Swatches and Stuff - February 2017 + France Giveaway!!

Hi everyone,

Hmmm, it looks like I have not used my blog in quite some time. Do not despair, I do have intentions to update more often!
Here is my latest Swatches and Stuff in which I review the products and "stuff" I used over the past 30 days. There is also a giveaway for some goodies I brought back from France (never too late, I guess!) Scroll below to enter the giveaway:

Here is the video:



Here are the products I reviewed in this video:

Vaseline Mature Skin Lotion (Click here)
Origins - Dr. Weil Micellar Cleansing Water (Click here)
Super Face - Glow for it Mask (Click here)
Alba Botanical - Cleansing Wipes (detox) (Click here)
Alba Botanical - Detox Mask (Click here)
Andalou Organics - 1000 Roses Exfoliator (Click here)
Andalou Organics - BB Cream (Click here)
CND - VinyLux Nailpolish (Click here)
Covergirl - Roses Palette - eye shadows (Click here)
Lisa Gardner - The Third Victim (Click here)
Linda Lael Miller - Yankee Wife (Click here)

And items in the giveaway:
Tonigencyl Toothpaste (not available on Amaxon)
Roger Gallet - Jean Marie Farina - Eau Vielle - Triple Milled Soap (Click here)
Bourgrois - Blush in Coup de Foudre (Click here)
Bourgeois - Whipped Velvet in Peach (Click here)

To enter the giveaway, follow the rafflecopter prompts below. You must be 18 years old or older (otherwise parental approval is needed), this is open internationally and will run until March 18, 2017.
The winner will have one week to contact me with address for shipping!

click the rafflecopter link below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Goodluck!



 xxx

This blog contains affiliate advertising from Amazon - this is how I support my blog, and youtube channel. by clicking and purchasing any of the products mentioned above, I receive a small commission.
All products mentioned above were purchased by myself using my personal funds.
 

Swatches & Stuff - February 2016 + Giveaway

Hi friends,

These are the products I have tried during the month of February and thought deserved a mention.
I am also doing a giveaway - every other month - I hope you enjoy the products I have included in the February 2016 Giveaway!

Here is the full video:





Products mentioned:

1. It Hair Leave in conditioner I like this, it does not clump my hair or leave it in a greasy pile of mess I need to wash the following day. Nice scent, good bounce and a little goes a long way.

2. Alba Botanica Enzyme Even Advanced Scrub This is just as good as the Origins Enzyme scrub, matter of fact, I think I like it even better as it is thicker and therefore easier to apply. It really takes care of dull looking skin, I apply this scrub twice a week as part of my evening routine.

3. Weleda Rose Deodorant So, there are deodorants and there are antiperspirants. This is a deodorant meaning that if you sweat a lot or are very active, it may not be the best choice for you. I do not sweat, trust me on that one, so regardless of my activity level, this is just right for me. A few squirts under each armpit and I am ready for the day. It is entirely botanical, no chemicals there which is great on freshly shaven skin. This one is rose scented but there are others in the line.

4. Weleda Baby Calendula cream Technically, this is a baby body and face lotion. But it is so moisturizing that it turns to be a big go to hand cream in particular at bed time. I use it o both hands and feet and add a dab to my elbows. Getting ready for summer here with gorgeous - velvety soft feet!

5. Wet N Wild Perfect Gel Nail Polish in Stay Classy: This is a new line from Wet' Wild. Very inexpensive alternative to a gel manicure and guess what? The stuff actually stays on for a long time, Maybe not the 10 to 14 days they claim (unless of course you do absolutely nothing all day or wear gloves). The Stay Classy color is a beautiful mauve that is sure to enhance and lengthen your fingers.

6. Duri Nail Rejuvacote I stumbled upon this at Harmon's cosmetics the other day. It is a base, top and rejuvenating polish. You apply a new layer every day for 7 days then start over. I tell you, though it is not botanical or chemical free, this stuff is the best hardener I have tried. Bar none!

7. NYX Butt Naked Palette Shame on me for not spotting these before, I must live under a rock. This is a very good traveling palette, just add mascara ad lipstick and you are good to go. Nice selection of eye shadows, blushes and even contouring all for under $25.

8. Dr. Bronner's Hand Sanitizer A good alternative to the Pocket Bacs which leave my hands and cutilces very dry. Just spray and enjoy the wonderful scent of Lavender. It kills 99.9 % of bacteria.

9. Fox Mug by Tag The cutest mug EVER!

10. Cow Mug by Tag And its companion!


And now for the giveaway! Thank you all for your continued support of MGC  Youtube Channel and Blog. This month I have passed the 20k subscribers mark and it's kind of a big deal! Time to give back!

