Evening Skincare Routine

Hello lovelies!

As promised, part deux (oohh look at me so cultured) of my skincare routine, you can catch up with part I here if you haven't already. As you can tell by the title, in today's post I'm going to breakdown step by step my evening routine and the products I use to take care of my complexion; contrary to my morning routine though, this one requires a little more time and products. I can only speak for myself, although I'm sure many of us are guilty, that I spend a good amount of time (and money) on makeup products that not only make me look better but also last a decent amount of time on my face, i.e. primers, foundations, mascaras, etc. Therefore, I believe it's only fair that I use the right types of products and take the time to remove my makeup thoroughly so that years from now my skin has a chance to look as good as Demi Moore's (one can only dream).

1- Removing Makeup. Now don't get lazy on me girls: Put down the wipes! Yes, they are very convenient/fast and I must admit I've been guilty of reaching for them on drunken nights, but in the long run they really aren't removing all of your makeup or helping your skin. I am a big big fan of cleansing balms, especially the Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm and as of late, the Clarins Pure Melt Cleansing Gel (even the names make me feel so much better than "makeup removing wipes"). Although they have different textures, both work the same way: I apply on dry skin, something that takes a while getting used to, massage all over the skin to breakdown all my makeup (including all my eye makeup), add just a smidge of warm water to help emulsify (turn into a "milky" consistency), and then remove with a towel or cloth that I ran under warm water. I can't even begin to explain how good and instantly relax my skin (and I) feel after removing all my makeup! To me, it's like the equivalent of slipping into a hot bath.

2- Cleanse. Now that all my makeup is off, I like to go in with a separate cleanser, which are actually the same ones I use in the morning. I use either Boscia Purifying Cleansing Gel or the Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash. Both are simple, easy to use gel cleansers, and they make my skin feel extra clean to prepare it for the next step.

3- Toner. After cleansing I follow up with the Clinique Clarifying Lotion 3, which is formulated for my skin type (there is also 1, 2, and 4). When you find the perfect one for your skin, toner is pretty much a "do it all" type of product: it removes and controls excess oil, tightens pores, helps reduce breakouts, and brightens/softens the complexion. I just pour some on a cotton pad, run it through my T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) where I am oiliest, and finish off the excess on the cheeks.

4- Serum. I know using an oil seems like something suited more for dry skin, but actually using the right oil helps balance out the skin, whether it is oily, sensitive, and even acne prone. I've spoken about the Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate before and I don't know who they have making this stuff, maybe Jesus, but overall it is an instant boost for my skin. It brightens it overnight and helps lock in the hydration from my night time moisturizer, making it more effective and helping my mornings look a little less scary every time I look in the mirror. If only I can say the same for my hair. Warning: the next two products are also from Kiehls, what can I say I love the brand, and if you want more details about any of them you can check out this post.

5- Moisturize. Kiehls Ultra Facial Cream is hands down the most incredible moisturizer I've used (I'm on my second tub). It is ultra hydrating and sinks into the skin beautifully. Next, I use a separate moisturizer for my under eye area: the Kiehls Creamy Under Eye Treatment with Avocado. I know it says "creamy" in its name, but this takes the cake for super ultra creamy. It is an unusual texture though, because it starts out very thick, but as you continue to dab in it turns into a very thin almost watery consistency. A little does go a long way with this one; I feel I don't need to buy another ever again.

6- Extras. Now, contrary to the products I just talked about, the next two products I use every other day or when needed. I love scrubs! I feel they are the easiest way to instantly smooth and brighten skin, but they can be abrasive, which is why I only use them after my cleanser every three days or on a day I feel extra grubby. Two of my favorites: Simple Skincare Smoothing Facial Scrub and the ridiculously expensive Kate Somerville Intensive Exfoliating Treatment.
My skin is not particularly acne prone, but I do get the odd hormonal spot every now and then, which is why I like to keep a spot treatment handy to keep the situation under control. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo is great because it's formulated with benzoyl peroxide, which I find to be better and stronger for blemishes than salicylic acid. I usually apply it after my serum, and before my moisturizer; it can also be used during the day, but I find using it once at night is enough for me.

