Ms. Healthy Face

Latisse via HelloRory.com

2021-01-16T22:01:00.017-08:00

After COVID forced me to give up my lash extensions, my eyelashes were sad and baren -- lost and confused. I saw a HelloRory.com ad on youtube and signed up to get a bottle of Latisse sent straight to my door. Latisse is a prescription eyelash growth serum. This eyelash growth serum is clinically proven to make eyelashes longer, thicker, and darker. I was onboard with it's clinical results and the fact that it's prescription-strength.

The process was quite simple, and I had an order of Latisse at my door within a week. They sent a month
supply of Latisse and enough applicators to use on each eye nightly, and then disposed of. I was so happy not to have to travel to my dermatologists office during COVID. Rory offers tele-medicine for a specific group of prescriptions. I'll talk about that in another post.

I applied a drop of Latisse via the applicator each night for about a month. Then, I started to notice my eyes felt dry and itchy. Maybe it was because my lashes grew and were tickling my eyes? After a terrible day in front of the computer, itching my eyes, I gave up.

I am thinking of trying it, again. What do you think? Have you tried Latisse? What about HelloRory?

Dressing for ANY Body Type

2016-10-25T09:44:00.001-07:00

Lucky for me, and other curvy, yet petite gals, eShakti.com, makes it easy to customize any and everything on their site. Recently, they gave me the opportunity to pick out any item on their site to customize. I chose this beautiful, asymmetrical statement skirt. I anticipate pairing the skirt with a a black or white blouse, turtle-neck, or sweater. It's perfect for the office or even cocktail hour. I loooove how it comes with pockets, although, it can be customized to be pocket-less. Additionally, I was able to alter the length to make it perfect for my petite stature.

The customization process is also super simple and quick. For more info, check out eShakti on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter. They recently launched a jean customization, so I hope to try that out soon!

I contacted eShakti, and was able to get my readers a coupon code. Use "mshealthyface" in the promo code box to get 10% OFF*.

*Valid from 10/27/2016 – 11/31/2016. Code has to be entered in the ‘promotional code’ box. It is not case-sensitive. Code can be used any number of times until the validity period. It can be clubbed with any other promotional offer, gift coupon or gift card in the same order unless explicitly specified otherwise in the offer conditions. This discount code is not applicable on clearance, gift cards & overstock categories. Not applicable on previous purchases.

3-Month Skincare Progress Report.... I'm Acne-Free!

2016-03-10T18:56:00.004-08:00

Hi!! Please accept my apologies for the lack of posts. I am in the middle of studying for the California July Bar, and have been hitting the books hard. However, I did want to take some time to talk about my skincare progress since my last post.

My topical skincare regimen has not changed. I apply Onexton religiously EVERY morning to my t-zone. Additionally, I apply Ziana every other night to my entire face. I also make sure to apply my Elta MD Clear UV SPF 46 every morning.

The oral antibiotics did not work out for me. I guess my body is quite sensitive to antibiotics because my stomach did not take well to any of the three different ones my dermatologist attempted to put me on. Despite my body not agreeing with antibiotics, I am super pleased to announce that I have been acne-free for the past three months. Even during my monthly visit, I have not had any hormonal breakouts. This is the first time in my life where I have not broken out. It feels so amazing. I still have to deal with the texture and scarring from my previous years of breakouts, but it really is life-changing to not have to deal with any active breakouts.

I highly recommend Onexton and Ziana for those with cystic and hormonal acne!!! Wishing you all the best in skin and love... <3

My Current Skincare Routine

2015-11-24T10:59:00.007-08:00

My skin has been terrible, and when I get breakouts, they are scarring, painful cystic acne blowouts that I would get on my chin and on the sides of my nose. They generally occur with my monthly period, or just after. I am not one to pick them because when I did the scarring would be even worse. I was courageous enough to let my cystic acne take its course, but it made me never want to leave the house.

If you have read my Adapalene post from a year ago, you will know that my first dermatologist prescribed me that one cream, gave me zero directions, and sent me on my way. Not surprising my face never cleared up. Instead, I still had acne, my skin got flaky, peely, dry, irritated, and just plain terrible. I really resent my first dermatologist for doing that to me.

So, I stopped using Adapalene, and began trying a bunch of over-the-counter acne treatments, from Paula's Choice to natural, organic brands with salicylic acid and tea tree oils, and the whole gambit in between. I was using Josie Maran's Argan oil to try and heal my acne scars, but it made my acne worse.

Last month, I through in the towel, and made an appointment with another, new dermatologist near my house. She immediately looked at my face and said, "you have inflammatory acne". She then proceeded to outline an ENTIRE skincare routine from AM to PM, and was adamant about me switching out my current SPF (more on that later)! She put me on this skincare routine:

AM

A Gentle Cleanser. She gave me a sample of the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Hydrating Cleanser -- Foaming Formula. I liked it very much, but decided to buy the cream formula because I thought it would be less drying. Love this affordable, and effective cleanser!!!!

Benzoyl Peroxide/Clindamycin Acne Treatment. Benzoyl peroxide is a staple in any acne routine, but I was nervous about it because I had used OTC 5% benzoyl peroxide and it irritated, and dried my skin out like crazy. My derm prescribed me Onexton, which is BP and Clindamycin, an antibiotic. I was told to use less than a pea-size, every other day on areas prone to acne. It does make my skin feel a little sensitive, but way less than the OTC ones I have bought online. I have noticed a huge difference in my skin since using Onexton, and definitely recommend it. I'll continue to update you guys on my progress with this gel!
Moisturizer.The hugest thing my derm said to me was that she did not believe in moisturizer and SPF. She told me use Cetaphil DailyAdvance, which is meant for sensitive, dry skin. I was reluctant to go back to Cetaphil, which I had used throughout my teens because I have read that dermatologists have some in with the manufacturers. In or not, this Cetaphil DailyAdvance moisturizer is amazing!!! It's cheap, it's moisturizing, and it has a pump. I don't know why I ever strayed from you, dear Cetaphil!
SPF. This was also a huge thing for me!!! My dermatologist said I could choose between Cerave and Cetaphil for my moisturizer, and Cetaphil and Neutrogena for my facewash, but she said that she was adamant that I use the Elta MD UV Clear SPF she sold in her office. It was zinc-based, titanium dioxide free, and had niacinamide (an acne fighter). Later, I did some research, and found out that titanium dioxide, has been known to cause acne!!!! OH MY FREAKING GOSH!!!! I have been on this physical sunscreen kick for a year, and of course titanium dioxide is the #1 ingredient in physical SPF. Plus, it's in a bunch of makeup, and other SPF. I felt so stupid!!! I've been sabotaging my own skin!!! Anyways, I bought the bottle of Elta MD UV Clear in her office for $30, but found it on Amazon for $19.99!!!! I am stoked. I am never looking back, and NEVER using anything with titanium dioxide, again!!!!

Non-comedogenic makeup. I try not to wear makeup on a daily basis because I am afraid of breaking out. On special occasions, I do slay my whole face, and wear foundation, concealer, setting powder, contour cream, contour power, blush, highlighter, the whole 9 yards. My foundation of choice before meeting my new God-send derm was Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk because it's great on my dry skin, and photographs like a freaking dream. I am even more in love with it because my derm approves of this foundation! I had been researching comedogenic ingredients since, and have been trying to mold my makeup routine to avoid them (that's for another post).

Remove eye makeup. I use waterproof mascara because my Asian eyelashes are straight like an ironing board. I researched makeup removers, but most of them contain comedogenic ingredients, or are not strong enough to remove waterproof mascara. Now, I just put a pump of my Cetaphil DailyAdvance Moisturizer on two cotton balls, and hold them against my eyes for 30 seconds, and then gently start swiping off my mascara. I love using my moisturizer as makeup remover. One, I know it won't break me out, and two, it is super effective!!!! Try it and thank me later.
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Cleanser. I wash my face in the shower with 2-3 pumps of this stuff. Love it, and never turning back.
Toner. My derm didn't have any recommendations on toner, she just said that if I had something I liked that didn't break me out, I could use it. I am on my second bottle of Derma E Soothing Toner with Pycnogenol, and I love it. I discovered it though beautypedia.com. I have always been a fan of Derma E as well. I like it as a second cleanse to make sure I get any residual cleanser or makeup.

