Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts

March 30, 2020

My Simple Pamper Routine | Spring 2020

I'm not going to lie-- my life has been pretty boring lately. I've been staying indoors trying to make the best of the quarantine lifestyle. With that being said, I have quite a bit of time to pamper myself.


DIY Brown Sugar Scrub

One of my favorite ways to pamper myself is by exfoliating the dead skin cells off my body. I like to make my own sugar scrub with products from my pantry:
  • Brown sugar
  • Olive oil
  • Honey


Extra Smooth Sensitive 5 Blade Razor by Venus

I usually use my f.a.b razor, but I ran out of heads for it. (And, they're super expensive!) I had this disposable razor in the back of my closet and decided to give it a try. I really like it's ability to glide over hard to reach areas, like my ankles. It also gets a super close shave! 



Bath and Body Works please bring this back! I am absolutely obsessed with this product for shaving. It is an oil-based consistency, which allows me to get a super close shave. It lasts for days! I use tis product sparingly as it is discontinued. 



Now that I am living in Florida, I am constantly spending time in my pool. Sometimes my hair needs some extra love. This conditioner brings my hair back to life, causing it to appear soft and shiny.



Radiance Renewal Oil-infused Cream by Gold Bond Ultimate

Shoutout to Influenster for sending this to me. I absolutely love this product. My legs are beaming afterwards. #Glowy




My sister's godmother gave me this product and I really like it. It's absorbent and extremely lightweight.


I like to do this pampering routine two times a week. I don't do it more than that because I don't want to over exfoliate my skin. It's super simple and quick, yet it still makes me feel better. What are some of your go-to products when you need a sudden pick-me-up?


March 23, 2020

Affordable + Natural Makeup Routine

Ever since I was 13, I have loved experimenting with different makeup brands, formulas, and products. 8 years later and I still have a passion for it. In the past couple of months, I have tried multiple different products to help me create my new favorite natural makeup look. Not to mention, it's very affordable!


Hydrating Como Concealer | e.l.f Cosmetics

TikTok made me do it! I am absolutely obsessed with this concealer-- I've never experienced a product like it. It's lightweight, yet high coverage. It leaves your skin looking silky smooth. I like to use this under my eyes to conceal dark circles. I also use it on any blemishes and/or red marks. It works wonders!



Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Translucent Setting Powder | L'Oréal Paris

A few months ago, I was on the hunt for a new setting powder. I picked up this one. Mostly because I received a free gift with purchase. How could I pass that up? I ended up loving this powder. It truly does lock in your makeup. Best part is: no cakey finish!




An impulse buy that I couldn't be more stoked about. This warm rose shade is so flattering! It's a very universal shade; I think it would look great on a variety of skintones. It is great for girls and guys on the go who are looking to wake their skin up in a pinch. The moisturizing formula makes it easy to quickly blend the product out. I like to use a beauty blender, but if I'm in a rush, I simply use my fingers. 10/10 recommend! (Note to Colourpop: If you're reading this, please sponsor me!)





I received this product complimentary. I am still on the hunt for a brow gel that I love. However, this one does the job and it's only $2. I can't complain! It takes me 10 seconds to tame my brow with this product. Super easy to reapply throughout the day too if need be. 




On days when I'm looking to add some color to my lids, I reach for this $12 palette. I absolutely love the shade range. I opt for neutrals and pinks because they're easy to blend. I like to apply a light shimmery shade to my lid and a darker brown to my crease. I usually play around with the top four shades to create a natural, subtle look.




Did I fall into their trap of using Bambi as a marketing strategy? #YaIDidYaIDid

Am I mad about it? No! I am obsessed with this mascara. It lengthens and volumizes my lashes, creating the illusion of bigger eyes. I love it! I'm obsessed! 


I can't believe all of these products are from the drugstore! In all honesty, I believe they are comparable to high-end brands like Urban Decay and Tarte Cosmetics. I will definitely be using these products to help me create natural makeup looks throughout the spring season. If you have any affordable makeup products you can't live without, let me know!



