A new path

Last year I left two separate jobs.  I then spent sometime reeducating myself in the skin care profession...apparently that has paid off (YEEEEE!).  

This week I had two interviews and am moving forward with the hiring process next week in a spa.  I'm so happy that I will finally be putting my Esthetician's license to use.  I hope that I have actually found my path.  

Today during my second interview I was asked what made me choose the skin care profession.  I suppose a love of products is part of it, but thinking back I've been interested in skin and body care for a long time, I love the atmosphere that you get to work in and helping others to feel good inside and out is a great feeling.  Right out of high school I took a course in massage therapy, but at the time I didn't have very supportive friends.  I had people that chuckled about my chosen profession.  I considered going into skin care then, but put it off thinking that no one would take me seriously.  

Years later I made the choice to get my Esthetician's license.  I researched some schools and found one that fit my personality, completed my courses in six months, and passed the state board exam on the first try.  I know that you're not supposed to live your life with regrets but putting off pursuing this profession has been mine.  I worried to much about people's opinions (no worries though, these people are no longer a part of my life).

If you are ever at a point in your life where you want to change direction, trust yourself.  The true hearts in your life will support you.  

Product review: Aubrey Complexion Mist

Found a product that falls into my "nice enough to buy it twice" category.  I found it while browsing the skin care section at the Vitamin Shoppe one day.  It was rather summery at the time and I liked the idea of a quick spritz to refresh myself.  Fast forward to now where it's cool outside and heater-warm inside...and my skin has just been feeling dry and voila~instant hydration.

Aubrey's Sparkling Glacier Complexion Mist has a light refreshing scent.  In the morning I like to apply it right after I wash my face (and right before my moisturizer) and later in the day I enjoy a little mist to freshen up my day.  This product is not tested in animals and also boasts being vegan and even gluten free (if you need to avoid spraying gluten on your face).  The super bonus today at the Vitamin Shoppe was that it was $3 off (it retails there for $6.99), so it's affordable to begin with but who turns their back on almost half off?  

As far as facial sprays go, I've also purchased from Urban Decay...and while I do like their All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray that is going to set me back between $14-$30 (travel-full size) and right now I just don't have the disposable income for that.  

Do yourself and your skin a favor a little mist after you wash your face will add a few seconds to your routine...but your skin may thank you for it.  

Winter...even in southern Calfornia

Ok, I get that compared to other parts of the world I shouldn't really be complaining about the weather and I'm not really. My complaint is with my skin...somehow despite my best efforts to take care of it I've ended up with an obnoxious little red irritated patch of dry skin in the center of my face!  

Not sure if it's the combo of cooler air outside and warm dry air inside, if I'm not staying hydrated enough or if one of my little samples was just not right for me.  The hardest part of skin care has to be patience when something goes wrong.

I alternated between using Dermalogica's Barrier Repair and good old Aloe Vera.  Still took a few days to clear up, and when I felt a tiny bit more confident (and when it was getting a little flaky) I added an exfoliant to the mix (Dermalogica's Microfoliant).  At night I'd use a layer of Eminence Organic's Linden Calendula Treatment for dry/dehydrated skin and make sure my humidifier was on.  I've tried to up my tea intake as it's been too chilly for my usual large glass of iced water.  

Monday Mask: Honeydew & Chamomile

It was winter in southern California earlier this week...for like two and half days.  It got a little chilly and really windy there for a minute.  I'm not complaining (I'd ask for a little rain but we have El Nino to look forward too).  The change in temps and wind do tend to dry out my skin rather quickly so I'm glad I picked up the Freeman Honeydew & Chamomile Sleeping Mask.

I picked up the trial size mask for about $2 at the drug store (a full size is about $5 to $7, depending where you look online, I have not seen the full size in store). These are also available online at Ulta and I think that sometimes they have a pretty nifty deal to go with it.  

I appreciate that Melon and Chamomile are actually near the top of the ingredient list.  The trial size was good for 2 nights of masking (and a tiny bit of moisture on the third night).  I liked the light scent and that my skin felt hydrated when I woke up in the morning.  I would for sure pick this up again. 

*Their packaging states that it is not tested on animals, however there is some disagreement on the net about how truly cruelty free they are.

 

the root of the problem...or a remedy for bad hair days

I don't know what to say about my hair lately.  For a while there I could go a couple of days between shampoos and just go with some handy dandy dry shampoo.  Then all of a sudden it seemed like even right out of the shower it was greasy.  I didn't know what to do, it's not like I use a ton of products. I don't overdo it on the conditioner either.  Very frustrating.  

