Night Time Skin Care Routine and Josie Maran Product Review

My Current Night Time Skin Care Routine

When headed to bed after a long day, one MUST remember to wash his or her face.  Yes, even guys should acquire a night time skin care routine.  Think about all the stressors your skin has to battle.  The Sun's UVA/UVB rays, particles in the air, Mother Nature, your mental stressors that can cause acne..the list goes on.  You should always wash your face especially if you are wearing make-up.  Your skin needs to breathe as the "night time" is the "right time" for your body to heal itself, this includes the largest organ..your skin!

So, with that said, this article is about my personal skin care regimen that I go through.  This may or may not work for you, and you can customize it to your preference.  As long as you take the time and clean your face, that's all that really matters if you want to have healthy skin.  Think about your skin regimen as removing layers, cornflakes, raisins, and grapes. 

Grapes

The new cells that are produced from the dermal matrix are round, plump and fully hydrated…much like a freshly picked grape. These fully hydrated cells are more resistant to damage when we are young. Increased damage can eventually cause fractures in these cells, making them weaker as we age.

Raisins

As these “grapes” push their way to the surface, the cells, or grapes, lose hydration and start to shrivel or dehydrate and begin to resemble a raisin.

Cornflakes

As the “raisins” continue to move toward the surface, they die and become flat, stacked and compacted on the surface of the skin. These dead, dry skin cells resemble a “cornflake”.

At the point that the skin cells get to this stage, they are dead and can be removed without causing skin irritation. This is why increased exfoliation is necessary to improve cell turn-over. It is the tendency of the skin to become more dry as we age. As the skin becomes more dry, the skin’s metabolism slows down in a defense mode. The skin attempts to hang on to the compacted surface layers in an effort to prevent moisture loss. As the body hangs on to old cells, the production of new skin cells will not occur.

Step 1:  I like to put my hair back with a hair tie/clip, and wear a head band to ensure all hair is pulled away from my face.

Step 2:  Take a make-up remover towelette and gently remove the layer of make-up around your face and neck.  If eye liner or mascara is waterproof, you may need to follow up with eye make-up remover.

Step 3: Cleanse. Cleansing is important because it removes dirt and oil from the surfaces of your skin. Turn your sink on and put the setting to warm.  Warm water will help open up your pores.  Rinse your face with warm water and use a cleanser.  There are so many products that you can choose from that you can purchase in the store, I personally use BeautiControl's Spa Facial Purifying Cleansing Lotion.  Lather and rinse.  This is taking off the "cornflakes" layer.

Step 4: Exfoliate.  After you rinse off your facial cleanser, it is now time to exfoliate.  Exfoliating is an important step because this is when dead skin cells are removed from your face.  Keep in mind, you are removing layers from your skin. You are taking off the "raisins" layer.  You can find a great exfoliator at the drug stores, but keep in mind to not get an exfoliator that is really harsh on your skin.  You want to exfoliate, not scratch your face up.  I personally use BeautiControl's Spa Facial Exfoliating Polish.  After exfoliating, rinse with warm water and pat skin dry with a soft towel.

Step 5:  Tone.  Toning with an astringent will help shrink your pores as it's main purpose is to constrict the skin tissue.  This will help eliminate blemishes, remove any make-up and dirt that may have been missed by the cleanser.  I personally use BeautiControl's Spa Facial Regenerating Tonic with AHA's.

Once I am finished with toning, I used to put on a night time moisturizing cream..but lately, I have been using Josie Maran's Argan Face Oil. I finish off my night time skin care regimen with the 100% Argan Oil Light.  I use 3-4 drops and spread it on my face and neck.  And use the rest on my hands and run through my hair as the oil is multi-purpose. 


I had bought this Josie Maran Escape to Morocco Holiday Lights and Brights mini-set from Sephora.com.  I first saw Josie Maran products years ago while watching QVC or HSN..one of those channels and she was on there talking about the benefits of Argan Oil.  This was before "Moroccan Oil" became such a big hit in the USA.  Then, I started reading and learning about it more in various magazines..so I decided to try her brand out as I had heard about it before.  This particular set was about $25- $35 at Sephora.com.

