Tag Archives: review

Peacock Feather Water Decals || Nail Art

14 Wednesday Nov 2018

Posted by in Nail Art

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Items sent for honest review. Opinions are my own.

Some affiliate links.*

You all know how much I L-O-V-E water decals. They are the epitome of easy, arthritis-friendly (or, chronic pain-friendly) nail art. So, I am always on the look out for new to me designs and willing to try most any of them.

I eyed these peacock decals from Born Pretty Store for a while and finally decided to try them. They were cute and pretty but honestly, I was a little let down. First, the product only comes with 10 designs which is a little unusual…That’s not a lot to work with. For example, if I wanted to use a decal on each nail that would only leave me with enough for one manicure, right?

Though, to be fair, these are similar to full nail designs which never come with a lot.

My other biggest issue was the gradient style of the background ended in white which means I could only use it over a white base. Not a big deal but makes the decal way less versatile.

Otherwise, they performed well, slipped from the backing properly and didn’t bunch on the nail.

Check them out below but before you do, don’t forget to…

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Peacock Feathers Water Decals Nail Art ft. Born Pretty Store ReviewPeacock Feathers Water Decals Nail Art ft. Born Pretty Store ReviewBases: Zoya Rocky (blue), Essie blanc (white)

  • Dry brush detailing

Water Decals: Born Pretty Store peacock feathers* ($0.99/piece)

 

Want to know how I did this? Check out my water decal nail art tutorial below:

 

Hi, my name is Monica and I have RA.

Born Pretty Store 10% off code

 

My Top 5 Sunscreen Picks for Summer 2018

10 Sunday Jun 2018

Posted by in Beauty, Skincare

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Its that time of year again where we need to be extra vigilent about protecting our skin from the sun. If you’re not already wearing daily SPF I am judging you through the screen. Just kidding, sort of…If you’re not, it’s never too late to start, especially now when the sun shines brighter, closer and longer.

Have a chronic illness like me? Check out this article I recently wrote (for RheumatoidArthritis.net) about the importance of wearing sunscreen.

 

I am a sunscreen hobbyist. I could go as far to say I collect sunscreen. There are never less than five different types in my room, or my purse…or my car. This last one is probably over kill because if I’m driving it probably means I’m taking my bag. But in terms of sun protection, more is always better. Do you need sunscreen? No problem. Have sensitive skin? I’ve got one for that. Need a stick version for under the eyes or the bridge of the nose? Yup, it’s in here somewhere.

I stand true to spray sunscreens because they are fast, convinient and RA-friendly. On the days my fingers are swollen and painful I don’t have to worry about protecting my skin; I spray and go and I’m all set. This being said, I can’t help but try sun protectant in any form, lotion, whipped cream or stick. I  want to try them all!! I want to catch ’em all!

So, I hope you like this post. Let me know in the comments if you have tried these but, before you do, don’t forget to…

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Top Favorite Sunscreens for 2018 | the Rite of Aging...Early - Chanel UV EssentielI absolutely love love love the Chanel UV Essentiel sunscreen. It is not exclusively a facial protectant but given the bottles small size and large price tag I use it sparingly. One bottles lasts me a full summer and a little beyond. The product is very liquidy and it only takes a little amount (read: 1-2 drops) to cover the neck, face and ears. Be warned though, since the main ingredient is Titanium Dioxide it does leave a white cast that eventually soaks into the skin.

 

Best Sunscreens for 2018 || the Rite of Aging...Early (Neutrogena Clear Face)I have naturally oily skin so most face sunscreens break me out. The Chanel one is one of the few that doesn’t but when I ran out I didn’t feel like spending so much money. On a whim and with low expectations, I tried the Neutrogena face sunscreen*. I gave it a solid two weeks and I was beyond surprised. It didn’t irritate my skin even though the product was pretty thick. It doesn’t leave a white cast but it does leave me quite greasy. Eh, nothing a oil-blotting sheet can’t fix!

 

Best Sunscreens for 2018 | the Rite of Aging...Early (Hawaiian Tropic)Hawaiian Tropic was never a brand I looked to for sun protectant since it’s more popular products were sun tan lotions. I saw this sunscreen towards the end of last summer and thought it looked interesting. I am so glad I tried it because I am IN LOVE. This sunscreen/moisturizer works beautifully and makes my skin glisten ever so slightly (sure, it could just be the grease, lol) but it also makes the skin look just a smidge more even-toned. The Weightless version is a little more difficult to find but there are other versions of the Silk Hydration* available.

