The Benefits of Taking a Bath with Dead Sea Salts

I know I've said this before somewhere on this blog, but I will repeat myself- I absolutely, positively love taking baths.  There is nothing like a warm hot bath at the end of the day.  

Besides the relaxation factor, baths can be incredibly beneficial to your health.  I love Ahava's Dead Sea Salt Mineral Bath (as you can see from the below picture, I am almost out!).  I put a couple handful in my tub at the end of a long day (ESPECIALLY when I'm sore from working out).  Taking one of these mineral baths just puts me in a different state of mind- I almost feel like I'm at the spa.  Sure, there are tons of mineral bath options out there, but Ahava's factory is actually in the Dead Sea region.  If you can't make it to the actual Dead Sea, this is the next best thing...

So, what are the benefits?  How is salt from the Dead Sea any different from regular salt?

• The waters of the Dead Sea have been renowned for their healing properties since ancient times.  Flavius wrote 2,000 years ago that the salts from the Dead Sea heal the human body.
• Approximately 27% of the Dead Sea is comprised of various salts (as compared to 3 or 4% in normal sea water).  This salt is comprised of magnesium, potassium, calcium chloride, and bromides in addition to just sodium.
• Softens skin.
• Increases blood circulation.
• Detoxifies skin... the minerals extract toxins from your body.
• Helps alleviate redness and irritation from acne.
• Reduces muscle aches and pains.
• Relieves symptoms of psoriasis.
• Relieves symptoms of osteoarthritis and tendonitis.
• Heals dry and cracked skin.
• Some studies say it reduces wrinkles.

To Purchase with Free Shipping:

• AHAVA Deadsea Mineral Bath Salt, Natural, 32 oz.

references: livestrong.com, saltworks.us

All About Acne: How to Treat Acne & The Unblemish Regimen

ACNE: You are not alone...

• 85-90% of teenagers suffer from acne for 7 years
• 30-50% of adult women suffer from acne for 20 years
• 50 million people in the United States suffer from acne

The doctors of Rodan + Fields have created Multi-Med Therapy to cure acne, post-acne marks, and to keep your skin clear and beautiful.

Although you may have heard of and used Proactiv (also created by the Rodan + Fields doctors), Unblemish was designed to treat the entire acne cycle.   It reduces redness, treats clogged pores, trapped oil, and bacterial proliferation while it fades post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation.  Best of all it includes a time-released oil-control sunscreen... we all know how important sunscreen is when it comes to aging, but sun damage can also worsen and intensify your acne marks and scars!

And if you did use Proactiv as a teen, remember that your skin changes and has different needs over time!  Unblemish is a pharmacological-grade regimen that helps stop pimples, blackheads, and post-acne dark marks from making an unwelcome appearance in your life.

Acne Treatment Sulfur Wash: 

• medicated cleanser with FDA allowed 3% Sulfur to penetrate pores
• Sulfur is the only acne medication to help reduce visible redness
• Contains Chamomile and Aloe Vera to help calm the skin

Unblemish Spot Fading Toner:

• Contains 2% Hydroquinone to lighten post acne marks
• Alcohol Free
• Salicylic Acid helps remove dead skin cells to keep pores clean
• Sea Whip and arnica calm and hydrate the skin

Unblemish Dual Intensive Acne Treatment:

• Unique dual-chamber delivery system ensures efficacy of 2.5% benzoyl peroxide into pores, helping prevent the development of NEW acne
• Chamomile and pomegranate calm visible redness and hydrate skin

Unblemish Oil Control Lotion:

• Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide to defend skin from UVA/UVB damaging rays that intensify post acne marks
• Time-released oil control to help reduce clogged pores and mattify skin
• Non-comedogenic

Did you know?

Every pore has pimple potential.  Blemishes take 2-3 weeks to come to the surface, and treating only the blemish you see will not prevent the acne of tomorrow!  When your skin becomes clear, keep your acne under control by continuing the use of the Unblemish Regimen.  EVERY STEP HAS A PURPOSE AND BUILDS UPON THE LAST- this is key in every skincare regimen.  You really must practice consistency when it comes to your skincare products.  Use the entire line because they work with each other and build upon each other.

