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 !

HOLD MY DRINK, ANESE IS HERE…

Published on April 13, 2018August 30, 2018 by Lee4 Comments

By now, you know I am a crazy skin care junky. Taking care of my skin is my number one priority within my beauty routine. The less I need to cover up with makeup, the better. You’re probably catching on to the fact that I am also really into natural skincare. Right now my Holy Grail beauty routine is still a work in progress, but I was definitely thrilled with experimenting with Anese.co.

Okay, so here’s how this all started — I was scrolling through the gram looking for some goodies to try out and then it happened. Out the corner of my eye, I spotted Anese page and had to give it a scroll. I saw a product called, “Down With The Thickness ” Collagen Booty Mask and that was it, I had to check out their collection. I headed straight to their site to see if they were 100% cruelty-free. Not only did Anese check that box, but it also checked the natural-derived-ingredients box too. Um, sold.

I immediately started reading about each individual product and quickly filled my cart with what I wanted to try first. It was a difficult decision — between the raving reviews for every single product and the cute sexy clever names, I was as indecisive as a kitty trying to choose whether or not to come into the house. But I finally settled on a few to try out and even got my twin something.

Slay.

Skin perfecting serum.$48.00

The Slay Revive and Glow White Truffle Perfecting Serum is magic in a bottle. Slay targets dry, dull looking skin that needs a healthy boost of moisture and vitamins. Formulated with DMAE, known to tighten and firm with noticeable effects within 20 minutes. Slay is your key to that youthful natural glow.

Beauty Lesson: Okay, in case you’ve never heard of this acronym, DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol) is a substance naturally produced in small amounts in the brain and also found in anchovies and sardines. DMAE supplements are promoted to boost brainpower, improve memory, and slow aging. DMAE helps to tighten skin and reduce sagging, improve firmness and elasticity, smooth lines and wrinkles and also brighten the skin. What’s more, it will enhance the effects of alternative antioxidants and is, therefore, best used in combination with Vitamins A, E, and C or alpha lipoic acid.

Basically, this shit is good for your skin. If used consistently, it can tighten and tone skin from all the ‘methyl donation’. The formula of this serum is a thick, milky texture, which absorbs into the skin nicely, with NO leftover flaky tacky sticky feeling.

Girl Power Mask Duo – Save $5!

Mask $39.00

I usually do a mask like 1-2 times a week, just as a quick pick-me-up for the skin. And although not always 100% necessary, it’s a nice gesture to do for your skin. So be nice to yours and treat it with this something special. This duo is a good place to start, because you get two-for-one, and they both have totally different skin-salving properties.
Pretty Sure I’m Gorgeous is a super hydration charcoal mask that feels more a like a cream on your skin, than drying. It also has the aforementioned DMAE qualities in it so it tones your skin as it moisturizes. A clarifying charcoal creme mask for when your skin and ego needs a boost. Perfect for acne prone and oily skin. Reduces the appearance of large pores and blemishes. Gentle and creamy, quenches skin. Activated charcoal clarifies and removes impurities from your skin, hyaluronic acid, organic olive and jojoba oils act as an ultra hydrator. Antioxidant organic rooibos, spirulina detoxes, DMAE tones. Apply a thick layer to cleansed skin, avoiding eye area. Rinse off after 10-15 minutes. Repeat twice a week. Tone using L’OREAL PARIS HYDRAFRESH TONER.

Unlike harsh exfoliants, So Over It does NOT remove dead skin by scrubbing it off. It gently exfoliates, increasing cell turnover and improves the overall texture of your face.
The result is brighter, cleaner and smoother skin. So Over It can work for all skin types but it is particularly amazing for dry skin.

For when you’re super over dry, flaky patches on your t-zone or you’ve been searching the deep depths of the internet for how to get that dewey fresh radiant look. Look no further, So Over It is going to be your fresh face champion. It is a gentle exfoliant that is made with papaya and pineapple enzymes.
Use 2-3 times per week, apply a thick layer to cleansed skin and scroll through BeautyLeeBar instagram for 15-20 minutes while the enzymes work its magic. Rinse with warm water and follow with the Slay serum.

So Over It, is great after a long day (or week) when you skin needs a little detoxification. This gently exfoliates and adds a smoothness to your complexion. You cans also buy both separately, but you get the better deal with the duo, just saying.

Beauty Tip: Not only does the Papaya Exfoliating Mask removes dead skin and give you that natural fresh radiant glow all year round, but it also helps dematerialize black spots.

Swipe right.

Highlighting moisturizer.$38.00

This illuminating balm is a lightweight cream with a subtle silver sheen and a light floral scent. An illuminating skin balm that leaves a pearlescent shine. Swipe right is made with natural oils that moisturize and nourish skin while leaving a trace of sparkle. Perfect for cheekbones, shoulders and legs. Swipe right offers more than your basic moisturizer.

Swipe right illuminating moisturizer is perfect for those who desires an illuminated effect for a day out at the beach or just general glamness. It Moisturizes, hydrates and softens skin while adding a light highlight.