July 29, 2019

My Summer Pampering Routine | Testing New Beauty Products

Self-care is one of my favorite things to do. I love indulging in a bubble bath with my favorite face mask on. I decided to pick up some new products to experiment with.


Depending on my schedule, I do this routine 1-2 times a week:


Haircare.

I'm always switching up my shampoos and conditioners. Lately, I've been using The Pro-V 3 Minute Miracle Smooth & Sleek Daily Conditioner by Pantene. (I'm also a huge fan of their rescue shots!)

Body.

I usually let my body soak for 10-15 minutes and then proceed with my shower routine. Step 1: Exfoliate! My summer go-to is the Exfoliating Body Polish Kiwi Seeds & Cool Aloe by Dove. After a day out in the sun, this product nourishes my skin while it removes dead cells.

Step 2: Shave! Way back when, Bath & Body Works released their Active Skincare line. Needless to say, I was a huge fan. I stocked up on 5 bottles of their Shave + Shower 2-1 Body Oil Cleanser. The formula allows me to get a super close shave.

Meditation.

Being a psychology major, I know the importance of practicing mindfulness. I like to practice mindfulness in the bath tub-- it's so peaceful! I really like the Meditation Minis Podcast on Spotify.



Hair.

I picked up a bunch of new haircare products. However, today, I was feeling an oil treatment. This leaves my hair feeing super smooth and looking shiny as ever.

Face.

All of my favorite products are being discontinued-- including my favorite Peter Thomas Roth Cleanser. I like to start off my skincare routine with a foam cleanser to remove any makeup or sweat. Then, I follow up with a gentle exfoliator. (My skin is pretty sensitive!) I've been using the St. Ives Acne Control Apricot Face Scrub. Pro-tip: add water to any scrub to decrease the intensity. Now, it's time for a mask! I choose a mask according to my skin needs.

I also like to exfoliate my lips and apply an oil-based product to them. Mmm! And, I can't forget about my eyes! I usually have a sample of eye cream lying around somewhere. I recently got a sample from Sephora I tried out the other day. I'm a big fan! Oh-- and, I almost forgot! My eyebrows! I simply trim them and tweeze any stray hairs. I learned early on in my teenage years that eyebrows can make or break you.

Body.

I am a huge fan of using aloe based products during the summer. I love this lotion from Vaseline.



I usually lay around in my robe for a good 1-2 hours before getting dressed. It's so soft! I like to watch reality TV on Hulu (Married At First Sight-- yes, please)! I also like watching movies on Netflix. Anything by Disney has got my name on it.


What does you summer pampering routine look like? Comment below!


January 7, 2019

Winter Pampering Routine 2019

Definitely not a fan of this cold weather-- but who is? My skin is definitely in need of a warm detox. One that rids hormonal acne and gives me the glow up every girl wants this season. Let's talk about how I pamper myself during this chilly time of year:


A hot bath.

I like to start off my pampering sessions with a warm, luxurious bath. I like to go all out and use a bath bomb and/or other fun tub time potions to make my bath look pretty. Tonight, I'm using this citrus bath oil from Kneipp.

Glow-up body routine.


My glow-up body routine is fairly minimal. I like to start off by exfoliating my body with a scrub from Bath & Body Works or a DIY scrub.

To DIY a sugar scrub I like to use:

  • Brown sugar
  • Olive oil
  • Honey
  • Cinnamon 

Then, I shave and follow up with a body wash and an in-shower body lotion. This makes my legs so soft and smooth. 

Face care.


My skincare routine is kind of excessive these days-- I'm not going to lie. I found a Korean skincare routine on Pinterest and I've been following it religiously for the past couple of weeks:

  1. Oil cleanser
  2. Foam cleanser
  3. Exfoliator (Don't forget your lips too!)
  4. Essence
  5. Serum
  6. Sheet mask
  7. Eye cream
  8. Moisturizer
This routine has changed my skincare. It is so dewy and glowy-- I love it! 


Other bits and pieces.

During my pampering routine, I like to drink lots and lots of water to hydrate my body. While I'm sipping on my water, I like to watch beauty gurus on YouTube or something on Netflix. And, of course, a snack is needed! My go to is popcorn. This makes for the perfect comfy & cozy evening-- especially right before the spring semester starts up.

April 9, 2018

The Ultimate Spring & Summer Fashion Wish List For 2018

Though spring is over a month away, it's never too early to start shopping for your spring and summer wardrobe. I love amping up my closet with: bright colors and fun patterns. (Just a heads up; you'll see a lot of Lilly P. in this wishlist!)

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7 / 8 / 9 / 10 / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 / 15


1. Twill X Midi Short

I am in desperate need of a pair of white shorts. I think they would be so much fun to pair with bright, fun Lilly tops.

2. Lowie Blue Skinny Leather Belt

A navy blue belt is also on my wishlist. I love belts. I think they're a super cute accessory. Not to mention, they keep my pants up.

3. Arriana Beach Please Tote

This tote is too cute to pass up. I love the bright tassels. During the summer months, I find that I carry around a ton more: blotting sheets, deodorant, water, etc.

4. Charming Urchin Bracelet

During the spring and summer months, I like to accessorize lightly. This bracelet isn't going to sweat my arm off.

5. Lilly Lanyard

For Christmas, I received a Lilly Pulitzer ID wallet-- that I love to death. I would love to get a matching lanyard if I get the chance.

6. Bell Sleeve Cover-Up

I saw this swimsuit cover up and immediately fell in love. I love the cut and wide sleeves.

7. Miller Thong Sandals

Lately, I've been obsessed with Tory Burch this and Tory Burch that. These sandals are at the top of my wishlist this season. They'll go with everything and anything; instantly transforming my outfit.

8. Diamond Tassel Earrings

Tassel earrings have been super trendy. I've always thought they were a little too bold for me. However, lately, I've been wanting to experiment with this trend. Maybe if I kept my hair down, they wouldn't be as "loud."

9. Villa Del Mar Logo Bar High Neck One-Piece

When it comes to bathing suits, I definitely prefer a good one piece. They'e just a little bit more modest. Ya know? I love this solid-colored one. I''d definitely be making a statement while sitting poolside. (I see it now: Classic Ray Bans and a pair of MK flip flops. Do we see it?)

10. Colby Silk Clip Top

This tunic would be perfect for a late night walk on the pier. I'd pair this with ripped jeans, or some white cropped pants depending on the occasion.

11. Resor Infinity Loop

A fun colored scarf is the perfect way to transition into the spring season.

12. Prana Women's Quinn Dress

I am in love with this peach color. So cute! I think this would be a nice dress to just throw on.

13. Lipsi One Piece

Again, I love one piece bathing suits. And, I love the color navy. Need I say more?

14. Pom-Pom Beach Woven Sun Hat

I. Need. This. Hat. In. My. Life. Enough said.

15. Adjustable Gold Tassel Necklace

This gold tassel necklace would be the perfect go to accessory during the warmer seasons. I can definitely see myself layering this with some solid colored tops and cut offs. (Comment below letting me know how you style your tassel necklace!)

Comment of the Day: What's on your spring and summer wishlist? 

February 26, 2018

Winter Makeup Routine

Today, I thought I would share my winter makeup routine with y'all. I've been testing some new makeup products and love this combo!

I tested the look on my sister, Natalie:



FACE

Face Base Illuminating Primer | Models Own

I use clean fingers to apply this product onto my face. (CAUTION: It is extremely sparkly!)

Dream Fresh BB Cream | Maybelline

I use a wet sponge to apply this product to my face. I like to use two coats of this product because it's so sheer. If I have any redness/imperfections I'll go with a concealer.

#NoFilter Finishing Powder | NYX Professional Makeup

This is my favorite powder of all time. It makes my skin look so smooth and radiant.

Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush | Tarte Cosmetics

I love this blush! It lasts a whole school day, which is a miracle to me.

High Beam Liquid Face Highlighter | Benefit Cosmetics

As far as I'm concerned, this is the best highlighter on the market. I like to apply this to not only my cheekbones, but the center of my face too.

EYES

Highliner Gel Eye Crayon  | Marc Jacobs Beauty

I simply tight line my upper lash line.

