Ingredients to Look for in Your Skin Care Products

Ingredients to Look for in Your Skin Care Products 

Let's face it. Every woman wants to have the most beautiful looking skin possible. Although we all want this, finding the skin products that will deliver the results we want is another story. With so many different varieties of skin care products to choose from, what ingredients should the products we use have? 

The answer to that question depends on what skin issues we are targeting. For the most part, those of us who are over the age of 30, are interested in the treating (and prevention) of fine lines and wrinkles. 

One way to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles is to use products that deliver powerful antioxidants like vitamin C to your skin. The best vitamin C skin care products will neutralize free radicals, boost the skin's ability to produce collagen, reduce discoloration, and improve skin texture.

A second ingredient to look for is Retinol (derivative of Vitamin A). Retinol is a multi-tasking ingredient: it increases collagen production (plumps your skin), it speeds up cell turnover (smoothing your complexion) and aids in unclogging your pores (great for those of us with acne prone skin as this will reduce breakouts). 

My personal recommendation for skin products that have both Vitamin C and Retinol are the InstaNatural Age-Defying Retinol Serum  and  InstaNatural Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer. 




The Age-Defying Retinol Serum has several ingredients, including 20% Vitamin C - which helps at repairing damaged skin. The serum is non greasy and lightweight. Although the serum is gentle enough to apply twice daily, I have opted to use it once a day in the morning - with good results. 

After cleansing my skin with my charcoal based face wash, I apply a few drops of the serum in my hand then distribute it to my face and neck. I kid you not, but my skin literally drinks it. 

I've noticed that it only takes a few seconds to dry with no residue left behind on skin. I really love using this serum - it is by far the best one I've used. 


 
On those days when I am going makeup free, I then follow up with the Advanced Action Retinol Moisturizer. 



 
The moisturizer contains 2.5% Retinol, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, jojoba oil, Shea butter and green tea. The consistency is in the middle - it's not exactly lightweight but not as thick as a cream either. It applies nicely and is easily absorbed by the skin.  

The reason why I only use this if I am not wearing makeup is because I have found that it makes my skin produce more oils than it normally does.  Applying this moisturizer at night has proven to work better. 

If you have normal or dry skin, you won't have that issue. 

  Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using these two products:

• Cleanse and tone skin before using serum
• Apply serum to entire face and neck (a few drops is all you need)
• Allow the serum to dry completely before applying moisturizer
• Apply the the moisturizer in circular and upwards motions
• Allow the moisturizer to completely dry before moving on to the next step in your beauty routine (whether it is applying sunscreen or your makeup)
• If you have sensitive skin, apply these products only once daily - preferably at night
• Once the bottle of serum is opened, it is important to close the cap properly storing it in a cool place in order to maintain its effectiveness. 
• Always use a sunscreen after applying products like these with vitamin c and retinol. 

BONUS: Dead Sea Mud/Minerals 

One skin care issue that tends to appear along with fine lines and wrinkles is uneven texture and or dullness in skin. 

In my case, the skin texture I have is due to suffering from severe adult acne. Using products with dead sea mud/minerals has proven to be a great addition. 

The mask helps detoxify the skin by absorbing excess oil, dirt and toxins leaving behind smoother skin. 

Use these tips when using InstaNatural Dead Sea Mud Mask: 

• Cleanse skin before using mask - this can be applied to wet or dry skin

• Distribute a small amount on skin using fingertips moving in an upward circular motion

• The mask will feel "cooling" at first then it will begin to harden

• Leave mask on for 10-15 min. (I do the entire 15 min) 

• Wash mask off with warm water 

IMPORTANT: I highly suggest you apply this mask once a week only. It may appear that the mask is not that "strong" but it IS highly concentrated.  

Child, I did not follow this one tip and I had breakouts for days - not due to irritation or reverse reaction, the minerals in the mask were "pulling" out all the toxins/impurities from of my skin, which it is supposed to do, but I didn't let me skin recuperate after the first initial application. So, trust me - one application a week is more than sufficient. 

