5 Things That Have Changed My Life

Sorry if you thought I was going to get all deep and insightful or something, but I've got to believe one of these will change yours too! ;) Over the past little bit I've come across some things that have truly made an impact in my life. I keep thinking about them so I wanted to share.

1. Brazilian Blowout Split End Treatment:

This treatment is amazing. As someone who has out of control hair, this treatment smoothes without weight it down. I love that it doesn't have the chemical like the brazilian blowout keratin treatment does. It takes maybe an extra 15 min added on to your service. It lasts about 4 weeks. Seriously, everyone needs this done!!

2. CND Vinylux Nail Polish:

It's as easy as applying normal nail polish with the benefits as shellac. I love shellac. Full believer in it. However, I don't like having to cure it in the light and some of my lighter colors no matter what "extra" steps I take chip off within a week. It dries quickly, looks just as pretty, and removes with regular nail polish remover. I mean I think I'm thawing everything else away.

3. You're Gonna Miss This by Trace Adkins:

I'm not as much of Country Music lover as I used to be, but ever since I heard this song (as twangy as it is) it's never left my mind. I'm nostalgic to a fault and life it just flying by. Even more the older I get. These lyrics replay in mind daily. Especially on the more difficult one. I really try to take a step back and enjoy it. I finally framed it and have it in my living room. You can download my lyric art below.*personal use only* It's an 8x10, but found I needed to print it with borders to fit well in a frame. Enjoy!

click the image to download. p.s. the background is white- no idea why it's coming up grey...

4. Rodan Fields Macro Exfoliator:

I love microderms! I notice such a big difference after I get one. My cousin introduced me to Rodan Fields and they are so awesome! This machine is incredible I was told it goes 2 layers deep. A prof one goes 4... don't quote me on that though. Either way it leaves your skin feeling clean and soft and rejuvenated. Best Christmas present ever! 

*click to read more*

5. Aquaphor and Clinique Dramatically Different Moist Lotion:
Technically these should be separate, but they serve the same purpose. I have THE.DRIEST.SKIN. ever. Really. This is why it's so nice to get together with friends, especially Salon friends. They share secrets! Thanks Alisha for the amazing Aquaphor tip! I have been using it as my overnight moisturizer and it's been incredible! I have really struggled lately with moisturizer. I told my Dr. at my last visit and she said Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion from Clinique is her favorite because it is perfume free. It's one I used to use in high school and went away from it probably for something fancier... anyways my face feels like it's had a tall glass of water. Loving it.

Let me know if you end up trying any of these and love them too!

*split end source*

Latest Loves

Oh man. I feel like I need to create a new section called "Obsessed". There are so many posts with things I'm OBSESSED with! :) Here are the latests.

Let's start with Arcona:

LOVE them! I can't believe how instantly I loved these products. After one sample I knew I had to have it!
I've tried:
The Brightening and Cranberry Gommage ( I think I prefer the Cranberry)
Magic Ice and *Magic Dry Ice
*Wine Hydrating Mask
Berry Fruit Bar and Kiwi Bar
*White Tea Purifying Cleanser
Triad Pads

*what I purchased in full size

They carry this at Nordstrom and I was pleasantly surprised at the affordability of it. Especially after considering an $80 moisturizer. It's an all natural line for all skin types. Nordstrom is happy to give you samples, so run and check it out!! Thanks Sierra for the great recommendation!

Next Perfect Image TCA at home Chemical Peel 12% with 5% Salicylic Acid. Now I only recommend this to those who have had lots of chemical peels. I LOVE chemical peels and will forever be mad at myself for doing IPL's. (that's another story for another time) I happened upon this at home one and decided it was worth a try. The professional strength TCA's make you really peel. I only mild peeling from it after about 3 passes with an extra 5 min. I loved it. If it's your first time, for sure follow the directions. I'm going to up my percentage next time.

(this one is 15% I started with 12)


L'Oreal Sublime Bronze Tanning Wipes:

I took a random chance on these and I can't believe how in love I am. For 6 at $7 (sale at Wal-Mart) they are a steal!! I have found I get the best results if I exfoliate 24 hours before use. As soon as they dry you can put your clothes on without any orange residue, they make my face look fresh, and give a great glow. They can go a little streaky and orange if applied directly out of the shower, but it's ok. You can layer them for a deeper tan and longer lasting color.

