summer hair saviors

Honestly, I've been super lazy with my hair this summer...and for good reason. My house was built in the '50's and I'm not sure if central AC even existed yet, but I can assure you it definitely does not exist in my house. Every spring my husband and I (ok, mostly Kent does this) drags the AC's out of the attic and installs them into the windows. It makes our house look super glamorous.

Unfortunately the window in our bathroom is too small for an AC so after a shower the extra humidity makes a beeline for my hair and frizzes it out. And you can imagine on a hot day (in an already hot bathroom) the sweat on my forehead as I use my blow dryer or flat iron. Ugh! I needed to find a solution, and fast! Thankfully, a few brands felt my pain (or saw my frizz) and came to my rescue.

1. Bumble and Bumble Don't Blow It is a miracle for my hair because I don't have to use any heat styling at all and it takes away the frizz and adds a ton of shine to my hair. It doesn't do a lot for volume though...otherwise I'm pretty obsessed with this product.

2. Living Proof Humidity Shield is like an insurance agency for your blow out (or lack of one- see above). The superfine mist doesn't weigh down your hair, it just blocks and takes away frizzy humid hair. Oh, it's also got a built-in UV protector too so your color won't fade with the sun. I literally keep a mini size of this spray in my purse because it can be used all day long, and it should.

3. Blonde Bobby Pins (obviously I use the blonde since that's my hair color) just disappear in my hair and hold up that cute braided hairstyle that's in the inspiration photo. Thankfully bobby pin companies now make a pin for practically every hair color.

4. Batiste Dry Shampoo is a UK favorite for good reason- it wonderfully absorbs oil but leaves the hair soft and touchable. Batiste also makes a lot of scent options so your hair can smell delicious all the time.

5. Hair Ties are a no-brainer when I just need to throw my hair up in a messy top-knot. Some days just aren't worth the trouble. Ya know what I mean?


What are some of your favorite hair styles for the summer? What products do you use to get the look?

p.m. routine

When the moon rises, it's time to hit the sink and start the night time ritual of removing the day's face. When you're body is at rest, products have a chance to absorb and sink deeper into the skin, so this is the time to really pack on the products. If you're afraid of layering during the day, because you also wear makeup, save the treatments for the evening. They'll be more effective anyway.


1. When I'm wearing anything waterproof (like liner or mascara), the Lancome Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover is one of the best at taking everything off. I usually soften my lashes with a bit of warm water, then pour the remover onto a cotton round and hold it on my lashes for a minute. Then I gently wipe the makeup off, without rubbing, to prevent eyelashes from falling out.

2. Ole Henriksen Nurture Me Makeup Removing Wipes are made of a soft cotton, so they're gentle on my face but also take every ounce of makeup off. Most days I just use these wipes and then follow with a cleanser.

3. Caudalie Instant Foaming Mousse Cleanser is something I could literally inhale because I love the clean cucumber scent! It's also a wonderfully pH balanced cleanser, so no toner is necessary.

4a. Dermadoctor Poetry in Lotion is a 1% retinol treatment that I only use 3x a week, so that's why I have the other serums for my "off" nights. When I use the retinol, I skip the moisturizer and eye cream and just use a bit of oil (7.) to keep my skin from drying out.

4b. Dr. Brandt Laser Perfect Serum has a lovely feel and sinks in quickly. It's jam-packed with antioxidants to keep my skin supple and healthy.

4c. When my skin gets a bit dull, Perricone MD Vitamin C Ester 15 ampoules do just the trick. Vitamin C Ester is patented by Dr. Perricone and is one of the most stable and effective Vitamin C's available. Any dark spots fade and there's an overall radiance to my skin that I'm crazy about.

5. The triple peptide formulation in Dr. Brandt Do Not Age Eye cream gives my eye area the firming and hydration that it needs after a long day of smiling.

6. Who knew I would like Greek yogurt so much that I'd put it on my face? The Greek folks at Korres did, that's who. Their Korres Advanced Nourishing Sleeping Facial contains Greek yogurt, which is a superior hydrator for the skin, and keeps my face feeling plump and soft.

7. Caudalie Premier Cru Elixir is an anti-aging oil that I use over my moisturizer for extra hydration. I've also used this oil before and really liked it, but the Elixir oil is full of anti-inflammatory prickly pear, which makes it a superb anti-aging. Plus, it smells of soft, springtime roses that just make you feel blissful.

