Beauty Horoscope: Aries 2017

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Alright, Aries. It's time to add fuel to the element that burns in your soul. Fire fills you with energy. So should your beauty rituals. Reds will emblazon your competitive nature. While most will find red to be an intimidating color to work with, you can draw inspiration from it. The warmth of reds connects you to Mars, your ruling planet. Often you rely on makeup techniques that are comfortable to you. But in the season of Aries, you must be bold. This Spring and Summer, draping blush will be everywhere. It is a throwback to the 80s. With a light fluffy brush, apply your blush high on your cheekbone. Sweep the color into your crease, temple, or brow bone. Here are some product recommendations and beauty inspo for every Aries. 

Top Beauty Picks for Aries

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Skincare

Sk-II Facial Treatment Essence - Limited Edition Red Butterfly; $299.00

J. One Black Jelly Pack; $47

Sunday Riley Flora Hydroactive Cellular Face Oil; $90

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Deep Pore Cleansing; $11.49

Tatcha Supple Moisture Rich Silk Cream; $150

First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser with Red Clay; $24

Boscia Konjac Cleansing Sponge with Deep Hydrating Clay; $15

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Redness Neutralizing Correcting Cream; $32

Lush Dream Steam Toner Tab; $2.95

L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Mask: Exfoliate& Refine Pores; $12.99

Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil; $26

Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream; $30

Beauty

Glam Glow Glowsetter Makeup Setting Spray; $32

Yves Saint Laurent Les Sahariennes Bronzing Stones Sun-Kissed Glow in Fire Opa; $55

Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eye Shadow Palette; $42

Bite Beauty Prismatic Pearl Creme Lip Gloss in Gold; $22

Bobbi Brown Art Stick Liquid Lip in Uber Red; $28

Static Nails All In One Pop On Manicure Kit: Red Bottom; $38

NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer; $30

L'Oreal Infallible Lip Paint in Taupeless; $7.99

NARS NARSissist Unfiltered Cheek Palette in Unfiltered I; $59

Make Up For Ever Aqua Liner Liquid Eyeliner in 10 Iridescent Red (brink red sheen); $23

Lancome Juicy Shaker in 166 Walk The Lime; $22

Clinique Chubby Lash Fattening Mascara in Bodacious Black Honey; $17.50

Art for Aries

Milky Way by Liaison Erotique print available here

Aries by Musya print availanle here

Aries I by Ayannaniamabi Art print available here

Info on Aries from here

All product photos are linked to their original source. None of the photos are property of meetpepperb.com

Look Good & Eat Fabulously with Christopher Stewart

Written by Pepper.B

My name is Christopher, a fab girl with a fab name. I'm born and raised in the Bronx, New York. Im a restaurant lover and creator of Eating Fabulously. Eating Fabulously stands for all things fabulous and I want women to know that you can soooo have it all, be educated, look amazing, feel amazing, be a boss, be a fab mom, be a woman on the go, know where your food comes from. And all the while doing it fabulously, of course. 

“Don't worry about what other people think of you. Be the best man

you can be and make sure they always spell your name right” 

- Unknown

Was being a chef your all time dream, ? 

Yes it was. My grandfather was a chef and he used to always have me in the kitchen with him. I contemplated being a doctor and my mom and grandmother are in the fashion industry but the cooking aspect always stuck the hardest with me. I went to the Culinary Institute of America, worked in some really unconventional restaurants and achieved my goal of becoming executive chef at 24 years old.

What got you into food blogging?

 I got into food blogging when I noticed there were no food blogs written by black women who also had the upper hand of being in the restaurant industry every day. I was seeing food blogs but they were always kind of the same. Really soul food focused or only covering the popular celebrity chef restaurants and I was like wait! I do this everyday and I dine out a lot, so I took that and created Eating Fabulously.

How do you decide what type of content you cover ?

 In the first 5 years of starting my blog I was covering the recipes I was making in the restaurant and writing about all these small hole in the wall restaurants I was dining at. As I got older and life was happening to me, my content evolved. Now I cover content that's still food focused but also lifestyle focused as well. Still recipes, still restaurant reviews but now I have a cocktail section with drinks from mixologist in restaurants that you can make at home; I interview people I think are dope and that the public needs to know about, and I include a lot of myself now. Things I'm into, my point of view etc.

“. . .three or four ingredients, as long as they are of the highest and

freshest quality, can be combined in a straightforward way to make a

truly excellent and occasionally wondrous product.”

- Anthony Bourdain

What is your favorite dish to prepare for family and close friends?

 I usually make caramel pecan bread pudding completely from scratch if we are having a big family gathering like at Christmas. It's really my favorite thing to make for us because everything is made from scratch and it silences the crowd every time.

What’s the best “I’m Sorry” Meal to prepare ?

 The best "I'm sorry" meal is the meal that person loves but elevated x 10. Say the person loves steak; get the best quality steak you can afford, then elevate it with herbs, finish it with a cracked salt and a compound butter on top. These extra steps really show the person that you are sorry and you took the time to make them a great meal.

Spring is approaching and everyone will begin being more mindful of what they are eating include your recipe “Eating Fabulously Spring Salad 2017”
Spring is a great time to step your salad game up. The farmers markets are amazing for salad’s because you're getting the season’s best produce. I love experimenting with different types of lettuce (i.e. butter lettuce, raddichio, little gems, frisee, rocket) and lots of raw veggies and fruit to work with. Remember to season your salads! People never think to salt and pepper your salads before serving them but it makes a major difference

Eating Fabulously Spring Salad -Salad greens
-cucumbers
-thinly sliced red onions

-red pepper
- avocado
-eggs
-salt and pepper

Grapefruit and Rosemary Vinaigrette 1/2 fresh and ripe grapefruit
1 stalk fresh rosemary, minced
1 shallot, sliced thinly

honey
White wine vinegar
Dijon mustard, about 1 teaspoon Canola oil
Salt

In a bowl, add minced rosemary, sliced shallots, honey, white wine vinegar, dijon mustard, and juice from grapefruit. In slow thin streams, add canola oil, whisking until vinaigrette comes together. Taste and season with salt. Adjust to you liking, altering sweetness, grapefruit juice or acidity.

What was your favorite dish as a child?

My grandfather used to make this red snapper dish with whipped mashed potatoes and green beans with tomatoes and onions. The mashed potatoes used to remind me of ice cream they were so smooth and dense. I still replicate the green beans now.

What is one dish you hate to prepare ?

 I don't hate it but I don't really know how to fry chicken so I stay away from that! I went to culinary school and ran a restaurant but frying chicken is my downfall.

Where should someone take you to win your heart on a first date & why?

Somewhere I've been talking about consistently and they have paid attention to what I was saying. Or somewhere that has a chef's counter where we can sit and eat and watch the chefs cook. I don't cook professionally anymore but I do still love to see it in action. And be open to trying new foods! That's a major key!

How do you find food and beauty relative ? 

Food and beauty relate because how you feel on the inside reflects on the outside. So if you're eating horribly, it's going to come out in your mood and definitely your skin. If you're eating fabulously, lots of veggies, good protein, your beauty will be magnified and you will genuinely feel better.

What’s in your make-up bag?

 I wear BareMinerals original powder foundation. Maybelline concealer, a brow pencil I love from the beauty supply store, some NYX illuminator, typically a nude lipstick and gloss and some setting spray. I usually always have on lashes when I’m not wearing glasses, which are either Royal Crown lashes, Ardel or mink lashes via Lilly Lashes.

