Clarisonic








Hello and happy Wednesday!  I've recently received many requests for the best beauty buys at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.  Nothing could make me happier of course as beauty is one of my favorite departments and always so much fun got shop.  Today I'm answering that with this post featuring my top picks in beauty all on sale now at the Nord's bonanza.  One great place to start with beauty (even if you're not into lotions, potions and age-reversing devices) is with this anti-aging pure silk pillowcase.  We all sleep so might as well make it work for you.  The smooth silk fibers are super easy on your hair and keep you from the perils of bedhead and split ends.  They also leave you without any pillow wrinkles when you awake (that alone is worth the price of admission, ha!).  Most importantly to me, these pillowcases are far less absorbent than the standard cotton version so they won't drink up all your luscious night cream because that is your face's job!  That said, get the cases and you'll thank me in the morning :).  I'm also a huge fan of at home devices that care for your skin and take years off your face.  With the amount of growth and development the beauty industry has seen in recent years, these hand held treatments can pretty much give you the kind of results that were once only available by appointment and doing it for a fraction of the cost.  My personal favorite is the   NuFace.  This micro-current device works the muscles on your face while stimulating the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is essentially energy for your cells.  From there comes the much craved increase in firmness, tissue repair and circulation all of which equal a youthful, gorgeous radiant glow!  It's currently more than $100 off as long as the sale (and supplies) last.  I say give it a try your skin will thank me in the months to come.  Lastly, this handheld hero has been a part of my daily routine since last year's Nsale and I can tell you my complexion has never been this clear, toned and well-cared for.  The Foreo LUNA 2 has made such a difference in my skin and how gently cleansed it is.  Great skin begins with a clean canvas and this device gets rid of dirt, debris and pore-clogging potentials without disturbing the skin's surface or causing micros coping tears in the dermis.  Needless to say...I love it!  

I could go on for days about every item I adore and why but that would take a while, haha.  So I figured you know your skin and beauty needs best and can have fun checking out all the items I've linked for you below.  I hope you're enjoying this incredible sale as much as I am.  Here's to a lovely day of beauty!







xx,

~K




















Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Beauty









Hello and happy Wednesday!  I've recently received many requests for the best beauty buys at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale.  Nothing could make me happier of course as beauty is one of my favorite departments and always so much fun got shop.  Today I'm answering that with this post featuring my top picks in beauty all on sale now at the Nord's bonanza.  One great place to start with beauty (even if you're not into lotions, potions and age-reversing devices) is with this anti-aging pure silk pillowcase.  We all sleep so might as well make it work for you.  The smooth silk fibers are super easy on your hair and keep you from the perils of bedhead and split ends.  They also leave you without any pillow wrinkles when you awake (that alone is worth the price of admission, ha!).  Most importantly to me, these pillowcases are far less absorbent than the standard cotton version so they won't drink up all your luscious night cream because that is your face's job!  That said, get the cases and you'll thank me in the morning :).  I'm also a huge fan of at home devices that care for your skin and take years off your face.  With the amount of growth and development the beauty industry has seen in recent years, these hand held treatments can pretty much give you the kind of results that were once only available by appointment and doing it for a fraction of the cost.  My personal favorite is the   NuFace.  This micro-current device works the muscles on your face while stimulating the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is essentially energy for your cells.  From there comes the much craved increase in firmness, tissue repair and circulation all of which equal a youthful, gorgeous radiant glow!  It's currently more than $100 off as long as the sale (and supplies) last.  I say give it a try your skin will thank me in the months to come.  Lastly, this handheld hero has been a part of my daily routine since last year's Nsale and I can tell you my complexion has never been this clear, toned and well-cared for.  The Foreo LUNA 2 has made such a difference in my skin and how gently cleansed it is.  Great skin begins with a clean canvas and this device gets rid of dirt, debris and pore-clogging potentials without disturbing the skin's surface or causing micros coping tears in the dermis.  Needless to say...I love it!  

