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The Gloss-ary: C is for Couture
The Gloss-ary continues with some vital terminology for your beautiful self! Keep checking back for more editions to the gloss-ary, or browse what we already have:
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| Calendula: an emollient said to have healing, soothing and antiseptic properties. Used to treat dry skin. |
| Callus: an excessive build up of the hard tough layers of skin. Can be removed at-home or by an esthetician. |
| Candela wax: binds oils and waxes to give body to a formulation. Often used in lipsticks. |
| Capillary: the smallest type of blood vessel in the body. Spider veins, for instance, are actually small capillaries commonly found on the face or legs. |
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Cellulite: deposits of fat and other material trapped in pockets beneath the skin. |
| Ceramides: a natural substance within the skin that reduces natural water loss of the skin by forming a protective barrier. Can also be produced synthetically and added to skin care products. |
| Chakras: energy centers throughout the body responsible for the condition of your mind, body and spirit. |
| Chamomile: a clinically proven plant-derived anti-inflammatory. Offers benefits such as soothing skin. Also calms eczema and allergic reactions. |
| Citric Acid: The same as vitamin C. Used commonly in hair and skincare products. Has astringent and antioxidant properties and also can be used as a preservative. |
| Citronella oil: antiseptic widely used in soaps and deodorizers. Also has insect-repelling properties. |
| Clarifying: usually associated with a toner or other solution used after cleansing to maintain proper skin pH. |
| Collagen: a natural substance within body tissues. It can be injected into the skin to plump up particular areas. |
| Cortex: the middle layer of the hair shaft. |
| Creatine: a protein derivative in muscle tissue. Sometimes found in body-building supplements. |
| Cucumber juice: credited with moisture-binding, soothing and tightening properties. |
How-tology: Your Perfect Bubble Bath
When was your last bubble bath? Create blissful bubbles to reacquaint us with the forgotten joys of the bubble bath.
Ingredients:1/4 cup Foaming Concentrate, or substitute 1/2 cup unscented shampoo 3/4 cup water 3/4 teaspoon salt - regular table salt is fine 15 drops essential oil 1 drop food coloring |
Steps:1. Pour foaming concentrate into a bowl and add water. Stir gently until well mixed. 2. Add salt, and stir until mixture thickens. 3. Add cherry fragrance oil and food coloring, and place in decorative bottle. To use, add one tablespoon to warm running bath water. To create your own custom scent, you may use any fragrance oil you choose in this recipe. |
photo credit: Bathtime!!! via photopin (license) blue filter, added text, & cropped
Celebrity Spotlight: Blake Lively
We love Instagram. Beauty bloggers and celebrities alike use it to share their best looks, and we are always up for some fashion inspiration! Here, BeautyofaSite will showcase the celebrity style of the moment and how you can replicate those looks! Master the mold and you're on your way to beauty stardom!
Beauty Bio: Blake LivelyBirthday: August 25th, 1987, born in sunny Los Angeles, California Relationship Status: Married to Ryan Reynolds in 2012 Where You’ve Seen Her: Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (2005), Gossip Girl (2007-2012), The Town (2010), and The Age of Adaline (2015) Style Staples: Classic, Glamour, Effortless, Bold Shapes |
Get the Look
Okay, okay so we know that the 2016 Cannes Film Festival was back in early May, which is like eons in Hollywood time, but bear with us. Blake Lively killed the game with some seriously flawless gowns (see above and below) and we are still in the afterglow. Her style is very much about pairing luxurious, glistening statement pieces with loose hair and soft, sultry make-up. Our favorite look of the festival was this stunning aqua-blue Atelier Versace moment. Check it out below with our tips so you can emulate Blake’s low-key, high glamour style!
Hair:
Blake's hair is in a soft, flowing, mid-pony that gives some ease to the dramatic Atelier Versace dress. Texturizing sprays are great for this sort of hairstyle because they give great volume for free-flowing pony. And of course, don't forget hairspray to keep it all in place!
We recommend: A Beautiful Life Pre-Game Texturizing Spray, Philip B Maui Wowie Beach Mist, Treat Salted Vanilla Beach Hair Spray
Skin:
Blake's got the California girl look down to the sun-kissed skin. Her warm skin tone adds to the brightness of the dress. Tanning is not the only option to get that California glow, self-tanners do just the trick and save your skin from damage!
We recommend: St. Tropez Self Tan Starter Kit, St. Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower, DuWop Sun Drops
Make-up:
Blake’s gown and skin radiate warmth, so her make-up is surprisingly understated in comparison. Her lips feature a nice, dusty rose with a glossy finish, and pair with a barely there steel eye shadow. A muted make-up palette is a nice contrast against her otherwise saturated look.
