Skincare Products That Have Helped Improved My Skin

Who doesn’t have to deal with bad skin almost every day of their lives, or whenever it’s the time of the month? Yes, acne is one of our biggest enemies, but it can be resolved with a great skincare routine. Most people buy products that promise to reduce acne or have been recommended by dermatologists, but little do they know that these products are not what they need.

Growing up, I’ve battled with acne day in and day out. It was quite frustrating because I literally tried everything (well at least I thought I did) from egg whites, lemon squeezes, and even toothpaste. As I entered into my 20s, I decided to take it upon my myself and research everything that was going wrong with my skin. I learned that I had really oily skin and open pores because I wasn’t washing my face properly. At first, I used African black soap, but it only made my skin worse.

So then I went into The Body Shop and stumbled upon The Body Shop: Tea Tree Skin Clearing Facial Wash. I’d been reading rave reviews about the product so I took a chance and tried it out. I also decided to start taking dietary supplement pills (Biotin) with 10,000 MCG which helps improve my skin, hair, and nails. Usually, they recommend you take the lowest dose so your body has time to react to it, but I was desperate. As the months went by, I started to see a lot of improvements in my skin, especially my forehead. I stop using regular lotion, and brought Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum and Caudalie Vinosource Moisturizing Sorbet that my best friend recommended to me, and which helps keep my skin feeling hydrated.

During the night after I’ve finished washing my face, I clean off the extra dirt from my skin by using Thayer’s Witch Hazel with an exfoliating cotton pad. After my face is completely dry, I then apply Rugby Acne Medication (benzoyl peroxide gel USP 10 percent). Usually, about once a week once a week I use either the Boscia Sake Brightening Hydrogel or Too Cool for School Egg Cream Mask Hydration sheet mask. I love using them both because they saturate the skin with nourishing essences and you can also rub the leftover product into your skin.

It’s really not that hard to maintain an acne-free face. In all honesty, it’s important to wash your face twice a day whether or not you have acne. This helps remove dead skin cells, impurities, and excess oil from the skin. Drink a lot of water, moisturize, and buy skincare products that work for your type of skin. Granted my method may not work for everyone, but there’s always a product out there that will fit for every individual.

What methods or products do you guys use to fight off acne? Let me know in the comments below!

The Makeup Collection That Stole My Heart This Summer

Out of all the fun things I’ve had the opportunity of doing so far this summer, attending a beauty event at The CF Clubhouse has certainly been one of my favorites. We had the pleasure of having a live makeup lesson by none other than Sephora Collection’s national makeup artist, Helen Phillips. Additionally, we were lucky enough to each receive a super cute gift bag filled with, you guessed it, Sephora Collection products!

Although I’ll admit I’m no Jaclyn Hill, I occasionally enjoy glamming up and treating myself to some makeup. And even when I have products from different beauty brands, after this event Sephora Collection is certainly the big winner, and here are a few reasons why.

1—The perfect moisturizer. When it comes to moisturizing, I have to be very selective on what products to use because I have very sensitive skin. Sephora Collection made my search a lot easier with their Instant Moisture+ Cream. It not only helps hydrate my skin but contrary to other moisturizers I’ve tried before, I don’t have to deal with that heavy feeling on me. I definitely recommend it.

2—Lip colors. If there is something I enjoy is trying new colors for my lips. So far I’ve either been a lipstick or a lip gloss kind of girl. However, Sephora Collection’s Cream Lip Stain Liquid Lipstick has become my new favorite. Not only do they come in an array of beautiful colors, but they also last for hours, which are the two things I look for when it comes to coloring my lips. My ultimate favorite? Vintage Rosewood.

3—Lip liner. A new one for me; lip liner is something I’ve never really used before. Like I mentioned before, I usually keep it simple with lipstick or some lip gloss and off I go. But after our makeup master class with Helen, I decided to give it a try. This Rogue Gel Lip Liner certainly didn’t disappoint.

4—Mascara. Another confession I’ll make is that I used to think all mascaras were the same. I mean really, how can brushes with black liquid make your eyelashes look that different if they’re all the same shade, length, and have the same function? I’ll admit I was so wrong! There’s just something about Sephora Collection’s LashCraft. Between the lack of clumps and heaviness on my eyelashes, and it’s practical and cool design, this is another must in my makeup bag.

