Leah Rachel

    18 Mar 2010

    “Laser” Hair Removal

    “Mini Me… Stop humping the laser.” - Dr. Evil from Austin Powers

    Dr. Evil and I are not referring to the same “laser”. Laser hair removal was the best decision I ever made- it is truly wonderful. I will never look back!

    Here’s a little info for you laser hair removal newbies…

    How does it work?

    Your hair follicles go through various stages of growth and become more vulnerable at certain stages. The follicles that lie below the skin during this vulnerable stage absorb the laser pulses and further growth is then prevented. The laser recognizes the hair through the pigment. This works best for dark hair and light skin so that the laser can differentiate between the skin and hair. Usually 6-8 treatments of the area are required, separated by about two months. After just one treatment, you can tell a difference in the volume of hair growth- and after all the treatments are complete, growth will hardly even exist.

    Who does it work for?

    First off, laser hair removal unfortunately doesn’t work for everyone. I am fortunate enough to be a good candidate: light skin, dark hair. If you have very dark skin, your skin’s pigment could also be ‘zapped’ by the laser and cause skin discolouration. BUT if you are at all interested in laser hair removal and are unsure if you are a good candidiate or not, have a consultation! It doesn’t hurt to ask and for all you know, it could work!

    Does it hurt?

    I’m not going to lie to you and tell you that you can’t feel anything. It is slightly uncomfortable, but hurts much LESS than waxing. All you feel are tiny little zaps, sort of like mini pinches. Most machines used cool down your skin before and after ‘zapping’, in order to make you feel as comfortable as possible. Also, aestheticians/RNs are great about warning you when they’re going to start. Some patients are able to use an anesthetic cream prior to the treatment- discuss this with the aesthetician or RN. Don’t let the ‘pain’ stop you from getting it done, it’s really not bad! Just a note: your eyes will be covered during the procedure, because the flash of light is BRIGHT! 

    How do I prepare?

    Being out in the sun before and after your treatment is not a good idea. Also- you want your hairs to be short. If you are getting your underarms lasered, for example, shave the area before you go in for the treatment. 

    Is the price worth it?

    If you are a good candidate, then absolutely. Yes- laser hair removal is pricey. But you’re saving all that money and time you’ll spend in the future, either waxing or shaving. 

    Got any questions? Comment here, e-mail me (leahrachel13@gmail.com), or follow me on twitter @leahrachel13!

    17 Mar 2010

    Cuticles: Not So Cute

    Doing your nails involves more than just polish- you need the tools to keep your fingernails smooth and clean. Working with these tools to get healthy cuticles will ensure longer lasting mani’s! Here are my favourite tools to fix my un-cute, cuticles…

    1. Nail Oil:

    I like to apply nail oil to my cuticles before I soak them. You can also use it on top of dry polish. It is great to moisturize and keep your cuticles soft (not hard and crunchy- no fun!). I have no brand preference, although I do prefer the medicine drop bottle to the regular nail polish brush. (The product pictured here is OPI’s Avoplex, which is a great product, and comes in both the brush and medicine drop style). After applying, rub in!

    2. Manicure Basin:

    A bowl works just as well! (Canadians- here’s a basin that I got from Joe Fresh in their manicure kit). Just put in some hot water and a little pump of soap. Softening up your cuticles really helps when it comes to getting rid of them- keep them soaked until your fingers feel like prunes!

    3. Cuticle Pusher:

    This handy little tool does a couple things! After removing my nails from being soaked, I push back all the cuticles from my nails, which makes it much easier to see and get them all! You can also do this step after applying your cuticle remover. The other handy thing about this tool is that it removes dirt from under your nails really well. I much prefer the metal ones, as opposed to the plastic ones. I find the plastic pushers don’t really do too much.

    4. Cuticle Remover:

    Like I said, cuticles are my weakness so I like any product that can help me out in that area. I apply this prior to nipping my cuticles because it does a lot of the work for you! It is also soothing and moisturizing. The one I use is Be Natural’s Cuticle Eliminator. 

    5. Cuticle Nippers:

    I could not live without these. My cuticles are what get me- I start to pick at them and then there goes my manicure. If my cuticles are neat and tidy, I’m good to go. Don’t use a nail clipper to do this- you’ll end up taking more skin off then you wanted and creating more problem areas. Be forewarned: the act of nipping cuticles can be addicting. Don’t over-nip!