Before I finish up the post, I wanted to give you a little tip when it comes to skin care product application. Always remember to allow a few seconds for each product to sink in before applying the next. And as for the order in which to apply, just remember to go from thinnest to thickest: toner (watery), serum (oil), and moisturizer (cream or gel).

I really hope these recent skincare posts have been helpful in some way, but as I've mentioned before skincare has to be suited for your own needs. It's important to identify your skin type (problem areas) and do a little bit of research, whether online or at a beauty counter. Also, skincare can be quite pricy, so try to get your hands on samples: never be afraid to ask for them! It's your money and if you can, you should make sure what you're purchasing will work for you. Please let me know in the comments which are some of you're skin care staples and how they've worked for you!

Thanks for reading!

Daytime Skincare Routine

Hello lovelies!

After a week with no internet, I am back on the blogosphere and it feels oh so good! I've been wanting to do a skin care routine post for a while now because as cheesy and cliche as it might sound, it's what's underneath all the makeup that counts most. Most of us use makeup on a daily basis because we care about our appearance: "When you look good you feel good." When used properly, makeup can help hide (minor) imperfections and enhance our best features. Even so, whether you go all out with eyeshadows and contouring, or stick to the most minimal basics, taking care of your skin is crucial. After all, the better your skin looks and feels, the less makeup you need to use. In today's post I want to share my tried and true daytime skincare products and hopefully motivate you to start or keep up looking after your skin.

I don't know about the rest of you, but in the mornings I never feel truly awake until I splash some cold water on my face. Now, I don't go all Mommy Dearest and stick my face in ice water, but I do make time for three easy steps to make sure my skin feels fresh and ready for the day.

1- Cleanse. Fancy word for "wash your face" plain and simple. A little water and a little soap to clear my skin of any impurities/excess oils to start the day with a clean slate. I usually reach for the Boscia Purifying Cleansing Gel or the Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash, both which I've spoken about before and really like. They are both gel cleansers, lather really well, feel gentle on the skin, and leaves it feeling clean yet moisturized.

2- Protect. Perhaps the most important part before heading out the door is to apply some good'ol sunscreen. While catching some rays can make for a nice tan and glowing skin, over time they can also cause early wrinkles, enlarged pores, and worsen dark spots. I don't think any of us want to age like Donatella Versace, right? Didn't think so. Therefore, from now on facial sunscreens like the Kiehls Super Fluid UV Defense SPF are your new BFFs. I love this one because it is an SPF 50+ and feels super lightweight. It sinks into the skin very quickly, and leaves non of that normal SPF tackiness behind; since it is Kiehls ( a brand I love as evidenced here ) it's sensitive skin approved. Of course, you don't necessarily need to splurge on a SPF; the drugstore has many alternatives *cough* Neutrogena *cough* just make sure you don't skip the sunscreen each morning!

3- Moisturize. First allow me to point out how hard for me it is to write this paragraph given that I loathe the word 'moist' (it sends shivers down my spine). With that said, this is probably my favorite step because it instantly gives my skin the boost it needs to start off my day and also provides a smooth, healthy surface for my makeup. Whether your skin is oily, dry, combination, sensitive, acne prone, etc., there is a moisturizer (there go the shivers) out there for you; all it takes is a bit of research and testing what works best for you. Since I have combination skin, leaning more towards oily these days, I've been going for the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel.  The gel formula means it's very lightweight, which is perfect for oily skin, yet ultra hydrating. I also like to moisturize my under eye area with the Burt's Bees Sensitive Eye Cream, which not only helps reduce any puffiness, but also makes my concealer apply so much smoother. Every now and then I'll switch to the Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage, or if I'm feeling a little DIY, I'll just grab two spoons, leave them in the freezer for a few minutes, and then place them over my eyes.

I know there are other skincare steps to take into consideration in the morning, a.k.a. a toner and a serum, but with my skin I've learned the simpler the better. If I overload my face with too many products, it can get irritated or my makeup doesn't apply/wear well during the day. Even though skincare has to be adjusted to your own unique needs, I hope today's post was helpful in some way and perhaps has encouraged you to take better care of that pretty face. Let me know in the comments which are some of your favorite morning skincare products, and make sure you come back on Thursday because I'll be sharing my evening skincare routine! (you can follow me on social media to know when it goes up)

Thanks for reading!

