Beauty

The Importance of Exfoliation

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Exfoliating plays an important role in your skin care routine. I tend to have drier skin during the colder months of the year. So, as soon as my face looks cakey underneath my makeup, I know it’s time to exfoliate more. Exfoliating removes the dead layer of cells on the skin’s surface.

Dead skin cells clog pores, which creates blemishes and dull looking skin. Getting rid of this dead layer of skin promotes the growth of new skin cells for a healthier complexion. Exfoliation also helps your beauty products absorb into your skin better.

You can use body peels, body scrubs or dry brushing to get soft skin. I love using homemade body scrubs and my pink loofah to get the job done. Remember that exfoliating too often can cause irritated and even damaged skin especially if you have sensitive skin. You may want to choose a more gentle body scrub that contains all natural ingredients.

Health Benefits of Exfoliating

Increases Blood Circulation and Reduces Signs of Aging

As we age, our blood circulation naturally begins to slow down. Poor circulation can cause more serious health conditions. However, the mechanical act of exfoliation stimulates the blood flow to the skin. This motion improves the circulation and prevents premature signs of aging. Not only can you prevent future health issues, but you can also have a beautiful complexion.

Prevents Breakouts

Dirt and oil can get trapped and congested in the pores. These toxins can reduce the smooth appearance of your skin and enlarge your pores. Exfoliation removes surface dry skin cells, which will help unclog impurities from pores and keep your skin clear of blemishes.

Pigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is dark spots found on the skin. These spots can occur from pregnancy, aging, or even genetics. Exfoliation helps break up the pigmented cells and accelerate the fading and lightening process.

Hydrates Dry Skin

Some of us make the mistake of slathering on creams and lotions to compensate for itchy, dry skin. The effective remedy to keep your skin hydrated is to exfoliate. Body scrubs help skin care products such as moisturizers absorb into our skin better.

Prevents Ingrown Hairs and Razor Bumps

Dead skin cells can potentially clog up razor blades, which leads to ingrown hairs and uneven skin tone. Removing the unwanted dead skin cells before shaving gives you a smoother, closer shave.

Tan Better

Whether you are sun tanning or fake tanning, exfoliating helps products like lotions and spray tans absorb better in the skin. Getting rid of dead skin cells before you apply tanning products will result in a longer lasting tan.

Relaxation

Exfoliation helps your mind let go of worries and stresses if only for a few moments. Helps you to think clearer and focus on what is important. Relaxation is essential for your overall well-being and happiness.

Ways To Exfoliate

Exfoliating Gloves-

Exfoliating gloves are a cheap option if you can’t afford expensive body scrubs. You can add water, soaps, scrubs or nothing. Some of these gloves are pretty rough, so be gentle when you are scrubbing away.

Exfoliating Body Lotion-

A great alternative to chemical peels is exfoliating body lotions. These lotions not only exfoliate but also rehydrates your skin. The ingredients in most body peels are too harsh for people who have sensitive skin.

Dry Brushing-

The circular motion of the bristles can help detoxify your skin, by draining the lymph nodes. You can do this in the shower by moving the brush in a circular motion while working up your body .

Skin-Care Brushes-

The power behind facial cleansing brushes removes dirt and oil from your skin. It’s more effective than body scrubs, but safer than peels.

Souces:

http://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/803596/how-to-exfoliate-your-skin

http://www.bellemocha.com/2013/05/your-ultimate-circulationexfoliation.html

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Beauty

Product Review: Garnier Fructis Leave In Conditioner

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product review

 Product Review: Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Intensely Smooth Leave-In Conditioning Cream

Garnier Fructis is a popular brand so I’ve decided to do a little research and share with you guys what is exactly in some of the products you buy on a regular basis. Not everyone will see the same results as me because I most likely have a different hair type than you. I simply wanted to share my experience with you! Let me know in the comments if you have any beauty products you like or want to try.

About My Hair

I have shoulder length curly hair, which has been over processed by heat and dye. It tangles easier than a 6-year-old girl’s hair. Not to mention it breaks A LOT. Anyone who comes in contact with me will always have a piece of me with them..because I shed worse than a dog. Having wavy or curly hair means my locks are prone to frizz.

All About The Product

This leave in conditioner claims that it locks in moisture and controls dry and unmanageable hair. It contains oils that hydrate all hair types. The directions explain to apply the conditioner to hair from roots to tips after shampooing.

