☼ Self-Tanner Tips and Rules ☼

Spring is almost here, and with spring comes summer! With that in mind, people are starting to hit the tanning beds but hold the phone! Don't go down that road! There are plenty of options that will allow you to get a nice tan without the rays. So instead of spending your money on minutes, spend it on a good self-tanner and follow these rules to make sure you have the best fake tan EVAA! So, lets get started.


RULE #1: EXFOLIATE. Make sure that your skin is completely exfoliated. Scrub your skin in the shower until all of your dead skin cells are gone. This is going to make all of the difference.

RULE #2: SAY NO TO ORANGE KNEES. Apply a moisturizing lotion to your knees, elbows, ankles, heels, knuckles and toes. This way you won't have an unnatural build-up of the colour. ALSO, you MUST let this sink in and dry. Make yyourself busy until the parts you moisturized are dry. And, always moisturize your face during this step as well.

RULE #3: NO GLOVE, NO LOVE. When you are ready to start tanning, put on some medical gloves. This will ensure that your tanner spreads evenly and doesn't soak into your hands.

RULE #4: BOTTOM UP. Start with your legs. Always work your way from the bottom up, so that you aren't bending over and twisting around, causing creases in your tanner.

RULE #5: TICK TOCK. Take your time. Really make sure your tanner is rubbed in everywhere and you haven't missed a spot.

RULE #6: I GOT YOUR BACK, GIRLFRAN. Get someone to help you do your back, unless you are flexible and can reach (do some yoga, it will benefit you!)

RULE #7: SAVE FACE. When applying tanner to your face, start from the inside of your face, blending to the outside. That way you can avoid having an orange frame around your face. Also, you can use a sponge to blend and get a light application. 
 
RULE #8: THESE FEET WERE MADE FOR WALKING...AND LOOKING PRETTY. Use a sponge or cotton pad to apply tanner to your hands and feet. Don't forget between the fingers and toes, and run it down each finger and toe as well. Hands and feet are the hardest and can be dead giveaways, so take your time and tread lightly. You can always apply a second coat.

RULE #9: R-R-REPEAT. Every four days, exfoliate your skin. This will keep your tanner from flaking off and fading in a gross way. If you have a good tanner it shouldn't exfoliate right off. If it does, just start from the beginning and apply your tanner again!

RULE #10: R-R-R-REPEAT. I usually have to reapply tanner to my face every 3-ish days because of how much I wash it. I also reapply tanner about every four days.

RULE #11:MOISTURIZE! This will keep your skin from getting dry and causing more dead skin cells to flake off, which in turn will make your self-tan last longer. I use a moisturizing gradual tanner out of the shower to replace any colour I may be losing over time, and a moisturizer for dry skin before I go to bed.

If you follow these rules, you will be sunkissed and summer-ready in no-time!  

♥☺ Review: Beyond the Zone Sexy Wave Spray ☺♥

Hello, hello friends. Today I have a review for you!
With summer on it's way, I have been looking into wave sprays to get that just-off-the-beach looking hair. Plus, that's pretty much how I like to style my hair daily, so I was looking for a product to make that a little easier as well.

The stuff I picked up is the BEYOND THE ZONE SEXY WAVE SPRAY from Sally's for about $11. It's originally $13 but I have the Sally's member card so I can get some things for a little cheaper.

Anywho, I picked up this stuff and decided to give it a shot. And here are my thoughts:

I like this stuff.
♥ It adds volume to my fine hair and does add some nice tousled-looking texture to my hair.
♥ I apply it to damp, towel-dried hair and scrunch it as it air dries. The drying time was pretty quick with this stuff. Sometimes when I add product to my hair, it extends the drying time, but I didn't notice any extenuating waiting time with this product.
♥ There was NO crunchiness, whatsoever. It actually made my hair kind of soft (all things considered) and definitely added some shine.
♥ Doesn't weigh my hair down or make it look greasy. My hair is fine and prone to oiliness, so if a product is too heavy, I know right away. I do suggest applying this with a light hand (maybe like one squirt for each side and the back) because then you will get the full effect of the product. The only thing I would say, is that it does give the look that you came directly from the ocean. So you know that kind of wet-tousled look? That's what you get. If you are looking for more of a dry fluffy look, I would suggest maybe using a diffuser or brushing it out.
♥ Keeps the texture and shape even when you brush. This I was happy with because some of the products I have used pretty much make my hair straight if I dare to brush it while the product is still in it. This stuff still allows the texture to show through and keeps the volume, even if I want to brush it and get a smoother look.
♥ You get quite a decent amount for the price. A nice big bottle with lots of product is always good in my books.
♥ Only thing I disliked about it was the actual bottle. It comes out a little concentrated and strong, whereas I was hoping for more of an all-over mist. It makes light application a little tougher. Maybe I will switch it to another bottle...

