Category: beauty

Who is Alexandra Soveral and why am I obsessed with her products?

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Who is Alexandra Soveral and why am I obsessed with her products?

this post is sponsored by Soveral but the opinions expressed are my own

Friends… I am excited to announce another “first” for Style & Life! I am going to be a brand ambassador for the award-winning skincare brand, Alexandra Soveral. If you have been following me for any length of time, you will know this is a dream come true. I started posting about Soveral skincare back in 2014. It is such an honor to work with a brand I have been using for many years.

Skincare is, hands down, the #1 thing in which I invest. This has been my perspective since my early 20’s. You can always buy a nicer shirt or pair of shoes, but you only get one set of skin. If I need to cut back on my budget, I will do it in other places, but never my skincare. I have tried a lot of different products over the years. A LOT. I discovered Soveral one evening while scrolling through Pinterest one evening and it immediately peaked my interest. Particularly, the fact that it is 100% organic and hand blended.

I placed an order, which I will never forget. Someone emailed me the next morning and advised my items would ship in 2 days since they were making “a fresh batch”. I was beyond impressed. A fresh batch? It hasn’t been sitting on a shelf for 2 years? I gladly waited and when I received the items, was delighted with the clean, elegant packaging which just so happens to be and how it is recyclable and created using non-toxic inks.

About a week after using the products I had multiple friends and colleagues ask “What did you do to your skin? It looks amazing…you are glowing.” I was traveling frequently and my skin was sallow and tired. After using Soveral products, it was brighter, smoother and had an overall better texture. Since then, several of my friends have tried it and are also hooked.

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The company was founded by Alexandra Soveral and Jorj Aleem. Alexandra is the perfumier and cosmetic formulator, while Jorj concepts and defines how the product is presented. Alexandra was studying for her Bachelor Honours Degree in the Philosophy of Science (how the use of genetic engineering of flora will affect the world in future generations). She became aware of how irresponsible science is being used within the skincare industry and decided to marry her interest of science with natural skincare. She set up her own research lab into natural raw ingredients and their benefit on the human health. Impressed? Me too. Additionally, they have received a number of prestigious awards (to learn more click here).

Many of her products are available at net-a-porter.com or you may order directly from their website alexandrasoveral.com. I am excited to share more about this incredible brand in upcoming posts.

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 5.2018
Fall Evening Makeup Tutorial with Charlotte Tilbury

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Fall Evening Makeup Tutorial with Charlotte Tilbury

this post is sponsored by Charlotte Tilbury but all of the opinions expressed are my own

There have been a lot of “firsts” for Style & Life this year…first event, first personal appearance and now my first makeup tutorial. I created a video for this Fall evening look using Charlotte Tilbury makeup.

I realize that makeup can be intimidating for some so I hope you find this helpful…over the years, I have learned so much from my makeup artist, Aradia, and wanted to share with you.

In this video, I use The Dolce Vita eyeshadow palette which is perfect for Fall. The rich colors look sophisticated after all a summer of light pinks and neutrals. After contouring, highlighting and adding blush, I finish the look with Charlotte’s legendary Pillow Talk lip liner and lipstick.

Good luck creating this gorgeous look!

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 12.2018
My cariPRO™ Electric Toothbrush Review

My cariPRO™ Toothbrush Review

This post is sponsored by Smile Brilliant, but the content and opinions expressed here are my own.

As mentioned in previous posts, I am one of those weird people who really enjoy oral hygiene and going to the dentist. That super clean feeling in my mouth is something that feels so good to me. Oddly enough, although I like my natural toothpastes and my teeth whitening system, I have not invested in an electric toothbrush. I had one awhile back and thought it was OK, but it did not have enough settings and then it broke. I did not love it, so I just have not made finding a new one a priority. So, when the Smile Brilliant team reached out to see if I wanted to try the new cariPRO™ Electric Toothbrush, I jumped at the opportunity.

This toothbrush is amazing. It has 5 brush settings (clean, white, massage, gum care and sensitive). It has a slim, clean design and soft touch grip. It is waterproof and can be used in the shower. There is a wireless charging dock and will stay charged for 30 days (on full charge). It leaves your teeth feeling so much cleaner than a regular toothbrush. I especially like using gum care mode and if my teeth are sensitive after whitening, then the sensitive setting is perfect.