In conclusion, skincare products rich in vitamin c and retinol can greatly reduce signs of aging skin such as fine lines and wrinkles. Adding a mineral infused detoxifying mask to the regimen will also improve the texture/dullness of your skin, allowing all the previously mentioned ingredients to work more effectively. 

FTC: Article powered by InstaNatural & BrandBacker. Images and content are 100% unique and property of LatinFlava Designs, Corp. Links shared are NOT affiliate links.

What ingredients do you look for in your skin care products? 

Top Beauty and Fashion Favorites - Feb 2015 Edition

Top Beauty and Fashion Favorites - Feb.2015 Edition

I realize that we are roughly a week away from the month of April, but I could not let this month pass without sharing some beauty and fashion favorites that I've been loving.  So, without further adieu... let's get going ;)

Top Beauty & Fashion Monthly Favorites - Feb. 2015 Edition by latinflavadesigns 

Top Beauty & Fashion Monthly Favorites {from top left going across}

SLIDE #1 

Shea Moisture Yucca & Baobab Thickening Shampoo 

We've shared more than our two cents worth regarding hair care products for thinning hair, however this one has proven to be the BEST at adding thickness and volume. This shampoo does exactly what it claims: strengthen, thicken, and volumize fine, thin hair. I found this at my local Ulta store a few weeks ago while doing my rounds and plan on repurchasing it soon because I am all out. While searching the web for it so I could share the link with you, I did not find it on Ulta's website, but they are having a having a buy 1 get 1 50% off sale on all Shea Moisture products online and in store. So, if you can get it in store I say "Run, Forest..Run!"

SLIDE #2

LANAKIN

Every woman has this common: we all want longer fuller lashes. Sometimes this can be achieved with mascara - other times it takes a little more inventive ways for it to happen. LANAKIN is a all natural supplement that is specifically for growing longer fuller lashes - the natural way: from within.  Bottom-line: Does this work?  Answer: Yes, it does.  I am not going too much into detail because I will be creating a review (with before and after pics) on this product before the end of the month. Stay tuned for that upcoming article - if you don't want to miss reading it, get it sent via email instead. 

SLIDE #3

InstaNatural Retinol Serum 

Adding a serum to your skin care routine is vital - especially if you are at that stage where aging is a concern. This age defying retinol serum is jam packed with "oh-so good for your skin" ingredients: retinol, vitamin c, hyaluronic acid and other fruit/plant acids. I use this twice a day (morning/night) before applying a moisturizer. It's really amazing. Again, I won't speak too much about it because later this week I will be posting a review on this serum and two other skin care products from InstaNatural - so please don't forget to come back to read it or just get it emailed to you HERE. 

SLIDE #4 

It Cosmetics Celebration Foundation 

Although It Cosmetics does not claim this foundation to be for only oily skin, it does and will keep your skin looking matte. For the past few months, I've been really into applying powder foundations for everyday use versus liquid / creams. I still have yet to find something wrong with this foundation. The coverage is build-able, it's application is fool-proof and it's extremely lightweight on the skin. 

If you decide on purchasing this powder foundation, or any of the IT Cosmetics products, Ulta is now offering a free gift with any $30 purchase until 4/4/15.


SLIDE #5

POND'S Original Fresh Wet Cleansing Towelettes 

A cleansing wipe under $5 that actually works?  Yes, indeed. A few month's ago, I posted an article titled, Four Simple Pointers for Oily Skin using Pond's , where I talked a little bit about these towelettes.

SLIDE #6 

Rosebud Perfume Co. Minted Rose Lip Balm  

Girl... I can't even begin to tell you how many times I've walked by these little tin cans at Sephora. I finally gave in one day and purchased it. The best way to use it: at night. I apply this lip balm right before going to sleep and I kid you not. I wake up with the softest lips E.V.E.R.  