5—The finishing spray. Here’s another first timer for me. At this point, you’re probably wondering if I’ve been living under a rock. How has a respectable millennial Fashionista never put on a setting spray? Guess I just have a lot of faith on my makeup and do the occasional retouch through the day. Well, that is no longer a need thanks to Sephora Collection’s Beauty Amplifier. Not only does it keep my face fresh and my makeup in place for hours, I also love that it debunks the myth that all setting sprays leave a sticky-greasy feel. Certainly not the case with this beauty.

So how about you? Any makeup finds that have become summer favorites for you? Let us know in the comments below!

Literally Everyone Can’t Stop Talking About This One Product

During our time at The CF Clubhouse, we made numerous visits to the Sephora Collection Beauty Bar. The Beauty Amplifier products kept us looking fresh all day. The Cream Lip Stains were there for touch-ups and color changes. But there was one product we couldn’t stop using, and raving about to everyone we know.

I will admit that I was nervous at first to spray my face with a highlighter, but after seeing the Sephora Collection national artist, Helen Philips, use this during the beauty night event, I was sold. The Perfection Mist Nude Glow is a must-have product for summer… and really every season. With just a simple spray, you can get a highlight that will blind almost anyone (in the best way possible) and melt easily into your skin.

In just a few short weeks, I’ve gotten both my sister and sister-in-law hooked on this product. They, much like the rest of us at CF, want to spray this everywhere on their bodies. Is there such a thing as being too highlighted? Definitely not.

How to Achieve Your Perfect Glow

The key to applying this product perfectly is spraying it in a C-shape around your cheek and brow bone. Also be sure to hold it far away enough from you face so you don’t spray it directly in your eye. We’ve done that a few times, and trust us when we say it’s not fun.

Once you’ve applied the product, set with a translucent powder—or a powder highlighter if you’re looking for some extra glow—as the product can be slightly sticky. After that, you’ll be left with the perfect summer glow that only took a second or two to achieve.

If highlighting your cheeks isn’t enough, spray it on your shoulders next time you wear a sleeveless or off-the-shoulder top to enhance that sun-kissed summer skin.

Have you given this product a try? If not, we suggest you run to your nearest Sephora to check it out. Get your glow on and share a photo on Instagram! Don’t forget to tag @Cfashionista.

The 3 Products That Are Perfect for Dark Skin

Finding makeup that fits right with my skin tone has been a constant difficulty. There has always been an obvious lack of beauty products that benefit those with darker skin. Trust me, I have never been the one to easily drop Benjamin’s on makeup, but I’ve decided to get over that and just invest in some of excellent quality. Below I’ve listed my favorite beauty products to help us ladies (and gentlemen) with darker skin shine brighter than the stars.

1—Foundation. I have always found that it is more helpful to get foundation slightly lighter than your skin tone to avoid dark patches throughout the face. The type of foundation that works the best is going to be an oil-free matte foundation. It is easier to spot out sweat or an oily face with darker skin, but with matte foundation, you can avoid this completely because it stays matte and does not become oily throughout the day. Currently, I use All Nighter Liquid Foundation by Urban Decay. Besides coming in 24 different shades, this is an oil-free full coverage liquid foundation that covers any blemishes, and with its complete matte finish, it is sure to last you all day and night. Be sure to check out the dual setting spray, All Nighter Long-Lasting Setting Spray, also available in a smaller travel size.

2—Highlighter. Most highlighters are good, but the best type of highlighter is one that blends properly. Highlighter is used to highlight areas of your face where the sun hits naturally, and to highlight means to emphasize or make lighter. Darker skin makes it more difficult to blend something so bright into the foundation and it often looks like a sharp pale line on a face. This happens because of improper blending. A highlighting product I have found that blends well is the Glow Kit in Sun Dipped by Anastasia Beverly Hills. This palette includes four different shades of highlighter that are perfect for darker skin. The range of shades allows for different highlighters, some even a little shaded, to make putting on darker skin much easier.