If you are in the market for a new electric toothbrush, I highly recommend the cariPRO™. Receive 20% off when you use code rebecca20 and enjoy brushing your pearly whites! Visit Smile Brilliant to shop or learn more!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 25.2018
Fun Summer Beauty Finds

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Fun Summer Beauty Finds

Do you ever feel like adding a new beauty product into your routine just for something new and different? While I use Soveral skincare products almost exclusively for my daily skincare routine…I do love trying new products and wanted to share these fun summer beauty finds!

From top left…this Nails Inc Trio is a pretty set of shimmer polishes that will show off your summer tan. Skin need some extra hydration? The Keep Cool Face Mask Trio will rejuvenate your skin when it is tired and dehydrated. Traveling? This Eva NYC Travel Set includes a dry shampoo, hairspray and texture spray which should cover all of your hair styling needs. Cocofloss is my dental floss of choice and my favorite flavor is pure strawberries…it leaves your mouth feeling clean and refreshed. If you want to leave with your body soft and exfoliated…try this Summertime Exfoliating Soap.. It smells positively divine.

Does anyone remember Sun In spray which used to turn your hair orange? This Ouai Sun of a Beach spray is a lemon coconut spray that gives your hair subtle highlights from the sun…but won’t turn it hair orange. Bronzer is a summer must and while I use several different kinds, this Hourglass favorite looks so pretty with its light refracting properties. I also had to try Marianna Hewitt’s Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask. It is made of vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory ingredients that help to combat puffy, inflamed, over-worked skin. Yes, please!

These fun finds will spice up your beauty routine and keep you looking gorgeous all summer.

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 16.2018
Tropical Beauty Essentials

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Tropical Beauty Essentials

Summertime is all about looking and feeling fresh, carefree and natural. I have curated some of my beauty essentials that are perfect for warm weather! From left to right, here is a list of my favorites.

Dr. Jart Water Replenishment Mask is incredibly cool and soothing to the skin…it feels amazing after a hot day in the sun and will give your skin the moisture it needs.

I like to use this Kocostar Split End Hair Mask after a day at the beach or in the pool because it keeps my ends smooth and shiny.

If you have read any of my other posts, you know I love Tan Towels…I try to stay out of the sun to prevent skin damage, but I like to have color and these are easy to use. When I want a darker tan, I will use two. I just apply one, wait 2 minutes and then apply another.

These fun Zoya nail polishes look great on tan skin…I vary between the Purity (white), Winnie (bright pink) and Kara (orange-ish coral). Their nail polish remover (not pictured) is also the best.

Keeping skin hydrated is essential and this amazing Midsummer Dew body oil should keep your skin gorgeous…it smells as good as it feels.

We all know the importance of sunscreen…this Coola Sport Sunscreen is my favorite because it is a breeze to apply. I keep a can in several bags to prevent sun damage on-the-go.

Another favorite product that you have seen in previous posts…I have these Evian mists with me everywhere (work, handbag, beach tote). They keep skin cool and hydrated.

Since I spend time in the pool and ocean, I like to keep my hair healthy and so I use this Aveda Sun Care Hair and Body Cleanser. It removes chlorine and salt from the hair. I also use their After Sun Hair Masque from time to time (not pictured) to keep my hair soft.

I discovered Conscious Coconut Oil when I got stuck in New York unexpectedly one night and have carried a tube in my suitcase ever since. Coconut oil is quite possibly the most versatile product…it can be used as a mouthwash, eye makeup remover, body oil and if you mix it with sea salt or raw sugar, a body scrub.

For times when my skin needs a good scrub, I like this Baudelaire Sisal Body Scrub. Its effective at exfoliating without damaging the skin.

Nothing complements your summer glow better than pearly whites. I partnered with Smile Brilliant last year and absolutely love using my whitening trays!

I use natural deodorant (see recommendations here) and, in the summer months, I like to keep these deodorant swipes with me to ensure I stay fresh. I literally have them everywhere (work, car, beach bag, purse)!

Hope you like these tropical beauty essentials…they are my summer go-to products!