What is your skincare routine like ?

 I think I have the most simple and minimal skin care routine in the world. I wash my face with Clean & Clear brightening facial scrub and I also use Formula 10.0.6 Best Face Forward face cleanser alternatively. Once a week I go over my face with witch hazel. My mom taught me to use a moisturizer that's 10x my age. So in my 20's I was using moisturizer for 30yr old skin. Now I'm in my early 30's and I'm using L'Oreal Revitalift Double Lifting Gel. I'm totally an old soul and will still smear some good ole Vaseline on my face every now and then too. It also helps that my family has amazing skin so that's really spoiling me lol!

“I think one great tip is that you should always love yourself.

If you don't love yourself, take care of yourself, cater to yourself &

 that little inner voice, you will really not be very worthy of being with

someone else, because you won't be the best version of you.”

- Kimora Lee Simmons

If you were a smoothie what would you consist of and why ?

I would be a really amazing green smoothie with spinach, kale and dates. Dates specifically because they are sweet but still give you a little bite (like me lol )

What is your favorite pastry?

 I love sweets! I'm all about sweet but my favorite pastry is a simple croissant. By itself, as a sandwich, croissants for everyone!

Please leave behind a major food tip for women:

Learn and perfect the basics ! Learn how to roast a chicken, sear a piece of fish, cook at steak to temperature, cook vegetables perfectly, have a go to recipe for brunch and dinner. A lot of really amazing food begins with these basics. 

Meet Her HERE:

Blog - http://www.eatingfabulously.com/
Shop - http://eatfabshopfab.bigcartel.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/eatingfabulously/ 

Nars Make-up Removing Water

Written by Ada H 

I just wrote a review on the NARS matte lipstick in VIP Red. Just a recap, it wasn’t that great. That hurt my perception of NARS to be honest. I was sad. After using their water based makeup remover though, I was happy again! I’m a very simple girl really. You make good products and I’m happy. You make bad products and I’m sad. See? Simple.

I use oil based makeup remover. Why you ask? Oh, you know, BECAUSE I DIDN’T KNOW WATER BASED EXISTED. 

This changed my world. It’s the little things. Oil based makeup remover is so messy. Taking off eye makeup just leads to more of a greasy mess that’s already been accumulating all day with your natural oils sitting on your face. Then you’re smudging around this black mess and you just look plain scary. 

NARS Makeup Removing Water comes in a big 6.7 fl oz. bottle and you use it just like any other makeup remover. Dump some on a cotton ball and go to town. Except this really feels like you’re cleaning your face instead of just rubbing around oils all around your face making you look like a freak of a clown. 

I will be a fan forever. Oh and ironically, I used this to take off all of their sad lipstick. So happiness will always trump sadness. Bam. That’s deep.

Nars VIP Red Lipstick Review

Written by Ada H 

I have to admit, I’m a little disappointed. NARS has that name and reputation where if you have the product then you know it’s great quality makeup with that sleek design in packaging.  Women who use NARS in my mind embodies this sophisticated, chic elegance. (I mean, I try, but don’t always hit that mark.)  This is my first time trying NARS lipstick.  I know, I’m super late. Better late than never right? So naturally, I was super excited! I love lipstick! I have so many different brands and shades. I have so many different shades of red, so this one added to my collection oh so perfectly.  It was Friyay, and the perfect night to take this baby out for a spin. “Paint the town red,” they said and I replied, “Yes, oh yes!”

First, I’m a huge fan of matte lipstick. 99% of my lipstick collection is matte. The problem with matte lipstick as we all know, is that it dries your lips out. I usually just use regular ole’ chapstick and it’s not a big deal. Most of the time I don’t even bother with chapstick though, it’s only for the super drying formulas. 

Yes, sadness. You know where this is going. It was soooo drying I begged my friend to borrow her chapstick.  The color was beautiful. It’s a beautiful dark wine red shade. It’s a shame. 

Not only was it super drying, but the color wouldn’t stay. I thought it was because we ate dinner and so it’s natural for the color to fall off.  I reapplied and carried on with my night to a cocktail lounge and drank out of a teensy straw and stared at hunk of a man across the room. 30 mins later I walked to the bathroom and was like omg why do I have to reapply again!? I always use lip primer, so like wtf? I hate wasting time on things I shouldn’t be doing again and again and again. That’s all I did all night, run to the bathroom to check my lipstick was still on. 

Sorry, I can find a similar shade with another brand that stays on longer and won’t dry my lips out this bad. 

Hair Polisher from Smooth 'N Shine Hair Polishing

I came out the womb with frizzy hair. In middle school, we had to do some creative writing. One of my classmates took his character inspiration from the kids in our class. During peer editing, I was tasked to look over his work. There were about 8 people in our class and only two of us were girls. So his character description for me was pretty easy to spot. A "short, round, frizzy haired girl...." That's still a pretty accurate description. But I have learned a few things about managing my frizzy,  wavy mane. 

If you have chronic frizzy hair, you know that running a brush through your hair is the worst thing you can do. Often times you have to just let your tangles be and just hope that no one tries to run their fingers through your hair. They might not get their hand back. 

I remembering using Smooth 'N Shine Hair Polisher when I was a kid. It works really well to, well, smooth your hair! But always work from your ends up. When my hair is in it's natural state, I like to use the Hair Polisher to calm it. I put about a quarter size in my palms and massage through my fingers before rubbing it into my hair. It is better to use your fingers because it gives you a better chance of spreading the product evenly. I hate when I get too much product in one spot of my hair and the products don't spread evenly.

If my hair is blown out, like in the pictures below, I use just a dime size, maybe even less. I focus it on my ends. Once 99% of the product is off my hands and in my hair, I GENTLY touch up the fly aways dancing near my roots. I never apply these products near my roots because I don't like the greasy hair look. I can't do it. But if you want that glossy, editorial hair look, you can use this product for that too. I did it of fun just before going to wash my hair. I mean, it's not like I was going to the Oscars. 

This isn't even close to how frizzy this hair can get. Also, ya'll know I did not wake up with all that makeup on lol!!! #WentHAMwithTheBlush 

The hardest ones to tame without greasing up your whole look are the ones framing your face. 

The Hair Polisher has good slip, which means it glides through your hair easily. A little bit goes a long way. Even on my dry, color-treated hair. The product is very thick, so less is more. The only reason I think I stopped using this product is because I went through a bougie phase lol! This product can have you smooth and ready to run out the door. You can see that my hair is still a tiny bit frizzy, but I've never minded my frizzy hair, tbh. 

What I don't like about this product is that the day after I use it, my hair smellz. If you have dry, frizzy, color-treated hair, you know that washing your hair too often just makes it drier, frizzier, and you're wasting your money dyeing your hair. I wash my hair about every 4-5 days. But the day after I use this product, I have to wash my hair. It has a sweet, sour candy smell to it when you first apply it. But the next day.....um hmm! It's just sour. It has to go.

I would not recommend this product for blondes, which I was up until a few weeks ago. When your hair is bottle-blonde, so many things can effect the color. Product build-up in the hair can make your hair look rusty and orange. The hair polisher gives your hair an orange hue. Like instantly. 

