Tag: Review

REN PERFECT CANVAS CLEAN PRIMER

Published on by Lee6 Comments

Were do I describe my interest in makeup primers, it would hover between mild to semi-interested. Traditional primers? Not so much since I limit my makeup use to an occasional tinted moisturizer application when I’m in a rush or as an emergency intervention. A good eye cream under my Tom Ford Highlighting Illuminating Pen is all I need to avoid the midday crease. 

REN Clean Skincare has recently made a new look at their Clean Makeup Primer. The product now comes in recyclable glass bottle that you can put in your recycling bin once you are done. I love when companies find ways of reducing waste and REN has really made it simple. The REN Skincare Clean Makeup Primer is made to minimize pores and help to keep makeup stay put all day long. Find out more about this below and if it worked out for me. 

Over the last few years, however, I’ve come to see that the recently launched formulas make for intriguing skincare hybrids. The Silk Canvas from TATCHA, for example, fills in my crater-like pores flawlessly and the compact jar lasts forever. So when REN announced the re-launch of Perfect Canvas, their pore minimizing claims got me. I know it isn’t possible to change the size of a pore but if I combine deep cleansing efforts with a formula that helps to refine their appearance, who am I to argue?

At first glance, the Perfect Canvas bottle with dropper dispenser looks just like any daily hydrating serum. The liquid solution has a slightly viscous texture but doesn’t feel sticky or slippery. Since the formula is silicone free, it doesn’t have the spackle-like slip that I forever associate with the original Smash box primer. It doesn’t feel oily and isn’t heavily fragranced. True to the name, it’s perfect in its simplicity.

SO WHAT DOES IT DO AND WHY DO I LIKE IT?

The REN Clean Skincare Perfect Canvas Clean Primer ($45) is Silicone-free, Pore-minimizing, and makeup-gripping.  A little bit of this product goes a long way so you only need about 2-3 drops. It works best when you pat it into the skin and then proceed with your makeup routine. It does have a matte finish making this the perfect primer for those with oily skin. Even though it’s matte, I still found the primer to work great on my skin which is on the dry/combination side. It helps to even out my skin and makes it smoother for my makeup to glide with ease. This is a primer that I can see working for everyone, but especially for those with oily skin. You will love this product because it locks makeup down for hours and you can recycle it when you’re done.

I use it as the last step in my skincare routine and it delivers a surprisingly tightening effect. Think super thin layer of latex hugging your skin but not in a creepy American Horror Story kind of way. It’s not quite Spanx for your face but it instantly firms and adds a real life filter effect. 

Whether I choose to wear makeup (and when I do, it’s Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Hydrating Primer) or not, Perfect Canvas serves as an impressive pore-refining and line-blurring veil. The glass-like smoothness results in a glow that makes me look like I do eat super-greens. In addition to its makeup extending benefits, the formula boasts alpha-glucans, agave, and probiotic extracts. It’s really a makeup primer with treatment serum benefits.

Do I use Perfect Canvas everyday? No. But I when I want to juice up and tighten my complexion before a tinted moisturizer prior to going out, it’s my go to application. It prolongs the longevity of the tint as well. If you’re not a fan of silicone-based makeup primers, the new and improved REN formula is the perfect choice. 

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You can find this product at Sephora stores and online!

How To Banish Greasy Hair For Good (In One Wash)

Published on by Lee7 Comments

During a autumn (Fall) vacay, something super embarrassing and frustrating happened to us. Somehow, our hair got this horrible, waxy and greasy buildup, and no matter how much we washed our hair – literally triple shampooed it – the residue didn’t go away. Our hair looked and felt gross and greasy hair is never a good look.

We soon discovered that we weren’t the only ones to experience this, and there’s a ton of questions about ‘waxy buildup on scalp won’t wash out’ online. If you’ve had this oily buildup before, it could be down to a number of things, including using hair-care products that are too ‘heavy’ for your hair to over-stripping with harsh products. (If you simply have typically oily hair, this DIY hair mask will also work wonders).

We found that our scalp was itching and sometimes dry which sometimes dandruff would be found. This is often brought on by stress, hormones, and even the weather. So when all shampoos failed us, our DIY beauty skills came into play and we were shocked at how amazing our clarifying hair mask turned out to be.

So, whether you’re experiencing this waxy buildup or you just want to detox your scalp and greasy hair, then you have to try this ultimate DIY clarifying hair mask. The only thing that actually worked to rid our hair of this waxy sebum residue and leave it feeling soft AF!

Clarifying Hair Mask

We already knew that Apple Cider Vinegar was an amazing way to detox hair, but we took it one step further and added some major beauty powerhouses to the mix; bentonite clay and activated charcoal powder. This natural hair mask works to deeply cleanse and re-balance by removing excess oil and toxins that can build up on the scalp. Whether you have product buildup, dandruff, greasy hair that won’t go away or a frustrating case of seborrheic dermatitis, this mask will fix it – tried and tested!!