Troublemaker Mascara | Urban Decay

I don't love this mascara, but it's growing on me. I definitely prefer Urban Decay's Perversion mascara.

Brow Shaping Gel | Ulta Beauty

I like to run a bit of product through my brows to keep them in place. This product does just the trick!

LIPS

Shine Shine Shine Lipgloss | Essence Makeup

This is my favorite lipgloss. I can't say enough great things about it. It's so shiny! A little bit goes a long way (and it lasts a really long time, too!) My go to trick: Apply a little bit of product to the center of your lips. Not only does it look more natural, but it makes your lips appear fuller. Win, win!


Question of the Week: What's your favorite makeup product? 

November 13, 2017

Makeup Wishlist: Fall & Winter Edition

Welcome back to my blog, everyone!

I apologize for not uploading a post last Monday. My life has been crazy busy lately. Midterms have been my number one priority. With that being said, I'd like to announce that I've received A's on all of my midterm exams and papers. Woo hoo!

Without further ado, here is my makeup wishlist for the colder months:



This mascara has been on my wishlist for the longest time. (Not to mention, Urban Decay's mascaras never fail to disappoint.)


I am a huge fan of Marc Jacobs' eyeliners. They glide on so smooth. I'm sure their nail polishes are very similar. I'm also in love with this color-- super festive!


I am currently in need of a new concealer, and I've heard nothing but good reviews about this one. I also adore the packaging. It's so cute! 


I'll be completely honest: I've never heard of this brand before. I discovered it on Polyvore while I was making this graphic. I'm currently on the hunt for some new blushes. (I've been using the same blushers for as long as I can remember!)


I love using sponges for my makeup When I use a sponge, I find that the foundation or concealer is distributed evenly across my skin. (Just remember to run your sponge under the faucet before hand. This way, the sponge doesn't absorb any of the excess product.) 


I've heard nothing but good things about NARS. However, I have yet to try a product from their line. (They're kind of pricey for a college girl's wallet!) They have a number of other colors that I would like to go swatch at Sephora sometime! 


I have been loving NYX products lately. They're not only affordable, but they are great quality. I would love to give their highlighter a fair try. Apparently it's supposed to be a dupe for Benefit's High-Beam highlighter, which I am a huge fan of.


I am in need of something to keep my eyebrows tamed during the long school day. As a college student, I have 9 AM classes and 4:30 PM classes. I think this gel would most definitely come in handy since I'm on the move ALL day. 


Like I mentioned earlier, I am a college student. I'm up until 1:00 AM, working on my blog, writing papers, and spending time with friends. Combine that with an 8:00 AM wakeup call. Not. A. Good. Combo. Hopefully this concealer will help conceal those tired eyes I wake up with every morning.


Taylor Swift's Wonderstruck Enchanted perfume has been my go to perfume since my freshman year of high school. (Yes, a little bottle has lasted my 4+ years!) I am in desperate need of a new bottle. However, I think a rollerball would be more convenient. Plus, it's easier to apply.


I have yet to get my hands on a big, fluffy kabuki brush. This one is calling my name!


This blush looks like it would be the perfect shade for my skin tone. I've also been wanting to try a cream blush!


Lately, I've been enjoying wearing minimal makeup. I think NYX's bb cream would be an exciting product to experiment with.


I apologize for all of the blushers I have included in this blog post. Here's the last one, I promise. I have yet to try a gel blush. Again, this is a product I would love to experiment with during the holiday season.


Though I am in need of a new blusher, I am also in need of a new concealer. I had the opportunity to try this concealer awhile back and liked it a lot. I think I'd like to give the whole tube a purchase!


That concludes my makeup wishlist for the fall and winter season.

Question of The Day: What makeup product do you want to get your hands on this season? 

October 2, 2017

What It's Really Like Living On Campus

It's that time of year where high school seniors are applying to colleges and learning about their acceptances. I remember, this time last year, I was accepted to Cabrini University. I was faced with the decision of commuting or living on campus. Originally, I was going to commute. However, after months of debating, I decided to take on the challenge of living on campus.