Elta MD SPF 41 tinted physical sunscreen:

LOVE! A dab goes a mile, the tint makes it so I don't have to wear any foundation, and it's moisturizing. I've used other sunscreens in the past that would still deepen my melasma. I noticed no difference after wearing this in the sun. It truly protects. I will wear this the rest of my life. For reals amazing.


Target Up&Up Make-Up Brushes:
I randomly grabbed an eye shadow brush there about a week ago for around $2. It's awesome at an amazing price! I haven't tried any of the bigger ones, but I would definitely look into them! Great find!


GAP Sandals:

You guys, these are the most comfortable sandals I have ever owned IN MY LIFE!! I wanted them mainly for the color (I got cognac). I scored them on sale for $25 and wish I would have bought 2 pairs, or maybe one in every color. They are heavenly.

After hearing so much about Pretty Little Liars, I decided I had to see it. I started it on Netflix and am obsessed right now! Highly recommend it.



Yes- I still can't get over this color. Citron! It goes with everything!!! Are you dying about the home decor? Making me really want those pillows and chairs!

*photo cred: http://www.faucethead.com*


Finally, I think my latest favorite song find comes from a duet with Ne-Yo and Tim McGraw called She Is. I REALLY love rap and country duets. It's almost like they balance each other out and become neutral. ;)

NuMe Reviews: In-Vogue Flat Iron/4 Play Curling Wand

  

I want to start by reviewing the In-Vogue titanium plated flat iron. May I just say that I AM OBSESSED!! After purchasing the wand, I knew that NuMe provided quality products and I was in desperate need of a new flat iron. I've tried so many ceramic flat irons claiming to be the best, I wanted to really do some research on my next iron. When reviewing NuMe's website I was, naturally, drawn to the most expensive iron they offered. I noticed it was titanium plated instead of ceramic. When I realized I could get it for a steal of a deal, I began my research and this what I found:

Titanium Plates:

• heat in a flash
• scratch resistant
• conducts heat more evenly
• from igneous rock (strength and high temp stability)
• higher ionic output than ceramic leaving hair shinier
• less static

Ceramic Plates:

• inorganic material that is baked onto aluminum base plates
• more suited for daily use
• pricier ceramic plates are better
• adds shine and smoothness

Ok, confession, that was probably all of the research I did- in addition to some Youtube videos. I have used so many ceramic irons it didn't take much for me to be convinced. :) It was a video that actually sold me (I can't remember what one, sorry), but it was mentioned that titanium plates help with holding the style and frizz/static. Even when I would flat iron perfectly, by the end of the day it felt like I needed to do it again. With that said, I LOVE LOVE LOVE my new In-Vogue flat iron. It truly holds the style all day. My hair doesn't frizz like it used to and still feels fresh at the end of the day. It doesn't "bend" as easily either- like if I put an elastic in it. The flat iron keeps bounce after a blow out and keeps a bend in my ends (this has never happened to me before, I could never take a flat iron after a blowout and maintain bounce). I tried to take some photos to show you, but I don't feel like the photos give my straight hair justice. I will show you anyway though (awkward) :).  ANDRUBY is launching this fabulous iron TODAY for an incredible price of $67! For all of you Utahns Studio5 11:00 today will be doing a segment on it! You guys, I LOVE IT!!

The NuMe 4Play Wand. Did you purchase from andruby?? Now that I've had a chance to use it, I wanted to write a little about it again. I really do love it, however, do I feel like it is a different/better curl than wrapping around my curling iron no. BUT does it make it shinier? Yes. Does it make it easier to curl? Yes on clients, about the same as an iron on myself. Does it hold better than an iron? Yes. And the key for me is that it is less frizzy than an iron making it easier for me to keep a "natural" style all day without looking like a lion (it happens). It actually grows on me each time I use it. I think for people who struggle to curl their hair, it will help you immensely. Definitely worth the money!

BUT can I tell you my most FAVORITE FAVORITE part about these products??? I can use them simultaneously!!! This is HUGE for me! In the past I would always have to make a decision from wash to wash if I wanted straight hair or curly hair. It was nearly impossible for my hair to get a bend after I had taken my flat iron to it. Not anymore! I have been able to straighten my hair, then one or two days later, take my wand and CURL it! It holds like it's fresh. This is seriously life changing for me, and even if that were the only reason I loved these products, I wouldn't care. Amazing. 

