Going Platinum Blonde. Everything You Need to Know

Welp, I’m officially the most indecisive person on the planet because I changed my hair AGAIN. I chopped it all off and dyed it blonde. One of my life goals is to slowly turn into a Kardashian (just kidding…kinda) and my inspiration for this change was when Kim went blonde. She looked amazing and I’ve really wanted to try it ever since. This is the picture I used for reference.

Let me tell you, it is NOT easy to go from black to blonde. It is a 12 hour + process and costs almost a grand (being pretty ain’t cheap!). It takes at least 3 rounds of bleach to get the black pigment out, and then I did two rounds of toners to get the nice white colour. My hair takes to bleach really easily because I have white genes in me, and caucasian hair is much easier to turn for some reason. For other ethnicities like Asian girls that have truly black hair, it’s much harder and will take more rounds of bleach.

I’ll insert a few pictures of the bleaching process (sorry they are blurry lol). It went from black to orange to an unsightly yellow (purely bleached hair is not cute, you need to tone afterwards). It takes a long time because you need to sit in the bleach for an hour, and then because bleach is so damaging to your hair, I needed to do an intense treatment in between bleaches so my hair wouldn’t fall right off.

After the third round of bleach and treatments, it is time to tone and get rid of all the yellow tints. After the first toner I was a little worried because it was still pretty yellow, but then my hairdresser put something special in the second toner to try to lift all that yellow as much as possible. While it wasn’t perfect (it still had some yellow tints and was not pure ice white like Kim K.) we got pretty darn close! I have to go back in a month for another round of bleach and toner to try and get it as white as we can.

Now, let’s talk about aftercare. In the shower I use the Fanola Purple Shampoo and Mask, and I switch out that mask for the Schwarzkopf Keratin Smooth Perfect Conditioner for unmanageable hair. After the shower I towel try my hair for a bit then apply the Oribe Gold Lust Oil, and then the Oribe Straight Away Smoothing Blowout Cream. I then take a round brush and blow dry my hair straight. This combination of products leaves my hair SO SMOOTH and straight for days on end.

 

I couldn’t be happier with how it turned out, I’m excited to see how it looks after my second round!

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That’s it for now!

xoxo,

Sarah

 

I Tried Affordable Products Celebrities Swear By – By Marisa Chiorello

Hey beautiful souls!

It’s no secret that I’m obsessed with trying different brands and types of makeup. For me, personally, makeup is just one of the many ways I express myself. So, I definitely do not wear makeup for other people, only for myself. If you’ve read my previous posts, you know that my makeup consists of liquid foundation, concealer, loose powder, bronzer, blush, mascara, highlighter, and a pop of colour on the lips. Recently, I ran out of some of my makeup staples, but I decided to do something different. Instead of purchasing my usual brands, I purchased some drugstore makeup and products that celebrities swear by. Yes, some celebrities are just like us! I couldn’t wait to try these affordable goodies.

L’Oréal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara ($9)

Loreal Mascara (1)

The first product I purchased was L’Oréal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara. The celebrity who swears by this drugstore mascara is Vanessa Hudgens. I thought it was fitting to begin with this actress and singer because many people say I look like her. According to Vanessa, “you can really layer [this mascara] on for tons of volume and length.” She was right about this! I used three coats of this mascara and loved how long and thick my lashes looked. They almost looked like fake lashes! I also love how affordable this mascara is and the fact that it’s waterproof. Thanks to Vanessa, I’ll be using this mascara everyday and purchasing more once I run out.


L’Oréal Paris Enchanted Paradise Blush
, $13

paradise blush

I stayed with L’Oréal for my blush. The celebrity who uses this blush is Camila Cabello. I chose Camila because we have similar skin tones so I knew this product would look great on my skin. It sure did! I loved this blush because it’s easy to apply and really complimented my skin tone.  It wasn’t too pink, or too bright so I didn’t look like a clown, haha. Not to mention, it smells delicious!

