Sephora VIB Sale

If you are a Beauty Insider member with Sephora, you may know that the VIB Rouge sale is currently taking place. Sephora offers a few select sales each year [Friends + Family and Beauty Insider], usually offering up to 15% off all merchandise. I logged into my Sephora account and saw that starting April 3rd, [this Thursday] VIB members will be able to get 15% off too! 

We all know that Sephora is my weakness. I like to think of it as my comfort zone. Maybe it's because I live less than a mile away from one? However, I love stopping in every few weeks and checking out all the new products.

And because I love it SO much, I especially love when they run a sale. Every little bit helps, right?

As of late, I'm totally thinking ahead to makeup for the summer. I picture myself rocking an orange lip, paired with intensely bronzed cheeks. [Think date night!] Here are the items I have on my wish list and will definitely be considering when the sale begins:

NARS eyeshadow base || Lancome Lip Lover || Sephora Z Palette || 

NARS The Multiple || Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer || Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick 

If you qualify for VIB status, use the code "VIBTICKET" from April 3-April 11 to receive 15% off.

Enjoy the sale!

XO, Carrie

Beauty Tip of the Week

Hello & happy Monday! How was everyone's weekend? Mine was very good, but as always, it went extremely fast. Today I am ready to reset and tackle a hefty workload for school. But all of that aside, I've decided that each week I am going to share a beauty tip with all of you. You can find them right here on the blog, but I will always be sure to share on social media too! 

p.s  if you are visiting the web version you may notice L of H got another makeover. Slowly but surely I am learning what flows best and am working to create my blogs personal aesthetic. Let me know what you think! :)

Have a great week!

Weekend Moodboard

Hello & happy Saturday lovelies! What a gorgeous weekend we are having thus far- I'm loving the warmth in the air :) Today's quick post is to share my current "moodboard". These are things I am currently loving and being inspired by. 

Beautiful vibrant red poppies occupy a mint vase just perfectly.

Homemade fruit-cicles are on my list of things to try this spring & summer. Fill popsicle molds with your favorite fresh fruits and a favorite juice. I'm thinking I'll try coconut water. Freeze and enjoy! 

Blue suede heels have been on my radar for what seems like 6 months. While I fell for an SJP pair, they are simply of out of my price range. Finding the perfect [affordable] option is tough, but here is a great pair that I'm loving and will probably make their way into my closet. 

Jessica Simpson 

These spring nail and toe polish combos have me ready to bare my toes. I'm especially loving the coral/teal combo!

It Cosmetics launched a new palette [Naturally Pretty Vol. 1] that the YT world is going crazy over. Check out Tiffany's thoughts here. They swatch beautifully, and I can see myself using this all spring and summer. Versatile palettes are great for travel, which is great for me, as I plan to spend the majority of my summer at our lake house. 

As the warmer weather is on the horizon, I am itching to get outside and be active. I love my gym, but there is something about a nice run in the fresh air. [I have a 5K coming up in a couple weeks!] Another thing I am looking forward to is finding some great stairs in town to run. It's no LA climb, but I think it will work ;)

What are you all up to this weekend? Tonight my good friend Laura is hosting a murder mystery party... Sin City theme! 30+ people are on the guest list and the casted guest list sounds hilarious. Burke and I were given the roles of the Senator and Senator's socialite wife.  I've got bold lashes and red lips planned. Its bound to be a fun night! This is the reason I won't be attending the Iowa Blogger coffee date tomorrow :( Hope to see some of you there next month though!

Follow me on Instagram [@carrieberschman] for more fun pictures!

XO- Carrie

Forever Young

Today's post is all about youth! While I personally do not have mature skin...yet, it is never too early to take care of your skin. In the last year or so, I really have flipped a switch and now make it a point,  every day, to take good care of my skin. Look for an updated skincare routine coming soon. [I have pictures on my Instagram too!] I completely banished tanning beds from my life and wear sunscreen daily. I also religiously wash, treat, and moisturize my skin morning and night. This truly is essential when seeking "great skin". {No, I don't think my skin is perfect- it's not!}

BUT...before I get too carried away, this post is about the makeup side of things. I am bringing you 10 tips, tricks, and ideas to consider while doing your makeup, that will help your skin appear more youthful and awake. Again, this isn't just for mature skinned gals; these tips are also great for those of us who haven't gotten enough sleep or want a fresh makeup look. Be sure to click on the links for a better idea of product examples! :)

Note: We are starting from the skin up!

