Bored at home? Why not try some beauty treatments? 

Yes, we've all been there binging on Netflix, whiling away the time until we have something to do or somewhere to be.  However, when you are short on time and bored, it's hard to know what to do, especially because of the limits during this pandemic! You don't want to commit to something that will take too long or too much of your attention, like household chores. But, you've got time to kill and need something to help you to pass it.  Well, fret no more beauties, with some of my top beauty treatments for when you are bored at home!

Okay, to be honest, they aren't all treatments per se, and they certainly aren't all as life-changing as laser hair removal, but they will pass the time, help you look and feel great, and when you look and feel great, you do great!

7 Beauty Treatments For When You Are Bored At Home

Give Yourself An At-home Facial
An excellent facial needs time. But, you can give yourself a quick boost, cleansing, tightening, and improving tone with a Jade Roller and a 15 minute home face mask. If your skin is a little tired or dry, opt for a moisturizing mask with plenty of vitamins and minerals to brighten your skin. If you are struggling with blackheads, a charcoal mask might be a better use of your time. 

Bag Those Puffy Eyes
Say bye-bye to extra baggage by using a great eye cream infused with CBD!  Eye Love is a fantastic infusing eye cream that reduces puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines for smoother, brighter, younger-looking eyes.  Speaking of eyes that brings us to our next must have.

Long Lashes With No Glue

No glue how is that possible? Well it is with this"Magnetic Eyeliner and Eyelashes Kit"
If you love long lashes, but getting them on is a nightmare this is a must for you. This kit comes with a special eyeliner that contains ultra-fine magnetic liquid that allow the eyelash to easily connect. The eyeliner is smudge-proof. No need for any sticky glue! 

Pamper Your Feet
A little Pedi passion is excellent. One of the best ways to revive your feet and toes is with an at home pedicure. Because when your feet feel good, your whole body feels refreshed and energized.

Another great way to show those piggers some TLC is with an Exfoliating Foot Peel Mask. Make your rough heels and foot calluses a thing of the past. Your feet can look and feel baby soft again.

Do Something Different With Your Hair
If you've got a busy lifestyle, you may have fallen into a pattern with your hair, either wearing it loose or throwing it up into a top knot when it needs washing. Free time at home is the perfect time to try something new. Watch a hair tutorial on YouTube on the latest top knot trends, or why not make some of your own clip-in hair extensions?

At Home Red Light Therapy For Your Face
Looking for the ultimate non-surgical solution for younger looking skin, then do I have a skincare regimen for you. The beauty tool, the Jelessi Torche combined with Venofye Iron Bee Vemon transforming cream. This powerful combination helps to target fine lines, wrinkles and maturing areas of your face and neck. Red light therapy is one of the safest, most effective natural skin treatments available by some top skincare professionals and now you can treat yourself in the comfort of your own home!

Practice Face Yoga
Face yoga might not be a treatment as such, but it will tone and tighten your face, stretching your muscles and boosting circulation. The best thing is, you only need to do a few minutes a day to see results, and you can do it while you watch TV. 

Shave Your Face
Yes, you read that correctly. I said that women should shave their faces, and I am not talking about shaving to remove unwanted facial hair but instead shaving your entire face to help improve your skin tone, texture and reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

Now, I know you are thinking won't this make my peach fuzz grow back thick, dark, or coarse? The answer is no, it will not.  It will grow back the same texture as before shaving.

Shaving your entire face helps to soften the surface irregularities by mildly exfoliating the top layer of dead skin cells more thoroughly than say with a facial scrub. It is less abrasive than microdermabrasion. It can also contribute to getting rid of the vellus hairs (peach fuzz) that we all have, which on some people can make their complexion a bit dull.

Furthermore, exfoliating your face by shaving also stimulates your skin to produce new skin cells and collagen (whenever there's trauma to the skin, collagen is stimulated to help cell renewal), which gives your complexion a smoother, radiant appearance. It can also soften the appearance of fine lines by removing the layer of dead skin that contained them.

To Sum It Up
Some of the best beauty treatments take time. You might have a self-care routine that you like to devote yourself to when you've got a free evening. But, they don't have to. Even if you've just got a free 30 minutes, there's plenty that you can do to boost your skin tone, improve your mood, and generally give yourself a lift by simply implementing so of these beauty treatments!

Getting rid of the mummy tummy, can be difficult. Especially with hectic schedules, limited hours in the day, having to be the mom, teacher, provider, and more, many women do not have the time for themselves, let alone finding time to go to the gym.   And aside from finding time to workout, finding time to cook and resist those prepackaged meals filled with processed foods and sodium is so hard, especially now during the pandemic.

The bottom line, weight loss is an ongoing struggle for many of us. And for those who do try to implement proper eating and exercise, it may not always be sufficient to get us that 20-year-old body we once had! Especially after having a few children or just those other stubborn fat accumulation areas that never go away, no matter what.  And I am not talking about right after birth, but for those with loose, damaged stomach, whether from multiple pregnancies, weight loss, or simply age!

I've Tried Exercising But My Mummy Tummy Is Still There
This unwanted saggy skin and fat can affect many's perceptions of their figure and self-confidence, especially for those that bust their ass at the gym and still can't get rid of these stubborn fat areas, no matter what you try to do.

There is good news, however. Even the most stubborn fat pockets and loose, sagging skin can be treated cosmetically to give you your body back, with an abdominoplasty, AKA, a tummy tuck, to help get rid of that mummy tummy from a place like Alamo Plastic Surgery.

Is A Tummy Tuck Better
Personally, I will tell you hell yes a tummy tuck is better to get rid of stubborn body fat! Stay away from those marketed non-surgical substitutes for a tummy tuck. Aside from the minimized nasty side effects, they do not do the job of getting your body back!

While a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery, requiring you to go under anesthesia, it can rejuvenate the entire abdominal area, especially removing the excess skin and stretch marks, typically from the lower part of the abdomen. And do not worry as while there is a scar, it can be hidden under most underwear and bikini bottoms. 

The tummy tuck treatment is the solution many women seek to get rid of their mummy tummy and a way to regain their confidence. As you will see in the info-graphic, the process is quite reliable, and with the help of a board certified tummy tuck plastic surgeon, recovery can be straightforward.

Get beach wavy hair at home? Tell me more! Yep, beauties, that is precisely what I am going to do. I love the beach wavy hair look, no matter the time of year. Those chic loose tousled curls look effortlessly, although they can be a bit difficult to achieve in reality. But fret no more as I am here to help you get those beautiful beach curls, minus the cost of going to a salon.

So if you are ready to have some beach'n looking hair, continue reading dudes, or should I say dudettes?

Have Patience
You have to be patient and have time to dedicate if you want your hair to look effortlessly. Kind of seems contractive, and yes, it is. Unless you already have some loose curls, the after the beach look is a myth for those everyday hair gals! Hence, you have to set aside at least an hour to do your hair; otherwise, it will be a hot mess! PERIOD.

Prep The Hair
You want to prep your hair with a volumizing product, which is why I recommend trying an all in one, like Bumble and Bumbles surf shampoo and conditioner. These products HELP to give you sea-breezy hair texture and extreme volume.

Next, I like to add a salt water-based styling surf spray that adds texture, volume, and hold for waves that mimic a fresh-off-the-beach look. You want to make sure your hair it damp, you do not want dripping wet hair when you are adding hair styling products to it. When applying you want start from the tips of your hair, scrunching your hair upwards with the palms of your hands.This is the start of shaping your waves.

Secondly,  while I love a surf spray, this product alone can be a bit drying and matte, so I also use CICbeauty's A.d.e.p.t. Complex hair serum with this!

Split Your Hair Into Sections
Remember how I said you need time to do this. It is because you have to do it in sections to get the achieved look, just like a salon that separates your hair from bottom to top, pinning the rest of your hair up and out of the way so they can style.  It would be best if you did the same at home.  Depending on the thickness of your hair, you need to do your hair in two-three inch sections.

Having The Right Hair Tools
Now that your hair is prepped and pinned on the head with the first section ready to go, you need to go for the right beauty tools. This is the biggest problem, the right equipment, aka hair tools. I'm not sure about you, but when I try to give myself beach waves with a curling iron alone, I seem to overdo it with tight curls, or they are so loose that as soon as I step outside, the beautiful creation turns to frizz!  Which is why you need to make sure you dry your hair correctly first. 

Diffuse The Hair For The Perfect Beach Wave Curl
The first tool to help you achieve the perfect beach wave curl is a hairdryer diffuser. One brand that sticks out above the others is Cicbeauty 3-In-1 Universal Diffuser Collection With A.d.e.p.t Complex Serum. Recall how I mentioned above that you needed to add a serum to your beach spray, well now you will see why I so love this universal 3-In-1 Diffuser.

First is the serum that adds the needed softness and tames down the dryness you get from the textured products. What makes this so amazing is that I do not add the serum directly to my hair; the Diffuser infuses it. WHAT??? Yep, this Diffuser is like a mister that adds hydration to your hair, allowing for soft curls. And the best part is you can use it with your favorite hair dryer.

So how does this work? Well, the inside the base of the attachable Diffuser are two clips to insert the included sponges where you add a few drops of the A.d.e.p.t® Complex Serum on top of the sponge.

Unlike other hair products that sit on top of the hair that can weigh down the hair, this Diffuser helps to penetrate the serum into the hair.  The trick is it is being infused when your hair is damp, and the cuticle is open, locking in moisture from the outside in.

I also like the Diffuser's angled attachment neck, as it makes it easy to use for all of those sections. No excuses now, beauties as this Diffuser allows you to do each section without tangling the hair or strain on the neck to get all areas by yourself.  

• Start with an approximate 2-inch section of hair.
• You want to twist the hair to give it that wave definition.
• Place the sectioned twisted hair in the lifter bowl.
• Flip your head forward so that your damp hair is hanging forward and gently diffuse in an upward motion and then move to a different area and do the same thing.
• Dry on high heat.
• Set curl with a blast of cool air from the hairdryer. This switching between hot and cool air helps to secure the curl formation and shuts the cuticle properly.
  

Fine-tune The Ends Of Your Hair
The key to effortless-looking beach waves is for the end of the hair to be straight. You can do this by using a flat iron, big barrel curling iron or round brush for touch ups.

Final Touches For Perfect Beach Wavy Hair
To get that soft flowing wavy look, once curls are COMPLETELY cool, gently run your fingers through the hair. To add more volume, run your fingers through the hair from underneath, lifting up—and whatever you do, do not use a brush or comb. While I know they do this at the salon, you need to be a pro to do this, and if you are not, you can mess up all the work you just put in, with a brush, TRUST ME!!!

The Finish
To keep beach waves in place, you want to finish with a styling spray, preferably a dry hair texture spray. Wet hair spray can way the hair down; it can also cause it to look hard and sticky.

10% Off For You!
In the midst of writing this post, I reached out to CicBeauty and they were kind enough to offer my readers a 10% discount!! I am a big fan of their product and I hope you will be too!! Simply use code: BARBIESBEAUTYBITS2 at checkout!