I could go on for days about every item I adore and why but that would take a while, haha.  So I figured you know your skin and beauty needs best and can have fun checking out all the items I've linked for you below.  I hope you're enjoying this incredible sale as much as I am.  Here's to a lovely day of beauty!







xx,

~K























Happy Friday loves!  Spring is definitely in the air and that means a major refresh of the beauty closet.  Today I'm sharing my latest beauty loves that are everything your hair and skin crave during these warmer, sun-filled months ahead.  First in any beauty regime is cleansing your skin in the most thorough yet gentlest way possible.  The latest tech gadget that's caught my eye is the Foreo Luna. This handheld cleansing device, much like the Clarisonic before it, rids your face of any and all makeup, debris and pollutants of the day as it sweeps the pores clean and makes way for the more efficient absorption of all your beauty routine products.  But happily, the benefits don't stop there.  The Foreo also has an anti-aging mode that uses direct lower-frequency pulsations that, when applied to wrinkle-prone areas, reduces visibility of fine lines and wrinkles and brings you firmer-looking skin.  Now that's what I call workin' for ya!  Sunscreen is also something that, if you don't already use faithfully (aka daily), you need to make a part of your everyday face routine.  Sun exposure (not just the kind you get from a day at the beach but the type you get driving in your car or sitting at your desk) is one of the biggest factors toward premature aging. Keep your skin smooth and youthful with a great physical block like this one from Kate Somerville.  Hair needs UV protection too and nobody does it better than Phyto.  Don't go out without it!  Soft colors (like these from Essie) and rosy lips and cheeks (a la Bobbi Brown's pot rogue) say springtime pretty.  Oh and one more thing I just cannot forget to mention is THIS scrub by Peter Thomas Roth.  Rich in enzymes and natural dead skin slougher this peeling gel exfoliant is the absolute best one I have ever tried and I've tried a lot!!  Please don't miss it…your baby bottom skin will thank you!  My other spring beauty must-haves are all linked below and are more than worth a try.  Hope you enjoy them half as much as me!

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Spring Beauty Faves




Happy Friday loves!  Spring is definitely in the air and that means a major refresh of the beauty closet.  Today I'm sharing my latest beauty loves that are everything your hair and skin crave during these warmer, sun-filled months ahead.  First in any beauty regime is cleansing your skin in the most thorough yet gentlest way possible.  The latest tech gadget that's caught my eye is the Foreo Luna. This handheld cleansing device, much like the Clarisonic before it, rids your face of any and all makeup, debris and pollutants of the day as it sweeps the pores clean and makes way for the more efficient absorption of all your beauty routine products.  But happily, the benefits don't stop there.  The Foreo also has an anti-aging mode that uses direct lower-frequency pulsations that, when applied to wrinkle-prone areas, reduces visibility of fine lines and wrinkles and brings you firmer-looking skin.  Now that's what I call workin' for ya!  Sunscreen is also something that, if you don't already use faithfully (aka daily), you need to make a part of your everyday face routine.  Sun exposure (not just the kind you get from a day at the beach but the type you get driving in your car or sitting at your desk) is one of the biggest factors toward premature aging. Keep your skin smooth and youthful with a great physical block like this one from Kate Somerville.  Hair needs UV protection too and nobody does it better than Phyto.  Don't go out without it!  Soft colors (like these from Essie) and rosy lips and cheeks (a la Bobbi Brown's pot rogue) say springtime pretty.  Oh and one more thing I just cannot forget to mention is THIS scrub by Peter Thomas Roth.  Rich in enzymes and natural dead skin slougher this peeling gel exfoliant is the absolute best one I have ever tried and I've tried a lot!!  Please don't miss it…your baby bottom skin will thank you!  My other spring beauty must-haves are all linked below and are more than worth a try.  Hope you enjoy them half as much as me!

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We all have our favorites in life and today I'm sharing a few of mine from the beauty closet.  From toes to lips, there's always something new in beauty to love and covet.  With so many truly incredible lines to choose from,  it's sometimes hard to find the one to fall in love with.  For me, that one right now is Dr. Dennis Gross and his innovative line of ferulic + retinol.  This powerhouse duo is so potent and efficacious that I can say I saw the desired improvements it claimed in as little as a couple of days.  Radiance and clarity were among two of the most noticeable and along with that, my skin was instantly softer, firmer, plumper and more supple.  Who couldn't love that?  This brightening enzyme water cream is the perfect drink of moisture for post-winter fatigued skin.  I'm also obsessing over all things coconut right now.  This body polish and this coconut milk honey bath are skin smoothers and soothers and oh-so-addicting.  And of course, don't forget your hands…this Ahava mineral hand cream will keep yours pretty and smooth and ready for your spring rings.  Here's to a beautiful Monday!

