Showing posts with label Products. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Products. Show all posts

Skincare On A Budget

Monday, July 16, 2018




If you know me, you know I LOVE skincare! However, if you know me you also know I don't like paying full price for things or spending loads of money on something just because of it's name. I like to find more affordable options for everything from fashion to skincare (usually)!
With that, I thought I would put together a curated list of my favorite products that I use on a weekly basis that won't break the bank:) I am all about following the Korean 10 step skincare method, but I am also not about to spend a fortune on products. Thus, I have created a good routine of products that follow the 10 step Korean skincare method while still being affordable and full of healthy ingredients for your skin (these products are my staples). The even better part is that most all of these products can be found at your local Target. A few of the products like Mario Badescu are only found at Ulta, Anthropologie or Urban Outfitters, but overall if you don't have access to Target or Ulta you can find most all of them on Amazon for affordable prices.

Affordable 10 Step Korean Skincare:
  1. Oil Cleanser (aka. your makeup remover) - This step not only removes all of your makeup, but oil cleansers actually cause your skin to produce LESS oil. To use apply to your dry face, massaging it into the skin to melt away makeup (or impurities if you are makeup free), then splash water onto your face to emulsify, rubbing it in more...then rinse off or remove with a makeup remover cloth/washcloth (my preferred method). I LOVE the Trader Joe's oil cleanser, but the Burt's Bee's is basically the same formula for a good price. 
  2. Water Based Cleanser (Gel/Foaming Face Wash) - This is what gives us the "double cleanse"! This step removes any access residue or impurities. I have been using this Cerave cleanser off and on for years after it was recommended by a dermatologist. 
  3. Toner - Toners help to add moisture back to your skin as well as reset our skins pH levels. This step can be done by either applying it to your face with your hands, spritzing, or using a cotton pad. I love using the Mario Badescu Aloe/Rose spray! It's not as over the top as some toners as it aids more with moisture and refresh, but it feel amazing on skin and is super affordable. 
  4. Essence - This is known as the heart of the Korean Skincare routine and this Essence from elf is very affordable, makes your skin feel amazing, has a light scent, and gives your skin a healthy glow. Essence is basically a toner/serum hybrid made for hydration, skin repair, and cell turnover. 
  5. Serum - This step is all about targeting specific problems (acne, wrinkles, dry skin, dullness, etc.) with concentrated ingredients! Simply tap them into your skin. I love to use the "Restore" Serum by Valjean Labs because it's a cheap dupe of the Glossier Purity serum (which I do love). 
  6. Eye Cream - Eye cream is not something I ever used to consider in my routine but I am so glad it is part of my skincare now. While there are probably cheaper options out there than the eye cream from Bliss, I personally love this one because I LOVE the philosophy and mission behind Bliss and I know it will last me awhile. 
  7. Moisturizer (or sunscreen at am) - Hydration is the KEY to getting healthy, dewy, and glowing skin so moisturizers are a definite must! I started using the "ex-glow-sion" moisturizer from Bliss and am already on my second container (that's how much I love it)! It smells so light, a bit like Lavender and makes you skin feel super moisturized and calm once I put it on. I typically use this at night before I go to bed and use a sunscreen (MISSHA's Sun Milk) in the mornings. 
  8. Exfoliator - Exfoliating isn't a "have to" (especially if you have more sensitive skin) but it is a key component of polished/clean skin. It is recommended to exfoliate twice a week. I absolutely love the St. Ive's apricot scrub! I have been using it for years and love how affordable it is and how great my skin feels when I use it (some stores even have their own brand of it like Target, and sell it for even cheaper than name brand). 
  9. Mask - Okay, so clay mask's aren't actually a step in Korean Skincare but I make them an active part of my routine at least once a week. I love to use clay masks to absorb and draw out impurities and oils.....definitely my first step when I am having a bad breakout. Ever since I discovered the Freeman "Detoxifying" clay mask it has been my favorite because it is gentle and you can actually see it working....not to mention it is a great price. 
  10. Sheet Mask - Sheet Masks are probably the backbone of Korean Skincare....that's kind of the whole reason I got started on this new skincare routine to begin with. The amazing part about them is that they provide your skin with maximum treatment properties and moisture that your skin absorbs one or twice a week. When it comes to sheet masks you really can't go wrong, but Leaders masks and Tonyholy masks are some of my favorites (Tip: check your local Ross or Marshalls for sheet masks because they always have packs of them). 
  11. EXTRA: Vitamin C Serum - This is kind of an extra step, but has definitely helped brighten my skin. You can use Vitamin C serum as your serum step, along with another serum, or use after a mask once a week. 
Have you used any of these products?
What is your go to skincare products on a budget?

