Fun In The Sun

Past couple of days have been hot, and those 90+ Fahrenheits reminded that summer is almost here. While this weather calls to enjoy outdoors, one should never forget to use protection from harmful UV rays. It's pretty simple and basic: cover up, use sunscreen, wear a hat, stay hydrated, limit exposure to the sun. Though in real life that doesn't work that easily, so we should always try to do the best we can.

Face protection can be the hardest or the easiest part in this depending on the products used. It's recommended to use 1 fl. oz. of sunscreen for exposed body, but this is easier said than done, While we can get away with using more sunscreen on the body, even a recommended 0.3 teaspoon for face and neck might seem a little too much as most sunscreen leaves white residue on the skin or feels too heavy. Also, let's not forget those who wear makeup - sunscreen may interfere with how products lay on top of it. So I'm very excited to introduce my newest discovery - Shiseido Sports BB Broad Spectrum SPF 50+ WetForce cream (link). I don't wear liquid foundations, BB/CC creams, tinted moisturizers or anything like that, because no matter the product, no matter the price, no matter the brand, no matter the application tool, my skin gets irritated. Sometimes it feels itchy, sometimes I get red spots, but sooner or later it starts to bother me, and that's one of the reasons why I only use dry foundations and powders. However, I had a sample of this Shiseido's BB cream for a while, and decided to try it out. The color (Medium) was a bit too dark on me, but I fell in love with the product from the first use, so I got it in full size in color Light. This cream applies easily, absorbs quickly, doesn't leave any stickiness on the skin, and most importantly it doesn't bother my skin. Besides, it is pigmented enough to even out skin tone and give light-medium coverage. If I use this BB cream, I don't need additional coverage. Sometimes I lightly dust my mineral foundation on top, but most of the time I leave it as is. It's also a very convenient application as my skin doesn't need any extra hydration, so I use this cream as my moisturizer in the morning, and it doesn't even interrupt my usual morning routine.

Another product that I purchased recently is Kate Somerville UncompliKated SPF 50 Soft Focus Makeup Setting Spray (link). This products makes life easier as it protects from the sun, and helps set the makeup. It's also a great product to carry in your purse and reapply throughout the day. I use it both on Shiseido BB cream and on my regular makeup. The mist is very fine and dries on the face quickly. It doesn't make skin feel tight or dry. The scent is a bit strong at first, but it doesn't bother me. While the spray performs great, it irritates my eyes. I have a few facial/makeup setting sprays, but this is the only one doing that, so I blame it on SPF. I close my eyes when applying this spray, but my eyes are very sensitive and since it gets on my lids and undereyes, it makes my eyes itchy and teary. It's a very recent purchase, so I'm still unsure if I want to continue using it. It works fine if I cover my eyes and avoid applying too close to them, but that makes using it inconvenient, especially when on a go. I was hesitant to include it in this article, but I did as I believe it's a great product, and many people, who don't have sensitivity like I do, could benefit from using it.

That pair of sunglasses in the photo is for a reason, not just to make the photo look prettier. Our eyes as well as delicate eye area should also be protected from the sun, and a lot of times we can't or we just don't apply sunscreen too close to the eyes, so wearing sunglasses is a great option. The most important factor when choosing sunglasses should be 100% UV protection. The color or darkness doesn't make protection better, but bigger lenses cover and protect bigger area. It's also smart to wear a hat which protects your hair, eyes, and face.

I love wearing lipstick and lip gloss on my regular days, but when it comes to boating or beach time, I don't care about my lip products that much. The most important thing at that time is to keep my lips hydrated, so Coola Mineral Liplux SPF30* in color Tan Line (link) helps me in keeping my lips moist. This tinted lip balm comes in a couple of colors. As you can see from the photo, Tan Line is a beautiful peachy color, but doesn't show up much on my lips. It gives light color and some shimmer, which is enough for me. When I first looked at this balm, I expected it to be hard and chunky, but it applies very smooth and feels moisturizing. I'm undecided about scent/flavor - it has some nice sweet-ish note, but it also reminds of vintage lipsticks. Maybe I will get used to it when using more often, but I wish it was more neutral.

Just like face care, body care is a part of my daily routine, so I try to use sunscreen on my body every day. I say "I try", because many times I feel like skipping this step as skin gets sticky, sunscreen leaves white cast, I'm in a rush or just don't want too many products on my skin. Coola Eco-Lux Body SPF30 Sunscreen Spray* in Fresh Cucumber scent (link) makes applying sunscreen so much easier. When boating or on the beach, I am completely different as to a certain degree I don't care how sunscreen applies, how it looks or feels as long as I have good protection, but when it comes to everyday use I'm very picky. I want my sunscreen to leave no white residue, to apply and absorb well, and to feel light on the skin. This Coola sunscreen ticks all the boxes, and is very convenient to use as I can spray it on the skin and let it sink without rubbing in. It's great for reapplying when on the go or applying in a rush as it doesn't take long and doesn't stain the clothes. Also, the cucumber scent smells so refreshing and light, but if you prefer unscented or some other option, Coola has a few to choose from (how yummy does Guava Mango sound?).