    6. Cuticle Cream:

    This is my last step before I put on my base coat and I also apply it whenever else I need a moisture fix in that area. I love that it’s not greasy and long lasting. It comes in 2 sizes: the one shown on the left and a jar.

    Follow me on twitter @leahrachel13!

    16 Mar 2010

    Kiss Me, I’m GREEN!

    In honour of St. Patty’s day tomorrow, I thought I’d share my favourite GREEN products! I think everyone can pull off green- it doesn’t matter what colour hair, skin, or eyes you have. Just have confidence and rock it!

    Favourite Eyeshadow(s): I have 2!

    Humid, MAC Cosmetics (LEFT)- Gorgeous deep green frost, with gold shimmer. 

    Greensmoke, MAC Cosmetics (RIGHT)- Smokey olive lustre, with shimmer. Great for a smokey eye look!

    Favourite Pigment:

    Golden Olive, MAC Cosmetics- Exactly as it sounds, Gold + Green in one! I love matching this up with the above eyeshadows for a fun green effect.

    Favourite Eyeliner:

    Ivy Shimmer Ink, Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner, Bobbi Brown- Beautiful deep emerald green with gold shimmer. Check out my post on Gel Eyeliner for more info on application!

    Favourite Nailpolish:

    Green-wich Village, OPI- Really fun bright green colour, that’s not TOO bright! Rihanna has been seen rocking this colour. You can match it up with a silver tip for a nice lil’ twist.

    Follow me on twitter @leahrachel13!

    15 Mar 2010

    Chapitty Chap Chap

    My lip chap days date back to my good ol’ Lip Smackers collection… I had every flavour, including buttered popcorn. Ya- you read that correctly. While then I was interested in lip balms solely for their flavour, now I need them to protect and heal! Here are my favorite products to do just that…

    1. Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1:

    This product is wonderful. The consistency is similar to Vaseline and it works very well. When purchasing, you have the option of getting the tube (like shown) or a jar. They also  have flavoured options (I believe seasonally)- I love Cranberry! The product is very soothing and instantly makes dry lips feel moist.

    2. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balm:

    This is the stuff that will heal! Tastes and feels menthol-y/minty, this product has been a staple in my collection for years. When my lips are feeling dry, a quick application of this makes a world of a difference. I recommend the regular flavour… I really disliked the honey flavour.

    3. Rosebud Strawberry Lip Balm and Moisturizer:

    This stuff smells delish! More than that though, it works. Along with moisturizing and smelling good, it also gives your lips a nice clean shine. The tin is cute also- I use an empty one to take any pills with me when I travel!

    4. Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush Soothing Lip Balm:

    What a pleasant surprise! I have this product in ‘Clear Shine’ and I absolutely adore it. It is minty and therefore, nice and soothing. What I love even more about it is the nice shine that it gives. This is perfect to wear on days where you want more natural looking lips (i.e. no color) and it’s great for younger girls. If you like the look it gives and the minty taste, also try Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush Minty Lip Shine for a nice clear, delicious, gloss!

    5. Ballmania Twist & Pout:

    My Mom purchased this product for me because 1) the packaging was adorable and 2) Oprah liked it! I quickly assumed that the product itself wouldn’t be very good because the focus would be on the packaging- but I was wrong. I love the balm itself, it smells great (vanilla-y), and is very moisturizing. They have a large array of packaging, from sports balls, university logos, pretty designs, and more! Some even come with keychain rings, which would be really fun to carry with keys and have on you at all times.

    6. Vaseline:

    You just can’t go wrong with Vaseline. It’s been in my household ever since I can remember and for good reason. When all else fails, use vaseline. What’s great about it, is that it’s not limited to your lips. Nose, elbows, ankles, whatever! As their slogan says, they are the ultimate moisturizer. If you don’t like the giant jars Vaseline usually comes in, they now have baby jars, tubes, and pocket sized tins. I had to include this photo that I found because it’s just so glam! Couldn’t resist! (Don’t expect to find packaging quite this amazing at the drugstore).

    7. Olay Regenerist Anti Aging Lip Treatment:

    This product is wonderful- completely hydrates, makes lips feel smooth, and claims to help with fine lines! (I’m only 20, so that’s not really my main goal, but it’s never too early!) I love how moisturizing and soothing this is and I love applying it before bed. 