Top self-care beauty essentials for men? Yep, you read right; it isn't only women who should have a beauty regimen. Men need to take care of themselves, too.  And guess what they are!

Times have changed as men are taking a lot more pride in their physical appearance. Just like they would not let their car or home become run down because of the lack of proper maintenance, men realize upkeep similar to their home is needed for themselves!

So if you are a man reading this or want to share with that special male friend in your life, continue reading on some top self-care beauty essentials for men.

Look At The Ingredients In Your Products
Before we start with some product suggestions, we want to point out that you want to be mindful of the ingredients. Yes, I know you may feel like you need a dictionary every time you look at the ingredient list. But an effective beauty routine doesn't have to be complicated.

For example, if you have sensitive skin, you want to stay away from products that have artificial fragrances and synthetics in them as these ingredients can cause your skin to become dry and irritated. Also, you want to avoid alcohol-based products as they tend to be overdrying.

These tips can also be applied toward purchasing any beauty product; read the label and remember that just because it smells good does not mean it is good for your body!

Implement A Skincare Routine
As I always say, men have skin too. And if you're a guy that merely washes your face with soap and water and think that counts as your skincare, it's time for you to reconsider your skincare game.

While I am not suggesting going out and purchasing all kinds of skincare products to have a successful regimen, it is essential to implement a routine with the right skincare products.

You see, the skin is our largest organ and performs many functions essential to staying healthy beside just looking good.  Simply put, the skin is our first line of defense against environmental factors. Meaning it serves as a barrier between our organs and the outside world.  So why wouldn't you do everything you can to guard this protective barrier?

A man's skin tends to be thicker than a women's; however, when it comes to grooming and beauty products, they are similar, apart from packaging and the scents used.   So without further ado, check out some of my top self-care beauty essentials for men.

Top 6 Self-care Beauty Essentials For Men

Exfoliation
Although shaving does exfoliate the skin, you want to make sure to add some additional exfoliation to help remove any impurities and dead skin cells. An excellent skincare approach is to exfoliate your face with a Sonic Cleansing device, like Michael Todd Beauty's Soniclear For Men, before a shave. This will allow you to get a tighter shave, which equals smoother skin. Also, cleansing and exfoliation before you shave will cut down on the likelihood of ingrown hairs.

Your Skin May Be Clean But Is Your Towel?
After shaving and exfoliating your face, it's best to pat dry with a clean towel, but is your cloth clean? Washcloths can become an ideal nesting place for mildew, bacteria, and more. The last thing you want to be doing it putting this back on your clean shaved face and opened pores. Yes, this may seem simple, but you must use a clean, fresh towel after each shave as aside from infections and blemishes, bacteria can cause inflammation, which can lead to premature aging! In lamen's terms a dirty towel can cause you to age quicker!!! NEXT...

A towel to consider is MUE. Do not let the name fool you. It is not just used to remove makeup.  One side is for erasing, meaning it removes all traces of dirt or makeup. The other side is for exfoliating. This bad boy is reusable, machine washable, & lasts 3 to 5 years.

The Wrong Water Temperature Can Age You
Do you know that feeling after a long day, all you can think about is a hot shower? Or even using hot water to shave with?  Well, newsflash, that hot water can cause premature aging!  WTH? Yep, while it may feel good, your skin is screaming at you as heat causes inflammation, which can break down collagen and elastin, making you age more quickly, and no one wants that, not even a man!

3 Steps, 3 Key Ingredients, 3 Minutes A Day Skincare Routine

The Power of Three + Full Spectrum Oil
Three powerful active ingredients, three simple steps, three minutes a day is all you need, now guys, how easy is that? Well, it is not a dream. It is a reality with the brand TreCeuticals.

For most men, dipping their toe in the world of skincare can be overwhelming, and TreCeuticals realizes this is the case for both men and women, which is why they have created a simple 3-step skincare routine that combines three highly effective active ingredients to exfoliate, hydrate, and smooth the skin. Plus, their secret sauce, which is CBD oil. 

3 Pharmaceutical Grade Skincare Ingredients

1. RETINOL Increases cell turnover, reducing fine lines, wrinkles, discoloration, and pores while enhancing texture and tone.
2. HYDROXY ACIDS Smooth, brighten, and exfoliate your skin allowing new cells to emerge and create that youthful glow.
3. ANTIOXIDANTS Nourish, protect and rejuvenate your skin while reducing the harmful effects of free radical damage.

THE SECRET SAUCE:
FULL SPECTRUM OIL Known for its soothing and healing benefits, this CBD oil is sourced from certified organic providers.

The TreEssentials starter kit has everything you need to achieve a smoother, brighter, younger-looking skin, including...

• Priming Cleanser
• Infusing Hydrator
• Sunday Peel
• Everyday But Sunday
• Mist Me Baby
  

CicBeauty Ultrasonic Grooming Brush

This is a cool brush. I even have one that I use on my hair extensions and wigs, but men do not let that scare you as it is designed with men in mind  It is a perfect item to take when going on a business trip or to toss in your gym bag!

This grooming brush uses an ultrasonic spray technology with the choice of your favorite a.c.e. elixir to deliver precise tiny droplets that will penetrate deep into the cuticle of your hair—infusing your hair with moisture leaving it with soft and pliable touch.

It is also great for refresh of your hair style even second day hair without having to wash and style again. Because the grooming brush is designed to reactivate existing products in the hair without using heat (no hair damage)

Other Benefits:

• Boosts hydration
• Ensures your hair is free from frizz and flyaways
• Its massage feature stimulates your scalp and hair follicles.
• Light, portable, and rechargeable.
• Luxurious scent and great for on the go
  

Check out what is included in this grooming package kit:

• 1x Cic Beauty Brush
• 1x Mini a.c.e for Hydration and Shine
• 1x USB charging cable
• 1x Refill dispenser bottle

GET 40% OFF Grooming Package with Code: 
BARBIESBEAUTYBITS3

Shaving, Manscapping, And Other Hygiene Necessities
You want to make sure you are purchasing the right tools for the job, which goes for proper grooming. Not only does a man's sensitive area require it, hygiene demands it, and Manscapped is here to help with their "Performance" package.  

The Performance Package

This "package" includes premium formulations for the below-the-waist hygiene of the modern man. Plus, items like the"weed whacker" to help the other areas where there may be unwanted hair, like ears, nose. And for those unsightly back hairs, nipple hair, hairy bum, bush like balls, and more, the"lawnmower" can you help!

The Lawnmower To Remove All Unwanted Body Hair

This total-body trimmer can do everything you need at helping you to trim or get rid of that unwanted body hair!  And no worries you can easily remove the hair without scraping away a layer of skin, like you would with a razor, as it is designed to handle coarse and curly hair without tugs and pulls. And if you do their Crop Reviver, "The Ball Spray Toner" can cool, calm, and protect your family jewels after a good shave.

• The Lawn Mower™ 3.0 - skinsafe™ electric trimmer
• Crop Preserver™ - anti-chafing ball deodorant
• Crop Reviver™ - Ball Spray Toner
• MAGIC MAT™ - disposable shaving mats
• The Weed Whacker™ - ear & nose hair trimmer

Free Gifts:

•     The Shed - travel bag ($39.99 value)
•     Manscaped™ Boxers - anti-chafing boxers ($19.99 value)

All kidding aside, while this brand does use sophomoric humor in their advertising, they have taken a more open and confident male culture that results in guys being way more proactive around self-care and health. Hence, they've partnered with the Testicular Cancer Society 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to raise awareness about the most common form of cancer in men aged 15-35 and provide help and support to fighters and survivors, and caregivers.

Pearly Whites
In the world of selfies, social media, and more, people see a snapshot of your teeth, whether you want them to you or not. And while you may be brushing your teeth regularly, a smile is a lasting impression, and if you have discolored teeth, it can come across as a dirty mouth to others, just saying!

In case you did not know, your teeth can become stained from drinking coffee, smoking, even some types of food can stain your teeth. Hence you want to look for a product that contains baking soda and teeth whitener.

The cheapest place to start is with a whitening toothpaste. But I suggested taking it up a notch and try the Sparkle White Teeth Whitening Kit & Pen Combo.

Get this teeth whitener set for 90% OFF by Using Code: BARBIESBEAUTYBITS

Bye, bye are the days of contoured faces, bronzed skin, dewy cheekbones, and creating the perfect bold lip. Now is the time to focus on the health and appearance of our eyes.

That's right; our eyes are taking center stage, but are your eyes ready to be the center of attention? Now they can be, with TreCeuticals "It's All About The Eyes Giveaway"! 

 -->Just CLICK HERE to be entered into the giveaway!<--

• 1 TreCeuticals® Eye Love Eye Cream
• 1 Morphe's Vegan Madison Beer Channel Surfing Artistry Eyeshadow Palette
• 1 Morphe's Vegan All EYE Want Brush Set
• 1 Morphe's Vegan Lilly Faux Mink Lashes
• 1 Spa Sciences Beauty Fridge

• 1 TreCeuticals® Eye Love Eye Cream

• All other participants will receive a 10% off coupon via email good towards the purchase of EYE Love

Looking for a special gift for that female who loves beauty, wine, jewelry, and cat inspired gifts?  Well, fret no more as I have put together the PURRfect list for that cat lover in your life, whether, mom, sister, friend, or girlfriend, we have that cat lady covered!  

Pearly Lustre Cat Inspired Pearl Jewelry
As Coco Chanel once said: "A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls’; they’re timeless and glamorous whilst boasting an understated poise." And Pearl Lustre signifies the pure radiance of pearls. Pure Radiance of Pearl resembles health, good luck, tranquillity, and wealth, sounds PURR-fect to me!

So why not make some cat lady happy with these cat-inspired pearl pieces? And the best part is they are 50% OFF! Now you can't beat that with a cats paw! Simply use code: BARBIESBEAUTYBITS at checkout!

Check out some of these cuties.

Wonderland Kitty Cat Freshwater Pearl Ring And Earrings
Appreciate the natural beauty of life with this adorable ring and earrings featuring freshwater pearls with sterling silver, gold plated ears! Pearl Lustre has an amazing selection of pearls, not just cat inspired, so make sure to check out all of their items. You'll be sure to find that special someone in your life the perfect pearl!

Wanna show some more cattitude? Check out some of Pearl Lustre's other cat inspired jewelry like this matching necklace, earring, and ring!

Cat Inspired Beauty Items
From the Purr-fect pout to cats eyes we have you covered with these cat inspired beauty items!

NOVO Cat Moisture Lasting Lipstick
For the purr-fect pout, check out this adorable novo cat lipstick set! MUAH

Tony Moly Cat's Purrfect Beauty Items 

Tony Moly has you set with so many cute cat inspired beauty items!

• TONYMOLY Cat's Purrfect Eye Mask found at Ulta. This mask will replenish and rejuvenate the skin around your eyes in as little as 15 minutes!
• Tony Moly Night Mask
• Tony Moly Purrfect Eye Contour
• Day Cream

Catlady Mirrors
Unbreakable Stainless Steel Mirror, Portable Compact Cat Hand Mirror! The cute cat mirror comes in eight different colors and expressions for you to choose from!
  

