Guest Post ~ The Health Benefits of Massage!

I am very excited about today's guest contribution from Fix.com!  

I know that we all suffer from stress, muscle fatigue, and restless nights.  I know from my own few experiences with massage that it is an amazing way to address all three of these symptoms of living!

Now, I've heard of many different types of massage: Shiatsu, Swedish, Deep Tissue, etc.  I've even had a Hot Stone Massage! But doesn't mean I know what they are!  In fact, when I my Hot Stone Massage, all I really knew was that it was amazing!  I love this very informative chart since it will help me navigate how I approach my next massage!

Source: Fix.com

Today is International Women's Day ~ My Thoughts + How to Plug In!

Beauty is more than skin deep, and an issue that impacts us all as human beings.  We long to be seen as the beautiful creations we are.  We ought to be treating one another in ways that celebrate each human being's unique beauty.  This world is filled with beautiful people who treat others and are treated by others in truly ugly ways, which is why we need days like International Women's Day.

My contribution to the conversation is a short piece on feminism, which I hope you will read.  Additionally, I encourage you to take part of International Women's Day today, March 8th via links at the bottom of the post!  

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As a self-proclaimed feminist, I embrace today and the message about the importance of gender equality.  I do not understand feminism to be something that is anti-men/ anti-male.  Rather, for me, feminism is the desire to see the end of oppression within human relationships.

I understand patriarchal ways in which society functions to be equally detrimental for women and men.  As a brief example, demands upon men to be the "bread-winners" holds them to standards that are, by and large, completely unreasonable in today's economy.  The expectation that men always go to work can stifle the desires of those fathers who want to be stay-at-home-dads!  

The fact that women across the board are paid less than their male counterparts is inherently problematic.  Especially in our US society where one of the ways in which a human being's worth is determined is by the size of their paycheck, our economy declares that women are less valuable than men.  This is one of many variables that create situations in which women are marginalized in our capitalist economy.  Pair the reality of women with the reality of persons of color and we end up with a situation in which those who are the most vulnerable in our society are women of color.  Even within women's struggle for equality, our struggle is not equal.  It is imperative that women continue to lift one another up, even across political, socio-economic and racial boundaries.  It is only together that we can continue the dialogue.  Action requires communication.  Both require mutual understanding and a willingness to work together toward a mutual goal.  I hope that today is a day in which the complexities of the struggle for equality are lifted to the surface just as the need for equality itself is highlighted across the world.

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I've included lots of logos and links to various ways to connect with today's celebration!  May today be beautiful for you!

Today we celebrate the role of women in our international communities while reminding ourselves and the rest of the world of the need for equality!

#MakeItHappen

#PaintItPurple

PLUS, Tune in for an Amazing Presentation by Emma Watson as part of Celebrating International Womene's Day for a HeForShe and Gender Equality Conversation Live on Facebook!

I hope that you've found a way to plug in, participate, and be inspired to #MakeItHappen; we all need to work toward a greater awareness of gender equality!

TONING! Its not just for your muscles!

Toning is a very important step in the cleansing process that many of us are guilty of skipping.  Toning is helpful year round; this is not just a summer-time thing, ladies!  According to Dr. Hadley King, a New York City board-certified dermatologist, there are six great reasons we should be using a facial toner:

1. It removes oil and gives the appearance of smaller pores.

2. It can help restore the pH balance of your skin after cleansing.

3. It adds of a layer of protection against environmental impurities while also removing chlorines and minerals present in tap water.

4. It leaves your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized!

5. It moisturizes the skin and helps your skin stay moisturized!

6. Toners with alpha hydroxy acids listed in the ingredients can help treat ingrown hairs.

But, what kind of toners should we be looking for?  We all have different skin types!

Allure Magazine offers very helpful insights from Erin Gilbert, a New York City dermatologist, and Ruthie Harper, of the Laser and Skincare Clinic in Austin and founder of SkinShift Skin Care.  So, here's what we should be looking for in a toner:

1. Alcohol or No Alcohol?

Toners with alcohol remove excess oil and can help prevent breakouts for those with acne-prone skin.  Meanwhile, toners that hydrate the skin and prevent dryness contain ingredients such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

2. Special Ingredients?

Brightening ingredients include: orange extract and anti-oxidants such as tomato extract, bergamot, or Vitamin E & Vitamin A.

