August Favorites

1.  Henne Lip Balm ($22) - I'm seriously LOVING this product.  It leaves your lips super soft overnight.  A little goes a long way so don't go too crazy slathering this on even if you're tempted to.  $22 is steep so you want to get the most bang for your buck.  With that said, this item does also double as intensive moisturizer for dry areas like hands, elbows, and heels.  Personally, I'd save it - better to use vaseline on those areas!  FYI, this product's certified USDA organic and made in the USA - they also don't test on animals.

2.  Spongelle Anti-Cellulite Buffer ($25) - For a luxe bath experience, cop this goodie stat!  Infused with exotic extracts and rich moisturizers, Spongelle keeps skin glowing use after use.  This buffer utilizes SalSphere technology while massaging, smoothing, exfoliating, and detoxifying areas prone to cellulite.   This item boosts circulation and helps you feel mad toned.  As a plus, it smells like heaven, and you can use it 30+ times.  A huge thanks to Brandbacker for sending me this to review. Use code BBLOGGER20 to get an extra 20% off your purchased - valid until October 19th.

3.  Solemates Shoe Rescue Kit ($19.95) - First of all, I have to apologize for sharing the wrong picture above. I was a dummy and collaged the wrong product - sorry, their two kits look hella similar, ha.  I can't get enough of Solemates though.  I own a variety of their products, and man, they REALLY come in handy.  Honestly, I'd feature their entire site if I could.  This particular kit comes with a butt ton of goodies including: one pair of high-heelers (magical add-ons that protect your heels and prevent them from sinking into grass), nail clipper + file, peppermint foot wipe, bandages, anti-skid pads, heel gel cushions, and more.  Also, while you're at it, I also recommend purchasing their leather protector ($10) and shoe freshener ($10).

4.  Ecotools Fresh & Flawless Brush Set ($14.99) - This 5-piece set is designed to hide imperfections for the smoothest finish possible.  It includes the following: flat concealer brush, buffing concealer brush, precision foundation brush, complexion blending brush, and full powder brush.  This set has seriously changed my make-up routine - application is so much easier!  Solid tools make such a difference.  I can't recommend these enough!  I def. prefer them to the e.l.f. brushes I used previously. FYI, these babies are travel sized so you can carry them around with ease for touch-ups.  

5.  Burt's Bees Lip Crayons ($8.99) - Hands down, my new favorite lip product.  I currently own 4 out of the 6 colors available - rest assured, I'm definitely going to purchase the others as well.  These creamy crayons give you full coverage and moisturize while doing so.  My lips get really dry which sucks when applying lipstick - skin flakes and all that nasty shiz, ain't nobody got time for that, ha.  I don't have ANY issues with these though so make sure you guys check these out. My favorite shades are Napa Vineyard (a gorgeous deep red) and Sedona Sands (a subtle pink that enhances your natural lip color).

What are some of your current fave products this month?

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Smile Brilliant!

I'm beyond excited to tell you guys about Smile Brilliant today on Sensible Stylista.  I've been wanting to get my teeth professionally whitened for SO long.  I recently cut coffee out of my diet, but it was a serious staple for me.  You have to cut me slack though.  Doctoral studies are HARD, and I needed pick-me-ups to keep me alert!  I used to drink 4-5 cups a day -definitely NOT healthy or attractive for that matter.  I mean, I don't know about you, but I sure as hell don't like having stained teeth, ha.

I never got a chance to get them prettied up, but lucky for me, Smile Brilliant sent me their whitening kit to review.  This kit is MONEY!  I can't wait to tell you guys all about my experience.  Let's start with the starter kit pictured below:  3 sets of impression material (catalyst paste and base paste), impression trays, whitening gel, and desensitizing gel.  It contains everything you need to create professional dental impressions, and it only costs $139.90 + shipping.

Here's how it works:

1. Prepare your teeth - brush and floss thoroughly to create perfect impressions.

2.  Mix the catalyst and base paste by continuously folding them in half until the putty becomes a solid blue. Do this quickly because the putty may harden if you take too long!

3.  Place the putty in the tray and spread it evenly within 30 seconds.  Place your teeth in the middle and position fingers on all 3 points on the bottom of the tray for 2 minutes.