This set comes with 100% Argan Oil Light, Argan Color Stick in Spice, Argan Luminizer, and the Argan High Gloss Lip Quench in a limited edition shade called "Pink Honey".  I have tried all the products in this set, and let me tell you..everything feels so hydrating!  The color sick is one of my favorites to use on my cheeks.  It adds a beautiful color, and is so smooth.  The luminizer works just as well, I didn't have to use much to get the effect I wanted, and the gloss is fabulous.  It really hydrates your lips and makes them feel silky smooth!  The only down side is that it is very light..I'm medium skin toned, and it didn't look too red at all once on my lips.  It was more clear to me..but that doesn't bother me.  I love the fact that my lips stayed hydrated. 

Overall, I really liked this product.  The Argan Oil Light is so versatile, you can use it on your face, your hair, on your skin..on your hands..anywhere you want.  You get so much for the price, and I found it strange to use oil on your face (even though I had combination skin type), it did not break me out whatsoever.  It was like my skin soaked it up and said "Thank You!".  Argan oil is high in Vitamin E, has essential fatty acids and antioxidants, and many experts beleive it can help with many skin conditions such as dry skin, wrinkles, psoriasis, eczema and acne.  For the amount you spend on this kit, you will get your money's worth.

EM Cosmetics by Michelle Phan Product Review

em cosmetics: simply fabulous, love it, well worth the money!

I have been a fan of the YouTube beauty guru, Michelle Phan for awhile so imagine my excitement when she announced that she was coming out with a make-up line.  She has a em cosmetics store opening up in Soho, New York, and unfortunately I live in Atlanta, GA so I couldn't make it up there and I had to settle of going online to buy her products.  I went to www.emcosmetics.com and registered and signed up for their newsletter so I can receive specials and deals.  

There are so many great items to choose from, but I decided to purchase the Career Life Palette, and Pillow Plush Lip Balm.  I also received a free travel sized mini palette since I purchased a Life Palette.  The mini travel sized is only available for a limited time only so make sure to get yours while supplies last.

Career Life Palette

The Career Life Palette comes with 4 different palettes that can give you 4 different looks, while also giving you the ability to create your own.  The encasing is a hard acrylic plastic, and the make-up is held down because it is magenetic.  There are 4 blushes, 8 lip glosses, and 24 eye shadows.  All are highly pigmented and have a smooth quality that doesn't feel cheap.  The palette comes with a mini stick so you can take out the make-up when transferring it to the mini travel palette for on the go.  And it comes with a mini angled brush, eye shadow brush to apply the shadows.  As you can see in the picture, it also comes with a card that gives you instructions on how to achieve the 4 looks.  You have the Power Suit, Girl in Charge, Out to Lunch, and Natural Talent.  I've tried 2 out of the 4 looks, I have tried the Girl in Charge and Out to Lunch. 

The directions on the card are pretty easy to follow, and Michelle Phan even gives you the YouTube video on the em cosmetics YouTube channel that you can subscribe to.  For the price you pay for the palette and the mini travel sized palette, you are really getting a great deal that you just can't beat anywhere else.  

Pillow Plush cushiony lip balm in Bubblegum

I am a sucker for lip glosses and lip balms..so when I saw this, I knew I had to try it out.  I chose Bubblegum because I am a fan of pink.  This lip balm is my new favorite.  It is a little sticky, but it does give you the softest lips after you put it on.  It has a nice sheer color, and has a nice fragrance.  It's very easy to apply and can fit anywhere, perfect to fit in your pocket, purse, or wristlet if you are going out for a girls' night out.  It's not too expensive, and I love it. It does last as long as any lip balm about 2-3 hours depending if you eat or drink then you may need to re-apply, and it does not dry out your lips like Carmex or similar products with sulfate.  

To Buy Or Not To Buy? That Is The Question...

