Friday, November 21, 2014

Softlips Cube

Dean's List Voxbox Item Review
(Photo: Mine from my Instagram Auntie_M_25)

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Another wonderful product that I got in my Dean's List Voxbox is the New Softlips Cube.
I got the Fresh Mint flavor in my box.
(Photo: Mine from my Instagram)

One of my favorite things about this product is the packaging. I love the adorable cube shape with the clear lid and the clear, colored base. I also love the flavor of the different Softlips Cubes and how well they absorb into your lips and help keep them extra soft even in the winter.


"Think Outside the stick with Softlips Cube. Revolutionary 5 in 1 lip care combines an advanced formula with an innovative new cube-shaped package. Lips look radiant and feel softer, smoother and more hydrated. It is available in three delightful new flavors. Softlips Pomegranate Blueberry, Softlips Fresh Mint and Softlips Vanilla Bean." Since releasing the Voxbox they most recently came out with a 4th flavor: Softlips Strawberry.


Now I know what your probably thinking, this looks an awful lot like another product we know and 
love. EOS Lip Balm? I think that Softlips came out with these adorable cubes to compete with the popularity of EOS. So now your probably wondering how do these compare? Glad you asked, I just happen to have some EOS laying around that we can compare them to.

Here are the EOS and Softlips Cube side by side.
(Photo: Mine)

The blue EOS is new so it has not been used yet, I just unwrapped it right before this picture. I unfortunately used both of my Softlips Cubes (Because I love them so much) so looking at the picture and trying to determine the amount of lip balm in each isn't really fair here.

Now lets compare

Packaging: Just by looking at the picture you can tell that overall the packaging of the EOS is significantly larger. (Wondering about the size of the actual lip balm? Well talk about that next.) EOS is a more round shape with a flat that allows it to stay in one place while the Softlips Cube is...well... 
a cube with multiple flat sides that allow it to stay in one place.
Visually speaking I really like the Cube better personally. I've always been a fan of clear and I like the fun colors. The EOS is cute as well but I don't like it quite as much.
Both twist to open and the locking mechanism that keeps them from easily twisting open on their own and making a mess in your bag is about the same strength so they come out pretty equal there.
The amount that you have to twist each one is a little different. The EOS requires a little more twisting then the Cube. The Cube just requires about a quarter of a turn before setting the top free while the EOS requires nearly three quarters of a turn before your able to pull the top off. Both seem pretty secure so the amount of twisting doesn't make a huge difference when it comes to worrying about the container opening on its own. Its more of a preference. I like the less turning of the Cube because its quicker and more comfortable for my wrist to get it off, put some on and close it again.
When setting the container down on a surface they both are able to stay resting in one place but because of the cube shape allowing for more flat surfaces to stop on the cube is less like to fall off a table when quickly setting it down. EOS can easily tip over and roll away if you don't take the time to carefully place it still.

Amount of product: The Softlips Cube costs about $3.49. When looking up the price of the EOS I found that it runs at $3.49 as well. When I look at the amount of product in each container it appears as if the EOS has more. So looking at the cost of the product and the amount that comes in it you are getting more for your money with the EOS.
Looking at the actual net weight of each product:
Softlips Cube: 0.23 oz. or 6.5 grams
EOS: 0.25 oz. or 7 grams
The EOS has about 0.02 more oz. and when looking at grams it has about .5 more grams in each container then Softlips. So they aren't too different in amount of product but being the same price you get more in EOS.

Variety: Looking at the variety of flavors you have to take into consideration that Softlips is a brand new product that hasn't been out too long while EOS has been out for awhile now. EOS definitely has a wider variety of flavors but I think Softlips is going to catch up fast. Softlips Cube currently has Fresh Mint (which is what I got in my box), Pomegranate Blueberry (Which I bought with the dollar off coupon at Target) and Vanilla Bean. Since I have gotten my box they more recently came out with Strawberry. Looking at their online store they also have a special version of the Pomegranate Blueberry in holiday packaging, not sure what the difference is I didn't get a chance to look too close, hard to do online but it looks like the color is darker. I know EOS does special holiday edition packaging as well.