Retinol. My derm prescribed Ziana, which is a retinol gel. It is freaking AMAZING!!! I had less adverse effects than with adapalene, but then, again, my new derm also gave me more detailed directions than my last incompetent derm. First, I started off applying it every third night; 30 minutes after I washed my face. Then, after two weeks, every other night, which I am currently still doing. I knew to switch to every other night when my skin started feeling more flaky. It sounds counter intuitive, I know, to apply the retinol more often when I started to seem more flaky, but I read online that if you do not use the retinol often it enough your skin will never build resistance and continually be irritated. Thus, you walk a fine a line between resistance and irritated skin, but just stick to your dermatologists directions like I did.
Cetaphil Daily Advance. After my Ziana, has had a chance to dry, I pile on my moisturizer -- two pumps. I pat my face with it in an attempt to disturb my skin and retinol underneath. After my moisturizer has dried, I put another two pump layer on. Even with the benzoyl peroxide and the retinol, my skin is not dry, but rather glowing and almost acne free.
Oral Antiobiotic. My derm, in an attempt to battle my inflammatory acne from the inside, prescribed me doxycycline, Acticlate. I did notice a blatant stop in my acne, but it was just TOO strong for my stomach. I began having ulcers and acid reflux. It was so terrible, I had to stop taking it immediately. If your body can handle it, I would definitely continue taking it because you WILL see results.

I strongly urge you to go see a dermatologist, and hopefully, you are lucky to find a good one. Please do your research, get some recommendations on a good dermatologist, and stick to your derm-proscribed regimen. Also, definitely switch to a zinc-based SPF, and get rid of your comedogenic infused makeup and SPF. Stay away from titanium dioxide, too!

I hope this post was helpful. I am very passionate about my new regimen, and the results I am experiencing. I wish you guys the best of luck! Let me know how it goes!

September Favorites: Cruelty Free edition

2015-10-10T12:48:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to do my first monthly favorites post! This month all my favorites are cruelty free! Generally, I like to do detailed and in-depth posts about products that I love, but I hope you enjoy these quick and to-the-point posts! As always, any comments or questions are highly appreciated.

My first favorite is from Blissoma Solutions. A great brand with a great mission delivering RAW, holistic, and vegan beauty products. I got the Rejvenating Herbal Gel Cleanser and Makeup Remover from the September Petit Vour box, and I am so happy that I did!!! This foam free cleanser is amazing at cleansing, and removing waterproof makeup, even though it feels different than the soapy, drying cleansers I've used in the past. I apply 3 pumps to my makeup'd face every evening in the shower, and all my makeup washes away without leaving my skin ultra tight -- thanks to it's sud-free formula. I also really appreciate how this brand offers paraben and pthalate free products! Available on petitvour.com or blissoma.com.

My next favorite product this month comes from Paula's Choice, the beauty brand behind Beautypedia -- one of my favorite resources for beauty reviews. After a couple months of being pimple free, I started experiencing a more breakouts, and so I wanted to incorporate a chemical exfoliant into my AM skincare routine. I ordered the RESIST Daily Smoothing Face Exfoliant from the PC website (they always have a deal going on). The RESIST Exfoliant has 5% alpha hydroxy acids, 5% glycolic acid, and a little boost of .05% salicyclic acid (BHA) so it's anti-aging and anti-acne. The formula is gentle and does not dry out or make my skin peel. I think it has added to my skincare routine and have experienced almost no more breakouts since incorporating it. My skin looks more even, and my pores appear smaller than it did a few months prior. It's suitable for all skin types. Love this one!

My final favorite for September is my most favorite blush of the moment. It was a sample I was gifted from Sweet Leilani -- a Canadian, vegan beauty brand. I absolutely fell head over heels for Colour Tides blusher in 'Star Fish'. It's a coral-y blush with subtle reflects. It reminds me so much of the Milani baked blushes because of its all-in-one ability to blush, sculpt, and highlight in one motion. The slight shimmer really highlights my cheekbones. It is very pigmented, and super blendable. The 'Star Fish' coral shade is great with almost every sky tone, too. All Sweet Leilani products are made with rose hip seed oil, grape seed oil, and green tea. Definitely recommended!

What's your favorite cruelty free brand or product?

Ingredient List:
Blissoma Solutions Rejvenating Herbal Gel Cleanser and Makeup Remover - Glycerin, Infusion of Ilex paraguariensis* (yerba mate), Medicago sativa* (alfalfa), Prunella vulgaris* (self heal), Plantago major* (plantain), Rubus idaeus* (raspberry leaf), Centaurea cyanus* (cornflowers), Olea europaea* (olive leaf), and Tilia europaea* (linden), Caprylyl capryl glucoside (Ecocert vegetable source cleanser), Vitis Vinifera (grapeseed) Oil*, Helianthus annuus (sunflower) Oil*, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Quillaja saponaria* (soapbark), Cetearyl Alcohol and Cetearyl Wheatstraw Glycosides, Gluconolactone, Xanthan Gum
*from Certified Organic Agriculture

Paula's Choice RESIST Daily Smoothing Face Exfoliant - Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid (AHA exfoliant), Cetyl Alcohol (thickener), Butylene Glycol (slip agent and penetration enhancer), Dimethicone (silicone slip agents/texture enhancer), Polyacrylamide (film-forming agent), PPG-14 Butyl Ether (thickener), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (cell communicating ingredient), Ceramide NG (skin identical ingredient), Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrodemethoxydiferuloylmethane, Tetrahydrobisdemethoxydiferuloylmethane (anti-irritants/antioxidants derived from curcumin), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidant), Salicylic Acid (BHA exfoliant/anti-irritant), Disodium Lauriminodipropionate Tocopheryl Phosphates (vitamin e based antioxidant), PEG-10 Phytosterol, Cucumis Melo (Melon Fruit Extract (antioxidant), Bisabolol (anti-irritant), Allantoin (anti-irritant), Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dimethiconol (silicone slip agents/texture enhancers), Tribehenin (texture enhancer), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, PEG-40 Stearate, Sorbitan Stearate (thickeners), PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), C13-14 Isoparaffin (solvent), Laureth-7 (emulsifier), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Caprylyl Glycol (preservative), Ethylhexylglycerin (skin conditioning agent), Hexylene Glycol (solvent), Phenoxyethanol (preservative).

Sweet Leilani Colour Tide Blusher 'Star Fish' - Mica CI 77019,Titanium Dioxide CI 77891, Magnesium Stearate, Lauroyl Lysine, Kaolin China Clay,Golden Seal Root Extract, Vitis Vinefera (Grape Seed) Extract,Rosa Canina (Rose Hip) Leaf,Camelia Oleifera (Green Tea)Extract. May Contain Iron Oxides CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499,CI 77289, CI 77288, Violet CI 77742, Ultra Marine CI 77007.

My Must Haves from Tula Probiotic Technology Skincare

2015-09-01T10:16:00.001-07:00

About 3 months ago, I received the entire Tula Probiotic Technology Skincare line as a PR sample. I am so impressed by the line that I have made them a part of my daily skincare routine. I have been wanting to do an in-depth skincare routine post that discusses all my favorite products, but I've been flat out busy with both my boys and I starting school.

This morning, I found out Dr. Raj, gastroenterologist and the creator of Tula Probiotic, would be live on QVC today talking about Tula, and so I wanted to share my favorite three pieces from the probiotic line that I use daily!

