I've Moved To WordPress

Hola,

Hello my loyal fashionistas. Just wanted to post on here that I've moved my blog to Wordpress. Please visit me there for your usual fun-filled posts about fashion, beauty and life. Check out the new look. The link is below:

https://annacrisblogs.wordpress.com/

Feel free to click "follow." If you're not a member of WordPress, you'll receive ONE email each time I post something new and that's it.

See you there!

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

Look At These Cool Beauty Products

Hola,

I know... I know it's been quite a while since I've posted anything new. I've seriously been slacking when it comes to my blog. I have so many drafts waiting to be completed but for some reason, I lost the feel for it. I had nothing but writer's block and no inspiration. I can't quite find an explanation as to why, but I am determined to keep this going regardless of how often or not so often I post so here I am just in time for spring. :)

Well then my lovely fashionistas let's keep the "spring" theme going because let's be honest, this winter has been extremely brutal to us.  As I browsed through my blog, I noticed that my beauty/spa posts have been some of the most popular so going with that flow, I've decided to make a comeback with what else? A beauty post! Because there's nothing more fun than finding awesome new products to pamper the skin with especially after the kind of winter some of us have had. Our skin gets dry, rough, super sensitive, dull, etc. We therefore need to keep it hydrated and well taken care of.

I've had lots of time to try new products these past few months. I love to experiment and see what works and what doesn't. If you've followed my blog, you know that I love all things natural and usually will find things in my kitchen to mix up and create something nourishing and wonderful. However, I also like to try some of the new products I see in my local drugstores. I have some favorite brands like Aveeno (I have super sensitive skin) and Olay, I love going to Sephora to check out their selections of all things beauty, and for my "natural fix" I adore Mountain Rose Herbs' website. Everything is natural, organic, unique and safe to use. So below are some of my new and favorite products I've been using lately. There are a bunch so get comfy, prepare to take notes and let's do this my lovelies...

COCONUT OIL:

Coconut oil has been all the rave lately. It seems like everyone is recommending it for just about everything. As a Dominican woman, I already knew about the wonders it does for your hair. It makes it grow, restores damaged hair and gives it shine. It's a great conditioner. All this is true because I've used it on my hair plenty of times through the years.

Coconut oil is wonderful as a skin moisturizer. If you have dry skin, this oil is excellent. It prevents flaking and dryness and heals the skin. It's also great as a makeup remover. You can remove all your makeup with a cotton ball, wash your face and ta daa... you're left with moisturized skin (just apply a tiny bit more after washing your face to moisturize overnight).

This oil (and I've mentioned this in my "Spa Time... How To DIY At Home" post) is fabulous to soften chapped lips. Apply to your lips at night and you'll have baby soft lips in the morning.

Lastly, and the most important one for me because I started doing this back in January, is "Oil Pulling." I kept reading about this on social media, magazines, etc. and was very curious to try it. I did my research and everybody who spoke about oil pulling pretty much said the same thing. It's great and it works. So I tried it.

I have to say while it was weird the first few times, I'm feeling it my loves. I give it two thumbs up. I mostly wanted to try it because I read that it could help with sinus problems which I have plenty of. I have nasal polyps so I suffer from everything sinus related 365 days a year. I also wanted to see if it's true that oil pulling whitens teeth. I whitened my teeth about 8 years ago and have taken very good care of them. However, since I became addicted to Starbucks [damn you Starbucks!], I've noticed they've lost their brightness. The third is cavities. While I love to gloat about not having any cavities for the last 7 years, again, I've become addicted to certain candies so I want to prevent developing cavities at any cost. So yes I've been oil pulling on and off for the past two months. I've seen some improvement in my sinus problems and my teeth are definitely whiter (no lie). I have to pay a visit to my dentist so I will get back to you on the cavity issue.

All in all, I'm glad I tried it. It's weird at first but once you get used to it, it's not so bad. Basically, you take a tablespoon of the oil and swish it in your mouth and through your teeth without swallowing. I do my oil pulling in the mornings before eating anything and while in the shower. I try to do 15-20 minutes then I spit it out (never swallow because you'll be swallowing bacteria) and brush my teeth as usual.

I purchased the above at Mountain Rose Herbs. It's preferable to use unrefined oil and organic. Here is the link if you'd like to check it out, read more and/or purchase.

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/coconut-oil-unrefined/profile 

ARGAN OIL:

Argan oil has also been all the rave in the beauty world lately. This oil comes from the Moroccan Argan tree. It's rich in anti-oxidants and vitamins A and E (and you all know how much I love vitamin E as a moisturizer). I purchased this oil back in January along with the Coconut oil and have been using it ever since. It's simply fabulous!

Argan oil has so many great noticeable benefits. To name a few:

As a moisturizer - It absorbs quickly, it's not oily, it's safe to use around the eyes. I use it every night as my night time moisturizer and I see the difference.

As an exfoliator - Use with sugar or brown sugar to exfoliate your face and it'll leave you with a radiant glow.

It's great for acne, this oil can lighten dark spots (tried and tested), and it's a wonderful lip and hair conditioner as well as great for your nails/cuticles. Rub oil into your nail beds before bed to moisturize and soften your cuticles.

I'm in love with this oil! I purchased the above at Mountain Rose Herb's website as well. Below is the link if you'd like to learn more and/or purchase:

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/argan-oil/profile

Side Effects: If you're allergic to nuts, please be careful when using this oil.

CLEANSING GRAINS:

While perusing Mountain Rose Herbs' website, I came across this gem. You all know how much I love the gentle exfoliation process and this is fantastic. These cleansing grains do wonders for my skin.

Again, this is made from completely organic products that consist of: organic oat bran, white kaolin clay, organic almond meal, organic rose petal power, organic corn meal and a blend of pure essential oils.

To use, pour a bit of the grains into your palm and add some warm water. Mix until it becomes a paste and gently rub into your face. Rinse with warm water. I use this once a week or every two weeks when I feel my skin needs a boost.

Here is the link with more information (If you click on this click, you will have to scroll down some until you reach the cleansing grains info):

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/catalog/bath-body/facial-care  


LEMON BALM HYDROSOL:

Mountain Rose Herbs' Hydrosols are a less concentrated form of your typical essential oils. They are very mild and refreshing to the skin. I love this Lemon Balm Hydrosol because it's great for skin irritations. I use this after I shave to prevent razor bumps. It's also very calming so if you're in the mood for a bubble bath after a stressful day, add a few drops of this to your bath and it will soothe your senses. It's similar to aromatherapy but in a milder way. 

Here is the link (Please scroll down the page until you reach the Lemon Balm info):

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/catalog/aromatherapy/hydrosols 



LIP BALMS:

My lips get dry so fast and so often that I MUST carry some type of moisturizer with me at all times. It's one of the things I never leave home without and I apply it throughout the day. The above lip balms are my new favorites from Mountain Rose herbs. They are made with organic herbs, oils and butters and leave your lips super smooth while conditioning and healing chapped, dry lips.

The top one (Fawn Lily Botanic) comes in five different combinations. I went with the spiced chai + coconut because I'm all into the coconut theme lately, but I am definitely going to try the others.

Here is the link to both.

https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/catalog/bath-body/facial-care

Please scroll all the way down the page for the info and you can click on the "more details" link for more information about the Fawn Lily Botanica combinations.

AVEENO POSITIVELY NOURISHING SMOOTHING BODY WASH:

I discovered this glorious product by Aveeno while looking for my Olay body wash at CVS drugstore. It's a gentle exfoliator with pomegranate, rice beads and walnut shells. I use it every day because it's really gentle and it leaves your skin feeling so smooth. Plus, it smells absolutely wonderful!

Check it out here:

http://www.aveeno.com/product/aveeno-+positively+nourishing-+smoothing+body+wash+.do?sortby=ourPicks&from=fn


AVEENO POSITIVELY AGELESS FIRMING BODY LOTION:

Of course I could not leave out a body moisturizer. This one by Aveeno as well is excellent. I've been using it since December of 2014 and I love it. I'm not sure about the skin firming deal but I like that it's not sticky or heavy and glides onto your skin. Your skin feels noticeably soft throughout the day. This also smells delicious.

Go here for more info:

http://www.aveeno.com/product/aveeno-+positively+ageless-+firming+body+lotion.do?sortby=ourPicks&from=fn



EOS HAND LOTION:

Aren't these the cutest lil things? I love these "take everywhere" hand lotions by EOS (Evolution Of Smooth). I always keep hand lotion in my bag to prevent dry hands. These are great because they're small enough to fit anywhere. I can stick this in my wristlet and be on my way. They come in three scents: Berry Blossom, Cucumber and Fresh Flowers. They really do leave your hands super smooth and it last for hours. You can find these in any drugstore near you.

BENEFIT - "THEY'RE REAL" - MASCARA:

I don't use makeup on a daily basis. I only go all out when I'm going out to an event, girl's night, date, etc. During the week and weekends if I'm going to work or running around doing errands, I only use lipstick and lip gloss and I'm out the door. However, there are times that I will do a little extra (depending on my mood) and apply some mascara just because or like I said if I'm going out on the town...

I discovered the above mascara last summer while visiting Sephora and one of my favorite brands of makeup - Benefit. It was fairly new around that time and was being advertised. I read the box and decided to try it and have been hooked on it ever since. I ADORE this mascara so much that I've even gotten a few of my girls to use it and they love it as well.

The brush is just everything! It extends your lashes to lengths you'd never imagine and it's got tiny bristles at the ends that you use to extend the tiny lashes in the corners of your eyes. It's magnificent. Yes, I said magnificent. If you haven't already tried this, please do. You'll fall in love as well.

Below are links to both Benefit and Sephora's websites:

https://www.benefitcosmetics.com/product/view/theyre-real

http://www.sephora.com/they-re-real-mascara-P289307?skuId=1343938


HONEY PERFUME BY MARC JACOBS:

So if you've read my blog post "Who Is This Blogger... AnnaCris," you'll know that I suffer from anosmia which is the loss of the sense of smell due to nasal polyps in my case. My sense of smell is not permanently gone. When my doctor prescribes certain medications to reduce inflammation, I can smell like normal. When that happens, I hit the stores in search of new fragrances that I can try. LOL for realsies! I mean I have to know that I smell great when the polyps attack.

So a few months ago I went in search of new and wonderful scents and discovered "Honey" by Marc Jacobs. It smells absolutely delicious. It doesn't make me sneeze and it has that "fresh" scent that I'm always drawn to and yes, there's honey in the mix. Plus, how CUTE is this bottle?! I purchased the gift set with the lotion and rollerball at Macy's.

SEPHORA'S EYEBROW TOUCH UP RAZOR SET:

It's interesting that about a month ago I saw on Good Morning America a piece on how shaving your face with an eyebrow razor is now a "thing" that women do to exfoliate. They say it's the BEST form of exfoliation for your face. Well what do you know... I've been doing this for a couple of years now. It started with me shaving my mustache because waxing irritated my skin. One day I decided to experiment and did my whole face and it left it so smooth and silky and it looked so clean and fresh that I started to do it more frequently. It's perfectly safe and no your hair does not grow back more coarse as is the myth.

I was buying the eyebrow razors from the drugstore but found that two out of the three that come in the set always have a dull blade and that really annoyed me because I'd have to go over the same spot several times. I decided to head to Sephora in search of a better one and found the above kit. These, while more expensive, are a lot better to use and do the trick so you don't have to continue to go over your face a second or third time which can then cause irritation. It's a great beauty secret that I'm sure not many women know about but it's worth a try.

Here is the link:

http://www.sephora.com/eyebrow-touch-up-razor-set-P136216?skuId=895490 

... The End...

Phew... That was quite a mouthful but I hope you enjoyed reading and that you'll try some of these products. I have tried all of them and as your "guinea pig" can say that they are all safe to use. We all have different types of skin so just read all the labels before buying to make sure nothing will make you react to any ingredients. Although I am very careful with what I use as I do have very sensitive skin and ridiculous allergies, what works for me may not always work for you. Usually organic products are safe but like the Argan Oil, it contains nuts so if you're allergic to nuts, this may not be the product for you.

For the products that you do decide to try, I hope that you will come back and share your experience. Let us all know your opinions, did you like or dislike, did you find any other good uses for any of these products that I did not mention (I love to experiment at home and see what else I can use something for). After all, we all just want to feel, look and be beautiful and fabulous so why not go the easy, safe and natural way?

A side note: Some of these products (like the oils, exfoliators, lip balms) will also work great for any of the gentlemen reading this post or if you're a fashionista, why not try it on your special love? I mean let's face it, men also want to look and feel great and a little pampering is always wonderful for them too.

