Hey dolls, just a little update: the past few weeks have been a little crazy for me; I have so many exciting projects that I'm working on all at once for my followers that it's hard to keep up with all the posts, comments, and other things- but I do try really hard & in the end it will be worth the effort. I appreciate your patience and soon I will be back into a better routine with brand new content for you all to read and enjoy.

Anyways!

My lovely blogger friends Beauty Makeup Addict, Pretty Powerful, Courtney xo, Turquoise Dream, Fashion Blogs By M What Rebecca Said, and So-phee have given me this fabulous award, thanks again ladies! I really have been meaning to post this but didn't gotten around to it yet; whoops! 
So here it is- 7 random things about me & my nominees. Have a great day, thanks for reading :)

1. I have so many cute clothes in my closet but I always grab what's comfy and easy to wear. 

2. I have a really bad habit of biting my nails, it's getting better though!

3. My favorite flowers in the world are orchids. 

4. I still don't know what I want to be when I "grow up".

5. I love to listen to reggae music & anything else from the 60's, 70's or 90's. 

6. If I could wear Victoria's Secret sweats all the time, I would.

7. Right now I am obsessed with watching Judge Judy (weird, right?)

My Nominees:

1. Kirsty from Behind These Closed Eyes
2. Sophie from So-phee
3. Tori from CottonCandyINK
4. Sandra from The Puzzle of Sandra's Life
5. Charlotte from Beauty Ramblings 
6. Rose Horseshoe
7. Laura-Jayne
8. Sharon from Sharon's Makeup Diary
9. Lorena from ibeauty
10. Heather from Heather Honey
11. Dawnie from Insanity and the Girl
12. Girlie Blog Seattle
13. Charlee from Charmed Charlee
14. Bethanie from Girl Meets Simplicity
15. Katrien from OMG Bows are so Cute

Miss Selfridge coral dress, $61
Madewell denim vest, $88
H&m shoes, £15
Tasha clutch hand bag, $28
Waxing poetic jewelry, $37
Mango long beaded earrings, £28
Topshop flat sunglasses, $44
Paul & Joe Cat Collection Lipsticks, $29

lid primer: Urban Decay Primer Potion

This is the perfect product to pamper your lips on those days where they look a little flaky, dry, or in need of a little revitalizing. Lush Fresh Handmade Cosmetics sells this scrub made out of only four ingredients. Two of those ingredients are all natural, and the other two include the gorgeous "aurora pink" coloring and the vegan bubblegum flavoring that tastes so yummy and smells like the popular 'Snow Fairy' shower gel. 

Lush's descriptions of the main ingredients:

Castor Sugar "is a particularly fine-grained sugar, which dissolves in water very easily. It is used as a culinary ingredient..we like to use it in our bath products." 

Organic Jojoba Oil "is an excellent moisturizer and softener for skin..it is more readily absorbed and tolerated by the top layer of our skin."

Why Exfoliate the Lips?

The lips are a part of the face that can tend to be a little bit neglected. The health of your lips is actually the best telltale sign of whether or not you are drinking enough water to keep hydrated or if you are properly moisturizing your skin. Dry, chapped lips indicate a lack of moisture or damage from exposure to sun, wind or cold temperatures. Full, soft, plump lips indicate decent hydration as well as proper protection from outside elements. Using something like a scrub will help to rid of any dead skin while allowing any product placed on the lips to sink in better, thus making the lips look and feel smooth. 

How to Use & Benefits 

The way to use the scrub is to scoop a  little with a finger and simply rub it all over your lips to exfoliate for a minute or two, leaving them soft and clean. The sugar is actually edible and does have a sweet bubblegum taste, so Lush suggests to lick it off when you are done scrubbing. If you don't want to do that, just wipe the sugar crystals off with your finger or a napkin. For me, the jojoba oil does not moisturize my lips as much as I'd like, so I usually apply a balm or Vaseline after using the scrub which makes them look supple and hydrated.