My first love is the Illuminating Facial Serum. I love how nourishing and hydrating it is! It is perfect in the morning under makeup because it quickly dries matte, yet gives my skin some radiance. I've used all, but a 1/5 of the bottle! Highly recommended!

Next up, the Purifying Facial Cleanser is my, and my husband's, current favorite face wash! Tula is completely unisex from the packaging to the scents, and so, it is a great option if you want a one stop shop for you and your significant other! The face wash is dense, luxurious, and non-drying/stripping. It's thick enough to get off all my stubborn makeup, and definitely a part of daily evening skincare routine.

Lastly, the Revitalizing Eye Cream is a must have. I use it morning and night. I won't put on my concealer unless, I put this eye cream on my dehydrated under eyes. This helps prevent my concealer from cracking or looking cakey.

I hope this helps! Please let me know if you take advantage of the deals on QVC! Would love to know if you enjoy Tula as much as I do!

Latest BB Obsession -- Smashbox Camera Ready BB

2015-08-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

My philosophy is tinted moisturizer/BB cream for daytime, and a medium to full coverage foundation sans SPF for nighttime and special occasions. Lately, I have been completely obsessed with trying every tinted moisturizer and BB cream I could get in my makeup addicted hands. I love how easily I can slather tinted moisturizers and BBs with my hands for a quick FOTD. The ease of going from light to medium coverage is also a perk.

The Smashbox Camera Ready BB came as a sample in a recent Sephora haul. Smashbox's BB provides SPF 35, and is available in 8 different shades. Generally, for a no makeup makeup look, I only need about a pea-size for my entire face. I think the 1 oz. size would last me quite a while, probably 3 or 4 months. Sephora offers two shades in .5 oz travel sizes -- "Light" and "Light/Medium". Although, I was sent 'Light" instead of "Light/Medium", I was still able to make it work after bronzing and blush. *For reference, I am NC25 in MAC.

I admit that I totally underestimated how much I would like the Smashbox BB. I was pleasantly surprised at how long it lasted -- a good 6-7 hours. Although the matte finish formula is thicker than my watery Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer (which I wear in St. Moritz), it worked surprisingly well with my dry skin. To the naked eye, the matte finish does make you look "Camera Ready", but I would look for something with more coverage for a super important day, like a wedding or school pictures.

On the daily, I prefer a more demi-matte finish so, I have been mixing Smashbox's BB with my super dewy Nars Tinted Moisturizer. I have actually noticed longer staying power with my Nars by mixing the two. I am thinking about ordering a "Light/Medium" and a lighter shade of my Nars tinted moisturizer to mix for the upcoming Fall/Winter. This is definitely a must try. Available at Sephora, Nordstrom, ULTA, Macy's, and other retailers for $39.00 1oz./$19.50 .5oz.

Have you tried the Smashbox Camera Ready BB?

Liquid Gold: Skin Dressing's REALLY GOOD™ Rose Skin Butter

2015-08-01T10:48:00.001-07:00

I discovered Los Angeles-based Skin Dressing through Instagram and fell in love with the brand's mission -- to deliver all natural, non-toxic skin care at an affordable price, while still remaining cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.

I asked, and Skin Dressing generously agreed to send me the REALLY GOOD™ Ultimate Rose Skin Butter. This luxurious and silky heaven in a gold jar is made naturally fragrant with 100% USDA certified organic rose essential oil. NO TOXINS whatsoever.

The gaudy, and totally my style, gold jar obviously caught my attention, but the rose scent made me down-right obsessed. You can smell the beautiful rose oil from the outside of the jar, which isn't too surprising because according to Skin Dressing, "it takes TWENTY DOZEN organic roses to distill enough oil for just one jar." The Skin Butter is the consistency of a thick clarified butter, but completely smooth, and not at all greasy.

The REALLY GOOD Ultimate Rose Butter is made with skin-nourishing ingredients like Vitamin E, jojoba oil, and murumuru butter. Murumuru butter is obtained from the seeds of the murumuru palm, which is native to the Amazon Rainforest. I love when skincare ingredients come from plants. Don't you?

How to Apply.
I like to dip a clean finger into the jar, and rub the butter on my collar bone and dab any leftovers on my neck. It gives my skin the perfect, healthy glow, and leaves me smelling amazing. Rose is my absolute favorite scent in the entire world. It's just so feminine and romantic.

I also like to rub a little onto any scars or stretch marks because the REALLY GOOD butter has all that skin repairing goodness from the jojoba.

Why use a skin butter rather than a lotion or cream?
Skin Dressing's REALLY GOOD Rose Butter's all natural, and waterless formula does not require a chemical preservative like a lot of off-the-shelf lotions and creams do. The waterless formula also gets you a lot of bang for your buck. The Rose Butter's concentrated formula can last four to five times longer than the average tube of lotion. It also doesn't smell at all like those overly sweet or artificial floral fragranced lotions. The Ultimate Rose Butter, $25, and other all-natural skin care available at skindressing.com.

Have you tried the Ultimate Rose Butter or any body butters lately?

Skin Dressing's REALLY GOOD™ Rose Skin Butter Ingredients: organic simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, astrocaryum (murumuru) butter, shorea stenoptera (illipe) seed butter, rosa centifolia (rose) floral wax, organic rosa demascena (rose) oil, mixed tocopherols (derived from organic sunflowers).

Bogavia: All Luxury and All Natural

2015-07-21T15:18:00.000-07:00

If you have been looking to purge yourself of chemical and preservative filled hair and skin care, then keep reading... Bogavia is a skin and hair care brand free of: parabens, mineral oil, sodium laurel sulfate, artificial fragrance, and chemical preservatives! Oh yeah, and cruelty-free!! Everything in their ingredient list is easily pronounceable and all natural with a lot of organic plant and fruit extracts. They have a line for adults and babies -- so exciting!

I contacted Bogavia after learning that they crafted a baby-friendly skincare line. My sons have grown a little fascination with creams and lotions after watching my AM & PM skincare routines. So, I had been looking for a baby-friendly lotion for them. I absolutely love Bogavia's Extra Gentle Healing Butter for my two angels' soft skin. The Healing Butter, infused with Calendula, is a thick unscented cream with a denseness like Desitin, but feels like a lotion. It can be used and applied all over the face, body, and bottom for diaper rashses. This is a great option for babies with super dry skin or eczema.

On top of having a great all-purpose baby healing butter, vanilla bean baby lotion (it's so yum), and a gentle baby hair and body wash, Bogavia has an expansive line for mommy and daddy, too. It will truly make you think you are staying at a luxury resort even when you are just at home. From the quality of the packaging, to the classic and rich Valencia Vanilla scent, everything feels luxe.

I am obsessed with Bogavia's signature Valencia Vanilla scent. The sweet yet citrusy scent has definitely been something I look forward to. It smells so amazing I want to swim in it. Good thing that Bogavia makes an entire line with the scent: Shampoo, Conditioner, Toning Body Wash, Hydrating Body Butter, and my ultimate favorite, the Lip Balm!!!! Ugh the Valencia Vanilla lip balm is super addicting. It is made out of coconut oil and reminds me of orange cream soda....I just looooooove it! The best part is knowing that I am not putting any toxins in my body.

Not all of Bogavia's products are scented, and so if scents are not your thing, the Exfoliating Facial Scrub is super hydrating (strangely) and has very fine particles that will gently get rid of your dead skin cells.

Bogavia definitely needs to be in all 5-star resorts and hotels immediately, and Valencia Vanilla definitely needs to be all over your body.

Acupressure Points for Pimples and Acne -- Guest Blog by Yasko

2015-07-15T17:31:00.001-07:00

Here's a great post by Yasko of Bliss Squared Massage on how to prevent pimples and acne through Acupressure.

First, locate your acupressure points:

ST 2 – The first ones are under the eyes. When you look straight in front of you they are under the pupils of your eyes right on the cheek bone. About a finger width from the eye socket. These are called Stomach 2. Gently press these points perpendicular to the cheek bone.