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 25.2018
6 Tips for Brighter Eyes

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6 Tips for Brighter Eyes

Up late on a Netflix binge? Tossing and turning thinking about your to-do’s? Baby not sleep trained yet? Fear not, friends, we have solutions to help those tired eyes of yours look a little brighter. I have a two year old, full time job and a side hustle so I am regularly in need of some help and use these options often.

Jade Roller

I posted awhile back about my jade roller and it is really helpful for de-puffing the eye area. You simply use the smaller end and spend some time rolling it around the eyes…it reduces puffiness and helps your skin care products absorb better. Be sure to keep it in the refrigerator for a deeper cooling sensation. Available at www.sephora.com.

Eyelid Primer

This eyelid primer is water resistant and is effective in making your eye makeup last all day. There are several different shades available, and I like the blue tinted shade best because it makes the white of your eyes look brighter. Available at www.sephora.com.

Concealer

In order to cover dark circles and make your eyes pop, apply your concealer in a triangle shape below the eye and blend outward prior to applying your foundation. I like to use a foundation brush as it is more precise than a sponge. Concealer available at www.sephora.com, brush options linked below.

White Eyeliner

Applying white eyeliner at your waterline is another trick that will make your eyes pop. This NYX blend is creamy and easy to apply. Keep the line thin and it will be very subtle. I like to buy a few of these eyeliners and keep in my suitcase and handbag for easy touchups. Available at www.amazon.com.

Eye Cream

If your eyes are tired, there is nothing more essential than keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. I use Soveral Forever Young Eye Cream...it is “a silky cream full of cell regenerating oils of mandarin peel and frankincense combined with the antioxidant powers of vitamin E, honey extract and evening primrose make this cream a miracle worker on aging or tired eyes. The decongestive properties of mandarin peel also aids in minimizing puffiness and dark circles.” Um…yes, please. I apply and then use the jade roller over it. Available at www.netaporter.com.

Gel Patches

When I pull an all nighter, my eyes tend to burn so I will take 10-15 minutes to lay down and apply these gel patches. They contain caffeine and hydrolyzed collagen to give you that well rested glow. I also keep them in my travel bag as my skin gets dehydrated when traveling. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

Keep those eyes looking bright and beautiful with these easy tips!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 14.2018
DIY Eyelash Treatment

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DIY Eyelash Treatment

Coconut oil is a favorite product of mine….not only can you cook with it but it can be used for a number of beauty treatments (see skin care post here and hair care post here). Another way I like to use it is to remove eye makeup and as a conditioner for my eyelashes. Between mascara and false eyelashes, they need a little TLC from time to time. Being a bit of a beauty junkie, I have tried a number of eye makeup removers and, by far, coconut oil is just as effective as anything I have purchased.

You can use it straight out of the jar, but I wanted to find a way to travel with it and so I found these nice little applicators on Amazon. I use fractionated coconut oil so that it will pour into the applicator (it is also great as a skin moisturizer). To create this hydrating little treatment, simply open the applicator, add 1-2 drops of lemon essential oil, 1-2 drops of lavender essential oil and fill the rest with the fractionated coconut oil. Apply carefully to your eyelashes to remove makeup or before bedtime if you just want a hydrating lash treatment.

Keep those lashes gorgeous with this luxurious little treatment for your lashes.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 23.2018
The Benefits of Jade Rolling

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The Benefits of Jade Rolling

I started seeing jade rollers a couple of years back and, being a bit of a beauty junkie, was intrigued about this pretty little tool. After doing some quick research, I decided to order it since they are relatively inexpensive and looked easy to use.

Jade rolling is an ancient Chinese technique that basically gives your face a nice, cooling massage. I like to use my jade roller first thing in the morning after applying my facial oil and cream because it helps me feel more awake.

The benefits of jade rolling are reported to be lymphatic drainage, the lifting of facial muscles, collagen stimulation, improved circulation, reduction of under eye dark circles and increased absorption of skin care products.

It is easy to use. Simply apply your favorite serum, oil or cream. Use the large end of the jade roller in an upward and outward motion. The small end is perfect to use under the eyes to reduce puffiness. I usually roll each portion of the face 5-7 times and sometimes more because it is so soothing. I always use this before a photoshoot or while traveling. I keep mine in the refrigerator so that it feels extra cold to the skin. Take a moment and treat yourself to a little luxury with this cooling facial massage! No appointment required.

