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Lucky Heart Cosmetics – The Memphis-Based Brand You Need to Shop

Being from Nashville, TN, featuring and reviewing companies that are based near me helps bring exposure to the smaller cosmetics companies that need business. Ulta, Sephora, and other places are great, but nothing can beat the familiar feel of using products from a company that knows you on a more personal level.

Lucky Heart Cosmetics is a Memphis, Tennessee-based company that has been in business since 1935. Initially started as a cosmetics company for African Americans, the brand has branched out to include all ethnicities. All of their products are made in the United States and are proudly cruelty-free. Lucky Heart Cosmetics is currently veteran-owned and sells hair care and skincare products. The company sent me both the 4-Way Coconut Conditioner and Absolutely Lavender Hand & Body Lotion to review, and I was able to dive into what the brand has to offer.

4-Way Coconut Oil Conditioner

As advertised on the website, this product… “Coconut oil detangles your hair, helping it grow longer and stronger while vitamin E nourishes your scalp so your hair stays healthy. Use as a conditioner or a deep-cleaning mask to reveal soft and manageable hair.” Directions on the packaging instruct to use on damp hair and leave it in as you style it as usual.

The product is like a textured petroleum jelly-like feel that smells strongly of coconut. Let me emphasize: you only need a little bit. Just a pea-sized amount will go a long way. It’s important to remember that you should not apply this near your roots, as it will make your hair greasy. Instead, work the product into the ends of your hair and brush it through before styling.

One out of the two times I used the product, it made my hair very greasy, but that was because it was challenging to find the sweet spot on how much to use. But, if applied correctly, this product has the potential to bring coconutty health back into your hair.

Absolutely Lavender Hand & Body Lotion

Let me be the first to say… I have tried many, many lotions that are said to help sleep. Between Lush’s Sleepy lotion, lotions with rose, lotions with actual melatonin in it, and many more, I can say that I have finally found my holy grail – and it’s only $5.

From someone with wicked insomnia, I know how hard it can be to get a good night’s sleep – even with melatonin or another sleep aid that you may use. And, before I started trying sleepytime lotions, I had come to terms with the fact that I would forever spend my nights waiting for hours to fall asleep, just to wake up 10 times in the middle of the night before my alarm blared in my face the next morning. However, NO LONGER.

I tried this lotion for six days straight to see if I had finally found something that could help my sleep. Even from the first night, this lotion had me falling asleep in as little as eight minutes. You can’t even get through half of a podcast in that amount of time. Every night I was pleasantly surprised to find that I fell asleep quickly and stayed asleep throughout the night.

For my nightly routine, I use the lotion to moisturize my legs and my feet before massaging some lotion into my hands (since I usually sleep with my hands near my face). You can put a little bit under your nose or on your chest if that would be a better option for you and your sleep routine.

The Takeaway

Locally-owned companies will always have a special place in my heart. Maybe it’s because I owned my own business back in the day or maybe it’s because the personal feel you get with the brand is just unmatched. That being said, Lucky Heart Cosmetics has that personalized feel you love with products and prices you’ll love even more. Check them out online to find your new favorite product.

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About the Author

Emmie Pombo is a latte and tattoo-loving Tennessean who specializes in mental health and beauty writing. She holds a degree in Journalism and a certification in Makeup Artistry and Airbrushing. Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Skincare Products Under $20 That ACTUALLY Work

We’ve all been there. Our skin decides to hate us the day before a big event. Maybe a wedding, photoshoot, prom, first date… Enough to make us want to cancel and hide under the covers until it goes away. But, what if I told you there were certain products that could cut down the duration of your breakouts by days? Just call me your fairy godmother because I got the goods you’ll thank me for later.

There are certain problems that plague just about everyone in their life; dry skin, breakouts, and discoloration, to name a few. And, if you’re anything like me, you’ve experienced more than one on a very unfortunate timeline. However, there are products for common problems that will have you happy in your skin ASAP.

Dry Skin

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – $14

This is a product I use daily right after I wash my face in the morning. It doesn’t cause breakouts, leaves your skin feeling light and bouncy, and smells fantastic. This moisturizer would still be worth it at three times the price, which shows that it’s more than worth the price point.