ST 3 – The next set of point are about an inch below those points. These are called Stomach 3. It’s on the edge of the cheek bone. Press them gently slightly upward into the cheek bone. They are still under the pupils of your eyes. These are good for improving the circulation and metabolism on your face and clearing the blemishes and acnes.

GB 12 – The third set of points are behind the ears. Behind the earlobe there is a bone. This is called mastoid process. There’s a depression behind it. This is called Gall Bladder 12. This point is good for regulating the excess oil production which can be the cause of the pimples and acnes. I like to press this point by resting the elbow on the armrest and just lean into it one side at a time.

Then, press these points as you breathe deeply for one minute as you watch other YouTube videos. Also good for pimples are the acupressure points for constipation because they help eliminate the waste out of your system. You can learn those points here: Acupressure Points for Constipation.

Watch the video of Yasko below for more instructions.

Holy Grail: Kat Von D Tattoo Liner

2015-07-13T19:28:00.000-07:00

The Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in "Trooper" is THE ultimate black eyeliner!!! It is my latest holy grail, and I am never looking back. It is applies blacker than black, and with serious precision. I have shaky hands, so I prefer eyeliner pens with felt tips. I have tried almost all the drugstore eyeliner pens -- NYX's Super Fat Eye Marker is nice at first, but doesn't deliver opaque black ink, and the pen itself dries up quickly.

Rimmel's ScandalEyes Micro Eye Liner comes super close as a drugstore dupe because it has a thin and precise felt tip, but it falls short in delivering an opaque and fluid on the first run. I have to go over my line a few times to get a suitable opaque line -- not a big deal by any means, but the KVD conquers a dark opaque line in one stroke. I must admit, though, that ScandalEyes is a great beginner's eyeliner not only because it is waterproof and so affordable, but the tip is a little more stiff and allows for more control. I think my ScandalEyes trained me properly, and now I can use my Tattoo Liner with ease and skill. So, if you want to practice a bit before splurging on KVD, which retails for $19, definitely pick up ScandalEyes Micro Eye LIner for $5.99.

I am so in love with KVD's Tattoo Liner's extremely pointy, yet flexible felt tip. It delivers a dark black ink in a steady fluid line. With a flick of the wrist, I got my cateye on, and once it's on, it's not moving, hence, the name -- TATTOO liner! With other eyeliners, I can usually do a quick wipe with my finger to remove any unwanted flicks, but with my Tattoo Liner I can't clean up without a brush dipped in micellar water or concealer. This is great news for me though because now I don't need to worry when I accidentally blink or sneeze mid-application.

You NEED this eyeliner in your life. Also, come in brown, if you want a more natural look!

Thank me later :)

Drugstore Contour: Covergirl TruBlend's FIXSTICK in D-5-7 vs. Maybelline FIT ME Foundation Stick in 'Coconut'

2015-07-09T20:42:00.000-07:00

Don't you love finding treasures in the drugstore! I mean why pay $$$ when you can pay $? My latest drugstore discoveries have been contouring tools – Covergirl's TruBlend Concealer Stick in D-5-7, the darkest shade; and Maybelline's FITME Foundation Stick in Coconut, also the darkest shade. Before I go on to compare and contrast the two, I wanted to let you all know that my complexion would be considered light-medium to medium with yellow undertones.

Covergirl's FixStick Concealer Stick in D-5-7

I picked up this CoverGirl's TruBlend FIXSTICK Concealer Stick after deciding that it was a tad darker, and thus, probably better for contouring, than the L'Oréal True Match Super-Blendable Crayon Concealer in Medium-Deep Neutral.

Neutral Contour Shade. The FIXSTICK turns out to be a great contouring tool. It truly is a neutral brown compared to the Maybelline FITME. It blends easily with my ELF Small Stipple Brush. I love how natural it applies, all the while being super effective at making my face look more sculpted.

Easy Placement. FIXSTICK's crayon shape makes it super easy to place the contour lines where you need to – it is practically fail proof.

The FIXSTICK in D-5-7 works great for my light-medium complexion, but it may not work so well for extremely fair or deeper complexions. FIXSTICK only offers 3 deeper shades, and so, if you can not find a good contour shade, two or three shades darker than your foundation shade, then check out Maybelline's FITME Foundation stick...

Maybelline's FIT ME Shine-free Foundation Stick in Coconut

Large Shade Range: Those with extremely fair complexion might have an easier time finding an appropriate contouring shade in the Maybelline FIT ME range.

Creamy & Super-blendable. Although, Maybelline's FITME Foundation stick in 'Coconut' is slightly warm compared to FIXSTICK in D-5-7, but its formula is super creamy and easier to blend out than FIXSTICK, so this might be a better option for beginners.

Both of these are great drugstore contour tools for my light-medium skintone. It is difficult to decide which one is better, but I have been reaching more for the Covergirl TruBlend FIXSTICK because it is a tad darker and more neutral than Maybelline's FIT ME, although only ever so slightly. I may reach more for the Maybelline once Winter comes.

Do you use any drugstore contouring products? What's your favorite?

Holy Grail -- Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30

2015-07-04T14:32:00.003-07:00

If you follow me on Instagram, then you will know how obsessed I have been with Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30 in St. Mortiz. It has been on my face 95% of the time since I purchased it online from Sephora a month ago.

What I Love.

No Side Affects. When I was experiencing weekly breakouts on my chin, I avoided layering my face with anything unnecessary, and so that meant no foundation, bb cream, etc., unless it was an extremely special occasion (2-4 times a month max). Recently, when I started experiencing less breakouts, I wanted to venture into the something that would quickly and easily provide an even base all the while maintaining my no make-up makeup look.

Super Pigmented Radiance! Most of the time, tinted moisturizers provide light coverage, but this Nars Tinted Moisturizer provides great buildable light to medium dewy coverage, which is so perfect for summer. It evens out my complexion without making it look like I have anything on. I love how it minimizes the redness around my nose and chin where I have a great deal of acne scars. It has been my go-to summer base, after I apply a moisturizing serum (my favorite right now is Tula Probioitic Technology - review to come). After I apply, my skin is left looking evened-out, dewy, but still natural.

Feather-weight! The Nars Tinted Moisturizer formula feels super light weight -- almost undetectable. I have been using it in place of my regular daytime SPF moisturizer, 3LAB SPF 50 (but still use for my neck). It feels even lighten than a sunblock. I like how it dries somewhat and can be worn without a powder when I am in a rush. If I have time, I like to set my T-zone, and my undereyes, especially, if I highlight with concealer.

Travel-size. I do not have many opportunities to shop in-store, so I was very grateful that Nars sells a travel-size in their St. Mortiz shade, which just so happened to be my shade (medium with a yellow undertone). I am not sure if the Nars storefronts sell other shades in travel size, but they are super convenient! I hypothesize that come winter, I will have to switch to a lighter shade, but at least I know I will use up all of this St. Moritz shade that matches my summer complexion.

Reasonable Price. I bought the .58oz travel size for $16, and the 1.9 oz retails for $43. I think once Fall hits, I will spring for the larger size in a lighter shade.

This was my first Nars purchase ever, and I am definitely a fan. I can't wait to try more like their new Luminous foundation.

What's your favorite tinted moisturizer?

Beautiful Heels Without the Pain

2015-07-03T22:36:00.000-07:00

Before I had kids, I was wearing 5 inch heels everyday. Now that I am a mom, I care more about the comfort factor because I am running around all day long. I first learned of Julie Lopez shoes through Instagram. I was flipping through my feed, when I came across those beautiful snake print pumps pictured above. The caption read "Beautiful Heels Without the Pain". I commented on how pretty the snake print was, and then Julie Lopez reached out and offered to let me test out their beautiful made-in-Italy leather shoes.

