Come Stay With Me | Airbnb | New York 2015

Last week, I was lucky enough to spend my birthday week in New York with my cousin. Although our roundtrip flight to New York was surprisingly on the low low. Hotels were $1,000+! That was definitely not something we could afford. So, to keep our travel on a friendly budget, we decided to search for a nice Airbnb to stay at.

Guess what...we actually found a lovely apartment in Upper Manhattan! That was more than half of what we would of spent if we stayed at a hotel. Besides the huge saving, our cute little apartment was conveniently close to everything. Just so you can get a visual on how close we were, we were about 15 minutes from Central Park, 34 minutes from Chelsea Market, and 37 minutes from SoHo. Our apartment was also just a few blocks from three different subways! Not bad, right?

This is my third time booking with Airbnb. I've met a lot of wonderful people, learned a lot about the cities I've visited, and how much I prefer Airbnb over hotels. I honestly love how homey it feels. You get to experience how the locals live, like grocery shopping, cooking your own meals,  plus you have someone who can guide you around the city and also places only the locals know about. Trust me, you'll save a lot of time and money avoiding the tourist-y spots and restaurants.

My Airbnb tips: 

1) Location, location, location!
This is so important. I've learned my lesson last year when I choose a cheaper Airbnb in London versus a good location that was only 10 pounds more. So we were in a sketchy neighborhood and took 50+ minutes to get to central London. Don't do it. The best thing to do is, do some research on which neighborhood you prefer to stay in and filter your search to that specific area. Then when you've found a few places, use Google Maps to see what is around. Like is public transportation in walking distant, is there a laundry mat near by, is there a convenient store for last minute emergency, etc, etc.

2) Check fees
You want to know what you're getting. Do you have to pay additional for each house guest, cleaning service, dry cleaning service, and etc.

3) Check availability
You want to know what the minimum stay is and filter your search with the nights you plan to stay. It'll save you a lot of heartache and time. Trust me, you don't want to find the perfect place only to find out that the minimum stay is 7+ nights (welp, unless you're staying that long)!

4) Check amenities
This is also important. If you want a place that has wi-fi, washer and dryer, 24 hour check-in, free parking, tv, shampoo, hair dryer, and simply the essentials...you should probably check the amenities.

5) Check host's profile and reviews
That's just common sense. You want to see if you and your host are compatible and that they're not some creepy person.

6) Check the space
After you've found your perfect place and checked out your host's profile. You want to look at "The Space".  It gives you information like when you can check in and check out, how many bedrooms/bathrooms, how many people can stay, and also what type of space you'll get. The space can be anything from just a private room or an entire home.

7) Check yo' self!
Seriously. You do not want to get denied, because your profile looks sketch. Your host also wants to know that you're real and not some creep too. After all, they are inviting you into their home! Post a picture of yourself. Tell them a little about yourself and if it's your first time, ask your friends if they could write a review for you! You don't have to, but it's nice for your host to know a little about you from a friend.

How to keep yourself safe:

1) Trust your gut. If something feels off, listen to your instinct and just back out. It's better to be safe than sorry.
2) Don't be afraid to ask your host questions about themselves, their home, and rules.
3) Tell your friends, family, and/or significant others where you're going and where you're staying. Check in with them when you're on your way and when you get there. It's also good to have a safe word, so that your person knows that it's really you.
4) Plan a safety exit. Whether for a potential fire or if your host is a creep.
5) Be cautious of your surroundings.

*All pictures are our very own pictures of our Airbnb. I want to thank my Instagram Husband aka photographer/graphic designer/cousin. I would also like to thank Amanda and Peter for inviting us into their lovely home (and for the beer and chips)!

I would love to hear your favorite Airbnb, safe travel tips, or/and your favorite trip! Comment down below!

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At Home Spa Day

Since I've been busy packing and moving to another house, I haven't been posting like I should. I also haven't been taking care of my skin like I should. Boy oh boy, do I see a difference! So, finally on a day that I am off--it's Netflix and skin therapy time. Down below are a list of fotd (aka face of the day). 

1. Nuxe Gelee Exfoliante Douce

I've recently ran out of my Ole Henriksen Walnut Complexion Scrub and decided to try something new. My skin can be sensitive when it comes to testing out new products. I'll get all itchy and eventually break out in hives. But I have to say, I can't get enough of Nuxe's products! This gentle gel exfoliant feels more like an exfoliating masque.  The mixture of lychee seeds and walnut shell powders help slough off dead skin. While the gel soothes and gently exfoliates the skin. If you're sensitive this is a perfect scrub! Just remember to use your middle and ring fingers and gently scrub. This left my skin feeling fresh and smoother! I'm not a huge fan of the scent, but that's because I don't like the smell of rose. But if you do, it's a lovely product. If you don't, just hold your breath, like I did. 

2. Nuxe Reve del Miel

If you've seen my pervious post, you know that I brought four of these! Stocking up, just in case there's a zombie apocalypse. Just kidding...sort of. This is my must-have lip balm. There's always one on my night stand and one on my desk for my AM/PM regimen. Reve del Miel is a lip-saver! Especially during the dry and cold seasons, my lips can gets pretty dry that it cracks and swells up. However, by using this lip balm before bed and then again in the morning, my lips are always hydrated and smooth. No more cracked or inflamed lips! Whoot whoot!  

