We all want that porcelain smooth skin, but as we all know only photoshop can do that! Our pore size and visibility are predetermined by your genetics, and unfortunately there isn't anything you can do to physically shrink them... There are a few things you can do to minimize their appearance, so today we are going to break down the products you should be looking for if pore size is an issue for you.
Read More2023 has seen an absolute skyrocketing rate in popularity when it comes to cold plunging, in fact it's estimated the industry will exceed 318.6 billion dollars in 2023!
The benefits are well known and include increased overall energy, reduction in inflammation, increased muscle tone and skin tightness- even mental health benefits like reduced anxiety.
So if you haven't tried it- I recommend you do... but you can also get some of those same benefits without having to take the FULL plunge, and instead cold plunge your face!
The results are similar; reduced puffiness, reduced inflammation, increased blood circulation, tightened and lifted skin. So if you want to join me in this fun challenge here are a few options you can try.
Read MoreDark under eye circles are one of life’s mysteries… Why can’t they just not be a thing, right? But for most of us they are a BIG thing, and something that really can make or break your overall feeling of well-being. I’ve studied solutions for years, tested many products, and these three easy changes in your routine are the three I would start with. So let’s dive in… Here are 3 mistakes you may be making:
Read More'Skin Care Cycling' is a term coined by Dr. Whitney Bowe, a well-known dermatologist, and recently her theory of Skin Cycling has gone viral on Tik Tok.
Skin cycling takes the guesswork out of when and how to use your skincare, and gives a simple pattern to follow for better results from our skincare.
Read MoreAs we age our skin texture changes and you might think that fine lines and wrinkles are the first thing to be noticed. But in reality the thing that often gives us away is the sun damage and dark spots that are making their way to the surface of our skin.
Over the last couple of years, I have been on a journey to address my own dark spots and pigment, and a JOURNEY it has been. I've tried so many products and treatments- and I finally feel like I am on the right path. Here are the things I've found most effective and a great place to start…
Read MoreI curse the dry air every Winter, and then I look at housing prices in warmer climates and change my mind real quick! Anyone else?! So it’s about this time each year I switch up my routine and start using body oils to quench my parched skin.
Natural oils from plants and botanicals go a long way to heal and moisturize the skin on a deeper level then lotions, and can even help to repair damage to the surface level of the skin. Here are 5 of my top picks…
Read MoreI get asked often about my nighttime routine- what that looks like and what products I use. I also feel like more women are spending time on themselves for some much needed R&R during these uncertain times. So I wanted to share the steps that I recommend, as well as some luxury and budget favorites in each category. Remember you can always add on EXTRAS like masks or lip treatments etc., but these 4 will always serve you well.
Read MoreOne area of 'skincare' that gets commonly overlooked is our lips. But just like any area of the face, our lips age and can often feel less plump, hydrated and youthful as they once did. I notice that when I am consistent in my lip care routine, my lip makeup applies so much nicer, I feel less parched and I am not in need of applying balms all day long.
Read MoreDealing with dark circles is pretty standard for most women- there are genetic factors for many, but also stress, lack of sleep, dehydration and thinning skin play a part. My technique for treating and covering will help tackle this issue, but be prepared for daily and weekly commitment for best results. And chances are, you’re missing a key factor when it comes to covering dark circles each day…
Read MoreThis is a strange time in the world, and everything feels upside down. Spending weeks at home is tough for sure, but there are some unseen benefits of these ‘less-busy’ days. One of which is wearing less makeup- not only because it saves us some time, but also because we can truly let our skin breath and heal.
It’s no secret I have dealt with my fair share of acne woes. I’ve documented that here for years. But in the last 16 months my skin has taken a major turn for the better… so I wanted to share with you how and why I believe that has happened.
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If you’ve followed me for any decent amount of time, you’ve probably witnessed my skin drama and the hardships I’ve endured with adult acne. I’ve shed so many tears over my skin, but as of late, things have been mostly happy. This week I wanted to share two posts that are skin related- because I know so many of you have shared in my struggles. Today to kick things off- three super affordable tools that I think every woman needs in her skincare routine.
Skincare tool must-haves:
Equate Acne and Blemish Tool Set- Ok so hear me out! We all know picking at spots or squeezing zits is a no-no, but there’s just no way in hell I am walking around with a big old white head on my face! ha! So when there is a time that a blemish needs to be drained, I reach for this little magic tool box. There are several different tools to try- I have my favs after a little trial and error, but basically you are avoiding using your dirty hands and nails, while more carefully removing puss and sebum. Gross, but necessary.
EcoTools Konjac Sponge- I swear by these little weird sponges. At first glance they are rock hard (like a pumice stone) but after absorbing water they turn into soft bouncy sponges that glide over the skin and eyes so nicely. Apply your favorite cleanser and scrub the whole freaking day off in a snap. They start to tear and fall apart after about two months of daily use, so that is your indication it’s time for a new one. Bonus, they are all natural made from the root of a Kojac plant.
Muji Unbleached Cotton Squares- These cotton squares are so soft and thick- they are perfect for removing eye makeup or applying toners. I use them for both purposes and will never go back to store bought cotton rounds.