Unfortunately, my feet are too small, and at this time, Julie Lopez does not offer my 4.5 wide shoe size. Luckily, my best mom friend/cousin, Nicole, wears a size that Julie Lopez offers. Nicole was the first person to come to mind when I needed a shoe model because she has worked with high-end shoe labels in the past, and so she knows what to look for when judging shoe quality.

My muse, Nicole, is a young mom like me with two little boys -- a toddler and new infant. As a mom, she spends a lot of time on her feet, both chasing the boys, and also at work. She decided on the Josie flats pictured above. Here's some screenshots of us talking about how much she liked her 'Josie' Flats:

The Julie Lopez F-I-T:
Julie Lopez shoes are made from "premium Italian leathers that are hand-selected for all components of the footwear to provide the best combination of flexibility and support". The shoes are designed with a wider toe box, and "a combination of side vents and elastane-backed leather to enable the foot to breathe and the vamp to stretch in problem areas" aka where women often develop bunions. The heel styles also have extra padding in the forefoot area. All the shoes have non-slip pads on the soles, too!

All in all, Nicole thought the shoes were "like buttah" and liked Julie Lopez' styles compared to other comfort-based shoe brands like Taryn Rose. She thinks they run a little small - so, I suggest ordering half a size up.

We both agree, that working women would appreciate that Julie Lopez offers comfortable, office appropriate footwear. A good pair of work flats and pumps are staples in every woman's closet. I am obsessed with the snake prints -- super cute and super versatile! I hope Julie Lopez will expand to smaller sizes, too, because I definitely need a pair of their pumps, and boots, too!

Acne Fighter I Never Saw Coming

2015-06-25T19:33:00.003-07:00

At this very moment, my adult acne is under control. It feels strange to say because I never thought I would get here. I am almost nervous to post this article because I do not want to jinx myself.

A year ago, I started this blog to document my progress with prescription retinol aka adapalene. As I write this post, I find myself slightly irritated with my ex-dermatologist. Looking back, maybe she did not like me...and in prescribing me adapalene she knew that it would NOT cure my adult acne, but actually make my skin worse. My hypothesis that my dermatologist prescribed me adapalene in malice is further bolstered by the fact that she wrote me the prescription, and failed to give me any instruction on how much and how often to apply. If you look back to my post, "What I Wish My Dermatologist Told Me"..., you will see that, in extreme desperation, I slathered it all over my postpartum, acne plagued face, causing my skin to become even more irritated, red, dry, and still plagued with cystic acne. Until recently....

After a long and unstable year, I have finally thrown in the towel, and have forsaken prescription retinol. Why? Well, after 6+ months with my esthetician, 90% of the time while on adapalene, my last visit was the first time she complimented me on the softness and clarity of my skin -- I was only a month into using the Exuviance by Neostrata system.

I won Exuviance's Evening Restorative Complex in the #sleeponit Twitter giveaway. Exuviance was kind enough to send the Complex along with a travel-size Purifying Cleansing Gel, and sample size of the daily moisturizer.

At first glance of the packaging, I did not think much of Exuviance's capabilities. Honestly, the Exuviance packaging/labeling reminds me of generic skincare systems sold in a dermatologists' office or day spa. You know, where the dermatologist or day spa partners with some skincare distributor, and then, they just put their own customized label on it and sell it. I have bought those skincare sets before and have not been impressed. I was also hesitant to try the Restorative Complex because I was still on my retinol regimen at night, and it is not suggested to mix a retinoid with other chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs (the Restorative Cream uses AHAs and PHAs).

I finally decided to try the Restorative Complex after doing a little research and discovering that it was packed with AHAs and PHAs. (PHAs are the modern-day AHAs, but are supposed to work better with sensitive skin types and cause less adverse reactions.) You only need a pea-sized amount for your entire face each night, so the bottle will last a while. It is lightly fragranced, but does not linger. There's no tingly either. It feels like a light moisturizer that dried within 5 minutes.

If you have dry skin, you can layer another moisturizer over.

I enjoy the gentle yet effective gel cleanser, too. It is pretty concentrated because I find that a little goes a long way. You only need half a pea-size to clean your entire face. Using it twice a day for the past couple months, I have not even made it past halfway of the travel size bottle. It's not stripping or drying, but still includes the benefits of AHAs and PHAs.

The daily moisturizer is also really nice, but if I had to choose only one to get, I would definitely pick up the Restorative Complex.

I have been using Exuviance's Restorative Complex, daily moisturizer, and gel cleanser for a couple months now. My skin has never look clearer or felt softer. I haven't had any scarring cystic acne breakouts. Even around that time of the month, when I am more prone to acne, pimples that attempt to form are gone by the next day.

Looking back at this past year, I feel that my adult acne is definitely caused by my skin's slowing rate of natural exfoliation -- due to aging (I am almost 30). I am so happy I finally found a chemical exfoliant/system that helps regulate my skin renewal rate.

I've been getting so many compliments on my skin, even from strangers! I tell everyone about Exuviance. I have pulled out my phone a dozen times to show people the spelling. I love how accessible it is, too! Available at Ulta for $48 and on Amazon $38!

P.S. Ulta has gift sets available/gifts with Exuviance purchases every now and then. I would definitely aim to show during those times. That way, you can try the whole system. Highly HIGHLY recommended!!!

Affordable, Completely Customizable and Summer Ready

2015-06-22T21:48:00.002-07:00

Eshakti.com asked me to share some of my favorite pieces from their newly released Bohemian collection. Everything looks super cute, super comfortable, and affordable. I love how eshakti.com allows you to fully customize any piece on their site. If you aren't familiar, read up on my previous post.

Jogger pants are a celeb-favorite (google 'Kendall Jenner at Coachella')! Jogger pants make your butt look great, AND they are comfy and casual, too. They are definitely my summer staple. I am loving these eShakti jogger pants -- don''t they look so airy and fresh -- just in time for summer and music festivals! I am torn on whether I like the loose or cinched leg better. You can customize it to your body shape!

I am also obsessed with cute, versatile shirts. I am especially loovvving the black cutout, but I would customize it to make sure it was long enough for me to tuck the front in my belt/pants. You can score the black cutout for less than $5 using my promo code "MSHEALTHYFACE35" [details below].

Use promo code “MSHEALTHYFACE35” to get $35 off***. Free shipping until 6/24/2015. Enter my code in the 'Gift Coupon / Referral Code' box at checkout. Only one gift coupon can be used in an order. Not valid on previous purchases / purchase of gift cards.This gift coupon cannot be transferred, re-issued or exchanged for cash. Minimum order value $30.

Spotify Premium v. Amazon Prime Music

2015-06-11T21:19:00.001-07:00

Last year, I won a free year of Spotify Premium sponsored through a Spotify Twitter giveaway. It was a sweet, sweet year. I discovered new artists and rediscovered favorite songs. Most importantly, Spotify provided access to my sons' night-night music all ad-free. Nothings more annoying than a commercial waking you're almost asleep toddler. I have subscribed to Pandora Premium in the past specifically for the sleep playlists, but it uses too much data when you're offline. so I decided just to cancel it. Spotify has a large selection of other sleep-inducing music, all ad-free thanks to the Premium service. Now that my free year of Spotify Premium is over I can't use it to put my kids to sleep. I also miss listening to lists and lists of music offline, not wasting data. As much as Spotify Premium had become part of my driving ritual, I am hesitant to sign up for the $9.99/month premium plan. Luckily, around the time my free subscription ended, I learned about Amazon Prime Music.

Amazon Prime Music is a similar service to Spotify, but you must be an Amazon Prime subscriber, which is $99.00 per a year. As an Amazon Prime member you also get free 2-day shipping (sometimes same-day depending on the item), Prime Instant Video, and Prime Photo (cloud storage). I am an Amazon addict, and have become even more so since I had kids. So, I subscribed to Amazon Mom and I buy all sorts of stuff -- I get baby stuff, makeup, skincare, clothes, shoes, etc., So, I was stoked to take advantage of my Amazon Prime subscription Offline Playlists.