 

Covergirl Katy Kat Matte Lipstick, $9

katy kat matte

Recently, I’ve been using plumping gloss, butter gloss, and Kylie Cosmetics gloss in Cinnamon. However, I miss my lipstick, so I decided to pick one up. I went with Covergirl’s matte lipstick. The celebrity who uses this lipstick is Lorde. I’m not sure what shade Lorde uses, but I opted for Pink Paws. This lipstick is so worth it, especially for the price. It glides on smoothly and easily. I love the colour, the fact that it’s long lasting, and it’s comfortable. It doesn’t dry out your lips or become clumpy after wearing it for hours. The pop of colour was magical, too.

 

Burt’s Bees Facial Cleansing Towelettes, $5

burt's bees cleansing towelettes

The next product I purchased was makeup-removing wipes. Ariana Grande swears by these wipes and uses them everyday as part of her facial cleansing routine. I was very pleased with these makeup-removing wipes. They took off all of my makeup without making my face feel dry. Also, my face didn’t burn which is what normally happens with makeup-removing wipes. These wipes even smelled delicious.

 

Eco Style Gel Olive Oil, $3

image 

I’ve recently been using Marc Anthony Strictly Curls Defining Lotion, but I noticed that this lotion does not fight against my curl’s frizz that well. Actress and activist, Yara Shahidi loves this gel. She said it’s “the most efficient,” gel and what helps her get her amazing curls. Not only is this gel super affordable, but also it’s lightweight and doesn’t make my curls hard and stiff. Instead, it fights frizz, hydrates my hair, and makes my curls soft. I have my best hair days with this gel!

 

Pacifica Super Green Detox Kale & Charcoal Detox Facial Mask, $4

super green detox face mask

Self-care is super important, and that includes taking care of your skin. When I think about skin care, I don’t think of just washing and moisturizing my face, I think of facemasks, too! I picked up a kale and charcoal detox facial mask. The celebrity who loves this mask is actress and singer, Lea Michele. After trying this mask, my face felt lighter, smooth, and moisturized. I love how affordable this mask is. It’s also cruelty-free and uses a lot of ingredients that are good for your skin, such as Vitamin C and Green tea.

Let me know which celebrity staple you want to try!

Until next time,

Marisa

Gel Nails at Home – Bossy Double UV Lamp

I am SO excited about this next post because I think I’ve finally mastered the art of nails at home. A while ago I posted my different attempts trying professional nails on my own. I tried both acrylic nails (where you have the liquid and powder that you make into a mixture yourself) which is really hard and not worth the time in my opinion, and I also tried dipping powder, which was easy but the nails fell off in like 2 days. I’ll link that post here if you want to read more about those processes.

https://livelifeintheflorallane.com/2019/02/25/at-home-professional-nails/

Now here I am trying gel nails, and it’s by far the easiest method I’ve tried, when I initially thought it was going to be the opposite (idk why it always just seemed the hardest?). The process takes about 2.5h which is the same as if you were to go to a salon, but at home you can take pee and snack breaks and also breaks for puppy/kitty cuddles in between ;).

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I first start by buffing off the old shelac colour and grinding it down to a smooth base before I apply the layer of gel. I then take a square flat nail brush, dip it into the gel and apply it on like I would any nail colour. I start from the base where the cuticles are and put a thicker layer where it needs to be refilled, then drag the gel up the rest of the nail. It’s a really thick gel and it’s super easy to work with, and if you make a mistake you can wipe it up and fix it before it hardens when you put it in the UV lamp.

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Once the gel is done and hardened (I like to put it in the lamp for 2-3 round just to be extra safe) I switch up the head on my electric nail file so it’s not so harsh and we don’t buff off all the hard work we just did. I buff it down so it’s super smooth, file it to the shape I want it and now we’re ready to paint.

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This part is super easy, you take the UV gel base, put it in the machine, put on whatever shelac colour you want, put it in the machine, and then finally put on your top coat and, yup you guessed it, put it in the machine LOL.