Well no - not a scam, but there are definitely MAJOR variances out there as far as quality of ingredients and effectiveness. So it is essential that you take only the best quality beauty supplements otherwise you won’t see results and really you’re just flushing money down the toilet.
I firmly believe that supplements are a great way to fill in the gaps in our diets and promote healthy results. When it comes to beauty, so much of it comes from WITHIN right?! Healthy skin and hair are a product of healthy insides, and then we can enhance that from the outside with makeup and styling etc.
I’ve recently been impressed with two supplements out there, and I wanted to shed a spotlight on them for you all, incase you are looking for a boost in your inner wellness too!
Halo Beauty Hair, Skin & Nails + Halo Beauty Kiwi Booster. Halo was created by one of the most amazing women in the beauty industry Tati Westbrook. Her goal was to source the HIGHEST quality ingredients from all over the world and combine them in the perfect dosages for optimal beauty results. She hired physicians and nutritionists to formulate the ingredients and well as scoured the US for the best labs to make her dream a reality. I have personally seen amazing results in the texture of my skin, and the amount of moisture it holds, as well as the strength and shine in my hair. The Hair, Skin & Nail formula contains biotin for hair and nail growth, but not everyone reacts well to Biotin (can cause breakouts in some), so she also made the Kiwi formula without Biotin that focuses solely on skin health. Check out the full list of ingredients here
OLLY Flawless Complexion Gummies Are a little less pricey and easy to pick up at Target or CVS, but the ingredients and formula are both spot on. This supplement is designed to help clear skin from acne and inflammation, and uses plant based ingredients to do so. It is gluten free and tastes super yummy actually, but my acne has really improved since adding this to my daily nutrition.
I don’t reccomend taking more than one beauty supplement at once unless they are specifically designed to work together. Over taking your daily % needed won’t result in extra benefits- your body will simply flush out the excess and therefore it is wasted. Stick to the dosages and be consistent for best results!
Let me know if you try them and what your results are, xo
Best of Skincare 2018 winners:
Eye Cream: Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Creme $38 This little jar has changed my under eye area dramatically. My skin less discolored and the fine lines have diminished as well. It's full of vitamin C to brighten skins appearance upon application, but repeated use over time brightens skin tone on a deeper more permanent level. I apply this at night.
Eye Depuffer: Kate Somerville Goat Milk DePuffing Eye Balm $38 Wake up feeling less than awake? Welcome to my life #notamorningperson But this little stick of goodness is a life saver! The Goat Milk soothes and calms, and the balmy formula fills in pores and texture under the eye so that makeup glides on easily. I use this EVERY morning.
Primer/ Moisturizer: Glossier Priming Moisturizer / Priming Moisturizer Rich $22 I love the lighter formula in the warmer months, and switch to the Rich formula when its cold outside and my skin runs drier. Both are non greasy, super hydrating and prep the skin for makeup beautifully. This has cut out my need for a primer all together!
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Do you ever wake up and think to your self, 'wow, I look like a got punched in the face during my sleep last night!' ??? Ya, me too... its part of life- especially on the mornings after eating or drinking poorly the night before.
Waking up puffy is simply normal [and totally frustrating] but as the day wears on typically the puffiness subsides as the fluids underneath our skin begin to drain. But what if I told you that you can help the fluid systems under your skin (the Lymphatic system) to drain more readily and avoid the puffiness all together!?
Enter:
Facial Massage
Not only is it relaxing, it is super beneficial for the look and tone of the skin. Massage helps to encourage collagen production, helps to tighten the skin, helps to strengthen the muscles of the face, and most importantly drain the lymphatic fluids found just under the surface of the skin. [
]
There are three main types of tools used in facial massage [outside of your hands, which work well- but just be sure they are super clean!] the Roller, the Vibrating Bar, and the Sonic Massager. There are several brands out there that make these devices- but here are a look at the three I use and love.
Just like with any exercise, results won't happen with just once-in-a-while use. I reccomend adding the massage into your nightly routine after cleansing. Spend a full two minutes on the massage- working in upward strokes, and you'll see major improvement within the first few nights. Use the massage tool of your choice with a serum or an oil for added benefits and relaxation too.
xo
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What is K-Beauty?
K-Beauty is short for Korean Beauty, and it is what we call beauty products imported from Korea. The Korean beauty culture is whimsical and fun- but also technology driven. They have innovated so many new and effective products, and up until now it was hard to come by them in the United States. Large retailers like CVS are now importing a curated grouping of top selling K-Beauty products, making them easier to access here without the hassle of ordering from overseas.
Check out my K-Beauty favs and scoop up some of your own goodies. Have you been loving the Olympics as much as I have? Such a fun uplifting couple of weeks!
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]
K-Beauty Skincare Favs:
Gudetama All Kill Cleanser Oil
- Take of your day with this Blue Popsicle scented cleansing oil. It breaks down makeup, oil, and grime to expose glowing skin. The perfect first step in your double cleanse.
Gudetama Smooth Egg Peeling Gel
- Break down dead skin cells in a snap with this
enzyme
peeling gel. It will leave skin smoother, reduced the appearance of pores, and get rid of that dull complexion.
