My Natural Spot Treatment for blemishes !

I've been trying this method out for quite some time now and I thought I would share it. Even though I know that there are tons of posts and videos on it but I thought what the heck. I found this recipe a while back on a blog. Check it out here: http://dreamcalluna.wordpress.com/2013/04/22/diy-tea-tree-oil-acne-treatment/

 Lavender and Tea tree oil have been used forever for various things including skin care. The combination of the two just adds a little more of a punch to those annoying pimples/zits that can pop up here and there. 
Tea tree oil works well on acne, pimples, dark spots and any sort of cut or burn. Lavender is antibacterial and can help reduce redness around the area. Adding some distilled water simply cuts down on the potency of the oils. 

So this DIY just involves three items:

                             Distilled water                                            

Lavender & Tea Tree Essential Oils

both from Vitacost.com 

Lavender 1 oz.$6.49

Tea Tree 1 oz. - $5.99

               

Glass bottle dispenser with dropper

1 oz. from Sprouts - $1.99

Measuring cup (for a mess free pour)

Simply add one ounce of water to the container and then add 10 drops of Tea tree and 5 drops of lavender. Stir and then close bottle and shake. Shake before each use as well :)

 Watch the Youtube Tutorial here:

Michael Todd True Organics Review

So after a few months of weird weather and my skin reacting to it, I finally said ENOUGH! I have been going more natural and organic lately with my skincare and I had seen so many review of the Michael Todd line that I finally jumped on the site and decided to buy. What I came across was awesome because they had a new line of kits called "Discovery Kits". Perfect for someone who wants to try out the products without buying full size.

After looking through the options I decided I was the "normal/combination" skin type.

The kit comes with 5 different products:

• Cleanser
• Toner
• Moisturizer
• Scrub
• Mask 

First step is the cleanse and tone cleanser.

This is the Cleanse and Tone One step Cleanser/Toner. It cleanses, tones and removes your makeup all in one. It has highly absorbent Charcoal that penetrates deep into the pores and gently removes dirt and oil without drying. It also has antioxidant vitamins, organic teas and essential oils to help fight environmental stressors.  This cleanser feels amazing on the skin. It doesn't leave a tight feeling just purely cleansed feeling. Smells great too.

Second step is the toner

This Organic Lemon AHA+DMAE toner smells so good because it has the aroma of fresh lemons. It's blended with DMAE and Alpha Hydroxy acid to firm, lift, and tighten the skin while easing away the appearance of fine lines, blotches and discolorations. It contains black willow tree extract which has healing powers and also fresh warm spicy tea tree oil which is a powerful immune stimulant to help fight infections. 

This doesn't have alcohol so it doesn't dry your skin whatsoever.

Love this stuff!

Third step is the moisturizer

This is probably my most fave out of everything. It's the Citrus Cream Moisturizer with DMAE & Hyaluronic Acid. It smells divine and makes me wake up in the morning and then calms me down at night .  It's light but very hydrating without being greasy or oily. It is infused with essential oils of sweet and mandarin oranges, tangerines, lemons and limes. DMAE firms the skin and improves fine lines and wrinkles. Hyaluronic Acid attracts moisture to the skin and restores it's balance. It really does leave my skin so soft and supple without being greasy. And I definitely notice the difference in my fine lines around my eyes from sun damage. 

Next is a scrub that I use about twice a week

This sis the Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub that has Jojoba wax beads and activated charcoal to effectively remove dead skin, impurities and toxins. It's gentle enough for sensitive and acne prone skin types. This scrub is great because you don't feel like your are literally scrubbing your skin off. It's just enough to exfoliate and definitely does the job of removing those nasty blackheads.

Last item is a mask that I use once a week

This mask you will not know if want to eat it or put it on your skin, that's how good it smells. It's the Pumpkin Nutrient Rich Facial Mask. Pumpkin is blended with Glycolic acid. It contains high concentrations of Proteolytic enzymes, anti oxidant beta carotene and over 100 other essential vitamins, mineral, phytosterols, and fatty acids. It exfoliates, moisturizes, firms, improves elasticity and pliability of the skin.  I love this mask so much. Love the way it smells, feels and the after effect of course. Leaves my skin radiant and super soft. 

