Stroll through the Union Square Farmers Market to see all the new seasonal items. Saturday 9/28 8am-6pm.

• NYC Pizza Run is going down at Fort Greene Park, Saturday 9/28. Starts at 11am. Grab tickets here.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

MY FALL BUCKET LIST 2019

A DAY TRIP TO WÖLFFER WINERY

15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

Recently featured ON:

Advice From a 30 Something - “DECIDING WHETHER OR NOT TO HAVE KIDS IN YOUR 30S”

XO, Rae

MY BEACH BAG ESSENTIALS

Summer is best spent basking in the SUN with a front row view of the ocean. Am I right?! And while I love a good beach day, there are a few items that I can’t live without while I’m there. So, whether you’re planning a beach vacation or just going for a day trip, here are all the essentials I carry in my beach bag.

1. Kopari Natural Deodorant- The best natural deodorant that actually works! I use this daily and keep an extra one in my bag for those really HOT Summer days.

2. Sunscreen - Favorite sunscreen I’ve used in a long time. It absorbs easily and doesn't leave your skin feeling greasy. Also love that it’s available at most drug stores.

3. Mega Babe - This anti-chafe stick is a game changer all my girls with thick thighs (myself included). I apply this  before heading to the beach/pool and it usually lasts all day. Also great for everyday use with wearing dresses and shorts.

4. Hair Ties - These hair ties actually hold your hair up without leaving any creases or pulling out your hair out. A little pricey but worth it! And they come in several colors.

5. Lip balm w/ SPF - My lips get sunburned easily so I always use a lip balm w/ SPF. And I love that this one from Sun Bum that is tinted with color.

6. Wet Brush - I use this as my everyday hair brush and also throw in my bag for the beach. It’s perfect for detangling beach hair.

7. Facial Spray - I keep this on hand all Summer long. I love using this for a quick refresh during the day.

8. Sun Bum Cool Down Lotion - This lotion has saved my skin so many times after being out in the sun all day! It’s great for sunburns and to as an after sun lotion to help maintain your tan longer. Also love that it has a cooling effect upon application.

What are your MUST HAVES for a day at the beach? I’d love to hear what your beach bag essentials are.

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 6.28.19

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

HAPPY FRIDAY and HAPPY PRIDE!! It’s definitely starting to feel like Summer in the city. And I’m excited for all the festivities this weekend. I’ll be attending the PRIDE parade on Sunday with some of my friends. And this will actually be my first time going to the NYC Pride event. I can’t wait to support my friends and just be a part of such a meaningful event. Are you celebrating PRIDE this weekend?!

The beaches are officially open here in New York, and I’ll be heading out to the beach on Monday for some much need SUN. Next week on the blog, I’ll be sharing my ‘Beach Bag Essentials’ for Summer. Stay tuned for a full list of items!

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• Kim Kardashian announced she is launching her own SOLUTIONWEAR a.k.a. shapewear line, Kimono. And while some are saying that she may have missed the mark with the name. I think it’s still pretty genius of her to create her own line. I mean she is the QUEEN of wearing shapewear under her clothing.

• The MTV popular series, ‘The Hills’ returned to the network this past week. And so far, it seems it still has the audience begging for more. It airs every Monday at 10/9c.

• One of my favorite clean beauty brands, TULA just released their NEW Face Filter Blurring & Moisturizing Primer. It’s made with probiotics, turmeric and chia seeds that help even skin tone and redness while also releasing “glow particles” to give your skin a radiant glow. I’ve already placed my order and I’ll let y’all know my thoughts after I use it for a week or two.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• I recently partnered with Rocksbox, a monthly jewelry subscription. #ad And I only wish I would have discovered it sooner! I love having new accessories each month to wear and and the option to purchase items at a discount, if I find that I really love them. Use PROMO CODE reinventingraenycxoxo to receive 1 month FREE www.rocksbox.com

• I’ve been making less trips to my local Starbucks, and drinking this at home instead.

• My go-to moisturizer for Summer. And ULTA is currently having a BUY 2, GET 1 FREE SALE.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• This weekend is PRIDE in NYC. It’s also the 50th Anniversary of the Stonewall riots and WORLD PRIDE this year in New York City. Click here for a list of events going on around the city.

