Question of the Week: Drugstore vs prestige cosmetics – which is better? Yikes, what a hard question! It all depends on the products. Mascara, lipstick, lipgloss, blush can be found at the drugstore with quality that competes with prestige brands. With foundation, however, I personally prefer prestige. Painted Ladies – The good, the bad and […]
The fall palettes have begun to launch, which is such a source of excitement for Lola’s Secret Beauty Blog, and one of the most eagerly anticipated is the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Unlocked Palette. Check out our gorgeous swatches and review– it is an intensely beautiful warm palette that is perfect for the fall and […]
The Beauty Spotlight Team Weekly Reads
Urban Decay Lo Fi Lip Mousse Review and SwatchesThe new Urban Decay Lo Fi Lip Mousse is definitely something that should be on your radar. It’s a product unlike anything I’ve tried, and that’s saying a lot! These lip mousses come in little pots with mirrors that you can throw into your purse.
At first glance, you might be thinking these are lip balms. Oh no my friend! These are little jars of velvety lip stains. They are not drying like a liquid lipstick, but they aren’t really hydrating like a balm either. So they have some pretty impressive staying power like a stain (and they’re waterproof), and they give you that just-ate-a-popsicle look like a tinted lip balm, but they don’t kiss-off easily and they are very pigmented (would you expect anything less from Urban Decay?).
You can apply them easily with your fingertip, and they go on easily without bleeding into lines. You do get sort of a smoky, blurred out look at the edges, which I think is nice. I think the world of precise, engineered makeup is slowly going out of style, and I’m all about it. But my perfectionistas, don’t rule this product out. There’s actually a (quite genius) pop-out applicator (a narrow eyeshadow sponge type) that I will admit I didn’t realize was there until just now! I tried it and you can definitely get a more precise application with it.
When you put the lip mousse on, it feels like velvet – almost weightless. And when you’re wearing it, it feels like nothing – you’ll forget you’re even wearing it! It’s also buildable, so you can do a very sheer wash of color, or add more for a more extreme look.
Shades (L-R starting at top):
What do you think? Will you be picking one (or more – they can also be layered) of the Urban Decay Lo Fi Lip Mousse colors up? I’m pretty impressed and I hope they keep these around, and come out with more shades!
The post Urban Decay Lo Fi Lip Mousse Swatches appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Where I live, fall has arrived! The mornings are cool, the afternoons are a perfect 70° and the evenings are getting chilly. In a few weeks, we’ll be wearing boots, sweaters and coats. If your fall/winter wardrobe needs an update, you’re in luck because ShopBop has a great sale happening! All orders under $500 will […]
Hey Beauty Bunnies! It’s been a minute since I’ve done a makeup giveaway, and I think I’m overdue! Today I have a really sweet prize package to give away to one lucky reader. It’s the BH Cosmetics Desert Oasis shadow and highlighter palette (19 shades), the Duolight Highlight 9 Color Palette and the Brilliance Bronzer!
It’s super easy to enter – head over to my Instagram post. Follow @mybeautybunny and @bhcosmetics, tag a lucky friend, and if you want extra entries just leave a comment on another Instagram post (you know us bloggers love comments)!
This one is open worldwide – 18+. Not affiliated with Instagram or Facebook in any way. Ends Friday Sept 28th at midnight PST. I will contact the winner via DM. Good luck!
The post BH Cosmetics Giveaway! appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Honey Belle makes handcrafted products with natural, organic ingredients and a lot of love. Founders and creators of Honey Belle, Iris and Calvin have a mission: “Generate health and self-confidence in individuals by producing clean, green, and highly-effective products. We believe in compassion, and making a difference in the community.” After taking a wrong turn and witnessing Skid Row in Los Angeles first-hand […]
Clean Beauty with Honey Belle!
Gregg and I cannot wait for our wedding in Edinburgh, Scotland next month! Although Edinburgh is a smaller city compared to some of the other capitals in Europe, there are no shortage of things for us to do while we’re there. Some people want warm, beach-y locales for their weddings, but Gregg and I love city views, cold weather, creepy history, gothic architecture, and beautiful lochs and vistas, so I know we’ll have a blast. Since we’re getting ready for our trip to Edinburgh, we’ve done our research and these are some places we’re going to check out! I’m also beyond excited that my blogging BFF, Courtney of Phyrra.net, and her husband Ray will be joining us!!
1 – Arthur’s Seat. Found in Holyrood Park, this hill – remnants of an ancient volcano – offers a spectacular view of the city below if we’re lucky enough to climb it on a clear day. You climb nearly 1,000 feet as you hike to the top, so I will be prepared with comfortable shoes, a comfy parka, and plenty of water.
2 – The Royal Mile. You can’t visit Edinburgh without experiencing the Royal Mile. This street cuts through the center of Old Town and is lined with historic buildings that will make you feel like you’ve been transported back in time. Pick up a few souvenirs and keep your eyes peeled for street performers while you’re there. We’re going to be staying in this area – at a couple of different hotels during our stay. We’ll be taking a Rabbie’s Edinburgh City Tour while we’re there to get a lay of the land and check off all the must-see spots!