Flavor: Luckily I realized I had an unopened Sweet Mint EOS lip balm which is perfect to compare with my Fresh Mint Softlips Cube that I got in my holiday box.  They both have a nice minty flavor that tingles your lips a little. Personally I like the flavor of the Softlips Cube better. I think the EOS has more mint and it seems like maybe more of a peppermint flavor which I'm not a huge fan of peppermint so that might be part of it. The Cube almost seems a little sweeter. The EOS tingles your lips longer. (I'm currently sitting here with EOS on half my lips and Cube on the other half lol). Thinking about all the flavors I feel like Softlips has more flavor then EOS and I tend to enjoy Softlips flavor more then EOS.

Texture: EOS is a little thicker and Softlips is a little smoother. I like both textures and depending on what my lips need I go back and forth between which texture I like better. Softlips is a little lighter and absorbs into your lips more, while EOS is a little thicker but rests on your lips nicely and seems to stay put.


I really like both products and I think they are pretty similar. They run the same price, EOS has a little more product, Softlips has more flavor that I tend to prefer over EOS. Softlips absorbs a little better, EOS seems to stay on your lips longer. I think which you like more depends on what your looking for in a lip balm. Personally right now I'm more in love with the cube and it seems to be working better on my winter lips then EOS but I do continue to use my EOS from time to time. I definitely prefer the flavor of the Softlips over EOS. The flavors are amazing, the Fresh Mint is the perfect mix of sweet and mint and the pomegranate blueberry smells and tastes amazing. The flavors of EOS are a little more subdued. I also just adore the packing of the Cube.

Softlips Cube
(Photo: Mine)

Softlips Cube in Fresh Mint
(Photo: Mine)



Softlips Cube in Pomegranate Blueberry (Pink) and Fresh Mint (Blue)
(Photo: Mine)




Have you tried the Cube yet? Let me know what you think in the comments below. Have you tried EOS as well, how do you think they compare? 


Thank you Softlips and Influenster for letting me sample this product :]



If you want to see what my 3 year old niece thinks of softlips you can check out her little video on my instagram Auntie_m_25 or through this link Emmas video

*I received the Softlips Cube in Fresh Mint free for testing purposes from Influenster. All other Cubes and EOS were purchased by me. I was not asked to compare to EOS, that is something I decided to do on my own. All opinions are my honest thoughts and feelings toward the products 
above. I was not rewarded for giving a positive review for the Softlips Cube over a negative one. I did not receive any incentive for writing this review. All photos are mine unless other wise specified.*



Playtex Sport Tampon Review

One of the many wonderful items I found in my Deanslist Voxbox from Influenster was Playtex Sport Tampons. 

(Photo: Mine from my instagram Auntie_M_25)

If you want to see the rest of the items I received in my box you can read about them Here and look out for individual reviews.


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Playtex Sport Fresh Balance tampons run for about 3.99 a box. I received the Regular absorbency. 
"Introducing NEW Playtex Sport Fresh Balance with Odor Shield technology. It's designed to neutralize odors for ultimate freshness on and off the field. Combined with a 360 degree design for Sport Level Protection, you can go the distance. Play On."

Over all I really like these tampons. I don't have any problems with leaks with these, which I have had with other brands in the past. They are also very small but very absorbent, I didn't have to change these every hour I was able to use them for a reasonable amount of time. If I bought these I would probably get a slightly bigger absorbency for heavier times, but for being regular these held a good amount. I was really impressed that when it was time to take the tampon out the entire tampon was full, I have had other tampons that don't completely absorb and then start leaking early. These completely absorb until they cant fit anymore which is great! I hate a half wasted tampon. The applicator and the tampon itself are both designed to be very slim so they are very comfortable to put in and remain comfortable while in. The packaging is cute and very easy to open. The only thing I do not like about these tampons is the scent. I am not fond of scented tampons in the first place, I just don't think its healthy to put something with a scent inside of you. The scent of these is like old woman poparie (Sorry I cant figure out the spelling but its the dried up flower petals and such that some people put in their home as décor/air freshener). The scent could definitely be improved or just taken out which is what I would prefer. Remove the scent and these tampons are near perfect!

