GoPure Natural's Fractionated Coconut Oil!

GoPure Natural's Fractionated Coconut Oil!

A couple of days ago, I posted about trying my first fractionated coconut oil. After being intrigued from trying it the first time- I wanted to expand my horizons to see how the difference between a couple different fractionated coconut oils.

So, I had to give GoPure Natural's 100% Fractionated Coconut Oil a shot. I can't just be writing reviews about products without being able to compare one product from the other.

So, here's the deal. I liked the dry oil feel of the other fractionated coconut oil- it was a new and different feel for me when it comes to coconut oil in general.

But THIS fractionated coconut oil is absolutely awesome!

First off, it acts very similar to my unrefined coconut oil does during warmer months. Basically, it feels like a year round summer version of unrefined coconut oil (although you can't eat it).

It doesn't feel like a dry oil AT ALL. It is super light, absorbs ultra fast, and leaves my skin amazingly soft with a nice glow.

Honestly, it has actually replaced my normal unrefined coconut oil for showering and shaving. I honestly never thought that I would be able to replicate such an awesome feel with a fractionated coconut oil. The only difference is that this is scentless - which I will admit I do kind of miss because I love the smell of coconut oil.

That doesn't matter though- my crazy dry skin in finally starting from repair after this awful winter!

If you're interested in trying out GoPure Natural's Fractionated Coconut Oil, check them out on Amazon:

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

I made cupcakes, coffee, and a complete mess... and had an awesome time.

Every once in a while, I get the opportunity to try some more life style related products. Since I am trying to expand Totally Oblivious Beauty into more of a lifestyle blog documenting my calamitous journey in beauty, wedding planning, and other fun things - I love to jump on these type of opportunities to write about.

A few weeks ago, I was sent two items that absolutely adored: Sunsella's Silicone Baking Cups and Francois et Mimi's 50 ounce Glass French Press. I was absolutely elated that I received them at the same time and immediately texted my fiance to pick up some cupcake mix and fresh ground coffee on the way home from working over night so we could have an awesome afternoon of cupcake and coffee imbibing.

Upon arrival home of my fiance and supplies, I got to work on the cupcakes first. I am by NO means a baker and can be a bit incompetent when it comes to making desserts. While many joke that I am the MacGuyver of cooking- desserts are just not my thing. But! I'm trying!! That's why I wanted to give the Sunsella Baking cups a shot. Let's be real- being that I don't really bake my kitchen is not exactly flush with those little paper cupcake wrappers. If I don't have them- cupcakes don't happen. 

First of all the 12 Pack of the Baking Cups are totally adorable:

 

 I really love the rainbow colors- they're really bright and vibrant. The cups are also dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe and OBVIOUSLY reusable. You can bake your cupcakes right in there.

So, I made a complete mess of my kitchen getting chocolate batter and frosting everywhere.

And if you completely disregard my lack of cupcaking skills, my cupcakes came out aweome- even though they don't look like it...

What I was MOST impressed about was how easy it was to pop the cupcakes out of the baking cups once they have cooled. Though, hindsight being 20-20 I really should have frosted them after I took them out of the cups. But, it was still not much of a hassle.

Since I don't have a dishwasher, I merely soaked the baking cups for about 5 minutes during clean up and they we super easy to clean up. Which, I'm obviously not going to complain about!

And, here I am stuffing my face with once of my masterpieces!:

I digress! As soon as my cupcakes were in the oven, I got to using my awesome new Francois et Mimi French Press. I am absolutely IN LOVE with this French Press. First off, it is a 50 oz monster that allows me to enjoy massive cups of delicious coffee. 

 

 The press is made of borosilicate glass and stainless and is SUPER light weight. Which, works with my lack of upper arm strength. I also think it is absolutely gorgeous- so I've been leaving it out on the counter.

Like most French Presses, this one requires coarse ground beans or loose leaf tea.

LOOK AT THAT GORGEOUS COFFEE!!

And it made some AWESOME coffee- with extra cups left over.

So, we enjoyed an awesome morning of deliciously ugly chocolate cupcakes and French Pressed coffee. It was amazing!

If you are interested in trying out Sunsella's Silicone Baking Cups and Francois et Mimi's 50 ounce Glass French Press check them out on Amazon:

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Glam Essential's Hello Cutie Mud Mask: Review, How To Video, and Giveaway!

Glam Essential's Hello Cutie Mud Mask

Review, How To Video, and Giveaway!

I have another awesome giveaway for everyone! WOO! For a little while, I have been trying out Glam Essential's Hello Cutie Mud Mask.

