#GoConfidently : Easy Guide to Facial Hair Removal + Lightening #BleachtoBarewithJolen

Facial hair can look good, downright sexy on a man; but on a woman ... uh, not so much. There are many of us who experience unwanted facial hair and the struggle in having it removed. Unfortunate as it is, female facial hair is more common that we think.

Regardless of what the cause may be for your issues with facial hair, there are new at-home products that make facial hair removal and bleaching a safe effective way to dealing with unwanted facial hair.

Let's start with guide #1: Facial Hair Removal

The new Jolen Facial Hair Remover Kit is a unique, three step hair removal system that quickly, gently, and effectively removes unwanted hair on the upper lip, chin and cheeks.

An added benefit of this hair removal kit is that it works on all hair types and is dermatologist tested - even those of us with sensitive skin can use this kit without any worries of irritation.

Using the Jolen Facial Hair Remover is a three-stop process:

• (1) Apply the Skin Guarding Balm onto the area where hair is to be removed - this will condition + protect the skin preventing irritation and redness. (Side note: this balm can be reapplied to skin after hair removal as added protection.)
• (2) Gently squeeze the Hair Removal Cream tube to dispense product, spreading a thick layer to completely cover hair using the contoured applicator (you can also use your fingertips if this is easier). IMPORTANT: Whatever you do, DO NOT rub the cream into your skin!
• (3) Wait patiently for eight minutes.
• (4) Wipe the cream away using the Cleanse & Smooth Wipes. These wipes are very soft, soothing and conditioning to your skin.

All it takes is three simple steps and eight minutes to remove any unwanted facial hair.

Now, let's look at guide #2: Facial Hair Lightening

The Jolen Creme Bleach lightens noticeable hair gently, making it virtually invisible. Although this guide is more for facial hair (ie, eyebrows, upper lip, cheeks and chin) this creme can also be used to lighten hair on arms, thighs, stomach and back.

This creme bleach can be found in two formulas: original and sensitive.

The sensitive formula has aloe vera which is ideal for more delicate skin. (This is the formula I like to use).

Here are my personal results so you can see how well this creme bleach actually works.

To get similar results as I did, just follow these steps when using the Jolen Creme Bleach:

• (1). Wash the area where the bleach is to be applied with soap + cold water, then pat dry.
• (2) Using the spatula (comes in box) measure about 1/4 tsp of accelerator powder + 1/2 tsp of cream into the mixing cup (comes in box). Mix these together until well blended.
• (3) Apply onto area using spatula - making sure to cover the hair completely.
• (4) Wait 10 minutes. (you can use this time to scroll through your Insta feed, or just sit back and chill).
• (5) Remove cream with spatula; wash area with cold water.

Using both of the new at-home products from Jolen is really just that simple. Both are great products for people with sensitive skin, the results are almost immediate, they are inexpensive and more importantly - Jolen products are effective.

I always try to have them both on hand, especially during the spring and summer months.

For an entire list of retailers to purchase any of the Jolen products, click here.

As a special BONUS the wonderful peeps at Jolen are hosting an amazing event: Bleach to Bare Giveaway, where more than 50 winners will have the chance to win ULTA Beauty gift cards, FREE Jolen products and other fun summer essentials.

To participate: ENTER the GIVEAWAY by using this link HERE.

Giveaway ends on May 8, 2015.

Stay connected to Jolen for offers, giveaways and the latest in beauty tricks from celebrity makeup artists on our Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram pages.

This is a sponsored, product-provided conversation written by me on behalf of Jolen. The opinions and text are all mine.

3 Tips on Caring for Your Everyday Clothing #LongLastingScent

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #LongLastingScent #CollectiveBias 

When it comes to clothes, we all have those certain pieces of clothing that instantly become our favorites. You know... that one denim shirt you love wearing because it fits every curve of your body just right - or that one long maxi dress that is so comfortable walking in.

Its pieces like these that we wear the most. Wouldn't it make sense to take good care of them, so they last us longer? 

Here are my top 3 tips on caring for your everyday clothing: 

PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE LABELS 

Probably the most basic of all these tips, but it's also the most overlooked. I always recommend reading the labels on every piece of clothing you purchase. With so many different fabrics and textiles used for fabricating clothing, each fabric will have it's own specific care instructions. Following those care instructions to the "T", will help make sure that you get the most wear from your clothing. 

This is the tag on the inside of my maxi dress - By following these simple care instructions this maxi has lasted me 5+ years. 

