February Beauty Favorites

March 5, 2018

BEAUTY FAVORITES: SULWHASOO ESSENTIAL TRAVEL KIT | CLARISONIC MIA 1 SKIN 
CLEANSING SYSTEM | CLARISONIC THE ESSENTIALS SET | ALGENIST GENIUS LIQUID COLLAGEN | 
FIRST AID BEAUTY ULTRA REPAIR TINTING MOISTURIZER in MEDIUM | LANEIGE LIP 
SLEEPING MASK | BLISS® LEMON + SAGE SOAPY SUDS BODY WASH | BLISS® LEMON + SAGE BODY
 BUTTER | JIN SOON NEO POP COLLECTION | GIVENCHY EAUDEMOISELLE DE GIVENCHY PERFUME | 
URBAN DECAY COSMETICS DISCO QUEEN HOLOGRAPHIC STICK | URBAN DECAY COSMETICS 
HOLOGRAPHIC POWDER | MOUNT LAI JADE ROLLER

I'm well overdue on last month's beauty favorites! You'll have to excuse the delay. With two weeks of back-to-back fashion weeks in New York and London, travel, and nonstop content creating since coming home, it's been rather the most difficult in terms of time management. I just can't do it all by myself, mind you it's still this way. Nonetheless, here are my top ten favs this past month - trust me it was hard to narrow it down to these! Continue reading to learn more about what's trending in the skin care & makeup world, from neo pop nail polish to a lip sleeping mask, these are all great beauty products you need to have in your hands right away come spring.

1. SULWHASOO ESSENTIAL TRAVEL KIT

When it comes to traveling, I find it best to bring compact sized items in my beauty and makeup products. Which is why this month I've been using Sulwhasoo's Essential line. It was perfect for my five day trip to London for fashion week as it is travel size. There are three items included in the kit. Sulwhasoo's essential water soothes and hydrates, leaving your skin supple. The water containing Matrimony Vine and Purslane provides hydration, leaving your skin with a delicate veil of moisture. The essential emulsion helps improve skin texture, providing rich moisture to leave skin dewy and smooth. Mountain Peony extract helps improve skin texture while Yai Jiu Hua helps elevate skin clarity. It spreads easily over the skin’s surface and absorbs completely, leaving it soft and supple. Lastly the cream seamlessly absorbs into skin for a naturally healthy complexion.
The cream helps fortify aged and loosened look of the skin, completing an overall younger-looking appearance. Formulated after dedicated research of skin resilience, Sulwhasoo developed JISUN Firming Complex™, a special ingredient complex of goji berries, black beans, and arrowroot. The proprietary complex effectively supports a more firm look of the skin. The cream helps skin to retain moisture, and makes its surface appear firm while hydrated. The whole collection together is thorough - my skin never looked fresher while traveling.

2. CLARISONIC MIA 1 SKIN CLEANSING SYSTEM

I've been using this with my regular face cleanser from La Roche Posay with Clarisonic's Mia 1™ features one speed for basic sonic facial cleansing. Oscillation technology distributes 300 micro-massage movements that happen every second to work within skin's natural elasticity to sweep away dirt, oil, and makeup to unclog pores, while fluid forces allow the water on the device to flush pores clean. After only 60 seconds, these patented technologies in the Clarisonic facial brush cleanse skin up to six times better than hands alone. This leaves skin ready for treatment products and prepared for smooth, flawless makeup application. This set contains:- Clarisonic Mia 1 White (with Radiance Brush Head) with a USB enabled charger.

