Face

Hello 2019!

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Hello, I’m back!

Okay so, it been a hot minute since I have written a blog post. Life got away from me and I lost my focus on my passion for all things beauty. I’m back and refreshed and ready to talk about some products that rocked my world in 2018 and will continue to do so into the new year.

Skincare wise I can’t forgive myself for not mentioning these products earlier. These two moisturizers have been my ride or die for all of 2018 and I don’t plan on quitting them anytime soon. The first is the Youth to The People Hylruonic Acid moisturizer. I use this cream every morning. Its a gel consistency keep me moisturized but not oily throughout the day. The bigger perk IT DOESN’T BREAK ME OUT! Amazing for sensitive skin. Now for night time, the winner is Drunk Elephant Protini™ Polypeptide Cream. This is a pricey number but wow my skin has changed for the better. This moisturizer is so luxury and creamy and will have you waking up with soft glowing skin. I have turned countless friends and family on to this moisturizer, it’s that good!

Now for hair care, I have stuck to the normal routine with my beloved Oribe Gold Lust shampoo and Briogeo deep conditioner but one thing has changed and it’s my new favorite anti-frizz spray. I was never a fan of anti-frizz sprays because they always left my hair greasy or crunchy. The Living Proof anti-frizz does no such thing. This spray smells amazing, leaves my hair so shiny, eliminates frizz and holds my style. Checks all the boxes for me!

Last but not least, makeup. I will say the past year after leaving a cosmetic focused job to a desk job makeup has taken a back seat. I get ready in 5 minutes in the morning and put little to no effort into my routine. One of my resolutions for 2019 is to get back into my passion. Putting on makeup is therapeutic and I enjoy doing it, therefore, I want to do more of it. Set that alarm 10 minutes earlier and have some me time. In saying that there are a couple products that still stood out to me this year. The new Hourglass Veil™ Translucent Setting Powder  is amazing for combo skin that doesn’t want to look flat. Truly makes you look airbrushed! (it’s expensive, so try a travel size from Sephora it’s cheaper and lasts forever). Lancome Monsieur Big Mascara gives me the false lashes look. Full, long and voluminous lashes that will make you look awake and energized at 6 am. Keep the lookout for new makeup faves in the upcoming year. Time to get back in the game!

How was everyone’s new year and what are your resolutions?

Self – Tanning Favorites

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Self-tanning oh  how our relationship has grown!

I am here to admit I love to be tan and loooooove spending time in the sun.  I will lay out on the beach for hours, but as we all know the sun is the devil when it comes to taking care of your skin. It is not good for the skin to be exposed to the sun for long periods of times and wearing sunscreen is KEY.

Now that I am a working adult (HA) I don’t get to lay out at the beach or see the sun in general as often as I would want. So to keep myself from turning into snow white I ventured off into the world of self-tanning…boy is it a big world. During this journey, I have found what works best for me and maybe will work for you too.

Now I will say I like a self-tanner to help give me a little color/glow but I am not thriving for the orange look or to look 10 shades darker. I like a natural bronze glow , it makes me feel more confident coming out of those cold winter months.

My first favorite is a gradual self-tanner these are the safest options when getting started. The Nivea Sun-Kissed Radiance Gradual Tanner is basically a lotion with no color guard that will gradually give you color the more you use it. You want to take the same steps in preparing as a regular self -tanner such as exfoliating and shaving.  This tan is VERY natural  with NO trace of orange. It usually takes 3 days of use to get a decent amount of color that will last about another 3 days or until you exfoliate. This option is foolproof!  The lotion doesn’t have a color guard so you can apply with your bare hands as you would a regular lotion and you don’t have to worry about any splotchy patches or orange hands + no dry time!

Next, we have the real deal. A self-tanner that will have you looking like you just came back from the Bahamas, in a good way! The Josie Maran Liquid Gold Tanning Oil took me by surprise about a year ago. My sister in law ordered it  from QVC and she is a little fairer than me. Once I saw how natural it looked on her skin tone I knew I needed it. It comes in about 4 different scents which is amazing and even comes with a mitt. You will need to prepare your skin per usual and then work section by section. Unlike the Nivea one this one has a color guard so you can see exactly where your are distributing the tan. Avoid putting too much on any  dry spots on your skin like knees and elbows to avoid any areas from getting splotchy. Leave on for 6-8 hours take a shower and boom you have that vacation glow. This tanner lasts me about 7 days and you will want to moisturize every day to prolong your tan time. Also, a good tip is you can do more than one layer depending on how dark you want to look. I usually do two layers on my legs because they see the least sunlight.