We recommend: DuWop Lip Venom Gloss in Wisteria, Naked Princess Naked Shine Lip Gloss in Barely Rose, Tigi Longwearing Eyeshadow Imperial Grey, DuWop Cosmetics Fall Out Shadow in Sensuede
The Gloss-ary: B is for Beauty!
The Gloss-ary continues with some vital terminology for your beautiful self! Keep checking back for more editions to the gloss-ary, or browse what we already have!
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| Beeswax: one of the oldest raw ingredients in cosmetic preparations, traditionally used as an emulsifier. |
| Benzoyl Peroxide: an antibacterial ingredient commonly used in acne treatments. |
| Bergamot: an antiseptic and bacterial growth-inhibitor known for its toning, antiseptic, and deodorizing qualities. |
| Beta carotene: orange-colored plant pigments, used in the manufacture of vitamin A. |
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Beta hydroxy : an exfoliating agent with a smaller molecule size than the alpha hydroxy. |
| Beta-glucan: a new ingredient derived from yeast, reported to enhance the skin's natural defense mechanisms. |
| Bioflavonoid: a plant derivative with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Usually derived from citrus fruit rinds. |
| Biotin : part of vitamin B complex. Involved in the metabolization of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. |
| Blackheads: a term used to describe when the skin's pores are clogged by natural oils and impurities. |
| Botanical : refers to products derived from plants. |
| Botox : trade name for botulinum toxin. Used in tiny amounts, it can temporarily paralyze a muscle, and reduce or eliminate wrinkles or frown lines without harm. |
| Bronzer : a synthetic preparation that causes the skin to darken or appeared tanned. |
| Buffer: a pH balanced cleansing solution that improves the look and feel of the skin leaving it shiny and more supple. |
| Burdock : a root extract credited with antibacterial properties. May also reduce inflammations such as rashes, redness, acne, and eczema. |
| Butcher's Broom: botanical extract used to improve circulation and reduce facial redness. Also believed to have anti-cellulite effects. |
Q&A: Haircare in the Summer Sun
 How can I best protect my hair in the summer sun?
While the wonderful rays of Father Sun may warm your bones, it will also do a deep fry on unprotected hair. Even worse, search and destroy pool chemicals and ocean salt can vaporize all those wonderful natural oils you've spent all year balancing and building in your soft, undamaged mane. Sun and surf damage can manifest as faded hair color, fragile, brittle or dry hair and yucky split ends. Be proactive and protect your hair from UVA & UVB rays that can leave you with a head full of straw that can take months to reverse. Unless you plan on a major buzz cut at summer's end, resist the urge to "do naked hair" or dive into pools with your locks flowing freely and follow the following Safe Summer Hair Rules: 1. Start the summer season with a salon trip to remove split ends and handle hair repairs. 2. If your hair normally dries out in the summer, consider having a preventive deep conditioning treatment to ward off summer frizzies. Follow these tips so you don't have to run from the sun, just have fun! |
How-tology: Fixing Make-Up Misshaps
The road to achieving that crisp cat-eye or that perfectly bold lip is not always pretty. We're human, mistakes happen and sometimes your need a redo. We have got you covered with these four easy tips to recovering makeup mishaps in a pinch!
A splotch of mascara falls off the wand onto your newly made-up face.
A splotch of mascara falls off the wand onto your newly made-up face.Dab the end of a Q-tip into some foundation. Making sure not to drag the skin, pat the tip onto the stain with a light, twisting motion. Repeat if necessary, using the other end. Dust over the area with translucent powder.
You've sneezed before your mascara is dry! Now you look like a raccoon.
Follow the same procedure as above but this time you'll need to re-apply your eye shadow over the newly applied foundation. Be careful not to apply too much or else it will 'cake'.
You've sneezed before your mascara is dry! Now you look like a raccoon.
Smudged lip liner/lipstick.
Smudged lip liner/lipstick.If the smudge is really obvious, you'll need to use a cleanser or makeup remover to erase the damage. For precision, use a Q-tip rather than a cotton ball - and above all avoid rubbing! Re-apply foundation to the area in question, dust with powder, then re-apply lipstick.
Your eye shadow has become all creased and caked.
Remove the thick lines of shadow with a Q-tip. Dust eyelid with translucent powder before re-applying your shadow. To avoid this in future, apply small dots of foundation on the entire eye area and dust with translucent powder before applying eye color. Lids tend to cake and crease when the skin is too moist or oily.
Your eye shadow has become all creased and caked.
The Gloss-ary: Know Your Beauty Terms
What are free radical scavengers anyway? We thought you might like to find out. Check it out in our handy, dandy gloss-ary, you just may learn sometime new!