Smooth 'N Shine Hair Polisher is SUPER affordable and really easy to find! You might find it in the 'ethnic' beauty section. Real quick, WTH is ethnic hair when everyone has an ethnicity. Oh right, it's just a way to make people feel excluded from beauty. Read about SheaMoisture taking a stance on beauty segregation here. Read about their #BreaktheWalls campaign here. 

How do you solve frizzy hair?

Available at Target; $4.39

Product photo from Target.com

All photos are property of Meetpepperb.com

Survival of the LIT-est: Pepper.b Talks with Lit Bklyn

Denequa Williams Creator Lit! BKLYN 

My name is Denequa Williams, Brooklyn-bred. I would describe myself as an honest, outspoken, funny, adventurous, spontaneous, heart on the sleeve wearing, professional dreamer who was not always comfortable with who I was. It took some time to acquire this confidence that was once the mask for my insecurities and uncertainties. I am a firm believer in being honest with yourself and never allowing someone else’s thoughts about you to alter your spirit. I love to get dressed up. I believe in fairy tales, trusting your instincts, speaking on the phone for hours, loving hard, & forgiveness. I have a potty mouth. I believe in second chances. I make my own rules. I can be silly sometimes and really serious other times. I love to take pictures. I don’t trust people easily. I am a rebel at heart. I am a sucker for flowers and candles. I love sour candy. I’ve learned to see the beauty in all things. I prefer to listen to music rather than watch tv. 90’s R&B, old school reggae and occasional trap music to be more specific. JayZ is my favorite rapper. I listen to Lauryn Hill’s Unplugged at least five times a week in its entirety. I love LOVE. I believe it is the healer of all things. Everyday I am learning more and more about myself. I actually have a few hidden passions, lol, I enjoy writing, cooking, and photography.

Was curating candles your dream job?

Surprisingly, curating candles was not always my dream job. I just knew that I always loved candles and wanted to take a try at creating my own product. I have always been a creative person with a million ideas, lol. I have a few dream jobs, I’m just getting started. Curating candles is actually paving the way for everything else that I wish to accomplish. 

What is the best part about owning your own business? 

The best part about owning my own business is that I am in control of my voice and my vision and it has been a complete joy watching it come into fruition. I also enjoy meeting and connecting with the people who support my brand

What are 3 mandatory tools you think a person owning a small business needs ?

3 mandatory tools that I think a person owning a business needs are a laptop, passport, & business cards. A laptop to conduct your business affairs (email, skype, etc.) , a passport to see the world and get inspiration for your business, & business cards because every person who owns a business needs it.

If you were a candle scent what would you be and why ?

If I was a candle scent, I would be my “HOME” scent, which is a mash up of lemon sugar and vanilla. It’s warm, calm, memorable and inviting, kind of like me

Who’s your Muse ? 

My muse are my parents. I admire their work ethic. I am a product of excellence. Both immigrants who migrated to this country with practically nothing. They have taught me and showed me first hand what hard work and sacrifice look like and for that I will forever be grateful. I have no other choice but to be excellent because I had the best examples

What perfume do you wear most often ?

My perfume that I wear most often is Tom Ford “Tobacco Vanille", and Elizabeth & James “Nirvana”

What is your go to manicure color & why ? 

My go to manicure color is Starter Wife in Essie, I love this color because it’s soft and girly and it’s like the perfect powder pink. 

What are 5 items you need to create an ambiance ? 

My 3* items that I need to create an ambiance in no particular order are candles, comfy pillows, flowers.

What’s your skin regime like, Whats your favorite skincare line? 

My favorite skin care line is skinBUTTR, I use their cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. I also love Africa Miranda’s facial elixir.

What’s the last song you listened to while commuting or driving ? 

The last song I listened to while commuting is JayZ’s “What More Can I Say”

Talk about some collaborations you've done:

The collaborations that I have done are with Mia Ray (Glam-Aholic Lifestyle) & Mikey Likes It (Hip Hop themed ice cream shop). Both doing extremely well. Funny thing is with the collab with Mia, I never even met her, or even heard her voice over the phone. I was just a huge fan of her work ethic, and her hustle. Her vibe is sort of infectious. I had purchased one of her wallets and shared a flatlay (photo) on social media. She loved the image so much that she reposted it, that’s how she found out about LIT. She made a purchase, & I woke up one day to a friend request from her on Facebook & was tagged in a 28 minute long review of the candles. I literally started crying. I mean I know that I created a dope product. But to have someone I didn't know, someone I don't even have a relationship speak so highly of something I created was next level. A few weeks later, she reached out and asked if I did collabs. Although I knew eventually I would branch out and do it, my first collab had to be with Mia. I’m super big on energy, I went with my gut and it felt right. It felt genuine. The trust was there on both ends. I created two scents for her “Rose Ray”(rose scented) & “HU$TLE” (sweet & floral scented).

For the Mikey collab, I created two scents from their number one selling flavors “Ice Ice Baby” (Vanilla) & “SoHo” (Southern Hospitality/Butter Pecan) This was an absolute honor to be able to collaborate with a brand that I not only support but also respect. Some thing has got to be said when you are happy about your job, and that’s the vibe I get every single time I walk into Mikey Likes It. Mikey is big on community as well as customer service. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with him. 

If you could do an upcoming collaboration with someone you admire who would it be ?

If I could do an upcoming collaboration with someone I admire, it would definitely be Elaine Welteroth of Teen Vogue. She is an inspiration to women, to people of the world. I love what she is doing with her voice and her platform. She is unafraid, unapologetic, and a complete badass.

Most exciting moment for LIT Brooklyn in 2016:

My most exciting moment for 2016 was seeing a product that I created in the December Holiday issue of Essence Magazine & also sitting on the infamous gold couch in the RocNation office getting my picture taken by THE Lenny S.

Something you are looking forward to doing in 2017: 

In 2017, I am looking forward to being on ‘Oprah’s Favorite Things” list *speaking it into existence*

What was your favorite childhood hobby ? 

My favorite childhood hobby was doing crossword puzzles in the Sunday newspaper.

If you could leave a small message for Women what would it be ? 

If I could leave a small message for women, it would be to follow your dreams and don’t allow anyone to hinder your spirit. Understand that as women, we are multi-faceted individuals that are capable of doing anything that we put our mind to. Also, stay in your own lane, it shouldn’t be that easy to get caught up with what other people are doing, or what other people are saying about you, that’s not your business! Lastly, get comfortable with being alone, it’s when you are alone that you can truly focus on yourself & your craft, and continue to get better and be greater.

Out of Trouble: 10 Minute Mask to Rescue Problem Skin by Origins

Origins is a skincare line that flies under the radar. Their packaging is simple. They haven't saturated their Instagram with influencers and influencers don't really hype up Origins' products. Because they aren't constantly cranking out gimmicky products, it's one of the skincare lines that I sincerely trust. I also have yet to try a product of theirs that has disrespected my face by making it break out. 

The Out Of Trouble 10 Minute Mask to Rescue Problem Skin is a great solution for someone who needs balance to their skin. It can quickly absorb oiliness but and exfoliate any dryness to the skin. 

I have mostly normal skin. Though you rarely see it here on meetpepperb.com, I wear glasses. All the time; not for reading or long distance. I just can't see lol. Where my glasses sit on my face, I get some oiliness if I don't regularly clean my frames. I use this mask about once every two weeks to balance my skin in those areas. When I get some hormonal pimples, I use this mask to treat them. It soothes the inflammation so that a pimple isn't so red. Like with most clay masks, overuse will lead to dry flakes on your face. Be cautious and listen to your skin.

