Mikaela's Jet-set beauty

Dr. Leslie Baumann's Travel Tips (Plus a small update on me)

2011-01-18T09:29:00.000-08:00

Here are some fantastic travel tips from one of my favourite dermatologists, Leslie Baumann.

As for myself - life has become incredibly exciting since last February. For almost a year now, I 've been working for a prominent dermatology practice as a medical esthetician where I assist our providers & perform an array of duties in the cosmetic realm (such as operating lasers & amazing things like that!). Soon I will be sent for training to perform permanent cosmetics as well... I'm thrilled to say the very least.

I absolutely love my job & this field - life is wonderful!

xo - Mikaela

Au revoir... for now

2010-02-12T16:13:00.000-08:00

This post has been on my mind for some time, and well, now is the right time to share it. I have decided to take an indefinite (possibly permanent) hiatus from blogging.
It's been a good couple of years, however many factors have come up over time to contribute to my farewell - let's just say that a new chapter is about to unfold & I'm excited to move on.
I do want to keep all possibilities open though, so I am not saying I'll definitely never post again. There may be a great travel tip I come across or a fantastic beauty product I'd like to share... I'm just not promising anything. If you're interested in any potential posts that may come p in the future, just subscribe. I promise I won't flood your inbox with posts;)

Thanks for reading-
Mikaela

Some pampering for the New Year

2010-01-18T15:51:00.000-08:00

Wow... I just noticed I haven't posted in a MONTH. Things were justifiably crazy - what with the holidays & the fact that we spent them out of the country. While we were gone, I had a few nights of 'when in Scotland...' therefore I looked & felt horrible.
Lucky for me, I packed my Relastin Ultra Emollient and put it to good use. I positively slathered myself in the thick creme, trying to repair the damage of long flights, jet-lag & too much celebratory champagne. Well it got the job done, and I have photographic evidence to show I wasn't too worse for the wear following the trip.
On a more scientific note, I really love combining this creme with my nightly retinoid application. The retinoids go to work on collagen production & Relastin works it's magic on elastin production. You need both of these elements for healthy, beautiful skin & this is my chosen route to achieving said skin... prevention is 9/10ths of the beautiful skin law.
And to prevent damage around the eyes, check out this past post on Relastin's Eye Silk - you'll love it, it's like buttah.

My new packing regime

2009-12-17T11:30:00.000-08:00

So I've been playing around on Polyvore.com recently, and I'm loving it! It's such a cool site, and I've officially decided this is the new way to plan your outfits for traveling.
For those who don't know, Polyvore.com is a site where you can shop the web & build 'sets' based on what you like. I think this is just brilliant & it's fun to cruise the sets others have built for inspiration.
Anyway, since we're leaving for Scotland in a few days, I'm currently planning some looks through the site to help me decide what to pack. Since I already know what some of our plans and nights out are going to consist of , this will make styling them that much easier, right down to the last detail... and give me a visual packing list!

olivia palermo by wasting love (offline) featuring Helmut Lang

Christmas shopping list - Kings & Queens

2009-12-10T03:40:00.000-08:00

For the Queen (or King) on your Christmas list, one of our favourite product lines - Kings & Queens.

No reason to make specific recommendations here, every product in this Korres off-shoot line is truly decadent & luxurious. Every time I write about these products, I fall in love all over again with the idea of using modern products with ingredients that historical figures used to pamper & beautify themselves with. The fact that these are green beauty products is the jewel in the crown.

Anyway, who am I kidding? I will make a recommendation or two. Anything with the Nefertiti fragrance is mind-blowingly delicious, and the Queen Isabella cinnamon orange body scrub smells beautiful & does a thorough but gentle job. And for the gentlemen, I am quite partial to the spicy sensuality of the King of Sumatra Pepper Bergamot soap. The prices are all quite reasonable, so while you're shopping don't forget to also treat yourself like a queen for a day... after all, it's Christmas!

Christmas shopping list- Lisa Hoffman Variations

2009-12-09T03:15:00.000-08:00

It's no secret Lisa Hoffman is a woman after my own heart. She takes luxury & travel seriously, and doesn't disappoint.
So here's another gift idea, one for the jet-setter who loves luxury - Lisa Hoffman's Variations.
We've covered this product here before, but we'd be remiss not to include it on our list! The collection currently boasts 5 fragrances, each bottled at various strengths for applications during the day & at night.
The scents are divine, and they are contained in tidy roller ball form - the best option for traveling... not to mention they have their own chic leather travel case.
Also worth exploring is Lisa Hoffman's skin care travel kits. Fantastic single servings of products sure to delight anyone distraught buy TSA's 3-1-1 rule.

Christmas shopping list - Smashbox Wish for the perfect tools set

2009-12-08T15:00:00.000-08:00

Here's another gift idea, perfect for the burgeoning makeup artist on your list - Smashbox's Wish for the perfect tools set.