And that’s pretty much it! They turned out super nice and they lasted for a good three weeks before they grew out and I had to do my next refill.

This is by far my new favourite method of nails and I will never be spending money in a nail salon ever again! You can get these supplies at any nail supply store, and I think my total ended up being around $250 for the entire kit (which comes with 6 polishes).

Here is a picture of the final product for the past two attempts.

That’s it for now, I hope you enjoyed!

xoxo

Sarah

For A Whiter, Brighter Smile, Try Keeko Oil Pulling Sachets – By Marisa Chiorello

Hello there, beautiful souls!

Who isn’t on the hunt for a whiter and brighter smile? A healthy, beautiful smile certainly helps with self-confidence! I know when my smile is white and bright, I actually enjoy smiling.  Okay, okay, I totally show it off- guilty as charged! But, sometimes we can’t get a whiter and brighter smile by getting our teeth cleaned every six months. There are so many drinks and food out there that stain our teeth. Unfortunately for me, coffee is one of them. I noticed that because of my caffeine habit, my teeth become slightly stained over time. I searched for teeth whitening products and finally found a super cool, successful one! Here’s why you should try Keeko Oil Pulling Sachets!

                  What Is Oil Pulling And Oil Pulling Sachets?

keeko oil main pic

Keeko and all of its products are Australian made and owned. However, they really care about all of their customers. They are dedicated to your complete satisfaction. If you don’t live in Australia you can still order the products. Are you ready to try oil pulling?

Oil pulling is known for its various benefits such as whitening teeth, getting rid of bad breath, preventing cavities, strengthening teeth and gums, and detoxing your mouth and your body. It’s all natural! So, when I discovered these sachets I knew I had to try them! I was ready to transform my teeth!

Keeko oil pulling sachets are tiny packets filled with organic coconut, lemon, chamomile, myrrh, peppermint, and spearmint oils. These sachets come in different flavours such as Sweet Sensation and Citrus Burst. I tried all of them, but Morning Mint is my absolute favourite!

                  How To Use Oil Pulling Sachets

In order to see successful results, you’ll have to use one packet for fourteen days. First, the packet of oil is pretty hard. You’ll have to massage the packet with your hands, or run it under warm water, in order to activate the oil. Once that’s done, you’re ready to start! Just open the packet, put the oil in your mouth, and swish!

You should swish the oil in your mouth for five to fifteen minutes. I found that the longer I swished the oil in my mouth, the better the result! So, I recommend setting a timer for fifteen minutes.  You must spit the oil into a garbage bin after the fifteen minutes are done, because it can clog your sink! After that, just brush your teeth!

The Benefits Of Keeko Oil Pulling Sachets

keeko oil image

You will finally have a whiter, brighter smile after using these sachets! And, it only takes a matter of weeks! Also, these sachets are gentle, dentist recommended, vegan, organic, not tested on animals, gluten free, and non- GMO! They are really good for you, and you don’t have to worry about any negative side effects. I know I didn’t!

After fourteen days, I really saw and felt a difference in my teeth. Now, I can’t stop smiling!

If you decide to try Keeko Oil Pulling Sachets, let me know! You can order them at www.keekooil.com for $38.95AU. They are also available at Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, and Free People!

Until next time,

Marisa

My Top Three Moisturizing Lotions for Acne Prone Skin – By Marisa Chiorello

Hello, hello beautiful souls!

If you’re like me, then you’ll agree that acne is such a pain! Although I’ve truly embraced my flaws, which includes my adult acne, it does get frustrating. From the face wash I use, to the prescription acne medication I put on my face at night, my face tends to get very dry.  My dry skin can be extremely painful and embarrassing; especially because I can’t wear makeup. It makes my face and my dry skin look worse!

I used to be afraid to use moisturizer on my skin because it would cause me to breakout even more. But, thankfully, I’ve finally found a cure! If you want to moisturize your skin, while healing your acne, here are the three best moisturizers for acne prone skin. They’re also great if you’re on a budget!