Last but not least is my go-to quick fix. I like to use this product when either my tan is fading or if I need to amp up my skin for a special occasion. The By Terry Tea to Tan is a temporary tan. You can spray it on wherever you need some extra color , blend it out with your hands and the next time you shower it’s gone! It takes no dry time and does NOT transfer onto clothes, its magic. I take this with me on every vacation! It has a little hint of shimmer which looks amazing in photos! *Plus this product can also be used on the face*
Are you into self -tanners, if so what are some of your favorites?

Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment

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WOW just wow I have found a holy grail skincare device…yes not a cream or serum but a tool!

For the past month or two, I’ve been struggling with acne that will not go away on my chin and cheek area. Everyone said it was hormonal but no matter what I did or how long I waited it would not go away. One spot would leave, another would come to replace it. I was beginning to get very frustrated and was ready to research some derms in my area and get this settled once and for all.

I was on the verge of making that appointment until one day after work I walked into a CVS to get some nail polish remover. I started to roam the makeup aisle as always and I saw the Neutrogena light therapy pen. I had read about their light therapy devices on several different blogs but I never thought too much of it. I saw the pen was only $22 so I thought what the heck?! nothing else was working. (btw it’s even cheaper on Amazon)

Here I am, only two weeks later to tell you IT WORKS! Not only did it shrink my spots but it helped reduce any redness and hyperpigmentation (which I struggle with the most). The pen is very easy to use. All you have to do is turn the pen on, put the light directly on the spot and the pen will turn it’s self off when its done (2 minutes) then move to the next spot, do this twice a day.  Neutrogena also sells a full face mask but since my breakouts are in specific areas the pen works best for me + travel-friendly!

Now I am not an expert on how or why this pen has magical powers but from my understanding, this pen uses both red and blue light to treat acne without drying or burning your skin. The pens slim style surrounds a pimple for a targeted treatment. The blue light penetrates just beneath the surface, while red light goes deeper into the skin to deliver fast results.

If you are like me and are struggling with getting rid of stubborn pimples go grab one! I have fairly sensitive skin and it has not irritated my skin. My skin is looking brighter and smoother every day! Have any of used this pen or the full face mask? I’m curious!

 

 

 


Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment  $16.96 @Amazon

 

Best Affodable Foundation For Summer

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I know the best affordable foundation is a  strong statement but hear me out. This foundation is $ 5.99 and it checks everything off my list of needs for a foundation. It’s long wearing, keeps me matte but not dry and it’s full coverage. Check, check and check!

I first discovered this foundation from complimenting one of my co-worker’s complexion and she whispered to me “it’s wet and wild” before her sentence was even over I was googling the foundation and I was making a trip to Walgreens after work.

The Wet and Wild Photo Focus Foundation solved the number one thing I struggle with when buying drugstore foundations and that is shade choices. I have a very neutral undertone and many drugstore foundations are either too pink or too yellow there is rarely in between. The shade I wear is bronze beige and it is my PERFECT shade. It’s extremely neutral without being too gray.

So this 5.99 foundation is my perfect shade, it has medium to full coverage and is very buildable without getting cakey. It’s a semi-matte finish which is perfect for summer time and is extremely long wearing! This foundation does things my 30$ foundations cannot.

So count up that spare change in your car and head to your local drug store and give this foundation a shot- you won’t be sorry!

What are some of your favorite drugstore foundations?

Wet and Wild Photo Focus Foundation $5.99 @Walgreens

New Makeup Obessions

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The past month I have been purchasing A LOT of new makeup. I had an urge this month to amp things up and get out of my comfort zone. Spring time is approaching and it was time to switch up my makeup routine!

The first new product that blew me away was the new Glossier Cloud Paints. I am usually intimidated by cream or liquid blushes but these cloud paints proved me wrong. You only need the tiniest amount and you can blend it out with your fingers or stippling brush and it gives the most beautiful flush of color and it dries down to a powder so no need to set it! I have the shade Dusk, it is a deep mauve shade that you can also add to your cheek bones for some added definition. As we speak the shade haze is in my shopping cart- I NEED THEM ALL.