3—Eyeshadow. Applying a very light, almost white, eyeshadow in the corner of your eyes helps to make them pop. With it being the brightest area on your face, it will draw everyone’s attention to your eyes first. As for the rest of the eye, I use more neutral and pinker tones because those bring out the natural color on your face. My personal favorite is READY Eyeshadow 8.0 The Sexy Neutrals by BareMinerals. This palette has a wonderful range of neutrals from light to dark, some with ultimate shimmer. Another is Eyeshadow x 9 in Burgundy Times Nine by MAC. The burgundy tones mixed with some neutrals make for an excellent palette if you wanted to spice it up a bit while still having a calm color.

Give some of these products a try and post it on social media. Don’t forget to tag @CFashionista and use #stylegurulove!

Top 5 Must Try Foundations for Combination or Oily Skin

If you are anything like me, you live for foundations. I will never get sick of trying new ones, so I thought I would share my findings with all of you lovely humans with combination or oily skin.

1—Too Faced Born This Way Foundation. This foundation is a medium to full coverage foundation and has a natural matte finish. I use this one on days when I need a little more coverage, but I do not want to wear anything too heavy or an overwhelming amount of product. I never need to set it with a powder, and for me, with oily skin, that’s something I look for in a good foundation.

2—Becca Ultimate Coverage Foundation. My go-to foundation for special occasions or when I just want to go all out with my makeup is this one. It’s full coverage and has a matte finish. This one is AMAZING. I have tried so many full coverage foundations, looking for one that doesn’t get cakey or separate on my oily areas. This is everything I have ever hoped for and more. It never separates or creases or sinks into lines or looks greasy ever. I cannot say enough good things about this foundation.

3—Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Water Foundation. On days when I want something lighter, this one is the best. It is classified as a medium coverage foundation with a natural finish; the cool part about this one is that it is water based, making it extremely buildable. Also, the packaging is to die for. It has a dropper, so one to two drops gives you light to medium coverage. For more coverage simply add a couple more drops. Since it is water based, it is so lightweight and feels like nothing on your skin.

4—Make Up Forever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Stick Foundation. This one is a full coverage foundation with a natural finish, this one I like more for every day. The stick makes it super quick to apply, and the formulation of this one is lighter than the Becca foundation, so it’s a little easier to wear every day. This one is a holy grail for sure.

5—L’Oreal Infallible Pro Glow and Pro Matte. My all time favorite foundations are these babies. They are a medium-to-full coverage, Pro Matte is a matte finish and Pro Glow is a dewy finish. I’m obsessed and they can be bought at the drugstore! I love both of these for the same reason: they have no flaws. They never sink into lines, feel heavy, cling to dry areas or separate. I have never been in love with a foundation more than I am with this one.

Have any favorites for your oily or combo skin? Let me know in the comments below!

Must-Have Beauty Products for a Summer Glow

Although many of us Style Gurus have been on break from college for quite some time now, summer has just officially begun and it is now time to look forward to beach trips, turning up the AC, and being out in the sun. Recently though, my facialist told me about how damaging the sun can be to our skin, especially to our necks and décolletages, which show signs of aging first. She informed me that preventing signs of aging and sun damage can make a large difference in our skin when we age and that it is much easier to prevent wrinkles than it is to try and treat or reduce the appearance of them.

With that, I decided to try and put more of an effort into my beauty and skin regimen, using products that would help increase the amount of SPF I use and also give me the glowy, dewy look fit for days out in the sun.

Skin and Face Products

For the summer, using products such as tinted moisturizers make for a light, sheer to medium coverage alternative to foundation. With SPF, you get sun protection and coverage in one product. My favorite is the Nars tinted moisturizer. Face masks, creams, and facial sprays are also staples in my skincare routine, perfect for refreshing, cleansing, and moisturizing my face before and after I wear makeup. The Sephora Collection face masks are great and I use the Clinique Pep-Start Eye Cream for de-puffing around my eyes. As for the glow many of us wish to achieve, I choose Becca’s highlighters in Champagne Pop and Moonstone, layering both to achieve a blinding highlight.

Lip Products

During the summertime, I like to keep my makeup more low-maintenance, so I choose my favorite lip combos and repeat wearing them from day to day. Lipgloss is one of my favorite types of lip products, giving sheer color and a glossy look to top off a lipstick color.