3. CLARISONIC THE ESSENTIALS SET

The 4 brushes included in this set, the Clarisonic Acne Cleansing Brush Head is for sensitive, acne-prone skin and has extra-plush bristles to provide gentle cleansing. The Deep Pore Brush is for all skin types with enlarged pores, the Clarisonic Deep Pore Cleansing Brush Head is engineered with graduated dual-action bristles to help flush and dislodge oil and debris that clogs pores. The Radiance Cleansing Brush Head is specifically engineered with extra fine bristles to deliver a luxurious and highly effective sonic cleansing experience. This unique and patented brush head helps to remove sebum and dullness. And lastly, the new sonic foundation blending brush from Clarisonic utilizes patented oscillation technology to generate more than 18,000 micro-blends per minute. The makeup brush gently provides a flawless, full foundation coverage look in 60 seconds or less. Equipped with anti-microbial and non-porous bristles, it is easy to clean and ensures minimal absorption so you use less foundation. You can also use it to apply contour, concealer, blush and more. But nothing powder-related, it has to be liquid/cream form.

4. ALGENIST GENIUS LIQUID COLLAGEN

This breakthrough fountain of youth leverages a clean, vegan formulation design to help replenish and preserve a healthy, youthful skin matrix by delivering vegan collagen to the skin in its most active state. The anti-aging formula contains 13,000 microalgae oil beads naturally sourced and sustainably produced, omegas 3, 6, and 9, and a natural source of vitamin E. Skin is left more resilient, brighter, and youthful-looking. Since using it, my skin looks bouncy, radiant and well-toned.

5. FIRST AID BEAUTY ULTRA REPAIR® TINTED MOISTURIZER

A multitasker with sun protection that provides up to 12 hours of soothing hydration, imparts a natural, luminous finish, and reduces the look of visible imperfections. Formulated with vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and other nourishing ingredients, this tinted moisturizer provides skin with up to 12 hours of soothing hydration and broad-spectrum SPF 30. Colloidal oatmeal and allantoin help to reduce the appearance of redness, while calming and soothing sensitive skin. Natural mineral pigments and micro-pearls deliver good, clean, buildable coverage to enhance skin's natural radiance, while minimizing the look of redness, pores, uneven skin tone, and other visible imperfections. The whipped, mousse-like formulation will not clog pores. I've linked the product in the shade I've been using which has been 'medium'.

6. LANEIGE LIP SLEEPING MASK

The Lip Sleeping Mask has a softening balm texture that closely adheres to lips for quick absorption. Enriched with vitamin C and antioxidants, its Berry Mix Complex™ offers a nutritiously sweet and fragrant blend of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, and blueberry extracts to indulge the senses. Exclusive Moisture Wrap™ technology boasts hyaluronic acid and minerals to form a protective film over the lips to lock in moisture and active ingredients. A generous layer of this soothing mask at bedtime helps reduce flakiness so you can wake up to lips that feel refreshed, supple, and soft to the touch. Moisture Wrap™ - an exclusive technology that features a mineral network of moisture-rich beta-glucan to form an 8-hour time-release moisturizing layer over skin. It locks in active ingredients and mineral water. What's the best part? It tastes like watermelon and yes, it's the best lip sleeping mask I've ever tried!

7. BLISS® LEMON + SAGE SOAPY SUDS BODY WASH

Bliss Lemon Plus Sage Soapy Suds jump-starts your morning with its invigorating body cleansing action. This fragrant body wash or bubble bath gently removes dirt and oil while comforting and moisturizing your skin. Glycerin acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin. Aloe soothes inflammation and irritation. Vitamin E softens the skin and fights free radicals.

8. BLISS® LEMON + SAGE BODY BUTTER

Lemon + Sage Body Butter - Bliss' Lemon + Sage Body Butter restores moisture to even the most 'rough and scaly skin' as it protects the skin from free radicals. It smooth's, softens, and hydrates dry skin, without making it feel greasy. Used in over 70,000 Bliss Spa massages every year worldwide, this superior skin-smoothing formula has gained a huge following - making it one of Bliss' best selling products. I am a definite fan of the product.

9. JIN SOON NEO POP COLLECTION

Pop art has been a major source of inspiration since the inception of the JINsoon nail lacquer line, so it was only fitting that JINsoon teamed up with Korean Pop Artist, Hyang- Sook Yun, for the JINsoon Neo-Pop Collection. Hyang-Sook is known for super-imposing dot matrix patterns as a transformative medium over silhouette-like archetypal images. The various shades, all yielding an Andy Warhol-like result goes perfect for an iconic product such as JINsoon nail lacquer. I've been using their collections for years and it's my favorite nail polish brand.