And, I am in LOVE. This mask gets 110% Rainarella seal of a approval!

If you haven't checked out my Youtube "How To" Video on the Hello Cutie Mud Mask, check it out below:

A huge reason I jumped on this opportunity is because my fiance and I are getting into trying different masks as part of a monthly date night. So, I definitely wanted to give a new mask a shot. 

The mask seems super thick but goes on so lightly and dries super quick:

 Both my fiance and I have sensitive skin and this has worked wonders for clearing out our pores. His skin looks awesome (I'm actually kind of jealous it has worked so well on him).

Here we are masking it up! (Please excuse the dirty dishes from cooking and baking that day!!):

You can literally see in both the pictures and videos how much the mask is clearing our faces out.

If you are interested in learning more about Glam Essential's Hello Cutie Mud Mask, check out their website: www.hellocutiemudmask.com 

  

To enter to win your own Glam Essential's Hello Cutie Mud Mask, enter below before 4/15/2015

 

Entry-Form

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

My Glossybox March 2015 Unboxing Video is Live!

Please stop by and check it out!

PSA: Birchbox April 2015 Sample Choice Spoilers!

If you haven't seen it yet, Birchbox has released their 3 Sample Choices for April 2015

They Are:

1. Jane Iredale Lip and Cheek Stain:

Pop Eyeshadow Trio:

Jouer Blush:

I think I may go with the blush- what about you?

PSA: Ipsy April 2015 Spoiler #1!

Oooooh! I have my first Ipsy April 2015 Spoiler for everyone!

If you haven't received the email...

It seems every Ipsy subscriber will be getting a theBalm Cosmetics FULL SIZED Nude Dude Eyeshadow in either Fit or Flirty in their May bags.

Although I think Ipsy needs to step up their shadow game, I'm kind of excited about this one. I'm a huge theBalm fan and I could really go for either color.

How does everyone else feel about this?? Partial to any color??

Unboxing! Ipsy March 2015: Floral Fantasy!

What it is: Ipsy Glam Bag
Where to get it: Ipsy.com
How much is it?: $10.00 monthly + tax
Types of Products: Skin, hair, body, and beauty products and make up.
What are the Perks?!: By reviewing items and sharing Ipsy info on Facebook, rack up Ipsy points to redeem for free beauty products.

Ipsy March 2015: Floral Fantasy

Unboxing and Review!

So, I really feel like my March Ipsy bag was really underwhelming as well. It's not like I hate this bag- I am just bored by it. March has not been my month.

Let's have a look.

Upon Opening:

The Haul

1. NYX Cosmetics Butter Lipstick in Hunk:

Full Sized, 4.6g for $6.00

Holy Crap. I want nothing to do with product. I am sick of Ipsy hocking NYX to me like it is some elite brand that's hard to find. I can literally walk 2 blocks out of my apartment to get the whole line. Not my thing- don't want it. Don't get me wrong- I like NYX- I use a lot of their products. But, Ipsy is slowly destroying this company for me by forcing the issue. Ugh- not a great start.

2. Pur-lisse Beauty Pur-Delicate Gentle Soy Milk Cleanser and Make Up Remover:

Sample Sized at 1 oz. (Approx. $6.42). Full Sized listed at 5.6 oz. for $36.00 

This is another one Ipsy. You have single-handedly made me sick of a product that I normally wouldn't have an issue with Pur-lisse. But, enough is enough already! It's just not exciting

3. Boo Boo Cover Up in Medium:

Sample Sized at 4 ml (Approx. $8.00). Full Sized listed at 10 ml for $20.00

I was a little worried when this said it was going to be in medium. It is still a bit too dark for me. Why they sent everyone medium is beyond me- basically showing Ipsy could give a crap about our beauty profiles. But overall, this is an ok product and one that I was excited about. Doesn't make up for that stupid purple lipstick though...

4. Dr. Brandt Skincare Anti-Aging Mattifying Lotion:

Sample Sized at .25 oz. (Approx. $8.80). Full Sized listed at 1.7 oz for $60.00)

I'm just gonna say it- I'm not a huge fan of Dr. Brandt- I've also gotten numerous products from them from Ipsy. But, this may be ok- so I will reserve judgement until after I give it a shot.

5. Vintage by Jessica Liebeskind Illuminating Face Highlighter in Crystal Pink:

Sample Sized at .07 oz. Full Size not listed but $28.00. I am going to approximate $5.00

So, this was the single item I was excited about in my Ipsy bag. I just happen to love highlighters and this one is gorgeous. So, not a total boring loss.