This is an amazing deal, 5 professional brushes valued at $134 but priced at $49. Amazing! The quality is top notch & the size of the brushes plus the carrying case are the perfect travel size.

The best part about this gift? It is part of the Children's miracle network & part of the proceeds go to the charity.

Christmas shopping list - Bath & Body Works eye masque

2009-11-26T03:46:00.000-08:00

Pressing on with our shopping list, here's a gift for the party girl - Bath & Body Works Gel Eye Masque. Simply pop this in the fridge for a bit then place it over swollen, party-hardy eyes. Within 10 minutes, things are looking good again and it's off to the next party!
I just love the cutie snowflakes & sparkles inside, they are very festive (never mind you can't see them while you're wearing it!).
I have one of these & plan on taking it with me on our trip. Since it's self contained, there's no mess and it's perfect for throwing in the hotel mini-fridge. My eyes are always, ALWAYS red raw & tired after flying. I cannot wait to use this.
Oh, and did I mention these are only $6?
Can you say 'perfect stocking stuffer'?

Christmas shopping list - Korres

2009-11-25T03:15:00.000-08:00

For my next installment on the Christmas shopping list, I give you Korres Lip Butter. It's no secret that I'm a longstanding fan of these lush lippies, however they have introduced a new colour since Jasmine... Mango!
This adorably sunny peach shade would make the prefect mini-gift for your friend who always wishes it was Summer, the colour is an instant mood lifter.
These balms make your lips so incredibly soft with out the use of any harsh chemicals, so if peach isn't your pick there are plenty others to chose from. My mom loves Wild Rose, Shivaughn's all about Quince & I adore Jasmine - but there are 7 shades in all.
To each his own colour, but pick yourself up one while you're at it... I know when shopping for others I can't resist buying myself a little treat too!

Christmas shopping list - Village tea company

2009-11-24T14:55:00.000-08:00

Since this year's holiday plans put us in Scotland, the Christmas shopping list has grown much longer... which has led me to an idea. I'll be compiling a list of small gifts that will certainly benefit me, and possibly you in your holiday shopping quest.

First off, one for the tea drinker - Village Tea Company

This is a lovely brand of loose leaf tea, ideal for the connoisseur who wouldn't dream of drinking tea from a bag. With a great selection & an easy to navigate website, picking out the prefect blend couldn't be easier!

A container of tea along with a little tea strainer or pot & a cute mug would make a fantastic stocking stuffer or small gift. And according to InTouch, Taylor Swift is a fan and who hasn't witnessed Lady Gaga drinking her tea from china cups everywhere she goes - Tea is hot right now!

Ladies, start your Christmas shopping...

2009-11-17T10:09:00.001-08:00

I confess - I LOVE when I'm sent books by publishers & PR reps. I LOVE books and I particularly enjoy any on the subjects of beauty and fashion (shocking, I know).

Anyway, I was sent Closet Confidential by Winona Dimeo-Ediger, a fashion blogger & Nat Geo writer. I wasn't expecting anything new or exciting - most fashion how-tos are pretty similar... I had no idea that this book would also induce laughter. I found myself giggling with every turn of the page.
Winona recounts hilarious tales of sartorial woe and advises how to avoid the common pitfalls while still having fun with fashion. This is not written from a know-it-all view point, no "suffer for fashion" or "spend every last dime you have on designer items" advice here. However there is tons of encouragement to cultivate your own sense of style & building your wardrobe with great clothes that will make you look forward to getting dressed every day.
I really love her take on dressing/packing for travel - sound advice if you don't want to arrive at your destination looking like "Traveling Winona" (read it! the illustration for this bit is lol funny).
In short, this book would make a fun addition to your bookshelf or a fantastic gift for someone in your life who'd like a little help developing their sense of style, but who doesn't want to sacrifice their sense of humor for it.
P.S. she even gets kudos from Chelsea Cain, the author of the Heartsick series. My friend & I are hooked on her awesome serial killer thrillers - I am ready for the 4th book!

For the long haul...

2009-11-11T09:35:00.000-08:00

We have officially booked our tickets to head back to Scotland for Christmas & new Years (or Hogmanay, as it's called in Scotland).
I am super excited to go back and see friends and family, however I have to start planning my preemptive skin care defense NOW.
Traveling for hours on end does not make for a pretty situation & the last thing I want is to spend my 2 weeks of holiday suffering with dehydrated skin & hair = generally grumpy, and grumpy is not pretty.

Anyway, I'm currently in a hot and heavy relationship with Cosmedix products, and I'm getting a game plan together using their stuff.

Prepping with : SKINamins, Cosmedix daily supplement for general skin nutrition. Contains all the normal anti-oxidant goodies plus green tea, white tea, Alpha Lipoic Acid, and Grape seed extract. This is my supplement of choice leading up to departure.

Supplementing in-flight sunblock with: Emulsion, a serious facial hydrator that contains 2 of my favourite moisturizing ingredients - shea butter & jojoba oil. This makes your skin look & feel ah-mazing!

