A Place Beyond Beauty Transend your world.

Mandalas are the representations of the awakening soul, finding and perfecting yourself. On our journey I think we all strive to become a better person, to feel with our souls and not be driven by ego.

The circle is the symbol of being whole. Motives drawn in a specific order within the circle radiate joy, peace, harmony, tranquility and concentration. We are all whole and perfect as we are. We have to trust in God and keep our faith.

A mandala is just like life – intangible, inexpressible, perceivable, sublime. It switches off the mind – takes you beyond its limits. Transcend your mind go beyond the "normal".

It radiates warmth, love and femininity, it adapts itself easily, reacts nimbly to the changes of the world. If we create and we focus our attention inwards we can find the energy of acceptance, tenderness, love and openness. Our world opens up, divine guidance will lead your way.

While painting the mandala or observing one we get into a meditative state of mind – we feel as if time has vanished, together with our daily problems. We relax and are recharged by simply observing. We let our real self manifest itself, connecting to the inner world beyond our personality.

A mandala is the spiritual representation of being complete, of life, unity and the Universe mandalas are an ancient meditation technique, which gives us a chance to become conscious of our real self and cast a glance into the world beyond thoughts. Embellish U embodies your spiritual and personal mandala. Embellish U is a healing, relaxing way to reach inner peace. Transcend your world beyond thoughts.

xoxo, 

Lexie

Please take 6 minuts out of your day to watch this cool video and transcend your mind. 

Ever Try Counting Sheep to Sleep? Yeah doesn't work! See my fav things to help me catch Zzzzz's

1. My all time favorite is my eye mask! I been wearing one forever. I actually use the brand buckys from Amazon. You can still move your eyes and it's great for woman with lashies! It blocks all the light and just shuts off the brain. There is also studies that it puts you in a deeper sleep. Your R.E.M.(rapid eye movement the most important restorative sleep)and it's so true for the occasional night I misplaced them I feel the difference.

2. This is maybe equal to my first essential oils. I give myself a little neck massage. Rub some peppermint on my belly to soothe me. On my head after a long day and if I have a headache. Lavender on my chest. I'm literally a essential oil junkie. Also inhalation taking deep breaths and inhaling lavender or stress relief. Not the peppermint!! That will not put you asleep. Make sure to keep the peppermint away from your eyes.  

3. Taking a nice warm bath with Epsom salt. Epsom salt will help ease your muscles, and detoxify your days negative energies away. A great cleansing.  

4. Washing my face using my Image cleanser, also using a great nighttime retinol mask. Knowing I will wake up looking fresh and hydrated! Brushing my teeth, and always have h20! Stay hydrated always.. 

5. Stay off phone and electronics and read usually I'm fast asleep in about 10 minutes. 

I hope this helps you to a better night sleep! 

 Xo,  

Lexie

Are Lash Lifts for you?

After attending an all day class. Look at the separation and the ends. Ahh puurrrfection!! Love it! I get so excited.. 

What's all the craze about these lash lifts these days!! Well I have to say they are pretty amazing.. I think it's a great way to give the look of having natural lashes without all the fuss of getting them maintained every 2-3 weeks. They will last 6-8 weeks.  

I mean look at the eyelid lift that's unreal!! Magic happens at EmbellishU!! 

One part I love about the lash lift,  is it's giving woman a chance to see ​themselves bare and natural. It's nice to get use to yourself "naked". You don't need it all your beautiful just the way you are. We just choose to embellish more with lash extensions, and such casue it does save us time during the day. 

This lift looks amazing, but this is before I attended class. This is what you see around not bad but could be better! 

Ok, so the part that is a little tricky about lash lifts is the growing out/shedding phase. They do get a litttle wonky! (I like that word) You have different shedding cycles same as extensions. They are at 3 different phases. So some will still be curled, straight and it does make it harder to put mascara on. ​

To my last final thought. EDUCATION. I have been redoing clients lifts. You can't just learn online, it gives you and overall understanding of the procedure but you need to go to a class. Ask them if they were certified with a school they attended. It makes a huge difference. The placement of the hair is everything. A good lash lift takes about 45-75 mins. Longer if I have to fix wonky lashes. Again ask your questions, don't go to the cheaper place, see where they went to school. It's your eyes. I hope this helps!!   Schedule your lash lift for the summer go 6-8 weeks without maintenance!! Follow this link http://bit.ly/2ex2g0a  See you around! 