10. GIVENCHY EAUDEMOISELLE DE GIVENCHY EXTRAVAGANT

Magnetic spices are blended with green citrus notes, followed by blossoming tuberose, and heightened by the warm, animalistic, and milky facets of vanilla bean on a sensual woody background. Adorned in matte black warmed by the golden lettering, the bottle presents a refined and modern design. Extravagant celebrates a heady and addictive flower, revealing an intense and sensual floral trail for a bewitching, self-assured, and intrepid woman.

11. URBAN DECAY COSMETICS DISCO QUEEN HOLOGRAPHIC STICK

This holographic highlighter creates an iridescent, multidimensional sheen that looks amazing on any skin tone. Use a little for a subtly ethereal shimmer, or keep layering for an intensely holographic highlight. This silky, lightweight formula glides on, flashes down, and has an airy finish so it won't interfere with your complexion makeup.

12. URBAN DECAY COSMETICS HOLOGRAPHIC POWDER

A lightweight, insanely pretty powder that comes in a translucent, iridescent lavender shade and creates a luminous, holographic sheen. Take your glow into the next dimension with this lightweight, insanely pretty powder that creates a luminous, holographic sheen. Use a little for a more subtle glow, or build and layer to achieve a high-watt highlight. UD infused this velvety formula with lustrous pearl pigments. There's never any white cast just a pretty, luminous glow. And because this formula isn't pressed, the feel is ultra-lightweight.

13. MOUNT LAI JADE ROLLER

The jade roller is a Chinese skincare tool that has been used for thousands of years. Perfected throughout the centuries, this facial massager was built to have a cooling, soothing effect on the skin. Besides improving overall health and radiance of the skin, jade rolling has a multitude of benefits such as improving blood circulation, reducing puffiness and inflammation of the skin, and relieving facial and jaw tension. I have to say it might seem silly using something like this when it comes to skincare, but it's really great for de-puffing. (Love it around the eye area.)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Refreshing 'Me' Moment with Michelob ULTRA

February 24, 2018

What's better than after a few weeks of nonstop work, traveling included, with socializing -overload to coming home to the familiarity? New York may be chaotically insane to some, and you're right... it is, but it's where I lay my head and do find calm in the also nonstop business of the city. The sights and sounds always feel as is, just as the friends I have come to have in over a decade. But I love escaping to my rooftop for a moment of 'silence', alone, with the city. The buzz is electric and makes me dream; makes me feel alive. Feel at home.

As much as I enjoy spending time with friends and loved ones, and even meeting new people, I do and need my 'alone' time. With Michelob ULTRA you don’t have to make sacrifices, with only 95 calories and 2.6 carbs. No, I did not drink a six pack alone! But after a long day running around the city catching up on work, meetings and more, can you blame me for taking a breather straight to the rooftop? It's still not spring season in New York City but the weather has been a teaser lately! So it's a mix in between - keeping the beer cool and refreshing. :)

After time to myself which is usually consisted of sifting through books and taking photos, I usually have people over or MaQ hangout, so you can rest assure that beer is shared. (Not with the pup!) To all my busy bees - if you're looking for new ways to shake up your end-of-the-day routine, Michelob ULTRA is throwing the 95K Sweepstakes where they're giving away 95,000 fitness experiences. Check out the details and enter here.

LOVE & XX'S,

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10 Step Skincare Routine in a Jar

February 13, 2018

Fashion week always takes such a toll on my skin, and especially during the colder months of the year, where the air is so dry, and then you add in traveling, where a flight will completely suck the moisture out of your skin. So I've been looking for something that can do it all. Even in travel size. I've been using Cold Plasma Plus by Perricone M.D. now for the past few weeks and the results are incredible! Continue reading to hear the benefits of the powerful concentrated serum - it's literally a 10-step skincare routine in a jar!