Overall, I would give this stuff a 7.8/10. I like it, I think for what you are paying it is a good value and it works much better than I was expecting it to! Overall, I think it will become a regular part of my hair routine. :)

Proud of Myself ☼

I am hungover.
I am dehydrated.
I feel dizzy.
I think I am still a little drunk.
And I still woke up, had a good breakfast, and did my workout. I was so close to skipping it or half-assing it, but I went full tilt and I am so glad I did.
I passed my first non-motivated day! Yaaay.

Now I need to shower...

LOOK WHAT HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!

sorry for the crappy quality guys!

My vitacost package is finally here! I have been waiting for this stuff for like 4 weeks, so I am pumped. I got the Indian Healing Clay because I have heard fantastic things about it as a mask and I can't wait to try it. As weeeell, I got Dr. Woods African Black Soap with Organic Shea Butter. This is the one I am most super pumped about. I did a lot of research and looked at reviews of this product and it seems to be a miracle worker for everyone who has used it. Just a quick background as to why I bought these items:

My face has not gotten all that much better since starting my oil cleansing method. Well, I mean it has...but it's not where I want it to be and I feel like I've been doing the OCM long enough that I should see better results. My face is all one even tone (no more splotchy redness) and my GIANT pimples are no where to be found, but I still get pretttty significant breakouts. And I have started to get breakouts around my jawline and neck which is new (probably because I'm lazier about removing the dirty oil from these areas). Anyways, I have heard that these products are amazing and healing and great for people with insistant breakouts. So here I am. Excited and hopeful.  

I still plan on continuing using oils but more for moisturizing and mixing WITH these products rather than separately. Also, I still want to point out that the oils I was using definitely saved my face. It was bad. Like, I-don't-want-to-look-in-any-mirrors-because-I-might-cry bad. Atleast for my skin it was that bad, for others it may have just seemed like a bad breakout and it would be over. No. My breakouts were life shattering and world crushing. So I decided after months of trying the OCM (EVEN THOUGH IT HELPED ME) I wanted more drastic results. Because I want perfect skin. Sue me. So, I kind of have high hopes for all this stuff...

FIRST IMPRESSIONS!!  ♥♥ 

DR. WOODS AFRICAN BLACK SOAP WITH ORGANIC SHEA BUTTER

Firstly, I have to mention the smell. It doesn't smell...bad...it just smells like old European grandfathers. It smells like men. Old men. Nice smelling old men, but smelly old men none the less. Not exactly something I'm going to want scenting my body...so probably won't be using it as a body wash. However, I did use this as a face cleanser and it removed my makeup nooo problem; just as well as my Philosophy Purity :O!! I know. What. Did. I just say. It lathers up really well and a little of this stuff goes a long, long, looong way. A dime size is enough for my entire face, neck and I could probably stretch it to my chest if I needed to. It is soft and soothing and makes my skin feel like silk. Cashmere and silk combined. Sooo soft. However, while I noticed it left my skin super silky, I also noticed my skin was a little tight (not surprising seeing as my skin is the dryest of the dry naturally...) so I definitely have to moisturize with this. If you have super oily skin, I can honestly see you not having to moisturize (though you should..). On a side note, DO NOT GET THIS STUFF IN YOUR EYES. I REPEAT, DO NOT GET IN EYES. It burned like an especially violent and malevolent pepper spray. I have never splashed my eye out with such vigor. It buuuuurned like hell. So yea, take precautions. Other than that, I like this stuff thus far. Other than the smell...which lingers. It's on my hands. I'm going to go wash them now.

AZTEC INDIAN HEALING CLAY

I don't really have a first impression of this stuff yet because I think I did it wrong...I added oils to my mix (which you can do) but I think I added too much because my mask never hardened..whoops! I left in on for about 20 minutes and then went to wash it off because I realized I screwed up. The impression that I can give is that it is messy. It is messy to get out, it is messy to mix and it is messy to take off (I will probably take it off in the shower next time). However, the way it comes off is pretty cool. It like flakes off. You start rubbing it and then it all just starts falling off your face like you are a copper emptying an underage drinking party. They flee. Aaaanyways, I will have to try this one again and let you know fo'reals what my thoughts are on it.

For another day I suppose!


UPDATE

So as you guys know I washed my face with the Dr. Woods Black Soap last night, so I just wanted to let you know the immediate results.

