#ParadeTogether

I’m proud to announce that I am apart of the Parade family! If not you’re not hip, allow for me to put you on. Parade is a revolutionary underwear company. Their products are soft, breathable , and they even use recycled fabrics that are good for your body and the environment. What I love most is that they donate 1% of their profits to Planned Parenthood across the nation. They also carry sizes ranging from XS to 3XL

Their core fabric, Replay, is made of 85% recycled polyamide and all of their materials are Oeko-Tex certified, meaning they’re free from harmful chemicals that pollute your skin and our waters. And their packaging is compostable.

NOT TO MENTION IT’S CUTE AF!

I was given a link to share with my friends and family:

 http://secret.yourparade.com/ericaanastasiia

When you shop through my link, you'll get one free if you buy two pairs! 

Let me know what you think!

xx

Boscia Resurfacing Treatment Toner & Peptide Trio Eye Cream

Boscia Resurfacing Treatment Toner & Peptide Trio Eye Cream

I’m always on the hunt for a good toner - I just feel like I can never find anything that compliments my skin. I’ve found some toners to be tacky, or too thick for the rest of my skin routine. I also don’t like anything too heavy or abrasive either. Some people swear by Apple Cider Vinegar but I can’t take the smell of it. This Boscia toner has a boost of acv helps tone the skin and softens the look of wrinkles for a brightened glow.

According to their website, it’s great for all skin types. After cleansing, pour treatment onto a cotton pad. Gently sweep onto dry face. Gentle enough for daily use.

The eye cream has become a staple in my under eye routine. What I like most about this cream is that is ultra-rich and hydrating. I notice a subtle plumpness to my eyes once it fully settles. Scoop a small amount to fingertip and pat gently on to eye area - never rub that’s how you get crows feet.

Let me know what you think!

CIRCELL

I’m extremely lucky to have several brands send me their products to test out so it only makes sense for me to share the benefits of the products. Some may work and other may not - I’m here to be that guinea pig for you all. Please continue to keep in mind - Just because it works for me and my skin type, doesn’t mean it will work for yours.

Click here to access the Circell website

I want to introduce you to Circell - Maya Crothels is the brains behind the brand. She, like many of us, had a hard time finding the right skin regime and dedicated her time into designing her own clean skin care line. Circell is loaded with dermatologist grade performance ingredients and combined with elements of nature–clays, essential oils, herbal extracts and marine-based elements

Cirrcell–a hybrid of Circle, meaning whole and balanced, and Cellular indicating real change. 

• Fragrance Free

• Paraben Free

• Pthalate Free

• Free of Harsh Surfactants

• No artificial colors

• BPA free packaging

• Cruelty Free

My favorite out of the bunch would have to be the Circell Mandarin Cleansing Milk. My skin is instantly brighter and refreshed after 1 use. It doesn’t dry out my skin and it smells heavenly. This cleanser gives you the radiance that you’ve been looking for.

MANDARIN CLEANSING MILK, $45

It’s infused with powerful antioxidants, this rich and creamy cleanser fades age spots and under-eye circles as it rebalances the skin and protects from environmental stress - who doesn’t want that?

I’m almost done with my first bottle and I can’t be any more satisfied with the results. It’s a bit pricey but well worth the money if you’re looking for a cleanser that will give you an instant radiant glow.

A good cleanser is super important when it comes to solidifying your skin care regime - I’m glad that Circell helped make my decision easier.

HELLOAVA -The Brains Behind Your Beauty

My skin has been glowing lately - Thanks to HelloAva. This online service makes finding the right skin care regimen easier than ever. They utilize AI to personally curate a skincare regimen for every client. All you have to do is take a quiz with Ava. They will send you the perfectly curated products for your in a HelloAva gift box. Unlike other skin consultants, Ava will follow up on how your skin is doing.

My skin type is:

CRPM

combination

resistant

pigmented

mature

I received the following in my gift box:

REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic , $35 -A toner that provides a daily dose of clean bio active extracts to help the skin exfoliate and give your skin a balanced glow, naturally.

REN Flash Rinse 1-Minute Facial, $48 - A one-minute mask that firms, tones, and smooths the skin with 10 percent vitamin C that turns a dull complexion bright.

Herbivore Pink Clay Cleansing Bar Soap, $12 -A gentle, clay-based bar soap for face and body with the light scent of natural citrus and flowers. 

You know I always have discount codes to share - Make sure you notify your consultant at the beginning of your consultation that you’ll be using my code - Thank me later! xx

DISCOUNT CODE: ERICASS30

REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

Let me know how you like the service!

