Stephie Estie

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My Morning Skincare Routine!

February 10, 2015

Morning Skincare Routine

Hello readers!  It’s a lovely day here in sunny California which is always great but I’m feeling under the weather.  At the beginning of the year, I always manage to get sick and though I thought I had broken this spell, I’m sadly mistaken. 🙁  Anywho, I hope all of you are doing well.

I often get asked what my morning skincare routine so here it is.  Since I am often testing and trying new items, the product lines I use vary but the gist of my routine is the same.

1) Cleansing– Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel  I used this when I was in school and I really liked it so I pick one up every so often when I go to IDI (Dermalogica Headquarters).  It’s a basic, soap free cleansing solution that foams but doesn’t feel harsh.

2) Toning– Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner   Again, another product I used in school that I liked, I spritz this toner to wipe away any residue left after cleansing- you’d be surprised by what’s left behind after you cleanse!  It’s refreshing, doesn’t sting and has the humectant Sodium PCA.

3) Serum– Renee Rouleau Vitamin C & E Treatment I always make sure to incorporate a vitamin C serum in the morning.  It gives your skin antioxidants to fight free-radicals, results in a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, promotes the formation of collagen and can also reduce pigmentation due to its brightening properties.  (For more information on vitamin C, click here.)  Paired underneath sunscreen, it gives your skin extra antioxidant protection your skin needs from the sun’s harmful rays, which plays a prominent role in the breakdown of collagen.  This serum is one of the more hydrating vitamin C serums I have tried and I love the fact that it incorporates vitamin E, which nourishes the skin and enhances the effects of vitamin C.  (For more information on vitamin E, click here).  Apply to the face and extend to the neck and chest area.

4) Moisturizer/Sunscreen– Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 A staple in any skincare routine is sunscreen!  I’ve purchased this product several times because it combines moisturizer and sunscreen in 1- a true time  saver. It’s light-weight, works well underneath makeup and is formulated with antioxidant white tea.

5) Eye Cream– Renee Rouleau Total Eye Repair Cream  Using an eye cream is a must to hydrate the eye area, especially during the colder months, to minimize the appearance of wrinkles.  This one contains hyaluronic acid and firming peptides.  It does not irritate my eyes, which some eye creams tend to do, and absorbs quickly into skin leaving it moisturized without a heavy feel.  As for the firming effect, my eye area isn’t lax so I did not notice a difference in this aspect.

Disclaimer:  The Renee Rouleau products were recommended and given to me by Renee (thank you!), however, ALL reviews are based on my own honest opinions and experiences. 

I hope you found this helpful on how I keep my skin healthy and protected! 🙂

Have a great Tuesday,

Stephanie

 

CATEGORIES // Aging, Product Reviews, Skin Care, Skin Care Ingredients

Skin Tip: Dealing With Product Overload!

February 6, 2015

Peptides! Retinol! Alpha hydroxy acids!

These are all fantastic ingredients in skincare but do you need them all once? Not necessarily.  In fact, using products with too many active ingredients all at once can result in irritated skin.  Always introduce these products slowly into your skincare regimen, use small amounts and follow your esthetician’s/docotor’s protocol on how to use them.  And, if you happen to experience product overload, stick to a basic routine: basic cleanser, basic toner and moisturizer until your symptoms subside.

Thanks for reading and have a wonderful weekend, 

Stephanie 

   

CATEGORIES // Skin Care, Skin Tips

Help Me Decide on a Blush Brush!

February 5, 2015

 

510mn-blushHello readers!  Hopefully all is well in your world. 🙂

For today’s post, I need your input.  I’ve had by beloved M.A.C. blush brush since 2006 and sadly it’s showing it’s age now and shedding like crazy.   I am on the hunt for a new one and while I wouldn’t mind purchasing another M.A.C. brush-it really is great- I can’t ignore the plethora of amazing brushes that have surfaced in recent times.

So, my dear readers, I’d love to hear from you: what blush brush would you recommend?  You’ll not only be helping me but also anyone else who is currently looking for a new brush. 🙂

I look forward to hearing from you,

Stephanie  

CATEGORIES // Personal

Be a "Daring Darling" or Be a "Sweetheart" for Valentines using Urban Decay Naked3 by Steph and Jen!