Eyes and Eyebrows

Trips to the pool, beach, or even waterpark means you’ll most likely end up wet, which means having beauty products that can withstand water. Waterproof mascara is one of those products. It can survive all the splashes and dives you may take. Another is the Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade, which dries waterproof, is perfect for when you head off to the beach or pool and want your eyebrows to continue their fleekness when you decide to get out of the water.

Hair Products

I like to also keep my hair low-maintenance during the summer, so having a dry shampoo that can add some oomph to beachy waves or increase volume can make a huge difference in how my hair looks overall.

What are your must-have summer products? Let me know in the comments below!

Comfortable Summer Glow

Although some people prefer to go makeup-free during the summer, there’s nothing wrong with experimenting with some new makeup looks. However, it’s a lot easier when you’re using high-quality products that also feel amazing on your skin. The main reason why a lot of people like to go makeup-free during the summer is because of the heat. These lightweight products I’ve used are my go-to essentials when I want to do myself up a bit for the summer but still feel cool and comfortable.

To start off, the foundation I’m wearing is Too Faced’s “Born This Way” Foundation ($39) from Sephora. It may seem a bit pricey, but this is my go-to foundation for the summer. It’s light but still gives a good amount of coverage, so a little goes a long way. All of their shades also have yellow undertones, which brightens your skin for that youthful summer glow without washing you out.

If you’re like me and like to experiment with some new eyeshadow looks this summer, I’d suggest checking out Lorac’s Unzipped: Gold Palette ($42). All of the colors on my eyes are from this palette because I love the mix of mattes and shimmers. Lorac always provides such pigmented and high-quality colors—perfect if you want a more dramatic look like I did with the cut-crease.

Last but not least, you can’t forget about the glow, girl! No matter what the season, Becca Cosmetics highlighter collection is my first choice when it comes to highlighting. In this photo, I’m using Becca’s Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed Highlighter ($38) in the shade “Rose Gold” to match some of my reddish eyeshadow tones. My favorite thing about this highlighter is that a little goes a long way. Because it’s a pressed powder, it comes in handy when you want that dramatic glow but don’t want to cake your face with a liquid or cream highlight.

Now throw on some mascara, contour those cheeks, and don’t forget about the brows! You’ve got yourself a stunning glow for any summer occasion, whether it’s an outdoor barbecue or a night out with the girls. If you are going out for a special occasion, you can never go wrong with a pair of gold sunnies or bangles to help pull that glow all together.

Next time you find yourself with some free time on a nice summer day (or night), play around with some new looks like mine and see how you like them! Show me how they turned out, and be sure to tag @CFashionista on social media.

How to Get the Perfect Skincare Routine

Finding the perfect skincare routine can be intimidating, but luckily I have done the research for you. I found that there are five main skin types: normal, oily, dry, sensitive, and combination. When finding out your perfect skincare routine, know your skin type first. For me, my skin is mainly oily and sensitive.

The Clean & Clear Face Cleanser not only acts as a cleanser, but it also is an exfoliator and a treatment for pimples. Following the cleanser is the toner. Before, I never used to think that a toner would make a difference, but it’s actually one of the main elements for a skincare routine. A toner is mainly used to elevate the pH balance on your skin. I absolutely love this Clinique Acne Solutions Clarifying Lotion because of the acne medication it contains. I truly believe that this was one the products that helped out my acne.

After you apply your toner, your face is absolutely clean. This is the best time to apply any medication to treat pimples or acne scars. If I feel a pimple coming up, I use the Acne Spot Treatment from Target. It always works like a charm! Now there are times when you can get those dark spots once the pimple has been “popped.” Those are acne scars. A lot of the time, these are created due to a high sun exposure. A way of minimizing them is by applying vitamin C, which is contained in products like Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector. I noticed the change in my skin shortly after applying it everyday.

After the medication, you then apply your moisturizer. Applying your moisturizer should always be the last item you put on your face. This is when you seal everything together. What I love about Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel is that it doesn’t make my skin feel sticky or greasy after applying it like other products do. In fact, it actually feels refreshing.

On days where I feel like pampering my skin, I exfoliate. My favorite exfoliator is Boscia Exfoliating Peel Gel. You apply it on your face and literally rub off the dirt. It’s always a good idea to exfoliate at least one a week.

