Tag: beauty

Getting the Glow Without the FOMO

Ambergris Caye | BELIZE

Americans are particularly fond of sunbathing, and who’s to blame them? It wasn’t that long ago when girls would slather themselves in baby oil and bake to a crisp. We know a little better these days and the younger generation of girls have learned to start taking care of their skin at a much earlier age. We now understand, more than ever, the grim realities we face with overexposure to the sun – wrinkles, tough looking skin, sun spots, freckles and even cancer. That being said, we all want the benefits of a great looking tan– the healthy glow, the bronze highlights, and the way colors like mint, pink and white just seem to glimmer off your skin. Just because we shouldn’t prolong our exposure to the sun doesn’t mean we can’t take advantage of its magnificent powers, especially if you just so happen to find yourself on a tropical vacation!

I recently found myself on the wonderful island of Ambergris Caye, a modest bit of Belize’s archipelago just off the mainland. If you caught my last post, you might remember the bountiful list of fun bikini-clad adventures that one might encounter while in Belize. It would be nearly impossible, and most certainly depressing to travel all the way to such a irie island and skip out on the outdoor activities.

From food to daily lifestyle, even transportation and hobbies, the Belizeans embrace a more self-sustaining, natural approach to life on the island. With so much to do and the intensity of the sun beating down without much of a break throughout each day, it was particularly important that I remember to take care of my skin and pay it a little more attention than usual. Between the brazen sun, the weathering wind and salty sea air, my hair, nails and skin needed a bit of TLC.

Whether on vacation or just on the road, it’s easy to neglect our skincare routine, after all we aren’t doing much of anything that’s routine when we’re traveling, are we? So let’s go over some ways to pamper our skin, keep it happy, healthy and protect it from all the harmful stuff while we’re off traversing the world. I wish I had a list like this 10 years ago which is why I’m sharing what I know now, with you all. Much of this has been trial and error, as I’ve been learning as I go but I think I’ve found a pretty good balance. I believe that is the key to everything; balance. Oh, and going to dinners that don’t require shoes. I really enjoy that, too.

1. Firstly, if you’re going to fake bake before a trip, be very selective about which brands you use. Do your research, read the ingredients, find out what’s in them and test it out on a small discreet patch of skin before applying it all over. There are plenty of brands that claim to be organic but there are still synthetic chemicals in them. To ensure you are getting a 100% organic product, look for the USDA Organic seal. This guarantees each ingredient has been organically produced, which bans genetic engineering, toxic pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers.

2. If you’re skipping the fake bake session for the real deal, there’s ways to prepare. To get your skin ready for optimum tanning conditions, shave any areas you wish to tan (i.e. your legs, bikini area, armpits). Although removing the hair won’t effect the overall tan, it is still recommended in order to remove dead skin cells, allowing the tan to penetrate into fresh skin and last longer. It is also recommended to lightly exfoliate prior to being out in the sun. If you’re going to fake bake, I would recommend these steps before applying as well.

3. Find a natural sun screen that doesn’t leave a greasy or filmy looking residue. Yes, you still want to wear sun screen even if you’re trying to catch a tan. It will protect your skin from harmful rays and allow you more time for fun in the sun while giving you more of a gradual tan. This is especially important for those that burn easily. You don’t want to spend the rest of your vacation in pain or thinking about how you’re going to look like a boiled lobster in all your photos, trust me.

4. Buy a hat with a wide brim. Not only will you look super chic, but you’ll protect the most fragile skin on your entire body, your face! I admit that I learned this one late in life. I loved the feeling of the sun in my eyes, and from years of sports, it was a feeling that was more than familiar to me. However, to prevent sun damage and crows feet (from squinting), I rarely leave the house without a hat of some sort if I know I’m going to be outside. Don’t worry about your face being a different shade than the rest of your body after tanning, that’s what a quick dab of bronzer is for!