    Products to avoid…

    • Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer: This stuff STINKS- enough said.
    • Softlips: It’s not the product that I don’t like, it’s the size. I’ve got lips on the bigger side, and the tiny stick doesn’t cover my lips enough. I end up taking minutes to just apply lip balm!
    • The Body Shop Lip Butter: I am currently finishing a pot of Papaya flavour which I received as a gift, and I will definitely not be repurchasing. Although the product feels really nice when you first apply it, the taste is very potent (eating lip chap is SO grade one) and within minutes I need to reapply.

    You should always be hesitant to share any makeup and cosmetic products- but be especially wary of sharing lip balms that come in a jar and you use with your fingers. Our hands touch a lot of things… and you don’t want others sharing their experiences with you, if you know what I mean. ;)

    Follow me on twitter @leahrachel13! :)

    13 Mar 2010

    Pluck a Chicken, TWEEZE your brows!

    Eyebrows are really important in shaping your face! Here are a few tips and tricks to perfect them!

    1.Do not over-tweeze or over-wax. The bigger the better! Don’t worry- you don’t have to go Jennifer Connelly thick (although she can totally pull it off), but too thin is no good. This also means that you want to keep them longer on the sides. Let them grow! When you go to a salon, just tell the esthetician that you want them on the thick side. Arches are important- just not too high that you always look surprised.

    2. Comb ‘em! Just like your natural hair, combing your eyebrows will get them to sit nicer (especially after you wake up and they’re all over the place!) I use a simple duo eyelash/eyebrow comb. The one I use is from Sephora, but the brand definitely doesn’t matter in this instance. For you Americans, Sonia Kashuk has one available at Target. 

    3. Fill them in! I have darker, fuller brows so I don’t need to fill them in regularly, but I definitely recommend it. The shade color that you want is just a tad darker than your hair color. You can use eyeshadow (use an angle brush, like a MAC 266, to apply it), eye liner (blend blend blend), or a coloured brow gel (like MAC Brow Set). When you fill them in, it makes a world of difference!

    4. I have been using eyebrow gels for years now- and they work like a charm. They are extremely easy to apply and with a couple swoops, it does the trick! Again, brand doesn’t matter- I’ve been using Mac Clear Brow Set but there are definitely cheaper drug store brands that work just as well.

    5. Eyebrow waxes also work quite well. Just be careful that you don’t apply too much or else they can look greasy! Waxes are best to use when your eyebrows are just not sitting properly and won’t do what you want them to. MAC Brow Finisher is an example of this, and it works quite well. Givency Mister Eyebrow Fixing Pencil is also an excellent product- more expensive, but worth it if you’re desperate!

    6. Tweezers are VITAL for everyone! My holy grail are my Tweezerman slanted tweezers- I’ve had the same pair for years. Some people mention that they avoid purchasing Tweezerman tweezers because of the price- but it is an investment that is totally worth it. What’s great about the company is the lifetime sharpening service they offer- send ‘em in, get them sharpened and sent back to you, free of charge. They also come in lots of cute colors and even cool designs! If you really don’t want to purchase these tweezers, a pretty good ‘dupe’ for the Americans out there are the Sonia Kashuk tweezers available at Target.

      Happy Tweezing! Follow me on twitter @leahrachel13- and get blog updates there!

      13 Mar 2010

      Gel Eyeliner

      For years I used good ol’ pencil eyeliner and then I was introduced to gel eyeliner… and my life hasn’t been the same since. ;) My mom introduced me. At first, I was really worried that I wouldn’t be able to apply it easily and funny enough, I now find gel eyeliner to be the easiest method of eyeliner application. What really sold me is how long they last. I hate how pencil liners don’t last very long and easily dull out. Not the case with gel! It stays in place and doesn’t wear out. I also find that it is easy to take off with makeup remover. I HIGHLY recommend trying out gel eyeliner!

      Here are my favorite gel liners:

      • MAC Fluidline: Great, creamy, and long lasting! My two favorite colors are Blacktrack (solid black) and Dipdown (chocolate brown). What I love about Dipdown is how natural it looks on- it does what makeup is supposed to do, bring out your natural beauty!
      • Bobbi Brown Long Wear Gel Eyeliner: Pigmented, creamy, and long lasting! I love Ivy Shimmer Ink (a gorgeous green) and Violet Ink (a beautiful purple). Both colors are great for all eye and skin colors. I have a few other colours that I want to purchase in the future too.

