May 31, 2012

Guess What? I'm Writing A Travel Blog!

Photo courtesy of http://wikitravel.org/en/Bali
Should I clarify and say that me and my almost husband, Allan, are writing it together? Well, we are!!!

 The blog is entitled The Antsy Travelers and I highly recommend everyone checking it out.  (You can check it out HERE.)  We're planning to document our three-week Bali trip as well as some of the other crazy adventures we have in store.

If you're into traveling like we are AND would like to share some of your travel experiences (good or bad), adventures and tales, please email me at cmwolthers@gmail.com.  I would LOVE to have you featured on The Antsy Travelers Blog.

Thanks again, everyone, for your continued support with Red Lip Gloss.  I'm hoping to make the travel blog as  equally fun and exciting as the first one.

 

May 30, 2012

Review: GLEAM Lip Radiance in Unstoppable

I was sent this fresh, newly-launched lip gloss quite some time ago and finally tried it out over the weekend. First off, it's a shame it took me this long and second, I'm shocked it took this long as reds are definitely my standard go-to lip color.

The brand is called Gleam and it's founder is Melanie Mills, the former head makeup artist for ABC'S Dancing With The Stars.  The press release says that it launched on "February 1, online, and in select salons nationwide.  GLEAM Lip Radiance will be available in seven juicy shades that are tailored to fit every skin
tone."  As tantalizing as the 7 shades are, I am more than thrilled to have been sent Unstoppable, a gorgeous bright red shade that really makes my lips pop.

In fact, that's what the Lip Radiance line was designed to: Make your lips pop!  The organic and botanical ingredients not only moisturize the skin but make the product sturdy enough to be used without liner AND last all day or night.

GLEAM Lip Radiance in Unstoppable

 Pros:
Beautiful jewel-toned red 
Absolutely no stickiness
Lip gloss goes on very smooth
Tints lips a gorgeous red shade

Cons:
Price - $24 is rather pricey
Doesn't last all day like the press release says
Only 7 shades and most are unwearable

 For me, the price point is much too high for me to get excited over the beautiful color and feel of the gloss.  I know that I buy way more expensive things BUT I typically will not buy a lip gloss that costs this much.  (Unless it's a limited-edition Chanel, but let's be honest, that doesn't really count.)  Yes, the product goes on well, and stays for a relatively long time but it's the price that's throwing me off.

Either way, if price is not a factor to you, I do recommend this lip gloss.  The feel and texture of the product alone is well worth it.

Have any of you ladies tried this item before?
 
 

May 25, 2012

DIY Beauty Fridays: Muscle Relaxing Bath Soak

Check out her sore feet!  Courtesy of www.dancersfeetct.blogspot.com
After 6 years without ballet in my life, I took my first class last night...and am beyond sore. I guess kickboxing/boxing really doesn't work out the same muscles after all.
Needless to say, my poor worn down body and mind could use some R&R. Which is why a relaxing bath soak is absolutely necessary tonight.

Photo courtesy of www.health.com
I should begin by saying that bath soaks are probably the easiest thing to make as long as you have Epson Salts on hand. (If you are into DIYing like I am then keep a ginormous bag of Epson Salts in the house.  You'd be amazed how many things you can make with it.) The fun of bath soaks/salts is you can add whatever fragranced oil to it for a completely different smell and treatment.  So, the concoctions are completely endless!

Muscle Relaxing Bath Soak 

4 cups Epson salt
4-6 drops Lavender oil (add more if you REALLY want to zen out)

Add all items to a hot bath and soak your muscle tension away.  Another option is to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil in addition to the lavender, and your muscles will really thank you.

Try this recipe out ladies and tell me what you think.  Or, better yet, tell me how your sore muscles feel afterwards!

Happy Friday!

 

May 24, 2012

Choosing the Best Wedding Makeup

This one little decision is literally ruling my life at the moment.

