I Tried Honeylove’s Crossover Bra. Here’s What Happened

 Honeylove’s Crossover Bra Review With Barbie's Beauty Bits

When was the last time you bought a new bra? Personally, it's been so long that I'm embarrassed even to admit how old my bras are (the overstretched bands probably give it away).

I always dread bra shopping, as I can't ever find one that fits and looks sexy and pretty at the same time (only the smaller sizes seem to be the sexy bras).

But the time has come, and I don't even know where to start. I don't have a lingerie brand I swear by, so I went to my friends to find some options. They listed off the usual in-store big names, which I've tried but never found quite the perfect fit. And then my friend Marla said she had the best bra for me from the brand Honeylove.

Honeylove Crossover Bra-Sexy, Meet Supportive
Marla professed her love for Honeylove. She swore this brand was the go-to for bras, so I checked out their site. At first, I was confused since Honeylove seemed to focus on many shapewear items, and that's not what I was in the market for.

Marla explained that Honeylove is actually sculptwear, and they help women feel confident in the most comfortable way possible. She also told me to turn my attention to the Crossover Bra, their best-seller that's just been restocked.

It had been ages since I went shopping for bras, and the thought of shopping online was scary, considering my problems in the store. Like, how could I gauge size, comfort, and quality online? Marla said that she lives in this bra 24/7 and has pretty high standards, so I figured it couldn't hurt to give Honeylove a shot - plus, they have free shipping and fully refunded returns within 30 days.

Honeylove-How To Find The Perfect Size
I went for the Crossover Bra in their classic Runway color - simple black and mesh fabric. When it came time to choose a size, I was nervous since they have a wide range from XS to 3X, but their sizing tool is super clear.

Instead of having me break out my old measuring tape, which never works! Honeylove asked for my current bra size (34 DD), if I ever wore a larger size (yes), and other fit details about my everyday bras. It only took a few seconds to go through, and in the end, Honeylove recommended the perfect size (size L).

How My Honeylove Crossover Bra Fit
Once my bra arrived, I tore open the packaging and tried it on immediately. I felt much more confident trying on a bra at home since I can pair it with different tops. Plus, I'm not relying on lousy in store customer service, bringing back many sizes and bra styles in hopes to find the right fit.  Best of all, when I realized how much I loved the Crossover Bra - I was free to jump with joy literally as these babies are held in!!!

You see, I usually wear an underwire bra because they are generally sexy and offer the lift I am seeking. But we all know how uncomfortable those bad boys get over time. However, Honeylove has the solution for people like me. They have a bonded cradle that replaces your underwire, and it perfectly fits. I never thought this would happen!

Plus, you can cross the straps in the back so you can wear them with a ton of shirt styles (racerback included!), taking it to a new level.

Honeylove's design looks great on its own and flatters my body. No more dreaded back bulge, armpit fat, or uni-boob problems with the Crossover Bra. I can see why Marla wears this every day since the straps are adjustable and don't dig in. On top of that, Honeylove surpassed expectations by creating a comfortable bra that is sexy and supportive and perfect for a night-in or night-out.

What Is The Cost Of The Honeylove Crossover Bra
For $69, this bra is an actual must-have for every woman. This level of quality and support with a stylish design would typically cost $100+, especially as your cup size increases. I'm even planning on stocking up on the other three colors of the Crossover before they sell out (again).

I can't believe I almost skipped Honeylove and headed to the mall for a bra that would be nowhere near as amazing as the Crossover Bra. I highly recommend that your next bra come from Honeylove - they're way more than just sculptwear.

Shop Honeylove Crossover Bra
JUST FOR YOU: Want to shop for a Honeylove bra? Click here to start shopping! 

Coupons And Other Deals At Honeylove

Feel the love this Valentine's Day with these deals from Honeylove! Score big with bundle savings, exclusive discounts for teachers, medical, and military, plus sweet percentage off deals! Happy shopping!

IMPORTANT This is an original post. Some others have copied this article and changed the name, even back dated posts for traffic exposure. This is my true experience. 

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Ipsy's 2022 August Box Review, Featuring Alicia Keys

Ipsy's 2022 August Box Review, Featuring Alicia Keys From Barbie's Beauty Bits

Who doesn't love a beauty subscription box? Especially the iconic Ispy and Boxycharm?

