[my skincare routine]

People comment on my skin all the time. At family events, in comments on photos, and at random get togethers, people ask how I get my skin the way it is. I always find it odd to hear these comments because I have such an awkward complexion and my skin annoys me daily. The trick is I've learned over the years how to take care of my skin and which products really work for me and which don't.

In the spirit of how natural my look is, I took a photo of my skin care products outside.

[cleanser][scrub][moisturizer][towelettes][cream]

I placed the products in order of use. During my morning shower, I wash my face with the cleanser and use the scrub to exfoliate and remove dead skin. I prime my skin with the moisturizer once I'm dry before I put my makeup on. When I'm getting ready for bed, I use the towelettes to take off my makeup and finish by applying the firming cream on my face. I really emphasize my forehead, around my eyes and my neck.

I'm not one to spend crazy amounts of money on products and facials and creams, and I used to try and use regular body soap and lotion to minimize cost. Sadly, as I get older, I'm realizing the importance of skin care now, so after lots of trial and error, I've finally found a reasonable routine that doesn't take much time or money.

How do you take care of your skin?

"spend less time in the mirror and more time feeling wonderful."

- frederic fekkai

[before & after face]

This week's posts are going to have an underlying theme: beauty. Today, I'm going to show you the before & after "me." People compliment my skin all the time and while a good portion of the reason is my skincare routine,  makeup plays an important role too. So here's a look at my morning routine: putting on my face.

This picture is me right after showering and applying moisturizer [remember, the one I talked about here?]

This picture is me after what I like to call 'putting my face on.' See the difference? It's MAGIC!

These are the magical tools in my daily toolbox. Basically this is what I use everyday. I add more products for special occasions. 

Find the products below:

[mousse][blemish concealer][highlighting concealer][similar flat top brush][foundation brush][powder foundation][powder brush][bronzer][contouring brush][similar eyebrow brush][eyebrow pencil][mascara]

"i always find beauty in things that are odd and imperfect - they are much more interesting."

-marc jacobs

[friday favorites]

Another week has come and gone and you know what that means! Friday favorites! This week I made it a point to jot dot down some favorites as the week went by and decided to limit today's post to a top 5. Here they are!

1. Being Mary Jane has become one of my favorite shows. I mean I've always loved Gabrielle Union but there's something nice about a show where the main character is a powerful, single, career-focused woman. I mean, we aren't all going to be housewives. 

2. I have fallen in love with Naked Juice. It's the perfect healthy, on-the-go choice for people (like me) with a busy lifestyle. It's almost a meal replacement because it's so filling and has so many nutrients!

3. The candle obsession continues with my Lemon Mint Leaf 3-wick candle from Bath & Body Works. I got this candle for Christmas and boy, it's the gift that keeps on giving. 

4. Ulta's Pomegranate Lime lotion has been my go-to moisturizer since I got a bottle for free in November. I've since purchased one for myself and one for my mom. It provides just enough moisture and smells fresh and clean.

5. I think I love Urban Expressions. Every time I see a purse by that brand I fall in love, and I just had to have this one. The perfect medium between casual and dressy, I use this when I want a little change. 

Have a beautiful weekend!!!

"you only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough."

-mae west