Not all masks are going to give your instant results. Continued use of this face in addition to your regular skincare routine, will help you find balance for your skin. 

How do you kill time waiting for a mask dry

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Other Origins Product Review:

Origins Clear Improvements Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores

Like! Comment! Share!

Available at Sephora; $26

Product photo from Sephora.com

All other photos are property of Meetpepperb.com

Cover FX Clear Cover Primer Review

Written by: Deanna P

For someone who is a beauty editor, I am sad to say, I don’t know all of the products on the market today.  It’s mainly because there are millions out there & every week probably another ones comes out.  A couple of weeks ago, I was given Cover/FX clear cover invisible sunscreen broad spectrum SPF30.  It comes in 1 size; 0.5 oz/ 15 mL & retails for $45.00.

Cover FX is a Canadian brand that was founded in 2000 by Ontario Corporation.  It was created to fill a need for a product that provides therapeutic benefits & environmental protection that is free of all irritants & can beused on all skin types including sensitive skin. In 2003 Cover FX launched is the most popular drug store in Canada called Shopper’s Drug Mart.  Then in 2006 the products were launched in the UK & last but, not least in 2007 it came to the USA. The invisible sunscreen is the first product I have ever tried by this brand.   What makes this product so cool is it’s light, invisible & non greasy.  Once you apply it to the skin, it melts into your skin so nicely, you would never even know that you had it on.  I apply sunscreen everyday so it is perfect for me.   It is Broad Spectrum SPF30.  It also doesn’t only protect your skin from the sun, but it moisturizes, nourishes, & brightens.  

it is packaged in asmall container that closes well& is easy for me to carry with me in case I want to apply it again throughout the day.    This is key for me as I don’t like to be without protection if I am out in the sun for any length of time.   I mentioned in a previous post that I had skin cancer & sun screen is a necessity for my beauty routine.   This will be a staple for me this summerIt is easy to apply as all you do is smooth it in with your fingers to a clean dry face.   You should apply 15 minutes before you have sun exposure & you should reapply every 2 hours.  Besides having no parabens, this product is free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, fragrance, toluene, gluten, DBP (dibutyl phthlate), mineral oil, camphor, and talc. It is rather pricey at $45.00, but it feels great on the skin & has additional benefits besides sun protection.  I will say ti is 100% worth is if it blocks the sun from my face.  After using it for a couple of weeks, I like it.   My opinion is based on how it feels & how my skin is looking lately.    I have not sat out in the sun for hours at a time so don’t have an opinion on how well it blocks the sun yet.  

You can buy it or find out more information below on the company’s website or you can purchase it at Sephora. 

https://www.coverfx.com

What we think about dumpster diving for make-up

What are your thoughts on dumpster diving for make-up?

Join the writers on Meetpepperb.com as we have a dialogue on our thoughts about dumpster diving for makeup.

Feel free to join in by meeting us in the comment section:

Pepper:  What drove me to write about dumpster diving is one day while on a work trip. I took a late night walk to Seven11 to get some essentials with a coworker, as we were leaving she mention this pile of food that was being locked up and put in the trash. I mentioned to her during my first high school job at Starbucks I would take all the leftover food and give it to the homeless shelter a few doors down. Thereafter she mentions " Well that I understand and thats amazing because the food just goes to waste and thats horrible" This is a real thing and some people who have lower income and no means to feed there family dumpster diving is something that works for them. I couldn't fault them either If I had no way to feed my family it would consist of whatever it takes. My co worker proceeds " What I don't get is the dumpster diver for make-up" at the this point the weird horror music begin to play. My mouth hit the floor all though I am in beauty Ive never heard of this before. I begin to do what I do best and I start to research deeper and this was best video I could find to describe this action in a nutshell please video right below and proceed for our dialouge

Danyelle 3/13/17

What you have is $6,000 worth of high-risk infection.

Did she say her mom!?! Mami, no!!!! These are not skills we want to be carried from generation to generation! Maybe I’m a snob, but the idea that these girls are going to put conditioner-soaked-dumPSTER-EYEshadow on their EYES just made me sick. Repressing an eyeshadow is NOT CLEANING IT!!!! Please just apply to work at a makeup store so you can enjoy the gratis! Being broke isn’t even a reason. Hi, I’d like to introduce you ELF cosmetics. You can snatch your face for the price of that Tarte palette you ‘cleaned.’

The lipstick. Jesus.  How could you put something that was in the trash on your face let alone your mouth! You are not trying to keep yourself fed. Makeup is a luxury at all price ranges. I love makeup, but this is not worth the risk! I’m sorry, but the girl is going through the skincare talking about pore cleansing but you about to rub dumpster lipstick on your lips. Where is the sense?

Danyelle 3/13/17

Omg. Never have I ever wanted to be an internet troll in my life. 

“I do plan on doing a giveaway.” No thanks, boo. That’s all you. For you and only you.

I had to scroll through the comment section, and look what found:

ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-ONE LIKES!!!! I am all about making friends, but you cannot be bonding over finding trash to put on your face. 

Danyelle 3/13/17

I’m sorry that your circumstances are have led you to dig in the trash so you can find makeup. I do not take for granted how lucky I am to even be able to buy the products I love. But, honey, there are other methods. There are organizations that donate makeup to people in need. Here is one of them called Project Beauty Share.

3/20/2017 @Acevalle 

“Over $6700 worth of dirt and dignity. Excuse me for being overly dramatic but this video left some scars. I’m a germaphobe and I honestly don’t even really like applying the testers at Sephora on my face let alone take something out of a dumpster… not trash can… HUGE Dumpster… that you have to climb in that was combined with other trash. OH THE HORROR.. The Bacteria floating Horror. WHY? What would possess you to dig in a dumpster late at night? Why would you risk infection and life long pink eye? Is it desperation? At this point I’m not only horrified but also incredibly curious. Just because you rubbed a little alcohol and melted that disgusting lipstick palette does not mean it is disinfected, if anything you just blended the melted product and remaining germs together. I’m so incredibly disturbed that this seems like a family activity and you can even hear children in the background in complete awe of the massive amount of items that were found. I understand that there are some products that are pricey and you lust for them but like I grew up very poor but every time I had birthday money or with every little job I could snag, I’d save up for a product I’ve been lusting after. Plus there are a lot of great products out there for less that 5 dollars!!!! this is unnecessary. Not to sound naive but I don’t even think money is the case here, They live in a house and have a car and wifi and a computer and phone to upload to youtube. I’m curious as to why this girl and her fam are doing this? I NEED TO KNOW!! I don’t want to come off as mean or anything like that but I’m just so bothered because this is just so gross and unhealthy to the largest organ of our bodies… our skin! as well as Eyes, and Mouth/Lips also pride.

What I find totally shocking is THE FOLLOWING this girl has… almost hitting 10,000 subscribers. They all aspire to dig trough the dumpsters near their local ultras to grab products!!! Lawd!!!!!”

— @acevalle

Deanna P

Conceptually it sounds like fun.  You jump into a dumpster & rummage around for valuables & when you find some you feel like you hit the Jackpot!  On the other hand you are in a dirty dumpster with garbage, possibly rodents & roaches, & whatever else someone has discarded.  The thought of this outweighs the feeling of finding something valuable.  I would opt out & find a more sure & cleaner way of finding a treasure like getting to the end of a rainbow! 