I've been sharing these beauty box subscriptions on social media, especially Instagram, and seeing how excited everyone gets. But sadly, the hashtags get banned (only a few show up if you check). So, I have also decided to give Google some love with Ipsy and Boxychrm reviews each month.

What better way to start than with Ipsy And Alicia Keys for the Ipsy Glam Bag X August 2022 edition?

August Ipsy 2022 Bag Theme
This month's Ipsy is about an Empowered State of Mind. Whether a self-care day or grounding yourself with affirmations, empowerment is key. Just ask music icon Alicia Keys, who's inviting you to step into your power with her limited edition Glam Bag X collection.

Ipsy x Alicia Keys Glam Bag Review
Five of the products have been hand-selected by Alicia Keys, and the member chooses the other three. Brands offered in the bag include Uoma, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, and Keys Soulcare, valued at over $350!

A BONUS...The Keys Soulcare products comply with the regulations and restrictions set forth by the FDA and the European Union regarding over 1,680 ingredients. These products have no parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or formaldehyde.

See some of the products included below. I have the ones I received in my August Ipsy bag and some other items in the 2022 August Ipsy Bag for those who want to partake in some online shopping.

• @keyssoulcare - Skin Transforming Cream
• @keyssoulcare - Be Luminous Exfoliator
• @keyssoulcare - Obsidian Facial Roller
• @perriconemd - Citrus Brightening Cleanser
• @toofaced - Lip Injection Lip Plumper
• @bobbibrown - Long Wear Cream Shadow (Vanilla)
• The Word Woke - Cool Steam Eye Mask
• @lawless - The Baby One Eyeshadow Palette 

Other Items In The August Ipsy Glam X Box

• Benefit Cosmetics They're Real! Magnet Extreme Lengthening Mascara
• Juice Beauty Green Apple Brightening Gel Cleanser
• Lys Beauty Aim High Multi-use Liquid Highlighter
• Uoma Beauty Brow-fro Baby Hair Ultra Slim Brow Defining Pencil 

How Does The Ipsy Box Monthly Subscription Work
For those who have not subscribed yet. Ipsy offers a few glam bags filled with full-sized beauty products and glam samples. Ipsy is a monthly makeup and beauty subscription where you will get a different makeup and skincare bag each month filled with beauty samples and full-size products.

For example:

• Hair products
• Skincare items
• Makeup samples and full size
  
• Cute makeup bags
• And more!
  

How Much Does The Ipsy Subscription Cost
The Ipsy subscription has a price point for everyone, offering a few different bags.

Ipsy's Glam Bag: $13/month
This is the original beauty bag. With the Glam Bag, you can discover your newest favorite beauty products with five deluxe-size samples (worth over $50). Adding to the fun, you can choose one product for your bag each month.

Ipsy's Glam Bag Plus: $28/month
All the faves you love—full-size. Your Glam Bag Plus includes five full-size beauty products (worth over $120) in a themed drawstring backpack. Each month you get to select three out of five products, so there's always something fun to look forward to.

Ipsy's Glam Bag X: $58/quarter
Are you feeling a little extra? The Glam Bag X is an exclusive quarterly upgrade to your IPSY membership that includes eight full-size products (worth up to $350) handpicked by some of the biggest stars and tastemakers in beauty.

Each shipment includes three full-size products you choose from the most-coveted brands, hottest launches, and must-try products in beauty. Glam Bag X replaces your regular monthly bag during upgrade months (February, May, August, and November).

Top 7 Benefits Of Using A Body Scrub

When was the last time you took time out for self-care? How about some pampering from head to toe using a body scrub? If it's been a while, or if you need some tips on how to do this better. Barbie's Beauty Bits is here to help with seven benefits of using a body scrub for a full body exfoliation!

Gone are the days of banned microbeads that damage the skin and mess up your bathtub drains. Today's approach is a luxurious upgrade with moisturizing and beneficial physical exfoliators that leave your skin feeling and looking its best.

Exfoliate My Body; I Thought This Was For My Face
When most think about exfoliation, they think of one used on the face. But what about the rest of your body?! Just like the skin on your face, your scalp, lips, back, and even those feet could use a little exfoliating to slough away dead skin and build-up. In layman terms, where there's skin, you should be exfoliating for better skin health inside-out.

