Carry-On Beauty Essentials

Today, I am up up up in the air heading to Italy. Probably munching on snacks and watching a bunch of free movies! While, I'm stuffing my face and wifi-less. I've decided to do a quick photoshoot and write a lil' some some before I head to the airport (I'm probably going to be late...). Here are some of the beauty products I'm putting into my carry-on or stuffing into my purse (my huge Mary Poppins like purse). I'm also bringing a portable charger just in case my phone or iPad needs a recharge, a journal to jot things down, magazines for boredom, a book by John Green, a converter, and my Bose headphones since my ears gets extremely painful when I wear Apple's headphones for too long.

The 10 Beauty Commandments

1. Thou shalt love thy skin and self

2.  Thou shalt let thy skin breathe

3. Thou shalt invest and commit to thy skin

4. Thou shalt always wash hands before touch thy face

5. Honor the seasons (and change your products accordingly)

6. Thou shalt wear sunscreen

7. Thou shalt always have "bitchin' brows"

8. Thou shalt listen to thy skin

9. Thou shalt never (ever) go to bed with make-up

10. Thou shalt treat thy self

Something New and Something Old

Somethings are new and somethings are a little old. The new-new is of course NARS Vitual Domination Cheek Palette and Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Pomade! I'm sure everyone has heard of these products or own them, I mean who hasn't?! It seems like every beauty bloggers and make-up collectors has gotten their hands on this palette! So, although this may be a bandwagon effect or an impulse purchase--I'm okay with it. More than okay with it, because I reasoned that I need a compact cheek palette for my trip to Europe next week! Yes, I may have gotten it for the sole propose of not having to carry three products: blush, highlighter, and bronzer. Ain't nobody got time or room for that! Especially if I'm planning on making a stop at City Pharma when I'm in Paris. Now, for my brows, I knew I wanted Anastasia's Dipbrow! With Europe's unpredictable weather, my worst fear is my eyebrows going missing. That just ain't cute, boo. Not only that, but for some reason my left eyebrow is always on point and then my right one is always either faded, smudged, or half gone. Humm...does this just happen to me?

The oldies are seriously oldies! I think I've had these products since I was in high school. I know, that's cray cray. But it's the truth! However I think I've brought about four Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Powder Duo since high school. Seriously, it's magic and I don't go anywhere without my brows! Nowhere, no how, no way! For my cheeks I use MAC Mineralize Blush in Dainty. I like to lightly apply this during the day for a nice subtle and glowy look. However if I going out at night, I do add a few layers for more color. It's not too pigmented so I've never had a problem with looking like a Elsa Mars. It's also shimmery, which I don't mind because it gives me a luminous glow! While MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle helps give me a dewy and glowy skin. I like to add it to my cheek bones, bridge of my nose, cupid's bow, and brow bones. I do this in exactly this order so that it doesn't look like I applied too much shimmer! Also...blend, blend, blend! It doesn't have to be prefect, just make sure you don't have a distinctive shimmer line. For my brows and blush, I use Laura Mercier's travel collection brushes, I received as a gift about four years ago. But you can purchase the new Laura Mercier's travel brushes at Nordstorm! I love love love Laura Mercier's brushes and the double-end brushes are so convenient for daily to travel uses.

Dry & Flaky Skin 101

Ahh, winter. The season to be jolly and...a little flaky? Winter brings more than pumpkin lattes, gifts, and family gatherings--it also brings the discomfort of dry and flaky skin. Even if you're normally oily, winter can cause your skin to dry out. This generally happens when the seasons changes and harsh dry air steals away the thin oil on our skin that normally protects and maintains moisture in the skin. Resulting to dry, tight, rough, flaky, and sometimes inflamed skin.

Dry Skin 101: 

1) Tell-tale signs of dry skin

• Your skin feels dry or tight right after a shower or through out the day
• You have small pores (it's an indication that you have dry skin)
• Flakiness or itchiness

2) Lack of oil

The natural oil that occurs on the skin protects itself from environmental damage and aging. However dry skin does not produce enough lipids (oil), which makes the skin vulnerable and sensitive. If you have dry skin, just know that you skin needs extra protection and care--so stay hydrate and moisture up!

2) Dry VS. Dehydrated skin

• Dry skin = lacks oil. 

Dry skin is a skin type, which you've probably had since you were a baby. Dry skin may feel a little rough, tight, and itchy. Find rich creamy products without any fragrance to help hold in moisture, combat dryness, and minimize irritation/inflammation!

• Dehydrated skin = lacks water.

Dehydrated skin is a skin condition, which can be experienced by anyone and any skin type...yes even oily skin! Signs of dehydration is flakiness, thin, and dull looking skin. You can reverse the signs of dehydrated skin by looking at what you put in your mouth and on your skin. Avoiding or limiting caffeine, alcohol, over exfoliation, and the sun can make a difference. Hydrate your skin with ultra-hydrating moisturizers with serums like hyluoronic acid is also great for the skin, since it binds 1000x its weight in water. Also stay hydrated by making sure you drink plenty of water!