I Dew Care Cat Headband Bundle
Looking purr-fect even while you wash up with this super cute, super soft White Cat Headband.

Pink Cat Makeup Mirror With Lights
Mirror, mirror on my vanity, who is the PURR-fect one of them all? Why this Pink Cat Mirror Found On Amazon! 

More Wine Right Meow

Gifts For That Wine Lover

We all know at least one wine lover that has a cat. Though cats can't drink wine, you can deck out your wine accessories with a few unique cat-themed gifts. Just take a look!

Hug That Bottle
Tooarts Cat Shaped Wine Holder Wine Rack shelf Metal Sculpture Practical Home decoration Crafts!

Show Me Your Kitties Wine Glass
Maybe we've had a bit too much too drink, but these are just too cute!

Cat Shaped Ceramic Measuring Spoons
Let's Spoon with these smiling kitty cats measuring spoons on Amazon! They will immediately brighten up your day when cooking, baking or preparing tea, coffee & cocoa.

Meow Lovers Sleepwear 

This Meow Sleepwear Set is an amazing new sleepwear set that helps every cat lover to look cute and sexy even at home! Comes in gray, pink and teal! 

 Cloth Cat Face Masks

7 Layers Cat Face Mask comes with 5 layer PM2.5 Activated Carbon Filter *Not meant to provide medical protection* You can also remove the carbon filter and use as mask cover.

Looking for some more cat inspired gifts? Well in the process of writing this blog post, I found this cute Crazy Cat Shop that has all you need, there are even some gifts for the cat in your life! 

PIN ME!

Beauty tips for a busy career woman can be on the back of their morning to-do list. But looking the part is an essential element to being successful, whether you like it or not. Instead of fighting it, why not embrace it with these top beauty tips for a busy career woman.

Women Hold More Jobs Than Men
Why am I bringing this up? It shows you there is a real need for beauty tips for busy career women! A 2019 report by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that women hold more jobs than men, representing 50.4% of positions.  In other words, women are juggling the high demands of a Boss-girl career and home demands, especially if you have kids.  Luckily, I am here to help you discover some quick and simple beauty tips you can use as a busy career woman. More importantly the reasons, not just do this!!!

Premature Aging Caused From Your Office
WTF, am I joking here? No, I am not. Have you ever noticed that your skin isn't looking as great as it did when you walk out of your house, only a few hours later? The culprits of this skin battle kick in as soon as you walk into your office, one being the overexpose the recycled air. From heat to the air conditioner, they both can suck the moisture out of your skin, which can lead to a dull, dehydrated complexion, prone to premature aging and wrinkles.

Skin Damage Caused By Your Office Computer  

You got SCREEN FACE!!! A second enemy is the long-term blue light energy, a.k.a. high-energy visible (HEV) light that omits from your computer screen. This can cause skin damage, including inflammation, wrinkles, and even weakening of the skin's surface.

Skincare Products To Block Premature Aging Caused From Your Office
In terms of technology harming your skin, you want to look for blue light blocking skincare. Seek out products high in antioxidants and products formulated to defend our skin against free radicals caused by blue light and other environmental stressors.

Lastly, always apply a skincare product containing zinc oxide, a physical UV skincare blocker that will block and reflect UV and blue light to prevent skin damage!

An Easy Skincare Routine For The Busy Career Woman
Skincare does not have to be complicated. One brand that I am a big fan of is TreCeuticals Skincare.  This company is all about inspiring busy career women to feel more beautiful and confident in their skin but letting us know that skincare does not have to be complicated.  But using three highly effective active ingredients to exfoliate, hydrate, and smooth the skin. Plus, their secret sauce, which is CBD oil.

Using a few skincare products that contain medical-grade ingredients, you can quickly renew your skin's youthful glow while reversing the damaging effects of sun exposure, stress, and other environmental factors, in the comfort of your own home.

The Solution To Finding Time For Makeup And Other Beauty Essentials
I found that you need to prioritize this, and the best way for me is to keep all the things I need to get ready for work all in one place. I have so many beauty products, and trying to go through them all when you're short on time is a nightmare. Hence keeping a work beauty drawer by storing all your essentials in that place makes getting ready much more accessible.

Use Makeup That Has Multiple Purposes
Did you know that everyday makeup products have multiple uses? Exciting, isn't it? Plus, it can also help you save money and time, especially if it's one of those days you need to get out the door quickly while still looking like a million bucks!

• Face Primer: No need to purchase three different primers. Purchase one and use it on your lips, face, and eyes.
• Bronzer: This one is a winner for me! As you can use it to contour, apply to cheeks, use as an eye shadow, cover grays, and more.
• Blush: Aside from the obvious, which is applying to your cheekbones, this little beauty works wonders on your lips. You can mix it with a gloss or even layer it with another color to create a shimmer lip color. It also works fabulously as an eye shadow.
• White Eyeliner: This can be used as a highlighter on the bridge of your nose, corner of the eyes, and waterline.
• Mascara: This has a lot of purposes, as well. Like using it on your eyelashes, eyebrows. It is also great for covering grays.
• Lipstick: You can wear lipstick both on your lips and on your cheeks for blush.  
• Eyeliner Pencil: You can use a simple eyeliner to shape your brows, as an eyeliner, and for a lighter color, you can contour your nose with it.
  

Quick Hair Tips For The Busy Woman
Washing your hair daily is not needed, and more so, it is not healthy for your hair. While I wash my hair in the evenings, I use dry shampoo to give my hair a few extra days before the next wash. Not only does dry shampoo absorb the oil, but it also adds volume to your hair, so it is still looking fabulous!

Use Clip Hair Extensions
Clip-in hair extensions are a savior to me. Basically, your hair is already ready in a few snaps. Some of the benefits of using clip in hair extensions are...

• You can pre-style them ahead of time, and they are ready in a snap.
• A great style that can last a while with minimal upkeep is natural-looking beach waves that can be easily achieved by curling your hair extensions using a rotating hair curling iron.
• Hair extensions are fully customizable with regard to style and color. Just make sure you are using human hair extensions.
• They add that finished glamourous, full looking hair whether you are wearing your hair up or down.  
• Easy to clean with a grooming brush that uses an ultrasonic spray technology
  

To Sum It Up

Through no fault of theirs, busy career women have little time to commit intensive beauty routines regularly. The above list concentrates on speed and efficiency, while focusing on achievable, hair, makeup, skincare, and other skincare cleansing tips.  If you follow these, you will look beautiful in no time, literally!
 

Fall is in full swing! Crisp, cooler air, shorter nights, and changing leaves are amongst us! And with this transition to Fall comes a revamp of your wardrobe (hello tall boots, leggings, and blazers).

But what is not so lovely in this seasonal shift is dry, flaky, dehydrated skin. As who wants their skin as dry as leaves? Not me! Which is why you need to be changing up beauty routine as well. And No7 Beauty is here to help, with these top Beauty products to FALL in Love With.

About No7 Beauty
I am a big fan of No7 beauty products. I first discovered them while on vacation one year as I left some of my skincare products at home and needed something to hold me over. And to my surprise, the products were fantastic, and I've been hooked ever since!

No7 Beauty has been all the rage in the UK at a popular store called Boots, offering premium, affordable beauty products. That principle still holds strong today as No7 is now found in the US and many countries worldwide with fantastic products from age-defying serums to products designed to address specific skincare needs, skincare-infused foundations, and more!

Beauty Bag Must-Haves

No7 Beauty Shopping Guide For Fall

And so, without further ado, my No7Beauty.com favorites to "FALL"in love with!

No7 Laboratories Line Correcting Booster Serum
The fall air zaps the moisture from our skin, leaving dry skin that shrivels plump skin cells, which, unfortunately, can lead to fine lines and wrinkles. I do not know about you, but that is not one thing I want this Fall. This brings me to my first product, No7 Laboratories Line Correcting Booster Serum. This serum is designed to be applied directly to fine lines and wrinkles, so there is no wasted product.

I love this product because it contains Matrixyl 3000 plus, 7x more Matrixyl 3000 Plus™ than their other products. These ingredients are renowned for boosting collagen production, promoting skin cells growth, helping reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It's like my own tube of Botox!

TIP TO MAKE IT MORE EFFECTIVE
This product works great with other skincare products, so I apply this serum after I exfoliate. By removing the top-most layer of skin from exfoliation, you're making it easier for your skin treatments to sink deep below the surface where they could make a difference.

No7 Instant Results Hydration Mask
One of the most repetitive words that we hear in the Fall related to skincare is hydration. And what must have No7 Beauty product provides a natural boost of hydration? No7's Instant Results Hydration Mask! This mask contains lipids that are ultra-moisturizing and helps keep the skin hydrated, plump, and radiant.

No7 Radiant Results Purifying Foaming Cleanser
My favorite No7 cleanser was the Radiant Results Revitalizing Hot Cloth Cleanser. I may have gotten it in a holiday gift set one year, and unfortunately, they do not sell this in the USA. Hence I substituted an online order with No7 Radiant Results Purifying Foaming Cleanser, and it was a great move!

I love me a foaming cleanser. Gel-based cleansers are overly drying, and that is the last thing you want during the Fall, which is why I opted for a foaming cleanser. Not only are they superb at dissolving makeup and other environmental factors we expose our skin too that can lead to free radical damage. But a foaming cleanser is the perfect tool to diminish pores' appearance by deeply cleansing, preventing your pores from clogging, stretching, and getting bigger.

No7 Airbrush Away Pore Minimizing Primer
A must-have in my beauty arsenal is a face primer. I look at a face primer the same as you would look at priming a wall before painting as the goal is to create a perfect canvass for a flawless application.

Without a primer, your makeup will sit in your pores, create false wrinkles leaving a dull appearance, especially if you have dry, flaky skin, as dry skin will make any of your imperfections more pronounced! On the other hand, when you do use a primer, you'll find that your foundation will have a much smoother finish while minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines, essentially working like spackle to airbrush your face.

Radiant Results Revitalizing Cleansing Wipes
Last but not least, these wipes are one of my all-time No7 Beauty Products. I always had these Fragrance Free No7 Cleansing Wipes in my carry on when I traveled to protect me from the not so friendly skies of flying.

Flying takes a toll on the skin, and these wipes were always my savior. These bad boys are amazing at sweeping away all traces of yuckiness you can get from the recycled air on a plane, that not only can dry the skin but also add to premature aging because of the free radical damage from the pollutants.  

Aside from the cleansing, there is another reason why these wipes are a favorite, which has nothing to do with skincare but rather makeup. See below.

Hack To A Perfect Cut Crease Eyeshadow Look
I use these wipes to create a cut-crease eyeshadow look, a sharp eyeshadow cut, or a cat-eye cut. (Before using these, I used scotch tape, but found out that tape can pull and tug on the skin, which leads to premature aging).