The Final Verdict!

Box Value: Approx $35.00

 Box Score: 5/10

Final Thoughts: I really feel like Ipsy just no longer has a grasp on what I am personally interested in receiving at this point in time. Although the highlighter was awesome and the cover up was a good idea- they're missing the mark hardcore with the other items from companies they seem to compulsively send me. It also doesn't help that I can rattle off a pretty long list of items I didn't get that I would have wanted. I haven't had the opportunity to try any CoolWay products yet, I LOVE the soy hair products, I would have loved to have gotten the crown concealer brush/concealer/brightening serum, would dig the Marsk shadows, and wouldn't have even minded the Saint Ives Apricot scrub. I dunno- maybe I'm on a bad cycle with Ipsy. I hope that changes because I usually LOVE their summer bags.

Pure Body Natural's Fractionated Coconut Oil!

Pure Body Natural's Fractionated Coconut Oil Review!

In the world of natural ingredients, I generally swear by coconut oil. I jumped on the coconut oil band wagon and I never got off. There are countless things I use coconut oil for. But, my main uses for it are as a body moisturizer, in hair masks, and in different bath fizzies, lotions, and salves I make at home.

That being said, I have always used unrefined coconut oil. In fact, I keep a giant tub of it in my freezer to use as needed.

I have never had the opportunity to try fractionated coconut oil before this. So, I was really excited to give this a shot.

There are quite a few difference between unrefined coconut and fractionated coconut oil. Fractionated coconut oil does not solidify, it scentless, and not edible.

Primarily, fractionated coconut oil is used as a base for essential oils used in aromatherapy, as massage oil, as a moisturizer, and/or as a massage oil.

My first experiment in delving into Pure Body Natural's Fractionated coconut oil was just trying in as a plain moisturizer on my arms and legs. The oil is nice and light and has a bit of a different feel than what I am used to when it comes to coconut oil. It is not greasy at all and my incredibly dry skin absorbed it immediately. I was really surprised by this. 

I also decided to experiment with the oil some more by placing some French lavender buds in it. I crushed the buds a bit before placing them in the oil to release their scent a bit.

 After leaving them suspended in the oil over night, the oil had absorbed the lavender scent nicely. I'm not sure what I want to do with this concoction. But, I think I may put it in a spritz bottle to make a little hair oil spray.

Overall, I really like trying this type of coconut oil out. And, I was impressed with the quality of the fractionated coconut oil as well. I plan on experimenting with it a bit more with different recipes!

If you are interested in trying Pure Body Natural's Fractionated Coconut Oil, check them out on Amazon:

Disclosure of Material Connection: This is a “sponsored post.” The company who sponsored it compensated me via a cash payment, gift, or something else of value to write it. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

My Birchbox March 2015: Creativity Unboxing Video Is Live!

Please stop by and check it out!

Unboxing! Glossybox March 2015!

What it is: GlossyBox is a monthly luxury beauty subscription box.
Where to get it: GlossyBox.com
How much is it?: $21.00 + tax monthly
Types of Products: Each box contains 5 luxury deluxe or full sized beauty products.
What are the Perks?!: Write reviews, refer friends, and take surveys to add up GlossyDots. 1000 GlossyDots earns you a free month of GlossyBox!

Glossybox March 2015

Unboxing and Review!

In a month of really crap subscription boxes, Glossybox continues to shine as an awesome little beacon of light for me.

Upon Opening:

The Haul!

1. So Susan Cosmetics Concealer Quad:

FULL SIZED! .14 oz for $30.95

WOO! Strong start Glossybox! Not only is this a $30 full sized item to start with, I find it to be kind of cool. I have a tough time finding a good concealer. I get so close and but a lot are just not right color-wise. I am kind of looking forward to getting into playing with this. I can dig it.

2. ModelCo More Brow Eyebrow Thickening Gel in Light/Medium:

FULL SIZED! Listed at .12 fl oz for $18.00

So, this is another cool type of experimental thing for me to try. I haven't personally used one of these before and I really like the opportunity to try it. Good stuff.

3. Bellapierre Cosmetics Cheek & Lip Stain in Pink:

FULL SIZED! Listed at .17 oz for $19.99

Another really interesting thing to try! I do like the color and it isn't a rough pink that I tend to worry about with cheek color. I'm willing to give it a shot.

4. Nexxus Salon Care Color Assure Shampoo:
FULL SIZED! 13.5 fl oz. for $11.99






WOOOOOOO! This was the item from the spoiler that I wanted. I don't spend a lot on hair care products. So, I am totally in love with getting this. It smells awesome and I'm really excited to give it a try.

