July Beauty Favorites

July 9, 2020

BEAUTY FAVORITES: VERSED JUST BREATHE CLARIFYING SERUM | KEVYN AUCOIN FOUNDATION BALM MEDIUM EF 5.5 | GLOW RECIPE AVOCADO MELT RETINOL EYE SLEEPING MASK | AMOREPACIFIC MOISTURE PLUMPING NECTAR CREAM | DRUNK ELEPHANT T.L.C. HAPPI SCALP™ SCRUB | PAYOT PÂTE GRISE JOUR DAY CARE MATTIFYING & SPOT TREATMENT

Haven’t done a monthly beauty favorite roundup in a year! Decided to bring it back since a lot of you missed this section on the beauty side of my blog. I’ve been sharing collections of items from particular brands as well, which has also been well-received, so I’m going to continue doing both. Would love to hear which one you prefer, feedback is always welcome! In today’s post, I’m sharing the latest skincare and makeup products that I deem to be my favorites from this month. This includes a new foundation but in balm form, an amazing eye sleeping mask that’s really done wonders, and a scalp scrub that has saved me from dry, itchy days! This is definitely for those who love dairy but suffer the consequence from having too much of it in your diet (what can I say your girl loves butter, milk and then some!) Continue reading to learn more about these products along with where you can find them!

VERSED JUST BREATHE CLARIFYING SERUM

A serum designed to clear acne and manage excess pore-clogging sebum. The dynamic trio of willow bark extract, niacinamide, and a zinc blend work together to calm inflammation (the root of skin’s problems), decongest pores, and soothe redness. I always use this serum when I tend to be breaking out, it definitely helps clear any blemishes that want to appear.

KEVYN AUCOIN FOUNDATION BALM MEDIUM EF 5.5

A full-coverage foundation with an innovative silky balm texture, fortified with hyaluronic acid for a flawless finish in an extended shade range. The innovative Beauty Foundation Balm comes with a specially-designed brush for effortless application. This foundation matches the Etherealist Foundation shades, and includes four additional shades to find the perfect color. This formula also contains bonus antioxidants, such as vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, to protect the skin.

GLOW RECIPE AVOCADO MELT RETINOL EYE SLEEPING MASK

An eye sleeping mask formulated with avocado, encapsulated retinol, and coffeeberry to help brighten, depuff and treat the appearance of dark circles. Potent, encapsulated ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide time release throughout all hours of the night, while avocado hydrates and nourishes, and coffeeberry helps to brighten and depuff the delicate under-eye area. The result is brighter, smoother, more awake-looking eyes by morning. Definitely doesn’t happen overnight, so don’t expect to see real results until after using it a few weeks consistently. This product has been ophthalmologist tested and dermatologist tested.

AMOREPACIFIC MOISTURE PLUMPING NECTAR CREAM

A nourishing, silky, plumping moisturizer that delivers radiance and hydration for a dewy, well-moisturized complexion. The star of this technologically advanced formula is the rare bamboo nectar, which is naturally rich in amino acids and emollients to help skin appear visibly plump and moisturized without feeling heavy. This cream includes green tea seed oil and lotus flower extract to drench skin with long-lasting moisture. It’s my favorite moisturizer this summer! Lightweight and pleasantly fragranced.

DRUNK ELEPHANT T.L.C. HAPPI SCALP™ SCRUB

A supercharged AHA/BHA acid blend that breaks down and dissolves dead skin cells and styling-product buildup, while biodegradable, gentle exfoliating beads sweep them away. Using antioxidant and fatty-acid-rich plant oils and a quick-absorbing multi-amino-acid blend, T.L.C. Happi Scalp™ Scrub keeps the scalp nourished, flake-free, and balanced. T.L.C. Happi Scalp™ Scrub has a pH level of 3.7. Perfect for those who tend to have a dry scalp. I do include dairy into my diet which is a definite culprit to scalp issues, but this scrub is Heaven sent!

PAYOT PÂTE GRISE JOUR DAY CARE MATTIFYING & SPOT TREATMENT

Discover Pâte Grise Jour, the new day care that fights spots. Its mattifying gel texture leaves a velvety finish on the skin. Pâte Grise Jour moisturizes and helps eliminate blemishes while protecting the skin against pollution. You will love its texture: a light and velvety purifying gel-cream. Active ingredients include Cannabis Sativa Seed Extract (no CBD, no THC), Chilean mint extract, zinc, and bamboo powder. Perfect to getting rid of dark spots.

