tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3394771707064488952024-03-13T21:45:53.005-07:00Vanity Talk Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.comBlogger251125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-49744207437076181062014-09-09T21:00:00.001-07:002014-09-09T21:00:50.523-07:00Quick Thoughts: Juniperseed Mercantile Reusable Cotton RoundsIf you're like me and cotton rounds (or cotton balls) are a part of your daily beauty routine, consider picking up some <a href="http://juniperseedmercantile.com/wp/product/ecofriendly-alternative-to-disposable-facial-poufs-organic-unbleached-cotton-birdseye-rounds-with-bonus-wash-bag/">reusable cotton rounds</a>, or "unpaper cloths," from <a href="http://juniperseedmercantile.com/wp/">Juniperseed Mercantile</a>. Making the switch from disposable to washable cotton rounds is one easy way to be eco- and budget-friendly. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OAjInBu8iTk/VA_IwbeCvGI/AAAAAAAADCg/kDwNroxiTtE/s1600/JuniperSeedMercantile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OAjInBu8iTk/VA_IwbeCvGI/AAAAAAAADCg/kDwNroxiTtE/s1600/JuniperSeedMercantile.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via etsy.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
These <a href="http://juniperseedmercantile.com/wp/product/ecofriendly-alternative-to-disposable-facial-poufs-organic-unbleached-cotton-birdseye-rounds-with-bonus-wash-bag/">organic, unbleached cotton rounds</a> come in a pack of <a href="http://juniperseedmercantile.com/wp/product/ecofriendly-alternative-to-disposable-facial-poufs-organic-unbleached-cotton-birdseye-rounds-with-bonus-wash-bag/">12 for $15</a> and are, of course, reusable. They also come with a complimentary wash bag for washing (but any lingerie mesh wash bag would do).<br />
<br />
I don't know about you, but the thought of never wasting money on a bag of cotton balls again sounds pretty sweet to me. I mean the money could always be put to use in other ways, like on a bottle of red wine maybe? Cheers to that!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-68599128730615313092014-09-01T21:19:00.000-07:002014-09-05T07:40:20.951-07:00Weekend Ramblings: One J. Crew Basic That Won't FailI am not a <a href="http://jcrew.com/">J. Crew</a> fanatic. I appreciate their zest for high quality, but too often I've found that their high quality is matched by a too-high-for-even-this-high-quality price (I'll pass on the $100 jogging sweats, thanks). I typically go straight for the sale rack and this strategy has suited me just fine... until I recently made the fatal mistake of trying on their <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/knitstees/pixie/PRD~31090/31090.jsp?N=17&Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=pixie+pant&isSaleItem=false&color_name=HTHR%20CHARCOAL&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row1">Pixie Pant</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NIdkyQpSqfU/VAVIdjdfFWI/AAAAAAAADCQ/9FDysbey3nI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-01%2Bat%2B10.55.48%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NIdkyQpSqfU/VAVIdjdfFWI/AAAAAAAADCQ/9FDysbey3nI/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-01%2Bat%2B10.55.48%2BPM.png" height="320" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via jcrew.com </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few of my coworkers have sworn by the power of the <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/knitstees/pixie/PRD~31090/31090.jsp?N=17&Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=pixie+pant&isSaleItem=false&color_name=HTHR%20CHARCOAL&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row1">Pixie Pant,</a> but until I got my butt into a pair, I wasn't a believer. I am now. These pants are all that and a bag of chips.<br />
<br />
Described by <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/knitstees/pixie/PRD~31090/31090.jsp?N=17&Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=pixie+pant&isSaleItem=false&color_name=HTHR%20CHARCOAL&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row1">J. Crew</a> as "a legging but more structured, it's made from a stretchy holds-you-in fabric and looks good on everyone," you know these have to be good. And they are. While delivering on the "holds-you-in" promise, they manage to also accentuate your, um, assets. What more could you possibly want (and from a work pant/legging hybrid no less)?<br />
<br />
The <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/knitstees/pixie/PRD~31090/31090.jsp?N=17&Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_US&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=pixie+pant&isSaleItem=false&color_name=HTHR%20CHARCOAL&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row1">Pixie Pant</a> in black can take you from a day at the office to a night out to weekend errand running in a heartbeat. Consider this $100 absolutely well spent.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-28523766289296611692014-09-01T21:00:00.000-07:002014-09-01T21:00:04.956-07:00Get Your Omega-3's on the Cheap Salmon is one awesome fish. Not only does it taste great, but it also contains a healthy dose of Omega-3 fatty acids that make your hair shine and you skin glow. However, when you're living on a budget like myself, dropping big bucks on a fresh fillet o'salmon every week in the name of beauty isn't really an option. Enter your canned salmon.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6c5WMAUzIg/VAU50libSCI/AAAAAAAADBo/WvsrHJkGUkk/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-01%2Bat%2B10.29.22%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u6c5WMAUzIg/VAU50libSCI/AAAAAAAADBo/WvsrHJkGUkk/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-01%2Bat%2B10.29.22%2BPM.png" height="320" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via bumblebee.com</td></tr>
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<br />
Before you get all "Ew, canned fish," check out this blurb on <a href="http://www.cleveland.com/healthfit/index.ssf/2009/10/canned_salmon_is_as_healthful.html">cleveland.com</a>. See? I'm onto something. You can still get nutritional goods from canned salmon, including extra calcium, and save some money in the process. And to answer your question of "How do I eat this stuff?," read below for my favorite salmon patty recipe.<br />
<br />
What you need:<br />
1 can of salmon<br />
1 egg<br />
1/2 - 1 cup of something crunchy (I like rice Chex, but you can go with Triscuits, Saltines, plain Cheerios... whatever really)<br />
1 splash of EVOO <br />
Whatever seasonings you like (Garlic salt and pepper never fail)<br />
<br />
What you do:<br />
1. Remove the salmon from the can, removing any bones as you see fit (if you prefer it bone-in, then do you)<br />
2. Mix the salmon, egg, crunch, EVOO and seasonings together in a bowl<br />
3. Heat up a frying pan on the stove and add a dash of EVOO to that as well<br />
4. Make patties out of the salmon mixture (I think you'll get about four small hamburger-sized patties) and place them lightly on the hot pan.<br />
5. Fry until both sides are lightly browned.<br />
<br />
Now, you can eat this alone or you can put it on a bun and dress it up like a burger. It's totally up to personal preference. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t8AXZWutOJs/VAU_2aGVsLI/AAAAAAAADB8/aaFzkKpDe5Y/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-01%2Bat%2B10.55.48%2BPM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t8AXZWutOJs/VAU_2aGVsLI/AAAAAAAADB8/aaFzkKpDe5Y/s1600/Screen%2BShot%2B2014-09-01%2Bat%2B10.55.48%2BPM.png" height="320" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ultra-comfy, stylish reason behind me skimping on groceries.</td></tr>
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<br />
If you're living on the cheap (and okay, maybe going light on the groceries in exchange for a <a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_special_sizes/size00/Pants00/PRDOVR~31090/31090.jsp">J. Crew Pixie Pant</a> splurge), this recipe will bring at least a little nutrition to your diet and maybe even a little shine to your hair.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-33719456238360893572014-08-31T09:54:00.000-07:002014-08-31T10:34:51.264-07:00Weekend Ramblings: Houston: So Far, So Good Wow... I can't believe it's been nearly a month since my last post. As it would turn out, having a full-time job can be something of a time drain. But that's beside the point. I'm actually loving my new job and my new city.<br />
<br />
Houston, as luck would have it for someone as food-obsessed as me, is a restaurant mecca. Never in my life have I been able to drive five minutes from my house and have the option to dine Chinese, Bosnian or Mexican if I want. It's crazy and wonderful (though not conducive to a healthy diet if you were wondering).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ifwpyl2nF8A/VANQwVLSR6I/AAAAAAAADBY/7KGyQurcMNI/s1600/10494571_10204563788764913_1715952319677691567_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ifwpyl2nF8A/VANQwVLSR6I/AAAAAAAADBY/7KGyQurcMNI/s1600/10494571_10204563788764913_1715952319677691567_n.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check me out in my new pink chair.</td></tr>
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<br />
As far as the people in general go, I've been surprised by everyone's kindness. Though Houston is located in the south, I was a little worried that maybe the big city mentality would be rude, crude, etc. Not at all! Everyone I've met (for the most part) has been really pleasant. That's just the naive Kentucky girl in me learning that, hey, people in big cities are really nice too.<br />
<br />
As for other learning experiences, I'm learning how to budget, cook and pay bills. The bills part isn't so great, but being in control of your own finances is empowering. I'm currently in a contest with myself to see how much money I can save this year. It's not been easy (eating all of the foreign cuisine isn't free), but I'm discovering my inner frugality little by little.<br />
<br />
Please stay tuned for more blog posts. Though I'm a little busier these days, I'll do my best to keep you all updated on my life and discoveries as a young professional. Who knows... this may just turn into a lifestyle blog! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-90352690802477719492014-08-05T05:00:00.000-07:002014-08-05T05:03:26.781-07:00Fleur d' Oranger Skin Care (a.k.a. Skin Care a la Carte)<style>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Vacations
don't always lend themselves to incredible skincare discoveries. In fact, with
high levels of margarita consumption and UV worship, you end up undoing a lot
of the good many of your lotions and potions do. However, every once in a blue
moon you might come across a lovely shop owner on a little Mexican side street
whose products are too good not to share. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My best friend, Katie, and I in the shop.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Everyone,
meet Veroushka Tarazi of <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/">Fleur d'Oranger Skin Care (or Skin Care a la Carte)</a> in Sayulita, Nayarit in
Mexico. Veroushka has spent years upon years studying plant essences and their
interactions with the body and skin. As a result, she has created a line of
products that are not only pleasing to the senses (you <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">have to</i> smell the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/exfoliant/">Exfoliant Visage</a>), but effective as well. Sit
back and read along as I talk with Veroushka about her studies and why her
products are so special.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Vanity Talk:</b> How did you become so interested in skincare?</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>
<br />
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<b>Veroushka Tarazi:</b> Actually,
my primary interest when studying the properties of medicinal plants was health
related.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had always been a great
believer that the planet and its greenery contained all the medicine necessary
to maintain good health. Since our skin is our largest organ, I knew that these
amazing medicinal essences had the power to help us maintain excellent health
as well as vibrant skin. I had studied the cutis, dermis and epidermis and
soon, I started researching and testing different formulas to maintain healthy
skin.</div>
<b> </b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Vanity:</b> Where and for how long have you studied skincare and
aromatherapy?</span><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Veroushka:</b> When I discovered the power of medicinal plant
extracts I was married to a French man. Since medicinal extracts are widely
used by doctors in France, I pursued my studies in Poitiers for about seven
years and later on in the States as well. I am also certified by the <a href="http://www.healthcarecan.ca/">HealthCare Association in Canada</a>. My focus is on learning every different medicinal
property of each plant and from that knowledge, combining them to get a
