Pacifica Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Cream Review

September 18, 2021September 18, 20211 Comment

Hello, my loves!

Today I’m going to be reviewing a product which I have been using for two months straight. The product is the Pacifica Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Cream. I bought this product at Target for 24 USD. I have been using the cream nonstop since I purchased it and will be going through an overview of the product and what I thought was beneficial or nothing to write home about.

So first, I noticed that the jar was a heavy glass one, instead of plastic. I also noticed the beautiful packaging which I and so many people enjoy. The product is labeled cruelty free and vegan and comes with 1.7 fl oz. or 50 ml. So quite a bit of product in my opinion and especially because you are only using it at night it comes with plenty . As I stated, I was able to use this product every night for two whole months.

The product is a a thick and rich cream that bears no real overwhelming scent. It smells a bit floral if anything. The product states on the jar that it has retinoid, melatonin, and mushrooms. I have used retinol before and it really did help with dry skin as well as combating aging. I feel like this has softened my skin and made it a little less dull and to be honest I wasn’t expecting any drastic changes.

I did not breakout almost at all with my use of the product but I did have some bad blemish days because of my time of the month.

Even though the product was very rich and moisturizing I did apply a thin layer of Ponds cold cream to get an extra surge of moisture.

These are some of the top ingredients and their purpose:

Granactive Retinoid: Petroleum-free retinoid known for helping fight signs of aging, and found to be less irritating than traditional retinol.
Melatonin: In your body, melatonin reminds your brain it’s time to sleep. On your skin, melatonin is a supercharged free-radical scavenger. One of the key ingredients in your fight against aging.
Mushrooms: Promote hydration and help reduce puffiness.
Quinoa: Loaded with antioxidants, which help fight free radicals, and high in lysine, which is an amino acid that helps promote collagen production.

(ingredient excerpt taken from pacifica website)

Overall, I was very pleased with this product. For the amount of product I received for the price it was well spent I also really enjoyed the softening and brightening of my complexion. I would definitely repurchase this product and I may even try the eye cream that is in the same line. I am a fan of taking care of my skin every night and this was a beautiful cream to add to my self care.

I hope this gave you a little bit of insight on this Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Cream and if you have any more questions feel free to leave a comment and I will gladly answer.

Love,

Julie

Early Fall Self Care Ideas

September 6, 2021September 6, 2021Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

I hope you are all enjoying the beginning of September. I have been able to go on a few walks without feeling like a raisin. I’d like to share with you some of my self care habits that you can implement into your routine to feel a little better during this changing time.

Brew some coffee or tea in the morning. I love coffee and I love tea and they are a nice habit to get into when you want to take some time to relax and enjoy the aroma.. It is also a good time to set aside for meditation. Use this time to relax and unwind and observe your emotions and feelings. Try to assess what you need to do to make it a better start of you day.
Stretch/Dance/Yoga/Walk. Honestly, it is so important to move your body and keep moving throughout the day. You can start with a little stretch or yoga in the morning and make sure you go for a walk or dance when you’re feeling a little too tense. Create your own special routine and you will be on your way to a healthier life.
Take An Internet Break. We all love our phones and computers but it can often lead to an overwhelming amount of information coming at us. We need to set our phones down and just be as we are. Try to get into nature and observe its beauty. Watch the leaves change colors and fall. Observe the birds and the woodland animals that are all around us. if you don’t live by nature try going to a park. Overall, even if it is five minutes off your phone it is better than nothing.
Drink Water And Wear Sunscreen. I know I say this a lot if you follow me on twitter or Instagram but it is true. You need to keep wearing sunscreen regardless of the weather changing. We may have less direct sunlight but the truth is it is always there and always able to damage our skin. Water is also so helpful for our skin as well as all of our body organs. We need to stay hydrated. If you don’t like regular water then put some fruit and herbs in it. If you don’t like that then put some flavor drops in it. It doesn’t matter, get hydrated.
Take Time For Yourself. You are a human bein and need time to recuperate after long days or even short days. Try to find time to relax and do something you enjoy. Find a passion project and stick with it. I personally love to watch Youtube videos and learn about new things. I also like to write in my free time and am doing a book for aromatherapy.