Overall I'm totally happy with what these products did for my skin. The breakouts I was having on my forehead and jawline have stopped and the quality of my skin has improved. I've had the kit just under a month and the only thing I've used up is the toner. I think I was a bit heavy handed with it. The rest of the products you only have to use very minimal amounts. A little goes a long way.

This kit usually goes for $46.00 but until March 31st you can get it for only $33.00. The shipping is minimal (around $6.95) and it's quick to get to you. 

Check out the link to the kit I got here:  Discovery Kit

Also if you go to their website for the first time, make sure you fill out the form when prompted. That will give you an extra 10% off. 

If you try this or already have leave a comment or head over to my Youtube channel and leave a comment on the video. 

Hair Secrets Extensions Review

 

                                       

After having my last set of extensions for over 2 years it was finally time to buckle down and get a new pair. My last set had been amazing to me, but after extensive wear and trims, it had worked its way up to be quite shorter than what they started out.

After doing a lot of research on different blogs and Youtube reviews I settled on the brand Hair Secrets Extensions.
They have two different sets one for Ultimate Volume and then one for Fine hair which is the one I chose.

 

The first thing that attracted me was their color selection because it's amazing! With 30 shades, they have the most shades of blonde that I've ever seen. I think I counted at least 12.  They have excellent customer service and if you have a question about which shade to choose, simply email them a picture of your current hair and they can help you match it. 

The shade I chose is "Just like a star"

The quality was the next thing that appealed to me. Their extensions are the same thickness from root to tip. So for those who think it's all about the weight in grams, make sure you check out the thickness because that's where it really counts. You don't want those whispy ends :)

The clips are extremely comfortable and the lace lining helps to prevent shedding. I've already washed them once and I can say that any hair coming out is at a minimum.

They have silicone strips which ensure to keep them in place and from slipping out.

For me the five pieces that come in the set is the perfect amount for my head. I really can't fit more than that without it feeling uncomfortable. They come in 20 inches.

They come with this cute organza storage bag which keeps them nice and tangle free!

I brought them to my stylist and she cut them into my own hair. They match and blend so perfectly and the quality seriously is beyond. So smooth and silky!

Check out their website here:

Hair Secrets Extensions

I can't say enough great things about them. Make sure you comment if you have tried them or are planning on it!

Physicians Formula Super CC Cream Review

Walking into Rite Aid at the beginning of the New year is like being a kid in a candy shop. All the new displays and products can almost make you dizzy. A few different products caught my eye but not being able to buy them all at once made me really buckle down and decide which I needed most.

That brought me to the new Super CC Cream from Physicians Formula. 

I don't think I have ever really used any products from Physicians Formula other than maybe a pressed powder. It's certainly not because I haven't heard great things about them, but I guess it was my curiosity about CC creams that drew me to their product and the fact that they are gluten free, paraben free and oil free among other things.

What caught my eye too is all the things it claims to do for your skin. First off, it's the 1st ever Color-Correction Care Cream.

Here's a list of what it visibly corrects:

• Dark circles
• Age spots
• Blemishes
•  Dullness
• Uneven Skin tone
• Redness
• Dark Shadows
• Discoloration
• Fine Lines
• Wrinkles
• Signs of Fatigue
• Replaces anti-aging treatment
• Moisturizer 
• SPF 30

WHEW! That's a whole lot :)  

I have to say I'm totally and utterly pleased with this product. I love the way it feels and goes on my skin smoothly. It feels light like a tinted moisturizer but definitely has the coverage I need. 

It doesn't get oily or greasy whether I use a moisturizer before or not and it wears well throughout the day and doesn't dry out my skin. 

