December 26, 2011

Happy holidays!


December 23, 2011

Eyelash Extensions

 Wow I am addicted to lash extensions.  This was my first time getting them put on.  The process took about 2 hours since I wanted them long and full.  They actually feel lighter than strip lashes in my opinion.   In the photos, I am wearing just shadow on my brows and red lipstick.  Isn't that awesome?  No eye makeup whatsoever.  I totally recommend getting lashes.  They make a world of a difference. 

Why did I pay so much for these?  Besides the fact that it is for the New Year, my birthday, and Christmas, I got them for my 9 night cruise to the Caribbeans.  Back in March, on our last cruise, my biggest pet peeve was having to apply lashes after coming back from the islands and having to redo everything.  These extensions are suppose to stay on up to 6 weeks and hopefully I won't need to worry about them. 

All that glitters

For my birthday, Christmas, new years, and cruise



November 23, 2011

CHRISTMAS/BIRTHDAY WISHLIST

Here are items I would appreciate receiving or an idea of what I would love.  They are not in any particular order =) 


Make Up For Ever HD Concealer (color: 340)


Ipod Nano 6G Speakers (any rechargeable) 

Ipod Nano Wristband (any that will fit my small wrist)

Memory Foam Travel Pillow


Model in a Bottle Setting Spray

Neutrogena Ultra Sunblock SPF 100

Wild & Chic Best of Make Up For Ever

Crest White Strips Enamel Safe

Frogs into Princes: Neuro Linguistic Programming

Fitted Leather Jacket (black/small) 

Black and gold bikini (small)

Shorts Purple with Black Ribbon Bikini 


Black Sequin Bikini (small)

Gold Dust Woman Bikini (small)


Beach Bunny Love Tender Bikini (x-small)

Kryolan Palette

Heated Blankets

Duo Water Proof Eyelash Adhesive, Dark Tone 

Tory Burch Leather Sandal (size 5 in Nude)

Tory Burch Enamel Logo Flip Flops

Philosophy Miracle Worker with SPF 55 Miraculous Anti-Aging Fluid

Gift Cards- Japnese nail art (from Atlas, Myu, naturally hands and spa, and seawave beauty salon), VS, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, MAC cosmetics, Sephora, Dare Me Bikini (in HB)

Chanel Wallet (but preferably in black)

November 22, 2011

Philosophy Turbo Booster C Powder




I have been researching and researching about skincare lately.  If there is an ingredient I found that is said to make "miracles" happen, it would be Vitamin C.  Vitamin C also is know as l-ascorbic acid.  It is an antioxidant.  I learned that Vitamin C, when applied to the skin, has shown to slow down the rate of free-radical damage (sun damage).  It protects the skin from UV and even reverses signs of aging to the skin.  It does this by stimulating collagen, minimize fine lines, scares, and wrinkles, and even gets rid of age spots.  Amazing isn't it?!

Upon my research, I also learned that it Vitamin C goes bad quickly and is highly unstable.  Therefore I learned that it is better to purchase Vitamin C in powder form instead of buying products with Vitamin C already inside the products.  I turned to a trusted company... Philosophy. 

I purchased the Philosophy Turbo Booster C Powder, which contains 0.25 oz of 99.8% high-potency topical Vitamin C powder.  Philosophy states that it protects skin from environmental attacks, brigtens and even skin tone.  The directions say to mix 1/2-1 scoop of powder into your palm with your serum or moisturizer.

I have been using a 1/2 scoop everyday after I wash my face.  I mix it with my sunblock.  I have been using it now for about a week and noticed that the redness on my face has become less.  I also noticed that my skin does look healthier.  I think I am going to continue using this product and will report back.   

November 17, 2011

Make Up For Ever HD Foundation

My Favorite Foundation


Want flawless, light, even coverage?  This foundation does amazing things.  I genuinely love it.  Make Up For Ever came out with this foundation a couple years ago for people who work in television.  It's made especially for HD and photography.  It's full coverage and looks like natural skin.  I feel that a little goes a long way.  I've used it for about 3 years now and I still love it.  It comes in a convenient pump bottle with 1 oz. for $40.  I get a ton of complements when I use it.  It's money well spent. 

November 16, 2011

Glittery black nails


November 14, 2011

Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Daily Face Shield

I cannot stress enough how important it is to wear sunblock, especially one that is SPF 30 and above.  Below is a product that I use. 



