Questions – Page 2

Ask Lee: My A’s to your Q’s.

Published on June 3, 2018June 3, 2018 by Lee2 Comments

Lately, I’ve been thinking of fun ways we could get to know each other even better. Introducing… Ask Me Anything! I know that it’s my favorite type of content to read, and I hope it’s yours too!

These questions came straight from you guys via the @iamcrystalee & @beautyleebar Instagram. I don’t know about you, but I love a good Q&A. Those short, bite-sized interviews are always my favorite pieces to read in magazines or on blogs.

Of course I’ll also have tons of other great beauty, fashion, food, and fitness posts too. Stay tuned for some of my favorite kinda healthy recipes, makeup tutorials, an amazing monthly giveaway, and more. So without further ado, here are my answers to your fun questions…

If you could live in a different country, where would it be?

I would definitely want to live in Greece. I’ve never been but I had dreams where I visited and lived in Greece. The food, the arts, the history, and the passion. It’s a goal of mine to travel there

What’s a weird phobia you have?

Oh, I have many. I can’t stand when fruits have spots on them, the fruits look sick, like it has a disease or something. Mom said it’s just ripe but it bugs the shit out of me. I won’t eat or touch them.

What’s your earliest memory?

My earliest memory might be a time where I was in New York at my old adopted mom hair salon shop in the back hanging with a friend. It was probably in the late 90s or early 2000s. I just remember laughing and playing around with my friend. The salon was fun.

If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Just one?! Hmm. Since I’m only 21 and I’m still learning and growing, I’d say to cherish the feeling of having nothing to worry about and enjoy more time with family. I would tell my younger self I’m beautiful and to love myself more. That I’m enough, I’m a gem. I’d also tell myself to stick to my goals for the things I love and to see it through.

If you could go anywhere with anyone, who would you bring and where would you go?

Iceland, Greenland, Morocco, Italy, Spain, Europe and Greece are top on my list right now. I’d bring my mom.

What futuristic item do you wish your clothing or accessories could do?

This isn’t clothing or accessory related but I would definitely benefit from something that simultaneously took off all my make up, brushed my teeth and brushed my hair so right when I get home I could get straight into bed and not worry about a thing. Clearly I’m a tad bit lazy. OH well.

If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

This is so hard. If calories and healthiness didn’t matter, I think it’d be pasta, burger, oatmeal, eggplant parmesan and sweet tea. I’m getting hungry all of the sudden.

What’s your favorite holiday?

MY BIRTHDAY. Obviously. Christmas follows very close behind it though.

What’s one of your favorite parts being a woman?

Having the capacity to spread femininity, strength and compassion when other can’t is a beautiful thing. I admire all the women in my life who hold themselves so elegantly but with fierce resilience. I love being a woman. We kick ass. Don’t worry men, I still love you too.

One make up product you can’t walk out the door without?

ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS CLEAR BROW GEL or THE TINTED BROW GEL, I literally use it all the time. But also my two other beauty needs when I leave are Maybelline Baby Lips (lip balm) and sunscreen. I go most days only wearing that. It’s important to give your skin a break from make up!

Hope you enjoyed this! And I hope you enjoy the photo of Sharky judging whoever doesn’t read my blog. x

What kind of questions do you want to ask me?
Leave them below, and you might see them get answered on the site later this month!

Women Who Inspire: Chatting with Fitness Guru, Model & Reality Star Jenna Compono

Published on May 9, 2018May 9, 2018 by Lee5 Comments

Hello Beauties, I had the pleasure of interviewing reality tv star, Jenna Compono. I started this page because in a world full of hate and negativity, I thought let me be one of those people who bring some type of happiness in the world while also celebrating women in a positive light. "Women Who Inspire Me" is held very close to my heart because if you are a women who are chasing her dreams while being unapologetic herself then why not celebrate that. It doesn't matter what skin color, race, or religion you are, if my soul is inspired by you somehow then I will gladly collab with you.

Jenna Compono is an MTV Real World veteran and model who has appeared on The Challenge, Battle of the Exes II, Bloodlines, and The Challenge: Champs vs Stars. Ms.Compono is a true champ in my eyes, she always pushes herself to do better, to be better with such a delightful attitude. She doesn't pick fights with people and isn't a bully. Since the day she came across our tv screen, she has been the same happy bubbly Jenna that we fell in love with. 