Repairing post flight skin with: Rescue, a dual purpose facial balm & masque. Saves space since it serves more than a single beauty need. This can be worn as a masque overnight once you reach your destination - allowing you to start you vacation with plumped up, healthy skin.

Speeding up post-flight skin healing with: Neutralize skin care supplements. I did a post some time ago on Dr. Leslie Baumann's book The Skin Type Solution . In it she touches on the subject of flying & it's effect on skin. It reportedly takes the skin 3 days to repair itself post-flight (3 precious vacation days!). This supplement is packed with anti-oxidants to neutralize harmful free-radicals & speed up the skin's healing process.
Extremely useful to me, as I have no desire to be in Holiday photos looking a blotchy, dried-out wreck. I suggest using these in conjunction with copious amounts of green tea and H2O.

Refreshing the body with: Body Clean, a gentle exfoliating cleanser that contains lactic acid to slough off skin without being harsh.
I love taking a shower when we finally arrive at my in-law's house. It gives me time to get settled in & feel clean & happy. I never forget to treat the skin of my body and I really like this cleanser/exfoliator for renewing the cells and prepping them to absorb all the emollients in my body moisturizer, ensuring I wake up in the morning with silky skin.

I suggest creating a pre/post flight routine of your own, it really makes your holiday more enjoyable if you can feel & look good once you arrive at your destination! I'll save my in flight hair tips for another post...

For the Sparkle Vampire - Kings & Queens Shimmering Body Milk

2009-10-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

Since Halloween is right around the corner and it seems the world has gone fang-crazy, here's a little trick-or-treat you might like. Kings & Queens Nefertiti Shimmering Body Milk is a delicious smelling addition to any vampire costume. It contains mica for a beautiful shimmery effect and once Halloween is over, it remains a useful moisturizer (unlike that tube of fake blood).
And, if you're not into shimmer but you love green beauty products, check out the rest of their divine line - but make sure you experience Nefertiti, she's my favourite Kings & Queens scent!

Cracking me up

2009-10-23T15:50:00.000-07:00

I've been in school now for over a month - busy learning, studying, visiting cadaver labs (!) and doing a whole host of medical related educational activities. I'm enjoying it all so much, except for one little thing - my hands are a mess!
All of the hand washing & sanitizing is destroying the poor skin on my hands - I have horrible, deep cracks in the webbing of my fingers. The only thing saving me right now is the amazing Citron, Honey & Coriander collection from Crabtree & Evelyn.
I'm particularly indebted to the Hand Recovery. It's a gentle moisturizing scrub that smells lovely & truly helps repair my sad little hands. The Macadamia nut oil, along with the Shea & Palm butters are a serious defensive weapon in my war against the drying effects of Purell. Following a scrubbing session with the matching Rejuvenating Hand Remedy creme, which uses Hyaluronic acid & Ceramides to achieve intense hydration... well, basically it's brought my hands back from the dead!
The entire line is worth checking out, and right now is perfect timing - All of the Cirton line is 20%!

Call me crazy, but...

2009-10-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

Shivaughn & I are both currently into 'denim' leggings. HELLO - they are prefect for traveling - comfortable, yet they have a refined appearance. Top them off with an oversize sweater that covers your lady bits (preferably in cashmere), unlike our unfortunate friend on the left!
Then, add a few gorgeous accessories = you look put together, but you know secretly that you're basically wearing pyjamas!
Additional benefits - this look is cute with both flats & heels.

Our picks - Hue 'Denim' Leggings & Victoria's Secret cashmere/cotton relaxed v-neck sweater. Budget bonus? You can acquire both items for under $100!

For winter daytime dryness

2009-10-12T15:02:00.001-07:00

Like many people, I suffer from dry itchy, skin in the winter. It's an unpleasant problem (seriously, why must each season impart major beauty issues?) that can be easily solved - at least at night. I don't mind slathering on a seriously thick, greasy creme or oil when I'm just wearing my pyjamas. However, this is just not a viable option for daytime. When you get dressed, the last thing you want to do is look as if you've been eating french fries & using your clothing as a napkin!

Neutrogena has recently brought out a few new moisturizers, one of which fills the 'daytime moisturizer drama' niche. It's the fragrance-free version of the Moisture Wrap Body Lotion, which is going to be my closest ally for the next few months. It applies easily & absorbs instantly but still deeply moisturizes the skin, which makes getting dressed painless. Plus, it has no cheap, irritating fragrance to interfere with my lovely Chanel & Thierry Mugler perfumes! And, it's gloriously inexpensive - a must for the cold season that is already upon us.