Calming ingredients that help with redness and inflammation include: chamomile and other plant-based extracts.

Salicylic Acid: can be particularly helpful for unclogging pores and preventing future breakouts.

3. When do we use what?

Wintertime & Air-Travel: look for moisturizing toners

Summertime: look for toners that unclog pores to prevent acne if you have oily or combination skin types

4. Toner instead of Moisturizer?

Only if you have extremely oily skin and its summertime.  Otherwise, make sure you use sun screen and moisturizer!

For more on great toners, stay tuned for product reviews coming up!

All type in italics is information from the website articles that are available via hotlinks within this post.

Friday #DIY! Reviews + Minty Lemon Sugar Scrub!

I'm really excited about to share with you that one of my very favorite brands, InstaNatural, is launching a new line of Essential Oils!!

Product Descriptions:

- Lemon Essential Oil: extracted from the rinds of lemon, which lends its fresh citrus fragrance. This cold-pressed oil has a strong bright scent that is both refreshing and uplifting. Its astringent and purifying properties also make it a great aid to help cleanse and tone the skin, while delivering a boost of Vitamin C antioxidant benefits.

- Peppermint Essential Oil: a multi-purpose oil that cools, energizes and refreshes the body and mind. This steam-distilled oil is extracted from dried or fresh leaves from the Mentha Piperita herb, giving it a sharp, menthol fragrance. Its pleasantly sweet and minty aroma makes it a premium choice for aromatherapy to improve the mind and lift the spirits.

- These essential oils are 100% Pure Cold Pressed!

What I love about InstaNatural's Essential Oils:

- High quality Essential Oils

- Wonderful aroma!

- Fantastic for DIY Projects

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I am also really excited about GoPure Naturals' 100% Fractionated Coconut Carrier Oil & Massage Oil!  I have recently become very excited about essential oils, and many projects using essential oils require carrier oils.  I am thrilled to have the opportunity to utilize and review this coconut carrier oil today!

Product Description:

- Premium Grade (Grade A)

- Lightweight emollient that smooths and hydrates without clogging pores or causing breakouts.  Never sticky or greasy.

- Highly Cost Effective, because it does not go rancid!  Plus, it works well with other carrier oils!

- Great for #DIY projects at home: soaps, lotions, hair care, ointments, etc.

What I love about GoPure Naturals' Coconut Oil:

- Very affordable at $15.95 for 16 fl oz!

- Feels great on my skin!

- PERFECT for use with essential oils!

- The bottle is attractive with a lid that makes dispensing the product easy and mess-free!

- It has no smell.  So, if you don't like the smell of coconut like me, this should be a great coconut oil for you!

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How I Use InstaNatural's Peppermint and Lemon Essential Oils with GoPure Naturals' Coconut Oil:

Make A Minty Lemon Sugar Scrub!

What You'll Need:

- Jar (Container with a twist top or a glass jar.  I repurposed an empty, clean body butter jar.)

- White Granulated Sugar (1 1/4 cups)

- Coconut Oil (1/2 cup): I used Coconot Oil from goPure Naturals

- Peppermint & Lemon Essential Oils (10-12 drops of each): I used Essential Oils from InstaNaturals 

Directions:

In a bowl, mix together sugar and coconut oil.  Then add drops of Lemon and Peppermint Essential Oils.  Put the mixture into your container.  If you're giving this as a gift, one batch will fill a few small containers.

Finally, I added a label to my container with permanent marker and allowed the writing to dry completely.

Verdict: Yay!

I love how these ingredients mix well and easily.  The scrub gently sloughs off dead skin while leaving skin feeling fresh, clean, and moisturized.  Even hubby enjoys this one for his hands!  I'm thrilled with the idea of making presents of this in the future.  

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Easy Links to Amazon for all products used in this #DIY Friday project (affiliate links):

          

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Tomoson.com and made possible by InstaNatural and GoPure Naturals.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

Beauty Tag!