4.  Make sure you can see your impressions clearly!  If you mess up, don't sweat!  You can use the tray again - just remove the material and start over with your extra paste.

A few things to remember:

1.  Do not wiggle down on the impression or bite down.

2.  Make sure you press deep enough - the paste should flow over your gum lines.  Massage the overflowing material into your gums!

3.  Do NOT make sure than one tray at a time because your putty will harden.

4.  Let your impressions sit for 30 minutes before rinsing under cool water.  Do not place them in your shipping envelope until they've hardened completely.

Here's a shot of me demonstrating step 3 described above!

This is what your impression should look like!  Remember to let it sit and harden for a half hour before rinsing under cool water.  If you mess up more than once and need more putty, just shoot them an email at support@smilebrilliant.com or call 1.855.944.8361.

Now, all you have to do is ship them off in your pre-paid envelope!  IMPORTANT:  Remember to include the return impression card with your trays.  Failure to receive it will delay your shipment because you need to agree to the terms in their standard informed consent. 

They'll get your molds in 3-4 business days (6-20 business days for international customers), and your custom whitening trays will be created and shipped to you within 5 days of receiving your impressions.  Easy peasy, right?

Here are pics for you guys - fyi, the first mold won't come with your trays!  I just wanted to show you guys a shot because I thought it looked cool, ha.

Here are the personalized trays you'll get...

Exciting right?  Now it's go time!  Grab your starter kit and take out your whitening gel syringe (pictured below, next to my toothbrush).  Before you whiten, make sure you floss and brush thoroughly - fyi, using toothpaste containing fluoride will slow the whitening process.

Simply remove the breakaway cap and apply a thin layer of gel to your trays.  Make sure your trays are clean and dry because moisture will reduce the efficacy of the gel.  Also, don't go too crazy with the gel - a little goes a long way because overloading may actually cause tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.  Once you put 'em on, wipe away excess gel with a moist q-tip.

You can keep them for a min of 15 minutes or a max of 3 hours, but I only kept them in for 30 minutes.  I used them diligently every day for a week, and even within that short time, I got fantastic results.  FYI: the longer the whitening gel is in contact with your teeth, the quicker your stains will go bye-bye.  It's all up to you!  Do as short or as long as you want.  The experience will vary for everyone so use your own judgement.

Moving on, after cleaning your trays, apply a thin layer of desensitizing gel to your trays and leave them in you mouth for 5-15 minutes. Afterwards, spit the remaining gel out without rinsing, and refrain from eating food or drinking liquids for 30 minutes.  Constant saliva is necessary for the finalization of this process!

Here's a before shot of my teeth:

...and my after!  Aren't my teeth much whiter?  I absolutely LOVED using Smile Brilliant because it was super convenient and effective.  I can't recommend them enough!  I mean, it boggles my mind that I can give myself a professional whitening treatment in the convenience of my home.  If you're still not convinced, you can watch/read more reviews HERE.

What do you guys think of Smile Brilliant?  Do you see yourself trying them out?

Sponsored by Smile Brilliant, but all opinions are my own.

Laser Teeth Whitening

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The Best of Drugstore Make-up

As you guys probably know by now, I am obsessed with everything beauty related. I love buying and experimenting with new makeup, especially if it's affordable! When it comes to inexpensive makeup, these products are the best of the best:

Lipsticks:

I have a literal obsession with lipsticks, and I like to think that I've tried a good portion of drug store offerings. These five are the absolute best when it comes to quality, color payoff, and lasting power!

1. Palladio Herbal Lipstick
2. NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream

3. Wet n Wild Megalast Lip Color

4. Revlon Color Burst Matte Balm

5. Lasting Finish by Kate Moss

 Mascaras:

Every girl has her favorite, trusted mascara. I used to only use Better Than Sex by Too Faced, but after discovering these three, I stick with drugstore brands!

1. Voluminous Million Lashes by L'Oreal

2. Maybelline Lash Sensational

3. Covergirl Full Lash Bloom

Eyeliners:

Eyeliner can make or break any look. I love wearing a nice, thick, wing so it's very important for me to have a liquid eyeliner that works flawlessly!