My face looks worse. Now, before that makes you drop the bottle and run away screaming, you have to understand (and I tell myself all the time) that when you try something new, it often gets worse before it gets better. My face did that with the OCM, too. Anyways, the pimples that I had the night before seemed a little bigger and redder, so I'm assuming all the gross stuff in my pores is coming to the surface...semi-sarcastic yay. My pores seemed a little bit open this morning too (but that could be because I woke up all sweaty and gross so my face was oily and gross), so I am going to have to remember to use cold water and a toner afterwards. Also, my face seemed a touuuuch dry when I woke up (wasn't dewy and glowy like it usually is), though it was still soft, so I am going to see if I can find an all natural moisturizing cream (shea butter, anyone?). A lot of stuff to take in, and try. So here's hoping for a better face in a month!

♥ Rules, Goals and Rewards ♥ How I am losing my weight!

So as you guys know, I am currently on my path to weight-loss. I am not a big person, but I gained more than what is acceptable for my body composition (aka: the dreaded freshman fifteen) and have been trying to lose it since 1st year at University. I was trying things that I would go hard at for like a week...and then I'd give up for a month. So, I have finally hit rock bottom and I am aware that my weight is making me UNHAPPY. So, even though the purpose of this is to lose weight, I am also finding happiness along the way.
HERE'S MY PLAN:

My starting date is February 18th, 2013 and
my ending date will be May 1st, 2013.
That gives me 10 weeks in total.
I am trying to lose fifteen pounds.

Here's my stats:

Height: 5'0 ft
BMR: 1986
BMI: 25.4% (overweight)
Current Weight: 130 lbs
Goal Weight 1 (March 4): 127 lbs (a new cosmetic item, like lipstick or nail polish or perfume)
Goal Weight 2 (March 18): 124 lbs (get ears pierced and a cute pair of earrings)
Goal Weight 3 (April 1): 121 lbs (a cute workout outfit)
Goal Weight 4 (April 15): 118 lbs (brazilian bikini wax)
End Goal Weight (May 1st): 115 pounds (hot pink running shoes!)

Here's how I'm going to do it:

Lose 1.5 lbs per week by eating 1300 calories a day (5 meals), working out 4x a week, and eating clean. foods. ONLY.

This is not going to be a walk in the park. But this is something I need to do for myself and now that I have the numbers and I have the drive, it's time to finally just get'r'dun.

The motto that is helping me along:
EVERYTHING YOU PUT INSIDE OF YOUR BODY MATTERS

How true is that? And that's the part I need to focus on. I can make time for workouts no problem. I enjoy working out. But eating right and regularly is difficult for me. But now whenever I feel a craving or a need for junk food, I remember that saying and I look at myself in the mirror and I tell myself those words, and I'll be okay.

I can do this!

UPDATE: Indian Aztec Healing Clay

Hey ladies and gents.
So if you saw my last post about this mask you would know that the first time I tried to use this stuff was an epic fail. I tried again today and it worked out much better.

Here's what I did:

1) First, I mixed in one part clay and one part lavender/aloe witch hazel toner...then I realized that I needed much more toner. This clay really sucks up moisture, so much so that I needed to add about 4 more tablespoons of toner before it would even mix.
2) Then I mixed it all together until I got a mushy-paste consistency. I noticed that there are quite a bit of clumps in this stuff, even after it's mixed. It's something I'll have to keep working on.
3). Then I just applied it to a clean face. It was a bit clumpy in places and watery in others but I just smoothed it all out until it was fairly even.

Now, I let it sit on my face for 20 minutes, and at about the 10 minute I noticed how TIGHT this stuff gets. I couldn't smile. If I did my lips were pulled out horizontally! With this kind of strength it was also drying, but nothing a nice penetrating moisturizer can't fix.

me trying REAAAALLY hard to smile. That's how tight this stuff is!

Also, I could feel this stuff sucking up the dirt out of my pores. It sounds a little to good to be true, but it feels cool and veeery slightly tingly in the places it's working it's magic. It's definitely not a super comfortable mask because of how tight this gets, but I would definitely say that it is effective.

To remove it I just used warm water and my hands. I finished off my hairline and jaw line with a wash-cloth, but this stuff stains so I use one that I don't care about. Also, something to keep in mind...this stuff is fairly hard to get off. It doesn't just caress away like all the other masks I've done. It has some bonding power. So I did have to scrub a bit to get it all off.

Afterwards, I toned my face and applied some olive oil to my face because it was parched. Also, keep in mind that you're face will be red afterwards. I'm not surprised with the amount of vacuuming my face went through.

When all is said and done, my pores are NON-EXISTENT. Like someone just came along and gave me the pores of an infant. It's beautiful. I definitely like this mask, and you can still feel it working even after you remove it. It is a mask you should do before bed because my face was inflamed for about 30 minutes before it started to calm down. Plus, for dry skin ladies like me, I would recommend doing this once a week only. No more, otherwise you might just suck all the moisure out of your skin!