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Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 13.2018
My GloPRO Review

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My GloPRO Review

When I look at my “musts” as far as discretionary spending goes…the one area I never skimp is skin care (more to come in future posts). Since skin is the largest organ in the body and one of the most visible, I feel it is important to take excellent care of it.

That being the case, I am always interested in learning about new beauty products, tips and devices. I have read about microneedling for some time now (for more, read here). Microneedling is the insertion of very fine short needles into the skin. It creates microscopic punctures which feel like tiny pin pricks. It is reported to boost collagen, improve the appearance of scars and boost hair growth. The collagen benefit peaked my interest and, although I have been interested in trying this treatment, I have been apprehensive because when this treatment is performed in a dermatologists office, there is bleeding (yikes!).

I started seeing ads for the GloPRO over the past year. It looked less invasive, more cost effective and significantly more convenient so I decided to give it a try. Since this a bit of an investment, I was concerned I may not end up liking it. However, it was much less expensive than treatments in a dermatologists office and the convenience factor was enticing, so I ordered it.

I have been using it 2-3 times per week for the past 4-6 weeks and am happy to report that I see a few nice benefits.

The first few times I used it, I received a few “wow, you are glowing” comments and I do agree that it gives you a brighter complexion and overall glow. Because you are rolling tiny needles over the face, it does create a flushed appearance. I also see a noticeable difference in my smile lines after I use it. It plumps up the skin nicely which makes the lines less apparent. The other thing I have noticed is that my skin care products absorb better. I use a skin oil and cream after the GloPRO and I have noticed improved absorption.

The GloPRO is small and easy to travel with. I use the skin prep pads after cleansing and toning and I keep these alcohol wipes with it and clean religiously after each use. I also have the body attachment but have not started using it yet.

While you may not see an immediate transformation after you begin using the GloPRO, I do believe you will see really nice improvements. I also believe there are long term benefits…similar to eating healthy and exercising regularly. I am using it for prevention and maintenance rather than a quick fix. Great skin is the result of healthy eating, drinking lots of water and taking excellent care of your skin and I am integrating the GloPRO as part of my comprehensive routine.

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Stay beautiful friends!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 19.2018
Elegant Solutions for Embarrassing Problems

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Elegant Solutions for Embarrassing Problems

Let’s be honest. It happens to all of us…the stained shirt, that not-so-fresh feeling, the less-than-minty breath…fear not, friends, today we are sharing a few convenient solutions you can carry in your handbag to help you in those embarrassing situations.

for that “not-so-fresh-feeling”

I can relate to this and OFTEN. Since I live in Miami where it is over 80 degrees most days, and I wear natural deodorant, breaking into an occasional sweat is inevitable. I keep a few of these deodorant swipes in my bag so that I can freshen up at anytime. They have a pleasant scent and do not leave residue so your clothes are safe. Available at www.anthropologie.com.

for post-bathroom concerns

For those times when you are concerned about leaving unpleasant odors in the bathroom, try these Aesop Poo-Poo Drops. They work like a charm and leave a pleasant scent of tangerine, ylang ylang and mandarin. This bottle is too large to carry in your handbag or clutch so I put them in one of these 1 oz dropper bottles. Drops available at www.nordstrom.com, bottles available at www.amazon.com.

for the time you missed a spot

Have you ever gotten in the car and noticed you missed a spot shaving? This efficient little device will save the day. This 3-in-1 travel razor has a refillable water spray, razor and shave bar made from shea butter, coconut oil and cocoa butter to moisturize. Available at www.anthropologie.com.

for fresh breath

I usually carry a travel toothbrush, mini toothpaste and dental floss in my bag but if I do not have enough room, I always like to have some mints handy to ensure fresh breath. I buy them in bulk so they are always handy. Available at www.amazon.com.

for unfortunate spills

I have a toddler so I try to never leave home without one of these. In most situations, they will prevent a stain from setting and can often remove instantly. Available at www.amazon.com.

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Hope these elegant solutions help you out of some embarrassing moments!

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ssBisous,

Rebecca

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f. 25.2018