Stephie Estie

August Favorites 2017!

Hi everyone!

It’s the last day of August and I’m quickly sharing a few of my favorite items I couldn’t get enough of this month.

Let’s dive right in.

Rhonda Allison Cherry Jubilee Enzyme  

I won this product in an Instagram away hosted by a fellow esthetician friend and just like the name implies, this smells (and feels!) like a tart cherry puree.  What I love about this (aside from the scent) is that the natural polyphenols provide great antioxidant properties for your skin and the “potent pro-youth value that mimics the strength of lactic acid,” allows for gentle exfoliation.  My face looks nice and glowy after using this.

m-61 SuperSoothe E Microdermabrasion Scrub 

I found myself at a Bluemercury counter returning an item that unfortunately didn’t work out when this caught my eye.  I liked the fact that this contained kaolin clay mixed with natural pumice to help exfoliate and clean pores and it worked well with the hot, humid weather we had.  I applied a thin layer over my face, let it sit for about 2 minutes and then rinsed it off with circular motions.  Although seaweed and goldenberry are added to provide some moisture, I found it a bit drying, so in my opinion, this is best used for combination/oily skin.

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Body Lotion Lavender Eucalyptus 

Back in July, I went to Glen Ivy Hot Springs and had such a great experience!  I’ll admit that it was a bit hard for me to just relax and not worry about anything but it’s kind of easy to do after a few minutes soaking in a hot spring. 🙂  Anywho, the lotion dispenser had a lavender scented cream and of course I had to buy the bottle.  The calming scent of lavender with a burst of eucalyptus does not disappoint and I use this at the end of day to wind down.

Estee Lauder Pure Color Love Lipstick in Raw Sugar

As soon as I got wind that Estee Lauder was launching a new lipstick collection, you better believe I was busy stalking searching which stores would be the first to carry them.  Hey, I’m a lippie addict, what do you expect? 😉  After finding them at Ulta, I ended up taking the shade Raw Sugar home with me.  Guys, the packaging on these are gorgeously chic and the matte formula is comfortable to wear as long as your lips are smooth and not overly dry.  Raw Sugar is a nude apricot shade (see swatch above) and is great for any day, anytime, anywhere. The applicator is a bit difficult to work with at first but it’s easier if you treat the edge like a lip liner and apply it that way.

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15

If you’ve followed my blog for a while, you know I’m a big fan of foundations that look more like second skin.  This Bobbi Brown foundation does just that.  A few drops of this water-based, oil-free formula is enough to cover up my redness and can be built up for medium coverage.  My skin looks flawless and I receive a ton of compliments with this one.

First Aid Beauty Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer 

I received this product in one of my Sephora boxes and I will definitely add this to my list of things to buy when the Sephora sale comes in November, if not sooner.  Smells like coconut, does not irritate my skin, the texture is so light-weight and addicting, and it has a nice dewy finish that is not overwhelming. My makeup goes on smooth and although it doesn’t keep shine at bay per se, I’m not overly oily either. Very happy with this one.

Living Grace Podcast Episode

The last item that I loved, a non-beauty item, was my podcast interview I did with Kami Lingren from Living Grace Blog.  In this episode, we talk about my life in the moments leading up to being diagnosed with Interstitial Cystitis, the alternative method I discovered to treat IC and much more.  If you missed it, you can read and listen to it here.

What did you love in August?

 

 

Skin Tip: Easy Way to Depuff Eyes!

One simple trick you can do to soothe tired eyes is to stick your eye cream in the fridge.  The coldness can act like a compress to depuff eyes.  Although you can try this trick anytime, it’s perfect to try in the summer for a quick cooling effect during heat waves.

 

 

Skin Tip: The ABC’s of Skin Cancer!

With May being skin cancer awareness month, use the guidelines below to know what to look for when detecting skin cancer.

Asymmetry  If you draw a line through this mole, the two halves will not match.

Border The borders of an early melanoma tend to be uneven, irregular, scalloped or notched.

Color  Coloring varies from one area to another- different shades if brown, tan, or black- and it can become red, blue or some other color.

Diameter  Melanomas are usually larger than the size of the eraser on your pencil ( ¼ inch or 6mm) but they can be smaller when first detected.

Evolution  Any changes in size, shape, color, elevation or new symptoms such as bleeding itching or crusting.

Always remember, when in doubt, have it checked out!

For a more detailed article on skin cancer, click here.

Disclaimer: The contents on this website, and any related links, are provided for general informational purposes and should NOT be considered medical advice. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. Please consult a healthcare provider if you have any questions about a particular health condition.

 

Play! By Sephora Review April 2017!

 

Hi everyone!

I have a review for the April Play! by Sephora box.  In case you haven’t heard, this is a monthly $10 curated subscription box featuring samples of different brands available at Sephora.  You also get a bag with your products inside that display cute catchy phrases.

The theme for this month was Step it Up, featuring stellar products that will up your beauty game.  I love the catch phrase on this month’s bag that says, The Best Things in Life are Me.

Let’s check out the products included!

Fresh Vitamin Nectar Mask 

This “radiance-enhancing face mask contains a concentrated blend of natural citrus in a marmalade-like formula to soften, brighten, and revitalize skin.”  First off, this product smells amazing.  You really get the scent and consistency of a nectar.  You’re supposed to apply it on a clean face and let it sit for 10 minutes.  Unfortunately, after 5 minutes, my face kind of started stinging so I don’t think this product is for me.

Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic +  Retinol Wrinkle Recovery Peel 

Professional-grade peel infused with retinol and ferulic acid exfoliates skin, restores firmness, and reveals radiance.  The pads are applied to a clean face right before your moisturizer.  Now, as an esthetician, my view on a peel is a bit different as I’m accustomed to performing chemical peels where I know the concentration of acids and what the pH level is.  So while I don’t know percentages of ingredients, I do know that retinol and ferulic acid are great ingredients to incorporate into an anti-aging routine.  After using the pad, I did wake up with smoother looking skin the next morning and it lasted about 2 days. You can cut the pads in half to get multiple uses out of them. Personally, if I were to invest in this product, I’d opt for the serum instead.

Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner 

An easy to use, “creamy, budge-proof eyeliner glides on easily and leaves an intense, jet-black color.”  I was happy that an eyeliner was included in the box and I do like this one for the creamy formula, but I would not purchase the full size. I have to note that this, on me at least, is not budge-proof. By about halfway through the day, it’s already smeared and it completes a disappearing act by the end of the night.

Sephora Collection Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover

A gentle, go-to waterproof makeup remover that is perfect for sensitive eyes to remove stubborn makeup and also strengthens lashes with flavonoids and olive wood extracts.  Perhaps the stellar product in the bag, this makeup remover is no joke.  It thoroughly removes my eye makeup with ease and it does not irritate my eyes at all.  I will be purchasing the full size of this one.

Pinrose Secret Genius 

Based in San Francisco, Pinrose works with master perfumers around the world to create playful and unique perfumes made from high-quality, sustainable ingredients.  This seductive, mysterious and elegant fragrance includes notes of caramel, white chocolate, vanilla, cedarwood and sandalwood.  I haven’t gotten around to this one yet but I’m intrigued my the combination of scents.

Smashbox Iconic Photo Finish Foundation Primer

One of the most iconic primers, this creates the perfect canvas for makeup application, helping it last all day while blurring imperfections.  I have received SO many samples of this primer that is wasn’t as excited to see it in my box.  It’s a nice primer that does help my makeup last but aside from that, I don’t find anything extra special about this one that makes me want to purchase it.

Overall, this box was okay.  Hopefully next month is better.

What products did you get in your box?

 

 

 

Sephora Spring VIB Wishlist 2017!

Sephora Spring Wishlist 2017

Happy Tuesday everyone!  Hoping you all had a great Easter weekend. 🙂

 The Sephora Spring sale starts today for VIB Rouge members, tomorrow for VIB members and on Thursday April 20 for BI members. Is it just me or did this sale seem like it took forever to be announced?