Maracuja Oil – $14

If you’re looking for a natural product that really works, maracuja oil is the best bet. However, this oil is more prone to breakouts if used too often which means it’s best used no more than twice a week (at least until you see how it affects your skin). To make sure that it doesn’t make your skin more oily, use a few drops at night so that it has time to soak in while you sleep.

CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream – $14

Although this product comes in a small container, the effects make up for it. This product is specifically for the evening. Since it is a thicker formula, use a little for a week or so to see how your skin reacts.

Face Masks

Aztec – Indian Healing Clay – $9

At first, I was more than skeptical of this face mask because it came in a powder form. However, after hearing the celebrity endorsement by both Khloe Kardashian and Mindy Kaling, I decided to give it a whirl. Mixed with either water or apple cider vinegar, this face mask is life-changing and will have your skin cleared up in no time.

Mint Julep Masque – $8

Be warned: this face mask is not for the faint of heart (or skin). If you have sensitive skin, I would pass on this mask. But, if you’re only worried about breakouts, this is the product to use. When first applied it will go on like a thick mud. As it dries, it’ll harden and become a lighter color. Make sure to time how long this mask is on your skin or it could potentially cause irritation. But, if applied correctly, this product is a miracle.

Spot Treatments

Peter Thomas Roth Acne Spot and Area Treatment – $19

In all my years searching for acne spot treatments, this is by far the best product for sensitive skin that I’ve come across. A little pricier than drug store brands, Peter Thomas Roth created a treatment that has 5% Colloidal Sulfur, 4% Glycolic Acid Complex, Aloe Vera, and other good stuff. But $19 is still nothing compared to other spot treatments that do the opposite of what they advertise. Before you assume it’s harsh on the skin, it’s not! Add a dab to a pimple or blemish that you have and let it dry overnight. And the best part: it doesn’t dry out your skin.

CVS Health Acne Spot Treatment Maximum Strength – $8

If you’re looking for the cheapest product that will get rid of your acne, this is the one for you. However, this product will dry out your skin. In that case, make sure to wash it off instead of letting it dry overnight. But, for the price point, the product will have you pimple-free in no time.

De La Cruz Sulfur Acne Treatment – $7

This product, much like the mint julep mask, comes with a self-given skin sensitivity disclaimer. This is another product that you need to time when it’s on your face. Unlike the two treatments above, this product zaps pimples, specifically cystic and hormonal, right where it is. Although this product does dry out your skin if left on too long, that’s the point. So, after your treat your skin with this, use a moisturizer (like maracuja oil) to protect your skin from the dryness you might get. I would recommend using this product in the evening so that the product doesn’t interact with other cosmetics.

Pimples, breakouts, sensitive skin, oily skin, hyperpigmentation, dry patches, and more don’t have to be a part of your everyday. With these products (and, of course, recommendations from a dermatologist), you’ll be able to see that fix for the annoying problems that you face with your skin. As always, remember to patch test before full application. Happy skincare!

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19 Latinx-Owned Cosmetics Brands that are Changing the Beauty World

Being Hispanic, I love seeing Latinx representation in the world. Since I’m also a certified makeup artist, I also love seeing small beauty brands get the exposure that they deserve. Because of those two things, here are 19 Latinx-owned beauty brands that are totally changing society and showing the representation that Latinx people need.

1. Ella’s Eve Cosmetics

Ella’s Eve Cosmetics was founded by sisters Melissa and Lissa who originated from the Dominican Republic. After they moved to the United States, they realized both their love of makeup and lack of Latinx representation in the beauty world. Their brand sells mainly lip products, but also includes eyeshadow and apparel.

2. Melt Cosmetics

Melt Cosmetics was founded by Lora Arellano and Dana Bomar in 2012. It started by selling bold lip colors but has branched out to products from mascara to blush to lip liners.

3. Midas Cosmetics

Midas Cosmetics is an Afro-Latina-owned beauty brand that was founded in 2018 by Rocio Nuñez. The brand features cruelty-free and vegan products and aims to celebrate and appreciate every person and skin tone. Some unique products sold are pressed and loose glitter and neon eyeshadow palettes.

4. CAí Para Mi

CAí Para Mi is a progressive beauty brand based in New York City. They pride themselves on unique and inexpensive products that range from blush to foundations. The website includes a foundation shade matching feature that helps each customer find exactly what shade they are without the hassle of guessing and returning.