5. Tan or do outdoor activities in intervals. Give your body a break from the UV rays and rest in the shade intermittently if you are going to be outdoors most of the day. Try to limit direct sunlight to about 1-2 hours a day. Remember, you’re going for that natural, gradual tan so it’s better to spend a little bit of time each day working on it instead of all those hours in one day.

6. Avoid peek hours in the sun. As a general rule of thumb, doctors recommend staying out of the sun from 10a.m. to 3p.m. when the UV rays are the strongest. This seems like a pretty broad time frame for me, so I try to avoid sun bathing or doing too many outdoor activities between the hours of 12-2p.m. instead. Granted, that can’t always be arranged when you’re on limited vacation time but it’s good to keep in mind when scheduling snorkeling tours and such.

7. Moisturize, baby! Dry, ashy skin is not cute. Be sure to give yourself a generous rub down at least twice a day, once in the morning, and again after your shower in the evening. I keep a ‘Costco size’ container of organic coconut oil in my bathroom and have made it a habit to do whenever I brush my teeth, since that is usually at least 2x a day. Keeping skin moisturized offsets the effects of aging, brings about a radiant complexion and prolongs the lifespan of your tan.

8. Stay hydrated! I can’t stress this enough! As important as it is for you to moisturize your skin, it’s just as vital to hydrate your insides. Most of us don’t get the recommended daily intake of water as is. It’s crucial for your overall wellbeing but also helps keep your skin looking supple and lively.

9. Eat a nutritious diet. Believe it or not, there are certain foods containing antioxidants and carotenoids that act as a natural sun block. Carotenoids can be found in most foods with vibrant colors or leafy greens. Think carrots, beets, oranges, etc. These carotenoids protect cells from oxidative damage and acts as natures very own sun screen. Aside from all that, eating clean gives your skin a luminous complexion and clears up most skin issues. *For additional information on going about diet reform the right way, get in touch with a certified nutritionist or acupuncturist.

Dress by Nookie

Special Thanks to CLD Style House

Photo by Richie Chance

Ambergris Caye, Belize

February 10, 2016
8 Easy Ways to Go Organic & Save Money on Your Skincare Routine

Making the switch to all natural skin care products can seem intimidating but it doesn’t need to be. Don’t waste one more day depriving your skin of all the benefits involved with these nutrient rich alternatives to your everyday routine. It may take some getting used to (especially the smell of ACV) however, I’ve found these antidotes to be much more effective AND affordable than the mid-range products I’d been buying for years! The great news is, whether you make your own or find your favorite all-natural line, there are many options out there. Remember that you have spent your entire life shaping the condition of your skin so results don’t happen overnight but with consistency and the right remedies, you will begin to see an incredible difference in your overall appearance…I know I have. And as with anything involving your personal health, always be sure to fully research something before you try it.

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1. Switch out your moisturizer for Jojoba Oil. Jojoba is the most similar to our skin’s natural sebum and doesn’t leave behind any greasy feeling residue. I could bathe in this stuff.

2. Apple cider vinegar (commonly referred to as ACV) works wonders as a skin brightening toner, balancing your pH levels and getting rid of red, splotchy skin. It’s nutrient rich properties are full of enzymes, pectin, B vitamins, folic acid and potassium that promote overall health. Try replacing your old toner with your very own concoction of equal parts ACV and water (for more sensitive skin) and gradually work your way up to a more potent remedy. It’s important to note that you only really get the benefits of ACV with the raw, unfiltered and unpasteurized version containing “the mother“. It sounds foreign and, quite possibly, extraterrestrial but this is really one product that can be utilized for a number of things…but we’ll discuss that another time. If you’re really looking to enhance the appearance of your skin, try apple cider vinegar as a toner and a daily supplement by mixing 1-2 tablespoons in water (or apple juice-yum!) to mask the flavor, up to three times a day.