-Madison


10 Scarves You Need This Fall

Thursday, October 12, 2017

Outfit Details:





Scarves Left to Right:

I don't know about you, but I am the BIGGEST fan of scarves in the fall! Whether it is a traditional scarf, chunky throw, or the ever perfect blanket scarf I am all about grabbing one to stay cozy and add a bit of color and pop to any look. 
With the popularity of blanket scarves there is always the need for new prints that fit your personality and I can't get over the vast selection of scarves ilymix has to offer. I already have two blanket scarves that I am in LOVE with, but when ilymix reached out asking if I would like to share some of their scarves on the blog and pick one out for myself I couldn't wait to add one of their prints to my closet! While you could easily find me wearing any one of their fabulous scarves, I had to stick with my fall inspiration and chose one that had hints of orange, rust, and tan.....mainly because it reminded me of a pumpkin and it was perfect!!!
I can't wait till the weather actually gets crisp and cold in Texas so that I can bundle up in my Pumpkin Plaid scarf, because it is truly the softest and coziest thing ever! I think the best part of blanket scarves is that they have multiple uses, they can be a shawl, wrap, 3 different scarf styles, plus a blanket, picnic blanket, or throw.....so basically you just REALLY NEED ONE!!! 

I picked out some of my favorite prints from their collection (above) that I absolutely LOVE!

And if you don't happen to have a blanket scarf, or find a print from ilymix that you can't live without you can use the discount code they sent for my readers: ILYMIX20

Are you a fan of blanket scarves?

-Madison

**This post was in collaboration with ilymix, but all opinions are my own**

Everyday Makeup With L'oreal Paris

Wednesday, August 23, 2017

1) L'Oréal® Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise2) L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro Glow Powder (21 Classic Ivory) 3) Colour Riche Monos Eyeshadow (Matte It Up)4) Matte-ly In Love 5) Infallible Concealer Color Correcting Palette 6) L'Oreal® Paris Infallible Concealer 7) Brow Stylist Shape & Fill (Blonde) 8) True Match Lumi Cushion Buildable Luminous Foundation (N1)

I am back again with a NEW makeup tutorial and a fabulous post about my new favorite products with L'Oreal Paris! I have been a huge fan of L'Oreal Paris for years, but never ventured out of their mascaras, however after receiving a number of their new products I fell in love with everything about them and how perfectly they fit into my everyday makeup routine and life!

I was pretty blown away by the mascara, foundation, and lipstick and can't get enough of either one! As always, you can find any of the L'Oreal Paris products at your local drugstore or Target and they are definitely my new go to for a professional quality at an affordable price. If you want to see how I used each product you can watch the tutorial I put together.



Have you ever tried L'Oreal Makeup?
What is your favorite makeup brand?

 -Madison

Skincare Beauty Favorites: Summer 2017

Monday, June 26, 2017


Happy Monday lovelies! Today I thought I would share a bit about my current beauty routine and break down some of my favorite products that I have been using. 
When it comes to my beauty routine I have definitely changed it up over the years due to my skin and throughout its highs and lows. I definitely don't have perfect skin, and constantly deal with breakouts and blemishes. I have used my fair share of topical treatments, prescriptions, and different face washes, but I don't think any of those products quite compare to my current routine which has boosted the heath of my skin tremendously and helped it regain its youthful glow and keep blemishes to a minimum (can you say BONUS)! My routine right now is my own personal take on the Korean Skincare system and craze that is taking the beauty industry by storm. While I don't use all Korean skincare products, I do take into account the steps (which are the most important) and with that, I think my skin is finally able to be happy.