3. Image Skincare The MAX Stem Cell Masque 

Although Image Skincare is a little pricey, it is completely worth it! You don't need much, just a thin layer and you're good. I only use this masque once a week, so it has last a long time. MAX Stem Cell Masque leaves my skin feeling hydrated, tighter, and glow-y!

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I don't think I've ever mentioned this...but I am NOT sponsored by Image Skincare.  Four years ago, I was introduced to Image when I was still studying esthetics and I've been using Image Skincare ever since. Luckily my spa also carries Image Skincare and I am able to share my favs with my clients and to you guys!

What's Your Skin Really Eating Up

Like most, I normally don't do a bunch of research or bother reading the ingredients on the back of beauty products, because I tend to only stick with brands I'm familiar with and can trust. The only thing that I do keep my eyes out for are, bunny ears (cruelty-free and vegan) and words like "paraben-free" or "sensitive" labeled on the products. You know, the simple things. 

But sometimes it's just not that simple. Sometimes we just can't trust such claims due to false advertisements and loosely used terms like "natural".  Although it may be a little tricky and sometimes overwhelming to understand what is in your beauty products. I've made a short guide that you can keep in mind the next time you're at Sephora (or where ever you purchase your skincare and cosmetics at) and in search of something new, because what goes on your skin can be absorbed into your body! 

5 Ingredients You Should Avoid:

1) Paraben 

• Are preservatives commonly used in cosmetics and pharmaceutical products  
• Found in underarm deodorant, lotion, ointments, shampoos, and makeup 
• Linked to breast cancer, birth defects, reproductive issues, and neurotoxicity 

2) Sulfates 

• Acts as cleaning agents
• Help products produce a good lather 
• Found in shampoo and cleansers
• Linked to skin irritants 

3) Talc 

• Helps absorb moisture or create a better feel in beauty products*
• Found in baby powder, blush and cosmetics
• Linked to lung damage and acne 

4) Benzoyl Peroxide 

• Can damage DNA overtime 
• Found in acne products 
• Linked to skin cancer, premature aging, and DNA damage 

5) DEA, TEA, MEA

• Acts as a "foam booster"
• Found in toothpaste, shaving creme, and baby shampoo
• Linked to contact dermatitis, liver and kidney damage 

Natural VS. Organic 

• Natural
• Loosely defined and used term 
• Any product can be labeled "natural" even if there are no natural ingredients used
• Products labelled as "natural" can contain as little as 3% natural substances**
• Organic 
• Contains at least 70% of organic ingredients 
• Terms "organic" and "made with organic" are not the same thing

Other Interesting Facts:

• The skin is the body's largest organ
• The skin creates a barrier against possible invasions like germs and bacteria
• The skin absorbs about 60% of what we put on our skin and body 
• Over a lifetime you will potentially swallow a kilogram (2lb) of lipstick**
• The average woman spends 450 days applying her make-up in a lifetime**

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Let me know if you guys what me to do more posts on ingredients and beauty products! Also comment down below if there were any products you had to throw after this post! 

XX

*FDA.gov 

**Source: Toxic Beauty by Dawn Mellowship exact text insert 

All other informations opinions, and facts are inspired from esthetics/beauty school, clinical training, and estheticians and RNs

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Please check out Toxic Beauty by Dawn Mellowship if you want to know more! 

Fall Back in Love with Berry Lips | Autumn/Fall Beauty

Starting next week, it's going to be fall! That means berry lips and nails are going to be worn from now to next season. Let's not forget about leggings, sweaters, and cute booties either! Oh, how I love fall. Fall is also the season of pumpkin spice lattes with lipstick prints on every white coffee lids. Can you say or more like hastag: #instagram #basic #yum. To get ready for fall (and Instagram), here are three of my favorite fall lipsticks.


1. Clinique in Different Grape
This is my go-to and almost everyday lipstick. I wear it to brunch, late night drinks, and even to work. Spring or fall, the season doesn't matter. While Different Grape is a deeper shade on my best friend who is fair, it is the perfect tint against my skin tone. So depending on your skin color, it may be the perfect berry lipstick or just the perfect "I just ate a bunch of blackberries" tint. It's smooth and easy to slap on without a mirror. I've even considered buying a few more to keep in my work bag, purse, and at home. A girl can never have too much lipstick!

2. YSL in Forbidden Burgundy 
I save this lipstick for special occasions. It's the perfect dark berry lipstick, but also very build-able. You can apply lightly for a more berry tint or you can apply a few layers for the perfect shade of dark berry to your liking. With this lipstick, you will need a mirror. It's easy to build, but it's unforgivable. By that, I mean that it bleeds without a liner, you might look like Miranda Sings if you apply it without a mirror, and it's not an easy lipstick to eat with. Especially cheeseburgers, trust me. However, YSL is by far my favorite lipstick. Although it's a little pricy for a lipstick, YSL is extremely moisturizing and smells fantastic. It smells like Jolly Ranchers to me!