When using sunscreen you should always remember to apply it on all exposed skin, including your neck, ears, hands and feet. With beautiful weather outside plans can change easily, and one may enjoy some sunshine in a park during lunch break instead of going into a store, so having sunscreen with you is always helpful. However, not everyone wants to carry a big bottle at all times, so sample or mini/travel sized products can be a great option. I always have one in my handbag, and sometimes I use it, sometimes I end up not using before it expires, but I feel good about being prepared. Currently I'm carrying Green Goddess Organics Everyday Natural Sunscreen SPF30* (link to travel size , link to full size). I've used sunscreens from this brand in the past, and I have no complaints.          

I feel like repeating myself, but let me tell that once more - my behavior differs on a beach. I wear a hat most of the time while on a boat or at the beach, but on everyday basis I don't like any scarves or hats on my head, so I try to do the best I can in protecting my hair (and my scalp!) from harmful UV rays. I was very excited to receive Bare Republic UV Protecting 5-in-1 Mist* (link). This multitasker is loaded with organic ingredients (over 70%), and aside from protecting from the sun, it also gives anti-frizz, shine, detangling and conditioning benefits. This product doesn't make my hair look greasy, but if applied with a heavy hand, my hair doesn't look as good next day, and I prefer washing it. I also use this mist on ponytail and braided hair by spraying the product into my palms, rubbing my hands together and running them through the hair.          

I don't know about you, but I've never heard about such an innovative product. UVO* (link) drink is a sun protective supplement that is filled with vitamins, antioxidants and phytonutrients. I have it in liquid form, but it also comes as powder that can be mixed into any of your drinks. UVO is free from artificial flavors and preservatives, it's vegan and gluten free. It's recommended to drink one bottle per day 30 minutes before sun exposure for 3-5 hours of protection. With all the goodness inside this drink can also help in healing your sunburn after overexposure to the sun, and can help repair and beautify skin when used daily. Everyone knows that it's important to stay hydrated when enjoying the sun, so this drink not only protects you from damaging UV rays, but also helps to replenish your body. It's in "Orange Peach" flavor, but I taste mostly peach (which I like). Sometimes bottled flavored drinks, e.g. strawberry protein drink, taste unnatural and chalky, but UVO is really tasty.      

Sun protection is important, but it's also important to give some extra love to your skin after a day in the sun. Nothing beats a good cool shower to revitalize your body. I also love to pamper myself with a hydrating mask to restore moisture to my skin. One of the masks that I can recommend is Ellame Hydro Complex hydrating sheet mask* (link). It's not sold in the US market, but I received it from Europe, so you might be able to get it from some European online store. I've heard a lot of great reviews about this mask and had to try it myself. This mask is very thin and has 2 protective layers (you peel one before applying the mask on your face, and the other is peeled when the mask is in place). Being this thin the mask fits like second skin on the face. My only complaint is that eye holes are cut small, so it doesn't apply well around the eyes and also isn't very comfortable for doing things around the house with a mask on, because my vision is partially blocked. On the nice note the mask is drenched in serum, and plenty of it is left in the package, so it can be used afterwards on the face, neck and chest. There was plenty of serum for me to apply on my arms as well. It smells pleasantly and not strong at all. The consistency is slightly gooey, but not in a yucky way. The directions tell to keep the mask on for 20 minutes, but I kept it for 30 minutes. It seemed that in some spots the mask almost stuck to the face (as if the skin drank up all the moisture there), but  I felt no tightness. When I removed the mask, there was plenty of product left all over the face, but it sank into the skin quickly once I started massaging it. My skin felt hydrated, soft and plump. I didn't even need any moisturizer.
If I don't use a mask, then I just wash my face and put cream on it. After spending a day in the sun I like using foam or clay based cleansers as they deeply wash the skin making is squeaky clean. I don't overuse such products as I don't want to dry out my skin. If you have oily skin, you may use them more often, but once or twice a week is enough for me. Goddess Garden Organics Erase The Day Mineral Removing Cleanser* (link) is a good choice for a clay cleanser. It's a good alternative to Sunday Riley Ceramic Slip Clay Cleanser as they are both based on French green clay. Once all sunscreen, sweat and makeup residue is removed, you want to restore skin's moisture by applying some hydrating product. I have Goddess Garden Organics Dream Repair Sun Repair Night Cream* (link) in the photo (I haven't tried it yet), but it's just for reference as almost anything hydrating works. You can even apply pure aloe vera gel both on your face and your body.

Lastly, let's not forget our bodies. Like I've just mentioned, you can apply aloe vera gel on the skin to calm it and to restore moisture after exposure to the sun, or you can apply body milk, lotion, cream, or butter. Basically, anything you prefer works for this. I always choose something heavier, so I use body butter. This particular one is by Estelle and Thild (link), which I received in a mini set with three other body butters. Sparkling Citrus Bloom is scented very lightly and smells nice, but it's my least favorite of the four. It's considered a body butter, but is on the lighter side, almost like a whipped cream. A little goes a long way, and it absorbs quickly. This is a product I intent to keep on buying.