This being said, you should all remember the drill... try out whatever has caught your interest then come back and comment below. Let us all know the outcome of this new beauty adventure. Also, if you'd like to add any new and fun products that you've discovered lately, please feel free to share in the comments and I will give you a shout out. I look forward to reading your comments. Go! #engage

Until next time...

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

2014 Emmy Awards/VMAs... My Favorites

Hola,

It's been a long while my fellow fashionistas. I've been off the blog radar for about four months. I know, I know, I've been slacking way too much and it's just unacceptable. No excuses, however, I have been working on other major things that can very well lead me to the beginnings of my dream coming true so stay tuned for more news on that in the coming weeks/months.

The past two days have been pretty exciting with the 2014 VMAs and the 2014 Emmy Awards back to back. Those of us who are wild about style were pretty much in fashion heaven. I figured what better way to get back to blogging than with my favorite picks from both award shows. While there were some instant favorites, I have to say that I had to really go through many pictures to make some other choices because the ladies went all out with the style this year. It was pretty tough to make a final decision. This being the case, I decided to just list my best dressed choices and leave the worst out of the equation. Why not come back after four months with only positive vibes? :)

On that note, let's get started my loves. Below are my picks in no particular order...

2014 EMMY AWARDS BEST DRESSED:

Camila Alves in Zuhair Murad. The moment I saw her I was wowed. This sheer dress is stunning and it shows off Camila's body gorgeously. I love that she slicked her dark hair back and kept the accessories simple and minimal so as not to take anything away from the dress. 

Lizzy Caplan in Donna Karan Atelier. If I were going to choose my picks in order, I would definitely pick this as my #1 best dressed. Everything about this cut is beautiful. The cut out back, the bodice, and can we talk about the white train flowing gorgeously to contrast the black. Her hair and makeup complement the dress perfectly. I had to post two photos so as to show how marvelous the back of this dress it.

Allison Williams in Giambattista Valli Couture. I have to say that the yellow band on this gown won me over. If you know me well, you know that yellow is my favorite color. I adore how the yellow adds that fabulous pop to the black and white of this gown. Allison looks so lovely. The bodice is beautiful and she always carries herself with such elegance. I love this!

Sarah Hyland in Christian Siriano. Simply fabulous! I LOVE the cropped top with the full skirt. Finally Sarah wore something that makes her look young and carefree while elegant and sexy at the same time. Her hair and makeup are flawless. This would be my second best dress of the Emmy night. 

January Jones in Prabal Gurung. Oh. My. God! A dress with pockets! One of my weaknesses! This dress is spectacular. The color, the cut, the back is simply fabulous, did I already mention the pockets? LOVE! The strappy Christian Louboutin heels are the perfect match. I have to say, however, I was not crazy about her hairstyle. If it had been a bit cleaner, I think it would have complemented the ensemble a tad more. This dress would round up my top three. :)

Sofia Vergara in Roberto Cavalli. My girl! Don't judge me for somehow always including Sofia in my best dressed lists. I love her. Her body is amazing, her hair is gorgeous, and her fun personality just completes everything. This white dress is incredibly sexy on her. It shows off her curves to perfection. I loved her straighter than curled hair, minimal jewelry and her red lips add that perfect pop. Sofia can do no wrong in my eyes. ;)

...And now for my 2014 VMA BEST DRESSED: 

Jennifer Lopez in Charbel Zoe. THIS. IS. IT.! I can be truthful and admit that after seeing this woman on the red carpet, there were no others that could come even close. Jennifer looks stunning, beautiful, sexy, elegant... OMG the list can go on. This silver sequin dress with multiple, strategically placed cut-outs is just EVERYTHING. Her body is jaw-dropping and it is accentuated beautifully. The shoes are perfect, her hair and makeup are perfection, and even her skin has that sun-kissed glow to it. Simply magnificent! JLO rocked it.

~ THE END ~

There you have it my loves. If the remaining award shows are anything like this year's Emmys, I will have a very hard time picking my favorites because, again, the ladies brought it this year. It thrilled me to see so many hits and very few misses. What do you all think? Do you agree with my choices? If you watched the red carpets, please join me in conversation and let me know what you think. Who were your favorites? Who do you think missed the mark? You all should remember the drill... feel free to comment respectfully below and let's discuss. Go! #engage

Until next time...

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

DIY Manicure - Get Creative #2

Hola,

How goes it my fellow fashionistas? How has this lovely day treated you? It was rather cold in New York City but other than that, for me it was a pretty good day.

I have to tell you that I loved writing my last post "DIY Manicure - Get Creative," I'm thinking I'm going to do more of these as I do more manicures this summer. I'm ecstatic to let you all know that last week's mani with the pretty glitter lasted SEVEN days. Yes, that's a record for me. I only had to touch it up once but other than that, the manicure lasted until yesterday. Woop! :)

So after removing the polish last night, I figured I'd continue the creativity trend. I'm elated to say that the outcome was once again fabulous. So without further ado, check it out...

Note: I know last week I listed some of the products I use as far as strengtheners and top coats so I've included photos of these below as well in case you'd like to purchase them. Here goes:

I call it my "Blue Galaxy" manicure:

^^^

Rings: Purchased at H&M

Note: I simply adore the mid-finger ring look for this summer. It takes a bit of getting used because it feels like their falling off your finger. However, once you do get used to them, they give your hands and mani a very pretty and delicate look. I always go with gold because it goes better with my skin tone, but you can try silver as well. Whenever I get a manicure, I love wearing rings to spice up the look.

^^^

A Closer Look

Below are the products I used to get this look:

^^^

"Millionails" base coat and nail strengthener by: Essie

* I just starting using this product so I will let you all know how good it is as far as strengthening goes in a future post. When I touched up my mani, I added another coat of this before applying the top coat.

^^^

Nail Color: "Blue Bombshell #335" by: Maybelline

* Needless to say apply two coats. This color is a bit on the matte side so you can use it either way, with or without the top coat for added shine. I went with the shine this time because of the next product I used...

^^^

Confetti Polish in "Pixel Perfect" by: Sally Hansen's Xtreme Wear line

* I happened to see this polish at Duane Reade one day and scooped it up. It's pretty fantastic. When applied over the right color, it gives your polish a very pretty and out of this world look (literally, hence the reason I call it "blue galaxy"). This polish was very easy to apply and all the little assorted confetti is easily scooped with the brush. With the blue, it reminds me of another galaxy with stars and dust all around. I love it! :)

^^^

Top Coat and Shine "Good To Go" by: Essie

* I adore this top coat. Not only does it add shine and seals the polish, but it also dries in an instant. I don't know about you, but once I'm done polishing my nails, it's really hard for me to stay still until they dry. I end up smudging at least one nail - Grrrr. This product is my savior. It dries instantly. Try it and give me feedback.

~ The End ~

So there you go my sweethearts. This week's manicure was another hit with the girls and I am beyond in love with it. I'm hoping that this one lasts just as or almost as long as last week's. I will let you know in my next "Get Creative" post. Well, what do you all think? Like it or nah? Will you try this look? Is it easy for you to get creative with your manicures or do you prefer to go to the nail salon? Also, are you all feeling the "mid-finger" ring look this season? Have you tried it? ... You all know the deal, comment below and give me your feedback or suggestions on some creative looks that you'd like to see me try. This will be fun but you have to click "comment" and let me know. Let's chat, share, debate... whatever you'd like to do, I'm game. Go! #engage

As always, thank you for stopping by my "Open Closet."

Hasta Luego,

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

DIY Manicure - Get Creative

Hola,

Happy Friday night my loves! I hope that wherever you are and whatever you're doing, that you're having a fabulous time. I've chosen to stay in tonight as I try and alternate my weekends between going out and staying in. Tonight it's the latter.

Since I'm in, I figured I'd write a quick random post...

So on Tuesday night I decided to do my own manicure. I usually do them myself as I feel I do a much better job than when I have them done at the nail salon. The only difference is that I don't get the pampering I would get when someone else is massaging my hands, etc. Another reason I do them myself is because for whatever reason, when I have them done at the salon, the color starts chipping the very next day and that just gets on ALL my nerves! Grrrr! However, lately I have been taking the easy road and just having my nails done at the salon. This is out of pure laziness and impatience and nothing else.

Now back to Tuesday night... I was supposed to attend an event the following evening and so I threw all laziness out the window and got right down to it. I had recently bought a new nail color by Essie and several weeks ago I purchased the cutest glitter by OPI. I figured it was time to make use of both. BTW, I adore adding glitter to my manicures. I think glitter is fun, cute, girly and eye-catching. Anyway, I wanted to share the outcome as I've gotten many compliments from my "creativeness." ;) ...Check it:

I pretty much go through the whole process myself.

1. File nails (usually square shaped).
2. Cut any hang nails and excess dry skin.
3. Soak in warm water (I add a few drops of lemon juice to strengthen nails)
4. Push back cuticles (never cut).
5. Thoroughly wash my hands and scrub off any excess dead skin.
6. Apply lotion.
7. Dab a Q-tip with some nail polish remover (without acetone) and swipe each nail to remove excess oils.
8. Ready to polish...

^^^

- Base coat: "Millionails" - by: Essie (Strengthens nails)

- Nail Color: "After School Boy Blazer" - by: Essie (two coats)

- Glitter: "Be Awesome" - by: Nicole by OPI

- Top Coat: "Good To Go" - by: Essie (Shines, Dries Super Quick, Prolongs Polish)

- Rings: Purchased at H&M

^^^

A Closer Look

Above is a closer look. Just so you know, this glitter was a bit hard to scoop out of the bottle which in a way made it better to strategically place them on my nails. I could only get about two or three on the brush at a time so that kind of helped for me to place them around the nail. Allow this coat to dry before applying the top coat to seal the color. My nails are still intact on day three. Usually by now they've started to chip.

So there you have it ladies... What do you think? I'm in love with this look and I think I will try it again next time. How creative do you get with your nails? I tend to do all sorts of designs. Glitter, stripes, two different shades, polka dots and one time I even did cute little flowers. It takes time and practice but it's so much fun and kind of relaxing for me. The other thing is that I LOVE bright colors especially in the spring and summer months. Do you ever do your own nails or do you prefer going to a nail salon? If you go to the salon, do you ask your manicurist to get creative or do you just polish and go? You all know the deal... comment below and let's share our fabulousness with each other. I'd love to hear your routine and/or how creative you get nowadays with all the fun ideas for fun and pretty manis. Go ahead comment below. Go! #engage

As always, thank you for stopping my "Open Closet."

Hasta Luego,

Gracias,

AnnaCris <3

Spa Time... How To DIY At Home

Hola,

Well hello there my fellow fashionistas. How's life treating you these days? If you're reading this post, I hope all is good and fabulous. If it's not, my wish for you is that this post will brighten your day even if it's just a little.

So did you all read my one year anniversary post? You know the one where I listed my fifteen top favorite designers - "The Best Of The Best... Favorite Designers." If you haven't already done so, please visit that post after you read this one of course, and let me know what you think of my choices. I cannot believe it's already been a whole year since I started this blog. It's been fun which is exactly what I was looking for when I started on this adventure. I hope you continue to follow and converse with me, and if it's not too much to ask, please look over to your right, you may have to scroll down just a little bit and click on the blue button that says "join this site." If you have a Google, Twitter, Yahoo or even an Aim account, you can enter your info and tadaa... you'd now be a loyal follower. I promise you will not get any emails from me unless you subscribe to this blog which is a whole different deal. Come on gals and guys, let's make this adventure official. :)

Tonight I decided to switch from a fashion post to a "beauty" post and give you some really cool recipes on how to have your very own spa day or night at home. I mean who doesn't love to pamper themselves and I know it's not the same as having someone pamper you, but sometimes the budget calls for a "do it yourself" kind of moment or maybe you'd like to have a girls spa night. How fun would that be... hmmm! (note to my girls *hint hint*). Or... maybe it's just you and your man. If he would indulge in this kind of pampering, you can try it with him and who knows where the night will lead... hmmm! *wink wink*.

So a number of years ago I bought this wonderful book called "Natural Beauty at Home" by Janice Cox. Turns out it was the best $12 I've ever spent (well one of the best for sure). The book contains over 200 recipes for body, bath and hair. Now I'm certainly not going to list all 200 but just a few of my favorites which I'm sure Janice won't mind my sharing. I've also made up a few of my own along the way so I hope you'll try them as well. The majority of the ingredients in these recipes can be found in your kitchen or you can buy them at your local drugstore or supermarket. I chose the easiest so that you'll have no problems finding the ingredients you'll need. Shall we begin? Get your notebooks out or your cell phones, whichever is more accommodating so you can take notes...

"DIY" HOME SPA RECIPES

Recipes from the book "Natural Beauty at Home" by Janice Cox:

CLEANSERS AND SCRUBS

SUGAR SCRUB
1 teaspoon sugar
soap and water
juice of 1/2 lemon

While washing your face with soap, add a teaspoon of sugar to the lather and massage gently into your skin. Rinse your skin with a mixture of equal parts lemon juice and water. Then rinse with clear, cool water and pat dry.

Sugar makes a good abrasive skin scrub and is a popular treatment in many health spas and beauty salons. I love this scrub. I have very sensitive skin and this does not irritate at all. Make sure to use the equal parts lemon juice and water or else your skin will stay a bit sticky.

ALL-PURPOSE HONEY CLEANSER
2 tablespoons liquid soap
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup rosewater (or distilled water works)

Stir all ingredients. Make sure not to beat as this will cause the soap to foam. Pour mixture into a container. To use: Pour a small amount in your palm and massage gently into your skin. Rinse thoroughly. You can use this on your face and body. I usually use this as a body cleanser as it leaves you soft all over.

FACIAL TREATMENTS

SWISS MILKMAID MASK
1/4 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup powdered milk or powdered buttermilk

Mix both ingredients to form a smooth paste and spread an even layer over your face and neck. Leave the mask on until dry (for about 15 to 20 minutes). Rinse off with cool water. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator.

This is one of my favorite masks. Not only does it leave your skin smooth and glowing but it also lightens any dark spots on your skin. I try to do it at least twice a month or more if  possible.

COUNTRY GARDEN MASK

1/4 cup grated carrots
1 1/2 teaspoons mayonnaise

Mix ingredients and spread on your face. Leave on for 15-20 minutes then rinse with tepid water. Note: this mask will remain moist on your face so don't worry about waiting for it to dry.

This mask is awesome because it hydrates the skin and helps clear away dead skin cells.


BEAUTY QUEEN MASK
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon almond oil
1 teaspoon vitamin E oil

Place all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Spread on your face and leave on for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

This mask is luxurious. I love it! It moisturizes your skin leaving it so soft and glowing. It's great if you have dry, flaky skin. Also, honey has natural antiseptic properties that can help regenerate damaged skin tissues. All in all, this mask does wonders for your skin. Try it and let me know how you like it...

So the above recipes are just a few of my favorites by Janice Cox. I'm sure you can purchase the book online and find many more. The book has recipes for lotions, fragrances, aromatherapy, lip and nail treatments. It's just full of fabulous information for having fun at home.

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Next I'm going to list a few of my own personal regiments that I feel are fantastic for beautiful skin...

A bunch of years ago, I started getting acne on my forehead and my cheeks. I don't know what caused it but all I knew was that I had to get rid of it pronto! I tried many products and found one that worked for me called AcneFree. However, my skin still looked damaged and with some dark spots. I knew that clay powder could help restore the skin but had never tried it. Well... I went on a mission to find some. I couldn't find any at my local stores so I found this place online www.mountainroseherbs.com that sells fresh organic herbs and hit the jackpot. They sell everything from organic herbs and spices, teas, aromatherapy and essential oils, butters, clay, cosmetic salts (ahem, dead sea salt anyone?), bath and body care, home and garden, health care products (elixirs, capsules, herbal oils, salves). You name it, they've got it and all their products are fresh and natural. So I jumped on board and purchased two clay products and instantly became a fan. Check them out:

FACIAL TREATMENTS

FRENCH GREEN CLAY - This is the clay that cured my skin woes. This clay, per the description on Mountain Rose Herbs' site, has enormous absorbent powers. It literally drinks oils, toxic substances, and impurities from  your skin. It's toning action stimulates the skin by bringing fresh blood to damaged skin cells, revitalizing the complexion and tightening pores. French Green Clay is marvelous for helping to clear problem skin... Bingo! I started using this mask on a weekly basis and saw results by week three. My skin started clearing up and looking healthy. I had never been happier. My skin has been clear for years now but til this day, I still love using this mask just because.

HOW TO USE: Pour some powder into a bowl and mix with warm distilled water until you make a smooth paste. Apply to your face and let it dry for about 20 minutes. Rinse with  warm water then with cold to close your pores. Apply moisturizer afterward.


RHASSOUL CLAY - I also purchased this clay just because the description sounded delightful and it did not disappoint. Mountain Rose Herbs describes this clay as a truly exquisite spa quality clay. It is a mineral rich clay and blends well with water for a smooth application. The best spas across the globe utilize the toning and enriching benefits offered by Rhassoul. It is rich in silica, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and sodium content making it one of the finest treasures for pampering your skin.

Well then... How could I NOT try this. The description is 100% accurate. I adore this clay for the simple fact that when I rinse my face, you can instantly tell that all the impurities have been lifted from your skin and it is left glowing and looking fresh and clean. You should definitely try this one.

HOW TO USE: Pour some powder into a bowl and mix with warm distilled water until you make a smooth paste. Apply to your face and let it dry for about 20 minutes. Rinse with  warm water then with cold to close your pores. Apply moisturizer afterward.

BATH AND BODY

I'm one of those that take forever in the shower. My mom always tells me that I should've been a fish. I think long showers are marvelous. I also think exfoliating your body at least twice a month is a must. Below is my DIY recipe for when my budget does not allow me to splurge on the more expensive products:

BODY EXFOLIATOR:
1 cup of sugar
johnson's baby oil

Pour some baby oil over the sugar. Not too much just enough to lightly saturate the sugar. Scrub this mix all over your body in a circular motion then rinse. You can lather up after to remove excess oil.

You will thank me! This will leave your entire body softer than a baby's butt and smelling wonderful. You don't even have to moisturize after because the baby oil will have already taken care of that.


DE-TOX BATH:
48 oz hydrogen peroxide
1 cup epsom salt
2 tablespoons ground ginger

Fill your tub with hot water, only as hot as you can take it. Add all the ingredients above. Soak in this bath for 20-30 minutes.

I actually found this recipe on Pinterest one night and I've already tried it twice. It works wonders. This is excellent for when you feel yourself catching a cold or you just want to detox your body. From the moment you get into your tub, you will begin sweating out toxins. Needless to say if you can stay in for 30 minutes, it would be great. Once I got out, I showered and was still sweating... When I left the bathroom, I was STILL sweating... LOL, this bath is no joke but you can feel the difference. I ended up taking a long nap after I tried it the first time and woke up feeling great. Plus, that cold that was trying to catch me, was blown away. Haa So there!


MOISTURIZER - If for whatever reason you ever run out of lotion, after you shower, do not dry your skin. Instead rub baby oil over your wet skin and tadaa... instant moisturizer. Again, this will leave your skin super smooth.

My last recipe is a simple at home lip softener:

LIP SOFTENER - Spread vaseline or any type of oil (vitamin E or coconut oil are my favorites), take a soft hand towel and wetting with hot water, lightly rub the vaseline or oil into your lips with the wet towel in circular motions. This will soften your lips and remove and dry skin. If your lips are cracked, do not try this. Instead just dab vitamin E oil over your lips and repeat until they heal. I also like to dab coconut oil on my lips at bedtime. When you wake up, your lips will be soft as butter and will not get dry throughout the day.

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So there you go my loves. I hope you will schedule a fun night on your own, with your girls or even with your significant other and try out these recipes. Don't forget to lay back, relax, close your eyes and let these recipes do their job. Spas are all about helping you relax, find your calm and refresh. I mean if you're going to do it at home, you might as well do it all the way. Get those fluffy bathrobes out and prepare for a wonderful, relaxing time. It can be a very fun night and perhaps you can add your own personal touches to these recipes to make them your own.

Please note that I've tried out these recipes myself. I have very sensitive skin and allergies and I have to say that none of these recipes caused any problems. I would ask that you first test these out on a small spot to see of you don't react to them before applying to your entire skin. Everyone is different and you may have allergies to eggs, dairy products, etc so please be aware of these issues before using.

For those of you who do try them out, please come back and share your experiences and let us all know how your at home spa day or night worked out for you. I would love to hear your stories. Also, if you have any DIY recipes that you'd like to share, please feel free to do so. I just may do a "part two" post with more fun ideas and I will certainly give you a shout out. We should all support and help each other to be and look as fabulous as possible. Don't forget to click on the Mountain Rose Herbs link to check out that awesome site. So you all know the drill, come back and comment below and let us know the outcome of this adventure. I look forward to reading your comments. Go! #engage

Until next time...

Gracias,
AnnaCris <3