The Best Winter Moisturizers

Finding a winter moisturizer that works can be challenging.  Too often moisturizers feel hydrating upon application, but after some time on, they dry skin out.  This is a huge issue that I’ve faced time and time again.  Within the past few years I spent a lot of time trying out moisturizers, and narrowed down the list to a few of my favorites.

I will always recommend Cetaphil for general moisturizing, their cream based formula is my favorite.  But I notice a change in my skin around the winter months, so I like to switch up the products I use.

My favorite products lines are by Fresh, Shiseido, and Indigo Elixirs.

For a monthly moisturizer, I like to use the Fresh Black Tea Cream.  It comes out has a gritty, soft texture, but has a cooling sensation.  When used sparingly, it has a softening effect on skin.  I use this less frequently because my skin adapts to it quickly, and can feel dry.

For days when I break out, or have redness, I like to use Solve All Salve by Indigo Elixirs.  Deanna hand picks the ingredients in Hawaii and combines them to create her organic line.  This week, I had a spell of breakouts and within a day it decreased the redness.  After two days, it got rid of the blemishes all together.  Solve All Salve comes in a metal tin and looks like a solid balm, but turns into an oil upon contact with skin.  It makes your skin look moisturized and dewy, and will stay like that all day if you leave it.

For an overnight moisturizer, I love the Shiseido Ibuki moisturizer.  The formula is much thicker and lasts overnight.  It’s creamy and smooth and makes a huge difference in my skin.  It has drastically changed my skin overnight and it is my go to winter moisturizer.

I would love to hear your favorite skin products! What are your favorite winter moisturizers?

 

 

Makeup Queen

 

Makeup Queen by amyeff featuring a stila eyeshadow

Spring Renewal: Repair

When it comes to break outs, there are two ways to approach them.  You can either dry them out, or you can moisturize them.  I’ve tried both and prefer to moisturize.  Here’s why: when you dry out a blemish, it usually doesn’t get rid of it, and causes even more redness.  It also prolongs the process.  So after many trials and tribulations I’ve figured out a go to process, and listed it below:

When I first see a the signs of a blemish, I immediately wash and exfoliate my skin with Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser and Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash (these are my current go to’s).  Then, I dry off my face and apply Boscia’s Luminizing Black Mask.  This product is amazing because it literally peels the blackheads out of your pores.  After the mask is peeled off, I apply a moisturizer like Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Face Mask (or Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream and Shiseido) to my face. And I apply Indigo Elixir’s Solve All Salve to the area to clear up any bacteria remaining.

If I want to try to dry a blemish out, I use 100% Tea Tree Oil on the area.  It’s anti-bacterial properties cleanse the area without causing irritation.  I like to apply this overnight, so that it doesn’t interfere with my makeup during the day.

To moisturize, I apply Indigo Elixir’s Solve All Salve to the area.  The product turns into an oil that hydrates and cleans the area.  I have had the most luck with this product because it eliminates the issue quickly and effectively over night.

And if you really want to be thorough about the process, drink Rooibos tea.  The tea contains many different antioxidants and minerals that benefit the skin.  In addition it contains anti-inflammatory properties.  I try to drink it regularly, but I make a point to drink it during breakouts.

I hope this helps!

-Amy

Spring Renewal: Beauty

Spring is here, and that means it’s time to prepare your skin for the sun and  warm weather.  The first step is to hydrate from the inside out.  What you put into your body is just as important is what you put on it.  I recommend buying a large drinking container like the 32oz Nalgene bottle so that you can track how much you’re drinking (and reduce your use of plastic water bottles).  Once you have the bottle, it’s time to get started.  If you have a hard time drinking plain water, try infusing water with fruits or making tea instead.  It’s a great way to add flavor and extra nutrients to your body!

Before work, I brew tea and sip on it throughout the day.  My goal is to drink two bottles full of water (64 oz).  I usually drink one before the end of the work day, and another full container when I’m home.