1. Proper hydration is essential! 

Using a good moisturizer daily and nightly [regardless of skin type)] is probably one of the most important factors in a skincare regime. Makeup doesn't like dry, flaky skin. Makeup on dry skin easily settles into fine lines and wrinkles. As we age, our skin looses its volume. Being properly hydrated (includes drinking water) will help keep your skin plumped up. When your skin is fully hydrated and moisturized, makeup will smoothly glide over your skin and adhere the way it should. 

Try these: Clinique, Aveeno, Olay

2. Think liquid & lightweight. 

Concealers for the under eye should be more liquid-y rather than creamy. Creams (thicker consistencies) tend to settle into fine lines and can instantly age us. Another great way to avoid this from happening is to use an under eye primer, just like we prime eyelids and our face. This helps prep for concealer. [Definitely not necessary for daily wear. Think night time events!]

Try these: MAC, Neutrogena, NARS

3. Yellow and pink undertones. 

Depending on your skin tone, yellow and pink tinted under eye brighteners and highlighters camouflage dark circles and help brighten up your over all look. Brightened under eyes and tops of cheekbones help us create the illusion of youthfulness. 

Try this: MAC Prep + Prime Highlighter in Radiant Rose or Light Boost

4. Use a sponge to blend out foundation. 

Using a damp sponge, like the Beauty Blender, gives your skin an airbrushed finish. The bouncing motions help press the foundation into the skin while adding moisture. Overall your skin will appear more radiant, giving you that 'glow-from-within' appearance we all want. 

5. Skip tinted setting powder. 

I recommend using a translucent powder to set your foundation. Find a powder that is made for setting, rather than using a powder foundation. Applying another foundation can create that 'cake face' we all hate and more than likely, the product will travel into fine lines throughout the day. The more products you apply, the older your skin will look. 

Try these: ELF, Make Up For Ever, NYX

6. Cream blushes

Cream blushes are a fun way to add that youthful flush back to your skin. The great thing about cream blushes is that they have great staying power and also withstand heat and humidity much better than powder blush. While they may seem scary at first, once you know how to apply them, you might be impressed. I have found that using two fingers to dab the product onto the apples of the cheeks works best. You can then go back and blend it out with a kabuki brush. 

Try these: Maybelline, Loreal, Make Up For Ever

7. Curl your lashes. 

For the longest time, I thought eye lash curlers were gimmicky. But now I understand what they are intended to do: give your lashes some body & open up your eyes. This again will help you appear more youthful. 

8. Omit black liner.

Using a brown eyeliner- especially in the day time- is a great way to look younger. Brown appears softer on the eyes; even if it's a brown black! The older you get, the more harsh black can look. Don't care for brown? Try a soft charcoal!

Try these: Urban Decay, Revlon

9. Don't shy away from shimmer. 

If you are over 40, I am sure you have heard to lay off the shimmery eye shadows. But when done correctly, shimmer finish shadows can actually appear very youthful. *Apply it to the CENTER of your lid only.* This will add a glowing pop and will negate that dry, chalky look on the lid. 

10. Lipliner 101

If you are a lip liner gal, do your best to either match the lip liner to your lipstick OR use a nude, pink shade that is similar to your natural lip color. We all know how bad 1990's mauve/brown liner looks these days. Don't be that girl! ;)

I hope that you have found these tips and tricks helpful. The whole idea of appearing younger revolves around looking {awake, brightened, and glowing.} Everything in moderation! Try some of these tricks out-- you might be surprised!

image 

Broccoli + Raisin Salad

It's safe to say I don't do a great job of remembering to take pictures of fun and healthy recipes I try at home. However, this one was so good, I couldn't pass up sharing!

If you follow me on Twitter, you may know that I really love the 'Trees + Raisins' salad from a local deli. I think I have tweeted about it twice even... It's that good. 

However, I knew that their particular version was probably loaded up with sugar and not the healthiest. 

