Beauty Archives • Andi's List

Smile Brilliant cariPRO

May 25, 2019 No Comments

Smile Brilliant recently asked if I would partner with them to review their new cariPRO™ Ultrasonic Toothbrush. I enjoyed their professional whitening system so much that I was really excited to try their newest product! I had actually been on the market for an electric toothbrush, but didn’t know which one to get. I also didn’t want to spend a lot of money on a toothbrush and not end up using it.

I was gifted the Individual Package which comes with one cariPRO™ Ultrasonic Toothbrush, two premium replacement heads with tongue scraper & DuPont™ bristles, and one wireless charging dock. The feel of the toothbrush was really nice. Not awkward or heavy at all. The handle has a grey soft touch grip and is waterproof so it ca be used in the shower.

My favorite part of this toothbrush is that it has 5 brush modes: clean, white, massage, gum care, sensitive. I have been going back and forth between clean and white. It also has an auto timer every 30 seconds for more even brushing.

After the very first use, I was hooked. My mouth felt so much cleaner than it does after brushing with a manual toothbrush. The Smile Brilliant cariPRO™ Ultrasonic Toothbrush removes 7X more plaque than a manual toothbrush does. I could definitely feel the difference! SmileBrilliant offers a 60 day risk free trial. If you aren’t completely satisfied with it, return it for free! It even comes with a 2 year warranty!

The brush heads are made up of thousands of premium angled DuPont™ bristles. There are several options for purchasing replacement toothbrush heads. The 8 piece is the best deal! They even ship worldwide!

I am offering 20% off with code theandislist20. So grab yours today! I am also hosting a giveaway. Click here to enter to win your own Smile Brilliant cariPRO toothbrush!!

Do you use an electric toothbrush? I would love to know what you think. Check out Smile Brilliant’s FAQ page for more info on this amazing toothbrush!

Thanks for stopping by!

xx Niki

Beauty

PR Beauty Products

March 13, 2018 No Comments

Hey there!

I have received some amazing beauty PR packages with some amazing beauty products over the past few months. I wanted to share a few of my favorites with you!

So, this is kind of a funny story. I was on the hunt for a drug store brand foundation for every day wear. I have a few name brand foundations that I love, but I go through them pretty quickly, which really adds up. I tried so many drug store brands but none of them were right for me. They were either too watery, too thick or I couldn’t get the right color. I spent hours on the internet looking at reviews to get the right one. I eventually gave up. Shortly after that, Influenster sent me a package with Maybelline’s Master Prime primer and Fit Me Dewy foundation! The timing was perfect! Just when I thought I wasn’t going to find a less expensive foundation, this showed up in my mailbox. I cannot say enough good things about these two products! The primer is a great base and the foundation is everything I was looking for. Great coverage, long lasting and the color is perfect for my skin tone. I really like the dewy and I might even try the matte version next time.

I had never heard of either of these products until I received them. I started using the Rodial Banana Lowlighter right away. It is great to use as concealer for dark circles under the eyes. I like that it doesn’t have a shimmer effect like most highlighters. The Nip + Fab Radiance Shot can be added to your nightly moisturizer. I have only used it twice because I rarely remember to use moisturizer but so far I like it. I’ll let you know if I see any major results with it. 🙂

I received these exfoliating pads a few months ago and have been using them about three nights a week. They are nice for removing my makeup before I get in the shower. I like only having to use one product to remove my makeup and exfoliate. For a full time working mom, this is a nice time saver. They do a great job of brightening and clarifying my skin. They feel SO refreshing. Like a glass of water for my face! Anthony even uses them a couple of times a week. They were even the winner of Harper’s Bazaar’s “Best At-Home Glycolic Treatment” & SELF Magazine’s “Best Exfoliant” awards. I highly recommend these if you are looking for a gentle exfoliator and aren’t big on adding a ton of different products to your nightly regimen!

In case you missed it, I did a post on these products a few months ago. You can read it here. I have kept up with my Smile Brilliant whitening trays. If you have sensitive teeth, this is the perfect kit for you! There is a desensitizing gel that really helps. I recommend this to all my coffee and red wine drinkers out there!

I have done several posts on Aveda in the past. I love the products! I even go to an Aveda salon. You can read that post here. Aveda sends me a lot of different things, but when they sent me this wooden box full of goodies, I was ecstatic! I lost a lot of hair after I had Andi. This was so discouraging since I have had thick hair all my life. The Invati system has helped tremendously. My hair has finally grown back in and feels nice and full! I can’t believe what a difference this has made.

Do you use any of the products I reviewed? What are some of your favorites?