Even though, Jenna has taken a break from tv to heal her ankle, she is still up in the gym sweating it out while making some moves to help cultivate her career. Today, Jenna opens up about her relationship, school, and more. Let's dive in...

1. What inspired you to get into fitness?

Being on these competitive shows, it really opened my eyes that I needed to start building up muscle and endurance. I have to thank the Challenge for helping me realize I needed to spend more time in the gym!

2. What have you learned during this journey?

I have learned that even though these shows are full of drama, they are also a once in a lifetime opportunity that not many people can say they got to experience. I am truly blessed to be able to have the opportunity to be on so many.

3. Define beauty in your own words?

Beauty is all about being comfortable and confident in your own skin. It doesn’t matter what you look like on the outside, it’s all about what is on the inside; it’s about being unique.

4. What was it like being on MTV’S The Challenge and Champs vs Stars?

It was a lot different from being on a regular challenge. We had a lot more off time and were able to keep our cell phones which was amazing. It was also different competing with people who are actual athletes. I had a lot of respect for them pausing their busy lives and coming out to compete for charity.

5. Of all the people in the fitness world, who would you love to collaborate with if given the opportunity?

( I don’t really know fitness people sorry!) ahh

6. What advice can you give to young women who are interested in following your footsteps?

Never give up! Whether it be about fitness, dreams, opportunities or life! The harder you work the more will come from it.

7. How has your life change since being on tv?

I am the same person on TV as I am off TV. Of course more people recognize you now, but I try to be the exact person I was before. I am still humble and still work hard. Being on TV was a treat and I enjoy every second of it, but it isn’t my entire life.

8. What goals do you want to accomplish in your career and in life?

My main goal was to be a Sports Illustrated model, or a Victoria Secret model. Although I still haven’t made it there quite yet, I am not giving up. YOU JUST WAIT AND SEE! I will be there one day! My goal in life is to have a happy healthy family, a great job, stable income, and a gorgeous house.

9. Do you have any beauty routines and if so, what are they?

Every morning I wash my face, apply a toner and then CE Ferulic Acid, and every night I wash my face, use the toner and a moisturizer. I always wash my makeup off at night. It causes less breakouts and helps from your skin getting dull and wrinkled.

10. Do you have any upcoming events or plans we should watch out for?

Yes! The first week of June I will be In San Francisco doing an event with Leroy, Kam and CT. Stay updated on my Instagram @jennacompono I will be posting details as it gets closer.

11. What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?

I think that people font take women seriously, they just think it’s another pretty face. But watch out! We are BEAUTY AND BRAINS.

12. Describe yourself in one word?

Unique

13. What made you decide to join MAXIM’S FINEST?

I love being in front of the camera, I always have, and after shooting for years, I decided to send my photos into Maxim and was approved! I also had a bunch of my supporters telling me I would have a great shot if I tried out… and they were right! I was a finalist!

14. Name 2 your beauty must-haves & Name 2 of your fitness must-haves

Mascara and Chapstick
Resistance bands and pre workout!

15. Is there any woman who inspires you? Why?

My mom inspires me because although we have been through a lot over the years, she has never given up on being a hard worker, a mom and making sure all of her kids had everything they needed to have a happy secure life. She’s the best woman I know.

16. Are you still interested in criminal justice?

Yes, I am still interested in criminal justice, and I do plan to get back to that as soon as my career with TV is over.

17. Are you single or that isn’t a priority right now?

I am not single. I am currently dating Zach Nichols who I originally met on my first season; Battle of the Exes II. Everything is going great and we are the happiest we have ever been.

18. What is your favorite quote/poem?

Work hard, stay humble.

19. What do you like best about your body?

I love that I am tall. I am 5’9 and with heels I am over 6 foot. I used to hate it when I was younger, being the tallest girl in class, but now I embrace it and show off my long legs! haha

20. What’s your typical workout routine?

I go to the gym everyday and do the stair master or treadmill for about an hour, then I workout with light weights or resistance bands for about 30 minutes. I also do hot yoga, hot Pilates and a hot booty and core workout. To sweat so much and get in a great body weight workout has become one of my favorite things!