Today, we will discuss the benefits of a body scrub that should inspire you to make a full body exfoliation part of your beauty routine. So let's read on for the scoop.

So What The Heck Is A Body Scrub
Body scrubs are a body care product used to help remove dead skin cells from the skin by exfoliating. They have been around for centuries dating back to the Egyptians, who, at the time, they used a mixture of sand and Aloe Vera.

Today's formulas, like body polishes and scrubs, are more advanced. Body polishes and scrubs are similar as they both exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells. But today, I will only discuss body scrubs, like the body scrub from BodyandEarth.

A scrub's effectiveness depends on its exfoliants. Most body scrubs employ sugar and/or salt to exfoliate the skin. However there are other ingredients out there like grains, charcoal, and green tea. Each of these has unique benefits.

And let's not forget about my favorite which is coffee grounds. A coffee scrub not only smells amazing, but it also stimulates the skin to regenerate cells, tightens the skin, and decreases inflammation by constricting blood vessels.

The best body scrub treatment is combined with hydrating ingredients since super-abrasive scrubs can deplete your skin's natural moisture barrier, leaving it prone to dryness and irritation.

What Are The Benefits Of Body Scrubs

As with all exfoliants, the goal of a body scrub is to remove dead skin cells and encourage the healthy production of new ones. However, body scrubs are known to have other benefits other than exfoliating the skin. Here are some of them:

Speeds Up Skin Cell Turnover With Effective Exfoliation
"Cell Turnover" is a term often used in the skincare and beauty world. So why is it essential for our skin, and how does exfoliation from a body scrub improve it?

Besides being a natural and healthy process that naturally occurs in our body, aesthetically wise, the result of cell turnover is what we call a "more youthful look" and a "luminous complexion."

Sadly as we age the skin's natural ability to shed dead skin cells slows down. It can also slow down from an unhealthy lifestyle and overexposure to the sun. Hence making you look much older than you are. The bottom line is that having naturally slow cell turnover can lead to multiple unpleasant aging side effects, like lackluster skin, wrinkles, and crepey, dehydrated skin.

Since the outermost layers of the stratum corneum (layers of your skin) cannot dissolve naturally, regular exfoliation with a body scrub will act as a breaking agent and boost your skin cell turnover process. When you remove the dead skin cells, you increase blood circulation resulting in new skin cells forming much quicker, promoting smoother, youthful-looking skin.

Exfoliating With A Body Scrub Reduces The Appearance Of Dark Spots
We all love the sun, but the truth is it does not love us back. While accurate, the day-old terms of promoting vitamin D are minimal compared to the damage the sun can do to our skin. Sun damage in the forms of dark spots, liver spots, hyperpigmentation-whatever you would like to call it appear. And the good thing is you can minimize the appearance of these dark spots by regularly exfoliating with body scrubs.

Exfoliating With A Body Scrub Promotes Collagen
Anti-aging is the holy grail of the skin world. And one little beauty secret I am letting you on today, by introducing exfoliation with a body scrub into your beauty routine, you can help prevent premature aging.

That is right. Exfoliation can boost the collagen synthesis of the skin regardless of skin type. How? When you exfoliate the surface of your skin, the skin is shocked, and this type of trauma to the skin causes it to try to repair itself automatically.

So, in turn, your body reacts by increasing collagen production, which activates the fibroblasts, producing more elastin collagen—ultimately improving the tone and texture of the skin. 

Body Scrubs Help Unclog Skin Pores
Granular exfoliation helps unclog pores so that they can shrink and get visibly tighter and smaller. Skin blockage is usually caused by dirt, access sebum, dead skin cell build-up, and toxins that destroy your skin's health. These impurities ultimately cause acne, pimples, ingrown hairs, and those pesky razor bumps.

One body scrub I use is Body and Earth's Puresoak Bath Himalayan Salt Body Scrub Set. Through osmotic actions, salts absorb the toxins in the skin and draw out dirt and excess oils.

A bonus with using a Himalayan Salt body scrub is that it balances your body's pH levels (high acidic skin is what causes dryness).