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Skincare Loves



We all have our favorites in life and today I'm sharing a few of mine from the beauty closet.  From toes to lips, there's always something new in beauty to love and covet.  With so many truly incredible lines to choose from,  it's sometimes hard to find the one to fall in love with.  For me, that one right now is Dr. Dennis Gross and his innovative line of ferulic + retinol.  This powerhouse duo is so potent and efficacious that I can say I saw the desired improvements it claimed in as little as a couple of days.  Radiance and clarity were among two of the most noticeable and along with that, my skin was instantly softer, firmer, plumper and more supple.  Who couldn't love that?  This brightening enzyme water cream is the perfect drink of moisture for post-winter fatigued skin.  I'm also obsessing over all things coconut right now.  This body polish and this coconut milk honey bath are skin smoothers and soothers and oh-so-addicting.  And of course, don't forget your hands…this Ahava mineral hand cream will keep yours pretty and smooth and ready for your spring rings.  Here's to a beautiful Monday!

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TGIF! I don't think that little phrase has had more meaning than it does this week!  It's the last weekend before Christmas and I'm busy beyond busy tying up all the fabulous last minute details.  From baking and wrapping to fun and festive get togethers, it's a whirlwind of wonderful that I can't wait to enjoy! If you haven't quite finished your holiday shopping, here are some pretty little things the great girls in your life are sure to adore.  A happy day is one that begins with a sweet cup of coffee in this darling little mug.  With gold accents and a hello heart, what is there not to love?  I know I'm planning to get my passport this holiday and these passport holders from Kate Spade and Gigi New York are simply perfect for keeping it right at my fingertips.  Know any beauty junkies? Ok, we all are and this little gadget is the beauty tool must-have that no girl should be without.  These cozy by the fireside pajamas are wintertime perfect (and they come with a pampering little eye mask!).  Last but ironically, furthest from least is this little jar of youth-infusing decadence known as La Mer.  I think every blogger I know uses and loves this dream cream.  No matter which you choose, you can't go wrong.  And if you really hurry, you can have any and all arrive on your doorstep before the big day.

Hope your weekend is filled with merry and joy!

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Last Minute Gift Ideas





TGIF! I don't think that little phrase has had more meaning than it does this week!  It's the last weekend before Christmas and I'm busy beyond busy tying up all the fabulous last minute details.  From baking and wrapping to fun and festive get togethers, it's a whirlwind of wonderful that I can't wait to enjoy! If you haven't quite finished your holiday shopping, here are some pretty little things the great girls in your life are sure to adore.  A happy day is one that begins with a sweet cup of coffee in this darling little mug.  With gold accents and a hello heart, what is there not to love?  I know I'm planning to get my passport this holiday and these passport holders from Kate Spade and Gigi New York are simply perfect for keeping it right at my fingertips.  Know any beauty junkies? Ok, we all are and this little gadget is the beauty tool must-have that no girl should be without.  These cozy by the fireside pajamas are wintertime perfect (and they come with a pampering little eye mask!).  Last but ironically, furthest from least is this little jar of youth-infusing decadence known as La Mer.  I think every blogger I know uses and loves this dream cream.  No matter which you choose, you can't go wrong.  And if you really hurry, you can have any and all arrive on your doorstep before the big day.

Hope your weekend is filled with merry and joy!

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Happy Monday! I hope it was a wonderful weekend…the pre-holiday season is always filled with fun and festive times I treasure.  Through it all, I always take a little extra time to treat myself well and set aside time for me.  One of my favorite ways to do that is with some wonderful winter beauty treats.  Cold weather, warm dry heat and holiday hustle can each take their toll on our skin.  If you already care for and protect your skin daily, you know the beautiful benefits a good regime can give you.  It's also likely that  new products and innovative ways to polish and perfect are always something you can't get enough of. I know that's definitely true for me!  When it comes to wintertime faves, it's necessary to trade out your spring and summertime go-tos in favor of more deeply penetrating and richly hydrating skin savers.  This cushiony, vitamin packed eye cream from Bobbi Brown is always on standby in my fridge.  Keeping it cold helps preserve the active ingredients and reduce any puffiness you may have.  I have to admit, I am often suspect of skin care products put forward by lines that are most well known for their innovations in beauty and vice versa.  This cream, however, has changed my mind and made me a believer.  If you have any under eye dryness or just want something extra protective for winter, you must give this jar a try.  I promise you'll be dewy and fresh with no dreaded concealer slip or slide.  Hydrating your elbows, knees and essentially everywhere is also extra important during the cold weather months.  This incredible perfumed olive oil body scrub by my favorite body care line, philosophy, is the perfect way to do it all while still in the shower or tub.  I simply love how it smoothes, softens and scents my skin.  For extra tired eyes, these little eye masks are the must-have answer.  Packed full of skin enhancing retinol, they smooth the delicate area under the eyes leaving it beautifully refreshed and perfectly renewed.  These pretty shadows, pot rogue and glossy tint are the perfect trio for getting holiday glam.  Bobbi always inspires me with her gorgeous take on natural beauty.  Gorgeous.  Don't forget a quick pick me up for your tresses too.  I've never met a Kérastase product I didn't like.  This glossifier is no exception.  Add a few drops of this lightweight shine serum to your regular styler and you'll leave your bathroom with a beautiful natural shine and weightless lushness you'll love.  You can shop it and all these beauty items in the links below.  Let me know your favorites!