I opted to try out Lush's shampoo bar.  Visited my local Lush and they gave me a few options.  I picked out Seanick (1.9 ounce bar is $11.95) because I liked the scent and also because of the beachy/ocean factor.  It's main ingredients are Nori Seaweed, Sea Salt, and Lemon Oil.  It's for sure got the refreshing factor. 

Seanik Solid Shampoo ($11.95)

After just one use I was amazed! I wasn't sure if I would like using a bar on my hair, but it came out so clean, shiny, and soft.  I lathered it up some and really worked the roots and the underside where I has having my major oil issues.  It seriously felt like after visiting the hairdresser clean.  I almost couldn't wait to wash my hair again, but I did to see how long this amazingness would last.  Looks like I can go back to every second or third day shampooing again (which I prefer as my hair is super fine and needs a little something to get any kind of volume).  

Lush gave me a sample of their "Big" another shampoo with sea saltiness and oil fighting factors.  This comes in their standard black tub for $27.95...haven't tried it as yet because I'm enjoying my purchase and don't know that I'll purchase in the future because I don't love the idea of spending almost $30 on shampoo (I'll say that maybe 13 bucks is my limit.  

Lush Lip Service lip balm ($7.95)

Once at the register I picked up a tin of "Lip Service" lip balm...I can never have enough of these because I love them (and sadly also tend to lose them...which is why I like to have back up).

Do you have any Lush favorites?

Halloween Makeup Remover...from your kitchen

If you plans for Halloween include a lot of makeup (because it's awesome and fun and HALLOWEEN) then your plans should also include something to remove said makeup.  Now I tend to recommend items from name brands that I enjoy using however I don't want any of us using up tons of the good stuff on this project.  Enter: Coconut Oil.  I like the stuff in the jar from Trader Joe's but if you prefer someone other than Joe that's fine too.  

I suggest that before you head out on your Halloween evening that you set the coconut oil right on the bathroom counter...along with a dark towel.  This way it's right there when you get home...I'm always thinking of you my dear reader.  

Room temperature oil will be solid but will quickly melt as you gently (Key Word: gently) rub it in to remove the makeup.  Rinse and repeat as necessary...depending on how all out you went.  It will not be pretty, aren't you glad I told you to have that dark towel ready?  Follow up with your regular cleanser and a moisturizer, and go easy with your makeup the next day...give your skin some breathing room.  

Why am I suggesting coconut oil?  This guy sums it up best: "Coconut oil solubilizes or breaks up water-resistant substances used in eye shadow and mascara, releasing them from the skin and lashes," says cosmetic chemist Joseph Cincotta. And unlike a lot of traditional eye-makeup removers, it'll even leave your skin softer and younger-looking: "It's great for your skin, because it moisturizes and smooths," says Cincotta.  From Allure

Hope you have a very happy Halloween! Cheers.

Trader Joe's for your fingers and toes

You just never know what you'll find at Trader Joe's.  Actually right now if you go you'll find pumpkin spiced everything...but that's not what I'm here to tell you about.  

My amazing find happened in their skin care section.  For a while now I've been trying to get my cuticles in to shape (I have a bad habit of picking at them...which just makes them look worse).  I would also like to continue wearing flip flops as long as our weather in southern California will let me (so yeah, pretty much year round).  Enter: Trader Joe's Head to Toe Moisturizing Balm. I've been using it every night for my hands and feet and in the last week there is a noticeable (to me) difference in how much softer my heels are and how much better my cuticles appear to be.  If you need a little more moisture anywhere else it's also supposes to be good for chapped lips, dry elbows and flyaway hairs.  About $4 for a 2 ounce tin and No Animal Testing.  Yay!

Another little bonus from Trader Joe's you can use in your nail routine...Coconut Oil Spray.  I painted my nails and when they were mostly dry (right about the time you touch something and make a mess of your manicure) I sprayed a light mist of the coconut oil on them and they are smudge free.  

Carry all...all that I carry in my bag

I love flipping through a magazine and seeing a "what's in my bag" article.  I don't know why other peoples bags fascinate me so much but they do.  Hopefully this interests you too, otherwise you are not going to enjoy this post. 

