DIY Honey Face Mask For Acne

Hello everyone. Once again I apologize for the lack of blog posts, but today I have a video for you.  Below I will list the ingredients and instructions for you and hope you enjoy this quick little blog post :).

Ingredients

-1 tablespoon of honey (I used locally made, but you can use whatever you have. However, raw organic honey gives the best results.)
-1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
-1 teaspoon of milk (preferably whole, but whatever kind you have works fine)
 -bowl
-Optional: I used a 1 dollar elf brush for a smoother application.

Directions:

Mix together the ingredients and apply to the face. Leave on the face for about 10 minutes.  What you can do is rinse it off, OR stand in the shower to steam it and even further penetrate the mask. Wait until after you have steamed, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

You can do this mask up to 3 times a week since it is so gentle.  Let me know if you try it and if it works for you.  It certainly did for me!

Thanks always,

Katie xoxo

Tips For Clear Skin Naturally

 Hey everyone, it feels like it's been forever since I've actually sat down and written a blog post.  I've really missed it, and I just had to write a new post.  This one's gonna share my tips that have helped out my skin to get a lot clearer than it used to be.  My acne is still quite bad, but these have really helped improve it.  And best of all, this is all stuff that can be done without a dermatologist. Enjoy!

1.Create a simple and gentle skincare routine. Don't overload on products.  Often we can get too excited about trying new stuff and this can end up confusing our skin and causing it to break out even more.  I'll be sharing my skincare routine with you soon, but what I use are a gentle cleanser, witch hazel as my toner and a simple moisturizer.  Make sure to have oil-free, hypoallergenic, and non-comodegenic products.

2. Use face masks. You can buy them, or make them at home yourself.  These can really help out your skin and offer many benefits.  To see my post on some great acne face masks you can do, click here.

3. Drink plenty of water and/or green tea. I often forget to drink water, but I'm aiming to drink at least 5 glasses a day, though lots of people say to take eight.  However, I feel like that's an unrealistic goal right now.  Green tea has many health benefits and I try to drink it regularly to help get rid of toxins in the skin, and it overall makes me feel healthy and really good when I drink it.

4. Toothpaste is your friend.  You can use this to spot treat your acne (not the gel kind, it won't work).  Sounds weird, but it has baking soda in it and actually really works!

5. Tea tree oil is awesome.  This one you can get at Whole Foods, and I haven't tried it yet, but I've heard lots of great things about it.  Apply a small amount to your active acne.

6. Exercise.  It's just part of being overall healthy.  By staying healthy with everything you do, your skin is naturally going to cooperate and function at it's best.  It's just common sense, you know?

7.  Try not to stress.  This is so tough for me, since I tend to panic and worry a lot, but stress can actually cause acne.  If you want, I'll make a blog post with some tips on how to be less stressed, but try to take deep breaths and just stay calm.  And most importantly, BE HAPPY! :):):) 

Thanks for reading,  Katie xoxo

Check out my latest video for more helpful tips: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0-tHZe6rnw
 Follow me on pinterest: here. 


What do you think of these tips?  What tips do you follow to help your skin?

The Skincare Tag + Update!

Hey guys, I know it's been a complete five days since my last blog post, and for that I'm very sorry.  So today I'm bringing you a skincare tag, as well as a special announcement to share afterwards.  Please enjoy, I found this tag from missmakeupbeauty, one of my favorite beauty bloggers to read from.

I saw this tag from missmacbeauty, and decided to try it out.  Anyone reading this can do the tag, I tag you all!  Just be sure to mention me if I helped you discover it.

Describe your skincare routine in 5 words
Gentle, simple, soothing, hydrating, acne-fighting

  What's your skin type? 

Oily/combo, oily in most places, but I do get lots of dry patches during fall and winter.

  What's your favourite skincare product?
This is quite difficult.  But I'd have to say probably my Cetaphil Oil-control moisturizer, since it's something I haven't stopped using since I've gotten it, and it's so gentle and not irritating at all.

Top blemish zapper I actually really like my ELF zit zapper, which is only 1 dollar!

Face wipes yay or nay? 

When traveling, yay, since they're so handy.  But I prefer to wash my face when I'm at home since it irritates my skin less.
  Toner yay or nay?  Yay, I use witch hazel, which works awesome!  I'll be doing a blog post on witch hazel soon :).