 Here is the cute packaging of one of the tampons. Its got cute little images of athletes which I think makes it easy to tell the difference if you have multiple different tampons at home or in your purse, you'll know these are your active ones.
(Photo: Mine)


 Here are what I like to call the bunny ears which help make it super easy to open up the wrapper. In between the ears is the start of the dotted line that makes it easy to tear open and stop before you completely rip the package in half. I really like that because I like to stick the used applicators back inside the package before throwing away, a bit more sanitary, and hate when the package rips into pieces.
(Photo: Mine)

 Nice and easy open, with a clean rip and packaging still in one piece.

(Photo: Mine)

 Cute pink, slim applicator. Easy to grip and use. Comfortable application.
(Photo: Mine)

 Itty bitty, but super absorbent tampon. 
(Photo: Mine)


Before and after adding some water.
(Photos: Mine)


The 360 design is one of those skirt designs that kind of molds to fit your unique shape and help prevent leaks.
(Photo: Mine)

I was really impressed overall and definitely see myself using these tampons in the future, especially if they have ones that aren't scented. I would absolutely recommend these tampons to a friend because they are so comfortable, absorbent and don't leak! If you've tried these comment below and let me know what you think :]



Thank you Influenster and Playtex for letting me try these :]



*I received this product free for testing purposes. I do get rewarded for completing a review and blog post but my points remain the same whether my post is positive or negative. I was asked to give my honest opinion about this product. This blog contains my honest opinions. All photos are mine unless otherwise specified.*

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Clean Like A Pro Zep Sampling

I got to be part of the "Clean like a pro Zep Sampling" Through Crowdtap recently. I got sent 3 bottles of Zep "Quick Clean Disinfectant, 2 bottles of Zep "All-Around Oxy Cleaner and Degreaser" and a lovely little pamphlet.
(Photo: Mine)
 
Unfortunately cleaning isn't something that gets done too often in my part of the house, which about kills my mom because she is a clean freak. Currently I'm dealing with being out of town 2-3 days of the week, working my regular job at least one day (More if I can) and watching my two favorite minions up to 4 days a week so I am rarely home to even get a chance to clean. Running around all the time plus doing school work and trying to have the tiniest bit of a social life leaves me with no time and no energy to clean so my bathroom and bedroom have gotten pretty bad. I have a sink in my room as well as in my bathroom so that gives me two sinks, two mirrors and two vanities on top of my shower to keep up with.
 
 I hate cleaning the shower more then anything because I feel like I have to do it right before I shower because its hard not to rinse it down without getting soaking wet and feeling gross afterword. I hate scrubbing the soap scum and grim off the shower walls too. I decided to give my super grimy shower (gross I know) a spray of the All-Around Oxy cleaner in hopes of cutting through the soap scum and grim. I was pleasantly surprised and after letting it sit for a minute all the yuck came off with a simple and easy swipe, no scrubbing! I was so excited to not have to sit there scrubbing and paying for my weeks of shower neglect. I will definitely be using the Oxy for my shower more often and I cant wait to give it a try in the kitchen!
 
I also used the Oxy in my sinks and they were easy to wipe down as well. I sprayed some on the counter/vanity as well to cut through some left over make up that I left behind while rushing to get ready. The rest of my counter was wiped down with the Quick Clean disinfectant which left my counters sparkling and germ free.
 
I haven't had a chance to do anymore cleaning but I cant wait to try these products in other parts of my home and let you know what I think. I'll also let you guys know what my mom, The Queen of Clean, thinks when I hear back from her.
 
