skin wipes

as i wandered target for almost two hours on sunday with no distinct purchase (or purpose) in mind, i stumbled (literally, stumbled over a basket in the beauty isle) upon these wipes...

Giovanni Organic Towelettes. Sanitary wipes for de-germing; post workout, after traveling on planes, trains and automobiles (you know that icky, sweaty, sticky feeling), or wrapping up a long night out when you have little motivation to use your arms or turn on the faucet. They are biodegradable, safe for all skin types and full of natural oils. I bought them in the travel size (6 pack for $3 at target) for my upcoming travels...and because I'm a sucker for anything in neat, small packaging that invites travel and convenience. In refreshing scents of grapefruit splash, energizing scents of peppermint surge and calming lavendar. xo,

photo 1

jar full of hope

it's heaven in a jar. light, fluffy with great moisture. combination skins is quite the dilemma and i usually have trouble finding that perfect balance, but this does the trick!

$38 for a 2.5 oz, but well worth the bills. a dab goes a long way. the perfect lotion underneath your makeup, or lather it on for your evening snooze. i couldn't be more obsessed.

find at sephora and nordstrom. happy skin, lovies!

photo 1 (unknown, sorry!), 2

i'm a sucker...

{images via}

...for trying new products. hence, the birth of this blog. so while i had the monday blues at work (don't we all, some days?) i decided to take a trip over to my beloved walgreens for an update to my makeup bag. i've been dying to try some certain goodies.

and here they are (click on the product titles below to see more)... plus, i signed up for the rewards card (not a credit card- god knows i dont need any more of those) and i saved almost $30! yeah.

Revlon Spa Illuminator (in light pink face), $12

perfectly serves as a light coverup and spf lotion, for the days you don't want to pile on the foundation.

gives gorgeous shimmer but nothing over the top.

Revlon ColorStay Mineral Bronzer (in honey), $12

safe and nourishing minerals for the face with a blend of pinks and browns for any face.

doesn't go on heavy or cakey- you can really add layers of this without looking like jersey shores.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss (in peach petal), $7

im a MAC addict, however, sometimes i just can't shell out the dough. ive been craving a good, nude/pink gloss that is thick and glossy. well ladies, this is it. perfect for all skin types, even you olive ones.

Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Loose Powder Foundation (in classic ivory), $13

i have yet to try this gem, however, i know im a huge fan of anything loose and full of natural ingredients. mix this with my revlon illuminator and im sure to have glowing summer skin. i'll get back on this one.

Neutrogena Mineral Sheers Concealer Kit (in fair), $12

a mini jar with creamy (but substantial) concealer on top, with illuminating finishing powder underneath.

blends easily and gives full coverage- the soft illuminating powder gives a nifty reflecting light under the eyes so you don't look so dead. i also added this around my cheek bones. use before and after foundation powder if you wish.

There is something to be said about simplicity and a natural face. However, sometimes a girls just gotta spruce it up. I decided to stick with Revlon and Neutrogena for a few reasons:

1. Neutrogena is always natural looking, soft and predictable. I never break out with this stuff and it is never heavy.

2. Revlon has some good ish right now! nicely done.

3. Both Revlon and Neutrogena were having savings- buy one, get the other 50% off (how could i resist?)

so instead of spending almost $100 on products like these at say, MAC or Bobbi Brown, try your local walgreens for about $42.

xo,

Josie Does Organic

{via}

josie maran (model and entrepreneur) has a fantastic organic makeup line that i have been dying to try. from natural oils, to skin perfect bronzer and ethereal shadows, she seems to have a beautiful and delicate vision for the female face. nothing overly dramatic- only soft femininity. plus, none of those toxic chemicals that come with the makeup we love so much (sad).

not the most frugal of finds, however, spending an itty bitty more for natural and safe products is worth my extra, hard earned dollar ($$) bills.

summer set for 2010

tinted moisturizer, $38

natural volume lip gloss is precious, $20

eyeshadow in cinnamon, $20

argan oil, $48

im especially interested in experimenting with the argan oil- lightweight and safe for your face as a daily moisturizer, hair (split ends, gag) and cuticles. sounds devoooon!

xo,

Jemma Doesn't Kidd

i may not usually have under eye bags (im not saying never),

but i do have dark/discolored under eyes on the reg.

generally, a pinky purple under eye, which is so tedious and annoying to correct.

(damn all you even toned skin people).

therefore, while perusing the makeup isles at target, i came across this gem-

Mannequin Skin Brightener and Concealer Duo, $12

by Jemma Kidd

{via}

use the highlighter first to give your under eye sheen and illumination.

the stick concealer (i use 01 fair mid) goes on smooth and creamy for a matte perfect finish.

wonderful coverage. just add powder and the match is uncanning.

i love it!

try it for yourself...

xo,

skin rescue

while im not entirely old,

nor have the wrinkles that come with beautiful aging
and a life full of history and wisdom,
i still care about this damn skin of mine.

especially the face.

and since i can't afford the uppity $135 a bottle face serum,
i found another alternative.
and im buying it this weekend.

Burt's Bees Radiance Serum, $18


{via}

this serum combines royal jelly, licorice root extract and
glycerin to bring out skin’s natural radiance.

includes vitamins A, C, D and K, minerals and 17 amino acids.

royal jelly is found to nourish and rejuvenate skin,
without clogging pores or causing irritation.

Use daily after cleansing, morning and night.
Smooth a small amount directly around your eyes, mouth and forehead.

mm yes please!
xo,

Yes To

{unknown}

oh to be doing this right about now...

but im not.
so instead, here is my new little beauty find.

Yes To Cucumbers Facial Towelettes, $6 (30 pack)


{via}

Safely removes makeup while cleansing your face of any dirt and sweat.
Perfect for sensitive skin;
won't clog pores, hypoallergenic, all natural and full of vitamins.
plus, no need to rinse!
excellent for traveling.

Yes To Carrots also carries Yes To Carrots and Yes To Tomatoes
for different skin types.

*found at your local Walgreens
(where else)?

enjoy!

Dynamic Duo: Nars

{via}

this bronzer/blush duo by nars has me in a tizzy.
Orgasm/Laguna combo, $39

while i've definitely done my share in swiping this stuff from my dearest roomie on occasion,
i must purchase my own for the upcoming warmer months.

a peachy-pink sheer shimmer with a perfect light brown highlighting bronzer.
just divine!
the most natural sun-kissed color you'll find in a makeup product.

enjoy! xo.

natural beauty

{via}

lately, i've been getting ready for work in a flash.
very low maintenance needed.
and with that, i haven't been wearing anything but:
concealer, powder, blush and light mascara.
all the fuss with highlighters, eye shadow, eye liners (etc) are just becoming too much.

and surprisingly, i've received some very nice compliments from co-workers;
that i look fresh and natural and youthful.

so with that, here's to a new year of natural beauty!
a fresh face.

ladies, get your omega 3s, a good solid workout and your veggies,
and you are sure to glow.

try to lay off the layers of makeup once in a while.
(coming from experience)
it's nice to see your true face :)

is it spring?

{via}

the birds are chirping today outside my work window-- what a treasure!

it feels like spring...even though it's still january (boo).
while the grey rain still remains in the city of roses,
things seem to be in bloom...almost.

and amongst the birth of new life, i found a fabulous body wash.
again, reminds me too much of spring.

Dove's Go Fresh Energize Grapefruit and Lemongrass, $3.99 (on sale) at Target

{via}

the grapefruit adds the perfect citrus scent while the hint of lemongrass gives an earthy but calming aroma. a little manly musk (in a good way).

plus, small exfoliating beads leave your skin soft and supple.

welcome spring with some lovin' for your skin.

xo,

How Now Brown Cow?

i was reading miss kim kardashian in the new glamour mag and she said she never leaves the house without matte bronzer. well, doi. i must say she always looks ever so gorgeous (how can you not with a face like that?)

but nevertheless, i thought, "i guess i don't really leave the house without bronzer either," but lately my once-loved physicians formula bronzer was beginning to look orange, old, and too bling to the bling on the face (hello shimmer!). not good for these winter months. and lets be honest, who is that tan in the winter? armenian's like kim, and those who sit in the tanning beds.

so i found a great, CHEAP, little bronzer that is matte enough, but gives just the right amount of color. (can you tell im on a super budget?) in medium.