 

I love me a good spray sunscreen because of the convinience and arthritis-friendly status. My favorite is the Coppertone Sheer Clear (now Defend and Care) specifically in SPF 30. I tried the SPF 50 a few times and each time the nozzle didn’t work because the product was too thick. You would think that with the introduction of the new line the brand would fix the spray issue but no, the nozzle is still a problem! In general, however, I do like most of the Coppertone products, especially the Sport* line. It is greasy but it covers well and does not “sweat off” too easily.

 

Best Sunscreens for Summer 2018 | the Rite of Aging...Early (Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen)And last, but certainly not least is the SuperGoop! Everyday sunscreen. This brand was so heavily talked about on social media I originally shyed awaay from it. However, after recieving a sample, I became a convert. The formula is not too thick and applies evenly. It absorbs quickly and does not leave a white cast. I haven’t tried any of their newer products but they are definitely on my list.

 

Best Sunscreens for Summer 2018 | the Rite of Aging...Early (Eucerin Daily Hydration with SPF)

This is just your run of the mill Eucerin lotion with added sun protection factor. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t leave my skin feeling greasy and does not look chalky. I use it in the morning as a regular moisturizer every day of the year. It’s nice to know I’m at least partially protected from the sun if I forget my usual sun protection regime!

 

So, what do you think of these sunscreens? Have you used them? Let me know in the comments..But, before you hop on down there don’t forget to…

Join my Spoonie family!

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Hi, my name is Monica and I have RA.

 

Decorating the Robin’s Egg || Nail Art

30 Wednesday May 2018

Posted by in Nail Art

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Products provided for honest review. Opinions are my own.

Spring screams the birth of new life, plants, and birds. And this year, the plummage on said birds seems so much more vibrant. Anyways, this look was inspired by the beautiful blue Robin’s egg.

I used the next Born Pretty Store stamping polish and a new to me stamping plate from the same company. I have to say, I honestly didn’t expect much from the polish because it looked rather sheer in the bottle. I was pleasantly surprised to see how opaque it was, especially over this blue!

Enjoy!

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Robin's Egg Blue and Gold Stamping Nail Art featuring Born Pretty Store and ZoyaRobin's Egg Blue and Gold Stamping Nail Art featuring Born Pretty Store and Zoya RockyRobin's Egg Blue and Gold Stamping Nail Art featuring Born Pretty Store and Zoya RockyBase: Zoya Rocky

Dots: Zoya Goldie

Stamping: Born Pretty Store fireworks stamping plate (ID#42510)*, gold stamping polish (ID#39203)*

 

Hi, my name is Monica and I have RA.

Born Pretty Store 10% off code

My Easy-Peasy Everyday Makeup Look ft. Maybelline Cosmetics & Review

06 Thursday Jul 2017

Posted by in makeup, Reviews

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Seriously, nothing to disclose.

Maybelline is one of the large, global makeup brands we all talk about but few people actually use more than one or two cult products from the line. It has just so many products standing in front of the display can be overwhelming but, below, I review a few of my all time favorite Maybelline products. And, of course, because it’s me, this makeup look is arthritis-friendly, fast and easy to apply.

Maybelline is one of the top drugstore/high street brands in the world so it has endless resources to follow trends, create catchy new products and market them properly. It can be overwhelming and confusing but more products mean more chances for everyone to find something they like, at a reasonable price.

I, like so many others, have limited time to get ready in the mornings. I don’t want to use multiple products with lots of brushes. I just want a few that create an easy, chic makeup look that stays put no matter what.

Cue Maybelline.

Its long-lasting products do just that. Once they set, they don’t budge. I don’t worry about shadow fading or mascara flaking, which is one less headache on my list.

For my everyday makeup look, I only use one brush (that comes with the product) to apply my eyeliner; I apply everything else with my fingers and it doesn’t take me more than 10 minutes!

What more can I ask for?

 

I hope you enjoy this look. It is fast, simple and effortless.

Enjoy!

 

Maybelline Age Rewind – Dark Circle Eraser is my holy grail concealer. I apply it directly from the applicator and blend it in with my fingers to warm up the product. It does not exaggerate fine lines and hides my genetically dark under eyes.

 

The 24H Color Tattoo shadows are close to magic. They have a silky texture which makes them easy to work with. I blend them out with my finger but can use a brush to pack on pigment. These shadows don’t set too quickly but, once dry, they won’t budge. They make a great base for powder shadows eliminating the need for primer.

The brown shades are perfect for a subtle wash of color while the brighter shades add intensity to any look.

