OUAI Medium Hair Spray

By Amanda V.

Gone are the days when hairspray wouldleave your hair hard to the touch, crunchy and with flaky white residue. I cringe at the thought of it. I always avoided hairspray because i felt that it was so hard and crunchy that the strand would break off. This Ouai Medium hairspray is the complete opposite of what I feared. Not only does this smell like a a gorgeous bouquet of flowers, but it has such a great hold, as well as leavingyour strands soft and touchable with body and movement. This spray worked perfect for taming my annoying flyaways and massive amount of baby hairs by spritzing a bit on a toothbrush as well as over my entire blowout for a frizz free barrier. Even through the most humid day this year as well as getting caught up in the rain, my hair never frizzed, it stood exactly the same as when I left my house. What made me love this product even more is that it works well with my damaged, thin strands. While many products tend to weight my hair down down, this Hairspray is featherweight with the lightest mist. I haven't experienced any white flakes or sticky residue whatsoever which is what I look for most in a product such as hairspray (which i thought was absolutely impossible until now). Ouai has yet to fail me and has become a major staple in my hair routine and trying to get my hair back to it's healthiest state.

You can grab a 7.2oz can at your local Sephora and Sephora.com as well as TheOuai.com for $26. I recommend this product to those who want a frizz free blowout and also those whose strands are on the finer side and cant use heavy product. 

BECCA x CHRISSY Glow Face Palette Review

Written by Myrna .R

Fresh out the oven! The moment Instagram & Twitter queens alike have been awaiting! Enter the hotly anticipated BECCA collab with none other than Mrs. Legend herself Chrissy Teigen! This beautifully rose gold gilded palette results from a collab made in makeup heaven. Chrissy is the epitome of the understated Boho Beachy vibe that BECCA has made synonymous with it's brand image.  A lot of people may ask "Why Chrissy?"  It is important to recognize that like the diverse BECCABeauty which their products are geared towards, Chrissy herself is of a multicultural background consisting of Thai & Norwegian descent. She is a model, wife, mother, cook & completely embodies that approachable best girlfriend vibe. 

 

The lovely palette with its muted soft pinks & neutrals strives to capture the different sides of Chrissy--The Softer Side, The Friend, The Muse that make her a natural pick for this collab. The palette itself consists of three shades exclusive to the palette in the form of the Sunlit Bronzer in Malibu Soleil, Luminous Blush in Hibiscus Bloom, Shimmering Skin Perfector pressed highlighter in Beach Nectar and a much-loved classic & Chrissy's fave Rose Gold.  As always BECCA hits a homerun by delivering the same beautifully blendable pigment & a finely milled velvety texture in their formula. The palette is VERSATILE & I often find myself using this as  my go-to for Face AND Eyes in a pinch! I achieve a understated yet feminine eye by using Rose Gold in my inner corners, Beach Nectar on the lids with Malibu Soleil as a transition in the crease.  I most recently have become borderline obsessed with Patrick Ta's tip of topping off the transition shade of a neutral or soft eye look with your matching blush on your cheeks--a tip I definitely utilize every time I pick up this palette by layering a hint of Hibiscus Bloom in my crease.  Overall I think this palette is a must-have this Spring and I give it five stars!

IGK Call Time Styling Primer

By: Amanda V.

It has recently been muggy as shit in NYC, and humidity equals Monica from FRIENDS hair. 

My hair is difficult to describe just like everything else in my life. I have big curly hair that has been heat damaged and prine to breakage but although it's big it is also kind of on the thin side (are you still with me? That was alot to take in). So I've recently added  IGK's Call Time Styling Primer to my hair routine. To be honest I didn't know if this would work with a blow out but it did!!! This lightweight priming mist smells so sultry and the actual product isn't sticky whatsoever. I had zero static with added shine for ultimate smoothness. It didn't weigh my hair down or make it flat or greasy looking. I also decided to try it on the second day of my blowout to refresh as well as for beachy cool girl texture and it worked as well without having my hair get completely back to its natural curly state which also tends to frizz up at the drop of water. but my hair stood straightened with a bit more movement.  It gives it a nice wave and honestly I would purchase this again and again solely for the scent. I got rained on and my hair stood the same!!! Pure Magic. I have also used this on freshly washed hair to continue to protect it from the uv rays. It's like giving your dehydrated hair a sip of water. I will pair it with IGK coconut oil gel and put it up in a ballerina bun. It even refreshes my hair when i wear it out in a curly fro!!