3 – Calton Hill. We are going to have a pre-wedding photo shoot (since we never did an engagement shoot), and I think Calton Hill will be perfect. It’s beautiful, has a great view of the city and the castle, and has a great old unfinished monument from the 1800s – perfect for photos! I expect it will be packed with tourists, but maybe not since we’re going in the off-season!
4 – Whiskey and Dinner! Fans of whisky might appreciate a visit to the Whiski Rooms. They serve up traditional Scottish cuisine and offer one of the most impressive selections of whisky found anywhere. We actually tried to have our rehearsal dinner here the night before the wedding, but unfortunately they couldn’t accommodate all 26 of us at peak dinnertime. Instead, we’re going to try Twenty Princes Street, which looks like it has an amazing view and menu, and can accommodate Gregg’s parents and a few guests who are vegan.
5 – Princes Street. Speaking of Princes Street…this street is one of the most well-known in the city, and it’s home to some of the best shopping in the area. We’ll enjoy views of the nearby Edinburgh Castle as we pick up a few new pieces and fun souvenirs.
6 – Edinburgh Castle. There’s a serious castle-shortage in Los Angeles, so we’re excited to visit all the castles! If you’ve dreamed of visiting a castle, this is a great way to check an item off of your bucket list! We are going to take a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle (included in the price of admission), but you can also explore the castle and grounds on your own.
7 – Camera Obscura. This mind-boggling museum is a surprising find in Old Town, but it sounds like a fun way to enjoy a rainy afternoon indoors. Home to amazing illusions and bewildering special effects, this is a great spot for my sister’s kids to check out.
8 – Creepy Stuff. There are lots of creepy tours that tell you all about the (often gruesome) Edinburgh history, and since we’re going in October, it’s even more perfect. I found lots of interesting tours – some underground and in closes (alleys). We’re definitely doing this Vintage Bus Ghost Bus Tour (I mean – look at that bus!) with my family and friends. And we’ll probably find others to do when we get there. Surgeons’ Hall Museum also looks totally creepy and weird, and I think my sister (who is an MD) may appreciate it.
9 – Bars and Pubs. When it’s time to sit down and relax with a drink (I don’t drink often, but most of my crew does!), we have lots of options: The Banshee Labyrinth, Bramble, Frankenstein Pub, and many more. Got any other suggestions for me?
10 – The Highlands. We don’t have a lot of time, but we definitely want to get out of the city and have a look around, so we’re taking a Rabbie’s Tour to Loch Ness, Glencoe and the Highlands. It’s a day trip, and only a handful of my guests are joining, but I’m sure we’ll see some AMAZING sights while we’re out there, and maybe meet Nessie the Loch Ness Monster (hope she’s friendly!). And we’ll probably see some of those adorable, fuzzy highland cows!
And of course, we’ll wind up at Dalhousie Castle (about 10 miles away – south of Edinburgh) for our wedding ceremony. And then on to our honeymoon in London. Stay tuned for lots of pics! I’ve already got my Instagram friendly spots in Edinburgh and London picked out of course – LOL!
We’re so excited for our trip! Which places would you absolutely include on your trip to Edinburgh? Let me know by leaving a comment below!
The post Top 10 Places I’m Planning to Visit in Edinburgh appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
In the past several years, I’ve been on a quest to find skincare products that are better for my skin. Part of this search requires a more naturally derived ingredient list suited for my dry, sensitive skin. Sometimes I succeed, sometimes not. One of my latest successes comes from the H2bio Micellar Water, […]
H2bio Micellar Water & Cleansing Cloth Set
The challenges of modern life can have an impact on your circadian rhythms, causing your body, and your skin, to become out of sync. Powered by Peptide⁴ and exclusive extracts of Star ArvensisTM and Night Scented Stock, the ELEMIS Peptide4 24/7 Skin-Synchronizing Collection helps to support skin’s natural processes for a well-rested glow, day or night. Revive, […]
Powered by Flowers: ELEMIS Peptide 24/7 Collection!
Question of the Week: What sheet masks do you really love? Any! My Beauty Bunny – has put together the ultimate bridal beauty wedding prep guide with timelines for every type of beauty treatment. Are you a bride-to-be, or know someone who is? Bookmark this one! Painted Ladies – With Halloween and the Holiday season […]
After years of using lip scrubs that were just a little too good at exfoliating away flaking skin, Jen from Laugh, Love, Contour has finally come across the perfect lip scrub! Vanilla Mint Lip Scrub by Skin Snob is filled with shea and cocoa butters to leave your lips feeling soft and smooth while the […]
The Beauty Spotlight Team Weekly Reads
Question of the Week: What sheet masks do you really love?