So I took it upon myself to make a healthier version at home, where I am aware of all the ingredients going into it and won't feel guilty about enjoying it. 

Here is a typical ingredient list & recipe for the salad:

6 cups raw broccoli (in small pieces)

1 cup raisins (can use golden)

1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds

1 cup chopped red onion

1/2 cup crumbled bacon (can use turkey bacon)

1 cup mayonnaise 

1/2 cup sugar

2 tbsp white vinegar

In my version, I omitted sunflower seeds (only because I didn't have them on hand). 

I used olive oil mayo and instead of sugar and vinegar, I ended up using a raspberry vinaigrette. 

Whisk mayo and vinaigrette together. Pour over the rest of the ingredients and stir until evenly coated.

I prefer to let it sit over night in the refrigerator to let all the flavors sink in.

And thats it! Super easy and much healthier than the original version. 

I'm enjoying meal prepping for the week and it a great way to stick to my healthy diet. 

Happy hump day y'all! :)

March Beauty Favorites

Lip stick \\ Powder \\ Foundation

Dry shampoo \\ Hand cream \\ Brow pomade \\ Blush

Is it just me or did March completely fly by? I know its not quite the end of the month, but it will be here before we know it. Today I thought I would get a head start, and share with you all the things that I have been loving this month. Luckily, a lot of the items can be found at the drug store too! 

1. The Covergirl Lip Perfection in the shade Apricot Twist is living in my purse as we speak and can be found on my lips on most days. Its the perfect spring-y color and easily dresses up a look.

2. Dream Matte Powder by Maybelline also has a home in my purse with its friend- a small kabuki brush. This is great for touching up throughout the day and it really does reduce all shine! [I heard this is being discontinued :( Let me know if you have heard otherwise!]

3. The Neutrogena Healthy Skin liquid foundation is an old time favorite for me. A couple of weeks ago, I [somehow] forgot to pack foundation in my makeup bag when I was traveling for the weekend. So I ran to a nearby drugstore and ended up repurchasing a bottle of this. Needless to say, even after I have been home and had access to my other faves, I have still been using this. It's a perfect medium coverage and has a nice natural finish. [I use shade 30 Buff.]

4. If you know me, I am kind of a dry shampoo junkie/lover/addict-- you get the picture. When I see a new brand add one to their line, I immediately have to give it a try. [Some are definitely better than others!] This one is coined to be "energizing" and releases the perfect amount of powder to absorb oil. Not to mention- the smell is great too!

5. Soap & Glory has always been one of the brands that I think is a bit gimmicky. I kinda think the packaging of their products is a little cheesy, and some things are overpriced. However, I was on the hunt for a new hand cream to keep in my purse, and I remembered that TiffanyD raves about this particular one. While the scent is a bit 'loud' at first, it really has grown on me, and I am really seeing why she likes it so much. I have found it to be a great hand cream that doesn't leave your hands greasy and slippery.

6. Yes. Yes. Yes. The Anastasia Dip Brow Pomade is so amazing. If you are a mass makeup guru follower on Instagram, then I am sure you have seen this everywhere. I picked up the shade Blonde to see what all the hype was about and have been completely impressed. It's a creamy pomade you use to fill in and shape your brows. I use an angled brush & spooly like this to apply it. Be sure to set it with a gel, and you will have fabulous brows all day.

7. Ahh, yes, another Tarte Amazonian Clay blush favorite. This particular one is in the shade Adored. I got this one in a set I bought [years] ago, and it has just now become a favorite...actually hitting pan! It's the perfect bright baby doll pink, with a touch of shimmer- not to be confused with frost- that highlights the cheeks while creating the perfect flush. Check out all the shades here. I doubt you will find one you don't like ;) Here is a [cheaper] option for a bright pink blush.

So thats it! I really have been enjoying things from the drugstore lately [there is still so many new things I want to try as well], and I think all of you like that too ;) I hope you all have had a great month and are doing well. Thank you for reading!

-Carrie

find me on twitter & instagram: @carrieberschman

Life Lately

 

Let's get personal. 

Even though I post weekly, its usually all makeup and skincare related. However, I like to mix it up and share with you some more personal 'stuff'. 