If you want a great quality make-up palette, I would definitely say buy it!  If you think about it, other make-up palettes on Sephora, Ulta, or any department store in the mall charge anywhere from $35- $45 and up for make-up palettes..each...and those are just eye shadows..blushes and lip glosses are separate!  The Life Palette..no matter which one you choose from the EM Cosmetics line is well worth your money.  You get all the blushes, lip glosses, and eye shadows..and a travel palette all for one price of $75.  The Pillow Plush lip balm is $15.  If you sign up and register, you make score a special discount like I did..I bought at the end of October and managed to save like 25% off my entire order or so..I can't honestly remember at this point.  But the main thing is..I saved by being a registered member on her website!  You can too..save up if you have to...and check www.emcosmetics.com for specials.  I'm sure you will be able to get some type of discount or special.  Trust me, you will not regret this purchase.  No buyers remorse.  I love the mini travel palette..it's great for touch ups throughout the day..and the colors are amazing! Lip balm is fantastic and keeps my lips moisturized..especially now that it's getting colder outside.

I hope my review has helped you..if you were curious about trying out Michelle Phan's new make-up line..or just wanted an alternative to what you normally see at the make-up stores.  Understand that I am a frugal shopper..and I hate wasting money on something that I am not satisfied with..but my first purchase from Em Cosmetics converted me..I can't wait to purchase and try more items from her line..of course I'll have to save up so I can do a mass purchase ;)  Until then..happy shopping and stay tuned for my next BittyBeautyTip! 

Ulta Haul #2 (online order)

Ulta Haul #2 (online order)

Product Reviews

Hello everyone! Well, my online order had finally arrived in the mail, and I had a chance to use some of the products that I had received.  I must admit, I do a lot of shopping online.  I don't know, it just seems more convenient.  You don't have to use gas and drive anywhere, and it comes to your doorstep..if you don't mind waiting on the mail and you get some items that may be on special "online only".   Anywho, here is a listing of what I bought online.

EOS- Evolution of Smooth lip balm- Strawberry Sorbet

I absolutely love this lip balm.  It's 95% organic and glides on your lips.  I love the dome sphere shape it comes in..a little different than previous lip balms I'm used to.  It has Vitamin E, shea butter, and jojoba oils.  I found that it does not dry out your lips..not like Carmex, and it lasts pretty long. It is petrolatum and paraben free, gluten free, phthalate free, and it is NOT tested on animals and has UVA/UVB protection.  If I had to compare it to any other lip balm, I would say it is most similar to BeautiControl's lip balm..but way cheaper.  At $3.49, you are getting a great deal.  The only con I can think of is that because of it's sphere shape, it is bulky if you decide to carry it in your pocket, but if you carry a purse, then you have no worries.  They are also available at Target stores.  They're actually cheaper there..I believe I saw them around $2-$3 each..and they sell them in sets.

Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3 in 1 foundation- #857

I had heard so much positive reviews on this foundation, so I decided that I would try it out.  Now I usually use some high-end foundations..like MAC or Make Up Forever..but I do use some general store ones also.  I had been using L'Oreal's True Match..however..this Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous foundation is one of the best!  At $12.99 a bottle, you get it all.  It has concealer and primer mixed into the foundation, and it does give you an all day wear.  It's very light surprisingly, and does not feel too heavy on your skin while giving you even coverage.  It also has SPF 20 so you get protection from the Sun.  I like to apply it with a foundation brush, then use a moistened make-up sponge to give that "air brushed" look.  I finish off with a light powder.  I am so glad I found this, trust me, try it and you will LOVE IT. Cuts down on the steps because everything is already in it! No need for concealer, or primer. 


St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse 1.69 fl oz (a FREE gift with purchase of Benefit kit)

I have not had the chance to try this out yet so I can't really give a review on it.  However, if you buy on Ulta.com and purchase Benefit's The Pretty Committee, you will get this as a FREE GIFT.  I will try this out as soon as I am done with my current self tanner (Victoria's Secret). Hey, who would turn down something free? Not me!

 

L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara- Black

 

This mascara is L'Oreal's best seller for a reason.  It glides on smoothly and gives you that "voluminous" eyelash for sure.  I liked it because it does not give you that "cakey" look and you will be able to see it as soon as you brush it on. I am a fan of L'Oreal's mascaras and this is no different.  Try it out and see for yourself.

 

Anastasia Beverly Hills Tinted Brow Gel- Expresso

I had heard so much about this brow gel so you know I had to try it out for myself.  It's about $22 from Ulta.com.  It works real well, after you are done filling in your brows, and you get them where you want them, you apply this brow gel, and it helps them stay where they are the whole day.  You don't necessarily need them unless if you have some crazy brows that always seem to fall out of place.  I have black hair right now, but I found that the Expresso works just fine even though it's brown.

Benefit- The Pretty Committee (ONLINE ONLY)
This mini-kit includes a

Full Size Stay Don't Stray: Stay-put primer for concealers & `eyeshadows.

Full Size Eye Bright: Instant eye brightener.

Full Size Bella Bamba: A 3D brightening pink face powder

High Beam Mini: Luminescent complexion enhancer.

 

Now this is the main reason why I bought items online.  I wanted to try out Benefit Cosmetics' products so I looked online and saw this kit.  It is $38 but you get all the items listed, and the make-up bag.  I must say, my favorite item is the Bella Bamba blush.  I LOVE it, it has great pigment, and is a nice rustic pinkish color.  The eye brightner is simiar to a crayon, you apply it under your eye and blend out.  I am medium skin-toned and it was a little light for me, but I blended it out with my foundation and it turned out ok.  The Don't Stray comes out in a little pump, and you only need about 1 pump as you apply it to your eyelids and blend out.  The High Beam Luminescent is easy to apply..you just need a small amount and blend out where ever you want it to reflect the light.  I would say this is great for evening wear.  The make-up bag is a see-through mesh, and holds all products and then some..perfect to put in your purse to keep you organized. 

 

For the amount it costs, you truly get a bargain.  These items (with the exception of the High Beam) are full-sized items.  I liked the blush so much that I am inspired to try out more of them along with their Hoola bronzer.  That will have to be another blog. 

 

 

I hope that you try out some of these products.  Whether you go to the store and purchase them, or you order online.  My advice is to look for coupons, and discounts whenever you purchase items.  Ulta is real good in sending you specials when you sign-up for their mailing list, others, you have to search around.  Look for deals, like the Benefit Cosemetics kit, you get 5 items (including the bag) for $38.  If you bought these items individually, you would be spending more that that.  Don't be scared to try new products, you may find a product that you really love.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ULTA Haul: NYX Cosmetics

NYX Cosmetics

Okay, this is going to be a short blog..I went to ULTA this past weekend and bought a few items in store..I had also purchase some items online, but I'm currently waiting on the mail to get here.  I'll feature those products as soon as I get them in the mail.  Anywho.. I went and bought a few items to try out to start stocking up on some Autumn colors.  I ended up buying two liquid eye liners, an eye shadow palette, some lip sticks, and some eye shadow base.  

Haul:

NYX The Natural Shadow Palette- TNS01

NYX Eye Shadow Base Skin Tone- ESB03

NYX Glam Lipstick Aqua Luxe- GLSA06- Lotus

NYX Glam Lipstick Aqua Luxe- GLSA09- Splendid

NYX Glam Liner Aqua Luxe- waterproof- GLA05- Glam Black

NYX Glam Liner Aqua Luxe- waterproof-GLA04- Glam 24 Karat

I absolutely LOVE the lipsticks..they glide on pretty smooth, and have some great pigment.  Not too bright, but the sparkly shimmer makes it look gorgeous.  I imagine wearing it out for a girl's night out, or in the evening for a dinner.  The eyeliners are gorgeous!  Stays on, it's waterproof so it won't smudge or run, and it has the same sparkly shimmer as the Luxe lipsticks.  The eyeshadow base is creamy, and blends pretty well on the skin, and it works perfect with prepping the eyes before adding the eye shadow.  The Natural Eye Shadow palette has some nice casual/natural colors.  Perfect for the Fall, and getting a nice natural look.  I did find that the shadows have great pigment, and did not need too much.  It has some nice base colors as well as the shimmery colors, and some nice cream based colors for highlighting underneath the eyebrow.  