3. MAC in Russian Red
I know, I know...this is red and not at all berry, but sometimes a classic red is the way to go. You can do no wrong with a good red lipstick. This is the first red lipstick that I have ever gotten and the one color that can pull me out of a funk. Russian Red also has a blue undertone, meaning your not so white teeth may appear pearly white to others. If that doesn't give you some sense of power, I don't know what would (but maybe an all black attire with Russian Red).

10 Beauty Tricks You Can Get Out Of Baby Power

Baby power isn't just for babies anymore. It's easy to get, inexpensive, very versatile and an emergency must-have! There are many ways to use baby power besides for the bebe's bootay!

Here are 10 tips and tricks you can use baby power for your beauty emergencies:


1. Dry Shampoo
Maybe it's your lazy day, out of your favorite dry shampoo, or maybe you've ban yourself from purchasing anything beauty related. Like me, in that case, baby power to the rescue! All you need to do is sprinkle it onto your hairline and thoroughly brush your hair. I personally like to keep the power on my hair for a few minutes while I do my make up. So the baby power can absorb as much oil and smelliness, before brushing it out!

2. Vavavoom Lashes 
Sometimes we just need a little enhancement. Besides brows and SPF, lashes are a must for me! Since I'm not blessed with long and full eyelashes, this was my little beauty trick and secret for longer lashes in middle school. My trick in keeping it easy-peesy is to use a disposable or old mascara ward to coat your lashes. Then apply mascara. You can repeat the two easy steps as often as you would like, however it is best to wait until your mascara is completely dry. A little goes a long way (trust me, you do not want baby power in your eyes).

3. Setting Make-up
Once again a little goes a long way. Baby power is white, so to keep it translucent, you must go light. Not only does baby power help set your make-up, but it also absorbs any excess oil to keep you from looking oily.

4. Waxing
To all my DIY waxers out there. Please, please, please cleanse your skin first and dust some baby power in the area that you want wax. Baby power creates a barrier between your skin and wax, allowing the wax to have a better grip on your hair. Meaning less pain and smoother skin!

5. Deodorant
Not sure about using baby power for deodorant, but if it works for babies and it absorbs excess oil and funk...why not? It's in case of an emergency, no judgement, sometimes a girl just gotta do what a girl's got to (when Target it closed).

6. Seal your lips
I normally skip this step in my daily make-up routine. However it's a step you don't want to miss if you want your lipstick to last. Although I don't really do this on a daily, it's great for special occasions (even if it's just drinks after work). To help make your lipstick last; just apply your lipstick, cover your lips with tissue paper, and pat some baby power on them.


7. Removing oil & grease stains
As an esthetician, I'm always working with all kinds of oils. Whether it's me being clumsy or simply preforming a treatment, I always find myself in spots of oil.  Many times the stain wouldn't wash off or it's on something I can't just throw into the washer. When that happens, I would pat some baby power on the spots and let it sit for a bit before dusting it off. Sometimes you have to pat baby power a few times, rise with dish soap, and launder as normal.


8. Prevent chafing
Say no to thighs or bra chafing! Sprinkle some between your thighs before heading out for a running or simply on a hot sunny day. To prevent bra chafing, I suggest rubbing some onto you skin before and sprinkle some ontoyour bra for extra prevention and protection.

9. Removing sand
Remember when you were small and your parents would tell you to go wash the sand off your feet? But by the time you got to the car your feet and legs seem to be covered in sand...again. Then your parents would make you sit at the edge of the car's foot guard and just dust it off with towels and hurting you in the process? Well, to avoid the traumatic experience is to bring baby power with you the next time you're at the beach. All you need is baby power in your hands to rub the sand off your body!

10. Panty-holes
I'm not sure who's still wearing pant-holes besides Kate Middleton and grandmas...but if you do, make sure you rub some baby power on your feet before slipping on your panty-holes. Baby power will soak up the excess oils that your feet naturally produces, preventing fungal infections. Baby power also helps you slip into your panty-holes a lot easier.

French Pharmacy Beauty Buys | Nuxe Edition

As most of you know, during my short stay in Paris. My trip to City-Pharma was a huge fail (like after spending a few hours and filling up my basket with all types of goodies, my credit card was declined type of a fail).  So, I told myself that once I got back home, I would seek out some of the products I had to leave behind in Paris.

It's been several months since I've been back, but I didn't make my decision until about a week ago. So, what did I decide on after many many months? Welp, my first French beauty buys had to be something by NUXE! Maybe it's because Estee Lalonde aka EssieBotton (one of my favorite beauty Youtubers) loves it or that every beauty blogger seem to also rave about. Either way, I just had to get my hands on NUXE's best selling lip balm and body cream.

1. NUXE Reve de Miel Ultra Nourishing Lip Balm 
I like that it's thick enough without feeling heavy or sticky. Since it is pretty thick, a little goes a long way! It's also one of the biggest lip balm I've own and since I don't need to use a lot, it'll definitely last a long time for me (and I may or may not have brought a total of four). Although I would say it's more on the pricier side, it's well worth it. It helps nourish, smooth, repair and protect even the most dry and damaged lips. The benefits that you get from a $19 lip balm is a much wiser investment than getting an expensive lipstick! It's better to repair and protect your lips so that your lips look good with any shade or brand. You'll also love the scent of this lip balm! It's very mild, but you get a little swift of grapefruit and honey once in awhile.

