Author: Mirjam

What made me change my mind about DUA Fragrances

I will admit it took me a rather long time to want to try out DUA fragrances. My main reason was that I compared a perfume clone to buying a fake designer bag.  Also, I was a bit put off by the hype to be honest. During the past year I started to turn my attention to cruelty-free cosmetics brands that do not test on animals and therefore do not sell their products in mainland China (and Brazil). This made me move away from designer brands altogether. I am also more intrigued by niche brands in general because of the quality of the ingredients and the uniqueness of the notes. I love bold fragrances that are different and that not too many people around me are wearing.

(more…)

Latest finds at TJ Maxx, and Co. – Part 1: Favorite fragrances

Greetings!

Lately, I have discovered a new passion for fragrances. A subject I have never been too interested in until about two months ago. I don’t even remember how it started. Probably I ended up watching Youtube fragrance reviews. Next thing you know, I opened an account on Fragrantica.

(more…)

Charlotte Tilbury Makeup – “The Dolce Vita” and “The Rock Chick” Luxury Eyeshadow Palettes

I’ve already ordered a few Charlotte Tilbury products last year (the Rock ‘N’ Kohl Liner in “Marlene Midnight” and the Cheek To Chic Swish and Pop Blush in “First Love”). A review on these products is coming up soon but here’s a (ok not so brief) review on the two Luxury Palettes I have – “The Dolce Vita” and “The Rock Chick”.

(more…)

Favorite Skincare Ingredient – 3. Lactic Acid

Right up there on my personal list of favorite skincare ingredients is one of the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): lactic acid. Not only do I enjoy using it in my personal skincare routine, I also like to use it on clients. For various reasons.

It’s quite an allrounder: it gently exfoliates, it’s helpful with hydrating the skin, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and enlarged pores. It generally also is very helpful in treating sun damage, dryness, hyperpigmentation and acne. Lactic acid is gentle yet effective enough to work on almost every skin type (unless you’re super sensitive or allergic). It’s simply amazing stuff!

(more…)

Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL) – How applying your serum or moisturizer on slightly damp skin can help with better hydration

Since it’s the weekend and I like to reserve my Sundays for a DIY spa day at home, I thought many of you out there might enjoy a little treatment at home as well, even if it’s just a relaxing hot bath.  To make sure, your skin stays hydrated, here’s a little tip:

Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) happens on the skin’s surface when water evaporates.  It is one of the major factors that causes the tightness you feel on your skin after a shower or after washing your face.  At first you feel nicely clean and refreshed, but at soon as you get out of the bathroom and let your skin “air dry” for a minute or two, the tightness kicks in and leaves you feeling uncomfortable and your skin thirsty for hydration.

(more…)