This is the perfect makeup hack for those who are sloppy at applying eyeshadow, as the application does not have to be perfect. Simply build up your eyeshadow and extend it out past the corner of the eye. You also want to apply your eyeliner. When you are finished, wrap one of the No7 cleansing cloths around the tip of your finger and swipe up in a diagonal. Voila, you will have that eyeshadow cut and cat-eye eyeliner look, similar to how you would if you were to use scotch tape and peel off to reveal the purrfect cat eye cut. This trick is especially beneficial to those with mature skin or droopy eyes as it helps give your eyes the illusion of lifting them up by the outer corners.

Oh, and this wipe is perfect for cleaning up shadow fallout and removing No7's Intense Volume Mascara.

It's Time For A Discount
Yes, beauties. No7 Beauty was nice enough to offer all my readers a discount so you can have your skin Fall ready!

BOGO 50% Off Serums at No7Beauty.com
No code is needed, but you need to click here to get access.

Site-Wide Offer
Save $10 on Orders of $50+ or $15 on Orders of $60+ at No7Beauty.com.
Coupon Code: SPENDSAVE
Click here to get access.

So, there you have it, beauties, my top No7 Beauty Products To Fall In Love With! Have you tried any No7 Beauty products? If so, what are your favorites for Fall?

An affordable Sonic Cleansing Brush? Are you serious?? Yes, beauties, I sure am, and the best part, this luxurious sonic cleansing brush can be found at Walmart of all places!

I hear it time and time again from people, "Barbie, I know I should be exfoliating, but I can't afford it." The truth is, moisturizing and cleansing is not enough for healthy, younger-looking skin! As if you are not exfoliating using sonic technology, your skin and makeup are not looking as good as it should be.  

If you follow my blog regularly, you will see numerous posts on exfoliating and using sonic devices. When it comes to anti-aging, these two skincare methods are the most effective ways to promote healthy, younger-looking skin, and Spa Sciences NOVA's Antimicrobial Sonic Cleansing Systemis here to the rescue.

Affordable, High-Quality Sonic Skincare Tools
While there is a wide variety of high-quality skincare products out there, not everyone can afford them. But this is not the case with Spa Sciences. This brand was created to provide alternatives to professional skincare procedures and devices that can be used in the comfort of your own home by the average consumer.  

So, if you want to find out more about this fantastic skincare brand and how you can have healthy, younger-looking skin without spending a fortune, continue reading.

In this blog post, I am going to discuss

• What Is Exfoliation
• Why Is Exfoliation Important
• How Exfoliation And Makeup Go Hand In Hand
• Why You Need To Add Sonic Skincare To Your Beauty Routine
  

What The Heck Is Exfoliation
Exfoliation is derived from the Latin term exfoliatus (to strip of leaves). It is the process of removing dead, built-up skin cells from the outer layer of your skin.  Exfoliation is a must in a skincare regimen, and the best part you can do in the comfort of your own home!

Why Is Exfoliation Important
You see, as we age, our cellular turnover slows down, meaning that our body is slower to shed dead skin cells and produce new ones. This buildup of dead skin cells can harm our skin, leaving it looking dry and dull, or worse, this accumulation can result in excess oil production and clogged pores, which could lead to problematic skin.
 
Additionally, this build of dead, dull skin can highlight imperfections on your complexion and sometimes create false wrinkles, and no one wants that.

Furthermore, if you are not removing your dead skin cells, it will create a barrier for your skincare products. So those expensive serums and creams that you're spending all that money on can't get to the fresh new skin, which is hidden below this barrier of dead skin cells.

Your Makeup Doesn't Suck It Is Your Skincare
If there is one reason why I love this brush, this is it!!!!

The key to flawless makeup application is smooth skin. Caked on, flakey makeup happens because of dead skin cells' buildup, not because your makeup sucks.
 
To balance out your skin, you need to buff away those dead, dry, or dying cells. Otherwise, when you apply makeup, you will highlight those imperfections instead of concealing! It seems contradictive, doesn't it? But that layer of skin cells creates false wrinkles, flakiness, creasing, and other issues as your makeup clings to it, which is why it is crucial to exfoliate 2-3 times a week! By doing so, you are sloughing off dead skin, creating a smoother canvas on which the makeup can adhere, making for a more even, flawless makeup look.
 

What Is The Best Way To Exfoliate The Skin
Generally speaking, when it comes to exfoliating, there are two approaches: mechanical and chemical exfoliation.  And today, we are discussing mechanical, and that is where NOVA - Antimicrobial Sonic Cleansing System from Spa Sciences comes to play!

Why Sonic Technology To Properly Exfoliate And Cleanse The Skin
Aside from being one of the hottest trends in the beauty industry, in the skincare world, the term "sonic" essentially means that the product will oscillate to perform a specific task. Sonic cleansing technology is far better for your skin than traditional cleansing. The sonic vibrations in the NOVA cleanse and exfoliate without interrupting the skin's natural cycle. Some other reasons why I love the Nova Sonic Cleansing brush include...

• Promotes cellular turn over
• Helps to diminish fine lines and wrinkles
• Minimizes the appearance of age spots and other sun damage
• Even out skin tone and texture
• Unclogs and reduces the appearance of pore size
• Stimulates blood flow to help improve the skin's elasticity
• Aids in the penetration of skincare products by up to 20%

Tell Me Why I Will Love Spa Sciences Nova Sonic Brush
The NOVA has 32,000 brush bristles that move at the sonic speed of approximately 300 times per second and 18,000 times a minute! This sonic movement thoroughly cleanses the pores while also brushing away dead skin 7x better than manual cleansing.

Skincare For Everyone
I have tried many skincare products, but the typical comment I get is, you get paid to test products. What about use everyday Joes, who can't afford to give up a mortgage payment for a skincare device? Well, this is why I am a big fan of Spa Sciences as they offer high-quality sonic skincare tools without the high-quality price tag. The brand was built on the philosophy of providing affordable and convenient beauty tools to help both women and men of all ages and skin types to achieve the skin they have always wanted.

In Conclusion
Everyone should feel confident and comfortable in their own skin, and now you can start with Spa Sciences, an affordable spa solution to enjoy in the comfort of your own home!

So what are you waiting for, beauties? Grab your face mask and head to Walmart. Or you can purchase at Walmart.com!

PIN ME!

Going Nude With Makeup? And no, it doesn't mean going without makeup; it means simplifying your makeup color palette by using neutral colors that match your skin perfectly! Doing so will allow you to hide those imperfections instead of highlighting them with too much makeup.

Before diving into some neutral must-haves for your lips, eyes, and that glow with foundation. It is important to remember this one rule for a nude makeup look, which is... Less color (not meaning fewer makeup shades) is better, by using neutral colors like browns, beige's, peaches, and my favorite rose colors that complement your skin tone and hair color. So if you want to go nude, with your makeup that is continue reading!

How To Pick The Perfect Nude Foundation
When choosing a foundation, you want to determine your undertones. An undertone is a color from underneath the surface of your skin that affects your overall hue. There are three undertones - warm, cool, and neutral. But how do you know which one you have?

• Cool undertone is a match for those who have hints of blue, pink, or a ruddy red complexion.
• Warm undertone is more golden, peachy, or yellow.
• A neutral undertone is a mixture or neither warm or cool.
  

Hacks To Determine Your Undertones

• Look at your vein color.
• Silver or gold jewelry test.
• White vs. off white shirt, which do you look better in?
  

Once you know your undertone, you can start testing some foundations. We suggest when doing this to try on a few places on your body. Also, keep the time of year into consideration, meaning if you tan in the summer, a foundation for winter may not work. The goal with the perfect foundation is to create a blank, perfect flawless canvass.

How To Pick The Perfect Nude Lipstick
Pucker up baby! When you are looking at nude lipsticks, the choice can be somewhat overwhelming, as there are a lot to choose from.

What you want when it comes to selecting a nude lipstick is considering the color of your natural lips; you also want to try implementing some of these tips.

• Pick colors that flatter your undertones.
• Select colors that will reflect off your teeth in a positive way. (some colors, like pinks, can bring out the yellow in your teeth)
• Don't go for something lighter than your natural shade.
  

With all the colors, types, and brands of lip products out there, it can become a daunting task deciding what to choose. From what colors look best, should you use lip liner, gloss or not, and most importantly, what colors to avoid. Bottom line educate yourself, so your lips are pucker pretty

Picking The Perfect Nude Eyeshadow
We saved the best for last. As just because you're using nude eyeshadows does not mean you're going for a boring look. There are tons of nude eyeshadow palettes as well as eyeshadow looks, for example.

The Nude Smokey Eye
Similar to the classic smoky eye, the nude option provides definitions and glam.

The Nude Colorful Look
It seems contradictory as the last thing you think of when it comes to nude is color. But a well-placed nude shadow can complement a colorful eyeshadow.

Did Someone Say Mascara
No makeup look is complete without mascara. A mascara is a must for any eyeshadow look. If you think there is no such thing as a magic wand, you're not making the best of your mascara! Mascara's can magically add that drama to your lashes and complement the intensity of a nude eyeshadow look!

Pit stains stink literally.  Bad enough trying to find a deodorant that actually works, but add that to pit stains too; this can become really frustrating, so what can you do to prevent and remove armpit stains?

A Few Swipes A Day Keeps The BO Away.
But Your Deodorant Can Stain Your Shirt
As with anything in life, if you can figure out the why, you can usually find a quick solution (anything that can make life less stressful). So here we go, one stinky culprit to pit stains on a shirt is your deodorant!!! What?  Yes, an ugly pit stain happens from the aluminum in your deodorant. These compounds cling to your shirt. Add the mixture of sweat to that, and yellowing can occur.

Now you can try an aluminum-free deodorant, and I've tried plenty, but unfortunately, even after the detox time, they do not always work. So which is worse? The risk of staining your shirt or embarrassing sweat stains from a deodorant that did not work?

The bottom line, even the cleanest of people, can develop armpit stains in their shirts, so when regular washing does not work, why not try some of these tricks from grandma and some new advanced options.

• Allow your deodorant to dry before putting on your shirt completely. But not with a hair dryer!!!
  
• Don’t overdo it. It is essential to pay attention to how you apply it. Applying too much deodorant will just sit on the surface of your skin and eventually rub off on to your clothing.  
• Dress The Part. Certain materials do not breathe, like silk. Your best option is cotton.
• Keep yourself properly groomed. Hair acts as a protector, including your armpits, but it traps excess moisture, so shave those pesky hairs! This goes for men too!

Medical Treatments To Prevent Excessive Sweating

• Embrace A Little Botox. Not many people know about Botox many uses other than erasing away wrinkles. People hear “Botox” and think of younger-looking skin, but it does so much more than that. Using Botox under your arms will block the nerve signals responsible for sweating, stopping the sweat glands from producing too much sweat.
• Speak To The Doctor. If you go to the doctor and tell them the issues you’re dealing with, you can get a prescription for strong antiperspirants that are clinical strength. These will help you to dry out your underarms, and you can use it before you get dressed.
• Think About Sweat Pads. Avoiding pit stains on tailored clothing is more challenging, but with sweat guards or pads, you can make sure that you don't have any blooming stains under your arms.

