Tag: primp tip

3 Tips For Kissable Soft Lips This Winter

Published on by Lee1 Comment

We all want our lips to be as smooth and soft as possible. The problem is all the heating in our homes and offices makes the air really dry, which plays havoc with our delicately balanced skin, hair, and lips. So, to keep your lips protected – chapped lips can be seriously painful – we’ve got three tips to make sure your pout stays as gorgeous as ever, even when it’s cold as fuck outside!

Fix your surroundings

Do what you can to make the air around you as hydrating as possible. Invest in, or dig out your humidifier – it will add moisture to the air, which will benefit your skin, lips, and hair as well. The heated vapor produced by humidifiers also kills 90% if the bacteria and spores in the air, so you’re less likely to catch an annoying cold. Found a humidifier on Amazon for $16.99, which also diffuses essential oils – bonus!

Prevent chapping

Stop your lips from chapping in the first place and always keep a lip balm to hand. Look for lip balms with lanolin in, a highly moisturizing natural ingredient that comes from sheep’s fleeces (it can hold 200% it’s weight in water!). And always ensure that you apply lip balm before bed, so your lips don’t go without added moisture all night. Drinking water before bed can help too!

Lanolips has to be my all-time favorite lip balm for combatting chapped lips, it’s super protecting, and one layer lasts all day. Another lip balm I’ve been obsessed with for years is Carmex; not only does it contain lanolin, but also beeswax, shea butter, and Aloe Vera, which work together to heal chapped lips and prevent future drying. It also costs less than $2!

DIY lip mask

I love using natural ingredients to heal my skin, and honey is one of me and my mom favorite ingredients because of its moisturizing, hydrating, and repairing properties. It’s also antibacterial, which means it’ll help to prevent any infection that can occur when your lips get dry. You can apply pure honey as a mask to your lips for 15 minutes, before gently wiping it (or licking it) away. You can also make a lip oil by combining a teaspoon of honey with a teaspoon of sweet almond oil; stir the mix well and store it in a small plastic container or lip tin so you can use it throughout the day.

Lip Beauty Tip:

Another great alternative is the Coconut LIPS by ToGoSpa – The Kisser Fixer- 3 Lip Masks, $15.

Coconut Lips by ToGoSpa are Micro-Infused Collagen Gel Masks with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamins C & E that work to moisturize, re-hydrate and soothe  lips, creating a more full and moisturized appearance.

Each silky application is infused with a combination of natural high-density marine collagen, enzymes, amino acids, natural marine minerals, trace elements, proteins and vitamins. With just one 20 minute application, you will see improved elasticity, texture and overall appearance of the lips. Activated by the body’s temperature, the nutrients stored in ToGoSpa® gel pads work together to decrease the appearance of fine lines around the mouth. 

They added Coconut Extract and Allantoin for a SUPER DUPER moisturizing experience, with the gentle aroma of Coconut, you will be transported on your very own Tropical Staycation! (No Parabens, No Dyes, Cruelty Free)

The ToGoSpa Lip Mask + Balm make for a great combo, $25!

Organic Splash for Lips: A ripe zesty citrus scent of Brazilian Orange and Italian Grapefruit soothes the senses, and calm the mind. Organic jojoba, evening primrose, sunflower, and coconut oils deeply hydrate and protect lips from moisture loss, and Rejuvenating Shea butter and Vitamin E moisturize and condition skin, helping to soothe dry, chapped lips.

Scented with a brilliant splash of Brazilian Orange & Italian Grapefruit to invigorate and refresh; fortified with a skin-conditioning blend of healing evening primrose and grape seed oils to protect your lips from the damaging effects of daily pollution and provide long lasting moisture protection.

Energizing, invigorating and oh so moisturizing.

Organic Love Balm for Lips: Fresh and tingly on the lips, our Organic Love balm is crafted with a scrumptious formula of certified organic virgin coconut oil and ultra-softening African Shea Butter to prepare your lips for their chosen role. When our ever vigilant product crafters extraordinaire came across a report indicating that the act of kissing worldwide was on the decline they immediately cried as one, this shall not be and sprang into action with the single goal of correcting this most egregious of situations.