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Winter Beauty Treats


Happy Monday! I hope it was a wonderful weekend…the pre-holiday season is always filled with fun and festive times I treasure.  Through it all, I always take a little extra time to treat myself well and set aside time for me.  One of my favorite ways to do that is with some wonderful winter beauty treats.  Cold weather, warm dry heat and holiday hustle can each take their toll on our skin.  If you already care for and protect your skin daily, you know the beautiful benefits a good regime can give you.  It's also likely that  new products and innovative ways to polish and perfect are always something you can't get enough of. I know that's definitely true for me!  When it comes to wintertime faves, it's necessary to trade out your spring and summertime go-tos in favor of more deeply penetrating and richly hydrating skin savers.  This cushiony, vitamin packed eye cream from Bobbi Brown is always on standby in my fridge.  Keeping it cold helps preserve the active ingredients and reduce any puffiness you may have.  I have to admit, I am often suspect of skin care products put forward by lines that are most well known for their innovations in beauty and vice versa.  This cream, however, has changed my mind and made me a believer.  If you have any under eye dryness or just want something extra protective for winter, you must give this jar a try.  I promise you'll be dewy and fresh with no dreaded concealer slip or slide.  Hydrating your elbows, knees and essentially everywhere is also extra important during the cold weather months.  This incredible perfumed olive oil body scrub by my favorite body care line, philosophy, is the perfect way to do it all while still in the shower or tub.  I simply love how it smoothes, softens and scents my skin.  For extra tired eyes, these little eye masks are the must-have answer.  Packed full of skin enhancing retinol, they smooth the delicate area under the eyes leaving it beautifully refreshed and perfectly renewed.  These pretty shadows, pot rogue and glossy tint are the perfect trio for getting holiday glam.  Bobbi always inspires me with her gorgeous take on natural beauty.  Gorgeous.  Don't forget a quick pick me up for your tresses too.  I've never met a Kérastase product I didn't like.  This glossifier is no exception.  Add a few drops of this lightweight shine serum to your regular styler and you'll leave your bathroom with a beautiful natural shine and weightless lushness you'll love.  You can shop it and all these beauty items in the links below.  Let me know your favorites!



SHOP THE POST:






















1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10



Winter can be a beautiful time…think  falling snowflakes, glittering skating rinks and warm, cozy firesides.  Your skin, however, can easily suffer the effects of these seasonal favorites.  I keep my skin soft, supple and baby smooth all year long with the help of a few clever and effective products.  To start, I'm always sure I treat my skin to a daily thorough yet gentle cleansing that leaves it soft, supple and free of pore-clogging debris.  This magical little brush is amazing for doing that.  One use of the Clarisonic will leave you and your face wondering how you ever lived without it.  That fresh canvas will glow like a child's when you give it a simple advantage.  I love this non-irritating liquid gold by Peter Thomas Roth.  Its encapsulated retinol formula allows for increased cell turnover (aka baby smooth skin) and a boost in collagen production (hello firmness and tone) without any of the irritation associated with some retinoid creams.  Choose a wonderfully hydrating moisturizer to combat surface dryness like this dream cream from Bobbi Brown.  Top it off with a swipe of this gorgeous highlighter by MAC and you'll look like you've been enjoying tropical breezes instead of that winter's chill.    Your hands and body need a little extra love too this time of year.  This firming body cream from philosophy is my absolute favorite!  It firms all over and smells absolutely delicious.  You can shop more of my favorite winter must-haves shown above in the thumbnails below.  I'm betting you'll find a few new favorites too!