1. My bag itself is generally from a TJ Maxx or Ross...I go for the pleather/man made faux leather. 
2. My wallet is a little Betsey Johnson that I picked up at a Nordstrom Rack forever ago...also a big fan of Target wallets.
3. Lush Lip Service Lip Balm, I have about five of these floating around my life at any given time.  I use it throughout the day to keep my lips soft and I also use it for my cuticles occasionally. 
4. Nars Lip Gloss in Orgasm.  I love this pink with a little orange shimmer. I'm not one for a bold lip color (as much as I love it on others) this one is just pink enough.
5. Hello Kitty Band Aids, you would not believe how handy it is to have a couple of band aids on hand.  Not just for myself, but to hand out in a very minor emergency...best part being when a guy needs a band aid and I offer up Hello Kitty.  
6. Eminence Tea Tree & Mint Hand Cleanser...this has a fresh minty scent and feels moisturizing as well.  Sometimes menus just seem a little iffy.
7. Nail file...I try to keep one handy (heehee handy) just in case of a snag.
8. Tweezers, because sometimes you have a couple of minutes in the invisible bubble of your car and that rear view mirror catches every stray brow.
9. NYX Blotting Paper: another small just in case item.
10. Pill box, I try to carry a couple of migraine meds...because there is nothing worse than a migraine. Nothing.
11. A fan, I picked up a pretty one for a couple of dollars a while back and it has more than paid for itself.  Baseball games, Monster Truck shows, waiting rooms...just bring a little breeze you can bring with you. 

My current go to hair style

When I pull up my hair in a ponytail or messy bun-like-thing I am made very aware of how fine my hair is.  That is why this is my current go to, a little up and a little down and very very easy.  Easy is what I need, there is a reason that I didn't go into Cosmetology.  This style seems to work well with every type of hair too (long/short/thick/thin).

My hair is stick straight too, if I add a little wave with a straightener/flat iron I use a little hair spray to make it stick (not sticky).  I use Jason's thin to thick **(very light scent, light hold).  If I'm on day two (or three) hair I also use a little dry shampoo too (fave being Lush's No Drought).  I love this dry shampoo...a little goes a long way and I've had this current bottle for a long time.  I only wish it came as a shaker.  

**A note on Jason's hair spray: Shop around, some prices are better than others.  

21 Days of Beauty...and my best buy

I love when ULTA has their 21 Days of Beauty...I've been trying to watch my budget lately so I didn't indulge myself too much. However, when they had Clarisonic brush heads for buy one get one free...well I could not pass that up.  (Total $27 for two!)

My Clarisonic Mia was probably one of my best purchases when I was a Macy's (employee discount woot woot).  It's been a few years now and I still love it.  Plug in to charge it every once in a while and change out the brush head every few months. Done. I've never tried the other brushes on the market because I've never needed to.  

You can use any type of cleanser you'd like with this brush, lately I've been using it with Murad's Essential-C Cleanser and Dermalogica's Daily Microfoliant.  Exfoliating with the brush is really nice, it leaves your skin so soft and smooth.  Bonus being that when you give your skin a nice exfoliation your follow up (serums and moisturizers) will go on more smoothly and penetrate deeper into your skin.   

What has been your best beauty purchase?  

Multi-masking on a Monday

It has been brought to my attention (whilst continuing my education in skin care) that my skin is dry. In an effort to boost my moisture content I'm giving myself a little masking session.

Korres "Beauty Shots"

I received this set as a gift (it's by Korres and was from Sephora...but it doesn't look like the set is available anymore; the individual masks are about $18/per 1.7oz) Click here for the Korres Nectarine mask at Sephora.  I'm currently using the Nectarine (Moisturizing) and Watermelon (Hydrating) masks.  The other two masks in this set are Cranberry (Lifting) and Grapefruit (Brightening)...but as I'm focusing on my dry skin these didn't really seem to blend into my treatment for tonight. That and if I were to layer all four of these I may begin to feel like a fruit cocktail.

My main areas of dryness are my cheeks and forehead (thank you to some skin analysis from my fellow post grad skin therapists). The minimum time is about 15 minutes for these (and most) masks. As I find myself watching reruns on TV and figure I'll be up for a while, my face will be here for a while.  To really up the "pro" factor I did apply these with a fan brush.

Ps: Nectarines are probably my favorite fruit...this mask is delightful.

Other masks I like:
Lush's Oatfix (keep it refrigerated) $6.95/2.1 oz: for dry skin (and people who like bananas)
Lush's BB Seaweed (also refrigerated) also $6.95/2.1 oz for most skin types and good for sensitive skin as it is soothing.
The Body Shop's Drops of Youth Bouncy Sleep Mask $30.00/3.1 oz which you can totally sleep in...just try to start on your back so you don't rub too much off on a pillowcase, I myself happen to be a tosser and turner (see my previous entry on this gem here).