I always use this product right before I put on any colored lip product (especially a matte lipstick) to make it apply more smooth and look flawless. This product also is great for removing color from the lips such as stains or those darker shades that are stubborn to get off. Since the castor sugar is such a gentle abrasive sugar, the scrub is perfectly fine for daily use. 

Is it Worth it?

I've had this little jar for several months now and it's still pretty full as you can see from the picture. Since you only need a small amount, this product will last a long time even when used often. Keep in mind though that the freshness of the ingredients means a quicker expiration date. If you don't wear lip products too often, or don't find that you need the extra exfoliation, this scrub may not for you. Those makeup addicts who want the look of smooth, even lips when wearing lipstick should definitely pick this up. 

If the bubblegum flavor isn't your thing, Lush also has two other scrubs:

Mint Julips: peppermint and chocolate flavor & "mint chocolate chip ice cream" scent

Sweet Lips: chocolate and vanilla flavor & "creamy milk chocolate bar" scent

$8.95 at Lush.com

The packaging looks sleek with a mix white of plastic and a metal tube; definitely unique for the average drugstore lipstick. The peek of color on the outside makes it easy to spot the shade when stored.  

The shade in the tube looks different from how it shows on the lips; I was surprised at how much more bold and fun it appeared on my naturally darker lips. It smells mildly like fruity candy, which is also nice touch.

This bright color is definitely wearable, but I wouldn't recommend it for an everyday look at the office or any other professional atmosphere, unless you feel confident enough to rock it- than by all means, go for it! It's just not a natural or subtle color because of the purple/blue base.  

Perpetual Peony is a darker, more pigmented dupe of MAC Cosmetics' Saint Germain lipstick that is described on their website as a "clean pastel pink". Here are some images and swatches you can see on Google since I do not own that shade.

I found mine at Target for $7.29. The full 20 shade collection can be purchased on Maybelline's website, and a select few at Ulta, Kmart, and many drugstores as well.  

The Aphogee Two-Step Protein Treatment is a professional repair product that helps to stop severe hair breakage and restore health. This has been the one protein treatment in particular that I can give credit to instantly helping my chemically damaged hair. If you haven't yet read my hair journey story, you can find it in the navigation bar at the top of my page, or just click here. A few months ago, I had a terrible experience with an at home relaxer kit that left my hair so dry and damaged, I didn't think I would be able to salvage it. With a balance of protein (especially this one) and moisture conditioners, I have been really lucky to have managed to reverse some of the damage and make my hair look and feel more healthy.

I actually discovered this product randomly at a Sally Beauty Supply a few weeks after using the relaxer. After picking it up and reading the bottle, the claims to help severely processed hair made me decide to give it a try. I swear this was a god-send; it was exactly what my damaged hair needed. After the first use I was shocked at how much better my dry, broken hair looked. It felt so silky and had a shine to it that I had not seen in a very long time. My hair needed the extra protein to rebuild the follicles and put some strength back into them to rebuild the texture and also so it wouldn't fall out so easily.

What is chemically damaged hair?

The use of a treatment that involves a chemical process on the hair which creates a negative reaction. Examples of  treatments would be perms, dyes, bleaches, and relaxers. Examples of negative reactions would be breakage, brittleness, severe dryness, broken strands, spongy texture, lack of shine, lack of strength, limpness, extreme frizziness and more.  

What is in this product?

Hydrolyzed collagen: Enhances appearance and texture of hair by increasing the body, suppleness or sheen. It improves hair that has been damaged physically or by excessive treatment.  (source)

Magnesium sulfate: Curl activator that makes hair more tame yet bouncy and shiny. 

Vegetable protein: A plant protein that absorbs easily into hair leaving it radiant, conditioned, and moisturized.

PropHytamine Complex: Special ingredient that utilizes precise levels of proteins and conditioners to maintain healthy hair.

All of these ingredients together fuse into the hair after heat is applied to stop breakage and improve texture. 

What type of hair is recommended for this product?