It comes in two shades, Light and Light/Medium which is the one I picked up. The match is perfect even with me either getting sun outside or with my self tanner.

Check out my Youtube review here

Over all I can't say enough good things about it.

It comes in a  1.2fl oz tube and retails on the Physicians Formula site for $14.95.

At my Rite Aid it was $13.95, plus I got an instant $3.00 off coupon as well. Score!

Let me know if you have tried this and what you think of it. Also let me know if you have tried any other CC Creams. 

Conair Curling Wand YOU Textured Waves Review

I've been trying out this Conair curling wand for a few months now and decided to finally write up a post review on it. I had been curious about this shaped barrel for some time now and so when I spotted it at Target for a great price, I simply had to try it. 

The barrel has a ceramic tourmaline barrel which helps with frizz and shine. Heating up to 400 degrees, it also has temps at 310, 330, and 360, 400

Like a lot of curling wands it also comes with a glove which can come in handy if you aren't used to this type of barrel.

 I was happy with the fact that the display actually shows the different temps with an on and off switch as well. 

Watch my Youtube review here

As far as performance I was very pleased. It heats up quickly, and definitely holds a good curl. It takes a bit of practice to get the type of curl you want, but once you get the hang of it I find it makes curling my hair quite quick. You can get super tight kinky curls if you want or more tousled beach waves which had been my favorite as of late. 
As I said I found it at Target and it was $29.99. A great buy for a wand that does all the tricks that a more expensive wand does. 
Click the link to buy online at Target here:

 Conair Curling Wand YOU Textured Waves

If you have tried this let me know and comment below!

DIY- Makeup Brush Holder/Case

This is a great idea to store your makeup brushes for either a trip or just at home. The placemat provides a clean surface for your brushes and it keeps them all very compact and together.

The items you need are:

Bamboo placemat- $1.50

1/2 inch black elastic- $2.00

Black satin ribbon- $1.00

Scissors & Glue gun

Here is the finished product

Let me know if you try this!!

DIY-Grapefruit Face Toner

As always I'm looking for natural remedies for my skin. I came across a really easy way to tighten your pores (especially if you have oily skin or an oily t-zone) so I thought I would share it with you.
Grapefruit can have several different uses for the skin. One is to help with oily prone skin as I mentioned, due to it's toning and astringent like effects. Two is the scent itself can improve your day! 
The scent of grapefruit is known to have an uplifting, energizing effect as well as stimulating the lymphatic system. It can help with headaches, depression, exhaustion and is a great stress reliever and can ease muscle fatigue and stiffness. 
It's a win win with this easy to make toner.
Here is all you will need:

 Distilled water

Grapefruit Essential Oil & Glass Spray bottle (1 oz)

Fill the bottle with the water and add 8 drops of the oil and you are set! 

Watch my Youtube Tutorial here

After cleansing, spray all over your face and let dry. Enjoy the tightening and refreshing effects!

DIY- Gluten Free Facial Cleanser & Body Scrub

So it's no secret that have been focusing my beauty regimen to be more natural and organic. Well I have also been focusing my eating habits to try and be more Gluten free if possible. While looking up recipes on Pinterest I came across this recipe for a Gluten free Facial Cleanser which can also pass as a body scrub. For those who are extremely gluten sensitive or have Celiac disease, Gluten can be absorbed through the skin, so this is definitely something for you! 

As many know Coconut oil has been all the rage lately with uses ranging from cooking to hair, skin, etc etc. Grapeseed Oil is also another handy thing to have around the house for multiple purposes. First off it's the less expensive of the various oils that are multi-purpose. It's a light oil so it absorbs quickly, and it's odorless. Just like Coconut oil, you can use this in your hair (great for dry scalp) and your skin. It helps regulate oil which is perfect for oily skin and it's filled with Vitamin C which is a big plus. 