When you get your regimen, START SLOWLY... make sure you read up on the products and use them as directed.

The Rodan + Fields Doctors' tips for an emergency pimple:

Apply ice (with a napkin wrapped around it) for 10-15 minutes to reduce redness and swelling.  Cleanse with the Sulfur Wash (it will clear pores and shrink swelling) and apply Unblemish Dual Intensive Acne Treatment to help reduce inflammation.  Then, apply a thin layer of a medicated concealer to camouflage.

IF you have time and the pimple is too enormous to be seen in public, get a cortisone shot from your dermatologist.

To Purchase and Enroll as a Preferred Customer:

• Click here and receive 10% off all R+F products and free shipping on your replenishment orders!

To check out the Rodan + Fields Redefine Regimen that I use:  My Secret to Amazing Skin

As always, email me with any questions you may have- I'm always happy to help... and I absolutely LOVE when people tell me how these Rodan + Fields products have changed their skin:

blondeandlippy@gmail.com

The MACRO Exfoliator ...(My New Favorite Thing)

Professional Level, Doctor's Office Results at Home?!  I was skeptical, but....

This is 100%, hands-down the absolute best at-home beauty tool beauty ANYTHING I have ever used.  I had been thinking about trying the Rodan + Fields Macro E for a long time, and I honestly never got around to trying it until recently.  I did not want to spend the money on it, but I have never been more amazed at the results of anything skincare related. After ONE USE, I could tell a major difference in my skin.  Don't believe me? Look at the below photo!  I swear to you... the before and after were taken 5 minutes apart.
My skin had never looked so vibrant and SMOOTH.  This is definitely the path to "luminous skin."

UNRETOUCHED- My forehead (yikes!) after my first time using the Macro E

Honestly, I should have known it was going to be fabulous after I read about it in "O Magazine"... you know Oprah knows her stuff! Haha!  But really, as I am getting older I am realizing that if there is one thing I want to invest in, it's my skin!

Here are a few things I DID NOT KNOW about the Macro E until I used it:
It is intense! There is a lot of suction going on, so use with caution.  You can do the auto-setting "Doc-Smart" patent pending technology, which varies the degree and duration of the macro-exfoliation.  The screen will show you which area of the face you should be exfoliating (and the direction and amount of time you should spend there).  This is how I started, but I did have to adjust the intensity throughout the process for my first use.  I love that you can adjust the intensity because you can start out easy and work your way up.
It comes with filters, so after each use, you can actually SEE the skin cells that shed during the exfoliation.  (Gross but cool.)
You can download a "Macro E" app on your phone to track your progress and have reminders sent to you for your next use.
You can only use it once a week!

The reason these Rodan + Fields products and tools are so great is that the doctors set out to create products that closely resemble what they used in their own practices.  The Macro Exfoliator sweeps away 5 million dead skin cells in just 5 minutes.  I was seriously shocked that just one use could so drastically change my skin and fine lines.  One thing I was worried about was that my face would be beet red for a few days... but thankfully, your Macro E comes complete with "cooling gels" that soothe your skin overnight.  

"Cooling gels" that come with your Macro E

I have only used mine one time, and I cannot wait to see how my skin looks after weeks of using it!  Another thing I think it helped with was blackheads... my skin just looked so smooth and clear after that one use!  I can't imagine blackheads would even be able to build up if you are continually using this.

You should hold your skin taut while using the Macro Exfoliator.

UNRETOUCHED results from using the Redefine Regimen with the Macro Exfoliator

SHOP THE POST:

Click here to purchase the Macro Exfoliator.*

Click here to purchase the Aging Redefined Value Set that includes the Redefine Regimen AND the Macro Exfoliator. **

To save $36.00 on your Macro Exfoliator and get free shipping and discounts ALL the time on ALL your Rodan + Fields products, sign up to be a Preferred Customer.

*Please read thoroughly before purchasing, as people with certain skincare conditions are not candidates for the Macro Exfoliator.

**For more information on the Rodan + Fields skincare regimen I use: My Secret to Amazing Skin.

As always, please feel free to email me with any questions:  blondeandlippy@gmail.com

Rodan and Fields Night Renewing Serum

Check out one of my favorite facial products in Vogue.  In case you were curious as to what they actually do, these little blue capsules "tell cells what to do... multipeptides instruct cells to increase collagen production.... increase the activity of anti-aging ingredients, reduce hyperpigmentation, and calm inflammation."

Rodan + Fields Night Renewing Serum- what you need to know:

• intense anti-wrinkle treatment (not a moisturizer)
• the peptides signal collagen production, reducing the appearance of lines
• retinol renews skin, improves skin texture, minimizes and refines pores
• actives are time-released using Microsponge technology for longer lasting results

I use this serum AFTER my Rodan and Fields facewash/mask and toner (seen in this post).  You twist and pull then apply serum directly to your face.  I let it set for a minute then apply my R+F "pm" Overnight Restorative Cream.

For my entire skincare regimen:  My Secret to Amazing Skin

To purchase:

• Night Renewing Serum
• Or sign up to be a Preferred Customer (to enjoy PC Perks) and use the entire regimen.

My Secret to Amazing Skin: Rodan + Fields

Ever since this post, I've been testing out gazillions (feels like it) of skincare products to see what I like the most.

Within the first week of using this line of products, I knew this was the answer to my skincare and anti-aging needs.  However, I wanted to use it for a little while longer and be 100% sure before I actually posted about it for my readers...

I am happy and EXCITED to say that I loved each and every thing about this line of products from Rodan + Fields.  After I posted asking for everyone's skincare secrets, my friend Kelly called me and said, "Lauren, what have you been using? You need to use Rodan and Fields!"  So, because Kelly is the mother of a 12 year old and still looks like she does (please see her GORGEOUS pictures below), I took her advice...

She could not have been more right.  We have both tried pretty much EVERY product under the sun... (from Saks, Neiman Marcus, Sephora, Earthsavers, the dermatologist, etc.) and this is by far our favorite and the most effective... and it does not irritate your skin.

Why is it so great?? Where do I begin...

First, let me say that I was incredibly hesitant to try something that wasn't really mainstream or sold conventionally.  Then, I found out Rodan and Fields was originally sold in department stores like Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor, and Nordstrom.  It was actually Nordstrom's #1 skincare product in 2005 before the doctors of Rodan and Fields decided to market and sell the brand differently.

With that new info, and knowing these doctors also created Proactiv, I decided to give it a try.  I swear I could tell a difference in my skin after my first night of use.  The overnight cream and night renewing serum just did wonders on my skin.  It felt so soft and moisturized (but not greasy) the next morning.  And after just one week, I could see a major difference in the fine lines on my face.

So, I loved the product line, but I didn't know if I wanted to actually sign up to receive products every month, etc (you do not HAVE to do this).  At first, I did this because in the long run it was cheaper- then I found that it kept me from skimping on the products (i.e. not using them every day or not using enough of the product).  Knowing that I was going to do a re-order anyway made me eagerly use the products and also try some of the other R+F products (like the self tanner, Macro Exfoliator, Microdermabrasion Paste, I could go on and on!).  I have loved everything I have tried so far, and as I've said before, if I DO NOT like something, I will not recommend it to you. (more posts to come on these other products)

After doing more and more research on the company, I decided to become a consultant.  I love that I am now representing this line of skincare products that I truly love and believe in.  There are 4 different lines for different skin types, so everyone can improve their skin according to their own needs.   Not to mention, I was using the products regardless, so becoming a consultant gave me a MAJOR discount.  Mark my words, use it a few weeks and you will have better skin than you thought you ever could.

My skincare regimen consists of the REDEFINE products.  I use the Daily Cleansing Mask, Pore Minimizing Toner, Night Renewing Serum, a.m. Triple Defense Treatment Cream (with SPF 30), p.m. Overnight Restorative Cream, and the Lip Renewing Serum every single day.

Yes it may seem like a lot, but I honestly look forward to it every night.  It's my little ritual before bed.  I love that I feel like I'm doing something good for myself and pampering myself every single night (because I am... goodbye wrinkles!).

My Nightly Ritual

Night Renewing Serum: a potent, proprietary blend of peptides and retinol; patented time-release technology; it is a retinol in a form that will not irritate your skin!

Lip Renewing Serum: contains peptides and antioxidants that help lips retain moisture, smoothes lip texture, and reduces the appearance of lines in your lip... I think it has even plumped my lips!

You massage this facewash onto your skin (it's lightly exfoliating)... let it dry about 1-2 mins then wash off.  I love it because it doesn't dry out your face but still gets it really clean.

And one more thing:

Goodbye to the "product graveyard" in my bathroom closet.  I am sick and tired of using something for a few weeks and not seeing results... or for that matter, using it and seeing results like crazy- extreme peeling, redness, etc.  They say to wait and that's the process- yeah right.  Who really has the time to have a red and peeling face every so often??  It seemed like it never ended.

Unsure about which regimen is right for you?  Use the R+F Solution Tool:

• Rodan + Fields Solution Tool

To shop products now:

• Rodan + Fields Preferred Customers

If you have any questions about any of these products or want to learn more about being a part of the Rodan and Fields company, please feel free to email me:  blondeandlippy@gmail.com

Blackhead Melting Gel

Seriously, just the name of this stuff made it a must-buy for me.  So many of you have sent me questions on how to get rid of blackheads.  It's obviously a problem that everyone faces... and HATES!  While I do think my skincare routine (posting on it next week) keeps blackheads away, I want to try this stuff and have it on hand just in case.  

Whether you have blackheads are not, this is a good product for skin cell turnover... which, as you may know from this post, is super important!

From Laneige:

• Melting Gel containing Keratinase enzyme which effectively melts down dead skin cells like blackhead and easily rollable silicon melting-massager create synergy effect to melt down dead skin cells and blackheads that aare clogging trouble-prone areas of nose and he surrounding areas.
• Keratinase mostly made of Keratin which is effective in dissolving excess dead skin cells and blackhead is superior to AHA, commonly used for dissolving dead skin cells in less damaging but more effective way of melting and removing blackhead clogged poreand dead skin cells. It facilitates skin cell turn-over and changes dark and rough skin surface into smoother and brighter skin.

Purchase with FREE SHIPPING:
                                                               

My New Favorite Sunscreen

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Sunscreen

This random purchase at WalMart has turned into one of my new favorite summer products... Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Sunscreen... IT SMELLS AMAZING, Y'ALL!!  

After my sunburn a few weeks ago, I have come to realize that SPF15 really doesn't do much for me.  I am going to stick to an SPF30 or higher as much as I can from here on out.  Another change I am making is switching to sunscreen in a can... I feel like I miss WAY too many spots on my body when I apply the lotion.  I always find random streaks of red (or white- depends on the sunburn!) from not covering myself completely with sunscreen.

Also, this stuff feels amazing when you reapply it.  And let me stress REAPPLY because you should always apply sunscreen BEFORE you go out in the sun.  Anyway,  I love the feel of the cool mist on my skin.  And again... the smell... in love! 

Most importantly, it is moisturizing.  It isn't sticky like most sunscreens.  So those of you who complain about the smell or the stickiness of sunscreen... there goes your excuse to not wear it.

And if any of you have your own favorite sunscreens, please send them to me or comment so I can try them out.

A Multi-Purpose Beauty Product

Josie Maran Argan Color Stick

First, please excuse the GIGANTIC photos of my face, but it's the best way for you to see the product.  Oh and excuse the sunburn too, but 7 hours on the lake will do that to you. 

I love Josie Maran's Argan Color Stick for several reasons:  

Numero uno- I love the smell!  I know that's weird but it really does smell great.  

Number two- it is dual purpose.  In these photos, I used it on my cheeks (the apples of my cheeks) and my lips.  I didn't want to spend a lot of time on my makeup since I was on vacation- I did BB Cream, one sweep of bronzer to contour my cheeks a little, then Josie Maran Argan Color Stick on my cheeks and lips.  (eyes you can't see, but I did eyeshadow and mascara... didn't get a good shot without the sunglasses)  The color stick is luminescent, so it really gives your cheeks a beautiful glow and dewy finish.

Number three- It treats your skin!  Since it has Argan Oil in it, it replenishes and repairs your skin.

• Purchase Josie Maran Argan Color Stick in Petal Pink-Neutral Pink at Sephora
• Or, check out QVC's website to see some of the sets they offer that come with the Josie Maran Argan Color Stick.  They actually have an entire Josie Maran section with great deals.
• Learn more about Argan Oil here.

The Best of Beauty: Mattifying Moisturizer

SEPHORA COLLECTION 8 HR 
Mattifying Moisturizer with Sunscreen

So I finally tried one of the products I listed on this post.  A friend asked me a few weeks ago to do a post on a good moisturizer that helps with shine.  I thought that was a great idea- especially since the temperatures outside are rising- (I love you Louisiana, but these summers are brutal).

First, let me give you a run-down on my skin type again.  Pretty normal, but can be oily in the summer on my nose and chin area.  Occasionally I get some shine on my forehead after an entire day of having makeup on my face- and who doesn't?  How nice would it be to be a guy and not have to wear makeup every day?  Ok, let me back up.  Scratch that-  I LOVE MAKEUP.  Still, wearing makeup every day annoys me.  But, if I've got to do it, let me do it the best and healthiest way possible for my skin.  Which is why I use B.B. Cream and a good moisturizer.  One reason this moisturizer really intrigued me was because it contains antioxidants- AND sunscreen!

I tried 3 products that I heard were pretty decent when it comes to mattifying your skin:

• SEPHORA COLLECTION 8 HR Mattifying Moisturizer Sunscreen 1.69 oz ($22.00)
• The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Lotion, 1.69-Fluid Ounce (ranges $10.00- $13.00)
• Murad Oil-Control Mattifier SPF 15 l PA++ ($39.50)

I definitely like the Sephora Mattifying Moisturizer the best.  I also liked the consistency and smell of the Body Shop Tea Tree Lotion, but it felt almost like a film on my face.  The Murad Mattifier was a little better, but it was a very thick lotion... wasn't in love with it.

I really liked the Sephora Mattifying Moisturizer right off the bat because it was light consistency and blended easily into my skin.  I do have to say that it has a bit of a sunscreen smell to it, but given that I do a lot of running around during the day, I like that I KNOW it has sunscreen in it and is protecting my skin from the sun (without the greasiness of sunscreen!).  

As far as being a mattifier, it definitely worked.  I didn't have that icky end-of-the-day gross makeup feeling on my face.... which was AWESOME!  It gave me the shine control I was looking for.

I also loved that it has a pump, which to me says it will last me a long time because I won't use too much product at a time.

Last but definitely not least, it is only $22.00!!!  This is my new go-to day moisturizer.

Flawless. Anna Selezneva

Could she be any more perfect?  I love this look- once again... natural makeup.  

I love how there is something on her lips, but the color makes it look like her lips are naturally that rosey color.  

Notice the bronzing on her forehead and cheekbones- makes her look like she just got a little sun on the beach.

And then, of course, her barely-there, shimmery, smokey eyes and perfectly groomed eyebrows.  Definitely makes her stare captivating.

ph: modelcandids.com

The Best, Cheapest Product You Don't Already Own

Exfoliating Bath Gloves

From this post you should know how I feel about exfoliating.  It is one of the best things you can do for your skin.  You shouldn't only worry about the skin on your face- your body is JUST as important.  I definitely could not live without my exfoliating gloves.  I always have a pair in my shower.

You will not find a better exfoliator than these... You can try scrubs, a loofah, etc... they will not beat the results you get with these little miracle workers.  The best part, they are usually about $5.00!!  

If you want proof they work well... run yourself a warm bath; soak for 15-20 minutes; lather up some bath gel in these gloves... then get to work scrubbing down your body.  Once you start draining your tub you will be GROSSED OUT at all the dead skin that will be in your tub.  Yes, this may sound disgusting, but it will prove to you how much dead skin you needed to slough off.

(To avoid this problem, I recommend soaking in the tub for awhile to soften your skin... then draining the tub to stand up and shower to use them.. This will help you avoid the nastiness!)

These really come in handy when you get a spray tan.  It will make your spray tan last a lot longer I promise.  I never get a spray tan (or shave my legs) without giving myself a vigorous scrub down to smooth my skin and rid it of all the dead skin.

In addition, these are extremely helpful for getting a closer shave, avoiding in-grown hairs, AND for helping you get rid of Keratosis Pilaris, the little bumps you can get on your the back of your arms or upper legs.

Last but not least, they make your skin SO SOFT!  

You're welcome in advance for how much you are going to love your new favorite beauty product!

Note: Be weary of the cheap ones you find in WalMart or at the Drug Store... there are definitely some that work a lot better than others and last a lot longer without falling apart!  The ones I'm linking to below are great and I also love the ones they sell at The Body Shop in the mall.

Here is a link to buy these on Amazon (for $5.59) with FREE SHIPPING!!!   :) 

                                                         

GlamGlow Mud Mask

sephora.com

Y'all.... I. AM. SO. EXCITED.

I got a sample of this mask at Sephora yesterday... the girl helping me at Sephora said it was amazing and that she could immediately tell that her pores were smaller... she also said celebs use it before hitting the red carpet to clear their skin and minimize pores.

Apparently you can see AND feel it working.  Isn't it weird to get so excited about something like this? (But, I'm willing to bet if you're reading this you do the same thing!)

Going to try it this weekend and post about it next week... WITH PICTURES!  (I'm sure I'll look just lovely in those pics...)

Can't wait to share my results with you guys!

To find out more about this product on your own:

• GLAMGLOW Mud Mask
• ...or go to Sephora and get yourself a sample and try it with me- you can even send me YOUR review to post!

What's Your Secret? ...Featuring: Candice

       How could we NOT be dying to know all the beauty secrets of this gorgeous girl?!  I couldn't be more excited to have Candice as the first of the new Blonde & Lippy feature, "What's Your Secret?" which will spotlight different pretty ladies and their beauty secrets... (especially since she enlightened me on some new products I had never heard of- and can't wait to try).  However, my favorite thing Candice said was in regards to nurturing your skin from the inside... so true!

 What are 3 beauty products you couldn’t live without?

        "#1.  I absolutely love Bobbi Brown's Pot Rouge for Lips and Cheeks in the 'Powder Pink' shade- thats a mouthful!  It gives a gorgeous natural matte color to lips and stays for hours on cheeks. It looks great against sun kissed skin and is perfect for Summer. I've been using it for years and it has become one of my staple items!

        #2.  Because I almost always opt for the natural look and never wear liquid foundation, I swear by  Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup for a light finish. I use the pressed powder in the 'Latte' shade. I discovered the brand after my mother was recommended it by a doctor of hers. One use and I was hooked! It makes your complexion look flawless, even, and smooth without looking like you have anything on. I have been using it for about three years and have turned several friends into users as well. It is definitely a go-to and I highly recommend it!

       #3.  Darphin Paris is my choice for eye cream. I use their "Anti-Fatigue Smoothing Eye Gel" and the "Dark Circle Relief and De-Puffing Eye Serum." The Anti-Fatigue Gel creates a cooling effect that feels amazing and helps me to wake up in the morning before I apply my makeup or even have a cup of coffee. It works as a great prep for my concealer, as well. The Serum is mainly used before I go to sleep because of the oily base. When i'm tired I tend to look that way! And Darphin does an amazing job of keeping me looking as good as I feel!"

What is your every day makeup routine?

        "My daily routine is pretty sparse. But the three things you will almost always find me wearing are concealer, mascara, and bronzer. A common mistake I notice is that girls will use bronzer on the balls of their cheeks in the area that you would otherwise apply a blush. Bronzer is intended to contour the face, and has the opposite effect when not applied in the right area. I like to make the famous kiss fish face and apply the bronzer from the temple, down to right below the ear, and then blend inward toward my mouth in the indentation created under the cheekbone. If you stay within this guideline it can really thin out the face. If you prefer, you can add a light amount of blush to the balls of the cheeks as well." 

