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Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Sunday, October 19, 2014
Beauty File | Origins clear improvement active charcoal mask
Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores
What is it - a mask with activated charcoal to draw out deep-dwelling pore-cloggers
What it's formulated to do - when environment toxins, dirt and debris get under your skin, its waste-filtering system gets jammed, pores gets clogged & skin looks cloudy. This is nature's complexion clean-up crew gets to the bottom of skin's overcast condition and fleas the way for it to act it's best.
What it's formulated without - parabens, sulfates, phthalates
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My love for clay/charcoal masks will never die. This mask has been a part of my clear skin arsenal for quite some time now. It has everything you want in a product (gentle, acne clearing, oil control, non-drying - the works!) I tend to use it more often during the summer months, when my skin is oiler and tends to break out more. It really dries up my unwanted acne without leaving the rest of my face dry.
Whenever I have a bad breakout due to stress or my monthly, I use it every other day as a spot treatment. My acne goes from mountains to flatlands by the end of the week. It also feels amazing after a weekend of drinking & partying - kind of like a detox for your face.
xx, B
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Beauty File | Tsubaki Cleanse & Hydrate Trio
Tsubaki Cleansing Oil-Gel
What it is – an antioxidant-packed cleansing oil-gel formulated to remove impurities & makeup while protecting the skin’s moisture barrier, leaving skin smoother.
What it’s formulated to do – this cleansing oil hydrates & replenishes, leaving skin silky smooth. A signature, lightweight botanical blend of tsubaki oil (camellia oil), wakame (Japanese sea kelp) and rice bran oil hydrates, smoothes and protects for the appearance of firm, youthful skin. Formulated for all skin types.
What it is formulate without – parabens, sulfates, phthalates
Okay, where do I begin… So I was a bit skeptical about this product because I have combo, acne-prone skin and honestly I just didn’t want to upset my skin. Let me tell you, I’ve been using this kit for the last month and I really like it. The cleanser doesn’t feel overly drying (which is great for fall/winter temps) and yet it still gives off that clean, refreshing feel (perfect for summer cleansing). Bottom line my skin feels clean but not stripped.
Tsubaki Deep Hydration Sleeping Mask
What it is – a deeply hydrating overnight sleeping mask that intensely moisturizes & protects to deliver long-term anti-aging benefits and smoother, baby soft skin.
What it’s formulated to do – this signature, lightweight botanical blend of tsubaki oil (camellia oil), wakame (Japanese sea kelp) and rice bran oil hydrates, smoothes and protects for the appearance of firm, youthful skin. Serine, an amino acid, locks in moisture, ensuring maximum hydration as you sleep. It acts as an anti-aging moisturizer and preps skin for better absorption of products.
What it’s formulated without – parabens, sulfates, phthalates
I’ve been wanting to try a sleep mask but again with my skin it gets tricky – I am so glad I gave it a try! I’ve been using it for a month and I see a difference in my skin. I apply a thin layer at night and wake up with refreshed, dewy, glowing skin. It hasn’t made me break out which is always a plus!
Konjac Cleansing Sponge with Deep Hydration Clay
What it is – a konjac cleansing sponge infused with red clay that cleanses, exfoliates and hydrates
What it does – formulated specifically for normal to dry skin types, the konjac cleansing sponge increases skin hydration levels while cleansing deeply to leave skin hydrated and nourished. The pillow-soft sponge gently exfoliates dad skin cells and removes excess oil, while red clay minerals permeate the skin and pores to cleanse and increase hydration. Results – smoother, softer, brighter looking skin.
What it’s formulated without – parabens, sulfates, phthalates
I like this sponge, it cleans nicely and leaves my skin soft and moisturized. It cleans without the abrasiveness or dryness. The sponge comes with a little string attached for you to hang it so it air dries. Just replace every 3 – 4 months, it’s a good value.
Overall, I’m really happy I got this kit – thinking I will go out and buy the full size cleanser & sleeping mask once I'm done with these. I am slowly becoming a fan of Boscia products because it doesn’t break me out and they don’t use a lot of chemicals in their products.
xx, B
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Beauty File
If you are like me, then you get the occasional pimple [we all have Aunt Flow to thank for that!]. I love using a clay mask every now and again, clay face masks have so many benefits. Clay masks can absorb sebum, bacteria, various toxins & irritants from the skin. It can also exfoliate dead skin cells & blackheads without friction.
One of my favorites is the DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask
Bonus tip: It also works wonders as a spot treatment!
xx, B
One of my favorites is the DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask
xx, B
Monday, August 4, 2014
Summer beauty fixes - dry, chapped lips
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
Dry, chapped lips is the worst canvas for lipstick. To ensure that your puckers are in tip-top condition, you should be exfoliating regularly. I've been a huge fan of the e.l.f. brand, ever since I stumbled upon it at my local pharmacy. I love the price point and it's lipstick form. I like to coat my lips with some lip balm, then I exfoliate. I remove it with a wet wash cloth or a wet cotton ball. If I'm lazy I leave it on over night, when I wake up - my lips are baby soft!