Any masks out there you want to throw into the mix?? Let me know!

Cheers to you and a happy week all!

Clean up your act...with brush cleaner

I am a sometimes slacker when it comes to cleaning my makeup brushes.  I don't mean to be...BUT somehow it just doesn't pop up in my head on my to do list.  I did pick up a brush cleaner from E.L.F. (available at Target for $3).

I have to say that I used it this weekend, and I loved the light citrusy scent.  I could get used to it, it may even be enough to get me on a set brush cleaning sched.  You really can't beat the price either.  E.L.F. also has a brush shampoo (also 3 bucks) for your more stubborn brushes (the ones you use for foundation and creams).  I'll have to check that one out and get back to you.

My technique is super simple, brush cleaner and paper towels, rub ~gently~ until clean! I do however let them dry laying flat though.  When I do clean my brushes I do let them dry overnight, so obviously do your cleaning when you're in for the night...or you know you could get a Ryan Gosling.

How about you, do you keep your brushes super clean or do you need a reminder every now and then?

Fab find: Drops of Youth Bouncy Sleeping Mask

I like samples...no, make that love.  I love getting samples of little things to try.  Sometimes the actual product is so far out of my price range that it's laughable, but I enjoy my sample nonetheless.

Lucky for me the other night I was looking for a night cream sample and I found The Body Shop's Drops of Youth Bouncy Sleeping Mask in my lovely sample collection.  I put a little on and instantly my skin felt so soft and hydrated.  I can not remember the last time my skin felt so wonderful so quickly.  In the morning, my skin still felt great.

As far as price point goes, I consider it completely affordable at $30.00 for 3.1 ounces.  For a night time mask, that you maybe use once or twice a week (more if you have more dehydrated skin).

So glad I found this sample, looking forward to trying more from this line as well!

Why Spa and when?

I am still working to get my post graduated certificate from International Dermal Institute.  I am also trying to work out what kind of Esthetician I would like to be.  I think that I would really like to focus in on skin care and body treatments, and not so much on waxing.  Waxing has just never been my thing (maybe because I too feel the pain that we have to suffer walking around letting our hairs grow out prior to a session).

Personally, I'd rather go the shave and laser route...to me it's just easier (especially if you consider how many deals are to be had on things like Groupon and Living Social).

Bunny applauds going cruelty free

 Here's what I do know, I want to provide a cruelty free experience (bunnies of the world rejoice!).   I would also like to focus on facials and things like body wraps and such.  These are the treatments that I enjoy, and I'd like to think others do too...I could be wrong.  I know I don't go as much as I'd like, do you?

A trip to Eden...(A Day Spa)

I love the idea of "detoxing".  Clearing out the bad so there is room for good.  The other day I tried a M'lis Detox Wrap at Luxe in Glendora.  Generally I go there for my cut and color needs (with Lisamarie).

The more I visit this salon, the more I like it.  This was my first trip to the Eden Day Spa side and I have to say that I was kind of amazed.  Past the hustle and bustle of the busy salon area there is a door in the back that leads to another door and into a quiet room.  A comfy couch and dim lighting it is a perfect spot to relax a little before you are led upstairs to one of three treatment rooms.

On with the show though.  My skin therapist today was Michelle, who was nice as could be.  We started with a quick scrub, a quick application of the M'lis Contour Body Cream and then I was all wrapped up with plastic.  I got real cozy for about 40 minutes and even dozed off for a few minutes.  The wrap was removed and I was on my way.  I don't know if I lost any inches, but I was for sure relaxed and smelling faintly of cinnamon. Overall it was a very positive experience and I would for sure visit again for other treatments! For a M'lis location near you click here.

Summer lovin'

I love summer, it stays light for so long the weather has been delightful.  It's slushy season.  I've been walking along Puddingstone in the evenings (after 7 equals free parking). It's glorious and I know that in California we need rain, but right now I'm just enjoying some rather lovely summer days and nights.

I've been working on fixing up our backyard, replacing some of the dead grass with some prettier (and drought tolerant) options.  Currently still working on the clean up portion, but once I get into the more decorative parts I'm thinking I'd like to go with a kind of Wonderland-meets-Labyrinth motif.  I think it would be a fun way to combine a couple of my favorite movies. 

I wonder if I could find a Hoggle garden gnome somewhere???