This is a beauty tag where I answer 20 beauty questions relating to my makeup/skincare routine. I love reading these types of posts because it’s a great way to get to know person behind the blog. These questions are from Carol of Intrice Blog.  I love her style, writing, and eye for beauty!

I think women should wear whatever makeup they want for themselves. Makeup should be fun. 

- Emma Stone

Do you remember your first makeup item?
I think the first makeup item I owned was Candy Kisses in Watermelon!  I felt like hot stuff in middle school!

Describe your perfect mascara. Have you found one 
that fits your specifications?
I want a formula that never clumps, never flakes, and applies easily to every lash!  I want additional volume, NOT length! I want a brush that holds the perfect amount of product, can handle my long lashes, and helps plump out their volume.  I'm getting there.  Since I started blogging, I've gotten really picky! LOL!

What kind of coverage do you prefer from foundation?
I need something that offers medium coverage, but feels light and looks super natural!  I have rosy cheeks from my mom, and I need something that helps to cover them without washing me out completely.

Favorite high end brand?
I really like BareMinerals.  I've been using their mineral veil, bronzer, and blushes for almost a year; I'm a total convert.  I keep adding to my collection!  I would love to add Dr. Jart+ BB Cream to my repertoire eventually!

What cosmetic brands have you always wanted to try but still haven’t? 
Mally Beauty, Urban Decay, Too Faced

Favorite drugstore brand?
I'm a fan of Maybelline's new mascaras.  I just tried this amazing foundation from CoverGirl so I'll add that one!  

Do you wear fake eyelashes? 
Nope!  I would really only need them for volume, not length.

Is there any kind of makeup you can't leave the house without?
I prefer a fully done face, but minimally, dark brown mascara and lip balm!

What is your most cherished beauty product?
Right now, its my new Shea Butter Cleansing Oil from L'Occitane.  Hubby splurged on me!  I've been testing so many different skin care products the last few months that I needed something to help restore my skin!  (Besides, I scored a free gift! LOL! Free gifts will eventually be my downfall!)

How often do you shop for makeup?
I'm always on the prowl.  Looking isn't so bad.  Its the buying too often that is!

Do you have a “beauty budget” or you spend freely?
I need to budget myself.  Right now, its called the hubby-rule! Whatever hubby says "yes" or "no" to sets my budget!

What type of product do you buy the most of?
Anything to do with my eyes!  I'm a sucker for a good eye liner, eye shadow, mascara, anything!  I love playing with my eyes!

Do you avoid certain ingredients in cosmetics like parabens or sulfates? 
Eh, not really.  I realize that there are all kinds of perspectives on this, so I try to emphasize paraben and sulfate free for my readers.  But for me, sometimes sulfates in shampoo make all the difference for whether or not my hair actually gets clean.

Do you have a favorite place to shop for makeup?
I'm a huge fan of Birchbox for some things since I can earn/ use points.  I also love Sephora, Ulta, Target, and boutiques like L'Oocitane and Bare Minerals.  I'll shop online if I can get free shipping; I hate paying for shipping!

Do you like trying new skincare products or do you keep a certain routine?
I have a general routine: cleanser, toner (occasionally), 1-2 serums, moisturizer.  I'll switch out what I use based on what I'm reviewing, what my skin is doing, and how I'm feeling.

Favorite bath and body brand? 
I have an obsession with Burt's Bees, which is reasonable.  I recently starting flirting with L'Occitane, but since that could potentially turn into a bad habit, I'm practicing serious restraint!

Do you like multifunctional products like lip and cheek stains?
No.  They scare me!  LOL!  I shy away from them because I just recently started needing cheek color (rosy cheeks and all), so I'm still learning.  Its like learning to wear makeup all over again!

Are you clumsy in putting makeup?
Yes, but it hits me like a "clumsy attack."  I don't know that its coming until that cat eye that I thought I had nailed goes all wonky without warning!

Do you ever consider taking makeup classes?
I've just recently starting researching makeup application techniques.  I feel so behind!! But really, videos are awesome, but I would totally love to take some classes!

