Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream: Review

Trying the gimmicky stuff so you don't have to.  About 2 months ago I bought the Jergens BB Body Cream because my curiosity was peaked.  I read a review about it, and the blogger really enjoyed it so I decided to give it a go.  But before I give you my opinion, let me tell you what Jergens says about their product:

JERGENS® BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream delivers flawless-looking skin with 5 visible benefits in just 5 days. This revolutionary body lotion goes on sheer, dries quickly, and works like a moisturizer to visibly improve your skin with every use.

INSTANTLY: HYDRATES - ILLUMINATES
IN 5 DAYS: EVENS - FIRMS - CORRECTS

What Can BB Do for Your Skin?

BB Body Cream delivers varying benefits depending on your skin tone. It goes on sheer and then adjusts differently to a range of shades.

This lotion comes in two "shades" depending on your skin tones.  There is one for "all light skin tones" and "all medium-deep skin tones".  In their description they state that the cream adjusts to a range a shades.  I just don't know how it does that or if that claim is even true.

It comes out a slight peach color.

Does my hand look firmer?

I mean, if someone who had much darker skin than me used the version for light skin, would it make a difference?  One of the claims is that it evens so I feel there must be ingredient that imparts some color.  Keep in mind that this is not a tanning lotion.  Ok, so let see if this shizz works.

I went on vaca to a tropical place for a little over two weeks so my legs saw some sun and some loving from mosquitoes.  My legs were not looking so hot.

Ooo, yeah.  Sexy foot veins.

I had blotchiness and discoloration, some cuts and bruises.  I was hoping that the lotion would give me a bit more evenness at the bare minimum.  Let's see after a week's use.

Now with fancier sandals!

Please keep in mind that the light was different when I took the after photo.  However, I think you can see there's some difference but not a ton.  I still have some unevenness is color, and while the cuts and bruises healed, that has more to do natural healing as opposed to the cream.

Did it at least work as a lotion?  Sure.  It moisturized perfectly well, but I didn't see an illuminating effect either.  Nor did it firm.  Honestly, out of the five claims that it makes, it only did one for me.  I used the entire bottle in about two months with not much to show for it.  Would I repurchase?  No, for a few of reasons.  One, it's expensive for a drugstore lotion.  This will run you anywhere from 11 to 14 bucks for 7.5 fl oz.  I had a coupon so I got mine for about 10 dollars.  You can purchase a regular bottle of Jergens lotion 26.5 fl oz for about 6 dollars.  That's over three times the amount for almost half the price.  They performed the same function for me so I don't think it's worth it.  The second I wouldn't repurchase is the scent.  I find it hard to describe.  The best I can come up with is a candied flowers.  I really did not like it.  And finally, it just didn't do what it said on the package.  I can't say this won't work for others.  It does have good reviews on Amazon, but I can't recommend it.

Coveting this Week: Too Faced Pro-Essential Teddy Bear Hair Brush Set

Why are names for cosmetics so long?  Seriously, people?  Why do such small things have such big names?

I miss you, Danny Glover

Moving along, let's get to what and why I'm coveting this Teddy Bear Hair Brush Set.  I don't remember exactly when I started using make-up brushes.  Maybe it was in college.  Before then, I just used what sponge tip or brush came with the make-up.  Don't get me wrong.  These things can apply eyeshadow and blush, but it terms of really blending and finessing the look, that dog just won't hunt.  The first set I got was from Target.  My sister-in-law gave me a travel set from Sonia Kashuk (Thanks, April!).  I still have and use them, actually.  They're pretty high quality for being so inexpensive.  As time has gone by, I have acquired more brushes.  Some are more expensive than others.  Some are softer than others, but they all work to give me the look that I want.  Since becoming so involved in make-up, I have seen all manner of brushes and their quality.  I really feel that they are an important part of my make-up routine.  I kind of want to start getting some brushes of higher quality that are very soft.  Here's where Too Faced comes in.

So Purdy

These brushes are synthetic which I like.  While you can get natural hair brushes that are cruelty free, they are pretty hard on your pocketbook.  Do people say pocketbook anymore?  It's a weird word to say over and over.  Try it, I'll wait.