Here is a little more about the two cleaners.
 
All-Around Oxy Cleaner and Degreaser: "Quickly cleans virtually any surface. Powers out stains and grease. Versatile multipurpose cleaner with Oxy action to tackle tough stains and Degreasing action to break up grim. Perfect of daily use in the kitchen, bathrooms, and more, and safe on a wide variety of surfaces. Great on stains from red wine, blood, fruit juice, foods, pets, and other dirt. No harsh fumes!
 
For use on: Countertops, granite, laminate, formica, porcelain, ceramic, engineered stone, stainless steel, appliances, most types of carpet, upholstery, kitchen and household surfaces.
Not for use on: leather, silk, suede, sensitive stone surfaces, marble, or any surfaces harmed by water.
 
Hard surface Directions: 1. Spray  2. Wait 1 minute  3. Wipe and rinse
 
Soft Surface Directions: Always test first in an inconspicuous area to verify color fastness. Soak up excess liquid or residue from stain. Spray product generously and let stand for 3-5 minutes. On deep pile carpets, work All-Around Oxy into the carpet pile with a clean rag. Allow to dry and  then vacuum area. DO NOT MIX WITH BLEACH OR OTHER HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS."
 
Quick Clean Disinfectant: "Cleans, disinfects, deodorizes, cuts through tough grime, kills cold and flu viruses.
General Cleaning: Spray soiled area then wipe with a dry paper towel or lint-free cloth.
Sanitize non-food contact surfaces and deodorize:  To sanitize/deodorize hard, nonporous surfaces, hold container 6-8 inches from the surface to be treated. Spray area until it is covered with the product. Allow surfaces to remain visibly wet for 5 seconds. Let surface dry. For heavily soiled surfaces that may come in contact with food, a potable water rinse is required. Zep Quick Clean Disinfectant  will not harm most surfaces: including acrylic, sealed fiberglass and vinyl. 
 
Disinfecting, Deodorizing: Remove gross filth or heavy soil prior to application of Zep. Apply product with a hand pump trigger sprayer. Hold sprayer 6-8 inches from the surface to be treated. Spray area until it is covered with the product. Allow surface to remain visibly wet for 2 minutes. No scrubbing necessary. Allow treated surface to air dry or wipe off with a clean cloth.
 
When using on food contact surfaces: counter tops, stovetops, highchairs, kitchen appliances, thoroughly rinse all treated surfaces with potable (tap) water. This product must not be used to clean eating utensils, glassware and dishes."
 
 
*I was given these products free for testing purposes. I was asked to give my honest opinions and am rewarded with the same amount of points whether my review is positive or negative. All information on the products marked by " " was taken from the sample bottles. All photos are mine unless otherwise specified.*

Monday, November 10, 2014

Sinfulcolors Professional Nail Polish

One of my absolute favorite nail polish brands is Sinfulcolors Professionals. They have so many colors and they last! I have had many manicures last me well over a week which I never get more then 2 days with those expensive polishs. Best part? Sinfulcolors is only.....$1.99! It cant get much better then that! 

I have gotten so many as samples free to try (like the yellow one, not my color or something I would pick out but it could vome in handy one day).  A few of these I have also bought, including the one in the back with the sticker on the handle, it glows in the dark! Here are just some of the ones I quickly grabbed for a photo.
(Photo: Mine)


Where can you find these amazing polishes that come in TONS of colors? 
  • Walgreens
  • Bed, Bath and Beyond 
  • Kmart
  • Giant Eagle
  • Meijer
  • Target
  • Walmart
  • Discount Drug Mart
  • Rite Aid
  • And many more...
You can check out more locations and read more about this awesome brand Here



You might see them on the shelf with other brands or sometimes you see them in displays like this one I saw in Walgreens.
(Photo: Mine)

Look out for their Holiday Collection in stores now (Walgreens usually has a hanging display at the end of and aisle for their holiday collections).

#NoTextRed #Sinfulcolors #Contest