My top pick for exfoliants

Dermalogica daily microfoliant for all skin conditions.

This unique Rice-based enzyme powder microfoliates dulling debris and instantly leaves skin noticeably smoother and brighter. Contains no artificial fragrance or color. 

*I use this2-3 times a week, but you can use it however often you like. Daily microfoliant smooths even sensitive skin, helps to keep skin tone even and bright.

My top pick for treatment creams

Vichy Normaderm Triple Action Anti-Acne Hydrating Lotion  

2011 Allure Best of Beauty Award Winner - Facial Moisturizer for Oily Skin. 

3-in-1 Anti-Acne hydrating lotion: Clears acne, Mattifies and hydrates. Unique association of salicylic acid, glycolic acid and LHA in a daily hydrating lotion. 

Oil-free hydration clinically proven to fight the cycle of acne imperfections. Clears blemishes and blackheads and helps prevent new ones from forming, purifies and helps control oils. Skin feels soft and comfortable.

* I love this product. I have sensitive, combination skin, which is tough to normalize. I use this on my T zone under my regular face moisturizer. Works like a charm to keep my skin clear of breakouts, controls oil and evens tone. 

 

Serums/Concentrates

Definition: Liquids with active ingredients like vitamins and anti-oxidants that are chemically formulated with smaller molecules so they can penetrate deep into the skin. Serums are designed to penetrate and treat various skin conditions, such as redness, dehydration or lack of firmness. They are usually applied at the end of a facial. They can also be applied before going to bed or before putting on a day moisturizer.

* Many people are not quite sure how to use serums/concentrates. They can be extremely beneficial and target certain skin conditions. A serum will not make your skin more oily, which is a common misconception. You just need to choose the right one for your skin type. I personally recommend using a serum at night under your moisturizer. You skin rejuvenates better at night and it is best used with no make up on. 
Here are a couple of suggestions if you are interested in giving a serum a try:

This first one is a personal favorite. Makes my skin feel like im 14 again:)
* Lancome-Génifique Youth Activating Cream Serum
 Intensely nurtured, skin feels comforted, cushiony soft, noticeably smooth and retexturized. Skin’s hydration potential is maximized, its youthful quality returns: smooth, enriched with moisture, as if infused with life.


This second one is great for advanced anti aging benefits
* Estee Lauder-Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex
 See a dramatic reduction in the visible signs of aging. Inspired by groundbreaking DNA research, Estée Lauder revolutionizes repair: use this age-defying serum every day and help continuously repair the appearance of past damage caused by every major environmental assault. Exclusive Chronolux™ Technology synchronizes to skin's needs to help support the optimal performance of its natural repair and protective processes. Now see younger, healthier looking skin today and tomorrow.

This third one is great for over sensitized skin 
* Dermalogica -Gentle Soothing Booster
A concentrated, oil-free complex of ultra-soothing botanicals and healing Honey that calms and hydrates irritated or sensitized skin. Contains no artificial fragrance or color.

 This last one is great for minimizing the appearance of large pores and smoothing skin

* Estee Lauder-Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Re finisher
Fast-acting serum delivers dramatic skin resurfacing benefits. Skin looks virtually poreless, clearer and more even-toned. Feels soft and smooth.

Homemade Candy Cane Body Scrub

Peppermint oil is used to relieve skin irritation and itchiness and also helps to reduce skin redness, where inflammation is present. Perfect for dull winter skin and itch. It also leaves a cool sensation on skin.

Here's How:

1. For this body scrub,  use sugar. Sugar can be gentler on the skin. Look for a fine,dark brown sugar.
2. Choose an oil. You can use baby oil or any of the following: organic extra virgin coconut oil,Virgin olive oil, almond oil or jojoba oil.
3. You want 1 part oil to 2 parts sugar. Place anywhere from a few tablespoons to a cup of sugar in a container. Place half that amount of oil. Mix with a spoon. Don't worry if the sugar settles to the bottom. It's virtually impossible to keep it mixed.
4. Add one or two drops of peppermint essential oil. Use this sparingly as it is quite strong.
5. I find scrubs work best on dry skin. Step into a bath tub, you can use bare hands or loofah mitts.
6. Take a spoonful of the mixture into your palms or your mitts and then rub the mixture all over your body in a circular motion. For tougher areas such as the knees, soles and elbows, spend extra scrubbing time. Do not use this on your face, as it may irritate sensitive skin.
7. Once entire body is scrubbed well, rinse thoroughly.
8. Pat skin dry. You can follow with a moisturizer but may not need one. The oil is very conditioning.
9. Make sure to clean up the oil off the tub,so the next person who gets in doesn't slip!

Enjoy:)

Red Colour Chart

Here is a list of red hues. On the right you have orange based reds. These have more of a fiery hue to them. On the left you have blue based reds, which have a bit more of a pink or fuchsia hue. I hope this can help you select the right hue for you!

Find your Perfect Red!

Nothing says sexy like a crimson pout! Spice up your holiday look with my favourite lip colour, red!

If you have fair skin, a cherry red is blue based and will reduce ruddiness in your complexion.
If you have medium skin, reds with an orange undertone will play off your yellow complexion creating a healthy glow.
If you have dark skin, deep reds create a contrast to add radiance to the complexion.

Holidays Trends

Its that time again! Turkey dinners, Movember parties and friendly get together's. Here are some of my favorite holidays trends.

• Dark Red or Nude Matte Lip
• Graphic Eyeliner 
• Metallic Eyeshadow
• Nails - Metallic, Nudes, Reds
• Hair - Retro, Buns, Plaits and Braiding
• Androgynous Suits and Blazers
• Leather
• Feminine Blouses
• Ankle and over the knee Boots