DIY Tricks To Eliminate Armpit Stains... Pantry To Pretty

1. Meat Tenderizer: WHAT?? I know, but my dad did this. Meat tenderizer is made from enzymes in pineapple and papayas. The same way they break down meat, they can do the same for armpit stains.  
2. Lemons: When Life Gives You Lemons; Citrus foods contain high acidity levels, which is excellent for attacking odor and breaking down a stain.
3. Vinegar: I use vinegar for cleaning everything, and my clothes are no different
4. Baking Soda
5. Crushed Up Aspirin
6. Hydrogen Peroxide And Soap
   

So there you have some "Top Ways T Prevent And Remove Armpit Stains." Do you have any tricks? If so, leave us a comment below.

The holiday season is a time for family gatherings, parties, laughter with friends, and tons of photos. But with COVID, a lot of this has changed, focusing on connecting with photos, videos, and of course, Zoom. And the last thing you want someone to see on the receiving end is an unattractive smile because of your teeth! But no worries, as you can make sure to have that picture-perfect smile by implementing these top six ways to brighten your teeth.

A Smile Can Make You Look And Feel Younger
Go ahead and smile. It is the universes way of giving you a youthful appearance. Smiling has been shown to make people look more attractive, making them appear and feel younger. In contrast, other studies have found that when a smile is damaged through missing teeth or discolored teeth, it can make someone look older. As the last person, anyone wants to look like is John Finlay from the Tiger King (Pre Netflix)

Ditch Certain Food and Drink
Let's start with some preventive measures before correcting, which is paying attention to the foods you eat. There are some foods and drinks that can impact the health of your teeth and gums, as well as the color of them. Avoiding sodas is an excellent idea, even if it is a diet version. Sugary foods cause a lot of damage to teeth, particularly any hard, sticky, or gummy candy. Acidic foods can cause some problems too. Something like citrus can appear a healthy option, but they aren’t too good for your teeth as they can weaken the enamel on your teeth, which is where cavities can start to form.

The foods and drinks that will stain your teeth are foods like red wine, tea, and coffee. Think about how much damage they would do to a light-colored carpet, and then imagine the carpet is your teeth. 

Brush Your Teeth With An Electric Toothbrush
Another approach you can control is proper teeth brushing, and an electric toothbrush is a great solution to boost your teeth' health.

Studies have shown that an electric toothbrush is better at removing plaque by 21% and improving gum health by 11% after three months of use than manual toothbrushes.

Focus On Flossing For Whiter Teeth
One meme that sticks in mind when thinking about flossing is. "You do not have to floss all your teeth, just the ones you want."One of the best things that you can do to help your smile is to floss. It can sound a little basic, but going back to basics with these things does help. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day is essential, as well as after meals where possible. Flossing in between meals is a must too, and can be easy to do when you're out and about. Toothbrushes and mouthwash don't get rid of all bacteria and food particles, so flossing helps in several ways. 

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help Your Smile
If you are looking for a great way to transform your smile, you need to find a local cosmetic dentistry dream team that instantly makes over your teeth. From porcelain veneers to teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry can boost your smile and erase all those irritating imperfections you hate in just a few visits.

How Your Lipstick Can Make Your Teeth Yellow
Do your teeth look yellow in a photo? Maybe it's your lipstick. That's right before you grab just any lipstick color, you need to make sure that you are choosing the correct color. A few things to consider when choosing a lipstick are selecting a color that will flatter your undertones. Secondly, you want to pick a shade that will reflect off your teeth in a positive manner, like berry colors or lipsticks with blue undertones. These hues help to highlight those pearly whites, making them look even brighter. On the same token, you want to stay away from lipsticks that have a yellow-orange undertone in them, as they seem to emphasize the imperfections in your teeth and make them have the appearance of a yellow hue.

So there you have it, my"Top Six Ways To Brighten Your Teeth" just in time for the holiday! 

Oh my, can you believe New Year's Eve is quickly approaching, which means some New Year's Resolutions! One thing with me is not to set goals that are never achievable. Heck, if you haven't done it, you probably won't, which is why I focus on New Years Resolutions that Are Actually Achievable New Years Resolutions To Renew Yourself For The New Year

Many people do not realize your life's quality mostly depends on you and how you see yourself. How you live with the cards you are dealt with, so to speak, can and is one of the secrets to living your best life in 2021 and beyond. So without further ado, here are some achievable New Year Resolutions you need to add to your list.

Drink More Water
I am horrible at this, and water is a must for the fountain of youth. If there is one thing we should be doing to take care of our bodies, it is keeping ourselves well hydrated. And a great way to do this is by drinking infused water instead of plan ole boring water.

So what are the benefits of drinking infused water? Well, let’s start by helping you to stay hydrated, as proper hydration is a must for the health of your organs and your skin. Likewise, if you're dehydrated on the other side of the spectrum, your heart’s health can be affected. Your kidneys can get weaker, your body can’t metabolize fat, and you will also start to see damage in your skin’s moisture barrier.

Focusing On The Health Of Your Teeth
Your smile can be one of those things that you feel very self-conscious about. There can be many reasons why you think this way. It might be that you don’t like the way they look, or perhaps you want to focus on whitening them so you can feel more confident. Many different dentistry experts can offer teeth whitening or other cosmetic treatments for your teeth. Over time, this can help you to feel more at ease with how you look and feel.  A healthy smile can help you feel and look younger, and who wouldn't want that for a New Years Resolution?

Giving Yourself A Makeover With 

Your hair, much like your teeth, can be a great way to help you feel confident. And if you feel good about yourself, you are usually more confident, helping live a happier life and a better career.  

One thing to help with this is a new hairstyle. Your hair is a great place to start because the right hairstyle can leave you looking and feeling sophisticated, sexy, and confident.

Our hair is a big part of our identities. Don't believe me? Well, it is scientifically proven. That is a right; a study carried out by researchers at Yale University found that "bad hair days" increase self-doubt and personal criticism. Therefore a way to kick start 2021 might be something as simple as changing your hair color or trying a new hairstyle! Or maybe you want to invest in hair extensions and make your short hair much longer. A change of color can also be a great idea, and websites like Pinterest can be a great source of inspiration for new hairstyles and colors.

Commit To A Skincare Routine
Beauties skincare does not have to be complicated. And boy does TreCeuticals realize this, which is why they've created a skincare line with three powerful active ingredients, achieved in three simple steps, three minutes a day.
 
This simple 3-step skincare routine combines three highly effective active ingredients to exfoliate, hydrate, and smooth the skin. Plus, their secret sauce, which is CBD oil.

Get More Beauty Sleep
Beauty sleep is real; to look and feel our best, we need rest, and more importantly, we need the right kind of bedding, which goes for your pillowcases. Many of us spend time on night creams, but our beauty sleep can either age us or make us younger. And when it comes to our pillows, it can be a skin aging culprit, especially if you are not sleeping on silk pillowcases.

Pamper Yourself To Some Beauty Treatments Outside Of The Home
Pamper yourself in 2021; you deserve it. Throughout the year, tons of people focus on others and put themselves on the back burner. There is nothing like a day of pampering, whether you are treating yourself to getting your nails done, to getting some new nude makeup, or how about saying goodbye to all that quarantine hair with a laser hair removal service.

This is an excellent solution to removing your unwanted hair, where shaving is either too complicated, too time-consuming, causes skin problems, or isn't something you want to shave.

Eat Healthy For Healthier Skin
Many of us know the problems with not eating the proper diet, but did you know that a crappy diet can lead to unhealthy skin?  This is why you should Eating Your Way To Healthy, Glowing Skin.

You see, healthy, glowing skins starts with the nourishment within our body. Fruit and vegetables are excellent foods for a healthy complexion and the best way to hydrate your skin from the inside.

• Boosts self-esteem by helping you look younger as working out brings more oxygen to your skin cells, leaving you with skin that's nourished and firmer
• Better sleep
• Decreases anxiety and stress levels
• Gives you more energy
• Physical shape
• Enhanced sex life
  

Stay Away From Negativity Online
While social media is a great way to stay connected with the world and with friends, if you want to live your best life, you need to stay away from being a social media troll. Subconsciously this negativity can be mentally toxic. 2020 has been shitshow for this; let's not repeat this for 2021! So when you post and engage, keep it positive.

So there you have it, my "Achievable New Years Resolutions To Renew Yourself For The New Year."Do you have any achievable New Years Resolutions you want to share? If so, share them below. 

Let's face it, the holidays can be challenging, and this year, it will be more so on some than ever before. And one thing to make you feel better mentally is if you feel better physically. And today, I will share with you some Beauty Tips To Help You Look And Feel Your Best This Holiday Season.

Keep Your Skin Happy This Holiday Season
Nothing dampens holiday cheer like dry, flaky skin. To get your skin holiday-ready, check out some great skincare products below.

Exfoliated Skin Is Happy Skin
TreCeuticals Vegan Sunday Peel to help keep your skin glowing. The cold weather combined with holiday stress commonly triggers dry skin, acne, and other skin issues, and TreCeuticals is here to the rescue.
 
The Sunday Peel Weekly TreActives is a powerful antioxidant-infused exfoliator. Formulated with a scientifically advanced combination of hydroxy acids, potent antioxidants, and CBD Oil. TreCeuticals Sunday Peel activates cell turnover and protects new cells from harmful free radical damage. Bring back your skin's natural glow this holiday season with improved texture, tone, and elasticity.

GET 10% OFF USING CODE  TREDEALSPOTR

Give Yourself The Gift Of Younger Looking Skin With A Collagen Boost
Help your skin look glowy and bright with Ginjo Beauty's Collagen Gems. I love this brand as their products are Vegan, Cruelty-free, and EWG certified. This collagen pack is the perfect gem to help your skin look smoother and younger, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, Ginjo Collagen Gems ensure maximum moisture for visibly plump and glowing skin.

BONUS: The innovative freeze-drying technology used allows for faster and deeper absorption of the highly concentrated ingredients and 40 times more vigorous intensity. Just like pharmaceutical grade skincare.

Face Contouring
Restore youthfulness and a more contoured appearance to the face and neck by addressing areas of skin subject to aging like the jawline, cheekbones, neck, eye area, and lip lines with Spa Sciences Isla.

This anti-aging beauty roller targets sagging skin areas with the uplifting sonic technology to tone while soothing and relaxing muscles.

• It pairs perfectly with my favorite serum.
• It can also be used with a sheet mask.
• You can use it iced or heated or at room temperature.
• A must for younger-looking skin. Plus, it feels amazing!!!
  

Treat Yourself To A Brand New Smile This Holiday

How can you look years younger in just a few weeks or sometimes only a few appointments without major surgery? By seeing a dentist. A whiter, brighter smile makes people look more attractive, making them appear and feel younger. In contrast, other studies have found that when a smile is damaged through missing teeth or discolored teeth. If this is the case, we recommend looking into a reputable cosmetic dentist to help with that holiday smile. 

Cosmetic dentistry is more popular than ever, from whitening and shaping to closing spaces and replacing teeth. When you've got the smile that you've always dreamed of, you're going to feel more beautiful than ever.

