Darphynia's Diary

So I walked down to the mailbox, and was greeted by the July Birchbox.  I started my subscription last year, and after the June box had seriously considered cancelling.  Boy am I glad I didn't.  The July box features the following:   A benefit mini they're real mascara, mini Stila liquid lipstick (I received the shade Venizia), a travel-sized Oribe dry hair texturizing spray, a deluxe sample of COOLA 's cucumber SPF 30 sunscreen, and a deluxe sample of Dr. Brandt 's microdermabrasion (one of my favorite exfoliators!). I haven't had an opportunity to try everything just yet, but as soon as I do, I will have a review.  Did you receive the July box?  I would love to know your thoughts on which product(s) did or didn't work for you. Also, if you haven't subscribed but would like to, click here to sign up.  It's easy and you can cancel at any time. Stay beautiful!  

they're Real Mascara Image courtesy of benefitcosmetics.com While everyone is drooling over Roller Lash, I am still obsessed with Benefit's they're Real mascara (and eyeliner).  I always apply mascara after I have curled my lashes.  Even those claiming to curl on their own never seem to do a good enough job.  When I see the majority of mascara applications, most apply it at the base and simply move the want up towards the tips.  Others work the wand back and forth, but few apply it in a rotating motion.  Working from the base, take the wand and rotate it outward.  It is the same motion that is described in the "how-to" section for Roller Lash.  The rotating motion will allow a more even distribution of the mascara while simultaneously minimizing clumping.  You can work the wand back and forth while you rotate as well.  After I apply mascara, I use a heated eyelash curler to give some extra lift.  I don't know about you, but my las...