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, $11.19

CeraVe Moisturzing Cream

This is the face lotion I am currently using. I love this lotion because it is lightweight, it doesn’t leave my skin feeling oily or sticky, and it is gentle which is perfect for when my dry skin is painful. This cream is also my go-to because it doesn’t irritate my skin or make my acne worse. There are some moisturizing creams that leave my skin pink, my face feels as if it is on fire, and the next day I have new acne clusters on my face. I don’t have to worry about this with CeraVe! This lotion is available at drugstores.

            Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion, $12

cetaphil moisturzing lotion

I used Cetaphil moisturizing lotion before I came across CeraVe. This lotion is great for acne! It helps heal breakouts while ensuring that your skin stays hydrated and moisturized all day long. I love that it is oil-free so it doesn’t clog your pores!

            Eucerin Sensitive Skin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Lotion, $10

eucerin

Although this lotion is anti-wrinkle or anti-aging, I’ve used it a handful of times. This lotion is gentle enough for all skin types, especially skin that is very dry and sensitive. When I used this lotion, it didn’t affect my acne in any negative way. I didn’t get more acne, and it didn’t irritate the acne I already had. Instead, it left me with long lasting moisture. I also love that this lotion contains vitamins (like vitamin E) and antioxidants! My skin felt fresh and healed!

Perfect moisture, healed acne, and fresh skin! If this is what you desire, try one of my favourite affordable moisturizing lotions! Let me know which one is your favourite!

Until next time,

Marisa

 

*Featured image borrowed from blogger Safa Sunshine – check her out if you can!*

Ladies, How Do You Remove Your Facial Hair?

Normally this website is about giving beauty advice, but ya girl needs some help too! I’ve tried every possible way of removing my facial hair. This includes, shaving (with both a regular 5 blade razor and a single blade razor), waxing, sugar waxing, threading, and laser hair removal, and all roads almost always lead to a breakout or two. To be clear I am removing ALL OVER the face, meaning cheeks, upper lip, chin, and forehead. And the areas where I get the most broken out afterwards are the cheeks and chin, but that’s where most of my breakouts naturally occur anyways, so it makes sense.

Now I’ve noticed some methods are better at keeping breakouts at bay than others. Waxing and sugar waxing are most definitely the worst for breakouts. I always get a very big red inflamed one when I wax. Shaving with a 5 blade razor has the same outcome, however when I shave with a single blade razor/buzzer, the breakouts aren’t as bad, although I still do get a ton of clogged pores. Threading, although you would think it would be the same outcome as waxing because the hairs are being pulled out, surprisingly doesn’t lead to too many breakouts either. I’ve also lasered my face which led to horrible breakouts as well.

It’s like I can’t win! It’s a toss up between having a hairy face or a pimply face. There are things I do afterwards to help. I’m not exactly a skincare expert, but I think the reason people breakout when they remove hair is because the pores are more exposed and it’s easier for gunk and dirt to get into the pores. So after I remove my facial hair I immediately use some sort of aftershave and a salicylic acid treatment for razor bumps. After that I try to be really diligent about washing it twice a day with an exfoliator so that dirt doesn’t get trapped under dead skin cells and form a bump, and I also use a charcoal pore mask once daily for a week after hair removal to really keep all that gunk out of the pores.

While all this helps, I still breakout a little bit each time I remove my hair. So now I want to pass this on to you…what method of hair removal is your favourite and how to you keep your breakouts at bay, or do you even breakout at all? I’m really curious to hear about other girls’ experience with this and hopefully learn a couple tips as well!

I wanna hear from you!!

XOXO

Sarah

Silk’n ReVit Prestige – A Review

A while back a company named Silk’n Solutions was generous enough to send me their newest at home microdermabrasion device called the ‘ReVit Prestige’. I’ve been using it for about 2 months now and I feel like that’s enough time to give my honest opinions on it.

Firstly, here’s a picture of what the device looks like. It’s pretty slick and very easy to hold.