3) Genetics 

Dry skin is often genetics. However your skin type can change with age.

4) Internal and external factors

• Medications
• Improper skin care regimen/habits
• Poor diet
• Allergies
• Products
• Change in climates 

5) Moisturize, moisturize! 

Winter changes, and your skin changes along. Find a moisturizer that is oil-based, as the oil will help your skin stay soft and smooth by retaining or increasing its H2O content; it also create a protective layer on the skin to help keep you skin moisturized, protected, and combat the dryness. 

Tip: Moisturizing while your skin is still damp is key! Your skin shouldn't feel tight after cleansing or exfoliation, if it feels tight, you've taken too long to moisturize.

6) Be generous

I'm not just talking about your face, but your entire body! Cleaners, serums, moisturizers, and humectants can help combat dryness and dehydration. 

7) Exfoliate

Not exfoliating and applying moisturizer and your skin will still look dry and dull. While exfoliating help your skin appear smooth and hydrated, by sloughing off the dead skin cells. Exfoliation also helps get rid of flakiness and help products penetrate better. 

8) Shower

Hot or too long of a shower isn't good for any skin type, especially dry skin. I know this might seem like a joke! I know the crazy temptation of hot showers in winter (or after a terrible day), but hot or long showers actually robs the skin of it's naturally oil and moisture. For dry skin, this is a big no-no! Dry skin needs as much moisture as possible and hot showers is stripping away the little moisture it has. Keep your showers short and lukewarm can improve your dry skin tremendously. 

9) Hyaluronic Acid 

I love love love hyaluronic acid. It's made a huge difference to my skin, so much so that I use it every season and every day (sometimes night). 

Don't like the work "acid" scare you, hyaluronic acid is want occurs naturally in the body to provide moisture, plumpness, and firmness to the skin. However, as we age, we our natural hyaluronic acid deteriorates. Adding a hyaluronic acid serum, filler, or moisturizer can help improve and hydrate your skin. 

10) Switch up products

Products that you were using in the summer can stripe away your skin of its much needed oil during the winter, making your skin drier I tend to trade my foamy cleanser for a cream-based cleanser and add hydrating serums and moisturizer. 

Happy Thanksgiving! XX

Stocking Stuffers Under $25

Growing up, my family never really had stockings hanging over the fire place and when we did (about four years ago), it was only for decoration. So although my stockings were never stuffed with goodies (or coal), that doesn't mean I never made a stocking stuffer wish list. This year wasn't any different! Here are my current stocking stuffer favorites and it's all under $25!

1. Fresh Sugar Ruby Romance // $18

2. L'Occitane Shea Butter Travel Treats // $20

3. Essie Winter 2014 Minis // $17

4. Kate Spade Little Gold Book // $18

5. EOS A Ray of Holiday Sunshine Rachel Roy 3Pk // $8

6. Ale and Ani Birthstone Expandable Wire Bangle // $24

7. Limited Edition Golden Monogram Mug // $10

8. Yes Please by Amy Poehler // $15

9. Pinch Provisions Icebreaker Minimergency Kit // $18

10. Ole Henrikson Glow On-The-Go Trio // $18

What would you like in your stocking this year? 

XX

Winter Favorites 2014

I don't know about you, but (I'm feeling 22...sorry...I can't help myself) every winter I change my nail polish weekly to a different shade of red. Maybe to distract from my dry knuckles or because I am guilty of posting I-am-drinking-from-a-cup pictures and I do not do nude nails pics! This week I am currently wearing OPI Got The Blues For Red. I happen to wear this a lot and I don't think it's going to stop any time soon.
OPI Nail Polish in order :: I Sing In Color, Got The Blues For Red, & Big Apple Red

As I mentioned above, my hands get awfully dry during the winter. It also doesn't help that I'm always washing my hands, in between treatments (honestly, I'm a germaphobe)--my hands gets extremely dry and sometimes my knuckles gets so dry that it starts to crack...not cute. So I'm always on a took out for a good moisturizer. I've tried Josie Maran Intensive Creamy Oil before, because of it's multipurpose, ultra-hydration, and other great benefits. However, my hands would break out in hives. But Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Ultra-Hydrating Body Butter does not do this to my skin (thank goodness). Instead, it gives my hands the moisture it seeks for without feeling heavy. It also gives my hand a slight glow without being too greasy, which I love. Although I use it just for my hands, it's meant for the body too!