8. Whenever I have a doosey of a pimple coming (or has arrived) I just dip a Q-tip into this little jar of pink bliss: Kate Somerville EradiKate. Although the sulfur smell is not my favorite, the results are worth it and my blemishes are leveled flat in no time.


So, what's your evening routine like? Do you have different products for day time vs. night time?

wake up call

On a regular basis, I'm asked what products I use. Sometimes people ask me because they're complimenting me. Sometimes they genuinely want to know so that I can recommend something from my routine. And sometimes I think they want to know so that they can test me. Maybe they're testing me because they know I'm an Esthetician or because I have a beauty blog, or because they know I have a terrible memory and can't remember the products I use on my face every. day. It's pathetic, really.

Anyway, here's my routine for the fall/winter/early spring seasons (I'll post my p.m. routine tomorrow). As the weather warms up, some of these products will change.

1. First Aid Beauty Cleanser is my go-to cleanser when I need to use something quick and gentle. Sometimes my face is extra sensitive (maybe from a peel or too much retinol) and this cleanser will clean my skin without drying it or adding to any irritation.

2. I alternate between the First Aid Beauty Cleanser and this one. The Ole Henriksen African Red Tea Cleanser feels like you are washing your face with a cloud. It's a creamy foam that is heaven sent for combo/dry skin...it also doesn't hurt that the soft citrus scent gently wakes me up.

3. Kate Somerville ExfoliKate is a facial in a tube. It contains enzymes, an AHA peel and also granules so it's a triple exfoliator that packs a major punch. My skin is super soft every time I use this.

4. I don't know how I've lived without Dr. Brandt Needles No More. It's a targeted serum that's only applied to the areas where Botox would go (which is only the forehead and outer crow's feet) and a dual peptide delivery system relaxes the muscle contraction and mimics the results of Botox, but without the needle. There are immediate and cumulative results and I'm just over the moon about it.

5. Shiseido Ultimune Concentrate is a pre-treatment serum that is full of antioxidant protection to keep my skin on the D-E-F-E-N-S-E all. day. long.

6. Fresh Black Tea Eye Concentrate is a lovely, hydrating (albeit rich) eye cream that moisturizes my dry eye area. It also doesn't hurt that it's loaded with anti-aging benefits.

7. I've expressed the benefits of using a hyaluronic acid serum before and Perricone MD Hyalo Plasma is the one I use to keep myself from slathering my dehydrated skin with gross stuff, like Vaseline.

8. Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Cream has a cream-gel texture that sinks in and feels great. I only wish it had an SPF, but at least I get that from my tinted moisturizer.

Ok, so what are the products you use in the morning? Do you use as many products as this?

toolin' around

Do you use a cleansing device to wash your face? I've praised the results of the Clarisonic brush before, but now that they have a new model out it seems that the market is flooded with other brands trying to elbow their way in.

Why use a cleansing tool, and not just your hands? For starters, they're going to clean your face waaaaaay better than your fingers ever could. So, once your skin is deeply cleansed every product (like a serum/moisturizer) that you put on will absorb deeper because there's no dirt, oil and residual makeup blocking the product.

Here's a quick breakdown of the 3 most popular cleansing tools, and why I rated them as such:

GOOD:
The Clinique Sonic System Purifying Cleansing Brush is perfect for anyone who claims to have sensitive skin and needs something gentle. It also happens to be the cheapest (coming in at $90). Using sonic movement, the white bristles on the brush head are gentle and meant for the cheeks, while the green tip is ideal for the t-zone where a deeper cleanse may be necessary. Comes with a stand that dries and charges the device.

BETTER: 
The Foreo LUNA Mini (pronounced FOR-AY-O) is the most unique because it's made up of tiny anti-bacterial silicone nubs that pulsate and gently massage the skin. It's probably the most gentle of the three devices (and moderately priced at $139), and ideal for anyone who used a cleansing device with a brush and found the bristles just too strong. Use it for 1 minute, 2x a day and be amazed at how rarely you have to charge it. This is also great for anyone who travels a lot because it's compact and you don't need any other attachments. It also comes in a multitude of fun colors.

