REVIEW ~ Philosophy Resurface - The Microdelivery Dual-Phase Peel

Here's what Sephora says about it:

What it is: 
A two-step, exfoliating skin transformation.

What it is formulated to do:
This revolutionary duo works together to resurface skin and replenish it with essential vitamin C and peptides. The Vitamin C/Peptide Resurfacing Crystals gently rejuvenates and revitalizes as the Lactic/Salicylic Activating Gel helps to minimize the appearance of pores, fine lines, and wrinkles while providing a secondary exfoliation. 

Suggested Usage:
Step one - Vitamin C/Peptide Resurfacing Crystals: 
-Apply a teaspoon amount to clean, dry skin. 
-Once applied, crystals should appear almost like a mask. 
-Gently massage in a circular motion over entire face for up to 60 seconds, avoiding eye area. 
-Do not scrub; use less pressure for sensitive skin. 

Step two - Lactic/Salicylic Acid Activating Gel:
-Place a generous teaspoon amount in the palm of your hand.
-Massage gel onto fingertips and apply on top of crystals.
-As activator is applied, a warming sensation will occur. 
-White foam will appear, indicating activation.
-Leave foam on for two to three minutes to infuse vitamin C and peptides into the skin.
-You can massage foam for extra exfoliating benefits or let it sit for sensitive skin.
-Rinse thoroughly.
-You can use a washcloth for removal to avoid getting the peel in your hair.

My Review:

I love using this for those times when my skin feels extra rough or when I feel like my basic exfoliator just won't cut it. A little background on my skin type. It's normal, with almost no breakouts or blemishes, but I do have an uneven skin tone with redness around my nose and chin area. 

I don't use this product more than once a week, but after using it I can see and feel an immediate difference on my face. My skin is much smoother, more even toned and makeup glides on. I also feel like my moisturizers and serums penetrate the skin better and not just sits on top. I haven't noticed any issues using this product but for those with a sensitive skin type or someone who has acne it may be a bit too abrasive, but I think if you use it gently without applying too much pressure you should be ok. I like the warm feel to it once you apply the activating gel, it feels like it's really getting in there to remove dead and dull skin. I feel like my skin almost glows after using it and actually don't even feel the need to put on makeup the next day. 

For those looking for an ultra exfoliating product to add to your regime I would definitely recommend this product. It retails for $72, but a little goes a long way so it should last a while. I've used mine a handful of times and hardly put a dent in it. 

Thanks for reading!

Makeup Storage

I've tried so many different ways to store my makeup in the past. For a while I was just using a large makeup bag, but my beauty products quickly out grew that bag.  I wanted something that would allow me to find what I was looking for quickly and not have to dig around for it. I found that these small and medium sized drawers were perfect for what I needed.

I label the drawers and have the makeup separated into categories. This is my large size organizer

I use a smaller one for eye primers, blushers and pigments. Lately I've been using this little basket to the left for my lipsticks and glosses, but I'm not loving it.  

This is a desk organizer that I've been using to store some of my MAC and misc eye shadow pallets in. It's come in handy.

What do you currently use to store your makeup and beauty items? Any suggestions on a good lipstick organizer?

I'm on Snapchat now

Add me on Snapchat! Username: omeleko https://www.snapchat.com/add/omeleko

DIY detox water

Make your own detox water at home. All you need is a cucumber, lemon and mint. I happened to have some Rosemary at the house so I added a sprig of that to mine. I like drinking mine on an empty stomach. I feel like it helps you to eat less and also allows the body to absorb the nutrients better. 

For a 59 ounce bottle ( I used an old tea container) I used one full lemon half a cucumber in about one fourth cup of fresh mint leaves put it all in the container and fill with water and the next day you have refreshing detox water. This water is good for your skin, muscles and also helps to flush out toxins and extra water weight. Overall,  it's a good way for you to stay hydrated. It's especially beneficial for those who don't like to drink water, like myself. Have you tried making your own detox water? If so, what's your favorite blend?

Holy Grail Cheek Highlight

I love a good highlighter and I finally found one that is the perfect shade of gold! It's by Milani in the shade Bella Chiffon #28. 

Technically this is described as a gel powder eye shadow and it does look beautiful worn as that, but I love it as a cheek highlight. It's super creamy and blends like a dream without being chalky or shimmery. 

 

I got it from Walmart for less than $5, but Walgreen's sells it as well. What highlight are you loving at the moment?

#WIW - Cruise/Vacay Edition

I just got back from a week long vacay to Miami, a 4 day cruise and then Ft. Lauderdale. I thought I would share some of my outfits with you. I'm super casual on vacations. My hair will usually be in a bun or french braid 99% of the time since it's curly and I'll wear minimum to no makeup.

I saw this long line shirt on forever21.com and thought it would make the perfect beach cover up and it did! I threw it on over my bikinis and was able to go straight from the beach, hop onto a trolley, grab some lunch and then do a little boutique shopping in Ft. Lauderdale.  (pay no mind to my pasty e boob there lol)

This is what I wore for the plane ride. I never wear jeans on a plane because their too constricting. These shorts are from Rue21, the top and cardigan is forever21 and the sandals are Michael Kors with my own leather and chain necklace and bracelet 

I got this romper at H&M, it makes for the perfect cover up or just casual street wear.

Miami is all about bright colors and short shorts. The top is Pink  from VS and the shorts are My favorite pair from American Eagle.

Just some arm candy and me holding a cruise ship haha. The leather and chain bracelet can be found in my shop 

I love Ft. Lauderdale! Even more so than Miami beach. It just has this more laid back vibe and is the perfect blend of City and suburb. It feels like home! The crop top is from Dillard's and the shorts are American Eagle. 

I bought this outfit with the idea of Miami South beach at night in my mind. I love the high waisted shorts paired with a bright crop top it has a sexy casual feel so it doesn't look like your trying too hard.  

I wore this fun romper from JcPenny with nude Guess wedges for Captains Night on the ship and put my hair in dutch style french braids. 

This was my casual outfit for strolling around Key West. The tank is from forever21 (can you tell I shop here often? lol) and the shorts are Abercrombie with my super comfy Croc flip flops. I can walk around for days in these.

I had such a an awesome vacation and the weather cooperated most of the time so we were pretty lucky! Thanks for reading! 

Party Time

This past Saturday we went to a friend's birthday party. Which then turned into one of the 4 am binge fest and dancing nights lol. Are those random nights the best?  

I wore These cut off shorts from American Eagle, they are seriously my favorite brand of shorts, they just fit perfectly. The top is from Tj Maxx, sunnies were purchased online and the necklace is the Dash layering chain from my shop.

The girls! The wedges I got from Dillards last season and the brand is Reba. 

Did you guys notice that I cut my hair? I just hope I won't be too lazy to not keep up with it. I swear, the only reason my hair was long was because I was too lazy to get regular cuts. I would get my hair cut once a year if that lol. I'm loving this length though, I also had it lightened up a bit. I wore my hair black for year because I loved how shiny it made my hair look, but I needed a change. 

My song came on, now whatch me whip! lol