Sheet Masks Green Grape Pore Control Mask
and
- The Koreans were the originators of the Sheet Mask
phenomenon
and these fruit based sheets leave skin looking refreshed and feeling great!
- This double mask first heats the skin with a warm clay experience that will open pores and get rid of buildup and blackheads. Next cool down and refresh the skin with the cooling clay to close the pores and hydrate the skin. It's like a fancy face Icy/Hot!
Moist Up Hyalurone Ampoule Serum
- Mini bubbles of Hyaluronic Acid make this serum super
luxurious. The acid will draw in moisture from the environment and plump up as result, giving your skin a HUGE boost of moisture.
- It's cold to the touch (magically) and calms skin bags under the eyes with a few swipes. A perfect wake-me-up each morning and preps skin for concealer perfectly. LOVE this stuff!
- Heal active/oozy zits with these wound care spots designed to sooth and extract fluid from your spots, they also help to keep zits from getting infected.
- Keep skin glowing with this toning water full of
Vegetable
Vitamins
. Using their anti-oxidant power your skin will drink up this spray and ask for more!
I am ALWAYS looking for new development in the deodorant world. If you’ve been a reader long, you’ll know that I take my anti-sweating products quite seriously ;) as it has been a personal battle of mine since Jr. High.
I recently came across a new line of
, and I wanted to share them with you just in case you are on the hunt for a new deodorant yourself.
These sprays are unique because they spray on clear and dry almost instantly, which I love because it means you start the day dry without the need to wait before getting dressed.
But the real showstopper, and what I really want to talk about are the scents available.
Holy Moly- they are the most scented deodorants I have ever tried, meaning they will go to work keeping you fresh smelling all day – perfect for the summer months . The fragrances really shine through as you move your body, which makes me much more confident if I am having a stressful or fast paced [i.e. stinky] day.
My two top scent picks are the
and
, but they also offer a
and
scent as well. The formula is also designed to give you 48 hour sweat protection, so it not only smells great, but it does its job to keep you dry as well. Highly recommended!
Let me know in the comments below if you’ve tried these new Invisible Sprays, xo
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*Brought to you by Secret, but as always my opinions are my own
What is Marula Oil?
Marula Oil is the oil harvested from the nut of the Marula tree that is found in Africa. Indigenous women have been using it as a skin and hair product for hundreds of years, and its now making it's way into American beauty products along side more commonly known oils like, Coconut and Argan.
Marula Oil has traditionally been on the more expensive side, but we are starting to see versions in drugstore products as well. (Like this new line from
)
It's light in texture, super fast-absorbing, packed with nutrients and fatty acids, it's and super hydrating. Here are my HIGHLY
recommended
favs: [
]
For your skin:
Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Face Oil
It balances moisture levels and works on both oily and dry skin textures
It softens and hydrates
It fights acne, as well as treats blemishes and scars with it's antimicrobial properties
For your hair:
Keranique Marula Oil Hair Mist
It protects hair from the elements by rehydrating
It nourishes and adds shine
It's a frizz-fighter and static fighter
Have you tried this miracle oil yet?
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Although Summer vacation might be winding down, the sun is still shining HOT in my neck of the woods. We are soaking up all we can get, and I hope you are too.
But
good sun care doesn't just end with Sunscreen
... consider what you do after the sun to be almost as important. Rehydrating and soothing skin and hair will go a long way to keeping both healthy, so today I am sharing some of my
favorite after-sun products
. [
]
Body
Sunbum Cool Down Gel and Spray The Ultimate Aloe... its the best!
Swim Spray This stuff is amazing, it neutralizes chlorine to eliminate it from skin and hair
MoroccanOil After Sun Milk Light weight spray that hydrates and calms with the power of Argan Oil
Face
Ulta Hydraburst Leave On Face Mask It cools and hydrates on contact and stays on the skin
Vaseline Cocoa Butter Lip Treatment Sunburned lips need this stuff!
Hair
Alterna After Sun 1 Minute Mask Instantly sooth tattered ends and rehydrate your hair
SunBum 3-in-1 Leave in Spray Keep this in the pool bag and spray immediately after swimming to soften the hair and keep it healthy after chlorine and salt
Happy Sunning! xo
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Sunscreen is about the least sexy beauty product out there, am I right?!
No one loves buying sunscreen, but we all NEED it in our lives. I am quite the stickler when it comes to sun safety, and I've tried just about every sun screen out there in my quest to stay pasty. (Thank goodness for Spray Tans)
There are 3 sunscreens that pass the test in my opinion. They cover all the bases:
Best Overall Protection: Sun Bum Spray SPF 50 Light weight, non-greasy, and gives major protection. Absorbs quickly and smells great. I love the cream version too for my kids!
Best Face/ Anti-Aging: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 High end, effective skincare with a built in protection level of SPF 50. Non greasy and super hydrating too.
Best Scalp Protection: ColoreScience Powder SPF 50 I love this for on the go touchups, but especially for its ability to protect your scalp along your part lines, without getting your hair greasy.
Here's to safe sun and lots of fun! xo
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