  High end skincare or high end make up? Hard to say, since I don't own any of either.  I guess I'd say skincare because taking care of your skin is super important.  But I would probably buy high end makeup before buying an expensive 300 dollar cleanser.
  
  What's the most unusual skincare product you've tried?  I haven't tried anything that unusual before, surprisingly.

You're in a French pharmacy and can only pick one item - what is it?  I honestly don't even know what this questions means but perhaps some special cleanser?
Tell us your top skincare tip  Use a moisturizer, NO MATTER WHAT YOUR SKIN TYPE!  It is so essential, and I used to not believe it since I had oily skin.  But moisturizer actually helps out with the oiliness and controls it.  Make sure moisturizer is a part of your skincare routine, it's so important.

If you enjoyed reading my answers, do the tag yourself! And comment below if you do it, I would love to read it!

 

UPDATE!

 

Now that I've done the tag, it's time for me to update you.  My announcement is that just a few days ago, I created my own youtube channel!  And the cool thing is, I'll sometimes be doing videos that I'll also share with you directly on the blog and post additional info written down on the blog.  So even if you don't have a youtube account, you can still stay updated with the videos I'm making.  My goal is to make at least one video a week, and 2-3 blog posts a week.  Because of this, I may have to delay beginning Wednesdays From Within, since I am extremely busy lately.

Anyway, that is my news.  Be sure to subscribe to my channel here. 

 

Also, leave your thoughts below about this new update.  What do you think?  Leave your video requests below.

DIY Makeup Series: Bronzer!

Time for part 3 of the diy makeup series!  This is super simple because you only need four ingredients.  IMPORTANT: Be sure to test the cinnamon on your arm first to make sure you won't get an allergic reaction.  Read below to see how you can make your own diy bronzer :)

What you'll need:

Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Cornstarch
Cocoa powder
Optional: Face shimmer (powder)

So the cool part about this is that there really is no set amount for how much you should use.  Everyone's skin tone is different, so you'll have different ideas of what shade you would like.  But if your bronzer is too light, add more cocoa powder. A cool trick for a glowy type bronzer, add some more cinnamon.  And if you want a shimmery type bronzer, just add some shimmery type face thing to it.  Then just seal and place it in a container, and you are done!  Super easy, super awesome :)


Be sure to follow me on google plus, google connect, and bloglovin.  Also leave your comments below so I know what you think.

Follow me on pinterest here.

Have you tried DIY makeup before?  If so, which have you tried?

7 Makeup Products You SHOULDN'T Splurge On

 Hey guys!  So today I'm really happy about making this article, because this is a topic I've been wanting to blog about for a LONG time and hope to write more about in the future.  Beauty on a budget.  I am a high school student, and quite frankly, I just don't have a lot of money.  But no worries if you're like me and money is a problem.   This is my top list of products that I personally don't feel you need to spend on.  

Now, keep in mind, these aren't all necessarily products you shouldn't be buying, if I meant that, I'd be in big trouble.  What I mean is that I feel you shouldn't have to spend a lot of money on them, and I will be giving you cheaper and cost-effective alternatives for each of these if you still want to get any of these products.  But who knows, maybe I'll convince you not to buy some of them at all after all!  Anyways, I really hope you enjoy this, so let's get started ;).

1. Eyelash curler: While it's true you can get these for just a dollar (E.L.F. brand), many price ranges for eyelash curlers are much higher.  And while they can be nice, especially for people with very short lashes, there's an easy way to do it just by using your fingers which I use all the time.  Let me know if you want me to share this trick with you in a future blog post.

2. Tinted Moisturizer: I'm a strong believer in purchasing foundations and bb creams, but personally I'm not much of a fan of buying tinted moisturizers separately.  You see, it's easier just to make your own at home with 2 ingredients you already have: fav foundation + fav moisturzier.  Do whatever you prefer, but this little tip works just about as well for me.

3.  Eyeshadow primer: I know many of you will disagree with me on this one, but keep in mind that I didn't say you should use it, I said it isn't something you should necessarily need to splurge on.  Elf has one for just one dollar that has great reviews, and I'd suggest trying that first.  Then can you can go ahead and complain all you want to me.