Comment below & tell us your thoughts!!!!!!!

Mend.Sew.Shred Interview with @Tikedi

Hey, I am Ti,  a twenty eight years old city girl living in the country. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York but currently live in Atlanta, Georgia, most people know me as ‘twin’..lol. TiKeDi is my baby brand that I started while in school. If you mispronounce it I wont correct you, but it’s just like saying my initials TKD, just really fast. I am a design fiend, and I am grateful and blessed that I am able to do what I love for a living. I really appreciate  things that are aesthetically pleasing and I do pay more for cute packaging. My mom thinks that  I am too liberal…and my answer to any question will always be ‘But did you vote?’ 

Was designing your dream job? 

No, designing was not my dream job. Although I have always been creative and my mom always allowed me to explore my creativity and options in life, I come from a family that believes in traditional careers. Having Jamaican parents and family roots, I grew up with people that were very opinionated, I had a vision of what my life was going to and should of been in my head. When I started college at seventeen  I did not know what I wanted to do, however because almost every member in my family is a nurse, the most natural decision for me at the time was to pursue a degree in nursing. I started the pre nursing track upon my entrance of college but my heart was never in it. After my freshman year, I spent about a year and half trying to find my niche. Legit, I went through four or five majors during the course of three semesters. Designing itself, was a mistake, long story short… I was laid off and needed an income.

 

You have a unique process when creating your pieces,? What sets your style apart from others

What makes my process unique is that I believe in imperfect perfection. Truthfully, although I started my brand out of a need, it became bigger than me and my bills that needed to be paid. I genuinely love what I do and I believe that it shows in my work. One of the hardest things for me is seeing people take my pictures and styles, and passing it off as their own. I used to get so upset when it would happen, but I’ve learned not to give those people and it any of my energy. I realized that feeding my energy into dishonest people and situations were and will always be a hindrance to me, not them. That is valuable energy that could be used to fuel my creative process, plus people always tend to want the original. Yes! TiKeDi is largely based around distressed and shredding but when you look at the details and see a TiKeDi piece, you know it’s a TiKeDi piece. I myself, am a plus size woman so I design for every woman, regardless of size. I am not going to make a line that strictly caters to plus size woman or create something that can only fit individuals that are a size 0-10.

Talk about some places and some people we may have seen your designs on? 

Man, TiKeDi has been blessed. Like any life process we go through our highs and lows, however, we have touched a lot of people. A few years ago we would have never thought we would be associated with or having pieces requested and worn by half of our clientele, all of which is due to my sister who has a pulse on who what and where.TiKeDi is in boutiques in both New York and Atlanta. On top of boutique placement our pieces have been used at shows during NYFW in 2014, TBoz on her TLC reality show in 2013, VH1 Love and Hip Hop 2015, Young Thug BET Awards 2015, Young Thug Danny Glover Video, Kendrick Lamar Street Dreaming Video, India Arie music video. Outside of television our pieces have been worn by Teyana Taylor, Brittany Hall, Ashunta Sherriff, Tionna Smalls, Makeup Shayla, Hrush, Alexis Branch, Dondria and countless bloggers, just to name a few. 

One of your garments was recently seen in Harper's Bazar speak a little bit about that ? 

Yes, that was an amazing feeling because it was unexpected. But Hrush, the Kardashians makeup artist wore a couple of our pieces during her time at NYFW so when she featured an article on Harper’s Bazaar website talking about her time at NYFW and the details of her looks, TiKeDi was featured in it as well. Literally 8 slides of TiKeDi on freaking Harpers Bazaar.

What is your personal style like ? 

My style is constantly evolving but a few things that stay consistent is black and comfort. Right now I am in a phase where less is more. I live for a good oversized tee, or v neck, and the perfect skinnies. Oh yeah, the higher and thicker the platform, the better. Recently it has come to my attention that I am ‘goth’ but that is not how I identify, I like to think of myself as an NYC downtown girl.

If you were a lipstick what color would you be and why ? 

If I were a lipstick I would be a chocolately nude, I am so into nudes right now when it comes to makeup and I think it is  because it matches my personality the most. It seems so cool and calm, yet makes a statement at the same time. It is a little bold without being loud. Some may think its boring and others love it. Yup, chocolately nude I would be.

5 things you cant travel without ? 

Five things I cannot travel without are my computer, phone, Instax camera, headphones, and a cute bag. 

What's the last album you listened to in its entirety ? 

 I have ran Emile Sande Long Live the Angels down, but the last album that I listened to, which was today is John Legends Darkness and Light

Who is your muse ? 

My sister Asia is my muse. It is crazy because we are complete opposites in every way but whenever I am designing or thinking of a new style she is the first person I think of. She is the prototype because sometimes she throw shit together and on someone else it would look like shit, but because of her personality for her it works. And then there’s other times where she is completely downtown edgy and I just love it, she’s a chameleon. 

Favorite place to find hidden gems when shopping ? 

My all time favorite place to find hidden gems is in….(dun dun) WALMART. I freaking love Walmart! They are so underrated but for me it is a gold mine, especially the men section. I will  go in there for cheese and I end up walking out with bags of shit.

What is hardest part about running your own shop? 

The hardest part about running my shop, is stopping. There’s 24 hours in the day and I feel like I work 22. Hell truthfully I think I work 21 hours everyday though. You know your business is your baby, and I think that is truer now with us millenials. We’re holding off having actual babies because we’re out her fostering and growing something of our own, putting our own stamp on things. Doing this causes me to be so hard and judgemental on myself, as well as sacrificing a social life and love life for my work life. Seriously, I’ve been finding myself on dates thinking, urggghhh this is a waste of time I could be home working on such and such.

What is the most fulfilling thing about running your own shop ? 

The most fulfilling thing about running my own shop is seeing what I’ve done out in the physical world. It’s one thing when it’s in your head, and then when you create it you’re like ‘ok, ok’ but when you put it out and offer it up to others and they fuck with it as much as you do….that feeling is everything. Like I said, your business is your baby, no one ever wants their baby to be rejected or criticized by others.

Something you are looking forward to accomplishing this year 2017? 

 I am looking forward to releasing a cut and sew collection for TiKeDi, I am currently developing VIII XXIX by TiKeDi which is basically the infusion line to what we already have. I have so many ideas that I just need to get out so I cannot wait to get it solified.

Being a business owner often requires you to be a jack of all trades what are something hidden talents you have ? 

This is an understatement of all times, I have to wear so many hats running my own business that sometimes I question myself. But something that I am really really good at is making things really pretty. So when I am not designing for TiKeDi, I am desigining under TKD Designs….yes I am a web and graphic designer beasting both the back end and front end of people websites. I always joke that I wish I knew how to hardcore hack because ultimately that’s what I want to do, hack the hell out of someones computer, phone, or bank account, just because I can. 

Favorite childhood hobby ?