The top liner is the Glam 24 Karat, below is the Glam Black eye liner.

Below that is the Lotus Aqua Luxe lipstick, a nice peachy undertone with shimmer pigments incorporated in it.  And below that is the Splendid Aqua Luxe lipstick.  It has a nice pinkish undertone along with shimmer pigments.  

The Natural Palette, perfect for everyday wear, from day to night.  It has perfect browns and blacks  to create a smokey eye effect.

I definitely would recommend these products.  They work really well, at an affordable price, and will add that little pop with the beautiful shimmers.  Don't forget to go to Ulta.com and print out a coupon, as what I did.  I got all these products for about $27.  I did get them while there were some sales, like Buy 1 Get 1 at 50% off..so make sure to check out their weekly ad.  Look out for my next post as I will be doing a review on some Benefit Cosmetics products!

143 <3

The Importance Of Cleaning Make-Up Brushes

Why Clean My Make-Up Brush?

I was out an about the other day shopping, and I had overheard some young ladies discussing whether they should or shouldn't clean make-up brushes.  Granted, they were young teens, but it had bothered me that they had no clue of the importance of cleaning your brushes. 

We use them every day and are necessary to finish and polish off our look so we don't look like a hot mess when we leave the house.  However, many people rarely take care of their brushes.  Take a look at your brushes, and inspect them.  You may see some foundation or blush in the bristles.  Do you remember ever cleaning them? Or the last time you did?  I recommend cleaning all your brushes once a week, twice if you use a lot of foundation and if the make-up is caked on in the brush. 

Why you ask? 
Cleaning your brushes will help ensure that they will last longer, and that they will keep your  face cleaner..helping to decrease breakouts.  Well maintained brushes can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years!  Cleaning them will extend their life, which means less costly for you!  Cleaning them will also keep the bristles fresh and will help prevent them from drying out, being clumped and caked together, and from breakage.  Most importantly, regularly cleaning and disinfecting them will help prevent the growth of BACTERIA.  Bacteria is usually the main culprit of causing clogged pores and breakouts.  Cleaning also helps prevent the spread of viruses.  The Herpes virus can be spread by lip gloss brushes, and eye shadow and eyeliner brushes can spread Pink Eye and other viral infections.  Basically, any brush that comes in contact with the eye or mouth is more liable to transfer viral bacteria...and NOBODY wants that.  

How can I clean them?
You can clean them by purchasing some store-bought make-up brush cleaner.  You can find these at health stores like Walgreens, CVS, Rite-Aid, Target, Ulta, Sephora, and other stores that usually sell make-up and tools will most likely carry some sort of make-up brush cleaner.  They usually run anywhere from $5- $15 depending on where you go, and what size of cleaner you buy. 

You can also opt out and clean them at home.  I have used a mixture of olive oil and antibacterial soap.  I personally like this method because it is easy, and does just as good as using the store bought cleaner.  I found this great video tutorial to show this method.  http://youtu.be/tKPYexZtHCw

Another method is to use a combinatin of baking soda and baby shampoo.  The Sodium Bicarbonate will help deodorize and disinfect while the baby shampoo will help to soften the bristles.  Whatever method you choose to use, make sure that you dry them off with a clean towel and let them air dry.  If you can, dry them with a downward angle or upside down.  This will help prevent any excess liquid form seeping back into the brush handle and base of the brush.  I recommend doing the cleaning at night so it can dry overnight. 

Product Review: Sonia Kashuk Fall Brush Up Set (10 piece)

Sonia Kashuk Fall Brush Up Set: Love It!

Okay, with all the top name brands of make-up brushes out there, I was in search of some that would save me money at the same time, work just as well as the high-end brands.  I wanted to buy some Sigma brushes, but I did not have $100 to spend at the time.  I am somewhat frugal when dealing with certain make-up tools when there are so many brands out there that really don't get too much recognition.  With that said,  I took myself to Target and was searching all their make-up brushes and I found the Sonia Kashuk Fall Brush Up Set.  It is a set of 10 pieces, and I absolutely love the colors. They are synthetic brushes and are very light and not too heavy which is a plus because you don't want a heavy brush as it tends to make you use more product.  The set was under $30 plus tax.