This fine mist is perfect for heat styling protection and it protects up to 450 degrees, which BTW, you should never use your flat iron on full heat... but if you wanted to, this would be the perfect barrier for your hair. The coconut oil in this product helps strengthen my hair to survive my endless blowouts. This is my new go-to for my severely dehydrated, damaged hair. It's coming with me everywhere I go. It earned a permanent spot in my routine, especially for the Summer months.

The Call Time Styling Primer retails for $27 at Sephora stores and Sephora.com. This is 5oz of product and you don't have to use much and the mist is so fine that you truly get a ton of product for the price. 

Dr. Jart Face Mask Review

Written By Deanna P 

Last year during the holidays, I tried Dr. Jart+ Derma Contour System & I really liked it.  I really thought it made my face look younger & I finished the product.  Just when I was thinking about investing in a new kit, Dr. Jart+’s Neck & Chin Lift targeted hydrogel patch & Cheek & Eye Lift targeted hydrogel patch arrived. 

 

Just to recap on who this company is:

The company was started when a young dermatologist named Dr. Sung Jae Jung was running a clinic in Seoul.  He created creams that would help resolve complicated skin problems of his patients.   His friend JinWook Lee, an entrepreneur & one of his biggest fans partnered with him to launch the skincare brand.   The name is a combination of Dr. Jung’s name & the art of skincare. The brand took off in Korea & now is available in 15 countries around the world & in the USA.

Recently, I saw an article that asked the readers to guess the age of a Korean model.   I usually am on point with guessing ages, but I was stumped by this model.  I thought she was in her 20’s or younger & she was actually 39.  Her skin was like porcelain & the article definitely pointed out the superiority of Korean skincare.  Dr. Jart+’s products definitely prove this theory to be true.  The Neck & Chin Lift & The Cheek & Eye Lift come in a set of 2 individually packaged hydrogel patches.  They retail for $12.00  They both work to diminish lines & lift the area they treat.  There are no Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates in these products.  Both products contain these three ingredients that work in unison to make your skin look more youthful.

-Volufiline: Reduces the appearance of fine wrinkles and improves elasticity.  It comes from plant extracts.  

-Collagen: Improves moisture retention within the skin and provides hydration.

-Adenosine: Reduces the appearance of fine wrinkles and provides functional restoration by activating damaged skin cells.

The Neck & Chin is known as the Heart zone.  To use this mask, wash your face & apply toner, gently peel off film liner and apply mask so the cutouts can be attached to your ears.  Smooth the mask over the neck area and leave it on for 30 minutes & then remove.  Massaging mask with fingers will help it be even more effective. I saw a few complaints on line that this mask did not fit around the ears on some peoples faces.  It definitely fit mine, but I could see where it might be tight. The Cheek & Eye are known as the apple-zone. To use this mask, wash your face & apply toner.  Leave on for 30 minutes & remove.  Massaging with fingers will garner better results. I used both masks & I liked them both.  My skin did look rejuvenated after use.  I lookedmuch better immediately after using.  I do recommend using these when you need a quick pick me up on how you look.  I used them on a Friday & Saturday, before I had a big event.  I have to say it made a world of a difference.  My skin looked brighter, my lines were lessened, & I looked years younger. 

It was a great value for the money as they are reasonably priced at $6.00 per treatment.  Most mask are more expensive & a facial is $80+.

 

They can be purchased at sephora.com

MILK Eye Vinyl & Concealer Review 

Written By Myrna .R

 

This past week I had a blast thinking out of the proverbial box with innovative ways in which to use these two aforementioned products. So I'll first start out with the frontrunner in this little contest of efficiency. I absolutely adored the performance of the unassumingly packaged MILK Makeup concealer in the shade MediumTan for an instant brightening and neutralizing effect.  The star ingredient of this little gem comes in the form of Arnica(for centuries used as a holistic method for reducing swelling and bruising) which in effect helps not only hide, but also to TREAT undereye darkness or discoloration over time! I rate this one a five star for its minimalist packaging and superior performance and blendability.