Here's what it's really like living on campus:

1. You and your roommate might not click.

I've heard stories from other freshman. It stinks, but it happens. Be respectful and move on. It's okay if you guys aren't apart of the same friend group.

2. People usually run the halls around 2 AM and scream. For. No. Good. Reason.

Yes, people can be inconsiderate. They scream at the top of their lungs and crank up the music-- just because they can. They don't care that you have a class tomorrow at 8:00 AM. Buy earplugs.

3. You will get homesick.

I FaceTime my parents every night before I go to bed. I also FaceTime my boyfriend. It's definitely a difficult transition. However, talking to my family and checking in makes it easier. Also, make friends! Having friends and making plans makes the transition a heck of a lot easier. 

4. Eating grilled cheese sandwiches three days in a row is a bad idea.

I know... they're delicious. Don't do it. Been there, done that.

5. The cafeteria food really isn't that bad.

The food in my cafeteria is pretty darn good, to be honest. My cafeteria has an action bar where they make the food right in front of you. Pretty cool, huh? 

6. It's a lot easier to make friends.

I can't imagine if I was a commuter student during my first year. I'm a super shy person, making friends would have been extremely difficult. Living on campus makes it a lot easier to jump out of your comfort zone and go for it!

7. Seniors don't let freshmen into parties.

Here's some advice to all of you rebels out there: don't go. There are better ways to spend your Friday nights. Go to a event hosted by the campus. Go to a movie. There are a ton of safer alternatives.

8. Communal showers are gross.

Yes, there's hair. No, there's no place to put your leg up to get a clean shave. Yes, there's toothpaste in the sinks. No, there's nothing you can do about it. Just remember to bring your shower shoes.

9. You'll definitely get out of your comfort zone.

I've done things I've never thought I'd do. But hey, here I am. That's definitely a positive thing, by the way!

10. It's a heck of a lot easier to get sick.

As I am typing up this blog post, my nose is running and my throat couldn't be sorer. Three words: Colds. Spread. Fast. I'm sucking on cough drops and hoping for the best. Remember to drink lots of water and stock up on the hand sanitizer. 

11. You learn responsibility.

When you live on campus, you are responsible for yourself. You have to do your own laundry. Take out your own trash. Manage your own time. It's definitely a little overwhelming at first, but you get used to it. (Keep an agenda and color code it. It will help a lot!)

Overall, I like living on campus. It's nice to roll out of bed and do whatever you want. However, I miss my family like crazy. I also miss taking baths. And doing face masks in the privacy of my own bathroom. But hey, it's been an eyeopening experience for me.

Question of The Day: Which do you prefer, commuting or living on campus?

September 11, 2017

A Beauty Blogger's Guide To Perfect Skin

Ever since middle school, I've struggled with mild to moderate acne. I was so insecure in my own skin. Once I reached high school, it began to slow down. However, last year, it came back. And it was bad.

I decided it was time to see a dermatologist. I had it on my back, chest, and face. That trip saved my life. I gained not only clear skin, but confidence.


Drink lots and lots of water.

I know, I know... everyone tells you to drink plenty of water to reach flawless skin. Well, it's true. I go through two water bottles a day. Sometimes three if I'm feeling motivated. I recommend setting reminders on your phone every 30 minutes. This helps a lot!

Try lemon water.

Whenever I'm having a bad breakout, I gravitate towards lemon water. I don't know why, but it does the trick.

Exfoliate.

I love exfoliating. My skin always feels so much smoother. I like to use a baking soda paste or a walnut scrub. Something gentle.

Go on an antibiotic.

My doctor prescribed me an oral medication. I took this for 2-3 months. Within the first two weeks my skin cleared up. There wasn't a single pimple on my chest/back. (I was perfectly clear for prom!) However, please note that this only a temporary treatment. You can't stay on this medication forever.

ACZONE Gel is my secret.

According to the Aczone website, "ACZONE Gel, 7.5%, is a prescription medicine used on the skin (topical) to treat acne in people 12 years and older."

After taking my nightly shower, I apply a layer of the gel on my back and chest. I then take a small amount and spot treat any spots on my face. This has helped my acne immensely.

Neosporin. 