4.  Makeup setter spray: Believe it or not, even this item is something many people pay big bucks on.  But before buying, ask yourself, "Do I REALLY need this? Is this the ONLY alternative for me?"  Obviously these expensive sprays can be super great and all, but part of doing "beauty on a budget" is learning to cut back and buy only what you actually need.  I'll be posting an article soon on how I make my own makeup setter soon as part of my diy makeup series.  Or you can try elf's makeup mist + set (3$).  I just don't think this is all that necessary if you invest in a good setting powder and/or have blotting sheets.  The only exception would be a wedding or big event in my opinion.

5. Bottom lash mascara: Seriously, a separate mascare JUST for the bottom lashes? Sorry, I'm just not buying that (OMG, best pun ever!).  That was seriously an accident!  Anyway in my opinion just use regular old mascara and place an index card underneath to prevent a mess.

6. Undereye setting powder: I'm sure this is nice and all, but any translucent or brightening type of powder is just find for someone who's trying for beauty on a budget.

7. Highlighter: This is the last time I mention ELF saving the day.  No need to spend money on expensive Benefit High Beam!  There's an amazing one dollar drugstore alternative known as ELF Shimmering Facial Whip that is pretty much the same and I've seen some reviews who even say it's better.  If it's a miss, you've got nothing to lose! ;)

Thanks for reading, Katie xoxo


Please follow me through google plus, google connect, and bloglovin.  If I get 100 bloglovin followers, I'll be doing a giveaway.  Also share this post so others can see :).  Follow me on pinterest here.

Hope you liked these tips, and that they help you think before splurging on certain items.  Comment below what you think.  What items on this list do you agree don't need to be splurged on?  Are there any products you would add or take off this list?

HOMECOMING 2013: Makeup + Dress Demo

Last night was the homecoming dance at my school, and I thought it would be neat to share with you my makeup, hair, and dress I wore to it.  Hopefully this can help you out, the routine I followed is definitely one for a special occasion and could be used for that.  The eye makeup I did was made to go with my blue dress, but you can follow pretty much the same steps just by switching the base and shadow colors to match your dress.  Hope you enjoy!!!

MAKEUP

Face

ELF Mineral Infused Primer-This was my first step after cleansing and moisturizing. Normally I don't use primer but I did this time because it was a special occasion and I wanted my makeup to last longer.

Physicians Formula Twin Concealer (green and light)-I took the skin tone side and dotted the concealer onto my problem area blemishes and then blended with my elf small stipple brush.

Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3-in-1 Foundation+Revlon Colorstay-The covergirl is my fav foundation, but since I knew I would be in photos, I mixed it with the revlon.  Yes I know foundation with SPF is not the best for photos, but I love the way my skin looks with the covergirl so despite that I used it anyway. I just went with a group of friends and not a date and we didn't take that many photos, so I decided I'd just stick with my favorite.  I blended this also with my small stipple brush.

Almay Hydrating Makeup Powder: Next I set everything with my favorite setting powder, focusing on my t-zone. 

ELF HD Blush: Because it's a special occasion, I couldn't go without blush. Once I again I used the small stipple brush to blend it into the apples of my cheeks for that glowing look.

ELF Shimmering Facial Whip: The look wouldn't be complete without highlight, so I took this baby and used it underneath my brow, in the inner corners of my eyes, on my cubids bow, and just a little bit on the area above my blush.

EYES

Here's what it looked like, but keep in mind the lighting makes it look lighter and it was darker and more pigmented in real life:

Avon Eye Color Eye Pencil in Sky Blue-I used this as my base and just colored it over the entire lid. It is a lighter shade than my dress, but it was the only blue base I had and it ended up turning out fine.

Avon Unknown Pallette-Then I took a sparkly deep midnight blue shadow and applied that on my entire lid also, focusing mainly on the innermost section.

Taking a dark and sparkly color, I made a v shape in the outer corners of the eyes to elongate them and give a slight cat eye. I loved the color though and it went well with my dress I think :).

LIPS

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer-Surprisingly, I didn't go for anything super special for lips this time, I felt like keeping it simple. So I put this baby on, and then applied my baby lips after, but that's pretty much it for the lips.

And here's the finished look with everything:

Please excuse the awkward smile...lol :P

DRESS

And of course, I must show you the dress...

I had to cut out my friends who were in the picture, but yeah that's my dress! I actually got it from my friend for a lower price who had worn it at her homecoming last year, but she got it at Windsor in case you're wondering. Anyway, I guess that's it, thanks so much for reading!