Both have OFFLINE capability.
Amazon Prime and Spotify Premium both allow subscribers to listen to previously downloaded songs/playlists offline, meaning no wireless data is being used up. HypeM and Soundcloud, my other favorite music apps, do not offer offline listening, but I really wish they did!

Amazon Prime Music Offers Large Variety of Censored/Clean Music
Please tell me I am not the only mom who play's hip-hop in the car... I cannot listen to half the music I listened to before motherhood. Amazon Prime Music offers a lot of “CLEAN” aka censored music. For example, there is a censored version Outkast's Atliens and Aquemini. Amazon Prime Music is great for parents who want to listen to music without exposing their kids to vulgarity. I can't with the Barney and KidsPop, seriously.

Spotify Wins For Variety
Spotify has a larger variety of music, both popular and obscure genres. 90% of the time, if you think of it, you can find it on Spotify. For example, Spotify streams everything from Sade to Nicki Minaj, all in full album form (sometimes both regular and deluxe editions). Spotify also has a variety of less heard of good music like from Tristeza, Mum, Devendra Banhart, Anticon, G-Eazy, Dj Shadow, Handsomeboy Modeling School... But, Amazon Prime does have Aaliyah's Age Ain't Nothin But a Numba album and Spotify doesn', 2pac, Outkast, and enough for me to be happy in the car.

In the end, each service carries a different variety of music, so depending on your taste, maybe one service is better for you than the other. In my eyes –- actually, ears, both are really great music services. If you have Amazon Prime, Amazon Prime Music offers a good variety and may satisfy your musical appetite, and for me, right now, I am satisfied with listening to CLEAN versions of Wu-Tang, and 2Pac. However, if you are more of a audiophile, then maybe think about splurging on the Spotify. Students get 50% off, too!

I hope this was helpful! Do you subscribe to any music service? What's your favorite?

Obsessed: Moroccan Oil Dry Shampoo

2015-05-25T01:06:00.000-07:00

Twitter parties are my thanggg! As a SAHM, I am socially isolated. I have learned to accept, more precisely, depend on my computer and cell phone to get me through the day. If I can't go out and party with people, at least I can do it at home, and I get to talk about my favorite things....beauty products, clothes.... PLUS, I have won lots of amazing beauty products by just chatting with random beauty brands. Recently, I tweeted at the Moroccan Oil Twitter party celebrating the launch of the Moroccan Oil Dry Shampoo in the UK. Moroccan Oil so kindly sent me their first dry shampoo, which turns out it is an argan-infused heaven in a bottle.

It smells sooooo good, like a light vanilla and hint of argan's nuttiness, and lingers throughout the day...Ughhh soooo good. ::droolinggg:: I have tried every single drugstore dry shampoo - not going to name any names, but I have not been satisfied with either the blendability, oil reduction, smell, texture. etc. of any single one.

I love that it has argan oil, so I know not only are my oily roots being attended to, my hair is getting nourished at the same time! You know how those other dry shampoos feel like hairspray, and you wonder, 'Is this good for me?'.... Well, this one is!

The key ingredients to Moroccan Oil's dry shampoo is rice starch and, of course, argan oil. It comes in two varieties -- a Light tones, and Dark tones. I was sent the light tones on accident, but the rice starch is ultra-fine and blended into my hair easily. The Light Tones formula contains subtle violet undertones to help balance brassiness and bring out the best in light tones.

I like to apply dry shampoo in sections: first, down my natural part, then ever two or three inches until I cover my whole crown making sure to cover the base of my crown, then, right under that bump on the back of my head. I also really try to spray the bottle 5-6 inches away from my head per the directions. Then, I massage everything into my scalp like I am actually lathering in the shower. Then I brush it through. No white residue, or oil, and smells amazing. I am obsessed!!

Lastly, I love how affordable the dry shampoo -- $10.50!! It is also available in travel sizes, so you can take it on the go! Available via moroccanoil.com, and hopefully soon at the secret mom clubhouses, aka Target and CVS!

What's your holy grail dry shampoo?

Alba Botanica 5-Minute Papaya Enzyme Facial

2015-05-25T00:59:00.002-07:00

Since I have sworn off exfoliating scrubs a la Lisa Eldridge, my skin has been looking a bit dull. Earlier today, I had a small window for a quick pick me up. The boys had just gone down for their nap. I had 30 minutes to mask, shower, and get ready. To be honest, this Alba Botanica Hawaiian face mask has been sitting in my medicine cabinet for a minute. I was skeptical about it when Health Designs sent it to me a few months ago. The first time I read the directions, "Apply for 5 minutes", I shrugged it off....and I am so sad I waited this long....

So, I grabbed this 5-minute Alba Botanica Papaya Enzyme mask and hoped for the best.... It is legit. Serious. So, here's what I did...

First, I cleaned my face with a cotton-ball and Simple's Cleansing Micellar Water, my newest love. Then, I applied the papaya enzyme mask. It's cold, gooey, and green. It tingles when you apply it. After 5 minutes, I rinsed it off in the shower with luke-warm water. My skin felt smoother and brighter! Then, I toned my wet face fresh out of the shower.

This mask is hypo-allergenic, pH Balanced, and has 100% Vegetarian Ingredients. No: Animal Testing, Artificial Colors, Parabens, Phthalates, Sodium Lauryl / Laureth Sulfate or Sodium Methyl Sulfate.

Thank me later! hehehe...

Ingredients:Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Certified Organic Ingredient), Glycerin, Protease, Algin, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Polysorbate 20, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Zingiber Zerumbet Extract, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Limonene, Fragrance, Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex (CI 75810)

Mother's Day Gift Ideas...on Fleek.

2015-04-23T11:28:00.002-07:00

LOL! Just kidding. My wish list is pretty awesome, but is it on fleek? Who knows...but, I do know that it's almost Mother's Day! That means it's time to celebrate all the wonderful mothers in your life. There are so many beautiful and inspiring moms right now: Beyonce, Nic Trunfio, Gisele, Nicole Richie, Gwen Stefani, Natalie Portman, Amy Adams, and my ultimate fave, Victoria Beckham...So, remember to get the moms in your life something to help her shine <3 Here's what's on my wishlist:

1. Kat Von D Shade + Light Palette: I know I just got the Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder 'Medium', but I still really want the Kat Von D Shade + Light contour palette. It works with many skin tones and it's just so pretty! I really want to try Lyric, the banana/highlight color, and Sombre, the taupe. $40 at Sephora.

2. Sunday Riley 'Good Genes': Sunday Riley is a cult brand and 'Good Genese' is a cult favorite. It has lactic acid, an AHA exfoliant, and works to even out skin tone (hyper-pigmentation) and diminishes fine lines. Lactic acid is considered to be one of the gentlest acid. $105 at Barneys.

3. Foreo Luna 'Sensitive Skin': I have heard amazing things about the Foreo! I have sworn off exfoliants with beads or rough particles, a la Lisa Eldridge, and so I have been wanting to use this for my deep cleanings. This is on the top of my wishlist. It's not too expensive, and as a gift, your recipient will not need to purchase any parts to use it in the future. $199 at Neiman Marcus.

4. Victoria Beckham Mirror Aviators: Not much to say about these! They are gorgeous and speak for themselves. Aviators are always in style and compliments many face shapes. $550 at shopbop.com.

5. Stuart Weitzman 'Sparta' Gladiator Sandal: These lace-up gladiators are everything! I love the tan color. I always try to wear nude or tan shoes to make myself look taller... Stuart Weitzman is one of my favorite brands because they are always comfortable, and they make my exact size 4.5w. $498 at Neiman Marcus.

