Operation Perfection

Perfect find: Facial foods

2011-04-20T08:17:00.000-07:00

First off, I want to apologize for my lack of daily updates. I'm sad to report, our MAC has passed away. It was a good long run but now it's time to save for a new one. With so little money and time, I had to improvise and research alternative products to improve the quality of my skin on my face. As you may or may not know, my skin takes on a life of it's own. Sometimes its dry or oily, I get occasional flare-ups and acne, but it's always red. However, since beginning my fish oil regime and incorporating a lot of FRESH fruits and vegetables into my diet my skin has been looking much better! That being said, I put together the freshest and most organic twist on my skin care.

Why lemons? Lemons or lemon juice are a fantastic alternative to treating acne and scars produced by acne. Lemons are said to not only exfoliate your skin but also clarify it. The bitter taste in lemons stems from it being an extremely acidic fruit. The high count of acidity within lemons actually benefits are skin in multiple ways. Say goodbye to blackheads and dirty skin, it successfully removes dead skin cells and cleans your pores. It is also beneficial in erradicating excess oil in your skin. Ultimately, lemons can give you clearer skin.

Oatmeal isn't just good for your heart. It has many benefits for your skin too. Oatmeal provides you with subtle skin and a healthy looking glow. Oatmeal also protects your skin from drying out even after you've washed it away.

Oatmeal contains polysaccharides. When polysaccharides are mixed with water, it forms a gel. This gel softens and nourishes our skin. The healthy fats in oatmeal add moisture to our skin and help soften and repair it. Oatmeal also serves as an exfoliant. The saponins in oats help remove the dirt and oil hiding in your pores.

Follow these steps below for a fresh face:
1.) The ingredients for my at-home facial included: One fresh, organic lemon, approximately 1 to 2 tablespoons of oatmeal, and a blender. That's it! I try to use organic ingredients for my skin.

2.) Press down and roll on a lemon to get the juices going. Cut and then squeeze the lemon juice from the lemons into a blender.

3.) Add about 1 to 2 tablespoons of oatmeal.

4.) Set your blender so that it chops the ingredients "fine" and begin blending.

5.) Rinse your skin with cold water. Do not pat dry.

5.) Take a cotton ball, your finger, whatever works best for you, and apply the mixture to your skin.

6.) In a circular motion, softly begin to exfolliate.

7.) Depending on your level of acne and dryness, I would recommend not leaving this on for more than 10 minutes. I left it on exactly 10 minutes and it did not irritate or dry out my skin.

My home made mask and

my best interpretation of

jazz hands:

After my lemon/oatmeal mask:

My mask worked awesome! My skin was left super soft and my pores were completely cleaned out. Everybody's skin is different. I left it on for 10 minutes and I wouldn't leave it on longer than that. If you have severely dry skin you may want to consider diluting the lemons with milk, plain yogurt or water.

Bottom line, you can whip up a number of concoctions to clear up, hydrate, erase scars, and give your skin a healthy glow. Make sure to do your research, test a small area, and/or contact a physician before trying anything.

For more information on the benefits of lemons and oatmeal click on either of the links.

Perfect find: Shaving cents

2011-04-15T06:48:00.000-07:00

Schick came out with a genius product called Shick Intuition razors. They come in a variety of savvy styles, colors, and degrees of sensitivity.

My skin is so bizarre. I only grow hair on my legs up to my mid-calves. Strange right? I don't really need to shave my upper legs for a month. It just doesn't grow. Believe me, I'm not complaining. However, my lower legs are a completely different story. I need to shave them every other day. The skin is also more sensitive in that area. I used to get bad razor bumps - not attractive! I've tried different shaving creams, lotions, potions, hair conditioner, etc.

The Easter Bunny brought me one of these Schick Intuition razors one year and I've been hooked ever since. Forget your trips to Costco for a 10-pack of shaving cream. You don't need it! All you need is the razor and some water. Surrounding the 4 blades is a moisture solid. When combined with water, it creates a soft, yummy smelling lather that really moisturizes your skin while you shave. No more cuts and razor bumps! It also comes with a handy-dandy holder that you can stick on your shower wall. I love this product, it's genius and economical.