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Weird, right?!  Anywho, I generally prefer synthetic and these are ultra soft.  And they are cute.  Sorry, but I like me some cute stuff.  Puppies and kitties?  Love that stuff.  Look at these brushes!  Look at the bag that they come in!  It's got a teddy bear zipper pull for Pete's sake!  And so many hearts.  I heart little hearts.  These are definitely going on the birthday/ Christmas list.  Are brushes part of your make-up world?  Do you think it's worth it to buy expensive brushes?

Small Thing Extravaganza!

Do you love samples?  Me too!  Let's be best friends!  Now that our friendship status has been cemented, let's talk small stuff.  One of the best things about the Sephora Beauty Insider program is that you can earn points.  Said points add up and can then be redeemed for samples of high end products.  This pleases me.  Buying pretty things at Sephora and then getting free things are two of my favorite things.  I had the chance to use some of these samples, and these are my honest-to-goodness opinions on them.

Look at the tiny things!

 Now that I'm in my thirties, I am starting to notice the formation of fine lines at the corners of my eyes.  I absolutely do not lay in bed clutching my bed sheets in horror thinking about how the passage of time is showing up on my face.  If that's what you were thinking.  Anyway, I have tried eye creams in the past but I never found something I really liked.  They either burned my skin or were to greasy or too light.  I got to try the It's Potent! eye cream from Benefit, and I really like it.

I like products with exclamation points.

According to Sephora:
Your eyes can't keep a secret—they're the first to show signs of age and stress. It's Potent! Eye Cream fades dark circles and helps smooth the appearance of fine lines for brighter, younger-looking eyes. It contains a peptide complex known to help restore elasticity and firmness, along with a blend of hydrating botanical extracts and loquat extract, known to help protect the skin from free radical damage. 

At 34 bucks for 0.5 oz, it's not cheap, but it is also not as expensive as many other eye creams.  Plus you don't need to scoop out a bunch each time.  It left the skin around my eyes feeling really soft and hydrated.  There was no burning, and it didn't feel greasy or gross.  Did it fade dark circles?  Um....no.  I think that whole claim is a bunch of shinola, but I did like the overall feeling of the product.  Would I purchase the actual size?  Yes.  Yes, I would.

The next sample I'm featuring is Shiseido Ibuki Refining Moisturizer.  When I first got the sample, I was really excited.  Shiseido is a good brand, and I have liked their stuff in the past.  However, I was a little disappointed when I first tried it.  The consistency is very thin, almost liquidy, and the smell was a little off putting.  It didn't smell bad, but I wasn't a fan of the strong floral scent.

I smell like your Meemaw.

According to Sephora:
This refining moisturizer renews the appearance of the skin’s surface, creating an incredibly smooth, uniform texture, while keeping skin hydrated all day long. Red and gold soft reflecting powder particles give the complexion an instant luminosity for a healthy glow. 

I set it aside for a while before picking it up again.  Guess what?  It's great!  Even thought the consistency is thin, it's incredibly moisturizing.  I really loved how my skin felt.  And I stopped being bothered by the smell, although it is something to note if you are very sensitive to scent.  I did not notice any light reflecting particles so whatevs.  It's $45 for 2.5 oz.  That is pricey, and it doesn't have an SPF, so I wouldn't use it for day.  However if you want t treat yourself to a nice moisturizer, then I think this is worth a shot.  Would I buy the actual size?  Yes, if I had a little extra cash in my pocket.

The next moisturizer I have been using for a while is Amorepacific Future Response Age Defense Cream.  A few years back I tried one of their moisturizers and I loved it.  This one did not disappoint.  I have been keeping it in my traveling bag, and it has lasted me a long time.  The packaging is also sweet.

Ugh, so shiny.

The consistency is creamy, but it is so lightweight, it just melts into your skin.  I only need a little bit at a time.  According to Sephora:
This formula designed to protect against pollution and free radicals, while restoring and reducing skin inflammation for younger-looking, healthy skin. Environmental aggressors from the sun, pollution, and other sources can cause stress to our skin and add to the signs of aging. This formula provides daily antioxidant defense to keep skin looking its best. 