Thanks for stopping by!

xx Niki

*all of the products shown above were gifted to me*

Beauty

My New Year’s Resolution for 2018

January 5, 2018 No Comments

Happy New Year!! I have to say that I am a little.. ok, REALLY depressed that the Holidays are over. I love being able to listen to Christmas music on the radio while driving around or to come home after a long day and watch a light hearted Christmas movie. I am even going to miss the Christmas lights which are quickly fading away each night. 🙁 It is such a happy time of year and TBH, there is nothing on the tv or radio. Maybe it’s time to invest in Netflix because, no we do not have it!

For my New Year’s resolution, I have decided to make time for myself at least 3 nights before I go to bed. I tend to stay up late to work on posts, do laundry or lay on the couch on my laptop until I am so tired that all I have energy to do is brush my teeth and wash my makeup off. I have some amazing products that I rarely use because I just run out of time at night.

Monday, I started my new nightly routine by using my Smile Brilliant teeth whitening system. I put my custom whitening trays in right after I laid Andi down. I was able to get a few things done while they were in before I went to bed. I leave the trays in for about an hour and then use the desensitizing gel since I have pretty sensitive teeth. I try to use the system 3 times a week. I am happy with the results and they do not make my teeth hurt like other systems I have used in the past. Click here for some facts about teeth whitening and some FAQ’s.

A few weeks ago, Aveda sent me this amazing PR package with their new Invati Advanced system. It is supposed to reduce hair loss by 53% and promote thicker fuller hair. After I had Andi, I lost more hair than I’d like to admit. It used to be extremely thick and full. It has really thinned out and I have a lot of breakage. I started this system on Wednesday night and although I obviously haven’t seen results this fast, I am obsessed with the product! The exfoliating shampoo made my scalp feel so clean! I also tried the conditioner and love the scent and cannot wait to use both again. After I got out of the shower I gave the Scalp Revitalizer a try and that also felt like magic on my scalp. It gave almost a tingly, minty sensation. I will try to do some before and after photos and give a full review once I have used the system for a while.

What are your goals this year?

xx Niki

Beauty

Holiday Gift Guide: Beauty Edition

November 15, 2017 No Comments

Hi everyone!

I put together some of my favorite beauty products in this holiday gift guide. These make great gifts because they aren’t always something you would want to buy for yourself but would be thrilled to receive them as a gift.

First on the list is this tarte Limited-Edition Treasure Box Collector’s Set. It includes a 24-piece eyeshadow palette, two bronzers, warm and cool toned blushes and a pearlescent highlighter. Inside the storage compartment is a full size Sex Kitten Eyeliner and travel sizes of mascara and quick drying, matte liquid lipstick. I do not have this set but I would love to find it under the Christmas tree!

Second on my beauty gift guide is the T3 Whirl Trio. I got this a little over a year ago and it is the only thing I use to curl my hair. It comes with three interchangeable barrels. You can achieve any look you want, from want beach waves, spiral curls or full-bodied waves. It has 5 adjustable heat settings (260-410-F). I use the second to the highest. I have been wanting to try their straightener since I love the wand so much.

The next item on my guide is a product that I wrote a post on several months ago. Smile Brilliant is a teeth whitening system that you can customize. You choose according to your sensitivity and what level of staining you have. I have pretty sensitive teeth, so I opted for the desensitizing gel which you can use after each use of the whitening gel. They send you tray molds with a return label so you can get a custom fitted tray. Unsure about the whole teeth whitening process? Here are 10 facts everyone should know. Click here for any FAQs you might have. This is a great gift, especially going into the New Year. #newyearnewme right?!

The Foreo Luna is a favorite in my house. Even Anthony uses it! It is a silicone facial-cleansing brush that deep cleans making your skin brighter, firmer, and more youthful-looking. I love how soft my face feels after using it. There is even a mini version for travel.

Lastly on my beauty gift guide is an item that is actually at the top of my list for Santa this year: The Glopro in limited-edition rose gold. It stimulates skin’s natural healing responses to induce micro-rejuvenation deep within for a visibly firmer, smoother, younger-looking appearance. Who doesn’t want to look younger?? What it does: As MicroTips pass over the skin, the rejuvenation process begins immediately. I have been wanting to try this and now that it is available in rose gold, I am sold. If Santa should drop this off for me, I will do a post on it with my review.

I hope this beauty gift guide was helpful. I will be doing a few more over the next couple of weeks. Are there any specific categories you would like to see?

Thanks for stopping by!

xx Niki

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Beauty

A Day with Nuovo Salon

July 19, 2017 1 Comment

Hello! I hope you are all having a great week so far! I have been running around like crazy between errands and getting ready for Miami Swim Week this weekend. Be sure to follow me on Instagram to see footage from the runway shows!

On Monday, I was fortunate enough to be invited to be invited to my salon for a little makeover.

