Sunday, December 1, 2013

Polished Porcelain

As a traveling dame I find things along my journey that I love. From different product lines to organic beauty secrets traded on the massage tables. The little gems on the sometimes overpriced shelves of spas are some of the best measurable tools for your beauty.


 I started out with my very first Clairsonic facial brush, give or take, 3 years ago. My mini brush was bought during a spa visit in Dallas Texas. I enjoyed the tool used in a facial so much my mom and I both got one! I was devastated when I thought I broke it! I called my mom hysterical because the only thing that was keeping my acne at bay was dead!

This little vibrating brush is magic. I live in west Texas where the weather is a sorority girl picking a date for formal.... indecisive... to say the least. And of course my skin takes the burnt of the trauma. This glorious tool allows my skin to glow when everyone else is flaking and hiding blemishes.


The next couple of months rolled around and I got a new one for Christmas! Thrilled, my new brush was the larger edition that allowed for a body attachment and at this point the clarisonic line had expanded to include different brush head and of course a facial line for acne and ageing skin. While I have yet to try the line of facial product, I am in love with the brush.



The different brush heads are for differing skin types. I use the sensitive head for my face because my skin will literally react harshly if i bush my hand over it to roughly. However on my body I use the original head. The best feature about these heads is they do not smell or get moldy when left in the shower. I can not stand that smell, its one of my larger pet peeves. Thankfully clairsonic's heads are easy to remove and clean.
 
 
Don't miss out on the wonderful treasures found in spas. My favorite little finds will always make me feel like gold.
 
 
Signing off,
XX Porcelain Girl Pampered 
 
 

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Back in Black


I'm back! My crazy interesting life took me on some amazing adventures while I've been away from the blogosphere in the summer. I met a handsome guy who I spend a fair amount of my precious time with. I graduated from Texas Tech University. I broke my foot and was mostly useless for about 2 months. I moved in with my sweet friend and sorority sister Amanda. I have been spending my days studying for the most important test I have taken so far in life.... Bum Bumm Bummmm The LSAT.

My travels have taken me to Colorado twice, Austin TX, Dallas TX, home and back again. In the few months I've been away, as to be expected, I have logged several hours in different spas.

My second trip to Colorado I was regrettably, in the adventure state, with a broken foot. Against the doctors orders however I did white water raft and hike to go fishing... Sshhhhh! It was an amazing trip spent in a pine log cabin with some amazing people! So I wasn't in major pain. I did milk my injury long enough to get carried piggy back style. Every girl deserves to be swept off of her feet especially if one is damaged. Cough cough damsel in distress.... cough.


I got the rare pleasure of going to this a spa with a lovely girl who had never been to a spa. It is always amazing to see through someone’s eyes experiencing something for the first time that you enjoy.

Elevation Spa is a small hotel amenity with large benefits. There is a various arrangement of services offered in this snow covered hidden jewel. Elevation caters to the small community of crested butte well. The sweet staff was eager to pamper my friend and I.

We arrived an hour prior to treatment time as I normally do for any planned spa occasion. We spent some time undressing and slipping into the plush robes always offered. Then steamed for about 20 minutes, and when what little makeup we had on melted away we rinsed in the rain forest showers. Waiting on our treatments we were served warm tea. There may not be a cozier feeling then a warm cup of tea accompanied with good conversation.

I chose to be treated to a "Red Lady Mud Rap." This treatment consisted of a entire body dry brush followed by a light coating of spa blended active mud. While wrapped in the foil my body temperature rose and I fell into a blissful nap feeling my skin tingle with warmth. I awoke to a small voice asking me to step into the shower when I was ready to rinse while she unfolded the cocoon that was draped around my body. After I rinsed the white mud from my skin I felt totally renewed. The masseuse came back into the room to rub a sweet citrus crème over my skin and focus on some stressed areas on my body.

I was prepared for a fun week in Colorado but unaware of the treat that only comes from the rare spas that employ a staff that goes above and beyond their duty to pamper their patrons. There is always a good time to be had in Colorado. I will most defiantly be back to this lovely town to visit the sweet people and this fabulous facility!

 Singing Off, 
XX Porcelain Girl Pampered

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

I'm no Hippie but I use Mad Hippie !

Mad Hippie's Exfoliating Serum


Acidic exfoliating serums are all the rage in skin care! This method is easier and safer then scrubbing your face with a harsh bristle or cloth. The Acidic Exfoliate leaves your skin bright and does less damage and improves your skins tone quicker then scrubbing with a brush.

My initial reaction is salty aroma, a little Asian blend of smells opened my senses the morning I first tried Mad Hippie's Exfoliating serum.

The gel serum goes on smooth and absorbed into my skin quickly.
There was no burning, no stinging but my skin did slightly redden when first applied ... which is to be expected with an acidic based topical.  The reddening after introducing your skins to any new product are your blood vestals reacting.

I have been using the serum for about two weeks not and the brightness is very noticeable I first saw a change in the first three days so I would say it brightens immediately! This is impressive especially for a natural product that doesn't have some crazy chemical eating at the surface of your delicate princess face!

I was pleasantly surprised to find that the serum mixes well with other products! Some of the toners and lotions I use take a minute or two to soak in so I can not go directly from product to product when I am in a hurry... which is all the time because lets be honest here I am always late. Beauty takes time people!

I incorporated this into my daily line removing my regular toner I noticed some break out but that is to be expected with a change to the normal dynamic your face is used to. The light flush of acne that appeared did not last long with continual use of the serum for about a week.

I liked it so much I shared! .... This is a new concept for me guys .... Just kidding ... kind of. My sweet friend Perry is over my apartment all the time so we play with beauty products quite a bit getting ready to go out and flirt with the boys! She used it once and came back the next day for more! She saw her skin brighten the next morning and was excited about how soft her newly exfoliated skin looked!


My activity level is high i work out at least three times a week and when I'm not at the gym I am nose deep in a book for class. Being that I take pride in my education and my skins health I did some research. Acidic rubs are just about the best thing you can do for your skin! & it is impressive of Mad Hippie to share their ingredients so explicitly.

The product information for each of Mad Hippie's products is featured in detail on their webpage. Every chemical has a different use and this product description below gives a close look into this amazing product. I found this web page to be the easiest to navigate and the most helpful when trying to find exact ingredients in products! So snaps where snaps are due!

Product Description

Glycolic Acid - Derived from sugar cane and regarded as the most effective of the alpha hydroxy acid family due to its smaller molecular size, glycolic acid is amazing at exfoliating, reducing wrinkles, discoloration & age spots.
Lactic Acid – Derived from fermented beet sugar & another member of the alpha hydroxy acid family, lactic acid exfoliates, reducing wrinkles & discoloration while hydrating & moisturizing.
Apple Stem Cells (PhytoCellTec®) – The stem cell of the rare Swiss apple has been shown to protect the skin from damage and age related deterioration. Reduce wrinkle depth & visibility while protecting the longevity of skin stem cells.
Gigawhite – A blend of 6 organically grown alpine plants that inhibit the production of melanin. Melanin accumulation under the skin is responsible for discoloration resulting from UV damage.
Sodium Hyaluronate – The salt of hyaluronic acid (HA), sodium hyaluronate has much better skin penetrability than HA alone. Sodium hyaluronate works to plump up the skin, giving you back that youthful, full look.
White Tea – Strong antioxidant with natural anti-carcinogenic qualities that works to eliminate free radicals, boost immunity of skin cells and prevent UV damage.
Matrixyl 3000 – Regarded as one of the most effective peptides today, Matrixyl 3000 reduces wrinkles by activating collagen production & reducing swelling. Has a synergistic effect with alpha hydroxy acids to help skin recuperate faster after exfoliation.
Goji Berry – Super-antioxidant berry rich in amino acids, mineralsand vitamins C, E, B1, B2 & B6. An amazing source of beta carotene (vitamin A), with anti-inflammatory & anti-aging benefits.
Vitamin C – Proven to enhance collagen production, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and tighten the skin, this powerful antioxidant is effective at healing sun damage & discoloration, while inhibiting future damage caused by UV exposure.
Ceramide - supports the renewal of the skin’s natural protective layer by forming a thin lipid barrier that holds in moisture, while protecting & healing the skin.
Vitamin E - Contains powerful anti aging & anti carcinogenic properties. Reduces fine lines & wrinkles while it heals and protects skin from UV & free radical damage.


Signing Off
XX Porcelain Girl Pampered

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Getting Sexy

The Porcelian Pampered How To Get Ready

Because its valentines season, I have found something to share with you that I love. While men are in the flower shops and lingerie boutiques finding something to spark our flame, we are in the gym and the powder rooms becoming the essence of romance for him.

Ladies! We have all heard the classic John Mayer song “Your Body is a Wonderland” and because since I heard that song in high school … maybe middle school I have wanted to swing around in a field of flowers and wrap up with “The One” just like in the music video. Well, I have not chosen the one yet … but I have figured out a way to make my body a soft smooth silky wonderland. We all love to be cuddled and touched sweetly especially on the day that was meant for love. In order to get ready for this day I am going to tell you my secret “getting porcelain smooth” and ready to go out on a date or special night out routine!!!

First- Go Work Out! Even if you don’t do it on a daily basis it makes you feel like a million bucks. And I’m not talking about putting on your cutest pair of shorts and strutting around the track in a “power walk” to get the boy on the stationary bikes attention. I’m talking about turning your music up so loud you can’t hear anyone else and lose yourself in your sweat. And if you just absolutely have a living hatred for the gym go sit in a sauna or steam room and sweat it out.

Second- A hot steamy shower! Let it heat up in the bathroom before you go in, this will give you a small spa like effect in your shower. I light a candle or pour some essential oils into a small bowl letting the steam carry the scent and relax or invigorate me. When getting ready for a special evening in I choose lavender because it immediately relaxes me and takes me to a place where getting ready is no longer an event but a smooth transition.  When I’m planning a night out on the town … which I always paint red I choose something stimulating like eucalyptus or tea tree. So no matter what the day has brought the night will be alive and fun!
Third- Scrub your body! We have talked about the benefits of using a body scrub regularly, and how to make your own using your favorite scents and oils. You can also buy an organic body scrub from your local spa or your favorite beauty destination.  One of my favorite places to find scrub and essential oils is Aura Cacia! Polished girls are the ones who get the kiss at the end of the date!
Fourth- oil up! When you get out of your hot shower and your pores are open and clean, put on your favorite body oil! Of course put your hair up and don’t touch it or, you will have to rewash your hair…. That dirty grunge look is out …. OUT!!! While you’re oiling your shaved legs and the rest of your body be careful, don’t use too much this is just the base coat for your soft skin to come!
Fith- Dance in your undies! So now you’re silky soft and feeling slippery and shiny! Let your skin soak while you slip into a pair of your sexiest knickers and turn on some music! Open up your bathroom door and let that essential oil steam waft into your apartment… or house! This is your time girl! While your hair is still wet let it down and apply your argon oil so when he brushes it away from your face and leans in for a kiss he won’t be able not to notice how soft it is twirling in his fingers.
Sixth- Lather! Break out the thick body cream girls, the whipped one that soaks in your skin with ease and smells like you spend your days in a flower field or on a beach lathered in coconut oil! You know what smell makes your man move closer … use it!



Seventh- Makeup and Hair Styling!  Put on your highest heals and do your makeup and hair in front of the mirror. Don’t ask me why the heals make you feel sexy while you are prancing around in your underwear … I don’t know why, I just know when my legs look longer and my butt is tighter My makeup and hair always comes out perfect!!!

Final step- Get dressed sprits your self with some perfume, and blow your self a kiss in the mirror because you look great and your silky soft skin is going to match your awesome night out!

Signing Off,
XX Porcelain Girl Pampered

 

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Toxin Free and PINK!!!


The horizons are pink!!! I have been crazy busy with the start of the semester and I am so sorry for the lack of posts. BUT I have fantastic news… We have a new family member! Miss Ava Layne is a beautiful baby girl and in honor of her, I will be writing about something close to my heart, Toxin free products. These are safe for everyone even sweet new born Ava! Between facial products I have been using some fantastic body products. Pink Horizon’s products are toxin free and are taking amazing care of my skin!!! I’m the girl whose counter is filled with products some environmentally safe… some not so much. I was thrilled to add Pink Horizons line to my collection.  




The first reaction to this company, I was impressed! They sent me full bottles of their product instead of those sample-set sell outs… & shocker... They are reasonably priced! I have been enjoying the body oil and facial toner for weeks!!! Product Testing is like love in that it takes time to absolutely love a product but no time at all to share your new found product crush with all of your friends.  Well guys I believe this could be love!
 
The Citrus Revival Body Oil
When I pumped the first dime size dollop of oil into my hand a subtle natural aroma waft of citrus and a peppery fruit caught me by delight. I immediately wanted to massage it into my skin. I changed from my clothes because oil stains and you wouldn’t want your adorable sundress to have oil stains! Spreading this oil across your chest and down your arms makes you breathe deeper and let go of your daily stress. The citrus aroma wakes you up internally. Not only was I relaxed in the middle of a crazy day, this oil seeps into your skin and leaves you soft smooth not slippery. So happy not to be an oily mess I put my sun dress back on and went out with the girls. Where I of course received multiple compliments on the softness and bright glow of my skin! I haven’t stopped using the oil and guess what… it gets better with time! Because I already consider myself a princess … I am now a softer one after using this Pink Horizon citrus revival oil!!!
In honor of the new baby in the family I took baby steps with my skin making sure I was using a proper amount as not to break my skin out … which is a task when testing products. Pink Horizons also sent me a toning mist, called “Antioxidant Refining Toner.” I thought oh no here we go again with light burning and itching until my skin gets used to this new product.
 
Fact: Holistic Botanical skin care is good for you!!!
And when its toxin free like Pink Horizon it feeds your skin instead of creating more problem areas like harsh chemicals may.
 
Antioxidant Refining Toner
This light mist is refreshing and stimulating. With a light sent of citrus… My Favorite… you are instantly in a better mood when you sprits’ your face. I was impressed, as I stated earlier, it didn’t burn my sensitive skin. The citrus smell is not only action provoking but this blend of botanicals tightens skin and reduces pore size! I found that my moisturizer was being absorbed faster and my skin was more tone and bright, which is a feat all in its self. The ingredient list is surprisingly small for the large benefits you will receive with several simple sprits in the morning!
 

The benefits of natural pure botanicals are endless … not that I haven’t said this over and over but if you learn anything from my entries, let it be that what you put on your skin is what you get out. If you are looking for a product line that will cleanse gently tone brightly and sooth quickly this is the line for you! I was so so so very impressed with what toxin free could do for my skin that I might have turned a corner in my beauty buying habits! I was thrilled and you will be too if you give Pink Horizon toxin free product a worthwhile test!
Signing Off,
XX Porcelain Girl