This Laura Mercier Flawless Skin Daily Face Shield has SPF of 40.  I just finish this product and I loved it because it was an awesome product under makeup.  It was extremely lightweight and did not look oily.  It's texture is a little runny but that is what makes it so light.  It made my skin feel so smooth and I used it instead of a primer.  I always look for a sunblock that would be good under makeup and this sunblock was it.  Laura Mercier advertised it as being oil controlling, sheer, lightweight, and allowing skin to adapt to extreme climates. 

November 10, 2011

Iridensent Glittery Gel Nails

I got these done yesterday for a wedding.  My manicurist used a pink sheer gel over my nails and sprinkled iridescent white glitter over the gel.  It came out looking lovely.  



November 9, 2011

Gucci Gucci

I came home today to have my mom help me do alterations my evening dress and she had a gift for me.  She got me a large bag to go traveling with.  It's awesome because the little gold chain you see below has a key.  The key is made to lock to top opening of the bag.  I can actually lock it to ensure no one goes in it.  It's the perfect size to travel with.  I am so happy and I so love my mom =). 

November 7, 2011

Peep Toe Aldo Pumps

 


I got these in the mail today courteous of the boyfriend.  I was complaining about how my black patent leather pumps were scuffed up and worn out and needed a replacement.  These are its replacement.  The order was placed at least 3 weeks ago and finally they are here.  It took forever but just in time for a wedding. 

November 6, 2011

Be Fine Gentle Cleanser



 My Be Fine Gentle Cleanser ($15.99/3.4 oz.) came into the mail today along with some other products.  It is a day and night cleanser that contains oats and rice.  The oats and rice are suppose to feed vitamins into the skin to help rejuvenate, tone, and fight aging.  The cleaner smells minty fresh like peppermint.  The packaging states that it will support collagen growth and simulate circulation.  I have not tried it but I cannot wait.  




November 5, 2011

Top Findings in 2011 and My Wishlist

Top 10 Things of 2011
These are the top items I received or invested in that I absolutely adore.  These are life changers (not in any order)...

1. MacBook Air- I'm small and the size is perfect for me to carry wherever.  It's been wonderful to me. 

2. Ipad 2- I have my MacBook Air but this is perfect to use in bed laying down.  I love that it is touch screen which makes browsing so much easier.  I am thinking of even getting one for my mom. 

3. Make Up For Ever HD Foundation (128)- The best full coverage foundation out there that looks extremely natural.  And it's awesome for photography!  $40 a bottle well spent. 

4. Hair Tinsels- So much fun for the summer and in the sun play.  I like the subtle black ones.  I get tons of compliments when they are in.  I am definitely getting them put in for the cruise.

5. Sony Waterproof Camera- An awesome gift I got for my cruise.  Last time we went I had to make sure the camera did not get wet... well with this one I will have no worries.  I love it.   

6. MAC Acrylic Paint (in black as liquid eye liner)- I almost wear liquid eyeliner everyday and its a pain when it runs out.  I discovered that I could use the acrylic paint in black (.6 oz) because it is water proof and safe to us around the eyes.  Its been great to me. 

7. Cosmetic Mirror with Light- My biggest annoyance with applying making is lighting.  Prior to getting my cosmetic mirror with a light, I was using just a large mirror with my room light.  It was always too dark and did not shine directly on my face.  With this new item I can easily see what is going on, especially because it has a magnification mirror on the back where I can rotate.  Awesome!

8. Ipod Nano in Graphite- Jogging would be so boring without it.  It's awesome to transfer music from my MacBook Air and it clips on my shorts.  I love that I can easily switch songs with two clicks.  Its the perfect gadget for a runner.

9. Dinair Airbrush System- This airbrush machine definitely makes applying makeup fun.  It's fast and does make your skin look flawless.  Its great for airbrush art of all kinds.  It was a really good investment. 

10. Chanel Large Flap Bag- It's Chanel and it's a classic.  Need I say more?



Wishlist
These are the top items I either want or want to try out (not in a specific order)...

1. Carisonic Cleaning System- Because I use makeup everyday, I need a good cleaning everyday.  This little tool is suppose to deep pore clean and exfoliate the skin leaving it polished and feeling lovely.  I believe it would be awesome for someone like me who uses cosmetics everyday. 

2. Nike Running Shoes-  Nike has the cutest running shoes that are lightweight and comfortable. 
My shoes now are worn out and I am in desperate need of some new ones. 

3. Ipod Speakers (works with nano)- I really want some for travel or just to use at home while I am getting ready.

4. Inglot Eyeshadows-  I heard they are comparable to MAC's and come in a variety of colors.  I love their palettes and how they give you so much product for much cheaper than MAC's.  