Don't forget to follow on bloglovin and google connect (link is on the right), as well as Pinterest!

Pinterest:http://www.pinterest.com/hollyleaf007/boards/

What did you think of the makeup I chose? What makeup do you think would be good for a special occasion? Comment below all your thoughts and suggestions, I reply to every one of them.

Remember you're beautiful, and no special product mentioned on this blog can make you that way. It's just the way you naturally are :).

DIY Makeup Series: Translucent Powder

Today I will be continuing with my diy makeup series with my 2nd part to it.  This one is super simple because you will only need two things: 

cornstarch (any amount, it's up to you)
a makeup container of some kind

Cornstarch really does work as a translucent setting powder, and it helps control oils and keeps the makeup lasting longer.  You can place it in an old makeup container, or even just a cup that you seal and use it right from there.  Super easy, super awesome.  Hope you enjoy!

 ~Katie xoxo

Follow me on pinterest here.  Also please follow through google connect and bloglovin, the links are on the right.  Remember that when I reach my goal of 100 followers on either of those, I will do a giveaway :).  Please share this so others can see!!!


Have you done DIY makeup before?  If so, what have you done?

September Makeup Faves 2013

Hey everyone!  The month of September is nearly over, and so I realized it's time for me to share my September favorites.  This is my first month of blogging, and so this will also be my first monthly favorites.  What I'm thinking my plan will be in regards to these types of things is that I'll try to post these on the last Friday of each month (but obviously I didn't do that this time).  Let me know what types of favorites you'd like me to do (for example, a different one for makeup, skincare, food, all in one, etc.) so I can decide which specific types of favorites you're interested in reading about.  Also let me know if you would find it better if I just made a video and posted it here talking about my faves.  Remember, I'm here for YOU, and I need to know what you would prefer :).  Well, let's just get started then, hope you enjoy!  Leave your comments below!

1. Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3 in 1 Foundation:  I've been loving this this month, the coverage and blendability is just amazing.  It's definitely the best foundation I've ever purchased, and I'll do a full review on it if you guys would like :).

2. Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer:  I have this in strawberry, it's a nice simple lip balm that is really soothing and feels minty when you put it on, yet it has a nice fruity scent.  I really love it and just about anything Burt's bees.

3. Maybelline Age Rewind Dark Circle Concealer:  This is really good for under-eyes, which I have quite dark circles, but this really helps cover them.  Probably the best under-eye concealer I have used thus far.  

4. Elf HD Blush: I mentioned this in my last haul, and I wanted to give you the chance here to know my opinion of it.  I got it in the shade headliner, which is a nice light pink, the right shade I like for blush.  It's super easy to apply and I blend it using my elf small stipple brush, it's really a great blush and only 3 dollars!

4. Physicians Formula Happy Booster Mood-Boosting Powder: This is a really awesome powder, to read more in detail on it click here.  Anyway I've really been loving it this month so thought I'd mention it again.

5. Hard Candy Glamoflauge Concealer:  This concealer really is heavy-duty and covers blemishes very well.  Only problem is the shade, it looks a little cakey on my skin since it doesn't quite match, but it's still really good.

6. Elf Volume Plumping Mascara:  This mascara is pretty awesome for just 3 dollars.  I'm not one who uses mascara very much, but when I do this is the one I use.  It has a big wand which is why it creates so much volume and I've been liking it quite a bit :).

7. Garnier Skin Renew Shine-Control BB Cream: I will be doing a full review on this soon, but I have to say, this is truly amazing.  It covers SUPER AMAZINGLY for a bb cream, and it does help control my oily skin.  Only problem is that the shade is a lot darker than my skin tone, and I wish they would have a light or fair/light shade for it :(.

8. Maybelline Baby Lips: I just recently got this one, which is Cherry Me.  I like it, it's a nice flavor and I like the color too.  To see my full review on it, click here.


Hope you liked these favorites!  Please subscribe by email and also follow through google connect (link is on the right).  When I get 100 followers, I will do a giveaway so be sure to do that.  Comment your fall favorites below, as well as what you would like to be blogged about next :).

Follow me on pinterest here.


~Remember, TRUE beauty comes from within, and cannot be achieved by any product or tip on this site.  Nothing I talk about is sponsored, these are all my own personal opinions :).~