The downside, it's slightly bulky so for smaller areas such as your underarms and bikini area you may need to consider a different razor (I personally like to wax those areas anyways). In addition, the replacement cartridges are rather expensive. Yet, there are ALWAYS coupons and sales for this product. If you are coupon obsessed like me, double up, and you'll get it for practically nothing. You can find Schick Intuition at your local drug and grocery store.

If you have a product you would like me to test please let me know :)

Perfect find: Over the shoulder boulder holder

2011-04-14T06:29:00.000-07:00

Before Oprah announced her love for this bra, there was little ol' me preaching to the world about the amazing powers of Le Mystere. If you are like me and have boobs that are never ending, then this bra is for you! There is magic in these big gulp, cup holders! For those of us with side boobs, this bra is for you.

Le Mystere has the power to hold up the heaviest of boobs and keep them in place all day. In fact, they won't move! This bra is not attractive. It's simple, has clean lines, and serves one purpose only. That purpose is to keep the girls in place all day and more importantly, at attention and it does just that. My favorites from the line are: Tisha and Gigi bra. I've been using this brand of bras for quite sometime.

I'm way to0 modest to flash my chest on the internet. Therefore, I will use my nephew who so kindly displays other ways to use my bras, to the left. Their bras are indestructible and are worth every pricey penny. In addition, no washing machine can destroy it. I'm not quite sure what kind of reinforced cotton they use but this bra will last forever. The only drawback is the price. Depending on where you shop, Le Mystere bras range in price between $60.00 and $80.00 dollars. Yes, it's incredibly expensive. However, it is the cheapest investment you can make. I'd rather spend $80.00 dollars on a bra than $10.00 dollars on a flimsy bra that's going to drive me straight to the plastic surgeons office. Think of your bra as a friendly investment. This line is sold mostly in upscale boutiques and department stores. Make sure to check online for sales and coupons. My mom, the awesome bargain hunter that she is, has found great success at Marshalls. She finds Le Mystere bras for $9.99! No, that is not a typo. Macys, Bloomindales, and Nordstrom usually offers specials. Neiman Marcus at Merrick Park Mall in Coral Gables, has an incredible team of specialist to find the perfect fit for you. For big boobie girls, it's not fun to go bra shopping, let's be honest. These young ladies however, make you feel comfortable and will help find the perfect fit and bra for you.

I guarantee your boobs will forever thank you.

Perfect find: Bushwhacked by string

2011-04-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

My genes have blessed me with thick brows? What more could a girl ask for right, ha! I never realized until my mom so kindly pointed out, how eyebrows frame your face. Shaped eyebrows are equally as important as a beautiful smile (in my opinion). They also give your eyes a little lift with the right sculpted arch. More importantly, it has come to my attention that waxing causes premature sagging (I have not been able to find evidence that proves this theory). I've been getting my brows plucked, tweezed, and waxed since I was fifteen. Fast forward years later, I've been getting my eyebrows done via threading. With technology transforming everything every day, who knew that a little piece of dental floss could shape and sculpt these crazy brows!

Before: If you remember this mess, here.

After: Tadaaaaa, I can finally see again! Please excuse my dark circles.

World, let me introduce you to the master eyebrow sculptor, Mrs. Luby. You can find her at Peter of London hair salon in Miami at their Falls location. Not only does she have the magic touch with a piece of string but she has to be the sweetest woman on the planet. This is somewhat ironic considering the torture she puts you through. Ladies, pain is beauty, so for 5 minutes just take it! Pop a couple Advil tablets before and it should alleviate the pain slightly.

The skinny: For $25.00 dollars she'll string you to the perfect arch you always wanted. With eyebrow specialists costing up to $50.00 dollars, I think she is the best for the price. However, if that is out of your budget, I recommend going to Luby when you can so that she can shape them and then you try and maintain them yourself.

So put some NOS in that step and run to Luby. Don't forget to tell her Tiffany sent you!

Perfect find: LASHES WITH A TWIST

2011-04-12T07:37:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a method of cosmetic enhancements for every woman's insecurities. That being said, who wouldn't want long, full eyelashes? Well, if you seem to be lacking in that department, there is a cure for that too! Scientist have devised Latisse. Latisse promises to give you those long and full eyelashes you always wanted and they weren't lying!