Believe it or not, I don’t have a favorite sheet mask! A lot of the ones I have seen have sooooo many ingredients, and my skin is so sensitive and temperamental, that I usually skip em. I’ve had some bad reactions in the past, so I just haven’t been a huge sheet mask fan. That being said, my fiancé who has thicker skin (literally and figuratively) loves them! I have a box of ’em just for him, and his skin always feels super soft and smooth afterward. Which sheet masks do you recommend? Got any good cruelty free ones that you’ve tried?
The Lipstick League – week of 9.17.18
Please note that not all Lipstick League posts are cruelty free.
My Beauty Bunny – has put together the ultimate bridal beauty wedding prep guide with timelines for every type of beauty treatment. Are you a bride-to-be, or know someone who is? Bookmark this one!
Painted Ladies – With Halloween and the Holiday season upon us, festive makeup looks are in the works. Sheila shows you how to wear glitter without making a mess!
Phyrra – You’ve got to hear all about the new makeup from The Makeup Show Orlando, plus see my makeup haul!
Prime Beauty – I’ve got the deets on a new hair care line you must try! Biotera Natural Origins uses 97% naturally derived ingredients, helps treat dry and damaged hair with seven products and is available at Sally Beauty for only $10.99!
Slashed Beauty – Have you heard of Prime Wardrobe? It’s a new Amazon service where you can try on clothes for free before purchasing! Check out my Prime Wardrobe review and haul!
Beautygeeks – is 100-percent convinced you all need this lipstick right now. Right now!
Blushing Noir – With the right tips and tricks It’s totally possible to do a cut crease on hooded eyes!
EauMG – If I had to choose a perfume of the woman that I wish to become, it’d be this one.
(Wondering what the Lipstick League is? Find out here.)
My Beauty Bunny is Currently Craving: the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Powder. Quite frankly – this is the first time I’ve been “craving” something I already own, but it’s THAT GOOD! It’s a holy grail powder that make my pores looks invisible, sets my makeup, and keeps me from being shiny. I want a back up!
The post What sheet masks do you really love? appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Milani Cosmetics has released two new eyeshadow palettes on the heels of their highly successful Bold Obsessions (reviewed here) and Most Loved Mattes palettes. Milani is one of the best drugstore brands on the market and continues to launch hit after hit. The new Pure Passions and Soft and Sultry eyeshadow palettes are two new […]
Frugal Friday: Milani Pure Passion Eyeshadow Palette
Biotera Natural Origin was created for professional stylists and sophisticated consumers who have high standards but don’t want to pay sky-high prices. Their team of specially trained chemists is committed to creating top-quality hair products that compete with high-end salon brands. Biotera Natural Origin has up to 97% naturally derived ingredients and is free from sulfates, silicones, […]
New! Biotera Natural Origin Hair Care!
So, your wedding is coming up and you want to make sure your hair, skin, body, smile, and tan are all the best they can be for the big day. You already booked your photographer, and now you want to make those photos count! Whether you’re a low maintenance bride, or a total glam queen, here’s my guide to total beauty prep for your wedding. But, let’s not forget about the most important thing – your health! I’ve got some health suggestions in this guide for you too.
There are some things you should plan to do well ahead of your big day (like any major skin treatments) and some you’ll need to do right before (nails for example). But be sure not to do anything drastic (or anything you’re unsure of) right before the wedding. For example, if you’re someone who has never had lip fillers (ahhh I’m squeamish – the thought of it makes me want to pass out!), then don’t use your wedding as a time to experiment with it.
I don’t think I need to tell you that plastic surgery right before your wedding is way too risky (although there is an Australian TV show all about brides who do this)! If you’re seriously thinking about surgery, think about that as a long-term goal, and remember that your partner asked you to marry him or her the way you look NOW!
No one should tell you what you NEED to do to prep for your wedding. When it comes to beauty, I’m all in. It’s my job, it’s my hobby, and I enjoy the beauty prep. If you’re a lower maintenance gal, but want to step it up for your big day, feel free to pick and choose what makes sense to you.
Major skin treatments (6 months out) – If you have acne, melasma, hyperpigmentation, or just need laser hair removal, now is the time to start the process. Consult with your dermatologist or med spa to find out what treatment plan will work for you. I have hormonal acne AND melasma (patches of hormone-triggered dark spots that are made worse with heat and sun). The acne is an ongoing battle and the melasma is also difficult to treat.
I went to Moy Fincher Chipps Facial Plastics & Dermatology in April (about 7 months before my wedding date). I’m still being treated, with about a month to go before my wedding, but you can see my progress here! If you’re in the Los Angeles area, I could NOT recommend Moy Fincher Chipps more! They have every laser and treatment you could want, their staff is super knowledgable, and they are so nice (and not pretentious or sales-y like other doctors and med spas in the LA and Beverly Hills area)!
Body Contouring (6 months out) – Love it or hate it, most of us are worried about fitting at least one part of our bodies into our wedding dresses. Even if you’re working out, following a strict diet, and doing everything right, you can still have problem areas. That’s where SculpSure comes in. I will be the first to admit – my body isn’t where I want it to be, and I’m working on that. But since my BMI is less than 30, I’m a candidate for SculpSure body contouring.