Overall, I hope you find something that makes you happy during this early fall season.

Much Love,

Julie

Glossier Review

July 22, 2021July 22, 2021Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

I joined the glossier club about four years ago. I haven’t tried many of their products but the ones I have tried are worth giving an honest review about. Here we go!

The first product and my favorite out of all the products is Glossier You. This perfume smells like heaven on earth and I have gotten so many compliments and questions about where I got it. For me it is hard to describe exactly what the perfume smells like but on the website it says ambrette seeds and warm, ambery ambrox. It’s balanced with iris, a white floral, for a creamy freshness. All I can tell you is you and everyone around you will love this perfume. It retails for 60 USD for 1.7 fl oz. I’ve gone through about five bottles of this perfume since it was released. I’d repurchase every day for the rest of my life. Go get it girl!

The next product is lash slick. Lash slick is a mascara that is perfect for those no makeup makeup days. It is a lengthening mascara more than anything. It does not build much volume so if you are looking for that then you may want to try something else. I notice that this mascara doesn’t budge. It is nice though because it does come off well with a makeup wipe or a facial cleanser. I like the product but I probably would not repurchase. It retails for 16 USD.

I have had three separate colors of glossier’s Cloud Paint. The one I have right now is Beam. It is an orangey-coral sort of color which is highly pigmented and easy to blend. I love how light in texture they feel and you can either apply with your fingers or with a brush. I like cloud paints because they are easily blended together if you want to create a unique color with them. They are packaged in what looks like a watercolor paint tube which I absolutely love for the packaging. Overall, I would recommend Puff, Dusk, or Beam since those are the colors I have tried so far. Absolutely worth the money, which costs 18 USD.

The last product I have is a favorite of those who love Glossier, which is the Balm Dotcom. I have the color Berry but I have also used cherry. I absolutely think this is one of the best lip products I have ever owned. This is a thick lip balm with a color tinted bonus. I love the berry smell, and it is one to leave my lips moisturized for several hours. I personally want to try the mint flavor. It does come in many flavors so everyone should be able to find one they enjoy. These are an inexpensive product as well which retails for 12 USD.

Overall, Glossier is a brand that is well though out and very likable. I am definitely going to be buying more of their collection when I get the chance. If you have tried any of their products let me know! I would love to hear what other people have tried out.

Have a nice day,

Julie

Meditation Basics

July 12, 2021Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

I hope you’re having a good day. Today, I’m going to discuss something that is helpful and full of self-care vibes. Meditation is the topic in question today. I personally love meditation when things get too stressful in my life. I will literally take a break from whatever I am doing to take some time for myself regardless of where I am. I personally like the bathroom excuse to leave a busy situation.

Meditation does not have to be fancy, full of incense, crystals, and soothing music. It is literally a second to stop the overwhelming thoughts to relieve yourself. When you are meditating it is a way to connect with source, God, the great spirit. If you don’t believe in that, you can simply connect to your higher self or simply forget about what is wearing you down!

To meditate you can choose to listen to a guided meditation or simply sit there in silence letting whatever comes to your mind go. Wave your thoughts goodbye but don’t put a lot of pressure on yourself. You can use crystals or a soothing object to help support you on your meditation but it certainly isn’t required. You can also use essential oils to bring you to a certain mood. Essential oils are great for mood and emotions.

Meditation doesn’t always have to be done at the last minute under stress but it could possibly be part of your daily routine to prevent those stressful moments. If you can add it in, and spend enough time practicing being silent, it will become easier.

I hope this short guide has introduced you to meditation in a positive way. I personally meditate daily and it has shown me how to be quiet in my mind when it all seems too much.

Much love,

Julie

The Basics of Dry Brushing

July 2, 2021Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

I hope your week is going well. I am going to talk about a practice that I’ve been doing for a few weeks now which is dry brushing. Dry brushing is a known practice for reducing dry skin, increasing blood flow, lessening body acne, and even reducing cellulite.

So, first of all. You want to get a dry brush that is meant for brushing your skin. You don’t want to get too coarse of brushes or even too soft. A medium strength bristle is better for reducing pain while you brush or irritating the skin.