Lip smackingly good-for-you this unique blend of organic oils moisturize lips from within rather than sealing them off like petroleum-based lip balms. Fortified with Lavender, Peppermint and Spearmint to soothe and refresh and a super skin-conditioning blend of evening primrose and grape seed oils to revitalize dry, parched and cracked skin. Hooray for happy, healthy kissable lips! No synthetic ingredients or flavors.

WILL YOU BE TRYING ANY OF THESE PRIMP TIPS? IF YOU HAVE MORE TIPS FOR KISSABLE LIPS, COMMENT DOWN BELOW!

10 Ways to Relieve Stress

Published on by LeeLeave a comment

I haven’t touched too much on stress and anxiety on my blog, but I deal with it every single day. I have spine issues so stress really takes a toll on my body and back. It’s so easy to let stress get the best of me, so as soon as I feel stressed, I take a minute to become self-aware and begin de-stressing. Here are my 10 ways to relieve stress and I hope this helps you too!

  1. Breathe
    • When we get stressed or anxious, listen to your breathing – is it fast and shallow? As soon as you feel tense, try breathing slow and deep. The increased intake of oxygen will help calm your nervous system.
  2. Pamper
    • As a beauty blogger, this is probably my favorite thing to do.  Create a mini spa oasis at home – light some candles and pamper yourself with your favorite mask or give yourself a manicure. You deserve it!
  3. Drink tea
    • I love tea, like really love tea and recently I learned that there’s an art to drinking tea. Instead of just pouring yourself a cup, pay attention to the boiling of the water, the steeping of the tea, and then take a moment to savor each sip. Focusing on the experience can be calming, just make sure to drink decaffeinated tea like this one.
  4. Music
    • You know how you listen to music before heading into the shower? The same thing applies to your night in. Music can be a powerful tool to quickly change your mood and I love using apps like Spotify and Tidal that have ready-made playlists to match your mood.
  5. Journal
    • Sometimes when I have so much on my mind, I write down what I’m feeling and why I’m feeling that way. Once I have everything down on paper, it’s like having a weight lifted off my shoulders and then I can start tackling whatever is stressing me out.
  6. Read
    • If there’s one thing that’ll put me to sleep, it’s reading. Get lost in a story and it’ll take your mind off of your stressful day and chances are, it’ll put you to sleep like me.
  7. Exercise
    • Now I’m not the most active person but walking helps to put my mind at ease. This is something I recently picked up and I’ve been really feeling the endorphins! I love that feeling of knowing that I took time out of my day to get myself healthier.
  8. Meditation
    • I have been able to master this technique, and I know many people who love meditation. In fact, my therapist is a strong believer in meditation and recommends it for everyone, not just for people who suffer from anxiety, depression, stress and etc.    You can use meditation apps or find a guided meditation on YouTube.
  9. Stay offline
    • If work and emails are sources of your stress, turn off your phone and computer to reduce the temptation of checking and responding to emails.  As much as work is important to me,  I try to remember that my health is much more important. Social media can be strainful so try to separate yourself. I know that is hard especially for those who earn money through Instagram like myself but it is not impossible.
  10. Cry/Smile
    • Relieves Stress. A good cry can provide a feeling of relief, even if our circumstances still remain the same. Crying is known to release stress hormones or toxins from the body, and as a result, reduces tension. It provides an emotional release of pent up negative feelings, stresses, and frustrations.
      • When all else fails, smile. Smiling releases a hormone called serotonin (the happy hormone) and can boost your immune system. By having a positive attitude, you’ll have a sunnier outlook on life. Try it!

Don’t get me wrong I love makeup and using makeup to feel good, but working on my inner beauty is a priority for me too! Stress can be detrimental to your overall health, so remember to take at least five minutes out of your day to relax. Happy de-stressing!

HOW DO YOU DE-STRESS?

Say Yes to Winter SPF

Published on by LeeLeave a comment

Its no secret SPF is essential during the summer months. But did you know it’s equally important during the wintertime? Oh, what’s that? You work inside all day so you don’t need sunscreen? Not so fast; it’s important for you too!