February 2, 2015

 

Main Valentine

Hi guys!  I don’t usually posts on Mondays but today’s post is special.  I collaborated with the lovely and funny Jen from The Avon Insider to come up with a Valentine’s Day look using the Urban Decay Naked 3 palette.  My look is a more dramatic, nighttime look, hence the Daring Darling name, and if you head on to Jen’s blog, you’ll find the Sweetheart Valentine’s Day look along with some great blog posts.

Let’s get to it!

Get the Look

Foundation: Lancome Teint Miracle in Buff 4C

Concealer: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla

Eyeshadow:

   Highlight: Strange

   Crease: Factory/Mugshot

   Mid/Outer Lid: Blackheart/Mugshot

   Inner Corner of Lid: Dust

Close Up 2

 Directions: Apply Factory on the crease and Blackheart on the mid and outer lids.  Then apply Mugshot over Blackheart and blend it up to the crease.  Use Strange as the highlight shade beneath the brows and just above the crease color.  Pat on Dust on the inner corner of the lid to brighten up the look.  After you line your eyes (see eyeliner category below), use a pencil brush to trace Mugshot on the outer 2/3 of your bottom waterline and extend it into a slight cat-eye shape. Wipe off the pencil brush and apply Dust on the inner corner of the bottom waterline.

 

Close Up 1

Eyeliner: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Caviar Ink on the top lashline and Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Glide-On Eye Pencil in Black Velvet on the waterline (bottom lashline)

Mascara: Milani Total Lash Cover Mascara with 3 Zone Brush in Black

Bronzer/Blush: I applied Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Matte Bronzing Powder on my cheeks and then swirled Burberry Light Glow Earthy Blush No. 7 right on top of the bronzer.

Lips: Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lip Colour in Red Amour

Valentine's

Hopefully you enjoyed this post!  Let us know if you try them!

Stephanie

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Makeup Looks

Skin Tip: Consistency is Key to Great Skin!

January 30, 2015

It’s Friday readers which means my weekly skin tip. 🙂

Once you find the right products for your skin, you’re half-way to achieving healthy skin.  However, you need to establish a consistent routine to maintain your results.  Think of it in terms of a workout routine -sticking to it long term will yield results.

See you next week,

Stephanie     

CATEGORIES // Men's Skin Care, Skin Care, Skin Tips

Simple Makeup Routine!

January 29, 2015

 

 

 

Simple Makeup Products

How are you enjoying this Thursday readers?

I wanted to share a quick post about my simple makeup routine.  As much as I love applying makeup, sometimes I get a bit lazy or don’t have enough time in the morning.  So for those days when I prefer to get a little extra sleep, here’s my fast and simple way to look put-together.

*Note: This doesn’t include my skincare routine which will be in a different post.

Products I Use

Foundation:  One of my favorite foundations is Smashbox Liquid Halo HD Foundation SPF 15.  It feels light, provides full coverage without looking cakey and is a perfect match for my skin.

Concealer: I use Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla to cover up any under-eye discolorations and it provides a little bit of a brightening effect since it’s a light color; it’s also great at concealing redness.  It’s not as hydrating as it claims but that’s nothing an eye cream can’t fix.

Blush:  If you follow my Instagram, you’ll see I purchased the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Dim Infusion and I can’t say enough about it.  It’s a subdued coral color that applies and blends effortlessly, provides a nice glow and looks natural.

Mascara:  I purchased Blinc Mascara awhile ago and I like it to achieve a natural look.  This mascara forms little tubes around lashes that lengthen and unlike other mascaras, I don’t have little black flakes underneath my eye at the end of the day.  One thing this doesn’t do though is provide volume.

Lips: I recently found this lipstick-it was forgotten for a bit in one of my purses-and it’s so natural looking on me.  The best part is how moisturizing the formula is which is nice in this cooler weather.   Tarte Amazonian Butter Lipstick in Angelic Nude.

Here’s my finished look. 🙂

Simple Makeup Look

What are your simple makeup must-haves?  Share below!

Stephanie

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Makeup Looks, Product Reviews: Make-Up

#TakeBackWhatsYours CAMPAIGN!

January 27, 2015

TBWYPoster

Hi everyone! I was invited by the lovely Katie from Plus+ Beauty to join this campaign and given the essence of it, I decided to participate. Below is a description of what the campaign is all about and then my story of what I am taking back.

The #TakeBackWhatsYours Campaign was originally started by Chloe fromwww.chloesconcept.blogspot.uk.com, as a way to use our position as bloggers to inspire other people to make a positive change for good! Below is an excerpt from Chloe’s blog, for more details or for anything else you want to know, click HERE for Chloe’s page.