If you guys are seeking improvement with fine lines, pore size reduction, uneven texture and/or uneven skin tone, Cold Plasma Plus is what you need in your skin care regimen! On top of its convenient size, it is a scent-free formula and truly is one jar that does it all. It's perfect for anyone who doesn't have the time for heavy-duty skincare routines because let's face it, there are only 24 hours in a day. I know many will find the beauty product to be a bit pricey ($149.00) but think about it, it's your entire skincare line in one jar. Talk about an investment not just with your money, but with your time!

It is great for anyone with normal to dry skin, and the perfect transformation from dullness to radiance. My skin always looks so plump and glowy after using it, I am definitely using this bad boy on the plane to keep my skin hydrated. Since it's a serum, I apply it after removing makeup and washing my face. I sometimes add in moisturizer after a serum for a more powerful hydration effect but you won't need to with Cold Plasma Plus. Even though it is extremely hydrating, Cold Plasma Plus doesn't clog your pores and won't aggravate acne-prone skin, which I tend to get from time to time due to hormonal changes and/or stress.

I've also been using the Mount Lai jade facial roller after applying the serum. The jade roller is a Chinese skincare tool that has been used for thousands of years. Perfected throughout the centuries, this facial massager was built to have a cooling, soothing effect on the skin. Besides improving overall health and radiance of the skin, jade rolling has a multitude of benefits such as improving blood circulation, reducing puffiness and inflammation of the skin, and relieving facial and jaw tension. I have to say it might seem silly using something like this when it comes to skincare, but it's really great for de-puffing. (love it around the eye area) Feel free to check out more info on Cold Plasma Plus and Mount Lai on their websites and try them out.

LOVE & XX'S,

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January Beauty Favorites

January 31, 2018

11 January Must-Have Beauty Favorites

1. Kat Burki Vitamin C Nourishing Cleansing Balm, $60

2. Kat Burki PH & Enzyme Essence, $100

3. Kat Burki Form Control Marine Collagen Gel, $150

4. Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Moisturizer, $99

5. Urban Decay Cosmetics Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette, $25

6. Dome Beauty Eye Brush Set, $65

7. Pixi by Petra MatteLast Liquid Lip in 'Really Rose', $14

8. KORRES Greek Yoghurt Under Eye Priming Moisturiser, $36

9. Madam Glam New York Gelementary in 'Teacher's Pet', $12

10. Herbal Dynamics Beauty Rose Water Calming Face Toner, $20

11. Neon & Co. Body Oil, $32

Phew! To be quite honest, I've been so busy I didn't think this beauty post would go up today but I burned the midnight oil because I was too excited to share my January beauty favorites with you guys! There's a ton of skincare going on here today because let's 'face' it (ha ha ha sometimes I think I'm 'p'unny) the harsh winter months wreak havoc on to our skin. I've got all sorts of goodies to keep your skin hydrated and glowing, on top of a really cool eyeshadow palette that's a bit of a Troublemaker, an amazing new nail polish where I also found my perfect nude shade color, and a body oil that's the best I've ever had. Continue reading to learn more about these amazing beauty products! Happy (Almost) February! ----> [Insert: One crazy, hectic month for moi.]

1. KAT BURKI VITAMIN C NOURISHING CLEANSING BALM

Repairs, renews and illuminates skin using a reparative combination of 15% STAY C (Vitamin C), Camu Camu berry, Gotu Kola and seven reparative Cold Processed Oils: Coconut, Sunflower, Jojoba, Rose Hip Seed, Olive, Avocado and Cranberry Seed. Helps repair the signs of aging, increases skin plumpness, prevents dryness, brightens skin, retains moisture, cleanses skin and removes stubborn makeup/mascara. Some of you may have seen a mini-episode of me using this cleansing balm on Insta-Stories and it took makeup off when I thought I had a thoroughly clean face! This is after washing with a different cleanser. I'm thinking of sharing it on my Highlights on Instagram. What do you guys think? Yay or nay?