WASHING SENSIBLY

One important part of caring for your clothes is washing them. As a general rule of thumb - always sort clothing. The most common way to sort clothing is into whites / darks (black, dark blue, dark gray) / light colors. A second step to sorting is to separate the clothes that produce lint from synthetic fabrics. This should be done because synthetic fabrics typically pick up lint - which is a pain to get off.  If you wanted to take washing clothes one step further, you could also turn the clothes inside out before washing. This will aid in preventing the fabric colors from fading. 

I always wash clothing like this denim shirt and maxi dress as well other synthetic fabrics inside out in cold water. This helps maintain the true colors of the fabric without fading. 

ADD THAT SPECIAL TOUCH

Other than using a basic mild scented detergent to wash your clothing, adding in fabric softener and in-wash scent boosters will add that special touch on your clothing. 

There is one brand that I highly recommend you use as your laundry in-wash boosters:  Suavitel® Fabric Conditioner  and  Suavitel® Fragrance Pearls™  

I cannot even begin to tell you how long I have been using Suavitel® laundry products; but if I had to give you a number it would be 25+ years.  I was probably in my late teens living in my apartment located in downtown Barranquitas, Puerto Rico when I used their liquid fabric conditioner for the first time. 

My all time favorite laundry combination is : lavender scented laundry detergent + Suavitel® Fabric Conditioner  + Suavitel® Fragrance Pearls™  both in Soothing Lavender.  

On my most recent shopping trip, there were no bottles of the Soothing Lavender fabric conditioner so I purchased Morning Sun instead. 

True enough, you could just use the fabric conditioner alone, but the overall scent factor would not be the same. Adding in the fragrance pearls will give your laundry 5x longer lasting fragrance vs washing the clothes with just detergent and softener alone. 

In my honest opinion, the scent of lavender infused laundry is so calming and soothing. 

I have literally chosen not to use anything else - unless I can't find them in the store where I am shopping at - but, even if that does happen, I will gladly drive to the nearest Walmart to buy them. 

Side Note: If you are among those who are not fond of lavender infused scents, Suavitel® Fragrance Pearls™  also comes in a second scent: Fabulous Field Flowers. 

Caring for your everyday clothing can sometimes be a pretty involved process that takes a little time and effort.  but, using these three basic tips will definitely help make it worth your time. 

Do you have any tips or tricks when it comes to caring for your clothing? 

DIY Beauty Recipe: Lavender-Infused Coconut Oil Hair Treatment

Applying hair treatments on a regular basis is one of the easiest ways to obtain healthier stronger hair. What women does not want to have healthy hair, am I right? 

There are many different hair treatment products available, but sometimes going "au-natural" is the best option - not only is it good for your hair, it's also cost effective. 

What products do you need in order to make an all natural DIY hair treatment?  

For today's DIY beauty recipe, you'll need unrefined coconut oil and fresh lavender. Yep. Only two ingredients and you'll be one step closer to achieving the hair of your dreams.

This super simple DIY beauty recipe for lavender infused coconut oil hair treatment was shared by Wendy Rose Gould, beauty expert at Latest-Hairstyles.com. 

According to Wendy, "applied topically, coconut oil actually does a few things for your hair. First, it nourishes the hair shaft to create a vibrant sheen. It also conditions the hair to restore moisture and repair damage". 

In addition to restoring the hair, she also mentioned that when coconut oil is "applied at the scalp, it can help reduce dandruff and soothe sensitive or itchy skin."  

Now that we have a better idea of why coconut oil is used in this two-ingredient DIY beauty recipe, what about the lavender? What added benefits are there? 

Wendy explains, "Lavender also has numerous benefits. It’s no secret that it smells amazing, and many simply use aromatic lavender for its calming effects. Topically, lavender, like coconut oil, is antibacterial and therefore helps with dandruff. It also helps to soften the hair."

Ready to get your DIY on? 

DIY Beauty Recipe: Lavender-Infused Coconut Oil Hair Treatment

Ingredients:

• Small Bowl
• 2 Tablespoons of Unrefined, Virgin Coconut Oil
• Fresh or Dried Lavender Springs (or 2 drops essential oil)
• Measuring Spoons

Step 1: Place Oil Into Your Bowl 

Measure out 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and add it to your bowl. Depending on your hair length, you may want to add more or less oil to the bowl. 

For medium-to-long hair, two tablespoons should suffice. If your coconut oil has turned to liquid, just measure it out like normal.

Step 2: Add Lavender

Remove the greens and/or buds from your lavender and place it in the bowl with your coconut oil. If you want to add a little more for fragrance, that’s okay. A few pinches is plenty.

Step 3: Infuse Your Lavender

Next, we’re going to infuse the lavender into the coconut oil. To do this, create a bain-marie by placing your bowl over a sauce pan filled with water. Turn your heat to low-medium and allow the coconut oil to melt down, stirring periodically. 

If your coconut oil is already liquid, you still want to do this, as the warmth from the water bath will expedite the lavender oil extraction. 

Keep your bain-marie going for 45 minutes to one hour, then remove from the heat.

Step 4: Cool and Strain

Allow your infused coconut oil to set for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it is slightly warm (not hot). Remove the lavender pieces if desired.

Step 5: Apply to Hair

Work the oil through your hair, focusing on the ends where hair gets dry. You can also focus on the scalp if you’re dealing with itchy, dry skin or dandruff. Let the oil set for 15 to 45 minutes. The longer it sets, the better. Shampoo and style as normal.

Step 6: Revel in Softer, Prettier Hair

A specials thank you goes out to Wendy Rose Gould and Latest-Hairstyles.com  for
sharing this DIY beauty recipe. 

Will you be trying this DIY hair treatment? 

There's Nothing Like Being Your Own Boss

There's Nothing Like Being Your Own Boss 

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

Becoming your own boss can be a very liberating experience, especially if your self-employment revolves around things that you truly enjoy. Nowadays, turning one of your hobbies into an actual paying business is easier than you think. 

Let's say, for example, you have an ongoing love affair for stylish clothing and accessories. Instead of starting your own company, the easiest way to turn your passion for fashion into a money generating hobby, would be to become an affiliate with ANDREA. 

ANDREA is a company who has been dedicated to empowering women to begin their own fashion business. The company offers on trend shoes (like these ankle high boots I can't get enough of), stylish clothing and lingerie.  

When you join as an affiliate, aka ANDREA Star (ESTRELLA Andrea), you can purchase their products at a discounted price for yourself, or better yet make a profit by selling the items to others.  

Along with making a profit from your sales, ANDREA also offers a bonus for being consistent in your sales. 

In addition to having control over the amount of income you generate, being an ANDREA Star allows you to set your own timetable - literally. You are able to design a work schedule that suits your lifestyle versus having to work a set schedule. 

One of the most important - reasons to consider becoming an affiliate with ANDREA is because their goal for the past 40 yrs has been to offer women a legitimate business opportunity via their catalog sales system by offering them professional growth, advice when needed, and the chance to buy quality trendy products without having to instantly pay for it. 

It's quite apparent that ANDREA is all about empowering women - allowing them the chance to experience the satisfaction of owning their own business. 

If you love fashion and are looking to becoming your own boss, you should definitely check them out. 

Read more about the benefits of being an ANDREA Star in my previous article here. 

Three Rainy Day Accessories to Lighten Up any Outfit

Three Rainy Day Accessories to Lighten Up any Outfit 

On days like today the last thing we’re thinking about is having to step outside.  Although the temps are warmer (55 degrees), the day is dreary, dark and just wet – the thunderstorms began late last night and are still in full effect this morning.  

When it’s this soggy outside, getting dressed for the day means wearing dark colored outfits for fear of getting them stained with dirt or damaged by water. Having to wear outfits like this can be slightly “mood-killing”.  But there is a simple way to lighten up the mood on rainy days like this by adding fun, colorful accessories.

Three Rainy Day Accessories to Lighten Up any Outfit 

1.UMBRELLA 

Just because an umbrella is the most important rainy day accessory, that doesn't mean that it needs to look boring or dreary.

Get rid of that black umbrella and get one that looks like these instead:

When it's raining outside the easiest way to see a rainbow is by making it (or better yet, wearing it) with this colorful umbrella by Plemo.

A printed clear umbrella, like this "Birds on a Wire" umbrella from Totes, is sure to make you smile while walking under the rain.  

2.RAIN BOOTS

A well-made pair of rain boots (or wellies) are a must have for keeping your feet dry. True enough, wellies are not typically considered lady-like, but these women’s rain boots in particular are the exception. 

The whimsical multi-colored umbrella print is sure to make stepping in puddles a fun "Umbrella Party" . 

Not into wearing umbrellas on your feet?  Wear these these Navy Foxes instead. These will immediately make your feet look...well...foxy.  