They say daily in this description but I wouldn't use it during the literal day.  It has no SPF, and that's super important y'all.  Ok, here is the bad news: It's $195.00 for 1.7 oz.  My heart hurts writing that.  I had no idea it was so expensive.  I would have made my little sample last much longer.  Now, Amorepacific is made in Korea, and you can get the brand on sites that sell Korean cosmetics.  Check this one.  The problem is that their products might not correspond to the ones sold in the US.  This is something that I have to look into further.  Would I buy the actual size?  I love this product, but unless I become real rich real soon, then the answer is no.

Finally, something for the body.  Now this sample is not from Sephora.  Sorry!  However, I think that you can just go ask for a sample, and that's free!  I'm talking about the Almond Milk Concentrate moisturizer from L'Occitane.  Guys, this stuff is legit.

It's all gone. :(

According to the website:
Enriched with powerful almond extracts, our Almond Milk Concentrate melts into the skin in a creamy and silky texture, to help skin look more smooth. 

Skin feels nourished and comfortable thanks to the association of almond milk and oil, which helps to moisturize and soften the skin. A new complex, associating walnut seed and almond extracts, makes skin seem smoothed and more beautiful. 

This sample was just a one time use for me.  I really wasn't expecting much to be honest.  When I put it on after my shower, I noticed how soft my skin felt.  It's a cream but it was very light.  The best part, though, was the smell.  When I was getting ready to get to bed, I kept catching a whiff of something delicious.  It was me!  This stuff put me in a heavenly cloud of awesomeness.  I think it's what unicorns smell like.  It was a slight scent of almond and something I can't put my finger on.  So not only was my skin soft, but I smelled soooooo good.  At $29.50 for 3.5 oz, it's not terrible.  I think this is a great birthday present.  Get it for someone you love.  Like me.  Would I purchase the actual size?  YES.

The extravaganza is over.  Sadsies.  However, my pursuit of all things sample is not.  Wherever there are small things to be tried, I will be there.  So should you.  Go out there and sample some shizz, and fall in love with some worthwhile products.

Youtube Lovin'

This YouTuber is a newer addition to my roster of favorite gurus, but she is quickly becoming one of my favorites.  Her name is Faith and her channel is Nomadic Make-up.  Every time she posts a new video, I click immediately.

It makes me feel like this!
(Shout out to Baby Sinclair)

Why do I click immediately?  Because she is so awesome.  Duh.  She does make-up looks and reviews.  Her looks are playful and fun.  I like that her everyday look involves colorful ombred eyebrows.  Who doesn't love that?  And as seriously as I love make-up, I also like to have fun with it.  She's soooooo pretty, and is relatable and funny.  She's one of those obnoxiously cool people.  Her reviews are also very honest which I appreciate, and she works with high end and drugstore brands.  I feel like she is a kindred spirit in terms of makeup.  Even though she doesn't know who I am.  Strangers can be kindred spirits, right?  She doesn't have a lot of videos uploaded because she is relatively new, but I am loving everything she has posted so far.

On YouTube there are so many gurus, and some have such a rabid fanbase.  Sometimes watching their videos can feel like a commercial, but Nomadic make-up doesn't feel like that to me.  The videos feel authentic, and I think it's very cool to see someone with a lot of talent of the rise.  It's like I discovered something!  In the way that Columbus discovered America (so, like, not really "discovering"). Anyway, check her out below:

Also, have a look at her blog.  Do it!  Do it now!  Are you still here?  Why?!  Go now!

What's Your Sign, Baby?: Aries

Aries, March 21-April 20
Symbol: Ram
Element: Fire

According to Buzzle:

Secret Desire - "To lead the way for others"


People born under this sign are adventurous, active, and outgoing. They are independent, impulsive, and assertive, but at the same time can also be innocent and trustworthy. No matter what upheaval, challenges, or triumphs they come across, they have an amazing ability to bounce back. Being a child at heart, for them the world is a magical place. Their faith in life and optimism remains untouched by hardship. These people love challenges and are doers rather than talkers.