Clay: Clay is packed with minerals and nutrients and helps draw out toxins and absorb the extra sebum produced by your scalp. The clay also helps to inhibit the growth of fungus that causes dandruff.

aztec indian healing clay

Activated charcoal: This works in a similar way that clay does to detox the scalp. Activated charcoal is adsorbent, which means it has an electrical attraction that pulls molecules, ions, and atoms towards its surface so that they stick to it – essentially sucking up dirt and oil from your scalp.

Apple cider vinegar: One of nature’s most potent creations, it’s full of active ingredients, vitamins, mineral salts, and amino acids, and it’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It also has anti-fungal properties, and helps restore your skin’s natural pH balance and destroy dandruff by killing fungus and cleaning clogged pores and hair follicles.

How to make the clarifying detox hair mask:

Ingredients:

2 tbsp Aztec Healing Indian Clay
1 tbsp Activated Charcoal Powder
6 tbsp of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar

1 tablespoon coconut oil
½ tablespoon castor oil
½ tablespoon almond oil
Water
Glass bowl
Wooden spoon

We buy big tubs of these products and use them for all kinds of DIYs, from face masks to hair masks and body scrubs (and we’ve had our pots of activated charcoal powder and Aztec Indian Healing clay for months!). If your hair is just a little bit greasy and you just want to detox, you can also add one teaspoon of honey to nourish your hair.

How to:

Step 1. Combine bentonite clay, coconut oil, castor oil, and almond oil in the bowl (make sure you use wooden or ceramic utensil as activated charcoal reacts with metal); the formula will bubble up and should combine into a runny paste. Add the apple cider vinegar to the bowl and let it froth for 15 seconds before mixing it vigorously. Mix the ingredients slowly. It should form a smooth, yogurt-like consistency. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 2. Apply the mask to dry hair using a medium-sized brush, working your way in sections across your scalp – like you would if you were dying your roots. Once you’ve covered your scalp with the mask, tie up your hair (apply a shower cap if you like) and leave the mask to work for 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 3. Wash out the mask until the water runs clear, then shampoo your hair thoroughly. You can shampoo twice to ensure no mask remains, then follow with conditioner on your ends.

The result is all traces of oil or any waxy buildup are completely gone. Flakes from dandruff are wiped out, and the scalp feels balanced. It also makes your hair feel super lightweight and soft and gives your hair natural volume. We recommend doing this mask once a month to keep your scalp in top condition.

If your scalp is super flaky or you’ve experienced the waxy buildup on your hair that doesn’t go away with washing, then you should definitely visit a derm to see if you have seborrheic dermatitis. A derm will be able to advise you on the best medicated shampoos, and also prescribe an ointment to improve seborrheic dermatitis. Let us know if you’ve experienced this before!

Did you try the Aztec Secrets Indian Healing Clay Mask for the hair– it works for facial but does it work for your hair type!? Lemme know about your experience….

Hype or Not: Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Review

Published on by Lee9 Comments

While there are hundreds (if not thousands) of face masks options available, you’d be hard pressed to find one that boasts more five-star reviews and celeb love than the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay Mask. Amazon customers are practically writing novels about how it has transformed their skin, sharing astonishing Aztec Clay Mask before-and-after photos.

Since going viral a few years ago, the mask has racked up over 13,000 positive reviews from Amazon shoppers who have referred to is as the “holy grail of face masks” for acne—and it makes sense because it’s made with 100 percent bentonite clay, which helps to draw out the skin’s impurities. Unlike most face masks—which come ready to apply—you’ll have to whip up your own concoction using equal parts Aztec Indian Healing clay and apple cider vinegar or water. Yes, it’s a little extra work, but reviewers and stars alike agree it’s totally worth the time because it leaves their pores feeling so refreshed.

WHAT IS IT: AZTEC SECRET INDIAN HEALING CLAY is natural Calcium Bentonite Clay from Death Valley, California, where it is sun- dried for up to six months in temperatures that sometimes reach 134 degrees. The unique structure of the molecules in Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay carry a negative electron charge. This comes from the valance electron count from the specific minerals found in Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. This Indian Healing Clay lifts the pimple and blackheads into the clay bed to cause accelerated healing and nourishment to the skin with over 50 minerals.

  1. 100% NATURAL
  2. Deep pore cleaning with 100% natural calcium Bentonite Clay
  3. Does not contain: additives, fragrances or animal products
  4. Use for acne and blemishes. Use it once per week

HOW TO USE: After mixing with vinegar, apply the smooth, paste-like substance to the skin using your fingertips or, as reviewers recommend, with a silicone brush applicator, and allow it to dry for up to 20 minutes. (Note: Dry time can vary depending on your skin’s sensitivity.) As it dries, you’ll feel a pulling and tightening sensation, which is just the deep pore cleansing in action. The mask is so powerful that many customers recommend only using it once a week and moisturizing right after, as it’ll leave your skin feeling a tad on the dry side.