My favorite childhood hobby was drawing. I remember growing up I used to draw all the time (which is weird because I don’t know how to draw now). But when I was younger my mom would always find an art class for me and a writing class for my sister. When she was going to college, she enrolled us in classes as well. One of my favorite things that we used to do, was every Saturday my mom, sister, and I would spend the day creating and doing arts and crafts at the dining room table in our apartment. Then we would head to Downtown Brooklyn, shop a little and eat fish and chips.

www.shoptikedi.com

Instagram: @Shoptikedi 

Charcoal Pore-Minimizing Hydrogel Mask by Boscia

Please add this mask to your cabinet. As a matter of fact, add two of them. Boscia is a Japanese skincare line who is famous for their black skin care products. Most notably, the peel off Luminizing Black Mask. But I would not be surprised if this Charcoal Pore-Minimizing Hyrdogel Mask is a close second for their most loyal consumers. 

I prefer hydrogel sheet masks to fiber masks. I find hydrogel to be more soothing on the skin. This Boscia mask comes halves. It is most likely so the sheet mask does not tear when you apply it to your face; not that it is super fragile. 

My skincare concerns regarding my pores always fall back to the pores on my nose. I've told you how they're so deep you can pack a snack in them for long car rides, right? Because of this, I am always skeptical of products that claim to be pore-minimizing. I have some pores on my cheeks just around my nose as well. You can imagine my shock when I slid this mask off my face to reveal a 98% smooth nose! (I'm just guessing lol! I did not graph my nose) My skin had been nearly perfected. And, folks, that's way more than I'm aiming for. It works!!! This hydrogel mask would be great to use before applying makeup for flawless skin. My mom is in her mid-40s (30s, if you ask her) and she has porous skin. She picked up her own Charcoal Pore-Minimizing Hyrdogel Mask and she loved it too! The results lasted for a few days, too!

Pour yourself some tea, you've got time to kill. 20 minutes to smooth skin. So freak your friends out on Snapchat. I'm so guilty of having the longest stories on snapchat and IG stories! 

The only reason this mask doesn't have a full 5 stars is because it oversells. It claims to "remove" and "draw out" blackheads and whiteheads. I did not experience that myself. Just rein it in! When you oversell a product and it doesn't live up to the claims, that is when a product receives negative reviews. It was the only thing that disappointed me. That being said, I would certainly keep this mask in beauty arsenal. 

              Why snapchat always be shading me??

Do you prefer fiber masks or hydrogel masks?

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Available at Sephora; $8

Photos taken with iphone 7

All photos are property of Meetpepperb.com

Milk Makeup Gel Brow

By Amanda V. 

Brows are very important to me, and even saying that is an understatement. I'm not talking the ever popular Instagram Brow, although that’s beautiful and a work of art,  I'm more of a Brooke Shields, full and fluffy kinda gal. It has just always been my thing. For that natural full and fluffy kind of look that I thirst for, there aren’t many products other than my beloved Glossier Boy Brow that can do the trick but… just recently I think I've come across my new favorite Brow pencil. For the past month I've been using Milk Gel Brow on these unruly and slightly patchy brows of mine. The pigment on this bad boy is spectacular and it glides on so silkily. The light formula fills in the sparse patches in my naturally full brows. although at first glance it does look extra dark while in pencil form, but when used on the brow its glides on like wax but has the consistency of a light silky powder. This waterproof, matte pencil has buildable tint because I did go over twice to get it slightly darker and No matter the layers of tint, it doesn’t ever come off harsh whatsoever. This product has a light waxy texture and doesn't look unnatural at all. I am obsessed!!! I love the result. It lasts throughout the day and doesn't fade or slip off or transfer throughout my 9 hour work days (Brownie points for longevity). 

It is a pencil that has to be sharpened but you don’t lose much product with it as long as you use a great sharpener, especially since its not that easy to sharpen because of the hard plastic of the pencil (I use Urban Decay’s Grindhouse). Also, If I could change just one tiny little flaw about this product is that the spooley on the end is so damn rough. I repeat… ROUGH! I tried and tried and I can’t deal with it so I had to use my Real Techniques Brow Groomer. The spooley seriously feels like tough boar bristles. Being that these 2 tiny cons exist, I'd have to knock off a single star from an otherwise perfect score. 

The price point is pretty decent at 18 USD and sold at some Urban Outfitters stores, Sephora and MilkMakeup.com. I wouldn't exactly use this for mimicking teeny tiny hair strands like the Anastasia Beverly Hills’ Brow Wiz, but I think this is an ideal product for those of us with full, feathery brows and want natural looking definition or desire them and want to achieve a bolder brow. Also, this brand is crap-chemical free (yucky parabens) and made with the best of the best ingredients as well as being eco friendly (Yay!) So I highly recommend you give this little gem a try.  

Commodity Gold Fragrance Review

Written by Deanna P 

For those of you that have followed me or read any of my reviews on perfumes, colognes, etc, you know that I am extremely particular about scents.  I believe there can be the best smelling perfume ever, but it just might not mix with your body chemistry, therefore, it will smell horrible on you.  With that said, I use the same perfume everyday.  I have switched maybe a handful of times in my life, because when I find a scent I like, I stick with it.  

I recently was given the Commodity Gold Eau De Perfume Spray to try.  I knew nothing about the brand or their line of perfumes.  All I had read was they were said to be used on both men & women.I came to find out that Commodity as a company was all about the fragrance being about the individual. Like their name implies,  there collection is inspired by everyday commodities.  They also believe the fun comes in when you mix & match their scents to create an individual scent that is perfect for you.   They have a few collections & Gold is in the white collection which also includes, Rain, Mimosa, Tea,  & Magnolia. 

Gold comes in a 3.4 Fl oz/100 ml bottle for $105.00 & Eau De Perfume Spray which is 0.33 oz/10 ml for $26.00.   I think the pricing is fair as perfume is expensive & I believe this brand will be around for a while as it is cool & very appealing.  The concept is an interesting approach to something that has been around for years, but has not changed much.  Commodity really makes perfumes sexy, new & exciting. Gold is one of the more popular scents.  It was inspired by money in liquid form.  It’s notes include Bergamot, Juniper Berries, Camphor, Amber, Haitian Vetiver, Benzoin, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Tonka Bean,  & Nubian Musk. 

The first time I sprayed this on myself was before I was getting in the shower as I was that afraid I would not like the way it smelled.  Well, I have to say I was more than pleasantly surprised.  I loved it!  I did not only think it smelled delectable…..I thought it smelled amazing on me.  I have been wearing it every day since I first tried it.    The white collection is said to be light, airy, & easy, which it is.   The mix of the notes really make this true liquid gold for me.  The smell pleases me & makes me very happy.  I definitely recommend & I will probably buy more of these scents so I can mix & match them & see what more I can create.

You can purchase Gold & more of Commodity scents at Sephora or their website, click here on one of the sites below:

http://www.sephora.com/gold-P395000

https://commoditygoods.com

Black Radiance Artisan Color Baked Bronzer in Gingersnap.

By Amanda V. 

It is very rare that I come across a makeup product that is magnificent from the drugstore. I don't mean to come off like a snob but I simply never had much luck because I feel like most of the time the quality either sucks or breaks me the F out. There are a few gems here and there and This incredible Bronzer from the brand Black Radiance that can be doubled as a highlighter is IMMACULATE!!! I am Preaching this product right now because HOLY GLOW!!! The Pigment is perfect and it glides on smoothly, which is a godsend because in my experience most drugstore bronzers look dusty and flat like chalk. This gleaming gilded color is buildable with each layer you apply but still feels weightless as if you swept nothing onto your skin. The silky texture blends effortlessly into the skin and I am left glowing like a golden GAWDESS!! Seriously guys, this affordable bronzer gives that Queen Bey Status Glow. The shimmer isn’t too intense so it can be used as a bronzer but still has enough glow that it can be used as a subtle highlight especially on you beautiful gals rich in melanin.  