What do you love about makeup?
I feel like it helps me express myself; it can help me accentuate my eyes to play up feelings of happiness, seductiveness, or mellowness.  Its one of the ways that I show myself love. After I spend time pampering every inch of my face, how could I hate it? :-)
Makeup is also fun!  Its an artistic outlet.  Its a medium I can use to connect with hundreds of other people through social media.  Its a way to explore colors, contours, and techniques.  

Do you feel the same way about makeup? What do you love the most about it?

Share your thoughts with me in the comments!

My Current Favorite Products for my Wavy Hair! +Tutorial!

I have been embracing my wavy hair for a number of years.  During that time I have tried a number of various products, techniques and hair cuts to enhance my shy waves.

I think I have finally found an easy and effective system that works for me:

I wash & condition my hair; even if I use a co-wash product, such as the one I have from DevaCurl, I'll use a mask just for the added moisturizing benefits.  

I make sure to comb my hair in the shower; once I get out, its a few finger combs with products, and then no touchy!

I personally love a really good turban wrap for hair.  It coaxes my wet hair to form beautiful waves while keeping it from dripping everywhere.  I have to make sure that my hair doesn't get too dry or else products don't work very well.

Here are the products I use:

- Curl Keeper Total Control for Frizzy Hair Original: I love this stuff!  Wow.  Okay, so I gently apply this product to my hair as though it were conditioner.  This is the first thing I apply to my hair once I take the towel wrap off.

- Roux Anti-Aging Hair Serum Leave-in Treatment: I like how this product adds volume to my hair at the roots.  It also helps my hair appear brighter and healthier.  I add this second, massaging it  into my scalp and the roots of the hair

- Davines Replumping Hair Filler Superactive: This stuff is seriously my best friend.  I separate hair into two sections: one over each shoulder.  Then I apply 2-3 sprays of product per side.  Finally, I gently tousle my hair to encourage the waves.

- Then I allow my hair to air dry!

- Parlor by Jeff Chastain Moisturizing Sea Salt Spray: I add this after my hair is dry just to rejuvenate the waves, add a little volume, and finish the look!

Care & Maintenance:

- I put my hair into a half-pulled through ponytail bun when I go to bed.  This keeps my waves from flattening out while I sleep.  It also means that my hair is sometimes wavier on day #2!

- I have an empty sample size of the Davines SuperActive bottle that I've filled with water to evenly wet my hair the next morning and reactivate my waves.

- I sometimes use dry shampoo, but with this much product in my hair already, it usually just makes my scalp itch.

- I play around with different styles on days 1 & 2: headbands, pulling half my hair back in a clip, or putting hair in a high, scrunched ponytail are all fun ways of making my hair look last longer!

Interested in more Blog Posts about Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle? Check out some more blog links here!

My Eyes & Lips! #MOTD + Mini-Tutorial!

I really do love playing around with makeup!  I think that playing with lips & eyes is the best part of doing my daily makeup looks.

Here's what I used today on my eyes & lips:

- Cailyn Mineral Eyeshadow Powder in Autumn:
Lid using UBU no.30

- Ulta Color Pure Eye Shadow in YOLO:

Crease to Brow using UBU no.35

- Cargo Cosmetics Liquid Eye Liner in Black:

Applied in a thick line just above the lashes

- Mirenesse Mattfinity Lip Rouge in Paris:

Applied very carefully, blotted & allowed to set!
(Much happier with this second use than the first time!)

What I used on my Brows and Lashes:

- Beauty Lashious Eyelash Curler:

Used as close to lash roots as possible

- Laura Geller GlamLash in Black:

Applied from root to tip, top & bottom lashes, 2 coats

- Ellen Tracy Neutral Eye Shadows:
Used mini brush to accentuate brows

- Ellen Tracy Brow Pencil in Brown:

Used with Beauty Brow Tool to shape and define brows

What do you think of my #MOTD?  What other kinds of beauty posts would you like to see here?

My MOTD with Fantastic & Frugal Makeup Brushes!

I am so excited to share these brushes with you!  I am always on the hunt for a good find, and this fantastic Makeup Brush set from Bellangé certainly qualifies!

MY #MOTD with Bellangé Brushes!

