If you’re like me, you have received no formal training in mascara application techniques.  That being said, when I shop for new mascara I tend to go for a slim brush, perhaps contoured, and the promise that the product will not give me spider-lashes.  100% Pure’s Fruit Pigmented Mascara: Blackberry has a fuller brush, truth-be-told, but the application goes on lightly offering more control in terms of “coloring inside the lines” for both top and bottom lashes.  Personally, I have no issue with applying a second application to darken my lashes a bit more; it allows me to manage...

I’ve never been the person to brag about my resilient skin or it’s resistance to breakouts, blemishes, or atmospheric irritations.  That is to say, my skin is the opposite.  As a swimmer and year-round athlete in my younger days, my skin has endured chlorine, sweat, wintery dryness, and the arsenal of issues related to teenage-life and changes.  In my later 20s, I still experience occasional breakouts and dryness. In truth, after endless trips to the dermatologist during my high school years, and trial-and-error with drug store brands to no avail, I’ve discovered Blissoma. ...

More often than not, I attempt the DIY manicure method rather than a salon treatment, as it suits my schedule. My basic lacquer requirements include: ease-of-application, a reasonably quick dry, and length of color wear before the inevitable tip-chip begins.  With end of summer festivities in mind, I decided on Lauren B.’s #ImSoLA (a vibrant pink), Sparitual’s Love & Happiness (think where pink meets melon), and AILA’s Doolish (deep peach). These three brands formulate their polishes and products with vegan ingredients, sans harmful toxins like formaldehyde, DBT and camphor, and...

For someone who seems to be perpetually rushed and running late throughout the day, I’ve often shied away from face masques that require more than a minute or two.  This month, I experienced Jacq’s Organics Green Smoothie Scrub & Masque which conversely made me rethink my longstanding avoidance of long-wear masque routines. When I first opened the container, the scent I experienced was mainly the mint, ginger and rosemary notes that are included in its ingredients.  As with any masque, application included creating a paste with warm water and applying to my face and the contour of...