1. Sephora Smart Liner

2. Jesse's Girl Liquid Liner

3. NYC Liquid Liner
4. NYX Super Skinny Eye Marker

Bronzers:

If you get pale like me in the winter, or just want a sun-kissed look in the summer, then bronzer is a must-have. These three products really brighten up your skin. 

1. NYX Matte Bronzer
2. Rimmel London Natural Bronzer
3. Elf Studio Baked Bronzer

Blushes:

Blush is a necessity for me whenever I wear makeup. There are an overwhelming amount of different blushes at the drugstore, but these four are by far the best.

1. Elf Studio Baked Blush
2. Milani Baked Blush
3. Be Matte Blush by City Color
4. Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush

Concealers:

It's important to find the right concealer for your skin type. However, I believe that these three concealers work universally and are definitely the best (not very much) money can buy!

1. Glamoflauge Heavy Duty Concealer

2. Maybelline Fit Me Concealer
3. Elf HD Lifting Concealer

What are your guys favorite cosmetics? Have you tried any of these? Show us your fierce makeup look and make sure to use the hashtag #sensiblestylista so we can check it out!

Written by Zoe Luiz

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IrresistibleMe Hair Extensions

Everyone loves thick, long, luscious hair, however, some of us just weren't lucky enough to be born with that. There is a way around that -- hair extensions! Lately, hair extensions have been becoming extremely popular, with even Kylie Jenner creating her own line of extensions. There are tons of different brands of hair extensions to try out, but IrresistibleMe is definitely one of the best out there!

IrresistibleMe offers five different types of clip-in extensions: Silky Touch, Royal Remy Hair, Volume Vixen, Highlights, and Ponytails. They range in price from $79 to $339, but are definitely worth it for the quality of the products. They typically last three to nine months, depending on how often you use them.

I have Royal Remy in Chocolate Brown, 18 inches & 200g (available here for $279).  There are ten wefts total so you can use as few or as many as you'd like. These extensions are unreal!  They're so soft and silky, and they match my hair color PERFECTLY.  I promise that they're really easy to use. I'm a first-timer so I should know, ha.  FYI:  IM also sends extra texture clips just in case.  Make sure you guys take good care of these babies!  Wash 'em, brush 'em, the whole works - they'll stay in perfect condition if you do so.

Silky Touch Extension                                           Volume Vixen Extension

Clip-in extensions are amazing for a number of reasons. First of all, you can put them in yourself! They're so easy to just take in and out of your hair, so you don't have to bring then into your salon for an expensive procedure. Also, other extensions damage the hair you already have. Clip-on extensions leave your hair just as beautiful as it is before using the extensions!

                     

Royal Remy Hair                                          Highlights

IrresistableMe also carries Full Lace Wigs, which, like the extensions, are made with 100% Remy Human Hair! The wigs cost $299 and come in 12 different shades. The wigs are custom made and hand stitched, which give the perfect appearance of real hair!

            

Full Lace Wigs

They also carry a variety of products to style your extensions, or even just your real hair! They have hair straighteners, curlers, shampoo, conditioner, and tons of cute hair accessories. So, even if you don't want extensions, definitely check out IrresistableMe to style your own hair. 

Sapphire 8 in 1 Curler

This amazing brand is helping all of us thin-haired girls get that desired long, thick look. Make sure to check out IrresistableMe on their site, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

Written by Zoe Luiz

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July Beauty Faves: Part 2

YAY - it's time for Part 2 of my beauty faves! Clicky HERE if you missed part 1...

1.  BioRepublic Sheet Masks - What can I say? I have an obsession with sheet masks as of late. They're SO easy to use - I like that I don't have to wash my wash my face after.  I just stick 'em on for 20 minutes, peel off + discard, and apply moisturizer (optional, of course).  Both these and the When masks I told you guys about HERE are amazing, but BioRepublic = much better value.  You get 8 for $36 + free shipping - that's $4.50 each compared to $7 for a When mask.  

There are four different kinds available:  Aloe Rescue, Cucumber Breeze, Green Tea Detox, and Pomegranate Crush Illumination.  I've tried every one, and I adore each equally.  They smell magical and leave your skin crazy hydrated so make sure you guys cop these stat.