Not only are there so many choices BUT how do I know what look I want captured for the rest of my life.  Whew, big decision right?  I know that I'm putting way too much emphasis on this little detail but lets recap a couple things: One, I am beyond obsessed with makeup and two, my wedding colors are the color shadow trend of the summer.  (Turquoise, indigo, yellow and coral.)

So, yes, this decision is important.

Since we're not having a formal wedding (think vintage backyard picnic theme) I know that ultra classic makeup isn't the look I want.  On that note, here are a few samples of makeup "themes" I'm tossing around my head.

Indigo Eyes 

Photo courtesy of www.thekit.ca

Sigh, this look is absolutely gorgeous!  Yes, I know that less is more but man, there's something so edgy in the idea of me sporting this look while in my lace wedding dress.  Hmmmm.

Peacock Trend 

Photo courtesy of www.bronzebudgetbride.com
Though the "peacock" isn't playing too heavily into my theme (aside from my shoes, sash and jewelry) I am really liking the idea of wearing some peacock-inspired makeup.  Not only would my blue eyes pop but it adds just the right amount of shimmer.

Traditional Vintage 

Photo courtesy of www.sheknows.com
I know I said I wasn't traditional but I do like the classic bright lips BIG lashes look.  Of course, my lips would be fuchsia and not red but still, this look could also really work.

Ethereal Makeup

Photo courtesy of www.bellasugar.com
Love the bold cheeks!  Actually, love this whole look.  I know that less is more on your wedding day and really think that this makeup style promotes that saying.

Simplistic Style 

Photo courtesy of www.junebugweddings.com
Could this be the vintage, simplistic, natural look I have been after?  Could be.  I must say, her bangs are really what makes this look work.  (Lucky for me I do have big bangs...)

What is your favorite wedding makeup look?


May 22, 2012

NOTD: SinfulColors Professional in PINK

I am so taken with fluorescent pink at the moment it's almost frightening. 

Not only have I been buying up every short, pant, dress or sweatshirt in this color BUT I've now moved to nail polish too!

Check out this fabulous pink color I picked up from Target on the weekend for only $1.99.

Not only is the color super bright and fun but it makes me feel so happy and cheerful.  Plus, with the color being so popular right now, it makes every outfit I wear (with this polish color) feel like I'm extremely trendy.  Ha.

What is your favorite nail color of the moment?

 

May 16, 2012

Obsessed With.....Gradient Nails

 I am loving the gradient nail trend immensely at the moment. 

Even though I can't quite perfect the look on myself, I can definitely appreciate the intricacy and art from afar.  I'm especially loving this look when using any (and all) neon shades.  This is how you can tell I'm a full on 80s child.....Ha

Check out some of these works of art...

Photo courtesy of willworkformakeup.blogspot.com
Photo courtesy of loveron.tumblr.com
Photo courtesy of lustlovelose.wordpress.com
Photo courtesy of chiclooking.com

What do you think of this nail trend??

May 10, 2012

Guest Post: How to Protect Your Skin From External Pollutants

Pollution does not only affect the natural environment but also human health. While there are more serious effects brought about by pollution to the human body, examples of which are cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, most individuals are not aware that pollutants, such as dust, smog and dirt, also produce grave consequences to the skin. To prevent the untimely appearance of dry, aged skin cells, people should be aware of ways on how to protect the skin from external pollutants.

 • Skin Protection from Air Pollution 
 Air pollution is generally the number one culprit for damaged skin cells. Proper facial hygiene with the use of daily cleansers is of extreme importance. Further cleansing is achieved when exfoliation is done twice a week.

In addition, moisturizing should be also carried out everyday as this does not only hydrate the skin but also effectively serves as a protection from free radicals, which are typically present in dust, smog and dirt. These air pollutants eat up the oxygen in the skin, thereby resulting in skin damage.