* marks PR samples sent complimentary  

Brand Review: Brooklyn Botany

I enjoy discovering new and less known brands from all over the world, but it's always very special to find products that are made right here in the USA. The brand I'm going to introduce today is from Brooklyn, NY, which is even more special as it's so close to home. Up until recently I didn't even know about Brooklyn Botany, but once I came across the brand, I was first attracted by their minimalistic and classy packaging, and then by their clean ingredients.

I'm going to review two Brooklyn Botany products today, and I'll start with Charcoal Scrub* (link). This scrub can be used both on face and body, but I only used it on my body. The consistency may look on the drier side, but the scrub sticks to the skin well and doesn't fall off. At first I thought it's a finely milled sugar, but it's actually a salt based product. Generally, I'm not a fan of salt scrubs as they are harsher on the skin, but this one was very gentle (like I said before, I thought it was sugar). It doesn't really have any noticeable smell. It applies well, does the job well, and leaves skin smooth and soft. It does leave a light film on the skin, but it doesn't make the skin greasy, and I still used a body moisturizer afterwards. The only negative thing I noticed is that charcoal tends to stick to the skin in some spots, so I had to make sure I washed it all off before getting out of the shower. With this product a little goes a long way, so this jar should last pretty well. Unfortunately, I knocked it off the shelf and spilled most of the product into the shower on my second use. I couldn't put it back in, but at least I got a good and generous scrubbing. One thing I was glad about was that it's not a glass jar (I love glass packaging, but that's not practical in the shower).   

The next product I received was Camellia Wonder Oil* (link). What I love about this brand that they package products really well. This oil arrived with a cap and a pump on the side (the Activated Charcoal Scrub was sealed under the cap). This not only makes me feel good about product freshness, but about safety while shipping too as any spillage or leaking is avoided. Camellia Wonder Oil is a multi tasking product that can be used to remove eye makeup or as face cleanser as well as moisturizing or massage oil. I tried to use it in a couple different ways, and I found my favorite one. Oils don't work for me as eye makeup removers as my eyes are very sensitive and tend to get irritated and feel like I have a film on, but I put this oil to the test nonetheless. While it removed my mascara well, it did bother my eyes. I also used Camellia Wonder oil as a first cleanser for my face, and it worked fine. This method didn't stick with me, because I'm used to removing my eye makeup, and then using the same product to clean my face before a face wash, and I just didn't want an extra step. So if you're ok using oils for makeup removing, then you'll be fine, but it didn't work for me. However, once I tried this oil on my body, I knew this is IT. The oil is very light, almost watery consistency, and applies and absorbs into the skin beautifully. A few pumps are enough for whole body. It doesn't leave oiliness on the surface, only a very light film that makes skin look dewy and nice, but not sticky. The skin felt hydrated and that moisturizing feeling lasted through the day. I think it's a wonderful light moisturizer for warm weather and I use it pretty much every day now. I also love its cocoa-ish scent which is very delicate and not overpowering.

* marks PR samples received complimentary               

Summer Ready - True Natural & Benecos

Benecos Bronzing Duo in Ibiza
Benecos Nail Polish in Hot Summer,
True Natural Self Tanner in Light-Medium Tan

Every time the calendar says May, and there's sun outside, I start getting ready for the summer. For me bronzed skin and bright nails always associate with warm weather, but I have very light skin, and I don't like sunbathing. Besides, I use sunscreen nonstop, so I barely get any tan during the summer. I am comfortable with my skin tone, but sometimes I want to have some color on me too, so self tanners save me. As for bright nails, I choose nail polish color depending on my mood and wear pinks in winter and blacks in summer without a problem. However, any pink, coral, orange, yellow, periwinkle, etc. always scream summer to me. So today I decided to share a couple of products that help me get ready for summertime. All of them are from online store True Natural, which has a nice selection of natural products and offers great shipping options as well (free shipping for orders over $30, and only $3.50 for orders under $30).

True Natural Self Tanner in Light-Medium Tan 

I'm the girl who likes bare legs no matter if it's winter or summer, so as long as the weather is decent I'm avoiding tights as much as I can. I have no problems going out with my light legs during the cold months, but when the weather gets warmer, I like to get a tiny bit of color on them. I use self tanners for that, and so far that works for me. I also use self tanner on my arms, but only a thin layer as my arms are usually more tanned/darker anyway. Mostly I apply self tanner right after the shower in the morning, and I can see the results in the afternoon. Recently I tried out True Natural self tanner in Light-Medium Tan* (link), which was a little different from what I'm used to. I'm used to applying self tanner for two days in a row, and then taking a break for a few days, but with this one I only need to apply it for one day to get the same results. I like this quickness a lot. Since it gives darker tan than I'm accustomed to, I was afraid that it might have applied streaky or unevenly, but that's not the case. It gives even natural looking tan that's not too dark for my skin tone. I was a little sloppy around my feet and left some spots bare, but that was fixed with next application. I only need to apply it 1-2 times a week to keep my skin bronzed. This self tanner has only a faint scent, so it doesn't bother me and doesn't interfere with other products or fragrance. The cream glides on the skin easily, and you don't need to use a lot of the product. It is also vegan friendly, gluten free, and best of all made with 100% natural ingredients. 

Benecos Bronzing Duo in Ibiza

Benecos Bronzing Duo in Ibiza: blush, bronzer, mixed

I have a couple blushes, but I rarely reach for them, yet I use a bronzer all year round. I change my makeup products, application techniques once in a while, but I mostly stick to the basic steps, and bronzer is one of them. I'm used to applying my bronzer under the cheekbone, my highlighter on the cheekbone, and blending the two with a big powder brush (like this one from Real Techniques) or with a contour brush (like this contour blender from Sephora). I don't contour the rest of my face, and most of the time I don't apply any blush or any other product. I like it simple and quick as it works for me perfectly. I recently received a new bronzer duo from Benecos in color Ibiza* (link), which comes with a strip of blush, so I'm trying to incorporate it into my makeup. I use this bronzer just as I would any other one, but after blending it out, I'll take a little bit of blush on a fluffy powder brush and apply it lightly on the cheek. The difference is only minor as I'm still trying to get accustomed to using this additional step, but so far I like it. The bronzer (and the blush) is very pigmented, so be sure to take only a little bit of it and tap off the access before applying it on the face as you can always layer more product on top. It blends out easily, and lasts well through the day. The color is beautiful without being too orange-y or too cocoa-y, and looks natural on my skin. I think it would suit anyone with very light to medium skin tones as you can easily apply the product lightly or build it up for a more intense look. The consistency of this duo is on the softer side, and it's easy to transfer the product from the pan to the brush. 

Benecos Happy Nails nail polish in Hot Summer

By now you probably know my love for nail polishes, especially red ones which can vary so much in tone and shade. So of course I was excited to receive one more nail polish to my collection - Benecos Happy Nails in color Hot Summer* (link). With its coral/orange undertone this color is perfect for summertime, and looks good on any skin tone. The application was super easy as the brush is shaped perfectly and the consistency of this polish is just right. It's not too runny, and not too thick, so it gets distributed on the nail evenly without much effort. I didn't get any nail polish on the cuticles or the tips of my fingers. I'm sure the brush adds up to that too as it covers a wide space on the nail, and requires only a few strokes to fully cover the nail. It's also rounded on the end which helps to apply the nail polish near the cuticles. While the nail polish is very pigmented, and you could get away with using one coat, I applied two coats to make it completely opaque. Each coat dried quickly. I always try to be a little extra careful for a few hours after doing my nails, so I did the same thing this time as well. Later that day I did my usual daily chores, and even dipped my hands into a 30 pound dog kibble bag (mixing the food), but my nails stayed intact. They didn't chip, peel, scratch, got dull or anything. The nail polish also lasts long and is easy to remove. 

* marks PR samples received complimentary   

Masking Addiction

I go through skincare phases where I change my habits or routines once in a while. There are times when I use scrub religiously, and times when I don't scrub for months. Other times I use only the most basic products (face wash, moisturizer, sunscreen), and then I go through periods of 10 steps to clean-hydrate-pamper my skin. No matter what I choose to do, I always listen to my skin and its needs. All these changes in routine come and stick with me for a while naturally, so no matter how long or short it may be, I don't get tired or bored or lazy. Well, not most times.

Currently I'm in a masking phase, and try to use one every other day. Mostly I use masks 4-5 times a week, but there are times when I mask more frequently. I'm not new to such facial treatment, but quite often in the past I would complain that I see no visible results (instant or long term). Those were the times when I used masks 1-2 times a week at best. I understand that most directions tell to do just that, but I believe in masking more often. However, the key to my method is to use what skin needs at the moment, and not to overuse certain masks (e.g. deep cleansing mask might work for normal/dry skin once a week, but would dry out the skin if used 4 times per week).          

I used to use masks only in the evening or when I knew I'm not leaving the house, but I changed that too. It all depends on the kind of treatment I'm looking for. If I want to detox, deep clean, resurface my skin, I use a mask at night (though there are exceptions to that sometimes), and if I want to hydrate, tighten or make my skin glow, then I mask in the morning. There are so many different kinds of masks that I'll tell about them separately once I talk about the ones I use.

Biobelle Primer sheet mask

I've rediscovered sheet masks only recently as I've never been into them due to poor construction (they wouldn't hold on the face, they fit poorly and wouldn't cover whole face or the piece above the lip would be on the lips, etc). The first mask of this kind was Primer sheet mask from Biobelle* (link), which wraps around the face perfectly due to slits around the perimeter of the mask. The size of the mask and the holes were cut out exactly were my eyes, nose, mouth are, so I haven't experienced problems with properly placing it on the face. The mask was very moist, but the liquid held in it, and there was no extra in the packaging that I could use afterwards as a serum. I really liked how this mask smells, and while it's a 5 minute mask, I loved how it felt on the face and kept it for 10+ minutes. My skin was left plumped and super soft. I have used 3 of these masks, but I haven't noticed any difference in makeup application.

Origins Flower Fusion sheet masks in Orange, Lavender, Raspberry

Since I enjoyed using Biobelle sheet masks, I wanted to try some more and ordered Origins Flower Fusion sheet masks in Orange, Lavender and Raspberry (link to all 6 available). I've only used the Lavender one so far. It's a soothing mask, and because it's lavender, I decided to use it at night as it's a nice way to relax before bedtime. The mask felt cool on the skin, it felt very refreshing and calming. While I didn't notice any major change, my skin felt soft, hydrated, and beautiful, and that's enough for me.

Origins RitualiTea powder masks

Erborian mask brush

The other kind of masks that I rediscovered recently are powder masks. I used to be too lazy/unwilling to spend any time on making my masks, but now I enjoy that ritual. I got these Origins RitualiTea antioxidant rich tea-infused masks (link to full size products) as gift with purchase. I didn't try them all yet, but I enjoyed them so far. The trick to making a perfect consistency is to add water little by little, and mix the mask well before adding additional water. These masks have a mousse-like texture, and feel nice on the skin.

I don't have a good reason for that, but I don't like applying masks with my fingers, so I got a brush. I was looking at a few different ones, but settled down with Erborian Precision Mask Applicator (link). It's the best applicator ever! When looking at the photos online I didn't realize that it's a silicone brush without any "hair", and was skeptical when I received it. It took only one use to understand that it will be my must have tool. It applies product beautifully all over the face, it doesn't absorb any product, and it's super easy to wash and dry.
 

Andalou Fruit Enzyme mask

Andalou Naturals is one of my favorite natural brands, so no wonder you can find their products in my bathroom. I've tried all the masks from this brand when they first came out years ago, and I had good memories, so I bought some again. If I'm not mistaken, the formulas as well as packaging changed since then. I wasn't crazy about Andalou age defying mask (it smelled too strong/too annoying), but I loved BioActive 8 Berry Fruit Enzyme Mask (link). The consistency reminds me of a pudding. This mask smells heavenly and it gives me skin that looks better. It's one of those products that you use and see a difference though you can't name what exactly is the change.

Kiehl's Rare Earth deep cleansing mask

While my skin is mostly normal, I do get clogged pores from some of the products I use or I just feel like I want a deeper cleansing after wearing makeup all day, wearing more products on the face, etc. On such days I use Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask (link). I like this mask, but there are a few things that bother me a little. First, the smell reminds me of those mud baths, and I don't like it. Though it's not strong enough, and doesn't stop me from using the product. Another thing that I have problems with is consistency. If I brush my applicator very gently and take only a thin layer of the mask, I have no problem with it. However, usually I'm impatient and take a bigger chunk of the product to smooth out on the face, and that's when I experience issues. It's not so easy to distribute the mask around the face as it seems not to stick to the skin and either falls of the brush or moves around the face in big pieces. My only advice is to take small amounts at a time, and you'll have no problems with it. The mask doesn't dry out my face, makes it feel nice, but I don't feel any extra softness or radiance.  

Boscia Green Tea Oil-Control mask

It's been a while since I used peel-off masks, so I was looking for one when I came across Boscia Green Tea Oil-Control mask (link). I've used it about a year and a half ago, and quite liked it. I've tried other Boscia peel off masks, but they didn't work for me as I didn't like the scent or they peeled off painfully. I can't remember if it was a black or a white one that felt as if I'm ripping skin off my face. One thing I can tell already - this is not a long lasting mask as I use quite a lot for one application, but since I don't use it everyday, I'm ok with that. I like this mask for evening use as I can apply it, and peel off while watching TV. It doesn't require rushing to the bathroom to wash it off or to apply the rest of the products.

Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight mask

 Last but not the least is Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight mask (link). This mask has a creamy consistency and is intended to be left on the skin overnight. It applies and absorbs just like a cream, so you don't have to worry about staining your pillowcase. This is a very convenient mask as you can skip serum and moisturizer step and deal with evening skincare quickly. I haven't used this mask many times, but I enjoyed each application. The skin is left plump, soft and glowing in the morning.

* marks PR samples received complimentary

My Hair Brush Kingdom + Everyday Hair Wash Routine

I love beauty, and I enjoy taking care of myself. Many times I say that I'm into skincare, but then I open my makeup drawer, and realize that I'm into lip products too. Once I open my nail polish box, I realize I'm into nail polishes as well. This goes on and on and on. I don't think there's any part of beauty that I'm not into. While I'm a little impatient, and I can't sit with a mask on for half an hour doing nothing, I'm all hands-on and time flies when I'm doing my hair care routine with a million steps in it. Sometimes I even think how I don't get tired of it every day, but I just don't.