Check out the before and after image above! The results are incredible! Latisse consist of a magic potion and wand applicator. The trick is to stay consistent and apply every night. To watch a detailed but short video on how to apply Latisse, click here. This product is beyond incredible and it really truly works! Your eyelashes will actually look fake after awhile. I don't know about you, but, I love me some fake eyelashes! They are so fun and they always make your eyes look that much better. What if they weren't fake and they were actually yours and looked like that all the time? The answer is Latisse.

There are some drawbacks. For one, Latisse is available by prescription only. Second, you have to pay a hefty price for a small package. And lastly, it may stain your upper eyelids; this may or may not be reversible, however, it can be covered up with makeup.

On a more positive note, Latisse is offering a "buy one get one free" promotion on their website, here. Your physician may also be able to provide you with some samples. Bottom line, this product works! The results will amaze you! It's a very expensive product but I know when a woman puts her mind to something, cost sometimes isn't an issue. If you crave longer and fuller eyelashes and are sick of false ones, this does work.

Perfect find: LUXURY IN A BOTTLE

2011-04-11T12:50:00.000-07:00

I first discovered this perfect find at the Mandarin Oriental in Downtown Miami. This secluded little oasis has an incredible cafe overlooking Biscayne Bay as well as delicious soaps in their restrooms to entice your senses. I know what you are thinking: Who goes to a five-star resort and all they can talk about is their soap? Yup, this girl! I have a slight obsession for soaps, lotions, candles, and anything that makes my nose happy. Nevertheless, more on my favorite hideaway later. For now, it's all about...

Wait for it... MOLTON BROWN. Let's all sigh together now. I'm not sure where I should begin with this posh line of skin care. Their line includes luxurious soaps for your hands, face, and body, as well as, lotions, hair products, a men's line, and gifts for the home. My nose just can't get enough of Molton Brown products!

Some of my favorites from this line include: Naran Ji hand wash, re-charge black pepper body wash (for men), Ultrasmooth coco de mer bodywash, and relaxing yuan zhi bathwash. The bottles display modern and tasteful simplicity in their design. Their scents do not overpower. They are subtle yet substantial. Their handwashes are bubbley and will NOT dry out your hands. Their lotions are never greasy and leave just the right amount of scent.

The only drawback with Molton Brown products is they are a bit on the pricey side. However, this is a luxorious skincare line coming out of London and you are made to feel like royalty when using it. Honestly, if my wallet or husband permitted, I would take one of everything. I recommend registering for their mailing list because they do offer fantastic specials.

Enjoy and suds up!

Perfect find: AU NATUREL

2011-04-09T07:59:00.000-07:00

Why would you want to wash your face with ingredients that are impossible to pronounce, let alone, comprehend what they are? Our skin is the largest organ on our body and acts like a sponge. We have to do what we can to preserve and maintain it. Neutrogena recently came out with a line of "Natural" products. They claim their "Naturals" line contains, "No harsh chemicals, sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes, phthalates." Their line is simple, small, and to the point and that is really appealing to me. It's one pore scrub, makeup remover, facial cleanser, face and body bar soap, and a chapstick. That's it!

My reasoning behind trying this new face scrub is, one, I wanted a morning face scrub that wasn't going to irritate my skin and make it more red than it already is. Two, I love Neutrogena products.

I read the ingredients and thought this might be worth trying and I'm so glad I did! This particular pore scrub contains "Willowbark which is abundant in Vitamin C, B, and E. Most importantly, it has a natural source of salicylic acid which we all knows helps to free our pores of oil, dirt, and bacteria."

I LOVE Neutrogena naturals purifying pore scrub! Not just love but I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this product. This pore scrub doesn't irritate my skin whatsoever. My skin is left feeling super soft and clean and it has a fresh scent.

I use it once a day in the morning followed with some warm water. I gently scrub in a circular motion and then rinse off.