WARNING: Please note that when you rinse off the mask your face may be red and this is normal with this clay mask. This redness will be gone within 20 to 30 minutes.

PRIMP TIP: It’s easy to customize this clay mask depending on your skin’s mood. If you want a shot of moisture, add a teaspoon of raw honey to your mixture. For a more soothing formula, add some Aloe Vera gel, and if blemishes are an issue, a few drops of Tea Tree Oil will do the trick. Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is as powerful as it is versatile.

“This product is AMAZING. It’s an official Holy Grail product of mine,” another reviewer wrote. “I ideally use it once-a-week, and it feels as if angels themselves have taken the time, to delicately renew my skin with the magical touch of their wings.”

Dramatic, yes, but the mask is so popular, it even has a long list of celeb fans, including Kourtney Kardashian—the latest A-list to chime in on her love for it. In a recent post on her website, Poosh, she shared that the Aztec clay mask is one of three products she rotates in her “self-care Sunday masking routine.” As it turns out, her sister Khloé Kardashian is also a huge fan, along with Mindy Kaling and Lili Reinhart.

In 2015, Kaling shared a photo on Instagram wearing the Aztec mask that she mixed with Bragg’s organic raw apple cider vinegar (also available on Amazon).

PRIMP TIP: I learned from some people that you should spray a hydrating facial mist on your face while the Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay is on your face. That way it will be kept moist and easier to remove and the clay will not take moisture off from your skin. It’s the same logic with sheet masks.

MY EXPERIENCE: This pulsating sensation is pretty intense as the clay mask is working hard to rid your skin of all the dirt and grime. You will feel some tugging! After the recommended 20 minutes, the clay concoction hardens and makes your face feel a little tight. That’s your cue to wash it all off. I was left with slightly reddish skin, but this dissipated after five to ten minutes. I looked in the mirror, and an unbelievably squeaky clean face greeted me. “Is this really MY skin?” I marveled.

That’s not all. After prolonged use, you will find that your skin is no longer as prone to breakouts. And there’s still so much clay left in the tub!

This clay mask is truly no joke. It leaves a wonderful sensation on your skin but more than that, it is healing. It heals by getting rid of all the grit and sebum that causes breakouts. With a great price to boot, great reviews by thousands of users and some pampering time on offer, you can’t go  wrong with this one.

*This product may or may not help you. If the pimple persists, you may need to know the type of pimple you have or better, consult a doctor.

Did you try the Aztec Secrets Indian Healing Clay Mask – the world’s most powerful facial!? Lemme know about your experience….

HAIR ACCESSORY SPOTLIGHT: SOIELI HAIR SLIP

Published on by Lee5 Comments

Hair accessories are timeless and a fashion statement that we can always get down with. You’ll always need something to pull your hair back during a workout class, or twirl into a bun when you haven’t had the time to wash or blow dry your hair. It’s time for you to ditch that lame elastic hair tie and give that messy bun or half pony some flair!

If you love unique and beautiful hair accessories as much as we do, then you’ll surely appreciate this wearable piece of art. Handmade in NYC, these hair ties by Soieli (pronounced Swa-lee) are individually hand-painted and made from 100% silk. The silk not only serves an aesthetic purpose, but it also helps protect your hair against breaking and damage. Unlike the eye-sore of elastic that hangs out on your wrist sometimes, these beauties are disguised as arm accessories that are sure to catch some compliments whether in or out of your hair.

Soieli is a New York-based hair accessory brand born out of the desire to make hair accessories as beautiful as jewelery. Designer, Founder and CEO Sonali Karmarkar; effortlessly marries fine art with fashion, transforming hair accessories into silk canvases for her art. Soieli weaves stylistic inspiration from the impressionist era with urban street art, creating a unique, wearable art piece perfect for the modern woman.

Soieli (pronounced swa-lee) comes from a swirl of the French words soie, meaning silk, and soleil, meaning sun. We strive to bring light into customers’ lives through beautiful hand-painted silk.

Soieli specializes in hand-painted silk hair slips that are not your average scrunchie. The brand’s name, Soieli, comes from “a swirl of two French words soie, meaning silk, and soleil, meaning sun,” reflecting Soieli’s mission to use hand-painted silk to bring light into people’s lives. Soieli aims to help busy women easily elevate their look through beautiful hair accessories for everyday elegance. Each piece is crafted and hand-painted in Sonali Karmarkar NYC studio as a wearable art piece, guaranteeing you a unique hair accessory that is literally made for you. Designed to promote hair health and prevent breakage, Soieli’s pieces are made from 100% silk and perfectly complement other products to care for curly hair.

  • Soieli comes in two different colors.

We love the signature Gold Water design, a blend of impressionist art and street art for a feminine meets urban look, which adds a beautiful gold iridescence to one’s locks. Pieces come in two sizes based on one’s hair thickness (yay hair inclusivity!) and are priced at $28 per piece.

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