It also reduces signs of aging, sagging skin and improves sleep quality, which is why I love to use this scrub before I go to bed!

Your Body Moisturizers Will Work Better If You Exfoliate The Skin
Removing the outer layer of dead cells is like removing a film from your skin. Consequently, products like those moisturizers and creams you apply after exfoliating will work better and faster, providing longer-lasting results since they won't sit on top of lots of dead skin build-up.

This is also why it is advisable to look for body scrubs that contain natural oils, such as olive and coconut oil, to boost the skin's glow.

How To Use A Body Scrub Effectively
Now that you know the benefits, how do you use a body scrub?

Well, beauties, it is not that difficult.

1. A relaxing, warm shower or bath is always the first step in body scrubbing. Warm steam gently opens your pores in preparation for the exfoliating treatment.
2. Gently massage the body scrub into your slightly wet skin using gentle, circular motions. By doing this, the body scrub removes dead skin cells and promotes blood circulation.
3. After exfoliating your entire body, rinse off the body scrub and lightly towel dry.
4. Finish the indulgent treatment using hydrating body oil, lotion, or butter.
   

Over Exfoliating And How To Avoid It
As you can see, regularly getting rid of skin impurities has benefits. However, too much of a good thing can happen, especially when it comes to over-exfoliating the skin! Yep, if you exfoliate too often, the skin's barrier function can become compromised!

You see, our skin produces oils to keep your skin healthy and youthful. Overdoing it can strip your glowing skin of all its protective and nourishing elements, and it can leave the skin raw, resulting in cracked, dry skin, which leads to premature aging.

As a general rule, it is recommended to exfoliate the skin once or twice a week to reap its benefits: Yup, one to two times per week. So beauties, if you've been slathering on the exfoliating acids daily, there's a high chance you are overdoing it.

So despite the many benefits of body scrubbing, it's more about consistency than frequency.

Do you have a favorite body scrub tip? If so let us know below. Until next time! 

Cosmetic Procedures Yes Or No? 5 Things To Consider Before

Cosmetic Procedures Yes Or No? Five things to consider before choosing a cosmetic procedure!

Despite the pandemic negatively impacting many businesses, plastic surgeons are experiencing the opposite. The interest in cosmetic surgery is booming, and the "Zoom Boom Effect" accounts for many cosmetic procedure demands during the pandemic.  

Why? Because people are constantly viewing their own and others' faces on zoom calls. Starring at yourself for hours on end has caused more people to take notice of facial anomalies, irregularities, asymmetry, and even compare themselves to others on screen.

In 2021 alone, facial plastic surgeries like brow and face lifts increased by 54%, and non-surgical procedures increased by 44%, according to the American Society Of Plastic Surgeons. More than $14.6 billion was spent on cosmetic procedures in 2021 alone; 94% were performed on women. 

How To Avoid Botched Procedures

As the demand for cosmetic surgery procedures grows, botched procedures have been markedly rising thanks to unqualified practitioners.

Plastic surgery pitfalls include:

•     The surgery was performed by an unqualified surgeon.
•     A nurse is used instead of a qualified anesthesiologist.
•     An insufficient examination of a patient's medical history.
•     The procedure lacks a properly equipped space, such as a hospital.
  

As you can see there are a lot of things to consider when choosing a cosmetic procedure. It can be challenging if you have never undergone this type of procedure before, especially given the cost and potential risks involved in some of these treatments. 

Finding a board-certified, experienced surgeon is the first, most crucial step, but it isn't the only one.The field of plastic surgery has advanced significantly over the past few decades. Several advances have been made in the field of plastic surgery, not only in terms of sophistication and safety but also in terms of women and men being more comfortable with the idea of having cosmetic surgery to enhance their appearance.

You just need to your part and I am here to help with five factors you need to consider before having any cosmetic treatments.

Here are five things potential cosmetic-surgery patients need to consider:

Have Realistic Expectations When It Comes To Cosmetic Procedures

I am bringing this up first as you need a realistic expectation of what these procedures can provide.

Although cosmetic procedures, even less invasive ones like treatments from a Botox treatment clinic, can enhance your appearance and boost your confidence, they won't give you a better relationship, a better paying job, or a happier life.