Wet N' Wild Ultimate Bronzing Powder, $2.99

{CVS}

Use generously, but BLEND. Don't forget to add some pink to the apples of your cheeks.

Available at any drugstore or grocery store (generally).
Fragrance free with vitamins and aloe. Whoop whoop.

Bee bronze! XO,

Powder Power

{ehow}

january is always too gloomy.
always, always always.
i can never seem to shake those january blues.

but i cannot forget the BIRTHDAYS!
(miss Maddy and auntie Kate xox)

while the celebrations approach
(both near and far),
my face must be looking up to par.

i am a proponent for loose powder coverage.
(liquid makes me greasy!)
and to perfect that look, let us illuminate.

i give to you:

Maybelline Mineral Power Illuminator, $10.99.
an all-over loose sheer shimmer powder.

it gives the faintest touch of 'sparkle'
with a fabulous finishing touch
(after concealer and cover-up).

do yourself a favor and purchase this little beauty.
xo,

Let Us Not Complain...

{twolia}

Although it may be bitterly cold and dropping pounds of snow across the nation, it is another season of beauty-- WINTER!

However, most skin begins to feel the effects of the winter drear...
the culprit: wind, snow, arctic chill, etc result: drab skin.

So a little quick fix for you all--
Things you'll need:
Face moisturizer; tinted, preferably
Loose shimmer eyeshadow in a white or champagne color

{qdazzle}

When you are facing the morning mirror with dark circles and dull skin,
take a dime size of your facial cream (I use Neutrogena spf 30 tinted moisturizer) and add a pinch of your shimmer eyeshadow to the lotion.
Rub together and lather on your face. I even add a tiny pinch of shimmer to my concealer for under my droopy eyes.

{prdctjunkie}

It is a sure fire way to brighten up your face; looking alive, well and glowing!
Then dab on some light bronzer with blush and you're done.

*Any loose eyeshadow will work for this trick. I use a cheapo version of Bare Minerals from Fred Meyers, but Target, Rite Aid or Walgreen's will have plenty of choices. Just make sure it's a very light white or champagne/pink color.

Cheers xo,

Supernatural Thursday

{sephora}

Dying to try Philosophy's Supernatural Airbrushed Canvas SPF 15
A multi-tasking 4-in-1 high pigment powder that serves as a concealer, foundation, powder and SPF. Talc free, paraben free, water free and oil free; perfect for all skin types while leaving a satin finish.
Sounds divine....and it must make the face look smashing!
Must try asap.
$35. Cha ching!

XO,

Skin Rescue

After a spooooky night with layers upon layers of this face makeup (grrr)...{photo by Double D, courtesy of Book Face :)}

...I desperately need a little face rescue to tackle the monster mash on my chin! So I depend on my dear Mint Julep Face Mask, $7.

Refreshing, but also drying in order to combat those pesky bumps and impurities in your pores. Slather it on in the shower with steam, or do spot treatment for 15 minutes until dry. Truly a skin rescue.

Grr baby, grr....XO

Indugle in Gingerhood

{Polyvore}

TGIF!

Although I'm ready for some cocktails and dancing with my lady loos (who isn't?!), it's time for some beauty bloggin'...

Since my younger years, I have been a major fan of Origins Skincare. I remember perusing Nordy's with my mother and auntie, often opting for the Origins body cream. Luscious, creamy, and incredibly delicious, I became a lover from the moment I spread this stuff all over my awkwardly long arms and legs.

During a regular trip to Nordstrom Rack this past weekend (trying to be a good girl and saving my HARD earned moola), I came across the Origins body soufflé and was immediately brought back to my days in NE Ptown. I was so excited! I had almost forgotten about this gold mine of pure goodness.

Therefore, indulge in Origins Ginger Soufflé Whipped Body Cream, $27.50

Yes, it is a bit on the spendy side, but it will last you ages and gives you supple, smooth skin! Mmmm, delish!

{Origins available at most Nordstrom's, Nordstrom Racks and obviously, Origins retail stores}

HAPPY WEEKEND, Y'ALL!

XO,

For the Love of Rose

{DECLAN MCCULLAGH PHOTOGRAPHY}

Let us not forget about the rich history of Apothecaries! Dating back to Medieval and Victorian days, the use of fresh rose from the gardens became a staple in apothecaries, coined Rose Apothecary (creative, yes?).