Ingredients:

  • Water
  • Cetearyl Alcohol – An emulsion stabilizer that is made from vegetable or synthetic material. Used to prevent the oil and water from separating. 
  • Amodimethicone – A silicone-based synthetic molecule used as a hair conditioning agent. This ingredients can also be found in some processed foods.
  • Cetyl Esters – Acts as a lubricant to the hair or skin.
  • Behentrimonium Chloride – A hair conditioning agent that conditions, softens and strengthens the hair shaft. It penetrates the hair without weighing it down and can be used as a preservative.
  • Fragrance
  • Apple Fruit Extract
  • Isopropyl Alcohol – Used to decrease the foam of the product as well as the thickness and prevents the growth of bacteria.
  • Trideceth-6
  • Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil
  • Apricot Kernel Oil
  • Niacinamide – Skin-repairing ingredient that helps to brighten and improve the texture of your skin or hair.
  • Pyridoxine HCI – Water soluable vitamin that works to improve metabolism.
  • Hexyl Cinnamal – A fragrance ingredient that smells similar to jasmine. People who experience allergic reactions to fragrances and perfume should consult your doctor before trying this ingredient.
  • Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride – Odorless powder that is used to make and preserve beauty products.
  • Citric Acid
  • Cetrimonium Chloride – Conditioning agent that reduces frizz and flyaways.
  • Sugar Cane Extract
  • Benzyl Alcohol – Synthetic preservative that has been known to cause allergic reactions.
  • Linalool – Occurs naturally in flowers and plants.
  • Amyl Cinnamal – A liquid with a floral scent that is used to make beauty products.
  • Yellow 5
  • Yellow 6
  • Lemon Peel Extract
  • Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

 

Price

$3 for 10.2 fl oz

 

Where To Buy?

Wal-mart
Target
Amazon


My Review

I use this product after I shampoo and condition my hair, then I dry my hair with a cotton t-shirt. Like I mentioned before, I have thick and curly hair so I use double the dosage. You can apply the product to wet or dry hair, but I’ve found it’s easier to work with on damp hair. I distribute two-quarter sized amounts of conditioner evenly throughout my hair with my fingers while it’s still damp.

This product has a thick texture so I recommend adding a little water to dilute the conditioner. I’ve noticed if I skip this step or use too much product, my hair feels crunchy. If you have oily to normal hair I would use this product sparingly because it could make your hair look greasy. You can also use a serum to tame flyaways and seal your split ins like argan oil. I like to create beachy waves by scrunching the product in and finishing the look with mousse. Using the leave in conditioner alone makes my hair softer and easier to manage. It helps minimize frizz and static.

 

Do I Recommend It?

I don’t recommend this product to people with thin or oily hair types because the product is so thick. However, I feel like it would be great for thick, curly, wavy or frizzy hair. Just keep in mind this product is not natural and contains ingredients like dyes and fragrances, which can be toxic to your health over time.

 

Sources Used For Research

http://www.ewg.org/
http://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/
http://www.paulaschoice.com/cosmetic-ingredient-dictionary
https://www.drugs.com/
http://ethicalfoods.com/citric-acid/
http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/curl-products/curlchemist-what-is-cetrimonium-chloride/

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Beauty

How To Get Rid Of Dry Lips For Good

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dry lips

What Causes Dry Lips

Let’s face it. You slather on sunscreen, grab a towel and maybe throw on a pair of cheap sunglasses. Your skin might not burn, but your lips will feel the heat after a few hours in the sun because you forgot chapstick! But sometimes, even then that’s not enough to protect your lips from cracking. Dry lips that go unprotected get punished by sun exposure, wind and pollution.

Not only are dry lips an indication of poor health, but it’s also never appealing. Since you use your mouth for many tasks like eating, kissing and talking, your lips get quite a lot of attention. Keep your lips hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and moisturize them with a natural lip balm.

There are so many different types of lip care products on the market these days promising you the world. However, many lip balms and chapsticks contain petroleum, which has been linked to breast cancer in women. The cosmetic industry isn’t as regulated as you might expect, with toxic chemicals entering our beauty products.

If you would like to try the alternative, here are some simple recipes you can try at home. Your lips endure a lot in any given day, give them a break.

Peppermint Eucalyptus Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon sea salt
½ tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
10 drops peppermint essential oil
10 drops eucalyptus essential oil

Directions:

In a bowl, combine sea salt and olive oil. Add vitamin E oil and essential oils. Stir with a wooden spoon until blended.