5. Bésame Cosmetics

Bésame Cosmetics was founded by Gabriela Hernandez in 2004 when she wanted to bring back the glamor of her grandmother’s makeup routine. Products from this company are cruelty-free and free of gluten, parabens, and mineral oils, and are all produced in California. Not only does this brand cover a multitude of products, but they feature specialty collections including a Mary Poppins set and an I Love Lucy set.

6. Elaluz

Elaluz, founded by Camila Coelho, features products that include smells of Brazil – coconut and papaya specifically. This simplistic and minimalistic brand not only makes makeup but also creates skin and hair products, as well.

7. Necromancy Cosmetica

Necromancy Cosmetica is a “gothic romance” brand that was founded by Desiree Rodríguez (Des) Salvador Pérez (Zal) in Puerto Rico. Their creation is a celebration of the beauty world and “gloomy, striking, brooding, and seething” world vibe. Des and Zal produce 100% vegan lipsticks, as well as eyeshadow and brand merch.

8. Sweet Street Cosmetics

Sweet Street Cosmetics was founded by Lala Romero and Natalia Durazo who pull their own life experiences and pour them into their beauty products. Products range from eyeshadow palettes to lashes to makeup bags.

9. Araceli Beauty

Araceli Beauty was founded in 2018 by Araceli (Cely) who was born in Jalisco, Mexico. Her products include everything from eyeliner to lashes and highlights her roots in Mexico as well as the brand that she’s formed in Los Angeles.

10. Belle En Argent

Belle En Argent, founded in 2017, is a Latinx-owned cosmetics brand created by Christina Kelmon and Lauren Young. It focuses on non-toxic and fragrance-free products and sells everything from nail polish to eye shadow to lipstick.

11. Shaina B. Miami

Shaina B. Miami was created by Shaina B. in her hometown of Miami. Her products have been featured by Refinery29, Star Magazine, and more, as well as including tutorials of the products. You can purchase these products online and have a wide range of items such as makeup brushes and eye shadow palettes.

12. Sigma Beuty

Sigma Beauty was founded in 2009 by Dr. Simone Xavier and Rene Xavier Filho. They launched this cosmetics brand with just one brush but quickly grew their products to include makeup and brush care products, as well. Sigma products are currently available in stores worldwide including Dillards, Sephora, and Van Maur.

13. Reina Rebelde

Reina Rebelde, created by Regina Merson, branched from a love of makeup and Mexican heritage. This brand features eyes, lips, and face makeup, as well as nail products and beauty accessories. With affordable prices and quality products, this cosmetics brand has grown into a Latinx-beauty world must-shop.

14. J’dez Beauty

J’dez Beauty, founded by YouTuber Jackie Hernandez, is an international beauty company that brings affordable products to its customers. The majority of the products are lip colors and blush, although the company sells lashes and shadow palettes, as well.

15. Mia del Mar

Mia del Mar is a cosmetics brand that brings Latinx Miami culture to the beauty world. The all-woman team comes from Columbia, Argentina, Venezuela, Cuba, Brazil, and the USA to bring clean, vegan, and cruelty-free products to customers. With products made from tropical ingredients and scientific formulas, this company sells both great makeup and skincare products.

16. Artist Couture

Artist Couture was founded by Angel Merino, a celebrity makeup artist and beauty influencer. This brand features many different products including eyeshadow palettes, highlighters, lip colors, and loose glitter powders. You can also find this brand in beauty stores nationwide.

17. Luna Magic Beauty

Luna Magic Beauty, created by sisters Shaira & Mabel Frías brings together the celebration of Afro-Latina and Dominican-American backgrounds. Their products have been featured on Shark Tank, as well as being sold online and in select Walmart stores. Products include eyeshadow, lashes, lip color, and more.

18. Alamar Cosmetics

Alamar Cosmetics, founded by Gabriela Trujillo, celebrates Cuban backgrounds while bringing in Floridian vibes. You can purchase products for eyes, lips, and face, as well as accessories and makeup bundles.

19. Vive Cosmetics

Vive Cosmetics was created in 2016 by Joanna Rosario-Rocha and Leslie Valdivia. This beauty brand highlights the mixture of Latinx makeup in the beauty world and sells a wide range of lip colors as well as killer makeup accessories.

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3 Of The Best Bronzers For Spring That Won’t Break The Bank

Although it may not feel like it now, spring is right around the corner. As we trudge through the rest of the winter months, you can already be thinking about what products to use for the warmer months; one of those products being bronzers.