I went to LaserXX in Los Angeles for some treatments on my belly and waist area. So far, I’ve had three treatments – one on each different part of my abdomen (bottom, top and flank). It’s only been a month and a half since my first treatment, about 3 weeks since the second treatment and a few DAYS since the last one, and I’m already seeing massive results! I will share the before and after pics with you guys later this year, but for now, I can tell you they have already exceeded my expectations! You can read about my experience here and here and decide if it’s right for you. I will say that you need to space the treatments out and they take at least 3 months for full results, so I suggest starting as soon as possible before the big day!
Health and Stress Prevention (6 months out) – Let’s face it – planning a wedding is stressful! It’s important to keep your immune system running the way it should, and keep your stress levels down. The supplements you take may be different from mine, but I recommend a good probiotic (Life Extension makes one of my favorites with good bugs and phages to kill the bad bugs), Vitamin D, Vitamin C and a great methylated multivitamin (make sure it doesn’t have too much biotin and B12 or algae/seaweed if you’re acne prone, but you do need your B Vitamins – especially when stressed). I’m sensitive, so I often take a quarter or a half of a supplement. If you need less, you can either cut a tablet or pour some of the contents of a capsule out (as long as it’s not time released). You may also want to try a fish oil or flax seed oil for inflammation and overall health.
Brows/Microblading (4-6 months out) – If you’re thinking of getting microblading done (sort of like a brow tattoo but not quite as deep as a regular tattoo and done with different tools), do NOT cheap out with a discount shop! This is going on your face, and you will regret it if you go to someone who is not qualified or clean. Spend some time and do lots of research online – read reviews and ask for before/afters (you can often find them on Instagram).
If you’re in LA, I recommend Kayla at Thread in Studio City – she did my last microblading touch up and she is incredible. She will work with you to find the perfect color and shape. Tell her Jen from My Beauty Bunny sent ya! You may need a touch up a few months after the first microblading session, so start well ahead of the wedding. You also need lots of time for your brows to heal and go through that uber-dark and uber-itchy period!
Brows (2-3 months out) – If you’re not someone who pays a lot of attention to your brows, find a great aesthetician or brow artist who can start working those puppies into shape! I go to Lashelle Ullie at Damone Roberts in Beverly Hills and he is SO good. I pay a little more for his waxing services (he also does threading), but it’s 100% worth it. Start going now, if you need help shaping and letting your brows grow in. Then schedule your last appointment for 2-3 days before the wedding, so you’ll be ready to go without any redness.
Supplements for Hair, Skin, Nails and STRESS (3 months out) – Let’s talk about hair and nail growth! There are a lot of supplements that can help in the hair, nails and skin department. My personal preference is sea buckthorn oil (read my hair growth supplement review here) because it WORKS and it doesn’t make me break out like biotin (which is found in high concentrations in most hair, skin and nails supplements). It takes 2-3 months to see results, so I’d recommend taking it as soon as possible.
If you’re feeling stressed and having trouble sleeping, try an herbal adrenal blend during the day (for stress and nerves) and melatonin at night (for sleep). Meditation, avoiding sugar, alcohol and processed food, and of course, regular exercise, can work wonders as well.
Facials (2 months out) – For best results, get at least 2-3 facials leading up to the wedding. I recommend doing your last facial at least a week prior, in case there is any redness (especially if you have acne or blackheads that need to be extracted). I get the BEST facials at Verabella salon in Beverly Hills. I highly recommend getting the micro current added to your facials. It actually LIFTS your face while it tightens and tones. You’ll see better results if you can do a few treatments before the wedding, because there are long-term cumulative results, but here’s a pro tip – do your last micro current treatment as close as you can to the wedding, because those temporary lifting results will last about a day or so.
Microdermabrasion is offered at Verabella too, but that’s one I would do several weeks before the wedding to give your skin time to heal (just in case you’re sensitive). Vera (the owner) and Veronica (Vera’s daughter) will treat you right! Just tell them your timeline and they’ll give you an action plan! I also recommend dragging your guy in to get a men’s facial too – they will scrub him up and make him look like a million bucks!
“Light” Laser Treatments (2+ months out) – If you’re looking for a “light” laser that will clean out your pores, reduce acne, reduce inflammation, and make your skin more clear and bright, I recommend getting a series of Laser and Light treatments (YAG laser and IPL) at Skin Laundry. You can opt for those (for just about any skin type but just be careful if you have hormonal melasma – it may not be right for you), or if you need something more extreme, they have a new Ultra Fractional laser treatment that evens out skin tone, reduces fine lines and pigmentation and stimulates collagen production. They use the YAG laser before the fractional to clean out your pores, then they close with a soothing hyaluronic acid, peptide and antioxidant serum that is absorbed deep into your pores. My BFF who is getting married a week before me, did a Laser + Light, followed by two Ultra Fractional laser sessions over the course of about a month, and her skin is GLOWING!