As always PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE do yourself a favor and make sure you use heat protectant!! I recommend a leave in conditioner with one in it, as well as as spray before you apply more heat. Check your ingredients on your sprays! Make sure the top ingredient is water and not alcohol. If it's alcohol you will actually be creating more damage. I was surprised at how many "heat protectant sprays" have tons of alcohol in them. 

Two products I love:

  

*research sources*
http://hair.ezinemark.com/titanium-flat-iron-vs-ceramic-3200228ee85.html,
http://www.ehow.com/facts_5992828_ceramic-vs_-titanium-flat-irons.html, http://www.zimbio.com/Everything+You+Need+to+Know+About+Flat+Irons/articles/43/Flat+Iron+Buying+Guide+101

NuMe...AndRuby

You guys, BUY these! For years people have been trying to sell me on a curling wand. I could never understand why I would buy one when I have a curling iron that serves that purpose as well. It started when my sister-in-law        
and her sister's all bought a NuMe. They were/are all obsessed. I still wasn't quite convinced yet. Then I happened onto miss Cara Loren. I laid in bed until 2am looking at her site. She sold me. My sister in law's hair doesn't hold curl that well and she said it stays for days now, and it always looks fabulous! AndRuby, a darling darling discounted product site is offering them for SUPER CHEAP! They have a set called 4play that comes with 4 different sizes. 4 interchangeable wands for $74 (plus shipping). Oh the possibilities! Mine is on it's way so I'll keep you updated. Also wanting the pearl pretty badly. Go get one! I'm certain you won't regret it!!

Beauty In A Bottle

At least that's what I told Tyler I was calling it. :) I've jumped on the Coconut Oil bandwagon. I just barely heard about this two weeks ago, but apparently it's been around for a bit. My apologies. I'm so in love! I first saw it presented as a hair treatment. I thought it was great, but I see so many at home hair remedies it didn't really get to me. Then I saw it can also be used for skin care. My skin is desperate for moisture right now, so I was sold. I do have to say it's pretty greasy on my face initially (I use barely a dime size, barely), but it soaks up quickly. I even put my makeup on a few minutes later and it's still totally fine. I tried it on my hair today as a pre-wash treatment and I feel like I have a whole new head! Make sure to stop a couple inches from your scalp, otherwise it could weigh it down. How Does She? has a great tutorial on the hair treatment. However, I only did mine for about 10 min in the shower with a cap, and then shampooed twice. I've learned the best oil is the extra virgin. I bought the brand in the photo at Amazon for $10- including shipping. Amazzzing!! Everyone try it!! If nothing else you can use it for cooking if you hate it. :)

Shampoo & Conditioner Are Your Foundation

Our hair is something that we wear EVERY DAY.  It can transform you for the good, or the bad for that matter. With it being the same thing that people see everyday why wouldn't we want to put our money into it? Let's talk product. I find, too often, that people are willing to spend so much money on their cut and color, but then go home and use Suave (sorry, true) shampoo. Wouldn't you want to do all that you could to make sure the money you just spent goes a long way? It doesn't have to be $100 shampoo, but there are definitely better ones out there. That's when it's important to have your stylist choose the correct shampoo and conditioner for you. Think of it as a prescription. They know your hair better than anyone and know what it will need to look it's best. The best analogy I heard years ago is to think of your hair products like building a house. Your shampoo and conditioner are the foundation. Without a great foundation the rest kind of falls apart. Happy hair days people!! 

If anyone is ever unsure about a product, please feel free to email me with any questions. :)

April's Top 5

Since April is almost over, I thought I'd share a few things I've been obsessed with this month.

1. Absolutely Shore by Essie

perfect pastel polish- other than pink of course.

2. Powder Puff by Kevin Murphy

ultimate messy texture/volume. can double as a dry shampoo.

3. I For You by The All-American Rejects


they never disappoint. been on constant repeat.

4. Chambray Shirt by J Crew Factory

i have yet to find anything it doesn't go with.

5. Spinach & Artichoke Dip by Alton Brown

forgot about this for a while. seriously amazing!

On A Daily Basis

Wow, pretty sure I'm not trying to ignore this little blog of mine. Been crazy busy with design lately! Hoping to have some fun posts soon though! Already have ideas!
I'm currently coloring my hair and have approx. 15 min- and my comp is slower than molasses right now (of course)! ha ha Anyway, lately I've been thinking about the beauty products that I use every single day. Ones that I cannot survive without. These are the guys I continue to re-buy with no hesitation (I've tried so many versions of them to know these are the ones I like). Thought I'd share them with you!

1. Aquify contact eye solution. Silly to put this on the list I know, but it is the only kind that truly keeps my lenses rub free and moisturized!

2. Biore Make-Up Removing Towelettes. These are the only face wipes that don't dry out my skin or make me break out. I very much dislike washing my face everyday- these cleanse and remove my make-up at once.

3. Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara. Oh my have I tried a bazillion mascaras in my life time. I get to the store and think "maybe I'll like this one better." Then I get home and try and yell at myself for buying something else. Seriously my very favorite!!

4. No Crack Hand Lotion from Restoration Hardware. Tyler discovered it last year and it is a lifesaver! It's a miracle worker I tell you!!

5. NYC Sparkle Eye Dust (in Champagne). Random, but I love it! It's the perfect amount of sheen and my favorite color. I use it mainly as an all over base, but it's pretty versatile! p.s.- walmart!

The Temptu

First, I have to tell you how I found this thing, because it was so random and I wouldn't have heard of it otherwise. I happened upon Chris Harrison's twitter account- this randomly let me to Michelle Money's twitter account (she used to work at my salon, so it was fun to look at it) where she posted a link to a video. Watched it. This then led me to other videos that she's created- which led me to the Temptu. She uses it and I was amazed. I had a birthday at the end of September and was so happy I found this right before. It's been a great gift! It's a makeup airbrushing machine. It's so cool. It goes on so smooth and evenly, leaves you with a great dewy look (you can alter it with powder if you don't like dewy), stays put ALL DAY long, and takes minutes to apply. I did a test run when I first got it, before I jumped in the shower, and I could see the water repelling off my makeup. I had to get out and wash it off with my makeup remover towel. I haven't had any breakouts at all from it. You can give it a test run at Sephora. They have cool products like self-tanning air pods as well. I can't wait to try those!  My base color is warm ivory. I have played with the pale pink blush and pink highlighter. I don't love them though. I love the champagne highlighter and hoping to get the peony pink blush. I really am not a foundation wearer, but since baby there are days where I just know I need it. This lets you also modify the coverage you are wanting. I love that. Once dry it doesn't rub off on anything, and keeps you looking fresh. Check it out here at Sephora.com. Put it on your Christmas list people! :)

M2

Shocked and excited I have a second to post right now! Sad. Sorry! I want to share with you my favorite skin care line. I'm thinking it's because I'm obsessing over my skin. It is what I am the most frustrated with right now. Cannot stand my skin at the moment, for many reasons, and am dying to get back to this stuff. I discovered this gem at the previous day spa I was working at. The products are made up of Mandelic and Malic Acid (Pregnants and Breast Feeders STAY AWAY, sorry!) They help eliminate acne, soften wrinkles, lighten scars and hyperpigmentation. I'm pretty sure they were started in Utah as well- if I remember correctly. Tyler has been using my left over supply, and his skin looks awesome. I love the simplicity of the line. You have your cleanser, night time serum (they have two options now), and moisturizer. That's it. No need for 3 serums, 2 moisturizers, 1 cleanser, 1 toner etc. They have a body product also- not sure if it's a serum or moisturizer. You can get all three for around $100. I felt they lasted a long time, the moisturizer was what I ran out of fastest though. I have normal to dry skin and Tyler has normal to oily and it's been great for both of us. You luckies that can use this right now, I highly recommend it! You can go to their site here to read more about it. Dreaming of my old skin right now. :)

