You Glow Differently When You're Happy

In the midst of a National and Global crisis, I am grateful and truly blessed, for life, health, and happiness! A pandemic is not a term to use loosely or lightly. We are forced to foster a new way of life and to live a new normal (depending on how that resonates for you). In the age of social distancing and being self-quarantined, I have learned to remain calm, grounded, and staying aligned with my life's purpose. 

Something I wrote back in March, which reminds me of my purpose and allows me to continuously find my light in all given aspects of my life is "Without knowing your purpose you're not in alignment with your true self. When you're not in alignment, you're not fully embracing your true purpose!" - Mel.

Since the beginning of 2020, I've been in new energy, which has allowed me to balance feminine and masculine energy, while stepping into divine femininity. We're only a few months into 2020, and I've learned how to become my own healer, while gaining a newfound level of confidence in my own right. 

I struggled with  hormonal + cystic acne for the past 2-3 year, and it mysteriously it came out of nowhere, and I hated breaking out 24/7. During this time, I felt very insecure about the current state of my skin, which was evidently linked to my diet, and gut health. I changed the way I ate. I began using skin care products, and tools meant to target and treat acne, while improving skin texture. Today, I can proudly say, I haven't had acne or large cystic break outs in the past 3 months. This partial the result of seeing an aesthetician and sticking to my home care routine + at home LED Light Therapy, which I love! Sugaring, as in waxing has literally saved my life and time. When I have my sugaring sessions, it's my time to disconnect, think, not think, relax, and just float into space. 

I finally learned how to take selfies and my own head shots like a #BOSSBABE, and I literally glow from the inside out now. I've gained a small following on both of my social media accounts, one which is personal, and the other for She Who Grinds. She Who Grinds is constantly growing each day, and I haven't even launched the actual website yet (baby steps). My dream and goal is to become a professional writer and career coach/motivator full time. I love the beauty industry and how it has evolved into an inclusive multifaceted marketplace. My career is still emerging and growing as a 30-something millennial therefore, I've gained a lot of tips and tricks of the trade, while surviving and 'making it' in the corporate world. 

I'm literally growing out of my shell and becoming more of a care-free, bubbly, and outgoing individual. I've been using my COVID-19 time to consume career-based content. I've joined the Create Cultivate, community for $10.00 (annually), due to a special they were running in light of the pandemic. I also purchased a new book called Work Party by Jaclyn Johnson founder and CEO of Create Cultivate. Girl Boss by Sophia Amoruso is always on my bookshelf, and I probably read it about 15 times, since the book released. Books and podcasts are very important for me to consume at this time, especially if you want to stay motivated in your career/profession or a budding entrepreneur. Right now is the perfect time and opportunity to invest in yourself, your dreams, and goals. You don't have to spend tons of money, there's plenty of online resources, tutorials, and e-courses that are free to eager minds.

A slow down in the economy does not place your dreams on hold or in self-quarantine. Use your time at home (or in the office) to create the perfect work life balance! Honestly, I'm more balanced + centered than ever before. I like to choose wellness over being burned out, and having the right amount of flexibility in my work day. I'm much happier, when I am in total control over my life, while maintaining my peace!

Skin Care Review: Eminence Organics Stone Crop Hydrating Mist

I've been using Eminence Organics skin care products for the past year, which has totally saved the health and integrity of my skin. Regular facials for me are a MUST, since I have combination/dehydrated skin. I go to HeyDay Skin Care, which has several locations, in popular cities around the United States.

My Esthetician, usually sprays the Eminence Organics Stone Crop Hydrating Mist, after applying performing several different treatments. The Stone Crop Hydrating Mist, can be used as a toner or mist during the day. Stone Crop is a succulent healing plant used to treat different skin care issues, such as hydration, hyperpigmentation, lightening complexion, firming, toning skin, etc. After my my facial my skin just glows after this product is applied and soaks in. I'm left with soft glowing skin each time.

I picked this up this week, to include in my home care routine. I use it morning and at night, before applying moisturize. What I love is the scent and the product not being sticky or tacky. I wish I had a second bottle to keep in my purse! This product has completely reduced my skin's ability to overproduce oil and has balanced it's production. This will definitely be a staple in my routine, I will be picking up another bottle when I can to keep in my bag for all seasons. 

 You can only purchase Eminence Organics products from spas authorized to sell their products. Honestly, prices vary and usually are concordant with what's on their website. HeyDay sells a small collection of  Eminence products, and I am a member there, so I receive 10% off on skin care products. Sometimes, I buy online at EMStore, Dermstore, or from local spas.

Exfoliate + Moisturize

It's Summer, and we finally made it to sunshine, longer days, iced lattes, and cool beach attire. Having great skin not only starts within, but how we treat our skin on the outside, as well. Our skin needs exfoliation at least 2-3 times a week, to remove dead skin cells, and to prevent ingrown hairs, and bumps from razors or waxing.

I learned this tip from an aesthetician at Sugaring NYC, during one of my monthly sugaring sessions. I use Sugaring NYC's brand of body scrubs, in Coconut Vanilla however, you can make your own scrub or purchase any brand you want. Exfoliating really helps when I'm in between waxing, because it keeps my skin smooth, and less dry with new hairs growing in. You can use your hands to exfoliate or apply the scrub to a loofah or wash cloth. This process only takes about an extra 5 minutes in the shower and it's totally worth it!

The lotion I like to use after the shower is by Eminence Organics, and it's the Coconut Firming Body Lotion. Hands down, this is best lotion I have used in my entire life. It contains a natural alternative to Retinol. Areas on my body, where I've had stretch marks firmer, and the skin is tighter. Rumor has it, Meghan Markle uses a Firming lotion by Nivea, and swears by it. I like this lotion because it keeps my skin soft and supple, without leaving behind a greasy feeling. One bottle lasts me the entire month, for the exception of the winter months, where I would apply a thicker application.

Don't forget to apply SPF, in addition to your morning beauty treatments and rituals! Have an awesome and great summer!

John Masters Organics Review

While strolling through the isles of Whole Foods, I decided to take a peak at their skincare and beauty section. I always wanted to try John Masters Organics products for ages, and finally had the chance to. One of my favorite YouTube beauty gurus, SunKissAlba, raves about these products. A few days ago, I purchased the Jojoba & Ginseng Exfoliating Face Cleanser. What I love about this product is that it is so calming and purifying after you use it. The Exfoliating beads are not terribly annoying, and are small and wash off easily. This product smells pleasantly like lemon pie. Now let's get into the price... As I write this post, and look down at my Whole Foods receipt, I paid $22.99 for the Jojoba & Ginseng Exfoliating Face Cleanser. I'm use to paying no more than $10-$14 for skincare products, and this is the most I've paid in a long time. However, this product is well worth it!

The product I want to try next is the John Masters Organics Moroccan Clay Purifying Mask. I was poking around the Internet, and found an online store called DERMSTORE, that carries this item. The price tag is high, and costs $30, I will definitely be doing some homework on reviews before I purchase. As of right now, this product is on my skincare wish list. 

Image Credit: DERMSTORE

My Favorite Beauty Products

Holy Grail beauty products are a lifesaver for those of us that are always on the go, with limited time to test the waters of new products. Don't get me wrong, I love trying new products however, within the past 3 years, I've found myself repurchasing these items like crazy! I have a preference of buying and using beauty products that are natural/organic, which includes hair and skincare. Today, I'm sharing the products that make my hair soft and shiny and my skin glow beyond measures.  I will list each product shown, with a short description and of course, will mention where you can find these fabulous products.

Camille Rose Naturals Carmel Cowash: If you have curly hair like I do, shampoo can really strip our already dry hair, of it's natural oils. I like this co wash, which is a conditioning cleanser that cleanses my hair and scalp without making my hair dry and frizzy afterwards. Some of the key ingredients in this product, are coconut, keratin, rosemary, and argan oil. You can find this product on the Naturally Curly website.

Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love Moisture Milk: I like to style my hair with this hair milk and it smells amazing, like frosted vanilla cupcakes. This product is not only great at moisturizing my hair, it provides a faint, soft hold for my curls. The Camille Rose products promise to hydrate, soften, and strengthen the hair. The key ingredients in this product is rice milk and macadamia oil. You can find this product at your local Target store.

Curl Junkie, Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment: My one and only favorite hair mask is by Curl Junkie, and it's the Curl Rehab deep conditioner. What I love about this deep conditioner, is that a little goes a long way. This conditioner can be used with or without heat. I choose to use heat with mine, for about 15-20 minutes once a week. This conditioner is very universal and I've seen positive reviews from various women with different hair types and hair textures. This product also contains 98% natural/naturally derived ingredients, according to the Curl Junkie website. My hair is always soft after using this conditioner, and my hair always smells amazing, and the scent lasts for about 3-4 days. I like to purchase this conditioner from Amazon or the Curl Junkie website.

 

Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste: My haircare regimen could not be complete without this product. This control paste/gel contains natural ingredients such as silk amino acids, keratin, and castor oil, and is great for slicking down hair unruly hair. I like to use this product to have my baby hairs on fleek. I like to do sleek or sometimes tousled curly updos, and I prefer to have a polished look. This control paste, also does not cause build up on the hair, and zero white flakes! I like to purchase the Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste from my local Target.

Shea Moisture Peace Rose Oil Complex Mud Mask: My favorite skincare product is by Shea Moisture and it's the Sensitive Skin Peace Rose Oil Complex mud mask. This product exceeded my expectations for a drugstore skincare product. This product is geared towards sensitive skin however, it works fine on my normal/dry skin type. It smells like a flower bed of fresh roses and deeply cleanses my face, leaving it bright, soft, and supple. I like to purchase the travel packets of this mask for traveling purposes. I use this mask twice a week, and you only need a small amount of this product to get the job done! I like to purchase the travel  packets of these masks from Ulta  online.

Argan Oil: Pure and organic Argan oil is a big contributor to my beauty regimen. I like to use this oil everywhere! I use Argan oil on my hair, face, and body. The actual oil is very cost-friendly compared to the Moroccan Oil brand. This is another product you don't need much of once your hair/skin maintains a sufficient moisture balance. You can find natural/organic Argan oil in a lot of health food stores, Whole Foods, and some drug stores. The brand of Argan oil I like to purchase is by Aura Cacia, and I can literally find this locally where I live. You can also purchase this brand of the oil from the Thrive Market online. 

I cannot end this blog post without mentioning Glamour Magazine's June issue titled Bare Beauty, which embraces minimalistic beauty. This is one of my favorite issues, so far this year!

This post was edited on May 13, 2017 for clarity and accuracy.

October Favorites: Recap ♡

Happy November everyone,

I am having a wonderful time enjoying the Autumn/Winter season. I love the cooler months because I have more options with experimenting with fashion. I have a few favorite items I have been loving during the month of October. As always, I was not paid to feature/review these items. Nor am I affiliated with the companies mentioned below. Thanks.  Let's get started!

Faux Facial: Boscia Luminizing Black Mask

It's no secret, that having great skin is the foundation for any look, whether it is makeup or clothes. If your skin is not up to par, you won't feel and look great. A product that gives my skin what it needs when I need it, is the Boscia Luminizing Black Mask. This stuff is the TRUTH and then some! This mask reminds me of the green mask formulas, that are used at salons, except this one is black. 

My Fall Skin Care Wish List

As we all know Fall is approaching, and the air outside is much drier than it is during the warmer months. Everyone needs to give their skin a little extra hydration during the Fall and Winter months. Many of us don't pay close attention to our skin and how to care for it accurately. I often find, at times the quick easy drug store buys like lotions, facial masks, and cleansers don't get the job done efficiently. I'm not going to lie, there are some great drug store brands out there that work just as good as higher end products. Aveeno moisturizing skin care products are my favorite go-to-brand for my skin during the warmer months. Now that fall/winter is approaching, I find that my skin needs a different type of moisture and care. I am going to list some of the products I would like to test out this season to meet my skin care needs. Once I decide which product I want to try first I would most certainly have a review up for each product(s).

• CHANEL HYDRAMAX + ACTIVE: I heard so many great things about this moisturizer however, the price will blow you away at $72.00 a pop. I think this would be a great splurge if you have the extra cash to buy this. I will be saving up for this... I may not purchase this until winter due to the high price. This can be found at Nordstrom or Saks and other high-end department stores

•  Boscia Oil-Free Daily Hydration SPF 15: $36 and can be found at Sephora

• Boscia Pore Purifying Black Strips $15

• Boscia Luminizing Black Mask $34 can be found at Sephora

• Bosica Balancing Facial Tonic $24 can be found at Sephora: This stuff is the best! I have used this previously in the past. This was my first product ever that I tried from the Boscia line. This facial tonic gets all the impurities out of my face and leaves it feeling clean and fresh. It also kept my face clear and free from unwanted pimples. 

• Bliss Triple Oxygen + C Energizing Cream: $54 and can be found at Sephora: I received a travel sample size of this cream from Sephora a long time ago. This smells great and adds moisture to my face without making it oily or greasy. The price of this is pretty steep but it's well worth the buy. 

That's it for my Fall Skin Care Wish List. I may pick 3 of these products to buy  based on previous experiences with the products, how they benefit the skin, and reviews. I think these are great products to look into if you're looking to improve the condition of your skin.