UV rays are just as harmful during the winter as they are in the summertime… even if you spend your days working indoors, hidden from the sunshine. UVA rays penetrate window glass, which means you are exposed during your commute and if your office is filled with natural light. UV rays are especially harmful in snowy conditions since rays are strengthened due to the reflective nature of snow. The same goes for cloudy days. So lather up ladies!

All of these forms of exposure contribute to something called “photoaging.” Photoaging is a process of aging caused by UVA and UVB exposure. Major symptoms of photoaging include spider veins on the face or neck, loss of color and fullness in lips and wrinkle formations on the face, neck, ears, hands or chest. No thank you! (Note: You may want to think twice about those hands on the sunny steering wheel too because hands and necks show the symptoms of photoaging the most.) Since even the slightest bits of exposure add up quickly, it’s important to protect any uncovered skin with a broad spectrum UVA and UVB lotion with a minimum SPF of 15.

I use SPF 50 every morning (I use Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Face Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+). I apply it to my face, neck, and hands. If you’re looking for a quality SPF, I suggest buying something with one or more of the following ingredients:

  • B3: It aids in skin renewal and helps to improve your skins natural moisture barrier.
  • Lycopene: Helps improve your skin’s natural protection against ultraviolet radiation.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Restores water content, elasticity, and firmness to your skin.
  • Vitamin C: This antioxidant helps reduce the appearance of sun damage and increases skin’s moisture.
  • Katafray Bark: This ingredient is full of natural moisturizing properties.
  • Argan Oil: Repairs sun damage and keep skin looking radiant and smooth.

What’s your favorite SPF?

XO Lee

Every Trick I’ve Learned To Get Rid Of Dark Circles

Published on by LeeLeave a comment

As you guys can probably imagine, my life has been pretty hectic: I’m always on-the-go, rushing between the office, appointments, and trying to spend every minute I can with my family. As a result, it often means my beauty sleep takes a serious hit. Admittedly, I’ve never been a great sleeper, and dark circles have always been a beauty issue of mine, which means I’ve learned almost every trick in the book: from how to prevent them with natural remedies to how to conceal them with makeup. So I thought I’d pass on all of my tips and tricks; even if you’ve been up all night – working, studying, babysitting, partying – whatever! No one will be able to tell you missed a minute of beauty sleep. Here’s everything you need to know:

What Causes Dark Circles

Dark circles are a result of two things: genetics and lifestyle choices. In the case of genetics, it can be caused by a type of hyperpigmentation in your skin (aka an overproduction of melanin, which is what gives your skin its color). Genetically, some people typically have thinner skin here (it’s usually 0.5mm, whereas the rest of your body is 2mm), which makes blood pooling in this area more obvious, which can be down to poor circulation. Lifestyle choices can also contribute, so because of thin skin, when your veins become dilated, they expand, and this makes them look darker. There are a number of reasons why your veins may become dilated – not enough sleep, stress, dehydration, dietary factors, even allergies. To work out the main culprit behind your dark circles, gently pinch the skin and lift it off the surface. If the skin remains brown, it is hyperpigmentation, and you can consult your derm for the best treatments. It could be to do with lifestyle choices, in which case I have plenty of tips on how you can easily get rid of dark circles.

How To Prevent Dark Circles From Forming

sleepy

1. Sleep well

I know this may sound super simple, but this sleeping hack can make a huge difference. When your pillows are too flat, all of the blood will collect around your eye area, so to help drain the blood and to make sure it doesn’t pool overnight, sleep on your back with an extra pillow. I also like to take a digital detox two hours before I go to sleep (although I admit, this doesn’t happen often enough), to limit my blue light exposure, and if I do have to be on my phone, I set it to nighttime mode. It takes a while to get used to at first, but it’ll make such a difference to your sleep quality, I swear.

2. Cut back on salt

As you guys probably know, sodium aka salt causes your body to retain water, but it can actually cause puffiness in your eyes as well. Cutting back on sodium will help combat puffy eyes, so you appear less tired.

3. Stay hydrated

If your body is dehydrated, it tries to compensate for the lack of hydration by retaining as much water as possible, resulting in puffiness and under-eye bags. This is why making sure you drink the recommended amount of water is super important, as it not only keeps your skin looking good, but it’ll keep dark under eyes at bay. I keep a bottle of water on my desk at all times as you’re supposed to drink a half a gallon (2 liters) of water a day.

