Tag: beauty blog

All About Moisture

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All About Moisture

this post is sponsored but all of the opinions expressed are my own.

There is nothing more important for a healthy, glowing complexion than making sure your skin is properly moisturized. Dry skin emphasizes wrinkles and creates an aged appearance. The skin on the face is more delicate than anywhere else on the body so it is important to find moisturizers that are effective for you.

In the past, I struggled with dry skin. I used to travel 2-3 weeks per month and found that the change in climate and time on airplanes dried and dehydrated my skin. I tried a variety of expensive oils, serums and creams but my skin continued to be sallow and dry. I discovered Soveral skincare on Pinterest one evening and decided to try it after a bit of research. The first products I tried were the facial oils and moisturizers. I was instantly hooked because after using them for a week I noticed a significant difference in the texture of my skin and received a number of comments from friends and family.

In order to properly nourish the skin, you should cleanse and tone (or, rather, balance the PH) prior to moisturizing. This skin is most receptive at this time so you should first apply facial oil, and then a moisturizer which serves as a protective layer to the skin.

Soveral facial oils are the only oils I have been able to use. They absorb easily into my skin and leave it smooth and hydrated. I used to be against using facial oils because I had tried some that would sit on top of the skin and never absorb. What I have learned since using Soveral oils, is that it is important to use high quality, plant-based oil. Many facial oils on the market today are made of synthetic polymers (which plastic is made from) and petrochemicals (made of petroleum mineral oil)l…which is why they do not properly absorb and, ultimately, do not hydrate and nourish the skin. Soveral blends contain antioxidants and natural vitamins which support an even complexion and firmer skin. They contain a blend of active essential oils which stimulate detoxification and regeneration of the skin.

After applying my facial oil, I like to give it a minute to absorb and then I apply my moisturizer. Moisturizers provide hydration and protect the skin throughout the day.

The Formula 1 and 2 moisturizers have a whipped, luxurious feel. They are made from sunflower seed oil, apricot kernel oil, mango butter and contain active vitamins and essential oils that will help fight against pollution, dehydration, fatigue and stress. One tip in making sure you have the right moisturizer is if your skin feels tight, dry or greasy after 5 minutes your moisturizer than it is likely it is not right for your skin.

Give these oils and moisturizers a try…I hope they will be as effective for you as they have been for me.

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Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 24.2019
How to Dry Brush Your Face

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How to Dry Brush Your Face

this post is sponsored but all of the opinions expressed are my own.

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In my recent Q & A with Alexandra Soveral, one of my followers asked about using an exfoliating cleanser. While Alexandra does not recommend using these products, she does recommend dry brushing every morning so that any dead skin cells are removed from the skin while maintaining the acid mantle (which protects against bacteria, fungus and infections).

Dry brushing has many benefits. It activates the lymphatic system, which helps boost your immunity. It stimulates blood flow which enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells. It clears the sinuses and helps trapped toxins drain from the face.

I dry brush every morning. It takes a little bit of time to get used to it – the bristles feel a bit prickly, but it leaves the skin rosy and glowing. The Soveral facial brushes have been designed not to be too harsh on the skin but effective enough to reap all of the benefits. They come in a set of two and are made lovely olive wood. You should use both brushes simultaneously with light to medium pressure.

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To start, brush the neck with upward strokes towards the glands and back of the ears. Continue along the chin and jawbone and brush all of the way back toward the ears.

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illustration by Charles Gouldsbrough

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Move to the forehead and brush upwards over the eyebrows and back and forth over the eyebrows. Use firm pressure when going over the eyebrows. Finish by brushing from the center outwards over the entire forehead.

Next, move to the cheeks and brush lightly from the cheekbones towards the ears. Then add a bit of pressure and brush from the corners of the nose towards the ears. Brush the cupids bow and chin (still towards the ears) with regular pressure from the center to behind the earlobes.

To drain the eyes (helps reduce puffiness), lightly brush circles around the eyes starting at the outer corners and working inwards towards the bridge of the nose. Brush in circles over the brow bone, repeat a few times.

To finish, brush over the lips a few times and then gently brush downwards over the glands in your neck using alternate hands. Start behind the ear and push down towards your collar bone.

Voilà… there you have it, friends. No need for harsh exfoliating cleansers, just these pretty, dry brushes. Shop these and the complete lineup of Soveral skincare products at alexandrasoveral.co.uk or netaporter.com.

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

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f. 1.2019
Super Women Need Super Hero

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This post is sponsored but all of the opinions expressed are my own.

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Super Women Need Super Hero

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Ladies, we are all juggling…the career, the family, the appearance, the everything. Each morning, we don our invisible capes and proceed to deliver amazing results across multiple areas of our lives. This year, I have committed to carving out time for a weekly beauty ritual that leaves me feeling refreshed and my skin positively glowing and Super Hero product is the finishing touch in this routine.

I have been using Soveral products for a number of years but only started using Super Hero last year and I am hooked. If you have been traveling, are not sleeping well or just need extra moisture in your skin, then I encourage you to try the Super Hero plumping potion…it will change your skin. Living in Miami, my skin is used to a lot of humidity and tends to get dry when I am in other climates so I always travel with this to keep my skin hydrated.

