Another Day, Another Break


It's been a good long while since I've updated here. The fact is the product side of the business has been very busy, which isn't a bad thing, but it's spread me a little thinner than I would have liked. But I have to admit that as much fun as it's been making products, I do miss this part of the job. So I've made a decision to be a lot more active than I have been recently on the blog. Probably not as active as I was before, but definitely active.

I first started this site as a beauty blog. That definitely morphed into a beauty/lifestyle blog and now I'd like it to morph into something a bit more local. I've always done restaurant reviews in the past but I'd really love to delve into my local Orlando community. Over the past couple of years I've watched my community grow into something really special, and though I've captured some of it on my Instagram, I feel the need to expand.

So first thing's first is separating the blog from the store. There's still going to be a link up at the top where you can find the store but it will no longer be called Lipsticks & Nail Polish. The store is officially changed its name to The Black Lab Soapery. Its a little closer to the heart and gives me an easy way to separate the two. Plus, I love the name.

I'd really love to thank you all for sticking with me through all of these changes and all of my absences. I can't necessarily promise that it won't happen, but I can promise I will always come back.

Love you guys,
Cris

The Wild Ride That Was August and September


It's been way over a month since I've updated and the reasons for my absence were a plenty but necessary. I was involved in a charity fundraiser called Shampooch!, which helped raise over $16,000 for a local dog rescue. As you all know, dogs own a huge chunk of my heart and helping them find good homes will always be a cause I go all in for. It was a beautiful experience, one I can't wait to be a part of for many years to come.


The bigger reason was not only was I helping out set up the event, I was also a vendor. Lipsticks & Nail Polish had an amazing day with the help of Michael of course and Wilmarie, my cousin, selling all of our nail goods including some brand spanking new items we'll be rolling out this week. First up we've got our sweet little Mani Bombs. These little suckers pack a punch of oils and color that makes doing your nails just a tad bit more fun.


It all first started with creating a really good oil blend and it's something I've been working on for almost a year now, to be honest. I've mixed different types of oils and really concentrated on a combination that would benefit people like myself that have thinner nail beds and need that little extra oomph of nutrients to help harden and lengthen the nail. The mani bombs shown above are all currently available in the store, just click the tab at the top and it'll take you right to them.

Thank you all for understanding, now that things have calmed down a bit we should be back to our regularly scheduled program. Love you guys!

-Cristina

Lip Thrill Thursday: Younique Lip Bonbons

Hello my loves! Welcome to another Lip Thrill Thursday! Today I bring to you Younique's Lip Bonbon in Cherry Cobbler. The Lip Bonbon's are tinted lip balms that will help keep your lips nice and moisturized while giving you a nice hint of color.

I will say that this product was sent to me for review. I did not pay for this product but all opinions are my own and honest.
Let's get on with the review!

Review: Garnier Clearly Brighter System

Hello loves! Today I bring you my review on Garnier's new Clearly Brighter skincare line.

Garnier's new Clearly brighter collection claims that in just a week, your skin will apear brighter and more even toned. It helps correct dark spots, improves skin texture and evens out wrinkles. I've been using this product for about eight weeks now, which should be enough time to notice a difference if there is one.

I picked up the Clearly Brighter Overnight Leave-On Peel Mask and the Brightening Daily Moisturizer. I have thoughts. These are them.

Play It Up For Summer


It gets ridiculously hot in Florida and finding a hairstyle that;s both fun and won't melt in the heat can be frustrating. Braids have always been a nice summer staple but sometimes you want to jazz it up and Piggybraid buns does just that. It incorporates three hairstyles, braids, buns and pigtails and not only looks super cute, it keeps your hair up enough to keep you cool.