 

Next in the lineup we have MILK makeup's iconic Eye Vinyl in the shade Bridge.  Now I will say that I was the most eager to try this little guy, but sadly wasn't all too thrilled with its wearability and overall performance.  In all fairness I will preface this by saying the the glossy eye lid is in fact meant to be more editorial in nature and perhaps my expectations were set too high(I did envision myself on some imaginary catwalk or photoshoot somewhere perfectly primped and primed with my budgeproof glossy lid.)  Well enter reality! In fact the way it played out was my wearing it for a chill night of hanging out at my cuzzo's; to which the reaction to this bomb glossy lid was "Why do your eyes look so greasy, are you wearing ointment?!) Indeed NOT the reaction I was going for and I realized I'd have to go back to square one and figure out a different technique to make the Eye Vinyl more wearable.  Some success finally followed when I wanted to go for a glossy/glittery eye a la' Pat McGrath.  It was at this point that I had my Eureka moment when I used the Eye Vinyl as a base for my loose glitter--Ta Da!!!! It worked. But not for long as the night wore out so did my lids a bit.  But at the end of it all I figured let me own my glittery/glossy/slightly smudgy lid. As we all know the quest for perfection is a long and winding road: especially when it comes to makeup!  I give this product three stars.

Too Cool For School Egg Cream Mask

By: Amanda V.

Calling all dry skin babes, Supreme hydration in a sheet mask is here! Actually it has been here I'm just a little late to the party. First of all I love any and all packaging by super adorable Korean brand TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL (their mascara has a dinosaur scribbled on it. A DINOSAUR! I LOVE). Not only is the packaging Cute AF but the product inside DELIVERS!!! YES!!! It's a win/win here. I decided to take this mask to work with me to get me to relax a bit during one of my vey rare breaks. This mask claims to clarify and remove dead skin cells and and moisturize and firm your skin to look youthful, fresh and... GLOWY!!! (100 points for Radiance)

I excitedly ripped open the package and was ready to slap it on my cleansed face. The mask has a net protecting it from ripping I assume. It's pretty... uhh... gooey? There is so much excess serum in the packet but that's nothing to complain about because HELLO! More nutrients for your skin. With the mask on my face i could feel my severely parches skin soak up the product. The mask kept slipping off and I don't think it was because of the slippery goop of "egg cream" making the mask slide off but because I couldn't stop laughing at how horrendously ridiculous I looked with it on. It gave me a good laugh. The texture of the egg cream serum is so silky. I left it on for about 20 minutes (do not go beyond that time limit, it will do the opposite of hydrating your skin, yikes!) and the redness on my cheeks seemed to have calmed down and i was left with a fresh, deeply hydrated, lit from within glow and silky smooth skin. For those super hot NYC Summer days you can stick these in the fridge for a little chill, pampering session. This mask is good for just about every skin type there is, even for you oily babes, it will leave your skin MOISTURIZED, not oily. the egg white nutrients reduces shine and gives more of a radiance to the skin rather minus the greasy look. This Egg Cream mask is cruelty free and free of harmful chemicals, also super safe for sensitive skin, no irritation occurred with this sheet mask which normally can happen to me with most sheet masks.

I heard many complain about the price $6 for a single sheet and $24 for a 5 Pack, which I personally think is an incredible price point and it does exactly as it claims. I'd rather spend $6 on a chance for glowing skin than a frilly frap at Starbucks. For $6 at your local Sephora or Sephora.com, you can kiss your dry patches good bye and say "Hello Lover" to Intensely hydrated, radiant, deeply cleansed, fresh skin. 

Glossier Super Pure Super Serum

By: Amanda V. 

Once a Glossier gal, Always a Glossier Gal. I come to you with yet another exquisite product reviewed. When the cult millennial brand launched its Supers, I of course ran with the hype and grabbed a pack. I did use up all 3, but I didn't expect to really use Super Pure in particular, let alone finish the entire bottle. I get breakouts here and there but nothing major. That is... until about a month ago. I was super stressed out, super menstrual and my nutrition was super poor. All of that affected my skin leading it to also affect my self-esteem. I decided it was time to give this little guy a go. After using my Glossier Milky Jelly cleanser at night I would also use this serum right after. I chose to do it at night because my skin would remain cleansed without the addition of makeup. This way my skin could breathe and absorb the vitamins in this serum. 