• Skin Protection from Sun Exposure 
Due to the thinning ozone layer caused by pollution, more harmful rays of the sun are able to penetrate the earth and reach the skin. To prevent the formation of fine lines and eventually cancer of the skin due to UV radiation overexposure, people must consider wearing sunscreen every single day, especially on sensitive areas like the neck and face.

 Gloomy days are not an exception at all. Ensure that a sunscreen’s sun protection factor (SPF) would not go lower than 15. To save oneself from purchasing too many products, it is wise to select moisturizers and cosmetics that already include a good amount of SPF in them.

Moreover, special consideration should be taken on the areas surrounding the eyes since it is in here where crow’s feet or fine wrinkles easily form. To give additional protection to this region, a nice pair of sunglasses is recommended. Aside from this, aloe may be applied on the skin as a post-sun exposure regimen.

• Skin Protection from Water Pollution 
Although increased oral water intake is recommended to give further hydration and promote skin regeneration, it is still important to properly select the type of water that keep in contact with the body’s integumentary system. Water pollution does not only threaten one’s digestive wellbeing but also the healthiness of the skin.

The chlorine in tap water is no good to the skin’s health since according to the New York Department of Health, it is also known as a toxic substance that could bring about premature skin aging and eventual skin damage. This is due to the fact that such chemical could seep into the dermis and may remove natural oils; hence, the skin is prone to dryness, cracks and wrinkles. Therefore, chlorine should be filtered from drinking water, and people should apparently spend less time in swimming pools.

Lastly, to successfully eliminate the amount of external pollutants that enter the body, one should increase the intake of antioxidants that aim to remove free radicals in the human system. Green tea, organic fruits and vegetables as well as foods rich in Vitamin A, C and E are great sources of antioxidants.

Sophia Mendelshon is the owner of the Obaging and Beauty-Spot websites, both of which focus on giving valuable pieces of information on Obagi products and beauty tips, respectively. You may check out her most recent posts on popular Obagi products as well as home remedies to grow eyelashes.

PS - Thank you so much, Sophia, for your amazingly informative post!!


 

May 8, 2012

HOTD - Breezy Spring Style

This weekend was so nice that I figured it was time to pull out the maxi dresses.

For those that know me well, I practically LIVE in maxi dresses (in the summer) for a few reasons: 1, they hide any "imperfections". 2, all you need is the dress, a jean jacket and a statement necklace to look completely stylish and put together and 3, they are so comfortable.  Because of these reasons alone, I own 7 maxi dresses in different styles, colors and textures.

This was my outfit, hair and makeup du jour on Saturday.  Can I just say that I am especially loving my hair? 
I am so happy that it's getting longer but it takes forever to blow dry because I have incredibly thick hair so I've taken to drying it while scrunching, hairspraying it like crazy and pinning it up in sections.  I added a cute headband and was good to go.

 Now, my makeup.  I kept things simple with pink lips and minimal eye makeup.  The items I used are:
Covergirl Natureluxe Silk Foundation 
Physician's Formula Green Concealer 
Clinique Perfectly Real Compact Makeup 
Illamasqua Powder Blusher in Hussy 
Joe Fresh Fuchsia Lipstick 
Estee Lauder Magnascopic Mascara in Black 
Covergirl Eye Enhancers Bedazzled Biscotti Eye Shadow

That's it!  I tried to keep it simple and am LOVING that my skin can actually show through as being clear and blemish free.  Woohoo.

Hope you all had a great weekend!


May 4, 2012

DIY Beauty Fridays: Clear Skin with Oats

Photo courtesy of www.foodsubs.com
Today is one of those rare occasions when I question my taste in food.

See, I like to think of myself as an adventurous eater; I love ethnic food, cooking, conjuring up new and improved recipes and eating things that not everyone would normally appreciate.  However, despite my open relationship with food, the one thing I can not stomach is oatmeal.

I am very much a texture person and find that oatmeal (along with stuffing, jello, whipping cream, rice pudding and tapioca) is much to soggy of a food to eat.  For some reason, soggy things really make me an unhappy person and the idea of eating something soggy, on purpose, completely grosses me out.