END OF DAY UPDATE:
So I became more impressed with this as the day went on. I noticed that it did actually bring things to the surface because two of my pimples just dried up and fell off when I was washing my face this evening. Also, my pimples seemed much smaller and less red by the end of the night too. I wasn't expecting these kind of results so quickly, but I am very pleased with it!

What I Do to Relax.. ♥

So today (/the last couple of days) I have felt down in the dumps and tired all the time. I decided I just needed to have a relaxing day and just let my mind and body simmer down for a bit. I don't know why I am so sad and bored but lately I have been. This is what I've decided to do today:

*************************************************************************

1) Hair mask. I rinsed my hair with warm-hot water and then squeezed out the excess before applying a mixture of coconut and olive oil to the roots, shaft and ends of my hair. Then I've clipped it up and kept a towel on my shoulders while I sit in bed and do nothing.

2) A movie that makes me happy and I enjoy watching. Today I chose to watch two Barbie movies. I know, get over it. They make me happy! I'm watching the Mermaid Tale's (1 and 2 because they are pretty short and I don't exactly want to move anytime soon).

3) Do some type of workout. Probably my Sunday workout I missed yesterday, and maybe I'll add in some Tone It Up too.

4) Face mask treatment. I'll finally try the Indian Healing Clay mask and do it properly.

5) Nails. I've done them a mermaid teal blue colour to watch the theme of my movies :)


That's my plan for the day. Hopefully it takes up some significant time and makes me feel better!

xoxo

☼ 10 weeks and 2 days!! ☼

Until summer! I am both super excited...and not. That means I have that amount of time to lose 15 pounds! Which, contrary to popular belief, is not a lot of time. It's definitely possible, but that is like pedal to the medal kind of go-time.

So I've decided I am going to document it! (Yaaaaaay!) I figure I need to do so because if I don't acknowledge it then I know that I will be much more lackadaisical about it, and I don't have the time to be lackadaisical about it. So be prepared over the next couple of weeks to see (hopefully progress) pictures, and hear me complaining about sore muscles and my cravings and successes and failures.

And I would love for you guys to do this with me. I really do love support and I love to support others, especially when it comes to weight loss because it's always a struggle for me.

Anyways, if you guys have any kind of recipe ideas or ways to ward of hunger/cravings, or even workouts or success stories you want to share, pleeeease, pleease do. It would not only inspire me, but also others that read this blog!

Thanks guys, and lets do this!

Today was not a good day.

I just didn't feel good about myself today.
I noticed I gained 5 pounds. My pimples are turning into large whiteheads (blessing in disguise because they have been under the surface for ages and now they are finally going to go away once they pop...). I just felt lazy, and bored, and unhappy. Just a not nice day.

But we all have those. And I know it is my brain and I know that tomorrow is a new day. So, today I read a lot. That was literally all I did today. I woke up, went to the barn for a bit, came home and read.

Well, then I went and saw my besties and drove them to the bar and then I came home and read more.

I know, I am so exciting.

Some people didn't believe me...

My skin is very, very, VERY far from perfect. However, I am pretty good at hiding that fact. This is my skin right now. Please be aware that these are not pretty photos and it's hard for me to put them up here and I've taken steps to fix the problem and it's BETTER than it was...so yea.

Ugh.

on my neck! WTF?!?

 I feel like I needed to do this so you guys can see what I am struggling with. I wish I had taken a before photo before I started the OCM because basically all on my forehead and cheeks were gross whiteheads. I know. Seriously disgusting stuff. I used to have splotchy redness as well. BUT, I am hoping that my new skin care regimen will help jump start the healing because I really want my face back!

Haul...and ZOMBIE KISSES?!

So, today I went to the mall to see a movie with the boyfraaaan and while I was there I picked up a few items. Taaa-daaaaa:

It is a teensy haul but I wanna talk about it anyways, guys! C'mon, gather round.
So I went into Shoppers Drug Mart hoping to get another one of those face exfoliating brushes, when to my shock and horror I saw Soap&Glory products carelessly strewn on a shelf marked:

"CLEARANCE"

Now, I am semi-obsessed with Soap&Glory (mostly because they smell good and look pretty...I know, I'm as shallow as a kiddie pool), so this was both super exciting and super upsetting. In Canada, this stuff  is expensive. It ain't cheap. So when I saw I could get a $20 scrub for $9...I went for it. And went for it. And went for it. The sad part about all this is that they are being discontinued from Shoppers!!!!! So. depressed. It's understandable because it's from the UK and I'm pretty sure I'm there main source of income, so they probably aren't making all that much...but...still. I will miss them so much! Anyways, super-sad sob story aside, I'll tell you what I got.