This serum did calm down my stress induced and PMS breakouts. The more I used it the smaller the blemish and with less soreness and redness. This worked wonders for my skin and now I know what to use when I breakout again. Yes it works, but it does take some time so you must be patient. It's safe to say I am keeping this serum on my Top Shelf when my new shipment arrives. I think it's great to have during stressful times as well as a girl's most pleasant time of the month (10 points for sarcasm). 

What's great about the Glossier Supers is that you can mix them up or use them separately and it wouldn't throw your skin completely off. They're basically daily vitamins for your skin. 

The packaging is small and cute (.5oz of product to be exact) but the product is powerful. Vintage medical dropper vibes, like an adorably pastel prescription. You don't have to use too much, you get about 4-6 weeks worth of product if you use it everyday. It will last longer if kept to just treat occasional breakouts. This serum contains Zinc to purify the skin of pollutants and also contains Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) to soothe redness and soreness surrounding the blemish. 

I highly recommend, especially to those who are acne prone, give this a try and see what it can do for you. Separately the Glossier Super Serums cost $28, if you purchase the super pack, the cost $65 plus free shipping (saving you $19! Thats 1900 pennies honey!) If you make your first purchase on Glossier.com, use this link to get 20% off!

http://bff.glossier.com/eq5SF

Frank Body Glow Mask

By: Amanda V. 

It's no secret that I'm a sucker for good skincare that has minimal, natural ingredients, which is why one of my top skincare brands is FRANK BODY. I'm already obsessed with their body Cream and Coconut body balm along with their original coffee scrubs to slough away dry flaky skin (even though it's messy AF, I don't care, they make messy seem so glam). A couple of months ago the brand released their GLOW MASK and of course me being me, ordered it the second it came out. I LOVE this stuff! It instantly brightens your entire face, making you want to be makeup free. IT'S MAGIC! 

This incredibly moisturizing formula goes on thick and creamy and is ideal for those of us who suffer from mega dry skin. (Team Forever Parched). This heavily moisturizing formula consists of a cocoa and shea butter base along with other natural oils and extracts making the treatment super moisturizing and containsa breathable water resistant barrier to lock up that moisture and your skin hydrated. It's has been so good to my super sensitive skin as well (so sensitive babes, this one is for us). Oh, and another thing... it smells absolutely delicious, like a vanilla milkshake. 

Not only does this thick, creaminess of this mask feels so good on the skin, it IS good for the skin and is free of parabens and PEGs (which diminishes your skin's natural moisture and elevates the appearance of aging aa well as leaving it susceptible to bacteria... yuck).

After cleansing in the morning, I massage a thick layer into my face and neck and I leave this in for 10 min (most likely while brushing my teeth because I multitask like a MF). After rinsing off the mask you are left feeing deeply cleansed with fresh, glowing, radiantly plumped skin (thanks to the caffeine in key ingredients like Arabica Coffee seed extract that tones and firms the skin and glowing antioxidants like Goji berry extracts) that is as smooth as a baby's bottom. 

This 2.70 oz tube is fairly priced at $21.95 with free, quick shipping at FrankBody.com and can also be found on the shelves at select Urban Outfitters stores. Go grab a tube... gorgeously ethereal, lit skin is waiting for you!!  (Vegan friends... this one is for you as well!)

Beauty Horoscope: Taurus 2017

 

Taurus (April 21 - May 21)

Taurus, your spirit is like Spring. With each bloom of nature's flower, so blooms your enthusiasm for life. You find the courage to keep going even when times are harder than you could imagine. When you feel your natural fearlessness waver, try a bold, fierce brow. It's just enough makeup to take you from an early bird spin class to a tackling the rest of your day. Full brows are in fashion and so is your fire for life. 

 

Top Beauty Picks For Taurus


Skincare

boscia Tsubaki™ Swirl Two-Part Gel & Cream Deep Hydration Moisturizer; $38

The Face Shop Real Nature Green Tea Face Mask; $2.20

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner; $44

Holika Holika Pig Nose Clear Black Head Cleansing Sugar Scrub; $7.08

tarte FRXXXTION Stick Exfoliating Cleanser; $22

Supergoop!
Sun-Defying Sunscreen Oil Broad Spectrum SPF 50; $34

Holika Holika Pig-Nose Clear Blackhead 3 Step Kit; $3.99

ALTERNA Haircare
Bamboo Beach Summer Sun Recovery Spray; $22

BIODERMA Sensibio H2O; $14.90

AMOREPACIFIC Green Tea Seed Treatment Oil; $195

CLINIQUE Moisture Surge Hydrating Supercharged Concentrate; $39

The Estée Edit Pink Peony Overnight Water Pack; $50

Beauty

Kat Von D Lock-It Brightening Powder; $25

Benefit Cosmetics Dandelion Dew Baby-Pink Liquid Blush; $28

MAKE UP FOR EVER
Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer in Radiant Primer Pink; $37