Tan (1-2 months out) – If you want a glow for your wedding, test out a spray tan artist before-hand, so you can make sure they understand what you want. If you’re not normally a spray tan kind of gal, go with the lightest shade to start. You want to make sure you are happy with the color. Spray tans tend to last in the neighborhood of 7-14 days, depending on your skin and how much you exfoliate.
If you’re a DIY faux tanner, I recommend Beautisol (amazing colors and they go on streak-free), Minetan (dark ash is a great one if you have olive undertones) and Vita Liberata (this one lasts a really long time but does dry my skin out a bit) as great cruelty free options. Always use a mitt to apply without streaks, and I like to use a large foundation brush to apply to my face.
Makeup (2 months out) – Start thinking about what you’d like your makeup to look like on the big day. Create a Pinterest board with ideas and inspiration for your makeup artist. If you’re an advanced makeup user, you probably know which colors and formulas work best for your skin tone and skin type. Don’t leave it up to chance – start creating a bag with products that you KNOW work for you, and discuss with your makeup artist. But do trust their judgment – they may have something that will work better, and remember – they do this for a living! Another tip – less is more – if you’re not normally someone who wears a lot of makeup, now is not the time to try a full-on, drag-level amount of makeup. Let your makeup artist guide you.
Teeth Whitening (1-2 months out) – If you’re going to see your dentist for a cleaning and in-office whitening treatment, you may want to go one or even two months before the big day, depending on your sensitivity. I’m VERY sensitive to dental treatments and bleaching my teeth at the dentist, means months of sensitivity to ice and cold foods for me. So instead, I’m using at-home whitening strips and treatments, like the Oralgen NuPearl 32x teeth whitening for sensitive teeth. It’s peroxide free and cruelty free.
Hair (1-2 months out) – Go see your hair stylist for a cut, color and hot oil or keratin treatment a few weeks before the wedding (but skip the hair treatment if you are going for an up-do or if your hair is very fine). If you’re going to be wearing extensions, take them in so they can be dyed and cut to match your hairstyle. If you can, it’s a good idea to do a test run with the style you’ll be wearing for the big day.
My hair guru, Patricia Lynn Laas, helped dye my clip in extensions and even went so far as to take them apart and re-sew them so that they’d fit my hair properly. I have some hair extensions from Irresistible Me, and I’ve also got some from Hair U Wear on the way, so I’ll see which ones look the best for my wedding (follow me on Instagram to see what I choose!).
Eyelash Extensions (1-2 months out) – If you’re not a regular eyelash extension wearer (like myself), then make sure you get your first set about a month before the wedding so you can get used to them. Some people hate the way they feel, and if that’s you, you’ll need to know BEFORE you’re headed to your wedding venue. I’ve been getting them for years, so I’m obviously a big fan (hey – no mascara to run when I’m tearing up during the ceremony!). You’ll want to avoid any cleansers or makeup removers with oil, or the lashes will fall out, and don’t rub, and try not to sleep on your face! If you’re in Los Angeles, I highly recommend Stacy Lash – I’ve been going for YEARS and they are the best. Tell them you heard about them on My Beauty Bunny for a discount.
Couple’s Massage (ANY TIME!) – Treat yourself to a couple’s massage if you can. It’s good for stress relief and good to stop and relax – especially if there’s any last minute bickering that might be going on between you and your friends and family. You and your partner will be stressed and this can be a nice relief. I love to go to Burke Williams with Gregg, and we are actually planning on going next week! The new-ish location on La Brea in Hollywood has a separate men’s and women’s area – with giant jacuzzi, wet steam room, dry steam room, cooling mist room, and of course a unisex lounge with spa water and fruit. There are lots of treatments – including facials, massages and body treatments.
Now’s the time to do the last minute beauty treatments – like nails, brow and bikini waxes, facials, lash extensions, and spray tans. Hopefully you had time to experiment with these treatments in the months prior, and now you’re ready for the last ones leading up to the wedding. You’ll want to do most of these as close to the ceremony as you can. This week will be busy!
Nails (1-3 days out) – Get those nails done as close to the wedding date as you can, so there are no chips or tears, and so your cuticles will look nice in those close-up ring photos! Don’t try acrylics if you’ve never worn them before. Now’s not the time to test out new things. Gels are a good choice because they will last about two weeks (or more for some people), and there’s no chance of smudges since they are dry and set before you leave the salon. I’m going to be getting my nails done at Rose VI Nail Bar in Van Nuys – they came highly recommended by my beauty blogger friend, Emily Wolf Beauty.
Waxing or Threading (2-3 days out) – Get that done a few days before the wedding if you can. You don’t want to be red or irritated, so give your skin some time to cool down.
Facial (3-7 days out) – Get a facial the week of the wedding, but not the day before. If you’re doing a micro current treatment, you’ll want to do that the day before (or day of if possible). If you have any last minute zits, schedule an emergency appointment with your dermatologist for cortisone injections.
Eyelash Extensions (1-3 days out) – Get a new set as close to the wedding day as possible for maximum va va va voom!
Spray Tan or Self Tan (2-3 days out) – Once you’ve found your desired color, apply it a couple days before the wedding. You don’t want to have to wash it off the morning of the wedding (too much to do that day!) – you also run the risk of streaks and no time to fix them if you do it the night before.
Skincare (day of wedding) – Don’t use any new skincare products (for face or body) right before the wedding. Stick to what you know, so you don’t get any skin irritation or breakouts. Consider getting your hands (and your partner’s hands) into “close-up ring photo shape” by using a Parasilk gLOVE Treat paraffin treatment right before the wedding. You can throw them into your bag, and all you need is a microwave and about 10 minutes. I plan to use mine while I’m getting hair and makeup done. Don’t forget to use a great lip treatment under your lipstick and give some to your partner too!
Now – try to enjoy your wedding day and not stress too much (I’ll be attempting to take my own advice in about a month)! Remember that your betrothed loves you, and after the wedding, you can relax and enjoy that honeymoon! If you guys want to see pics from my big day, be sure to follow me on Instagram – I’ll be over-sharing, no doubt! 
The post Bridal Beauty and Health: How to Prep for Your Wedding appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Who gets enough sleep these days? No one I know, so eye creams have become an essential component to your anti-aging arsenal. As we get older, the skin around the eyes gets thinner and when you smile or squint, the skin folds, leading to crow’s feet and wrinkles. Unless you plan on never smiling again […]
7 Eye Creams for Fighting Bags, Wrinkles and Dark Circles!
As most of you know, I have hormonal acne which leaves gnarly scars that take forever to heal AND melasma (patches of hormone-triggered dark spots that are made worse with heat and sun). The acne is an ongoing battle and the melasma is also notoriously difficult to treat (and mine is no exception). I have the melasma on my cheeks and above my lip.
I consulted with Dr. Jennifer Herrmann of Moy Fincher Chipps Facial Plastics & Dermatology on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills in April (about 7 months before my upcoming wedding). First thing to note – if you have melasma, it’s very important to avoid IPL and other laser treatments that many med spas may try to sell you. The light and heat from these machines can actually make it worse. Dr. Herrmann was the first doctor who was able to help me.
She used the PiQo4 laser, which is a laser used for tattoo removal and melasma. The reason it’s so successful for melasma is that the laser delivers energy so fast (in a picosecond) that it shatters the dark pigment without creating a lot of heat. Getting rid of melasma is a long and slow process – too much heat can make it worse, so it’s best to go slowly.
Click here to see a video of the PiQo4 laser in action. It doesn’t hurt because Dr. Herrmann numbs me up beforehand with lidocaine cream and she uses a low setting (my skin is super sensitive so we can’t go too high with it). After a treatment, it doesn’t hurt, but I’m red for about three days or so. It’s not bad and nothing makeup can’t cover.
I’ve been getting treatments for about six months now and you can see it’s pretty much gone on one side (and much lighter on the other). It’s stubborn and hard to treat, so the sooner you get started, the better. I’m still treating the melasma, and I have a few sessions to go before my wedding, but you can see how much progress we’ve made with 10+ PiQo4 treatments and two microneedling treatments!
Dr. Herrmann also treated me with cortisone injections for the large cystic acne (better to get them to calm down before they cause scars!) and as I mentioned above, microneedling. The microneedling was something I’d highly recommend for anyone to deal with rough skin texture, fine lines, acne scars, and overall skin rejuvenation. You can do a series of microneedling treatments – one per month for 4-6 months should do the trick, but I saw results with a single treatment in April and then another in September.
At Moy Fincher Chipps, they really massage the numbing cream into your skin for several minutes, which makes the lower level microneedling virtually painless. Since I know I have sensitive skin, I asked them to use the smallest needles all over, and then they went over the spots that needed it with medium level needles. My skin was very red right after the procedure, and after about 3-4 days, it looked radiant! My skin was smoother, brighter and scars were starting to fade. Click here to see a little video of the microneedling process.
I ALWAYS wear sunscreen now – especially when I’m getting laser treatments (I bring it with me to apply after the laser) – but really all the time to keep my melasma from coming back. I even put it on when I’m working from home with the window shades open. Here are some cruelty free and acne-safe sunscreens I recommend. But one thing to note – DO NOT put sunscreen or any moisturizer on your face right after microneedling – you can cause all kinds of trouble – including a white “tattoo” of sorts or serious skin bumps and irritation. Just listen to the doc’s advice and always make sure you understand the after-care directions.
If you have melasma (or acne), and if you’re in the Los Angeles area, I seriously could NOT recommend Moy Fincher Chipps more! They have every laser and treatment you could want, their staff is super knowledgable, and they are so nice (and not pretentious or sales-y like other doctors and med spas in the LA and Beverly Hills area)! I call them a “Disneyland for skincare” because they have so many treatment options! I went to the Beverly Hills location (on Rodeo Drive) but they have other locations in Encino and Torrance. Mention code MYBEAUTYBUNNY20 for 20% off your first treatment! And tell them I sent you. You won’t be disappointed!
The post PiQo4 – the Only Melasma Treatment that has Ever Worked for Me! appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
BoxyCharm is a monthly beauty subscription box. It costs $21/month but the value is much, much higher. You will get 5-6 beauty items each month that include nail care, skin care, makeup, haircare, fragrance and more with at least 4 of those items being full-sized. The box ships to the US and Canada. Each box has […]
BoxyCharm Subscription Box for September 2018!
Let’s talk green beauty. Is there a green beauty brand you just LOVE?
I don’t know if I have a favorite green beauty brand. There are so many good ones. I have tried a lot of good, clean makeup and skincare brands at Credo and The Detox Market. I also find really great stuff at Whole Foods and my local (and very pricy but convenient) health food store, Erewhon. Alima Pure makes one of my favorite lip tints – it’s sort of like a very highly pigmented balm and has a minty feel, but still looks like a lipstick. I’m also obsessed with their powder foundation – they actually make a light olive shade which is so hard to find! Lily Lolo also has some really nice powders and highlighters. As for skincare, I really like Osmia Organics, and for sun protection, Coola has great options. What are your favorite green beauty brands? Are there some you’d like to see me review on the blog?
The Lipstick League – week of 9.10.18
Please note that not all Lipstick League posts are cruelty free.
EauMG – I know you see this brand featured basically in every shelfie and vanity shot on Instagram, but what does their stuff smell like? Well, I have a review of a Byredo perfume that doesn’t smell like its name…it smells better.
My Beauty Bunny – bought a supposed Beauty Blender dupe on Amazon for under eight bucks. Did it stand up to the cult favorite? Click on through to find out!
Phyrra – Do you love romantic and edgy makeup? Check out my Lime Crime Venus III Palette Review. You’ll love these cool tones!
Painted Ladies – Sheila shares a makeup tutorial based on the new Makeup Revolution The Emily Edit The Wants Palette.
Prime Beauty – I’ve found the first ever nail lacquer with a swatch cap. LBK Nail Lacquer has a hinged cap that is the color of the nail lacquer inside so you can try before you buy and there are 48 shades!
Slashed Beauty – There are still a few music festivals left this summer! Here’s an easy festival hairstyle tutorial: side braids for a faux side shave look.
we heart this – It’s an elf primer showdown! How did four of their most popular primers hold up against 9 hours of wear on our oily gal’s skin? We brought the receipts…
Blushing Noir – This month I got the Pretty Vulgar Nightingale Eyeshadow Palette, a Laura Geller Blush, a Butter London liner, a set of makeup brushes and the best liquid lipstick I’ve ever tried for only $21. All FULL SIZED and BRAND NEW. Click to find out how you can get it too!
(Wondering what the Lipstick League is? Find out here.)
EauMG is Currently Craving: Help me! Sephora is already putting holiday gift sets on their site! This Sephora Favorites Glow for It kit is full of old favorites and stuff I’ve been wanting to try.
The post What is Your Favorite Green Beauty Brand? appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
It’s no secret that I’m not a fan of matte lipsticks, they just aren’t flattering on my older lips so I”m delighted that glosses are having a comeback. And I’m extra delighted that Burt’s Bees has added liquid lipsticks $10 to their line! Made with 100% natural ingredients, Burt’s Bees liquid lipsticks contain conditioning Apricot and Babassu […]
NEW! Burt’s Bees Liquid Lipstick!
Help a Blogger Out: Jen from My Beauty Bunny says “Let’s talk green beauty. Is there a green beauty brand you just LOVE?” I love the French/Korean brand Erborian, their CC cream is amazing!! EauMG – I know you see this brand featured basically in every shelfie and vanity shot on Instagram, but what does […]
The Lipstick League Talks Green Beauty
Prime Beauty has found the first ever nail lacquer with a swatch cap! LBK Nail Lacquer has a hinged cap that is the color of the nail lacquer inside so you can try before you buy and there are 48 shades! Find out how Pammy Blogs Beauty makes every day a FUNday with sunshine and […]
The Beauty Spotlight Team Weekly Reads
The new fall release from Urban Decay is getting a lot of buzz! I received a sample of the Urban Decay Elements palette, so I thought I’d share my thoughts and some swatches with you. I have light olive skin, so if you have a similar skin tone, you’ll want to take a look.
So first of all, the palette LOOKS really cool. It’s a giant, round palette, with a very large mirror on the inside. The interior design has a “witchy” feel to it that really appeals to me. There are 19 new shades based on the four elements – wind, air, water and fire. Luna is the one in the middle of the palette. It’s a transformer shade, so you can add it on top of any color, or use it as a highlight.
