Take A Minute for the Mask

Posted on August 5, 2016August 4, 2016 Posted in BeautyTagged Beauty, Face Masks, QWERTY blogLeave a comment

Hello Beauties!

We’re all guilty of spreading ourselves a bit too thin. Even if the task at hand is something that we absolutely love, there will be days when it gets a bit too stressful. Trust me, I know. I might be queen of Stresstopia. My calendar looks like a freaking mess, and at the end of the day so do I. I’m all too familiar with putting my health on the back burner just to free up some time in my day.

Something that I like to do to combat this very bad habit that we all seem to have is to find a good face mask, maybe a friend to share it with, and just chill. The chill part can be a multitude of things: reading, watching Netflix, listening to jungle sounds, sitting in silence. So if you provide the chill, then I’ll provide the masks, okay?

P.S. I realized that all of these are mud masks, apparently I don’t have a lot of variety in my life…

I absolutely love this mask because it’s not too powerful. It smells great and is incredibly light, which is different for a mud mask. I’ve found that it doesn’t work as instantaneously as the other products I’m going to talk about, but I would most definitely recommend it if you’re in need of a simple pick-me-up. Chill Recommendation: Bath or 10 minute lying meditation.

I love Formula 10.0.6 products. They are so kind to your skin and really well made, so if you have more sensitive skin then I’d most definitely pick up this mask. It works incredibly well without over-drying or irritating your skin. It also smells like peaches so why not? Chill Recommendation: Reading and or watching Netflix with fruit water. Fruit water is essential. You know what, grab a friend and watch The Fall. It’s great, a bit scary but the sexy Irish men make up for it.

This Que Bella Beauty mask is a cult classic in my book. All of their masks are very well made and incredibly effective while being affordable. They also come in little individual packets if you want to experiment with the different kinds they offer. Anyways this is my go-to for a standard mud mask. It is very muddy and very masky. Fair warning. Chill Recommendation: Honestly go all out with it. Have a freaking spa day, you deserve it!

This is a very intense mask so be very careful. It’s got a bit of a clay/paste base to it, but it works extremely fast and can most definitely irritate your skin if you leave it on too long. I would definitely stick to the smallest recommended amount of time and then experiment from there. But don’t be scared by it, just be slightly wary of it and you’ll survive. Chill Recommendation: DO NOT USE IN THE BATH IT WAS A MISTAKE.

Until Next Time,

Marin XO

Valencia Revitalizing Serum Review!

Posted on April 21, 2016May 16, 2016 Posted in BeautyTagged Beauty, Funny, product, QWERTY blog, Review, serum, Skincare, ValentiaLeave a comment

Hello Beauties!

I was approached by Valentia to review their Clear Lift Revitalizing Serum. I was pretty excited as I’d never heard of the brand before and was interested in their products. I quickly learned that Valentia is all about bringing the best organic and natural ingredients into your skin care products, thus giving you the best results. There has been a major revolution in the beauty industry to make organic cosmetics and skin products more available to the masses. I’ve recently delved into this world of non-chemical face washes and moisturizers, and I’ve been very pleased with the results! Honestly, it all makes sense: Your skin soaks up what you put on it, so why kill it with chemicals?

On to the actual product. First impression was that it was a small bottle, but knowing that higher-end products are normally very potent and don’t need to be in giant amounts, this didn’t phase me. The label is very simple and elegant, well advertising ingredients like Gotu Kola and Argan Oil that help to erase scars and help skin maintain its elasticity.

The product comes out of a pump (I prefer this) and has a creamy consistency to it. It smells absolutely beautiful, and when applied it spreads out and sinks into the skin very quickly, so there really no need to use a lot of the stuff.

While this product seems to be marketed to an older audience, as it helps reduce wrinkles, a lot of its properties are perfect for younger skin as well. Helping correct skin tone is definitely appealing to those who suffer from acne scarring, and it deeply moisturizes skin for those who suffer from intense dry patches. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to jump on the anti-wrinkle train early!

Personally, I’d recommend this to anyone who suffers from acne, dryness, fine lines, or possibly combination skin. I’ve gotten the oily side to my skin under control so I’m not sure how it would react with people who suffer from extreme acne, but I was not affected by the deep moisturizing properties. I would apply it at night after my cleanser but before my moisturizer. I’m excited to see the long term results, but for now I’m happy!

Thanks for reading guys! I’d strongly recommend reading into the company– it’s completely run by women and is totally vegan!

*This was a sponsored post by Valentia and conducted through BrandBacker. All of my opinions on this product are completely my own.

Look out for an Italy Trip Post as well as a REVISED Skincare Routine!

Avery: My Lush Review!

Posted on March 22, 2016March 21, 2016 Posted in Beauty, Lifestyle PostsLeave a comment

Hello beauties!

LUSH.

My first thoughts were “meh, seems kind of expensive”.

Then I kept coming back in due to the wonderful smell.

Then I decided it was the day.

Now that I am an employed cosmetic sales associate and a way too stressed out college student, I decided it was time to treat myself.

I purchased the Dragons Egg, a Yuzu&Cocoa Bubbleroon, a bath bomb, and what is called a “bubble bar”, which creates the most wonderful scented bubbly bath in the world. I tried them both within a week due to a messed up shower and rare free time.

Boy was I in for a treat.