Giorgio Armani Beauty
Power Fabric Longwear High Cover Foundation; $64

NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Earth Angel; $36

CLINIQUE Lid Pop in Willow Pop; $17

Hourglass Modernist Eyeshadow Palette in Obsucra; $58

Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Concealer; $42

Makeup Geek Iconic Lipstick in saucy; $15

Benefit Cosmetics
GALifornia Blush; $29

Make Up Geek Showstopper Creme Stain in Bunny Hop; $12

Urban Decay Razor Sharp Water-Resistant Longwear Liquid Eyeliner in Grass Green; $22

Art For Taurus

Info on Taurus from here
All product photos are linked to their original source. None of the photos are property of meetpepperb.com

Previous Zodiac

Becca Backlight Priming Filter Review

Written by Myrna. R

So Spring has finally Sprung! And with that being said where do I begin to describe this little gem from Becca Cosmetics called the First Light Priming Filter. This primer was launched on the heels of the brand's cult favorite Backlight Priming Filter which I so affectionately like to call the Beyonce to First Light's Solange!:)  Now the key point of difference with this unique formula is that it definitely encompasses a Spring "Awakening" factor in a bottle.  Lets start with its awesome cool violet tint which serves to softly scatter light imparting an Oh so subtle radiance and hydration to boot!  It's key ingredients come in the form of prickly pear to trap moisture in the skin, along with cooling citrus and ginger to really give fatigued dehydrated skin an energizing pick-me-up.  Becca also came up with a cutesy hashtag which all women(& men) alike can relate to: #BECCAFixesBadFaceDay and boy do we know we can all fall victim to bad skin blues!  BECCA to the rescue with this incredible primer!
 

Ren Instant Brightening Beauty Shot Eye lift

Written by Deanna P 

I am endlessly looking for the fountain of youth.  As you age, unfortunately your skin does not stay as taut & firm as it did in your younger days.  My eyes have been one of the first things to go.  My lids are getting droopy & I do look tired more often than not.  

 

I recently got the opportunity to try Ren Clean Skincare Keep Young And Beautiful Instant Brightening Beauty Shot Eye Lift.  It comes in 15 mland retails for $45.00.  It can be used on all skin types every day.  RENlaunched in 2000 & hasbecome a cult favorite amongst consumers & beauty editors ( i will jump on thatbandwagon).  You can find itin department stores, pharmacies and spas in over 50 countries around the world. Ren is the Swedish word for Clean.  The concept of the company is making products with no nasty ingredients.   The three main things they focus on are Performance, Purity & Pleasure.    Performance is important to the company.  Their products go through rigorous testing & they demand proven results.  Purity in that Ren uses 100% plant & mineralbased ingredients.  They do not use anything synthetic.  They believe that when the consumer uses their product, the texture, fragrance & overall experience will make a person happy!  

Clean innovation is their overall focus!  

 

Rarely do I find a product that I put on & I feel like it immediately works.   This might have changed when I tried Ren’s Instant Shot Eye lift.  Instant was definitely TRUE.  The truth be told, I felt my eyes instantly lifted & looked better as soon as I applied it.  I have been using it for a few days & I am definitely adding it to my arsenal of products.  My eyesdefinitely looked younger & my fine lines were diminishing,  Rarely do you find something that works this well that has natural ingredients.  I appreciate natural more & more these days as some of the ingredients in some products cause more damage than they fix. I do feel the product from what I have seen so far is worth the $45.00.  There are not a lot of products that you get instant gratification & Rests Eye lift is one of them.  I rather buy one good product instead of 20 bad ones.  