Xo, 

Lexie

Happy Lashes: Tips & FYI'S for Maintaining Your Extensions

Before your Lash Appointment: 

1.  Remove all eye makeup and clean your lashes with mild oil free cleanser.
2. Do not use oil based products lotions, eye creams, and removers prior to the application.
3. If you wear contact lenses wear glasses instead to your appointment or bring a lens case and remove them when you arrive to your appointment. 
4. Do not use lash curler before appointment, straighter lashes work better. 

Aftercare Instructions  

1. Do not get lashes wet for at least 24 hours even if we used a nano mister.  
2. Avoid hot steam from shower and sauna for 2 days. 
3. Be gentle with your lashes & PAT them dry after shower. Brush them when dry.
4. Do not rub your eyes excessively
5. Do not use a lash curler! 
6. Do not use oil based makeup remover  
7. Only use mascara at the tips of the lashes if you must wear it. ( I suggest only purchasing the brand made for lashes) 
8. That goes for the eyeliner too
9. Wax in eyeliner will buildup and breakdown your bond to your lashes. Oil breaks glue down. Water based products are good. Also avoid Glycol and carbonate free makeup is no good!! Better OPTION: Use eyeshadow. Take a skinny brush dip in water then your shadow (makes a wet paste, long lasting too) use as a liner. 
10. Depending on your lash cycle and how you sleep; side sleepers or face sleepers tend to loose more lashes, they may have to come in more often then others.
11. Those who have a faster eyelash growth cycle may need a touch up sooner, while those with a slower cycle may not need touch ups as often.  
12. Another factor is birth control. It will cause some women to shed their natural lashes faster than others. It doesn't mean they can't have the procedure, it just means they may have to come in sooner than others!!  
13. A great DYI is taking 1 tsp of baby shampoo in a foam bottle dispenser and some distilled water. There you go: a simple lash cleaner that is safe for you lashes and will remove makeup.  
14. Another cool tip is go to the dollar store pick up a makeup brush, the blending one. Use that for massaging the cleaner in your lashline. Trust me your lashes will be thanking me. Get rid of all that dirt, excess skin and, makeup!!! Plus your lash artist will love you!! Now make sure you do that before you see your lash artist too!!

Hope this was helpful! I came acros an eye opening situation and I think we all need to be more educated in this. There is truth to the birth control & sleep style factors when it comes to lash longevity. Ask any real, certified tech!

Xo,  

Lexi

Have any lash horror stories you want to share? Don't be shy if you want to ask me anything!!  

Hit that subscribe button if you like it!!  

P.S. Ladies, let your light and love keep shining on through! Stay true to you!! You know your business and there will always be darkness trying to take you down. Do what you feels right!! Your light will push them away. Keep on shining and stay on track, it's not always easy. Believe in yourself. Most of all believe in God!! 

Feels like Fall, Foundation Goes A Shade Lighter, Lipstick Goes A Shade Darker

Fall is officially here ladies and so is my favorite month of all, October. While I'll certainly miss bronzed skin and breezy hairstyles, the new season has me in the mood for exciting beauty trends it comes with. 

The trend - fresh, highlighted skin  

Loving the new highlighter kit from Anastasia also Mario master palette!! Great fall colors

Radiant, glowing skin is back. "Non-touring" is what many people are calling it; the look of heavily covered and overly contoured skin is gone and creamy, dewy skin is here.  

How to get the look - opt for a lightweight foundation to even out your skin then apply a concealer around the noose and under the eye to help camouflage any imperfections and blend. Finish the look with a highlighter on the tops of your cheekbones and Cupid's bow of the lips.  

The trend - peachy lids  

The new neutral that everyone can wear. You can go as bright or as subtle as you like. Pair it with a nude lip for day and for some added drama, with a deep crimson shade for evening.  

How to get the look - Use a cream color at the lash line and blend up until you reach your desired look. Then, finish with a light sweep of powder shadow.  

The trend - glitter eyeliner  

Think of leaves as they turn colors, all the shades they turn too!! Use that for inspiration:)) 

While unexpected for fall, glitter on the eye has been popping up all over the runway for fall. For an everyday look you can pair it with black eyeliner for a edgy, fun look.  

How to get the look - Apply a black liner around the entire eye. Then you can add the amount of glitter you like by patting it on with a small round brush. Use a cream for a softer look. Make it neutral and wearable with colors like copper, rose and gold.  

The trend - berry stained lips  

Great fall highlighter!! 

A true fall classic that anyone can rock. From deep, dark berries and purple to black, darker colors can be extremely flattering and make you standout. It also works well with all lip shapes and comes off very romantic. If you're feeling adventurous. Go for a darker berry, blue, or even black shade.  

How to get the look - For a soft lip, apply a darker shade to the center of your lips and then use your fingers to draw the color out to the lip line. Always make sure your lips are exfoliated and moisturized beforehand.  

The trend - dramatic lashes  

Volume lashes!! Great for woman who want a deep more full look! Or someone who doors not have a lot of lashes it's a great way to give the illusion of having more!!  

Lashes are more popular than ever this season and are the most luxurious way to dramatize any look. Wear them alone or with light illuminated eyes for a high contrast look.  

How to get the look - Customize your look with individual lashes or load up on your mascara. Or for more permanent drama you could get your lashes done with me 😉 

What's your favorite fall makeup trend? Leave your comments below!  

XO, 

Lexi

P.S. If you like this make sure to subscribe!! Plus keep up with any specials and events going on!! Do it!! I dare you!! 

What's New at Embellish U!

Come see me at my new place!! Thank you to everyone who helped make this a reality!!  

Hi all! I'm super excited to say I've officially been in business for a full week! I absolutely love my new location on Arnold Avenue and I couldn't be happy to be in my dream spot. It's so rewarding to be here after creating EmbellishU a little over 4 years ago. All of my neighbors, local shops are super cute too!! 

To go along with my brand new business, I have launched a new website. There, you can find all my services (plus a few extra new ones) including Raindrop Treatments, Angel card readings, and more! All of my services also include all vegan/organic products. You know my motto, I want nothing but the best for my guests. 

Through my website you can book with me or download my app, EmbellishU, and it will prompt you on how to make an appointment. Reminder* we offer by appointment only to maintain a serene atmosphere, keep exclusivity and maintain my clients privacy. I'm so looking forward to having all my existing and new clients in my space.   

Your inner goddess awaits 💖 

Love,  

Lexi

Narrow Down Your Beauty Routine

In this day and age, there are so many different beauty products out there. From creams to lotions and serums and every form of foundation under the sun, it can be all a little overwhelming. Here I want to list the bare essentials that can get you through your morning routine while still looking young, fresh and glowing.  

• Coconut oil - the miracle worker. Use it as a moisturizer, hair mask, a head to toe salve, even a teeth whitener. Make sure it's refined though  
• Essential oils - these you may have a few of, but for different purposes. Tea tree for blemishes, lavender for anxiety, peppermint for energy or skin refresher, just to name a few. You can even make your own scents  
• BB Cream - evens out your skin tone and masks imperfections while still being lightweight, what more could you want  
• Powder palette, one of those with a highlighter, blush, bronzer and a skin tone. You could even use some of the shades for your eyeshadow  
• Eyeliner - in whatever form of your liking, liquid, pencil, gel etc  
• Mascara - lashes frame your eyes and make them standout more
• Lipstick/gloss/liner - find your signature shade of lipstick, a nuetral liner, and a light gloss. Perfect  
• Dry shampoo - make your blowout last a little extra while giving your hair some volume  

While these are just essentials, you might add a few items you love here and there, for a special occasion or whatever it may be. Or even if you just feel like treating yourself to a new lipstick. Hopefully this list will have you try something new, maybe you'll even find your new favorite product. 

Love and light,  

Lexi  

Style Essentials

Let's talk a little about some fashion tips. Individual style is very important especially for us women. It allows us to be creative and express who we are as a person. I've curated a list of some essentials that everyone should have in their closet that you can mix and match with your own unique pieces for the perfect look. 

Great easy coats to wear and super cute! 

Black and brown belts fun detailed work too. For that sexy but edgy look. 

• the ever popular, LBD (little black dress) if you ever have somewhere important to go, you can't go wrong with one of these. 
• black pumps, what better to go with your LBD than some cute little heels. Here you can have some fun and go with a patent leather, or maybe a classic pointy toe, the choice is yours. 
• black skirt, if you're not one to choose a dress as a first pick, a skirt can do just as well, a nice mid length looks good on everyone 
• white collared shirt, this you can dress up with your skirt, or even a nice pair of slacks, or you can totally dress it down and pair it with some distressed jeans
• black/brown belt, for those outfits that are just missing a little something 
• structured blazer, another item that you can dress up or down, a black or navy goes well with mostly everything, or you can have some fun with it and choose a statement color to go with a black outfit for a pop of color 
• dress jeans, in a black or gray, still office appropriate but still comfy 
• button down cardigan, a neutral color is best so you can wear it with anything, you can choose or more fitted style or opt for a long loose style for a different type of look
• rain coat or denim jacket, for when you need something lightweight, but still want to look chic and put together at the same time, yet still practical 

Love the tailored flare pant, very slimming. Also a good pair of boyfriend jeans, you dress up or down!  