It comes with 1 powder/blush brush, 1 duo-fiber multipurpose brush (great for applying foundation), 1 synthetic pointed foundation brush ( I like to use these for contouring versus using it for applying foundation), 1 blending brush, 1 angled crease brush, 1 eyeshadow brush, 1 brow brush, 1 smudge brush, 1 bent eyeliner brush, and 1 spoolie. 

I find that they do not shed like other brushes.  Who wants to be picking off small brush hairs from their face? I know I don't.   I haven't cleaned/washed them yet, but by the texture, I'm sure that they will be easy to clean.  I would recommend cleaning them at least once a week.  If you are looking for a good brush set, I would say check these out. They are well worth it and you will love them just as much as I do.  You can also find more from Sonia Kashuk and her other items here http://soniakashuk.com/    

 

Make-up Review: L'Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick I Pink You're Cute

Make-up Review: Pinks and Corals..L'Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick

L'Oreal lipstick: I Pink You're Cute

A must have for any girl..Loreal's "I pink you're cute" lipstick #175.  I must say, L'Oreal's pink line is amazing in my opinion.  With the hottest summer colors this season being Pinks and Corals, this lipstick would perfectly fit into that category.

I found that the lipstick is not drying and goes on very creamy. Also, if you're anything like me, I love it when certain lipsticks have pleasant smells.  And this lipstick has a pleasant smell to it..similar to how MAC's lipsticks have a nice smell..a little weird? Maybe..but hey..it works for me. 

I picked mine up at my local Wal-Mart, and the price was about $5.97 (plus tax) there..but I know other stores like CVS or Walgreens have it for around $7-$9. It's easily accessible from any drugstore and guess what..they're very affordable!   

It's one of the 8 in the collection, and I plan on buying more of them as I progress..but if you are interested..here is a picture of the other beautiful colors.  They also have some lip glosses and nail polish that match. 

 

The only con that I can think of is the packaging..it doesn't look too different than the others in the L'Oreal line..but that's the only thing that I can think of.  I absolutely love the colors..Pinks and Corals are in this season, and these definitely will make your lips look luscious this season!

 

Don't forget about their other products that match!

 

Lip gloss Collection

 

 

Nail Polish Collection

 

Garnier Skin Renew BB Cream Product Review

Garnier Skin Renew BB Cream= Amazing!

Okay, so I had been hearing so much about Garnier's New BB Cream so I had to try it out and do a product review.  You can find it at any local drugstore.  I personally went to Wal-mart and bought it there because I was out and about buying more than I should have everytime I go to Wal-mart.  Anyway, I ended up buying Garnier's BB Cream Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector- Combination to Oily Skin in Medium/Deep.  I have tried other BB products like Smashbox, Clinique, and L'Oreal, but I really am impressed with Garnier.  First off, it was about $11 and some change..which was a plus as I am always looking for ways to save money.  Second, that it was in a nice sized 2 ounce tube. 

I did find that it is a little runny/liquidy..as I put it on the back of my hand as I applied it with a brush.  However, as I started putting it on I noticed that it was giving me full coverage.  I noticed that after I was done putting it on my face, that it looked and felt nice.  Not oily at all, and it looked natural to my skin.  I found that I did not have to wear too much foundation after applying it as it gave me enough coverage with the BB cream itself. 

I found that it did what they claimed it would do.  Fixed any discoloration, dullness, blochiness and any dryness that I had.  I especially like that it has a Broad Spectrum SPF 20 in it.  I saw that it minimized my pores, and it lasts throughout the day.  It's only been 3 days since I've started wearing it, and I can honestly say that it is the best $11 I've spent in awhile as far as any face make-up.  It primes the face already so you really don't need to much product at all.  I highly recommend it.  You will not be disappointed at all.  I guess the only downside would be that it only comes in two shades: Light/Medium, and Medium/Deep.  I bought Medium/Deep and it was not too dark for me so I was highly pleased with the results.   

If you are looking for a good BB cream, you should definitely try Garnier's product.  It's not as expensive as the high-end brands, and does a fantastic job and it feels great on your face! Even in the hot/humid weather while providing extra protection. You will see the difference in your skin and you will not be disappointed.  Big two thumbs up!


                                                   Here is a picture of what I bought.

 

 

 

Here are some product info from Garnier

 

 

 

Summer Fashion Must Have: the maxi dress

Summer must have: Maxi Dress, trendy, boho chic, classy..and cool

 

The summer must have this season is the maxi dress.  You can find them in the latest fashion magazines, the celebrities are all wearing them..and frankly, they are just what you need to stay classy and cool this summer.  There are a bunch of different styles.  Some "hi-lo" style and ones with the slit up the sides to show off some extra legs. 

 

If you have fabulous arms, you may opt to get a halter style maxi dress or a sleeveless style to show off.  The maxi dress is so versatile that you can slap on a belt around your waist and accentuate your curves.  This will show off your hourglass shape.  You can also keep it simple and wear it plain, or accentuate the look with some jewelry.  You can wear a a long necklace or even a short one similar to a choker, some earrings..or a nice bracelet to add a pop of color. You can pretty much accessorize it with anything..but be careful of wearing too much accessory to avoid the "clunky" look.  Wear them with heels, or sandals..whatever fits you.  I've personally seen some wear them with some gladiator sandals which looked adorable.  Whatever style you choose, you will look fabulous! And it will keep you cool all summer long, nothing too tight and uncomfortable.

Where can I wear a maxi dress?

The maxi dress can be worn in the day or night, indoors or outdoors.  The maxi dress will have you looking polished at a casual event, for example a cookout or at a beach/poolside gathering.  Everyone will be wearing jeans or shorts..you can look elegant and classy in a maxi.  For an evening look, glam it up with adding some dramatic make-up or some jewelry.  No wonder why these dresses have been the Summer Must Have for all the ladies! They are so easy to wear and easy to accessorize.  Trendy, yet classy. 

Where can I buy a maxi dress?
You can purchase maxi dresses at any store that sells women's clothing.  I've found them at places like Target to high-end stores like Nordstrom, Belk, Dillards, JC Penny...anywhere in a local mall.  I've found some great deals at stores like Express or NY&Company.  It depends on what kind of style you are looking for and how much you are willing to pay.  Some can coast over $100 while come can cost about $20.  Just do some shopping and looking around.  To me, name brands are not that important.  I have a pretty tight budget this summer, so I try my best to look at stores like Target or Old Navy. 

Here are some that I found at OldNavy.com.  You can see their styles and current prices..

 

 

 

Get it right, keep it tight..Ab Challenge! (eeekkkk)

Two reasons why you should workout your core muscles

Health Beauty Tip: In order for us to look good, we must feel good. And in order for us to feel good, we need to exercise...no surprise there. Now contrary to what many people may believe, strengthening your core muscles DOES NOT get rid of abdominal belly fat.  You need to involve cardio and aerobic workouts to get those results.  However, strenghtening your core muscles are very important. 

The two main reasons why you should workout your core are:

1. Core exercises will help improve your balance and stability.  When you work out your core, you are working out your pelvis, lower back, hips, and abdomen all at the same time.  Most sports and physical activities depend on your core. Ladies, did you know that if you work out your core, it will help with your posture? Yes, working out your core muscles can even help you when you wear your heels...which is always a plus.  If you're anything like me, whenever I wear heels of any length..especially those that are over 3", I tend to be more nervous of tripping and losing my balance..while at the same time, twisting my ankles! So trust me, when I work out my core, I can definitely tell the difference when I wear heels when I'm out in the town or at work.

2. Surprisingly, working out your core does not mean you have to break the bank on gym memberships or specialized expensive equipment.  Any exercise that involves the use of your abdominal and back muscles in coordinated fashion counts as a core exercise. 