5. Chanel Quilted Wallet (with a zip pocket)- I cannot have a purse without a matching wallet.  Their zip pocket ones are the perfect size. 

6.Illamasqua Rich Liquid Foundation in 215- I heard that its an awesome full coverage foundation that would also be good for photography.  I love how Illamasqua's products are extremely pigmented and a little goes a long way.  I really want to test this product out. 

7. Face Steamer- Like I said prior, I love a good cleaning.  Face steamers open up your pores for some good cleaning. 


8. La Mer's Creme De La Mer and Concentrate Serum- I have always wanted to try La Mer's product since it has such a cult like following.  It's just so darn expensive and have not gotten the guts to fork out the cash for it.  Someday though...

9. Crest 3D White 2 Hour Express Whitestrips- Two hours?  Hell ya!  I hate using the old white strips for 2 weeks everyday to get results.  Convenience is the way to go and if it only takes 2 hours, I'll do it. 

10. Diamond Earrings- Yes... I can't resist putting it on my list.  There is nothing more beautiful yet still so simple.  I envy all the ladies that already has some. 

November 1, 2011

Halloween Ready

Between being super busy and the madness I somehow kept calm to take care of everyone and pull their makeup together.  Maybe because I love doing it.

I will start with the most obvious, the black swan.  Below is actually my sister as the black swan.  I started off with the eyes to clean any fall out easier.  I used liquid liner, gel liner, liner, and glitter. I chose lashes that were obvious but not too much. The red on the eyes was my recommendation to her because I wanted a bit of color to still help the eyes pop.  The net design around the eyes was also thought up by me. There is a scene in the black swan where she wears nets over her face while she transforms into the black swan.  I used that as inspiration and did it around the eyes for a dramatic effect.  My sister, Kimmy, loved it.  I was also inspired by the scene where Natalie portman applies white powder on her face after she kills another ballerina so I incorporated that into my sisters version by applying it to her nose and under her eyes.  It helped highlight her features.  I finished with dark red lipstick and dark red conturing. As for her hands, I smeared black and white all over to give het a grudgy look.  The false tattoo looking wings I did in about 45 minutes. I originally wanted to fill them in with paint bit the empty unfinished look made it look raw. Her feather corset is actually mine from Victoria Secret and the crown was actually a children's.  Everything was pulled together perfectly I am I so happy how she turned out. Don't you agree?

The Marilyn Monroe is my mom.  She made herself the dress and I went with her to get the wig.  Her makeup was the easiest.  I chose to contour her eyes like the shape that miss Monroe has, a deeper hallow toward the upper crease.  I keep her eyes simple with some flared out lashes and mascara.  I also copied marilyn's brows to make her look as much like marilyn as she can.  Of course the last obvious thing was to give her red lips with gloss. She felt amazing and you can tell at the party.

The little red riding hood makeup was me :).  It was very similar to my moms Marilyn Monroe but more dramatic.  I did a cut crease with silver on the lids and brown in the crease.  I drew some winged liner on top and bottom. I also applied rhinestones around the eyes and applied thick lashes. On the lips I used my moat favorite red lip color, MAC Red.  The red matched my hood and skirt which made all the red pop.

The party was insane and so much fun.  The Nobles went all out again.  What matters to me is that everyone felt beautiful in their costume and makeup.  That's what mattered.  My job is done :)









Victoria Secret Bikini

I recently ordered this Victoria Secret Miraculous leopard bikini online. Well I got it today :).  I got it for my up coming cruise.  We are going to the Caribbeans for the New Years and my birthday.  It is a 9 night cruise on the second largest cruise ship in the sea, The Freedom of the Sea.  We went on the Oasis last March and it was the best experience so we had to book another cruise.  Being the diva I am, I want to bring at least 5 different bathing suits.  I am so excited. 

October 30, 2011

Laser Hair Removal

If you asked me one year ago about getting laser hair removal I would of said "No way!".  But after my sister was finishing her laser hair removal sessions I decided to ask my doctor if it was alright and finally giving into it as well.  I started my first getting laser hair removal for my underarms and now starting on my Brazilian.  I have gotten only two sessions for each of the two places and I have to admit, the results are AMAZING.  Although it has only been two sessions for each, more than half of my hair is gone.  Everyday I am thankful I did it.  I think it was the best gift I gave myself.  