What is your go-to if you want to “glam it up” for the weekend?

        "My friends can all attest that I am a firm believer in the 'cat-eye.' I think it makes the shape of the eye look beautiful and can even be applied in different colors depending on the look you are going for. I always use a liquid liner. Either in black or my most recent favorite, Dolce & Gabbana liquid liner in the 'Dahlia' shade. Its plum and super fun to wear!

I also can't leave out the infamous red lip! I love love to play with different shades and it instantly makes you look glammed!"

In your opinion, what is the most important part of your skincare regimen?

        "I think the most important part of skincare is to eat right. There are so many gels and creams and serums for this and that, but if you're not nurturing your skin from the inside then you are probably wasting your money. Greasy foods are your skins worst enemy. Make sure to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables and your complexion will be better equipped to take care of itself!"

What is your favorite feature about yourself?

         "My favorite feature of myself is probably my hair. When I was younger I hated the thickness and the waves. Before the days of hair straighteners, I would literally iron my hair down on my mothers ironing board trying to get it to lie straight! In adulthood I find that I love the thickness and the natural wave saves me countless hours of styling. I can simply wash and go. And I almost never straighten! I do have a slight addiction to my curling iron though. I swear by the relaxed curl look. It’s chic and easy and will stay for hours."

Shop Candice's Favorite Products:

• Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge for Lips & Cheeks in "Powder Pink"
• Jane Iredale PurePressed Base SPF20 Mineral Makeup
• Darphin Paris Anti-Fatigue Smoothing Eye Gel, or buy from Amazon.com: Darphin Anti-Fatigue Smoothing Eye Gel - 15ml/0.5oz
• Darphin Paris Dark Circles Relief and De-Puffing Eye Serum, Amazon.com: Darphin Dark Circles Relief & De-Puffing Eye Serum 0.5oz
• Dolce & Gabbana Glam Liner Intense Liquid Eyeliner in "Dahlia"

A huge thank you to Candice for being the first "What's Your Secret?" feature!  

Sunless Tan WITHOUT The Smell

I absolutely loathe the smell you get from a sunless tan.  Yes, sometimes it is a necessary evil-  but let's be honest, no one wants to be THAT GIRL who is stinking up the room with her sunless tanning stench.  And what if you want to get a little glow for a date?  I always think about that since they say your scent plays a big roll in attraction.  Sure, I may look better with a slight tan, but I don't want someone getting close to me and then thinking that is my normal smell.  It doesn't matter how good you look if you SMELL. BAD.

Ok, ok... I digress. Back to my point.  I recently discovered that Jergens has reformulated their "Natural Glow" sunless tanning collection to allow you to get the color WITHOUT the smell.  I don't know ALL the details on how it works, but Jergens has developed some new (patent pending) technology that blocks that sunless tan odor.... Hallelujah!

Jergens Natural Glow is a line of moisturizers that gradually delivers color as opposed to other formulas that deliver all of your sunless tan color in one application.... Natural Glow builds your tan gradually through each application over the course of a few days.  It does what it says... it gives you a natural looking tan.  I trust this stuff... which is rare for me because I am VERY fair skinned! I have to be careful.

I use the Jergens Natural Glow FIRMING Moisturizer because I figure the "firming" part can't hurt!  I usually buy the Medium/Tan color (even though I'm fair-skinned) due to the fact that if I'm using Jergens Natural Glow, it's because I'm trying to get a tan fairly quickly, but not enough to get a spray tan.

Check out Jergens.com for more details and to get familiar with their new products and packaging.  I am just seeing the Jergens Protect Daily Moisturizer, which has SPF 20 with the same "gradual color" concept.  LOVE that!

Now, can the rest of the sunless tanning world please get with the program?  I need a spray tan with the same ability to not stink!

Shop this post:
          (all on sale for $8.99 right now!)

• Jergens Natural Glow Firming Daily Moisturizer
• Jergens Natural Glow Revitalizing Daily Moisturizer 
• Jergens Natural Glow & Protect Daily Moisturizer with SPF 20
• Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion Facial Moisturizer SPF 20

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