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This is the first at home microdermabrasion device I’ve ever used, so unfortunately I can’t really compare it to others out there on the market, but I’ll let you know my personal experience with it and what it did for my skin.

Firstly, let’s take a look at what it claims to do. Their website describes it as

“a powerful microdermabrasion device that can give you firm and vital skin that looks younger in only several minutes. Dead skin cells are removed, and the production of new skin cells is stimulated. The skin texture and elasticity are visibly improved. The vacuum stimulation enhances the blood circulation for a healthy complexion. In addition, Silk’n ReVit Prestige makes irregularities, shallow acne scars and age spots less visible and helps soften large pores and fine lines.”

Their website also outlines the specific benefits it can have on your skin.

ReVit Prestige Microdermabrasion Benefits:

  • Ultra-powerful microdermabrasion device with diamond peeling
  • Improves skin tone, texture and elasticity*
  • Blurs age spots, irregularities in the skin and shallow acne scars
  • Removes dead skin cells, stimulates the production of new cells and stimulates the blood circulation
  • Can be used in manual mode, but also provides an auto mode that will guide you through your treatment for best results
  • Includes: 4 tips (Fine, Regular, Body, Massage), 30 filters, 1 stand/charging cradle, 1 adapter with USB cable, 1 cleaning brush and 1 pouch
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So…did it really live up to all of that? I would say yesss!! I don’t particularly have overly large pores to begin with, and fine lines are not really a skin concern of mine yet (fingers crossed lol), so I can’t speak to how it works for those particular skin concerns. However, my acne scars have significantly reduced and my skin texture just looks and feels smoother. You can totally tell that’s the case especially when applying my makeup, everything just seems to go on smoother and nicer!

Now I’ve only tested out the one head (there are 4 different tips you can use depending on what area of the body you’re working on). I’ve just stuck to the regular head and that’s been working just fine for me.

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In general, I think this device is helping to reduce the overall amount of acne that I usually get since it does a really good job of cleaning out your pores. My co-workers have noticed that my skin has been more glowy lately and I believe it is due to the stimulation of blood circulation as well as the intense exfoliation that occurs when using this device.

As much as I love the ReVit Prestige, I have a few words of caution for y’all. USE AS DIRECTED! I was using level two as my intensity and I left the suction on some spots on my face for a touch too long, and I ended up with a bunch of tiny face hickies in various spots! The key it to keep the device moving and not focus on one spot for too long. Oh well you live and learn! This was 100% a user error, learn from me folks HA!

Other than that small hiccup, this microdermabrasion device has been nothing but a dream for my skin! It retails at $199.00 and I totally recommend and encourage all of you to pick one up if you can!

Link: https://silkn.ca/products/revit-prestige

XOXO,

Sarah

 

My Top 3 Products for Wavy Hair – By Marisa Chiorello

Well hey there, beautiful souls!

From the time I first started styling my hair, I wish for luxurious, long, bouncy curls. Truth be told, I envied girls with curls. So, because I couldn’t get those girls, I straighten my hair every. single. day. I know… I know exactly what you’re thinking: “Ouch, the heat damage!” “Yikes! The damage!” “But… but… THE DAMAGE!” Yes, here’s my second confession: My hair became terribly damaged, crispy, even. My hair was also really flat with no body or bounce to it. It was basically straw on my head. Sigh. Those were some sad, sad times.

As I got older, I quickly learned to embrace the hair I was given. I threw away my hair straightener and haven’t straightened my hair in SIX years! I think this is quite the accomplishment, and my hair certainly thanks me. It’s now healthier than ever before!

So, what type of hair do I have? I have long, wavy hair. The top of my head typically remains straight, and my waves start at a handful of inches below my scalp. Because my hair is not classified as “curly,” but a mix between curly and straight, it was always difficult for me to find the ideal hair product for my locks. After years of wearing, and leaving my hair in its natural form, I’ve finally found products that leave me with beautiful waves each and every time. Here they are!