Laser hair removal is done by a FDA approved laser.  It feels like little rubber bands snapping at your skin or a bit of a zap. An area normally only takes about 5 minutes or less.  My board certified laser surgeon said that it normally takes an average person 6 sessions for all the hairs to go away.  It depends on the person and how much hair they have.  A session is done every 6-8 weeks and the hairs normally starts shedding for me on the third week.  Normally about 20% of the hair goes away after a session.  It also thins down hair so all the thicker ones go away.  

I really recommend people who hate shaving or hate that they have a shadow from shaving.  It makes the area very smooth and 'flawer' looking.  The great thing about laser hair removal is that you do not need to grow it out for the procedure, which beats waxing.  You can always have it shaved or you have the option to, unlike waxing.  The only downside to laser hair removal is you can hyper pigment in that area.  I heard it is unlikely.

October 28, 2011

MAC Foundation Comparisons


I normally hear “MAC foundations don’t work on my skin, they are too heavy” or “MAC foundation looks unnatural”.  People! MAC has a variety of foundations, not just one.  I decided to do a short breakdown of all ten of their foundations with my opinion since I have own and tried all of them:
Matchmaster- ($32.50 for 1.18oz) Their newest foundation addition.  This product supposedly has technology in it that will adjust to your natural skin color.  It is a medium coverage that is "demi-matte", meaning that it matte but not over drying.  On my skin it looks pretty natural looking.  The colors do not follow the typical MAC color system of NC or NW.  Instead it uses a number system, 1 being lightest and 10 being dark.  I am normally a NC30 to NC35 and can pass for a 3 or a 4.  Either of them work for me.  I actually really like this foundation.  It is pricier than the regular foundations but it comes in a larger container with a pump.  I would say it is good for people with combination to oily skin who want somewhat of a coverage.

Face and Body- ($32.50 for 4 oz) When first using this product I hated it.  It was runny and hard to work with.  I used it for a couple weeks and liked it.  It is a water based product that is sheer when first applied.  However, it is buildable.  MAC claims that it is for your face and body but it does smear if touched.  Therefore, it is not a good product to use near clothing.  It normally gives me a dewy look and has a sheen look to it.  I recommend this product for people who want a sheer look with minimum coverage who have combination to dry skin.  I do not recommend for oily skin.  It is a good product to mix with other water based foundations to thin them down.

Studio Sculpt- ($29.50 for 1.3 oz) This is my very favorite MAC foundation.  It is normally looked passed because it does not nearly get enough recognition.  When people say they dislike MAC foundations, I normally introduce them to this product and they love it.  This foundation is gel based.  It is medium to full coverage and has a natural finish to it.  I would say it has the most coverage for a foundation that has fuller coverage.  It feels lightweight and has enough coverage for my skin.  This product is good for people who have combination to oily skin who like a fuller coverage but want a natural look.  It is also great for photography.

Studio Moisture- ($30 for 1.3 oz)  This is MAC's tinted moisturizer.  I am not a big fan of tinted moisturizers.  However, this would be a good product for people who are typically on the go who want a little coverage with some nourishing factors.  It is good for people who have combination to dry skin who isnt looking for a full on heavy look.  MAC tries to sell it by claiming it has SPF but it only has SPF 15, which is similar to their other foundations.

Pro Longwear- ($29.50 for 1 oz) First I hated this foundation and then after using it for weeks and later months, I have grown to love it.  It literally lasts for 9 hours on me but MAC claims it lasts for 15 hours.  It is wonderful for oily skin but not so friendly for dry skin.  It is their mattest foundation that they have.  It definitely controls oil and clings to skin like no other.  It is medium coverage in my opinion so it is great for those who with oily skin who want a bit of a coverage that will last all day long.  It also comes with a convenient pump.

Studio Fix Fluid- ($26.50 for 1 oz) This is MAC's most popular foundation for a very long time.  It is also my mom's go to foundation for everyday wear. It dries matte and is medium to full coverage.  I find it to last on my skin for about 6 hours.  This may sound like a good foundation for teens who want a lot of cover up but I have found that it is not so friendly for ache prone skill.  It has silicone products in it that may clog pores.  I get a lot of people who claim to say that this foundation makes their skin break out.  It can be a turn off for some, but it is still a good everyday foundation for those who have combination to oily skin who want a good coverage.  My biggest complain of this foundation is that it does not come with a pump.  When you get to the bottom you have to get a thin enough brush to take out the product.  MAC do have pumps that you can buy.  I think they are around $4 per pump.