Beauty Tip: For those who don’t wear makeup, use this product anywhere you would normally do with other highlighters. I usually put it on my nose, cheekbones, collarbones, arms and legs; if I’m showing some skin. My perfect skin secret for this summer is: Swipe Right (highlighter) + Hold my drink (Coconut body scrub). The shimmer is subtle and not overwhelming, so I feel comfortable wearing it regularly. It also is a great moisturizer!

P.S. One of the most enjoyable parts of doing this blog is finding really innovative, cool ass brands and getting to share them with you guys. Brands that you’ve probably never have heard of, and otherwise would have never bought on your own. And guys, remember it is so important to support brands like this who are standing for what they believe in, putting safe products out on the market, and who genuinely care about their customers well-being. If you’re looking for gentle, effective skin care that are cruelty-free, all natural, and organic, then try this brand. Join their #skinsquad here.

Have you tried anything from Anese? Let me know in the comments section below!
Like what you see? Sign up to receive updates straight to your inbox: Sign up here!
Anese.co is having a sale, so go check them out here.

**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.

LEAVE A THOUGHT

FACE MASK APPLICATORS | SHARE WITH YOUR GIRLS

Published on January 12, 2018December 10, 2019 by Lee2 Comments

Is The Flat Tummy Tea Really Worth It?

I have been using the Flat Tummy Tea on and off for over a year now and people always ask me that question. My answer normally goes like: its depending on the purpose you are using it for and the expectations you have of the results. Remember this tea does not promise to make you lose weight because its more of a cleanse and detox. So continue reading this post to see if its really worth buying.

Flat Tummy Tea is a two-step herbal detox tea that naturally helps detoxify your system. If you have never tried Flat Tummy Tea before than I would recommend you get the 4-week program for $49 U.S. because once you try it, you’ll love it. But, they also have a 2-week program for $36 which is cheaper than some of the other detox teas. If you go to their website Flattummyco.com/ right now, they are having a 20% sale. For the tea to work the instructions have to be followed. Step 1 is a morning Activate tea that gets your body ready for the day much like you might have heard breakfast is the important meal of the day. A good breakfast fuels you up and gets you ready for the day. In general, kids and teens who eat breakfast have more energy, do better in school, and eat healthier throughout the day. Without breakfast, people can get irritable, restless, and tired. Expect that these natural ingredients will give you an antioxidant boost and an extra energy boost. Step 2 is an evening Cleanse tea that works to detoxify your digestive tract of built up toxins and reduce water weight – the two main reasons why your stomach is bigger when you go to sleep than when you wake up in the morning! Sometimes I miss a few days because I either forget to drink it or wake up late. Rushing out the house for work, school, or for whatever reason means no time to sit and have tea. That is why I put it in my water bottle to go. But I am sure you can relate to how difficult sticking to a routine can be at times.

Here are my findings:
1. Eat healthy. If you continue eating junk food you will not see the results.
2. You have to be consistent for it to work.
3. Don’t expect a miracle.
4. Aids with the bloating especially during that time of month.
5. Exercising regularly while taking the tea helps a whole lot.
6. Bowel movements are much easier so expect to go at least once or twice a day.
7. Increases metabolism and gives a boost of energy.
8. Tastes minty so you don’t necessarily need to add honey or sugar depending on your preference.

I absolutely noticed a difference in the cleansing effects of the tea and because of it, I was less sluggish. Every couple of days, I would tell myself (and others) “I think the tea is working.” I definitely felt like my body was given a routine with a jumpstart in the morning which is really saying a lot because I normally don’t have any routine as far as eating or diets go. A disclaimer I think I must mention, this is not some miracle tea that’s going to melt away fat. It’s a detoxifying tea to nix water weight that causes bloating.

Reduce your bloating
Support your metabolism
Help maintain a healthy immune system
Boost your energy
Detoxify your system
Decrease your water retention
Cleanse your digestive system

So if you have realistic expectations of the product, you will be happy with the results. Plus, it’s hard to argue with the amount of Facebook followers, Instagram followers and positive product reviews. I’m not on the tea right now, but I am drinking green tea with lemon every morning to stay on a hot beverages in the morning routine. That way it will be easier for me to jump back into my next weeks with more tea!

Come and join the Flat Tummy Tea Program so we can kick bloating ass together! The Subscribe & Save program comes with a slightly different blend of tea designed for ongoing use to help keep you on track. Oh, and the best part? You’ll receive a four week cleanse every fourth month to detox your system. Yep, by joining @flattummyco babe collective, you’ll not only keep that tummy flat all year round with the subscription maintenance program, you will also get it at a freakin’ awesome discount. #ohyeah

How do you like to drink your Flat Tummy Tea?!

*This is directly from the Flat Tummy Tea website: Results from consuming the products offered on the Site may vary from person to person. Please do not use the products available on the Site when pregnant or breast feeding. You should consult your doctor before using the products offered on the Site, or any dietary supplement. The statements on the Site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and the products offered on the Site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Follow for more updates and tag them to get feature on their page.

#flattummyco #flattummytea #BabeNation

Instagram: @Flattummyco

Twitter: @Flattummyco

Website: flattummyco.com/

tea 1 tea 3

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: