KISS: Recreate This Look

I love the makeup Rhianna wore to the Teen Choice awards. The focus is on the lips and eyes. I love a bold colored lip and prominent eyes. Recreate her look with this video. It's the best I've seen to date!

KISS: Modern Day Cleopatra

This look is very pretty. So exotic! I like how she put her own twist to the modern day, high fashion, cleopatra. The headband along with those earrings are uber Kaaaute, it finishes the look nicely.

KISS Product Review: Clear up Body Acne

Neutrogena Clear Body Wash is a great product to clear up body acne. A few years ago I broke out badly all over my chest from a lotion I used. I heard some good stuff about the body cleanser, so, I decided to give it a try. Within one week the pimples were gone, never to return. This year I had a slight breakout again, of course I returned to my tried and true remedy. The Zits vanished within a few days. I never use it all over my body, only on the affected areas. It has worked wonders for me. I hope the same for you!

KISS: Ivory Soap

Last week I was having lunch with a friend, who's a makeup artist. We always share valuable information with one another, so, of course this time wouldn't be any different. During our convo, she mentioned Ivory Soap as a great way to clean makeup brushes. The next day I tried it and it worked! My brushes are spotless, even my stippling brush, which I had such a hard time getting back that original white color.

Here comes the interesting part. I don't know about you guys but I always seem to smear foundation on my tops. It's frustrating. Especially when it's a WHITE shirt. Normally, I have such a hard time removing those stains. Not anymore! I figured, if the Ivory Soap removes foundation from my brushes, it could possibly do the same for clothing, right? To my amazement The Ivory soap removed all the foundation from my white shirt (something regular detergent has failed to do). Not only is the stain gone, my shirt looks as white as the day I brought it. Three bars of soap at a value of $1.49, removes stains from clothing, serves as a makeup brush cleaner, and cleanses the body? You really can't beat it. I'm going to stack up on these. Try it out and report back...smooches!

KISS: Enhance your eyes

Learn to make your eyes look larger or smaller, depending on your needs, by the magnificent Pixiwoo. Love her!!!

KISS: I rather use OIL

Many people are unaware that Oil serves as a great makeup remover. Whether it's foundation, eyeshadow, mascara, blush etcetra. I use olive oil to remove my mascara and black eyeliner before cleansing. Often times when applying my makeup, I use a Q-tip dipped in oil to remove my eyeliner if I make a mistake. It works wonders! Olive oil and seaseme oil are my choices, although, ANY cooking oil will work. Make sure you wash your face thoroughly after using the oil. Oil can cause breakouts for some, especially those with acne prone skin, if not carfeful removing traces of it. Now, go to your kitchen, get some oil and remove that makeup. Don't forget to report back on your results. :)

KISS: Drink Up

Water is Vital to life. It comprises a very large percentage of your body, as high as 60%. When your body is hydrated to it's normal balance, you will look and feel better. Your skin will radiate a natural glow, your hair will shine, you will have more energy, etc... All of this is a result of water removing toxins from your body, nourishing your joints, and carrying nutrients to all parts of your body cells. I read in order to get your daily fulfillments of the good ole H2O, you must drink half your body weight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 100 pounds, you must dink 50 ounces of water per day.

Some indications that you're drinking enough water are: clear or pale urine, quenched thirst, high energy, frequent urination.

After reading so much about the benefits of water, I realized I wasn't drinking enough to see noticeable results. I decided last week to up my water intake to 3 liters a day oppose to my usual 1 liter (4 cups). -Sigh- I hope it's worth it. I'm going to dedicate six months to this. Besides the toilet seat getting so much a**.. thus far, drinking this much water really isn't that bad....

New Blog

For those Who aren't aware I have a new fashion blog. Check it out: Fashion Commandments

KISS: Oil/Shine Be gone!

A thin layer of Milk Of Magnesia (the product used for constipation..lol) spread over the shiny and oily areas of your face, is suppose to control the oil and shine!

Many have tried it with much success. I tried it a few weeks ago. It does serve as a good primer, one of the best i've tried, for the most part.