Freshening Up

Hello lovelies!

Let's face it, no matter how long lasting a makeup product claims to be, there comes a time during the day when we need to freshen up. Whether it's because you are starting to get oily (my case), or walking around all day has caused your makeup to fade, or you're finally having drinks with that guy you've been flirting with and (of course Murphy's Law) you don't have time to put on a full face, retouching your makeup during the day is inevitable. Personally, it gives me peace of mind knowing that I have a few beauty bits with me just in case...

1. First thing is first (I'm the realest): Get rid of the excess oil. Even though they are kinda gross after you are done, I've always gone for blotting papers. TATCHA Aburatorigami Japanese Beauty Papers (yeah, don't even try to pronounce that) are the best ones I've tried so far. They are pricy for oil blotting papers, but worth it because they are natural, powder free, don't disturb my makeup, and leave my face feeling like a  fresh semi-clean canvas.

2. Concealer fixes all. I'm not one to carry around foundation with me, so if at any point during the day my dark circles or any blemishes start to creep through, I go straight for the concealer. I prefer to use one that is creamy, easy to blend with my fingers, and has a doe-foot applicator so I can really get into my inner eye corner (where I tend to get the most darkness). You can of course use which ever concealer you prefer, but I use NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer or (for a more budget friendly option) the L'Oreal True Match Concealer. If things are still looking a bit too oily, I powder my T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) with a mattifying powder, and it's usually the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder.

3. A little liner goes a long way. Now that the skin has been taken care of, it's time to open up the eyes. To define those lashes skip that mascara and instead go for a black liner to tightline. Adding on mascara can actually weigh down your eyes more and can end up looking flaky; and  I know tightlining feels weird, but applying a black liner on your upper waterline adds definition and thickens up the lash line. For this I like to use Urban Decay 24/7 Velvet Eye Pencil, which glides on very creamy and really sticks to the waterline, or the L'oreal Silkissime Pencil Eye Liner, which works just as well but isn't as long lasting. Next, go for a nude (or white if you are very fair) liner on the bottom waterline to open up the eyes and counteract any redness or any mascara that might have run during the day. Honestly, a nude liner makes a big difference when it comes to brightening and opening up the eyes, so give them a try if you haven't already. I am a big fan of the Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Eyeliner in 'Nude'.

4. Don't be afraid to highlight. It is probably the easiest and fastest way to brighten up your whole face if it's beginning to look dull; and the good thing is you can use the same product for both eyes and face. Two of my favorites: the cult classic MAC MSF in 'Soft & Gentle' or for an easier-to-carry-around option Stila Eyeshadow in 'Kitten' ( L'Oreal Infallible Eye Shadow in 'Iced Latte' is very similar). Dab either one on the inner corner of your eyes and on top of  your cheekbones and done! Instantly brighter complexion.

5. Perfect the Pout. Applying a little bit of lip color makes you look and feel more put together and polished. Whether you rather go bold with a daring red like MAC Lady Danger or prefer a more subtle, nude shade, never skip the lips! Lately, I've been wearing either my new favorite nude-combo, MAC Lip Pencil in 'Whirl' with MAC Velvet Teddy, or the super easy to use NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in 'Walkyrie'.

6. Spritz Spritz. Finish off with a refreshing mist or setting spray to make sure everything sets and blends together nicely, and most importantly you don't look caky ('cause nobody wants that!) You can go for something herbal, minty, and refreshing like the Caudalie Beauty Elixir or something that sets makeup and guarantees its longevity like the MAC Fix+ (both are available in travel size so they are not only easier to carry around, but more affordable as well).

Well my beauties, that's all we have time for today. I hope some of these tips were useful in some way. Please let me know in the comments which littles tricks you use to stay looking fresh during a long day! Don't forget to follow me on social media (links below) for any blog updates and other shenanigans I get up to.

Thanks for reading!

Currently Loving

Hello lovelies!

I know I just did my monthly favorites, but I've been picking up a few (OK more than a few) things here and there to give them a whirl, and I'm happy to say that I've found some gems.

- L'Oreal Sleek It Strand Smoother Serum-Spray has been absolutely incredible on my hair! As you might know by now, I blowout my hair on a weekly basis, and this spray has been amazing at leaving my hair feeling so soft, smooth, and shiny. Plus, it really does helps out with the whole frizz situation AND smells great, so  if you're cuddling with that special (or maybe not so special someone) they are really going to appreciate it (wink wink*). I really recommend you guys give this one a try.
- NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in "Walkyrie" has not left my lips since I bought it; seriously, aside from lip balm, I haven't used anything else! Thanks to Kylie Jenner, the whole 90s-cindy-crawford-supermodel-makeup is having a major comeback, and although she is not my #1 Kardashian, her makeup (her lip color especially ) has been on point. I never really thought I could pull of a brown lip, but after I found this muddy-red-brown I realized what I've been missing out on. It's one of those shades you don't have to think about, you just slap it on and it goes with any makeup look and is perfect for any occasion. I also really love the formula: matte, yet creamy, and very long lasting.
*P.S. This isn't the exact color Kylie Jenner goes for, this color just really suits my skin tone. If you want a closer match to her lips, I'd go with MAC lip liner in Whirl with MAC Velvet Teddy lipstick.

- Chanel Perfection Lumière Velvet Foundation is second skin in a bottle. If there is one makeup product Chanel has got nailed down, it's their foundations (see Chanel Vitalumiere Aqua Foundation). I've had this for a while now, but haven't used it in quite some time because lately I've been skipping foundation all together. But, when that time of the month comes along, my skin (and body, and brain) can't help but go a little crazy, and this foundation has been a savior. It feels very light on the skin, yet still provides enough coverage to correct any uneven skin tones, redness, and blemishes. It is a matte formula, which keeps my oily skin under control, as well as a liquid to powder formula, which means it blends very easily and I don't need to set it with a powder (#lazygirlproblems).

- Milani Bella Eyes Gel Powder Shadows are a new release for the brand, and I am loving! They have a wide color selection (30 shades), but the drugstores I've visited don't carry them all, so the hunt continues. They are really easy to blend, and don't go on super intense so you can build them up, which I actually prefer sometimes because you get the exact amount of color you want, it looks more natural, and lasts longer. So far I've picked up "Bella Sand" and "Bella Caffé". Bella Sand (my favorite) is a b-e-a-utiful nude-champagne with gold under tones. I've been using it (errr-day) all over my eyelids to add a natural wash of color and since it has a subtle shimmer, it brightens and opens up my eyes perfectly! Bella Caffé is a standard matte brown perfect to apply on the crease to add some depth, which is how I've been using it, but you can also use it as a liner or even a brow powder. But, the best thing about these is that they're $4!
- Clinique Cheek Pop  in the shade "Ginger Pop" has been my go-to blush, and has  the most unique formula I've come across in a blush. I don't know how to explain it, so I apologize in advance. It feels and applies like a standard powder, but on the skin it looks like a cream blush. It blends so seamlessly with the rest of my makeup and looks incredibly natural and glowy. Plus, I think it has the cutest packaging!

Please let me know in the comments (or on my social media) what beauty goodies you have been loving lately, or if you have tried any of the products mentioned and how they've worked out for you.

Thanks for reading!

Save Your Pennies

Hello lovelies!

It's no surprise to anyone that I'm a beauty product junkie, after all that's why I'm here. Sometimes I come across products that are seriously thebomb.com, and other times I come across some that were just a complete waste of my hard earned pennies. Considering the amount of products I buy, I feel the disappointing products list isn't that long, but even so I'd like to throw in a little disclaimer before we begin. Not all the products I talk about in today's post are completely horrendous, actually some are quite good according to some of my favorite bloggers, but they just really didn't work out well for me and my needs. Everyone's skin and beauty preferences are different, so just because something didn't work for me it doesn't mean it won't work for you. With that said, let's get started.