“..Many make New Year resolutions, so why not influence people to make their resolution to take back what once belonged to them… maybe their confidence, maybe their control or even their happiness due to whatever situation has made them lack that ability.

This is a lifelong commitment, if you want to change the way you feel about yourself, or you want to act upon the message of this campaign and ‘Take Back What’s Yours‘, when better to do that than the start of a new year… This is not one of those “New Year, New Me” unrealistic resolutions. When I say “New Year, New You”, I genuinely mean it.”

If you would like to get involved, all you have to do is this:

  • Write a blog post talking about this campaign, the message it contains and why are you taking part.
  • What “Take Back What’s Yours” New Year’s Resolution you are going to set yourself.
  • Tag 10 bloggers to take part.
  • Let Chloe know if you’re taking part by using the hashtag on Twitter #TakeBackWhatsYours, Also tag either @ChloesConcept or @TBWYCampaign so she can retweet!!
  • If you can include a photo of yourself with a handmade poster (doesn’t have to be artistic!) with the words:

“TAKE BACK WHAT’S YOURS” –
MAKE YOUR NEW YEARS RESOLUTION TO TAKE BACK WHAT BELONGS TO YOU. #TakeBackWhatsYours
In 2015, I’m taking back: *i.e., “my confidence”

What I’m Taking Back

 I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism at age 4, which was an emotional roller coaster to say the least, and switched to hyperthyroidism at about age 9.  Daily medication and doctor/hospital visits became the norm but even at a young age, I was aware that somehow I was different.  Despite being familiar with this process, I was never prepared for what was to come later on.

Shortly after entering my second semester of college, my world turned completely upside down.  I began to have sharp pains in my stomach and would have constant symptoms of a UTI.  For anyone who’s ever had a UTI, you know how painful and uncomfortable that could be.  The thing is, once you’re diagnosed and treated, you can go back to being normal.  Now imagine having to have all those symptoms with no cure to make it go away and that was me.  I would keep going to doctors but all tests performed came back negative.  I questioned myself at times and thought maybe it was all in my head, but the sharp pains that felt as if a knife were slicing me open were a constant reminder that it wasn’t.  The pain got so bad that I wasn’t able to wear jeans; loose fitting sweat pants and skirts were my only options and even then, it was a tad uncomfortable.

At this time, my parents were going through a divorce, I was going to school full-time and working part time and my emotions just piled up.  I would cry every single moment nobody was around that the feel of warm tears streaming down my face began to feel normal to me- it became as automatic as breathing. I looked forward to sleeping because, if only for a little while, my pain would be non-existent.  I was exhausted all the time and depressed because no one could tell me what was going on.  Fast-forward to about a year and a half later-after countless doctors visits, tests, and misdiagnosis- I was finally diagnosed with IC or interstitial cystitis which is a long-term (chronic) inflammation of the bladder wall.  My diet and lifestyle had to be changed. I have to avoid certain foods and really need to manage my stress, otherwise I have flares.  There is no cure as of now for IC and although it is manageable with medicine, I have my good days and bad days.

What I need to take back is my self-confidence that I am more than my illnesses.  It doesn’t matter what people left my life or if my life could have taken a different path had I never gotten this illness.  Nor can I let the looming fear that one day maybe my medications will no longer work, or what the future holds in regards to me having IC.  I need to constantly remind myself that the strength that carried me through this will continue throughout.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.  Trust me, it’s difficult to open up about something so personal but at the same time, I know there are people out there who may be going through a hard time and just know, you aren’t alone.  Don’t give up hope.  Everyone has a cross to bear, so to speak, and after enduring (and continuing to endure) this ordeal, I’ve learned we are more stronger and capable than we think.

What are you taking back? 

Stephanie 

 

TBWYCampaign

CATEGORIES // Personal

Skin Tip: Why You Should Exfoliate During Winter!

January 23, 2015

Keeping a regular exfoliation routine, especially during winter, helps your products work more effectively- there’s no barrier of dead skin cells hindering a product’s effect -and in turn, can aid in the hydration of your skin.  Exfoliate about 2-3x per week.

Can you believe it’s Friday already?  My, how this week just seemed to zoom by, right?

Wishing you all a great weekend and remember, if you have any questions, feel free to ask me.