I tried the Dragons Egg first and it was delightfully scented with citrus and jasmine. The ‘shell’ of the egg dissolved to release silky soft rainbow rice paper circles. Then the yolk dissolved into the most epic orangey/yellow burst of biodegradable glitter the world has ever seen. I felt incredible afterwards. Soft, silky smooth, relaxed, and smelling fantastic. Not to mention my coating of glitter was splendid.

The Yuzu&Cocoa bubbleroon I got to use twice since it can be broken in two. You are supposed to crumble it up and put it under the running tap. I really vigorously mixed my bathtub so it would bubble even more and it sure as heck did. I got some very cute selfies while I was at it. A lime green bath goes really well with a pink filter, by the way.

It smelled wonderful of course, I emerged soft and relaxed, and the bubbles were so fun and lasted until I got out.

Another perk were my 3 samples. Samples I used for about 2 weeks! I ended up returning to purchase my I Love Juicy shampoo, and I will probably return to purchase the Veganese conditioner.

Over all, I am super impressed by my first purchase with LUSH. I am really looking forward to exploring their brand.

My next wish? Being able to visit a LUSH spa.

I have missed writing for Marin’s blog.

Expect a lot more makeup/beauty reviews from me in the future. Now that I am a cosmetic retailer I think I’ve got this stuff down. 😉

Pies, Photos, and Polish Polka,

Avery

Wrapping Up January

Posted on February 2, 2016February 1, 2016 Posted in Beauty, FashionTagged Beauty, Fashion, Favorites, January, Outfit, products, QWERTY blogLeave a comment

Hello Beauties!

It’s been a while, hasn’t it? There have been finals, internship work, and whatever else that has been keeping me busy. But why don’t we talk about this month’s favorites according to yours truly!

Beauty

I haven’t been having a lot of skin issues lately– just some redness here and there. regardless, Almay’s Smart Shade CC Cream has been the perfect remedy. It takes away redness and other discoloration without feeling greasy or thick. I like to use a damp Beauty Blender to work it in and get that smooth look that we all strive for!

Skincare

Since I’ve been having some problems with redness and slight acnes, I’ve become a serious fan of Neutrogena’s Redness Soothing Acne Wash. It’s gentle, but effective, and the more I use it the better my skin looks. I also included Earth Therapeutics Smooth Face Brush because this is one of the best and least expensive cleansing brushes I’ve seen on the market!

Moisturizer

My mom grabbed this for her sister so I decided to give it a try. Since then it’s been featured in Allure and other beauty sites and rightly so; all you have to do is apply it to wet skin (it’s slightly greasy at first), then gently pat dry and voila! Instant smooth and radiant skin with ease!

Book Of The Month

I loved this book so, so, so much. I knew right from the beginning that it was going to get me, and it most certainly did. It follows the lives and perspectives of multiple immigrants from South America to the United States. Some are legal, some are not, but each has a riveting tale of how they got to where they are now. It’s brilliantly written, and will definitely give a different perspective on immigration.

Outfit of The Month

The pants are from American Eagle and are one of the most comfortable pairs I’ve ever owned! The shirt is from Target; it’s super lightweight and loose, with a dipped back and matching shorts. I also added this wishbone necklace as a simple yet key accent, without deterring from the pattern.

peace, love, and baby ducks,

Marin

Get The Look: Hepburn Edition

Posted on October 13, 2015October 13, 2015 Posted in BeautyTagged Audrey Hepburn, Funny, Look, makeup, natural, QWERTY blog, relaxed, tutorialLeave a comment

Hello Beauties!

In the last post, we reflected on going back in time to a more peaceful place. For both Marin and I it has been a very hectic week. Now it’s time to organize and unwind.

How about we go back in time with a vintage-glamour inspired casual look?

This look is perfect for some quick day trips or an outing, and not so heavy you want to take it off as soon as you get home. Not only does it look fairly natural, it has a subtle sleekness. Inspired by Audrey Hepburn and the pure elegance of the decades past, this look is achievable for all.

To begin, I applied Marin’s go-to BB cream with my (CLEAN) fingers. A BB or CC cream is the best product to use when doing something so simple. Not only is it light and hydrating, it gives just the right amount of coverage. Airbrushed skin is not a casual look!

Next I applied some concealer with a beauty sponge to her current problem areas. Common problems being redness and our most beloved stubborn pimples. When applying do not do so heavily. We don’t want a flat, uniform face, but it’s good to even it out overall.

After finishing the base I moved to the eyes. Using a cream-colored, slightly shimmering shadow, I applied it all over the lid and below the brows. Next take a cool, easily blend-able brown and work it into two thirds of the crease and bring it below the eye. Only to right before the inner corner. Now take a shimmering pink and apply it to the center of the lids. Complete the shadow base with a highlight in the inner corner. To line, I used a light black liquid liner. You do not have to use liquid! It smells fear! I applied a very, very thin line with a small flick that complimented her eye and brought in more of the vintage feel. Do whatever you are most comfortable with. Now finish off with your best lengthening mascara.

Apply highlighter to your cheek bones, forehead, chin, brow bone and nose. We’re mainly strobing here. Use a blush not on the apples of your cheek, but the sides and work up towards the temple. This is how blush was applied a lot of the time in the 50’s.

Brows. Long, boxy, and sleek. Aubrey Hepburn it. I suggest using a very thin brow pencil do achieve this look.

To finish off, wear a light, rose-y tinted lip balm. Natural and hydrating!

I hope you all have fun with this look. Go curl up with some hot chocolate and relax.

Pies, Photos, and Polish Polka,

Avery

♡