- Garnier Miracle Skin Cream Is one of those products that I actually really did like, but it completely irritated my skin (itchy rash) especially on my cheek-bone area. It is one of those really cool products that comes out a white cream and as you blend it on to the skin it changes into the color of your skin tone to give the slightest amount of color and even out your complexion. On top of that it really does tighten your skin and provides sun protection (SPF 20). I really like these types of products, especially in the hotter months, but my skin really didn't get along with it. Tarter Sauce!

- Simple Radiance Cleansing Wipes I wish I didn't have to include in this post because you guys know how much I've been loving the brand, but I'm not a fan of these towelettes ("wipes" reminds me of dirty diapers and toilets). They have a quilted texture, which I wouldn't ordinarily mind, but it makes them very scratchy especially if you use them around the eyes. I much prefer the regular Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes: nice, soft, and leave my complexion feeling clean & fresh. I have to clarify, though, that neither of the towelettes are good at removing makeup (no where in the packaging does it say that's what they're meant for); they are, as the name suggest, meant for cleansing the face. If you are looking into makeup removing towelettes from the drugstore, I recommend the Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes.

- Estee Lauder Gentle Eye Makeup Remover Perhaps might be a little too gentle because it did not get it done for me at all. Not very good at taking off my eye-makeup, especially my mascara, and I don't even use waterproof! If you want to invest on an eye makeup remover, I'd recommend the Clarins Instant Eye Makeup Remover, or if you want something more affordable you can always go for L'Oreal Eye Makeup Remover or Bioderma.

- Clarins Toning Lotion (with Iris for combination/oily skin) Is yet another skin product that I liked but my skin  didn't, as it completely irritated it. I like the scent and I like how clean and fresh my skin felt afterwards, and as it is Clarins I really can't speak too bad about it because I love the brand. Damn you sensitive skin! Since this skincare fail, I've been using two sensitive skin approved products: Clinique Clarifying Lotion as well as the La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water.

- Bumble and Bumble Straight Blow Dry Is meant to be a heat-activated balm to accelerate the whole dreaded blow-out process and tame frizz, but for me it was a big'ol mess! It left my hair so dry, and I mean haystack-desert-tumble-weed dry. It was just awful! If you have naturally curly hair and blow dry it like me, I'd recommend the Alterna Perfect Blowout Creme or the Paul Mitchell Straightworks.

- Makeup Forever Full Cover Concealer Is one very hyped up product, but I just don't get it! I take my concealers very seriously mainly because of my dark circles, and although I heard it wasn't the best for dark circles I decided to give it a try anyway: I figured if it didn't work out for my dark circles it would still be useful for the rest of my face. Negative. I despise this formula. It comes out of the tube pretty creamy, but it is SO drying when you work it into the skin, and I don't think it's good for layering either since it tends to go caky and settle in fine lines. I've tried this with my fingers, with a brush, I blend, I dab, and it's horrible each time. It's drying under my eyes, it's drying on the rest of my face, which I find funny (not really) since my skin is oily, overall just bad. I would go to Sephora and return it, but I threw away the box. Learn from my mistake ladies, never throw away the box!

- Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick I have a very strong love-hate relationship with. The shades (I own three: Icon, Muse, and Riviera) in this line are absolutely gorgeous! There is not one dud in the bunch, they do go on super opaque on the first swipe, and the packaging is beautiful (of course, it is Hourglass). Even so, I find the formula very heavy/drying, and it tends to settle in the fine lines on my lips making them feel even drier. Reapplication is a PAIN: You pretty much have to clean off any residue because if you don't it goes on really flaky, and it's just a big'ol mess (not a good option if you're going to be eating or drinking). I'm also not a fan of the applicator: It's kind of flimsy and I like lip color applicators to be sturdy for more control when applying. I think for $28 Hourglass could develop a better formula, and maybe pack in some more product in there (you honestly don't get a whole lot), so until then no more Opaque Rouge purchases for me.

Well guys that's the end of the disappointing products road (see they weren't that many), I'm sorry this wasn't the most positive of posts, but I do feel I have to be completely honest if I don't like a product. Again, these are just my opinions. Just because they didn't work for me it doesn't mean they won't work for you, so if you saw something you still really want to try, please don't let me stop you. Let me know in the comments or in social media (links below) of any products that just didn't get it done for you or if you have tried any of the products mentioned.

Thanks for reading!