Here is a peek into my life from the last few weeks:

Cabin Coffee. Enough said. Every time I drink their iced caramel latte, I say out loud, "How do they make this SO good?"

That Iowa sunset is just one I had to capture. A peaceful & calming way to enjoy a long hectic day.

GO COO! My bestie is a college baller & I was thrilled to watch her play in the tournament.

I've become a green smoothie drinking machine. These keep me full all morning and surprisingly give me a ton of energy. If you have a good recipe, shoot it my way! :)

My younger sister plays club volleyball. I couldn't believe the skill level at their age! Very fun & exciting to watch. (With my grandma and mom.)

St. Paddy's Day came and went earlier this week. Burke and I hit up the downtown block party and enjoyed good company & green beer. 

I just had to include our little fur friend. Sidney can make and ruin my day all in about 5 minutes. haha.

Last but not least, while I think my whole FB and IG fam has already heard the news, I'm proud to say I have officially been accepted into the Cardiac Sonography program at my college. Competition was tough and the interview nearly made me break a sweat, but I am beyond thrilled to finally get the start of my career rolling. Woo hoo!

So that's all for today. I hope you all enjoyed a little closer look at what I've been up to! I should do this more often. :)

You can also find me on Twitter & Instagram: @carrieberschman

Happy Friday!! GO CYCLONES! Who are you rooting for??

Beauty Organization

From past posts, you may know that I have a little desk that I store my makeup on [and in]. Over the course of the last few months, I really have been trying to better organize my stash collection, allowing me to be able to see what I all have and use it all regularly. [I'm such a visual person!] But, its tough. I'm on a college girl budget, working literally one time a month (womp, womp), so large, fancy organizers are not in my foreseeable future. Instead, I like to find other items to put to use. 

I found this clear plastic office drawer organizer at TJ Maxx for $7.99 and it fits my small desk drawer perfectly. Beforehand, I wasn't utilizing this drawer for makeup storage. It was mostly filled with receipts, post its, and other clutter... Now it houses my most used blushes, eyeshadow duos, brow products and various tools & brushes.

Moving into the bathroom, I found this little mirrored tray at Target for $9.99 (temporary markdown) and it is now the new home for my 5 little pretty friends. While they looked fine without the tray, I love the touch of glam this tray adds as well as making the perfumes look and feel "grouped". If that makes sense? 

Next up are these two little wooden crates I found at TJ Maxx for $5.99 each. Beforehand, I was using a wicker basket to hold all of these items collectively, and lets just say it was always a hot mess after getting ready. So I moved the wicker basket to house lotions, self tanner, nail polish remover and my back stock of shampoo, body wash, etc. under the sink.

One basket holds all my skincare products and the other holds my hair products. Again, because I am such a visual person, this really helps me see all the items I have and helps me use them all more frequently. So these baskets have been great!

Here is a better look at how things are currently organized, with my new containers. I personally don't like that this is starting to look like the leaning tower of beauty hoarders paradise...but my bathroom is exceptionally tiny [literally no counter space], and I'm working with what I got.

The 'over-the-toilet thing' (what the heck is this called?) is from Target.
Acrylic q-tip and cotton pad holders are from Amazon-- so cheap and handy!
Mirror is from Target.


What makes great organization pieces for you?
If you have any tips/tricks for me, please let me know! :)


Find me on Twitter & Instagram: @carrieberschman

Spring Shopping

Hello again my fabulous friends! Spring is nearly here, and I'm beyond ready to bare my arms [mostly because I've been toning them] and pack up my boots for storage! It's safe to say I have Spring fever. Like a really bad case of it...and luckily the last week has allowed me to shed a few layers!

With all of that said, I have been doing some cleaning around my apartment [took a bunch of stuff from my closet to the Goodwill sale @ Younkers-- where do you like to take your gently used items?] and thus I have another reason to believe I need to shop. ;) 

I definitely don't shop for too many trendy, flashy items. When it comes to everyday, I am all about dressing fashionably basic. Each season, I like to incorporate some new pieces that reflect this. But mostly, I was on the hunt for some more casual tees. Here is what I found on a recent little venture out to the mall. 

These red flats came from Target and were on sale for $11.98.

These laser cut flats came from Gap. [Did you see my trend post? I was clearly on point!] 

PLEASE notice the price tag and gasp in amazement.

I can't hardly type this without feeling silly...but they were also an additional 30% off. WUT?

My bestie over at A Hammer & Heels recently posted a picture on instagram of her new neon yellow flats and I was immediately obsessed, so when I saw these, I knew they had to be mine.

Just a cute little elephant tee from Target :)

These two basic tops came from Gap as well. The fit is perfect & most importantly, they were 40% off!

Here is a better view on the model:

I also, for some reason, thought I needed another Lulu jacket. 

I am in love with it.

SHOP:

Target flats || Gap flats- good option here || Target elephant tee- similar here and here || Gap tees || Lululemon jacket- options here 

Happy Wednesday! 

Who will cheering for in the NCAA tournament that kicks off this week? I'm rooting for my home team, ISU, all the way! :)

Post-Acne Marks

Hello again ladies! I hope you all have been enjoying this beautiful week...at least here in Iowa it has been! So nice to finally see some sunshine and feel that change in the air in the morning. 

Today I want to share with you, what I think is, an outstanding product; a product that has truly helped my skin and has made noticeable changes. What I'm talking about is the Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum..long title, I know. 

I discovered this at Sephora and took a sample of it home a couple months back. While the sample was too small to notice any changes, I did some research online and read reviews on Makeup Alley about this serum. So when the sample ran out completely, I took the plunge and purchased it. 

At night, after I have cleansed and toned my face, I apply a thin layer to my "targeted area". For me, this is my chin. Hormonal breakouts are my #1 problem [next to oil/pores]. Some might consider me lucky to get acne in only one concentrated area, but I still see it as troublesome. Because it always leaves behind a little a lot of evidence. By that I mean, scars or post-acne marks. To me, a scar is when it changes the texture too (like an indentation). My skin is fair enough that even after the raised bump has gone away, the purplish mark sticks around forever, definitely over-staying its welcome. 

So I wear this to bed, followed by my normal moisturizer. I also like to put this around my temples and down onto the tops of my cheeks where I have some sun spots and freckles. 

I've had it for a month and have used about an 1/8 of the bottle.

Ok, so here is a shot of what my chin looks like now after using it for a month. I wish I would have taken a before photo. But I assure you my purple marks have lightened into a more reddish shade, and definitely are starting to fade [much faster] than normal. Not to mention, some of these little marks have been there for half of a year. So any progress is fine with me!

If you are struggling with post acne marks, age sports, hyper pigmentation, etc, I would definitely recommend you try this out!

Want to check out it out for yourself? Find it here!

Beauty Bits: 5 Things I Can't Get Enough Of

1/ Murad Oil-Control Mattifier (SPF 15)

2/ NARS blush in Madly

3/ Diorshow Iconic Overcurl mascara

4/ Bumble and bumble Creme Contour

5/ Rimmel Stay Glossy in Non-Stop Glamour

1/ If you have oily skin, this is something you should be in the market for. I use this mattifier every morning on clean skin. It has a thicker consistency and really soaks into the skin. It works great as a moisturizer and primer all in one. I do notice that it keeps my skin looking matte longer throughout the day, however a little shine breaking through is simply inevitable with my [oily] skin. (Similar option here.)

2/ NARS blush in the shade Madly is hands down, probably my most used blush. I call it my everyday blush. This "seashell" medium brown shade contains hints of peach and works amazing with most makeup looks because of its natural tone. It doesn't impart a lot of obvious color, but adds a natural warmth. Here are some swatches. (A cheaper and similar version here.)

3/ The Diorshow Iconic Overcurl mascara was a splurge. I typically would never recommend buying an expensive mascara when the drugstore offers amazing options. However, I never had tried a "curling" mascara and rarely curl my lashes either. Now I'm regretting buying it...because I'm HOOKED! This stuff is so interesting. It really creates an eye-opening effect. Here is a shot of it applied to one side. And the picture doesn't even do it complete justice. [If you want to try a curling mascara but don't want to spend this pretty penny, I know Clinique has one as well as Urban Decay.]

4/ Bumble and bumble Contour Creme has become a favorite as of late. After curing my hair, I like to take a little of this and rub it between my fingers and then run it through my ends and on the roots underneath. This gives my hair some texture and hold, as well as separation at the ends, creating an undone, "messy" look. 

5/ Rimmel Stay Glossy in the shade Non-Stop Glamour was a recommendation via TiffanyD (my fave YT guru, obviously). It's such an affordable gloss [$4.99] from the drugstore that works great paired over any lip color. It reminds me of this spendy Dior gloss. I want to go back to the drugstore and try a few other shades now! 

Beauty Myths

Myth: Your age is important when picking out skincare products.

Fact: Many products claim to target a specific age range, typically "mature" or women of 50+. But age isn't a skin type. Always purchase products according to your skin type and target concerns. 

Myth: Makeup causes acne.

Fact: Directly? Probably not. Breakouts are typically a response to an irritant, problematic ingredients, hormones, and clogged pores (not washing off your makeup). 

Myth: If a company says their product works, it does.

Fact: No, product results vary amongst users. AND a products claim is also part of their sales pitch, which doesn't directly equate legitimate research results. 

Myth: Expensive cosmetics and skincare work better than inexpensive. 

Fact: The truth is that there are good and bad products at ALL price ranges. What matters is the formulation. Spending less doesn't hurt your skin and spending more doesn't always help it. 

Myth: It's good when products cool and tingle the skin.

Fact: That familiar tingling sensation is actually your skins response to being irritated, which results in inflammation. Inflammation can actually making scarring worse, break down collagen and elastin, and increase bacteria (which can lead to pimples). Initially these results aren't that severe, but over time, they can surely add up. 

 Myth: Blackheads relate to cleanliness and can be scrubbed away.

Fact: Have you tried to scrub them away? It doesn't work like that. Blackheads are actually caused by hormones producing too much oil, thus clogging pores. When combined with a little cellular debris, it oxidizes and turns, you guessed it... black. Try using a products with salicylic acid to help exfoliate the pores lining. [I also love these Boscia Pore Purifying strips!]

Myth: Moisturizer used at night time has to be labeled "night cream". 

Fact: The main difference between a day and night cream is that a day cream should offer SPF 15+. Your skin cells are constantly renewing themselves, every second of the day; not just at night. So nourish it at all times. 

Myth: Use the products you like,  regardless of what's in them.

Fact: People often face problems with their skin because they like products that aren't necessarily good or benefiting their skin. It's no different than me loving a nice tan, but it can cause wrinkles, sun spots/freckles, and even skin cancer. You may really love your current moisturizer you use in the morning, but if it doesn't have SPF (or in your foundation), you are leaving your skin wide open for sun damage, even if you don't get a "burn". [Product knowledge of ingredients is so key.] 

Myth: Your skin adapts to products and eventually stops working or being as potent.

Fact: As long as you are applying what is healthy to your skin, it will continue to be healthy. Just like fruits and vegetables are always going to be good for your diet. They don't stop being healthy. 

I hope you found this helpful!

-Carrie

Stripes for Spring

I recently saw on The Glitter Guide a post on stripes and all the ways you can wear them for spring. I am a stripe lover. My closet contains lots of stripes and neutrals. So hearing that stripes are in (aren't they always?) made me want to do some hunting on my own for all the ways you can incorporate stripes into your wardrobe this spring...and always! 

Take a look at what I came up with!

IN A SKIRT:

ON A DRESS:

AS A JACKET OR BLAZER:

IN A SCARF:

ON YOUR SHOES:

Now that you have seen the inspiration, check out what I've found in stores NOW! 

[With a few exceptions, everything is under $50.]

Skirts: ASOS, Boohoo

Dresses: Forever 21, ASOS

Jackets: Macy's, Target (love this!), Amazon

Scarves: ModCloth, Etsy

Shoes: ModCloth, Gap, Nordstrom

How will you be wearing stripes this Spring?

XO, Carrie

images via pinterest

Oily Skin 101

Oily skin. If you have it, you probably hate it. And if you don't, you are very thankful. The only perk I have ever heard and known to be true of having oily skin is that your chance for wrinkles is considerably less. But why are some people oily and others are very dry? Well, this is something I have actually just learned in school and found it interesting enough to share with you!