2.  Scent Trunk - This service is GENIUS.  This monthly subscription service delivers sample niche fragrances right to your door.  I got my first box a couple days ago, and I absolutely love my perfumes.  Here's how it works.  You fill out a scent profile and choose a plan:  $18 per month, $16 per month for 6 months, and $15 per month for a year.

I've relied on designer brands all my life, but I've always wanted my signature scent.  Let's be real, it kinda sucks when someone's wearing your perfume.  I'm all about this service because I know I'll be the only one wearing it, at least in my circle! I highly recommend trying this subscription out. Lucky for you guys, I have a sweet code for y'all. Enter SENSIBLE40 to get an extra 40% off.  Make sure you guys tell me all about your experience.  Oh, and make sure you guys tag any frand that'd be interested so they can save, too!

 3.  Ultimate Serum by RevivSerums - y'all know how much I love serums - thanks to Brandbacker, I got to try this fab item out.  This high performance serum address aging skin and rejuvenates like whoa.  Contains PhytoCellTec stem cells, peptides, antioxidants, and other goodies that heal.  You can apply this goodness onto your neck, face, chest and hands.  Currently on sale HERE for $129 - it was originally $250. As a bonus, you guys can enter this fab giveaway to win a full-sized product for yourself!

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Top 5 e.l.f. Products

As most girls know, makeup is not cheap. I set aside half of my paycheck to buy new eyeshadow palettes, foundation, lipstick, etc. It's really hard to find good quality makeup for an inexpensive price. Luckily, e.l.f. is one of the few makeup brands on the market that offers really high quality makeup for extremely low prices. Here are my top five favorite products that eyes, lips, face has to offer:

1. Smudge Pot Cream Eyeshadow

I used to really dislike cream eyeshadow; I could never find the right brush to apply it with, and I normally don't like the shimmery finish it leaves. Over the past year I've been experimenting with a lot of different smudge pots, everything from the classic Mac Paint Pots to Maybelline's Color Tattoos. Out of everything that I have tried, none are as good, or as inexpensive, as the e.l.f. pots.

Obviously, Mac Paint Pots are amazing, but they cost $21! That's more than two full palettes from e.l.f.. The e.l.f. palettes definitely don't last as long, but the quality's almost equal for $3. These pots come in 11 different shimmery shades, and they have completely changed my opinion on cream eyeshadow. It's so easy to take these smudge pots and, with your finger, pop some shadow onto your lid for a quick and cute eye look. If you haven't tried these pots yet I strongly recommend adding them to your cart!

2. High Definition Powder

Again, like with cream eyeshadow, I used to hate loose powder. I also didn't like using translucent powder; I always put powder foundation on top of the liquid foundation I'd already applied. I actually ordered this powder online so I could try making my glossy lipsticks matte (check out how to do that here). However, I started noticing that applying two foundations was leaving my skin cakey. (Shocker!) The instant I tried this powder I was in love.

It's so easy to just use a big, fluffy brush and dust this powder all over your face to get a perfect, matte finish. The powder isn't super finely milled, so packing it on doesn't work very well. Also, it does have a bit of a white finish so I never use it if I'm not applying bronzer. However, the pros definitely outweigh the cons - I find this powder perfect for it's low price of $6. 

3. HD Lifting Concealer

Concealer is another thing that I like to experiment with. I love Maybelinne's Fit Me concealer, which is what most beauty gurus use, but sometimes I find the coverage to be a little too heavy. E.l.f.'s concealer is perfect because it's a lightweight formula that still covers imperfections.

I usually use this concealer in the summer because it's perfect to wear with just a little mascara for a beach-look. Note: it only comes in four skin-tone shades and two corrector shades. The fair tone's perfect for my skin, but I know quite a few people who complain about the orange undertones being too strong. So, definitely try this concealer out before purchasing!

4. Eyebrow Kit

The Anastasia Beverly Hills Pomade is definitely the most famous eyebrow product on the market right now; tons of beauty gurus and Instagrammers rave about this. I think that the pomade is great for pictures and can definitely give a flawless brow, but it can be too harsh for everyday wear. I don't really want to invest $18 in something that I can't wear everyday.