      The application is just as important as the products themselves and don’t let your fear of messing up keep you from trying it out. After a couple applications, you’ll have the process down!

      Here are my two favorite brushes for applying gel eyeliner:

      • MAC 266 Small Angle Brush: The angle really helps with application. Apply in short strokes.
      • Sephora Professional Platinum Angled Eyeliner Brush #23: This is a unique little brush. Those interested in lighter, thinner liner would really like it because it’s very precise.

      Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. You can e-mail me at leahrachel13@gmail.com- and follow me on twitter @leahrachel13!

      12 Mar 2010

      Pearly Whites!

      Who doesn’t want really white teeth?! NO ONE. Whiter teeth makes you feel better and look better. As cheesy as it sounds, smiling truly is your greatest accessory- so play it up! Here are some tips and tricks to blind your friends (or yourself in the mirror!) with your bright smile.

      1. Phillips Sonicare Flexcare Toothbrush:

      This is an amazing toothbrush! It is recommended by my dentist- and for good reason! You plug in the charger to the wall- it comes with two chargers, one that comes with a sanitizer! When you first start using the brush, it slowly becomes stronger as your teeth get used to using it. What I love most about it are the pulsations that occur three times throughout your brushing routine. What these little vibrations do is tell you when to move the brush to a different area of your mouth… then it turns off automatically when it’s time to finish! (As important as it is to brush, and brush well- if you brush too long and too hard, it can take off some of your teeth enamel, which you don’t want). Simply using this toothbrush makes a big difference in the health of your teeth and the whiteness!

      2. Listerine Whitening Quick Dissolving Strips:

      These are the whitestrips that work for me best. What originally drew me towards this particular product was the fact that these strips dissolve- I really didn’t like having to take off Crest Whitestrips after the use. The other great thing about this product is the price- they are cheaper than other whitening strips! Moreover, they work. The two things I don’t agree with that the company states is that you can use them anywhere and that they take 5-10 minutes. I need to use them at home because they make me salavate… and that means spitting out every couple of minutes (you can swallow it though!). And it takes me about 20 minutes for the strips to completely dissolve. That being said, it’s only twice a day for about 20 minutes for two weeks- and your teeth are noticeably whiter. 

      3. Plus White 5 Minute Bleach Whitening Gel:

      Bleaching your teeth is another option- and it’s safe. What’s great about this brand is that it gives you three different easy methods for application. 1) Cotton Swab (the method that I use), 2) Mouth Tray (if you already have, or if you want to make one out of a hockey mouth guard), 3) Toothbrush. All three methods are very easy, the bleach isn’t uncomfortable, and the process is quick! When you start using the product, use it daily for two weeks, and then only several times a month after that! 

      4. FLOSS!!!!!!!!!!!

      As tedious and annoying as flossing can be, not only is it vital in ensuring the health of your mouth and teeth, but it makes your teeth look so much whiter! Find the kind of floss that works best for you and will make the process the best for you: find a flavour you like (I like any kind of mint), find the size that you need (some of my teeth are closer together so I need skinny floss!), etc. I notice how much whiter my teeth get after I floss everyday!

      12 Mar 2010

      Be Wavy!

      Trying to find the right products to perfect your natural waves can be a difficult task! Here are my favorite products to perfect that wavy look!

      1. Moroccan Oil:

      I will mention this product for ANY hair style. It is simply amazing. It smells great, makes your hair shiny, and helps a bit with frizz! Don’t let the word OIL scare you- it doesn’t make your hair greasy!

      2. Sally Hershberger Style Primer Wavy Hair:

      When I first purchased this product, I didn’t quite buy what it claimed to do. You are supposed to apply it before you apply any other styling products. After the first try, I was sold. My waves looked so much more amazing when I added this product to the routine- and it does what it claims to do: “Wave enhancing control, boosts performance of styling products”. Highly recommend it!

      3. Aveda Be Curly:

      This is the BEST product for waves- and I’ve tried a lot. It claims to intensify curls, tame frizz, and boost shine, and all of this is true!! First of all, it smells amazing, just like most Aveda products do. Also, a key aspect that I love about the product is how it DOES NOT make your hair crunchy! Aveda calls it a curl enhancing LOTION and that’s exactly it. It’s not a gel or mousse, rather a nice cream. To apply it, all I do is squirt some into my palm (the amount depends on your hair length and thickness), and scrunch it into my hair. Sometimes I’ll then let it air dry and sometimes if I’m looking for even more volume, I’ll diffuse my hair with my blow dryer.

