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So Fresh ‘N So Clean

20 May

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FreshSkinCare1

Fresh says: Soy Face Cleanser for all skin types is an extra-gentle, multitasking gel formula that instantly whisks away everyday impurities and makeup—even mascara—without stripping the skin of essential moisture. The soap-free, fragrance free formula is also perfect for sensitive skin, too.
Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream is a universal daily age-defy moisturizer proven to provide 24 hours of significant moisture. It is formulated with a proprietary Super 7 Complex specifically designed to minimize and prevent signs of aging, deliver intense hydration, and boost radiance. It is further enriched with maca root extract, noted for enhancing luminosity and cell turnover.

Soy Face Cleanser:  The cleanser does exactly what it says; it removes makeup and cleanses without leaving the skin feeling dehydrated.  It does a pretty decent job of removing eye makeup,  but my 3 coats of mascara gals and my false lash wearing sisters will probably need a separate eye makeup remover.  The product also has “amino acids, soy proteins promote moisture retention, elasticity, and firmness.”  It does help with moisture retention, my skin feels so soft after using.  However, I can’t really speak for its claim for elasticity and firmness.  I do know that I’ve been using this every day for 2 weeks (AM and PM) and my skin looks and feels great (no break outs, dry patches, etc).  This would be good for any skin type, any age.

Lotus Face Cream:  I was really surprised on how light this felt on this skin.  For some reason I had it in my head that my oily skin wouldn’t like this product, and I have to say I’m pleasantly surprised.  I’ve been using it every day for 2 weeks (AM and PM) and it’s kept my skin hydrated and balanced.  Fresh claims that the lotus has “high levels of polyphenols, the most powerful antioxidants known to defend against wrinkle-causing free radicals.”  Good to know, since the battle with wrinkles seems to be never-ending.  This doesn’t have SPF, so when using in the PM I always put some sort of SPF over it (usually a BB cream).  This would be good for any skin type, any age.

Overall
The Soy Face Cleanser is gentle and does a great job of removing makeup and impurities without stripping the skins moisture.  It does remove mascara to a point.  The Lotus Face Cream feels silky smooth on the skin without feeling heavy.  Bonus for all of its awesome ingredients (lotus flower and their Super 7 Complex).  These products are pretty universal, any skin type could use them.

Where: Sephora, Fresh, Amazon (Cleanser, Face Cream). Price:  $38/5.1 oz Cleanser, $42/1.7 oz Face Cream
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Dry Hands Be-Gone with Lush

27 Mar

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I’m not sure if many people can honestly say the following statement:

My grandma is obsessed with Lush.

There for a while, she was placing an order almost once a week.  And Christmas presents?  You better believe everyone received a pre-wrapped box filled with Lush goodies.  Much of our family get-together this past year was spent explaining to my aunts how to use a solid shampoo and what a shower smoothie is.

So when I was complaining about my dry hands the other day, my grandma replied “My hands aren’t dry, I’ve been using my new Lush stuff.”  I half expected her to flip her hair and do a Z snap.  Girl.

Where: Lush, Amazon.  Price: $18.95/3.5 oz.

I expected the texture to be thick, but it’s really not that heavy. It’s lightly scented (it reminds me of Dream Cream), I can mostly detect chamomile.  After trying several hand creams (including my homemade one and my trusty L’Occitane), wadoyaknow, grandma was right.  This smooth cream cured my dry, cracked, knuckles.  Grandma knows best!

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Hyaluronic Acid, what’s the deal?

19 Feb

Upon hearing the word “acid,” it initially scares people .  “You want me to put what on my face??!!”

However, more and more people are becoming aware of this particular term.  It is one of the most important ingredients in anti-aging skin care.  So, what is it?

In layman’s terms:  It binds water to the skin.  It is a humectant, which means it draws moisture from the air and also tells the moisture that’s already in the skin to stay put.

Hyaluronic acid holds 1,000 times its weight in water.

So where does it come from?  Our bodies naturally produce it.  It’s located in the reticular dermis in between the collagen and elastin fibers.  It basically acts as a cushion for those fibers, keeping the skin supple.  As we mature… can you guess what happens?  . . .We produce less of it!  Isn’t getting old fun?

What kind of skin types should use this?  ANY!  This isn’t just for the dry skin types.  My skin is classified as oily and I use it AM and PM.  This isn’t anything that’s going to be irritating (don’t confuse it with glycolic or salicylic acid, which can be irritating) or harsh on the skin.

How do I use it?  You can buy pure hyaluronic acid (which is what is pictured) and you would use it after your cleanse and before your serum and moisturizer.  The molecules are small the skin just soaks it right up.  You can also add a few drops to your regular moisturizer for a little boost.  This ingredient is also already present it a lot of regular moisturizers.  However, the amount isn’t near the same amount that you would get by using it in its pure form.