How do you exfoliate your lips?
xx, B
Monday, July 28, 2014
Summer beauty fixes - oily skin
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
Do you start your day w/matte fresh looking skin, only to find out that by lunch time you're a shiny mess?! If you have oily skin then blotting paper are a beauty godsend! Don't use powder to soak up the oil; doing so will only make your skin appear cakey because you are just layering makeup on top of more makeup. Opt for blotting papers instead they will soak up the oil without removing your makeup.
xx, B
Friday, July 18, 2014
Summer beauty fixes - ingrown hairs
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With bikini season in full bloom, that means it's time to bare (just about) everything. The more you shave/wax, the more likely you are to get ingrown hairs. When the hair grows sideways it curls back into the skin, becoming ingrown.
There are ways to treat them - the main being to exfoliate. When you exfoliate you scrub away the thin top layer of skin cells, which traps & causes them to become ingrown. Also effective are the astringents containing salicylic acid. I swear by Tend Skin, the bliss pads are also very good.
xx, B
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Summer beauty fixes - clean & clear skin
1 | 2 | 3
I know I'm not the only one dealing with an occasional pimple on my back/chest during the summer months. The good news is that you can treat body/face acne the same way - washing with a salicylic acid based cleanser. This way you keep your pores clear, avoiding future break outs. Here are some to try - I've tried them all - they work! For on the go you can you AcneFree medicated wipes, great for the gym bag.
xx,B
Friday, July 11, 2014
Summer beauty fixes - how to fix sun damaged hair
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5
During the summer months, our hair goes through so much. The hazy, hot & humid weather AND the aftermath of "swimmer's hair". You know how hard, dry & brittle your hair feels after a day at the beach or pool. Ever since going natural, I've made it my business to really take care of my hair, that includes deep conditioning on a weekly basis (one of my favorite DIY recipes).
The key to healthy hair during the summer time is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Regular deep-conditioning treatments are the foundation & lifeline for curly hair (any hair really, especially if you use heat). Also cutting back on your use of heat tools (blow dryer, curling/straightening irons) - the high temps are a surfier way to say your hair of any moisture it has.
Here are a few of my favorite deep conditioners, each one serves a purpose. Find you purpose & you will find your deep treatment.
xx, B
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Seeing red...
What better accessory for cupid's big day (or any day, really) than a fresh mani/pedi. Here are some great shades to spice up your nails.
1. Butter London - Saucy Jack
2. OPI - Chick Flick Cherry
3. Butter London - La Moss
4. Tom Ford - Carnal Red
5. Deborah Lippmann - Lady is a Tramp
6. Essie - Wicked
7. Butter London - Come to bed red
8. OPI - Big Apple Red
9. Essie - Bordeaux
10. Essie - Fishnet Stockings
xo, B
1. Butter London - Saucy Jack
2. OPI - Chick Flick Cherry
3. Butter London - La Moss
4. Tom Ford - Carnal Red
5. Deborah Lippmann - Lady is a Tramp
6. Essie - Wicked
7. Butter London - Come to bed red
8. OPI - Big Apple Red
9. Essie - Bordeaux
10. Essie - Fishnet Stockings
xo, B
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Style File | Healthy Hair Chronicles
My hair story is a complicated one. I began my natural/healthy hair journey almost two years ago. You see, I have naturally curly hair but I've always worn it straight. I mean ALWAYS, for as long as I can remember, I've always straightened my hair (more on that later). The only time I would wear it curly was during the summer months because I mean, what's the point of getting blowout in August?!
Ever since I ditched my blow-dryer and embraced my curls, I've seen a huge improvement in my hair's health. Along the way, I've also discovered a new found love of coconut oil. Go on any natural hair website and you will find countless articles dedicated to the wonders of coconut oil. I like to use it as a hair mask, prior to washing my hair. I section my hair (usually three sections on either side of my head), I then apply it generously as I finger detangle each section. I leave it on for at least 30 minutes, I've read of bloggers leaving it on overnight. Once I wash it out and style my hair, I'm left with soft, bouncy curls - I love it! It is definitely one of my holy grail products, oh and it's not just for hair. I also use it as:
- moisturizer - I use on damp skin to lock in moisture, the result... silky, smooth skin
- lip balm - dry lips be gone
- dry hands/cuticles - rub some on your dry cuticles/hands - voila
- makeup remover - perfect for stubborn eye makeup
Check out more uses for coconut oil here.
