Monday, October 26, 2015

DESSANGE Paris Purifying Clay Collection Review

I never used to be too interested in keeping up with hair trends, mostly because I'm lazy and I get my hair cut once a year at most. My usual routine is cutting it into an inverted bob, then just letting it grow and grow until I get sick of it being long and cut it short again. But! I've recently become more interested in haircare, and the DESSANGE Paris Purifying Clay Collection perfectly fits my needs!

*Disclaimer: These products were sent to See, Shop, Love! in exchange for an honest review.


The items came in a beautifully ornate package, and honestly I didn't want to unwrap it because it was so pretty! But of course I did, because I wanted to see what goodies were inside.


I received the Balancing Pre-Shampoo Mask and Balancing Shampoo to review. This new collection is born from the personalized scalp treatment offered exclusively at the DESSANGE Paris flagship salon along the Champs-Elysees. The products control oil and treat the scalp and hair to yield healthy, beautiful hair!


I have an oily scalp and I've been struggling to balance it for a long time, so I was so excited to start using these products! The Purifying Clay mask feels absolutely wonderful on my scalp. Its recommended use is once a week on dry hair. You should apply it generously to your roots using the included professional application brush, then leave it on for five to ten minutes before rinsing. It felt cooling on my skin and was easy to apply with the brush.

The Balancing Shampoo is the second step in the process. It's a pro-vitamin B5 enhanced shampoo that purifies hair at the root and nourishes the ends for smooth hair. It also has a nice light cherry, violet, and vanilla scent.

After using both the mask and the shampoo my hair felt clean and incredibly soft! The mask is clay-based, so it does smell like you'd expect a clay-based mask to smell, but the shampoo has a great scent. I really enjoyed how it felt on my scalp, and I think that continued use will really do great things to balance out my oily scalp problem.

Both the Purifying Clay Mask and Balancing Shampoo are available exclusively at Target. The mask retails for $11.99 and the shampoo for $9.99, so the products are as affordable as they are effective.

Bottom Line: I was very impressed by the DESSANGE Paris Purifying Clay Collection! I think the mask felt great and the shampoo left my hair feeling super soft. I highly recommend both for anyone looking to balance their hair and scalp!

Saturday, October 24, 2015

October Beauty Box 5 Review

October's Beauty Box 5 is bursting with color--the color pink! The "Think Pink" theme is presumably for breast cancer awareness month; however, that's not explicitly stated on the informational card. But that would be my best guess.

*Disclaimer: This box was sent to See, Shop, Love! in exchange for an honest review.


Beauty Box 5 costs $12 a month and sends five deluxe samples and full-sized products. Their boxes usually contain at least three full-sized items, and the products can be anything from color cosmetics to skincare or hair care, and more!


Pink isn't one of my favorite colors, but I thought the monochromatic theme was pretty cute, especially if it's for breast cancer awareness. There was a good variety of products this month, too.

  • Knotty Hair Ties ($4 for two ties, full-sized) - I like these types of hair ties because they don't leave a dent in your hair. I cut my hair shorter now and when I do want to tie it back a dent looks really stupid once I let it down again!
  • Happy Hands HappyFace Makeup Cleansing Cloth ($3.99, full-sized) - This is a really practical product that I was glad to get. I use makeup face wipes daily to take my makeup off after work, but they're kind of wasteful. Now I can use this instead (it's reusable and machine washable).
  • Ferro Cosmetics Pink Rhinestone Kabuki Brush ($25, full-sized) - This is such a cute brush! I couldn't find the exact brush on the Ferro Cosmetics website, but I linked to one that is similar. I prefer kabuki brushes for powder application, so this will be put to good use.
  • Nubar Nail Polish Mini in Pinktober ($4.99 for .25 fl oz) - This brand is non-toxic, vegan, and natural, which is something I didn't know prior to getting this polish. The shade is a light pink creme that Beauty Box 5 teamed up with Nubar to create especially for this box.
  • Styli-Style Perfect Pout Long Lasting Balm Stick ($4.99, full-sized) - I got the shade "Playful Pink." It looks kind of light (I haven't tried it yet), but since it's a balm it probably doesn't have a ton of pigmentation anyway. I will definitely use it still, though.
Bottom Line: October's box had a total retail value of $42.97! The kabuki brush is the most expensive item in the box, and there were four full-sized products. I think that's a great value for a $12 box, and I liked that there was a range of different types of products this month, too.

Friday, October 23, 2015

New Subscription: Jordan Essentials Joyful Jordan Box!