With Flash: This is a single finger swatch guys!! OMG!!

This product is a shimmering, beachy summer glow packaged perfectly into a small powder pan. The packaging is plastic and lightweight, very simple and minimal. What I love most is the price point, this bronzer retails for under $5 at your local Target, Walmart and BlackRadianceBeauty.com. An absolute STEAL, how could I not give it a perfect score? This is a hidden gem and I honestly recommend this to anyone and everyone. It also comes in 3 other shades that I can’t wait to get my hands on. 

Melted Matte Liquified Long Wear Matte Lipstick by Too Faced

Too Faced expanded their Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick again! This time they ditched the squeeze tube, added a wand, and topped it off with a matte finish. The matte lipstick trend is here to stay. Which I'm thankful for; I can't get enough! Because it is Too Faced, obviously the packaging of the product is just as much of a feature as the actual makeup. It's girly, gaudy, and fabulous.

On the angled side of the doe-foot applicator, there is a dip that allows for the perfect amount of liquid lipstick to be collected so you can cover each lip to full-color opacity without having to dip back into the tube. The formula is of a thick, mousse-like texture that easily slips over your lips for an even color application. I'm not sure why. but when you apply the product, it doesn't look very smooth at first. Maybe it has to do with the fibers of the applicator. Instead of just continuously rubbing the wand over your lips, use your finger to tap the formula into your lips. It settles the product and gives you that flawless finish. 

Mrs. Roper

Mrs. Roper Mixed

These two shades are a perfect way to show you that the quality of the formula depends on the shade. Mrs. Roper (the bright orange shade) and Miso Pretty (the pale pink shade) perform completely differently. If you are familiar with makeup, you know that this is not uncommon in lipstick lines. Mrs. Roper goes on your lips without a hitch. Just tap it into your lips, like advised previously, and you are set. Miso Pretty, on the other hand, takes a lot more work. Truthfully, the color doesn't work on its own. I couldn't get an even application no matter what I tried. Miso Pretty is patchy and even looks a little powdery. The color on my skin just did not work either. I looked like I ate a powdered donut and like I have never heard of chapstick in my life. The color made my lips look so ashy and chapped and they weren't.

Miso Pretty

Applies patchy

Miso Pretty mixed

I will say, however, that not all is lost on a shade like Miso Pretty. These super pale shades are great to have on hand for customizing your lipstick shade. Though we all do it, It's impractical to have lipsticks that have a hair of a difference in shade. Having shades like Miso Pretty can make your lipstick collection endless. I used to use Babette from Lime Crime adjust a shade of lipstick. It's similar to Miso Pretty just more peach. I mixed Miso Pretty into Dose of Colors' liquid lipstick in Berry Me 2 to create a shade I didn't have but wanted to use. Mrs. Roper isn't a color I would normally wear either. It is practically neon! I mixed it with some brown lipstick and created this brick-y orange shade that I love! It is RARE that I ever wear just one lipstick. I must sound crazy whenever my friends ask what lipstick I'm wearing because I have to say, "well I started with - added this, then topped it with that, but just in the center of my top lip because my bottom lip is poutier and I wanted to even them out a little." If their eyes glaze over, I just say, it's a mixed of stuff. 

I recommend this line to everyone and encourage you to pick up some shades you don't love. Experiment! Mix it with another shade and you probably will! There are 18 shades to choose from, plus, Too Faced often releases limited edition shades. 

What are your favorite lipstick combos?

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Available at Sephora; $21

Product photo is from Sephora.com and not property of meetpepperb.com

Beauty photos taken with iphone 7 & are property of meetpepperb.com

Kiehl's Super Fluid Review

Written By Deanna .P

I have known about Kiehl’s as long as I can remember.  I have seen the stores, passed the section in department stores throughout my life.    I never realized the history of Kiehl’s. Kiehl’s has been around since 1851.   It’s first store was on 3rd Ave & East 13th Street in Manhattan.  It was one small pharmacy that has grown into a national brand with more than 250 stores all over the world.   It’s parent company is Loreal.  Loreal purchased Kiehl’s in 2000.  Kiehl’s is a cosmetics brand that specializes in premium skin, hair, and body care products for men & woman.  The brand success is in part because of their simple packaging & their large male clientele.  Recently, I tried two of their products & was pretty impressed with both. Super Fluid UV Defense Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ 1.7 fl. oz-50 ml MSRP $38.00

I have had skin cancer & precancerous cells on my skin so I am a fanatic when it comes to sunscreens.  I had a trip recently to Puerto Rico & bought the Kiehl’s Sunscreen with me. I liked the fact that the formula was light, non greasy & went on easy.   The product is Oil-Free, Fragrance Free, Paraben Free & Color Free. It’s also water resistant for 80 minutes & one of it’s ingredients is Vitamin E to help prevent free radical damage. The truth is in the trial & it worked wonderfully.  My face did not get burnt as it usually does no matter how much sunscreen I slather on.  I was very happy that it kept the sun away & I am going to see if they have a product similar for my whole body.  The $38.00 price was definitely worth it as this sunscreen has the best protection I have ever used.   It also comes in a 4.2 fl oz bottle for $61.00

The second product I tried was Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate.  This comes in 3 sizes:

1.7 fl oz for MSRP $60.00

2.5 fl oz for MSRP $79.00

3.4 fl oz for MSRP $!02.00

This is a powerful anti-wrinkle treatment with 10.5% Pure Vitamin C.  As most of you might realize as you age your skin unfortunately shows more imperfections, especially wrinkles & lines.  I for one hate it & will try practically anything noninvasive to prevent it.  This product is a customer favorite & It claims to reduce wrinkles & lines while improving the overall look of the texture, tone & radiance of the skin.  It also works to exfoliate the skin while giving it antioxidant protection.  I used this product for the last couple of weeks & do notice some improvements.  I like the texture of this serum & I feel as though it is working the minute it touches my skin.  This is a product that I will continue to use & most likely see more great results. I definitely feel it is worth the investment as a lottreatments that reduce lines & wrinklescost hundreds of dollars.  For a non invasive solution this is a great value. My experience with Kiehl’s thus far has been excellent.  I know why they have been in business for 166 years.  

For more information on Kiehl’s & to see more of their products, check out:

kiehls.com

Beauty Horoscope: Pisces 2017

Pisces, your colors are pastel shades of purple that envelope your creativity and channel your mystical sense of wonder. Lilacs and violets are your perfect shade as we enter the season of the Pisces. The element that guides you is water. Choose water-based products for your face to nourish your skin. Lilac and soft pink water blushes will give you a gentle and ethereal look. Allow your artistic nature to thrive by choosing products that are out of your norm. It is advised that you do not neglect your skin. Maintain a fresh glow with hydrating mists. Your guide to balance in below. 