These are a must to have! The staples of your wardrobe! What is one piece of clothing you can't live without?  

Love and light,  

Lexi

The Latest In Lip Enhancers

Here are some ideas of different lip shapes and pouts:) 

So this is a subject I've been wanting to talk about for some time now. I've noticed that permanent cosmetics and other cosmetic procedures have become more the norm lately. Well with celebs like Kylie Jenner who debuts fuller lips what seems like every week, what else do you expect. That being said I wanted to share with you a new innovation to one of the most popular names in lip enhancers, Juvederm. They have just been approved for their formula called Volbella XC, for lip augmentation and correction of perioral rhytides (aka lines around the mouth.) The filler is created with hyaluronic acid, which has been called the "fountain of youth." It acts as a cushion and lubricant to fill in those lines and gives subtle volume to the lips. Studies show that Juvederm Volbella XC can soften the look of rhytides around the mouth and improve lip fullness through one year. Pretty impressive stuff. Makes you think twice about some lip injections doesn't it? 

Always, 

Lexi

We Are Moving!

We are all lovingly guided by our angels and masters. 

Hi all! Just wanted to share some exciting news with all of you. This has been long awaited for me...Embellish U is moving to a new location! Now I will be able to better serve my existing clients and make room for new ones. I will be right in the heart of Point Pleasant Beach, not far off from where I am now. I will still be performing all the same services, and possibly a few more! That's all still a secret, for now (; I can not wait to reveal the exact location and final product with all of you. This has been a dream of mine for a long time and I want to thank all of you for making it possible. Stay tuned for more info! 

Love and Light, 

Lexi

Volume Lashes, The Ultimate Luxury of Eyelash Extensions!

2/3D Volume Lashes

Cat Eye 2/3 D

Let's face it the lash industry has really boomed over the last eight years. It's not a cheap service and you get what you pay for!! It truly its a luxury service, and a really amazing experience too. My main priority after the health and safety of your lashes, is making you feel comfortable. I want you leaving relaxed, rejuvenated, and revitalized. The atmosphere and my crystal warm bed will heal you from within. Now lets go on to explain what Volume Lashes are!

Volume Lash extensions is a new technique that can offer great volume, so many lashes up to 360 per eye! Seriously it’s like POW! It is unique in itself to also offer to woman that are not able to wear classic lash extensions, due to having sparse thin lashes. Whether it is from a medical condition, hereditary or with age, as we know things change.  Let me tell you a little history about the two techniques so you can understand them a little better.

This is the Premier lash of them all! kardashion lash 3/4 D

Classic lash extensions are done with one single lash extension that is applied to one of your own natural lashes at the base of your eye, but before your skin. Myself or another technician does this by using two long stainless steel sanitized tweezers. One tweezer holds the lash extension and one tweezer isolates one single natural lash. Now if you have sparse hair we cannot fill in any gaps. We can apply hair where hair is. There are different weights and lengths in lashes and all that is based on the health of your own natural lashes. 

Full on Glamour! 3/4 D

Now we get to Volume Lash Extensions. So as far as the technique goes and isolation of the lashes its all the same. Volume lashes is a technique that you will pick up very fine eyelash extensions 2,3,4,5,6 lashes at one time. You create small fans. This technique really is for technicians that are already advanced in there lash career. I say this cause you really have to know how much glue and the weight of the lashes. Health and safety first, always!! The lashes are much more fine this way you can use more lashes on one eye and fill in gaps and give the illusion of having longer, thicker, and more full lashes. Without compromising the integrity of your lashes. The price of volume lashes is anywhere from $350 to $400 for a full set. The maintenance is $100/$125. It takes up to 3hrs to put them on. The fill can take up to 2hrs. Usually about 1.5, but when you go full on it takes longer. If anyone says it should be quicker trust me it's not a good reputable place. 

So that is the difference between the two lash techniques. I hope you understand a little more and know there is something for everyone! If you want to hear more or have any questions subscribe and be in touch!

Love and lots of Light,  

Lex

New Offerings for May!! Premier EyeLash Extensions and Bronze Tan Bodies!