Earthly Body Candles - the Fall lineup

2009-10-01T14:15:00.001-07:00

I think this is the 5th time Earthly Body's candles have made an appearance here, and for very good reason. They are AH-mazing... I can't ever say enough wonderful things about them. If TSA's regulations prevent you from bringing enough body moisturizer on board, switch to these. When cool they are completely solid - I throw them in my case without worry of a leak or spill, or some TSA agent attempting to confiscate it because heaven forbid, it's over 3.4 ounces. Since they are meltable with both a match or a candle warmer, they make and easy transition from home to hotel... in fact, they make a hotel room more homey - nice candle light accompanied by an other worldly scent that just won't fade away, even with constant use.
And speaking of scent, they just added 3 new ones to the collection - which have managed to send me over the edge into total Autumn inspired bliss.
This season's offerings include Smashing Pumpkin, Fireside Frankincense & Mintastic. I'm not a huge fan of Mintastic but I would imagine that someone who likes to smell minty fresh would fall head over heels for it. I do think it would be fun to burn it around Christmas & make the house smell like candy canes.
Anyway - on to the other two that make me weak in the knees!
Smashing Pumpkin is a perfect (insert your favourite pumpkin flavoured treat here) replica - hot from the oven with notes of cinnamon, cloves, all spice & nutmeg. You'll smell irresistibly delicious after applying this.
Fireside Frankincense is just heavenly... warm, cozy & sensual - like a cashmere blanket for your skin. It instantly envelops you in it's beautiful heady scent. Leave this on a candle warmer & let it permeate your whole house - anyone who steps inside will clamor to know what it is you're burning.
There is nothing like rubbing warm, beautifully fragranced oil on damp skin after a bath or shower in the evening - especially when the weather is cold. If you've never tried Earthly Body (why exactly are you waiting?), prepare yourself for skin as smooth as buttah. There is a reason I've lost count on the number of these candles I've used up, right down to the dregs.

Keratin Complex Hair Therapy by Coppola

2009-09-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

Well we did it, the Keratin treatment that is. Shivaughn & I both had our hair treated over the weekend, and the results are pretty unbelievable... I mean, I can air-dry my hair & it looks nice? Crazyness!
I did suffer the 3 days I could not wash my hair. I'm a daily washer & I just felt dirty. I do however think it was totally worth it. It is pretty darn straight - which was not my goal, I like zee waves - I just wanted no frizz, which it definitely accomplished. I can now add waves with a curling iron easily, without having to fight the frizz first.
I was just explaining to someone how even throwing my hair up in a simple ponytail or twisting it up in a clip has always taken some effort just to make it look presentable... I know I'm not the only person out there who has prayed to be liberated from unruly hair.
I do want to explain that my hair is uncoloured & as hairstylists say 'it's very fine, but you have a lot of it'. My hair is neither truly wavy or curly, just stuck in limbo between the two with a great big helping of frizz & hairline cowlicks for good measure... and of course I forgot to take my own before & after photos to illustrate this!
Anyway, this will make traveling a breeze now - I can now go places & not have to bring styling tools, or travel to humid places without having to slick my hair back in a knot with leave-in conditioner & just give up...
Dare I say, I'm no longer worried about getting caught in the rain when we're visiting my husband's family in Scotland! For the record, I absolutely love rain, just not what it does to my hair (cowlick city!). I wish this would have been possible when we lived there, it would have saved me so much grief.

For more details I scoured the Internet & found some great links;
Full explanation of the process
Tons of before & after pictures
Product line used
Video of the process - with a hilariously awful intro

My goal of low maintenance hair has been achieved!

A breakthrough for sensitive skin!

2009-09-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ask anyone who suffers from truly sensitive skin & they will tell you - anti-aging is something that is pretty much off-limits to them.
What on earth can you do when your skin tolerates next to nothing? Retinoids, AHA's, BHA's, physical exfoliants, chemical sunblocks, fragrances, not to mention a host of other things that are common in many skin care products can cause outrageous irritation.
Well there is finally a niche category for 'sensitives' who want to maintain calm skin along with a lineless face - say hello to Patricia Wexler's Anti-aging Sensitive Skin Collection.
Four products designed with delicate skin in mind, based on MMPi-20 technology (present in many of her other products), peptides, anti-oxidants & calming botanical blends.
The collection includes; MMPi20 Comforting & Renewing serum, Calming Anti-aging Moisturizer SPF30 (with zinc & titanium - gold star!), Soothing & Renewing Night Creme, and the big standout - the Gentle Exfoliating Peel.
That's right... a peel for sensitive skin, brilliant! Peels are something that someone with seriously irritable skin generally steer clear from - unless they are after that red, raw & flaky look. This peel does contain a gentle blend of acids & calming ingredients, and most importantly does not irritating scrubbing particles. All you'll be left with is refreshed, glowing skin!
The line will be appearing in stores & on-line in the very near future, so look out for it - if you're sensitive, it may change your life!

Just a few days left!!! Korres 30% discount

2009-09-10T03:14:00.000-07:00

Only 5 days left!
We've partnered with Korres to bring you an exclusive discount for their new website.
From now until September 15th enter the promo code JETSET at checkout to receive 30% off your order!

For more Korres...