In 2013, A friend of mine referred me to Nuovo, and I have been going ever since. Our stylist, Scott, is THE BEST! He always knows exactly what to do with my color. Hair can be extremely personal. One wrong move and your entire image is ruined. My mind is always at ease at Nuovo! In just under 2 hours, my hair goes from feeling greasy and dulll, to looking revived and refreshed!

This visit, I decided to go a little brighter. I told Scott that I wanted something that would look pretty in the sunlight since I am going to Miami Beach. He did such a great job (as usual) and I am so happy with the cut and color.

Thanks to a little additive called Olaplex, I don’t worry about my hair getting damaged from dye and bleach. It is mixed in with the color to restore compromised hair and to prevent further damage. I never have a problem with my hair breaking or feeling too dry.

After Scott was done working his magic, I had my makeup done. Aveda products are extremely lightweight on the skin. You don’t even feel like you are wearing makeup! I really liked the natural look I was given, with a little bit of a bolder lip.

Another amazing thing about, Nuovo, is their commitment to being Earth friendly. They exclusively use Aveda products, which are cruelty-free and most ingredients are naturally derived. Not only that, all of their salons run on pollution-free electricity generated by local wind and solar projects and national clean energy provider Arcadia Power. They also recycle everything! From foils, to plastic bottles to hair.

Here is a look at my day at the salon:

I would like to thank the entire staff at Nuovo for making me look and feel like a princess. They are so kind, professional and extremely talented! I highly recommend them if you are in the Sarasota area.

Thanks for stopping by!

xx Niki

This post was sponsored by Nuovo

Beauty

My Experience With Smile Brilliant

June 15, 2017 No Comments

Hi everyone! Anyone that knows me, knows that I have to have a cup (or two) of coffee every morning. Over time, that can be pretty damaging to your smile. I have tried whitening strips in the past, but they don’t always do the trick. I had considered getting my teeth professionally whitened but the cost seemed extreme… Especially for someone who doesn’t plan on quitting their coffee habits anytime soon.

I recently had the opportunity to try Smile Brilliant. I am really happy with the results! Everything you need comes in the box. You have the option to professionally whiten your teeth from the comfort of your couch. Or bed, or wherever prefer!

^^Before

A few days after answering some questions about my teeth and sensitivity, the at home whitening kit arrived at my door. I made my teeth molds and sent them back in the provided envelope. About a week later, I received my custom whitening trays and was able to start the whitening process. First, I use the whitening gel. You can leave it on anywhere from 45 minutes up to 3 hours! I have really sensitive teeth, so I never went over an hour at a time. After the whitening gel, I use the desensitizing gel. That only needs to sit for about 15-20 minutes. I did this every other night. I began to see results after the third or fourth session.

^^ After

I love the convenience of Smile Brilliant. I can pop the whitening trays in and do some cleaning, work on my blog, take a shower, or just lounge around and watch tv. You can purchase an at home whitening kit for as little as $129. That’s hundreds less than having them professionally done, and you get the same results. After purchasing the initial whitening kit, you only have to buy whitening gel refills (as low as $19-$35). Your custom whitening trays are reusable! Use code andislist15 to receive $15 off of your order of trays!

Want a chance to win a whitening kit? Click here to enter a customized tray creation kit*. ($139 value!)

*Giveaway is open for one week. You MUST enter through the link to be counted. Giveaway is for $139 credit- and is open to USA, UK, Canada, and Australia residents*

Thanks for stopping by!

xx Niki

Beauty, Fashion

The Ruffled Red Silk Top

June 2, 2017 No Comments

Hi Everyone! Yesterday I took Andi to Disney again. She had the best time! She got to meet Mickey, Elena, Cinderella and we even got to see Belle again. Head over to my Instagram to see more of our day at Disney.

I wanted to play with a fabric that I don’t wear too often, so this silk shirt was really perfect to experiment with! This red silk top also comes in white, if you aren’t super comfortable wearing bol colors! I love the button & tie details on the back.

A post shared by Niki Ludera • andislist (@andislist) on Jun 3, 2017 at 9:56am PDT

These jeans are my among my favorites now! The dark wash is just so pretty and perfect for any time of the year. Did I mention they’re high waisted? 🙂

I’m also wearing my Rebecca Minkoff Rockstud lookalikes again – they’re really cute and worth it!

I hope you have a great rest of your week! Thanks for stopping by!

xx Niki

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Beauty, Fashion

DreamDry NYC x SC 2017

February 26, 2017 No Comments

Hi everyone! While in New York for fashion week, I got the opportunity to spend the afternoon at DreamDry NYC with my Style Collective ladies. Founded by Rachel Zoe and Robin Moraetes, DreamDry is a salon experience where you can enjoy a glass of champagne, get a blowout, braid or updo and even shop for some beautiful jewelry or candles before you go!