They sell dry brushes at Target, health food stores, or even Walgreens! Just look around and get one that suits your preference. You can always obviously shop on amazon as well! They also sell face dry brushes but I personally do not have experience with one so you will have to look elsewhere for someone who does have experience with them.

Once you acquire a dry brush you are going to want to start brushing from the bottom of your feet to your upper chest. So, you will want to brush towards the heart. So if you are starting at the bottom of your feet you will want to brush upward. When you get to your stomach, it is suggested to brush in a circular motion instead of straight up or down.

You can add in grapefruit essential oil to promote reduction of cellulite, simply add a few drops to the bristles and proceed like you normally would.

Using dry brushing on a regular basis can allow for lymphatic drainage, increased circulation, dry skin removal, and as said before can potentially lead to reducing cellulite in areas. I would suggest trying dry brushing a few times a week or less to start.

Do not brush very hard on your skin because it has the potential to make your skin irritated. Take your time and feel the rhythm you feel works for you and your body.

Dry brushing should be done on dry skin and before a shower or bath because you will be removing dry skin cells and you want a clean body afterwards.

I hope this brief information will help you begin your own dry brushing journey.

Much love,

Julie.

Sunscreen 101

May 18, 2021Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

The warmer weather is creeping up on us quickly and when the sun is out we need protection. Even though the sun is out we need to wear sun block no matter what time of year it is.

I thought I’d do a quick informational blog post on the reasons we need sunscreen and how to use it properly.

First of all, there are two types of sunscreen on the market. First there is a mineral sunscreen, which lays on top of your face to cause a physical barrier from the sun. One benefit of mineral sunscreen is it works immediately after applied.

Then, there is chemical sunscreen, which provides deep skin protection by releasing sun’s heat from your body. It takes up to twenty minutes to start working so you need to be aware of that.

Overall, it is up to you to choose which type of sunscreen is better for your skin.

It is recommended to at least use thirty spf or more on a daily basis.

Remember to apply enough sunscreen before starting your day. It is important you truly cover every inch of your face and skin that is being revealed.

Also, try not to forget to reapply every two hours to keep constant protection.

Sunscreen can help prevent wrinkles or aging spots, so if you’re looking to keep glowing and healthy skin it is necessary to wear on a daily basis.

The sunscreen I am using now is from Trader Joe’s and is an spf 30 for body and face. I’ve noticed it has not broken me out or made my skin shiny after applied. I also use a Coppertone body spray for my body with spf 50.

Also, be aware of expired sunscreens, they will do little for you if applied.

I hope you enjoyed my post. I know it was brief but it is just meant to be an overview of sunscreen and the ways you can use it. Enjoy the weather and stay protected!

Much love,

Julie

Apple Cider Vinegar And Its Health Benefits

February 10, 2021June 7, 2021Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

Today I’m going to be talking about one of my favorite things! Apple cider vinegar! I know it isn’t everyone’s favorite thing but I thought I’d share the benefits of adding apple cider vinegar to your daily routine.

How I drink mine:

I simply add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to water and add a small amount of fruit juice of your choice. Add ice and you’re all set.

Reduces cravings.

If you’re trying to stay on a healthy lifestyle, it can be hard. Sometimes we just want to eat the entire kitchen and more. Well, apple cider vinegar can help with that. It can help reduce cravings or appetite. I’m not saying you need to control your hunger but if you are seeking out sweets, try to drink on some apple cider vinegar instead.

Regulates blood sugar.

Whether you have diabetes or not, you can drink apple cider vinegar to regulate your blood sugar. If you are struggling with sugar intake, try an apple cider vinegar beverage and see the results. I recommend talking to your doctor however before you try this tip.

Lowers cholesterol.

Apple cider vinegar can help reduce bad cholesterol. Take apple cider vinegar over the course of a month and you will likely see results in your cholesterol. Remember, this is not a beverage that works on its own – you have to put in the work as well but it will definitely work hand in hand with diet and exercise.

Weight Loss.

Try and use apple cider vinegar to lose weight. As I said, it can help with many things but can also help you lose weight. It’s not an instant weight loss miracle but i f you add it into your daily routine and add diet and exercise you may lose a few extra pounds.