specific effect. I’ve been blessed with a very sharp intuition as to how to
formulate them with great results over the years.<br />
</div>
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Additionally, I’ve studied anatomy and how each individual
has a different constitution. In other words, I can treat two people for the
same health challenge but will prepare a different formula targeting the same
goal. It all depends on the person’s constitutional type.<br />
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As for Aromatherapy…well, that is a science that has become
very commercial.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So commercial, in
fact, that a lot of people claim to be aroma therapists. However, there has
been an international law put in effect that does not allow the lay-person to
purchase these essences I am blessed to use unless they have a degree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Used
by the wrong hands, these medicinal plant extracts can be harmful, hence their effectiveness
when used with the proper knowledge.<br />
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7I8DxgWcr1U/U-DBn3HPWyI/AAAAAAAADAM/OlsesSOztco/s1600/blogger-image--1909838592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7I8DxgWcr1U/U-DBn3HPWyI/AAAAAAAADAM/OlsesSOztco/s1600/blogger-image--1909838592.jpg" height="292" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Veroushka's cleansers (the Aloe Vera Cleanser is a personal favorite of mine)</td></tr>
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<b>Vanity:</b> How would you say these two things work (skincare
and aromatherapy) in conjunction with each other to create such incredible
products?<br />
</div>
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<b>Veroushka:</b> As I’ve mentioned, I also studied the epidermis
and since the skin is our biggest organ, I’ve applied the same laws of healing
to get effective results with skincare. Anyone who uses my products on a
regular basis will not only find an improvement in their skin, but also a more
balanced outlook on life. The essences have that effect on people who are
around them a lot as they have a positive effect on our pituitary gland.<br />
</div>
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My own life became more balanced as soon as I was around the
essences regularly and I must say, it really did change me overall and feel
more at peace with myself. They are amazing.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Vanity:</b> You believe in skincare that is completely oil-free,
but you love plant waxes. Why is this? Also, what is the difference between
plant oils, plant waxes and plant essences?<br />
</div>
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<b>Veroushka:</b> <style><!--
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-</style>The essences are the soul of the plant, the hormonal
system if you may. They are the healing power behind my products.<span style="color: black; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"></span> The plant waxes and plant silicones are my champions for
hydration, which is really really important and crucial for vibrant healthy
skin.</div>
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You can read
all about the reason why I don’t believe in using oils on your skin if you go
on my site under <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/benefits-of-oil-free-skin-care/">"About Us: Benefits of Oil-free Skin Care."</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"></span><br />
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<b>Vanity:</b> If you could choose just three products out of your
entire collection to recommend to my readers, what would they be?<br />
</div>
<b>
</b><br />
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<b>Veroushka:</b> Hmmm…that’s a difficult one because each one of
us is different. If someone suffers of cold sores then for sure they need to
see how amazing the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/health-care/cold-sore-relief/">Cold Sore Relief</a> is. If someone has troubled skin, then the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/health-care/antiseptic-cleanser-toner-125ml/">Antiseptic Cleanser</a>
used along with the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/health-care/spot-treatment-4ml/">Spot Treatment</a> is awesome!</div>
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I also recommend most women the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/fabulous-four-skin-care/">Fabulous Four combo</a>. This combo of products makes for a complete skin care regime
and every one of the products are very popular on their own as well. <br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GzGTpf_1cHg/U-DGl3t1fnI/AAAAAAAADA0/Romu6HsdolE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-08-05+at+7.56.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GzGTpf_1cHg/U-DGl3t1fnI/AAAAAAAADA0/Romu6HsdolE/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-08-05+at+7.56.53+AM.png" height="305" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b> </b></div>
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<b>Vanity:</b> You can also customize all of your products.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Can you do this even if the client is
unable to visit your actual studio?<br />
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<b>Veroushka:</b> Women will send me pictures of their skin,
sometimes I don’t even get to see a full face and they give me the details.
What their skin is like, how their skin reacts to certain unhealthy products
and especially the result they hope for. And yes, I can customize their products
and recommend a skin regime do bring out the best of their skin.<br />
</div>
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I receive countless emails from women telling me how they
love their vibrant, healthy skin and that it’s never been that great etc.. and
they also share some more intimate health or skin problems and that’s when I
customize their products.<br />
</div>
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<b>Vanity:</b> When we met in person, I was absolutely impressed
with your skin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is your
personal skincare routine (both morning and evening)? Also, have you found it
more difficult to maintain your complexion in the warm, humid weather?<br />
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT9Z3vTAGIc/U-DBs3ZsIsI/AAAAAAAADAU/XsE3u8jZYTc/s1600/blogger-image--2098466275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT9Z3vTAGIc/U-DBs3ZsIsI/AAAAAAAADAU/XsE3u8jZYTc/s1600/blogger-image--2098466275.jpg" height="400" width="100" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to crop myself out of this one, but how beautiful is Veroushka?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Veroushka:</b> If I shower in the morning and it’s not my day to
exfoliate, I simply use the tips of my fingers to scrub off the grime
(especially in Mexico where there is a lot of dust) and I do this with only the
shower water. I don’t use soap of course.When I get out of the shower, I use my <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/aloe-vera-cleanser-toner-125ml/">Aloe Vera Cleanser</a> and
then the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/firming-therapy/">Firming Therapy</a>.<br />
</div>
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At night, I I use the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/aloe-vera-cleanser-toner-125ml/">Aloe Vera Cleanser</a> again to remove the
day’s grime and then I apply the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/rejuvenating-night-serum-5ml/">Rejuvenating Night Serum</a> which helps
rejuvenate the cells and nourish my skin while sleeping. The formula of
essences used in the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/rejuvenating-night-serum-5ml/">RNS</a> is also very meditative and relaxing so perfect for
sleep!<br />
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1mR22auvUHk/U-DCUedJ9eI/AAAAAAAADAs/4dsx0f4vacA/s1600/blogger-image--1376231255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1mR22auvUHk/U-DCUedJ9eI/AAAAAAAADAs/4dsx0f4vacA/s1600/blogger-image--1376231255.jpg" height="320" width="287" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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I’ve also now added the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/collagen-eye-therapy/">Eye Therapy</a> to my own skin regime. I
didn’t use it because I thought my skin care regime was enough and in my case
I’m doing okay in that area. I started using it due to the positive feed-back I was getting regarding the <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/collagen-eye-therapy/">Eye Therapy</a>. I knew
the formula was really good and I’m glad to see it is doing exactly what I meant it to do, so that’s
very encouraging. (Since I’ve written this, I must say I understand why all the
positive feed-back on the Eye Therapy, I use it daily also now.) </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lim3E58g_oE/U-DCPxeH8UI/AAAAAAAADAk/3tUPCUxURHc/s1600/blogger-image--1520664382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lim3E58g_oE/U-DCPxeH8UI/AAAAAAAADAk/3tUPCUxURHc/s1600/blogger-image--1520664382.jpg" height="320" width="313" /></a></div>
<br />
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<b>A little extra from Veroushka:</b> Women around the world are
always looking to improve their skin health and many times they go to
“commercial” products as there aren’t that many accessible places that offer
completely natural skin care. Some of the commercial products may give great
results but unfortunately, they eventually have negative side effects. And
often these effects are irreversible!<br />
</div>
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So, again, the reason for the affordable <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/products-page/skin-care/fabulous-four-skin-care/">Fabulous Four</a>,
complete skin care regime. I want women to know that there is such a thing as
affordable clean, fresh, natural products that are also EFFECTIVE.<br />
</div>
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Since we didn’t get into “preservatives” used to preserve
skin care products, let me just say that unless “oils” are used, there is no
need for any chemical preservatives and if I prepare a custom formula which <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">does </i></b>require
oil, I use a natural <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>preservative that is not just
harmless but has also some benefits to the skin.<br />
</div>
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So...In case this interview doesn't already have you convinced to try some of Veroushka's products, I recommend heading over to <a href="http://www.skincarealacarte.com/">www.skincarealacarte.com</a> and sending her a message. If you have any questions, Veroushka is an incredible resource <i>and </i>who doesn't love to discuss skin care? </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-62856686512184823802014-07-21T05:30:00.000-07:002014-07-21T05:30:07.033-07:00Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free MakeupWhen I recently found out that Revlon had reformulated their <a href="http://www.revlon.com/products/face/foundation-makeup/colorstay-makeup-with-softflex-for-combination-oily-skin#309975410013||0">Colorstay Combination/Oily foundation</a>, I pretty much resigned myself to the idea of a life without foundation. It's not that I dread wearing foundation so much (though I'm not a <i>huge</i> fan), but everything I've tried apart from the old formulations of <a href="http://www.almay.com/products/face/foundation/truly-lasting-color-liquid-makeup.aspx">Almay TLC</a> and <a href="http://www.revlon.com/products/face/foundation-makeup/colorstay-makeup-with-softflex-for-combination-oily-skin#309975410013||0">Colorstay</a> has broken me out. At least up until I made my latest discovery: <a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1599/21954/Makeup/Foundations/Stay-Matte-Oil-Free-Makeup">Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzW9_E1YAhE/U8wFNKbjm3I/AAAAAAAAC_M/sc-HEeHgVH0/s1600/blogger-image--792295886.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzW9_E1YAhE/U8wFNKbjm3I/AAAAAAAAC_M/sc-HEeHgVH0/s1600/blogger-image--792295886.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
When I was directed to the <a href="http://clinique.com/">Clinique</a> makeup counter at my latest trip to <a href="http://www.dillards.com/">Dillard's</a>, I just let it happen. Normally, I avoid the pushy sales people and browse on my own, but on this particular day I was feeling desperate. I thought I was on the hunt for a foundation that didn't exist. No cycoplentasiloxane, oil or too many silicones... a very tall order in the world of base makeup.<br />
<br />