I have a special appreciation for natural skincare and beauty products, and the new Joyful Jordan subscription from Jordan Essentials sends amazing, non-toxic products that I think are lovely! Read on to learn more about them and their first box.

*Disclaimer: This box was sent to See, Shop, Love! in exchange for an honest review.


Each Joyful Jordan box will contain at least $15 retail value of Jordan Essentials Products to pamper yourself with, along with extra samples. Boxes may also contain coupons, jewelry, and more!

The boxes cost $15 per month for all subscription lengths. You can purchase three, six, and twelve month options, but you will still be paying $15 per box. For example: if you sign up for a three month subscription, you'll be charged $45 every three months. The only difference between getting a monthly box and a prepaid three, six, or twelve month box is that the latter three expire after your period is up. The monthly boxes renew each month until you cancel.



The box is medium-sized and packaged very nicely. The inside top cover had a sticker with information about the box and what was inside.


There were three full-sized products and two samples in October's box. I was really excited to try all of them because, as I said, I love trying new skincare products! I was really happy to see a hand cream because my hands have been so dry and itchy lately and I can never have enough hand creams.

  • Cranberry Lip Tube ($4.00) - This smells so good! It's made with beeswax so it isn't vegan, but it does contain only natural ingredients. It feels smooth on my lips and moisturizes them really well. I always prefer natural lip balms to mass-market ones because they work so much better.
  • Time Rewind Eye Gel - A full-sized bottle of this costs $40 for 1.25 oz. The sample contains enough for quite a few uses, since a little eye cream goes a long way. It has a silky texture and feels cooling and moisturizing on my skin.
  • Oatmeal Milk & Honey Lotion Bar - A full-sized bar costs $9. I really like using lotion bars in the fall and winter because they are a concentrated moisturizer that feels great on my skin. I used this on my hands and the small size was kind of hard to work with, but I think a full-sized version would be wonderful.
  • Oatmeal Milk & Honey Shea Butter ($8.00) - This is a "thick and rich" body lotion that is so perfect for dry, chapped skin! It's super creamy and it absorbs into my skin quickly. It is also SLS (sodium laureth sulfate) and paraben-free.
  • Joyful Pure Glycerin Soap ($6.00) - I couldn't find this exact soap on the website, but it looks like all of their bar soaps retail for the same price. To be honest, glycerin-based soaps are not my favorite but I will still definitely use this. It has a nice, light scent. I haven't started using it, but once the bar in my kitchen is gone I'm going to replace it with this one.
Bottom Line: The October Joyful Jordan box contained $18 worth of products, not including the two samples. The box also contains an inspirational card that lists 15 ways to experience more joy in your life. While the $18 retail value may be too close to the $15 price of the box for some, I don't mind it because I think the fact that all of the products are non-toxic is worth it. I really enjoyed this box and I can't wait to see what they include in future ones!
What do you think of Joyful Jordan?

Saturday, October 17, 2015

October Birchbox Review

October's Birchbox theme was "Positive Force" and is pink in support of breast cancer research. The info card has details on how you can help donate to the cause.

*Disclaimer: This box was purchased by See, Shop, Love! Post contains referral links.



Overall this box wasn't super exciting for me, but it did have a good assortment of products. Birchbox has been pretty consistent about sending me stuff I like, though, so I don't think I'll unsubscribe any time soon.


I got five samples, and the mascara is the one I chose during sample selection. This is totally inconsequential, but when I opened the box I was totally underwhelmed by the colors of the samples. Doesn't it all just look so bland? That's not a reflection on the products themselves, but just a weird observation I had.


  • BioRepublic Cucumber Breeze Soothing Fiber Mask - I really don't like cloth masks so I'm going to post this for trade. It's supposed to tighten pores, reduce lines, and calm stressed skin.
  • benefit Roller Lash - I also got this in a previous box and I didn't like it at first because it didn't seem to be that effective, but the more I used it the more it grew on me. I chose to receive another during sample choice because I probably won't buy a full-sized tube of it.
  • Dinoplatz Too Cool For School Highlighter - I got this in the shade "Baby Pink Clam," which was the one I was hoping for, because it's exactly what it sounds like: a pinkish shimmer (as opposed to "Mother of Pearl," which is white and I think too light for my complexion). I've been dying to try a Dinoplatz product since they paired with Birchbox and I was excited to receive this. I love their packaging and that they're a Korean brand! The highlighter itself actually isn't anything special, but I'm glad I got to try it.
  • Macadamia Professional Style Extend Dry Shampoo - I'll always take a dry shampoo because I use them all the time. This one has really great reviews on the Birchbox site but I haven't tried it yet.
  • Number 4 Lumiere dhiver Fluoro5 Elixer Restore & Repair Oil - What a mouthful! This is a hair serum that softens cuticles and gives dull hair great shine. I like it, it made my hair feel really soft.
Bottom Line: This box had some good products that I will definitely get use out of (except the mask)! I'm satisfied with the selection, but hopefully next month's box will really make me excited.