Here are the ingredients you will need for this cleanser/scrub:

• 1 Cup Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
• 1/4 Cup of Cold pressed Grapeseed Oil (I am using a Grapeseed oil that I picked up in the beauty section of my health food store, however you can use the oil from the cooking section as well)
• 1 Cup of Raw Sugar

You will need also:

• Measuring cup
• Bowl
• Spoon 
• Container with lid (I'm using a glass mason jar with a plastic lid)

Watch my Youtube Tutorial here

Here is what it looks like all mixed and ready to go

I also have been trying out for the past few months oil cleanses for my skin and using Avocado Oil as a moisturizer, both which have really worked wonders. I came across these methods from a fellow Youtuber named Kassie and her channel CloudyApples

Check out my Top Favorite Skin Care Products here where I talk more about this

                                    

Top Favorite Skin Care Products

Hey guys! So I thought I would give a little rundown on the top favorite skin care products I've been using for the past few months. I owe a huge part of my finds to Kassie and her Youtube channel "Cloudyapples". She is a very well informed, well read woman who knows her stuff! Check out her channel here:  http://www.youtube.com/cloudyapples

Here is my Youtube video you can watch to hear all about these products:

Juice Beauty's website: http://www.juicebeauty.com
You can find Avocado Oil & Castor Oil at Whole Foods or if you have Sprouts in your area. 

DIY Turmeric & Milk Face Mask

Recently my skin has been really acting up, especially in the cheek and chin area. I'm not sure whether it's weather related (it's been up and down in temperature and unusually humid) or me needing to drink a little more water:) Also, I have been noticing a few dark (sun) spots starting to appear on my face and to be honest it's kinda freaking me out. So I jumped on Google to research some natural fixes/cures for dark spots, and I found that Turmeric not only helps reduce them but it also helps with acne, wrinkles, rosacea, dark circles etc. 
Turmeric is a spice that is hugely popular in Southeast Asia , and a tradition for Indian brides to use before their marriage day. 
The benefits of Turmeric are pretty vast. It's rich with antibacterial, ant inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and anti fungal properties. in addition it is packed with protein,Vitamin K, potassium, niacin, copper, Vitamin C, calcium, sodium, Vitamin E, iron, and zinc. 
The biggest thing I was amazed to discover during my research is that Turmeric has a huge other list of benefits besides helping the outside of your body/skin. Here's a list:

• Prevents cancer! ( I know right!)
• Prevents liver disease
• Prevents Alzheimer's disease
• Improves digestion
• Helps maintain body weight
• Boosts your immune system
• Reduces cholesterol level 
• Helps treat diabetes
• Relieves arthritis
• Heals wounds & burns

Is there anything this spice can't do? Seriously, it's pretty darn amazing. Now onto the face mask....
There are many different variations you can do with this mask (which I will list below) but I opted for what I had right in my kitchen at the moment. Here is all you will need for this mask:

• Turmeric
• Milk 
• Bowl
• Tablespoon
• Spoon (to mix and apply)

Take 1 Tablespoon of Turmeric and add enough milk to make into a paste that's not too watery and not too dry. You don't want it to drip or drop off of your face once you apply it.

Now since Turmeric can stain your finger nails and hands, I found it easiest to apply the mask with the back of a spoon. It really got it on there evenly as well. 

Here's the finished look :)

 Leave the mask on for 10-15 minutes or until it's dried up. Use warm water to take off and then finish with a hot washcloth. 

I instantly felt and saw the results. My skin was as smooth and soft as a baby's bottom and I noticed some of the spots from left over breakouts and even my sun spots seemed lighter. I did notice a slight color change to my skin but it faded quickly and wasn't noticable at all. You might want to do this at night just in case. 

I am definitely going to be using this mask a lot. 

Some other things you can combine with Turmeric for masks:

Milk of course (great for dry skin)

Coconut Oil (great for oily skin)

Honey & yogurt

Olive or Avocado oil

Check out my Youtube tutorial here:

Experiencing Dermalogica on Montana and the Microzone Treatment

Last week Becky and I took a trip down to Dermalogica in Santa Monica to experience a "Microzone Treatment". It was my first time to the Montana Ave location of their flagship store, and needless to say I was impressed :)

Walking in you immediately feel calm just from the pristine white decor and spa like aroma wafting through the shop. They have every Dermalogica product you could possibly want all right there on the shelves. The staff here is incredibly helpful and sweet. Erin the store manager gave us a little tour and background on the shop, and made us feel completely welcome and ready for our treatments.