Cleanse
Okay, so obviously the first step in my routine is to remove my makeup and cleanse. At night time I start out removing my makeup by washing my face with coconut oil in the shower. Since the Korean skincare routine encompases oil cleansers, I opt to use coconut oil to remove makeup which works like a dream. After I remove my makeup I then move on to cleanse and use the Neutrogena Ultra Gentle foaming cleanser which is AMAZING! This cleanser is definitely true to its name when it says gentle, and that is why I love it because it isn't full of medication or harsh on my skin and always leaves it fresh and smooth. My current philosophy seems to be less is more, because in the past my skin would get overwhelmed with the many ingredients, but now it can take a break because what I use is simple. (In the morning I use the same cleanser to wash my face.) 

Toners & Essence
Toners and Essence are the next vital step when it comes to the Korean Skincare routine, and this is where I actually do use two Korean products. After I cleanse my face in the morning I apply the  COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence which aids in hydration, repair, and brightness. And if you are wondering about the "snail mucin" in the name you would be right in assuming that it does contain 96% snail mucin which is great for skin health, and I can definitely tell the difference in my skins feel and brightness and it definitely has become more smooth as some of my scars have begun to deminish:) If I need a little extra boost I will also use Mario Badescu facial spray which everyone raves about and I now understand the hype! Not only does it smell heavenly with a light rose scent, but it is rejuvenating, and makes my skin feel extra moisturized with a boost. 

In the evening however, I alternate days using Nip + Fab Glycolic Fix Night pads which I use as my "chemical exfoliant" in the Korean skincare step routine. However, like I said, I alternate days with these, so when I am not using them I will use COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid which works as an essence and simple topical treatment for my pores, and I have definitely seen a difference in my skin adding this to my routine. 

Sunscreen & Topical
 Last but not least are two products that are vital to the health and youthfulness of my skin. As a fair complexioned person I am always needing to apply sunscreen in the summer but I always forget that daily using sunscreen on my face will help protect it from harsh rays and keep it looking younger longer. Therefore, I recently started using the MISSHA all around safe block waterproof sun milk and have been loving it! Typically sunscreen leaves your face feeling oily and its application heavy, but this formula is light, airy, dries once rubbed in and smells like a flower. Plus, since it is waterproof it holds up under humidity and sweat and also any dips in the pool. 

As for topical treatments, I have always used some type of topical at night to keep my blemishes to a minimum or to try and completely eradicate them. Unfortunately, due to slightly sensitive skin I would always deal with my skin drying out or flaking (because of the medication) and I hated the feeling of putting chemicals on my face. However, last semester I decided to give Curology a try after seeing it pop up on social media and the Internet, and OH MY GOSH my skin hasn't been the same since! You will definitely have to go check out Curology for yourself, but it was created to give you a personalized prescription for your face, depending on your blemishes. What I love the most, is that it isn't full of harsh chemicals, but rather focuses on the health of your skin itself which aids in healing breakouts, and I kid you not, when I wake up in the morning my skin always feels smoother :) 


The only other thing I will add to my skincare routine once/twice a week is a clay mask to draw out impurities or a sheet mask (also part of Korean Skincare) to restore my skins moisture and glow. 


Have you heard/tried any of these products?
Have you ever tried out the Korean Skincare routine? 