      4. Dove Intense Frizz Control Anti-Frizz Cream:

      My hair is naturally frizzy- there’s no way getting around it. I’ve tried many anti-frizz products, many work, but not as well as this product! It smells nice a fresh, like Dove products do, and really works. I like that you can apply it to both damp or dry hair. If I’m air drying my hair, I’ll apply this about half way through the drying process. It doesn’t make your hair greasy or crunchy either! And best yet, it’s from the drugstore- i.e. it’s cheap!

      11 Mar 2010

      FEETsie Weetsies

      You use them everyday and yet they don’t always get the attention they deserve! Not only is it important to take care of your feet, but they’ll feel SO much better.

      Here are a couple tips and products that I recommend:

      1. Foot Paddle

      • I love my wooden handled, waterproof foot paddle. I sometimes use it dry (I do it over the toilet so I don’t make a mess), and sometimes I use it in the shower. It does a great job of getting rid of the crunchy, dry skin! Feet feel soooo soft afterwards. And it’s a good arm workout!
      • I use this pediclean foot paddle!

      2. Lotion!

      • After you use your foot paddle, make sure you moisturize! This will keep them nice and soft.
      • This Footlogix mousse is wonderful (right)! You put it into your hand, just like hair mousse, but apply it to your feet! Rub it in!
      • I also love this Rocky Mountain Soap Company foot butter (far right). It’s great to apply before bed- and it smells great too! 

      10 Mar 2010

      All About Dermalogica

      Dermalogica is my all time favourite skin care line, so I naturally want to tell you more about their products. They have something for everyone and know all about what the skin needs- the brand is the ultimate trustworthy resource.

      They have 7 product systems, for various skin concerns.

      1. Skin Health: These are the basics and essentials!
      2. mediBac Clearing: The cure for adult acne!
      3. AGE Smart: Products for aging/your future skin.
      4. ChromaWhite TRx: Skin brightening products.
      5. Daylight Defence: Sun protection.
      6. Body Therapy: Products for the rest of your body!
      7. Shave: Products for a healthier shave.

      Here are my favorite Dermalogica products:

      • Clearing Skin Wash:
        • This is my facial cleanser. Remember, there are cleansers for every type of skin- this is just what works for mine. Find what’s best for your skin type. All the cleansers smell extremely fresh.
      • Multi-Active Toner:
        • Very refreshing toner!
      • Skin Smoothing Cream:
        • This is Dermalogica’s medium weight moisturizer. It’s great for summer and winter! If you’re looking for a light or heavy weight moisturizer, Active Moist and Intensive Moisture Balance are also excellent creams!
      • Special Clearing Booster:
        • This is a spot treatment for breakouts- and it definitely works! The clearing process gets accelerated when you use it. I use this in the morning and throughout the day.
      • Overnight Clearing Gel:
        • Another spot treatment that I use over breakouts (or where I feel some coming in!) before bed. Salicylic acid is the active ingredient and it works like a charm!
      • Ultra Sensitive Faceblock SPF 25
        • Great sunscreen that is good for your skin and free from chemicals!

      There are a number of other products that I quite enjoy also. You should definitely add an exfoliator and masque to your skin care routine periodically. Daily Microfoliant is a great option for exfoliating, that you can even use on a daily basis.

      While Dermalogica is a pricier skin care line, I think of it as an INVESTMENT. Your skin deserves the attention that is given to the rest of you and these products are worth every penny.

      For more information, visit www.dermalogica.com and be sure to check out the store locator to find where you can speak to a Dermalogica Professional- and I HIGHLY recommend getting a Dermalogica facial while you’re at it (you’ll even get some great samples- and recommendations for products that are right for you!)

      10 Mar 2010

      Welcome!

      Hi everyone and welcome to my very first blog post!

      My name is Leah and I am so excited to join this online community and share my thoughts!

      If you wish to contact me personally, e-mail me at leahrachel13@gmail.com and I will do my best to get back to you! I encourage feedback, suggestions, and requests!

      Thanks for stopping by!!

      - Leah Rachel.