But if you desire to correct crows feet, crooked nose, tighten a loose chin, or a mommy makeup over, chances are you'll be satisfied with the results, provided you do your homework first.

Finding The Perfect Medical Facility: Beyond The Google Search

Many people, especially in areas known for cosmetic procedures, start by searching online. For example, someone in Los Angeles might search for "Medical Spa Los Angeles." However, more than simply finding a website is required. You need to dig deeper to ensure you're choosing the best professional for your needs.

RealSelf: Your Trusted Resource for Plastic Surgery Research

Here's where RealSelf comes in. This valuable platform acts as a healthcare marketplace, connecting you with qualified physicians and allowing you to research various aesthetic treatments. RealSelf boasts over 430,000 doctor profiles, treatment options, and plastic surgery reviews – all from real patients sharing their experiences.

What Makes RealSelf So Useful?

• Find Local Doctors: Easily connect with qualified surgeons in your area.
• Unfiltered Reviews: Read candid reviews from actual patients about their experiences, good and bad.
• Before & After Photos: See real, unretouched photos to gauge potential results.
• Transparent Pricing: Get a general idea of costs associated with different procedures.
• Social Proof Matters: While credentials are necessary, don't be fooled by fancy degrees alone. Look for surgeons whose patients showcase natural-looking results on social media platforms. If someone has a frozen Botox look, you may want to consider another injector. 

Beyond Credentials: Why Patient Experiences Matter

While a surgeon's qualifications are essential, they don't tell the whole story. Finding a skilled and experienced surgeon with a good bedside manner is crucial. RealSelf reviews and social media can reveal valuable insights you won't necessarily find on a doctor's website.

By going beyond a simple Google search and utilizing resources like RealSelf, you can make informed decisions and choose a plastic surgeon who inspires confidence and delivers exceptional results.

Check The Plastic Surgeons' Qualifications When Considering A Cosmetic Procedure

I was surprised at the growing number of OB/GYNs, internal medicine doctors, and even cardiologists performing cosmetic procedures~ WHAT?? I know. But the truth is that the US government doesn't require that a surgeon has training in the services they offer. What are the signs that your plastic surgeon isn't fully qualified?

For starters, if you have a surgeon who usually works on the cardiovascular system doing face reconstructive surgery! This may seem hard to believe, but it's legal. Trust me. 

I had a qualified vein surgeon, part owner in a spa, who botched a CoolSculpting procedure on me. And since he was not a plastic surgeon he could not perform the procedure to correct the negative side effects from CoolSculpting.

So, when searching for the right plastic surgeon qualified to perform a cosmetic procedure it is up to you to ensure that your surgeon is American board-certified.

Schedule A Consultation And Ask Questions When Considering A Cosmetic Procedure

If you are interested in a nose job, you want to find a board-certified plastic surgeon skilled in reconstructing that part of the face.

It's essential to have a reputable practitioner familiar with plastic and reconstructive rhinoplasty so that you can breathe normally through your nose.

Here are some questions you should ask your cosmetic surgeon during your surgery consultation:

• Can you tell me how much training you have in the procedure I need?
• What is the number of years you have performed this procedure?
• Can you show me before and after pictures of past patients who have had this procedure? 
• Patient safety is essential, so ask about the medical center, operating room, and general anesthesia. 
• Are there any risks involved after the cosmetic surgery?
• And make sure you feel comfortable during the consultation.

Think It Through: Avoid Impulsive Cosmetic Procedures

Impulsive decisions are never a wise idea, especially when it comes to a cosmetic procedure, even ones that are no invasive. In addition to the above research, you should also think ahead.

For example, if you plan on having kids, it is best to wait before having surgery unless you have a facial procedure (such as a facelift or rhinoplasty). Breastfeeding - and having a baby! - transforms your body dramatically.

To achieve the best results, wait until you've finished breastfeeding your LAST baby before looking at a breast lift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, and/or lifting those sagging parts from pregnancies.

Be sure to select a cosmetic procedure right for you as cosmetic surgery is an art, not a science, requiring that patient and Doctor work together to achieve the desired outcome.

Lastly, any cosmetic procedure, and I repeat any, is something you do for yourself—not for a spouse, partner, ever!!!!! Your body is yours forever, and treat it preciously.