Brown Sugar Almond Lip Scrub

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
3/4 tablespoon almond oil

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine sugar and almond oil. Add honey and vitamin E oil.. Stir with a wooden spoon until mixed. Scoop in a small airtight container.

Rosemary Peppermint Lip Balm

Ingredients:

3/4 tablespoon beeswax
1 tablespoon shea butter
3/4 tablespoon coconut oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil
15 drops peppermint essential oil

Directions:

In a double boiler, melt beeswax on low heat. Combine the coconut oil and shea butter and mix into beeswax. Add essential oils and stir with a wooden spoon until blended. Pour into sanitized lip balm tubes

Note: The wax will harden as it cools. Simply pop it in the microwave to melt the wax to distribute into lip balm tubes.

Vanilla Rose Lip Balm

Ingredients:

3/4 tablespoon beeswax
1 tablespoon cocoa butter
1 tablespoon coconut oil
3/4 teaspoon raw honey
½ vitamin E oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
7 drops rose essential oil

Directions:

In a double boiler, melt beeswax and cocoa butter on low heat. Pour coconut oil, honey, and vitamin E oil. Add essential oils and vanilla extract. Stir with a wooden spoon until blended. Pour into lip balm tubes.

Coconut Lime Lip Balm

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon beeswax
1 tablespoon coconut oil
3/4 tablespoon shea butter
5 drops lime essential oil
½ teaspoon vitamin E oil
1 teaspoon aloe vera gel

Directions:

In a double boiler, melt beeswax, shea butter and coconut oil. Add aloe vera gel, vitamin E oil and essential oil. Stir until melted. Transfer into lip balm tubes before the wax cools.

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Beauty

Homemade Body Scrub Recipes

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So, I’m obsessed with natural beauty recipes like homemade body scrubs. Store bought scrubs often contain preservatives that help to extend the product’s shelf life. And you know how fun and bright the colors are? They might be pretty, but those colors are actually artificial dyes.

All these additives can be harmful and have long-term effects on your health. Since I have become interested in holistic living, I’ve realized how simple it is to create effective and natural products. You can make your own body scrubs with the ingredients you already have in your kitchen.

I’ve listed 3 amazing scrubs you can try at home for less than half the price of department store scrubs. I hope you enjoy and please share your beauty recipes in the comments below.

Vanilla Lavender Body Scrub

Ingredients:

2 cups Epsom salt
1 cup sea salt
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
½ cup olive oil
15 drops of lavender essential oil

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, combine salts and olive oil. Add vanilla extract and essential oils. Stir with a wooden spoon until blended.

Green Tea Body Scrub

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar
⅛ cup grapeseed oil
⅛ cup brewed green tea (cooled)
1 bag of green tea

Directions:

Cut open 1 tea bag and take out leaves. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

Coconut and Brown Sugar Body Scrub

Ingredients:

2 cups brown sugar
1 cup coconut oil (melted)
2 tablespoon vanilla extract

Directions:

In a bowl, combine ingredients and stir well until blended.

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Beauty

Skin Care Products For Combination Skin Types

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Hey, beautiful! I know how frustrating it is to have combination skin. Moving to the hot desert has made matters worse for my skin. My face can look like an oily slick mess and other days it looks like my skin could crack any second.

If you battle with sensitive and combination skin you know how difficult it is to find the perfect beauty products for your sickle complexion. Combination skin means that some areas of your skin are oily while you also have dryness. This means that you may have to use multiple products for the problem areas of your skin. I’ve created a list of products I recommend for combination skin types.

*This post may contain affiliate links.

Cleanser:

Be sure you are washing your face with a gentle foaming cleanser if you have combination skin. Always avoid cleansers that contain fragrances because these will only cause dryness and irritation.

Aveeno Ultra Calming Foaming Cleanser–

This product is great for women who are battling sensitive skin or acne breakouts. It cleans dirt from deep within your pores and leaves the skin conditioned and balanced.

Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser-

Strong enough to cleanse the skin from dirt, oil, and makeup, while gentle enough for daily use. It doesn’t leave your skin feeling greasy or dry.

Moisturizer:

You may have to use creamy or textured moisturizers for the dry parts and light gels for your T-zone area in order to bring balance to your skin. You may even want to moisturize only the dry areas and under the eyes.