Pre-wash: I like to start my day when the household is done with morning rush and I can fully concentrate on my things. So I may get up at 7 a.m., but will start my day only at 10-11 a.m. Depending on my plans for the day (and how I feel) I may or may not skip this step. Pre-wash is pretty much simple as the idea behind is to use some mask or leave-in conditioner before washing the hair. Most of the time I'm too lazy to do anything at night, so the first thing I do in the morning is apply hair product, and leave it in until I jump in the shower later. Though when I'm in a mood, I do the same before going to bed - I apply hair mask/oil/conditioner, braid my hair, and go to sleep. Just to be clear, I never apply those products to the roots of my hair, only to the ends and halfway the length of the hair. I don't buy any special products for that and usually use my all time favorite John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli detangler (link). I bet I've talked about it a lot already, and I'm sure you'll see it mentioned in my blog many more times as I can't live without it. This detangler makes hair soft, easy to brush out, smells wonderful, and doesn't weight the hair down. Applying products before hair wash is also a good way to use up whatever samples I have, especially the ones that are too heavy for my hair type, and that I don't like using after the wash.    

In Shower: I've always been a weird person when it came to washing hair. I would take a shower, but would wash my hair separately in a sink or in the shower with my head bent forward. This habit changed only a couple years ago when I started staying in hotels more, and only fixed shower heads were available (and you know how inconvenient hotel sinks can be for long hair wash). Little by little I got used to washing my hair in the shower. Like I mentioned in the beginning, I'm not very patient, so any product that requires to sit in the hair for 3-5 minutes drives me crazy. One of these products is Pacifica Well Conditioned one step gentle cleanser & conditioner (link). Usually I don't apply any conditioners or masks throughout all hair length, but this is an exception. This product smells yummy (think fruits and berries), but most importantly it hydrates my hair without making it greasy, heavy, or weighted down. The only thing is those couple minutes of waiting, but I found a solution for that - Denman D6 Be-Bop Brights massage brush* (link). When I received this brush in the mail, I was a little skeptical as it seemed small-ish and uncomfortable in the hand. My opinion changed once I tried it as it fits in the hand perfectly, and while I was dealing with slippery products, the brush never fell out of my hands. So now instead of being impatient and cutting treatment time, I take my Be-Bop brush and massage my scalp, which also helps distributing the product more evenly. I did try his brush with shampoo, but I had to be more gentle and I could only move in smaller circles as shampoo doesn't let the brush slip through the hair as much as a conditioner does.    

I recently discovered Rare Elements hair products, and fell in love with them. I shampoo my hair twice, so for my second shampooing I use Rare Elements Pure Shampoo (link). You only need a small amount of it. It has nice and clean ingredients (Blackseed, Kalahari Watermelon Seed oil, Murumuru butter, Marula), and while it is enriched with all these butters and oils, it's not a heavy product. This shampoo gives moisture to the hair without weighting it down. Also for everyday care I use Rare Elements Essential Lite Conditioner (link), which is also full of good stuff. While doing it's job, this conditioner doesn't make hair overpacked with product, and leaves hair manageable and soft.

Post-wash: Once I'm out of the shower, I wrap a towel on my head and continue with body care. After that, I apply my hair products. I start with Giovanni VitaPro Fusion leave-in hair treatment (link) all over my hair. I've been using it for years, and I can't remember a single time when I would overuse it. I spray it generously all over my hair, especially ends. Then I follow with Bare Republic UV protecting hair mist* (link). This mist is made with 70%+ organic ingredients, and not only provides UV and thermal protection, but also conditions and adds shine to the hair. Last step is to apply John Masters Organics Citrus & Neroli detangler to my ends. I've talk about it so much already that I'm not gonna repeat again.

My hair is very fine, so it gets tangled easily. Of course, it gets tangled after a wash, so I brush it out before letting it dry naturally or before blow drying. Also, while my hair is completely straight, it dries nicer if I brush is rather than letting it dry naturally unbrushed. I use Denman D90L Tangle Tamer Ultra brush* (link) for brushing wet hair as the nylon bristles detangle hair easily and doesn't pull. I always start brushing from the ends of my hair and get higher and higher.  

At this point is all depends on how much time I have. I usually don't have to rush, so I let me hair dry naturally. After my hair is dry, I brush it again, and this time I use a large paddle brush D83 from Denman* (link). This brush is my regular go to brush that I can use anytime. If I am in a rush, I use a hairdryer and this paddle brush is perfect for blowdrying as it helps smooth and straighten hair.

To make everything perfect and stay in place, I use Denman D82M 100% boar bristle brush* (link). It is a very gentle brush that tames any flyaway hair, but it's not a brush that can be your only brush as it doesn't detangle. It's purely a finishing/smoothing brush for me once my hair is detangled. This is my last step, and mostly I leave my hair alone afterwards. However, if I'm outside a lot, I'll spray Bare Republic UV protecting hair mist* to give extra protection from the sun, and/or I'll use some shine spray to add that extra to my hair.