A post shared by Niki Ludera • andislist (@andislist) on Feb 26, 2017 at 6:39pm PST

This was an absolutely wonderful thing to do this NYFW trip. Founded by Rachel Zoe and Robin Moraetes, DreamDry is a salon experience where you can enjoy a glass of champagne, get a blowout, braid or updo and even shop for some beautiful jewelry or candles before you go!

There are five locations based in New York City, Chicago, and Atlanta. If you are ever in any of these areas, you have to check them out! The whole experience felt very personalized and relaxing. I am so happy that I am a member of Style Collective and was able to attend this special event. They are an amazing group of women; each so supportive and inspiring.

Keep scrolling to see my photo gallery from the event!

Thanks for stopping by!

xx Niki

Photos by Bora Images

Beauty

Christmas Gift Inspo: Ralph Lauren Red

December 20, 2016 No Comments

Hi Everyone! Today’s holiday blog is all about Ralph Lauren Red!

We are getting so close to Christmas! I literally just got done putting our tree up. Luckily, it has lights already attached because I only put one ornament on it – Andi’s Princess Elena ornament. She really stands out against our white tree! I just didn’t have the time to drag all of the decorations out this year.

Aside from getting the tree up last minute, I have also finally finished Christmas shopping. I am giving Anthony the Ralph Lauren Red cologne. It smells amazing! When Ralph Lauren asked to partner with me, I did not hesitate to accept. Their fragrances always smell so good, and we love the quality of their products. Anthony has never used Red before, but we were not disappointed.

It is a blend of spicy red saffron, fresh red grapefruit, and deep redwood. Ralph Lauren Red was the winner of the Fragrance Foundation’s Fragrance of the Year and & Consumer Choice Awards. I can definitely see why!

A post shared by Niki Ludera • andislist (@andislist) on Dec 21, 2016 at 6:16pm PST

They sent it in a really nice travel bag, perfect to take our next trip. It is a great size to fit all of his toiletries. The bottle looks so sleek and you can even add personalization as an added touch to make it the perfect gift for the special man in your life. We got the 4.2 oz, but it also comes in 2.5 oz, 1.36 oz and a 6.7 oz that comes with a beautiful tray. The bag also included a sample of Ralph Lauren Blue, which is another great scent. It features a blend of melon de Cavaillon, basil, verbena, and washed suede. Then there is always the legendary Polo, with blends the very best of wood, leather, and other natural scents.

All in all, Polo always makes a great gift for anyone on your list.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

xx Niki

This post was sponsored by Ralph Lauren.

Beauty, Fashion

Our Cinco de Mayo Outfits

May 5, 2016 No Comments

Happy Cinco de Mayo! We won’t be going out for margaritas this year, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t dress a little festively! Anyway, we may celebrate with some tacos and refried beans later. 🙂 So far, Andi is a huge foodie so I think she will enjoy it. It’s really wonderful that she’ll eat just about anything– makes life easier (and tastier) for us all!

^^ Andi’s “stinky” face!

Andi’s outfit is totally perfect for the spring weather here in Florida. It’s light, airy, and has some floral on it! Here are the details:

Dress: Gap |Headband Bow: Billy Bibs–comes in a set of 3 | Sandals: Jack Rogers | Giraffe teether: Little Giraffe–also comes in blue

It was so sunny outside today that my Dior sunglasses and these Spanish-inspired turquoise earrings were the perfect details to finish off this outfit with.

I opted to match with Andi today by wearing this beautiful Lilly Pulitzer dress that features white bauble details and some on-trend ruffles. As you can see, our Cinco de Mayo outfits don’t scream a “theme” corresponding to the holiday, but pretty embroidered floral details and white baubles are both Spanish-inspired.

Dress: Lilly Pulitzer | Shoes: DSW–ON SALE! also similar at Macy’s | Bracelets: Lilly Pulitzer–$38 J.Crew $29.50 plus additional 25% off with code GETSHOPPING | Earrings: BaubleBar | Lips: Claudia and Pink Tulle

And this next photo is a total behind-the-scenes as a mom! Andi dropped her teether and I thought we could get another photo in before The Meltdown. Nope! Hey, at least our Cinco de Mayo outfits still looked cute no matter what.

Let’s talk shoes for a minute: I am IN LOVE with these shoes from DSW. I also ordered them in the deeper Cognac color just so I could pair them with more outfits depending on the look I’m going for. They are so comfortable! I am also digging this new nail polish I just got from Smith & Cult. The color is “Regret The Moon”.

Thanks for stopping by! We hope you have a fun and safe night!

xx Niki and Andi