BEST:
The Clarisonic Smart Profile, Face and Body Sonic Cleansing is where I'd personally put my money because it's intuitive and truly smart. It has 4 speeds, will clean 11x better than hands alone, comes with a face and body brush head attachment and the brush heads contain tiny microchips that communicate with the tool. For example, if you're using the device in "smart mode" the brush head will adjust the speed automatically based on where you move it on your face. So if you are using it on your cheeks, it will be more gentle than say your forehead. The tool will also let you know when you need to replace the brush heads, so you don't have to mark the calendar when you bought your last one (as if anyone does that anyway!). Really every skin type can benefit from this one, and the fact that you can use it on your body is also a BIG bonus. The only two downsides are the price: $265 (why do I always like the expensive stuff?!) and they only have one color- white. I'm sure that will change soon though since Clarisonic offers a variety of colors for their other models.


As with any of these devices, they're only meant to be used with a cleanser, so no exfoliation with these (they could be too abrasive with a scrub and cause irritation). Oh, and the two-step cleansing is still crucial with (or without) any of these devices.

Would you consider buying a cleansing tool, or do you already own one?

drink it up

1. Ren Instant Firming Beauty Shot 2. Dermadoctor Wrinkle Revenge Serum  3. Clarins Hydra Quench Bi-Serum 4. Perricone MD Hyalo Plasma   5. Peter Thomas Roth Viz 1000 Serum 

Taking care of your skin couldn't come at a better time. Most of the country is swept up in Arctic temps, which will leave your skin chapped, red, and dehydrated. Maybe you live in Arizona and are dealing with dry, desert landscapes that equally create Arctic-like havoc on your skin. Or maybe you have oily skin, which breaks out really easily, so the idea of a heavy moisturizer has you terrified. Regardless of your environment, or fears, most of us need more water in our diet, and coincidentally on our face.

That's where Hyaluronic Acid comes in. It sounds scary and potentially dangerous but it's quite the opposite. Hyaluronic Acid (aka Sodium Hyaluronate) is naturally occurring in our skin and plumps up the cells with water-like moisture leaving your skin lubricated, soft and fine lines filled in a bit (if you want a lot of filling, then you get this filler which is primarily made up of Hyaluronic Acid).

The five serums that are featured all contain high amounts of Hyaluronic Acid. A cosmetic chemist once told me that Hyaluronic Acid is a very expensive ingredient, so if you see it high on the ingredient list then that probably explains why you have sticker shock. I have personally tried 4 out of the 5 serums and can tell you that they were like a drink of water for my skin, without feeling greasy (my favorite one is the Perricone Hyalo Plasma though. It has a cushion-y texture that my skin loved and needed). Just apply the serums to clean, dry skin; let it absorb and then follow with your moisturizer (or if you're oily skin, then that is your moisturizer!).

Has your skin changed with the season too? Have you needed to change your skincare routine because of it? I'd love to hear what you're using!

Lay it on thick

I don't know about you, but the minute the weather got cold, my skin drastically changed. I became instantly dry, red, flakey and sometimes itchy- not a glamorous combo. I've pretty much changed my entire skincare routine to incorporate more moisture (more on that later) and I've found a hydrating face mask is an extra boost of much-needed moisture to sooth and moisturize my skin. I've personally used all of the above masks, with the exception of the H2O+ mask (I used to work for them, like a million years ago, and their products are wonderful and I'm sure this is no different).  

1. GlamGlow ThirstyMud Hydrating Treatment is a cream-gel consistency and stays on the skin for 15-20 minutes. There's a slight cooling sensation and it leaves the skin plump and malleable. I pretty much love everything this company comes out with.


2. Sephora Collection Rose Face Mask is a gauze-like sheet mask that drapes over your face for 10+ minutes. One of the best parts of this mask is that there's no rinsing required when the mask is done- just rub in any extra serum and your skin will be super soft.


3. ~H2O+ Aqualibrium Hydrating Marine Moisture Mask uses a blend of marine botanicals to moisturize the skin, but the fact that it's oil-free will appeal to even acne skin folks who are experiencing surface dehydration but don't want to risk a breakout.


4. Fresh Rose Face Mask leaves your skin glowing, dewey and chunky. Wait, what? Ok, the mask is chunky, not your actual face. Fresh uses real rose hips and petals that are suspended in a gel, so when you apply it to your face, it's like your smearing a crushed rose all over it. It's pretty amazing.