I know all this might sound like a lot of steps, but everything goes way quicker once I do it. I believe in taking care of the hair, and the less tangled it is, the less pulling is needed to brush it out. My routine includes brushes and products that are perfect for my long fine hair, but if your hair is different type, they might not work for you. Though Denman does offer a wide range of brushes, so it's easy to find the ones that fit your hair type best.




* marks PR samples received complimentary

Brand Review: Oleum Vera

It was probably around 4 years ago that I was into making my own beauty products. I mean how hard could it be when internet is full of DIY recipes and advice, right? At least so I thought until I started. I was never into "cooking" (melting, heating, boiling, etc.) my face/skin care products, so I picked out a few simple recipes that required to only mix ingredients together, e.g. olive oil+ground coffee=body scrub. My ingredient box kept growing, and while I reused some things in different recipes, I never really had control of what I have and what I really need. It was also just a hobby, something to try out, so after a little while I stopped my project.

When I came across Oleum Vera* (www.oleumvera.com), my memories came back. This brand offers various do-it-yourself kits that contain organic ingredients and all necessary tools. They have body care kit, facial kits (e.g. toner kit, face mask kit, moisturizer kit), hair treatment kit, etc.. They even offer a set for men, which is an interesting gift idea.

It was tough to choose which set to try out as all of these kits seem tempting, but finally I picked out Organic Hair Care kit (here). This set has 4 cold pressed & unrefined carrier oils (1 oz each), 4 essential oils (0.17 oz each), a recipe/info booklet, and containers/tools (glass bottle, dropper vial, mortar & pestle, funnel). This kit is $74.95, which might seem a little expensive, but if you ever bought high quality oils, especially essential oils, you know those cost a lot and in the end you end up paying the same or more. Besides, the supplies last 4 months or more. I also love the idea of getting everything in one box. You not only get the ingredients, but containers as well, and they are all designed to work together in a bunch of recipes.  

The booklet tells about the company, about the ingredients, and features some recipes. It also tells how to use different hair products (serum, mask, rinse). While there are a couple of recipes in it, you should register at Oleum Vera's website to get full access to the recipes online. I really wish the booklet contained all hair recipes as that would be more convenient. Also, some recipes call for ingredients you should get yourself (e.g. eggs, banana, yogurt), so be aware of that as for some reason I thought I will not need any extras besides what's in the box.

The kit arrived packed very securely, and even each bottle was protected from leaking by having a bottle stopper under the cap, which really impressed me. I never store liquid bottles on their sides, but those stoppers are a nice extra as no one wants anything, especially oils, spilling.

I haven't used any of the containers yet (I'll tell you why a little later), but they're a nice addition, and provide easy storage as the need to have your own containers is eliminated.

I was still undecided which recipe to try out first when I found an opened bottle of beer that gone flat in the fridge, so I decided to go with Nourishing Beer & Honey Hair Rinse. It calls for jojoba oil, peppermint and lemongrass essential oils, beer and honey. The ingredients need to be mixed together and voila! The smell is divine! In fact, it smells so good that I used it a couple of times already. I got this recipe online, and only in the shower did I realize that I didn't know how to use it (shampoo or not afterwards, how long to keep on the hair, etc.). Since the mixture contained honey, I decided to lightly shampoo my hair after using the rinse. Turns out the instructions are different, but I was too late reading them.  

One thing I want to warn you about essential oils is that while all recipes have them mixed in with other ingredients, they might still hurt you if the products come in contact or close to your eyes. I didn't even think about that until one day I was pouring the rinse on my hair, and I bent my head forward too quickly, so some water+rinse from my hair ran down my face. It didn't get directly in my eyes, but essential oils are strong and my eyes got a little irritated/burning/itchy from their smell. That's not something to stop me from using these products, but it's something to keep in mind and be careful.


Some recipes I didn't try, because I didn't feel comfortable with additional ingredients needed (e.g. banana and how that would have to go down the drain) or because I simply didn't have those ingredients on hand (e.g. Greek yogurt). However, I wanted to try something new, and I chose Nourishing Rosemary and Mint Serum, which only needed base and essential oils that were all provided in the kit. Silly me read how to use the serum way before making it, and I didn't pay attention to the part that mentions "a few drops" (surprise surprise, that's where containers come in handy when storing the rest of the mixture), so of course I messed up the whole deal. I put the whole mixture on my hair. When I got into the shower to wash it out, my hair actually felt dry, and I had to put some conditioner to make the process easier. I shampooed 3 times to get rid of greasiness, but when my hair dried, halfway from the roots it was perfect, and halfway to the ends it was an oily mess. Since I don't want to have bad hair days, I went back and shampooed my hair for another 3-4 times. This time my hair was perfect! Well, lesson learned, and next time I will double check before pouring half a bottle of oil on my hair.