2. KAT BURKI PH & ENZYME ESSENCE

Rarely addressed, our skin is best (and looks best) when its ph (potential hydrogen) level is mid-level to acidic – alkaline ratio, 0 (most acidic) to 14 (most alkaline). The skin’s barrier (acid mantle) is responsible for keeping lipids and moisture locked in as well as protecting against pollutants, toxins, and bacteria. Optimizing the skin’s ph level is an important step towards overall skin health and protection from environmental damage and the aging process.
Kat Burki created a unique complex of ph balancing ingredients. Fruit enzymes help to resurface the acid mantle. Once a strong barrier function is achieved, secondary conditions, such as hyperpigmentation and weakened elasticity can be addressed. Healthy acid mantle maintains moisture and keeps skin soft and smooth. Antioxidant dense turmeric strengthens while vitamin C from orange hydrosols, pumpkin seed oil, and papaya support collagen to maintain skin structure and firmness. I use it as a toner after cleansing my face am & pm. I'm not a huge fan of the smell, but after having used it consistently, you get accustomed to it after a while. I find it to be one of the best balancers when it came to skin tone, overall hydration, and bounce. I wish they made one in travel-size!

3. KAT BURKI FORM CONTROL™ MARINE COLLAGEN GEL

Clinically proven to transform your skin, this marine collagen gel increases skin’s firmness and elasticity. Pure algae Keratin provides essential nutrients while Botanical Hyaluronic Acid fused with Silk Amino Acid Proteins visibly fills in fine lines and wrinkles and increases hydration. 14 known Collagen Boosters not only encourage skin to uptake the Marine Collagen for filling and plumping, but are also proven generators to increase skin’s own collagen production. Further boosted by KB5™ Complex and Reishi Mushroom, Plant Stem Cells provide anti-inflammatory benefits. This gel does wonders and even though is a bit pricey, is worth every penny. My skin hasn't looked this good in I don't even know how long! :)

4. LANCÔME RENERGIE LIFE MULTI-ACTION ULTRA FIRMING & DARK SPOT CORRECTING MOISTURIZER SPF 30

Meet your new moisturizer that breaks all of the rules: Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra. Powered by linseed extract, this moisturizer works to lift, firm, improve wrinkles, and visibly reduce dark spots. (Hi, sun damage & acne scars.) The quick-absorbing texture is oil-free and will not clog pores. SPF 30 provides additional protection against future environmental skin damage. The texture blends seamlessly into skin, leaving behind no white residue regardless of skin tone, revealing radiant, comfortable, hydrated skin all day long with or without makeup. The fragrance is lovely as well.

5. URBAN DECAY COSMETICS TROUBLEMAKER EYESHADOW PALETTE

Urban Decay is always stirring up trouble, and Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette is no exception. Inside, you'll find 10 sultry shades perfect for scandalous nights. Whether you want to go bronzy, jewel-toned or smoky, it's all here. The perfect finishing touch? A travel-size Troublemaker Mascara, plus some scandalous thoughts, courtesy of designer (and fellow troublemaker) Jac Vanek.

Small enough to take anywhere, Troublemaker Eyeshadow Palette was made for sin. These shades are perfect for when you're up to no good - from a warm red matte to a metallic smoky gray with a shifty red-brown undertone. This palette even includes one split-pan shadow, Clash, that has a shimmery white on one half and UD's legendary blackest black matte (Blackout) on the other. Every shade has a velvety texture, rich color, serious staying power, and blendability.

6. DOME BEAUTY EYE BRUSH SET

It all started with a brush. Without the right brush, application will falter and frustrate. Designed to respond to varying contours of the face, Dome Beauty brushes provide the control you need for a fluid, flawless application. The Eye Brush Set includes: Eye Blender, Eye Shadow and Eye Liner brushes and is protected by their exclusive BEAUTY BRUSH ARMOR. (Genius for anyone who has a pet with haiiiiiirrrrrrr as this cover isn't called an armor for anything.)