Here is what you could win (all products above were featured in my companion YouTube video)

Rules for the giveaway (just follow the prompts in the Rafflecopter Giveaway widget below):

1. You have to be a subscriber to my YouTube Chanel
2. Like my Facebook Page
3. Leave a comment on this blog - Just say HI or ask a question

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you so much for reading my blog and watching my YouTube videos! Share the love!

Sophia, NJ


Connect with me:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

INSTAGRAM

YOUTUBE

Want to send me a product for review? Have a product review request?

Mailing address:

My Great Challenge
PO Box 402
519 Pompton Avenue
CEDAR GROVE, NJ 07009-9998



This blog contains affiliate advertising, this is how I support my blog and YouTube Channel.  I was not solicited to advertise for the products mentioned above, all opinions are my own and products were purchased with my own funds. I am affiliated with  all brands listed below.

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Current Favorites from Tarte Cosmetics:

Tartelette Palette                                  Tarteist Contour Palette                   Butter lips in Tulip

 

Visit My Great Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

 

Swatches & Stuff - October 2015 + GIVEAWAY

Hi friends,

I am back with another episode of Swatches & Stuff and as promised, a HUGE giveaway! (Scroll down to the end to enter the giveaway)

This is the companion video to this makeup and skin care review:

       


Products I have reviewed this month:

Yves Rocher Anti Age Global - Skin Care Line

In 6 days*, visibly regenerate your skin appearance with 4G Plant Source Cells. The Anti-Age Global line fight the key signs of aging: hydration, wrinkles, firmness, density, radiance, regeneration, dark circles and under eye bag... for skin that appears visibly younger. Used daily this anti-aging skincare is targeted to women over 40. It can be used as a cure for women in their thirties. (From YR Website).

1 . Yves Rocher - Anti - Age Global - Serum 

Anti Age GLobal Serum

I like this serum as much as I liked their previous one (Elixir 7.9). This is very fluid, yet absorbs well and provides almost immediate results. You will feel your skin will appear plumped and hydrated with just one application. I would say it is a miracle worker but then again, I think I just love serums a bit too much. If you have aging, sagging skin, this one is definitely for you! If you are starting to see signs of aging, you know the ones, the fine wrinkles along the side of your cheeks etc. You might want to stop time and start this treatment ASAP!  This is part of YR's Intensive Treatment line - for skins in need of a perk or aging skin. ($75).

 


2. Yves Rocher - Anti -Age Global - Day Cream
3. Yves Rocher - Anti - Age Global - Night Cream 

Day Cream

Night Cream

These two are packed with the same ingredients you will find in the serum mentioned above, namely centaurea cyanus flower wate,  butyrospermum parkii (shea) butt, pyrus malus (apple) fruit extract, aphloia theiformis leaf extracter and panax ginseng root extract.

I find these two creams to suit my combination skin very well. I would say that what I like the best about them is that they do not leave an oily film on my skin and do not clog my pores. In fact, this is the finest my pores have been in the long time and a lot of YouTube subscribers have commented on my skins these past few weeks. I really cannot add anything more other than it works! (Day $60.12  Night $53.14).



4. Yves Rocher - Anti- Age Global Eye Treatment:

Anti Age Global - Eye Care

This is a good eye treatment - it comes with an unconventional applicator (a slanted wand) you use instead of your fingers as a way to minimize skin pulling during application. The cold sensation tip also provides relief for puffy, tired eyes. I like this one a lot, it seems to suits my eyes well and I dare say that my crow's feet are not as visible as they use to. In fact, if I skip one treatment (on that one night I am just too tired to do anything about my skin) I will notice the difference. Out of all 4 products in the line, I would recommend either the serum or this eye treatment. ($49.95).









5. Maybeline - Cover Tattoo - Eye Shadow Pigment in Pink Rebel

Color Tattoo in Pink Rebel

This loose eye shadow delivers a serious amount of WOW! Seriously, this is hyper pigmented and also hyper shimmery. If you are into mattes these days, this one is not for you. However, if you are looking for an amazing amount of pigment, for your eyes to simply pop with color and light...RUN to the store (or click here) for this is an amazing pink which will turn lavender and deep purple in different lights and angles. I fell in love, I am going to try more colors. So there! ($3.99). 






6. Ulta - Legendary Lengths Mascara

Legendary Lengths Mascara

 This is a good run of the mill mascara that does not clump and though it will not give you absurdly long lashes, it will give you a good coverage and believable lashes. It's only $10 at Ulta and since this is the first time I try an Ulta Brand, I am now considering checking out other products from their store brand as this was did not disappoint! ($10).