Happy Wednesday and thanks so much for stopping by today!











Winter Skin Savers










1 // 2 // 3 // 4 // 5 // 6 // 7 // 8 // 9 // 10



Winter can be a beautiful time…think  falling snowflakes, glittering skating rinks and warm, cozy firesides.  Your skin, however, can easily suffer the effects of these seasonal favorites.  I keep my skin soft, supple and baby smooth all year long with the help of a few clever and effective products.  To start, I'm always sure I treat my skin to a daily thorough yet gentle cleansing that leaves it soft, supple and free of pore-clogging debris.  This magical little brush is amazing for doing that.  One use of the Clarisonic will leave you and your face wondering how you ever lived without it.  That fresh canvas will glow like a child's when you give it a simple advantage.  I love this non-irritating liquid gold by Peter Thomas Roth.  Its encapsulated retinol formula allows for increased cell turnover (aka baby smooth skin) and a boost in collagen production (hello firmness and tone) without any of the irritation associated with some retinoid creams.  Choose a wonderfully hydrating moisturizer to combat surface dryness like this dream cream from Bobbi Brown.  Top it off with a swipe of this gorgeous highlighter by MAC and you'll look like you've been enjoying tropical breezes instead of that winter's chill.    Your hands and body need a little extra love too this time of year.  This firming body cream from philosophy is my absolute favorite!  It firms all over and smells absolutely delicious.  You can shop more of my favorite winter must-haves shown above in the thumbnails below.  I'm betting you'll find a few new favorites too!

Happy Wednesday and thanks so much for stopping by today!


















Happy New Year! Whenever January rolls around everyone seems to be making their resolutions for the new year.  For me, I find goals to be so much simpler and a lot easier to achieve. So many of you along with family and friends always ask me for ways to look and feel better.  These ten beauty boosters are some of my favorite picks for getting gorgeous.  Start each day fresh faced and flawless with this decedent cleanser by Eve Lom.  While yes, it's bit pricey at the outlay, the things it does for your skin and the way it softens and smooths is beyond compare.  And, it lasts forever.  I always couple it with my tried and true absolute favorite tool, the Clarisonic.  If you own it, you love it.  If not, trust me, get one. Now.  Your skin will thank you and never be the same.  This curling wand gives my hair the perfect amount of soft, bouncy curves with shine for days.  The fact that it doesn't have a clip on it was tricky at first but so worth the learning curve.  Be sure to become best friends with the heat glove it comes with.   It will save you from all those painful fingertip burns, haha.  These hair vitamin supplements will keep you healthy and your hair lush.  I especially love how quickly they make your locks grow longer.  Finally, while it's nothing new for me, if you are looking for a beautiful, feminine fragrance that you can't live without give this one from philosophy a try.

I hope everyone's new year is off to a beautiful start.  Thanks for stopping by!










New Year Beauty








Happy New Year! Whenever January rolls around everyone seems to be making their resolutions for the new year.  For me, I find goals to be so much simpler and a lot easier to achieve. So many of you along with family and friends always ask me for ways to look and feel better.  These ten beauty boosters are some of my favorite picks for getting gorgeous.  Start each day fresh faced and flawless with this decedent cleanser by Eve Lom.  While yes, it's bit pricey at the outlay, the things it does for your skin and the way it softens and smooths is beyond compare.  And, it lasts forever.  I always couple it with my tried and true absolute favorite tool, the Clarisonic.  If you own it, you love it.  If not, trust me, get one. Now.  Your skin will thank you and never be the same.  This curling wand gives my hair the perfect amount of soft, bouncy curves with shine for days.  The fact that it doesn't have a clip on it was tricky at first but so worth the learning curve.  Be sure to become best friends with the heat glove it comes with.   It will save you from all those painful fingertip burns, haha.  These hair vitamin supplements will keep you healthy and your hair lush.  I especially love how quickly they make your locks grow longer.  Finally, while it's nothing new for me, if you are looking for a beautiful, feminine fragrance that you can't live without give this one from philosophy a try.

I hope everyone's new year is off to a beautiful start.  Thanks for stopping by!











jo malone | tory burch makeup bag | ysl lipstick | clarisonic | bobbi brown eye palette | bobbi brown lip and eye mini | lancome hypnose | rebecca mink off makeup bag | fresh sugar lip treatment | henri bendel initial compact | la mer | purity cleanser | essie nail polish set | t3 dryer | aerie brush set


If there's one thing I can never get enough of, it is trying out the latest and greatest in beauty products.  It doesn't take much for me to instantly channel my inner Eva Chen.  Today I'm sharing my latest loves and classic favorites that would make the perfect choice for holiday gifting too.  One way to always get it right is with a beautiful fragrance.  Jo Malone offers some of the loveliest choices including her gorgeous Peony & Blush Suede (also loving this one too).  These palettes for eyes and for lips are perfect sizes for both home and travel.  My favorite red lipstick is pretty all year round but especially so at holiday time.  It lights up any outfit and is instantly party ready.  Last, you can toss all these pretties into this glam little makeup bag for the just right dash of sparkle and glam (this one is adorable too).  

What beauty treats are you coveting this season?  Have a beautiful Wednesday and thanks so much for reading!










Beauty Gifts


jo malone | tory burch makeup bag | ysl lipstick | clarisonic | bobbi brown eye palette | bobbi brown lip and eye mini | lancome hypnose | rebecca mink off makeup bag | fresh sugar lip treatment | henri bendel initial compact | la mer | purity cleanser | essie nail polish set | t3 dryer | aerie brush set


If there's one thing I can never get enough of, it is trying out the latest and greatest in beauty products.  It doesn't take much for me to instantly channel my inner Eva Chen.  Today I'm sharing my latest loves and classic favorites that would make the perfect choice for holiday gifting too.  One way to always get it right is with a beautiful fragrance.  Jo Malone offers some of the loveliest choices including her gorgeous Peony & Blush Suede (also loving this one too).  These palettes for eyes and for lips are perfect sizes for both home and travel.  My favorite red lipstick is pretty all year round but especially so at holiday time.  It lights up any outfit and is instantly party ready.  Last, you can toss all these pretties into this glam little makeup bag for the just right dash of sparkle and glam (this one is adorable too).  

What beauty treats are you coveting this season?  Have a beautiful Wednesday and thanks so much for reading!















10 Best Ways to Exfoliate




Have you ever felt that your skin is just somehow not living up to its beautiful potential?  It's likely you're right.  The probable culprit?  Old, dead skin cells that are clinging to the surface of your skin, leaving it looking dull, tired and far from its best.  The solution?  Regular exfoliation that will gently lift these radiance robbers off skin's surface and reveal a smooth, fresh glow.  Hastily skipping this step, therefore, is not in your nor your skin's best interest. 


 Here are ten simple yet super effective ways to whisk your skin clean:

MANUAL EXFOLIATORS:  These are among the simplest exfoliators often found in scrublike formulas designed to softly lift those dead cells off the top layer of skin.  Skin is allowed to shed its layers and breathe in new life.  Be sure to look for those formulas containing round, sphere shaped beads designed to be gentle on skin's delicate surface.  Another option?  A really good exfoliating brush that rotates and pulses as it works to thoroughly and effectively cleanse the skin in just one timed minute. Ones to try: Clarisonic Mia  2 ($149), Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish ($30), Bobbi Brown Buffing Grains ($42).

NATURAL ENZYMES:  If scrubbing is not for you, you may want to look to natural enzymes to get the job done.  Fruit enzymes and natural sugars do the work for you here by dissolving old skin cells at the surface.  One quick rinse later and your skin takes on a fresh new life.  Sensitive skin types do well with fruit enzyme masks as they are effective yet gentle enough, even for easily aggravated conditions like rosacea.  Ones to try:  Fresh Sugar Face Polish ($55), Jurlique Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator ($45), Ole Henriksen Blue/Black Berry Enzyme Mask ($32), Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Gentle Exfoliating Treatment ($65)

ALPHA-HYDROXY and GLYCOLIC ACIDS:  A third option that's highly effective, would come in the form of a pad or peel soaked with the natural acids (alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy) found in fruits.  These formulas provide more of a pampering feel as they can be left on a bit longer and subsequently penetrate some of the deeper layers of skin below the visible surface.  Ones to try:  Peter Thomas Roth Gentle Complexion Corrector Pads ($36), philosophy The Microdelivery In Home Vitamin C Peptide Peel ($40), REN Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask ($55)


With options so simple as these readily available at your fingertips, you too can make weekly exfoliation an easy part of your skincare routine.  Give it a try....A smoother, brighter more radiant glow awaits!

Have a beautiful Monday!

XO,











Make It Happen Monday featuring...The 10 Best Ways to Exfoliate






10 Best Ways to Exfoliate




Have you ever felt that your skin is just somehow not living up to its beautiful potential?  It's likely you're right.  The probable culprit?  Old, dead skin cells that are clinging to the surface of your skin, leaving it looking dull, tired and far from its best.  The solution?  Regular exfoliation that will gently lift these radiance robbers off skin's surface and reveal a smooth, fresh glow.  Hastily skipping this step, therefore, is not in your nor your skin's best interest. 


 Here are ten simple yet super effective ways to whisk your skin clean:

MANUAL EXFOLIATORS:  These are among the simplest exfoliators often found in scrublike formulas designed to softly lift those dead cells off the top layer of skin.  Skin is allowed to shed its layers and breathe in new life.  Be sure to look for those formulas containing round, sphere shaped beads designed to be gentle on skin's delicate surface.  Another option?  A really good exfoliating brush that rotates and pulses as it works to thoroughly and effectively cleanse the skin in just one timed minute. Ones to try: Clarisonic Mia  2 ($149), Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish ($30), Bobbi Brown Buffing Grains ($42).

NATURAL ENZYMES:  If scrubbing is not for you, you may want to look to natural enzymes to get the job done.  Fruit enzymes and natural sugars do the work for you here by dissolving old skin cells at the surface.  One quick rinse later and your skin takes on a fresh new life.  Sensitive skin types do well with fruit enzyme masks as they are effective yet gentle enough, even for easily aggravated conditions like rosacea.  Ones to try:  Fresh Sugar Face Polish ($55), Jurlique Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator ($45), Ole Henriksen Blue/Black Berry Enzyme Mask ($32), Kate Somerville ExfoliKate Gentle Exfoliating Treatment ($65)

ALPHA-HYDROXY and GLYCOLIC ACIDS:  A third option that's highly effective, would come in the form of a pad or peel soaked with the natural acids (alpha hydroxy and beta hydroxy) found in fruits.  These formulas provide more of a pampering feel as they can be left on a bit longer and subsequently penetrate some of the deeper layers of skin below the visible surface.  Ones to try:  Peter Thomas Roth Gentle Complexion Corrector Pads ($36), philosophy The Microdelivery In Home Vitamin C Peptide Peel ($40), REN Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask ($55)


With options so simple as these readily available at your fingertips, you too can make weekly exfoliation an easy part of your skincare routine.  Give it a try....A smoother, brighter more radiant glow awaits!

Have a beautiful Monday!

XO,

















Think of how much you can (and often do!) spend on your clothes. If you're anything like me, you might wear some of your favorite pieces only four or five times in a season - after all, there are just so so many cute must-haves! Given that, the price per wear is not always so flattering. When it comes to beauty products and purchases, however, you know you wear your face everyday. With a couple of worthy investments and the option to mix and match price points on other items, you can effortlessly create an easy to follow beauty routine and look radiant while doing it. Stick to these five essential steps and watch your skin begin to glow.

STEP 1: Cleanse ~ in order for any of the other steps to work effectively,
you need to thoroughly cleanse and routinely exfoliate. Otherwise, the
additional products you apply will not be able to reach skin layers below.  Clarisonic
makes this amazing cleansing brush.  Pair it with your favorite cleanser and
 you'll never want to go a day without that fresh clean skin feeling.

STEP 2:  Exfoliate ~ once your skin has been cleansed it needs to release those
stubborn skin cells that are still hanging on, causing your complexion to look dull. 
There are so many great exfoliators out on the market today.  One that I really like is
this one by Peter Thomas Roth.  The natural plant extracts and gentle acids loosen dry flakes
leaving you with the smoothest, softest skin you recall in years.


STEP 3:  Treat ~ now that you have a fresh canvas that is ready to receive some
much needed vitamins and hydraters, be sure to give your skin a daily dose of
goodness by using a treatment pad.  Again, there are numerous options to choose
from but I always like to pick one that fortifies the skin with essential nutrients and replenishers.  I tend to go for those
that pack a punch and give my skin a boost.  These bare minerals Intensive Glow Pads contain
 an Active Soil Complex at returning radiance to your skin.  They also use gentle acids and
 fruit extracts to keep your skin cell turnover rate high thus leaving you with that beautiful
 glow we all covet.