Thursday, October 15, 2015

New Subscription: Maiden Moon Apothecary! Plus Coupon

I love the world of subscription boxes because there are great new ones springing up all of the time. I also love handmade bath and body products, so the Maiden Moon Apothecary box is perfect for me! I got a chance to review their first box, and I'm sure you'll love it as well.

*Disclaimer: This box was sent to See, Shop, Love! in exchange for an honest review. Post contains affiliate links.


Maiden Moon Apothecary creates natural, handcrafted herbal health and home products ranging from soaps, shampoos, teas, fabric refreshers, and more! They just launched their subscription service on October 1st and are currently in the pre-sale phase. Here are their pricing options:
  • Monthly: $19 per month
  • Three Months: $51 every three months ($17 per box)
  • Six Months: $96 every six months ($16 per box)
  • 12 Months: $168 every 12 months ($14 per box)
When I plugged in my address to subscribe, $8 in shipping costs was added on (to ship to New York) for the monthly option.


The box itself was beautifully packaged. I especially loved the design on the top of it (first photo in this post). The inside of the box had a sticker with a list of the contents.

Each box contains five to seven products, including anything from herbal teas to soaps to shampoos, and more. They'll feature seasonal items, flavors, and fragrances, too!


The box contained six products and I can't believe that it only costs $19 per month! I think at least two of the products were full-sized, and the others could definitely be described as deluxe samples.

  • Tea Tree and Clary Sage Shampoo - There is no size listed on the bottle, but I would estimate that this is about 6 oz worth of product, and I would guess that it's full-sized. It's my favorite item in the box because my scalp definitely needs tea tree oil! It smells wonderful and leaves my hair feeling nice and clean.
  • Lavender Jasmine Body Butter - I love this body butter! The label says that a little goes a LONG way, and they weren't kidding. It spreads evenly and feels luxurious on my skin, and it also smells amazing. I love the scent of shea butter, and the lavender and jasmine scents are soothing too.
  • Sweet Thing Sugar Scrub - I really love this sugar scrub as well. It's made with brown and white sugar and smells delicious, and it works great on rougher areas like knees and elbows. I used it on my hands and it felt so great!
  • Lavender and Lemon Mint Breakfast Tea - I'm a big fan of tea so I was happy to see this in the box. It's made with locally-sourced lemon mint, lavender, and free trade black tea. I'm going to take it to work tomorrow and have it in place of my morning coffee.
  • Peppermint Lip Balm - I am a lip balm hoarder and my stash was actually starting to get low, so this came at the perfect time! Peppermint lip balms are my favorite because they leave that tingling feeling on your lips. This one feels great and moisturizes well.
  • Lavender Jasmine Wellness Balm - I know I said that the tea tree shampoo was my favorite item in the box, but I might have to change my mind and say that this one was. I love the cooler weather that the fall brings, but I don't love what it does to my skin--especially the skin on my hands. I get dry, rough patches that itch like crazy, and this balm instantly makes them feel better. It also smells lovely!
Bottom Line: I am so, so, SO impressed by the Maiden Moon Apothecary box! I still can't believe it's only $19. The products they included in their inaugural box are fantastic, and if you love handmade bath and body, then you must try this box!
What do you think of Maiden Moon Apothecary?

Wednesday, October 14, 2015

Introducing the Louis Moinet Memoris Timepiece!

I love accessorizing, and nothing is classier than a beautiful watch. Louis Moinet, a master watchmaker during the 19th century and inventor of the chronograph, shares his name with a company that honors his legacy by creating beautiful timepieces.

*Disclaimer: This post is sponsored by Louis Moinet.



The newest addition to the Louis Moinet family is the Memoris timepiece. It is the first chronograph watch in history, and is available in 18 karat pink gold, 18 karat white gold with a rhodium-plated mainplate, and 18 karat white gold with a blue mainplate.