Olay Total Effects Anti-Aging Daily Moisturizer-

This formula conditions the skin and simultaneously combats early signs of aging. It also brightens your complexion and restores the skin’s natural elasticity.

Exfoliant:

It’s important to exfoliate, but remember to be easy and use a gentle exfoliant on your sensitive skin. You shouldn’t need to exfoliate your face more than once a week. This will ensure that you’re not irritating and drying out your skin.

Garner Clean and Balancing Daily Exfoliator-

Lifts impurities and oil from the skin. This formula contains antioxidants to balance combination skin. It leaves your skin feeling fresh without feeling tight.

Toner:

After you cleanse and exfoliate your skin, you can follow up with a toner. A good quality toner can help repair the surface of your skin as well as reduce the size of pores. Choose a toner that contains antioxidants for a healthy complexion. Avoid using products that contain witch hazel or fragrant extracts.

Boots NO7 Beautiful Skin Toner–

An affordable alternative to Lancome’s Comfort Toner. This is a very light serum packed with minerals and vitamins gentle enough for sensitive and combination skin.

 

I hope you found this helpful and enjoyed. If you have combination skin, I’d love to hear about your skin care routine in the comments below. Peace & Love.

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Beauty

Create A Natural Full Face For Under $25

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natural full face

How To Create A Natural Full Face For Cheap

Personally, I would rather splurge on quality cosmetics knowing I will get the most beautiful results. However, I don’t always have the funds to fuel my addiction, much like many women. In today’s crazy world, it’s more important to focus on surviving. Fortunately, there are inexpensive cosmetics on the shelves that still perform. I’m sure you’ve heard about e.l.f. Cosmetics. They are a cruelty-free makeup brand and very affordable. I’ve come up with a list of 7 amazing beauty products that you don’t have to tap into your savings in order to achieve a complete, natural look. It’s possible and easy to create a natural full face look for under $25!

Foundation: e.l.f. Flawless Finish Foundation $6

This foundation helps to even out skin tones for a smooth complexion. The non-greasy and lightweight formula blends seamlessly on the skin and won’t cause breakouts and clogged pores. Although the liquid is difficult to layer, it already gives you a nice medium to full coverage. It’s great for covering fine lines and wrinkles without creasing or looking cakey. The formula also contains SPF 15 for mild protection from sun exposure.

Concealer: e.l.f. HD Concealer $3

This high definition concealer contains soothing properties like Green Tea and c-vitamins, which helps to improve skin tone and texture. The formula is thick enough to hide imperfections such as blemishes and hyperpigmentation, but light enough to blend naturally in the skin.

Mascara: e.l.f. Eye Enhancing Mascara $3

The wand is sturdy and is easy to separate each individual lash for a defined and natural look. The formula enhances thick and full eyelashes without clumping together. Although it’s not waterproof, it doesn’t smudge. A fair warning to future customers: There isn’t a lot of product in the tube and it starts to dry up after a few weeks. But considering the low price tag, you get what you pay for.

Brows: e.l.f. Eyebrow Kit $3

I personally have rebought this eyebrow kit. The compact and the brush it comes with are worth the $3 itself, but the powder and wax are surprisingly high quality too. I have super fair eyelashes, so this product helps me to achieve a natural thick eyebrow look. I can layer it to create a dramatic and bold look or tone it down for during the day. For a tip, I mix the wax and powder together and apply it with the brush.

Eyeshadow: e.l.f. Baked Eyeshadow Trio $4

Peach Please is the best trio color for ladies with blue eyes. All 3 colors blend well without looking dirty. The pigmentation is high quality. However, I prefer matte but they only have shimmery shades. Since these eyeshadows are baked, you can wet your brush for best results.

Lipstick: e.l.f. Matte Lip Color $3

I love these lip colors in the shades Praline and Tea Rose. The affordable price allows you try out all their colors! Even though they are matte textured, the color slides on smooth and isn’t drying to the lips. There’s even a sharpener that comes attached to the stick.

Lip Liner: e.l.f. Lip Liner & Blending Brush $3

This pencil really does amp up your lips. The defined tip gives you an enhanced and full pout. The color stays on the lips a long time for a $3 lip liner. This liner also comes with a brush attached to the end to blend the color through your lips. You could even smear it out and wear the liner as a lip stain.

I hope this list of inexpensive products help you achieve a soft and natural full face. Let me know in the comments if you agree or disagree. I’d love to know what makeup products you use for a natural or “no makeup” look. For high-end product reviews click here. xo!

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