SLIDE #7 

Julep Mint Condition Pedi Crème (formerly known as The Best Pedi Crème Ever! see top photo)

Confession: If you look at the main image for this article you'll notice that this product looks very different. The reason for that is because I received this pedi crème ages ago in one of my very first Julep Maven boxes (I've been a Maven since the very beginning as you can tell). The packaging has been updated but the Crème is still BOMB.  I highly recommend it - spring is here and our feet need to be on point. Period. 

The Mint Condition Pedi Crème is only $20, however if you become a Julep Maven the price is reduced to $16 saving you $4. If you're not a Maven then I have two offers for you:  Join Julep Maven and get the Spring Fling Welcome Box FREE ($62 value) - just pay $2.99 shipping and buy the pedi creme after joining to get the savings; OR  if you are a  new customers get $10 off first order of $30 or more at Julep.com until 3/31/15

Our top monthly favorites would not be complete without a few fashion items thrown into the mix. 

The three fashion favorites are new arrivals to our Spring Collection. Every fashionista needs to have a LDD (little denim dress) in her wardrobe. Best part about it, these three are all under $50 with free shipping (no codes or discounts needed).

SLIDE #8
Rolled Button Tab Denim Dress  


SLIDE #9
Minor Distressed Denim Dress 

SLIDE #10
Palma Denim Belted Shirt Dress


If you were able to get through this entire article then you definitely need to reward yourself with some retail therapy! 

But, before you get too busy shopping, what beauty & fashion products have you been loving lately?

Five Key Benefits of Being an Estrella ANDREA (ANDREA Star)

FIVE KEY BENEFITS OF BEING AN ESTRELLA ANDREA (ANDREA STAR) 

This is compensated collaboration between  ANDREA® and Latina Bloggers Connect. However, all opinions expressed are my own.

As someone who owns/operates her own business, I truly love it when I’m given the opportunity to give back by helping other women find their own success in business.  I will admit that being self-employed is not easy work: there are no paid holidays, no paid sick days, and no paid vacations.  But, I will say that working for yourself does have its benefits and can be very satisfying – especially if you are determined to be successful. 

My number one goal today is to share with you a less complicated way to self-employment by becoming an Estrella ANDREA (ANDREA Star). 

Before giving you all the details about the opportunity itself, let me first introduce you to the company behind it. 

ANDREA is a sales by catalog company based in Mexico that has been dedicated to empowering women to begin their own business for over forty years. ANDREA offers a wide selection of on trend shoes, lingerie and clothing (for women, men and children) that can be purchased for resale when you become an Estrella ANDREA (ANDREA Star).  

To give you an idea of the on trend shoes ANDREA has, here are a pair of ankle booties I received.

Peep the catalogs online now: Women's / Men's / Kids

So, what is an Estrella ANDREA (ANDREA Star) exactly?  An ANDREA Star is an Independent Sales Rep.  Now before you start “checking out” on me, please continue reading to find out all the benefits that come with being an ANDREA Star.

FIVE KEY BENEFITS OF BEING AN ESTRELLA ANDREA (ANDREA STAR) 

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

Working as an Estrella ANDREA you are able to determine the amount of hours you want to work and when you wish to work.  If it’s convenient for you to work a few hours during the morning while your kids are at school – you can; if working during the weekend sounds better – than do it.   Feel free to create your work schedule to fit your personal lifestyle. 

CONTROL

Right along with creating a schedule that fits your lifestyle, you will be 100% in control of your ANDREA business.  You can choose how to structure your day, what products you want to sell, as well as who you will sell them to.  

LOCATION INDEPENDENT

Being your own boss, you can make a conscious choice to work wherever you like.  You can sell your ANDREA products from your kitchen, a rented office, your local coffee shop – anywhere.  You don’t have to worry about arriving to work on time or driving through crazy ass weather to get there. 