2. NUXE  Nourishing Body Cream Reve de Miel
This product makes my skin feel extremely soft and moisturized. NUXE's products has a very rich consistency without leaving your skin feeling sticky or excessive. Even if you have the most dry and cracked skin, this body cream is ultra-absorbing, because of the lipids that are in this product. It's ultra-absorbable due to our skin ability to take in oils/lipids. (Skin 101: Our skin is hydrophobic, meaning it "fears" water).


3. And just some goodies that I got for order $90+ online!

How To Maximize Your Skincare Just By Layering Right

1. Go light

Start with the thinnest products like serums. With serums, a little goes a long way but it's the most effective way to deliver active ingredients into the skin. The secret is pat (not rub)!

So what are serums you ask? Serums are like cocktails, it's easy to mix and match and customize to your skin needs. If your skin is dry, you can try hyaluronic acid. If you're trying to prevent and reverse the sign of aging, try vitamin c and glycolic acid to promote collagen production and speed up cell renewal.

2.  Spot treatment/Eye creme

After going light, you want to target your "problem" areas. Whether it's a random huge pimple or crow's feet, you want to treat it after your serums! Do not apply before your serums, because you'll just be smearing everything around...and that eye creme would more likely be a facial creme.

3. Moisture

After you've layered your skin with active ingredients and target all your problem areas, you want to seal it with a moisturizer. This helps retain and provide moisture to the skin which is very important for healthy skin. Lack of moisture may cause the skin to be dry or crack, leaving the skin unprotected, exposed and vulnerable to irritants, damage, and etc.

4. SPF

You should never ever (never ever never ever never) skip or skim on SPF. Skipping this step because you're staying indoors all day or because it's raining--is a big no-no! Although SPF should always be included in your skin routine, it should be the last step in your morning routine. You do not want to apply this on first before your serums, spot treatment, or moisturizer. SPF is meant to sit on your face, not mixed and diluted with other skin products!

Ps. you may skip this step only when you're heading for bed!

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Four easy steps to maximize your product and skin! 

What's your laying technique? 

My Fav: Pastel Nails For Spring

 

Sorry for being MIA! My hard drive crashed last Sunday and I didn't get it back until two days ago. It's sad to know that my blog photos are now gone along with a few posts. However, it is good to be back! So, like I promised on Twitter, here is another post!

First, let's talk about Essie's latest collection! The new Essie Spring 2015 Collection consist of six polishes! Four vibrant colors and two nudes. This new collection happens to be the very first Essie collaboration with Rebecca Minkoff! Someone I'm totally obsessed with. My favorite three polishes from this collection is: Flowerista, Perennial Chic, and Blossom Dandy!

Although it probably would of made more sense for me to share Essie's latest collection today. I thought it would be best to share colors that may already in everyone's nail polish collection (no need for Target run this time)! As you can see above, my favorite pastel and spring colors are: Bikini So Teeny, I Pink I Can, Lovie Dovie, Fashion Playground, Mint Candy Apple, and A Crewed Interest. Honestly, Essie's polishes are great all year round, but I just love wearing Essie in the spring or summer. They have such great variety and color choices that seem to lack in other well known nails polishes. However, I can't remember if I mentioned this before...that although I love Essie's color choices, their formula is not the easiest to work with. I have such a hard time painting my own nails with Essie! Sometimes the polish is too opaque and my nail polish comes out too thick, making it chip easier and faster! But I live in California, where it's always sunny and girls (and guys) wear flip-flops. So, I don't mind changing my nail polish several times a week.

Do you have a favorite Essie collection or Essie nail polish?

Kitchen Beauty: All Your Beauty Needs From Your Very Own Kitchen

Fridge:
Eggs
Egg whites help tone and even tighten the skin.
Cucumber
Cucumbers are great as eye pads, but can also be used in masques since it's very soothing and healing. I like keeping several cut up cucumbers in the freezer, so that it's always fresh and cold (warm cucumbers...ehhh, no thanks).
Avocado
Avocados aren't just great for guacamole or yummy avocado ice cream. Avocados have vitamins A and C, which is great for dry and sensitive skin! Vitamin A and C is a must have for healthy and glowy skin.
Yogurt
Have sensitive skin? Yogurt is a gentle and natural cleanser!
Milk
Milk is my go-to emergency beauty freak out! My skin is very reactive and sometimes the only thing that will calm my skin is milk. I mean, freaking Cleopatra took milk bathes for a reason! Cleopatra wasn't far fetch for believing that bathing in milk will result to eternal beauty and youth. Milk is actually very beneficial! It's soothing, rebuilds collagen, and gently exfoliates dead skin cells. Plus it can be found in every gorcery store, it's inexpensive, and its multi-usage and purpose makes it a must have in the kitchen!
Lemon
Lemon is all about lightening and brightening. Lemon can be used to help lighten dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Lemon can be used in a homemade masque with honey and yogurt or as a lemon scrub with sugar.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera my grandma's holy grail! My grandma is obsessed with aloe vera, she drinks it, eats it, and puts it on her skin. Any skin problem that my family has, her solution is to put aloe vera on it. Then she heads to the back yard to get us a stem of aloe vera. Gotta love my grandma!
Potatoes
Potatoes are literally the greatest things on earth. I mean you can make french fries, hash browns, mash potatoes, and many many more. But did you know that potatoes are also amazing for puffy eyes and even oily skin? Not only does it help reduce puffiness, but it also absorbs oil from your skin! Maybe that's why McDonald's fries are so good...
Pineapple
Pineapple has enzymatic properties that are like little Pac Man eating away dead skin cells.
Papaya 
Like pineapple, papayas are used as exfoliates and are often found in popular facial peels!
Ice cubes
Ice, ice baby! Ice cubes are soothing and calming. It's great for acne and shrinking pores.