-Madison

Gaby Teller

Monday, June 5, 2017


Dress: Modcloth
Shoes: Old
Purse: Vintage
Earrings: Goodwill
Sunglasses:  c/o ilymix
Shop The Look Below to Find The Exact or Similar Items


I can't help but feel like Gaby Teller in Man From Uncle with these fabulously 1960's style round shades that IlyMix so thoughtfully sent me! It's no lie that Man From Uncle is probably one of my favorite movies, not only because it is set in the 60's and stars Alicia Vikander, Henry Cavill, and Armie Hammer, but also because it is full of suspense, intrigue, car chases, gadgets, and all things SPY related. Grabbing these shades for a sunny day makes me feel like I should be a cunning secret agent like Gaby, undercover as an archaeologists fiance in Russia, where I am working to find and capture a deadly nuclear weapon from a mysterious and conniving criminal organization ;)

With that being said, the 1960's have definitely been one of my style inspirations as of late, and these shades are the icing on the cake! I haven't actually ever worn round sunglasses but as soon as I saw these  I knew that they would be the perfect addition to my ever growing sunglasses collection and I LOVE them so much. Of course, as these shades were straight out of the 1960's I had to have the perfect dress to compliment them, and the Windy City dress (pictured in a different color above) from Modcloth fit my vision splendidly! I picked up this darling dress when I visited Modcloth in Austin during my roadtrip, and this dress is definitely a 60's dream in an airy pastel color scheme and print that I can't get enough of!

Ok.....and can we talk about how much I am loving 1960's style earrings after styling this look based of of Gaby's fabulous style. I actually found the pair I am wearing by luck at Goodwill and while I am typically not a big dangle earring fan I think I will be wearing these a lot:)

There really is something different and unique about the 60's, and any time I get to dress in a look that is inspired by a secret agent character I am all for it!

Have you see Man From Uncle?
Are you a fan of round shades?

 -Madison

Golden Adventures

Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Skirt: Forever 21
Sweater: Forever 21
Jacket: c/o Gamiss
Purse: c/o Gamiss
Hat: c/o Zaful

"Adventure is worthwhile in itself."
-Amelia Earhart 

I think one of the things I miss most about being in college (and having a slightly rigorous schedule) is not having time for adventures. To be honest, having the time to visit new places is one think I am looking forward to after graduating....anyone want to join me? As odd as that might sound, I have come to look forward to the times I can visit a new place, or discover the perfect picture spot. Thankfully, I still get to revisit my favorite places each week to take pictures, but that is usually only because I quickly fit it into my day and don't get the time to actually cherish and soak it all in. Adventures are something that I have truly grown fond of and try to take the most of every opportunity I get to have them. 

With that being said, adventures call for "adventure worthy" outfits and nothing says a perfect and golden adventure like a warm plaid jacket to keep you cozy and a mustard barret hat. Warm and bright colors (like mustard) seem to be the perfect choice when exploring new places and exude a feeling of fresh ideas and new found inspiration. 

Do you like taking time for adventures?
What do your adventures call for?

-Madison

Holiday Makeup Picks with e.l.f.

Friday, December 2, 2016

All products c/o e.l.f via Influenster
Picture props all from Target

I don't know about you, but the holidays are always a time that I love to be more festive when it comes to makeup, whether that be creating fun look for a party or pulling out new products and colors to fit the season. This holiday season I am especially LOVING the products e.l.f. has to offer! I have always been a fan of e.l.f because of not only their affordable priced, but also due to their great quality! That is why I was soooooo SUPER EXCITED to receive the e.l.f. Vox Box from Influenster a couple of weeks ago! In the vox box I received a number of exciting products to try, all of which were brand new to me and I must say that I have been blown away by the results.  

With the holiday season in full swing I wanted to share my new favorite e.l.f products with you all that are perfect for all of your holiday and Christmas needs! 