I'm still here... (an update)

2009-09-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

Cross another one off that New Year's resolution list - I have registered for school! I was busy all last week (and continue to be) preparing to start my classes - hence the lack of posts. Ordering books, shopping for scrubs, drug testing, background checking... you name it. This is something that has been on the back burner for quite some time. I'm extremely excited for this next step, I honestly can't stop talking about it (my family is constantly getting an earful)! I start the 21st... that's less than 2 weeks away & I couldn't be happier.

I should take this opportunity to add that while I'm attending school, I will also be working full time. I'm sure I'll be tired, cranky, & overwhelmed with homework & lack of sleep - I still plan to blog, but I'm venturing a guess that it will most likely not be as frequent as in the past. If you are still interested in what I write, may I suggest subscribing to email posts? Each post is delivered to your inbox so you don't have to come here checking for new items (and subsequently being disappointed when there is nothing new to read). Btw, I won't sell your email to anyone (Hello! I don't even bother to advertise, that should tell you how $ hungry I am).

In the meantime, I'm going to have to devise a personal energy plan - and add to my already vast eye creme collection! I'm such a sleep goblin it will be hard to function on a little less sleep & I'm sure it will show up around the eyes. Also, I'm planning on having the keratin treatment done to my hair this next week after having it trimmed... anything to help me move faster in the morning. If anyone has any tips or expertise on looking gorgeous while being sleep deprived/strapped for time while in school - let's hear it!

Beautritional supplements - Borage Oil

2009-08-28T15:41:00.000-07:00

A while back, I said I would be sharing a little info with you on Borage Oil supplements. In short, they are my newest addiction. Borage oil is the best known source of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid) which moisturizes the skin. It's anti-inflammatory (we know inflammation is a huge cause of aging in skin) and it can even help with more severe skin conditions like psoriasis & eczema.
Now that I pop these like candy, and my normally dry skin just glows with hydration. Most any skin type would benefit from this oil, either internally or topically (try Burt's Bees Naturally Ageless Intensive repairing Serum) - especially anyone who suffers from dry skin.
And if your face is known to turn in to the Sahara as a result of flying - add this into your skincare regime to combat the post-travel dehydration you're bound to encounter.

As Summer winds down...

2009-08-27T14:39:00.000-07:00

Just because Summer is beginning to give way to Autumn doesn't mean you can give up on taking your daily sun protection seriously. Sure you can lighten up, but don't be fooled once the sun starts hiding behind overcast skies - wrinkle inducing UVA rays still find their way through clouds & windows - and they're headed directly for your skin. Sneaky!
Here are some of my newest favourites for the cooler months:

LaRoche Posay's Redermic UV SPF 15

Tally up another for the gorgeous French! Redermic UV not only shields you from the sun but also fills in wrinkles with Madecassoside, treats it with L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C - powerful anti-oxidant) then moisturizes with Hyaluronic Acid, which draws & retains moisture for the skin. This plumps & protects - ideal for anyone who wants to make their fine lines & creases less noticeable.

CosMedix Serious Sun Protection SPF 28

For those of you out there who favour physical blockers (like me!) - this one's for you. This delivers a major dosage of Zinc Oxide (13%) as well as Titanium Dioxide. It doesn't make you ghostly, it won't irritate sensitive types but it does create a little suit of armor between your skin and those nasty UVA rays. This one means business - awesome if you're planning to have a Fall treatment like a chemical peel or microdermabrasion (best time to have them since the sun won't wreck your efforts) because it won't sting your fresh new skin.

California Baby Everyday/Year-round SPF 18 Moisturizing Sunscreen Lotion

Another physical blocker - this one's for the body. I love this as everyday lotion, it's particularly great when you're out walking the dog. (Now that it's cooling off both my baby girl & I are happier to go walking at the park.) This lotion is more than just sun block, it's also a great moisturizer containing fantastic ingredients like Squalane, as well as anti-oxidants Vitamin E & Green Tea. For those who aren't in the know - anti-oxidants make your sun block perform better.

Neutrogena's Nourishing Eye Duo SPF 15

The geniuses at Neutrogena are now making gorgeous eyeshadow palettes that not only boast a slew of anti-oxidant vitamins, but they now contain SPF! Beautiful colours & elegant formulations - I absolutely LOVE the burgeoning hybrid of cosmetics & skin care. I mean, how much of your day are you wearing make-up? Shouldn't it be working to make you prettier in the long run, not just the hours you're wearing it?

Neutrogena Moistureshine Lipstick SPF 20

Which brings us to this question - why should your eyes get all the special treatment? These hydrating lipsticks contain palm butter to keep your lips soft, SPF to protect the thin & delicate lip tissue, AND anti-aging peptides that plump lips with continued use. Considering lips thin as we age, we should probably start them on their own little 'stay-young' plan! Again, this is make-up working for you, not against you. Oh, and there are 20 pretty-pretty colours to choose from.

With all of these advances in cosmetics & skincare there are no excuses to go unprotected ladies!