How to get rid of dark circles

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Sweet Almond oil: There are so many amazing natural remedies for dark circles but I’ve got to admit I think Sweet Almond Oil is my fav. It’s rich in Vitamin E and K, both of which will brighten the undereye and help de-clot the blocked veins as it has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce any morning swelling. All you need to do is gently pat in a drop of sweet almond oil under your eye using your fourth finger. If you do this every night, you should be able to notice a difference in a few weeks.

Potato: This is a really great remedy for dark circles as potatoes are super cheap and easy to get hold of. Not only do potatoes contain both vitamin A and C, which brighten and hydrate, but they also contain starch and other enzymes which will help get rid of dark circles. For a quick and easy DIY, I like to combine the potato juice with a little honey, which will make the application easier, while the honey will also work to hydrate the under-eye area. Once applied, leave on for 30 minutes, before wiping it away with a damp cloth. You’ll notice results within a couple of weeks if you do this every day.

Green Tea: Green tea is packed with caffeine, which can help to shrink the blood vessels in your under eyes, reducing inflammation in the veins and skin. The tannins in the tea will also restrict the blood capillaries, improving the appearance of dark circles. Some people simply like to place green tea bags under their eyes, but I find the method of mixing brewed green tea leaves with a little Vaseline to be really effective and easy. Try, Green Tea EYES by ToGoSpa – The Dark Circle Warrior – 3 Treatments, $15. Taurine and Green Tea Extract promote circulation for an extra tingly sensation. Specifically targets dark circles!  

Ice: To reduce swelling and to efficiently drain the blood from your under eyes, apply something cool. By cooling this area, the blood vessels will constrict – we use anything we have in our fridge, from cucumber slices to a cold spoon. Jade rollers are also amazing at depuffing, and you can store yours in the fridge for a quick de-puff in the mornings. Over the years, I have been using Ice Water EYES by ToGoSpa – The De-Puffer, $ 15.00, these collagen eye pads moisturize, plump and add nutrients to the delicate under-eye zone, creating a more relaxed and refreshed appearance. Also, EYES collagen gel masks are micro-infused with a combination of hyaluronic acid, natural high-density marine collagen, enzymes, amino acids, natural marine minerals, trace elements, proteins and vitamins C & E.

Try It!

I’m obsessed with the Knours Knows Sweet Enough Rescue Mask Set, $25, which is perfect to use during your period, when both body and mind are weary, or whenever skin needs a treat, this mask is formulated with restoring and hydrating honey extract – the best remedy for skin’s worst week. Like a boost of energy, the mask instantly revitalizes and rejuvenates tired skin. Also, I love Knours Knows One Perfect Cream, $48.00, this is a multi-tasking moisturizer that brightens and hydrates skin while providing age-defying benefits, leaving complexion dewy and perfectly prepped for makeup. Ideal for addressing multiple skin concerns at once, the at-home beauty treatment is the one and only moisturizer skin will need. The Double Duty Mist, $36, is good too. A customizable toner with two layers that transforms to address complexion needs. The bottom layer contains aloe vera water and MultiEx BSASM Plus® to calm and soothe; the top layer features jojoba oil and botanical extracts to deeply nourish and moisturize. Its packed with botanicals to immediately lift, brighten, and depuff the under eye area. They’re quite pricey, but are the best!

How to conceal dark circles:

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Color correct: When it comes to concealing dark circles, you can balance them out by using opposite shades that will ‘cancel’ the color. It’s all about finding the right tone to color correct the particular shade of your dark circles. If your under eyes have a red or pink undertone, you should neutralize the area with a concealer with a yellow undertone, whereas if your dark circles have a blue or grey tint, you should use a peachy concealer to counteract the undertones.

Conceal: Naturally, concealer is the easiest way to say bye Felicia to dark circles. I prefer a full coverage formula, and then I like to bake the area to add extra brightening and ensure the concealer stays in place all day and doesn’t settle into fine lines.

Let me know if there are any other beauty topics you’d like me to write about in the comments below.

**FTC: This post is not sponsored. No monetary compensation was received for this post, however, products were sent to me. Opinions are 100% my own, of course.