• Summer kickoff with Bumble NYC. Located at Freehold in Brooklyn. Sat. 12-2pm

• Hester Street Fair every Sat. 11am-6pm June-Sept

• Grab drinks at the seasonal rooftop SERRA by Birreria at Eataly Flatiron

• PRIDE Parade kicks off at Noon on Sunday. Click here for route details.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

• 20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NYC

• 5 OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO IN NYC THIS SUMMER

• THINGS TO DO IN THE SUMMER IN NEW YORK

• SUMMER PLAYLIST ‘19

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 6.21.19

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

Happy 1st day of SUMMER, y’all! I can’t believe how fast this year has already gone by. But I’m definitely looking forward to another Summer in the City. Crazy to think that this will be my 5th Summer in New York City. I’m excited to discover new gems, make memories with friends and be more in the moment and enjoy Summer to the fullest.

I’m also planning to write more when it comes to the blog and explore new content ideas. Which brings me to today’s blog post, a NEW series called: ‘FEATURE FRIDAY’. Each week I’ll be sharing a roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

Let me know what you’d like to see included on future FEATURE FRIDAY posts!

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• I recently discovered this amazing digital Magazine, DressLikeMe. And I’m honored to be included in a fashion feature on their site this week. You can read the full article here.

• I can’t get enough of this NEW artist. I LOVE her lyrics in her music and especially love that she is all about body positivity.

• Blogger/Influencer Marissa Fuchs has been on the most extravagant scavenger hunt for a proposal that ended up being her actual wedding to her longtime boyfriend, Gabe. But rumor has it, that it was all pre-planned and actually pitched to companies prior as part of a PR stunt. The verdict is still out, but it was definitely intense watching the past 48 hours. You can watch it all unfold on her Instagram stories highlights.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• If you’re planning on being in swimsuits and dresses this Summer, you will need this. It’s a GAME CHANGER for us Ladies with thick thighs.

• I’ve been wearing this Amazon Dress on repeat lately. It’s under $25 and comes in several colors.

• The NEW Netflix romantic comedy, ALWAYS BE MY MAYBE, is hilarious & perfect for a night in this weekend.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• My favorite luggage brand, CALPAK is hosting a pop-up in Soho this weekend. Click here for more details.

• The NEW Time Out Market New York in Dumbo, Brooklyn is a MUST this Summer. With over 20+ food vendors, a rooftop bar and spectacular views of both Dumbo and Manhattan. There is sure to be a crowd but I promise the views alone are worth it!

• Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen LIVE at the Beacon Theatre Friday and Saturday evening. Click here for tickets.

• SOULFest NYC x Athleta is hosting a Yoga crawl on the Upper Westside. Click here for more details.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

• 20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NYC

• WHY I MADE THE SWITCH TO NATURAL DEODORANT

• 5 OUTDOOR THINGS TO DO IN NYC THIS SUMMER

XO, Rae

5 BEAUTY PRODUCTS WORTH TRYING: MARCH

In continuation of my new monthly series that features favorited beauty products including skincare, makeup & beauty tools. This month’s picks include a few skincare items, a favorited face sheet mask and a drugstore worthy mascara. Now days with so many products on the market, it can be hard deciding which ones are worthy of spending your money on. So, each month I’ll be testing and trying out 5 beauty products and giving you my honest opinion of them. This way you can hopefully find some new products to try for yourself or recommend for a friend. And if you have any products you want me to try, let me know in the comments below and i’ll add them to my must try list to review.

Here are 5 beauty products from this month that have become part of my beauty & skincare routine.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Moisturizer

While recently shopping for a new moisturizer, my best friend recommended this one. So I grabbed a trial size from Target to test it out. My skin has been super dry lately. After just one day of using this moisturizer, my skin felt and looked more hydrated. I tend to have oily skin, so I love how it quickly absorbs without leaving my skin feeling greasy or heavy. And has hyaluronic acid which keeps your skin hydrated longer. I’ll definitely be buying the full size version to continue using in my skincare routine.

Mario Badescu Facial Spray

This is my holy grail skincare product that I’ve been using for a few years now. I use it daily, once in the morning after cleansing my face for added hydration and at night to soothe my skin before bed. I also use it as a setting spray for my makeup. And I typically keep a travel size bottle in my tote bag for a quick refresh throughout out the day. It’s one of my go-to skincare products that I use year round to keep my skin hydrated in colder temps and refreshed during warmer months.