 

 

 

To purchase this productat Sephora or direct from REN:

http://www.sephora.com or renskincare.com

 

Ouai Haircare Soft Mousse Review

Written by Deanna P

I recently read an article that spoke very highly of Ouai haircare.  I was super excited when I received the soft mousse to try.  I first noticed the sleekpackaging.  It put off a simple elegant vibe that I really liked.  

The Mousse size is net wt 6.7 oz /190 g & retails for $28.00.  

 

Ouai was created in 2016by renowned celebrity hair stylist Jen Atkin.  Jen’s career started in Hollywood where she has worked with the Kardashians, Jessica Alba, & Christy Teigen to name a few.   Her career has done phenomenally & she charges $1100 for a haircut & blow dry. After traveling the globe she wanted to start a hair care brand that spoke to the the real woman.  Something that everyone could relate to.  We as consumers have so much to choose from that it is hard to navigate all that there is out there.  Jen Atkin’s goal was to make something modern, that provided effortless style everyday.   Jen says,  “Life is hard, looking good should be easy” Oauimeans yes in a casual Parisian way.  The company’s tag line:Say YES to Real Hair for Real Life.   #sayOuai

 

Ouai has made mousse cool again!  The mousse makes hair fuller & bouncier.  It is a non sticky mousse, that smell terrific & volumes your hair beautifully.  There is no animal testing & it is paraben free.  It also won Redbook’s best new product as the best volumizer.  The mousse can be used in damp or dry hair.  Work it in into hair to calm frizz or boost the volume. I used it for a few days.  Two of the days I put it in my damp hair & let it dry naturally.  When I had used mousse in the past, my hair was sticky & crunchy.  This mousse made my hair look soft & beautiful.  I loved the texture.  The third day, I blew it out & it also looked great.  Soft, beautiful smooth locks. I definitely would use this mousse on an everyday basis.  I feel it is definitely a good value for the price.  A lot of mousse is inexpensive, but it absolutely does not work as well.  

 

I can’t wait to try other products by this brand.  

You can purchase products at: 

 theouai.com or sephora.com

 

The Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick in "Man Eater"

By: Amanda V.

This shade of nude is not at all average. This magical mauve-y nude is filled with badassery that's perfect paired with a leather jacket and a smokey eye or even for those who go minimal with their makeup looks, because the cool mauve tone in this universally flattering nude lipstick looks fantastic without making it look like you're a corpse or even worse like you've eaten powdered donuts (which most nudes without liner can make you look). You can use multiple liner combos with this lipstick I loves pairing it with Mac "Stripdown" and "Cork". What I found that I love about this lipstick is the formula, it never felt flakey or dry or thick. It's thin in texture, glides on a bit watery (which I found to be good) while still being opaque in color. 2 coats are perfect. Literally as comfortable as sliding on a silky slip dress. The packaging itself is pretty cool with the black caged applicator. Once dried after applying, you are good to go for hours (eating, drinking... multiple tacos... you're good!). The staying power is real! The lip bar is a more affordable liquid lipstick at just $13 (TheLipBar.com) with the quality of a high end product which is a complete steal! Give it a go and be ready to stomp on a guy's heart with your boots and kick ass for the rest of the day. 

 

Swatch without flash.

Swatch with flash.

 

 

And for all my lovers of furry friends... this brand is VEGAN & Cruelty Free!!

My Industry is Oversaturated How do I Keep Myself On Track ?

Written By Pepper. B 

If you've made your way to this post, I'd first like to start with a small disclaimer. I am not a life coach and I don't have all the answers. However  what I can offer you is my experience. Trial and error has opened my eyes and hopefully this will help you on your journey. Good Luck! 

We are in the of age DIY! DO IT YOURSELF. Which is amazing there are so many local businesses being curated in a backyard or kitchen close to home.  Many people are leaping out on faith and pursuing endeavors that make them happy. The question is can you blame them? The quest for freedom for some consists of earning income on there own terms. There are so many resources available to help you jump start your own business. DON'T be surprised if you aren't the only one in your field. Shit! you just may find 100 people you know In your field! but Truthfully That Doesn't Matter! I am in the beauty industry which is an industry that is so oversaturated. That's okay. Why I started and my passion for what I do is what actually keeps me going. Being completely honest I driven myself crazy several times trying to figure out how to keep myself focus in a mixed industry.  What I mean when I refer to the industry being mixed is the mixture of people who don't have the passion but may just want the glitz and glory VS. The ones that live and breathe it.  Here are 4 things that I live by that allow me to keep my high beams on with my tunnel vision clear. I keep these 4 things in mind every single day.