Stephanie

CATEGORIES // Skin Care Ingredients

Could Your Skin Be Dehydrated Instead of Dry?

January 22, 2015

Hello readers!  🙂

We’re pretty much all familiar with the term dehydration.  Dehydration occurs when your body does not have as much water and fluids as it should but did you know that the same concept applies to your skin? If your skin has ever felt dry or taut, you may be experiencing dehydration.  It’s important to note that dehydration can occur on all skin types (yes, even oily).

The difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin is that dry skin lacks oil while dehydrated skin lacks water.  (To learn more about skin types click here)

Appearance

Dehydration can be characterized by:

  • a flaky appearance
  • feels tight and dry
  • very superficial fine lines

Causes

Skin that is dehydrated can be caused by:

  • lack of moisture
  • age
  • incorrect product use (harsh products such as soap and over-exfoliating)
  • diet (mainly fat-free diets)
  • climates (cold winds and low temperatures)
  • environment (heaters and air conditioners)
  • medications/medical conditions
  • excessive coffee and alcohol intake,
  • hormonal imbalances
  • UV exposure

Treatment 

Keep in mind all the possible causes and adjust accordingly.  (FYI: For dietary concerns ALWAYS consult a medical professional and/or registered dietitian before implementing any changes in your diet to verify there are no contraindications with certain medical conditions or medications.)

Also, maintaining a skin care routine appropriate for your skin type that includes humectants (water attracting ingredients) such as glycerin, sodium PCA, sorbitol and hyaluronic acid.

Click here for product recommendations, including those with oily skin.

I hope this information was helpful and as always if you have any questions/concerns, feel free to ask me. 🙂

Stephanie 

Disclaimer:  The contents on this website, and any related links, are provided for general informational purposes and should NOT be considered medical advice. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Please consult a healthcare provider if you have any questions about a particular health condition.  

 

CATEGORIES // Aging, Men's Skin Care, Skin Care, Skin Care Ingredients

Sephora Moonshdow Baked Palette Review!

January 20, 2015

Sephora Moon Baked

Hi readers!  Hope you all had a great weekend.  I have a full day at IDI today, taking a class on acids, peels, and exfoliation (super excited!) but I wanted to leave you with a review on the Sephora Moonshadows.  I bought this palette about two months ago and what drew me in initially were the colors and the price, about $12 after a few discounts.

Sephora Moon Baked (inside)Once you open the palette, there’s a mirror on top and 10 gorgeous colors below. All colors have shimmer so if you’re looking for matte colors, this palette might not be for you.   The colors as pictured above from left to right:

Peru: Olive green with gold shimmer

Belize: Red/orange bronze

Barbados: Peach

Seychelles: Peach with a gold undertone

St. Vincent: Frosty white

Grenada: Purple with tiny flecks of silver

Bermuda: Lilac

Fiji: Lilac with a lot of silver strewn in

Martinique: Liquified gold

St. Lucia: Shimmery cream

The majority of the colors are nicely pigmented and blend easily, however, if you want the colors to really pop, using the shadows wet is key.  Below are swatches of all the colors, both wet and dry.

Sephora Moonshadow Baked Palette

Peru, Belize, Barbados, Seychelles, St. Vincent (dry)

 

Sephora Moonshadow Baked Palette- In the Tropics

Peru, Belize, Barbados, Seychelles, St. Vincent (wet)

 

 

Sephora Moonshadow Baked Palette- In the Tropics

Grenada, Bermuda, Fiji, Martinique, St. Lucia (dry)

 

 

Sephora Moonshadow Baked Palette- In the Tropics

Grenada, Bermuda, Fiji, Martinique, St. Lucia (wet)

 

As you can see in some colors, wetting the shadows really brings out the nuances.

Pros

Majority are nicely pigmented

Can be used wet or dry

Blend easily

Can be used to create subtle or dramatic looks

Cons

There’s quite a bit of fallout when you apply the shadow and it also gets all over the palette

No matte colors that can be used as blending/transition shades

A few shades take a few swipes to develop a good color pay off

This palette is Limited Edition

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for pretty, shimmery but not overly glitter eyeshadows, you can’t go wrong with this one.  Although this particular palette was limited edition, Sephora has some other great baked shadow palettes and I hope this gave you some insight into what to expect from these 🙂

Thanks for reading and if you have any questions let me know. 🙂

Stephanie 

 

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Product Reviews: Make-Up

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