Many health and fitness experts recommend starting a core workout routine immediately and at least doing it 2 to 3 times a week for muscle strengthening.  It can be anywhere from 10-30 mins, whatever works for you.  With that said, I have a challenge for you.  I came across this 30 Day Ab Challenge on the Internet and I challenge you to try your best.  Do as much as you can and log it on a piece of paper and see your results at the end.  I guarantee you that you will definitely see a difference and FEEL a difference with your body.  Don't give up and stay motivated!  If you can do only two out of the four exercises listed...GREAT! Keep doing it and see how much you will improve.  Something is better than NOTHING!  Feel free to comment and let me know your results or any tips that you may have.

Summer Essentials with a Budget

Summer Essentials for that Golden Glow

Summer officially began last Friday (June 21, 2013).  If you're like me, and live nowhere near a beach, I settle for the next best thing.  Luckily I have a lake/beach where I go. Acworth Beach is located just outside of Atlanta, GA in the suburbs and is simply beautiful.  You also have alternative ways to get some Sun this summer but laying out in the yard or doing some outdoor activity.  Whether you are at the beach, washing your car outside, or walking the dog..you have to make sure you have the "Essentials" to achieve that healthy golden glow. 

Now I personally don't like to go to tanning booths. I work in public health and have been in the health care field for over ten years now, and I can tell you a thing or two about the negative effects on your health from tanning booths.  The fact that it can cause skin cancer and can give you wrinkles gives me the more reason not to go to such extremes.  So what do I do to achieve that "golden glow"?  I settle for some time out in the Sun when I go out to the lake and tend to my garden outside my home. I also discovered some self-tanners that work pretty well. I like to look for products that work and give you the most bang for your buck.  Let's face it, in today's world, just because it has a nice price tag does not necessairly mean that it truly is a good products.  With that said, the products I mention are some that I have tried personally and can give two thumbs up for the price and the results.

Number one and two on my essentials list is Victoria's Secret Beach Sexy Self-tanning tinted lotion, and Beach Sexy Self-tanning tinted cooling gel.  They are available in Victoria's Secret stores and online, both for $30 together or $15 each.  You can use these before or after being out in the Sun.  I personally like to put them on after I get done outside and get showered up.  They're both fairly easy to use, giving full coverage and both have a pleasant smell.  I believe they also offer them in mini sets along with a body oil included in the set.  So go check it out..you will definitely not be dissapointed. So far, the tanning lasts about 6-10 days and that is with me showering everyday..but I think it would last longer because I use it every other day...so we shall see..but for now, it works for me.

My third summer essential is a good day moisturizer for your face.  I've always used BeautiControl's line of BC Spa Facial. BeautiControl uses skin sensors to determine what kind of skin you have, and it specially formulates the products for you to use depending if you are Normal/Dry, or Dry/Oily, etc.  You can pretty much tell, that if you are Normal/Dry you will be using the BC Spa Facial Defend and Restore Moisture Creme with SPF 20.  If you are oily, you will most likely be using the BC Spa Facial Defend and Restore Moisture Lotion with SPF 20.  All you need is a dime size, maybe even less to put on your face to give you the protection throughout the day.  The thing I like most about this product is that it has SPF 20 in it, it's fairly light weight and does not feel too greasy on your face.  It runs about $34 each, and can last you about 4-6 months! That's awesome if you ask me.  I am a Certified Beauti Control consultant and you can order it at www.beautipage.com/marjoriereaves.  You can message me if you have any questions or concerns about your skin.

 

And my fourth must have summer essential is a great bronzer. I always try to stay on top of any deals on beauty websites and I found a great deal on Sephora.com. The Tarte Golden Opportunity Tarte-To-Go is an amazing deal for only $10!!! Can you say SCORE! You can purchase it online or go to your nearest Sephora store to see if they have this deal. It's normally $19. I think it's perfect for taking on the go..you can put it in your purse and always have it with you. It also comes with a mini Brazilliance Skin Rejuvenating Maracuja Self Tanner. But I personally love the bronzer. It really gives you that essential healthy Golden Glow that everyone wants for this summer without spending all that cash that some would spend at those tanning booths! Think of all the money you could save.