Select- I find this product very similar to the Studio Fix foundation.  It is also medium coverage and does not come with a pump.  The only difference is it is an water-based product.  I find this more suitable for for those who are allergic to silicone or have ache prone skin.  It is a good everyday foundation for those who have combination to oily skin

Mineralize Satinfinish- ($26.50 for 1 oz)  This foundation came out when mineralize products became popular.  It probably the least selling right now and I can see why.  It is too shimmery.  It contains light reflecting particles that may make you look oily.  I have to be honest and say it is my least favorite.  The coverage is sheer to light.  It may be good and work for people who like that "dewy" look who are not looking for a foundation that covers too much.  Normally it works with people who already have fabulous skin who want just a little.  I did not find that it lasts as well as the other foundations.

Studio Fix Powder Plus- ($26.50 for .52 oz) This is the reason I fell in love with MAC.  In high school, this was my go to product every single day.  It is a powder that comes in a compact.  It covers extremely well for a powder and lasts for about 6 hours on my skin.  It does contain silicone so again it may make ache prone skin break out.  It glides on very smooth and is great for blotting oily skin.  Nowadays, I typically use it for touching up.  It is quick and I can carry it around everywhere.  It is full coverage so it may not be preferred by those who normally like a sheer to medium foundation.  My biggest complaint of this product is the sponge it comes with.  You need to wash it with soap and dry it every so often (because it can collect and build up oils from your face).

Studio Tech- ($29.50 for .35 oz)  This is a foundation that has the least amount of products out of all the products.  It is a cream foundation that comes also in a form of a compact.  It feels lightweight on my skin and smells pretty fab.  When it drys it leaves a cooling semi matte look.  This product is good for those who want a foundation on the go but do not like Studio Fix's Power Plus foundation.  It is more light weight and works for those who do not want a super full coverage.



There is my quick (or long) breakdown of all the different foundations that MAC has to offer.  I hope you find a foundation that is right for your skin.  Remember, how your skin looks with foundation also depends how how well you take care of your skin, what primer you use, what you use on top of foundation, the right color, and also how you apply it.  I hope you have found this helpful and please feel free to leave any comments or questions

The BB Cream Trend


You may heard of BB creams and if you have not, you will.  BB creams or Blemish Balm Cream started in Korea and is the hottest thing in Asia right now.  It is slowly becoming popular in the U.S. as well.  It is a beauty product that is formulated to be soothing and contain skin-regenerating properties.  Many companies claim that they contain ingredients that are helpful to the skin, such as caffeine, Aloe Vera, and SPF of 30 and higher.  Some even have whitening agents and anti-aging ingredients.  BB creams are generally not heavy and feel nourishing on the skin.  When I first heard of BB creams my first question was “what is the difference between a BB Cream and tinted moisturizer?”  I learned that they are in deed very similar, however, generally, BB creams have higher SPF and anti-aging agents.  That is not true for all BB creams since many tinted moisturizers contain similar products.  I believe that BB creams are a new selling point and everyone loves something new.  Therefore different cosmetic brands are catching on the trend to compete with other brands.  For example, MAC cosmetics joined the trend by recently adding their own BB Cream to their Prep + Prime collection, the MAC Prep + Prime Beauty Balm.  The beauty balm claims to be “lightly tinted in a nearly sheer beige tone to work on an array of complexions, it creamily re-texturizes the skin and then goes on to excel at being a face primer with high everyday UVA/UVB SPF 35 defense”.  The 1 ounce tube is a whooping $30.  I have learned that MAC reps have been telling people that their new BB cream actually works well as a primer rather than what most BB creams claim to work as.  I have yet to try the new product but find that it is not a true BB cream.  


Overall, BB creams are still fairly new in the states and I am waiting for that perfect product that will do everything. 

October 26, 2011

New Olay Products

I recently ran out of my Kirkland face moisturizer and my Kirkland eye cream recently.  I have been low on cash so I decided to purchase two new Olay moisturizers, the Olay Regenerist Micro Sculpting Cream ($35) and the Olay Complete Fortifying Night Cream ($12).  The Regenerist is a night and day moisturizer that I use for the daytime and the Olay Complete Fortifying is one that I use for the nighttime.  I have used both for about two days and I noticed that they are very rich but non-greasy.  I like both so far and they are very affordable and smell wonderful.  I use the face point system for both, where I dab my finger in the jar and dab in five areas (my nose, two checks, forehead, and chin) and rub it out.  So far, so good, but I need awhile before I see anything.  I have yet to buy an eye cream but am looking.


Why Does Makeup Work?

I found an article about why women wear makeup.  You can find it HERE 

It's extremely interesting!