DevaCurl Arc Angel Gel, $24.00

devacurl arc angel gel

This is my go-to, #1, and absolute favorite hair gel! It’s one that I currently use, almost every day. Although it’s a bit pricy, it’s SO worth it! This gel does not make my hair crunchy like what happens with most gels. Instead, it coats each individual strand of my hair while leaving my hair feeling soft, smooth, and frizz free. This gel also defines each wave so my hair has never looked better! I get so many compliments on my wavy hair when I use this gel. It’s great to use during the summer when it’s hot and humid out. If you don’t mind splurging a bit on hair products, I definitely recommend purchasing this one! I purchased mine at Ulta. You won’t regret this purchase, and your hair will look fabulous!

Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Tousling Mousse Medium 2, $3.99

Tousling Mousse

I don’t always spend an arm and a leg for my hair or makeup products. In fact, I love shopping at drugstores for these products. You can find a lot of great items! This includes the tousling mousse! This mousse comes in a range of numbers from 1-4. I purchase number 2, because I have wavy hair. I like this mousse because not only does it smell delicious, but also a little goes a long way. I don’t have to use much of this product to get bouncy waves that last all day! I also love that it protects my hair from the humidity and controls frizz. It does all this AND it doesn’t leave my hair sticky or crunchy. Once my hair dries, it looks fantastic after using this product. This is my second choice when it comes to hair products, but it still leaves my hair looking amazing. I totally recommend this one!

Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray, $6.49

not your mother's beach babe

This is another product I use that doesn’t cost that much. I love this spray because it is lightweight; it separates each strand of hair for me, and transforms my locks into beautiful, textured waves! It literally looks like I just came back from the beach! I also like how it is infused with sea salt and sea kelp. If you desire beach-like waves, I recommend this product! It’s one of my faves!

Let me know which ones you try! Also, let’s be kind to our hair!

Until next time,

Marisa

Favourite Drugstore Mascaras – Marisa Chiorello

Hey there beautiful souls!

It’s no secret to the many people in my life, that I enjoy expressing myself through makeup. Your skin is an easel and your makeup is the paint. You can make beautiful creations with various makeup products! And, this is what I love the most!

Most of the time, I like to keep my makeup looks pretty simple, aside from using highlighters (Anastasia Beverly Hills is my go-to) and bold lipsticks or lip-gloss (Kylie Cosmetics, bareMinerals, Too Faced, MAC, and NYX are my go-tos).  My simple look really focuses on two main areas though. They are the lips and the eyes. Oh yes, it’s all about the eyes!

Unlike my highlighters, my lipsticks, and my lip-gloss, I do not necessarily splurge when it comes to my eye makeup. I typically only use mascara, because my eyes are very sensitive and eye shadow sometimes irritates them. So, the mascara I use can be found in your local drugstore! They are definitely priced reasonably! Over the past few months, I’ve tried a variety of different mascaras, and I’ve found some of my favourites! Here they are! Are you ready for ultimate length and volume? Your lashes will thank you!

My Favourite Drugstore Mascaras:

Rimmel Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara, Waterproof Black, $5.47.  This mascara is perfect if you desire the fake lash look. The brush design really helps coat every single lash. The middle of the brush works to coat the middle of your lash line, and the bristles coat the inner and outer corners. People will question if you have eyelash extensions. This mascara made my eyelashes look incredible!

Rimmel Mascara

Maybelline Total Temptation Mascara, $8.99. This mascara is the one if you’re craving extreme volume! Each lash gets coated with Maybelline’s fomula that is infused with coconut extract, without getting clumpy. You’ll also be able to notice ideal separation between your lashes. If you’re craving length for your lashes, I noticed that this mascara added volume and length to my lashes! They felt so soft, too.

Total Temptation Mascara

Maybelline Lash Sensational Luscious Mascara Blackest Black, $6.49.  You’ll love this mascara if you’re into the fanning effect! I found that this mascara not only added volume to my lashes, but it layered my lashes! My lashes looked much fuller and healthier, and that could be because Maybelline’s formula is infused with oils!