I personally have pretty thick brows, and I only like to use brow gel to fill in my sparse hairs, which this brow kit does perfectly for only $3. The gel isn't too intense, so it gives just the right amount of coverage. However, the powder that also comes in the compact is the opposite. It can completely draw a new brow on, and I love using it if I take a few too many hairs out while tweezing or have some brow areas I want to draw in. 

5. Brushes

E.l.f. brushes are amazing so I couldn't pick just one. If you've read my post on How-to Contour Like a Pro, then you know I'm obsessed with the Contouring Brush. There are TONS of high end versions of this brush, but I honestly like e.l.f.'s the best. It's perfect to apply just the right amount of bronzer right into the hollows of your cheeks and along the side of your face. 

I also use the Small Tapered Brush all the time. It serves many functions -- it can be used for just about anything. I love using it to apply under eye concealer and powder, but I even use it to apply bronzer sometimes. Overall, most of the brushes in e.l.f.'s studio line are amazing, but they don't last very long. I find that, even after washing, the brushes are really hard to get clean and sometimes the bristles can fall out. However, the brushes range from $1 to $6, so they're definitely worth it.

What do you guys think of e.l.f.? Have you tried any of their products? If so, let us know your favorites!

Written by Zoe Luiz

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Beauty Trends: The Brow Edition

We've already talked about the top eye trends of this summer, but a gorgeous eye look isn't complete without perfect brows to match! If you wanna make sure your brows stay on fleek this summer, check out the following top eyebrow trends:

1. The Ombre Brow

This eyebrow trend is probably the most popular right now,  it's also commonly referred to as the "instagram brow." Like contouring, this trend actually started in the drag community. Basically, it's what it sounds like, an ombre'd eyebrow effect. The top of the brow is drawn in very lightly, and then slowly fades to dark and harsh at the end of the brow. This type of eyebrow looks amazing in pictures and flash photography, but be careful wearing it out, it can sometimes look a little too dramatic.

2. Thick Eyebrows

This may seem simple, but it's definitely a trend. A few years ago, supermodel Cara Delevingne got a lot of recognition for her amazing, outlandish style of eyebrows. However, now they're not considered crazy because everyone loves rocking a thick brow!  Thin, arched brows were popular in the 2000's; I'm glad to see that this 70's-inspired trend is coming back with a vengeance.

3. Eyebrow Extensions

This trend somewhat goes along with the thick eyebrow trend mentioned earlier. Eyelash and hair extensions are all the rage, it was only a matter of time before eyebrow extensions began! Now, they're here and in full swing. If you have little to no brow hair and want that thick eyebrow look, you can now go to a salon and get tiny little pieces of hair glued onto your brow bone! 

4. Eyebrow Tattoos

Similar to brow extensions, this trend is for those of you who struggle with thin brow hair. If you have tons of sparseness in your brows and constantly have to fill them in, you may want to consider brow tattoos. They're literally just tattoos that you get on your brow bone and underneath your eyebrows.

For those of you interested, there are ton of different techniques available out there. For example, for people with sparse brows, the soft fill technique is best. Technicians simple take a light color and fill in the sparse areas. However, for people with absolutely no eyebrow hair, the full creation technique works best. In this technique, the tattoo artist uses strokes that mimic real hair, and create an entire brow. 

Written by Zoe Luiz

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July Beauty Favorites: Part 1

I'm excited to tell you guys all about my current fave beauty must-haves!  I'll be sharing Part 2 later this summer so stay tuned.

 

1.  When Sheet Masks - These babies are expensive ($7 a piece) but worth it IMO.  I've tried 2 out of 5 (Makeup Base and 10:00 PM), and I'm obsessed to say the least.  The former prepares your skin, giving it an even tone and supple look.  I recommend using it for special occasions because your skin will look AMAZING - I'm talkin' serious glow factor.  It contains hyaluronic acid and ginseng extracts to keep skin healthy and collagen + peptides to improve elasticity.  

The latter is obviously used at night.  When your skin's feeling AND looking a bit "eh", use this to rejuvenate and restore.  Like the MB mask above, this product contains hyaloronic acid and ginseng extracts, but instead of peptides, it contains watermelon extract to improve elasticity.  Both masks are individually packaged and contain ONE soft sheet mask.  Each mask is made from coconut juice and is infused with a light, non-greasy, non-sticky serum.  It's formulated without paragons, sulfates, or phthalates, and the product's vegan & gluten-free.  