My hands aren't the only part of my body that gets dry. My face too! So, to combat the dryness, I drink a lot of water (like a lot a lot) and I lather on at least four products onto my face. Which helps make my skin look hydrated and healthy. However, on occasion, when I do decide to wear foundation, I find my skin looking dull, dry, and flaky. One of the many reasons why I don't like to wear foundation, but when I do, I do not use it without Hourglass Primer Serum. This product is amazing! I only use a little of this primer, but it makes my foundation and skin look smooth, hydrated, and glowy.

On to the lips! Aveda Lip Saver is a life saver! I barely put any pressure when applying this onto my lips, because a little goes a long way. My lips gets super hydrated and smooth after one use. It does have a light smell like an odd mixture of cinnamon and the forest. But not a bad smell, I don't think so. The price isn't too bad either.

Last but not least, my all-time favorite red lipstick is MAC Matte Russian Red. I honestly think this is the prefect red and matte lipstick. I've tried a few red lipsticks and sometimes it's either not red enough or has a shine. But this isn't like that at all! Plus it makes my teeth look super white. This with MAC Brick Lip Pencil equals perfection.

XX

Cyber Monday Deals

I personally prefer Cyber Monday over Black Friday. I am a super anxious person to begin with and the thought of finding a parking spot, parking spot stealers, crowds, and aggressive shoppers just wants me get all panicky (and I would rather eat leftovers). Plus, I feel bad for people who have to work on Black Friday and apparently Thanksgiving now! Instead of spending time with their family, they have to work and deal with crazy people and situations. So, no, you will not see me at any mall on Thanksgiving Day or Black Friday. But instead you'll probably see me Instagram my meals, leftovers, adorable nieces, and perhaps another sneak peek on Cyber Monday.

Happy Thanksgiving XX Cyber Monday

1. J.Crew // 30% off full-price and 40% off sales with code: MONDAY + free shipping on full price items! 

2. H&M // 30% off everything and free shipping on orders over $50 with code: 2695

3. Ann Taylor // 50% off entire purchase with code: THANKS

4. Alternative // 35% off entire purchase with code: CYBER35 

5. Modcloth // 25% off entire purchase with code: CYBERMONDAY

6. Forever21 // 20% off dresses and skirts
7. Birchbox // Get a free Birchbox for every $60 you spend on gift subscription with code: BOXME
8. Loft // 50% off entire purchase with code: MONDAY

For the gents: 

1. J.Crew // 30% off full-priced and 40% off sales with code: HOLIDAY

2. Alternative // 30% off entire purchase with code: CYBER30

3. Best Buy // Crazy deals! 

Give The Gift Of Beautiful Skin

I recently went to an Image Skincare Event to get together with some old friends, network, learn, drink champagne, and of course get my hands on Image Skincare Merry and Bright 2014 Holiday Gift Set! I wasn't so excited for it at first prior to the event, because I thought it would just be their mini holiday 1 oz pump bottles. However, this holiday, Image surprised us with full size products and a FREE bag! If you haven't heard of Image Skincare yet (you must be living under a rock), their products are highly effective, paraben-free, natural, full of antioxidants, medical grade ingredients, easy to use, and suitable for all skin types! The thing about Image is, it isn't sold in drugstores, department stores or online. But at your local spas or dermatologists' office. So, although it may be harder to get, it's completely worth it. If you don't know where to find Image Skincare, you can comment below where you're from and I can help find you a spa or you can call Image Skincare directly at 561-791-2602 and a licensed esthetician can help. 

What's great about this holiday set is, it contains the essentials: cleanser, serum, moisturizer/SPF, and a lip treatment. So, if you're running low on skincare products or have a long Christmas list, this is a great gift set to give to anyone on your list! Now, let's talk about the moola...it's value at $200, but you can get it for $125 (the MAX Stem Cell Serum alone is $93.50...ekkk)! Okay, I know, it's not the cheapest holiday set. But like I said before, it's completely worth it! Honestly, you know you spent way more than that during Sephora's VIB Rouge and VIB member event. Am I right...or am I right? 

Here are the four products that is included with one complimentary bag!