 

Find Your Niche':

"If everybody is doing it one way, there's a good chance you can find your niche by going exactly in the opposite direction."
 

Finding your niche allows you to streamline your focus and avoid being overwhelmed. Example: Your client is getting married you are responsible for providing your client with make-up, hair and photography of the entire event. You are super talented so I am quite sure you can master this however why would you want too? Its better to over preform one task then have mediocre performance with all task because you are overwhelmed. Set your self up for success by focusing on the thing you do best! 

 

 

Do Your Own Research:

"There is no substitute for face-to-face reporting and research."


Do your own research, It is okay to be initially directed in the right direction when it comes to solidifying business ideas. This discussion may take place with a mentor or close peers. I say when taking advice do your own research after. There are millions of resources available when wanting to find information. You never know the intention behind the advice that you are being given.  Ultimately these are your dreams and aspirations you do the leg work. If this requires studying your own field or even taking a small class in your field DO IT YOURSELF. 

 

Don't Compare Yourself :

 

 "Women are so unforgiving of themselves. We don't recognize our own beauty because we're too busy comparing ourselves to other people." Kelly Osbourne
 

I always feel clueless during group discussions with peers when they mention post about other people in my field. Its not that Im not interested and the content of others isn't interesting. I just don't have the desire to get wrapped up in someone else's method. So it is very seldom I follow people who work in the same industry as I do. When you are growing and building yourself it is so easy to look at what you are not doing based off of what some else is doing.

STOP! 

 I have narrowed my network to relationships that are based on equally inspiration. We inspire each other to be better without words.

Not have an ego match. 

 

Humble Yourself:

“True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”

Find your balance between confidence and humbleness. I've personally witnessed arrogance set people back. Get off your high horse you may be amazing at what you do, However I want you to know that everyone is replaceable.  One way I keep myself grounded is fully acknowledging the fact that at any given moment someone who is willing to work 10 times harder and is more motivated can come along and take my spot! With that being said I have been able to cultivate so many relationship that have improved my day-to-day life because I am humble and mindful; 

 

 

 

 

This was short sweet and straight to the point! Screenshot this if you need a daily reminder. XO 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

The Lip Bar Liquid Matte Lipstick in Bawse Lady

Written by Danyelle V

 

“I started making lipstick in my kitchen because I believed beauty shouldn't compromise health and because I was determined to not change the way I looked to fit into some superficial or trendy beauty standard. Fuck that. There is no standard… Every woman deserves to be represented. So I do this not for the love of makeup, but for the love of women who are unapologetically themselves and the women working up the courage to be.” Melissa Butler, Founder of The Lip Bar

 

There is so much girl power and #blackgirlmagic behind the creation of The Lip Bar and it is simply inspiring. A company started by a woman of color in her kitchen to challenge the beauty industry with the goal of empowering women. My heart swelled with love and pride when I learned about the story behind The Lip Bar. I know I’m not the only geek out here reading a brand’s “About the Brand” or “Behind Our Story” sections on their websites, right? Just take 5 minutes to check out their website and instagram feed, and you will feel all of the passion behind this brand. The imagery is stunning! Each collection is so well thought out and executed. It is obvious that love and fire is what created the brand. I'm just a tad obsessed LOL. Just a tad. 

I will get to the review of the Liquid Matte Lipstick shortly. First, I just need you all to understand that this isn't just a cosmetic company. It is VIBES with a Z, I swear! One of the most innovative features on their website is the Try On section. I believe that cosmetic companies are starting to understand that we increasingly-socially-conscious-millennials value inclusion. Therefore, featuring swatches on various skin tones has become more common on cosmetic websites. But The Lip Bar goes to the next level. Often I find that, for example, lipsticks are swatched on 2-3 skin tones. The Lip Bar gives us SIX! Oh yeah, they also have the option of swatching the lipstick with soft-natural make up or dramatic makeup. They've thought of everything!

 

The formula of the matte liquid lipstick is like silk. It is thin but not runny which makes it easy to control. You can get a fully opaque and even layer in one coat. Until it fully dries, it is a little sticky but that does go away after a few minutes. It does not transfer, but it will break down while eating.