Another product I use to control the acne scars is the E.L.F. Blemish Control Face Primer. If I skip the medication part of my skincare routine, this is my back up—it’s another alternative for blemishes. Now, in order for these products to actually work, you have to wait at least three minutes before applying the next item. This will allow for the product to actually penetrate deep inside your skin. It may seem like a lot, but trust me, your skin will definitely thank you for it

What are your tips for finding the perfect skincare routine? Let me know in the comments below.

5 Summer Skincare Essentials

I’m not sure how the weather is in other states, but Jersey weather is currently going through an identity crisis. It’s hot one day and chilly the next. Despite this, in order to prepare for the inevitable summer heat, I curated a collection of skincare products that will keep your skin looking fresh and rejuvenated this summer.

1—Micellar Cleansing Water

Micellar cleansing water, especially this one from Garnier, is amazing. It’s gentle on the skin and removes makeup (even waterproof) with ease without irritating your skin. This one is mattifying, which is perfect for those with oily skin.

2—Rose Water and Collagen Mask

I have been a longtime fan of Mario Badescu skincare and one of my favorite go-to products is the rosewater spray. I usually apply a few spritzes of the spray all over my face after I remove my makeup and before I moisturize. The aloe and rosewater infused in the spray helps soothe redness and irritation. The Super Collagen Mask is also great for preserving youthful, glowing skin.

3—Moisturizer

Depending on your skin type, I would suggest this thick, cream moisturizer if you have dry, patchy skin. A gel or water-based moisturizer would be more beneficial for those with oily skin. Moisturize at least twice a day, once in the morning and before bed.

4—Collagen Face Mask

Similar to The Super Collagen Mask, anything with collagen will tighten and diminish spots for more youthful-looking skin. Almost like a time machine for skin! Also, face masks are just fun and relaxing, so go for it! You won’t be disappointed.

5—Night Mask and Eye Cream

Finally, a good night mask and eye cream to top everything off! I especially enjoy this duo from Sephora. After a long day at the beach, your skin has already been through enough. Before bedtime, apply both products to ensure your skin’s hydration for the next day.

What are your current summer skincare essentials? Please share in the comments below!

How to Get the Perfect Summer Natural Makeup Look

This summer, the natural look has taken the fashion world by storm. Even freckles have returned on the fashion scene! People want to look like they have no makeup on and want to enhance their natural features. Whether it’s a night out or taking cute pictures on the beach, summer is all about looking and feeling like your best self. So, here’s some tips and products to help achieve that perfect summer natural glow look that everyone, including models, are trying to master.

1—Primer

Make sure you have a good primer. I know sometimes we get lazy and don’t want to prime our face, but making sure you have a primer will not only ensure that your pores are covered, but it also protects your pores by keeping your face hydrated and healthy underneath the products that you place on top of it.

2—Foundation

Pick a light foundation. A really great foundation that keeps everything light especially on those hot days is a must. Choosing a lighter foundation makes sure that you don’t have to worry about your makeup melting. I use L’Oreal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation. Since it’s a true match product, it not only matches my skin perfectly, but it provides a seemingly natural glow.

3—Eyebrows

Keep your eyebrows as close to natural as you can by doing light brush strokes with the perfect eyebrow pencil. I do a slightly bushy look by just filling my brows with natural brush strokes, and it leads to flawless results every time.

4—Mascara

Use waterproof mascara. Use the right brush for your lashes. Having the right brush can help achieve a flirty eye look without having to add fake lashes.

5—Highlight

The highlight is essential for your summer natural glow look. Add highlight under the browbone, on the tip of your nose, Cupid’s bow, the center of your chin, and your cheekbones. This will enhance your features and really give you the glow you are looking for. Lighten up your eyes by putting the highlight on your brush and then placing it on the inside corner of your eyes. This will brighten up your eyes and add to your highlighting that you just did.

6—Finishing Touches

Don’t forget to set your face with finishing powder and setting spray. I put finishing powder under my eyes and then place it over the areas that I just highlighted. To complete the look, use a setting spray. This method not only finishes the look but also ensures that your look stays on all day.

That’s all you need! Use these steps to achieve a seemingly effortless look. You can also add more or use less as you please but take the time to play around with the look until you feel like it is just right.

Show us your natural glow looks and don’t forget to tag @cfashionista!