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| Acne: an inflammatory eruption of the skin. |
| Acrylic: has moisture barrier as well as waterproofing, water repelling properties. |
| Acupressure: a therapeutic technique using pressure on specific parts of the body to relieve pain. |
| Acupuncture: a technique inserting special needles into particular parts of the body to treat disease or pain. |
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Age spots: a darkly pigmented (colored) area on the skin that occurs with age. Caused by sun exposure. |
| Alkaline: any non-acid substance with a pH greater than 7. |
| Almond Oil: vegetable oil derived from almonds with softening properties. Used in cosmetics. |
| Allantoin: a botanical extract said to heal and soothe. Used in creams and topical preparations for the skin. |
| Aloe Vera : an emollient resin with hydrating/softening properties. |
| Alpha hydroxy: an active substance with exfoliating and emollient properties. |
| Althea: botanical root said to have emollient and soothing capabilities for skin. |
| Ammonium persulfate: used in deodorants and disinfectants; also used as a bleaching agent in some hair and skin cosmetics. |
| Antioxidant: substance that helps to protect against the effects of environmental damage. |
| Arnica: a botanical with antiseptic, astringent, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Used in homeopathy to reduce bruising and swelling. |
| Aromatherapy: any treatment using aromas or odors to enhance well-being. |
| Ascorbic Aid: vitamin C. |
| Astringent: toner helpful in controlling surface oils and in lowering the pH after cleansing. |
| Ayurveda: a method of natural healing originated in India including elements of meditation, yoga, nutrition, massage therapy and herbal treatments. |
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Azulene: an anti-inflammatory and soothing agent, derived from German chamomile. |
Q&A: Semi Permanent and Permanent Hair Color
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6 Ways Apple Cider Vinegar Will Change Your Beauty Routine
Hello there bath and beauty lovers! We are taking you to the kitchen this week to tell you about a bath and body staple that’s been hiding in your pantry. Sure you can use apple cider vinegar in sauces and salad dressings, but there is way more to this vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is made through a double fermentation process that reduces down to some pretty powerfully preserved nutrients. Apple cider vinegar is rich in potassium, malic acid, calcium, acetic acid, and a whole slew of vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, C and E to be precise) that are great for the body. Check out the tips below to see how you can use apple cider vinegar:
1. Detoxify your Skin
The nutrient rich formula of apple cider vinegar draws out toxins on the skin surface. Use a cotton swab to dab the vinegar on your face and rinse thoroughly.
2. Reduce Age Spots
Apple cider vinegar contains hydroxyl acids that are great for removing dead skin cells. Reduce again spot by apply vinegar to the skin twice a week and let it sit on the skin surface for 30 minutes before rinses for a proper treatment.
3. Get Rid of Acne
Another benefit of apple cider vinegar is it is antibacterial, so it’s great at taking down difficult acne. Simply apply a mixture of one parts vinegar to two parts water to combat breakouts.
4. Give Hair a Healthy Shine
Boost your hair’s natural shine by mixing equal parts water and apple cider vinegar. Use this mixture once or twice a week to perk up your hair!
5. Fight and Correct Wrinkles
When diluted significantly with water, apple cider vinegar is great for fighting fine lines and wrinkles. Dab onto problem areas and let the vinegar sit for a few minutes then rinse off. Use over a 6 week period to see best results.
6. Soothe Sunburn
Nothing’s worse than a nasty sunburn. When you try to soak out your burn, add a cup of apple cider vinegar to the water for some added relief.
photo credit: Apples' second life via photopin (license) added text.
The Six Basic Make-Up Brushes You Need
The trick to getting the right look with make-up often depends upon the tools you use. There is a huge amount of brushes, sponges, and applicators available and that can be a bit overwhelming. Getting your basics that you will use every day can be hard when faced with too many options. We took the liberty to narrow down the tools you really need for some seriously flawless make-up into 6 categories.
This brush is a true multitasker. The smooth, compact bristles allow for even application of powder and liquid based foundation. Size determine precision, so a smaller version is great for concealing while medium to large brushes are better for your general coverage. If you often use liquid or cream foundation this brush is kind of optional, there’s no better tools than your hands.
Cover with: Antonym Foundation Brush($22)
Conceal with: Antonym Concealer Brush($14), Tigi Concealer Brush($15)
This brush is great for applying blush or finishing powders to your face. Look for a loose bristle structure with a soft, rounded shape. The shape and lightness allows for even application of product that can be easily layered (a must for a natural flush of blush!). Use a smaller brush for blushes and loose powders, and the larger Kabuki model for all over coverage.
Cover with: Antonym Kabuki Brush($24), Antonym Powder Brush($30), TIGI Powder Brush($26)
Contouring is based on the principle of creating angles with high contrast colors for some striking dimension. Obviously an angled brush is great for this job. A good contour brush is what you use to precisely add your deeper tones or highlights in bold color streaks that hold.
Contour with: Antonym Contour Brush($21)
A shadow brush should be rounded, ideal for building color with a precise, small bristle. For more precision opt for a smaller brush that is tapered for line work. Get a brush with longer bristles to really apply lush amounts of color. Remember to check the bristle density, as a more compact bristle structure will hold and apply more product.