Not to be confused with contour, bronzer can add an extra bit of color to your skin. If you’re confused between the two, here’s a quick explanation:

Contour

Contour is used to create shadows on the face that bring out or create depth and definition in your cheekbones, nose, chin, and other areas. Countour is rarely sparkly and is recommended to be used with a matte finish and more of a cool undertone.

Bronzer

Bronzer is used to add warmth and color to your skin. It is typically shimmery or sparkly because it adds a pop of that natural glow, but can be more matte, as well. Bronzer usually has a warm undertone which is essential for the sun-kissed look.

Although both products may be close in color and are placed in similar areas on the face, the purpose that they both serve is very different. If you’re looking for definition and those glass-cutting cheekbones, contour is for you. If you’re hoping to look like you just spent a few hours on the beach, bronzer is the way to go. So, seeing as spring is right around the corner, here are three bronzers that are $6 or less that will get you that warm glow.

Rimmel London Natural Bronzer – Sun Dance

Featuring a waterproof formula, this bronzer from Rimmel has incredible pigment and an in-product shimmer. The product is said to last 10 hours and is one of four shades found online. The color works great on several different types of skin tones and costs under $4 on Amazon.

wet n wild Color Icon Bronzer – Sunset Striptease

This bronzer from wet n wild is a lighter pigment with less of an obvious sparkle. There is a slight shimmer and is meant to be applied very lightly. This product would be best suited for lighter skin tones due to its sheerness and is the perfect option for someone who is going for a more subtle look. The formula is a cream and powder hybrid and is under $4 on Amazon.

e.l.f. Primer-Infused Bronzer – Forever Sunkissed

This bronzer by e.l.f. has a matte finish for those who are looking to dodge the sparkle, and is infused with primer to help the product last longer. This color is the lightest of three options and is perfect to add the sun-kissed look without the shimmer for $6 on Amazon.

The Bottom Line

Bronzer is one of the best products to use when you’re ready to start transitioning back into warmer temps. Whether that includes sparkles and shimmer or just adds a touch of the sun, these bronzers are a must-have for your spring beauty collection.

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5 Beauty Hacks Every Makeup Lover Needs to Know

I’ve had my Makeup Artist and Airbrushing certification for almost five years now, and from someone who knows a thing or two about makeup, there are simple hacks that everyone can do, no matter if you’re an expert or novice.

1. Shattered powder palettes

This has happened to every makeup lover at one point or another. Your new, expensive palette got smashed through TSA, your pet thought it would be fun to knock it off the counter, or maybe you just have butterfingers. Whatever the case may be, there is an easy fix to make that palette good as new. Take a few drops of rubbing alcohol and mix it into the broken powder with a toothpick. Make sure it comes to a paste-like consistency and then let it harden overnight. Good as new!

2. Dried up mascara

We’ve all been there… You use your very favorite mascara until it starts crumbling. And let’s be honest: mascara is expensive. Bring life back to your tube with a few drops of eye drops! It can be whatever brand you want, so grab some from your local drugstore or megastore and add it in. Your mascara will be back to its glory in no time.

3. The long-lasting lip

From someone whose pet peeve is lip color that lasts no longer than 30 minutes, there are some tips I’ve learned along the way that help that gorgeous color stick around. Apply a touch of chapstick, Vaseline, or carrier oil before adding your lip color for a moisturized base that will keep that color looking as bright as the moment you put it on.

4. Brightening liner

For the days when you just can’t ditch those Chanel bags under your eyes, white eyeliner will act as a brightener. White eyeliner also makes the eyes appear bigger, so tightline your bottom waterline with a pigmented pencil liner for that instant anti-sleep deprivation look. White liner on your eyelid will also add a fun twist to your makeup in just a few seconds.

5. The foundation test

We’ve all seen the infamous way to test foundation: the wrist. However, did you know your wrist is a different shade than your face? In order to find that shade that really matches your skin tone, drag a drop of foundation from your jawline to the middle of your neck. From there, find the shade that matches, and you’re good to go.

No matter how you do your makeup, there are always hacks to help you get the ideal look you’re going for or to help get rid of those pesky makeup problems that happen to the best of us. Follow for more tips, tricks, and hacks of the best world there is – the beauty world.

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