To get the full benefits, make sure you use organic, virgin, unrefined coconut oil. You can get virgin coconut oil in Whole Foods, I like the Trader Joe's brand (under $10.00). Another favorite the Spectrum brand coconut oil (also under $10.00), found in Whole Foods, on amazon, and in other health food stores.
ox, B
Ever since I ditched my blow-dryer and embraced my curls, I've seen a huge improvement in my hair's health. Along the way, I've also discovered a new found love of coconut oil. Go on any natural hair website and you will find countless articles dedicated to the wonders of coconut oil. I like to use it as a hair mask, prior to washing my hair. I section my hair (usually three sections on either side of my head), I then apply it generously as I finger detangle each section. I leave it on for at least 30 minutes, I've read of bloggers leaving it on overnight. Once I wash it out and style my hair, I'm left with soft, bouncy curls - I love it! It is definitely one of my holy grail products, oh and it's not just for hair. I also use it as:
- moisturizer - I use on damp skin to lock in moisture, the result... silky, smooth skin
- lip balm - dry lips be gone
- dry hands/cuticles - rub some on your dry cuticles/hands - voila
- makeup remover - perfect for stubborn eye makeup
Check out more uses for coconut oil here.
To get the full benefits, make sure you use organic, virgin, unrefined coconut oil. You can get virgin coconut oil in Whole Foods, I like the Trader Joe's brand (under $10.00). Another favorite the Spectrum brand coconut oil (also under $10.00), found in Whole Foods, on amazon, and in other health food stores.
ox, B
Monday, December 30, 2013
NYE
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Style File | Holiday Makeup
I don't know about you but as of late I have been obsessing over dark/red lips, which is perfect for upcoming holiday parties…
xo, B
Friday, December 20, 2013
It's Back!
Lipstick lovers rejoice! MAC is bringing back one of their bestselling shades, permanently - Heroine! Proving that if we buy it, they will continue to make it! ;-) The cult favorite will be available online maccosmetics.com starting January 2nd and in stores as of January 14th.
Pucker up!
xo, B
Pucker up!
xo, B
Monday, November 25, 2013
Style File | Holiday Hair
Just as exciting as dressing up for the holidays is getting your hair 'did'. Go for big, voluminous, wow hair. Pin it up, braid it, curl it, straighten it, just have fun!
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Style File | The Pixie
| Jennifer Lawrence |
| Jennifer Hudson |
| Pamela Anderson |
| Kristen Chenoweth |
| Beyonce |
| Charlize Theron [one of my favorites] |
| Halle Berry [a longtime pixie] |
| Michelle Williams [another longtime pixie] |
Are you guys loving the pixie trend?
xo | B
Monday, November 4, 2013
Mani Monday | Essie
I pretty much love everything about the Fall - the cooler temps, the changing scenery and of course the Fall fashions. Add to that the Fall nail trends, with its the deeper, more vibrant hues. Below are a few are some colors that I have on heavy rotation.
| After School Boy Blazer | academy blue-black |
| Wicked | a deep & dark sinister red [a Fall/Winter staple] |
| Bobbing for Baubles | a deepest, darkest sapphire |
What colors are you guys loving at the moment?
xo | B
Sunday, January 8, 2012
oh la la...
One of my favorite gifts from this past Christmas was a L'Occitane (pronounced lux - ee - tahn) gift set I received from one of my supervisors. I swear it's so awesome, if you're ever in doubt of what gift to get the woman in your life go with a "spa in a box" as I like to call it.
It comes with two extra gentle bars of soap, a milky body wash, an ultra rich body cream, a tube of their ever popular hand cream and a tube of their foot cream. I've always coveted their hand cream which is so rich and just right for my dry hands. Their body cream does the same, ultra rich, really moisturizes. It comes in a beautiful box (which I threw away before I thought about sharing with you - I apologize) but I've taken a picture of all that was in my gift box.
I promise you will not be disappointed if you give this gift set or buy it for yourself!
P.S. we also love jewelry and cold hard cash! ;-)
It comes with two extra gentle bars of soap, a milky body wash, an ultra rich body cream, a tube of their ever popular hand cream and a tube of their foot cream. I've always coveted their hand cream which is so rich and just right for my dry hands. Their body cream does the same, ultra rich, really moisturizes. It comes in a beautiful box (which I threw away before I thought about sharing with you - I apologize) but I've taken a picture of all that was in my gift box.
I promise you will not be disappointed if you give this gift set or buy it for yourself!
P.S. we also love jewelry and cold hard cash! ;-)
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Scrub it off...
Looking for a good body scrub? Here's an easy salt scrub recipe you can make with ingredients found in your kitchen.
5 tbsp sea salt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon
Mix the sea salt and olive oil into a paste, once salt is coated the lemon won't dissolve it. Next cut lemon in half and squeeze over salt and oil and mix it, mix it real good lol. You are now ready to scrub away.
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