Read reviews of those who swear by it. Here you will find the pros and Cons of M.O.M as a skin primer (also it's role in acne and other uses) I Hope this helps someone who is battling oily/shiny skin, like mine...:)

KISS: How NOT to wear makeup....LMBOOOO!!

I found this video surfing the beauty/makeup youtube vids. I love sarcasm...Dry humor! She did a great job for the contest. For a second I actually believed what she was saying, until I read the title..that's when it dawned on me..lol Check it out.

KISS: Fade Dark Spots: Naturally

There are so many products on the market that claims to fade dark spots. Unfortunately many of them are bleaching creams containing hydroquine, which is very popular in the African American community (However, it is NOT limited to our race). Bleaching Creams will leave you with two tones if you're not careful. Have you ever seen some black people that have that "weird glow"? (for lack of better term). It's a distortion of skin color, giving off a whitening effect. Very unnatural. I will go into detail in a later post about "bleaching" the skin. This is a topic that warrants it's own post.


When it comes to fading dark spots, I believe the natural route is better and safer. Either allow them to fade naturally (although that may take forever) or use some at home products straight from your refrigerator.

Here are a few things you can try that may work

1.A few weeks ago I did a Post on Natural Skin Peel. This is suppose to help fade dark spots over time. Great method. My personal fave!


2.
Lemons are natural skin lighteners. They have been used to fade discolored areas and exfoliate the skin. Lemon has more than one use for the Skin
Combined with sugar it makes a great face scrub, revealing new skin and gradually lightening dark spots. View how to make this scrub HERE


3.
Shea Butter has been around for centuries. It has some well known Skin Benefits. One of which is to fade dark spots. Unrefined Raw Shea butter is the best to use. That's the purest form. All you need is a tiny bit to rub on the skin. It moisturizes and fades dark spot. Unrefined Shea Butter


I do not suggest you use all three methods at once. Choose one, be consistent, or you can rotate methods weekly. Try one method once per week. Especially those with sensitive skin. Don't over do it.


If all else fails, go to a dermatologist. They can prescribe higher strength creams and gels that will hopefully fade your spots. Of course these medications will contain hydroquine, your doctor will advise you on proper use. It's better to be under the care of a physician rather than mis-using over the counter creams/gels on that Will/can cause more harm than good if ignorant.

KISS: It's all in the Technique

When it comes to makeup, application is just as if not more important than finding the right colors to match your skin tone. Considering my blog is mainly for African American women, when considering makeup application, skin color doesn't apply. It's all about technique! If we master that, we will be one step ahead of the game.

Pixiwoo (her youtube screen name) has fastly become my new favorite Youtuber. Hands down one of the best makeup artist to ever cross the net. If you haven't already, watch her videos and subscribe to her page, she's absolutely FAB! Check out her video below, such a pretty simple look for the summer. Definitely K.I.S.S Worthy.

KISS: Get in shape for the summer!

THE BEST, THE BEST dvd to get into shape for the summer is Jillian Michael (from the show the biggest loser) 30 day shred. This DVD is NO JOKE. It's a short yet effective workout routine, GUARANTEED to whip you into shape if you apply yourself. The DVD contain 3 levels lasting about 20 mins each session. Each level gets progressively more difficult. It is suggested you go to the next level after ten days. SHE IS THE TRUTH!!! Within two weeks of doing this Video months ago, I lost two inches all over. *STAMP WORTHY*



The DVD can be purchased at amazon, eBay, target etc.

With over 1,200 reviews on Amazon.com This DVD maintains a 4.5 out of 5 stars..Remarkable!! Did I mention she is the TRUTH???..... Just checking.

Here's a Preview of the video on YouTube.



If you don't want to purchase the video just yet, there is always YouTube. Someone uploaded all the Vids there. Just type in "Jillian Michael 30 day Shred" *wink*. Now don't say I never tried to help y'all waist line. lol

KISS : Natural Skin Peel

Some of you may have heard of the great benefits a chemical peel provides. Smoother, glowing, brighter, plumper, more even toned skin. But what some of you may not know is that there is an alternative.....right in your refridgerator. Yogurt, yep you read correctly, YOGURT provides the same benefits as a chemical peel, without the harsh chemicals. Yogurt contains lactic acid, a natural alpha hydoxy. It's less harsh on the skin,great for any skin type, even sensitive skin.Granted yogurt does not provide the quick benefits as a chemical peel, you will get the same results with continous use.

You MUST use plain yougurt. either organic or regular full fat. I use lowfat Stoneyfield orgainic yogurt. I'm going to switch to plain full fat, I hear you reap more benefits.

The application is simple: Cleanse your skin as you normally do at night, allow your skin to dry then slather about 1 tablespoon all over your face (your neck is optional, though you shouldn't neglect it) be very careful around your eye area. Leave it on your face for approximately 15-20 minutes, rinse it off and follow with a moisturizer. You will be left with VERY smooth skin. If you have large pores they will be minimized and your face will be brighter and more firm. I read that it also fades dark spots in the long run, which is a plus since I have a few stubborn spots I'm trying to fade. This mask should be used about once a week.

Do not hesitate to try this, it really works. I have informed many on this method, they absolutely love it.

KISS: Instant French Manicure

Have you ever had those moments where you are in a rush to go out, in desperate need of a manicure, yet due to time restrictions were unable to get one? A few months ago one of my good friends put me up on..
"KISS Custom Fit Nail Kit", bless her soul. This is the best artificial nail product I have ever used. I would recommend it to anyone. Personally, I am against Acrylic nails done at the salons, where they file your nails so finely leaving you with brittle, weak paper thin nails. ( I will not touch on this subject too much now, although I may elaborate on a later post) The nail Kit is cost-effective. There are 36 nails in the kit for approximately seven dollars, lasting 10 days each application. That's seven dollars a month for a manicure, which would cost you over $20 at the salon, depending on if you get a natural manicure or acrylic nails. I always purchase the "real short" brand, because I love the natural look. They do have the longer tips, if interested. So far I have no Cons, only pros. Btw, I don't wear the nails all the time.

A few weeks ago I was on my way to a wedding. As usual I'm last minute about EVERYTHING, so of course I had no time to go get a manicure...instead of the usual 30-40 mins it might have taken to get my nails done, I glued these babdboys on, MYSELF. Within less than 10 mins I had perfectly french manicured nails, where THE NAIL POLISH WON'T CHIP AWAY! Here are the results... (click on the photos for larger viewing)





For comparison sake, here's a photo of my natural nails.




In all honesty, I rather use this method for a french manicure,instead of going to the salon. I can do without the polish chipping off within three days, and the massive pounding and rubbing on my hands they call a massage..(For more elaborate designs it's best to get it professionally done) This product is a keeper!

Japanese Restaraunt: Osaka

If you are ever in Brooklyn, NY and are a fan of suschi, I suggest you go to Osaka. A japanese Restaraunt located near Kings plaza. A suschi lovers dream....i'm salivating just thinking about it! Afordable food: All you can eat suschi for $20 (6 rolls per order) and a lunch menu starting at below $6. The food is delicious, the atmosphere is peacful. There are other food alternatives on the menu besides suschi. A party of four or more has the option of sitting at one of the traditional japenese tables, where you MUST remove your shoes. It's a cool/scary feeling having your feet dangle from the table..lol It's rarely crowded in there; my go to spot during the summer months...fun times. The address is: 2118 Flatbush Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11234 (718) 338-1038

Here are some photos of what I normally order. Me and my friend split it. Too much to eat alone. Total cost: less than $20.

Miso Soup.



Rolls: Chicken Tempura, california roll( not sure)

My hungraaay behind was about to dig in while I was taking the picture, hense the fork....no shame!lol



mmmm mmm mmmm, Chicken Fried rice....sooo soooo good. My weakness. This will give you niggaritis..good stuff maaannnn!!

It's been a while

I have been M.I.A for months. Totally neglecting my baby! Now that's it's spring, I'm inspired all over again. There is nothing like sunshine and warm weather to have a girl in a good mood and want to update. I plan on bringing you guys some tips that will be useful to many. If anyone wants me to touch on a specific topic, whether it be skin care, weight issues, anything, please leave a comment and I will try my best to find the solution.

Upcoming topics:

Dark underarms
Back/chest acne
how to lose weight and keep it off
Instant manicure
Natural Chemical peel
The usual product reviews and many more. All for my dope sistahs. Stay tuned ladies....

K.I.S.S Worthy: Dewy Skin

Scandelousbeauty is one of my favorite youtubers for us brown girls. She has great tutorials on applying makeup as seen from my previous entry of her work. In this video she teaches us how to get that dewy skin we oh so love on others, now we can achieve it for ourselves. Check out this fabulous video on how to achieve that natural look with a punch.

Mosquito Season: Updated

This entire summer I have been bitten by mosquitoes nearly every single day. I have tried everything under the sun (Cutter bug repellent, fly screens, etc) to prevent the critters from biting my skin and leaving those dreadful dark spots. Apparently nothing has worked......... until a few days ago.

Here are my god sent solutions that has worked wonders....for ME.

Preventing Mosquito Bites

1. Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil: Original scent ( My Miracle oil)
At first I was being my normal skeptic self.. I didn't believe that it would work since everything else has failed me. To my surprise it has been the sole product that has kept those buggers from biting my skin. An added bonus is it softens your skin and smells ooh soo good.
As we all know everyone reacts to products differently, what works for one may not work for all. It's worth a try, many people have recommended this product, they swear by it. I'm glad I tried it...I wish I found out about this earlier.

You can find this product at your local Avon store.

OR

http://shop.avon.com/shop/product.asp?pf_id=7613&from=search&find_spec=avon%20skin%20so%20soft&camp=200818&dir_delivery=1&rep_delivery=1

http://www.amazon.com/Avon-SKIN-SOFT-Original-Bath/dp/B000818W8I

Preventing/Getting Rid of the Dark Spots

1.Avoid Scratching

I would strongly advise that you never scratch the affected area, it will definitely leave a mark on your skin if you do so. I know it's easier said than done. To prevent itching you can use a hyrocortisone cream such as cortizone 10 or a generic brand (it's cheaper and just as effective) I heard a hot shower works wonders, it brings all the histamines to the surface while in return brings relief.

2.Use Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera Gel serves as a dual remedy in this case. It contains anti-inflamatory properties which will relieve the itching as well as reduce infection. Also it has healing properties to help speed the fading process. I would suggest buying the actual plant/leaf (it's the purest form) or go to a health food store and purchase the gel (2nd best),rub it on your entire skin (or the affected area) first, then apply The Avon Skin So Soft. This will be my regimine for the rest of the summer. I'm not risking another mosquito bite....no way no how..

UPDATE : OH HELLLLZ NAWL!
I'm sorry to report that after a few weeks of using this stuff I was bitten by those dreadful creatures (as i like to call them). I thought I honestly found something that worked (the skeptic in me was right..lol)......guess not. I'm back to the drawing board....AGAIN. *sigh*

Ugh, not another pimple there!

I found this very interesting face diagram online. For anyone experiencing acne in specific areas often, this diagram may help you pinpoint the cause. For example, those with Asthma and other respiratory conditions may experience acne in the cheek area. I have witnessed this professionally with many of my patients who has Chronic pulmonary disorders. Whenever their condition is active so is their acne flare ups on their cheeks. As soon as their condition is under control their acne subsides. This diagram has definitely increased my knowledge; I now have more information on what to teach my patients. The next time you get a pimple, refer to this diagram. It may take away most of your guess work! Food for thought: No wonder most women break out in their jaw area when they are on their period...ahaaa.


For great information on how to clear Acne internally read the accompanying site.
http://www.marysherbs.com/heal/heal-acn.shtml