Jurlique Lavender Hydrating mist

2009-08-25T10:46:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I'm a girl who is obsessed with hydrating mists. I spritz away all day long - I have bottles in my car, on my desk, in my purse as well as my carry-on.
I now have another to add to the mix. Jurlique's Lavender Hydrating Mist is housed in a chic frosted glass bottle (you can feel the substantial weight in your hand which contributes to it's extremely luxe appearance) that speaks directly to my soul. Plus - it's reusable!
My skin is in constant need of moisture, and mists are the perfect way to deliver it without having to put your hands on you face or mess up your make-up. I love this incarnation for the calming lavender & marshmallow extracts. It leaves my skin feeling so refreshed & refined. I highly recommend a hydrating mist for daily use, but particularly when you fly - it will help replenish moisture that has been lost due to the non-existent humidity in airplane cabins. Nothing makes you look worse than deplaning in a completely haggard state - avoid it at all costs!

Additionally- for extra moisturizing ability, add some skin care oil to your mist - just shake before each use. I've used a range of oils to add more oomph to my sprays (Burt's Bees naturally ageless serum, Nude replenishing night oil, DHC olive virgin oil, Josie Maran's Argan Oil, Desert Essence Jojoba oil - basically whatever strikes your fancy, or whatever you have handy).
It serves as an incredible pick-me-up when you're struggling in the late afternoon slump - 4pm at the office, anyone?
i swear sometimes the only thing that seems to restore my glow is a mist of hydrating spritz spiked with oils...

Low maintenance by way of high maintenance?

2009-08-24T16:14:00.001-07:00

Am I low maintenance by way of high maintenance? I find myself asking this question constantly. There are so many beauty treatments that are definitely time consuming and highly involved - yet they yield liberating results, no longer rendering you a slave to beauty.
One such example:
Someone I know recently got lash extensions. They are amazing & gorgeous, she doesn't even wear mascara anymore. However, there is a sizable cost attached & definite upkeep involved. (I've been toying with the idea of doing them myself - with an aesthetic license, I'd have minimal cost & could do them on my own...)
Anyway, I myself partake in many of these hi/lo maintenance treatments, and the latest I plan on indulging in is Keratin Complex Hair Therapy™.
This treatment has been talked about everywhere as of late, and for good reason. A simple trip to the salon can give you healthier, frizz free & tamed hair - just by coating it in keratin. Never mind the treatment takes a few hours and costs about $400 & up. (Again, wonderful reason to be licensed, for that is most certainly not the price I'll have to pay for this supposed wonder treatment).
I've always dreamed of smooth, easy going hair that looks pretty without much work. Hopefully that is what I will wind up with.
If things go as planned, I'd like to cut bangs like the ones pictured here. Normally this is totally out of the question because my hair has a mind of it's own - I have more than a few cowlicks around my hairline! I'm hoping this treatment can convince my hair to just relax into pretty waves and not freak out at the slightest hint of humidity.
I'm planning to do the treatment in the next few weeks - I'll report back with my findings.

Lip plumper update...

2009-08-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Back at the end of May, I started using Neutrogena's Ageless Intensives Lip Plumping Treatmens (SPF 20). Well, it's been a fair little while & I've seen no visible improvement. I can't say I'm surprised, but I am slightly disappointed. Ah well, on to the next!

I'm about to run down to one of the local showrooms and pick up a tube of Zoya's Hot Lips Plump. It's apparently formulated with something called MaxiLip, allegedly reported as the only clinically proven collagen stimulator.
I'm planning to do more research in the meantime - particularly on the collagen stimulation claims (I found this is an ingredient used in other brands lip products as well), but I'll let you know how it turns out.

Regardless of the lip plumper, Zoya is my very, very favourite polish brand. Lately I've been on a colour kick for my toes. I'm obsessed with their colour lock system - using everything together ensures your polish WILL NOT CHIP for a considerable amount of time. I can't stop buying new colours... but Blair is my all time favourite - so gorge!

Update: I really love this plumper! It's got a similar texture to MAC's lip jelles, has no scent & is very glossy & clear. I'm convinced there is serious plumping action going on, and the results are supposed to be cumulative. I did in fact do more research on the Maxi Lip ingredient, and it appears to be legit. Really, anything that stimulates the production of collagen is tops in my book.

Exclusive Korres Discount!

2009-08-17T15:21:00.000-07:00

We've partnered with Korres to bring you an exclusive discount for their new website.
From now until September 15th enter the promo code JETSET at checkout to receive 30% off your order!

And may I suggest a few items? I've featured their Lip Butter in Quince here before, but I just tried Jasmine (pictured here) today. I love it even more than before. Though it appears tinted, it has no colour on the lips so I have no fear of loading it on. It is so wildly moisturizing and soothing, and most importantly the moisture lasts. I'm beginning to think this could truly be my holy grail lip balm. At only $9 (before the discount) it's not too outrageous a luxury.