Shade with: Antonym Small Eye Shader Brush($14), Antonym Medium Long Eye Shader Brush($16), Antonym Large Eye Shader Brush
This tool is your finishing touch to your look. A blending brush there to buff out and soften color, blending make-up into your complexion for a natural look. The brush should be light, with fluffy bristle to gently blend shadows, highlight, or whatever else you have going for a smooth finish.
Blend with: Antonym Blending Brush($15), Tigi Blending Brush($15)
Angled brushes give you precise, clean lines that are must for a polished look. This brush is especially great for applying eyeliner, but also works great with eye shadows and creams. The bristles should be dense, flat, and sharp for the best linework.
Line with: Antonym Small Angled Brush($13), TIGI Angle Brush($12)
Make Your Own Tumeric Facial Scrub!
The world of beauty is constantly changing thanks to a lively social media landscape of Instagram beauty queens and innovative vloggers. While some of the trends can be just that, trends (I’m looking at you spoon contour), the Beauty of a Site team is excited that treatments featuring natural ingredients has become a beauty DIY mainstay.
So what’s the superstar ingredient of the moment? Tumeric. Yes, we know this isn’t exactly a revelation to people familiar with holistic medicine, as turmeric is a traditional medicinal herb in India (and is also featured in delicious foods). Tumeric is actually a strong antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties and, oh yeah, it is also antibacterial (good-bye acne). That’s a pretty kick butt ingredient for a facial scrub in our books! However, if you have sensitive skin we recommend you avoid turmeric as it can irritate some skin types.
So add some spice to your facial routine by trying out this DIY Tumeric Facial Scrub. It’s a great scrub to try on a lazy Sunday when all you want is some rest and relaxation. We got the instructions below, so get to it for some absolutely glowing skin. Seriously, this stuff leaves your skin ridiculously smooth.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup tumeric
- 1/4 tablespoons chickpea flour (for extra buffing action)
- 3 tablespoons cold pressed coconut oil (for moisture)
- 2 tablespoons cane sugar (for exfoliation)
- 2 tablespoons sea salt (for extra exfoliation)
- 1 tablespoon vitamin e oil (to condition and protect skin)
- 10 drops lemon essential oil (for a little skin-brightening action)
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
Remove all makeup and wash your face. Scoop out 1 tbsp of scrub and mix well with 1/2 tsp of water. Massage into skin in small circles and let sit for 20 minutes. Rinse well with lukewarm water and pat dry with a paper towel.
If used twice a week, scrub will last you about 2 months
photo credit: Mixing sugar facial scrub ingredients via photopin (license) recolored.
photo credit: Once you get a spice in your home, you have it forever. Women never throw out spices. via photopin (license) cropped.
How To Nail (pun intended) a French Manicure
A professional manicure is one of those luxuries—necessities(?) that we love to indulge in. But when time and money doesn’t allow for a visit to the salon, you can make your own nails look picture perfect with a French manicure.
This clean, classic look is perfect for day or night and any season. It even looks great on toes. To do a true French Manicure, two colors are used, a translucent base color, usually pink or peach and a solid, opaque white or off-white. First, the translucent base is applied to the nails, then the white is applied, but only to the tips.
OPI currently inspired by sights and sounds New Orleans with some great colors that can add some Creole flavor to your typical French manicure. You can check out the whole collection here, but we recommend Let Me Bayou a Drink, Humidi-Tea, or Crawfishin’ for a Compliment for more vibrant look. Generally you want to choose a shade close to your skin tone, either cool or warm for the most natural looking manicure. A very popular color combination is Ballet Slippers & Blanc by Essie.
If you want to try something a little different. Feel free to substitute two different, more contrasting colors (for example, red for the base and gold for the tips). Or stick to the classic colors, we recommend Zoya Naturel Nail Polish Collection with a variety of neutral shades. Or go crazy with an opal or glitter top coat for a new twist. The possibilities are endless.
The French Manicure works best for nails between 1/4 to 3/4 inches long. When deciding on a nail shape, it's always best to go with one which will enhance the shape of your fingers. For example, you can make the fingers of petite hands look longer and more graceful by having almond shaped nails.
A French Manicure can be performed in one of two ways - either freehand or by using a stencil as a guide. If you are using a stencil, the hardest part is lining up the nail guides evenly and then making sure they stay on straight while you're painting the tips white.
If you are doing things freehand, make sure you have a sure, steady eye when painting the tips of your nails. Otherwise, your tips will be of varying sizes when they are done, and your nails won't look so very très chic at all! Remember practice makes perfect! Don't get frustrated if it isn't perfect. No one will scrutinize your nails. A polish corrector pen, makes clean up a lot easier!