5. Korres Nectarine Velvet Moisturizing Mask really lives up to its name. My skin actually did feel velvety soft after applying this! It's a cream mask that you slather on a thick application, and 15 minutes later most of the mask had absorbed into my skin (always a good sign).


What about your skin, does it change with the seasons? Any hydrating masks you've used and loved?

Spring Fragrances

How's your Mother's Day shopping going? It's only a few days away and if you're a last-minute shopper, there may still be some time to get one of these new, delicious Spring fragrances. Most of them are lighter versions of the original (and that makes them typically limited editions) so if you know that a female in your life wears say, Marc Jacobs Daisy, chances are she'll love the Marc Jacobs Daisy Delight too.

top to bottom, left to right: 

Marc Jacobs Fragrance Daisy Delight // 

Dolce & Gabbana Dolce EDP // 

Coach Poppy Freesia Blossom // Victoria's Secret Bombshell's in Bloom Body Mist  // 

Chloé Roses de Chloé //  Versace Bright Crystal Absolu EDP // 

Dior Miss Dior Blooming Bouquet // Fresh Life EDP  

And if you're just looking for a new, softer fragrance for the warmer season, it's time to hit the fragrance counters and sample these beauties. Here's to smelling sweet, and not like sweat, for the Spring and Summer!

Do you change your fragrance from season to season? I'll admit I'm not great at this because I typically wear soft fragrances year round. I'm addicted to the Fresh Life right now. Any new fragrances you're crazy about?

hybrid lips

I don't know if you've noticed, but there's a new lip product out there and it goes by many names. I've seen them referred to as "liquid lipsticks" or "glossy stains". Regardless of the names, these lip products are a hybrid of a few products- specifically a lipstick, stain and gloss. The beautiful thing about combining all of these textures is the long-lasting staying power (thanks to the stain), the opaque pigment (that one's from the lipstick) and the high-shine and moisture (yes, the gloss contributed that aspect). To sum it up, your lips will not only look amazing, but they will feel amazing too because most of the brands have added some wonderful ingredients to moisturize your lips and keep them healthy. Now that's a reason to smile.

left to right: Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick //  YSL Rouge Pur Couture // 

Dior Addict Fluid Lipstick // L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Extraordinaire Liquid Lipstick // 

Lime Crime Velvetine Liquid Lipstick // Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick // 

Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick // 

Kat Von D Everlasting Love Liquid Lipstick  

Have you tried any of these Liquid Lipsticks before? If so, I'd love to hear your feedback!

risk-free gels

Gel manicures are what fake acrylic nails were to the 90's, and both have their risks. Gel manicures are touted as lasting up to two weeks and offer chip-free high shine. High-end salon brands and cheapie drugstore kits are getting in on this gel trend. Typically you need a UV light to"cure" the gel polish, giving it the staying power it needs.

Now here's where the risk comes in to play: The UV light to cure the manicure is like sticking just the tips of your fingers in a tanning bed. No thank you! Some magazines say that you can wear sunscreen on your hands to avoid UV damage, but anyone who has ever had a manicure knows how impractical that is. I just don't see how that would work... what, just after the manicurist has massaged, buffed and cleaned your nails (making them perfect for polish) you're then going to put sunscreen all over your hands to protect from UV damage? And then the manicurist will have to then remove the sunscreen from your nails to keep them clean so the polish can have a nail bed to adhere to, therefore, the sunscreen is taken off! I'm at a loss for how this is practiced in a salon, or if people even do it. I can understand why you want to protect your skin from UV damage and skin cancer, I just don't think the process is effective.

Then there's the nail peeling. Gel nail polish remover is not fun, often requiring nails to soak, at length, in Acetone. Oftentimes scraping is involved and ultimately layers of the nail are left peeling and brittle. Sounds like deja vu? Oh that's where I've heard of this before- acrylic nails!

Some brands have come out with a safer LED light but I say skip all of that and try this new breed of gel products, no lights required!

left to right: Butter London Patent Gel Top and Tails Set// Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Top and Base Coat Duo// Nails Inc. Kensington Caviar Gel Effect Plumping Top Coat// Dior Gel Coat // Guerlain Nail Lacquer Top Coat Gel 

These gels are mostly top coats (and in some cases a base coat) and will smooth the nails, add a high gloss-factor and make your typical mani last much longer- maybe not two weeks longer, but they come off with regular nail polish remover and no sunscreen required!