April is coming to a close, and I want to personally thank you for all your support, the animals will be happy and you were part of that. So thank you for everyone who got a service with me. you helped a little furry friend smile:)) We still have some time left so book your appointment online!

Now the weather is FINALLY breaking we all want to dress a little lighter, wear less makeup, and just be on the go. Not to mention feeling good and sultry with a pair of eyelash extensions and a good spray tan. EmbellishU has the best premier lashes in the area and the best spray tan color around if I may add. If you live locally the jersey shore area, ocean, momouth, manasquan, brielle. Then EmbellishU! is the place to be.

If you needed a sign! Here it is:)) 

My mission is to make woman feel amazing, touch them on a soulful level while providing them the attention and pampering they deserve. I am meticulous as it shows in all my work. I was blessed with a gift and I intend on using it to my full advantage.

Volume set:) Kardashian Lashes

If you visited another lash location and have been somewhere else for lash extensions, chances are you left and just think that's the way the experience should be. Maybe your happy which is great, there are amazing talented woman out there. Unfortunately that's not the case for some. That my friend, is my favorite type of client experience. Then you can see top quality work and product. Finally the most important is the health and safety of your eyes!!

Flawless!!  

So for May I want to give all New Clients that get a full set of lashes with me, A complementary spray tan to go with your new lashes! For my Existing customers you can also get in on this bundle of fun and you will receive 30% off of a regular price spray tan!!

Best Sunless tanning Solution! I have other colors too depending on your skin! 

I have been trying to give back in some way every month. I think its important for our souls our beings. So many people helped and guided me, you have to give back pay it forward. it feels good. I hope you all have a great Sunday and a amazing week!

P.S. I'll keep ya posted on the animal shelter stuff..I'll take some videos

Love and Lots of white Light,

Lexi

Find A Way To Baby Soft Feet with Baby Foot!

Make sure to presoak and soak day after treatment:)) 

Sandal season is officially upon us! If you're anything like me, your feet may have gone through a little neglect over the winter months, and a simple pedicure might not do the trick for you, but fear not! I am introducing a new product to my studio, Baby Foot! It does exactly what it sounds like, peels your skin of all dead skin cells, revealing baby smooth feet. The upside to this though is that it's a one time treatment. Yes, you will see results after one use. No filing, no scrubbing.

Don't forget to Facilitate this process soak your feet for 10 mins here and there. It helps looked the skin. Don not peel the skin.  

It works by using 17 types of natural extracts that will not only peel off the dead skin cells, but provide incredible moisturizing power and will help maintain your skin's texture. The main ingredient is fruit acid (collectively referred to as Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid) etc. You'll find these ingredients in many cosmetics and bath salts because it's safe to use, effective and has the ability to remove odor. 

Baby Foot is incredibly simple to use and after 5-7 days, the dead skin will start to peel off and the skin on your feet will be as fresh as a baby's foot, literally! I am offering them for $18 plus tax here at EmbellishU, just call or text in advance. 

Love and light,

Lexi 

A Quick Guide To Music Festival Makeup

Festival season is here! With events like SXSW, Coachella, and much other like events, you may want to stand out and amp up your look. But how do you best plan for when the weather can change on a dime and your makeup might melt off after hours in the sun? 

The key is to be simple yet bold (a philosophy all in its own.) Maybe try a brightly hued eyeliner, like an electric blue or hot pink, and get a little geometric with the shape. Just be prepared for smudging later on in the day, but don't fret! Embrace the eventual decay of your eye makeup instead of trying to stop it before it happens. Organic is the way to be. Add a couple stick on gems a-la 90"s Gwen Stefani for a bedazzled look. 

Highlighting is another big trend this year, if you're not super into the tribal-y look.Take a shimmery powder and keep the focus on the highest points of your face; top of the cheekbones, brown bone, tip of the nose, cupids bow. Add a little to the inner corners of your eyes if you'd like. Remember, skin and lips are completely bare. Keep it breathable, people. And don't forget the SPF. Throw your hair up in a done yet undone looking braid, add a flower crown or another accessory, and there you have it. 

The main thing with any look is pure creativity. If you think it's weird, people are going to like it. It's a festival, something eccentric is basically required. 