Here’s a quick rundown of my shopping list.

YSL Volupte Tint-in-Balm

I have yet to own a YSL Volupte shade and what better time to try one?  A hybrid lipstick that combines nourishing balm sounds perfect for spring/summer.  Plus the center design is so cute.

Kate Somerville Exfolikate Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

 

One of my all time favorite exfoliators that I keep coming back to.  You can read more about it here.

P.S. I like to get the travel size version of this one.

 

Tatcha Bestsellers Set 

 I got a sample of the Tatcha Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery cream and really liked it.  Fellow esthetician friends love the Camellia Cleansing Oil and this set contains the most popular choices.  If there was only one item to get at the sale, it’s this.

 

Huda Beauty Liquid Matte Lipstick

I swatched the shade Bombshell in store and it took a lot of self-control to not purchase it right then and there.  The pinkish nude hue is insanely gorgeous and I might just snag the shade Iconic too.

Drunk Elephant rise + glow
 

Another skincare brand that gets rave reviews is Drunk Elephant. This set contains a vitamin C serum and intensive hydration gel -both essential items in virtually any skincare routine.

Jo Malone Wood Sage and Sea Salt Cologne

If you haven’t heard the great news already, Sephora now carries Jo Malone!  Wood Sage and Sea Salt is my holy grail scent (which I’m running low on) and while this fragrance it worth every penny- er dollar- it doesn’t hurt that I can get a discount.

Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Curling and Lifting Mascara

While I’ve been loving how the Blinc mascara doesn’t really irritate my eyes, that mascara doesn’t provide my lashes the curl and length I sometimes want.  I purchased this mascara during a previous Sephora haul and it looks like I’ll be picking it up again.

Benefit Cosmetics Cheek Parade

Heaven knows I do not need anymore blushes or bronzers but this set is just so enticing.  I already own Hoola which I love, but with the inclusion of the GALifornia blush and Dandelion, I might just cave and buy this.
Of course, my wishlist might change a little bit once I’m actually in the store but I’ll try my best to stay within these items.

 

I’d love to hear from you!  What items are you getting?

 

March Favorites 2017!

Hi everyone!

I can’t believe we’re in April! Time is just zooming by, isn’t it?

It’s been a while since I posted any favorites on here due to my blogging break but fear not, I have some really great items to share with you today.

Let’s get started. 🙂

Makeup Favorites

Nature Republic Nature Origin Tinted CC SPF 30 PA/++

A few months ago, South Korean cosmetics brand Nature Republic opened at my local mall so of course the ever beauty enthusiast in me had to check it out.  With testers for virtually every product and sinks to rinse everything off, the store did not disappoint. After a quick scan of the store, I focused on what I came there for: a CC cream.  The sales associate recommended the Nature Origin Tinted CC for my combination skin and I love it.  The coverage is sheer but is enough to cover up my redness and it gives my skin a dewy look.  The product comes in a pump bottle, making application effortless.  The only downside is that the color selection is very limited (maybe 3 shades?) so the color isn’t exactly spot on but it looks great after I add some blush.

Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

I’ve had this setting powder for a while but I recently started using it again.  Sometimes the Nature Republic Tinted CC gives my skin too much of a dewy finish, so I dust a bit of this all over to tone down the shine.  It sets my makeup nicely and is undetectable.

Wet N Wild Megalast Liquid Catsuit Matte Lipstick in Nudist Peach

I’ve seen these floating around Instagram and my latest trip to CVS include this gem at checkout.  At about $5, I found this liquid lipstick to be pretty impressive!  It has a mousse-like consistency and glides on very easy on lips.  The shade Nudist Peach is very beautiful pink/peach nude shade.  After the lipstick sets, it feels like you have nothing on and isn’t uncomfortably drying.  I forget I have it on sometimes.  Since this shade is light, it’s not too long-lasting, especially when eating, and it does slightly accentuate imperfections on your lips.  However, exfoliating lips prior really helps.  It’s also really easy to reapply.

Too Faced Lip Injection Lip Gloss 

It’s rare these days that I don’t walk out of my house without this in my purse.  You can read my rave reviews about this here and here.

Here’s swatches of the Tinted CC and Nudist Peach.

Skincare Favorites

Lush Dream Cream

The same mall trip I made to explore Nature republic also found me at the Lush store.  I was excited to try the Dream Cream as I had tested it in the store months prior and really liked it.  Infused with ingredients like cocoa butter, olive oil, soothing oat milk and calming rose, lavender and chamomile oils, this has a consistency more similar to a lotion rather than a cream as it’s kind of runny.  The smell is very unique- the prominent scents that jump out at me are the oat milk and chamomile blue oil- so it may be a deal breaker for some; I don’t mind it at all. Despite the thinner consistency, this hydrates my body really well and makes a great massage cream as it has a nice slip.

Pore Clearing Cleanser

At the latest UCLA Cosmetic Chemistry class I took, we were given a plastic travel case filled with products to try out, courtesy of YG Laboratories. This cleanser quickly became a favorite as the gentle, sulfate-free formula deep cleans without feeling harsh or drying.  Natural salicylic acid from Willow bark as well as tea tree oil make this great for blemish-prone skin.  When I start getting a few breakouts, I use this and it helps clear my skin.

Calming Bio Lipid Repair Creme

Another product from YG Laboratories, I almost didn’t try this product as it is pretty thick and is best used for extremely dry and sensitive skin.  After using the Pore Clearing Cleanser, I tried this on as a moisturizer and really love it.  It contains sea whip and green tea to help calm and soothe redness and is formulated with no fragrance, essential oils, lanolin, parabens or other commonly used sensitizers. I haven’t broken out with this product and my face feels so nice and hydrated in the morning when I wake up.

That’s it for my March favorites.

What were your favorites this month?

 

 

 

 

 

 

How Effective is Sunscreen in Makeup?

Happy Thursday everyone!

If you’ve ever wondered if the sunscreen found in your makeup is enough to keep you protected, this post is for you.

As an esthetician, one of my main priorities is to explain the importance of using sunscreen on a daily basis.  Not only can it help slow down the signs of aging, but since 90% of all skin cancers stem from Ultra Violet Rays (UVR), it can also significantly decrease your risk factor for this potentially deadly disease.  So with this information in mind, daily use of sunscreen is non-negotiable in my skincare book and I’m sure you can agree as well.

When I ask clients if they wear sunscreen, the most common response is, “Oh yeah, my makeup (i.e.foundation, BB cream, tinted moisturizer, etc) has SPF.”

While I’m happy to hear they noticed the SPF factor, keep in mind that dermatologists typically recommend applying about one teaspoon of sunscreen to your face and many people won’t use that amount of makeup on their face.  Following the guidelines on the recommended amount ensures that you’re receiving the protection you need and is why I always use (and suggest) a separate sunscreen before applying my day makeup.  It’s also easier to extend sunscreen application to the neck and chest area which are typically the first places that show signs of aging and places where you’re not likely to apply makeup.

Now, I’d love to hear from you.

Do you rely on SPF in makeup products or do you use a separate one? Which ones are your favorites?

What is Multimasking?

Happy Thursday readers!

If you have a solid skincare routine, chances are you already incorporate some type of mask to either hydrate your skin or combat oil.  But, what if you want to address both issues or you simply want to take your skincare to the next level?

That’s where the trend known as multi-masking comes into play.

Similar to the term multi-tasking, multi-masking allows you to customize your skincare routine while targeting multiple concerns at the same time with skincare masks.  If your cheeks are dry and need hydration but your forehead is breakout city, apply a gel or cream based mask to your cheeks and a clay based mask on your forehead.  Doing this will help balance out your skin and is great to use once the weather changes, which can cause your skin to act out.

 Have you tried multi–masking? What are your favorite masks to use? 

Play! By Sephora Unboxing February 2017!

Hi readers!

After a few months away, I’m back with a new post and a new look to my blog!