5. Orogold Cosmetics 24K Multi-Vitamin Day Moisturizer:
Sample Sizes unknown. Full Sized listed at 1.7 oz for $178.00

So I have NO idea how much these two little samples are worth. But, if ever both combined are about .1 oz- this is still about $10 worth of product. I think it smells awesome. And at such a steep price point- I think I am going to save these moisturizers for a special date night!

**There was an additional bonus for a gift card to caseable.com. My code was only worth $5, so I didn't end up getting anything. But, that was a cool little addition**

The Final Verdict!

Box Value: With approximating $10 for the Orogold Moisturizer, I'm at approx. $90.00!!

 Box Score: 8/10

Final Thoughts: Glossybox never fails for me. I really think a lot of these items are fun and different from what I'm used to getting. I'm really happy I got the hair care product from the spoiler that I actually wanted. I can get a little experimental with the concealer, brown brush, and cheek/lip stain. Overall, I am very pleased!

My Sample Society March 2015: Lighten Up Unboxing Video is Live!

Please stop by and check it out and remember to give me a happy little thumbs up!

Unboxing: Birchbox March 2015: Creativity!

What it is: BirchBox 
Where to get it: Birchbox.com
How much is it?: $10.00 monthly + tax
Types of Products: Skin, hair, body, and beauty products and make up.
What are the Perks?!: Review your products monthly to earn BirchBox points. Every 100 points earns $10 to use at BirchBox. If you refer a friend and they sign up, you get 50 points. You can stock pile up to 500 points at once. I've yet to do that though!

Birchbox March 2015: Creativity

Unboxing and Review!

If "Creativity" is what Birchbox was going for this month, they certainly failed and fell flat on their face with my box. And you'll soon see why!

Upon Opening:

 Our Menu:

The Haul

1. Beauty Protector Protect and Oil:

Sample Size unknown. Full Sized Listed at $25.95. I am going to approximate sample value at $5.00

This was my sample choice because I wasn't too keen on any of them this month. But, it does smell like cake. So that's kind of cool I guess. I just wish I knew how much of a sample this was.

2. Harvey Prince Signature Perfume:

Sample Sized at 1.5 ml (Approx $1.65). Full Sized listed at 50 ml for $55.00

When I first learned I was going to get this sample, I was absolutely fucking irate. IRATE. Not only am I sick of getting perfume samples from Birchbox. I am absolutely sick and appalled that I am received yet another CHEAP Harvey Prince sample. I am getting them every other month now. Not cool.  

3. Jelly Pong Pong Glow Getter Highlighter:

FULL SIZED! Listed at $12.75 for 4ml

This item I was actually a little excited to try. Because you know, Birchbox only allots me so many items per box from companies they haven't been shoving down my throat the past 6 months. It was nice to get a full sized item even though it is a little be on the wee side of things. I like highlighters and this is an interesting color. I'll give it a show.

4. Mirenesse ICurl Secret Weapon 24hr Mascara:

Sample Sized at .14 oz (Approx. $11.60). Full Size listed at .35 oz for $29.00

Honestly, I haven't heard the best reviews about this mascara. Plus, Mirenesse is yet another company I feel Birchbox is shoving down my throat. Enough is ENOUGH.

5. Number 4 Clarifying Shampoo:

Sample Sized at 1 oz. (Approx. $3.76). Full Sized listed at 8.5 oz for $32.00

This is another holy shit for me. With the HUNDREDS of hair product lines out there- Birchbox routinely ONLY wants to send me Number 4 hair products. All which I have been quite displeased me. Garbage.

6. Bonus: Number 4 Reconstructing Mask:
Sample Sized at .25 oz (Approx $2.84). Full Sized listed at 5.1 oz for $58.00

This is a fucking joke to me. Not only has this been 1 of the only 2 bonus items I have ever received from Birchbox. It also happens to be the 5th Number 4 hair care item... I also don't think there's nearly enough in this foil package to do anything for my hair.

The Final Verdict!

Box Value: Approx $37.00??

 Box Score: 2/10

Final Thoughts: If not for Birchbox's point system, this would be my last box. I feel like I have signed up for a Harvey Prince / Number 4 Hair Care box. And, I severely dislike both product lines. In fact, I'll go as far as to say that I hate them both now in principle. Look, I am aware that is going to be some sort of repeat products. But, I am pissed to ONLY get certain products from Birchbox - over and over. I'm actually going to give them a call about it to complain. I've had enough.