This is the Microzone Treatment area. It was created out in the open for a reason, and as you walk by the shop on the outside you are almost drawn to go in and check out what the people in the chairs are having done to them. Here is Becky getting her Microzone Treatment from Sheba.

Now the Microzone treatments are designed for that time in between your regular facial appointments. They are 20 minutes and perfect if you are in a hurry and yet have some areas of your face that you want to address. Sheba sat us both down before she started the treatment and asked us what areas were of concern. For me I have a lot of blackheads on my nose and chin area, as well as some concerns about sun spots. Once she heard that. she went to work on those problem areas by cleansing, exfoliating, extracting and refreshing my skin till I felt like new! 

After the treatment, we went over to an area of the store that's called the "Skin bar" This is where Sheba went over each product individually that would be best for my skin type and also grouped it all together in what would be the perfect daily skin care regimen for me.

Here are all the products that she selected

If you live in the Los Angeles area I highly recommend going to the store on Montana for either a treatment, products or both! Make sure you ask for Sheba! She is a true professional and a sweetheart!

Here is a list of the different treatments they offer along with the prices:

Lastly I want to say a HUGE thank you to Nathalie for setting up our treatments, Erin for making us feel so welcome, and to Sheba for pampering us so well! 

Check out my Youtube video here

Check out Dermalogica on Montana Facebook page here:

http://www.facebook.com/dermalogicaonmontanasm

Dermalogica Website:

http://www.dermalogica.com

                                                           

DIY - Baking Soda & Orange Juice Mask

There are a TON of different uses for Baking soda. One I found interesting is for a DIY face mask.  I had found it on Pinterest a few months back and decided to give it a go.

Baking soda is particularly good for acne prone skin and blackheads. It even helps with acne scars and Rosacea. Typically when the skin PH balance is out of whack, you end up with breakouts or problematic skin. Baking soda acts to help alkalize the bodies acid and balance it out again.

The only things you need to make this mask are:

• Baking Soda
• An orange (or orange juice)
• Small bowl
• Teaspoon
• Brush (to apply, or you can use your fingers)

You will notice a tingling sensation when you first apply this to your face, but after 15 min and rinsing it off you will feel how smooth and soft your skin is. I noticed how it reduced my blackheads and the size of my pores.

Some of the other things you can instead of orange juice are Apple Cider Vinegar or water. Check out my Youtube tutorial below.

                                       

                                       

Getting my Eyelash Extensions

I have to say I never thought I would try or have eyelash extensions. I occasionally use false eyelashes for special events but that's really where my mindset was for having "lashes" was big events. Boy was I wrong! 
I recently went down to Beverly Hills to the Eyelash Lab and had Yumi Youn beautify my lashes, and I am now hooked! I never realized how fuller and longer lashes can really enhance your eyes and your whole look. So much in fact there are days I don't even have to really wear any eye makeup which is amazing!

 

Eyelash extensions are supposed to last anywhere up to 4 weeks depending on how you care for them and also how they take to your particular skin/eye. After the initial application you can go in for fills to do maintenance upkeep.
She has various different lengths and curl types to choose from and she also offers other services in her salon such as brow shaping/waxing, hair care, skin care, and even permanent makeup.
She is such a sweetheart and a pleasure to chit chat with while you get your extensions put on.
Her salon is located right on Robertson in the beautiful and well known area of Beverly Hills. After your appointment you can walk to all the shops and eateries around the area and really make a day of it. 
Check out my Youtube video on my experience and make sure you check out Yumi's website, you can even make an appointment online!
                                            http://www.eyelashlabbh.com