NO OVERHEAD COSTS

As an Estrella ANDREA (ANDREA Star) you do not have to keep inventory on hand which is extremely costly (trust me, I know).  However, you can purchase items for yourself to try out and model for your prospective clients.  In essence, the most important component you need are the latest ANDREA product catalogs (which is the only upfront investment you will make)– that’s it.  

GENERATE INCOME

The profits that you get by selling ANDREA can be really attractive, because you can earn between 30-40% commission on each sale. In addition to your main sales profit, you can also become eligible for pricing discounts depending on your sales volume.  You’ll also have the chance to earn bonuses that are like cash which in turn, allows you to purchase more items to sell.

Building a business and a future for yourself is not the easiest of options but if you love earning your own money, and socializing with other women becoming an ANDREA Star can be quite satisfying.  Remember: with a little determination and your unique talent, this opportunity may very well be the best thing you've ever done. 

This is compensated collaboration between ANDREA and Latina Bloggers Connect. However, all opinions expressed are my own.

If you do decide that this opportunity is for you please be assured that I WILL NOT MAKE A CENT from it. As always, thank you for your continued support. 

Connect with ANDREA directly via Twitter & Facebook 

Are you considering becoming an Estrella ANDREA (ANDREA Star)?  Have questions?  Let me know in the comments and I will reply back with more information.

How To Make Thinning Hair Lush and Thick

How To Make Thinning Hair Lush and Thick

Even people with thinning hair dream of having lush, thick and healthy locks to set off their complete look. For most people with thinning hair, though, all of their styling endeavors are met with frustration and a resulting style that falls short of the image that they had envisioned.

But it doesn't have to be that way. There are several things that you can do to make your thinning hair look stunning. And the best part is that these thinning hair options won't take a great deal of your time or money either.

How To Make Thinning Hair Lush and Thick

 

1. CUT AND TEXTURE

One of the best ways to conceal thinning hair is to find a cut that adds a lot of texture and movement to your style while at the same time makes your hair appear thicker. Since long hair tends to draw the eye to the reality of thinning hair, shorter hairstyles are often your better bet. Choose styles with a lot of layers and textures ends that will create movement and interest to your thinning hair style. Adding texture through soft curl can also be a great way to make your thinning hair look its best.

2. PRODUCTS SPECIFICALLY FOR HAIR LOSS/REDUCTION

There are a wide variety of products on the market that can be used to conceal thinning hair. Products such as thickening shampoos and conditioners can do a lot for thinning hair. 

My personal recommendation: Pura D'or

Before getting too deep into this review/product recommendation, let me just say that even though this article is sponsored by Pura D'or, this will NOT sway my opinion. 

Pura D'or products are made with organic ingredients: 100% cold pressed Argan Oil, aloe vera, calendula, and He Shou Wu (Chinese herb) just to mention a few. For the past seven days I have been using the Pura d'or Premium Organic Anti-Hair Loss Argan Oil Based Shampoo and Pura d'or Premium Organic Argan Oil Based Conditioner. 

The Pura d'or Premium Organic Anti-Hair Loss Argan Oil Based Shampoo claims to prevent hair loss, strengthen hair and add volume. During the past week that I have been using this shampoo, I have noticed that the texture of my hair is much softer. When combing my hair the amount of it that still comes out is reducing - not as quick as I would want it to, but I can tell that the shampoo is beginning to work. 

The only downside of this shampoo is the odor and lack of volume.

The shampoo is bottled in a jar with a pump. I love that aspect because the amount that is dispensed in a single pump is perfect for my short hair. One pump gets the job done. However, when the product is dispensed there is a slightly strong herbal scent - I am assuming it is the He Shou Wu - which is almost "peppery". At first the fragrance is strong but once I apply the shampoo to my hair and begin washing it, the scent is gone almost immediately. 

Side Note: Once you work the shampoo into a lather, don't rinse it out right away. Let the shampoo sit for a few minutes so the ingredients have a change to really penetrate the hair follicles and scalp. 