Lash Sensational

Wet N Wild Max Volume Plus Mascara Amp’d Black, $3.49. Talk about extreme volume, this mascara really delivers! In fact, you’ll see 10X more volume of your lashes when you use it! I love this mascara because not only does it give you extreme volume, it also separates and extends your lashes. When I used it, my lashes did not clump, stick together, or smudge. This was my go-to mascara for a long time.

Wet N Wild Max Volume

Wet N Wild Mega Volume Mascara, $2.99. I’m currently using this mascara, and… wow! I definitely see a difference in my lashes from using this mascara. It gives my lashes just the right amount of volume (they almost look fake), my lashes are fuller, and it separates each lash. I see a massive difference in the length of my lashes as well. Not only that, but with this mascara, my lashes are protected. With each coat of this mascara, I am adding Vitamin E onto my lashes which softens them, moistures them, and protects them. I also love this mascara because it is waterproof, sweat-proof, humidity-resistant, and smudge-resistant- so I can wear it in any type of weather. Most importantly, it’s cruelty-free and gluten-free.

Mega Volume

If you’re on the hunt for voluminous, thicker, fuller, and longer lashes try one of my favourites! Let me know what you think!

Until next time,

Marisa

Skincare With Witch Hazel – By Marisa Chiorello

I know many beautiful souls out there strive to achieve clear, healthy, glowing skin. This is especially important during the summertime when your skin is exposed to the sun’s rays on a daily basis. Well, summertime is here, and with it, comes my special secret for clear, healthy, glowing skin! Witch-hazel!

What Is Witch-Hazel?

Oh yes, this is my special secret! I use witch-hazel pore perfecting toner on my skin, mainly my face.  I know you’re probably thinking, “Witch-hazel? What’s that and how can it help my skin?” Witch-hazel is a plant properly known as Hamamelis virginiana. It’s typically found in the eastern and midwestern regions of the United States. It can also be found in southern Canada. The liquid of a witch-hazel plant is used to make the witch-hazel toner. Although, this toner can be mixed with other ingredients, such as aloe and rosewater, I use pure witch-hazel. I’ve been using it for months now, and it has truly transformed my skin.

How Witch-Hazel Can Help Your Skin

I struggle with acne flare-ups during PMS. The angry, red dots cover my chin and cheeks in clusters. This is super frustrating, upsetting, and my self-confidence totally plummets. However, I found that witch-hazel helps with my acne. I apply witch-hazel toner to my face at night with a cotton ball. The toner removes access oil, dirt, and bacteria from my face. This helps my acne flare-ups from getting worse. After using witch-hazel, I wake up in the morning free from any extra angry, red dots on my chin and cheeks. The toner also dries up my acne and helps it clear up quickly!

I have sensitive skin, and so many makeup remover wipes irritate it. My face starts to burn and it turns red. Witch-hazel toner can be used as makeup remover. I use the toner to remove my makeup (except for any eye makeup). I found that the gentle qualities of witch-hazel calm and soothe my skin.

Lastly, witch-hazel balances skin for a smooth complexion. I’ve noticed since using witch-hazel toner daily, that my skin appears more healthy and glowing.

      Brands Of Witch-Hazel

There are many different brands of witch-hazel toner. I use Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner, and it comes in a 16 fl oz container. This brand is perfect for me because it’s affordable, fragrance free, 100% natural, and cruelty free. You can find Dickinson’s at various drugstores. If affordability is something you don’t worry about, you can purchase the Mario Badescu witch-hazel and rose water toner from Sephora. Either brand has proven, successful results!

       My Recommendation

Although, witch-hazel is known for its gentle properties, some people have experienced irritation from the toner. I recommend testing the toner on a small part of your skin to see how your skin reacts.

If you’re a beautiful soul that wants clear, healthy, glowing skin try my secret, and use witch-hazel toner daily!

Until next time,

Marisa