Earth Day Organic

via

Happy Earth Day! Today I thought I'd pay homage to our Earth, and to our skin, by featuring some good-for-you-and-the-environment products.

Earth Day Organic by cobbshillcakes 

(from left to right)
FACE: ACURE Facial Cleansing Cream// The Organic Pharmacy Antioxidant Facial Serum// Jurlique Purely Sun Defying SPF 15 lotion// Josie Maran Argan Oil Light// EOS Organic lip treatment// KORA Organics eye cream by Miranda Kerr 

BODY: JASON Body Wash Purifying Tea Tree// Michael Todd True Organics Walnut Grapefruit Body Polish//  Nourish Organic Body Lotion Lavender Mint// The Organic Pharmacy Cellular Protection Sun Cream SPF 30

MAKEUP: Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Tinted Moisturizer// Josie Maran Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil// Physician's Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Mascara // Vapour Organic Beauty Siren Lipstick// Juice Beauty Defining Eyeliner in Black// Zoya Transitional Naturel Collection Spring 2014


Do you wear any Organic products? Is is a concern for you, or a perk that the product you like just happens to be natural? I'm afraid I'm in the latter category. Although I don't specifically seek out "natural" or "organic" labeled products I've decided to start integrating at least one of these products into my skincare, body care, hair and makeup routine. I'll treat this new routine as I treat my diet: if I eat my veggies then I can have dessert :)

The Pastel Makeup Bag

Some things just scream Spring and that for me is always PASTELS! It may have something to do with those ridiculously addictive Cadbury eggs, or that nature is somehow in on the scheme; pale-hued flowers popping up everywhere and little green grass peaks it's head out of the ground. I love it all. It's wonderful that the cosmetics industry knows how to do it right when it comes to putting your best foot forward. Smoky eyes are out. Bold, bright red lips are gonzo. It's time for the baby's; baby pink and baby blue, that is.

The Pastel Makeup Bag by cobbshillcakes

1. H&M toiletry bag // 2. YSL Babydoll mascara// 3. NYX MegaShine lipgloss// 4. Butter London nail polish // 5. Tory Burch fragrance// 6. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush// 7. Too Faced Cosmetics brush// 8.  Paul Joe eyeshadow //  9. Forever 21 hair accessory

Any pastels that you're crazy about? Pink is a no-brainer for me but mint green has been high on my list lately.

cheap n' chic: 10 under $10

Since today is the 10th I thought it was appropriate to show you 10 things I'm obsessed with that happen to be $10 or less:

cheap n' chic by cobbshillcakes 

1. Urban Outfitters banded lunch box $10: talk about portion control! This stylish little box will make you a hit in the lunch room and will inspire you to eat lighter fare for the warmer weather.

2. Forever 21 stacked rings $4.80: I love wearing these rings. The peach-colored flower is perfect for Spring and they go with so many outfits!

3. Target striped tee $9: No matter what color combinations are used, I love stripes- in home design and in my clothes :) 

4. Sur la Table Bunny cookie cutter $1.25: and would be perfect for making homemade chocolate covered bunnies! That's my kind of Easter basket!

5. Maybelline nail polish in Green with Envy, $3.99: I'm obsessed with this pale, mint green color right now! I'm currently sporting this color as my pedicure and am crazy about it.

6. Target Threshold ceramic dip bowls, set of 2, $7.99: even though they're technically for dips they could be used for so many other things- i.e., a candy dish, jewelry holder, etc.

7. NYX Lip Butter in Lady Fingers, $3.99: I love a tinted lip balm and this is no exception. It's moisturizing with a hit of color, yet more wearable than a lipstick.
  

8. Jergen's Natural Glow Firming Body Moisturizer, $8: All Spring and Summer I use this body lotion on my arms and legs. Even though I'm super pale, I use the medium-tan skin tone because the fair bottle just didn't show up. It's not that I want to be super dark, I just don't want people to catch a glare from my paleness. 

9. E.L.F. Beauty Eye Book Bright, $5: This eyeshadow palette is right on-trend for the warm weather season. For five bucks you can't go wrong mixing in a few bright colors in with your everyday neutrals.

10. Sees chocolate Easter Bunny, $3: I love Sees chocolate (thanks Mom for starting the addiction) and how can you resist a cute bunny, even if you're too old to have an Easter basket?!