However, the <a href="http://clinique.com/">Clinique</a> lady was very attune to my needs and assured me that she had something I'd like. She whipped out a bottle of the <a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1599/21954/Makeup/Foundations/Stay-Matte-Oil-Free-Makeup">Stay-Matte foundation</a>, did a few swatches and in the end, I was completely sold. I normally would take home a tester but like I said, I was desperate so I just went ahead and got a bottle.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HtPnIlFQPUg/U8wFKYH1Z_I/AAAAAAAAC_E/KypjRI3fRIo/s1600/blogger-image--656209381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HtPnIlFQPUg/U8wFKYH1Z_I/AAAAAAAAC_E/KypjRI3fRIo/s1600/blogger-image--656209381.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
After all is said and done, I am so glad I bought this. It has a fabulous texture (not quite as heavy as the old <a href="http://www.revlon.com/products/face/foundation-makeup/colorstay-makeup-with-softflex-for-combination-oily-skin#309975410013||0">Revlon Colorstay</a>, thankfully) and it stays put all day long. Sure, as with any foundation you may have to blot or powder here and there, but nothing worth complaining about. Also, at $23 <a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1599/21954/Makeup/Foundations/Stay-Matte-Oil-Free-Makeup">Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup</a> is at the low end of the high end foundation price spectrum.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8GhJEe29Eyg/U8wFQtFW_KI/AAAAAAAAC_U/nTL_HcZm2LQ/s1600/blogger-image-1921130841.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8GhJEe29Eyg/U8wFQtFW_KI/AAAAAAAAC_U/nTL_HcZm2LQ/s1600/blogger-image-1921130841.jpg" height="236" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's definitely a better match to my face than my forearm.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My only recommendation with this product is that you check your cheek swatch outside before purchasing. Often times, the lighting in department stores can skew the colors of a foundation and you end up with something that's too orange or pink. But that's about it.<br />
<br />
If you have sensitive skin like me, this could be the foundation you've been looking for. Buy yourself a bottle <a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1599/21954/Makeup/Foundations/Stay-Matte-Oil-Free-Makeup">here</a> or <a href="http://www.sephora.com/stay-matte-oil-free-makeup-P310726">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Have you tried <a href="http://www.clinique.com/product/1599/21954/Makeup/Foundations/Stay-Matte-Oil-Free-Makeup">Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup</a>? What do you think?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-24410098084868625642014-07-20T09:03:00.000-07:002014-07-20T09:06:11.488-07:00Weekend Ramblings: Weleda Salt ToothpasteI'll admit that when I think of beauty products, toothpaste is not the first thing that comes to mind. However, when I think of unique products I own that are worth discussing, <a href="http://usa.weleda.com/our-products/shop/salt-toothpaste.aspx">Weleda's Salt Toothpaste</a> definitely stands out. It's a unique blend of salt, peppermint oil and other botanicals that cleans teeth like nobody's business.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WbZWNpkrtog/U8vnRHkQTUI/AAAAAAAAC-0/2xCyQAQsNcQ/s1600/blogger-image-1017649694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WbZWNpkrtog/U8vnRHkQTUI/AAAAAAAAC-0/2xCyQAQsNcQ/s1600/blogger-image-1017649694.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
To answer some questions you probably have: yes, it tastes salty and yes, it's shocking at first (but quickly addictive). Actually, since I've started using <a href="http://usa.weleda.com/our-products/shop/salt-toothpaste.aspx">Weleda's Salt Toothpaste</a>, mainstream toothpastes containing artificial sweeteners taste sickly sweet. Also, the clean you get with Crest or Colgate doesn't really compare to this. The salt and the baking soda provide a little more grit for toothbrush scrubbing, making teeth feel cleaner in the end (but it's still gentle on enamel, in case you're wondering).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fx1CZycTEkI/U8vnOKLV30I/AAAAAAAAC-s/JVyn2wbHwn8/s1600/blogger-image--1704028623.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fx1CZycTEkI/U8vnOKLV30I/AAAAAAAAC-s/JVyn2wbHwn8/s1600/blogger-image--1704028623.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
At $8, I'm definitely at the very tippy-top of my toothpaste budget with this one, but I don't mind so much. Next time around, I think I'll try DIYing with one of <a href="http://modernsurvivalblog.com/health/13-homemade-toothpaste-recipes/">these toothpaste recipes</a>, but for now, I'm perfectly content with this <a href="http://usa.weleda.com/index.aspx">Weleda</a> find.<br />
<br />
Have you tried this toothpaste? Loved it? Hated it?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-14541168454798568202014-07-01T13:19:00.001-07:002014-07-01T13:19:35.507-07:00The Double Cleanse with Purpose and Yes to Cucumbers I've never been a huge proponent of the double cleanse. Until this point, I thought that if your cleansing product of choice wasn't removing makeup, dirt and oil all by its lonesome, then you needed something new. But lately, I've realized that some makeup removal processes just require the extra oomph of something greasy before the foaming agents can do their tricks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tyajZDOZLCw/U7MQzDaEAWI/AAAAAAAAC-M/sse6Vdk1TU0/s1600/blogger-image-559440854.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tyajZDOZLCw/U7MQzDaEAWI/AAAAAAAAC-M/sse6Vdk1TU0/s1600/blogger-image-559440854.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
All of this being said, can I please introduce you to my latest cleansing duo? <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=prod5021591#reviews">Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash</a> and <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4180727">Yes to Cucumbers Soothing Gentle Milk Cleanser</a>. These two are a match made in heaven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JPapMSdfo5Y/U7MQ2GqMRnI/AAAAAAAAC-U/PUMgpN31fYs/s1600/blogger-image-934527071.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JPapMSdfo5Y/U7MQ2GqMRnI/AAAAAAAAC-U/PUMgpN31fYs/s1600/blogger-image-934527071.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
When I double cleanse, I like to start out with the <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4180727">milk cleanser</a>, which acts as my makeup remover. I take one pump and massage it around my face for about a minute and it removes almost all of my foundation and mascara. The <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4180727">Soothing Gentle Milk Cleanser</a> rinses clean too, so you could technically stop after this first step. I don't do this, though, because my skin doesn't typically agree with moisturizing cleansers alone, which brings me to the next step.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-edK0WxtjAco/U7MQtFVX2qI/AAAAAAAAC98/TbuTMw6L1Tk/s1600/blogger-image--1442360556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-edK0WxtjAco/U7MQtFVX2qI/AAAAAAAAC98/TbuTMw6L1Tk/s1600/blogger-image--1442360556.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
After removing the majority of my makeup with the <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=xlsImpprod4180727">Yes to Cucumbers cleanser</a>, I go in with a dime-sized amount of <a href="http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?productId=prod5021591#reviews">Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash</a> to remove remaining traces of makeup and really deep clean (but not strip) my skin. It's pretty refreshing and very effective.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A3V29cZVVcg/U7MQm6IThgI/AAAAAAAAC9s/2DIMy7BkoRE/s1600/blogger-image--352683630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A3V29cZVVcg/U7MQm6IThgI/AAAAAAAAC9s/2DIMy7BkoRE/s1600/blogger-image--352683630.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before cleansing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D-xbFI-uu-o/U7MQv1fcPiI/AAAAAAAAC-E/BuDRjvXu0EU/s1600/blogger-image-25213134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D-xbFI-uu-o/U7MQv1fcPiI/AAAAAAAAC-E/BuDRjvXu0EU/s1600/blogger-image-25213134.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After cleansing (only a teeeensy bit of eyeliner left)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, now that I've divulged my latest makeup removal secrets, I'd love to hear how you take off your face in the comments! Are you a double cleanser as well or do you rely on one product only?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-60295206413423977332014-06-26T08:31:00.000-07:002014-06-26T08:31:12.943-07:00Sunburn: It HappensLife is full of harsh realities. For example, if I spend two weeks in Mexico during the summer without using a lot of sunscreen, I will probably burn. And burn I did! But, instead of sitting around and feeling sorry for myself for the rest of the trip, I threw back a Corona and got to work on some DIY remedies that are easily accessible to everyone... even in foreign countries.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4-bqzcdwl3g/U6w3TG7ze2I/AAAAAAAAC84/swpe5ury5nU/s1600/10487272_10152935237188858_2210646688377046712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4-bqzcdwl3g/U6w3TG7ze2I/AAAAAAAAC84/swpe5ury5nU/s1600/10487272_10152935237188858_2210646688377046712_n.jpg" height="320" width="318" /></a></div>
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<b>Cucumbers</b><br />
I ate so. much. salsa. this past trip and luckily enough for me, a key ingredient in the salsa at my casa was cucumbers, so we had extras lying around. For this remedy, I just took a cold cucumber and cut it into really thin slices then laid them all over my face. I looked like a weirdo/ human salad, but my skin was so grateful.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nohmcJLC-u0/U6w4vKgQFSI/AAAAAAAAC9E/HQ5gmwaUFJ8/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-06-26+at+11.13.37+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nohmcJLC-u0/U6w4vKgQFSI/AAAAAAAAC9E/HQ5gmwaUFJ8/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-06-26+at+11.13.37+AM.png" height="206" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via healthcareaboveall.com</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>Black Tea</b><br />
Lipton. Bigelow. Non-descript Mexican brand. Whatever kind of black tea you choose doesn't matter, so long as you brew it strong, let it cool and then apply it as a compress. This one just really takes the sting and redness out of a sunburn. I'm not sure on the science of the whole black-tea-for-sunburns thing, but I hear it has to do with the tannic acid. Plus, if it works, do we really need to know why?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-th1NyeDleN4/U6w5KhyxYJI/AAAAAAAAC9M/F3OAKaKeFJU/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-06-26+at+11.15.31+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-th1NyeDleN4/U6w5KhyxYJI/AAAAAAAAC9M/F3OAKaKeFJU/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-06-26+at+11.15.31+AM.png" height="320" width="283" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via RealSimple.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>Milk</b><br />
Few places you will go in this world are dairy-less. Even if milk isn't a commonly consumed beverage among locals, you should be able to pick up a carton somewhere. For sunburn, use milk like the black tea, as a compress.<b> </b>Like with the tea, it's the acids in milk that soothe sunburn immensely (but, bonus points if the milk is cold!).<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X67XkGzLeDw/U6w7plj5sqI/AAAAAAAAC9Y/jZhOTd7mo64/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-06-26+at+11.26.11+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X67XkGzLeDw/U6w7plj5sqI/AAAAAAAAC9Y/jZhOTd7mo64/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-06-26+at+11.26.11+AM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via parentingintheloop.wordpress.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Hopefully I'm not the only one here who's had a sunburn. What are some of your favorite DIY sunburn remedies?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-85336239749788183892014-06-10T05:06:00.003-07:002014-06-10T05:06:49.463-07:00The Republic of Tea Get GorgeousWhen it comes to herbal remedies, I remain hopeful, but also skeptical. I think a lot of the results associated with chugging herbal teas and tinctures, etc. depend heavily on placebo effect. That being said, people in China drink tea every day (like, they have hot water dispensers in the airports) and rely heavily on herbs and guess what? Most of them have incredible skin, especially considering the heavy pollution many of them encounter daily.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MHzMVw8BppE/U5bvqbIjzyI/AAAAAAAAC78/j6crsYvsu40/s1600/blogger-image--1666763720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MHzMVw8BppE/U5bvqbIjzyI/AAAAAAAAC78/j6crsYvsu40/s1600/blogger-image--1666763720.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mgOssVDa02E/U5bvybcBtyI/AAAAAAAAC8U/p5ZtVHxOyss/s1600/blogger-image--545371471.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mgOssVDa02E/U5bvybcBtyI/AAAAAAAAC8U/p5ZtVHxOyss/s1600/blogger-image--545371471.jpg" height="279" width="320" /></a></div>
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But, this post isn't about China or the Chinese people. It's about <a href="http://www.republicoftea.com/get-gorgeous-herb-tea-for-clear-skin/p/V00725/">The Republic of Tea Get Gorgeous</a>, which is an "Herb Tea for Clear Skin." This tea contains organic Rooibos tea, orange peel, hibiscus,
chamomile, red clover, chaste berry and burdock root, each
of which is known do something beneficial for the skin. However, I think
the bulk of the benefits (if any) are coming from the antioxidants in
the Rooibos and the vitamin C in the orange peel and hibiscus flower. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ydng6xr8Cys/U5bvsxwaqdI/AAAAAAAAC8E/JtYeXQcNejo/s1600/blogger-image-1645943573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ydng6xr8Cys/U5bvsxwaqdI/AAAAAAAAC8E/JtYeXQcNejo/s1600/blogger-image-1645943573.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's my left cheek about a week ago.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--lCopOb7KbU/U5bvvukKiwI/AAAAAAAAC8M/rXpPE1n8F_Q/s1600/blogger-image--326937362.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--lCopOb7KbU/U5bvvukKiwI/AAAAAAAAC8M/rXpPE1n8F_Q/s1600/blogger-image--326937362.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's my left cheek this morning.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I admit, I've stopped eating dairy and I've used Finacea once or twice, which definitely contributes to
the condition of my skin as of late, but I've also been drinking one to
two cups a day of Get Gorgeous and my skin is no worse for the wear.<br />
<br />
If you're starting to think I'm crazy, just know I'm not the only one. Check out the reviews of Get Gorgeous on <a href="http://www.acne.org/get-gorgeous-herb-tea-for-clear-skin-reviews-492/">acne.org</a> and <a href="http://www.xovain.com/skin/acne-clearing-teas#awesm=~oGMzBOaBbZwM0k">this post on xoVain</a>. Placebo effects or not, if you suffer from acne (especially just a mild case), it looks like you may want to give this stuff a try.<br />
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What are your thoughts on herbal remedies? Do you think tea can heal from the inside out?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-18172929413483640182014-06-08T06:03:00.004-07:002014-06-08T06:03:56.764-07:00Weekend Ramblings: What's (Going to Be) in My Carry-OnOn Wednesday this week, I will have the pleasure of traveling to Mexico for a much-needed, long vacation with a few friends. I am beyond ecstatic, but before I can go anywhere, you know I've got to get my carry-on right.<br />
<br />
When traveling by plane, I like to carry, at minimum, a cleanser, facial mist, heavy-duty lip balm, a perfume and some type of all-purpose cream. Toting these products is my insurance against looking or smelling like a haggard plane beast once we land (oh, the pleasant imagery). Check the products below to see which products will make the cut this time.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/ultra-repair-cream-P248407">First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream - $12</a><br />
I originally bought this cream as an attempt at curing my horribly dry skin in the winter. It broke my face out a bit, unfortunately, but it is a fan-freaking-tastic hand, body and everywhere-else cream.<br />
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<a href="http://www.saforganics.com/#!product/prd2/1347519731/summer-fruits-lip-balm">Säf Organics Summer Fruits Natural & Organic Lip Balm - $5</a><br />
I don't know if you had the chance to read <a href="http://vanitytalkbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/05/weekend-ramblings-conversation-with_30.html">my interview with Stephanie Ferguson of Säf Organics</a>, but in case you didn't, I mentioned this balm once or twice in the post. It's honestly a little hard to spread at first, but once it's on your lips it stays there for hours. I know this will be great on the plane between my incessant chugging of water (gotta stay hydrated!) and coffee binge drinking.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/nirvana-white-rollerball-P384464?skuId=1570241">Elizabeth and James Nirvana White - $22</a><br />
I've talked about Elizabeth and James Nirvana Black <a href="http://vanitytalkbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/03/shout-out-to-rollerball-perfumes.html">on here before</a>, but never Nirvana White. Consider Nirvana White to be the more innocent, sweeter scent of the two. It's a pleasant floral that I know will go over well in the warm Mexican weather.<br />
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<a href="http://www.beautysage.com/products/hydro-cool-firming-eye-gels">skyn ICELAND Hydro Cool Firming Eye Gels - $30 for 8 pairs</a><br />
Beauty bloggers are always rambling on about the beauty of an in-flight facial. I can't fully commit to the whole shabang of applying a mask, but I can definitely do these eye gels. They're individually packaged and contain moisturizing and cooling ingredients so you look wide awake once you've hit the runway.<br />
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<a href="http://www.drugstore.com/johnsons-baby-head-to-toe-baby-wash-original-formula/qxp14457">Johnson's Baby Head-to-Toe Wash - $4</a><br />
Because... duh, what else? This is my go-to facial cleanser for anything and everything.<br />
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<a href="http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?keyword=EVIAN%20Mineral%20Water%20Spray%20Duo%20To%20Go%20P230538&skuId=1154897&productId=P230538&_requestid=19052">Evian Brumisateur - $14 for 2 </a><br />
Does anyone else remember <a href="http://vanitytalkbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/05/beauty-talk-pretentious-sprays-and.html">my post about how these facial mists are pretentious and unnecessary</a>? Well, I'm now the girl that buys them because she believes she actually needs them. I think having the Brumisateur around saved my face during my long flight to China and so, on the plane to Mexico it goes.<br />
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<a href="http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/acuvue-oasys-/ID=prod2301394-product">Acuvue Oasys Contact Lenses</a><br />
I've fallen asleep on a dry plane only to wake up to find that my contacts have either a) dried up or b) fallen out of my eyes and then dried up. I've learned my lesson when it comes to this. No matter where you're traveling, or how, always keep an extra pair of contacts or two on hand.<br />
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My carry-on preferences change from trip to trip. It's even possible that by the time Wednesday rolls around I will have added some different items to this repertoire. But, you get the gist. Now, tell me what you put in your carry-on in the comments.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-35907166282355258722014-06-06T12:00:00.000-07:002014-06-06T12:11:36.299-07:00Weekend Ramblings: Terre D'Hermes Eau Tres Fraîche When it comes to choosing a spouse, many people (including my parents) say, "You know when you know." I'm starting to think the same principle applies to fragrances because today when I sampled <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/hermes-terre-dhermes-eau-tres-fraiche/3731800">Terre D'Hermès Eau Très Fraîche</a>, I just <i>knew</i>. I've found my scent soul mate and no one can convince me otherwise.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cCGIuwzWdtM/U5IJe1A_LAI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/QIpvww-WX_8/s1600/blogger-image-546101118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cCGIuwzWdtM/U5IJe1A_LAI/AAAAAAAAC7Q/QIpvww-WX_8/s1600/blogger-image-546101118.jpg" height="400" width="382" /></a></div>
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Described as a fragrance that "expresses the alchemical power of the elements; a
water somewhere between the earth and sky; a journey imbued with
strength and poetry. Woody, vegetal, mineral" on <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/hermes-terre-dhermes-eau-tres-fraiche/3731800">Nordstrom.com</a>, this masculine-leaning unisex fragrance is like a dream come true for anyone, male or female, who favors a fresh, earthy scent. It's the ideal white t-shirt perfume (or cologne) you can wear day-to-day. <br />
<br />
If you're looking to get yourself a bottle, plan on splurging because it only comes in the <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/hermes-terre-dhermes-eau-tres-fraiche/3731800?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=60135791&fashionColor=&resultback=371&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-searchresults-_-1_1_B">4.2 ounce size at $115</a>. I was lucky enough to have a gift card to use toward my purchase, but I like to think I would have bought it regardless. I mean, after all soul mates are priceless!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-23844305659165948672014-06-05T11:17:00.000-07:002014-06-05T11:17:29.652-07:00How To Make Eyeliner with Burnt Almonds... SeriouslyUnless we're talking about a last minute facial recipe, I don't dabble too much in the world of DIY (Rainbow cakes? No. Fancy table decor? No. Birthday party decorations? <a href="https://www.thepartysource.com/">Party Source</a>, here I come). That being said, every now and then, a beauty DIY pops up that is just too simple to <i>not</i> try. Example A: making eyeliner with burnt almonds. <br />
<br />
Inspired by a brief mention of almond eyeliner on <a href="http://intothegloss.com/2014/06/benefit-theyre-real-eyeliner/?utm_source=into%2Bthe%2Bgloss&utm_medium=dsp&utm_content=benefit_they\%27re%2Breal%2Beyeliner&utm_campaign=lbn_benefit%2Bthey\%27re%2Breal%2Beyeliner%2Bdigital%2Bwaitlist_20140528_2014609_dis_trf_cos_usa&buf=99999999">Into The Gloss</a>, I went out in search of easy almond-eyeliner-making instructions, which I finally found on <a href="http://www.bellasugar.com/Make-Your-Own-Eyeliner-Tutorial-7124147">Bella Sugar</a>. For this DIY, you only need four things: one almond (unflavored only... save the cocoa roast for eating), a metal spoon, a lighter and tweezers. Besides the <a href="http://vanitytalkbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/05/weekend-ramblings-greek-yogurt-mask-diy.html">Greek yogurt mask</a>, DIYs don't get much simpler than this.<br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9qk6Q4jVPjk/U5B85BfEgGI/AAAAAAAAC68/4vrLz0iSeFM/s640/blogger-image--1438994109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9qk6Q4jVPjk/U5B85BfEgGI/AAAAAAAAC68/4vrLz0iSeFM/s400/blogger-image--1438994109.jpg" width="358" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 1:</b> After gathering your supplies, pick up your almond with your tweezers and while holding it over your spoon, light it on fire.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Nl5X7M-qbjU/U5B82BafTkI/AAAAAAAAC60/aqpaiWhsyLE/s640/blogger-image-1208228722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="345" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-Nl5X7M-qbjU/U5B82BafTkI/AAAAAAAAC60/aqpaiWhsyLE/s400/blogger-image-1208228722.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On today's installment of stupid things to do around your computer...</td></tr>
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<b>Step 2:</b> Let the almond burn for a little while until one side is completely black. Then, set it on the spoon to cool.<br />
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<a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-pdlR9qk8UQg/U5B72rP1oBI/AAAAAAAAC6g/fsRT3WzUwYw/s640/blogger-image--2011884694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-pdlR9qk8UQg/U5B72rP1oBI/AAAAAAAAC6g/fsRT3WzUwYw/s400/blogger-image--2011884694.jpg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zVL2H0Cyys4/U5B7zTyNdbI/AAAAAAAAC6Y/GZeorXIeGqU/s640/blogger-image--444221990.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zVL2H0Cyys4/U5B7zTyNdbI/AAAAAAAAC6Y/GZeorXIeGqU/s400/blogger-image--444221990.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Step 3:</b> After your burnt almond has had the chance to cool off, take an eyeliner brush (or a Q-Tip) and moisten it slightly with water. Then, rub it all over the blackened part of the almond.<br />
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<b>Step 4:</b> Finally, apply the the color you picked up on your brush as you would a normal eyeliner.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little heavy-handed on the lower lash line, but I think it looks good.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And voila! You've just DIYed your own almond eyeliner. Now, if you're ever stuck on a desert island in dire need of eyeliner, and they have almonds, you're in luck!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-22678165594601699232014-05-30T14:31:00.002-07:002014-05-30T14:31:51.575-07:00Quick Thoughts: Essie Sand Tropez<a href="http://www.essie.com/Colors/Neutrals/sand-tropez.aspx">Essie Sand Tropez</a> is the nail polish equivalent of khaki pants. It looks polished (no pun intended), but casual. I actually surprised myself by even liking this color because I'm not really a khaki-wearing gal. Also, when I go for a neutral, it tends to be more pink like <a href="http://www.essie.com/Colors/Neutrals/sand-tropez.aspx">Essie Mademoiselle</a> or <a href="http://www.sallyhansen.com/nails/nail-color/color/diamond-strength%C2%AE-no-chip-nail-color">Sally Hansen Something Borrowed</a>. It's a good day for something new though, don't ya think?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SE-tkEqu6Zg/U4j4jh_kwAI/AAAAAAAAC54/21nEPRnHC70/s1600/blogger-image-808098522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SE-tkEqu6Zg/U4j4jh_kwAI/AAAAAAAAC54/21nEPRnHC70/s1600/blogger-image-808098522.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Does my hand look weird to anyone else?</td></tr>
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What do you think of <a href="http://www.essie.com/Colors/Neutrals/sand-tropez.aspx">Sand Tropez</a>? What's your favorite neutral polish?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-34350846125717410552014-05-30T05:14:00.001-07:002014-05-30T05:14:07.319-07:00Weekend Ramblings: A Conversation with Stephanie Ferguson of Säf Organics<style>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Despite the fact that my
routine is not completely clean, I've always found an incredible amount of
inspiration within the green beauty community. Stephanie Ferguson of <a href="http://www.saforganics.com/">Säf Organics</a>, like many other people, started out in clean (or green) beauty
because of allergic reactions she was having to conventional products. Then,
what started out as an attempt to thwart these reactions turned into a
full-blown passion for green beauty! Join me in my conversation with Stephanie
as we discuss her skincare journey as well as her wonderful line of products.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q0XtAAZ3Eo/U4hxahWEZjI/AAAAAAAAC44/vQXbRlXJzeU/s1600/SafOrganics.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Q0XtAAZ3Eo/U4hxahWEZjI/AAAAAAAAC44/vQXbRlXJzeU/s1600/SafOrganics.jpg" height="275" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via saforganics.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"></span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Vanity Talk:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> First of all, what sparked your interest in natural skincare?</span>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">Stephanie Ferguson:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> I was diagnosed with gluten and dairy allergies almost 10 years ago
when I was working for a major cosmetics company. I noticed I was still
reacting to things after changing my diet, which prompted me to consider the
products I was using. Since skin is our biggest organ (we absorb
everything we put on it within 30 seconds), I began the journey to “Green My
Beauty Routine." Skin is the foundation of the beauty industry—it all
starts there.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">VT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
According to your website, you started your company by creating products out of
your kitchen. What was the first product you created?</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">SF:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
My first product was lip balm. Growing up, a close friend of mine had
chronic chapped lips, which seemed to worsen with the use of Chapstick or
Carmex, and so many people in my life currently struggle with the same
thing. Since I am also a voice in the gluten free/vegan communities, I set
out to make a completely organic, gluten free vegan lip balm with lasting
results. I believe I have succeeded in that. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">[Vanity Talk Note: She truly has. I’ve been able to use one of her lip
balms* and it is the balm dot com.]</i></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wwWckTzf_TQ/U4hz-xyorEI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/Olv4SRcF0Kw/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.04.03+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wwWckTzf_TQ/U4hz-xyorEI/AAAAAAAAC5Y/Olv4SRcF0Kw/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.04.03+AM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via saforganics.com</td></tr>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">VT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
What inspires you most in the design and creation of a new product?</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">SF:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
Nature remains my biggest inspiration! I find it beautiful, breathtaking
at times, and completely effective in lifting our mood, aiding us in healing
and brightening the space around us.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">VT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
Are there any particular challenges you’ve had to overcome in the natural
skincare industry?</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">SF:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
It is difficult being the “new kid on the block” so to speak, with small
resources. Putting myself out there has been a bit of a challenge, but
the response from those who have tried us and from our repeat clients keeps me
going. They are why I do what I do!</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">VT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
If there was one product from your line that you would consider a “must” in
anyone’s routine, what would that be?</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">SF:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
Oh mercy…to pick only one?! I would have to say the Clarifying Oil would be a
definite must. You can remove makeup with it, cleanse with it, moisturize
with it and use it to dilute essential oils for medicinal use. It is
definitely multi-purpose and perfect for all of us who stay on-the-go.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">VT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
What are your personal favorite products?</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">SF:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
I would have to say my top three are: the Clarifying Oil, Cleansing Grains and
Lotion Bars <i>[Vanity Talk Note: I sampled a lotion bar* as well... everyone should have one of these]</i>. I also believe that I have one of the best lip balms on the market
(biased, I know) and love that our masks are customizable.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6t6doT5aDFk/U4h06BNf30I/AAAAAAAAC5k/wKPcr0iZhCg/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.08.53+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6t6doT5aDFk/U4h06BNf30I/AAAAAAAAC5k/wKPcr0iZhCg/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.08.53+AM.png" height="245" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via saforganics.com</td></tr>
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</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">VT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
What does your own skincare routine look like?</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">SF:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
I use my Clarifying Oil daily to remove makeup/cleanse and moisturize, followed
by the Immortal Serum and a bit of Lotion Bar during drier months. I use
the Cocoa Superfood Facial Mask (with raw manuka honey) two times weekly,
followed with Angelface Botanicals Lavender + Aloe facial toner, and finish
with my Vanilla Chai Lip Balm.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kqtTyD_VRMA/U4hz_GkhWAI/AAAAAAAAC5U/fGIeEjxkEZw/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.04.48+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kqtTyD_VRMA/U4hz_GkhWAI/AAAAAAAAC5U/fGIeEjxkEZw/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.04.48+AM.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via saforganics.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BpTW0Z715RU/U4hzh60ugDI/AAAAAAAAC5I/axMIe51_waI/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.02.51+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BpTW0Z715RU/U4hzh60ugDI/AAAAAAAAC5I/axMIe51_waI/s1600/Screen+shot+2014-05-30+at+8.02.51+AM.png" height="320" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via angelfacebotanic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">VT:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
Is there anything else you would like to tell my readers about the <a href="http://www.saforganics.com/">Säf Organics</a>
line that I didn’t already ask?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .1pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: .1pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .1pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: .1pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">SF:</span></b><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">
I am really here to help people feel confident in natural products. There
has been a stigma in the natural market for some time now, that we are all nice
and work to some level…but aren’t as effective as our synthetic
counterparts. I am here, as I know we all are, to dispel that. We
are and certainly can and will be as, if not more, effective than mainstream
beauty products as our ingredients benefit you for many more reasons than why
you started using it in the first place. We are also looking to launch a few
new things this year, including an expansion of the Beauty line, so stay tuned
for that!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">So, there you have it folks! Head on over to <a href="http://www.saforganics.om/">www.saforganics.com </a>to check out Stephanie's full product line for yourself. Also, for the love of all that is green beauty, get a lotion bar* while you're there. They really are great!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The * denotes a product which I was sent free of cost. Reviews will remain objective, regardless of how the product came to me.</span></i></span> </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-34850582757504931792014-05-27T17:08:00.000-07:002014-05-27T17:11:13.005-07:00Quick Thoughts: Lisa Eldridge "PMS Face"I'm not sure if it's the fact that she's British or if it's the fact that she's just gorgeous, but <a href="http://www.lisaeldridge.com/">Lisa Eldridge </a>makes "PMS Face" (or at least getting rid of it) seem way glamorous. Check out this video and you'll see what I mean.<br />
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I wasn't aware that "PMS Face" was even a thing until finding this tonight, but after Lisa discusses it, I know exactly what she means. So, thank you Lisa! Now we all know how to handle this lady issue like professionals. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-57875061926304186222014-05-26T13:21:00.002-07:002014-05-26T13:23:49.818-07:00dr. dewy™ Lip Cure Surgery sucks. Period. Granted, I've only had one surgery in my adult life and it was for my wisdom teeth, but it definitely sucked. I cannot, however, say the same thing about surgery-inspired beauty products. This super teeny, tiny niche group that consists mostly of moisturizing post-procedural cleansers and balms has recently welcomed <a href="http://www.drdewy.com/products/lip-cure">dr. dewy™ Lip Cure*</a>, a product meant to be used during surgery, and it is awesome.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12JADKr2zLE/U4OfiuDq6XI/AAAAAAAAC4o/kKui6nDGwzc/s1600/Dr.+Dewy+Lip+Cure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-12JADKr2zLE/U4OfiuDq6XI/AAAAAAAAC4o/kKui6nDGwzc/s1600/Dr.+Dewy+Lip+Cure.jpg" height="400" width="252" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via drdewy.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Created by Dr. Edward Akkaway, the <a href="http://www.drdewy.com/products/lip-cure">Lip Cure</a> is an outstanding mixture of coconut oil, shea butter, tamanu oil and desert date oil, plus some other ingredients, that is applied to patients' lips before going under so they wake up with soft lips. But, it can also be used by regular Joes (Josephines?), like me, just looking for a decent lip balm.<br />
<br />
I really like the <a href="http://www.drdewy.com/products/lip-cure">Lip Cure</a>, not only for its great ingredients, but for the fact that it doesn't <i>feel </i>like a heavy-duty balm. Its texture is actually quite similar to that of <a href="https://waxelene.com/">Waxelene</a>, though it does a little more in the way of healing and moisturizing.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.drdewy.com/products/lip-cure">dr. dewy™ Lip Cure</a> is a great option if you're looking for a nighttime lip treatment, but it also works wonderfully during the day. If you do a good amount of traveling, this would be also be great to have on an airplane where the air is much drier. Regardless of your reasoning for buying it, though, you can get your Lip Cure <a href="http://www.drdewy.com/products/lip-cure">here</a>.<br />
<br />
Have you ever tried <a href="http://www.drdewy.com/products/lip-cure">dr. dewy™ Lip Cure</a>? What do you think?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The * denotes a product which I was sent free of cost. Reviews will remain objective, regardless of how the product came to me.</span></i></span> <br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-32073145038810773302014-05-24T06:31:00.001-07:002014-05-24T06:31:10.292-07:00Weekend Ramblings: Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love a bold lip as much as the next person, but come summertime, I like to tone things down a bit. I mean, who wants to be bothered with constant lipstick reapplication when they're trying to enjoy a day in the sunshine? Not me (and probably not you either).</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HM1IKCZOJBY/U4AAFg0Gt5I/AAAAAAAAC4M/eCkrqB63WKU/s1600/blogger-image--1819163472.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HM1IKCZOJBY/U4AAFg0Gt5I/AAAAAAAAC4M/eCkrqB63WKU/s1600/blogger-image--1819163472.jpg" height="147" width="400" /></a></div>
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Enter <a href="http://www.burtsbees.com/Lip-Shimmer/VM-37499-00-1,default,pd.html">Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer in Cherry</a>, the lip color of your summer dreams. I personally can't believe it's taken me this long to discover this product because I'm already a big fan of the classic <a href="http://www.burtsbees.com/Beeswax-Lip-Balm/beeswaxLipBalm,default,sc.html">Beeswax Lip Balm</a>. <i>But, </i>regardless of the late discovery, this stuff is great. <i> </i><br />
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<a href="http://www.burtsbees.com/Lip-Shimmer/VM-37499-00-1,default,pd.html">Cherry</a> is a washed out, balmy version of any classic red lipstick... in a good way. It's sheer and glossy, but also pigmented enough to give you the color you want when lipstick is too heavy. It's pretty wonderful, and to be honest, my swatch below hardly does it any justice.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3cAHhtrf2G4/U4CdDPbv-oI/AAAAAAAAC4c/K4XS_yV1d4o/s1600/blogger-image-153101560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3cAHhtrf2G4/U4CdDPbv-oI/AAAAAAAAC4c/K4XS_yV1d4o/s1600/blogger-image-153101560.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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The only thing this product lacks, in my opinion, is a sunscreen. I'm by no means a sunscreen fanatic (we all no I don't wear the stuff daily), but when it comes to shiny lip products in the summer, they just need to have a little protection in them. Alas, we just can't have it all!<br />
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Tell me: Have you tried any of the <a href="http://www.burtsbees.com/Lip-Shimmer/VM-37499-00-1,default,pd.html">Burt's Bees Lip Shimmers</a>? What's your opinion?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-30548860194682337692014-05-16T04:12:00.003-07:002014-05-16T04:12:49.399-07:00Weekend Ramblings: Greek Yogurt Mask DIYWhen it comes to exfoliation, I usually prefer the physical variety (think an actual scrub vs. glycolic acid), but after trying out the simplest Greek yogurt DIY ever last night, I'm starting to understand the chemical exfoliant hype.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tsV9cPKu-DQ/U3Xxk1cccQI/AAAAAAAAC30/QQuJjqABcII/s1600/blogger-image-444530372.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tsV9cPKu-DQ/U3Xxk1cccQI/AAAAAAAAC30/QQuJjqABcII/s1600/blogger-image-444530372.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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You see, Greek yogurt contains lactic acid, which is a gentle Alpha Hydroxy Acid (or AHA) that works by encouraging skin's cell renewal below the surface. Also, it moisturizes by increasing ceramides in the epidermis. (<i>source: <a href="http://www.dermalinstitute.com/us/library/26_article_Glycolic_Acid_Vs_Lactic_Acid.html">The International Dermal Institute</a></i>)<br />
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Chemical exfoliants, like lactic and glycolic acid, work much deeper than physical exfoliants. However, they are often viewed as much gentler when used at low concentrations and for that reason, they are really popular for anti-aging and acne treatment. I never really got the hype because I couldn't seem to find an AHA that I liked, but now, I'm feeling a conversion coming on.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uK8maAhaXsc/U3XygL7338I/AAAAAAAAC34/8b8lklekwO4/s1600/LaurenConradGreekYogurt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uK8maAhaXsc/U3XygL7338I/AAAAAAAAC34/8b8lklekwO4/s1600/LaurenConradGreekYogurt.jpg" height="362" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If it's good enough for LC... *Photo via laurenconrad.com</td></tr>
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So, let's get to the actual DIY portion, shall we?<br />
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All you will need for this mask is full-fat, plain Greek yogurt (I'm personally a <a href="http://products.usa.fage.eu/fage-total-classic-7-oz">Fage Total</a> fan, but any brand will do), a spoon and a cotton ball.<br />
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<b>1. Using your spoon, dip out about one tablespoon of Greek yogurt.</b><br />
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<b>2. Dip your cotton ball into the Greek yogurt on the spoon and spread the yogurt over your face, leaving an opaque white layer.</b><br />
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<b>3. Wait 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your skin's sensitivity (you can definitely go longer if you already know how your skin responds to lactic acid).</b><br />
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<b>4. Cleanse your face using your regular cleanser and lukewarm water.</b><br />
<br />That's it! Of course, you always have the option of adding other ingredients, like honey for an anti-bacterial boost or turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties. I prefer the plain Jane version, though. Sometimes simplest is best!<br />
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How was that for an easy DIY? Have you ever used Greek yogurt as a facial mask?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-1734063955899882082014-05-14T18:31:00.002-07:002014-05-14T18:36:17.748-07:00Quick Thoughts: An Experiment with Water, Part 2Some experiments start out destined for greatness and others, not so much. Unfortunately, <a href="http://vanitytalkbeauty.blogspot.com/2014/04/quick-thoughts-experiment-with-water.html">"An Experiment with Water"</a> falls into the latter category. What started out as an attempt to see if my skin responded well to fewer products ended all too soon because I totally chickened out... well, sort of. <br />
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The whole "chickening out" stemmed from me not being able to remember a morning I hadn't washed my face since I was probably 12. I kid you not, I have been washing my face in the mornings religiously since this age. I think this is around the time that my friend and I first started applying her mom's RoC anti-aging masks to tighten our faces as well. I wasn't always the brightest lip pencil in the <a href="http://caboodles.com/products/">Caboodles case</a>. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rY4xn7M7HiI/U3QZtU_Y_KI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/mfzTtA63B8A/s1600/Grad+Photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rY4xn7M7HiI/U3QZtU_Y_KI/AAAAAAAAC3Q/mfzTtA63B8A/s1600/Grad+Photo.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Insert unrelated grad photo here, please.</td></tr>
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I probably also chickened out after day two because, to be honest, I just don't enjoy the way my skin feels when I don't wash it. It's this strange combination of tight, oily and gross. No gracias!<br />
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Above all, though, I found myself unable to commit to this experiment because I run in the mornings. I definitely could have stuck it out for a week had I not returned from my run every morning with a nice layer of sweat covering my face. Rinsing with only water on those days would have been a severe beauty offense.<br />
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So, as much as I like to be a human guinea pig, I couldn't fully commit to this experiment and for that, I'm sorry. BUT, now, my skin isn't doing to shabby despite the humid weather's best attempts to turn it against me. I'll take it!<br />
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What are some failed beauty experiments you've tried in the past?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-64943776641487969442014-05-13T17:14:00.001-07:002014-05-14T05:00:54.469-07:00Bröö Volumizing Pale Ale ShampooAs a recent college graduate, I've had the pleasure of experiencing many transitions that come along with growing up from a freshman to "real world" participant, one of those being the transition from sipping a lukewarm Natty Light at a football tailgate to enjoying an ice cold craft beer at my favorite local brewery (shout out to <a href="http://www.westsixth.com/">West Sixth</a>!).<br>
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If you can believe it, my hair has been experiencing this particular transition as well. Lately, I've been using <a href="http://www.broo.com/volumizing.pale.ale.shampoo.php">Bröö Volumizing Pale Ale Shampoo*</a> and whenever I lather up with it, I feel like I'm dousing my scalp in a nourishing, citrus-flavored craft beer. This may sound unappealing to you, but it shouldn't.<br>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xIeOTmN4yG4/U3K0DNfXuRI/AAAAAAAAC2s/Igkq5MALp6A/s1600/Broo2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xIeOTmN4yG4/U3K0DNfXuRI/AAAAAAAAC2s/Igkq5MALp6A/s1600/Broo2.jpg" height="400" width="116"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EYP0Sgj-I3s/U3K0DC0eCvI/AAAAAAAAC2o/Th3CTcynJD4/s1600/Broo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EYP0Sgj-I3s/U3K0DC0eCvI/AAAAAAAAC2o/Th3CTcynJD4/s1600/Broo.jpg" height="400" width="116"></a></div>
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Beer is made of barley and hops so it contains all sorts of proteins to nourish your scalp and fight frizz. While the alcohol content could potentially be drying, it also works as a fabulous shine activator. See? I bet beer in your hair is starting to sound good right about now, and <a href="http://www.broo.com/home">Bröö products</a> make it easy to do.<br>
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<a href="http://www.broo.com/home">Bröö</a> is perfect for everyone who's considered dumping a bottle of beer on their hair, but was either turned off by the smell or didn't want to actually go through the process of washing, conditioning, opening a beer in-shower and then, finally, beer-ing.<br>
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<a href="http://www.broo.com/home">Bröö</a> offers different lines of beer-based shampoos and conditioners depending on hair concern. I chose the <a href="http://www.broo.com/volumizing.pale.ale.shampoo.php">Volumizing Pale Ale variety</a> because my hair errs on the oily and flat side, but there's also <a href="http://www.broo.com/smoothing.I.P.A.shampoo.php">Smoothing I.P.A.</a> and <a href="http://www.broo.com/hydrating.porter.shampoo.php">Hydrating Porter</a> lines.<br>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7tNQl4IdwSA/U3K0k3j9B_I/AAAAAAAAC28/U7yHDA8sDJM/s1600/HydratingBroo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7tNQl4IdwSA/U3K0k3j9B_I/AAAAAAAAC28/U7yHDA8sDJM/s1600/HydratingBroo.jpg" height="400" width="102"></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fk9m45K8nYU/U3K0k_NiNSI/AAAAAAAAC24/gBxWTzX0aVs/s1600/SmoothingBroo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fk9m45K8nYU/U3K0k_NiNSI/AAAAAAAAC24/gBxWTzX0aVs/s1600/SmoothingBroo.jpg" height="400" width="116"></a></div>
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All talk aside, I really love the <a href="http://www.broo.com/volumizing.pale.ale.shampoo.php">Bröö Volumizing Pale Ale Shampoo and Conditioner</a> combo. The shampoo cleanses gently and the conditioner moisturizers just enough so that my hair isn't weighed down. Also, neither product contains sulfates, silicones or parabens.<br>
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This line is pretty great and I would definitely recommend it. Also, bonus: putting beer in your hair will not give you a beer belly!<br>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The * denotes a product which I was sent free of cost. Reviews will remain objective, regardless of how the product came to me.</span></i></span> <br>
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<i>*All photos via broo.com</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-25101452514668128122014-05-11T20:13:00.006-07:002014-05-12T13:40:34.643-07:00A Conversation with Dr. David Lortscher of PocketDermIf you suffer or have suffered from acne, you know how it feels to bounce from dermatologist to dermatologist just hoping one has the answers. It can be extremely costly, time-consuming and irritating (to both you and your complexion).<br>
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Thankfully, <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> creator Dr. David Lortscher pretty much cuts out waiting room time and most costs by offering acne-related teledermatology through <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a>. Don't know what I'm talking about? Check out my convo with Dr. Lortscher for the full 4-1-1!<br>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y09_6vhxCGs/U3A4yUN5STI/AAAAAAAAC2U/33ngqZ7XVQU/s1600/DrLortscher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y09_6vhxCGs/U3A4yUN5STI/AAAAAAAAC2U/33ngqZ7XVQU/s1600/DrLortscher.jpg" height="320" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via pocketderm.com</td></tr>
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<b>Vanity Talk:</b> What inspired the creation of <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a>?<br>
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<b>Dr. Lortscher:</b> It actually came through chatting with one of my patients. For every appointment she drove over 100 miles to see me, and as we did follow-up care it occurred to us that everything we were doing could be handled remotely. We realized that acne treatment had to potential to be MUCH more convenient for patients.<br>
<b><br>VT:</b> If you don’t mind, can you give my readers an abbreviated description of the <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm </a>process?<br>
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<b>DL:</b> You start by answering a questionnaire and securely uploading photos from your smartphone or computer. Then, a dermatologist reviews your file and prescribes a personalized acne treatment regimen. The personalized night-time cream is made at our office in San Diego and shipped to your door. You follow up with your dermatologist regularly so that he or she can make sure your skin is getting clear!<br>
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<b>VT:</b> What are some factors a <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> dermatologist considers when formulating a patient’s acne treatment?<br>
<b><br>DL:</b> There’s no algorithm that we follow, because each patient is too unique. But we tend to consider factors like prior treatments, skin sensitivity, acne type (as seen in the photos), and any medication allergies. We think of it as the art of medicine.<br>
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<b>VT:</b> What are some of the most common ingredients used in the customized treatments and how are they beneficial for the skin?<br>
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<b>DL:</b> Each patient’s <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> product will contain (usually three) prescription acne ingredients. We don’t guarantee any ingredient to any patient (the doctor needs the flexibility to prescribe the best combination for each patient), but here are the ones we use most frequently:<br>
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Tretinoin (also found in Retin-ATM)<br>
• Description: Tretinoin unclogs pores, helps reduce skin discoloration, and also helps prevent skin aging. It can cause a lot of irritation, so have to be careful about what strength is prescribed.<br>
Clindamycin (also found in Cleocin-TTM, ZianaTM)<br>
• Description: Clindamycin kills Propionibacterium acnes, a type of bacteria that causes breakouts.<br>
Azelaic acid (also found in FinaceaTM, AzelexTM)<br>
• Description: Azelaic acid unclogs pores and helps reduce skin discoloration. It also helps prevent bacterial resistance to treatment.<br>
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<b>VT:</b> Do you all include things like parabens, fragrance, etc. in your products? <br>
<b><br>DL:</b> Our products are free of dyes, fragrances, and common allergens (no parabens, lanolin, gluten, sulfa, or formaldehyde).<br>
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<b>VT:</b> When using a <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> prescription, what are some good rules of thumb for patients to follow (good moisturizer, sunscreen, on a clean face, etc.)?<br>
<b><br>DL:</b> A pretty simple regimen is all that’s necessary! We recommend:<br>
• AM: Wash face with a gentle cleanser then apply sunscreen (or makeup with SPF).<br>
• PM: Wash face with a gentle cleanser, apply <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> to clean skin, and leave on overnight.<br>
But there are a lot more details you can check out at <a href="http://www.pocketderm.com/tips">www.pocketderm.com/tips</a>.<br>
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<b>VT:</b> <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> uses teledermatology, which according to your website, is “the use of secure communication to provide dermatologic care over a distance.” How does teledermatology compare to in-person dermatology visits (especially for acne- related issues)? <br>
<b><br>DL:</b> Teledermatology can be just as good as in-person care as long as it's practiced by a fully licensed professional and as long as you have situational awareness. What I mean by that is that if the doctor has any hesitations or second thoughts about a particular case, s/he should refer the patient to be seen in person.<br>
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<b>VT:</b> In what areas does teledermatology excel in comparison to in-person dermatology?<br>
<b><br>DL:</b> The most notable area is acne, which accounts for 20% of dermatology visits. The reasons it works so well is that acne can be seen with the naked eye, no biopsies are needed, and we can see the improvement very well with photos (or make changes if there isn’t enough improvement!).<br>
<b><br>VT:</b> Finally, aside from the obvious convenience aspect, why should readers suffering from acne subscribe to <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a>?<br>
<b><br>DL:</b> My favorite things about <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> is that the products are customized for your skin, and we won’t give up until your skin is clear!<br>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qq-i60YQe40/U3A4yVNxOVI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/J0M7P1phcLM/s1600/PocketDerm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qq-i60YQe40/U3A4yVNxOVI/AAAAAAAAC2Q/J0M7P1phcLM/s1600/PocketDerm.jpg" height="320" width="136"></a></div>
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I am a full believer of healing your acne from within, but some cases of acne can be really stubborn. I think if you suffer from acne and you are open to prescription-strength treatment, <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> is absolutely something you should look into. The service is personal and affordable and the customer service is outstanding.<br>
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Stay tuned for Part Two of my <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> feature. I've been occasionally using my own personalized <a href="http://pocketderm.com/">PocketDerm</a> product and I look forward to discussing it with you all. That being said, I would love to know your opinions on teledermatology and prescription meds for acne treatment in general. Talk to me in the comments!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-82013497832515963472014-05-11T06:39:00.001-07:002014-05-11T06:39:21.597-07:00Weekend Ramblings: Motherly Beauty Wisdom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today is the day that we celebrate mothers along with everything they have taught us over the years. I couldn't even begin to describe all of the wonderful things my moms and grandmothers have taught me, so true to form, I thought I would gather up some beauty tips and product suggestions from them to share with you all!</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cKSdfPEm-UY/U20u-lUNZaI/AAAAAAAAC08/l4yLz4XrPeQ/s1600/MomandMeme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cKSdfPEm-UY/U20u-lUNZaI/AAAAAAAAC08/l4yLz4XrPeQ/s1600/MomandMeme.jpg" height="400" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Mom and Meme, looking beautiful as ever!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>My Mom:</b> "One that I think is funny, but
does work, is to put a pair of clean panties over your head after you put on
makeup if you need to pull your top over your head. This way, none of the makeup transfers onto your clothes. Also, clear mascara and a child-size toothbrush help tame unruly eyebrows." [<i>Vanity Talk Note: I honestly couldn't tell if she was yankin' my chain with the whole underwear thing, but she's dead serious.</i>]</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H09-eGchPGk/U296JXZAbHI/AAAAAAAAC10/9ma2CbMEBXg/s1600/GreatLashClear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H09-eGchPGk/U296JXZAbHI/AAAAAAAAC10/9ma2CbMEBXg/s1600/GreatLashClear.jpg" height="185" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This cult classic really is the bee's knees when it comes to taming brows. *Photo via maybelline.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b>My Meme (Mom's Mom): </b>"I have always used Merle Norman products because I
have never been allergic to anything that I have used from them... I have to
admit, one product that will always be found in my bathroom is
the Merle Norman Hex Roll On Deodorant. I have used this product for as
long as I can remember. It never stains any of my good clothes and
never leaves an underarm stain like some deodorants.</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m6gvMO4XGpA/U293si968RI/AAAAAAAAC1M/fY5eJSXE2VY/s1600/MerleNormanHex.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m6gvMO4XGpA/U293si968RI/AAAAAAAAC1M/fY5eJSXE2VY/s1600/MerleNormanHex.jpg" height="320" width="227" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via merlenorman.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I
also feel it is very important to remove makeup at bedtime. I use Merle Norman
Cleansing Lotion along with the eye makeup remover. After removing my makeup, I apply Merle
Norman Nighttime Recovery Creme. As far as makeup goes, I use a Merle Norman Fine Line
Minimizer, Wrinkle Smoother, Foundation Primer Plus and the
Flawless Effect Liquid Foundation. I also use the Coffee Bean Eyeliner
Pencil [<i>Vanity Talk Note: This is also one of my favorite eyeliners</i>], some color of blush, black waterproof mascara and my favorite lip pencil, Sweet Marmalade. </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-61mNlRAwlrw/U294CCCcb0I/AAAAAAAAC1U/GY-wvlaCZ4M/s1600/CarriedAway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-61mNlRAwlrw/U294CCCcb0I/AAAAAAAAC1U/GY-wvlaCZ4M/s1600/CarriedAway.jpg" height="320" width="222" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via musingsofamuse.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I love to
shave my legs with hair conditioner and lotion up with one of my
bottles of lotion from Bath and Body Works, usually Carried Away. In addition to that, I am a person that also loves pretty nails and a pedicure." [<i>Vanity Talk Note: Meme was taking me to get manicures when I was around five years old. I was basically bound for a beauty addiction.</i>]</span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a2EQWYLn5vs/U20u6oRQ3uI/AAAAAAAAC00/msMiW1oc4Mk/s1600/Mamaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a2EQWYLn5vs/U20u6oRQ3uI/AAAAAAAAC00/msMiW1oc4Mk/s1600/Mamaw.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My beautful Mamaw and myself</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>My Mamaw (Dad's Mom):</b> "</span><span style="font-size: small;">I just use Nivea Cream to remove make-up and soften my skin a bit at night. If anything has to contributed to how I look (good or bad), I think not smoking and not baking myself in the sun (and of course, my old standby joke that I keep my weight up to fatten out my wrinkles) might have helped a bit to lessen wrinkles, even though I have my share.</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jFVueWbqm5c/U295BFPq0qI/AAAAAAAAC1g/U8fFqQehRho/s1600/NiveaCream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jFVueWbqm5c/U295BFPq0qI/AAAAAAAAC1g/U8fFqQehRho/s1600/NiveaCream.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via moneysavingmom.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I
always hated it when lipstick came off on paper cups, glasses, or when I
kissed someone on the cheek. I was happy to find the long-lasting
lipsticks that just did not do that. They are the two step ones that
require a gloss after the application of the color. Maybelline makes
one, as does Cover Girl, and L'Oreal does too.</span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgvXvH2Ya5Y/U295NW8CnoI/AAAAAAAAC1o/Kewcz8N3UWE/s1600/BienfaitBeautyBalm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TgvXvH2Ya5Y/U295NW8CnoI/AAAAAAAAC1o/Kewcz8N3UWE/s1600/BienfaitBeautyBalm.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via lancome-usa.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black;">I also really like Lancome's Bienfait Multi-Vital Teinté with a SPF 30
sunscreen </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black;">[<i>Vanity Talk Note: I believe this product has recently been replaced with the Bienfait Teinté Beauty Balm, which is pictured above</i>]</span></span>.