LOVE & XX’S,

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5 Favorite Kérastase Hair Products

June 15, 2020

KÉRASTASE HAIR PRODUCTS: GENESIS STRENGTHENING BLOW DRY PRIMER | GENESIS STRENGTHENING SHAMPOO | GENESIS STRENGTHENING HAIR MASQUE | GENESIS SCALP SERUM | FRESH AFFAIR REFRESHING DRY SHAMPOO

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY KÉRASTASE BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

For the past few months, one act of beauty care I’ve been keeping track with is my hair. I had recently cut my hair this winter and along with the use of toner, I have not been back to the salon since. My hair is no longer short and the colors are slowly starting to fade. Which is why it’s so important to maintain my hair lately. I’ve been using Kérastase for many years and had to share my top 5 favorite products from this amazing hair brand. Continue reading to learn more along with direct links to shop each product!

GENESIS STRENGTHENING BLOW DRY PRIMER

The Genesis Fortifying Blow-Dry Fluid Primer is a strengthening blow-dry primer that protects against heat, adds hydration and shine, and helps prevent split ends. A lightweight, heat-protecting blow-dry primer for weakened hair that also helps reduce hair fall due to breakage from brushing.

GENESIS STRENGTHENING SHAMPOO

Tired of seeing hair on your brush? This ultra-delicate gel shampoo for normal to oily hair is the perfect solution. It gently clarifies, removes intense oil build up, and supports hair to reduce hair fall due to breakage from brushing.

GENESIS STRENGTHENING HAIR MASQUE

Break up with breakage, not with brushing. This intensely rich and creamy hair mask for weakened hair helps to reduce hair fall due to breakage from brushing. It hydrates hair to keep it nourished and smooth. I use this mask instead of a conditioner and leave it in during my entire shower and it’s honestly worth every penny. Plus it smells heavenly! Out of all of the Kérastase masks this has absolutely been my favorite.

GENESIS SCALP SERUM

This daily, non-greasy scalp serum has a scalp applicator that allows for precise application on the scalp. This serum is wonderful. It has really changed my hair for the better. I started noticing after a few days that I had significantly less hair fallout. Texture is more watery than oil. Super lightweight. Noticed healthier scalp right away.

FRESH AFFAIR REFRESHING DRY SHAMPOO

Cheat on bad hair days with the new Fresh Affair Dry Shampoo. Kérastase’s up to 24-hour, long-lasting neroli fragrance will leave your hair smelling gorgeous all day. Fresh Affair is formulated with rice starch and vitamin E to instantly absorb excess oil and leave your hair with a lightweight, clean feeling.

LOVE & XX’S,

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9 Favorite Hourglass Cosmetics Products

May 30, 2020

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY HOURGLASS COSMETICS BY ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

Hourglass Cosmetics, a cruelty free beauty brand, is known for its innovation and commitment to reinventing luxury cosmetics. Complexion, color and skincare are crafted to be undetectably transformative while effortless to apply. Paradigm products feature cutting-edge formulas with active ingredients and covetable packaging that elevate expectations of how a product should look, feel, and perform. Which is why I’ve rounded up 9 of my favorite products from this luxury makeup brand to help you get started. Continue reading to learn more along with direct links to shop each product!

VEIL™ EYE PRIMER

This long-wearing, lightweight formula creates an even canvas for eyeshadow and improves its performance, making its color more vibrant while reducing fading and creasing. Nourishing delicate skin with vitamins E and C, this eye primer also keeps skin moisturized and reduces the look of age spots and sun damage.

VEIL™ MINERAL PRIMER

This cream is formulated with microspheric powders that fill and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, minimize the look of pores, conceal redness, and create a smooth, even canvas for makeup. It is my most favorite primer of all time!

VEIL™ TRANSLUCENT SETTING POWDER

This finely milled, weightless setting powder is formulated with soft-focus light-reflecting particles to instantly blur imperfections and minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles for effortlessly smooth skin. I have oily combo skin and I find this powder does not magnify my skin, which I prefer! Definitely leaves a natural glow.

ARCH BROW SHAPING GEL

Paired with a custom dual-sided brush that coats brow hairs from root to tip, this soft-hold formula provides lasting, flake-proof wear in just one sweep. This clear, weightless brow gel dries invisible while softly holding brow hairs in place.