    • e.l.f Hydrating Bubble Mask: I have to say that this might just be my favorite product from the vox box! I had never heard of a bubble mask before so I was curious as to what it would do for my skin. True to its name the mask goes on like a gel but within minute bubbles up to a fluffy white foam and makes your skin feel so fresh and rejuvenated. With the harshness for winter weather this mask is definitely super beneficial in adding moisture back into my skin. 
    • e.l.f Matte Lip Color in Wine: I will admit that I was a little uncertain about this lip color as I haven't always had good luck with e.l.f lipsticks in the past. However, this lipstick completely changed the game and I have been wearing it 24/7. I love that it comes in a smaller pen like applicator, and the "wine" color is utter perfection for the holiday season. While it might not stay on as long as some lipsticks, it definitely lasts longer than other drug store brands I have.
    • e.l.f Mineral Infused Face Primer: Still haven't decided if I like this primer yet? I had previously been using the Rimmel London primers and loved them, but I thought I would give this one a try! It is more of a gel consistency rather than a cream and goes on very smoothly. However, other than that I haven't decided if it helps my makeup routine or not?
    • e.l.f Lip Exfoliator in Mint Maniac: I was definitely excited to get this lip exfoliator in the box, because I always love using an exfoliator every now and then. With this one it is so simple to use because you apply it like lipstick and then wipe it off. The exfoliate is sugar and minty, so it feels great on your lips and smooths them out for applying lipstick. 
    • e.l.f Baked Highlighter & Bronzer in Bronzed Glow: I have become an avid user of bronzer, either by itself or paired with a blush color. Therefore I can't say enough about this bronzer because not only is it a subtle iridescent tan color, but paired with the twin highlighter it gives your face the perfect and natural glow....I have been using this EVERY day since I got it:) Also.....easy makeup hack for you lovelies, is that you can use your bronzer (this one especially) for your eyeshadow and it give you a perfect natural glow!!

Have you use e.l.f before?
Are any of these products familiar to you?
Do you use any of these products in a different brand?

-Madison

Cozy + Coffee

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Jeans: Thrifted
Shirt: Faded Glory
Sweater: c/o TOBI
Mug: Marshalls
Glasses: c/o Firmo

I have come to realize how much I rely on the weekends for creating blog content. Since the semester started, the weekends have become the time that I get all of my photos for the coming week taken care of and start planing out posts. Sadly, the past two weekends I was either home with my family or traveling on a road trip, and while you would think that I still would have found time to take pictures I didn't. Thus, my absence from the blog was sadly a result of that an I am now counting down the days to till weekend when I can get back into the swing of things again!

It's crazy when life gets busy and I realize how much I have neglected the blog and fallen away from my timely blog schedule that I faithfully had going at the beginning of the semester. In those moments of business I find myself missing this special space and all of you who grace each post with your time and comments! Sadly, I have realized that when life gets busy and content is lacking I develop a loss of enthusiasm and inspiration for posting. So often blogging is all I want to do, but when life gets busy it is often the one thing I keep pushing aside, forgetting that it is always something that rejuvenates me and fills me with inspiration to keep going and pushing through even when life might get hard.

I think that's why it is so important to cling to somewhat of a schedule when life gets busy, because even when things feel like they are falling apart at the scenes there are always those constants that help you regain a since of composure on life. My go to constants when life gets crazy are always a good cup of coffee...in fact each day starts off 100% better when I start off with a cup of coffee followed by time spent in the word all warm and cozy in a chunky sweater.....there is just something so simple and comforting about those three things:)

Furthermore, the lack of "true" fall weather in my neck of the woods has set me into a state of gloomy disengagement from fashion and has made getting dressed every day a slight struggle. I always want to reach for sweaters and wear all of the cozy clothes that make me so giddy with fall fever, yet am forced to choose more "summery" pieces day in and day out! Its quite hard when you have an idea in your head but in reality its not quite feasible....it seems to take a tad bit of excitement out of you. That is probably another reason for the lack of posts as all the outfit and post ideas in my head, center around fall but are logically not feasible with my weather....Thus, here's to hoping "true" fall will arrive soon and more posts will appear on the blog!

Do you ever feel at a loss when it comes to blogging?
Does the weather ever diminish your excitement?

-Madison
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