Rose was known for powerful therapeutic properties, healing sore throats and skin rashes as well as a multitude of other illnesses. It was also believed that the petals would eliminate wrinkles and give a youthful appearance if rubbed on the skin.


C.O Bigelow chemists took on the challenge and have re-created the powers of Rose Apothecary. From lip balms, to oils and toners, there is something for everybody.



My 'die to try' this season is the Bigelow Rose Water Skin Tonic, $5.00




Said to have witch hazel, super hydrating rose water and relaxing chamomile infused with exfoliating salicylic acid to regenerate your skin. A very gentle tonic, the rose water perks up tired-looking skin while promoting a bright radiant complexion. A must for the upcoming winter!


And who doesn't love the intoxicating smells of rose?


"What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."
-- Shakespeare


Find C.O Bigelow products here: {http://www.bigelowchemists.com/}

Smooches,

Mini Magnificence

Like always, I took a special little trip to Walgreens after I returned from a grueling 24 hours of travel from the glory that is Paree. How could I not? Although I cherished (and still do cherish) my time in Paris with family for 10 stress-free days, I missed my routine excursions to Mecca, aka Walgreens.

I picked up the usuals: hair conditioner for colored locks (another awesome new find and post to follow soon), face night cream, lip gloss, razors and floss (gotta keep up these toofs!). However, I took a brief gander at Wet 'n Wild's newest shiz...and I found a very tiny, but very powerful product.

For $3.99, you can pick yourself up a mini jar of their mineral powder for your face. Coming in only a few shades, I had to make a decision to whether I was fair, medium, light or tan. Naturally, I chose the lightest and to my surprise, it gives a very nice, even glow without making me look like a ghost.

Wet 'n Wild Natural Wear Mineral Foundation, $3.99

It is a mini piece of gold for your face. It can't be more than an ounce or two (so I'm talkin' mini), but the powder is packed with a punch. Wet 'n Wild even includes a mini kabuki brush to blend. Although, not the softest bristles. But nevertheless, you can't really beat the price of $3.99 and it's all natural with no ingredients that clog you pores. Plus, perfect for traveling or for your purse for daily touch-ups.

Ooo la la...so grab yourself one and enjoy!

Ta-ta XO,

Puff Daddy

Do you ever have those mornings when you wake up after either a night of restless sleep or just the hardest, heaviest sleep of your life? I often experience both. And thus, I am faced with my own face in the mirror, staring grotesquely back at me. GASP!

OK, I am being a tad dramatic, but truly, I think most of us can relate to the puffy, swollen, tired eyes look-- and it's sadly all too real and discouraging. My lovely co-worker and struggle with the constant 'puff daddy' look and it's time to fix our little dilemma.

So let's try this:

Garnier Nutritioniste Skin Renew Anti-Puff Eye Roller, $13.49

Said to diminish circles and decongests puffiness. Combined with caffeine and pro-vitamin B5 to make your eyes look renewed and refreshed. It's small enough for travel, with a cool silver tip to roll gently on your lids.

Puff, be gone!

Alright, I'm sold. Maybe you are too.

{find this product at any Target, Rite Aid or Walgreens}

Toodles! xx,

Mamma Wants Some Grapefruit Suds

Neutrogena makes some solid products, but nothing gets me as excited as their grapefruit body wash. Although I really can't stand Vanessa Hudgens (woof), her ploy worked. I am hooked on this Neutrogena Clear Body Wash in Pink Grapefruit, $5.99.

The best part about this gooey gob is not only the delicious citrus smell, but there are distinct ingredients to fight body acne. If you are an active human being, participating in runs, outdoor sports or just the basic gym go-er, you'll want this stuff to combat those pesky pimples.

Yes, we'd like to think we are out of the teenage acne horror stage, but sometimes, sadly, we all need a little help. If you need some serious exfoliation and treatment, try Neutrogena's Clear Body wash in the original smell. The exfoliating buds are dense and thick, to really smooth the skin.

You will step out of your shower feeling clean, refreshed and incredibly soft. Don't forget to lotion up and hydrate that skin. My favorite, the tub of Cetaphil; no heavy ingredients or additives.

Suds up and bee free! xo,