ARCH BROW SCULPTING PENCIL

This buildable formula combines powder, pencil, and wax to create the look of naturally fuller brows. The double-ended component also comes with a brush to blend and groom brows into place. I’ve tried many eyebrow pencils and this one is so smooth and perfectly matched to my eyebrow shade in dark brunette.

N° 28 LIP TREATMENT OIL

This is an advanced lip treatment. The formula combines essential oils, vitamins, and three powerful active ingredients in a supremely luxurious oil blend. The sleek applicator features an opulent 24-k gold-plated tip. This lip oil in Hourglass’s bestselling, brick red, exclusive shade, has some great ingredients such as Saliporine-8, known for elevating moisture levels in the skin, Volulip™, known for improving the appearance of lip texture, shape, and softness, and Viamerine, known for hydrating and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

CONFESSION™ ULTRA SLIM HIGH INTENSITY LIPSTICK IN ‘AT NIGHT’

Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Refillable Lipstick delivers creamy, saturated, long-wearing color with a satin finish without smudging or feathering. Each lipstick is encapsulated in a sleek gold applicator to provide the ultimate control to precisely accentuate, contour, and define the lips. Featuring the ultimate luxury lip accessory, the gold applicator can be used interchangeably with the full collection of Confession Ultra Slim Lipstick Refills (sold separately). My favorite shade is ‘At Night’ which is the most used brick red color I’ve been using lately.

AMBIENT LIGHTING POWDER IN ‘RADIANT LIGHT’

Create the perfect illumination for your face with Hourglass Ambient® Lighting Powder. Infused with the innovative Photoluminescent Technology, each finishing powder captures, diffuses, and softens the look of the skin. The micron-size, color-correcting particles refract light and create transparent coverage, filtering out harsh light and refining the appearance of the skin. My favorite lighting powder is the shade, ‘Radiant Light’, a sun-kissed golden beige that enhances the overall complexion with believable, subtle warmth, and also extends a summer glow.

VEIL™ SETTING SPRAY

This weightless setting spray sets makeup while blurring the look of imperfections. Undetectable on the skin, the ultra-fine and hydrating mist creates a visibly smooth, even, and naturally radiant appearance. Its water-resistant properties enhance foundation for maximum staying power, setting it in place for up to 24 hours.

LOVE & XX’S,

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7 Favorite Laura Mercier Beauty Products

October 28, 2019

THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY LAURA MERCIER BUT ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.

When it comes to beauty looks, my favorite makeup is the ‘no makeup’ makeup kind of look. It is that flawless and effortless one, with no drama to be anywhere nearby. One brand that has definitely been a pioneer of that certain ‘face’ and inspires women to embrace their individual beauty is Laura Mercier. Laura Mercier has created some of the beauty industry’s most iconic products, such as the Allure “Best of Beauty” Translucent Loose Setting Powder, the first Foundation Primer, her beloved Caviar Stick Eye Colour, and so much more. In today’s beauty post, I’m sharing 7 of my favorite products from Laura Mercier. Continue reading to learn more along with direct links to shop for each product!

FACE ILLUMINATOR POWDER IN ‘INDISCRETION’

Laura Mercier Face Illuminator Powder highlights the skin with pure light-reflecting pigments for a color-true, multidimensional, and luminous finish that complements all skin tones. Its non-dusting texture allows for excellent color payoff and applies smoothly and evenly onto the skin without dragging. Designed to complement all skin tones, the unique formula brings natural-looking radiance to the complexion for an instant glow that lasts up to eight hours. I’ve tried many highlighters and this one is still the best in the market. My favorite shade is ‘Indiscretion’ which is a great goldish pearly tone for medium skin tones.

MATTE BRONZING POWDER IN ‘SOLEIL 1’

Matte bronzing powder delivers a natural-looking warmth to the skin. Silky, micro-fine powder feels weightless on skin, goes on smoothly and blends seamlessly to provide the ultimate sun-kissed glow. I enjoy using this product as a subtle contour when I want that to be as seamless as possible. It’s a great bronzing powder in general, and I really love how it looks on the skin.

TRANSLUCENT LOOSE SETTING POWDER

Cult-favorite and winner of multiple major awards, Laura Mercier's "best in beauty," #1 setting powder* is your go-to powder. I love the super smooth application, which goes on evenly, blends effortlessly and provides great wear. Sets makeup for 12 hours without adding weight or texture. Literally the best setting powder I have ever used to date.