 

I am first and foremost a liquid liner girl but when I want a softer look I reach for gel. The 24H Lasting Drama Gel Liner is very similar to its Tattoo counterpart. I go in with a first line, let it dry, apply my shadow and smudge the edge out. I apply one more swipe to darken and set the eyeliner. I have enough time, before it sets, to perfect the line.

The brush is soft but dense and easy to manipulate. Do you like a thicker line, maybe a thinner one? This brush can do both.

 

We have all heard of the iconic Great Lash, Maybelline’s best-selling mascara. Well, there are a multitude of others and my favorite is the Rocket Volum’ Express. It makes my lashes look naturally thicker. I wiggle the wand through the bottom of my lashes then bring the brush straight up. I look like I’m wearing nothing at all.

Have oily eyelids like me? Don’t worry. Powder your lashes before application, it’ll help the mascara stay on and not flake. Keep in mind Maybelline mascaras have a wet formula so they take a little longer to dry.

Don’t want it to transfer to your upper or lower lids? Look down, eyes open, until the mascara becomes tacky.

 

Have you tried these products? Would you wear this look? Let me know!

 

Hi, my name is Monica and I have RA.

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Born Pretty Store Metal Series Nail Polish in Heroine || Review

25 Sunday Jun 2017

Posted by in Nail Art

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Items provided for review. All opinions remain my own.

A while ago I reviewed a Born Pretty Store holographic polish called Shine in the Dark. You can see my short live swatch video here. It was a gorgeous gunmetal grey that had a great linear holo in it. I quite enjoyed the polish except for it’s brush. It was too thick and hard to maneuver on my tiny nails. Because I liked the polish I decided to give the brand’s new Metal Series polish a try as well. I don’t know what I expected but I didn’t realize “metal” meant “foiled”! Scroll through to check out my thoughts and photos on this beautiful pastel purple. P.S. The brush is exactly the same!

Born Pretty Store Metal Series Nail Polish in Heroine Review

heroine4Heroine (USD$3.59 here) is a very pretty lilac color. As foiled polishes go, this one is pretty good. It covers well in two coats and is not as streaky as others. Of course, if you are familiar with foils you know all this is taken with a grain of salt. After all, foils magnify imperfections like you’re looking at them through a looking glass. Is this the best foiled polish on the market? Maybe. It certainly cheaper and works better than some more expensive foiled polishes. I would highly recommend it so scroll down to the end for my simple tricks for perfect application!

Born Pretty Store Metal Series Nail Polish in Heroine Review

To Top Coat or Not to Top Coat?

Personally, I don’t like using top coats with foil polishes because bumps, lumps and streaks look worse; not to mention, it can dull the shine. The finished manicure will not last as long but will look way better. Ultimately, it’s up to you and what you need: time? or beauty? Having a flare? Foiled polishes are the best because you can eliminate one step: top coat!! 

heroine2

How do I apply foiled polishes, Monica??

  • Start with a proper ridge-filling base coat. OPI’s Ridge Filler and Essie’s Ridge Filling Base Coat are great options to minimize imperfections and streaking.
  • Stay the heavy hand. Apply thin, light and even layers from cuticle to tip. Take care not to re-apply over the same area twice.
  • Seal off the tips (meaning apply a little polish to the tips and underside of the nail) between the first and second coat so you can’t see the line of demarcation.
  • Let each coat dry completely before applying the next.

So, what do you think of this color? Born Pretty Store has other “metal” polishes and a whole slew of nail art goodies for very competitive prices. Make sure you check out their website here and if you do place an order don’t forget to apply my 10% off discount!

Born Pretty Store 10% off codeHi, my name is Monica and I have RA.

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That Time of Year Again: Nordstrom’s Half Yearly Sale

04 Sunday Jun 2017

Posted by in Just for Fun

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Images from Nordstrom.com

The Half-Yearly Women’s Sale is in full swing (the sale ends June 4th. If there is anything you are on the fence about purchasing do it now!)  so I had to check it out. This is the best time to shop the Nordstrom sale because many high quality items go for anything between 30% and 50% off! Those are pretty good numbers in my book! Helpful Hint: If you don’t find what you’re looking for keep an eye on the Nordstrom sale tab because most of their non-luxury items end up there at some point or other during the year.

The sale is site wide and in-store, hitting women, men, home and accessories so there is bound to be something of interest to you!

Below are my picks for good clothes choices for people with RA These make one of the more common symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis more manageable. As a Spoonie, I look for an easy fit, makes difficult Rheumatoid movement easier (ie. zippers, buttons, etc), and comes in fun colors that brighten my mood.