My second issue is that I have not noticed any added volume. This does not surprise me too much. My hair is extremely oily so for there to be volume, I need a heavily chemical-ed product. Although the added volume may not be completely noticeable, I have only been using the shampoo for a week so time will tell if this changes. If it doesn't, I'm good with that. My hair is short enough that I can deal with it. 

The Pura d'or Premium Organic Argan Oil Based Conditioner is another story. I love this conditioner. I think my love for this product may have to do with the fact that it has lavender in it. I love me some lavender. 

Anyway...the conditioner is lightweight and softens the hair with no leftover residue. The conditioner claims to manage frizz and enhance shine. 

I can honestly say that my hair is not frizzy, does not feel heavy or greasy - so that is 100% true. In regards to shine, I am still waiting - but then again, it has only been a week. 

Side note: As with the shampoo, I suggest leaving the conditioner on your hair for a few minutes. For those of you with oily hair, half to a full pump of product is enough. For dry or coarse hair, anywhere from one to two pumps of products should do it. 

Pura D'or also sent me a bottle of Pure and Organic Argan Oil.  There is not too much that I can say about this but one thing: 

You need this in your life.  

I'm sure by now you are aware of the amazing benefits of this oil, but trust me on this: Argan Oil is life. You can apply it on your skin as your moisturizer, the ends of your hair, your cuticles, lips....everything girl - e v e r y t h i n g. 

So, do I recommend Pura D'or?  Absolutely. 

Although it has only been a week since I started using these products, I've noticed good results with my hair feeling soft, conditioned, and healthier.

I do believe that in time with continued use I will see the results I am looking for.



As you can see, none of these thinning hair remedies are complicated or ridiculously expensive.  Simply by finding the best cut and style for your hair as well as using the right hair car products, you can make thinning hair lush and thick. 


Will you be trying the Pura D'or hair care products?  Do you have any thin-to-thick hair tips to share?


More information on these and the entire line of Pura D'or body and hair products can be found on their website.

Thank you to Pura D'or for sponsoring this post. 

Three Ways to Finding the Right Bra Size

Three Ways to Finding the Right Bra Size

Ever had that moment when you're shopping at your favorite clothing store, you find that one perfect top and you go to try it on only to see that the top doesn't exactly fit your body like you imagined it would?  

It's happened to all of us. There are several reasons why this can happen, but one detail that we often, if not always, overlook is the bra that we are wearing. Let's face it: Your bra can either make or brake the look of your tops (and dresses). Having the right size bra on makes all the difference in how a top fits, looks and feels.

Now that we have uncovered the possible culprit, let's see whether or not we are in need of a proper bra fitting. 

I want you to take a few second to answer the following questions:

• -When was the last time you had yourself measured for the correct bra size?
• -Do your bra straps dig into your shoulders or rib cage?
• -Does your bra ride up your back?
• -Is the front of the band too tight to get a finger under?
• -Do your bra cups feel slightly empty or too full?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then the likelihood is that you are not wearing the right size bra. You should not assume that the size you were two or three years ago is the same size you are today. Your body will change, as will your bra size. If you have lost or gained weight, chances are that you will need to change your bra wardrobe.  

To help you change your bra wardrobe here are three ways to finding the right size bra for your particular body shape: 

GET FITTED BY A LINGERIE SPECIALIST 

You should be fitted by a lingerie specialist at least once a year or, preferably, after every noticeable growth or even reduction to your breasts. One of the most popular retailers to go for a quick fit is Nordstrom. Most Nordstrom locations have a Certified Fit Specialists in the Lingerie department. 

MEASURING YOURSELF AT HOME

You can take rough measurements at home which will give you a good idea of what your size should be. A simple way of doing this is by following these very simple steps:

1. First stand up straight and wrap a tape measure around your ribcage, under your breasts. Pull it firm but not tight.

2. To measure your cup size, wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, and again pull it firm but not too tight.