3.TRANSLUCENT HANDBAG

Yes. You read that correctly.  A "translucent' handbag can come in quite handy during the rainy season. 

The polyurethane material will keep all your important items protected from water damage. This Mentha 2 in 1 Doctor Tote Bag includes a fabric zipper pouch bag that holds your belongings and doubles as a shoulder bag with strap. 

Preparing your outfit for a rainy day doesn't have to be a boring task - especially when you have colorful whimsical accessories like these to wear.  These accessories will definitely make a fun addition to your outfit and help brighten up your mood. 

Are you willing to try any of these rainy day accessories? 

photo credit: Behind the Window #19 via photopin (license)

My Four Morning Routine Essentials + One Must Have Item

My Morning Routine Essentials + One Must Have Item 

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. This articles content and images are mine alone.  #McCafeMyWay #CollectiveBias 

Years ago, when I worked in the corporate world my mornings were pretty much "robotic" - nothing about my morning routine was, let's say, special.  My mornings were literally like the phrase,"same thing, different day." 

It wasn't until a few years ago that I learned to truly enjoy my morning routine. I will admit, most of it is because now I work for myself, but I still have a family to take care of and a house to run, so making the most of my mornings is essential, no let me take that back; making the most of my mornings is crucial - not only for my survival but for theirs too. 

So, what are my four morning routine essentials and one must have item?   

PREPARATION IS KEY  

That's right. I prepare for my morning the night before. I always make sure that my coffee mug (I love that owl - crazy eyes and all!) is placed under the Keurig with a spoon right in front and a bag of McCafé coffee is right next to it all. You maybe wondering why I buy the premium bag vs the pods. Well, the pods do not last more than a few days because we are heavy coffee drinkers and at least with the bags I don't have to run to the store that often. 

Making sure that at least this part is taken care of, makes it easier for my next essential. 

RISE AND SHINE 

Believe it or not, the more time you have in the morning, the less time you'll actually need to get your day started. I learned this the hard way.  Now I make sure that I am the first one up at the crack of dawn (this is why preparing the "coffee station" beforehand is key) with nothing but my morning brew, iPad and headphones. When the house is this quiet, I have found that sipping on my first cup of McCafé while listening to a meditation app, helps center my thoughts, allowing me to schedule my entire day more effectively. 

NO FUSS BREAKFAST 

Having the extra time to myself makes it easier to decide what to have for breakfast. By this time, on most days, the hubs has left for work and lil diva is at school.  For the most part, I tend to eat something that is relatively quick, like a smoothie or a bowl of fruit. Lately, with the temps being on the cooler side I just make a bowl of farina, drizzle a little almond milk on top with a side of McCafé Columbian coffee and I'm good to go! 

MID-MORNING "ME TIME" 

Confession: This is not exactly a part of my morning routine, but it is something that I do religiously - every day, which makes it an essential. 

Once I have handled the most important tasks of my work day (fulfilling/shipping orders, answering emails, drafting articles, taking photos, ordering inventory, etc.) I make it a point to walk away from the office. Some days I will lie down and take a nap.  Other days, I will make a fresh cup of McCafé Colombian coffee, grab one of the latest fashion magazines I have laying around or a book that I may be reading, and just chill.  

Sometimes doing a "mindless" task like skimming through a magazine is exactly what I need to spark my creativity. After a while, my mind is racing with ideas and I'm feeling ready to get back at it. 

ONE MUST HAVE ITEM

Let's see how observant you are. Did you notice what my one must have item is?  Yep, my one all-time must have item is Coffee. 

What coffee have I been drinking as of late?  For the past few weeks, I have really be enjoying the flavors of McCafé Coffee. Of the eight flavor options, my two go-to flavors are Colombian and Premium Roast. As you can see, I like my coffee served completely naked (no milk or creamer) and semi-sweet. My first cup is always the Colombian since it is medium dark and stronger in flavor that the Premium Roast.  

There's nothing better than the smell of 100% Arabica Beans brewing in the morning - who am I kidding? That glorious smell draws me in any time of the day. 

If you are a coffee drinker, you should really try the new McCafé Coffee. The coffee is available at many local retailers, including Walmart. You'll find the McCafé Coffee Premium bags and pods in the coffee aisle. 

Hopefully my four morning routine essentials (+ one must have item) has inspired you to make the most of your mornings. I know from experience that mornings can be a drag, but trust me when I tell you, doing any of these essentials will help make your morning routine less stressful and more enjoyable. 

Do you have any tips or morning routine essentials that help you get your day started?