I got the Flakes Away Body Scrub, because it is pretty much common knowledge that Soap&Glory makes the best scrubs. It's not those wimpy "lathering scrubs". They make some serious, get-the-job-done scrubs that smell dainty and lovely at the same time. I got it for $9.

Then I picked up the Calm One Calm All Bubble Bath for $9. Even though I do not take baths. Like ever. But still, it was a product from them that I haven't tried and I'm going home for reading week soon and I may want something to take a bath with...And what better way to do that than lay in a lovely smelling sudsy, girly bath?

Lastly, I picked up the Greatest Scrub of All. It's a face exfoliator that I have never tried and decided for $7, I might as well giv'er a go. It does smell nice, kind of grassy/minty but not overwhelming at all. I can't wait to use it on my next Spa Day Sunday!

There were other items that I reeeaally wished I had picked up, but I just don't have the cash to blow, even if it is on my favourite products and I will never see them again... *sobbing*

Anyways, after that I went to Pink because they had their 2 for $25 deal on their skin care and I need a new perfume. So I picked up Wild and Breezy, as well as Wild at Heart. Both smell amazing (though right now I'm favouring Wild and Breezy) and come in such gorgeous packaging and colours! Very happy about them. Plus, thus far the scents last quite a long time too!

After all the shopping was done, the boyfran and I went and saw...

WARM BODIES! And omg, it is perfect. It is so freaking cute. I fell in love with the zombie (d'uh) and it's just a pretty cool idea for a film/book (it was a book first). It's super cheesy because it's about love conquering all, etc etc, but the humour is great and relatable and I just really enjoyed myself. Made a zombie fan out of me.

Anywho, had to letcha know!
xoxox

Late Night To-Do's

1. I need to go through all my clothing and get rid of stuff I won't wear/don't like/doesn't fit/is ripped (even though that is most of my jeans...and all of my favourite pairs *sigh*) and donate it.

2. Go through all my almost empties/in-denial empties and make a post about them (do I smell an empties video coming up?)...and then throw them out.

3. Get my school-work together (what else is new..)

4. That's it really. I thought this was going to be longer but lookey-here, it's short. Fun.

TTFN

XOXO

Spa-Day Sundays!

Seriously, this has become a weekly tradition for me. I seriously am in love. Like the girl I am, I have activities that are important to my skin care that I do once or twice a week. So instead of always having to do something, I created Spa Sundays where I get it all done. Basically, on Sundays, I pamper myself like a princess.

Something I almost always do (unless I don't need to...which is unlikely) is clean my room. I like to pump 90's beats and old-school Britney Spears songs and dance and clean my room/apartment. Depends on how much time I have, but sometimes I do the whole apartment as well. I use Songza.com to choose playlists and pump ma cleanin' beat! I also always make sure to burn a candle to make my room smell nice. My current favourite is Market Peach from BBW. It smells like how fuzzy peaches taste.

oatmeal cleanser

Once I am done my dance/cleaning party, I start on the rest of my spa sunday. I cleanse my face as usual with oatmeal in the morning. Though the oatmeal does provide a small amount of exfoliation, it is pretty gentle and isn't quite as powerful as one you wouldn't use everyday. So I use Body Shop's Vitamin C Microdermabrasion Scrub.

Mint Julep Mask

It has super fine granuals in it and really takes off the dead layer on your skin. After I have cleansed and scrubbed my skin, I apply whatever mask I am vibing that day. I was feeling the Mint Julep mask because I was very lazy with my makeup removal this week so I feel like my pores needed a good thorough vacuuming. So I applied that to my face and finish cleaning my room (vacuuming, dusting, bleaching surfaces, the whole nine yards!) and by the time I'm done it's hardened and ready to come off (PS: I leave it on for 30 minutes or so. No shorter.)

Then I apply a hair mask (whichever you choose, I like a mix of coconut, olive and sweet almond oil) which I leave on for as long as possible. I left mine on while I did my nails, did some yoga, and watched a movie. Then I showered and washed my hair.

On Sundays is when I reapply my self tanner as well. So I use a body scrub in the shower and slough off my dry skin and then then apply my tanner as usual. Once I'm done all these things, I do whatever I want. Which is usually watch movies and browse Pinterest.

Do you have any special rituals that you do? When do you pamper yourself?
xoxo

Sorry for being MIA

A lot of stuff went on this last week. One being MY BIRTHDAY!

It was on the 6th and I am officially twenty. Feels so weird to say...or type.

I went out for sushi with Willy and then the day after I went to a Chinese Buffet with my family, and then the next day I went out to an Irish pub with my girls. So needless to say, today I feel a little over-eaten. I need a bit of a cleanse. Like lots of water. And only fruits and vegetables for this week coming up. Gotta get this crap out of my belly!
(Not to mention the amount of alcohol that I've consumed and the junk food that I ate for my hangovers..)