Keeping on the train of cheeks the new Pixi + ASPYNOVARD collab came out with some BEAUTIFUL highlighters. I snagged the shade Santorini Sunset at my local target and for a drugstore highlighter, it is gorgeous. It blends out seamlessly no chunky glitters just a beautiful sheen on the top of your cheekbones. I advise you to run, don’t walk to your nearest target and snag it because they are going. This product will definitely be a staple for me this upcoming spring and summer.
Lastly, for eyes, I have left behind my coveted concealer and decided to try the new NARS soft matte complete concealer. I read awesome reviews on this product but I was nervous when I found out it was a pot concealer since those tend to be more drying and heavy, but I was proven wrong when I stopped in at Sephora and swatched it. This concealer gives awesome coverage while still leaving a natural finish to the skin. It has quickly become my go-to concealer for under the eyes and spot concealing. I am in the shade vanilla and I am in LOVE!
I also have been loving listening to podcast lately. Fast mascara is my newest beauty podcast obsession it is so entertaining + offers a lot of information. Women of The Hour is another great listen it is hosted by Lena Dunham and she interviews some pretty powerful women.

What are your current obsessions?

Glossier Cloud Paints $18 @Glossier.com
Pixi Highlighter $16 @Target.com
Nars Soft Matte Concealer $30 @Sephora.com

New and Improved Skin care

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Hello, all! Phew, it has been awhile since I have given my sweet blog the attention it deserves. Life after college was more hectic than I was expecting. I am back now and with better makeup suggestions and reviews than ever! I have 6 months has a MAC employee under my belt and currently, I am a beauty advisor at Space NK so keep an eye out for some luxury skincare reviews! Now onto the products that have sincerely changed the way my skin and makeup looks.

The first product I have added to my routine that has made the biggest difference in my skin is the Cane Austin Retexture Pads these pads have 10% glycolic acid that helps exfoliate, even my skin tone and most importantly to me reduce the appearance of age spots and acne scars. I struggle the most with acne scars and these pads have changed the texture and appearance of my skin – 10/10 recommend!

Another factor that has changed my skin is over- night masks. I rarely find that those 5-10 min masks have time to really penetrate into my skin. The Origins Drink Up Intensive mask adds back hydration into my skin throughout the night leaving me with hydrated smooth plump skin in the morning. This makes my makeup application flawless.

Last but not least we all know primers are a very important factor to keep your makeup on all day. I have found one that not only keeps my makeup on all day but makes it look better as the day goes on. The Becca Backlight Primer gives a luminous finish to the skin without adding glitter or making you look greasy. I find that throughout the day when my natural oils start to peak through the primer makes my skin look even more natural and healthy. Also, a cool tip is on the days where I am not wearing any makeup I will still put the Becca primer on my bare face to give my skin a healthy glow.

Cane Austin Retexture Pads $60 @ Macys
Origins Drink Up Intensive Mask $26 @ Sephora
Becca Backlight Primer $38 @ Sephora

What are some skin care products that have truly made an impact on your skin?

e.l.f. High Definition Powder

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13963729 Alright,everyone breaking news  baking is no longer just for the kitchen you can now bake your face! I know, crazy right let me explain.

There are constantly new beauty trends on how to make your makeup look better and extend its longevity. These trends go viral and then I test them out and let you all know what I think, great system right? Sometimes the trends wow me , sometimes they are a total fluke. This time, I’m wowed!

So this “baking” technique is basically getting any loose setting powder of your choice  and putting the powder on a sponge or brush (sponges work best in my opinion) put a little more product that you normally would and dab the product anywhere you want to highlight or set in place such as under the eyes , beneath the counter or bridge of the nose.  Then leave the powder for 1-2 min this is the “baking part” and then brush away the excess powder and
wa-la! You will have a flawlessly set face.

I thought this technique was a joke so I never gave it a fair shot, I thought it was just an extra step that I didn’t need in my makeup routine but I was wrong. I have always struggled with my under eye concealer creasing no matter how great the concealer or how quickly I would set it. Now when I use the ELF high definition setting powder and a makeup sponge and “bake” my under eyes I am crease free all day long.

The “baking”  technique leaves such a flawless finish and keeps you matte but not cakey. I dare you all to choose your favorite setting powder and start baking! You won’t be sorry.

E.L.F High Definition Powder $6 @ Target 

Aztec Secret Health & Beauty Indian Clay

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Aztec-Secret-Indian-Healing-ClayWARNING: this face mask is not for the weak!

I recently discovered this face mask from a trusty beauty vlogger Kathleen Lights and it is the most intense face mask ive ever used.  The Aztec secret health & beauty indian clay comes in a tub and you mix the powder with equal parts of water or apple cider vinegar turning the powder into a clay consistency to apply to the face.

On the packaging the mask warns that it is a deep pore cleaning and is the most power facial, and those are some pretty powerful claims. So I had to give it a whirl. After trying this mask a handful of times I can say it is very powerful but so worth it. Once applied to the face after 5 minutes you will feel the clay harden and it will be difficult to move around your face. Then you will be able to almost feel your face pulsate which is the mask pulling out all the impurities from your pores. If there is anything stuck in those pores trust me it will all be brought to the surface.

After about 15 minutes you can take off the mask with a warm damp towel and your skin will feel smooth and silky. Now don’t be surprised if the next morning you wake up with a pimple or two that is just the mask bringing everything up to the surface – it means it worked

This mask is 100% natural, it is 100% natural calcium clay and coming from someone with sensitive skin the mask did not dry out my skin or irritate it. This mask is a lot of bang for your buck, the tub has 1 lb of powder for 14.99 – and you need just one tablespoon to cover your whole face (big plus!!)

If you’re looking for something to really cleanse out your pores give this mask a try to remember you’ve been warned!

Aztec secret health & beauty indian clay $14.99 @ Amazon
Check out Kathleen Lights video here  

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray

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604214851108_allnighter
I am sure all of us have heard of the ever so popular Urban Decay All Nighter makeup setting spray. This product has a great name in the beauty world and I can finally say I know why.

I always passed by this product in Sephora (especially in the aisle before the check out- were they really get you with those travel size goodies am I right?) I never wanted to fork up the money for something to spray on my face I just didn’t believe in it.

Well over the holidays my makeup just wasn’t sticking it was constantly just disappearing from my face and no primer or powder I was using was helping. Not to mention it was 70 degrees in VA on Christmas so my skin was not in a good place. So I picked up the travel size of the Urban Decay All Nighter and lets just say the full size bottle is in my Sephora cart as we speak.

This spray does exactly what it says keeps your makeup on all night. You better like your makeup because it is not moving! Not only does it set makeup and keep it on in place for hours it does so much more. There are times when I finish my makeup and the powder has made me look cakey or the foundation is settling into my fine lines after I spray the Urban Decay every settles and makes for a flawless finish. It keeps my skin hydrated and my makeup looking fresh all day. If you’re having trouble with your makeup fading I highly recommend this setting spray it’s SO worth it. 

Urban Decay All-Nigther Makeup Setting Spray $30 @ Ulta

Products To Get You Through Finals Week

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It’s that time of year again- Finals week! Here is an updated list of the products that are getting me through long nights and early mornings.

bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream

tube of tinted gel cream
When im getting up early in the morning after having zero sleep I don’t have time to have my usual medium-full coverage foundation. I apply the bareMinerals Tinted Gel and it covers just enough and gives me a dewy look that makes me look more awake and fresh.

Urban Decay Cosmetics Naked Skin Weightless Complete Coverage Concealer
To cover the bags under my eyes Urban Decays Weightless concealer is a winner. It gives full coverage and is not drying and lasts all day long. I also apply this to any spots my tinted gel did not cover.
Master_nakedconcealer_alt1

Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzer
When im in a rush I skip the blush and contour and just use my favorite bronzer to warm up my skin. The benefit Hoola Bronzer is the perfect color not too orange and not too red and puts some warmth back into my skin making me look like I just arrived from vacation.
Benefit-Hoola-215

CoverGirl Clump Crusher
For mascara I like length more than volume to open up my eyes and make them look more wide which makes me look more awake than I actually am. It gives amazing length and no clumps at all.
cg_clump_crusher_mascara

Beauty Blender
The Beauty Blender is my all-purpose tool, I use it for my foundation, concealer and bronzer its magic it works for all and since you wet the sponge before it puts some moisture back into your skin perfect for these cold winter days.
s1151869-main-heroHave a great week- and for the students good luck on finals!