5 THINGS . WTF WINTER . RESCUE KIT

The snow may be absent but there is no doubt that we are well into winter now – negative temps, bundled bodies, and the always-anticipated-but-not-so-welcomed dry skin. I've always had a few products that I reach for at this time of the year, but never have I been so confident and content with my 'winter skincare rescue kit'. It's the perfect mixture of soothing and hydrating products packed alongside one creamy exfoliator to ensure my skin is soft, smooth, and nourished all season long.

Whenever I arrive back at my condo after braving the frigid temps the first thing I long for is a hot, steamy shower – it not only warms me up, but instantly puts me into a state of relaxation. And it's times like these when I reach for The Body Shop Coconut Body Scrub – the scent takes me to a tropical paradise, while the creamy scrub softens my skin without stripping it of moisture. Once I run out of this scrub I'll definitely be turning to the newest range from The Body Shop for the Wild Argan Oil Rough Scrub because it looks incredible! From here on out it's all about the moisturizing products, and for my body there is no brand I trust more than Josie Maran, especially the Whipped Argan Oil Intensive Hand Cream. Although it may be a hand cream, this stuff works wonders on the backs of my hands, arms, elbows, even my heels – if there is a rough bit on my body this product will ensure it vanishes. 

My face has been loving the new Biotherm Aquasource Cocoon sample, which I received in my Winter Luxe Box. This is the invisible balaclava of this skincare world – it truly does nourish your skin like a balm, lasting for hours, yet has the lightweight feel of a gel. But there are still days when my face feels absolutely beaten by the wind and is in dire need of a moisture miracle. These days call for the Kiehl's Ultra Facial Overnight Hydrating Masque, a clear gel which envelops skin in a moisture barrier that works overnight to deeply hydrate and protect. It takes some time to get used to wearing this mask overnight as your face literally sticks to the pillow, but now that I'm accustomed to the stickiness I wake up feeling refreshed, with softer, rejuvenated skin. Last but not least, is the Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm in Mint, which I apply as frequently as possible. I've spoken of this product a million times over because it's just that amazing for winter, especially as a preventative measure before you have to face the cold.     

What are you essentials for braving the cold and coming out of it with beautiful skin?

AM¥     XO

N¥E . PRE PART¥ PREP

It's hard to believe that this glitter filled, champagne popping, slightly dreaded celebration, in which we welcome the new year, is already upon us. But it doesn't have to be dreaded if you go into the night with low expectations, surround yourself with great friends who you wouldn't mind kissing at midnight, and plan a party prep routine, complete with a badass playlist to set the mood and get you moving.

My morning prep began quite early – it was either my excitement or this horrid flu that wouldn't let me sleep in. I did a quick dry exfoliation of my entire body with my Merben Dry Brush to prep for my aprés-shower self-tanning session, followed by a long hot shower to cleanse my hair and shave all my bits and bobs – ever so important in case you find a cutie for midnight. I've been loving the Karora Express Bronzing Mousse for all my tanning needs – it gives a subtle hint of colour when left on for an hour or a truly bronzed look when left for three. I chose the latter time frame and while waiting for the mousse to dry, which usually takes 15-25mins, I applied my face savior – the boscia Luminizing Black Mask. This product is pretty harsh, and therefore not for everyone, but it gives my skin a fresh start, leaving my complexion smoothe, clear and bright – but beware of the redness that is surely to ensue (hence why I use it so far in advance of my party). The last thing I did for this portion of my party prep was getting my lips countdown-ready – aka I loaded on Lush's Popcorn Lip Scrub, ate half of it, and let the rest slough away dead skin. Don't worry the dead skin part won't be included in any of my pick up lines tonight.

Everyone rocks a different look for NYE, but there is one thing that is always incorporated, glitz & shine. And I have a group of glitzy faves that are perfect for the evening ahead – and truly any other party you attend this year. I incorporate glitz all the way down to my primer, which is the Laura Mercier Foundation Primer in Radiance – it leaves a subtle, healthy glow and ensures that my makeup will last through the dancing and champagne showers. Once I have my makeup look set, I like to go back in with a bit of my MAC Paint Pot in Bare Study to further highlight my face – focusing on the brow bone, down the center of the nose, inner tear ducts and of course cheekbones. Bare Study is the perfect middle ground between gold and silver, so it pairs well with any look I choose.  I also want to add some shimmer to my legs now that they are nice and tan, and I do that with a bit of the Gleam Body Radiance in Rose Gold – hint: applying it down the center of the legs and arms will help you appear slimmer. Once that's complete I'll slip into my dress, apply some Atelier Cologne in Vanille Insensée to lure in my pray, and stash my Josie Maran Argan Infinity Cream Intensive Creamy Oil in my bag to moisturize throughout the night.

How do you prep for the wild night ahead?

AM¥     XO

SEPHORA FAVOURITES . DARE TO OIL

There is no better feeling than slathering a beauty oil onto freshly cleansed skin right before hopping under the duvet. It's a cozy feeling that simply cannot be trumped. I've tried my fair share of beauty oils but still find myself on the hunt for the ONE – that HG status, googly eye, can't live without you, one. In my search I stumbled upon the Sephora Favourites Dare To Oil Set ($40) – a set of Sephora's favourite beauty oils. I figured this was a great way to test out some new contenders, as well as re-acquaint myself with a long lost love, the Tarte Maracuja Oil. I've since re-purchased the Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil, as the 'Model Citizen' bottle was on sale, here, but will definitely be returning to a few of the oils featured in this set in the future.

THE BEAUTY OILS

Ole Henriksen Pure Truth Youth Activating Oil ($56)

I can't believe that I wasn't previously introduced to this vitamin C packed beauty oil, perfect for brightening dark spots and evening out skin tone – much needed given my current facial situation. Dispensed via a pump, this lightweight oil is infused with 100% pure organic rose hips seed oil, which is chalked full of vitamin C, vitamin A, and essential fatty acids. And yet somehow, it has the fastest absorption rate of them all – making me contemplate why I haven't previously considered incorporating it into my morning skincare regime. There is no greasy film leftover, and the citrus scent provides an instant wake-me-up.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light ($60)

After years of loving the Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil I finally get to test out the brand's 'Light' version. I instantly noticed a difference in the texture of the light version, almost watery in appearance, but the moment it is massaged into the skin I am quickly reminded of the same moisturizing properties found in their original oil. Given the featherweight formula it does absorb quite quicker than the original, leaving a semi-matte finish, however I still find myself vary of wearing it during the daytime. This version is likely to become my go to during the summer months when my skin requires less hydration – a beach babe's essential.

Algenist Advanced Anti-Aging Repair Oil ($99) 1oz

Being the most expensive oil of the bunch, a whopping $99 for 1oz, I expected this to be my favourite oil – sadly, I definitely don't belong to the targeted age-range. The oil is formulated with microalgae, ceramides and brown algae extract to restore skins elasticity, leaving skin firmer, more supple and more radiant. It is the 'thickest' oil of the quad, meaning a little certainly does not go a long way. I've since given the sample to my mom and she has got along with it quite well – she boasts of hydrated skin come the morning and has even convinced herself that her fine lines and wrinkles are softening. At this point it feels sinful not to purchase the full size as her Christmas gift – yes I am that much of a procrastinator.

Tarte Maracuja Oil ($55)
Well hello old friend. My love for beauty oils can be attributed to this miracle product – although I've since, regrettably, turned a blind eye to it. The Tarte Maracuja Oil is the most hydrating, and [although I hate to admit it] greasiest, oil I've come across – but for us dry skinned beauties it is an absolute MUST in the winter. Formulated with two simple ingredients, Maracuja Oil and vitamin C, this rich oil works to rejuvenate the skin and deliver an even-toned, brightened, complexion. When I first began using it years ago I received so many compliments on the appearance of my skin, which I solely attribute to the oil as it was the only part of my skincare regime that was changed. Makes me sad that I've strayed from it for so long.

Are you a beauty oil kind of girl? What is your favourite?

AM¥     XO

SUNDA¥ PAMPERING ESSENTIALS ..OO1

Ahh Sunday, how I look forward to you – it's the one day each week where I devote time to truly pamper myself. And this week it couldn't come soon enough.

I've never had a set regime for my 'Sunday pampering sessions' – partly because I never know whether the day will call for an indulgent bath or simply an extended shower. And partly because the products vary based on what samples I've collected throughout the week – if I've stumbled upon a sample I deem 'decadent' or 'exciting' it will definitely be thrown into the mix. But regardless of what products I'm using I know that once it's all complete I'll be left feeling calm, moisturized and ready to catch some blissful Zzz's. The regime I'm sharing today is one that I've come back to time and time again when I'm in that 'shower mood' – most likely because it features a lot of vanilla and apricot scented products, my true kryptonite.

No matter what Sunday regime I choose there are two products that are sure to be incorporated; the Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo and the Bumble and Bumble Creme de Coco Masque. Each week I refresh my locks with the Bumble and Bumble Sunday Shampoo – it's ultra-clarifying formula removes product build-up giving my hair a much needed detox. However, with such a clarifying formula it can leave my hair craving moisture, which is why I always follow it up with my Bumble and Bumble Creme de Coco Masque. The rich, nutty scent is what first attracted me to this mask, but it's the deeply conditioning formula that keeps me coming back – it's the type of mask that sinks into the hair, almost disappearing the second it's applied. The combination leaves my hair feeling silky and smooth with a beautiful shine. For body care there are only a two things necessary; exfoliation and hydration. This week I've turned to the Cake Beauty Milk Made White Sugar Scrub, which scrubs away dead skin while filling the shower with the scent of vanilla and raspberries. The scent doesn't linger on the skin, meaning that I can bask in my all of my Vanilla Apricot moisturizing glory. My weapon of choice? The Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter in Vanilla Apricot followed by the Josie Maran Infinity Cream Intensive Creamy Oil to provide extra hydration to any of my 'rough bits'. I then slip into my favourite Zara sweater before giving myself an at home 'facial'. 

The facial portion is truly my favourite part of my sunday pamper nights – there is simply nothing quite as relaxing. I begin by cleansing my skin – this week I'm sampling the First Aid Beauty Skin Rescue Deep Cleanser with Red Clay. I was a little naughty this week and slept with a full face of makeup more than once so a deep cleanser is just what the doctor ordered.  I then follow it with a trio of masks – but don't freak out, they each have a specified purpose. I begin with the GlamGlow YouthMud TingleExfoliate Treatment – I'm currently using a sample, however I love this mask so dearly that I've repurchased the full size twice previously. And it's not the only GlamGlow product found in this regime, I also use the GlamGlow BrightMud Eye Treatment to instantly rid my eyes of dark circles. Together, these products leave me bright-eyed and glowing. Although, they lack hydration, which is where the Origins 10-minute Mask to Quench Skin's Thirst comes into play – another apricot-scented beauty. To maximize hydration when using this mask I tend to simply wipe of the excess with a tissue rather than washing it off completely – it also means that I'm left to inhale the heavenly scent as I sleep. And sleep I will. 

What products do you like to pamper yourself with?

AM¥   XO

LIP SERVICE . AU REVOIR DRY CHAPPED LIPS

The drastic drop in temperature we've experienced this week took quite the toll on me, both emotionally and physically. And in an instant I realized that the days of fall jackets, smooth lips and co-operative hair would quickly be replaced with winter parkas, chapped lips, and that dreaded frizz. We've been dealing with this weather, or what I consider the 'prelude to the polar vortex', for less than a week now, and yet somehow my skin and lips have already taken a beating – most likely due to how sudden the change was. Rough, dry patches have begun to form on my chin and cheeks – cue the Origins Drink Up 10 Minute Mask – and my once kissable lips have been transformed into a battlefield of rough skin.

Times like these call for a dynamic duo that will rejuvenate your lips and remove any signs of dryness so that you can once again compliment your outfit with your favourite lipstick, and not your favourite lip balm. A good dynamic duo MUST feature two things: exfoliation and hydration. To exfoliate the lips there is one product that I will never stray from, the LUSH Lip Scrubs, and there's a rather simple explanation for my dedication; you will never find another lip scrub for $6.95 that works as effectively, and is as delicious. The lip scrubs are available in four sugar-based flavours, and are meant to scrub the lips to smooth perfection and then be licked off when done –  when my lips are seriously chapped I steer clear from the temptation because, well... no one wants to eat their dead skin, right? Gross. That aside, your lips should now feel smooth, kiss-worthy and ready for a burst of moisture. I personally like to match the scent of my Lush Lip Scrub to an intensive lip balm that has a co-coordinating scent. This can be a difficult task since not all lip balms are powerful enough to tackle winter dryness, but lucky for you I've mastered the mix and have a few of my favourite combinations to share.

Lush Lip Scrub in Bubble Gum & Josie Maran Argan Lip Treatment ($23) – This is my go-to  combination for days of 'girly vibes'. The bubblegum flavour is fun and youthful, yet pairs beautifully with the green apple scent found in the Argan Lip Treatment, which is loaded with Vitamin E to soothe and condition lips.
When I use this pair: after a sweetly-scented bath, and anytime I'm watching Mean Girls.

Lush Lip Scrub in Mint Julips & Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm in Natural Mint ($8.50) – If your lips get seriously dry and cracked then this is the combination for you – but be prepared to man up before you use it. The Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm is my HG lip balm – it features the most intense mint scent I've ever experienced (seriously, beware) and has a thick formula that instantly brings lips back to their original condition. Together, Mint Julips and the Intense Therapy Balm compose the dream team for combating sore, winter lips – and the combo is totally unisex!
When I use this pair: whenever my lips feel like they are going to fall off, and before a date – the minty scent remains fresh for hours and my lips are left kissable ;).

Lush Lip Scrub in Popcorn & TokyoMilk Dark Lip Elixir in Salted Caramel ($8) – I almost hate to admit it... but this pairing is so good taste-wise that sometimes I have a difficult time not using the scrub twice just to get a little more of that intoxicating flavour. That being said, this combination is more about pleasure and less about purpose for me. The Popcorn Lip Scrub still works as effectively as the rest, however pairing it with the TokyoMilk Salted Caramel Lip Elixir provides a fantastic taste, but doesn't result in the same improvement in the look/feel of the lips as the other balms do.
When I used this pair: after a vanilla-based bath, and whenever it's snowing outside – the scent instantly gives you that comforting feeling and pairs well with your Salted Caramel Latté.

How do you combat your dry, chapped lips?

AM¥     XO