skincare Archives | Page 2 of 10

Skin Tip: DIY Pumpkin Body Scrub!

October 21, 2016

Happy Friday!

I have a quick DIY pumpkin scrub that you can use to exfoliate dead skin from your body this holiday season.

2 cups of fresh cooked pumpkin (pureed)

4 tbsp. honey

1/2 cup of brown sugar

1/8 tsp. of olive oil

1 tsp. pumpkin spice

Combine 2 cups pureed pumpkin, 4 tbsp. honey, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/8 tsp. of olive oil and 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice in a bowl to make the scrub. Spread onto body, concentrating on rough patches like knees and elbows. Rinse off with water.

*Always conduct a patch test to avoid adverse effects.*

See you next week,

Stephanie

Skin Tip: Satin Pillowcases for Wrinkles!

October 14, 2016

Happy Friday readers!

If you notice you wake up with sleep wrinkles in the morning, it can be caused by the friction between you and your pillow. Unless you sleep on your back, satin or silk pillowcases may be worth looking into as they slide rather than pull against your skin. Bonus tip: they can also help reduce frizzy hair!

Do you use a silk or satin pillowcase?

Have a great weekend!

Stephanie

September 2016 Favorites!

October 4, 2016

Hi everyone! I apologize for being MIA mid last week but I had some unexpected things to take care of. Originally, my review and swatches of the Morphe 35O palette should have been up last Thursday but I’ll have it up this coming Thursday so stay tuned for that.

In the meantime, we’re in October so let’s get started with a few of my favorite items I have been using.

PCA Skin Nutrient Toner

Pumpkin spice is everywhere and it’s found its way into my skincare regimen too! Comprised of pumpkin wine, lactic acid and vitamins, this toner leaves my skin soft with a nice glow. The amazing scent also helps me get my pumpkin fix without adding any calories. 😉

Eminence Pink Grapefruit-C Gel

I picked up this up at ICES last month as I was looking for something that would calm my skin down. This light-weight gel is rich in vitamin C and contains peppermint to clear and heal skin while helping to prevent the appearance of blemishes. I’ve definitely noticed that my skin looks more clearer and though this contains peppermint, it doesn’t sting my skin. I use it during the day underneath my moisturizer and it absorbs fairly quickly.

Sweet Treat Lashes in Cake

I received these lashes courtesy of the Peachy Queen boutique and I love them. From the chic casing to the luxe feel, these tapered and layered silk lashes are soft, easy to apply and look glamorous. With 10 different ‘flavors’, you’re sure to find a style that suits you. Bonus perk, the owner, Aimee, is super nice and helpful.

BH Cosmetics Illuminate by Ashley Tisdale Cream Cheek and Lip Tint in Cabana

Part of my birthday haul a few months back, I’ve been using this blush almost every single day for a quick and effortless look. It’s a gorgeous pink shade that has major lasting power and doesn’t compete with your other makeup shades.

Kat Von D Tatto Liner in Trooper

Included in last month’s Sephora box, this liquid liner has become an HG status along with the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in Jet Black. It has great pigmentation, glides on smoothly and is long-lasting. *Note: I always wear eye primer.

Ole Henriksen Sheer Transformation

We’ve had some extremely warm weather here in So Cal so this light-weight moisturizer was perfect for those days. I used this moisturizer with my foundation to create my own custom made tinted moisturizer.

Here’s a picture of me using the lashes in Cake and the blush in Cabana.

What are some of your favorite items?

Stephanie

September Birchbox Unboxing 2016!

September 22, 2016

Hi everyone! The last subscription box of the month is here and this month’s theme was all about multitaskers.

Take a look below to see what I received!

Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser

A creamy cleanser that sweeps away dirt and makeup while gently exfoliating. This product was paired with a muslin cloth to aid in the removal of it, although you can remove it separately. First off, I really love how this product feels- so very creamy and luxurious. However, it did leave a film behind and although I tried to remove it with a different cleanser, it never really went away. It kind of made me breakout a little too. I will try this again once the weather cools down.

Coola Classic Face SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer

An eco-friendly, lightweight sunscreen that has a cucumber scent. This is a chemical sunscreen that has antioxidants like evening primrose oil and acai which are a nice addition. It doesn’t feel heavy at all but as much as I like Coola products, I’ve been receiving them a lot lately and would love to explore other brands.

Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek in Perk

This lip and cheek stick melt on contact with body heat for sheer, buildable color. The sheer coral shade is a great option as a cheek color or lip shade. I prefer to use it as a cheek shade and it goes on nicely and blends out evenly. I will be trying this out further to see if it causes breakouts or not.