What do you think of the items I chose? Do you like them too?

 the Rite of Aging...Early's Best of the Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale: NIC + ZOE '4 Way' Convertible Three Quarter Sleeve CardiganThis awesome NIC+ZOE Convertible Wrap is the perfect soft material to get in and out of easily without moving my shoulders too much. It is comfortable and does not apply unneeded pressure to any sensitive joints! The color is fun and jovial! Right up my alley.

the Rite of Aging...Early's Best of the Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale: Sanuk 'Yoga Sling' SandalI already own these Sanuk Yoga Sling Sandals and absolutely love them. The bottom is nice and squishy so it super comfortable on the feet (my most painful joints). The bands are super soft and easy to open without stressing the fingers too much. Another added bonus is how well they fit my skinny little ankle! Over time the bottom will compress and the bands will expand but for $40 I really can’t lose! There are other solid colors like white, burgundy and black but the print just screams summer to me!

 

the Rite of Aging...Early's Best of Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale: Bobeau Cold Shoulder Slub Knit TeeThis Cold Shoulder Slub Knit Top from Bobeau is my quintessential summer top in one of my favorite colors! The material is very thin but it is perfectly billowy and cool. It allows good air flow so my body won’t get sweaty and uncomfortable. The sleeves are a little more tricky to get into but they are soft and don’t mind a little stretch! Orange not your color, no worries, there are plenty more!

 

the Rite of Aging...Early's Best of Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale: BP Faux Suede Beaded Wrap NecklaceWrap necklaces are all the rage and adorn almost every fashion blogger’s neck. For the first time, I actually like the style of an on-trend piece and this one from BP has the right amount of cord and pizazz. This might take a little shoulder, wrist, and finger manipulation but if you suffer from steroid ‘moon face’ and have extra bloating in your face and neck, the wraps will trick the eye into thinking you look thinner!

 

the Rite of Aging...Early's Best of Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale: SOCIALITE Metallic PulloverI am a tight pants, slouchy top kind of person and during the summer I go extra with the top. I want something bright, fun, and easy to put on like this SOCIALITE Metallic Pullover. The fabric is light and malleable so it provides a slight barrier against any winds that want to slap at my already sensitive joints.

 

the Rite of Aging...Early's Best of Nordstrom Half Yearly Sale: kate spade new york HomeWomenHandbags & WalletsShoulder Bags Size Info 10If you are a Spoonie and a fashionista it is no secret that a new accessory in your favorite print just puts you in a better mood which in turns lessens the symptoms of your autoimmune. Good use of psychology, right?? I love Chanel tweed and this kate spade new york purse is similar at a fraction of the cost! I would so carry this on the days I need an extra pick-me-up.

 

What did you think of my picks? Are you going to try out these pieces? Did you try any others? Let me know in the comments!

 

Hi, my name is Monica and I have RA.

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Born Pretty Store Review – Plaid Water Decal Nails (+ Tutorial)

27 Saturday May 2017

Posted by in Nail Art

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Products provided for review. All opinions remain my own.

As you guys very well know, I swear by water decal nail art. Water decals are easy to use, create incomprehensibly complicated looks and make you/feel look like a professional artist. They are perfect for autoimmune and chronic pain sufferers.

Look, the truth of the matter is us Spoonies love beauty but many of us can’t manage the physical aspect of it. That’s where these great nail art hacks, like water decal nails, come into play.

Scroll down for photos and a quick review on these inexpensive and cute plaid decals from Born Pretty Store.

When I saw these plaid designs I couldn’t help but place them in my cart. I have a soft spot for water decals and for plaid so if you combine them, you have my heart!

I was very impressed with these decals. I soaked them for only a few seconds and detached them easily from their backing. I had no issues placing them and they did not move around once I did. I did not experience bunching or creasing. I did experience a bit of tearing near the edges but, given the pattern, it was barely noticeable.

The best part about these is the white color is completely opaque!! I did not need a base color, just a base coat, and I was all set. So many wins and so little polish wasted!

What do you think? Is this something you’d wear? Scroll to the bottom for my water decal tutorial!

 

Born Pretty Store Full Nail Water Decal Review in PlaidBorn Pretty Store Full Nail Water Decal Review in PlaidBorn Pretty Store Full Nail Water Decal Review in Plaid

Born Pretty Store Full Nail Plaid Water Decals

 

 

Hi, my name is Monica and I have RA.

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