A chronograph is a specific type of watch that can be used as a stopwatch and a display watch. Louis Moinet invented the chronograph in 1816 to use while tracking astronomical objects. Chronographs have also been used in artillery fire during the mid- to late-1800s. Today, they're used while piloting airplanes, in car racing, and in diving and submarine maneuvering.


The chronograph itself is the main inspiration for the Memoris. The entire chronograph function has been shifted to the dial, making it both the primary function and the heart of the watch. The "Energie Plus" automatic pawl winding system allows the piece to be wound in both directions that offers a level of precision that is unrivaled in other watches.

This unique watch is available in only three limited editions and 60 copies by set! It is nominated for the prestigious Grand Prix d'Horlogerie of Geneva award, which is given out annually to high-quality creations to nurture the advancement of watchmaking.

Bottom Line: I think the Louis Moinet Memoris timepiece is absolutely gorgeous! I especially like the pink gold design. I love that the piece is beautiful, but also that it has a ton of history behind it as well.

Monday, October 12, 2015

Exuviance Bionic Oxygen Facial Review

Once a week I like to add a little something extra to my skincare routine, like an intensive mask or other treatment. I've been using the Exuviance Bionic Oxygen Facial, and it's a great way to refresh your skin!

*Disclaimer: This product was sent to See, Shop, Love! via BrandBacker.


The Exuviance brand was created by Drs. Van Scott and Yu, who are widely recognized as leaders in the field of cosmetic dermatology. They created the first glycolic peel after discovering the anti-aging benefits of glycolic acid. Exuviance products are expertly developed to visibly transform skin!

The Bionic Oxygen Facial retails for $65, which may seem like a splurge, but it is well worth the price in my opinion. I think skincare is one of the few categories where it's worth it to spend more on quality products, since I want to keep my skin looking youthful and glowing for as long as I can (even though I'm only 26, preventive care can't hurt!).



The Bionic Oxygen Facial delivers a spa-quality treatment at home for stressed skin. My skin always goes crazy during the changing of the seasons, and summer to fall is especially stressful because of the change in pressure and humidity in the air. The facial uses a triple oxygenating blend to restore radiance, eliminate dullness, and trigger cellular energy to optimize collagen. You can see the full ingredients list in the photo above.


It's also really easy to use! You apply it to clean, damp skin like a face mask and then leave it on for about five minutes to let it work its magic. It comes out of the airtight pump dispenser as a light blue creamy liquid, but after you put it on your skin it starts to transform into an effervescent foam. To be completely honest, it feels a little strange at first, like a light tickling feeling. I got used to it pretty quickly though, and it doesn't take long for it to entirely foam away. Once all of the foam has disappeared, simply rinse with warm water and pat dry.

I've used this mask twice (the instructions advise to use three to four times a week) and I really enjoy it. My skin feels clean, fresh, and renewed after using it and I've already started to see positive results. My skin does look clearer and brighter after just one week of use! I'm excited to see how much it improves in the long term.
Bottom Line: The Exuviance Bionic Oxygen Facial is an excellent spa-like product that I highly recommend you add to your skincare regimen! I've seen positive results and I think it is well worth purchasing.

Monday, October 5, 2015

New Subscription: Sockflow! Plus Coupon

The weather is getting colder--at least, it is if you live further north like me in New York--and that means it's time to cozy up with warm, fuzzy socks! Sockflow is a brand new sock subscription that will send you socks in fun patterns to keep your tootsies warm this fall and upcoming winter.


Sockflow sends high quality men's, women's, and children's socks from South Korea to your door each month. They have everything from dress socks to stylish fashion socks, with plenty of patterns and colors! You choose the style and size you want, and they'll send you a surprise pair. Here are the pricing options:
  • Two Pair of Men's Dress Socks: $30/month
  • Two Pair of Stylish Fashion Socks: $20/month
  • Two Pair of Stylish Baby/Kids Socks: $20/month
  • Three Pair of Men's Dress Socks: $40/month
  • Three Pair of Stylish Fashion Socks: $25/month
  • Three Pair of Stylish Baby/Kids Socks: $25/month
All subscriptions include free shipping to everywhere except Norway. They are currently working on a separate shop solution for Norwegian customers.


I think the Sockflow socks look like they're really nice quality and come in a lot of fun patterns! I've always thought that patterned socks were a lot of fun. I also like that they include a dress sock option for men.

  • Head over to Sockflow to subscribe!
  • Use coupon code LAUNCHDISCOUNT for 25% off your first month (expires 12/1/15)