I know it's pricy, but if you're looking spoil yourself one night, definitely try this out!  I promise you'll love the results.  Put this baby on for 30 min and see serious results.  Your face will feel like a baby's bum, ha!

2.  Emjoi's Micro-Pedi - I've always had issues with my feet.  They're super tough and gross-looking so I have to take special care of them.  I usually exfoliate with pumice in the shower, but I don't think I can go back to that because Emjoi's Micro-Pedi is a serious upgrade - thank you for sending me this item to review.  My feet now look AND feel great!  

This baby was introduced just a few years ago, and it's already sold millions on QVC worldwide.  This handy tool requires two AA batteries and features a unique micro mineral roller that spins 30 times a second to painlessly break up, buff, and remove dry, rough, hardened skin from the soles of the feet in the matter of minutes.  It's the ONLY motorized callous remover to have the American Podiatric Medical Association Seal of Acceptance.  Make sure you guys pick one up STAT!  They're available HERE for $39.95 + free same day shipping.  

3.  Covergirl's Intensify Me! Liquid Liner - OMG! I'm in LOVE with this liquid liner.  I used to ONLY use Stila's liner ($20), but I'm on team CG now.  For $8.99, you can get a product that works JUST as well.  It gives you the control of a pencil with the intensity of a liquid liner for defined eyes. The tip is paddle-shaped so you can execute two lines: thick vs. thin.  It glides on mad smoothly and dries quickly so you don't need to worry about smudging. 

What beauty products are you guys using nowadays? Do any of y'all have recs? I always love trying new things so make sure to reach out!

PS.  Make sure you guys check out HauteDeals HERE for exclusive coupon codes and sales - new ones are up EVERY Thursday morning.

3

My FAVORITE Hair Irons

Alright everyone, I'm SUPER excited to tell you guys all about Lionesse today on Sensible Stylista.  As y'all know, I love rocking straight AND curly hair - depends on my mood *grins*  If I'm feelin' sexy, I grab my straight iron.  If I wanna look glam, I'm all about waves!  I SWEAR by Lionesse, like, I'm not messin' around.  Their hair tools are so ridiculously amazing!  I can't even deal, ha.  I'll be tellin' ya'll about their 2" tourmaline straightener and their 4-piece curling set.

Let's start with the latter.  At a whopping $400, you're dropping a ton of moolah, BUT don't skimp on hair tools.  Buying cheap products will damage your hair - trust me, and go for quality.  Plus, shatty tools will break in a hot minute.  As you can see, this set comes with four different barrels:  18-25mm, 32/32mm, 25/25mm, and 19/19mm, and they heat up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.  The clip-less irons will give you smooth, natural curls!  This baby also comes with a glove so you don't burn yourself while styling your hair.

A closer look at the curling wand...

Moving onto my 2" tourmaline straightening iron.  This tool is effin' MAGIC.  It heats up in 30 seconds and works like a dream.  SERIOUSLY!  I had a Chi before, and dang, it took me a good 20 minutes to do my hair.  Now it takes me, no joke or exaggeration forizzle, 5 minutes TOPS!  This incredible iron hearts up to 480 degrees Fahrenheit!  I actually use max heat, but you can adjust it to your liking.  FYI: tourmaline plates balance hair and reduce static by increasing negative ions - hashtag WIN.

 A close up shot of my babies! 

Before I say bye-bye, I want to make sure you guys PROTECT your hair by using heat protective creams or sprays!  I like this leave-in cream because it leaves my mane shiny and smooth.  No one likes greasy product in their hair - I sure as hell don't want to look like I haven't showered in days, ha.  As I'm sure you can tell, I've had mad problems with products in the past!  I vouch for this though - clicky here to purchase one yourself.

Conclusion: BUY THESE AMAZING TOOLS.  Yes, I needed all caps for that because that's how serious I am.  I swear to god, these products freakin' changed my life.  I guarantee satisfaction.  That's how freakin' confident I am that you'll love these items.  

You're welcome in advance.   

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