Between working in the yard, a couple of 2-mile walks earlier in the week and the trek to Top Deck at Dodger Stadium the other night I've been doing pretty well with keeping active.  Luckily for me the weather has been pretty nice this week.  Here's a quick look:

A view from my hike/walk @ Frank G Bonelli Park/Puddingstone

Hello Kitty night @ Dodger Stadium 

My go to products this week have been: Physician's Formula CC cream in Light/Medium...which I've let it "cook" while I'm getting ready and Josie Maran's Argan Oil Mascara.  That's pretty much it, I'm keeping it pretty simple. 

Hope you are having a lovely summer! Cheers to you. 

Remembering your first....fragrance

I was catching up on my reading (of other blogs) and this question came up.  Not only did I remember my first fragrance but I was brought back to the whole experience.  I was travelling home from my first (and so far only) trip to Europe. I had gone to London to visit a friend who was doing the semester abroad thing. I stopped in a duty-free shop and knew that Ralph was popular at the time, I tried it on and liked it and that was it...my first fragrance.

What was your first fragrance? Does it bring back any memories?

Cooking with Queens

You know who really knows how to do their makeup?  Drag Queens.  They all seem to have flawless skin always and as a person with skin myself I know that it is impossible to always have flawless skin. I myself go pretty natural on a day to day basis, and "cooking" your makeup is a simple trick for a natural flawless appearance. (It is on the time consuming side though).  I found this step-by-step from Beautylish helpful, but here are the basics:


Step 1: Concealer...in my case I've been using Physician's Formula CC Cream (about $15 at drugstores) as my go to for everything face this summer. Apply under eyes down toward your nose and out toward your temples.  I use my fingers for this step and a light touch.

Step 2: Leave it alone for a few minutes.  Time will vary based on the product you're using.  Some recommend leaving it to set or "cook" for 10 to 20 minutes...I think I wait about 5 myself.  This is the important step though, because you are letting the makeup warm to your skin before blending it in.  The "cooking" is changing the texture of the cream and allowing it to mix with your skins natural oils; it may even appear to change color slightly.

Step 3: Blend.  Some items I read said that their makeup had dried out by this point, but if your prep your skin with a moisturizer and/or a primer it would probably be just fine.  My CC cream held up just fine and I blended with a damp sponge.  

Ace DeVille, photo from Google

Product review: Body Shop's Honey Bronze

Picked this up after seeing a before/after on Pinterest...my home away from home.  Simple to use, and not too shimmery.

Basic faux tan rules apply:
Shower and exfoliate
Towel dry
Shake up the Honey Bronze
Apply
Give it a couple of minutes to dry before putting on your clothes
Wash your hands of any residual bronzer

I'm liking this one a lot, I'm sure I could go darker with this on my legs.  It never appears orange, just a little bit of color for shorts season.  Even though it's called shimmering dry oil...it's not so much that you feel like a glittery vampire/stripper.

Bought mine online from The Body Shop along with a couple of other items. Honey Bronze Shimmering Dry Oil in Honey Kissed ($22.00 for 3.3 ounces...a little goes a long way).

Product splurge: Vine Vera Cabernet Peel

I took a trip to the mall the other day, just to purchase a gift for a friend.  I was not shopping for myself.  Ok, maybe one small thing...a bracelet or t-shirt...but just one thing.  

I was lured into the Vine Vera store because of a free sample...and Zoie.  She sat me down to her chair to show me how their product worked.  The peel seemed awesome, very gentle and when she removed it with a cotton ball I was amazed at what I saw...(and a little grossed out, I mean come on I had showered that morning and here were all these little dead skin cells sitting on a cotton ball!)

Then came the price pitch...I can't even remember what the original price she said based on their website let's say $300.00.  I about fell out of the chair, I'm sure my jaw was on the floor.  And I said NO.  I was honest and told her: I'm out of work, I'm only here to purchase a gift for a friend.  We went back and forth for a bit, she wanted to make the sale work...and I really was impressed with how the product worked.  I held strong--this is not in my price range, and I am not one to haggle.  However, when she came down to $80.00...I caved.  I'll save money in another area of my life.

Resveratol Cabernet High Potency Cellular Peel

I've used the peel once so far, it is recommended to use once a week.  I will take some before/after pics after I've used it for a little while.  After one use, I could not stop touching my face--it was so soft!  

This product line does appear to be questionable in regards to their pricing.  If you are interested in trying them out do some research first...and if you are a good haggler--go for it. If using the internet--shop around to get a good price.  

Per their website Vine Vera does not test on animals. You can visit their website here to check them out.

How is your sales resistance? Can you walk on by or do you go for the sample?

Cheers!