So instead of eating soggy food, why not put it on your skin?

Oatmeal Cleansing Water

Washcloth (a very fine fabric one is best)
Handful of whole oats 
Rubber band

Place the handful of oats into the washcloth and secure the bundle with a rubber band.  Add the oat bundle to a sink full of warm water and let sit (fully immersed) for a couple minutes.  Squeeze the oat bundle about 4 times to release the cloudy, milky goodness.  When the water is cloudy, splash onto clean face.  Let air dry.

Photo courtesy of www.treatmentblackhead.com
Oatmeal Scrub

Handful of oats (I find that putting these into a coffee grinder first makes them easier to work with)
Warm water

Place the oats into a little bowl and add enough warm water to make a paste.  Rub the oatmeal paste onto your skin using a circular motion (avoiding the eye area) and let sit for 10 - 15 minutes.  Rinse off with lukewarm water and end with a splash of cold water.  Pat your skin dry and moisturize immediately.

Why this works?   Oatmeal is known for being extremely soothing and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.  Because of the latter, oatmeal works wonders on acne-prone skin and can even go as far as preventing blemishes.  It also reduces redness, makes for silky skin and can actually treat many irritating skin conditions (aka too much oil, flakiness, razor burn.)

I highly suggest trying these out tonight ladies.  Who knows, maybe you'll wake up tomorrow with absolutely clear skin.  (ha, this is more said with me in mind....)

Happy Friday ladies

May 3, 2012

What's New In The Life of Christina

I absolutely hate starting a post off with "I've been sooooo busy" but, alas, here I go.

Busy I have been!  I can not believe how busy this week is/was and this morning, after I woke up, I realized that I've gone 4 days without posting anything.  First of all, shame on ME and second of all, check out what I've been up to this past week.

Photo courtesy of www.scfamilymartialarts.ca
1. I am now a kickboxer

I use this term loosely BUT I've joined a kickboxing/boxing gym and am blown away by fabulous it is.  I know it's fabulous because I feel like puking whenever I'm done exercising and my entire body is sore apres a workout.  However, I am feeling more motivated about this workout regimen than about any other before and I really feel like this could be the workout for me.  

Photo courtesy of www.theknot.com
2.  Wedding planning stress and groomsmen attire

I, honestly, don't know how wedding planners do it...they remain calm, collected and stress-free while ensuring weddings go off without a hitch.  But, for me, I can barely keep it together when going over our playlist.  I am forever grateful to my pal, Bronwen, and to Allan for allowing me to have meltdowns and NOT judging me for being a crazy bride-to-be.  Needless to say, this has taken up the majority of my time.  Plus, we FINALLY nailed down the groomsmen outfits.  The boys have their fittings this Saturday and it's such a relief!!  (As much as I complain about this wedding process, I am soooo excited that it's only 4 months away.)

Photo courtesy of www.venuemag.net
3.  Family trips 

This past weekend Allan and I went to Kelowna to visit the family.  It was an awesome tiome, albeit too short, but fun all the same.  Our time was filled with tennis, sun, shopping, tea, food, gin and family talks.  I wish that we all got together more often but this short time seemed to make up for it.  Can't wait for the next family get together.

Photo courtesy of therogersrevue.wordpress.com
4.  TV time

Sometimes, I just need to curl up on the couch and watch mindless TV for a few hours.  This weekend Allan and I caught up on our favorite show, Game of Thrones, and I also watched Hart of Dixie and The Real Housewives of Vancouver.  Yes, I love reality TV.

Photo courtesy of health.howstuffworks.com
5.  Exploring new tea 

Yes, I'm still obsessed with tea and Davids Tea launched a few new ones.  So, Monday I dragged Allan to my fave shop and we sipped, smelled and tasted our way to some new tins for my ever-growing collection.

What sorts of trouble have you all been getting into?



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