3. Use coconut oil instead of lotion. Simply put, I can’t believe I ever used drug store lotions. The chemicals used in some can actually has reverse effects by stripping your skin of its natural oils. Have you ever tried reading the ingredients on the back of your typical drug store brand? It might have well been written in Chinese…that’s assuming you definitely don’t speak Chinese. You can pick up a large container of organic coconut oil at Costco, in fact, I believe it comes in a two-pack. (Oh, I love you Costco). Keep one in the kitchen for cooking and stick the other one in your bathroom for slathering yourself up after the shower. Your skin will thank you! **Use your fingers to massage a dab of coconut oil under your eyes before bed to wake up looking refreshed.

4. Make your own body wash. Your skin is the biggest organ on your body and comes into contact with many toxins and chemicals throughout the day, some coming from household products within your very own home. Pollution and other particles are absorbed by your skin each day leaving it dry and susceptible. Making your own wash smells delicious, costs less than buying other brands with similar quality ingredients and is completely customizable! This is the recipe I’ve been using lately and I love it!

5. Vitamin E oil has so many benefits. It’s frequently used for acne scars, eczema, psoriasis, brittle cuticles, sunburns, split ends and more. Use vitamin E oil as an overnight lip repair or in place of chapstick. As with coconut oil, you can also use a dab or two under each eye before bed as a under eye night serum.

6. Tea tree oil is an incredible product. You can pick up a bottle for a couple bucks at Trader Joe’s or any grocery/beauty supply store that carries natural products. Use it to spot treat pimples by lightly swabbing over it with a Q-Tip or adding to your favorite face mask mixture.

7. Raw honey face masks changed the game for my skin pampering routine. Manuka honey is known to be the best choice for it’s potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory compounds also containing antioxidant and humectant qualities. In other words, honey masks help to aid in healing scars, breaking down the bacteria in pimples, retaining moisture in the skin and delaying the signs of aging. Apply an even amount over your face with your fingers, gently massaging it into your skin and let sit for about 20 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Of course, Manuka honey is not the only kind you can use but be aware that as with most natural remedies, it’s crucial to buy organic, raw and unpasteurized. *The heating (pasteurization) of these products kill the beneficial properties within. For an added benefit, source local raw honey to help reduce allergies.

8. Replace your chemical-laden perfumes with all-natural scented oils such as rose, lavender, gardenia or jasmine. Many boutiques can even customize a smell to your liking by combining a few of your favorites. Be sure to opt for oils that are all natural with no artificial colors, scents or additives. I find the best oils have no water or alcohol in them. This makes for a higher quality product and will smell lovely much longer than your typical perfume.

September 9, 2015
Summer Beauty Essentials
Summer is my absolute favorite time of year. The world seems alive and there is so much to see and do! Most notably, summer brings the warmth and plenty of afternoons spent under the sun. I certainly don’t like spending a lot of time getting ready for a beach day or brunch with a girlfriend but I also like to feel like I’ve put myself together. Lately, I’ve been using these products as my key essentials for creating a soft, fresh look when I’m on the go.

Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay Foundation – The Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay offers full coverage as well as SPF-15 which helps protect your skin against sun damage and premature aging.

Tarte Cosmetics Cheek Stain – Their cheek stain is a great way to add a pop of color to your face and it also adds a dewy, hydrated look.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer – This is my all-time favorite concealer ever, ever, ever. I can’t emphasize that enough. It has the best coverage and a creamy texture that gives skin a smooth and porcelain like appearance. This is a must have no matter what the season.

Benefit Cosmetics Sun Beam Highlighter – I just discovered this baby a few months ago and really love the subtle shimmer it gives my skin. You need to use it sparingly but it’s guaranteed to make you glow like a goddess.

Lancome Juicy Lipgloss – Juicy tubes are where it’s at. These pocket-sized lip glosses give you just the right amount of sheer color and glazed goodness.

Maybelline Great Lash Mascara – The mascara really finishes off the look for me since I don’t have very dark eyelashes. I always feel like I look a bit more awake once I put it on. I’ll probably never stop using this mascara no matter how old I get. It really is one of the best ones and you can’t beat the price.