Super Hero is a potent plumping potion made of antioxidants and natural vitamins from Siberian Ginseng, English Pomegranate and Italian Grapefruit. It also contains a form of naturally derived Hyaluronic Acid which gives skin a smoother texture and younger appearance. The addition of a topical prebiotic helps balance the skin’s natural microflora which gives you a clear complexion and even skin tone.

Super Hero comes with a bottle of plumping lotion and 3 infused gauze masks. If your skin needs a bit of reprieve, try incorporating Super Hero into your weekly skincare routine. Your friends will ask why you are glowing!

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To learn more about or to shop, visit alexandrasoveral.com.

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Bisous,

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Rebecca

f. 20.2019
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
Beauty Sleep Solutions

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Beauty Sleep Solutions

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This week it has been all about staying in and being cozy…whether that be with cute loungewear or with a delicious meal. Now that the weekend is here, my plans include hanging with the family and getting some much needed R & R. I fully intent on catching up on some much needed beauty sleep and will be using all of the items below.

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Slip Silk Pillowcase

I like to take care of my skin and this pure silk pillowcase is another attempt to do so. These pillowcases are made to minimize sleep creases. Over time, sleep creases cause premature stretching and aging of the skin. Since traditional cotton pillow cases do not give with the skin, the silk will allow your skin to glide resulting in less creasing. It is rumored to be a trick of Old Hollywood movie stars. Available at www.silkslipillowcase.com.

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Eye Mask

I tend to be a light sleeper so when I am determined to sleep in, I always wear an eye mask. Goia Boutique was kind enough to gift me these awesome personalized eye masks and I absolutely love them. They keep the light out and are comfortable on the skin. They make a great gift for any occasion or holiday! Available at www.goia.boutique.

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Nighty Night Tea

I drink several of of Traditional Medicinals teas and on the nights that I need a little extra help relaxing, I will drink a cup of their Nighty Night Tea. It is made of a blend of . A warning…valerian root has a strong smell so beware. Add a bit of manuka honey if you need to sweeten it. Available at a local grocery store or www.amazon.com.

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Lavender Spray

Aura Cacia Relaxing Lavender Spray blends three different types of lavender oils to help create a calm and soothing environment that is ideal for a solid’s night sleep. It is also nice to use while traveling. Available at Amazon, Target or Whole Foods.

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Hope these beauty sleep solutions help you get a good night of sleep!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 27.2017
Fresh Fall Nail Colors

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Fresh Fall Nail Colors

Since Fall is officially in full swing, it it time to update everything…clothing, accessories and now nails. If you are looking a quick and easy way to update your fall look, try one of these fun nail polish options this season.

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Smith & Cult “Darjeeling Darling”

This is a beautiful shade of green…it is an opaque, jaded forest green color. Smith & Cult nail polish is vegan, gluten, paraben, mineral oil, petroleum free. Available at www.smithandcult.com.

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Zoya “Sam”

This luxe dark red is a fall staple and it is my go-to neutral for fall. I like Zoya nail polish because it is formulated without formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, dibutyl, phthalate, toulene, camphor, TPHP, parabens, xylene, ethyl tosylamide and lead. While I may not quite understand the disadvantages associated with all of those ingredients…I do feel better using a brand that does not contain them. Available at www.zoya.com.

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Zoya “Darcy”

This sunny yellow shade is surprisingly prettier than you may expect and complements many of the warm tones that are popular this fall season. Available at www.zoya.com.

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OPI “Russian Navy”

Any and everything navy feels fresh this fall and this OPI Russian Navy nail polish color is no exception. This shiny deep indigo shade is flattering on almost every skin tone and creates a nice rich hue. Available at www.amazon.com.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 1.2017
Amazing Lashes with One Two Lash

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Amazing Lashes with One Two Lash

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I posted the incredible story about how one of my dear friends invented, yes, invented, the One Two Lash magnetic eyelashes last year shortly after I relaunched Style & Life. Since then, a number of people have reached out and asked me if these actually work. The short answer is-yes, they do! Below, I detail a step-by-step guide so you can see how simple they are to use.

When it comes to photography, I like to wear false eyelashes because they make my eyes stand out. So, I decided to show you the One Two Lash Bold Lash. If it were a regular day, the Originals would be perfect…just enough to boost your look but subtle enough that people would not even realize you were wearing them.

The packaging of this product is positively gorgeous. The luxe black case keeps your lashes protected between wears and is small enough to fit in your purse or suitcase.

One Two Lash has two lashes that sandwich your natural eyelash. You simply apply them at your lash line and the magnet connects them. I like to apply mascara before applying my lashes so I start with mascara application and ensure it is dry before I apply the lashes.

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Step 1: Select the appropriate lashes. I like to place the top lash at the base of my eyelash.

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Step 2: Place the top lash at the base of your eyelash.

Step 3: Place the bottom lash under your lash. The magnet will connect them easily.

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Step 4: I sometimes adjust them a bit just to make sure I like the position and voila! Instant luxurious lashes.

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I am excited to try the One Two Wash, an eye makeup remover that is safe for your lashes and removes your makeup seamlessly.

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These lashes are the quickest and most convenient way to step up your beauty game. Stay gorgeous friends!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 19.2017