How I Use This 10 Piece Kabuki Makeup Brush Set from Bellangé for My MOTD:

Product Description:

- 10 piece Kabuki Makeup Brushes with Makeup Bag

- Made with soft, luxurious synthetic bristles

- Each brush labled with name, use and number on the handle

     

Set Includes: 

- Foundation Brush

- Flat Top Brush

- Contour Brushes (large)

- Contour Brushes (small)

- Eye Brushes

          

What I Love about Bellangé Brush Set:

- High Quality: no shedding!

- Very soft

- Includes a variety of brushes

- Each brush is clearly labeled and numbered!

- Highly Effective for working with powders and creams!


You can find Bellangé's Bellangé Makeup Brush Set (affiliate link) on Amazon for $15.00!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Bellange.  Products were provided in exchange for my time in assessing their quality and writing an honest review about them. All product information is gleaned from the manufacturer's product description.  All opinions are my own based on my experiences with the product.  All photos are my own. 

My Foray into Fashion Part #3: A Little Striped Dress & Makeup Of The Day!

I love this dress!  I scored it from the GAP on clearance, and with my $10 off from Birchbox's December Box, it was only $8.00!!  Its a fantastic stretchy dress with pockets and 3/4 sleeves! I feel really cute in this dress.  It stops just above my knees, is totally comfortable, and quite versatile!  And for once, I'm happy to be in clothing that hugs my curves a little bit! I'm totally in love!

I paired this dress with a stunning statement necklace I got in my Rocksbox for January.

I had the best time doing my makeup for this outfit!  

I tried out extremely subtle contouring with the larger brushes from the Bellange Brush Set I've been using in preparation for an upcoming review!  I used Bareminerals Bronzer, Blush and Finishing Powder. (My new homework assignment is to get serious with the contouring practice!)

I decided to draw on the bright red in my dress so I played up my lips with L'Oreal Colour Riche Lippy in #304 Ruby Opera.

I complimented my bright lip with a nude shadow on my eyelid and a very black cat eye.  I used Benefit's They're Real Liner and Mascara to achieve the effect.

Thanks for accompanying me on this journey of self-acceptance, fashion and beauty!  I hope that something I shared here has inspired you to try something new, too!

     

Beauty Blogging Lessons: Vitamin C and Serums!

I have learned a lot about vitamin C since I began blogging.  I thought I knew everything there was to know in today's market about vitamin C.  You know: Its in OJ, its good for you, and your mom swears by it for curing colds, right?

Yes, but that's only part of the answer.

Vitamin C when used topically is also very good for your skin!  

Here's How:

- It has been clinically shown to boost collagen production, which reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

- It lightens overall pigmentation of the skin, which brightens skin complexion.

- It offers a small amount of UV protection.

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Okay, so Vitamin C is good for our skin.  It will take about 6 months of consistent use to see a serious impact.  I've been using vitamin C serums for about 2.5 months, and I've already started to notice some changes in my skin tone and complexion.  So, I'm excited to see what 4 more months will bring!

But these serums are not cheap, and there are so many to choose from!  What should be be looking for when selecting a Vitamin C Serum for our skin?

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What to Look For in a Vitamin C Serum:

- Dark Container: vitamin C is unstable and breaks down when exposed to light so it needs to be protected to remain potent.

- Pump Dispenser: vitamin C will break down when exposed to air as well, so try to find a dispenser that limits air exposure of the product.

- 5%-20% concentration of Vitamin C: 20% is the highest amount of vitamin C your skin can successfully absorb.

- pH balance of 3: this is the ideal pH of Vitamin C for absorption by the skin.  If the label is unclear, contact the manufacturer to ask.

- Be Aware that many Vitamin C Serums can have a very pungent smell.  If you have a sensitive nose, look for comments/ reviews that talk about the scent of the serum before you invest!

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I hope that this is helpful to you!  Of the Vitamin C Serums I have reviewed thus far, the ones I have been found most impressive include (in no particular order): 

InstaNatural (for most pleasant scent)

Oz Radiance (for best value)

Radha Beauty (for best serum as part of a skin care line)

Valencia (for current favorite)

**Review Coming Soon!**

What other products or product types in skin care would you like to learn about more on my blog?  Which ingredients  in skin care products would you like to learn more about?