Also worth note - Korres travel gift kits Holiday in Greece & Summer in Greece. Perfect if you're in need of more stay-cation beauty products... Take that pretend holiday you've always wanted!

We'll be sharing a few more suggestions for shopping Korres soon...

Travel luxury - AblePlanet Clear Harmony Noise Canceling Headphones

2009-08-15T01:30:00.000-07:00

For flights from hell - you know the ones: babies crying for hours on end, inebriated passengers shout-talking, and various other neighbours watching dvd's on high volume - a saving grace for your personal comfort is contained in a pair of noise cancellation headphones.
Business people always wear these during flights, and after trying AblePlanet's I now know why. Not only do they drown out unsavory noise with the cancellation feature, they make listening to your ipod extra enjoyable. All audio coming through the speakers is crystal clear, plus they are incredibly comfortable to wear, unlike earbuds.
I find these essential on long haul flights, you can stay entertained for hours brushing up on audio language lessons, watching dvd's, or my ideal combo - wrapped up in my Undercover Travler set - ipod in it's little pocket, listening to classical music while I drift off to sleep beneath my eye masque... it's important to arrive at your destination well rested and in a pleasant mood, no? These headphones will help make that a reality...

ne pas déranger!

"Traveling" through beauty products - The Daily Mail

2009-08-14T15:12:00.000-07:00

The Daily Mail UK has a fun piece about beauty products to pick up while you're on holiday.

Read it here

The eyes have it - Relastin Eye Silk

2009-08-11T10:15:00.000-07:00

We know that retinoids kick start the collagen making process, but what about the other essential element for beautiful skin - elastin? Damaged elastin can result in sagging & wrinkling, and up until recently there was nothing to restore this function. Why? Because the production of elastin in your body stops once you're done growing - red alert!
But here comes relief - Relastin's Zinc firming complex spurs on the production of elastin, helping your skin get it's spring back.
Relastin really is one of those few products I feel is truly worth the investment, like prescription retinoids. It's also endorsed by some major dermatologists, including Leslie Baumann (who we love here!) and my own dermatologist, Dr. Werschler!
And, as far as the actual product goes (I've tried their Eye silk) it truly feels like silk. It's totally lovely & completely non-irritating to my eyes. Hugely important. If like me, you have issues using other anti-aging eye cremes due to sensitivity this is the one to use. It gives serious results, yet you don't even know you're wearing it. No stinging, no burning, no smell. Just wonderfully hydrated eyes. There is a reason this has been exalted by Allure in the past.
Check out these results!

Rediscovering a classic

2009-08-07T11:01:00.000-07:00

I save all of my Allure magazines, and since I've been a subscriber for oh, the last 10 years it's getting a little out of control. Anyway, a few nights ago I was rooting around in the massive collection looking for an old article on Catherine Deneuve (I recently checked out 8 Women from the library). In the quest to find this article, I stumbled upon another about beauty classics, which included Clinique's Almost Lipstick in the iconic Black Honey.
Back in my ballet days I used to wear Black Honey religiously. It's light, stain like yet moisturizing & about as dark a lip as I would ever wear. Back in the day it was a miracle if I wore anything other than Carmex... but always eyeliner & mascara. (Somethings never change.)
Suddenly after reading that article, I knew I had to have it again so last night I went out and bought it. It's still perfect - in that tres sleek, slender silver tube, super dark in appearance but the perfect rosy 'your lips but better' shade on application.
I look like an English rose wearing it with my very fair skin - it makes me feel so pretty!

And speaking of Clinique - it was the only makeup my sister & I wore as teenagers, but I drifted away from the brand as an adult. I forgot how much I love the fact that all of their products are unscented & unflavoured!

P.S. I have no idea what lip colour Anne Hathaway is actually wearing in this photo, but it looks exactly like Black Honey to me. It's a perfect example of the colour on a gorgeous English rose complexion!

Revisiting those New Years resolutions , again...

2009-08-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

It's August & once again I'm taking stock of what I have and have not accomplished on my New Year's resolution lis t. The lashes have grown, the green tea is sipped daily, and healthy beauty foods are constantly consumed. Now let's get to the things that were lagging behind...
I am finally being more serious about shaping up now & trying to leave the bad carbs behind. It's hard, but I'm trying. Loading up on lean protein & fresh veggies is good, but the chocolate cravings are suddenly hitting me hard!
I've gotten started on refreshing my French skills. I've checked out tons of material from the library and still need to pull out my Rosetta Stone set. I've started reading books, have audio lessons in my car's cd player to practice with on my commutes, found some DVD lessons & have some French language films to watch. If nothing else I'll get a baguette, wine & some delicious fromage then watch the movies & the whole thing will serve as a productive stay-cation.
Lastly, I'm trying to register for school which should start in mid-October. I'm excited & nervous, but very happy to be on my way to a fulfilling career in the field I'm obsessed with.

Just a reminder - have you checked in with your list of resolutions lately? It's not to late to get something accomplished!