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Friday Favorite: Lush Almond & Coconut Shower Smoothie

11 Jan

So… I bought this as a Christmas present for someone else.  As it sat in the corner of my room waiting to be wrapped, I would stare at it with curiosity.  “What is a shower smoothie?” I thought, “I bet almond and coconut would smell amazing…”  Since it was the holidays and a time for giving, I talked myself out of buying it.  Well, somebody named my grandma had picked up on my curiosity, and was kind enough to purchase one for me as an early Christmas present :)

It’s the Lush Almond & Coconut Shower Smoothie

LUSH says: Our soothing and conditioning shower wash is named for exactly what it is. A sumptuously soothing creamy almond oil and coconut oil shower smoothie to gently cleanse and care for your dry, or irritated skin and give it all the moisturizing attention it needs. We whip the exotic frangrance of jasmine, ylang ylang and vanilla into pot to leave your skin smelling scrumptious but most importantly soft and silky to the touch. $21.95/8.8oz Lush.

So, how exactly do you use a shower smoothie?  It’s just like an in-shower-rinse-off lotion.  After cleansing your body, smooth this creamy mixture over you skin.  I like to leave it on for about a minute before rinsing off.  That’s it!  My favorite thing about this product : THE SCENT.  OH-MAH-GAH, it’s so yummy!  It’s a light, sweet, vanilla, jasmine, with a hint of ylang ylang scent.  It’s not as moisturizing as I’d like it to be, I still feel like I need to apply lotion post-shower.  However, the vanilla and almond oil make a nice addition to my body skin care regime!
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November Birchbox, 2012

19 Nov

Check it out!

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Target Beauty Bag, Fall 2012

5 Nov

Target had a special promo about a month ago where you had to like the Target Style page and follow to see when they posted about the free beauty bag.  I missed out on the last ones, but I was lucky enough to snag up this past (and sadly, the last) one (I think they had 2 bags before this).  It was completely free, all you had to do was sign up!

Loving the leopard bag.  This will surely come in handy as I am always looking for new ways to stash my crap, I mean, makeup.

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Heeeeey Maracuja, AAAhAA!

24 Oct

All I have to say is… WHAT WERE WE THINKING IN 1995?  Why was this cool?  One day, kids will say the same thing about this current craze.  On to the beauty…


Tarte says: This nutrient-rich oil contains vitamin C and essential fatty acids to hydrate sensitive, dry, and acne prone skin, leaving skin even toned and smooth without a greasy feel. Pure maracuja oil is a hydrating treatment oil known for its anti-aging and healing properties for firmer, brighter, and smoother looking skin, and will not cause breakouts.

Beauty oils have been all the rage lately, it seems like everywhere I turn there’s a new one out.  One for hair.  One for skin.  One for hands.  Tarte’s maracuja oil has been out for a while (even before the craze).  I’ve already confessed my love affair with coconut oil, but it’s a tad too thick for my face and leaves my skin feeling (temporarily) greasy.  Wondering if this will be a nice alternative?

My thoughts
I really like this stuff!  The packaging is luxe without being too over the top.  I’ve actually had this for quite some time but had never used it.  One night I was without my usual nighttime moisturizer so I picked up this stuff and was pleasantly surprised!  It leaves my skin feeling silky smooth without feeling greasy.  The consistency isn’t as thick as coconut oil (although I still prefer coconut oil for my hair).  It has very similar properties to argan oil.  This is very moisturizing, my favorite use is on my face at night, either as a night creme or over my retinol.  This makes my skin feel AMAZING with all of its fatty acids.  It is also unscented.  I recommend this for any one looking for a gentle moisturizer!

Glitter Rating:  4.5 / 5

Where: Ulta, Sephora, Tarte website, Amazon. Price: $46.00/1.7oz.

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October Birchbox, 2012

14 Oct

This months box is all about transformation.  Changing up your beauty routine, out with old and in with the new.  I don’t know if anything in this box will “transform” me, but I did get some goodies, including a full-sized eyeshadow.

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My Current Skincare Routine

25 Sep

I’ve been doing this same regime since I started esthetics school (7 months ago) and my skin has never looked better.  I still like to try new things here and there, but I also go by the old saying, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

I mainly use Image Skincare, which is a professional skincare line.  That means you cannot buy this at the store, you have to get it from a licensed professional (either an esthetician or a doctor).  Now you’re probably thinking, “that stuff must be outrageously expensive!”  Nope, it’s cheaper than most department store brands (Lancome, Clinique).  To find out where you can purchase Image, click here.  GM Collin is another professional skincare line that I use, they have a higher price point and is a little harder to find.  To find out where you can purchase GM Collin, click here.

*the numbers have been linked to more information about the product*

1) Image Skincare – Ormedic Balancing Facial Cleanser

A gentle gel cleanser.  It helps keep my oily skin balanced without irritating it.