Because the ACZONE Gel is a once a day treatment, I like to use Neosporin throughout the day. I apply this 2-3 times a day on a popped pimple. This encourages my skin to heal faster.

Exercise. Exercise. Exercise.

Ever since I've found an exercise routine that worked for me, my skin has been glowing. Sweating pushes out any "gunk" that might be in your pores. I like to workout 2-3 times a week.

For more on healthy skincare, read this article.

Question of The Day: What's your go to zit zapping solution? 


August 14, 2017

Fresh and Fast Makeup For Class

Good morning, everyone!

Today, I'm sharing my everyday makeup with you: school edition. I'm all about a fresh, dewy look for school. Oh, and fast! At this time in my life, I've decided to pick sleep over eyeliner. Oops!




Step 1: Moisturize

Moisturizer is your best friend. I'm always switching up my moisturizer. For the past couple of weeks, I've been using the Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream by Ren.

Step 2: Primer

Benefit's POREfessional will always be one of my favorite primers. I start by applying this to the center of my face, blending it out with my fingers.

Step 3: Concealer

I like to go to town with concealer: under my eyes and on any blemishes. I then let this melt into my skin-- if I have time. #TheBagsUnderMyEyesAreDesigner

Step 4: Powder

I recently picked up a new powder from Sephora: Perfect Setting Powder by Cover FX.

Step 5: Blush

Again, I like to switch up my blushes. I like to go with some bright, yet natural. Apply to the apples of your cheeks and swirl up to your temples for a natural, more awake look.

Step 6: Highlighter

If I have time, I'll go for highlighter. I like Benefit's High-Beam. I think it looks very natural.

Step 7: Mascara

I switch my mascara up every other day. For a more natural, fluttery look, I like to use Tarte's Lights, Camera, Lashes mascara.

Step 8: Comb through brows

Sometimes, I find that filling in my brows is much too time consuming. I apply a bit of hairspray to my spoolie to keep my hairs from flying everywhere.

Step 9: Setting spray

Go for a hydrating/finishing mist from Tarte. This 4 in 1 product keeps your skin looking fresh all day long.


That's my makeup! This takes me no longer than 8 minutes.

Comment of The Day: If you could only have one makeup item with you at school, what would it be? 


August 12, 2017

Shills Natural Sciences Review

Good morning, y'all! 

This morning I am reviewing Shills Natural Sciences, a skincare company based in Taiwan. They were so kind to send me a few sheet masks, as well as their 3 Step Kit for ridding blackheads and other blemishes.




Snail Essence Sheet Mask

I loved this sheet mask. I'm not going to lie, I was a little skeptical about putting this mask on my face. Snail gel isn't necessarily my number one skincare go to. But, after using this, I've fallen in love. My skin was so much brighter.


Honey Gold Lifting & Firming Mask

I didn't see immediate results after using this mask. I'm sure after using it a couple of times, I'll see a difference.



For those of you who struggle with acne and blackheads, like myself, this kit is your new best friend. I love peel off masks, I've found that they get rid of dead skin cells and pull out grime. This kit pulled out twice as much. #SoGross


First things first, cleanse your face. I used my favorite foam cleanser from Peter Thomas Roth. Next, I went in with the Deep Sebum Softener. This sebum softens my pores allowing all of the bacteria to be removed with ease.


After washing the black gel off with warm water, I went in with step two: the Deep Cleansing Black Mask. I applied this with the mask brush. However, I wasn't a huge fan of the brush. It was difficult to apply. Therefore, I just used my clean fingers. I found that I had more control of the product. 

Peeling it off was my favorite part. Also, the most painful part. However, I thought the pain was worth the results. There was so much "gunk" on the mask. My skin instantly felt smoother. It also looked brighter.







After peeling the mask off and rinsing off any excess product, I applied the Clarifying Toner. This minimized the appearance of my pores. It also made my skin feel twice as smooth. 



Overall, I am a huge fan of Shills Natural Sciences skincare products. I'm definitely going to be using the 3 Step Kit once a week, or once every other week. It's the perfect way to detox the skin of any impurities. 

Question of The Day: What's your go to face mask?

Thanks for reading!



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