I've noticed this product is hard to find in stores. I'm sure they offer the naturals line in some local drug stores however, I have not seen that yet. I have only found it at Publix, a local grocery store in Miami. I have not seen it in health food stores either. Everything within this line cost less than $10.00 dollars. Can't beat that!

Perfect find: BEAUTY FROM THE INSIDE OUT

2011-04-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

The beauty you exude from the outside, first stems from how well you take care of your insides - duh! Today's perfect edition to every BODY is Cod Liver Oil. I have been using Barlean's Cod Liver Oil in Lemonade flavor and I'm obsessed! I have noticed an overall improvement especially in my hair, skin, and nails. My hair seems to have less breakage, my nails are finally more firm and sturdy, and my skin appears more hydrated. Amazingly, I have less breakouts too. For those who fear fish burps, fear no more! You are burping nothing but lemons, my friends (haha)!

Barlean's Cod Liver Oil is sold at a variety of healthfood stores such as GNC (ask for Barney and tell him Tiffany sent you), Vitamin Shoppe, and my personal favorite, Whole Foods Market. If you can't get your hands on Barlean's opt for Carlons Cod Liver Oil instead.

Why is Cod Liver oil so perfect? It is one of the most reliable and concentrated food sources that are essential to our health. Vitamin A, Vitamin D, DHA, and EPA are valuable nutrients needed for:

Healthy skin, hair, and nails
Strong bones and teeth
Healthy joints
Cardiovascular system
Nervous system, sexual, and hormonal health
Digestive tract
Eye health and visual acuity
Energy and endurance

Just to name a few...

Before I go to bed, I take 1 tbsp of Barlean's Cod Liver Oil in lemonade flavor:

The ingredients include:

If you like what you see so far, please be sure to tell all your friends and family! Have a perfectly awesome day!

Perfect find: BRIGHT EYES in a magic wand

2011-04-07T18:45:00.000-07:00

Today's perfect pick of the day is Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Dark-Circle eye roller. The fairy God mother, Garnier, manufactured and mass produced this perfect little wand! This has to be the most cost effective and incredible product ever created. I'm not a girl who wears a lot of makeup or any to tell you the truth. However, this under-eye roller instantly gives your puffiness and dark circles an immediate pick me up! Eyes are instantly brighter and lines a little bit smoother! The key in this magic wand is caffeine. Don't just walk to the store... RUN!

This product varies in price depending on where it's purchased. Garnier Skin Renew Anti-Dark-Circle eye roller can be purchased at any local drug store or ULTA. Garnier typically runs a coupon in Sunday's newspaper normally for about $1.00 dollar off and if you are lucky you may be able to double up on coupons (hint hint). It is also carried at ULTA who usually has a $3.00 dollar off coupon. Not to mention, ULTA is currently running a 20% friends and family discount until April 9th.

Watch the magic wand at work:

1.) Before: Notice the dark circles - yuck! In addition, the eyebrows are getting the royal treatment on Monday - threading, and it can't come soon enough!

2. During: apply the wand under and above the eye.

3. After: Tadaaaa

Why me? Why not?

2011-04-06T19:01:00.000-07:00

Bonnie Bell Lip Smackers or Lancome Juicy Tube? Taco Rico or Taco Bell? I obsessively spend more money than I should testing out the next big product in hopes to find that one perfect product for me. Why not a middle man... or lady, to help make those decisions? This blog will save you time and money!

What can you expect from this site? All things hair and beauty products and the people that help make us beautiful (esthetician, makeup artist, hair stylist, wax specialist, etc.), hangouts, foodies, you get the idea. We want to give credit where credit is deserved. Stay tuned as we will try and update daily some of our favorite, perfect things!

So why me? Well, why not? I'm an average gal from Miami and like you, I want to find that one amazing product that works for me. I'm still in search for something to tame this Jew-fro and red face! I worked in research for the past couple years and our study recently concluded. While sitting by the computer scrambling for my next job this thought came up instead. I love trying new things and when people ask me where I got this or that, how much I spent, I love sharing where it came from.

We want to test your products! Suggest the next perfect yogurt hot spot, hair salon and stylist, nail salon, shampoo/conditioner, acne medicine, etc. You never know, it could be featured on this blog.