Oribe Glaze for Beautiful Color

A lightweight formula that protects and adds gloss to hair ans strengthens and nourishes hair with watermelon, lychee and edelweiss. I’m a fan of a few Oribe products so I was curious to see how this worked since I have color treated hair. This did make my hair feel softer and left a nice, glossy sheen behind. However, most Oribe in shower products cause a little bit of a reaction on me and this made me slightly itchy. I might just use it sporadically to minimize the reaction time as I was impressed with the results.

Bonus: Oribe Shampoo and Conditioner for Beautiful Color

While I really like the Oribe shampoos and conditioners (hello amazing scent and lovely feel!), I do seem to have a reaction to them as my hair and body start to itch. I decided to hold off on these as I tried the Oribe glaze and didn’t want to increase the risk for a reaction.

Tocca Florence Eau de Parfum

Notes of grapefruit, bergamot, jasmine, blue iris, blonde wood and white musk make up this scent. Unfortunately, this was a no-go for me as the scent of jasmine was a bit overwhelming.

Overall, this box was just okay. I could do without the perfume and while I appreciate the sunscreen, I have plenty samples to last me a while.

What do you think of this month’s Birchbox? Will you be keeping your subscription?

Stephanie

Skin 411: A Word About Ingredient Names You Can’t Pronounce!

September 16, 2016

Happy Friday everyone!

When it comes to reading ingredient labels, I’m sure you’ve heard that if you can’t pronounce an ingredient or the name is too long, it’s automatically bad for you. Well, that’s actually a myth as many skincare companies adhere to the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) system, which is an internationally recognized way of standardizing labels on cosmetic products.

For example tocopherol acetate, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate and butyrospermum parkii sound scary but they are actually alternative names for vitamin E, vitamin C, and shea butter. Remember that whether you can pronounce an ingredient name or not tells you nothing about the safety of it.

See you next week!

Stephanie

ICES Long Beach 2016 Mini Haul!

September 15, 2016

Happy Thursday everyone! Over the weekend I attended the International Congress of Esthetics and Spa in Long Beach. It’s a trade show where professionals in the beauty industry can shop and learn about the latest and greatest within our trade and for an esthetician, it’s our version of heaven.

I posted a few snippets on Instagram, but after a while my phone refused to cooperate so I couldn’t really take any pictures. 🙁 However, I can share with you some of the items I purchased, for personal use and to also use in my treatment room.

Let’s get started.

PCA Skin

Nutrient Toner

This toner has a, “combination of vitamins, enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids helps to refine pores, remove superficial cells and provide added nutrients to the skin.” It contains pumpkin wine and lactic acid and it smells really good.

Oxygenating Trio Treatment Protocol

This professional treatment has a formulation that contains antioxidants and enzymes that leave skin smooth, purified and glowing. It contains niacinamide, pumpkin seed oil, hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, glycolic acid and salicylic acid.

Retexturize Therapeutic Pumpkin Mask Protocol

Another professional treatment, the Therapeutic Pumpkin Mask combines exfoliating pumpkin enzymes and salicylic acid, along with a host of purifying and antioxidant ingredients to leave skin glowing following treatment.

Eminence

Soothing Chamomile Tonique

This product was to be purchased along with the enzyme peel I bought. It’s “a soothing and calming tonique to use alone or with enzyme, glycolic and lactic peels for all skin types, particularly normal to oily skin. Soothing herbs will restore the skin’s balance.” This has licorice and the smell is very prominent throughout but disappears after a while.

Pink Grapefruit-C Gel

I’ve been experiencing problematic skin lately and this product was recommended. This C Ester-rich veils skin to fight free radicals, environmental factors, and calm the appearance of inflammation. Refreshing peppermint clears and heals while helping to prevent the appearance of blemishes.

Yam and Pumpkin Enzyme Peel 5%

One of the main products I came to the Eminence booth for, this will, “accelerate the exfoliation process to remove dead skin cells, reduce the appearance of pigmentation, fine lines and sun damage. This delicious purée of yam and pumpkin leaves skin looking firm and radiant. I tried it last night and it had a mild tingling sensation, most likely due to the lactic and glycolic acid in here. My face feels ad looks a bit smoother today. This item is for consumer use.

Le Mieux Eye Wrinkle Corrector

I received a sample of this last year and I absolutely loved it. It’s a “lightweight cream [that] provides intense moisture to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, bags, and dark circles. Features 7 potent peptides, hyaluronic acid, amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants to help promote a bright, youthful appearance.”

Morphe 35O 35 Color Nature Glow Eyeshadow Palette

Of course I could not leave the trade show without purchasing this cult-favorite item. Just look at all these colors-perfect for fall! *Swoon* I will have an individual review for this soon.