The shade I am wearing is Bawse Lady. This. Color. OMG. I need eight of them. Ms. Melissa, listen, please do not ever, evah, discontinue this shade. This is the bloodiest red I have ever owned. This is that January 20th shade. It’s the shade you wear to your Inauguration day. This is the shade you wear when you are inducted into a hall of fame. Bawse Lady is the shade you wear to that meeting with your boss to show him who is the Bawse. World domination is possible with this shade. That “Don’t test me” shade. Can you tell I’m obsessed? I half wish my hair wasn’t purple so I could wear this shade with my hair down. I have a shadow root so I can pull it off with my hair up. Trust me, purple hair and red lipstick will take me from CEO to court jester real quick. I wear Bawse Lady and I feel like I can command an empire!

Here are some of my favorite pictures from their instagram. The Lip Bar and the message behind it will give you such a powerful  urge to create something of your own. It inspires you to chase and develop your own sense of style. You can really feel the voice of this brand. No questions, they will tell you who they are!

303 Likes, 7 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "You're gorgeous, you're amazing, you're EVERYTHING! This gold metallic lippie gives me the best..."

160 Likes, 5 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "Up close and personal on our beautiful model @hannahdo_! She's rocking our bad ass new lippie,..."

394 Likes, 3 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "She'll never love you like she loves her lipstick. Didn't she tell you that she was a SAVAGE?!"

292 Likes, 8 Comments - @thelipbar on Instagram: "Friday nights are for wine and purple lips! Let loose tonight in the Purple Rain ☔️"

This video is from their YouTube page. They aren't super active on it but this video captures their whole vibe so well. It's fun, sexy, confident. These lipsticks are very high quality and very affordable. While they are a small business, I honestly believe retailers will pick them up soon and you will see them everywhere! So get ahead of the trend!

So which shade are you picking up before you start your empire?

We have an interview with Melissa Butler, founder and CEO of The Lip Bar! She is insightful and her words, like her brand, will inspire you to chase your own dreams. Read the full interview here.

Ferulic + Retinol Brightening Solution Review

Written by Deanna P

 

I am always super excited to try a Dr. Dennis Gross product.   A couple of weeks ago, I received his ferric acid + retinol brightening solution to review.  Right on the box it promises to firm, smooth, & tighten.  These are all things I can definitely use to happen to my face. For those of you who don’t know who Dr. Gross is I found out he is a well known NYC dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic dermatology.  After years of treating clients & an elite group of famous clients, Dr. Gross created a product line that everyone could use in the comfort of their own homes.   His research has been included in Medical journals.  He also is a Board member to the Skin Care Foundation & a collaborating member of the American Cancer Center as well as being involved in a host of other noble organizations.  He is a frequent guest on the Dr. Oz Show, The Today Show, The Doctors, CBS, The Early Show, & CNN.  His resume also includes being mentioned in every major magazine including Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and The NY Times Magazine.  In summary, Dr Dennis Gross appears to be the Superman of Dermatology & his product line gets rave reviews.  The ferric acid came in 1 oz/30 mL & retailed for $110.00.   It can be used on almost all skin types which include normal, oily, combination, dry, & sensitive

Two of the main ingredients that are in the title of the product are the key to making this product work so well The first one Ferulic Acid.  This provides sun damage protection; plant-based antioxidant that enhances properties of other vitamins for healthy-looking skin.   The other one Retinol will help smooth visible wrinkles and lines while increasing moisture and elasticity. The third one licorice root extract will help Lighten and act as an anti-inflammatory. To use you can put it on in the am & pm.  Apply all over a clean dry face.  It is recommended that you put a moisturizer from Dr. Dennis’s line over it.As most of his products, this product also does not contain sulfates, parabens, & phthalates along with it being vegan & cruelty-free.  I have used this product for the last 2 weeks & it really comes through with what it promises.   My skin appears firmer, smoother & tighter.  I also thought it looked noticeably brighter.   The price tag on it is a lot & I think it is very expensive.  I do think it will be worth it if I can shave five years off my looks & do it without invasive surgery.    Surgery as we know can begin in the thousands, so the hundreds does not seem so bad if you can accomplish the same results.   

This would be a great product to try a sample of & then buy if it works on your skin.

 

 

 

 

Check out Dr. Dennis’s website here:

 

http://drdennisgross.com