Pantry:
Sugar
I love anything sweet. So it's a given that I also love sugar scrubs. I honestly use sugar in most of my at home beauty treatments. For instance, I use sugar with lemon to scrub my nails so that it can help lighten the stains that I acquire from wear nail polish all year long. I also use it with honey and lemon as a mini at-home facial scrub. Or with coconut oil for a body scrub! It's a staple in the kitchen as will as in my beauty treatments.
Baking Soda
I got baking soda, I got baking soda! Baking soda is often used as a spot treatment for acne. Just mix it with a little honey and apply it to any blemish and watch it go bye-bye! Baking soda is also used as a scrub or masque to exfoliate dead skin cells, leaving your skin softer and brighter.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal has healing, soothing and exfoliating proporties. Which is often used in facial or body masques.
Tea
Tea contains antioxidant and is anti-inflammatory. Tea bags aren't just used for your tea! Tea bags can be used for puffy eyes or tea can be used as cold compresses for a puffy face. So save them tea bags!
Honey
Honey does great things to the skin. It has a toning, healing, smoothing, tightening, and hydrating effects. Plus it's great with tea! Honey is also used in scrubs and masque to give it a thick constancy.
Coconut oil
Who doesn't love coconut oil nowadays?! It's hyped up for a reason! It's used in oil pulling (don't even get me started on that!), hair treatment, scrubs, make up remover, and as a moistuerizer. Although I would caution to to use coconut oil as a facial cleanser or make-up remover due to the fact that it may cause blemishes or maybe reactions to certain skin types, it's great in moderation and simply just listen to your skin! Your skin knows what it wants and likes.

Waxing 101

The do's and don'ts of waxing.

Do:

1. Avoid the sun after you're freshly waxed. Newly waxed skin are prone to hyperpigmentation and other skin damages!
2. Exfoliate your skin before waxing and 3-5 days after waxing to avoid ingrowns.
3. Let your wax specialist know if you're on any medication, recently had surgery, or Botox.
4. Take Advil 30 minutes before waxing (only if you're waxing your lady parts).
5. Take a shower beforehand to freshen up. It also helps open up the pores, making waxing l
6. Wear breathable clothing. Maxi dresses are great for Brazilian Day's.
7. Limit caffeine the day of. Caffeine may cause you to be more sensitive than usual.
8. Schedule your waxing appointment after Aunt Rose visits. You are less sensitive several days after menstruation.
9. Go long! Your hair should not be shorter or longer than a grain of rice. If it's too short, waxing may not pick up all of the hairs and can be much more painful. If it's too long, it can also be painful so trim, trim, trim.
10. Breathe!
 

Do not:

1. Forget to apply SPF!
2. Wax if you're using Accutane, Retin-A, blood thinners, or any medication for acne.
3. Expose your newly waxed skin to the sun.
4. Head to the gym after you've waxed (down there). Avoid the gym for 24 hours...and treat yourself!
5. Exfoliate right after you've been waxing. Wait a few days.
6. Tan or sunbathe 24 hours after waxing.
7. Shave in between waxing sessions. It messes up the hair cycle (leaving some hair longer and shorter than others) and also a more painful and less "clean" experience.
8. Touch freshly waxed skin if hands are not clean.
9. Apply fragranced or alcohol-based products to freshly waxed skin. It may cause redness or irritation. However witch hazel and tea tree oil is great to use to soothe redness and irritation.
10. Wax at home (unless you or your BFF is a licensed esthetician).

Mani Monday: OPI Infinite Shine

OPI recently came out with OPI Infinite Shine. It's their long-lasting and gel-like nail polish. Yes, polish! Not gel (it's pretty much OPI's version of CND Vinylux). OPI Infinite Shine gives you the gel-like shine without the need of the light and it's soak-free removal. Which I love, because I have a bad habit of picking at my nails when I have gel. Which you can probably tell if you take a look at my thumb, no it is not a glare...it's actually a few layers of my nails missing because of my bad habit.

Just like any other polishes, OPI Infinite Shine works best if you follow three steps: OPI Infinite Shine Primer (base coat), OPI Infinite Shine Lacquer (polish), and OPI Infinite Shine Gloss (top coat). The three OPI Infinite Shine Lacquer you see above is Pretty Pink Perseveres, In Pursuit of Purple, and Tanacious Spirit.