I hope this helped show you how many things apple cider vinegar can do for you and your health. Apple cider vinegar can also be used in skin care, hair care, and many other marvelous things but I thought I’d just share some of the basic health aid it can be.

I hope you are all having a good week!

Love,

Julie

Ways To Reinvent Yourself

February 9, 2021July 20, 2021Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

I hope you have been enjoying the new year so far. Today I’m going to talk about something we all feel we need to do once in a while which is reinvent ourselves. Perhaps it isn’t a full change but there are areas of our lives that need looking into so we can better ourselves. I hope you know you are perfect the way you are but changing some of our routines may help in the long run.

Try changing your wardrobe.

When looking at your life you can easily tell how you appear to the outside world by how you are dressed. Sometimes you feel like your wardrobe is a reflection of you and other times you just grab clothes because they’re convenient for you. Try managing your wardrobe. It’s time to put on clothes that resemble how you feel. If you like neutrals, bright colors, or patterns wear those clothes with pride. Maybe a few accessories will change your whole closet. Be inventive, try something new.

Start a routine.

A good routine will always be good for you. When you manage to create a time to get your most important duties done, it just feels good. Try doing yoga every morning or even just make sure you’re eating meals on a regular basis. Drink lemon water in the morning for detox. Set out all your clothes the night before so you can workout in the morning without a hassle. Dance in the morning and drink tea. It’s the subtle changes that make the most impact on how you feel.

Bullet journal or keep a planner.

Use a planner or bullet journal to not only be creative but stay organized. When you have goals on your mind you can easily get lost without writing it down or breaking it down. Using these tools to create a space to design your new life is wonderful. This is something you can add to your new routine so you don’t feel overwhelmed. You can use stickers or doodle or draw in your notebooks. This is a wonderful outlet to start a new hobby.

Create.

This goes similarly with the keeping a bullet journal. I think creative projects are one of the most inspiring hobbies. You can create anything you want. Sometimes you can paint, other times write poetry, or go outside for a long walk while creating new ideas in your head. You have the world at your hands and it is waiting for you to get out there and show the world your talents. Make sure that your passion projects are what you want to do and not what others expect from you. You can do this!

Let go of expectations.

I know some people may think you need to lose weight or become some famous make up artist but the truth is the small steps without expectations are the best things you can do for yourself. We all struggle to get motivation sometimes but it just takes one task a day to see results. When you’re not expecting to be a Victoria secret model overnight when you start to workout then you will succeed. Nobody wants this change more than you. Put your best foot forward but don’t worry if you stumble a little bit. There is no one who hasn’t had challenges put in their way while trying to achieve something.

Overall, your lifestyle changes will make you surprised how much you can do when you put your mind to it. I wish the best for you all in anything you do.

Much love,

Julie

My Daily Diet To Lose Weight – Very Basic

December 7, 2020Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

I’ve posted about my weightloss before on my blog. Today I thought I’d go into detail about my daily diet.

Breakfast: Vanilla Greek Yogurt with a handful of granola.

Snack: Lara Bar – Any flavor

Lunch: Spinach salad with sweet and spicy tuna packet. Chipotle dressing (a serving size)

Snack: One or two peppers.

Dinner: Varies. Sometimes I will have another salad other days I will have chicken with a sweet potato. It all depends what my family chooses to eat.

Dessert: Apples with peanut butter. (so tasty!)

This is how I maintain my weight loss and lose weight. I drink a LOT of water during the day as well. Sometimes I’ll have a swig of orange juice with water mixed in. I also go on two long walks a day plus 20 minutes on the treadmill.

I’m not saying this is enough calories for everyone but for me it works. Sometimes I add in a smoothie here or there or an extra lara bar if I’m really hungry.

I hope you all have an amazing week!

love, Julie

August Goals

August 4, 2020August 4, 2020Leave a comment

Hello, my loves!

Today I’m going to go over a few of my August goals! I hope it inspires you to set some of your own.

Goals for August:

Walk twice a day (morning and evening)
Drink only water except on weekends
Eat adequate fruits and veggies during the day
No food after dinner
Work on new class
Dance, Sing, Do yoga daily
Write as much as I can
Have a good birthday