The older one gets, the less foundation is needed because it gets into
the creases and wrinkles. Less truly is more." </span></span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HMzKZhJAkxg/U298Dnt_Y6I/AAAAAAAAC2A/SlO_UJqfjSg/s1600/MemeMamawMom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HMzKZhJAkxg/U298Dnt_Y6I/AAAAAAAAC2A/SlO_UJqfjSg/s1600/MemeMamawMom.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From left to right: Mamaw, my uncle, Mom, two of my sisters and Meme.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black;"> </span><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black;">As you can see from the pictures above, I have some incredibly beautiful women to call "Mom," "Meme," and "Mamaw." I can only hope to inherit half their class, sass and beauty as I get older. Thank you, Mom, Mamaw and Meme, for everything you do. Happy Mother's Day!</span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1399729940523_2147" style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Now, do tell, what are some of the beauty tricks the women in your life have passed down to you?</span> </span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-58349246077283299372014-05-09T12:36:00.002-07:002014-05-09T12:37:49.920-07:00Weekend Ramblings: The October Union Green Tea Under Eye RollerThanks to Kentucky allergen counts being at an all time high this year, I've found myself waking up with puffy, irritated eyes more than ever. The only thing saving me right now, besides popping the occasional Zyrtec, is the <a href="http://www.theoctoberunion.bigcartel.com/product/green-tea-under-eye-roller">Green Tea Under Eye Roller from The October Union</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-Oag06j97o/U20nJZHosOI/AAAAAAAAC0o/TLlZ0vN8vSs/s1600/blogger-image-1951718696.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l-Oag06j97o/U20nJZHosOI/AAAAAAAAC0o/TLlZ0vN8vSs/s1600/blogger-image-1951718696.jpg" height="192" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
The <a href="http://www.theoctoberunion.bigcartel.com/product/green-tea-under-eye-roller">Under Eye Roller</a> is awesome because not only is the liquid product highly soothing (calendula, green tea, witch hazel... oh, my!), but the applicator on the bottle itself is a metal ball. It's so incredibly refreshing and de-puffing. I swear using the roller ball is even better than the cult-status beauty tip of refrigerating spoons then placing them over your eyes. It's wonderful!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbMOrF-HFqM/U20nG0GSKOI/AAAAAAAAC0g/nvEBNBo8V1k/s1600/blogger-image--630440845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cbMOrF-HFqM/U20nG0GSKOI/AAAAAAAAC0g/nvEBNBo8V1k/s1600/blogger-image--630440845.jpg" height="400" width="161" /></a></div>
<br />
And though metal is naturally cold, it is recommended to keep this product in the fridge for an extra frigid boost. That, and there aren't any preservatives in this product, so it needs to be kept cool to stay fresh.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGgz0MSXvpM/U20nEeE1YkI/AAAAAAAAC0Y/OBT7b4klLK4/s1600/blogger-image--1953961515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGgz0MSXvpM/U20nEeE1YkI/AAAAAAAAC0Y/OBT7b4klLK4/s1600/blogger-image--1953961515.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doesn't everyone stash beauty products next to their mustard?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At $12, I don't feel bad using the <a href="http://www.theoctoberunion.bigcartel.com/product/green-tea-under-eye-roller">Green Tea Under Eye Roller</a> whenever I want (and thankfully so, because I use this thing about three times a day). If your eyes are currently feeling the pollen wrath like mine, I can't recommend this product enough.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-339477170706448895.post-52754549694226900262014-05-04T11:22:00.001-07:002014-05-06T12:31:51.626-07:00Weekend Ramblings: A Conversation with Jess MacQueen of Ecoholic Beauty<div class="MsoNormal">
When I started blogging, I was always looking for inspiration and now, with my interest natural beauty, I am being inspired by a whole new group of people. One of these people is the beautiful Jess MacQueen of <a href="http://ecoholicbeauty.com/">Ecoholic Beauty</a>. <br />
<br />
Recently, Jess kindly took the time to chat with me about her natural skincare journey and some of her favorite products. If you read on, you will easily see what inspired me about her. I hope you enjoy the interview and in case you haven't already, visit Jess' blog by <a href="http://ecoholicbeauty.com/">clicking here</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zrsax_BzmWg/U2WfUqRH80I/AAAAAAAAC0A/x4_6DJyk_iQ/s1600/IMG_20140319_155839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zrsax_BzmWg/U2WfUqRH80I/AAAAAAAAC0A/x4_6DJyk_iQ/s1600/IMG_20140319_155839.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via ecoholicbeauty.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>Vanity Talk:</b> What first sparked your interest in natural beauty and
skincare products?<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Jess MacQueen:</b> I’ve told the story many times about how my husband had a
health scare that really pushed me to reevaluate the toxins I come in contact
with on a daily basis. More recently, I’ve become seriously invested in natural
beauty and personal care products for two reasons: 1) I’m taking steps to take
better care of myself, and pampering with my favorite natural products is a
great way to practice self-care 2) I came off of hormonal birth control about
eight months ago and since then, I’ve been especially cognizant of how certain
toxins effect our endocrine system (hormones!).<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>VT:</b> What’s your favorite tip to share with people who are
natural newcomers?<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>JM:</b> I like to encourage natural newbies to aim for affordable
products with simple ingredients, and fortunately there are lots of great
brands and resources out there that make breaking into the green beauty world
really accessible (and most are available online!). I always point newbies to a
few tried and true resources: 1) <a href="http://www.iherb.com/">iHerb</a>, your one-stop online shop that carries
just about everything related to natural beauty, skincare, haircare, health,
and food. 2) <a href="http://www.theallnaturalface.com/">The All Natural Face</a> and <a href="http://www.silknaturals.com/creb/">Silk Naturals</a> are both seriously budget
friendly natural cosmetics lines.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>VT:</b> Who are the major players in your skincare routine right
now? How about in your makeup routine?<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>JM:</b> Skincare staples for me include raw honey for a morning
cleanse, organic jojoba oil to remove makeup and moisturize, <a href="http://www.iherb.com/Heritage-Products-Rosewater-Rose-Petals-8-fl-oz-240-ml/6481">Heritage StoreRosewater</a> and <a href="http://www.iherb.com/George-s-Aloe-Vera-Aloe-Spray-Mister-8-fl-oz-236-ml/44031#p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=george%27s%20aloe%20vera&rc=2080&sr=null&ic=3">George’s Aloe facial sprays</a> (I use both for moisture and to set
makeup), <a href="http://www.iherb.com/Acure-Organics-Brightening-Facial-Scrub-4-oz-120-ml/36379#cid=2000&p=1&oos=1&disc=0&lc=en-US&w=acure&rc=19&sr=null&ic=2">Acure Organics Brightening Facial Scrub</a> for gentle exfoliation, and
DIY facial masks using things like clay, essential oils, and all sorts of
ingredients I find in my kitchen (oatmeal, yogurt, lemon, avocado,
strawberries, nutmeg… the list goes on!).<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jz9CO7s1l78/U2WdczgYw1I/AAAAAAAACzk/RpkgLCOOoDo/s1600/Really+Raw+Honey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jz9CO7s1l78/U2WdczgYw1I/AAAAAAAACzk/RpkgLCOOoDo/s1600/Really+Raw+Honey.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via iherb.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZNcjLXA3RE/U2WdhL_zi_I/AAAAAAAACzs/pL-O2_NBzFg/s1600/George%27s+Aloe+Spray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZNcjLXA3RE/U2WdhL_zi_I/AAAAAAAACzs/pL-O2_NBzFg/s1600/George's+Aloe+Spray.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via iherb.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D3EiQ74uhhU/U2WeCstf8gI/AAAAAAAACz0/5Nw1Evw3AQ4/s1600/Heritage+Rosewater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D3EiQ74uhhU/U2WeCstf8gI/AAAAAAAACz0/5Nw1Evw3AQ4/s1600/Heritage+Rosewater.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*Photo via iherb.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>VT:</b> What is one natural item (makeup and/ or skincare) that you
think everyone should own?<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>JM:</b> A good oil! Now hear me out: oils often get a bad wrap in
the conventional beauty world because folks wrongly assume oil is bad and
causes acne, but one thing every green beauty knows is how nourishing and
moisturizing natural oils are for our skin, hair, and nails. Not only that,
oils are often multipurpose, like my favorite: jojoba. I use organic,
cold-pressed jojoba oil to remove my makeup, as a facial and body moisturizer,
in my hair, on my nails, etc. Other lovely oils include avocado, coconut, almond,
argan, apricot kernel, rosehip etc.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>VT: </b>You are extremely popular on <a href="http://youtube.com/">YouTube</a>! What’s the biggest
difference between blogging and creating videos besides the obvious
technological differences?<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>JM:</b> Creating videos is definitely a lot more labour-intensive
than blogging, because so much more time goes into crafting a well-executed
video. First off, there’s a great deal of prep that happens ‘behind the scenes’
to create an aesthetically pleasing set. I also tend to get a bit gussied up
for filming days, unlike blogging in my pajamas. I also rely on great natural
light for my videos, so I have a window of time during the day that is best for
filming, whereas I can blog anywhere, anytime. Editing videos can be a lot more
tedious than editing a blog post, and I often get annoyed with hearing my own
voice as I’m editing a video. Aside from the difference in labour, there’s also
the major difference of exposure—putting yourself out there! I’m basically on
display for the world to see in my videos, which can make me feel a bit
vulnerable at times. But so far, the response and support from my subscribers
has been really positive.<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>VT:</b> If people really want to get a sense of what <a href="http://ecoholicbeauty.com/">Ecoholic Beauty</a>
is all about, what’s the first video or blog post they should check out?<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>JM:</b> Probably any one of my monthly favorites videos, so you can
get a sense of the range of my interests and the products I feature on my
channel.<br />
<br />
And on that note, I give you Jess' most recent monthly favorites videos...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/xQ2SOnYHDvI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
I hope you all enjoyed this feature. I'm really looking forward to sharing more interviews with you in the upcoming weeks!<br />
<br />
Who are some of your greatest blogger inspirations? They can be food bloggers, fashion bloggers, dog bloggers... you name it!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11681159585059208099noreply@blogger.com0