Now that you know how to hydrate from the inside out, we can move onto moisturizing products.  For a head to toe moisturizer, I highly recommend Cetaphil.  I have used this product for years, and it always keeps my skin soft and moisturized.  I also switch between Shiseido, Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Face Mask and Indigo Elixirs Chocolate Body Balm for a facial moisturizer in addition to Cetaphil.  The products I use depend on how my skin feels that day.  I like to use the Fresh mask every once in a while (1-2 times a month) to hydrate my skin overnight.  I use Shiseido for days when my skin needs a little TLC.  I use Chocolate Body Balm by Indigo Elixirs when I’ve been in the sun and a regular moisturizer won’t do the trick.  This product turns into an oil, that coats your face and moisturizes deeply.  I recommend putting it on a few hours before bed, so that your face can absorb all it’s nutrients. I can assure that you will definitely not peel using this product.

Clean skin is extremely important before you moisturize.  Make sure that you exfoliate and wash your face before putting on any lotion.  This assures that all the dead skin is washed off, decreasing the likelihood of breakouts.  I switch between Susan M. Devaney Facial Cleansing Gelee and  Aveeno Clear Complexion Foaming Cleanser, and Susan M. Devaney Honey Almond Scrub and Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash afterwards.  I exfoliate every other day so that I don’t damage or irritate my skin.  I learned this information from my esthetician and strictly follow it.

I hope these tips help with your spring beauty routine.

Happy Earth Day!

 

Amy

 

My Thoughts on Makeup

Recently, I was approached by a student be interviewed for her video production assignment.  The subject she focused on makeup and my relationship with it.  I was asked a series of questions ranging from what products I use, to how I feel with and without makeup.  The discussion got in depth very quickly and has been on my mind ever since.

My personal philosophy is that makeup should be used for fun.  It should be a positive experience that you use to enhance your favorite features.  Often times, makeup is associated with perfection and covering up flaws, or insecurities.  I think it’s time to change that perception and the way we view ourselves.

I like to wear makeup to express myself on a daily basis.  I usually wear a cat eye accompanied by a nude or colored lip depending on my mood.  What I love about makeup is it’s ability to complete your look, and express your energy that day.  It’s a way to say, “hey, I’m feeling colorful and cheerful and I want to show it”.  Some days I might wear bright pink, where others I’ll wear a deep burgundy.

When it comes to having a naked face, I am usually pretty comfortable with it.  I like to let my face breathe every once and a while.  I tend to do this on the weekend or a lazy day.  However, when asked about how I felt about not wearing makeup, I stumbled onto the topic of makeup at work.  I went on a bit of a tangent, talking about how I look/am young and I use makeup to distinguish myself from students.  Without knowing it, I am subconsciously using makeup to cover up an insecurity.  Only after reflecting on this discussion, did I realize it.

Although this isn’t a big issue, I am glad that it was brought to my attention.  We all have insecurities that we may not even know about.  It’s nice to know what they are, so we can take a step back and realize that maybe were wearing or doing something for the wrong reason.

You’re beautiful just the way you are!

 This photo was taken the day of the interview and posted to my Instagram.  I wrote a brief thought of the experience, along with this bare faced photo.

-Amy

 

Daily Makeup Routine

As a follow up to the interview, I had another interview where I talked about my daily beauty routine and favorite products.  I think that taking care of your skin is extremely important, that’s why I care so much about my facial products.

The products are set up based on the order that I use them in.  As you may be able to see, I’m a little OCD about the process and have perfected it into a 10 minute session.  Below is the order of how I do my makeup.

Daily Makeup Routine by amyeff featuring a shadow brush

Cetaphil body moisturizer
target.com

Anastasia Beverly Hills beauty product
lordandtaylor.com

Giorgio Armani spf foundation
sephora.com

Stila palette eyeshadow
macys.com

BlacklUp blush makeup brush
sephora.com

Laura Mercier makeup primer
saksfifthavenue.com

NARS Cosmetics shadow brush
$37 – harveynichols.com

Benefit eye liner
belk.com

Too Faced Cosmetics eyeshadow
sephora.com

L Oréal Paris mascara
target.com

I start by washing my face and applying Cetaphil; and let me tell you, this lotion is amazing.  I wait for it to dry, then put on the Too Faced Primer.  In the past, I worked with a makeup artist and she told me that it’s always best to start with eye makeup first, and then move onto your face.  This sequence assures that you will not smudge or mess up your foundation or tanner.  After the primer, I apply Stila’s In The Light palette.  I use the light color as a highlight under my brows and the color Bliss as an eyeshadow.  Then the fun part begins: the cat eye.  I start from the outer corner of my eye and move inwards.  I use the full width of the tip to make sure that the liner is applied thick and fully.  When my eye is lined, I start the wings.  I try to align the liner with the natural angle of my eye.  I do a line, observe, adjust and continue the process until I have a wing that I like.  After doing this daily it takes a minute or two.  Once the liner is perfected, I apply the mascara and wait for it to dry.  I then make breakfast.