"Traveling" through beauty products - Bath & Body Works American Grown

2009-07-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

Bath & Body Works new product line - American Grown hand soaps and shower gels - have completely inspired me. How you may ask? Well, this is obviously a beauty blog with a heavy travel influence, and what easier way is there (in this economy!) to "travel" than through beauty products?

Think about it - scent is proven to be incredibly powerful. Catching the smell of your old signature scent can take you back to a certain time & place instantly. Smelling particular foods can take you on a time warp to childhood holidays. So, why not use scent to transport you somewhere you'd like to go right now?

The American Grown line contains a handful of regional aromas - my favourite being Washington Apple, a totally biased choice since that's my home state! But feel free to take a trip to the south, wine vineyards, Big Sky country, or lemon orchards... it's all possible, and for a tiny fraction of the price of a real trip. (As huge travel advocates, we know this doesn't fill the void of actually going places, but in a pinch...)

This reminds me of the stay-cation post we did last summer. For example -why not bathe with the Savannah mint shower gel, make yourself a mint julep, eat some southern food & watch Fried Green Tomatoes? Insta-summer holiday down south!

And while you're at B&BW - check out their True Blue Morocco line - there are some seriously spicy & delicious items, all perfect for a exotic little 'trip' without the need for your passport.

Editor's note: I've gone back through the archives & started relabeling posts which fit the "Traveling" through beauty products description for easy access for a time when you might need a quick mental vacation!

Celeb Travel - Claudia Schiffer

2009-07-30T08:58:00.000-07:00

In the new In Style Makeover issue, Claudia Schiffer is featured as a transformation icon in an article titled '10 things I learned as a supermodel'. Our top 2 picks below...

#9 Travel with Healthy Snacks - "Brown rice crackers and a packet of dry miso soup make for a really delicious energy boost that you can eat anywhere - all you need is a cup of hot water. I always take two or three servings with me on international flights. Plane food is never, ever a good idea."

This is a fantastic suggestion. On a flight, simply ask a flight attendant for hot water. It's kept on board - so handy for soup, tea, oatmeal, etc. So make sure you bring your own delicious & healthy snacks with you, instead of relying on salty airline peanuts (bloat inducer!).

#2- skip makeup - but never leave home without sunglasses.

Which just happens to be one of our #1 travel rules!

Feeling under the weather...

2009-07-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

I seem to have a knack for getting some sort of respiratory issue every single summer. I had asthma & allergies as a child, which I think has something to do with the fact that my body just doesn't like air conditioning - at all!
Aside from it drying out my skin, it does the same thing to my sinuses & god knows what to my lungs... but sometimes, like right now in the dead of summer, it's a necessary evil.
I usually deal with it by ingesting copious amounts of vitamins & nutritious foods (even more than usual) and then just wait it out.
As for havoc it causes my skin, I've turned to Burt's Bees Naturally Ageless Intensive Repairing Serum. The anti-oxidant packed potion contains Pomegranate extract, which is the new up and coming antiaging ingredient, Green tea extract, plus the skin powerhouse Borage oil. (I'm planning a post on Borage oil in the future, it is one of the best supplements you can take for your skin - it's great used topically as well).
Aside from making me feel better while I'm currently not at my best, I should also take this time to point out that antioxidants make sunblocks more effective. Used in conjunction with SPF, antioxidants work to reduce the number of free radicals generated by sun exposure. I've added this serum to my morning routine to help with just that.
After all, colds come & go, but aging is forever!

P.S. The sinus pressure that is currently in my head is excruciating, and I'm mouth breathing right now - eeew... I'm not even sure this post makes much sense at the moment, and I apologize. Just know that the serum really is fantastic, and a reasonably priced option for adding in topical antioxidants to your skincare routine!

Total must have for nail care addicts!

2009-07-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

For years, I've been obsessed with Tweezerman's Cuticle & Hangnail snippers - they are the business when it comes to eliminating annoying hangnails & excess skin around the nail bed. Honestly, they are a must have for making everything look perfectly groomed, as if you had your nails done by a meticulous professional.

And now, as if the angels heard & granted my wishes, Tweezerman makes tiny nail care set called the Mini Nail Rescue Kit, which includes my beloved cuticle & hangnail snippers, in miniature form.

Ladies, this is a necessity if 'well groomed' is your mantra. I've already taken it on a trip, plus I carry it in my purse everyday. I use it at my desk - applying CND's Solar oil then pushing my cuticles back with the mini pusher & nail cleaner. I file any offending snags away with the mini nail file. And of course, I maintain cuticle perfection with the mini cuticle nippers.

The 3 items fit perfectly into the accompanying see-thru plastic capsule (aprox. 3 in x 1.5 in). Tiny, perfect, to die for. If you're into your nails, this is a fantastic way to cart around the necessary implements you need for daily maintenance. I am slowly, but surely getting more consumed by the appearance of my nails as the days go by...