Review: Sephora Formula X 'The System'

So, I hope you're in the mood for a rave review, because that's what I have for you today! My latest find and absolute obsession is Formula X "The System"which is sold at Sephora.

To simply explain this product, it is a system complete with a nail cleanser, base coat, polish color of your choice and top coat that insures your nail color will be long lasting, shiny and durable. I have to tell you that this completely lives up to it's claim.

The System is easy to use. If you know how to paint your nails, you already know how to use these products. You'll start with the Cleanse which preps your nails for your polish by eliminating contaminants like oil and other residues that contribute to premature chipping in your manicure. You'll follow this up with the Prime or base coat which has a sticky texture to it that will ensure your polish adheres to your nail. Next up is the polish color. Formula X polishes have great consistency and color payoff so you can't go wrong with the myriad of colors that are available in the line. Lastly, you'll finish off with Shine, your top coat, which provides a glossy and beautiful finish to the nails.

My favorite thing about The System is that all of these products work flawlessly together. It may seem like you're putting a load of polish on your nails after you complete all of the steps, but it feels no heavier on the nails than your run of the mill polishes AND they are fast drying! Moreover, I'm not the biggest fan of gel or shellac manicures because it's such a hassle removing it from your nails and there's a significant risk of damage to your nail beds. That's not a concern here because you get the long lasting wear as well as an easy peasy removal.

Just after initial application of Formula X 'The System'

For my first trial run with Formula X 'The System,' I tried the color Provocative.  Let me tell you, I've never received more compliments on a nail color. It was absolutely gorgeous! My manicure stayed fresh looking for 2 whole weeks before I started noticing small chips at the corners of my nails. I was floored! And trust me, I didn't take it easy on this polish. I cooked, I typed, I washed, dried and folded warm laundry (which you know is the kiss of death for many polishes). It just didn't budge.

Formula X 'The System' after 3 days of wear

One mention aside is that I did try The System with a different brand of polish and the wear was good, but not as great as with a Formula X brand polish. That manicure lasted 1 full week before chipping.

All in all, I'd say if you're like me and loathe chipped nails or spending every 3 days re-polishing your nails, you'll want to invest in Formula X 'The System' and some Formula X nail varnishes. You can find the set for $32 at Sephora.

Have you tried Formula X polishes? Let me know what are some of your favorite shades because I'll definitely be stocking up now that I'm equipped with The System.

Until next time! XOXO

First Impressions: See By Chloe

Scent is such an integral part of your sensory perception. For me, scent is the main tie for recalling memories or special moments. So, I'm especially invested in finding a beautiful perfume scent to carry me through the summer months that will always remind me of being engaged to the love of my life, beginning wedding planning, dress hunting, bonding with my bridal party and many of the other fun aspects that accompany such an important time in life.

Therefore, I'm currently on the hunt for the perfect summer fragrance and this year, I want something different than my usual fresh, light and floral scents. I am looking for something with a bit more body and bold notes that really evokes happiness in my senses.

See By Chloe

My first selection is See By Chloe, a prominent and lively fruity fragrance the pairs feminine essences like apple, jasmine and ylang ylang along with masculine musk, vanilla and bergamot spice to create an exceptional final product that lingers beautifully on the skin throughout the day.

I've only purchased the rollerball, but thus far, I am really enjoying the perfume and have gotten a lot of great feedback when I wear it out and about. The next time you're at the perfume counter or browsing in Sephora, I recommend giving this a whiff and picking it up. You won't be disappointed.

As for my official summer scent, we're still going to shop around, but this is a great contender. Stay with me on my journey for a summer scent because we know it's oh so important! Let me know your recommendations that I should consider trying and what you've been loving this summer.

Until next time! -- XO

First Impression: Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream

Recently, I've started using Fekkai's Brilliant Glossing Cream, which is something completely new for me! I'm usually not a fan of styling creams because I find that they weigh my hair down, but I definitely haven't encountered this issue with Fekkai Brilliant Glossing Cream!

The formula is superb, boasting a main active ingredient of pure olive oil that helps to tame your frizz and amp up the shine in your locks! The feel of the product in lightweight, but does a great job of slicking your hair back into a sleek pony or taking a dab in your palms in ruffling it up in the roots of your curls for added volume. And, might I say, when tested against an ethnic hair type like mine, it excels!

My overall first impression of this multi-dimensional product is that it's a great buy at only $25 for 4 oz. and, a little goes a long way! You can find Fekkai's Brilliant Glossing Cream online or at retailers such as Ulta.

Have you tried Fekkai's Brilliant Glossing Cream or their Brilliant Glossing line? What are your thoughts and recommendations?