(h2t) Natural Pumpkin and 30% Multi Fruit Complex Peel

No trade show is complete without this pumpkin peel. It smells just like a pumpkin pie and I have to keep reminding myself that it’s a chemical and enzyme peel, lol. This is a professional use product that contains a 30% formulation of Glycolic and Lactic Acid with an approx. pH 3.2. Formulated to provide deep exfoliation for facial area, allowing acids to effortlessly penetrate clogged pores and assist in cell proliferation.” I can’t wait to try this and start offering it next month at my spa!

Dermodality Skin Solutions Peptide Plus

Purchased in conjunction with the (h2t) pumpkin peel, this helps to restore vibrancy and health to the skin. It contains cucumber and melon extracts to help calm skin and to help leave it health, radiant and revitalized. I used this at night under my moisturizer and I liked the soothing and hydrating effects of it.

HydroPeptide

Cleansing Gel: Cleanse, Tone, Makeup Remover

An all-in-one anti-aging cleanser that gently and effectively removes dirt and excess oil while toning and lifting away all traces of makeup without over-drying. This gentle cleanser has extra soothing benefits from Chamomile, Allantoin and Cucumber. You definitely get a whiff of cucumber in this product. I squeeze a little bit of product onto a damp cotton ball and it does a pretty nice job of removing eye makeup.

Power Serum Line Lifting Transformation

Aside from DermaQuest, HydroPeptide has really great peptide serums that make skin feel and look firmer. It’s definitely on the pricey side but in my opinion, well worth it. This power packed treatment delivers the most advanced peptides, antioxidants and a growth factor activating plant extract to immediately improve skin health.

Power Lift: Advanced Ultra Rich Moisturizer

I had to pick up this moisturizer again as it made my list of favorites last year in September. Read more about it here.

Solar Defense Broad Spectrum SPF 30

A physical sunscreen that features titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, this sunscreen is light and has a blend of green tea, aloe and hyaluronic acid.

That’s all for this year and I’m excited to check out what next year has in store!

See you tomorrow!

Stephanie

Skin Tip: Sensitized Skin!

September 9, 2016

Happy Friday readers!

If you’ve never really had sensitive skin but all of a sudden you’re experiencing irritation, you may have sensitized skin. Sensitized skin can be a result of stress, hormonal fluctuations, smoking, alcohol, poor diet, medical procedures, over-exfoliated skin and fragrance. Eliminating or controlling these factors should help you get your skin back to normal.

Have a great weekend!

Stephanie

Skin Tip: Skincare Application Tips!

September 2, 2016

Happy Friday everyone!

Ever wonder how much skincare product you need to use during your daily regimen? Use this visual, courtesy of Bioelements, as a guide.

Enjoy the weekend!

Stephanie

August 2016 Favorites!

September 1, 2016

Happy first day of September everyone! It’s time again for my monthly favorites and you’ll notice that most items here are skincare. Well, my skin has been acting up lately and I had to pretty much stop wearing all products until I could try to figure out what the culprit was. I’m thinking I have a slight sensitivity to something in my kickboxing class. These products have been instrumental in keeping my face calm so let’s get to it.

Shiseido Synchro Skin Lasting Liquid Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF 20

Described as, “flawlessly undetectable like it belongs on your skin, this innovative formula features medium, buildable coverage and a modern matte, natural finish that feels uniquely airy and silky on skin.” On a whim, I decided to pick up this foundation and I absolutely love it. It silky texture melts right into your skin and enhances it in the most natural way. You’ll forget you’re wearing makeup. I haven’t really heard much about this foundation but I highly recommend giving this a go.

PCA Skin CliniCalm 1%

This product contains 1% hydrocortisone to soothe and provide temporary relief of itching and irritation, both of which I’ve been experiencing lately. While the formula is safe to be used for 7 consecutive days, I find I only need to use it for 2 days before my symptoms start to clear up.

PCA Skin Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 45

Not pictured above, I received a few sample packets of this and I have to say I am impressed. This is a universally tinted, water resistant physical sunscreen (Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) that can be used alone or layered under makeup. Since it’s a purely physical sunscreen (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide), this has been perfect for my sensitive skin. The coverage is very sheer, so a tiny bit of redness still peeks through but overall, it’s a great product and I’ll be picking this up at the trade show this month.

Skin Script Green Tea Citrus Cleanser

Most of my cleansers were off limits for a bit and this one was really the only one that didn’t feel irritating. With a blend of antioxidant rich green tea, grape seed extract to counter skin irritations to offset redness and inflammation, and wild cherry bark extract to help soothe skin, this gentle foaming cleans without stripping skin dry.