2) Image Skincare – Ageless Total Anti Aging Serum

Probably my favorite thing from Image.  It’s 15% AHA and BHA’s (glycolic, lactic, and malic acid).  It gives a nice little exfoliation and protects the skin.  I use 4-5x a week.

3) Image Skincare – Daily Defense Matte Moisturizer

This helps keep my oily skin in check and protected.  It has little “micro-sponges” that help absorb the oil.  It contains SPF 30 and is chemical free.

3) Laura Mercier – Tinted Moisturizer Oil Free

On days when I don’t want to wear foundation, I mix this with the Matte Moisturizer.  It gives a beautiful glow!

4) CBI – Eyebright Anti-Puffiness Gelee

This one is hard to find, I get it from my school.  It’s a gentle eye gel that helps with puffy eyes.  I don’t wear eye cream every day (only because I’m lazy).

5) Oil of Olay – Complete All Day Moisturizer

I put this on my neck and the backs of my hands every morning.  Any cheap moisturizer with SPF will do, this is just the one I’m using at the moment.

1) Lancome – Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

I’m always trying a new eye makeup remover.  I like this one quite a bit.  My other favorite is the Almay Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover Pads.

2) Image Skincare – Vital C Hydrating Facial Cleanser

Lurve this creamy cleanser.  It takes off my makeup (though, if I have on a lot I have to use a makeup wipe before) and smells amazing.  Very hydrating and full of vitamin C!

3) GM Collin – Hydramucine Treating Mist

That’s just a fancy name for a toner.  I don’t use this every day, only when I feel like my face needs some extra cleaning after cleansing.  It comes with a spray pump, but I don’t use it like that.  I put it on a cotton ball.

4) Image Skincare – Vital C Hydrating Eye Recovery Gel

This is super hydrating, it contains antioxidants and hyaluronic acid (which binds water to the skin).  It also has vitamin K, which helps with dark circles.  I can’t use this every day, it burns if I use it too often (not sure why, maybe too much vitamin C).

5) Image Skincare – Ormedic Balancing Bio Peptide Creme

Great night cream for oily skin.  It isn’t super heavy and it helps restore and sooth the skin.  It smells good too…

5) Image Skincare – Ageless Total Retinol A Creme

I use this (instead of the Bio Peptide Creme) 3-4 times a week.  It’s stronger than anything over the counter, but not as strong as the one from a doctor (which at my age, ahem..26, I don’t need it to be that strong).  It helps resurface, rejuvenate, and repair my skin.  It also helps keep my acne at bay.

6) Image Skincare – Ormedic Balancing Lip Enhancement Complex

LOVE this stuff.  It’s a moisturizing lip treatment (not gloss) and I put it all over my lips and the border.  I don’t have fine lines in that area yet, but using this hydrating polypeptide complex as a preventative can’t hurt! (more…)

My Favorite Ways to Use Coconut Oil

24 Sep

If you ever try to make plans with me on a Friday night, I’d have to pencil you in between my coconut oil hair treatment and soaking my hands in paraffin wax.  So, try to book me a few months in advance. . .

Coconut oil is known to be a very effective moisturizer (it also tastes great!).  I’m a disaster in the kitchen, so my uses are purely cosmetic. I keep a tub of this by my bed and in my bathroom.

1) Hair treatment.

As I mentioned earlier, this is my Friday night ritual.  I actually look forward to it!  In other news, I’m a huge loser.  My long hair tends to get greasy at the roots, so I apply it from the middle down to the ends.  I keep a separate container of this specifically for hair use, so I don’t contaminate the original container.  I just divide my hair into two sections (one of each side) and slather the oil in with my fingers.  It’s easiest to do this if the oil is somewhat solidified (it will liquefy at 70 degrees F).  If your oil is liquified, just stick it in the freezer for a few minutes to get the right consistency.  Leave on for at least 30 minutes (clip your hair back or put on a shower cap).  I usually leave it on over night and sleep with my hair in a braid.  Follow with your regular hair washing regime (shampoo and conditioner).

2) Chapped lips.

It never occurred to me to use this on my lips until a few weeks ago.  I was laying in bed with dry and cracked lips.  I had tried every lip balm and nothing was working, I sat up and shook my fist into the air, “GO AWAY CHAPPED LIPS!!!”  I glanced over at my coconut oil and a little light bulb came on… so I grabbed a clean q-tip and applied to my lips.  The hardest thing was avoiding to lick my lips (because it smells and tastes delicious).  I left on overnight and woke up with soft, cured lips!  Hallelujah!

3) Hand moisturizer.

I use hand sanitizer like a mad woman.  The alcohol in it leaves my poor hands dry as heck (that’s right, I said heck).  I just rub a small amount on the backs of my hands.  It does leave them slightly greasy, so I usually only do this at night.  It’s an instant cure!

$1 empty containers from Target. Perfect for storing your oil so you don’t contaminate the original container.

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