While I was away, I’ve been busy trying to work on my skincare business, working out, getting pelvic floor therapy to help manage my IC, taking a course at UCLA regarding skin, and of course, redesigning my blog. It’s been a bumpy road navigating a self-hosted site but I’ve learned a lot and while there will be a few more tweaks, I’ll roll those out slowly. 🙂

I know I’m late on this but I have a review for the February Play by Sephora box.  In case you haven’t heard, this is a monthly $10 curated subscription box featuring samples of different brands available at Sephora.  The theme for February was The Soft Side, with “muted, mellow shades and skin-perfecting formulas [that] are a never-sail way to show off your natural beauty.”

On to the reviews.

Sephora Collection Lashcraft Length and Volume Mascara 

This mascara has a unique flat paddle-shaped wand to lift lashes while the nylon-infused glossy black pigment creates drama.  Mascaras are always a hit or miss with me as my eyes are a bit sensitive and a great mascara for me means that my eyes won’t burn by the end of the day.  This one is okay but not my favorite as it gives volume (due to the brush) but not much length.  It irritated my eyes a bit as well.  I’ll use this up but I won’t be purchasing a full size.

Nars Velvet Lip Glide in Bound 

I have been wanting to try this product for a while so I was ecstatic to see it included in my box.  It’s a dusty-rose liquid lipstick that is a infused with natural oils and feels weightless.  I absolutely love the color-on me it’s reminiscent of the just bitten look- and it’s a very comfortable formula to wear as it’s not drying.  However, because it’s a semi-matte finish, this entirely wears off with eating and drinking so if you’re looking for something that is long-lasting, this isn’t it.  Still worth a try in my opinion though.

Too Faced Lip Injection Glossy in Milkshake 

If you’ve read my review on the Too Faced Naughty Kisses and Sweet Cheeks, you know the Lip Injections are a favorite of mine.  Milkshake is a nude shade lip that has an intense tingle factor but does in fact, plump my lips.  It contains avocado and jojoba oil that helps soften them too, which I love.

Nars Velvet Lip Glide in Bound and Too Faced Lip Injection Glossy in Milkshake

Clinique Prep-Start Hydroblur Moisturizer 

An innovative product, this moisturizer can be used as a primer or as a quick fix throughout the day to control shine or add hydration.  I used this both as a regular moisturizer and primer and I feel that it worked better as a primer.  This product has a thick, almost silicone texture that feels silky when applied. To me, it provided a mattifying effect but my face didn’t feel as tight as it does with most oil-control primers.  Although my skin doesn’t feel dry, it didn’t necessarily feel hydrated either.  My makeup applies smoothly with this and doesn’t cling to dry patches.  Bottom line: this works better as a primer.

Origins GinZing Refreshing Eye Cream

This luminous eye cream contains coffee bean, ginseng, and magnolia extract to visibly brighten and depuff the undereye area.  Ginseng gives a subtle glow to skin while the coffee beans work to energize tired skin.  Although I can’t attest to the depuffing aspects, the eye cream has a pink pearl-like color that helps to brighten my undereye area.  This works well under concealer and is similar to the Caudalie one, which I really love.

Marc Jacobs Divine Decadence 

Effervescent floral and bright, this sparkling champagne doused scent embodies luxury and glamour. Notes in this earthy and woody fragrance include orange blossom, bergamot, gardenia, amber vanilla and saffron. Surprisingly, I actually like this fragrance. It’s more on the sweet side but the woodsy scents balance it out perfectly.

Overall, I’m content with this box, especially with the inclusion of the Nars Velvet Lip Glide and the Too Faced Lip Injection Glossy.

What do you think of this box?  Any products you’d like to try?

Skin Tip: Halloween Edition!

Happy Friday everyone!

Since it’s Halloween weekend, I have a special skin saving tip to share with those that are planning to dress up. 🙂

Applying a silicone-based primer or moisturizer will not only help your makeup apply smoother but it will also act as a barrier between the makeup and your skin, protecting you from any irritation that can stem from artificial colors.

Have a safe weekend everyone! 

Stephanie