Lauren's Beauty Favs

So, it's Valentine's Day weekend and I am sure you are all getting ready to head out for a hot date. I, on the other hand, am laying on the couch watching Sex and the City after just eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with goldfish crackers (the dinner of champions, or 4-year old). Regardless, of what you are doing: a hot date with a new fling, a romantic date with a spouse or boyfriend, a night out with the girls, or lounging on the couch watching your favorite show, you want to look and feel your best. Everyone has their own beauty secrets and rituals. This post is going to open the door to my beauty regimen and favorite products....................brace yourselves....

Before a night out, I like to exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate. One of my favorite products is La Mer's Refining Facial. While, the price tag may scare you away, consider this: if you go to a spa a standard facial would cost $75 at least. This bottle is $75 and contains numerous skincare treatments in the comfort of your own shower. To use: Let the shower water warm to allow the the steam accumulate. Squeeze a dime size amount of the product into your hand and spread it out evenly all over your face. Leave it on your skin for about 3 minutes (this is a perfect time to do your other shower duties).Once the product feels dry on your skin, massage with your hands in circular motions all over the face for about one minute. Do so lightly, it is possible to OVER exfoliate. Once you have massaged the scrub into the skin, rinse thoroughly. This will leave your skin feeling smooth and looking glowy. It creates a perfect canvas to apply make-up evenly.

For all you cost-savvy readers, the next one is for you. After you've exfoliated your face, it only makes sense to do so for the rest of your body. At a yoga retreat at Yoga Springs in Yellow Springs, Ohio, I was introduced to THE BEST body exfoliant: Kosher Salt and Olive Oil. Yes, I said it. Mix one part kosher salt with two parts olive oil and apply lightly all over the body. You will notice that the kosher salt may feel more rough than other body scrubs,so a lighter touch will do the job.  I promise, it will leave your skin smooth for days!

There may be nothing better than a deep conditioning treatment. While, I have tried them all: hot oil treatments, overnight hair masks etc. I have found the answer to my prayers:

Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask is a dream. After washing my hair and before a big night out, I apply the Intense Hydrating Mask from scalp to roots and leave on for 3-5 minutes while showering. Rinse and Enjoy!

I might be the only person who has not jumped on the mineral make-up bandwagon. While I do enjoy Jane Iredale products, I sometimes find that mineral make-up can look heavy and cake-like. I have struggled with acne my entire life, which means I need coverage. However, I do NOT want to look like I am wearing heavy make-up. My favorite foundation that leaves my skin looking smooth, even, and glowing is Laura Mercier's Oil Free Foundation. Try it, you'll thank me later.

As those who know me know, I LOVE LIPSTICK. To be honest, I think it is underused. I feel like so many woman my age are afraid to wear lipstick. When in fact, it brings so much color and life to your face. Now ladies and gents, I am not saying you need to wear old-lady red or coral, but wearing even a color that enhances your natural pink lip color can make a world of difference. My new favorite lip color is a blend of lipstick and liner. Nars has mastered the long-wear lip color: The Velvet Matte Lip Pencil. My favorites are Sex Machine for day time and Dragon Girl for a dramatic red. Keep in mind, these are my favorites.....there are shades for every skin tone and coloring.

One of a woman's most powerful features: eyelashes. I know, I know you are probably thinking "but Lauren, mine are too short, too thin, too light etc. etc. etc." As many of you may already know, the answer is cheap and easy. Cover Girl's Lashblast Mascara works wonders. Start at the base of your lashes and move side to side (left to right) a few times before moving in an upward motion. Once you have done this a few times, take the wand and place it on top of your lashes. Curl your lashes by moving the wand in an upward curling motion. This will make your lashes look thick while helping your lashes stay in an upright, curled position.

If I know anything about woman's frustration with beauty regimens, I would say that one of the biggest complaints is nail polish chipping. While there are many advancements in the industry with gel polish and artificial nails, these options are not always the most convenient or affordable. to keep your polish looking shiny and beautiful apply Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat a day after your manicure or polish application and repeat every few days to get the longest wear out of your polish color.

I hope you enjoy this information. I would love to hear your thoughts about all of the above.

Until next time!!!!!!!!!