Even though I normally do well with OPI nail polishes and am in love with all of OPI Infinite Shine vivid color options, it's just doesn't last for me...more like 4 1/2 days. But again, I do a lot with my hands and I wash my hands before and after I touch everything, so that may be the cause. However for it's price and "gel effects", I'm a little bummed out that mines didn't last up to 10 days.  I do like OPI regular polishes compared to any other polishes for its brush and polish consistency. But for long-lasting polish, CND Vinylux takes the lead!

Are you loving or hating OPI Infinite Shine? What's your favorite OPI Infinite Shine?

Bedside Beauty for the (Lazy) Busy Gals

I've made cleansing my skin part of my daily routine like brushing my teeth and making my bed. Something my middle school and high school me didn't quite think was important. Yes, I too used to sleep with my make-up! Some nights, my bed or desk was far too comfy for me to get up and walk to the bathroom (which is only about 10 steps away from my room) to actually wash my face.

But when I went to college, things changed. I left my beauty products on my nightstand or closet, because my dorm was one of the oldest and we didn't have the luxury of huge cubbies (plus I didn't want any of the boys stealing my shampoo)! This sudden change made me question what I've been doing all of my teenage years. Having all of my beauty essentials right by my side, make it easier to lazily cleanse my skin, as I'm finishing up an essay at one in the morning or after a night out. So, when I came back home, I kept my beauty products like my facial wipes, night creme, and serums on my nightstand for emergencies. I also picked up an odd habit during my years in college which is showering really late at night no matter what. But that's a different story for another post!

Anyways, keeping my beauty essentials on my nightstand was the best thing that happened to me and my skin! Besides being too tired to wash your face, hopefully some skincare science will help you with the transition--did you know that you should never store your skincare products in the bathroom, because the heat and steam from showering can cause the product to deteriorate? Yup, it's true! But maybe that doesn't matter to you as much as being able to cleanse your skin in bed with your eyes closed is. Either way, there's no morning guilt!

So for all my lazy busy beauties, all you need by your nightstand are:
1) Cleansing wipes
2) Moisturizer/night creme
3) Lip treatment

*Whatever your night regime is, keep it by your night side! Maybe minus the cleanser, because that'll only get messy and it's weird. As you can see, I like to keep my serum, hand creme, and essential oil on my nightstand too. One to combat dryness and the other to relieve stress.

What's on your nightstand? XX

Happy Galentine's Day!

Galentine's Day falls on February 13, the day before Valentine's Day. It's the day that you celebrate with your BFFs, mom, coworkers, and all the other special ladies in your life. So what does one do on Galentine's Day? Everything...

1. Brunch

2. Drank

3. Mani-Pedi

4. Massage

5. Shopping

5. Dance party

6. Karaoke

7. Movie night

8. Dinner/night out

9. Slumber Party

And remember...

And this...

And this...

Happy Galentine's Day!

XX

DIY Sugar Kiss Scrub XOXX

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and while you are stressing out about booking a mani-pedi and wax appointments. Don't forget that your face needs some extra loving too! Have no fear (for an esthetician is here), there's no need to book another appointment this time. Instead, try out my DIY facial scrub! No worries, everything you need can be found and created in your very kitchen.  XX

Sugar Kiss Scrub Recipe:
1 cup sugar (brown sugar works too, but I prefer granulated sugar)
1/2 cup coconut oil
1-2 drops vanilla extract or your choice of essential oil
1 teaspoon Honey (optional)

Directions:
1. Microwave the coconut oil for 45 second if it's in solid form
2. Add sugar
3. Mix the vanilla oil into the coconut oil and sugar. If you like honey with your scrub, be sure to mix it with vanilla extract/essential oil before adding it into the mix--it'll clump up otherwise!
4. Cleanse your face to wash away dirt, oil, and bacteria
5. Apply the DIY Sugar Kiss Scrub and scrub-bah-dub
6. After a few minutes you can rinse off and pat your pretty face dry and apply your moisturizer or you can give your face some more loving with my DIY Chocolate Facial (don't worry you and lick the spoon or your face after).
5. Now, just sit back and relax with your boo thang, girlfriends, or Netflix.

P.S. This recipe can be shared with your boo, girls, or you can give yourself a body treatment! Trust me, it's a lot. But why not treat yo self?

What's your favorite Valentine's Day beauty treatment? XOXX

10 Beauty Sins: Oily Skin

Are you struggling with oily skin? Does your make-up "slide" off after you just applied it? Are you constantly blotting your face every hour? Do you find used blue blotting sheets everywhere?  If you answered yes to these questions...you may be suffering from oily skin. But what exactly is oily skin?

Oily skin aka lipidic skin is characterized by an excessive amount of oil production (duh). If you happen to have oily skin, you'll notice that you have much larger pores than someone who has dry skin. The visible and large pores can easily lead to blemishes like pimples and black/whiteheads, due to excessive oil and dead skin cells clogging the pores. The buildup of dead skin cells can make the skin appear thick, oily, congested, and unhealthy. Having a good skincare regimen, diet, and regular facials can help balance the skin, keeping blemishes at bay and your skin happy!

Here are 10 oily beauty sins!

1. Genetics 

If oily skin runs in your family, than chances are you'll also inherent oily skin (but keep calm and know that you're less likely to wrinkle and sag than your dry-skin friends). 