 


7. Coastal Scents - Revealed 3 Palette

Revealed 3 Palette

I have been using this palette every single day for the past two weeks and cannot rave about it enough. Beautiful pigments, great stay on, easy application (though some fallout) - I find it to be very versatile in that you can create a variety of looks from day to night without much fussing around. Right now it is pretty much all I need - an easy to use, sleek to carry and inexpensive palette ($14.95).
Just an FYI - The Revealed Palettes by Coastal Scents are their version of the Naked Palettes by Urban Decay. Only you get 20 shadows instead of 10 and for a fraction of the cost!





 

I have reviewed all 3 revealed palettes in a previous video, you can watch it here:

I hope you liked this quick review for October 2015 but let's get serious and on with the giveaway!

This is  the October 2015 Giveaway from me, to you:

 

Giveaway Contents:

1. Yves Rocher - Rinsing Vinegar for hair

2. Yves Rocher Anti -Age Global Serum

3. Pyramids of Egypt Hand Cream

4. Revealed 3 Palette by Coastal Scents

5. Lancome Samples (x2)

Rules of the Giveaway:

Open internationally

Must be 18 years and older

Must be a subscriber of MGC YouTube Channel (1 entry)

Like me on Facebook (1 entry) 

Comment down below and on the YouTube Video (1 entry)

To enter, follow the Rafflecopter prompts below.

Giveaway open until November 15, 2015 

The winner will receive a message from me and will have one week to respond.

Good luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

 

Thank you so much for reading my blog and watching my YouTube videos! Share the love! Sophia, NJ


Connect with me:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

INSTAGRAM

YOUTUBE

Want to send me a product for review? Have a product review request?

Mailing address:

My Great Challenge
PO Box 402
519 Pompton Avenue
CEDAR GROVE, NJ 07009-9998



This blog contains affiliate advertising, this is how I support my blog and YouTube Channel.  I was not solicited to advertise for the products mentioned above, all opinions are my own. I am affiliated with e.l.f. and all brands listed below.

********************************************************************

Visit My Great Challenge's profile on Pinterest.

 

Swatches & Stuff || August 2015 || e.l.f haul + GIVEAWAY!!!!

Hi friends,

I am back with another episode of Swatches & Stuff - August 2015 edition with a GIVEAWAY! (scroll down to enter the giveaway).

This time around it is all about e.l.f with a mini haul and some great products to review!

e.l.f. Haul || Swatches & Stuff || August 2015

If you do not want to read the review and would rather watch the companion video (and the actual swatches), here it is:

1. e.l.f. Studio Poreless Face Primer - $6

e.l.f. Studio Poreless Face Primer

Outstanding! Simply OUTSTANDING! Who would have thought that a simple $6 bottle would give you the same results, if not better, than my old $35 Benefits Porefessional!
This is a semi opaque fluid, which comes, in a pump and obviously contains some type of silicone to fill in pores. I apply it over my foundation for a perfect - flawless finish. I tell you what! Not only does it leave my skin as smooth as a baby's butt, it also mattiffies it. I was seriously surprised by the results and can only recommend it. Get it here!

2. e.l.f. Studio Gotta Glow Lip Tint Perfect Pink $6

e.l.f. Studio Gotta Glow Lip Tint Perfect Pink

This is basically a dupe for the Dior Addict Lip Glow Color Awakening. Only this one is $6 instead of $24!
What is it? An untainted lip balm that becomes pigmented as it comes into contact with your skin Ph and heat. The result is a baby lip pink that is the perfect "I just woke up but look at me fabulous nonetheless" look!
It takes about 10 minutes for the color to take on its full pigmentation. I am not sure whether each skin would produce the same tint, so if you have tried this little gem, comment down below and let me know your thoughts. 
The only drawback is the formula, while not gooey, it is a bit too "oily" and shinny and sleek for my taste. Otherwise, a great conditioning lip balm with just the right amount of pink. I love it. Get it here!

3. e.l.f. Essential Lipstick Classy $1

e.l.f. Essential Lipstick Classy

True, this is a $1 lipstick! And so, the low expectation will ring true. While this is a pretty pink color (a bit pale for my skin tone) the packaging is super cheap and the tube feels like it will eventually break apart, leaving chunks of lip goo all over your makeup bag. It also has a very strong bubble gum scent, which to me is a real turn off.
The formula is okay, nothing to brag about.
Overall, I would say this is a good starter for a young gal who is trying on makeup for the first time, it won't break your bank and it will still give her results. It's just not for us ladies who like to feel a bit of pampering when we apply color. Out of all the e.l.f products I have tried over the years, this one is a dud but you can still get it here for your little one!