7. PIXI BY PETRA MATTELAST LIQUID LIPSTICK IN 'REALLY ROSE'

Extreme longwear, highly pigmented yet comfortable, this rosehip oil infused liquid lipstick quickly sets to a matte veil. In a few strokes your lips are enveloped in full on color that will last all day!PREP - Gently exfoliate lips with a lip scrub to smooth and condition.APPLY - Outline lips with the point of the applicator. Apply a thin layer to clean bare lips, allowing color to set. There's five really beautiful shades of pink that I received from Pixi Beauty, but my favorite lip color and I think the one that suits me best out of them all is the 'Really Rose' shade. But I really, really, love these lipsticks. A LOT.

8. KORRES GREEK YOGHURT UNDER EYE PRIMING MOISTURISER

This advanced nourishing eye cream is formulated with yogurt, a centuries-old Greek skin soothing solution, and myrtle and rhodiola rosea extracts to reduce the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, and puffiness. The cooling treatment perfectly primes the delicate eye area for flawless concealer application and is ideal for sensitive eyes prone to allergies. The ceramic cooling tip gently massages eyes with each application, giving eyes a refreshed and rested look.

Madam Glam New York Gelementary Nail Polish

9. MADAM GLAM NAIL POLISH GELEMENTARY in 'TEACHER'S PET'

This gel-like nail polish has the right amount of elegance and it is the perfect shade to lighten up your vibrant personality! Madam Glam has an assortment of colors ranging from bright to more subtle, such as nude shades. I always have a hard time finding the right shade with my skin tone but 'Teacher's Pet' is the perfect peach nude! I tried it once and have been using it since I have been getting a ton of compliments on the shade. I love that it lasts longer than normal nail polish and you don't need the typical LED/UV light to dry gel nails. I literally do two coats for full opacity and a top coat and I'm good for about ten days.

10. HERBAL DYNAMICS BEAUTY ROSE WATER CALMING FACE TONER

Soothe and calm skin with rose, green tea, chamomile, and witch hazel. Aloe and hyaluronic acid deliver instant hydration for a fresh, youthful appearance. Rose oil helps improve the effectiveness of beauty and skincare treatments by increasing permeability, making this toner perfect for use prior to serums and moisturizers in your routine. The smell is intoxicating and I love how relaxing the spray feels to my face, especially on drier winter days.

11. NEON & CO. BODY OIL

Oil is the answer. A vegan-friendly, super rich, hydrating, and illuminating body oil. The kind you’ll want to bathe in - but who has time for that. Super absorbing, rub it all over. That means everywhere. It should only ever irritate you when it runs out. Let the gentle ingredients like Vitamin E and Jojoba Oil work their magic on your skin. All I have to say about this body oil is that it's my all-time favorite. That is all. :)

LOVE & XX'S,

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Kat Burki Form Control Marine Collagen Gel

Lancome Renergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Firming and Dark Spot Correcting Moisturizer SPF 30

KORRES Greek Yoghurt Under Eye Priming Moisturizer

Herbal Dynamics Beauty Rose Water Calming Face Toner

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December Beauty Favorites

December 29, 2017

BEAUTY FAVORITES: URBAN DECAY ALL NIGHTER LONG-LASTING MAKEUP SETTING SPRAY | 
GRANDE COSMETICS GRANDE PRIMER | FREEMAN BEAUTY INFUSION® 
FIRMING HYDROGEL EYE MASK | YSL BEAUTY BLACK OPIUM BODY LOTION | 
DR BRANDT OXYGEN FACIAL | RIMMEL LONDON MAGNIF'EYES 
SMOKE EDITION PALETTE 003 | ERBORIAN DOUBLE MOUSSE GENTLE CLEANSING FOAM |
LA ROCHE POSAY EFFACLAR SERUM | COLORESCIENCE® SUNFORGETTABLE LOOSE MINERAL POWDER 
BRUSH SPF 30 IN MEDIUM | REVISION® SKINCARE FIRMING NIGHT TREATMENT | CUTEX STRENGTH 
SHIELD NAIL POLISH REMOVER | MADAM GLAM "LIAR" MATTE LIPSTICK