Caudalie Resveratrol Eye Lifting Balm

Featured in this month’s Play! By Sephora box, this eye cream absorbs quickly into skin and provides a nice brightening effect. Read review here.

Dermalogica After Sun Repair

One of my most cherished items from Dermalogica, this is my holy grail skin saver. I keep it in the fridge and when my skin feels like it’s burning, I apply a generous amount of this to my face and the coolness instantly calms my skin. This product is left on and is formulated with lavender, cucumber, chamomile, yucca and algae extract to restore moisture loss and aid skin recovery.

Stephie Estie Skincare

Another huge favorite this month has to be of course my new business doing skincare. I opened up the first weekend of August and I’m so blessed and thankful to God for this opportunity. It’s a work in progress and pretty stressful but so far a lot of people have been so supportive and I couldn’t ask for more at the moment. 🙂

Note: For the most part, my skin is slowly returning to normal. I notice that once I stop the kickboxing class for a few days, my skin feels better. I’ve participated in other fitness activities where I sweat just as much, but I don’t get a reaction. I’m assuming my skin is either sensitive to the cleaning solutions they use or perhaps the gloves/punching bags. Of course I don’t want to give up the class because I really enjoy it so I’ve found that right after completing my session, I immediately remove my wraps, wash my hands and arms thoroughly with soap and water and then rinse my face with cold water. This process has helped tremendously in reducing irritation/sensitivity.

What are your favorites for August? And, have you experienced any skin reactions when exercising? Share your thoughts below!

Stephanie

Play! By Sephora Unboxing August 2016!

August 30, 2016

Hi everyone! I know took an extra week for my summer blogging break but I’m back! I’ve been keeping pretty busy with my new business, getting ready for a wedding I’m attending this weekend, my regular work, researching, and working out. Sending a huge thanks and welcome to all my new followers. 🙂

I’m bringing you a review for the August Play! By Sephora, which is a monthly $10 curated subscription box featuring samples of different brands available at Sephora. The theme for this month is The Eye Openers, with products meant to refresh and recharge your beauty routine.

Clean Reserve Blonde Rose

A classic yet edgy bouquet of rose, jasmine and peony with a sandalwood base that is supposed to evoke feminine sophistication and allure. I typically love rose scents but this smells awful. Definitely not my type of perfume at all. Doesn’t help that it has a combination of peony and jasmine, which is way too overwhelming for my taste.

Make Up For Ever Artist Shadow in I-544

An eyeshadow described as a, “highly saturated, iridescent pink granite eyeshadow made with a unique gel-powder formula and ultrafine pigments for smooth color.” I like this shadow and the fact that you can create a smokey effect that’s subtle and pretty. It shows up kind of purple on me but it can be sheered out or built up to more intensity.

Sephora Collection Contour Eye Pencil 12hr Wear Waterproof in Flirting Game

An easy-to-apply pencil that has a 12-hour waterproof formula in a shimmery taupe shade. So confession, I have been wearing this as eyeliner only. I confused this with eyeliner but it’s actually supposed to be used on the contour of your eye. Whoops. No worries though, it works just as well as an eyeliner and the taupe shade is a perfect enhancing shade that gives definition without a stark harshness. It lasts all day yet by the end of the day, it has smeared a bit. I doubt it would hold up for 12hrs without a primer on my oily lids. The Make Up For Ever shadow and this are great shades for transitioning into the fall season.

Swatches below: Sephora Contour Eye Pencil (top) and MUFE Artist Shadow (bottom).

Urban Decay Perversion Mascara

A lengthening and volumizing mascara that has a triple-black pigment formula to coat lashes. I like this mascara as it makes my lashes look thicker and the pigment is intense. However, just like the Perversion eyeliner, the formula does make my eyes water and sort of burn by the end of the day. Because of this, I won’t be purchasing the full size.

Caudalie Resveratrol Eye Lifting Balm

This eye cream is said to lift and smooth the eye area with a breakthrough patented formula while reducing the look of dark circles and puffiness. This eye cream does have a brightening effect on me- like a very muted opal iridescence. It works well under makeup and doesn’t irritate my eyes. Will definitely keep this on my wishlist.

Lancome Energie de Vie Smoothing & Glowing Liquid Care Moisturizer

A concentrated energizing liquid lotion that visually relieves dullness, diminishes signs of fatigue, and promotes a healthy-looking glow. I haven’t tried this one yet because my skin has been acting up and I’ve been keeping my skin care routine simple until I’m back to normal.

Since I liked about 4 of the six products included here, I’d say this was a good box overall. Curious to see what next month holds.

Any particular favorites that you see here? Let me know in the comments below!

Stephanie