2. Whack out hormones 

Whether it's medication or stress; hormone changes can cause an increase of oil production. Meaning an oily and shiny face. Them crazy hormones! Hormones can also lead to dehydration which can cause even more oil to secrete.

3. Too much washing

If you think that cleansing your face 3+ a day is going to help control your oily skin...you're wrong! Stripping the skin too much of its natural oil and drying out the skin causes the skin to freak out; unbalancing the skin and acid mantle can send your oil production in over drive. Resulting to more and more oils to be produced and a very very shiny face. 

4. Overusing products 

This is not an easy one. I think a lot of us ladies are so used to bad beauty myths. We think that the more we cleanse or so, than we'll rid ourselves from our skin's problem. But that's not the case! Especially with oily skin, however overusing or overdoing can irritate and even dry out your skin which makes it worse, because it actually triggers the oils glands to produce more oils.

5. Not moisturizing your skin

For some reason, a lot of ladies (and especially the gents) think that oily skin doesn't need moisture, because they're already "oily". But did you know that neglecting to provide your skin with the moisture it needs can result to an increase of oil. Why? Welp, because the skin notices the lack of oil and in result tries to lubricate the skin by producing more oil! Hey--your skin is just trying to help you out!

6. Using the wrong products 

Sharing in this case is not caring. Just because your friend is using a certain product or because so-and-so is using it, doesn't mean that it's for you! Everybody's skin is different and not all products work the same for everyone. Using the wrong skincare products for your skin can once again freak the skin out, causing it to react. Such reactions like an increase of oil production, blemishes, or even hives! Ekkk!

Even products that claim to control oil or eliminate oil can be wrong for oily skin, because it may contain ingredients that irritate the skin or too strong.

7. Doing too much

Having oily skin doesn't excuse you to try on every treatment or products all at once. Doing too much to your skin may irritate your skin, triggering more oil. Yup, just like over-cleansing or using the wrong products!

8. Not having enough water 

Not drinking enough water means dehydrated cells and dehydrated skin means shiner appear and more oil production. The reason why there's more oil being produced is the body's way of making up for the lost or lack of much needed water *mind blown*. 

9. Excessive exfoliating 

Although it's important and beneficial to slough off dead skin cells. Excessive exfoliation can not only make you appear shiny in photos due to light reflecting off the skin but it can actually make you oilier too. If you're not sure if you're over exfoliating, listen to your skin. Shineness, oiliness, tightness, and even redness is your skin telling you that you're over doing it. Try to limit your scrub days to 3 days a week.

10. Greasy food, greasy skin

It's simple, you are what you eat. This is linked to hormones where certain food can trigger excess oil to secrete. Too much processed and unhealthy food not only harms your insides, but the harmfulness can also reflect on the outside from oiliness to blemishes. Introducing a balanced and healthy diet can not only improve your skin, but also your body.

Feeling A Tad Bit Blue

Feeling a tad bit blue? After all it's Monday (and lucky me, I'm sick). To cure the case of the Mondays or a cold, give yourself a mani-pedi! Now, normally I don't do blue nail polishes. Blue is simply not my color; I'm more of a red or neutral polish type of gal. So, when I finally found my favorite blue nail polishes, I had to share! FYI Essie's blues are by far my favorite polishes. FYI these blues will help cure your blue. 

From the top left, you'll see After School Boy Blazer. One coat of this is enough, but two coat helps deepen the color. It's classy and nice for these cold winter days. It also goes very well with a hot cup of tea (#selfie #basic #seriously). It's also my "don't mess with me this week" polish. For some reason, it gives me confidence during finals week or when I know I'm going to have a bad week. However my favorite part about this Essie nail polish, is that it's easy to apply! Something I often struggle with with Essie verses OPI polishes. Besides my personal opinion about this polish, this After School Boy Blazer doesn't have any shimmer but it's shiny. Something I really like.

Bikini So Teeny is a great color for summer. Although it's not summer yet, it's a nice blue for my toes! This polish always reminds me of snowflakes for some reason. Bikini So Teeny has a bit of a shimmer to it, but it's not overwhelming. The only reason why this may be a pain to use, is that it's very streaky and need several layers to look smooth. But all in all, it's a lovely blue! 

Last but not least is Style Cartel. This should be renamed...how does Tardis or Police Box sounds? Sadly, only Whovians will get the reference. From the bottle, Style Cartel looks more royal blue, but after a few coats, this nail polish is more dark blue than royal blue. Personally, this color always seem to charge on me. Depending on what I'm wearing and in certain lighting the polish seems to lighten or appear darker. So much so, that people often question if I'm changing my nail polish everyday! Between the three polishes, this one shines the most, literally. The shine from this polish always makes my at home mani look like a professional did it. Tip! Try this with a matte top coat! 

Which is your favorite nail polish?