1) The MAX Stem Cell Facial Cleanser 
This is my mom's favorite cleanser. I think the smell alone is what got her hooked! Besides the lovely smell, the Max Cleanser is acid-free, sulfate free, and paraben free. Like all of Image Skincare cleaners, it's a triple treat, a 3-in-1 kind of cleanser: facial cleanser, toner, and exfoliator. Not only is the product convenient and easy to use, but the Max Cleanser also helps optimize your skin's pH level--meaning balance, protection, and products absorbing deeper into your skin!
2) The MAX Stem Cell Serum 
I've never actually tried this serum personally, not because I don't want to, but it's because I'm already using two serums from Image Skincare! Although I haven't used it, I've heard nothing but great things about this serum from clients. According to Image Skincare, this day and night serum helps rejuvenates, plump, and firm your skin. What takes this serum to the next level? Three words: stem cell technology. What is that, you ask? Well, plant-derived stem cells are great to have in products, since it protects and repairs your living cells! Maximizing results and healthy skin.
3) Prevention + Ultimate Protection Moisturizer SPF 50 
Now, this is a product that I have tried and adore! This ultra-sheer, lightweight moisturizer with a build in SPF is beyond amazing!  It gives you the moisture your skin loves while giving your skin the ultimate protection and prevention. Although I really love this product for its great benefits, the smell alone is what did it for me! I mean, who doesn't like the smell of pina colada?! Humm...pina colada sounds nice right now.
4) Ormedic Balancing Lip Enhancement Complex
This is a must have, if you want smooth and Kylie Jenner's lip (not pre-teen Kylie, but current teen Kylie). It gives a subtle shine, but not sticky, something I love when I'm on-the-go and on a time limit. The smell alone is just amazing, I think it smells exactly like how M&M's White Chocolate Candy Corn tastes! But like all of Image's products, there are great benefits besides the smell. This product contains the purest organic ingredients, polypeptide complex, and antioxidants! It's also great for dry, dehydrated lips, and post dermal filler injections. This is a must have item!

Hee hee...I just realized I raved a lot about the smell of Image Skincare products! Anyways, this is how the bag looks like!

10 Beauty Sins: Wrinkle Edition Pt. 2

1. Tanning beds
Ewh, just stop it!

2. Sleeping on your side or face
The way you sleep can cause your face to be squished upon hours and hours! Overtime, the creases eventually become wrinkles. For all my side-sleepers, wrinkles may form on your décolleté too! Double whammy!

3. The way you apply and remove your make-up
If you're stretching your skin to apply make-up, you may be increasing your risk of crow's feet and wrinkles. The area around your skin is very sensitive and thin, especially your eyelids. The constant tugging and pulling may impact and increase the chances of wrinkles forming around the eyes. Like applying make-up, removing your make-up the wrong way can cause fine lines and wrinkles. In general, being rough around the eyes can irritate the skin around your eyes (especially the days you're wearing waterproof eyeliner), increasing your chances of sagging and wrinkles!

Tip: try moving your face around to see which ways will naturally hold your skin taut without having to forcefully stretch your skin out.

4. Not cleansing your face
If you find yourself always waking up to yesterday's make-up (and maybe one false lash stuck on your cheek or pillow) you need to get your life together, girl! Not only can sleeping with your make-up clog your pores, causing breakouts, dryness, and irritation to your skin, but yesterday's make-up and the environmental pollutants you accumulate during the day can also break down collagen and elastin. Two very important protein for healthy, firm and plump skin.

The lazy girl tip: keep cleansing wipes by the side of your bed! I really like Neutrogena, but there's a lot of wipes out there that are great too. But remember, wipes are not intended to deeply cleanse your skin so make-up and dirt can still be on your skin. *This lazy girl tip is only for that one or two lazy nights...not every night!

5. Avoiding monthly facials
Getting facials regularly can improve your skin tone, texture, appearance, and overall health. Taking care of your skin early on can be very beneficial! The short term benefits for facials are: glowing and soft skin, increased blood circulation, plumpness, elimination of blackheads. But in the long-run, regular treatments will soften fine lines and wrinkles, tighter and toner skin, and lighten hyperpigmentation. Investing in your skin will save you in the long-run from the need to perform extra treatments and products to reverse the signs of aging.

6. Frowning
If you spend your life with the same expression as grumpy cat, eventually you're going to have frown lines. Just like drinking from a straw, the repetitive motion can increase the risk of frown lines. However, frowning isn't a single indicator for getting expression lines or wrinkles!

7. Smiling
Just like frowning, smiling and any repetitive expression you increase the chance for fine lines and wrinkles.

8. Overthinking and Stress
Overthinking and chronic stress causes hormones to go all out of whack and makes us appear tired and older. However there are some researchers who have found that chronic stress contributes to premature aging, because of what it does to our body and cells.

9. Not following product instruction
Sometimes I am also guilty with this. I think in our heads, we think that if we add a few more drops or scrub every day that the product would give us faster results. But that's not the case, sometimes it actually causes more harm than good. Especially products like retinol that sloughs off dead skin cells at a rapid speed, leaving your skin vulnerable and expose (this is when your skin is at its weakest and can easily damage due to too much sun exposure and not enough SPF). Just to be on the safe side, read and follow the instructions! But most importantly, listen to your skin. Your skin will let you know if the product you're using is too much or too strong and vice versa.

10. Not enough beauty sleep
Not getting enough zzz's makes you look tired and sluggish, but it can also increase wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and limit the skin's ability to repair itself! When we're sleeping, our skin is still at work trying to repair itself from the damage of the day. However, the lack of beauty sleep has an adverse affect; instead of repairing the wear and tear of the day, it releases a certain hormone that slowly breaks down collagen and elastin. Resulting in fine lines and saggy skin.