3. To the measurement around the ribcage, add five and round it up to the next even number. This will give your band size.

4. Now, calculate the difference between the band size and the cup measurement to get your cup size. If the amount you get when you calculate for your band size is equal to that of your cup size, after you have added five, then your cup size will be A.

-Up to one inch difference is cup size B
-Up to two inches is cup size C
-Up to three inches is cup size D
-Up to four inches is cup size DD
-Up to five inches is cup size E
-Up to six inches is cup size F
-Up to eight inches is cup size G

TAKE A QUICK QUIZ 

True&Co has a handy tool called "Fit Quiz" where you are asked several different questions regarding your breast shape, size and how your current bra fits you.  Once you reach the final question, you are directed to your very own virtual showroom. True&Co will show a list of their bras that they believe to be a good fit for you based on your quiz answers. 
Side note: If any of the bras in your showroom are found on True&Co's "We Made Too Much" page, you can save 40% off those bras using code TOOMUCH40 at checkout.  There will also be a tab on the left side of the screen that will give you the exact bra size(s) that matches your frame - this will certainly come in handy when going out to purchase a bra at your local retailer. 

Give the Fit Quiz a try and find the right bra size for you.

There you go. Three simple ways to finding out your bra size. 

Although the correct size is of utmost importance, there are a few other things you should know. As you try on different types of bras, make sure: 

• the area in between the two cups comes into contact, laying flat against your chest.  
• don't allow the straps to support your breasts unaided. 
• the bra should hold the whole breast in each cup with no bulging or spillage, as well as not having excess space in the front part of the cups. 
• the bra should rest evenly against the ribcage, with sufficient room to slip two fingers in at the back. Your breasts should be supported totally, and stay in place even if the straps are slipped off the shoulders.

Hopefully these tips will help you with finding a bra that fits giving your breasts the best support system possible.

Have you ever had a professional bra fitting?  Do you have any tips to finding a good bra? 





photo credit: View from a Window via photopin (license)

Sultry Hair How To: The Snake Braid in 8 Easy Steps

Sultry Hair How To: The Snake Braid in 8 Easy Steps 

We've all experienced it. Those mornings when we wake up late pressed for time. Running around like a chicken with her head cut off, trying our best to get out of the house looking somewhat presentable.  If you're nodding your head, you know exactly what I am talking about. 

In an effort to make your morning routine a little easier, here is a no fuss quick hair tutorial created by Jennie Kay, guest contributor for Latest-Hairstyles.com . 

You may want to bookmark this one, or better yet  pin it to your "beauty" pinterest board as it will certainly come in handy the next time you sleep in - or the next time you just need to hit the snooze button a few times.  Don't worry I won't tell ;) 

Sultry Hair How To: The Snake Braid in 8 Easy Steps: 

1. Create a large diagonal forward section of hair behind your ear.

2. Split the section into three equal subsections. Apply a bit of pomade to your hand (about half the size of a dime) and smooth out each section. This will help make a smooth, clean braid. Begin braiding (a basic, three-strand braid) this section, keeping medium tension on the braid. You do not want this braid too tight or too loose.

3. Braid almost all the way down to the ends of your hair, leaving one to two inches left below where you stop the braid.

4. Take two of the sections and combine them to make one larger section (you will now only have two sections, one small and one large).

5. Take the smaller section and carefully slide it up the braid.

6. Keep sliding the smaller section up to the top of the braid.

7. Now slide the section back down to create a looser “s” pattern braid.

8. Wrap the snake braid around the back of your head and pin in place. Spray with a medium hold hairspray to add extra hold and tame any flyaways.

*TIP* Lift a small section of hair up and pin your snake braid below it. Drop the hair down so that it conceals where you pinned the braid in place.

{photo tutorial courtesy of  Jenny Kay and Latest-Hairstyles.com}