STEP 4:   Correct & Protect ~ as time goes by the effects of day to day fun take a toll on our
skin.  Whether it's free radicals found in the environment or simply forgetting to religiously apply
 sunscreen, our skin shows the signs. Not to worry, a peptide-rich hydrating serum is the answer. The collagen-boosting properties of these little age fighters help build your skin back up from the inside out. I particularly like this one by Kate Sommervile that contains both clock reversing peptides as well as moisture boosting hyalauronic acid.


STEP 5: Hydrate ~ once you've cared for your skin with the four steps above, it's time to seal in all that nourishing goodness with a skin-loving moisturizer. Depending upon your skin type and formula preference, there are multiple ways to go. While lotions are more popular with oil-prone users, I tend to prefer the cushiony softness you get from a cream. When it comes to selecting a moisturizer, price doesn't need to play a huge role. If you routinely follow the four steps above and are benefitting from their effects, then your moisturizer will serve as a compliment to those, sealing in their properties. One final note to mention....always, always go for the addition of an SPF during the daytime. Think of it as a protective cover-up shielding your skin from the sun's damaging rays while it keeps you looking radiant.


Hope you enjoy this five step routine. Follow it daily and you'll quickly see its glowing results. Have a beautiful weekend!

5 Steps to Beauty







Think of how much you can (and often do!) spend on your clothes. If you're anything like me, you might wear some of your favorite pieces only four or five times in a season - after all, there are just so so many cute must-haves! Given that, the price per wear is not always so flattering. When it comes to beauty products and purchases, however, you know you wear your face everyday. With a couple of worthy investments and the option to mix and match price points on other items, you can effortlessly create an easy to follow beauty routine and look radiant while doing it. Stick to these five essential steps and watch your skin begin to glow.

STEP 1: Cleanse ~ in order for any of the other steps to work effectively,
you need to thoroughly cleanse and routinely exfoliate. Otherwise, the
additional products you apply will not be able to reach skin layers below.  Clarisonic
makes this amazing cleansing brush.  Pair it with your favorite cleanser and
 you'll never want to go a day without that fresh clean skin feeling.

STEP 2:  Exfoliate ~ once your skin has been cleansed it needs to release those
stubborn skin cells that are still hanging on, causing your complexion to look dull. 
There are so many great exfoliators out on the market today.  One that I really like is
this one by Peter Thomas Roth.  The natural plant extracts and gentle acids loosen dry flakes
leaving you with the smoothest, softest skin you recall in years.


STEP 3:  Treat ~ now that you have a fresh canvas that is ready to receive some
much needed vitamins and hydraters, be sure to give your skin a daily dose of
goodness by using a treatment pad.  Again, there are numerous options to choose
from but I always like to pick one that fortifies the skin with essential nutrients and replenishers.  I tend to go for those
that pack a punch and give my skin a boost.  These bare minerals Intensive Glow Pads contain
 an Active Soil Complex at returning radiance to your skin.  They also use gentle acids and
 fruit extracts to keep your skin cell turnover rate high thus leaving you with that beautiful
 glow we all covet.


STEP 4:   Correct & Protect ~ as time goes by the effects of day to day fun take a toll on our
skin.  Whether it's free radicals found in the environment or simply forgetting to religiously apply
 sunscreen, our skin shows the signs. Not to worry, a peptide-rich hydrating serum is the answer. The collagen-boosting properties of these little age fighters help build your skin back up from the inside out. I particularly like this one by Kate Sommervile that contains both clock reversing peptides as well as moisture boosting hyalauronic acid.


STEP 5: Hydrate ~ once you've cared for your skin with the four steps above, it's time to seal in all that nourishing goodness with a skin-loving moisturizer. Depending upon your skin type and formula preference, there are multiple ways to go. While lotions are more popular with oil-prone users, I tend to prefer the cushiony softness you get from a cream. When it comes to selecting a moisturizer, price doesn't need to play a huge role. If you routinely follow the four steps above and are benefitting from their effects, then your moisturizer will serve as a compliment to those, sealing in their properties. One final note to mention....always, always go for the addition of an SPF during the daytime. Think of it as a protective cover-up shielding your skin from the sun's damaging rays while it keeps you looking radiant.


Hope you enjoy this five step routine. Follow it daily and you'll quickly see its glowing results. Have a beautiful weekend!

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@chicsaturday