Oily skin, if you have it, you'd know, is hard to control simply because it is genetically determined by hormones in your body [which we can't control topically on our own]. The hormones that produce oil are called androgens, known as male hormones, but are found in both men and women. Oil production is actually to our benefit, but it's when too much is produced that it becomes a problem. [A shiny, OMG problem.] When too much oil is produced, we see our pores become enlarged. They become large because they are trying to accommodate all the oil in our skin. Excess oil can also lead to the thickening of the pores skin, which can block the oil from escaping the pore. We all know that this leads to dreadful blackheads and pimples.

But itf you aren't sure you have oily skin, here are some ways to know:

• Your makeup seems to slide or disappear from your face throughout the day
• Your face becomes shiny and appears greasy by midday
• The oily places of your face are prone to blackheads, white bumps, acne, etc.
• Pore are visible, especially around your nose, forehead, and chin

When caring for oily skin, let's first take a look into your skincare routine. You might be using products that are drying [typically containing alcohol] which seem like a good idea because they initially make your skin feel less oily. However, using irritating and drying products can actually increase your oil production. These products will trick your hormones and skin into thinking they aren't producing enough oil, and in return, produce more directly in the oil glands. Consider using water-soluble cleansers, liquid toners, and serums to treat target areas. 

Here is a sample step-by-step routine for oily skin:

1. Cleanse- It's best to find a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser that doesn't contain drying or irritating ingredients (sodium lauryl sulfate, alcohol, etc)
2. Exfoliate- This is essential for oily skin! This is the best way to remove the built up caused by clogged pores and make your skin feel smoother. (Check out these options.)
3. Tone- Find an alcohol-free toner that is made to balance the pH levels in your skin. These toners can help minimize pores and reduce inflammation. (Here are some great options.)
4. SPF in the A.M.- Wearing sun protection is important for oily people too. Find a weightless form that helps mattify your skin. (I love this one by Murad and it acts as a great primer.)
5. Hydrate in the P.M.- Choose a lightweight lotion or serum that contains antioxidants and helps fight pore size. (I am loving the new Proactiv+ products.)

So there you have it! A brief, Cliff notes version of oily skin and how to attack it. 

I hope this was helpful! Happy Tuesday!

image via 

Current Foundation Favorites

Foundation [after blush and concealer] is my favorite of makeup products. While watching YT videos, my favorite part is ALWAYS the foundation routine. I love watching skin being turned into a flawless canvas. The whole transformation side of makeup really is what makes me love it so much. Anyway, as seasons change, so does my skin. Color and texture. Right now, I would say I have combination skin. I am currently about the fairest I have ever been and have had to purchase some lighter shades of foundation to get me through the rest of winter. Here is what I am currently loving...

Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet+ || This has been a long time favorite. If you are looking for a matte finish, full coverage, long wearing formula, this is your girl! [I buff this out with my Sigma F80 brush.] (I wear shade 40)

Clinique Stay Matte || This makeup has a <natural matte> finish. I would consider it a medium coverage. But what I love mostly about this foundation is how perfectly it matches my skin. Clinique has a great color selection and also comes at a great price. This was the first foundation I tried after getting my skin matched with the Color IQ technology at Sephora. (I wear shade 09 Neutral)

it! Cosmetics Your Skin but Better CC || Per recommendation of TiffanyD, I broke down and gave this a go! Even though this is considered a CC cream, it works for me like that of a full coverage foundation. I struggle with a lot of redness and post acne marks that don't always get covered even after foundation. This stuff really helps camouflage those issues for me. Putting an actual foundation over top is optional, but definitely not needed for everyday wear. It contains SPF 50 too! [I love applying this with a damp beauty blender.] (I wear shade Light)

Chanel Perfection Lumiere || This foundation is great for days when you want to have some coverage, but also for when you want to have more of natural finish. It blends so nicely into the skin and oddly enough, it has a great scent to it! It contains SPF 15 too. [I got colored matched at a department store and then purchased on eBay. Great way to save some money!] (I wear shade 22 Beige Rose)

I am always in the market to try new foundations. Let me know what ones you love! :)

Happy Sunday!

Carrie