Beauty Break

More CRA related posts soon but today I am off-topic and burning through some birthday giftcards and shopping online.  I am going to share some of my favorite beauty buys with you loyal readers, hope this will be of interest.


Can You Get Hooked on Lip Balm?: This book just arrived in the mail for me today and I can't wait to read it!  It is from one of my favorite blogs The Beauty Brains.  The blog is dedicated to explaining the science and debunking the myths about beauty products and makeup.  It has helped me save a lot of money by avoiding loads of beauty gimmicks.  The blog has also taught me to think more critically about the products and chemicals I use on my face, hair, and that I choose to put on my largest organ, my skin.

Philosophy Microdelivery Purifying Peel: This is my once a week, brighten my skin, go-to face mask.  It combines Vitamin C and salicylic acid to promote cell turnover and leaves my skin ski-slope smooth and soft.  I have recommended this to all my friends and relatives.  Go to Sephora or Nordstrom for a sample.  I think you will return to purchase.

Bare Escentuals Makeup:I think mineral makeup is a brilliant choice for travelers.  Also it is fun to apply and provides great coverage.  

Seanik Solid Shampoo by LUSH: My color-treated hair is super fine and I sport a travel-smart bob cut but it has been dry and tired so I just switched to a new shampoo.  I realize I am a little late to the bandwagon but about three weeks ago I discovered solid shampoos.  The lather is out of this world, conditioner is optional, and it leaves my hair squeaky clean with great shine and touchable softness.  The sea salt helps with lift and the seaweed helps prevent dryness.  Buy two and you get a free tin.  I also like Karma Komba but it strips my hair too much for everyday use.  You can overuse this product so just wet it, two to three quick strokes across the scalp and then massage in.  Applying too much will make the hair gunky and leave it weighty with product.

Aveda Pure Abundance Hair Potion: I probably love this the most because of the novel application; it is just so fun to use.  You hold it at seven o clock, 4 inches form you head, and just apply a poof to the roots.  A powder mist of acacia gum turns into a creamy lotion that coats and separates the follicle to create tremendous lift. Imagine hair that has just had a day at the beach and great volume.

Cricket Professional Friction Free 1.5" Brush: I love this round brush with the ergonomic handle and tourmaline barrel.  I can blow dry my hair and set with prevision and ease.  It does not snag or rip my hair and it is less than twelve bucks. 

For more bounce these little travel hot rollers are great.
They heat up in just a few minutes and tuck easily into your suitcase.

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream: This pot of lotion creates a moisture barrier and has hylauronic acid which is important for cell turnover.  It has no artificial color and no fragrance.  It is perfect for sensitive or dry skin for daily use.  After application it isn't tacky or greasy.  

Sonicare toothbrush: I had a coupon to pick this up at Costco and I love it.  The timer keeps me honest so I don't cut any corners in my brushing and that keeps my dentist happy.  This model has a special whitening mode, a travel case, a travel charger, and a UV cleaning system to sanitize the bristles.  The toothbrush stays charged for over a week. I'm a very satisfied customer and recommend this product often to my friends.

So, I am currently looking for an under-eye moisturizer and a makeup remover. I'm also open to other great product suggestions so feel free to comment or email me your faves. I'll return to CRA topics next post. Please forgive my vanity excursion. ;)