Twenty minutes later, when I am done with breakfast, I do my face makeup.  I wait because I want to let my skin breathe for a bit, and make sure that the Cetaphil has been absorbed.  Once I’m back in front of my mirror, I apply Laura Mercier Hydrating Primer.  This product is magical, it keeps your face soft and hydrated throughout the day.  Immediately after, I apply the Giorgio Armani Face Fabric, and let me tell you, it glides on your face like silk.  I don’t know how I found it, but I don’t think I could live without it.  The texture is soft and light, and feels like it’s barely there.  I highly recommend trying this foundation, or any of the other products listed.  I’ve tried many different products and these are by far my favorite.

I hope you enjoyed hearing about my daily products and routine.  If you take my advice and try these products, let me know what you think!

-Amy

Last Minute Shopping: Stocking Stuffers

You have most of your gifts wrapped, and you’re just about ready, when you realize that you need a little something extra.  This is here to help you find the perfect stocking stuffer.

For Him:

Carry on Cocktail Kit

Whether he’s a world traveler, or homebody, it’s always nice to have a craft cocktail available on hand.  This kit is available at Sur La Table, a local shop called Arlington Centered and other stores.

The Art of Shaving Starter Kit

This is a good go to for any guy, and he will surely appreciate it.

Canvas Travel Kit

A great gift for the holidays, especially if your man’s traveling.  It’s always good to have a travel bag to put all his toiletries in it.

Winter Accessories

When all else fails, you can’t go wrong with hats, gloves or scarves.  They will definitely be put to good use during a chilly winter season.

For Her:

Nail Polish

Sparkles and holiday colors are always a great gift to get.  Urban has great colors and metallic polishes.  They are amazing!

Bite Cosmetics Lipsticks

The dual lipsticks are great because they’re so versatile.  The colors range from nude to vibrant and are usually paired in the same color scheme.  I have a pink and orange dual lipstick and wear them all the time!

Playful Hats

Hats with a fur puff are an adorable new trend.  I love how playful they are!

Playful Pouch

I love these graphic bags, they are adorable.

Statement Jewelry

Grab a statement ring or earrings for a stocking stuffer.  The options at JCrew are awesome and can be worn for casual or dressy.

For Both:

Fragrances are always a great gift and will be used regularly.

For Men:

Slate Cologne from Banana Republic

Chanel Bleu Cologne

For Women:

Dolce and Gabbana Light Blue

Versace Bright Crystal

Hope this helps!

-Amy

Botanical Photo Shoot

My most recent photo shoots have been a collaboration between my friend Katie and I.  Katie is a recent gratuate from UMASS Amherst Art Program (where her and I met in a film photography class).  She is a wonderful photographer and photo editor.  In her senior year, she did a thesis Loves Me, Loves Me Not.  The series used fake flowers as a vehicle to explore the idea of perfection versus reality.  The style of the thesis and location of the shoot inspired this next series of photos.

I am extremely happy with the photos and how Katie captured the energy of the botanical gardens.

Although the shoot didn’t focus on the clothing, it displays the textures of them beautifully.  If you want to recreate this fairy-like look, the bralette is from Free People and the skirt is from Anthropology.

If you want to see more of Katie’s work here are her social media sites:

 Facebook

Instagram

Makeup: Cara Delevingne Inspired

While laying out, I scrolled through Pinterest and browsed their beauty section for some ideas on makeup.  I’ve always found celebrity makeup tutorials amusing, but never tried to execute them.  I watched liked Youtube’s Itssimplyciara Cara Delevingne Makeup Tutorial and felt that it was easy enough for me to follow. Here is the link to it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFLNNOJEPgo&feature=sharecontrol

Here is how the makeup turned out with my hair up and down:

 The hair down definitely softens the look.  Although the makeup is more than I usually wear, I really like the way it makes my eyes pop!

Matching outfit coming soon…

-Amy