Want to find out more about Jenna Compono? Check out her Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, & Facebook.

Who would you like to see me interview next?

Does Your Skin Need a Serum?

Published on May 7, 2018May 1, 2024 by Lee4 Comments

I've been getting a lot of questions on serums since I did a review on Anese.co. People are confused about what they are, how to use them and how to incorporate them into their daily regimen. If this sounds like you, read on to see the answers to your most common questions!

What is serum?

A serum is a skin care product with a gel or light lotion consistency that contains a high concentration of performance ingredients. You should use a serum underneath a moisturizer or treatment mask. While using a cleanser, toner, and moisturizer is still the foundation of a solid routine, serums are a great addition. It’s best to use them when your skin is in a rut and/or you’re seeking better results. Simply put, if you want to up your game, serums are the way to go. In fact, I always recommend that my clients add this simple step. Usually, once they do so regularly, they see big improvements.

What is the difference between a serum and a moisturizer?

Moisturizers create a protective barrier over the skin. This prevents the skin’s moisture from evaporating, and it keeps environmental irritants and debris out. Serums, although they do hydrate, should never be used alone. They do not contain the protective properties that creams do.

The biggest difference between a serum and a cream or lotion is what the formulation doesn’t include. Serum leave out occlusive, or airtight, moisturizing ingredients such as petrolatum or mineral oil that keep water from evaporating. They also contain fewer lubricating and thickening agents, like nut or seed oils.

Serums and moisturisers mostly differ in purpose and weight.
The purpose of a moisturiser is always to hydrate the skin. Serums CAN add hydration but may offer additional or different benefits to the skin.

Serums can treat everything from wrinkles and sagging to hyperpigmentation and scarring. While moisturisers can contain beneficial ingredients, creams and lotions can’t be as effective at correction and treatment as serums.

That’s because …
Serums are generally much lighter in weight than moisturisers are, meaning the formula can penetrate much deeper. Serums contain highly concentrated ingredients that are infinitely more effective at treating particular concerns.

Moisturisers the heavier of the two products, hydrate the epidermis, which is the top layer of the skin. Lotions and creams don’t make it much farther than that layer.

Why should I use a serum?

Serums are not mandatory in a regimen. If you have specific skin care concerns such as wrinkles or age spots that your regular moisturizer is not addressing, you may want to consider incorporating a serum into your regimen before your moisturizer. Customizing your skin care routine with a targeted treatment can help deliver results faster. Dry skin that’s blotchy and broken out would benefit from the pairing of a serum and a moisturiser after cleansing.

When should I avoid serums?

Those with chronic skin conditions like eczema or rosacea have weaker skin barriers. The liquid or gel-like texture of a serum can penetrate the skin too quickly, causing irritation. Speak with your dermatologist if you have serious skincare issues before incorporating a serum into your regimen.

Yes. Avoid SD alcohol 40, denatured alcohol or oils. These alcohol ingredients are very dehydrating and unfortunately encourage dry skin cell build up. In addition, I’ve lately seen many oils marketed as serums. I’m not on board with this, and here’s why. Serums are formulated with small molecular structures. Therefore, they deliver performance ingredients deep into the skin. By contrast, oils have the largest molecules (even more so than creams do). Therefore, it’s best to use them as a last step OVER moisturizer to prevent moisture evaporation. I highly suggest you don’t use an oil-based type of serum under a moisturizer. It just makes no sense.

OK but $$$$…

Yes. Serums contain higher concentration of active ingredients, which are more expensive than thickeners. So the higher price of the serum is justified. Remember that bit about being super concentrated and potent? You are getting your bang for your buck here. The good news is you only need to use a few drops of a serum, so a 1 ounce container should last you months.

How do I incorporate one into my skin care regimen?

Different serums are meant to be used with different frequency and at different times of day. Read all instructions carefully to avoid overusing or combining active ingredients. To maximize the effect of your serum, after cleansing your face, apply a pea-sized amount of serum, patting it evenly over skin with your finger. Then apply your moisturizer. If you have sensitive skin, wait 10 to 15 minutes after washing your face before using serum. Applying a water-based product to damp skin is more likely to lead to irritation.