Tula Skin Reviving treatment Pads

I’ve been using several Tula skincare products the past 6+ months. And this is most recent purchase from their skincare line. These dual ended treatment pads are great for exfoliating your skin to help remove any impurities and clogged pores. They are so easy to use and leave your skin feeling renewed just after one use. Use 1-2 times per week for a mini facial you can do at home. I especially love that they come in individual packets making them perfect for travel.

L’Oreal Voluminous Superstar Mascara

I discovered this gem of a drugstore mascara through fellow blogger Cristin Coooper, who recommended it on her Instagram page. I tend to keep a few mascaras in rotation and this one has quickly become one of my favorites. It’s a dual ended wand with primer on one end and mascara on the other. It’s great for building volume and length with your lashes. I love how easy it applies and how it creates dramatic lashes. I buy the Blackest Black for added drama. Best part is that it’s inexpensive and you can find it at your local drugstore.

Garnier SkinActive Moisture Bomb Sheet Mask

This sheet mask is literally the bomb! It’s feels soothing and refreshing plus it has hyaluronic acid which leaves your skin feeling super hydrated. You can apply this mask weekly to give your skin a boost or use right before you apply your makeup for an added glow. It’s one of the best sheet masks I’ve used and continually purchase. And you can find it at your local Target or drugstore.

What beauty products have you tried lately that you love?! Tell me in the comments below.

SHOP PRODUCTS:

XO, Rae

WHY I MADE THE SWITCH TO NATURAL DEODORANT + REVIEWS ON BRANDS I TESTED

Over the past 6+ months, I’ve been making the transition over to using a natural deodorant. Honestly, I’ve never really been conscious of the ingredients in my deodorant, much less beauty products in general. But after doing some research and learning more about chemicals found in everyday products, I decided it was time to start looking into incorporating some safer alternatives. And switching my deodorant seemed like a great way to start using more natural products.

I ended up purchasing four well known brands and tested each one individually over a period of time. I went based off of reviews and recommendations from friends on which ones to try. Below you will find my review of each one with a list of pros & cons. Keep in mind that everyone’s body is different and what may have not worked for me, could work for you. I highly recommend trying a few yourself in order to find the right one. I definitely did not expect for it to take months in order to find one that worked, but I’m so glad that I didn’t give up in the process and eventually found a natural deodorant that works great for my body.

A few things to know:

1. Most antiperspirants contain aluminum, which actually causes your sweat glands to be blocked and stops you from naturally sweating.

2. Natural deodorants typically do NOT contain aluminum and are paraben FREE as well. Therefore natural ingredients are better for your skin and keeps the good bacteria working even when you’re not wearing deodorant.

3. It is recommended to detox your underarm area prior to switching to a natural deodorant. There are a few ways to do this and honestly, I think it’s personal preference. If you literally search “how to detox your armpits” on Pinterest, you will find a ton of articles. I personally chose to use witch hazel + a charcoal scrub a few times in between testing each deodorant. I can’t really say if it made a huge difference or not, but I think it’s worth doing to prep your skin initially.

4. Natural deodorant is not meant to prevent you from sweating. So you may still experience some underarm wetness in the process.

5. Try and then try again! I say this because, I found myself frustrated in the process and assumed that certain brands should be the “one” for me based on friends recommendations. Keep in mind that your body may respond differently to certain brands. And it may take trying a few different ones before you find the one that works for you.

Schmidt’s $4.69 2.56oz

Pros

• Scented with essential oils *Lavender & Sage

• Available in several scents

• Aluminum + Paraben FREE

Cons

• Rough texture upon application (feels gritty to touch)

• Caused irritation & redness after a few uses (likely due to the baking soda)

• Experienced underarm wetness after application

• Discontinued use within 5-7 days

Lavanila $8.00 .90oz

Pros

• Light fresh scent *Vanilla

• Smooth application + dries clear

• Aluminum + Paraben FREE

Cons

• Experienced some underarm wetness

• Needed reapplying at least once throughout the day

• Noticed that even with light activity, it would wear off by end of day and caused underarm odor.