LOLI Beauty

LOLI has easily become one of my current go-to’s during the winter season. LOLI or ‘Living Organic Loving Ingredients’ focuses on the purest, most potent, food-grade ingredients. They’re on a mission to make a conscious change as well! Every purchase or more they donate $1 to organizations that are making a difference. They sent over a few items from their MINI line and I absolutely love them. They gave me a discount code to share for 15% off! ERICA15 at the checkout!xx

www.LOLIbeauty.com

DISCOUNT CODE: ERICA15

MINI Plum Elixir- They’re #1 best selling, glow-inducing plum serum instantly hydrates parched, dry skin, chapped lips and damaged hair. It’s a nicely balanced moisturizer. I’ve mentioned that I have combination skin which means I can easily flake but this keeps me hydrated. I always feel weird putting oil on my face but its been working wonderfully for me in the last few days. 

Tea Sea Elixir- This elixir balances oil production, shrinks blemishes and brighten skin tone. I HIGHLY recommend this oil as one of the best products on the market. It’s works well with hyperpigmentation, dullness, or dryness. Warm a few drops into your hands then press your palms against your cheeks and forehead, and finish by gently patting your nose and chin. Oh, and it smells amazing!

MINI Blue Cornflower Water- This pale blue micellar water is the perfect toner. It cleanses, tones, pacifies stressed skin.  My face feels cleans and rejuvenated. This always removes excess makeup or dirt without leaving it greasy. I’m definitely going to need more of this magical face potion.

Yup, I’m fully sold and they will be seeing my money once I finish these bottles. Thanks again LOLI! I truly honored to partner with a company that is mindful in their choices of both the planet and people.

Nuria Beauty

Proud to announce that I’m a brand ambassador for Nuria Beauty! Y’all know I love good skin care products so I was enthused to try these out. I did some research on the brand and found out that this whole line is clean, effective, vegan, cruelty-free, and satisfaction-guaranteed. So if you are completely dissatisfied they will refund your money. They sent over the Hydrate Moisture Replenishing Serum and the Defend Gentle Exfoliator.

The Defend Gentle Exfoliator is super lightweight and literally sheds the dead skin cells off of your face leaving it softer than the fur on a new born colt. It doesn’t foam up and is perfect for sensitive skin. It isn't an aggressive exfoliator which is ideal for my skin. It purifies your skin using the natural cleansing power of Ginkgo to reveal radiant, glowing skin. The directions advise to once or twice a week, and to apply the exfoliator to a wet face. Massage gently and rinse with water. That’s what the website said.

After using the exfoliator, I followed back up with the Hydrate Moisture Replenishing Serum. The formula was developed as a dry skin booster to absorb quickly and replenish the skin, preventing moisture loss all day. It works nicely as a primer for your makeup.My skin was dewy all day! 

What I like most about this brand is their contribution to the community. Nuria contributes a portion of all sales to girls education. With every purchase, a girl is closer to becoming the first in her family to graduate high school.

Super satisfied with the branding, product, and message of this skin care line. There aren't many companies that cater to your skin and the community. I’m grateful to be apart of the Nuria family! Make sure you check out their website - they have several products that cater to different skin types! I’m thrilled at this new partnership! xx

My 1st Make Up Tutorial

It's FINALLY here! My first make up tutorial! I want to thank you guys for the continuous love and support. It took a lot of courage for me to show y'all what I look like without make up and to film this tutorial.  I'm asked daily about my make up routine and the products I've used, so here you have it!

I stumbled a few times but I'm human so be easy on me lol 

Please LIKE, COMMENT, AND SUBSCRIBE!

BIG SHOUT OUT TO @TECHNI.FOREVER FOR HELPING ME EDIT THIS! 

BEIJOS TO SOL DE JANEIRO!

BEIJOS TO SOL DE JANEIRO!

They sent over some of their most sought over products and I must say I'm very impressed! Yall know I love beauty products and they have easily become some of my staples for healthy glowing skin. 

Sol De Janeiro (click to view website) 

Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, $45 (click to purchase)

I'm already obsessed with this cream! I'm hooked on the scent alone -  its a blend of Cupuaçu Butter, Açaí Oil, and Coconut Oil. This cream will significantly smooth your skin's texture, taking posteriors to a sexy, positively pinchable level. 

Brazilian 4 Play Moisturizing Shower Cream- Gel, $25 (click to purchase) 

I love body washes, I have been on the search for the perfect one for a long time and I believe I have finally found it. This body wash is amazing, it smells amazing, it's so moisturizing and not greasy. I have sensitive skin and some washes break me out, but this one has not done that at all. I love it.

Brazilian Body Buff, $25 (click to purchase)

I could not believe how soft and silky my skin was after using this Body Buff. It is really a remarkable product. It provides three levels of exfoliation, using Tropical Volcanic Pumice, Brazilian Quartz Crystal, and Rice Grain to immediately reveal touchably smooth and glowing skin.

Your ass WILL thank you, trust me!

Thank you, SOL DE JANEIRO!

xx  

2 Inexpensive Face Masques

Hello my loves! I was talking to my best friend and she wanted me to recommend some new face masks. I obviously told her about the 2 face masques that I swore by. She then called me out and said that I should talk about some of the inexpensive masques that I also use and she was right. I want to show you guys that you can maintain a healthy glow for alot less!

So check it out below:

You can purchase Beauty 360 products at CVS and Aveeno products at your local drug store.

Aveeno Active Naturals Positively Radiant 60 Second In-Shower Facial, $9 (click to purchase)

My mom actually put me on to this facial and it's pretty legit. You can use it every day or a few times a week. Basically you moisten your face with water while you're in the shower, then apply it evenly to your face. Leave it on for about 60 secs or more if you're feeling adventurous then massage in circular motions. Rinse with warm water then you'll notice healthy, glowing skin. This in-shower facial is suppose to replace your daily cleanser. Now I will never part ways with my Kiehls cleanser but it doesn't help me boost that radiant glow I'm always looking for. 

Beauty 360 Brightening Radiance Facial Mask, $3 (click to purchase)

My girl Janice put me on to this mask so I'm going to continue to pay it forward.  For a $3 face mask, this is surprisingly good. The mask goes on white, but the color disappears as it sunk in. Within 15 mins, your face should feel super tight. Once you wash off with warm water, you will notice how soft and glowy your skin is instantly. It also helps with fine lines - no lie.

Just because these products work for my mom, Janice, and myself doesn't mean that they will always work for you. I enjoy sharing my secrets with you guys but if you notice some terrible changes in your skin, I would highly recommend reaching out to your dermatologist.

Let me know what you think! Are the drug store face masks worth it?

xx 

Skin Spa NYC (2nd visit)- Back Bay, Boston

Back like I never left! Shout out to Nectaria and Amanda for their amazing service!

During my 2nd visit to Skin Spa, I recieved "The Angie" facial which was named after (you guessed it!) Angelina Jolie. This 3-step facial is a combination of exfoliating microdermabrasion, brightening peel, and laser rejuvenation.  Check it out below!

#LoveYourSkin #SkinAmbassador #SkinSpaNYC

Microdermabrasion treatments use a minimally abrasive instrument to gently sand your skin, removing the thicker, uneven outer layer.

This type of skin rejuvenation is used to treat light scarring, discoloration, sun damage and stretch marks.

What microdermabrasion can do

• Improve age spots and black heads
• Improve hyperpigmentation (patches of darkened skin)
• Exfoliate your skin, resulting in a refreshed appearance
• Lessen the appearance of stretch marks.
• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Reduce or eliminate enlarged pores
• Treat acne and the scars left by acne

Microdermabrasion helps to thicken your collagen, which results in a younger looking complexion. Collagen is a protein in your skin that's abundant when you're a child and makes skin appear taut and smooth. Collagen production declines as we age, resulting in looser, uneven skin.

The next treatment was the chemical peel - it's basically an exfoliating treatment without abrasion or down time that reveals fresh, refined skin. Power Peels will loosen the top layer of the dermis, promote cell renewal, reduce fine lines, minimize the appearance of pores, even out skin tone and prevent clogged pores. Perfect for acne-prone or oily skin types. Treatment utilizes 25% Lactic, 22% Beta Salicylic or 33% Glycolic properties (your esthetician will determine highest yielding choice during treatment).

How often should I get power peels?
SkinSpa recommends power peels every two weeks to help maintain your healthy skin and correct and prevent skin issues before they become problematic.

What are the benefits of Power Peels?
Power Peels can result in noticeable improvements to skin tone, texture and appearance.  Power Peels can even out pigment, increases hydration, refine texture and uncovers brightness. Dissolves pore-clogging debris, smooths fine lines and wrinkles, diminishes/reduces superficial scars, reduces acne lesions and inflammation, fades post-blemish hyper pigmentation.. It is also ideal for other body parts.

Will Power Peels make me break out?
A Power Peel may/should exfoliate the surface of your skin, so you may have a slight breakout for a few days after the treatment related to the compromised skin barrier.  These generally subside within a few days to a week.

When should I not get a power peel?  Are there any restrictions or contraindications?

• Power Peels are not recommended if you have the following conditions:
• Sunburn on the face
• Open cuts or abrasions
• Bruises and swelling (Get your physician’s approval for a treatment)
• Active herpes lesions/Cold Sores
• Conjuctivitis (“pink eye”)
• Severe eczema
• Severe psoraisis
• Impetigo
• Fungal infection
• Extreme allergic sensitivities
• Illness – please reschedule as a courtesy to the staff and other clients
• Recent Botox or Filler treatment (no facial treatments within 48 hours for Botox, 1 week for Filler)
• Pregnancy: if you are pregnant, your facial treatment will be modified.  If you have special circumstances or restrictions, a Doctor’s note is required

Will my skin be red or irritated after my power peel?
You may experience redness after a power peel.  Your skin also might be slightly irritated; however this should clear up within a few days.  Certain skin types (sensitive), are more prone to post-treatment redness.

This is my 2nd time receiving the Laser Genesis treatment. The laser wasn't as warm as my first treatment but I most certainly noticed a difference in my skin after my first visit.

What Is Laser Genesis?

This preventative and corrective treatment kick-starts collagen production to diminish fine lines and wrinkles. The service uses advanced science to plump and rejuvenate the skin for a firmer, more youthful finish. It safely treats active acne, acne scares, uneven skin tone, rosacea, and enlarged pores. With multiple uses, Laser Genesis is a service requested often by individuals with problem areas, or those who are concerned about aging skin.

For the treatment itself, a gentle cleanse and tone is the first step, followed by the Laser Genesis treatment. Safe on all skin types, this is our most sought-after skin solution.  

Let me know if you have any questions! I really enjoy my visits to Skin Spa and their services. My treatments may seem extreme but these are all preventative steps to keep my skin glowing and young looking.

xx

Favorite Beauty Tools

What's up, what's up?

I wanted to share a few beauty tools that I periodically use to keep me looking young and what not. Check it out below!

Vivitar T-Bar Facial Stimulater, $29 (click image to purchase)  

So I found this bad boy at Marshalls for $10 and I must say it's a cool beauty tool to have. The purpose of this tool is to reduce wrinkles around the eyes and forehand for a rejuvenated look. It's great to use with your serums so they're deeply penetrated into your skin. This tool vibrates and instantly wakes up your skin. It feels like a massage for your face and I can feel the tension or stress slowly diminish.

I use this for about 10-15 minutes a few times a week. I focus on my under eye and forehand with this tool.

Revive Jade Facial Roller, $10 (click image to purchase)

I found this facial roller at my other favorite place, TJ Maxx for about $10 and it kind of serves the same purpose of the facial stimulater above. This roller relieves stress and tension in your face. The cold therapy helps recharge and stimulate skin for a natural glow - it also helps prime your skin for creams and moisturizers.

PRO TIP: Place the tool in the fridge for 30 mins prior to using for long lasting cool therapy.

I use this tool on my cheek bones, above my eyebrows and laugh lines. I'm trying everything to prevent myself from getting Botox so until then I'm rolling the wrinkles away.  

Finishing Touch Flawless - Instant and Painless Facial Hair Remover, $20 (click image to purchase)

Okay, I kept complaining to my mom that she gave me a stash and as a result she bought this for me for Christmas. This devise erases hair instantly and painlessly without irritation.  It's hypoallergenic and gentle on all skin types - it also has a built-in light that makes it easy to see and remove every single hair from upper lip, cheek, chin, eyebrows. It's portable and discreet - but it's not something I would have in my purse lol. It has a removable head for easy cleaning. 

I'm not a hairy person by any means but I do get a little peach fuzz above my lip, which is annoying when applying make up or making out. I've used it a couple of times and my lip hair hasn't grown in faster or thicker.

That's all I have for today babes!

xx

EDEN BodyWorks Coconut Shea Collection

EDEN BodyWorks HOOKED.IT.UP.

Thank you to Ylorie and the whole Eden BodyWorks team for sending over their new Coconut Shea Collection for skin and hair. Guys, you can purchase Eden BodyWorks at your local CVS. 

Eden BodyWorks Coconut Shea Collection, (click image to purchase)

EDEN BodyWorks is perfect for hair of all types needing moisture and sheen due to over processing and heat damage. Certain parts of my hair definitely have suffered from heat damage from weaving for so long.

My hair type is 3C/4A. Do you know how long it took for me to figure that out?! I'm so used to wearing weaves as a heat protective style, I never let my curls flourish. EBW actually will give me the courage to do so ONCE I like the length of my hair. My hair is extremely dry and constantly needs moisture and unfortunately, I don't have the time or patience to always care for it. But once I'm at bra length hair - it's over for y'all (lol)

I took my weave out a few days ago and haven't stopped using the new line. It leaves my hair feeling nourished, shiny, and smelling amazing. I already can tell that EBW is going to help to reach my ideal hair length in no time. This doesn't mean I'm going to stop weaving or trying new hair styles out - I'll treat it better with the help of EBW.

Check out my favorites from the line below!

Coconut Shea Pudding Soufflé, $9 (click image to purchase)

Okay so I washed my hair with the Moisturizing Shampoo and Creamy Conditioner - instantly noticed that my curls were nourished and shiny. The Natural Pudding Souffle took the moisture up another notch. The souffle also reduced frizz and enhanced my texture all while providing a glossy finish.

EDEN BodyWorks Natural Creamy Conditioner, $9 (click image to purchase)

Packed with moisturizing agents like coconut oil and shea butter, the Creamy Conditioner replenishes and strengthens hair against breakage. My hair drank this conditioner up!

EDEN BodyWorks Control Edge Glaze, $9 (click image to purchase)

This is the BEST edge control ever - I  don't care what you say! It changed my life! It provides a firm, manageable hold along the hairline and/or hair shaft to preserve your desired style. This lightweight formula will not create build up. Slay your edges the proper way and thank me later.

EDEN BodyWorks Body Wash and Lotion,$9 each (click image to purchase) 

Coconut Shea Body Lotion is a lightweight, hydrating formula enriched with Vitamin E and Shea Butter that left my skin soft, smooth & moisturized.  Coconut Shea Body Wash washes away impurities and moisturizes skin. The non-drying formula cleanses without drying the skin out. Enriched with Shea butter and Vitamin E to leave skin feeling soft and nourished. Love love love this combo!

I'm obsessed with these products and they have easily become apart of my everyday hair and skin routine. Thanks again, EDEN BodyWorks!

xx

2 Face Masques I Swear By

If you're genuinely taking the time to read my beauty posts; THANK YOU!  This is all still very new to me, so I appreciate you deeply.

Okay so boom... Who doesn't love a good face mask? Face masks are the perfect skin care treatment to help you with your skin care concerns. The right face mask can help hydrate skin, remove excess oils, and help improve the appearance of your pores. They're also an excellent way to help pull out impurities.

Check out my 2 favorite face masks below!  

Kiehl's Turmeric & Canberry Seed Energizing Radiance Masque, $40 (click image to purchase)

This facial mask instantly brightens dull, fatigued skin and restores skin’s healthy, rosy appearance over time.

Formulated with Cranberry Extract, an antioxidant packed superberry rich in ` and anti-inflammatory Turmeric Extract, this unique mask also contains micronized Cranberry seeds that can be used to gently exfoliate the skin while washing the mask off after use.

This mask really works wonders. It leaves my skin feeling hydrated, soft, and glowy. I have sensitive skin so I'm always hesitant about the masks I use. I'm always worried about breaking out and this mask refreshes my skin without breaking it out. I use this one a few times a week and it keeps my dark spots to a minimum.

GlamGlow SuperMud Clearing Treatment Masque Soin Purifant, $60 (click image to purchase)

This masque is better used for acne and problem areas. Its really strong and you can visibly see your pore congestion pull-out & encapsulate within the mask. You'll notice immediate and amazing results in just one use. 

Research Results
After just 1 day of use: 94% felt their skin looked renewed; 91% saw an improvement in skin clarity; 94% felt it gently cleared their skin. 

On day 7 after using it 3x in a week: 98% felt their skin looked renewed; 97% saw an improvement in skin clarity; 97% felt it gently cleared their skin.

Okay, so the reviews on GlamGlow's website will most likely turn you away from trying this mask. Most of the people complain about the mask burning their skin (yikes!). Again, I have sensitive skin and this mask did not irritate my skin at all. The mask has a tingling sensation, but did not burn me in anyway. I actually like to steam my face over the stove top before I use this mask. 

It leaves my skin even toned and silky. This is also a good spot treatment .

  Remember! I'm not a dermatologist - so whatever works for me, may not work for you.  

xx