***

Getting healthy glowing skin requires a holistic approach – living a healthy lifestyle, eating a healthy diet and using a consistent skincare regimen. Deciding what products to incorporate into your regimen can be confusing. This is why it is important to find out what kind of skin type you are.

Maybe you had breakouts in your teens and an oily T-zone, and ever since then you’ve stuck to products for “combination skin.” Well, after a decade of using the same routine with lackluster results, perhaps it’s time to visit a professional and find out exactly what your skin is like and what it needs the most. As we age, our skin changes significantly, and if you’re addressing its specific concerns, you’ll notice an instant difference.

Doesn’t serum expire really fast?

Certain potent ingredients often found in serum can become unstable once they come in contact with air. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C), for instance, can oxidize and lose efficacy over time. But thanks to science, modified versions of the ingredient (that are water-soluble, etc.) last longer so they can do your skin more good. Best rule of thumb is to store your vial in a cool, dry place (obviously) and use it up within six months to a year.

Is serum a moisturizer?

Yes and no. Serums can be chock-full of moisturizing ingredients (hyaluronic acid, ceramides) to help skin retain moisture. But, that doesn’t make them moisturizers in the traditional sense. Face lotions and creams are richer and create a barrier on top of the skin to keep all that good stuff in.

Have anymore concerns, comment down below !

LAURA

Published on May 17, 2017March 1, 2018 by Lee3 Comments

laura9

INTERVIEWED BY CRYSTAL LEE

1. What inspired you to become a graphic designer?

” I’ve always had a talent for art, I’ve been drawing and painting since I was three. But I didn’t decide on it as a career until my second year of college.

2. What have you learned during this journey?

” I’ve learned that failure is an option. In order to know what success feels like, you have to fail a few times. Pick yourself back up and keep on pushing for your goals.

3. What do you define as beauty?

” Beauty is what you define it as. For me, beauty is not only on the outside and how you carry yourself, but also what you put out into the universe to bring light to others’ lives.

4. How do you deal with your own insecurities and what advice can you give other women who have them?

” Embrace your insecurities. Instead of me hiding my cellulite, for instance, I show it off, because that is just the human body and we all have one.

5. What are some of the worst decisions you’d have made, how have they affected you and what did you learn from them?

” This may sound shallow, but I think the worst decision I’ve made is trying to conform to beauty standards with my hair. I wanted so bad to have straight hair as a child. Looking back, I should have embraced my uniqueness. My hair was always huge back in the day, but due to chemicals and straighteners, it’s nowhere near its lush beauty. With my decisions in life, I wish I hadn’t been so naive. It probably would have saved me a lot of heartbreak.

6. What advice can you give to young women who are interested in following your footsteps?

” Do what you want to do. Don’t let the system hold you back. If you want to start modeling, take pictures. If you want to enter the fashion industry, start styling. Invest in yourself. Go with your gut.

7. Growing up what did you struggle the most with and how different is that today?

” Growing up I struggled most with my trusting of people. I was extremely naive. It wasn’t until my 20s that I began to take people as they are, rather than expecting a fairy tale love or friendship.

8. Where do you see yourself in the next 10 years? What goals do you want to accomplish?

” In 10 years, I’d love to have a steady income from fashion blogging, but will definitely still be designing full-time. I also see myself in a bigger city out west.

9. Do you have any beauty routines and if so, what are they?

” I try to stick with all natural products for my skin. I wash my face morning and night, tone my skin with apple cider vinegar, and use lavender oil from glowwgoddess.com before applying makeup. I also stick to vegan and nontoxic makeup. I love to exfoliate a couple of times a week as well. It’s great for the whole body! I usually use a sea salt exfoliant or make my own with brown sugar.

10. Do you have any upcoming events or plans we should watch out for?

” I have several exciting projects coming up in the near future. Definitely keep an eye out on Instagram and my blog, lyfeaslars.com!

11. Where do you find peace?

” I always find peace in the gym. It’s a great place to get my thoughts together and plan out my goals. I also find peace when I’m alone with my sketchbook.