I might not be into making my own beauty products anymore, but mixing a mask/serum/rinse here and there is quite fun. I can put a mask on my hair, wrap a towel on my head, and continue my spa experience with a facial mask. In fact, I had so much fun with this kit that I'm already thinking what it would be like to try a different set. These kits are nice to get for yourself, but also they can be an unusual and different gift for someone else.



* marks PR samples that I received complimentary

My Lipstick Top 5

I love lip products, and I have way more than I need or that I'm able to use up before they expire. I'm sure a lot of girls have even more than I do, but at this point (~30 lipsticks and ~20 glosses) I'm trying to stop myself from getting any new ones (unless there's a good sale, there's a color/shade I don't have, but need very much, etc.). I'm sure I can justify almost any lip product purchase.

Anyway, today I will share with you 5 lipsticks that are my favorites for one reason or the other. All of them are long time favorites as I've had them for a while now, or I've had different shade of the same lipstick in the past.

L to R: MAC Lustre in color Lovelorn, BareMinerals in color Heaven,
Avril in color Rose Vintage Nacre, Burt's Bees in color 515 Tulip Tide,
Honest Beauty in color Marsala kiss

L to R: MAC Lustre in color Lovelorn, BareMinerals in color Heaven,
Avril in color Rose Vintage Nacre, Burt's Bees in color 515 Tulip Tide,
Honest Beauty in color Marsala Kiss  

 MAC Lustre in color Lovelorn ($17 for 0.1oz/3g) - I think this was my very first lipstick from MAC around 8 years ago. I've gone through a couple tubes of it, and then didn't use MAC products until last year when I repurchased this color again. It's a brighter pink, but very wearable. I used to wear it at the time when I was into very neutral and nothing too bright/dark lip products. It was also a lipstick that I loved during my I-only-wear-lip-glosses phase. Over the years I had other MAC lipsticks, but only this one stuck with me. Also, it's from Lustre finish, so it's creamy enough, but not melting/moving on the lips. It gives a beautiful finish, and glides on the lips easily, and looks great even if your lips aren't perfect.

BareMinerals lipstick in color Heaven ($20 for 0.12oz/3.5g) - This is probably the most perfect, the most wearable nude shade that I've ever had. This whole collection has such a perfect and wide range of nude shades that everyone can find one that fits best. I also have color Tutu, which has a pinkish tone. This lipstick is very creamy, applies on the lips easily, and looks very moist. It wears well too.

Avril in color Rose Vintage Nacre (6EUR for 0.12oz/3.5g) - It is truly one of my all time favorite lipsticks that not only looks and wears amazingly, but has great ingredients. This lipstick has Ecocert certification. It's my third Avril lipstick, and I've loved each of them. This color is perfect to be worn anytime, and with any outfit. It's not matte, but has a little bit flatter finish, so it doesn't make lips look plumper like some other more creamier/shinier lipsticks do. Also, sometimes it feels a little dryer on the lips though the look of the lipstick doesn't change, and it doesn't dry out the lips. It is very pigmented, and applies very smoothly and easily. It wears like a dream and lasts through dinner and drinks. It also doesn't transfer on teeth, so I can wear it confidently.

Burt's Bees lipstick in 515 Tulip Tide ($9 for 0.12oz/3.5g) - I discovered these lipsticks last year, and I'm in love with them ever since. I love Burt's Bees lip balms, but I've never been crazy about other lip products until these lipsticks came out. They are 100% natural. I have two shades, and they apply a little bit differently, so I think my opinion on 515 Tulip Tide might not be true to all shades. However, this lipstick is fantastic! Pinkish violet colors look good on me, but it's not my everyday color, so I didn't want to spend too much money on it. I wanted to try these lipsticks, and since they had a color I was looking for, I went for it. It applies beautifully, and gives a very smooth, satin finish. The color lasts long, and even when it wears down, it leaves some tint to the lips. I know I have too many lipsticks already, but I'm planning on getting some more from this line.

Honest Beauty lip crayon in color Marsala Kiss ($18 for 0.1oz/3g) - Almost a year ago I had Honest Beauty lip crayon in color Mulberry Kiss. That was a beautiful shade, but due to its creamy texture, it seemed to move around the lips a little and was hard to apply nicely (especially around the corners of the lips). Besides, it would transfer on the teeth easily, so I was always checking how it looked. That was the reason why I was hesitant to get another lip crayon from this brand, but I just couldn't resist Marsala Kiss, which is a muted mauve. I love wearing it when I want something nude/neutral, but a little darker. Marsala Kiss wears beautifully, doesn't transfer on the teeth, and is easy to apply. It also lasts long, and doesn't dry lips.        


Here are some swatches in daylight.

Top to Bottom: MAC Lustre in Lovelorn, BareMinerals in Heaven,
Avril in Rose Vintage Nacre, Burt's Bees in 515 Tulip Tide,
Honest Beauty in Marsala Kiss