  It is funny actually how heavy gross food sits on you. My stomach has felt at least 10 pounds heavier and it looks about that much too this week. I just feel yucky!

So here's my plan of attack for today:

☼→ Clean up my room/ apartment
☼→ Watch Lion King
☼→ Have lunch and a blaspheme amount of water
☼→ Go to the gym or go running
☼→ SPA DAY SUNDAYS (I will document this for you guys.It's a hoot).
☼→ Read and make notes on novel for rest of the night.

Also, here's what I plan on eating:
 ☼→Rice Krispies (because I already did. They were dry though because we can't afford milk ... aka we haven't gone grocery shopping).
☼→ 3 bottles of water
☼→ Apple and raspberries
☼→ 3 bottles of water
☼→ Yogurt and granola
☼→ 3 bottles of water
☼→ Carrots and salad
☼→ ...Waaaater
☼→ Orange and lemon water
☼→ MO' WATAA

But yea. Today I am cleansing out my food baby. I shan't be it's host ANY longer.
TTFN!
xoxo

☼♥☼ DIY: Storage from old candles!! ☼♥☼

Hey guys. Today I finished burning one of my all time favourite candles (BBW London Calling - smells like lemon iced tea!) and I didn't want to have the jar go to waste when I have so much need for extra storage! So here is a guide to turning your old sooty candles into this: 

  ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

STEP ONE: Put your used up candle in the freezer for 1 hour

STEP TWO: Remove it from the freezer and start stabbing it! I broke it up into little pieces and then used a fork to start removing them.

STEP THREE: Once all the wax and wicks are removed, put some olive oil (or vinegar, or baby oil) into the jar and start removing any leftover residue. I used a clothe to scrub it off but you could also use a sponge or your nails (yuck).

STEP FOUR: Wash it all out. Once you're positive that all the wax is removed from the jar, rinse out all the oil with hot, hot water. I just put it under the tap and let the hot water bubble over and get rid of it. Once the oil is gone and the water is clear, use a cloth and soap and get that puppy really clean. (I used baby mild castille soap because it's my favourite).

STEP FIVE: Run hot water over the labels and peel them off.

STEP SIX:  Dry it with a towel and...ta-daaa, you're done!

Now just put whatever you want to store inside of it!
I put all of my Revlon Lip Butters in mine, but you could even keep the cap and store cotton swaps/q-tips, or anything in these suckers!

  
(PS: For extra fun paint glue on the insides and shake some glitter around in it, then seal the glitter on with a finishing spray or more glue. Then it will look super glam as well! I will be doing that as soon as I can get my hands on some glitter!)

xoxo
Em

January Faves!

Hi guys! Happy fabulous February!
So, today I have put together a post about all my favourite products from January 2012!

I can't wait to share them with you guys. Also, I'll be making a video of my favourites shortly as well, so stay tuned for that bizzness.

Alrighty LETS GET 'ER!

***********************************************************************

SKIN CARE

So, January was definitely a month of skin care for me. Make-up was more on the sidelines because I was trying to find things that worked for my dry skin! Here they are:
(From left)
1. True Blue Spa Super Rich Shower Cream ($21). I was searching for what seemed like forever for a body wash that left my skin feeling moisturized. January is a busy month and I don't like to sit around and wait for lotion to sink in. So after trying a bajillion washes that claimed to "moisturize your skin for 24 hours", I finally found one. I got this from BBW and it has shea butter and vitamin E in it, and boy did I notice. My skin was so soft and and not tight or itchy. It lathers up nice and has an almond/vanilla smell to it. Very comforting. I loved it so much that I also used it to shave (it worked wonders for that as well).
2. NOW Grapeseed Oil ($7). I love grapeseed oil. It helped control my skin when nothing else was working. It doesn't have quite the amount of moisturizing properties that I needed, but I mix it with other, more moisturizing oils anyways. I use this stuff to cleanse my face because it really helps get deep into my pores and dissolve gunk. Also, if you have large pores, this stuff is for you! It shrinks them right down. I would also use it to moisturize by mixing it with my other oils, so that they weren't so thick and would sink into my skin easier. Not to mention it was a pretty big player in fighting my breakouts.
3. Coconut Oil ($10-11?) How many times have you guys seen this one? There's a reason for it. Literally everyone should have a jar of coconut oil in there home. No if, ands, or buts about it. I use it for my hair and removing eye-makeup because I accidently didn't get cold-pressed so I didn't want it to clog my pores. Next jar I get, I will be using to moisturize my skin. Anyways, this stuff is the best makeup remover..of all time. Do you hear me? Of ALL TIME. It is better than ALL chemical removers, and definitely better than olive oil. This stuff dissolves waterproof makeup in seconds and just makes it fall off, without stinging your eyes or drying out the delicate skin around your eyes. A-MAZ-ING. I also use it as an overnight hair mask and my hair is so soft and manageable when I wash it out in the morning. I use it 3x a week (or more) and I have noticed my hair has become a lot stronger against my every day wear and tear.
4. Golden Sugar Scrub ($16). I love these scrubs from BBW. I sold so many over Christmas to people because I am so in love with them. First, they all smell freaking amazing. I have one in Cashmere Glow, and Sweet Pea. And they just make everything alright in the world. Second, this is the first scrub that moisurizes and buffs. And I use a lot of scrubs. The sugar in the formula scrub away dead skin cells and then the more you rub, they dissolve away, leaving a fragrant oil behind on your skin which absorbs quickly. And then ta-da! You have super, super-DUPER soft skin. One of the best experiences in the shower. Must have.
5.  Cashmere Glow Lotion ($11). Cashmere Glow was definitely my scent for December and January. It is the softest, young feminine scent ever. I sold a lot of this stuff too. Basically, it covers all bases. It's got a sweet scent from the vanilla in it, a fruity peach aroma AND a touch of sexy cashmere musk. It literally smells amazing. It is comfy enough for me to wear during the cold, dark months but still sexy and feminine enough so that I don't feel like I'm wearing dessert on my skin. I love it. I also have the fragrance mist (which are $14), but I couldn't find it for the picture.