Shades included:
So here is how the Urban Decay Elements palette shades look on my pale olive skin tone. There are some shades I really like and some I’d probably never use. I’ll be the first to admit, I’m not great at picking out color combinations. I know some of you are really good at mapping out what your eye look will be before you even start. I’m not that kind of girl! I prefer when an eye palette has shades that ALL complement each other. I’d say this palette is more for the adventurous or advanced makeup user (which is typical of Urban Decay in general). If you already have all your neutrals and mattes, and want some fun shades to experiment with, this is the palette for you. If you’re new to makeup, you should probably start with a palette that has more of a consistent theme (I really like Urban Decay’s Backtalk for example).
I really like the pinks, purple and greens in the Elements palette. I know UD fans love sparkle and shimmer but I do wish they’d put more mattes in big palettes like this. If you are creating a makeup look (and especially if you have hooded eyes like me), more mattes for the crease area would be helpful. I feel like this palette isn’t very travel-friendly on it’s own – it’s better as an add-on, that you can use to spice up your makeup looks. Definitely worth looking into for the Urban Decay aficionado!
The post Urban Decay Elements Palette Review and Swatches appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Parasilk gLOVE Treat® is a revolutionary at-home paraffin wax treatment for hands and feet that delivers instant results with long-term, anti-aging benefits. With a patented formula and application process, gLOVE Treat is unique, quick, and easy to do and use. Because it’s a hygienic single application, there’s no mess and no fuss. Just heat, treat and repeat! […]
At-Home Spa Treatment with Parasilk gLOVE Treat® Wax Treatment
I have long ago given up on using my fingers to apply foundation or blend concealer. I have tried many different types of brushes, and some work well for small areas, but I still haven’t found anything to rival the Beauty Blender. I sometimes use it damp (as directed) and sometimes dry, but no matter what, it’s always my best friend for blending my face products and making them look natural.
I don’t wash my Beauty Blender as often as I should, and for someone with acne, that is pretty much an unforgivable sin. I know better, but I don’t think about it until it’s too late! I realized that I should probably be replacing my Beauty Blender more often – perhaps once a month or every other month. But these little babies are not cheap when you’re replacing them often!
I saw another beauty blogger mention a possible Beauty Blender dupe that they found on Amazon. It turned out that their find was NOT a dupe, but I found another beauty sponge that had pretty great reviews. Many, many reviewers on Amazon were saying it was a great Beauty Blender dupe. It was $7.95, so I took a chance and bought it.
The potential dupe was a black sponge from a brand called Lamora. It claimed to be cruelty-free, odor-free, latex-free, long-lasting and non-allergenic. When comparing it to the Beauty Blender, I can see that it’s slightly larger (especially when wet) but otherwise looks pretty similar. When you feel them with your hands, they don’t feel very different, so I was excited to put the Lamora sponge to the test.
I applied my go-to Tarte Amazonian Clay foundation with the potential Beauty Blender dupe on one side of my face, and with the real Beauty Blender on the other. To my dismay, I found the black Lamora sponge was nowhere near as soft and spongy when pressed against my face. I was able to use it, but it did not have the same feel as the Beauty Blender. It was much harder to stipple or tap the makeup into my skin. It was more suited for buffing. I prefer to do both so I can get the best coverage, and I didn’t feel like I could do that with the Lamora.
So $7.95 down the drain, but at least I could review it for you guys, so you don’t make the same mistake. I hope there really is a Beauty Blender dupe out there somewhere, because my wallet could use a break. But hey – for now, let’s all just stop to appreciate that there is a magical makeup applicator out there that works REALLY well, even if it costs a bit more!
The post Did I Just Find a Beauty Blender Dupe? appeared first on My Beauty Bunny.
Finally, a conditioner a fine-haired girl like me can use! Nearly all conditioners: high-end, salon, drugstore weigh my hair down, even if I just put it on the ends. Or, they make my hair too soft to style. White Sands Leave-In Conditioner is the Goldilocks of leave-ins: just right! Because my hair is so […]
White Sands Leave-In Conditioner Spray
Review, Price of Satliva Organic Beauty Products Face Butter, Shampoo Bar, Hair Cream, Lip Balm Satliva makes handmade hemp body and hair care products. While there are various brands in the market which promise to deliver ‘organic’ but infuse various harmful chemicals, Satliva products are 100% natural and deliver what they promise. I have been […]
The post Satliva Organic Products: Review, Price, How To Use appeared first on Vanitynoapologies|Indian Makeup and Beauty Blog.
Beauties, LBK Nail Lacquer is about to revolutionize the nail polish industry, not with the shade assortment, or its 7-free formula, but with swatch caps! Testing nail polish in the store has never been a simple process, until Now! LBK Nail Lacquer has a hinged custom nail tip on every cap that is the exact color of […]
New! LBK Nail Lacquer with Swatch Caps
PRAI Beauty is a world-renowned skincare company dedicated to creating age-defying beauty products infused with their exclusive, signature ingredient: Prai Root essence. Passionate about offering skincare with high-performance ingredients and innovative technology to all women, their vast array of products boasts results-oriented formulas with luxurious, silky textures. The brand sent me 3 lovely products to try […]