Try Some New Makeup For A Festive Holiday  Look
Have you ever considered some new makeup? It is a great way to feel special and pampered. There are tons of nude eyeshadow palettes to experiment with for a festive eye look,  for example. Too Faced Enchanted Foxy And Glam Holiday Sets. Nothing says the holidays more than an eyeshadow palette that smells like Christmas cookies.  Get twice the holiday glam with two limited edition festive sets, including 12 shadows, to highlights, blush and even mascara!

The Nude Smokey, With The Nude Fox
Similar to the classic smoky eye, the nude option provides definition and glam.

A Pop Of Color
Play with sparkles and a pop of color with the "Unbearably Glam Palette".
 

Dam Girl, Did Someone Say Mascara

No makeup look is complete without mascara and this Too Faced makeup set comes with "Dam Girl Mascara". A mascara is a must for any eyeshadow look. If you think there is no such thing as a magic wand, you're not making the best of your mascara! Mascara's can magically add that drama to your lashes and complement the intensity of a nude eyeshadow look!

Keep Yourself Healthy This Holiday With Proper Nutrients And Antioxidants

Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies For The Holidays

Yes, I know this does not sound fun or festive. And I'm sure your first thought when it comes to gummies is not one that tastes like apple cider vinegar. But feeling good has a lot to do with being healthy. And beauties, you are going to be surprised with these, as they taste delicious.

I am a big fan of apple cider vinegar as it offers so many benefits, thanks to its high concentration of acetic acid.

One of the downsides is the taste, but not any longer thanks to Goli Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies.(2 Gummies = 1 ACV Shot).

These little red gummies taste so yummy, just like apples! You would have no idea they have vinegar in them. YEAH!!!

They also provide the same excellent benefits of apple cider vinegar and more, like...

• Helps With Digestion
  
• Anti-aging
• Weight Loss
• Detoxify
• A Healthy Heart

Want all the benefits of vinegar without the taste? Now you can with 5% OFF using code barbie5.

•    Support weight management
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•    Antioxidant equivalent to 8 servings of fruits & veggies
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How To Become A Product Tester And Get Free Product On Amazon, Just In Time For Christmas!

Yep, that is right, this is an actual thing, where companies send out free products in exchange for honest customer feedback! And I do not know about you, but I like FREE if actually is free. Being an influencer and an award-winning blogger, I see tons of companies offer this. So if this sounds like you,click here to get started or keep reading to learn more.

One of my favorite companies that I have been working with for a while isFBA reviews, enabling me to get free products from AMAZON and share my HONEST feedback about a product sent to me for free. And one of the best parts is I am not required to share it on my social media or another place where I CHARGE for my thoughts. Just on the product review or through a feedback form provided from FBA!

The only cost to you is the time it takes you to write up a review of the free product samples you receive. Not bad, huh? So how does this work?

Who Can Become A Product Tester And Get Free Product

Well, first, let me say that ANYONE can; you do not need to be an influencer, blogger, or content created to do so; all you need is to be an Amazon Prime member, willing to try out product for free.

About FBA Reviews
As former FBA sellers themselves, they are compliant with Amazon ToS.  You see, FBA is a 3rd party sending out complimentary products (not the brands or sellers themselves), providing users opportunities to test new products for free in exchange for their honest feedback on the items they try. FBA reviews has products across nearly every category, from beauty products to home goods, electronics, health, wellness, fitness, jewelry, and even goodies for your pets.

How Does It Work:

1. To be eligible, all you have to do is sign up HERE To Become An Product Tester
2. Once accepted FBA reviews will then send emails out with a list of products you can get for free, and all you have to do is let them know which product(s) you want to try. See some BEAUTY examples sent out to me to choose from...
1. Hemp Skincare Products
   
2. Body Wipes
3. Eyelash Curler
4. Skin Protectant Seal
5. Hair Restore Shampoo
6. Body Scrubber
7. Fat Freezing Product
8. Jewelry
   
3. After you pick the product(s), FBA reviews will send you the money via PayPal so that you can purchase the product. YES, YOU READ RIGHT; they send you the money first to buy the product as this company is legit. Not like some of those scammers or Amazon sellers that ask you to purchase first, and then they will reimburse you after your review, which is against Amazons ToS.
   
4. You commit to leaving your HONEST thoughts and comments about the product (good, bad, and ugly). You can do this via the product review or leave feedback via FBA's feedback form.
   
5. It is that easy!!!

Register Here

UPDATE FAQ's... Is This ToS Complaint

1. The transactions are through a 3rd party, FBA Reviews. YOU ARE NOT working with a seller on Amazon.
2. FBA sends the money to testers in advance of them purchasing it, not the Amazon seller. Thus, there are no holding funds back "in exchange"for a review of their product.
3. You purchase the product and try it as any customer would.
4. While FBA asks you to leave your HONEST feedback on the product that you have tried (good, bad, and ugly) either by email, their feedback form, or a review on Amazon, you are not obligated to do so.

So What Are You Waiting For???
Register Here

Cica is short for Centella Asiatica and is a medical plant that has been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. The Cica plant is known for its healing capabilities, which is why it is one of thehottest skincare ingredients when it comes to K-Beauty.

This leafy green herb is more than just an old wives' tale of healing and that tigers would rub their wounds to help their skin regenerate. There are Cica studies where researchers found that the Centella Asiatica extract facilitates the healing of incisions and burns. No wonder it has made its way into skincare products. But what exactly does this miracle skincare ingredient do, and is it worth the hype?

The Benefits Of Cica And Skincare

Aside from the ability that Cica has in rebuilding the skin barrier, it has a plethora of other skin-loving benefits, from toning the skin, boosting collagen, aiding in cellular repair, protecting the skin from free radicals to reducing fine lines and wrinkles!  In addition to this, Cica is full of nutrients that are beneficial to the skin, like beta-carotene, amino acids, niacin, and vitamins A, B1, B2, and C, all that are amazing at moisturizing and brightening the skin! Just what you need this holiday season! 

Furthermore, when looking for skincare products infused with Centella Asiatica, you want to look for products that you leave on the skin. For example, Cica Serums, Cica Sheet Masks, and Cica Moisturizers.

Now we know what you're thinking: Where can I purchase skincare with Cicain it, and how do I use it? Well, no worries beauties as we have an amazing K-beauty skincare line that you are going to love!

Meebak Skincare The Hottest K-Beauty Skincare Line
One brand that I was recently introduced to is Meebak (pronounced Me Back) Skincare. I was so impressed with the skincare line, which prompted me to share with you the benefits of Cica as this is Meebak's star ingredient, along with other quality ingredients backed by both nature and science. The brand is also free of harmful ingredients like parabens and sulfates, and they never, ever test on animals!

Meebak's Cica Holiday Gift Sets
A gift set? Yes, beauties, you read, right! Just in time for the holiday season, Meebak offers a Holiday Skincare Kit containing their top CICA skincare products. A must-have gift for that skincare lover in your life. See the items below that are included in the kit!

• 1 Cica Mask
• Cica Misting Toner, 1.7 fl oz.
• Cica & Vitamin C Serum, 1.01 fl oz
• Cica Eye Cream, 1.01 fl oz
• Cica Cream, 1.68 fl. oz.
  

Anti-aging Cica Face Cream
Meebak's cica cream is a rich anti-aging cream that calms, smooths, and moisturizes with cica's healing and soothing properties. It is great for anti-aging as it helps to protect the skin from free radicals that can cause premature aging.

Cica Sheet Mask
This sheet mask is a must for glowing holiday skin. It is incredible for hydrating and brightening the skin for a dewy, glowing complexion.

Eye Cream Infused With Cica
Too much holiday cheer? Well, now you can bag those puffy eyes with this nourishing eye cream. This  eye cream also promotes skin barrier function!

Mist Me Baby With The Cica Hydrating Toner
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration, Baby! This toner that doubles as a mist is made with a soothing formula designed to provide calming relief to even the most sensitive dry winter skin. Toners are a must to protect the skin against free radicals. They are also fantastic for prepping the skin for better absorption of moisturizers and serums. Speaking of serums, that brings us to the next product, the Cica Serum, infused with Vitamin C.

Cica & Vitamin C Serum
We saved the best for last, and I so love this serum!!! This brightening serum with Cica and Vitamin C restores the moisture barrier in dry, irritated skin and infuses essential nutrients deep into its layers to reveal a lit-from-within look. It is a must to keep your skin hydrated and radiant all winter long!

So what are you waiting for beauties?

Stock up NOW with 30% OFF!

Many are looking forthe perfect gift for holiday stresses, and CBD is here to the rescue!  With all the hell to put it nicely of 2020, I believe it is fair to say most are experiencing more anxiety and stress than they usually do! Add that to the pressures that can come with the holiday, and you can be in stress overdrive. Hence, there’s never been a better time to treat yourself or a loved one to some stress-busting CBD than with Eden Herbals full-spectrum CBD.  

There isn't much time to get all the presents ordered, wrapped, and placed under the tree or placed in a stocking with care. But no worries, as Eden Herbals is the place to satisfy all your CBD needs with that gift of zen this season. From your family, friends, pets, and even for yourself, they have you covered this holiday season.

The Hype About CBD
Now I know some are still living under a rock and are not familiar with CBD and may think it contains THC (The ingredient found in cannabis that creates the mind-altering "high").  But that is far from the truth. So what exactly is CBD and the hype?

I've been using CBD for over two years. I was first introduced to the use of CBD by my sister. She is a nurse but has had some medical issues that have made her disabled, unable to work, and in a lot of pain. Not wanting to take tons of medication, which she was prescribed, she opted to try a holistic approach using CBD oil, and we are happy to say it works! 

So, from her nausea, insomnia, migraines, too severe pain from a neurological issue (CBD has found to have particular application as neuroprotectants), she has found some tremendous benefits from CBD products.

What The Heck Is CBD And Where Does It Come From
As mentioned above, CBD is not marijuana. CBD is a cannabinoid that is extracted from cannabis. Like any other plant species, cannabis comes in various shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. One group of cannabis strains is called hemp. Hemp is also known as industrial hemp or agricultural hemp, and unlike the strains referred to as marijuana, hemp is used for building materials, textiles, and food.

And there just happens to be strains of hemp that are high in CBD and have negligible amounts of THC—hence allowing the consumer to enjoy the benefits of CBD without the risk of getting high.

What Are The Health Benefits Of CBD?
Like how we use vitamin C to kick-start our immune system, CBD acts as a kick-starter to keep our own bodies cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids working at optimal capacity and help the functions of the body’s central regulatory system. CBD has been the subject of several health-related studies, and yes, it is legal in all fifty states. I have highlighted several of the findings below:

• Acne
• Joint pain treatment
• Improving the health of the skin
• Anxiety relief
• Reduce cigarette cravings and other addictions
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• High blood pressure
• Dealing with quartine family during the holiday season (ha)
• And many More

Now that you know what the heck CBD oil is, you too can enjoy some of the many benefits this holiday season.