FACE MAKEUP

 1. Revlon Colourstay Creme Foundation- 220 Nude ($17). I have a review on this on my YouTube channel but I also had to mention it here because..well...it's a favourite. This stuff has the loveliest finish. It's dewy but still natural looking, almost a glow. It blends very well and it is medium-full coverage depending on how much you build it up. And it does stay on FOREVER (though its not difficult to remove). I love it, it is definitely a HG foundation for me.
2. Rimmel Stay Matte - 004 Sandstorm ($6-7?). I was pleasantly surprised by this stuff. I bought it a while back because it was on sale and then I loved it and went back and bought more haha. It is a simple pressed powder so just sets makeup so well and matte-ifies greasy/oily skin and helps your makeup stay on all day. I didn't need to touch up during the day with this either! My only beef is that I wish there were more colours to choose from!
3. Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer - Milk Chocolate ($37). This is one of my only truly high-end makeup items...and I love it. It is SO HARD to find a matte bronzer that is not orange..and I couldn't find it so I bit the bullet and bought an expensive one. I am so glad I did. It is a beautiful matte bronzer that is a gorgeous tan colour and this shade is light enough for pale girls like me in the winter. The colour is buildable and never looks overdone.
4. Maybelline DreamLumi Touch Concealer - Radiant ($11?) I really enjoy having a light concealer for under my eyes because they are easier to blend and tend not to crease as much (and my eyes crease sooo much). I have two of these concealers and I have super happy with the colour pay off and especially this shade it covers dark circles NO PROBLEM. I love it. I just wish they lasted longer..

 EYE MAKEUP

  1. Maybelline Falsies VolumExpress Mascara ($8?) This is the first mascara that I can say I love. My eyelashes are sparse and blonde and thin and yuck. This makes them look the exact opposite! I do like to use a thickening mascara before this one because it doesn't quite offer the same thickness but it gives them the nicest colour, lift and volume and it seperates pretty well! No clumps. I will definitely keep purchasing.
2. ELF Natural Palette ($5). I have been using this palette SO MUCH. It has so many natural shades that you can use during the day or even at night for going out! They are more pigmented than I expected and stay on all day. They also blend really well. And they don't crease. Yay! Only problem I have had with them is they do have a bit of fallout so I make sure to do my eyes before I do my face makeup to avoid looking like I raccoon.
3. Revlon Brow Fantasy Pencil in Blonde ($10) At first, I didn't like this at all. But the more I used it the happier I became with it and I find the colour looks more natural than my brunette. I use this stuff when I'm in a hurry and I just need to throw my eyebrows on my face because I can be pretty accurate without paying too much attention to details.
4. ELF Eyebrow Kit in Light ($3). This palette is great for more dramatic brows and I have used it sooo much. It has a powder and a wax and both have amazing pigmentation. However, the powder is a lot darker on your brows than it is in the case, so keep that in mind!

LIP MAKEUP

  1. Revlon LipButter in Creamsicle ($10). AMAZING. Revlon Lip Butters in general are my favourite. Basically the only thing I put on my lips. This colour is a gorgeous nude peach colour and looks amazing on ALL skin colours. Legit. From pale to tan, this has been the most flattering colour of all time. Also super moisturizing so I don't feel like the colour is flaking off my lips..
2. Carmex Lip Balm ($4). This has been the most helpful lip balm in controlling my dry and chapped lips. And it kind of smells nice. It also lasts for quite a while and makes my lips look plump and kissable instantly.
3. EOS Lipbalm in Summerfruit ($5). Of course, I have to mention my eos lipbalm. I have quite a few but this one has been my favourite flavour for January. Its just fruity and nice for cold and depressing weather. It goes on silky and moisturizes my lips. Also, it's like a massage for my lips! I put on too much of it just because I love the feeling of putting it on haha.