6. Balenciaga Giant 12 City 'Gold': The Giant 12 has been on my handbag bucket list since forever. I have the Classic Weekender, which is perfect for the office and meetings, but I want something smaller and with a cross-body option for everyday. I love Balenciaga's leather, too! It holds up well, and any distress adds to the softness and character of the leather. Loveeeeee b-bags <3 <3 <3 $1985 at Balenciaga.

What are you wishing for this Mother's Day? What are you going to get for your mom/sister/friends?

Brand Review: Dermesse's Anti-Puffiness Eye Cream & Acne Drying Lotion

2015-04-21T18:25:00.001-07:00

My absolute favorite part about being a "blogger", besides the chance to write and take pictures, is that I get introduced to brands I never knew about, and then I get to share them with you. <3 Recently, I was introduced to Dermesse.

Dermesse offers a full range skin care system: acne treatments, anti-aging formulas, eye care, sun protection, moisturizers, toners, lightners, and cleansers. I was stoked to receive the Optimize Eye Cream and Drying Lotion as full-size press samples.

Dermesse Optimize Eye Cream
This eyecream brings me life <3 I loveeeee this eye cream because of its hydrating and puffiness-reducing properties. As you may know, the best way to achieve a creaseless undereye is to start off with a hydrated base (per Wayne Goss).

The Optimize Eye Cream is the perfect consistency because it does not vanish upon application, but absorbs enough into the undereye skin while still leaving a thin layer of hydrated, primed, and soft skin. It makes my skin feel like butter. I find some eye creams are too thick and make it difficult to apply concealer on top. While other eye creams are too thin, and soak into my skin too quickly, leaving no hydrating layer behind. This one is right in the middle.

On top of hydrating, the Optimize Eye Cream treats the cause of puffy eyes (dermatochalasis) with the main active ingredient "Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5". Acetyl tetrapeptide-5 has been shown to fight water retention, and enhance skin elasticity and smoothness.

Optimize is part of my morning and evening skincare routine. I apply it first thing after applying my serum, but before my facial moisturizer. To apply, I pump about half a pea-size onto my ring finger, and massage the cream between my two ring fingers to warm it up. Then, I gently pat the solution to my undereyes and on the sides of my nose. Honestly, I love the texture so much I want to spread it all over my face, but I know it would be a waste product.

On top of hydrating and reducing puffiness, I love how the Optimize eye cream is fragrance free. It has also become my go-to eye cream because it does not cause my eyes to sting or water.

Dermesse Drying Lotion
As a victim of acne, I was excited to receive their drying lotion. It looks identical to Mario Badescu's Drying Lotion because both come in little glass bottles and both the solutions are pink. Also, both solutions contain sulfur, salicyclic acid, camphor and zinc. However, Mario Badescu's also contains alcohol, water, calamine, resorcinol, titanium dioxide, talc, and glycerin.

I try to avoid alcohol in my skincare, and so, I enjoy the fact that Dermesse contains only sulfur, salicyclic acid, camphor, and zinc. My skin absolutely loves sulfur and this drying lotion has 10% sulfur. I have been using a prescription facewash with 10% sulfur and it really helps my acne when it's bad.

My acne responds quite well to this drying lotion. It calms and speeds up the exfoliating process of any current breakouts. It also helps any upcoming bumps to dry out.

To apply: shake the bottle up, dip a Q-tip inside, and then dot on the necessary spots. In the morning, wash your face as usual. This is a great overnight remedy when you need a quick fix and can't run to your dermatologist to get a cortisone shot.

You can find the Optimize Eye Cream and Drying Lotion at www.dermesse.com.

What's your favorite not-so-famous beauty brand?

Ingredients:
Optimize Eye Cream: Gorgonian Extract (Sea Whip), Yeast Extract, Squalane, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Placental Enzymes, Bisabolol, Vitamin E, Deionized Water, Mineral Oil (Pharmaceutical grade), Decyl Oleate, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerine, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-40 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, PEG-100 Stearate, Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, PEG 75M, Disodium EDTA.

Dermesse Drying Lotion :
10% sulfur, 2% Salicylic Acid, Camphor and zinc.

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion:

Isopropyl Alcohol, Aqua (Water,Eau), Calamine, Camphor,Sulfur, Resorcinol, Salicylic Acid, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Talc,Glycerin.

Must Have: Beauty Junkees' Affordable, & Still Amazing Angled Kabuki Brush

2015-04-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

I first learned about Beauty Junkees from one of my fave VLoggers, Saaammage. Sam is my go-to girl when I am trying to look for a new foundation because she does amazing foundation reviews, both drugstore and high-end! When reviewing foundations, she applies one side of her face with a brush and the other with a Beauty Blender. In Sam's recent videos, she uses a Beauty Junkees brush.

Once I saw how well the Beauty Junkees brush applied foundation, I knew I had to have it. So I ordered the Angled Kabuki brush from Amazon.com and received my brush within a two days via Amazon Prime (best thing since sliced bread).

After hearing how much I liked it, my mom asked me to order one for her. Then, my mom asked me to order one for my aunt. Then, my aunt asked me to order one for my cousin. Then, my mom asked me to order one for other aunt. In the mean time, my BMFF/cousin/enabler, ordered the Angled Kabuki and loved it so much she ordered more brushes. Needless to say, there is suddenly a whole mess of Vietnamese women currently obsessed with Beauty Junkees.

What I(We) Love.
The matte black handle feels stable and has some weight while not being too heavy. It is a kabuki brush, but the handle isn't really too short at all. For me, it is the perfect everyday size, and I enjoy how it fits perfectly in my brush roll for travel. Also, the handle has the brush type imprinted on it, which I find helpful.

The end of the bristles are usually white. Here, my are a little tinted from using it with my Bobbi Brown foundation.

I love how the bristles are sooooo soft and dense. The pricepoint is so good for this quality!! The brush I ordered is the rounded kabuki, but they also have a flat one, too, that's more comparable to the Sigma F80. Although this is meant to be a blush brush, the dense soft bristles make it versatile for foundation and contour application as well.

I prefer to use this brush to apply my foundation because the rounded edges make it easy to blend around my nose and around my jawline. I love how this brush makes achieving that flawless, airbrushed look so easy. Even my mom's has told me her application looks better blended. I definitely want to try the rest that Beauty Junkees has to offer.

Beauty Junkees also believes in the importance of customer service and offers a 100% money back guarantee on all of their products, no questions asked. So, if you do not like the brush(es), you can return it! I love that. I return beauty products all the time at Target and CVS, and it is great than an online retailer can offer the same.

Visit Beauty Junkees Shop and use promo code "25HEALTH" to get 25% off. It expires 10/31/2016. ** I do not get any sort of payment if you use this code. I just want to help :)

eShakti: Affordable, Customized, and Perfectly Tailored Clothing

2015-04-15T18:02:00.003-07:00

Adult clothes do not always fit me well. I have a petite frame...I'm short, almost 5 feet but not quite, and weigh around 105 lbs. All my jeans have to be tailored, even my leggings (Athleta does free legging alterations, ladies)! I have an especially difficult time finding dresses. Often I can get away with shopping in the girls' section where I am size 14. Of course, kids clothes are a lot more stylish than they used to be so I can get lots of cute clothes for much cheaper than women's clothes at stores like Zara, HM, Nordstroms, Bloomingdales, and Forever 21. So, I thought I had been banished to shop in the kids' section for the rest of my life until..... eShakti.com!

Floral Embellished Organza

eShakti.com reached out to me to customize a garment of my choosing from their website. They have A LOT of stuff! Dresses, skirts, tops, pants, everything..., but the kicker is they can customize any item to fit your unique body. All you have to do is input the measurements, click, click, click and you will get your custom dress or other item within a month! I was impressed with how easy it was to order, and how fast I got my item.

How to Customize Your Order.
First, decide what you want! This is the hardest part because they have a large selection of everything. I looked at about 30 pages of items until I finally decided to strategically think about what I needed in my wardrobe.