4. e.l.f. Essential Instant Lift Brow Pencil Taupe $2

e.l.f. Essential Instant Lift Brow Pencil Taupe

I needed a new brow brush and came across this duo pencil/brush for $2. While I would usually go for a darker color, I picked the lightest one (taupe) to fill my brows and was not disappointed as this one actually matches my brows almost perfectly. It is a pretty handy thing to have and one that saves time (not to mention money).
The formula is neither too waxy nor too dry and I found it was really easy to apply and fill in where I have been a bit too tweezer happy!
Why spend oodles of money on the brow expert products when you can get the same results for $2! Get it here!

5. e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Blush Rose Royalty $4

e.l.f. Beautifully Bare Blush Rose Royalty

This, is the cutest little thing! This is a cream blush that comes in a jar tiny enough for a lip balm, hence super handy when you are on the go.
e.l.f made this treasure in only two colors, the one I picked (Rose Royalty) and a more coral tone (Peach Perfection).
It is a good formula, not too creamy, but rather velvety and it actually feels dry on your cheeks. The color itself is subtle enough for a "no makeup-makeup" look. 
So far, it does not feel like it will clog my pores as many cream blushes do. I am falling in love with this one! Get it here!

6.  e.l.f. Studio Intense Ink Eyeliner Blackest Black $3

e.l.f. Studio Intense Ink Eyeliner Blackest Black

Real talk! Felt tip eyeliners are not for everyone! I personally prefer pencils or gel eyeliners you can apply with a brush as they seem to afford a bit more control over the application.
Finding myself a bit rusty when I first tried this one, I sort of made a mess. But, and with practice, this is actually not bad at all.
First, the pigmentation is seriously "intense" as its name suggests. This is jet black and unfortunately comes only in this color (too bad, I could use a purple one). If you are on the market for a serious cat's eye eyeliner in the like of the late Amy Whinehouse, this one is for you!
Overall I found the formula to be okay, it might be a bit dry which leads me to believe that it will get drier over time. The application, as mentioned above, is not always that precise as it leaves jagged edges along creepy lids. And one little "oops" will cost you: I learned that the hard way as the stuff will not come off that easily.
If you are the Eyeliner Queen, or want to become the Eyeliner Queen, try your steady hands on this one, for the price of $3 you won't feel so bad if it did not work out for you. Get it here!

7.  e.l.f. Studio Mad for Matte Eyeshadow Palette $10

e.l.f. Studio Mad for Matte Eyeshadow Palette Mad for Matte

Let's not get all excited here, this is not the Holy Grail of matte palettes! But it is pretty darn close!
As a matter of fact, I am rating it higher than the L'Oreal Nude Palette which I thought was pretty good.
This one contains nothing but mattes (JOY) in very wearable and versatile colors (10 in total). The left side can be used as a nude, everyday and subtle look, while the right side can be used for a more smokey look. Or mix and match for more contrasts.
Very little fall out, great stay on, overall great quality when considering the price. The only con: the shadows are rather small so one needs to use smaller brushes. The palette itself comes in a pretty sleek, portable design with a mirror. Another great on the go tool. I like it a lot. Get it here!

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And now for the giveaway!

This could be yours:

The August 2015 Giveaway includes three of the products reviewed this month:

1. e.l.f Rose Royalty Blush
2. e.l.f Gotta Glow Lip Tint
3. e.l.f Mad for Matte Palette
and a carry all pouch (upcycled from one of my Ipsy bags)

Here are the rules:

Open to everyone 18 years or older  (parental approval required) and internationally as well.

You must be a subscriber to my YouTube Channel
You must "Like" my Facebook Page
You must leave a comment on my blog

Just follow the instructions in the Rafflecopter entry form below.
The giveaway is opened until August 30, 2015 when one winner will be picked at random.
The winner will have one week to respond with a mailing address.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Thank you so much for reading my blog and watching my YouTube videos! Share the love!

Sophia, NJ


Connect with me:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

INSTAGRAM

YOUTUBE

Want to send me a product for review? Have a product review request?

Mailing address:

My Great Challenge
PO Box 402
519 Pompton Avenue
CEDAR GROVE, NJ 07009-9998



This blog contains affiliate advertising, this is how I support my blog and YouTube Channel.  I was not solicited to advertise for the products mentioned above, all opinions are my own. I am affiliated with e.l.f. and all brands listed below.

********************************************************************

Visit My Great Challenge's profile on Pinterest.