MATTE RADIANCE BAKED POWDER IN ‘HIGHLIGHT 01’

The ultra-lightweight formula feels comfortable and weightless on the skin, applies smoothly and blends effortlessly. Features a smooth, silky, velvety texture and long-wearing formula that lasts up to eight hours and stays color-true without oxidizing for an even wear. Use for refined highlighting or soft strobing. This multidimensional highlight shade works on all skin tones. A very elegant looking highlighter.

VELOUR EXTREME MATTE LIPSTICK IN ‘VIBE’

Modern matte lipstick so seductive in color, touch, and texture, the sensation is irresistible. Mattifying powders and silky conditioners envelop your lips in the softness and comfort of velour, sans drying and cracking. The collection of 24 vivid, full-coverage shades provide intense color with a dramatic, matte finish. The slim precision bullet allows the formula to grab and glide over lips, defining and filling in one seamless stroke, while the built-in shaper customizes the tip for precision lining and detailed filling. It is ideal for creating edgy effects and everyday extremes, with no liner needed. One of my favorite shades is a medium pink-beige called, ‘Vibe’. Perfect nude color for everyday wear.

CAVIAR STICK EYE COLOR IN ‘GILDED GOLD’

This extremely versatile cream eyeshadow stick delivers effortless application, intense, buildable color and up to 12-hour wear. Pigment-rich shades in creamy shimmer and matte finish glides seamlessly onto the lids, staying crease and transfer-resistant. The luxe formulation gives you plenty of time to smudge, blend, line, fill or define, so you can effortlessly create any look. Don’t be afraid to be playful! Caviar Stick Eye Color layers easily over or under other eyeshadows, including powder. A favorite shade I like to use all the time is called ‘Mystic Gold’.

FOUNDATION PRIMER HYDRATING

Moisture-rich face primer nourishes, soothes and conditions skin as it creates a smooth surface for flawless makeup application. The formula provides a soft-focus effect to help minimize the look of pores, fine lines and imperfections. Laura created this expert hydrating primer specifically for dry, dehydrated skin. Lightweight, creamy formula creates a protective moisture buffer, with an enhanced antioxidant vitamin "cocktail" that helps protect skin against harmful, aging effects of the environment.

LOVE & XX’S,

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Pain Relief with CBDMEDIC

September 27, 2019

This post is sponsored by CBDMEDIC but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

Being with MaQ, my German shepherd dog, is very important to me. As much as I love going out and meeting new people, there's nothing better than spending quality time together. We're no couch potatoes but we love getting our sweat on! I'm not necessarily a gym rat or fitness guru, but figure skating has been a huge part of my life in terms of staying physically fit. Not only did it keep me in top shape I was aware of the discipline it took to stay that way, and since then I haven't changed. But what has changed is my body. All the years of being on the ice did some damage, and little aches and pains have resurfaced a lot lately. If you haven't heard by now CBD is a great alternative for pain relief and in today's post, I'm sharing a new line of ointments that are safe, powerful and effective. Continue reading to learn more!

I love to go running with my pup in the city but recently I've experienced pain in my shoulder and back. I don't believe it has stemmed from running but rather being in awkward positions while doing several photoshoots (I'm also a photographer) seems to be the culprit. But the aches around these areas feel more apparent while running, which can be very distracting. Which is why I started using CBDMEDIC Ointments. CBDMEDIC products are the first family of topical medications that combine highly effective analgesic ingredients (like menthol and camphor) with hemp oil or extract and other natural emollients. Their advanced scientific groundbreaking formulas deliver to a wide range of people, like myself, who suffer from acute pain. And yes, “CBD”—a THC-free cannabinoid-rich hemp extractor oil from the Cannabis sativa L. plant is a natural alternative for pain relief. And how cool is it that this brand has 15 years of science in the making for these products?!

I've been using the Active Sport™ for general muscle aches and pain, and for more specific targets like my back and shoulder area, I've been using the Back & Neck formula. I love the smell of them, as there's a little bit of eucalyptus and menthol - which gives that relaxing, calming scent. The menthol increases blood ﬂow to areas affected by sprains, arthritis, and muscle spasms to enable increased movement. They even have a formula for arthritis - all cruelty-free and made with natural ingredients. They do sell other products which are available at your local CVS Pharmacy. You can find your closest one here.