• Discontinued use within 2-3 weeks

• Product ended up breaking off inside cap (not sure if this happens typically or if mine was defective)

Native $11.99 2.65oz

Pros

• Smells great *Coconut & Vanilla

• Available in several scents

• Smooth application + dries clear

• Aluminum + Paraben FREE

Cons

• Experienced some underarm wetness

• Noticed that even with light activity, it would wear off during the day.

• Caused strong underarm odor by end of day within 6-8 hours (this started around week 3)

• Discontinued use within 4 weeks

Kopari $14 2oz

Pros

• Smells amazing *Coconut oil

• Glides on skin + non-sticky application

• Does not stain or transfer to clothing

• Aluminum + Paraben FREE

• Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner 2018

• Lasts all day without having to reapply

Cons

• Price

  
  Honestly, I can’t say anything bad about this deodorant other than the price point. I’ve used it for the past month and it continues to last all day without reapplication. I haven’t tested it while working out, so the jury is still out on that. But for me, it’s been the best natural deodorant I’ve tested out by far. I’ve even had a few friends who have started to use it and they love it as well.

Have you tried using Natural Deodorant? If so, what was your experience like? Share in the comments below.

XO, Rae

5 BEAUTY PRODUCTS WORTH TRYING: JANUARY

Today on the blog, I’m starting a new monthly series that will feature favorited beauty products including skincare, makeup & beauty tools. Now days with so many products on the market, it can be hard deciding which ones are worthy of spending your money on. So, each month I’ll be testing and trying out 5 beauty products and giving you my honest opinion of them. This way you can hopefully find some new products to try for yourself or recommend for a friend. And if you have any products you want me to try, let me know in the comments below and i’ll add them to my must try list to review.

Here are 5 beauty products from this month that have become part of my beauty & skincare routine.

TULA PURIFYING FACE CLEANSER

I’ve been using this face cleanser for the past 6+ months and it’s a game changer. TULA products are actually healthier for your skin because they contain probiotics. I love how this cleanser actually cleans your skin and removes makeup without leaving any residue or causing irritation. Although it is pricey ($28), it last awhile so you actually save money in the long run. I use a dime size amount to wash my face in the morning and right before I go to bed every night. I’ve had my current bottle for about 3 months now and still have some left.

IT COSMETICS BYE BYE UNDER EYE CREAM

I’m a huge fan of iTcosmetics. I’ve purchased several of their products and use their CC cream daily. I was originally using their Confidence in an Eye Cream, but recently discovered that they came out with this new eye cream. Which targets puffiness and dark circles, something that I struggle with. I’ve been using it the past few weeks and have noticed a huge difference. I love that I can use this cream day and night and it instantly gives my eyes a refreshed look. Bye Bye dark circles + bags!

URBAN DECAY ALL NIGHTER SETTING POWDER

This was gifted to me by a friend who had tried this setting powder and LOVED it! So naturally she thought I would love it as well. And she was right! I was surprised to see that it’s a compact powder and not a loose setting powder. But after initial application, I was impressed how flawless it applied on my skin. And being that it’s compacted, it doesn’t leave you with fall out on your face. And the best part is that it’s waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about your makeup running in the rain or humid weather. I’ve been using this setting powder daily and continue to be impressed with it’s long lasting coverage.

JADE ROLLER ROSE QUARTZ

Chances are you’ve probably seen the newest trend of Jade Rolling your face. And I admit, I was skeptical at first. But after experiencing constant puffiness in my under eye area and face every morning, I was willing to try anything. And after spotting one at TJ MAXX, I decided to give it a try. I immediately noticed a difference just after one use. I like to place my jade roller in the freezer for a few minutes, then use it in the mornings after applying my eye cream and moisturizer. There are many benefits of jade rolling including; reducing puffiness, dark circles and fine lines, also promotes blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. The one I linked is from Amazon, however you can often find them at your local Marshalls or TJ Maxx.

KOPARI DEODORANT

Over the past few months I’ve been making the switch to using natural deodorant. And after several failed attempts with other brands, I finally decided to try Kopari. And after 3 weeks of using it, I haven’t looked back. It’s the only natural deodorant that has worked best for my skin and has lasted all day. It applies easily, has a light coconut scent and I can go all day without having to reapply. After all, it was voted Best of Beauty by Allure Magazine in 2018.

What beauty products have you tried lately that you love?! Tell me in the comments below.

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XO, Rae