Shellac

I know I am way late to the party on this stuff. Mr. Easter Bunny was kind enough to put some in my basket and I'm so glad he did! For those of you who don't know what Shellac is, it's this wonderful nail product that's a mix between a polish and gel. You cure it in a uv light so it stays for approx 2 weeks with no chipping! This is true, mine lasted 2 weeks, even with all of my hair washing and chemicals. There is no need to file the nail bed, so it's just as safe as using polish. For someone who loves their nails painted, but can't get it to last more than a day (ME!) it's heavenly. Once you've finished the application process- you're done. NO drying time! NO smudging! Isn't that great?! It also removes like a dream, in minutes, with a little help from our friend Acetone. The color I've used is called Romantique. I love it. It's the perfect pinky/nude color for my skin tone. You can go here to read more about it and find a salon near you!
While we're talking nails, I also wanted to tell you about this guy:

my new cuticle pusher. I have been WAY over due for one of these. I found this one on Amazon for $6.55. The one I saw at the beauty supply, even with my discount was still $10. I removed my old shellac with it yesterday and it's fabulous. I highly recommend it!

Latisse

Have you heard of it?! Some people swear by this lash lengthening formula (including Brooke Shields ha ha). I have to be honest- I haven't tried it. I have used Revitalash and loved it, but this is supposed to be a lot better. You have to have a prescription for it and will usually you run you around $120. However, The American Laser Center is offering a deal right now (they will give you a prescription)-1st- it's only $99, 2nd- BUY ONE GET ONE FREE! This is amazing. Mother's Day comes to mind as a fantastic gift. I have a friend who works at The American Laser Center in Draper, UT and it's a wonderful place. I highly recommend her and their services. Her name is Morgan, tell her Jenn sent you. :)  You can read more about Latisse here and for more info on American Laser here. Check 'em out!

Newspaper Nails

Besides glitter, I rarely like much on my nails. I think looks so cool though! This site is in French- so this is what I get from it-

• Paint a base coat- let dry completely
• Apply two coats polish- let dry completely
• Cut newspaper squares large enough to cover your nail
• Soak your nails in alcohol
• Press newspaper squares across nail- remove slowly
• Let dry completely
• Finish with top coat.

*http://www.passionnailart.com/tutoriels/print/print.php*

Really interested in trying this with my toenails.

Saving Face

Pregnancy has reeked havoc on my face. It has never looked so bad- not even as a teenager! On top of that it has not seen a face wash or a moisturizer since November. The products I was using daily contained a lot of acid, not safe for my baby. I had been trying to do research on a lot of the products I've used, but I reached a point where I knew I had to just get something. I am so glad I remembered how much I loved the Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion back in high school. It is saving my face right now! It feels like my face is getting a tall drink of water. It's not greasy either which is fabulous and always a concern. No acids or correctors just a straight up moisturizer, great for Tyler as well. Loving it. Dillard's is also offering a free gift with any purchase over $21.

 

Read more about it here.

Ultimate Top Coat

It can be so frustrating to me when I meticulously paint my nails, and then apply a top coat that ruins it all.  This is by far my favorite top coat. It's like putting a thin layer of glass over your nail. You can purchase it at Sally's or Amazon.com. 

There is one negative to this, however. It comes with a warning that in California it caused birth defects for pregnant women. Weird. I still don't know what to think of this. Really I don't think polish gets into your blood stream enough to create such problems. If you are pregnant though, and it makes you weary, this is my second favorite.

CND Super Shiney

You can get it at Peerless Beauty Supply or Amazon.com. Happy painting!

Sexy Love

I want to tell you guys about two products I love right now. I love products and am a true believer in them. However, I hate feeling the products in the hair. I want it to look and feel as natural as possible. One of the girls I work with is an educator for Sexy Hair. I am not going to lie I was really skeptical about trying these products, and made an unfair upfront judgement about them. Well in using some of them I absolutely love these two.

I think I've mentioned this before

The Root Pump Plus

For: Volume, humidity resistant and hold

How to use: apply to damp hair either section by section to roots only, or get a pile in your hand and finger through your part and down a bit.

For who: I love it for my fine and thick haired clients.

Smooth and Protect

For smoothness and shine, moisture, thermal protection.

For: It's great for flat ironing. It has memory in it, so I have been spraying it on before I curl and it's a dream.
How to use: apply to dry hair before styling. You can use it as a finish spray to increase shine and for humidity protection.

For who: again I feel like anyone can use this. If you have fine hair always start with a little then add, you can always add.

I'm going to stress again the importance of buying products from a professional salon. Although these are found in many grocery stores please be aware they are there illegally, or are expired, or is a completely different product inside. You can go HERE to find a salon near who sells these. Thanks guys! :)