Tell Me About All The CBD Options
CBD is available in several different forms. This allows people to tailor their method of use to their specific needs. Here is of some of the most popular forms of CBD.

CBD Tinture- These absorb quickly and are usually oil, where you'd place a dropper under the tongue. 

CBD Gummies- Eden Herbals CBD edibles are a convenient and tasty way to deliver CBD into your body. They have tons of yummy options, like gummies bears and sour apple gummies.

CBD Isolate- Eden Herbals isolate comes in a powder that you can add to cookies, tea, coffee, or just about anything you can think of! It is scentless and flavorless.

CBD For Pets- This is a thing? Yes, it is. While Eden Herbals only sells CBD for dogs. CBD is fantastic for cats (just have to make sure you find a version for cat). I have an anxious cat, and adding CBD to her diet has been MEOWtastic!

Topical CBD- CBD has tons of benefits for the skin as well.  Eden Herbals offers a lotion and a salve. 

• CBD salves are designed to work on cracked skin, skin irritations, callouses, and other hand and feet related problems.  The texture is like a balm and is usually made with oil and beeswax.
• CBD lotions have much broader uses. CBD lotions are great to slather all over the body to help dry, scaly skin.
  

So what are you waiting for? 

Get your dose of CBD today with my code for BARBIESBEAUTYBITS1 

Click Here For 10% OFF

Long, luscious eyelashes for days? Does that sound exciting to you? Well, guess what…they are! And did you know you can make a career out of it? By becoming a certified lash technician. If you are a stylist, currently in cosmetology school, or an aesthetic student and want to become marketable in your niche, why not consider specializing in semi-permanent eyelash extensions?
 
Eyelash extensions are becoming more popular than mascara and are among the most sought-after cosmetic treatments available on the market. The procedure is quickly learned, allowing trained beauty professionals to expand their clientele by offering this service.

Now there are tons of juicy details on eyelash extensions, and we will go over them extensively, but before we do that, you need to find out if this beauty technique is something you want to offer and become trained in.

Before You Begin - Who Can Apply Eyelash Extensions
The first and most important thing to know that eyelash extensions are only designed for professional use. As a lash technician, you want to become credible and reputable to grow your business, so it is essential to become trained and certified. Before registering for training, you need to check with your own state regarding eyelash extensions, as each state is different.

5 Traits Needed To Be A Successful Lash Technician
As with any occupation, you need to make sure it is for you. While offering eyelash extensions at your place of business may seem like the step to take to become more successful, just because you are trained in the field doesn't mean you will be good at it. There is no debating that there is an art to the trade, and having certain traits will help you along the way.

1. Patience: The process to apply lashes can take a few hours, depending on the type of look the client desires.
2. Steady Hands: With up to 60 lashes per eye. Every lash needs to be perfect.
3. Attention To Detail: There is no room for errors; you want a good reputation, not sloppy job Sally.
4. Incredible Eye Sight: Not everyone is lucky to have 20/20 vision. If you have to wear glasses, make sure you can work and see the tiny details.
5. Dexterous Fingers

Everything You Need To Know About Eyelash Extensions
Ton's of women, even some men, are longing for gorgeous, fluttery, long, lush  lashes. But the hassle of having to apply falsies all the time can be time-consuming. And this is where eyelash extensions come in—a more permanent shortcut to amazing long, full lashes.

Unlike strip false eyelashes, where the lashes are applied to the skin and removed after each use. Eyelash extensions are semi-permanent and are attached to the lashes, so they grow and shed naturally with your lashes. Additionally, lash extensions can be customized to fit the eye shape or the length your client lusts after.

What Are The Eyelash Extensions Made From
Eyelash extensions come in various materials. While some argue that eyelash extensions created from natural hair (like mink hair) are of higher quality, that is not true. Thankfully there are lashes made from synthetic materials and silk lashes (made from silk protein), and faux-mink lashes (human-made fibers)- all of which are glamourous, durable, and lighter. At Noble Lashes, they are completely against animal cruelty, which is why they offer silk eyelashes made from silk proteins. Their lashes are lightweight, soft, flexible, and naturally curled- minus the evil animal cruelty!

What Other Supplies Do You Need In Your Eyelash Arsenal To Create Beautiful Eyelash Extensions
As with most cosmetic produces, you need some prep gear in your eyelash arsenal. Below are just s few of the Eyelash Extension Supplies you will need to create beautiful eyelash extensions.

Oil-Free Cleansers: Even before the treatment begins, it is imperative that you remove the client's makeup and gently cleanse the eyelashes.  Just as you would wash a client's hair, you need to clean the natural lashes thoroughly.

Noble Lashes provides various professional eyelash cleaners in both liquid and foam form, designed for professional use in beauty salons. The cleansers are often infused with different natural extracts that further act as a gentle conditioner and give the eyelashes a healthy look.

Primers: These are frequently used during eyelash extension treatments, as they improve the effects and allow them to hold on longer. They allow better bonding with eyelash adhesive - another crucial component of eyelash extension treatment.

Eyelash Glue: For a seamless connection, you need to adhere those bad boys with the natural eyelashes. Depending on your client’s eye and skin sensitivity, you need to choose a proper glue type. Most of the available glues are quick-settling, taking only a second to create a strong bond. However, some stronger strength glues can sometimes cause an allergic reaction, especially in sensitive clients. In such cases, we highly recommend using a hypoallergenic eyelash adhesive.

Classic, Hybrid, And Volume Eyelash Extensions- What Is The Difference
What Are The Different Volume Of Eyelash Extensions
One of the significant aspects of eyelash extensions is their wide variety of types and styles. Depending on the kind of lash look a client is seeking, there is a lash out there.

Classic Eye Lash
The most basic division of eyelash extensions is between 1:1 eyelash extensions and volume extensions. Using the 1:1 application method, a single extension is used per every single natural eyelash. While such a technique can already provide glamorous results, you will often encounter clients who want a more visible effect. In such cases, volume methods of application are a perfect choice.

Volume Eye Lash Extensions
The most common types of volume eyelashes are 2D, 3D, and 4D, also called 2:1, 3:1, and 4:1. Very often, lash technicians advertise volume extensions under the name Hollywood Effect. Using these methods, adding more than just one extension to a client’s eyelashes - sometimes even as many as ten!

Bonus tip: When using volume eyelashes, the lash technician must be meticulous and thoroughly check the client’s natural eyelashes condition. While most volume extensions have reduced weight and feature ergonomic placement that evenly distributes the gravitational pull affecting the eyelashes, caution should always be applied NOT to damage the current lashes.

Hybrid Lashes:
Hybrid lashes are a 70-30 mixture of both classic lashes and volume lashes. Hybrid eyelash extensions give your clients the best of both worlds.
 

Customize Your Eyelash Extensions With Curl, Diameter, And Length
There's more? Of course, one size does not fit all. It is essential to understand the lash extensions' length, weight, thickness, and curl and how you would apply each, which will allow you to step up your game better to customize a look to each client's specific needs.

Thickness: When deciding the thickness (diameter), you should not only consider the design aspect but, more importantly, the condition of your client's natural lashes. The most common thickness of eyelash extension ranges between 0.03mm and 0.30mm, but you might also encounter higher diameter extensions.

Curl: When it comes to the extensions' shape, there is a wide variety of curls available. There are more than what we listed below, but this will give you an understanding of the different lash curl you can create. (or look at the photo above)

• I curl- More straight forward, great for men who want to enhance the thickness, but without curl.
  
• J curl- Are natural looking but best suited for clients whose natural lashes point straight up or forward
  
• B curl- Offers a soft curl, a natural-looking effect - perfect for women looking for a noticeable yet believable enhancement. 
• C curl is the most popular curl, it is glamorous and provide a lift to the eyes. 
• D curl can be more fitting for those more daring, as they provide a more dramatic curve.
  

If your client is looking for something that offers extreme lift, you can also use the U curl to further accent the eyelashes.

The Length: Eyelash extensions come in a variety of lengths from 5mm-20mm. But not all lengths are for everyone. Most likely clients are going to tell you they want long lashes. But you need to be able to explain to the client that the condition of their lashes will determine the length of the eyelash extension.  If the extensions are much longer than their regular lashes, it could cause premature fallout and shedding. Setting the correct expectation is vital to be a successful eyelash technician.

So there you have it! Everything you need to know to become a certified lash technician... Finish your training, certification and internship and you are on your way to applying eyelash extensions like a pro!

Over The Counter, Teeth Whitening Versus Professional Teeth Whitening is a question many have, but which is better, and do over the counter teeth whiteners really work? Are they even safe?

I am like most people; I want a brighter, whiter smile. Having a full set of pearly white teeth makes you feel more confident and usually perceived as a sign of good health and that you practice proper oral hygiene.

But teeth whitening comes with a lot of cultural baggage; there are tons of teeth whitening hacks I see daily on Instagram, TikTok, and beauty blogs. And although some influencer teeth whitening advice works, some are a bunch of BS that a dentist would surely debunk. 

While most people are not going to rub peroxide on their teeth with a Q-tip, gargle with coconut oil, rub your teeth with a banana peel or exfoliate your teeth with strawberries, many will consider using an over the counter teeth whitener, but do they really work?

In this post, we look at some unvarnished truths about teeth whitening shared with me by a professional.  I will focus on the difference between over the counter teeth whitening versus professional-grade teeth whitening.  

Here’s What I Learned About 

Over The Counter Teeth Whitening Versus Professional Teeth Whitening

Not All LED Teeth Whitener Kits Are Safe For Your Teeth
I'm sure you've seen these; they are those little gizmos that look like an oversized pacifier and come with an LED light. Well, did you know that some of them are actually damaging your teeth? What??? I would have never known this as I have used them and had good results, but I just learned that the results I saw may have not come from the whitening solution's effect but rather dehydration. What the heck, I never knew this!!!!

You see, the bulk of the whitening action from these types of teeth whiteners comes from dehydration, not hydrogen peroxide. When you remove the moisture from your tooth enamel, your teeth will dry out and become whiter. So before considering using one of these OTC gel and LED kits do your research. 

Do At-Home Teeth Whiteners Work As Well As Professional Grade Whiteners
Over-the-counter teeth whiteners do work; I can attest to that, but they do not work as fast or as well as the professional-grade whitener you would get from your dentist.  But why?  There are many reasons why, but the biggest is the strength of the product. There’s a big difference between the strength of treatment that manufacturers can offer over-the-counter and what dentists can offer.

Over The Counter Teeth Whiteners
Practically all teeth whitening options rely on some kind of bleaching options. Over-the-counter whitening products usually use hydrogen peroxide as their active ingredient. However, the concentration levels of these are low. My dentist told me that companies need to do this so there are no harmful side effects like chemical burns to the gums (as no one would purchase if that was a side effect).  The low concentration takes many applications and usage before you start seeing any difference in your teeth's colors and usually can't whiten any more than three shades, EVER!!!!

Professional Grade Teeth Whitening From A Dental Practice
Professional grade whitening is more effective because of the higher-concentration bleaching techniques (some can change up to 8 shades). Secondly, before you even start, you would get a personal consultation to discuss the teeth whitening options to help you decide which one is right for you.  