12. What are some beauty tips you can give to our girls?

” I try to stick with all natural products for my skin. I wash my face morning and night, tone my skin with apple cider vinegar, and use lavender oil from glowwgoddess.com before applying makeup. I also stick to vegan and nontoxic makeup. I love to exfoliate a couple of times a week as well. It’s great for the whole body! I usually use a sea salt exfoliant or make my own with brown sugar.

13. What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?

” The most significant barrier to female leadership would most likely be society’s views of women. Honestly, we should be on a pedestal. We give life to everything on this planet. Start treating us like queens.

14. Is there anything you’d like to share that you wish someone had shared with you?

” Stop caring about what people think. What do YOU think? If you are satisfied, great. If not, keep pushing until you reach that goal. Get rid of toxic people. Get rid of insecurities. Get rid of any negativity that stunts your growth. You are more than you believe.

15. How would you describe yourself in one word?

” I would describe my self as a daydreamer

16. What do you do for fun?

” Well, my fashion blog is something I do for fun, definitely. I also love traveling, eating at hole-in-the-wall diners, working out, and getting any art done when I can.

17. Does your family and friends support your dream?

” I think my family and friends support me, yes. I’ve received nothing but love for my successes.

18. What is success to you?

” Success to me is happiness. When you achieve happiness in your mind, you’ve made it. Only then can you excel at reaching for bigger goals.

19. When did your love of fashion begin?

” My love for fashion began after college. I was finally able to afford something other than bread and crackers, haha!

20. Who is your celebrity crush?

” I don’t dabble into celebrity obsessions, but if I had to pick, Rihanna. She just embodies the strong, independent woman.

21. Is there any woman who inspires you? Why?

” Tons of women inspire me! All the gorgeous ladies I’ve found on Instagram starting new businesses and becoming the queens they are meant to be, just truly inspirational. I love working with girl bosses.

22. Who would you love to collaborate with if you had the opportunity?

” I would love to collaborate with BIG name photographers and magazines one day. I mean modeling for Balmain is every girls’ dream, right?!

23. I see that you are also a model, do you have a role model that is in the modeling industry? If so, Who and why?

” I truly appreciate women like Zendaya and Ashley Graham. Both so different, but with the same message—don’t take shit from people. Be yourself and live your best life. Its great to receive a message like that from two completely different looking models.

24. You have extremely gorgeous body and gorgeous skin. Do you have any tips on how to get and keep clear and healthy skin? Do you workout and if so, what are your fitness routines?

” Thank you! I definitely have the occasional blemish and especially during my cycle, but my tips would be: eat clean—no dairy, fruits and veggies all the way; exercise daily; ALWAYS wash your face morning and night; and use all natural products—no drug store chemicals. My fitness routine is pretty intense. I work out at least 5 days a week. Two to three days a week I do fasted cardio. Later in the day I’ll do my weights: 2 leg days, shoulder day, arm day, chest/back/core day. Also see #9.

25. What was the biggest change you had to make in life?

” My diet and my mindset were the biggest changes I’ve had to make so far. For my diet, I had to switch to an all natural lifestyle. I have the occasional cheat meal and drink, about twice a month. It started for medical reasons, but now I love it. For my mindset, I had to really define what happiness was for myself. Was happiness a bundle of material items? Or was it something that I had to search for in my brain? It was like a finally turned on a switch and decided that positivity is all I want for myself and the people around me.

26. How do you feel about surgery?

” If women want to enhance their physicality with surgery, by all means, do it and own it. But don’t be a “Kardashian” and act like it’s “all natural”, because baby boo, we know it’s not.

27. What do you think is holding this generation of women back?

” I think the system is holding this generation of women back. We need to get rid of the old white men in power and take it for ourselves.

28. Are you dating? What is your type?

” No, I’m not dating.

29. Do you consider yourself as a role model?

” I don’t consider myself a role model, but then again, I’ve never thought of it. I do express myself in my style in ways that I want all women to express themselves. Just don’t be afraid of what others think. Don’t be afraid of your nipple showing because society says it’s disgusting, or whatever. It’s the human body. Own it and do you, boo!

30. What made you decide to become a blogger?

” I became a blogger after peer pressure from my college mates. The older I got, the more into fashion I became, and they urged me to get on Instagram, which prompted my website. I was so inspired by other bloggers, I decided to give it a try.

FUN FACTS: