July Favorites

Shiseido Lip Treatment

If you are looking for a lip treatment with SPF in it this is a fantastic product!  My lips easily get sunburnt so I’ve always been on the hunt for a lip treatment with SPF that doesn’t feel greasy or heavy.  I love how lightweight and effective this is.

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Dr. Jart+ Hydra Solution Mask

This is hands down the best hydrating mask I have ever tried, if not the best mask I have ever tried.  It’s truly incredible!  I don’t fear the harsh, dry, cold air to come during Winter anymore. This mask is great for all skin types (I have oily/combination skin).

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Youtheory Collagen Supplements

I recently started taking Collagen supplements again.  I haven’t noticed much of a difference in my skin but I certainly have with my nails!  I wrote an entire blog post about the benefits of collagen supplements you can read here.

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The Most Stylish Exercise Clothes

This may be misguided motivation, but I want to exercise more if I have stylish exercise clothes.  I’ve had a long hatred for uncomfortable, unflattering exercise clothes.  In recent years though active wear brands have really stepped up their game.  Below are some of the most stylish yet comfortable exercise clothes right now.

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From left to right: Free People LeggingLululemon Minimalist BraAlo Reflection TankZella LeggingLululemon ShortsLululemon Tank

 

What SPF Really Means

Sun damage is the #1 cause of premature aging; so sunscreen is one of the most important beauty products we have.  There is a lot of misunderstanding when it comes to SPF though.  So what does your SPF really mean?

SPF indicates the amount of protection you’ll get from UVB rays.  The actual SPF number is not very clear unless you’re a dermatologist or well educated on sun protection.  SPF 30 does not indicate you will be protected from 30% of UVB rays, nor does SPF 100 indicate you will be protected from 100% of UVB rays.  SPF 30 actually indicates you will be protected from 97% of UVB rays.  Most dermatologists will recommend SPF 30 for the average person.

There are varying opinions about when to reapply.  I’ve found that generally most dermatologists recommend reapplying every 2 hours when in direct sun. One of my favorite sunscreen brands is Cool which you can buy here. I also recommend Lancer Sheer Fluid Sun Shield.

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Benefits of Collagen Supplements

Collagen plays a key role in the aging process. Collagen is a protein that essentially holds the body together. There are 16 types of collagen but the most important (and most abundant in the body are types I, II, and III. Below are a few benefits of collagen supplements:

  • Improves skin, hair, and nails
  • Helps strengthen tendons and ligaments
  • Fights signs of aging

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It’s always important to speak to your doctor before taking any supplement because everyone is different.  What works for me may not work for you.  I’ve ben taking the Youtheory Collagen supplement for a few months now; and although I don’t have any signs of aging yet at my age I like knowing I’m doing something to prevent it.  I suffer from tendonitis and it has helped significantly.

 

Nordstrom Anniversary Sale: What To Buy and What To Skip

Early access to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale starts today! (July 14th). You do need a Nordstrom card to have early access.  The sale opens to everyone on July 22nd.  You can learn more details of the sale here.

It can be a bit overwhelming shopping such a massive, and popular sale.  I’m here to help! Here are the best things to get and things to skip during the sale:

Must-Haves:

Coats

A nice coat can easily get pricey.  Even though it’s Summer, it’s time to start thinking about revamping your Fall/Winter wardrobe while you can get a great deal. One of my favorite coats that will be on sale is this Trina Turk coat originally $545 on sale for $269.

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Shoes

Although it’s not difficult to find a shoe sale, it is difficult to find designer shoes on sale.  One of the big trends coming this Fall is sneakers. I love these Vince sneakers for casual, cool-girl outfits.

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Skip:

I recommend skipping anything that you are buying solely because it’s on sale. It’s important to buy things that you really love it.  Don’t get caught in that consumer mentality that tells you to buy things just because you’re getting a deal.