HAIR PRODUCTS

 I know I'm not a huge hair junkie but these two are my HG's when it comes to my hair.
1. Dove Dry Shampoo ($3.99 on sale!). I'm sure you guys have heard about this one before. It's been all over YouTube for a while so I went and purchased it and I am on my 2nd bottle. This dry shampoo works SO WELL. My hair is thin and oily and this is one of the only dry shampoos that makes it look like I just showered and adds SO much volume to my hair. Also, it has a beautiful floral scent. (For you brunette ladies, I found this rubbed right in without any residue..so give it a try!)
2. Got2B Smooth Operator Satin Drops Serum ($8). I have been using this stuff for...6 years, I think. I LOVE IT. It smells amazing and the serum makes your hair so silky and amazing. I use it on my dry hair after I've finished styling to tame the frizzies and make my hair super touchable and smell nice.

BRUSHES

 1. Long Handle Kabuki Brush from ICINGS ($9). Softest brush ever. It is so silky and fluffy and makes my powder go on flawlessly. I also like that it isn't sparse; the hairs are full and there is no shedding whatsoever!
2. ELF Powder Brush ($3). Great for liquid foundation. Makes the foundation go on smoothly and blends out into a lovely airbrushed look. It needs to be cleaned after each use though or else your foundation will start looking cakey!
3. ELF Small Concealer Brush (free b/c I spent more than a certain amount..but I think it is $1). I use this brush with my ELF Eyeshadow Kit and it is small enough for me to be precise and makes my brows full and dramatic.

CANDLES

 1. London Calling from BBW ($10). Smells exactly like iced tea in the summer. Great for when I'm feeling sick and tired of winter...which is all winter.
2. Merry Cookie from BBW (12.50). Smells kind of like cake...nice for comfy warm nights in.
3. Lighter ($2). Doesn't have the roller thing so you can just press down on it. Keeps your fingers from hurting and you have more accuracy so you don't burn yourself!

Randoms

 ^ My stuffed elephant named Tequila. I got her for Christmas and she is the snuggliest, softest stuffed animal ever. I sleep with her every night.

 ^ My sleeping pills. They are non-habit forming and all natural, no chemical in sight. Plus, they don't make me drowsy, they just help me sleep deeper so I wake up refreshed and happier. No more grumpy mornings.

^ I have been OBSESSED WITH THIS MOVIE. Probably watched it 10x, at least. Guess who I majorly fan girl over? You definitely know who..

^ My 3 top nail polish colours for January. I was really into opalescent and grays. 

1. Sally Hansen Super Frost Platinum. An opalescent white/cream. So pretty.

2. Sally Hansen Insta-Dry in In a Flash. Also an opalescent cream, but has more gold in it. Looks pretty overtop of white or nude polish as well!

3. Revlon Top Speed in Stormy. A brown-gray colour with a matte finish. Very chic for winter.

 ^ My neon pink TNA laptop case. Been looking for a laptop case that fits my 14" laptop and I couldn't find a cute one to save my life...until I went to Aritizia. I got it for $20 (it was on sale, originally it was $40!)

CLOTHING

Not a whole lot for this category because I was very casual and comfy all this month. But here are my faves and basically what I lived in all month...

 Leggings
I LIVED in leggings this month. They were so easy to wear and fit easily inside all my tall, winter boots. These two are from PINK, and I have a third pair that I wore SO SO MUCH, also from PINK, but I couldn't find them for the picture! They are basically the same colour as the ones on the left, but they have fleece on the inside and make my butt look amazing. (Also, did you notice that the black ones have lace down the side? Soo pretty!)

 Scarves
I wore very plain outfits because they were easy and slubby and I didn't have to try (I know, sad). But I would almost always fancy them up with a pretty scarf. This one was definitely my most worn. Its a coral red with cheetah and tiger print...can you say yes please?

MUSIC

Laura Marling - New Romantic (GO LISTEN TO HER!)

My favourite country song of January. Go take a listen!

Another fantabulous country song. Band Perry is seriously so talented. Listen here!

Obviously. Always gotta have some T-Swift. If you haven't heard it..go listen right...HERE!

This was my most-danced to song. Good job Flo. You done good. Listen HERE.

 Alrighty guys, those are my faves! What were yours?
Talk to you soontime friends! xoxo