According to Aphogee.com, this treatment is for hair that:

Is too weak or fine to take a perm or relaxer

Is over-bleached

Will not hold color

Breaks when brushed or combed

Is mushy when wet and brittle after drying

This repair treatment should only be used when hair is intensely damaged with some noticeable breakage. Using such a potent mixture on mild hair that is a bit frizzy or needs a little moisture is not advised because too much protein can actually make the hair follicles become too rigid causing them to break off when any stress (ie. combing and styling) is applied. 

There are many other Aphogee products available that are designed for other specific hair issues that might be more appropriate for your hair's individual needs.

The only downside to this treatment is that it has a very unpleasant smell. This doesn't bother me, however those who are more sensitive might find it too strong to withstand. The scent does not last after the product is dried and also does not linger on the hair after rinsing.

How to use it?

There is a very particular way to apply the Aphogee treatment in order to activate certain ingredients to yield  desired results. I follow the directions carefully each time to ensure I am using it correctly.

1. I first hop in the shower and shampoo my hair, making sure that it is extra clean. I turn the water off then step out and towel blot my hair so that it isn't dripping wet. 

2. I pour a good amount of the liquid in my hands and gently apply it all over my head, making sure to get underneath all my layers. I check that all the hair is completely saturated in the liquid, then use a wide tooth comb to ensure the product is evenly distributed. 

3. Next I take my blow dryer and simply direct the heat all around my head, drying the liquid into my hair until it becomes hardened. It is very important not to touch the hair or move it around at all. It does take awhile to dry my entire head this way, but the heat of the dryer is what makes the ingredients fuse into the hair, thus repairing it. 

4. After it is completely dry, I go back into the shower and rinse it out with warm water. I then gently squeeze out most of the water and apply a leave-in conditioner specifically targeted towards moisturizing the hair. I leave it on for about 5 minutes then rinse. Once I style my hair by blow drying and flat ironing it, I can instantly notice how soft and healthy it looks and feels. 

How often should it be used?

I use this product once every 4-6 weeks as instructed. I try to mark the calendar on the day I apply it so that it's easy to remember for next time. 

I would recommend this to anyone with chemically damaged hair who experiences any of the severe hair problems from the list above. This amazing protein product is helping to restore my hair back to a healthy state; slowly but surely.

4 oz. bottle available at Sally Beauty Supply for $7.99

Stripe dress, £52
Steve Madden lace shoes, $90
GUESS studded handbag, £120
Chain jewelry, $24
Kate Spade 14k bangle, $128
Tom Ford vintage cat eye sunglasses, $180
Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss, $23
Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Pin-Up Lash, $15
Essie Sheer Nail Polish Shades, $8

Hi Loves!

It's been one month exactly since I created this beauty blog I named BohoVanity and committed to writing once a day or more. There has been a lot of time, thought, and work put into every post which is greatly supported by your sweet comments, tweets, follows, everything. I absolutely love this community and have met so many nice people with amazing blogs that I visit and comment on daily.I love spending hours just reading about what you girls find and the products you swear by, and learning about different makeup products from around the world.

 I do not have much free time anymore so it has been a bit challenging at times, but I truly do love what I do and believe it's worth all the effort. I never expected this dream of mine to take off like it did, and it has been a truly wonderful surprise. 

I'm sick with a sinus infection or a bad head cold, I'm not sure what it is yet but it's awfully painful and annoying, so I'm going to go drink more orange juice and rest. Thank you all so much for your positive words and support, they mean so much to me.

Here's to many more posts about the perfect pink blush, and pictures of mascaras that will make your lashes look miles long.

Have a great Sunday & talk soon.

Left to Right

Revlon Photoready Airbrush Mousse Makeup in 020 Shell

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Treatment Concealer in 50 Neutralizer

Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer in Ivory Light 2-3.5

Buxom Lashliner in Suede

Maybelline Illegal Length Mascara in Blackest Black

Tarte Lipgloss from the Holiday 2011 Collection

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Finishing Powder in Nude

These little kabuki brushes are a limited edition set from Ecotools, a company that makes "earth friendly beauty" products. The bristles are make from synthetic taklon and are so incredibly soft. The recycled aluminum handles are really light and decorated with cute nature patterns. I noticed no shedding when I washed them and the 'hairs' held their shape after they had dried.

As inexpensive as they are, Ecotools has the most soft, well made brushes I've ever tried; even compared to the more pricey and high end brands. They all apply makeup so well that it's really hard to believe that this brand is not considered to have 'professional' products. I reviewed another brush from them here which happens to be my favorite powder brush that I use almost every day.

This set retails for $14.99 but I found it at Target on clearance for $10.48. An amazing deal for 4 well made, dense brushes. Ecotools Website

Contour Brush

I like to use it in the hollows of my cheeks with bronzing powder for a really defined look.

Bronze Brush

Also fits perfectly under the cheek bone and under the jaw to sculpt the face.

Buff over face to smooth and remove excess powder for a flawless finish.

Great for stippling on foundation then blending in circular motions for a airbrushed look.

This award winning eau de parfum from Victoria's Secret has to be my favorite of all time- coming from the girl who has tried hundreds of amazing fragrances! It's sexy and bold, yet still very feminine. At first it smells like a light sensual cologne, then I notice the floral and fruity notes that make it such a beautiful blend.

The pink packaging with the black ribbon bow is so girly and cute, and looks absolutely adorable sitting out on my vanity. This is the original Bombshell perfume that VS puts on a spin on each season. It is a classic scent appropriate for all ages; one that both my mother and I love.

On me, it lingers all day and is just strong for someone close to catch a whiff without being too overpowering.

Notes: purple passion fruit, Shangri-la yellow peony, vanilla orchid

Go test it out at your local VS and let me know if you love it as much as I do. 

You can also find it here on their website. 

$49 for 1.7 oz.

What is your favorite Victoria's Secret fragrance?

Whether you create a sophisticated makeup look or something a little more natural, it is important to make your best features stand out. I learned in beauty school all the specific sections of the face that either should be darkened to contour (define) or brightened to highlight. Using white, cream, baby yellow and pink colors will help to bring light to those areas thus drawing attention to it and making that feature stand out. This will also add a youthful effect that will open up that part of the face and make you look more radiant and polished. 

A flesh colored, white or pink color on the waterline (the strip of skin right above the lower eye lashes) will makes the sclera (white part of the eyeball) look even whiter. This is a great technique to use to make you appear more awake and alert. 

A reflective or light colored powder or cream product applied to the inner corner will open up and widen that typically dark area. 

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk
 This is a super creamy, pigmented product that can be used alone, or as a  base or primer for highlighting. For the most natural effect, pat this in with a finger to sheer out the color.

Smashbox Eye Beam Double-Ended Brightener
A pencil with a small end in a flesh tone for the waterline and a thicker end with pale gold shimmer for highlighting anywhere else. 

The e.l.f. brand has a studio line that offers their prestige and professional cosmetics in chic black packaging. The formula of the product is designed to be worn sheer or layered on for a more intense look. It is not a soft, buttery feeling blush, however it has really good color pay off and also melts right into the skin. It looks a bit powdery when swatched with a finger, however when applied with a brush it blends in nicely.

Packaging

The black plastic container with the mirror inside looks almost identical to Nars Cosmetics' blush packaging and actually holds the same amount of product too (.16 oz). The texture and quality of the e.l.f. ones are not as great as it's high end twin, however there are shades that look identical and could be considered inexpensive 'dupes'.

Find

Some of e.l.f.'s studio line can be found in Target stores, however there isn't a big selection to chose from. I mostly order from their direct website because they always offer coupon codes, sales, and free gifts with purchase. These blushes are $3.00 full price, however I bought them on a half off sale and only paid $1.50. It might not be the most luxurious makeup in the world, however the affordable price and extensive collections are definitely worth checking out.

Click here to buy e.l.f. studio blush from their website!