Unlike over the counter, where one size and number of applications is for everyone, at a dentist's office, they usually use a custom-tray fit to the mouth to make sure it is applied directly onto the tooth and stays far away from the gum area.  And as a bonus, the whitening gel used can be PH neutral, which means it helps prevent cavities! Speaking of cavities, that brings me to my next tip on teeth whitening.

Whitening Can’t Compensate For Proper Oral Hygiene
Professional, at-home bleaching kits are easy to use with some simple guidelines. One being you need to take care of your teeth, as while whitening can help enhance the results of an effective oral hygiene routine, it can’t replace it.

The first step to keeping your teeth bright and white is to practice good oral hygiene. Ideally, this includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing to remove plaque and buildup, and using mouthwash to get rid of bacteria that can cause plaque. It is also, and I am bad at this, best to brush your teeth right after you eat to help keep your teeth stain-free and healthy.

Some Others Ways To Help Whitening Your Teeth And Make The Best Use Of A Whitener

1. Don't Smoke... Smokers often have yellow teeth because of the tar in cigarettes. Whitening can help temporarily, but the results won’t last long if the smoking continues. The best way to keep your teeth looking great is to stop smoking and ditch the habit.
2. Be Careful About What You Eat and Drink
1. Some specific foods and beverages are culprits of teeth discoloration, including red wine, coffee, tea, soft drinks, and even some berries, and I consume all of them!! These foods get their color from intensely pigmented molecules called chromogens, which bind to your teeth' enamel.
2. Another food discoloring culprit is acidic foods like citrus, which can weaken your enamel, making your teeth more susceptible to staining.
   

Teeth Whitening Can’t Remove All Forms Of Discoloration From The Teeth
Another reason why it is also essential to see a professional for teeth whitening is to establish the reason for your discolored teeth, as teeth whitening can't remove all types of discolorations—for example, greying of the teeth. The extensive use of Pharmaceutical drugs usually causes this. No amount of bleaching will make a difference because the cause of the discoloration has to do with the enamel itself, not a stain. In these cases, veneers are usually a better solution.

To Sum Up What I Learned 

You get what you pay for, meaning the lower cost of home whitening comes with lower quality results; while some can whiten your teeth, it is only a few shades, they don't last as long, and you also risk misuse and can unknowingly damage your teeth, I know I have. 

You can also end up paying more by using an over the counter whitener if you are continually using these over the years versus a professional treatment that can get the job done right the first time as long you do your part in proper hygiene and limiting heavy stain ingredients. Bottom line as with any cosmetic product do your research, read reviews, and look for real before and after photos.  

Oh, and if anyone has tried brushing their teeth with strawberries or rubbed your teeth with a banana peel to whiten, I'd love to know the results! 

Until next time!

Welcome to 2021! But are you feeling merry and bright or feeling a fright because you are hungover? Headaches, drowsiness, and nausea? Oh my. But on top of these, did you know that alcohol can also wreak havoc on your skin. From dryness, dullness, breakouts, even premature aging. But what are you to do? Start right away with these Best Beauty Hangover Tips!

The Night Before Skincare Hangover Routine

Yes, if you are somewhat coherent, you should attempt to implement some of these hangover beauty routines before you pass out.

Remove Your Makeup With A Makeup Eraser 

No matter how comfy that bed may look you need to remove your makeup. A Makeup Eraser is a quick and easy way for you to remove your makeup as all you need is water. The makeup eraser will work its magic even on waterproof mascara, with ONLY WATER! And a bonus it will also exfoliate the skin.

Pile On An Over Night Recovery Sleeping Skincare Mask
A hydrating mask is key to restoring moisture to your skin, alleviating dullness, and fighting under-eye circles the next day. And Dr. Brandt's Hydro Biotic Recovery Sleeping Mask is here to the rescue. With soothing peptides along with a restorative blend of ceramides, fatty acids, and calming ingredients. They also work the night shift to help soothe, nourish, and restore hydration to the skin. Come morning, angsty skin is hydrated and beautifully balanced for a glowing, refreshed complexion.

Show Your Eyes Some Love With A Calming Eye Cream Enriched With CBD
Show your eyes some love with TreCeutical's Eye Love Cream. A fantastic eye cream formulation challenge is to have effective, nutrient-rich ingredients to tackle alcohol-induced issues such as puffiness and dehydration. And TreCeuticals eye cream does just that as it is enriched with CBD to the bag those hangover eyes- full-spectrum CBD is known to soothe and nourish the skin.

Sleep On An Extra Pillow After Drinking Too Much
Consider sleeping on your back with a few extra pillows propped under your head as it will promote fluid drainage, so you'll look less puffy the next day.

Sleep With A Light Blocking Eye Mask To Prevent A Hangover
Gently cover your eyes for a peaceful night's sleep! Aside from skin issues, alcohol can also affect your Rem sleep as well as a light leading to post-sleep tiredness. That's why you need a blackout sleep mask that covers and conforms to your eyes to block 100% of light, even in broad daylight — so you always get deep, uninterrupted sleep.

This contoured sleep mask from Aroma Season is very light and comfortable to wear. It is soft, flexible, and has an eyes feel free to design, so it doesn't move and distracts your eyes and head from pressure, helping you wake up relaxed and refreshed. (Some eye masks are also designed to ease headaches).

If a black out mask is not your choice no worries as Aroma Season has countless of options to choose from,  for every type of concern you may have, not just for preventing a hangover. For example:

• Aromatherapy Heated Eye Mask
• USB Steam Heated Eye Mask
• Moist Heated Eye Mask
• Weighted Sleep Mask

The Morning After Hangover Beauty Routine

Pamper Your Skin After Drinking With A Soapnut Cleanser
No matter how well you think you cleaned your face the night before, chances are your drunken self did not do it very well.  You want to give your hungover skin the boost it needs by using a soapnut cleanser that gently cleanses without stripping natural oils of the skin, and Zoi Naturals Neroli Face Wash is the must-have wash to help balance the skin's PH for that morning after.

But what the heck is a soapnut?
Soapnuts seem to be the newest and oldest all-natural trend for cleansing. This isn't surprising as they have been around for hundreds of years! People in Nepal, India, even Native Americans have known about the incredible cleansing powers for years.  They are actually the dried shells (or husks) from the soapberry nut, which come from the Sapindus mukorossi tree—a unique species of trees found in both the eastern and western hemispheres.

Soapnuts are excellent at pampering dry hungover skin as they are a mild, gentle natural cleanser great for soothing the skin.  I love to use Neroli's face wash after drinking a bottle of wine because it also has some other skin-loving ingredients, like...

• Aloe Vera - Soothes the skin and helps regenerate cellular turnover.
• Calendula Extract- Reduces the occurrence of dry skin.
• Coconut Oil - Moisturizes the skin and prevents acne.
• Olive Oil - Prevents dryness and rejuvenates the skin.
• Neem - Prevents pimples and protects the skin.
• Shea Butter - Diminishes wrinkles and increases blood circulation.

Fight Dry Hungover Skin By Exfoliating

Your skin has lost a lot of moisture after consuming too much alcohol so it may feel drier than usual and flaky patches may even appear.  Exfoliation is one of the best ways to repair your skin after drinking! While there are some great skincare products to exfoliate with, the beauty tool needed to do the job is Spa Sciences Sonic Cleansing Brush. Use this with Neroli's Face Wash and you'll soon be on your way to glowing, happy skin!

Cure A Hangover Fast With Dry Brushing
Give your body a good brush over with dry brushing. Dry brushing is a way to increase circulation through your body, which will help to move the alcohol out of your body quicker.

Elevate Your Electrolytes After Drinking Too Much Alcohol
My new best friend is a refreshing hydration mix when it comes to a hangover cure called Hydrant! Created to rehydrate the body fast this product is a lightly flavored real fruit juice powder that contains the precise blend of electrolytes you need to own your day. This rapid-hydration formula strikes a balance of potassium, magnesium, sodium, and zinc to keep you truly hydrated! You can instantly feel it working.

Hydrate The Skin After Drinking With Cica
We all know that alcohol is a direct cause of dehydration, but this dehydration can also lead to premature aging as it deprives cells of the water they need to keep skin hydrated and healthy. So just as you are drinking a glass of Hydrant right now, your skin also needs some more hydration. So why not start with a hydrating face mist enriched with CICA.

What the heck is Cica, you ask with that hangover headache? Cica has a plethora of skin-loving benefits, from toning the skin, boosting collagen, rebuilding the skin barrier, aiding in cellular repair, providing some much-needed hydration, and yes, there is more! Cica is also full of nutrients that are beneficial to the skin, like beta-carotene, amino acids, niacin, and vitamins A, B1, B2, and C, all that are amazing at moisturizing and brightening the skin!

My all-time favorite CICA brand is Meebak and their toner that doubles as a mist is terrific at calming relief to even the most sensitive dry, alcohol-induced dry skin. 

Brighten The Skin After Drinking With Gold
Gold, yes, you read correctly. A go-to secret weapon of mine is a 24K Gold Cream. Infused with gold flakes and hyaluronic acid, this rich moisturizer brings that much-needed glow to your complexion, so you will look as if you hadn't drunk the extra shot as the ball dropped last night!  (24K GOLD has been used in skincare for hundreds of years due to its anti-aging properties)

Remove Puffiness And Toxins With A Isla Face Roller
Face massage is the key to reducing post-alcohol puffiness as it helps boost circulation and encourage lymphatic drainage. Better than just using your fingers, Spa Sciences Isla Sonic Face & Body Contouring Ice & Heat Roller (can be used cool from a skincare fridge or warm from room temperature) is my go-to beauty tool after enjoying a bottle of Pinot Noir.  Not only will this beauty help to restore your skin to its toned and supple self, but it is excellent to help relieve that hangover headache as the uplifting sonic technology is fantastic at soothing and relaxing your muscles.

A bonus the ISLA helps to penetrate your skincare deeper, so use it with an eye cream under the eyes to help alleviate under-eye puffiness and swelling.  It also works great with your favorite hyaluronic serum, which brings us to the next skincare product to help with your hungover skin.

Hyaluronic Madness With A Shot Of Ginseng
Now do not get queasy as you are not doing any shots. But Ginjo Beauty has an excellent 24-hour collagen serum that delivers a cocktail of nutrients and hydrators like hyaluronic acid, Korean forest-grown Ginseng, Squalene, Green tea, and shea butter, all that help nurture the delicate facial skin to perfection by optimally nourishing and replenishing the skin’s own moisture!

Ready To Create Your Own Beauty Hangover Kit?

Well now you can as some brands were nice enough to offer a discount code:

30% off on Zoi Naturals Neroli Face Wash exclusively on amazon.com
Use Code: BARBIESBEAUTYBITS

10% Off Initial Order For A 3d Light Blocking Eye Mask
Click Here

Hydrant: 50% Off Your First Order
Click Here

TreCeuticals: 20% Off Your First Order
Click Here

Shop Amazon For Some Others
Spa Sciences Isla... Click Here