Top Beauty Picks for Pisces

---

Skincare

Josie Maran Nirvana Hydrating Treatment Mist; $38

Slip Silk Pillowcase, $79

Korres Velvet Orris Violet White Pepper Showergel; $18.50

tarte Pack Your Bags 911 Undereye Rescue Patches; $22

Kenzoki Amazing Exfoliating Water; $29

Dr. Jart+ Water Drop Hydrating Moisturizer; $36

Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Coconut Hydrating face Mist; $32

Foreo LUNA Mini; $99

Farmacy Hydrating Coconut Gel - Brightening (Purple Broccoli); $9-24

Beauty

Becca First Light Filter Face Primer; $38

Besame Cosmetics Brightening Setting Face Powder in Violet; $22

Beauty Bakerie Lip Whip in Versailles; $20

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Brow Gel; $26

Kat Von D Pastel Goth Eyeshadow Palette; $38

Ciate London Pretty Stix Murumuru Butter Lipstick in Heart Breaker; $20

VISEART Blush Palette in Orange/Violet; $80

Chosungah Real Cheek Smoother Blush in Light Pink Lilac; $22

stila Aqua Glow Watercolor Blush; $26

tarte Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 15

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream; $29

Touch In Sol Metallist Liquid Foil & Glitter Eye Shadow Duo in Talia; $25

Art for Pisces

Print by Jenny Liz Rome available here

Print by Atmosphere Alley avilable here

Print by Karen Klassen available here

Info on Pisces from here

All product photos are linked to their original source. None of the photos are property of meetpepperb.com

Shade + Light Eye Contour Quad by Kat Von D

Kat Von D brought vibrant color to her Shade + Light collection. She released four vivid quads with well thought out color schemes that require no additional palette to complete a look. They are all straight up #QuadGoals.

If you haven't had the opportunity to test out Kat Von D's eyeshadow formula, picking up any of the Shade + Light Eye Contour Quads is a great place to start. The pigmentation of these shadows is off the charts! 

This purple toned quad is called plum. While the shades in these quads don't have a specific color name, they are labeled to help give the user some guidance. From left to right, you have a base shade, a define shade, a contour shade, and a highlight shade. I appreciate that the base shade is a bit larger that the other pans. If I have to offer a critique, I would say to be cautious when working with the darkest shade in this palette because it can get a little patchy. Work in light layers and always blend before adding more color. This palette has great versatility because you can create a sweet and subtle look or a dark plum vampy look with this mix of eyeshadows.

The green palette is called Sage. My favorite shade in this palette is, surprisingly, not the green shade. It's the base shade. I use this shade all the time, no matter what palette or eye look I'm creating. Because it is so close to my skin tone, this is the perfect blending shade. Used lightly, I apply this shade under my brow bone down to my crease to help blend any shade I put on top of it. It helps to create a fluid gradient of any shadow. If I go a little crazy with a smokey eye, I can use this shadow as an eraser. With a big fluffy brush, I apply the base shade on top of what I want to tone down. The color is so pigmented, the mistake is gone! 

I would say the only downside of these shadows is that there is a TON of kick back so your palette will only be pretty on the day you bought it. But honestly, that doesn't bother me one bit because it is the quality of the shadows that matter most. I also think they could've skipped adding a mirror to this palette and brought down the price a buck or two. Not because the palette is expensive but because the mirror is so small, I don't know who is going to use it. There is some fall out as well but, again, that doesn't bother me. If you tap off the excess product and work in small layers, you won't have any fallout. 

What I love about Kat Von D's products is their vibe. Yes, these products have a vibe! The design of lettering on the palette invites creativity. The shape of the palette reminds you to be unconventional. To embrace your inner artist when applying your makeup with colors that show you that makeup is fun. Always play with your makeup. Kat Von D's entire line reminds us that there aren't any rules to makeup. So stop watching makeup up do's & don'ts videos and let your creativity blossom. 

Your turn! What is your favorite eyeshadow quad?

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Photos taken with iphone 7

Valentine's Day Make-Up Idea's 2017 <3

Written by Pepper.B 

Who's ready for your best or worst day depending on your dating status. I've decided to put together a "Valentine's Day Look Guide"

When generating this guide I decided to do this based off of your relationship status and the reason why I decided to do it in this format is because with Valentine's Day we don't all go to the same place we don't always do the same things. One thing is for sure we all do share some similarities and uncertainties when deciding whether or not to wear little or too much make up. From first date's to figuring out if we're trying a new way to spice things up because we've been dating our babe along time. I don't suggest buying all new makeup just to complete one look so I've taken key items you can mix in with what you have in order to AMP! UP! your look. Enjoy!!!

"First Date on Valentine's: 

Clean Skin Bold Lip

First date make-up should be super clean. Honestly don't let men lie to you they can be intimidated by to much make-up. Clean skin nice eyeliner, mascara and bolder lip so it doesn't look like your undone and just rolled out of bed but also doesn't look like your about to walk a run way and you are approachable. 

Key Products: Kat Von D Liquid Lip Wicked , Nars Velvet Matte, Urban Decay Perversion Ink Pen.

"Single Ladies"

Gold Bold or Go Home

Lets face it if you are single on Valentine's Day this probably shouldn't be the time you go looking for cupid. You'll attract a guy who is either super desperate for spends the entire night badgering you about being single on Valentine's Day. So on this day you go BOLD break the rules and impress yourself.  Have an outing with friend and enjoy every moment of it.

Key Products: ABH Modern Renaissance Eye, Colour Pop Chai LatteBorn This way concealer  

" He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not"

Warm Brown Matte Smokey, Soft Lip

Love me, Love Me Not this is for the girl who still in limbo with the guy she really wants to make serious. So your mission is probably to make him eat his heart out every time he see's you, I know I was once there.  So a matte brown sultry eye with nude gloss. Gloss always gives me the illusion of being effortless, you want to look like you woke up like this not spent all day doing this!

Key Products: Urban Decay Naked Basics, Nars Belize Gloss, Moondust and Becca Illuminating Liquid to give you a little glow

"Love Lock Down"

What's for Dessert? *Wink*

Prior to Valentine's day and when I say prior I mean earlier that day.  Your significant other has probably seen you with one of the above, sweatpants, head-tie or face mask. Not really the lasting impression you want to leave for V-day. Sultry eyes and smoky's have been around always and never get's old. Its sexy and chic but also draws people to the eyes. When I wear smokey eyes I feel like a BADASS.  This is your opportunity to turn it up a notch 

Key Products: Kat Smokey eye palette, Make-up forever sculpt and contour Marc Jacob Velvet Noir mascara. 

Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen Grow & Restore Shampoo

Written by Pepper. B 

In need of a good shampoo and conditioner and on a budget. I ran frantically into CVS looking for Shea Moisture. I know the products are a great price point and I can get exactly what I need when body care is concerned. This encouraged me to venture into other parts of the line. I stumbled across this shampoo and conditioner. What I appreciate most is that my scalp feels clean but my hair doesn't feel dry. The Apple Cider Vinegar is great for if you have oily scalp. The castor oil promotes hair growth. The smell isn't harsh. The smell actually smells really good. I must add the bottle is huge. Great buy for under 20 bucks.  I would love to point out if you are someone who experiences extreme dry areas in the scalp this may not work for you but there are several alternatives within the line that will match your hair type.  

I love spicing up conditioners I buy. Not because I don't believe that they will be effective but more to add extra things I need. Example I often add a little bit of Tea Tree Oil in every conditioner I buy. This prevents my scalps from itching and soothes dry areas. I often add a little bit of Argan Oil to conditioners as well to hydrate my hair soften the texture and make it a bit easier to comb through.