Beauty Favs: SPF Edition

It's no secret that you have to wear SPF during the summer when the sun is blazing. But did you know that you still need the same protection during winter? The truth is, whether it's rainy, cloudy, or snowing you still need to wear sunscreen! The sun's powerful rays not only penetrate through clouds, but even your very own car windows. The damage to your skin is much greater, because it's something you can't visible see until later. While UVB is dangerous and results in sunburns and skin cancer, you're somewhat protected during your commute, because UVB doesn't penetrate through your car windows. UVA on the other hand does. UVA not only causes aging and wrinkles, but also contributes to skin cancer too! No matter the weather or seasons, both the UVA/UVB is dangerous and harmful to your skin and health.

So, remember--wear sunscreen even during the winter to protect yourself and your skin from skin cancer, aging, and hyperpigmentation. Choose a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection (to protect yourself from UVA/UVB) with SPF 25+.


These are my three favorite broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection SPF:

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch SPF 30
I started using this product when I was in high school and just never stopped! This is my go-to lazy day and gym day SPF. Even during my Netflix-in-bed-marathon, I'll cleanse my face in the morning and lather this on.  It also has a nice floral scent meanwhile giving me the ultimate protection and it's budget-friendly. I also apply this on my hands before driving. It doesn't leave me hands sticky or white, but I love knowing that I'm taking care as well as protecting my hands as I do for my face. Can't be looking all cute and having my hands ruin (or more like age) me!

Image Skincare Prevention+ Daily Tinted Moisturizer Oil-Free SPF 30+
I looove this tinted SPF!  I wear this literally everyday (unless it's my lazy day, of course) and even my night out around the town. It gives me great protection, coverage, and a nice glow. For me, the tinted moisturizer has the right amount of moisture and coverage that I can actually substitute foundation. It's the only thing I wear, day or night, working or clubbing--I'm wearing this!

BareMinerals Original Foundation Board Spectrum SPF 15 in Medium Beige 
Like I mentioned before, you must reapply your SPF every 2 hours! But like most ladies out there, I don't like touching my face after I've put on my "face". Especially when blush is involved. However, I found out that dusting on a power that also has SPF, like BareMinerals is the secret! Not only are you eliminating your chances of smearing or messing up your make-up every time you're reapplying your SPF, you're also applying a layer of coverage and protection! That is something I can't get out of any regular SPF.


What's your favorite SPF? XX

5 Beauty Places I Regret Not Visiting While in Europe

1. Florence, Italy 

First stop, Florence! I was only in Florence for 1 day and 2 nights and very much jet-lag. Needless to say, I should of stopped by Officina Profumo - Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella to stock up on some natural soaps and hand cremes. I'm a little bummed that I didn't, but then again I was throwing up almost everywhere (like outside of the Prada store and inside a Prada bag--not cute) so...maybe it was good I wasn't out in public too often. Although I was sick, I wished this was my first stop (before everything went down hill)! A little about OPFSMN and why it's a Florence beauty buy is that all of OPFSMN products are made with all natural ingredients and the flowers, herbs, and spices that are found in OPFSMN products are also found in the garden next to the store! How cool is that? Not only that, but their recipes date back to 400+ years!

2. Barcelona, Spain 

Tapas, Paella, churros...wait a minute, those are not beauty products, but they sure were tasty! But Taller Amapola is the place to get some Barcelona beauty buys that are natural. Taller Amapola is budget-friendly and have a variety of beauty products. However, one of my beauty weakness is essential oils, which Taller Amapola carries! I don't think I've every mentioned this, but I am obsessed with aromatherapy. Essential oils are extremely beneficial for your mental and physical health. I probably would of grabbed a few tea tree oil, since it's great for zapping away pimples and something I was running low on. I would of also loved to try Taller Amapola's Illuminating and Relaxing essential oil. One for my skin and the other for the panic attacks I randomly get at airports and on airplanes.

3. Paris, France

I can go on for days about the beauty products I regret not getting my hands on in Paris! Especially since I actually visited and spent about an hour in City-Pharma while I was in Paris! While there are many pharmacies around Paris, City-Pharma was by far the cheapest and most popular. I had a bunch of Parisian beauty products like Bioderma, La Roche-Posay, Nuxe, and etc. in my little red basket, but of course with my luck--my card wasn't accepted! Let's just say, when I walked out of City-Pharma empty-handed, I was close to tears (but that might always be because I was all alone and lost for about six hours too).  

4. London, England

Although I visited Boots while in London. I wish I had a chance to visit BeautyMart. It's like a Sephora with better packaging! Jo Malone would of been a wonderful place to visit too. Maybe not a wonderful look on my bank account, but wonderful nonetheless. (P.s Pearl Pharmacy is a great alternative if you can't go to City-Pharma in Paris. But the pricing might be a wee bit off...or by a lot).

5. Rome, Italy 

Rome was my final stop, before I flew back home. I wished I had a chance to shop for myself at KIKO, which I told myself while I brought my mom lipsticks at KIKO in Paris. Even though KIKO can pretty much be found anywhere in Europe, KIKO is an Italian cosmetics brand. KIKO is like MAC, minus being overpriced. It's a lovely place to visit without spending all your euros! I like that it's high quality, not tested on animals, and has a bajillon different products to choose from (without breaking the bank). The lipstick selection is just amazing and it's priced around 4-8 euro. So you can pick whichever price range you're comfortable with. A friend of mine actually stocked up on one of the eyeliner, before heading back home!