I remembered that my husband's birthday was approaching and that I might need something special to wear. I wanted to customize something that was versatile enough that I could get a lot of use out of it for future weddings or dinner parties. I came across a black A-line scuba skirt. It's perfect to wear on any occasion with almost anything -- a crop top, bodysuits, even a t-shirt! I have tried on scuba skirts and dresses at Bloomingdales, but even the smallest sizes were too big and too long or fit awkwardly. Scuba material isn't forgiving and must fit snug in the necessary places in order to avoid looking frumpy.

Second, decide how much you want to customize -- A) standard or B) custom.

A) Standard Size fitting --> If your body is of a "general" proportion and matches the standard sizing (see below) you can choose between XS to 6X. After, choosing your size, click in your height from the drop down menu. Then, decide whether you want to have custom styling (e.g. sleeve type, dress length, neckline) for an added $7.50, which is not bad at all (if you frequent the tailor you know this is super reasonable). Then, the fourth and final step, you have the free option (if applicable) to choose pockets or not.


Standard Size Panel

B) Custom Size fitting --> You to need get accurate measurements. To do this, you will need: 1) measuring tape, and 2) a friend! As you can see below, the required measurements are requested and all you have to do is measure and choose the corresponding inches from the drop down menu.

Essentially, the Custom Size panel and the Standard Size panel's step 2, 3 and 4 are the same. So the only real difference between the standard size panel and the custom size panel are the size measurements. It's really quite easy and straight-forward.

Custom Size Panel

Taking measurements seems a little daunting, but you will only have to do it once because eShakti keeps your measurement on file for future orders! Also, next to each of the required fields is a question mark. Once clicked, the a window will pop up showing you how to measure the area.

Super helpful pictures!

What I Loved.
First, the ease of ordering and speed of delivery was on point. I received my skirt in one week! Second, I loved the variety of dresses. Third, most of the skirts and dresses have POCKETS! Yes, pockets are crucial as a mom, as a woman, right?

This will be new go-to site when I am looking for a dress either for summer or a special event. I know I will get my item on time because you get a tracking number, and I know it will fit me like a glove.

eShakti.com is great for women of all sizes and frames because they have so many styles of dresses from pin-up type dresses to maxi dresses. If you are attending a wedding during this summer season, there are so many guest appropriate dresses. Or if you are planning a wedding and want all your bridesmaid to be matching, but they are all different sizes or frames, eShakti is a really affordable option compared to JCrew or other stores that have semi-formal dresses.

Use coupon code "mshealthyface" to get 10% OFF till May 2, 2015.

Where's your favorite place to shop for dresses?

My New Babies! -- Real Techniques Special Edition Sculpting Set

2015-04-02T15:17:00.000-07:00

How pretty are my new Real Technique brushes!!! I am so in love, guys! These are my first Real Techniques anything, and I know they won't be the last...(on my list - Expert Face Brush, their beauty sponge, the concealer brush, etc.). They are synthetic but, super soft, dense, and fluffy!

The set comes with the three brushes, pictured above from top to bottom:

Setting Brush
Sculpting Brush
Fan Brush

The whole set is great value (retails for $19.99) because when you buy the brushes separately the Sculpting Brush retails for $9.99, and the Setting Brush $7.99. Additionally, the Fan Brush isn't available separately. I got the whole set shipped to me from Ulta.com for $19.xx. I used the $3.50 of $10 coupon, so I pretty much got free shipping, plus the free skincare samples. I know I could have gotten a better deal if I had purchased them in-store, but when I went to the Ulta, at the Irvine District, they did not have it in stock. Plus, by ordering online, I got the skincare sample set that had a Hado Labo serum, and a makeup product, Benefit Porefessional (which I have also wanted to try)! We love samples!

I can not wait to use them, but I am...because a beautiful sculpting tool needs a beautiful sculpting product...right?

Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder in Medium

My most recent obsession is Kevyn Aucoin's Sculpting Powder. Ever since I became aware of the stark difference between contouring and bronzing, I can not imagine contouring with any other product.


Bronzer v. Contour Placement	.

There really is no other contouring product comparable to the Kevyn Aucoin. I've seen all the swatches and no other contouring cream or powder offers a dupe of KA's beautiful matte brown that boasts absolutely no hint of orange.

I can not stop thinking about this contour shade that really mimics a shadow. Even when I lie in the dark next to my boys when I put them to sleep, that little .11 oz compact is all I can think about. You know what they say, "if you can't stop thinking about it, Buy IT". So I did.... >.<

The next two days are going to be hell....oh Amazon prime...you are a double-edged sword -- faster than 5 days, but slower than...NOW.

What's in your desires of desires?

Shop the Post:

Kevyn Aucoin, Sculpting Powder, in Medium available for $44 at Nordstroms, Sephora, Bergdorf Goodman, Barney's, and Amazon.

Real Techniques Sculpting Kit available for $19.99 at Ulta.com, and RealTechniques.com

Ingredients - Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder, Medium, .11 oz
Talc, Polyethylene, Nylon-12, PTFE, Phenyl Trimethicone, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Manganese Violet CI 77742, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Iron Oxides (CI 77499).

New Found Fave: Alba Botanica's (less toxic...but) Very Emollient Foam Shave

2015-03-29T18:08:00.002-07:00

I had never used an aerosol-free shaving cream...have you? Well, that is why I was so stoked when Alba Botanica's Very Emollient Shaving Foam was sent to me from healthdesigns.com (they carry almost the entire Alba Botanica line) because I am never going back to Gillette shaving foam/cream/gel, etc.!

Gillette SatinCare shaving cream contains TEA as the third ingredient.

What I Love...
It does not contain Triethanolamine (TEA). TEA is often found in foam products, including shave creams and gels. They have been linked with hormone disruption, and can form cancer-causing nitrates and nitrosamines (that's a deal breaker for me).

The bottle is made out of plastic... which is great for 1) recycling and 2) rust-proof (If you can see, there is rust on the Gillette SatinCare bottle (ewwwwwwwww)!

It contains nourishing ingredients.... This hypo-allergenic foam shave is great for normal to dry-skin people. I am loving the moisturising benefits of the foam shave because it contains aloe and vitamin E (tocopherol).

No parabens or other ickys! I also love that Alba Botanica uses 100% Vegetarian Ingredients, and are free of: artificial colors, parabens, phthalates, Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate or Sodium Myreth Sulfate. They are also cruelty free company!

It's unisex! My husband reluctantly will try out things I throw in front of him ("Baby, it's good for you! It doesn't have chems!") and the Alba Botanica Foam Shave was one the times he was willing to be adventurous. One of the reasons he was willing to try it was the scent. It does not smell flowery or girly, it kind of smells ever so slightly masculine, but I don't mind because, well, hey, I use his razors, too! Lol. My husband enjoyed the Alba foam shave -- enough to mention it to me. I catch him using it instead being lazy and opting to forego any cream e.g. using the gel strip on the razor to lubricate his shave. So this is a great product for both men and women to share -- no need to buy his and her's separate shaving creams!

What I Would Change...

The packaging could be better....I love that the bottle is a pump, but I wish the base was larger or wider -- allowing for a sturdier grip on my bathtub wall. When you have one leg propped on the side of your tub, one hand holding your razor, and the other hand trying to help maintain balance ..... pumping up some shaving lotion can get tricky.

I also would love to see a scent-free version!

All-in-all, a really great product from Alba Botanica, and a really great alternative to the mainstream shaving lotions available out there.

What are you guys using to shave?

To Purchase: Available at Sprouts, on albabotanica.com for $7.99, or healthdesigns.com for $5.79 (use promo code 'mshealthyface' for $5 off! )

Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (1), Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract (1), Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (1), Citric Acid, Glycerin, Menthol, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Limonene, Linalool, Fragrance (Parfum).