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A P P L I C A T I O N T I P S
- Always prep your face before applying makeup by cleansing and moisturizing
- Use NARS creamy concealer under your eyes to create a more ‘awake’ look
- Apply a small amount of cheek stain to the apples of your cheeks and use your fingers to blend
- Cheek Stains can also be used as lip stains
- Curl lashes before applying mascara. To retain a curl longer apply more mascara to the roots of your lashes than the ends
- Apply a waterproof mascara over your regular mascara for long lasting wear
- Use a small dab of the Benefit highlighter on your cheek bones, cupids bow and the bridge of your nose
- A small amount of lipgloss can also be used to create a dewy look by adding it your cheek bones or eyelids
What are some of your favorite summer essentials?
April 9, 2015
Cut the Crap: 10 Easy Ways to Slim Down for Bikini Season

Photography by themanuc

With the holidays out of the way and our first month into 2015 almost complete, this is about the time of year I really kick myself back into gear. Spring is just around the corner, so I thought I’d share some tips for slimming down and getting that svelte bikini body we all aim for. These tips may not seem effective on their own but they most certainly are and when combined, you create an all around healthier, happier lifestyle.

1) Eat Less Bread. I know, I know. Bread is one of my favorite things too, especially croissants but, you can easily save yourself calories and even sugars by nixing some of the bread in your diet. So next time you pull into In-N-Out, just remember to order that burger protein style!

2) Drink More Water! Most of us don’t drink as much water as we’re supposed to each day but it’s important to stay hydrated. Drinking water moisturizes and replenishes your body. If you tend to get headaches, dehydration could be the culprit. In order to liven up my daily intake, I drink lots of decaffeinated tea instead of coffee and I also buy large bags of lemons to squeeze into my water throughout the day. Not only does that provide you with a quick boost of vitamins but it’s an appetite suppressant that also helps clear up your skin and detoxify your body. Not bad. I’d say the glass is definitely looking half full, wouldn’t you?

3) Try New Recipes. This may sound obvious to some. Or maybe you don’t cook at all! Eating at home is one of the best ways to really know what’s in your food. When you prepare your own meals you know exactly how much fat, sodium and sugars are being used, making it a lot easier to cut back. By trying new recipes, I’ve found a new appreciation for foods that I would’ve never known I liked. I already tend to be an adventurous eater but I was surprised to find how many things at my regular grocery store I had never eaten. Another great way to cut corners is to replace typical recipes with healthier alternatives. One of my favorite spaghetti alternatives is using spaghetti squash instead of pasta noodles. If you’re interested in the recipe I use, comment below and maybe I’ll do a post on it.

4) Just Say No to High Fructose Corn Syrup! This is non-negotiable for me when I purchase anything from the grocery store. High fructose corn syrup leads to “increased metabolic disturbances that drive increases in appetite, weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, dementia and more.” HFCS is used as a cheaper substitution for real sugar so chances are, if a product contains it, you probably shouldn’t be eating it anyways. As a general rule of thumb, only purchase food with real, recognizable ingredients.

5) Replace Your Salad Dressing & Ditch the Croutons. Most dressings contain a ton of sugar. Unfortunately, the creamier the dressing, the more deliciously fattening it is. Did you know that a McDonald’s salad with dressing and croutons has nearly double the amount of calories and triple the amount of fat than a standard burger? Pretty disillusioning but a great reminder for the next time you’re at the salad bar. I opt for a drizzle of olive oil and some mashed avocados in my salad to give it a creamy, dressing like taste.

6) Healthy Desserts. It’s ok to splurge here and there. In fact, I think it’s healthy to! But, if you tend to get a sweet tooth after dinner, there are ways to curb it with healthier alternatives. One of my favorite quick dessert recipes consists of only two ingredients: sliced apples and cinnamon. They’re crunchy, sweet and totally hit the spot. Try baking them in the oven for a more pie-like treat! Fruit is a great way to get your sugar fix but be careful not to overdo it, especially with dried fruits. Remember: everything in moderation.

7) Snacking Through the Day. This may seem counterintuitive when trying to slim down but it’s actually a great way to keep your metabolism going and burning calories. Of course you want to make sure you’re putting nutritious things in your body so be conscientious of the snacks you choose. I get bored easily with the same foods so I’m always looking for new products at the market but my go to snacks when packing a bag for long shoots are cut veggies with hummus (there are individual serving packs or I scoop some into tupperware), nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts), sunflower seeds, boiled eggs, fresh cut fruit, avocado toast with cucumbers and fresh pepper and turkey & lettuce rollups with spicy mustard. Low-carb, high-fiber foods take more time to digest than other foods, which leaves you feeling full for longer periods of time.

8) Limit White Foods. With the exception of white meat, white foods generally contain a lot of fat and carbs. This includes butter, breads, potatoes, rice, creamy dishes, pastas and all those other delectable foods that are coming to mind.

9) Relax! Getting enough sleep is important for many reasons but eventually your metabolism will slow down without the proper amount of rest. Additionally, the stress in your body can release cortisol, causing calories to be stored as fat.

10) Exercise!!! Last but certainly not least, it is MOST important that you create a healthy environment within your body by being physically active. There is only so much that tricks and tips can do. The bottom line is that exercise is necessary and it can be fun, too! I’d much rather be outside than stuck in a gym so I alternate between rollerblading, biking, hiking and whatever other random events play into my life throughout the week. Last weekend it was snowboarding…great workout by the way. I’m still sore! For those of you who don’t live in a temperate paradise like California, your living room can be a great place to get your heart rate up for at least 10 minutes a day. For more on that, visit our previous blog. There are always little ways to burn extra calories through the day by parking in further spots, taking the stairs and even doing ab strengthening exercises while sitting in the car or at your desk. Every bit counts! Be proactive about being active!

January 29, 2015
The Beauty Guide to Staying Healthy & Hydrated During the Holiday Season

Staying hydrated is crucial to your health, appearance and overall well being, so DeziStyle is here to help you target some key areas. These products are personal favorites but feel free to take the concept and find a brand that suits your preferences. I tend to opt for natural products as often as I can and there are a lot of great ones out there if you’re willing to do a little research.

With proper hydration your skin will glow, your hair & nails will grow stronger, and you are less susceptible to disease and other ailments. Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to function properly so why not give it what it needs to preform at full steam. Here are a few ways to feel revitalized and pamper yourself from the inside out. Take note that some of these products are best used during drier months and may be switched out when the weather warms up and humidity levels rise again.

1. Keep your hair happy and healthy!

The winter can be harsh on your hair, even in sunny California, so it’s important to take extra care during the cooler months when the weather is dry. Brittle hair isn’t a good look on anyone so do yourself a favor and be sure to give your luscious locks a little more TLC this holiday season. Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask has traveled the world in my toiletries bag to give my hair some serious hydration when I’m on the go. I love the smell and it makes my hair so smooth and silky, even after one treatment.

2. Keep your kisser kissable!

There’s nothing worse than ending up with dry, cracked lips under the mistletoe so why not put an end to painful dry lips with an inexpensive, mega-intense lip repair by Aquaphor. It has vitamin C & E, shea butter and a soothing chamomile essence. I use it in my routine every morning and before bed each night.

3. Supplement your daily intake

We all indulge during the holidays, at least just a little. Our sugar and alcohol levels are generally spiked as much as the holiday party’s punch bowl and sleep schedules are far from what they were just before months before. We tend to deplete ourselves of the proper nutrients in favor of flaky pies and holiday themed cocktails but I always treat myself to a boost of nutrition every morning with a medley of vitamins including biotin (for hair & nails), vitamin E, vitamin C, vitamin D3, zinc, omega 3 fish oil, calcium, collagen, lecithin & B-complex. They vary depending on symptoms or necessity but the aforementioned are my staples. However, let’s say you’d prefer to take one, all encompassing vitamin instead. MegaFood is a terrific brand that is certified farm fresh and vegan, amongst it’s many accolades. They offer a women’s multi-vitamin that can be taken even on an empty stomach. Perfect for combating those caffein filled mornings that I know we are all guilty of.

4. Keep your cuticles hydrated

Keep your mani fresh and revitalize your cuticles with Julep Essential Cuticle Oil. This travel sized roll-on oil contains 7 essential oils for strengthening nails and cuticles and smells therapeutic. *Pro tip: Use a small amount of the oil to tame fly aways

5. Don’t forget to moisturize

I truly am obsessed with this Intensive Care lotion by Eucerin. It’s the bomb.com and I tell no lies. Just think of the difference it would make on his hands too. 😉

6. Seal your locks

My hair dresser started using this on my hair years ago and I never looked back. I use this at home, at the salon, and on my travels. Literally wherever my hair goes, so does Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Serum.

7. Plump up your face

Moisturizing your skin fills in lines and reduces the appearance of imperfections. By applying a quality moisturizer each day, your skin will radiate health, youth, and be less prone to acne. I’ve been using this one for years now. In fact, I own quite the arsenal of Raya products because they are made with excellent ingredients and work very well. I use this Vitamin B cream during the winter and switch to the Vitaplex-C revitalizing cream to replenish vitamins C, A, D, and B as well as help combat UV radiation. It’s non-greasy but deeply soothing to the skin and made of key natural ingredients. Check out their whole line of products at Raya.com

8. Teatox: Delicious & Nutritious!

I have yet to meet a tea I do not like and luckily my tenacious addiction is a healthy one. I choose my tea based on time of day, flavor and medicinal benefits. I strongly urge you to research your top health concerns (ex: weight loss, immunity, digestion, cramps, energy) and pick a tea recommended to aid in each scenario. Drinking tea throughout the day keeps you hydrated but it’s hard to take with you when you’re busy. My most used item I own could quite possibly be my sealable Thermus brand tumbler. It keeps the liquid inside either cold or hot for up to 8 hours. (Why not add this item to your XMAS list! Any avid coffee or tea drinker would definitely appreciate one of these).

9. Make ’em hard

My sexual innuendos may be weak but my nails won’t be! OPI Nail Envy is going to cost you a little more than your average polish but you can count on having strong, lustrous nails with the use of this strengthening formula.

10. Feelin’ Fresh

Use an all natural toner like this floral rose water by Fresh. It’s 100% pure rose water and helps to sooth & tone your face. This concoction gets extra points for being sulfate free with no synthetic dyes or fragrances. A nice, refreshing mist or two is all you need after cleansing the skin.

December 16, 2014
6 Reasons to Love Lemons + DIY Scrub
When it comes to fruit, lemons seem to get a bad rap. Although they may not be a favorite for fruit salads or candy flavors, lemons are a staple on my weekly shopping list for a very good reason. Once I discovered just how many health and household benefits it provides, they quickly became a prized item for me. There are several good uses for lemon but these six are my most frequently utilized ones.

1. Lemon juice is a natural beauty enhancer. Spot treating acne with some lemon on a Q-Tip is a widely known trick for combating zits by helping it to kill bacteria and dry up the oils causing the breakout. And, just as good as it is to use topically, its extremely healthy to incorporate it into your diet to help combat weight gain, control high blood pressure, give hair and skin a vibrant glow and can fade scars or dark spots. You can also use lemon to alleviate the effects of sunburn. Since I incorporated lemon juice into my diet each day, I’ve seen a dramatic difference in my skin. I don’t break out as much and there is a noticeable glow. Try replacing your morning coffee with a cup of hot water, fresh lemon and honey. Not only will you get a kick of vitamin-C, but it tastes great and will hydrate your skin.

2. The 60 second tooth whitener. Lemon is a powerful cleanser and with just a smidge of baking soda and a squirt of lemon juice, you’ve got your own homemade remedy for coffee stained teeth. Alternatively, you can squeeze a drop of lemon onto your toothpaste before you brush. As a side note, lemon juice is extremely acidic so be aware of any burning or sensitivity and be sure not to brush for more than a minute or so! Lemon also stops gum bleeding & fights halitosis –AKA stinky breath. Here’s a tip: when on a date, always order a slice of lemon in your water and when the meal is over, take a healthy little suckle on it. It will work better and quicker to clean and deodorize your breath than any stick of gum would!

3. Nutritious & delicious! There are a ton of health benefits to drinking lemon but the most important ones to me are the incredible source of nutritious components inside (vitamin C, vitamin B, proteins and carbohydrates), it’s powerful flu fighting properties, it’s ability to flush toxins from the body, prevent diabetes and aid in digestion. As mentioned, I love juicing a fresh lemon in the morning and adding it to fresh brewed tea with local honey, which happens to also be good for allergies or sore throats. Or, try adding lemons and fresh mint to a jug of cool water for a revitalizing, healthy beverage – *vodka optional.

4. All natural hair-apy. For those that suffer from dry scalp and dandruff, lemon oil has been shown to reduce or eliminate the symptoms associated with this frustrating issue. You can try making your own concoction using a bit of coconut oil, lemon juice, and honey. Subsequently, when I was a kid there was a product called Sun In, anyone remember it? Well, you can basically garner the same effects of natural highlights by streaking lemon juice in your hair and laying out in the sun for some time. It was a weekend ritual for us girls, especially during the summer months, so I can vouch for it’s golden aftermath.

5. Safe & non-toxic cleanser. Not only is lemon juice great for cleaning out toxins and bacteria in your body, but it’s a powerful substitute for all those chemical-filled household products. Use lemon juice to clean grout, stains, rust, or those grimy cutting boards. I always toss my used lemon peels in the garbage disposal to help keep it clean and make the kitchen smell extra fresh!

6. Make a sugar scrub!

This is probably the most fun use of lemon. Make a scrub that you can use all over your body and face! You’d pay a pretty penny to have an all organic scrub like this at any spa, so why not pamper yourself a little. You can use the same scrub to remove callouses, moisturize skin, cleanse your face, use as a lip scrub or even slather it on some sliced apples for dessert because, it’s all natural! All you need is four simple ingredients to complete your sugar scrub recipe: lemon, brown sugar, coconut oil and honey. Of course there are a ton of other recipes you can try (and I recommend you do), but these four are the most important when making a proper scrub for all-over body use.

As I mentioned earlier, lemon cleanses, lightens scars or sun spots, brightens complexion and tightens pores. The brown sugar acts as a gentle scrub to help slough off dead skin and contains a natural source of glycolic acid, helping to rid your skin of bacteria all while costing much less than your local microdermabrasion clinic. Please note that although any sugar can work for this recipe, I chose brown sugar because the crystals tend to be much smaller and more gentle on your skin, especially the face. If you haven’t tried coconut oil in a scrub yet, here’s a couple reasons why you should. Coconut oil contains vitamin E, leaving skin moisturized and protected. It is also rich in useful proteins which helps the skin to repair and heal, as well as act as an anti-aging formula. One last merit for coconut oil is that it doesn’t go rancid for a very long time so it should preserve your yummy concoctions until you’ve finished using them. (Tip: Look for organic cold pressed, unrefined, chemical free coconut oil. This is the healthiest.) Last but certainly not least is the honey. Honey is not only a delicious distraction while making your scrub but it has been widely known to be an anti-fungal, specifically to acne-prone skin. This nectar of the gods is also a natural humectant, keeping moisture locked into the skin and giving you a glowing, hydrated complexion.

Now that you have the ingredients, let’s talk about preparing it! You may very well use your own discretion to eyeball out the amount you’d prefer to make a scrub suited to your preference but here’s a guideline for your convenience. Mix these all together very well until you get the consistency you’re looking for and voila! It takes no time and you’ve got yourself a top notch skin care product. This recipe is just right for me but feel free to go heavier or lighter on each ingredient if you wish for a silkier or more abrasive scrub. Enjoy!
- 1/2 Fresh squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp organic local honey
Photography by Desirée Anderson
October 1, 2014
New Kid on the Blog

So here it is! Finally! My blog. My precious. It’s been months in the making and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. To be honest, I couldn’t figure out how to launch it. I’ve been up to my elbows in articles about the who, what, where, when and why on launching a blog and the do’s and don’ts that come along with it. I thought about giveaways, throwing an event, parties, donating to my favorite charity…you name it. I just wanted it to be special without having to set off fireworks or fly a banner off the tail end of a plane, but nothing seemed right– it all felt “gimmicky”.

I remembered something a mentor of mine once said which was, “showing up is half the battle”. How true is that? What truly is important is the action of doing, creating and sharing. All else should fall into place, or so we hope. This blog is something I’ve talked about doing for a long time so I decided to throw it all out the window and just DO IT!

So what can you expect? Well, aside from my attempts at witty anecdotes, my goal is to share my tips, trips, secrets of the trade and all around lifestyle with you. I hope to teach you, help you, inspire you and motivate you just as much as I hope there is some reciprocal effect that takes place within myself as well. I’ve always loved writing, photography, fashion and travel so I couldn’t imagine doing anything that makes me happier to share.

Throughout the process of planning and developing DeziStyle I’ve challenged myself to create a site that captures more than just a photo, but encompasses the complete essence of who I am. As a newbie in the online blogging community it’s a little scary to jump into such a big pond of well established bloggers but that’s where you come in! With your support, the blog has so much potential to grow so please take a moment and subscribe for free by entering your email in the ‘Follow Me’ box on the homepage and share the link with friends!

Thank you for stopping by and sharing this journey with me! And please, feel free to leave me comments below on what articles you would like to see on DeziStyle! I’d love to hear your ideas for upcoming posts. 🙂

xo

Desirée

*A special thank you to Garrett Langford for designing the #DeziStyle logo and a very big thank you to Vin Suh for being so patient with me while creating the website and doing a such beautiful job.

August 25, 2014
Nectar

Photography by Amanda Gift & Scott Brinegar at Snaps Studio

Makeup by Nimai Marsden

Article featured in Elléments Magazine

Shooting this editorial for Elléments Magazine with Snaps Studio and makeup artist Nimai Marsden was such a fun and artistic day. I crave the opportunities to work with other like-minded, imaginative people who are just as enthusiastic as I am. It’s a breath of fresh air to be able to think outside the box and distance myself from the catalog routine for just a moment.

The idea was to incorporate honey, the nectar of the gods, with glam makeup. Nimai used soft browns, gold, coral and reds mostly from MAC cosmetics to create these stunning images. She also used both top and bottom lashes to create a more dramatic look.

It’s a good thing I like honey because I ingested more than I would’ve liked in order to experiment with some more outrageous shots (not pictured below). By the end of the day I was covered in honey -literally- from head to toe. I’m pretty sure this was the most delicious–and moisturizing photo shoot I’d ever done…thank goodness it wasn’t set in the woods! 😉

We are so proud of the outcome, I hope you enjoy the pics as much as we do!

August 22, 2014
Nazz Style

Photography by Osvaldo Tanda

Hair & Makeup by Nazz

One of my dearest friends in L.A. also happens to be my go-to hair guru. We met backstage at an Ed Hardy fashion show in Las Vegas years ago where he did my hair and we’ve never looked back.

When Nazz was redoing his website we decided to collaborate and create something visually and architecturally intricate. I take no credit for any of the designs shown below. These were all conceptualized, sketched out and produced by Nazz. Some of his best attributes are his imagination and ability to create such incredible works of art using both real and synthetic components.

We were all very pleased with the outcome of these images so, enjoy! And be sure to check out www.NazzStyle.com!

August 6, 2014

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