I knew what I was going to do with this sign from the very beginning.  I think that's because Aries are pretty distinct personalities.  And by distinct, I mean crazy.  Just kidding! (Sort of)  The main color associated with this sign is red, and the element is fire.  So, obviously we have to go with a subdued earth tone look.  Right?  Right?!  Or we could go with something a little more outside of the norm.  Not "talking to rocks" outside of the norm, but something unique.

Do I look nauseated to you?

I think this is happiest I have looked in any selfie.
Clearly, I am up to something.

My buggy eyes are giving a distinct E.T. vibe here.

I kept the eyes very simple.  I used a matte skin tone on the eyelid with a soft taupe along the lashline and black in the water line.  The cheeks have nothing except some gold highlight.  For the lips, I wanted fire on my face without the heat and blistering so I went for an ombred lip.  I used a orange lipstick over most of the lips, and a yellow gold in the center.  Finally, I outlined the lips in red.  It's a slightly different way to do a bright lip, but still fun.  What do you think?  Would you try this Aries look?

What's Your Sign, Baby?: Pisces

Pisces, February 20 - March 20
Symbol: Fish
Element: Water

According to Buzzle, Pisces has a:
Secret Desire - "To live their dreams and turn fantasies into realities"

Being highly mysterious and alluring individuals, people born under this sign love to live in their world of fantasies. They are extremely talented but are usually found spending their lives combating confusing situations. In relationships, their emotions are their weakest spot as when things are going well they are on cloud nine, but if they turn sour, these people get depressed and land in a heap. They have a gentle, patient, and malleable nature and they are compassionate and sensitive towards the feelings of people around them.

I like the idea that Pisces are mysterious and alluring.  The main color associated with this sign is sea-green.  The element is water and the symbol is fish.  What's the first thing that pops into your head?  Mystical, magical fish, right?!  I'm so glad we're on the same page.  Mystical, magical fish swim in cool waters surrounded by mist covered mountains, as we all know.  I wanted to use a soft, cool color palette to create something pretty and fishy (drag speak for feminine).

Do my eyes look like pretty pretty fish scales?

Looking off to those misty mountains

Hey.

The eyes are the focus here.  I created a sort of ombre effect with a bluish silver, sea green, and purple.  I threw on some black eyeliner and mascara in there too.  The cheeks are natural, and I used a matte neutral pink on the lips.  I think this really works for a night out.  The eyes are interesting but they don't scream at you, and the rest is subdued.  What do you think?  Would your favorite Pisces wear this look?

What's Your Sign, Baby?: Aquarius

Aquarius, January 21 - February 19
Symbol: Water Bearer
Element: Air

According to Buzzle, Aquarius has a:
Secret Desire - "To be unique and original"

Aquarians are highly focused and mind-oriented individuals. Being outgoing and amiable they make many friends wherever they go. They are intelligent, concise, and logical and have strong political, environmental, or social beliefs. In relationships, when they feel the person is worthy of their love or friendship, they can become amazing friends or lovers, can give up everything for their partners, and be faithful to them throughout life.

Can anyone actually think of the word Aquarius with out thinking about the Fifth Dimension song?  Is that song stuck in your head right now?  No?  Click here.  You're welcome.  In any case, for me Aquarius brings to mind the 60's, psychedelic colors, and people walking around bare foot.  The main color of this sign is electric blue so I thought that I would do a sort of interpretation of 60's mod make-up.  Think Twiggy, but larger and more Puerto Rican.  This look isn't for everyone, but Aquarians want to be "unique and original."  This definitely fits that bill.

I don't know how I can look so incredibly drunk while
my eyes are closed.

Let the sunshine in indeed.

Some barefoot hippie ticked me off.

I used a bright matte blue all over the lid.  I really blended it out for maximum awesomeness.  I added a bit of glitter right on the center of the lid.  For the waterline, I used a sliver pencil, cause why not?  I used a shimmery peach for the cheeks, and a more orangey peach for the lips.  I also used a crap ton of mascara because that's what Twiggy would do.  What do you think?  Are you feeling this modern mod look?