Get long luscious locks with HaloCouture Extensions

I'm very excited to announce that EmbellishU is becoming a distributor for HaloCouture extensions! Voted the best innovation in hair extensions, HaloCouture gives you the freedom and versatility to wear your hair long and full whenever you like; no bonds, no glue, no clips, no damage to your hair. The halo "ring" is almost like a fishing wire you place at the crown of your head, section out some of your hair over the ring, and wa la! It's as easy as that. They are also 100% remy human hair which means not only are they the best quality in human hair, you can wash, use heat, and even custom color them. 

I will be starting consultations for these in April. We will discuss length, color match you, and go over anything else you need to know. After that you can receive your extensions in as little as a week! HaloCouture also offers some great accessories to keep your extensions smooth and not free such as a storage case, they also make a shampoo and conditioner to maintain the extension. Not to mention they also offer a ponytail piece for those who would like to add a little volume or length when they wear their hair up. Have fun and change your look for summer with HaloCouture! Call or text me at 732.800.4499 to set up your consultation today(: 

Love and Light,

Lexi

Guide To Crystal Elixirs

Morning! I want to introduce to you a new product here at EmbellishU, crystal elixirs! We all know the benefits to your well-being crystals can provide. A crystal elixir, essentially is a water based essence containing crystal energy. Water absorbs the crystals energy pattern, potentializes it, and stores it. These elixirs bring the healing power of a specific crystal to you. As with all spiritual practices, your intent is everything. It is best to set your intention before taking an elixir, for example, if you are using Ametrine to open your third eye, before taking the drops, state either in your head or verbally, "My third eye is now open, and so it is." This energy stated in the present tense is imprinted in the dosage and the desired outcome is manifested more quickly. Healing processes are magnified when the person is an active participant in their healing. 

Here is a list of some of the combinations I'll be providing!

• love- rose quartz, moonstone, jade
• money- citrine, jade, aventurine
• protection- amethyst, hematite, snowflake obsidian
• peace- amethyst, jade, blue lace agate 
• healing- quartz, bloodstone, jade
• good luck (good for gambling, or when you need a little luck on your side) - jade, citrine, quartz
• emotional healing- rose quartz, blue lace agate, amethyst
• purification - quartz, citrine, amethyst
• weight loss- rose quartz, snowflake obsidian, jade
• blessing and consecration- quartz, citrine, amethsyst
• fertility- rose quartz, jade, unakite 

First Homade crystal Elixer!! Washed appropriate crystals, then boiled them. Intensifies the energy! We will see!! 

Remember always look to Facebook or Instagram for more info on upcoming things here at EmbellishU! Check out my app as well (:

Love and Light

Lexi 

Happy Saturday!

Raindrop Angel Card Reading! 

Hi everyone (: Today I want to talk a little bit about my overall mission as a business woman. My motto always has been making women not only feel good and look beautiful on the outside but also on the inside. I am always striving to better myself as a person and in turn I want to help reach others on a soulful level as well. My main goal when you visit my studio is for you to relax, and I'll do whatever it takes to help you reach that point, whether it be through a session on my Biomat, incorporating sage, crystals,meditation etc. Your comfort is my number 1 priority. I want everyone to feel at peace after each appointment (: So I would like some of your feed back this time around. Do you ever feel unfulfilled after a service? What can I do to better accommodate you? Leave your comments below and may your day be filled with joy and happiness!

Love and Light,

Lexi 

Get Your Glo On!

Skin brightening has become a more targeted subject in the field of dermatology. Both estheticians and their clients have been searching for ways to reduce melanin production in the skin. Some of the most common conditions of hyper pigmentation are age spots, melasma, freckles and acne scars. Now that we know more about skin pigmentation and how the skin makes melanin, we can more effectively utilize certain ingredients. Much of the research in the field focuses on tyrosinase, an enzyme that spurs melanin production from tyrosine through oxidation. In the pathway, tyrosinase is produced by the melanocyte (the skin cell responsible for pigmentation) and is responsible for several reactions. You can limit melanin by limiting tyrosinase anywhere along its pathway.

There are some brightening agents that I am very excited about! There are marine active ingredients, that work on signaling proteins in the skin for melanin production and DNA repair. Although algae has been used for many years in skin brightening formulations, its being brought to a peptide level to help more with melanin inhibition. The use of botanical extract ingredients is a method I strongly suggest. They are gentler to the skin and our body automatically knows how to process them. One argument about botanical ingredients is whether they are as effective as their chemical counterparts. Traditionally, treating hyper pigmentation chemically has been done by bleaching the skin with either hydroquinone or kojic acid. While these ingredients are fast acting and effective, if you were to stop using the product at any point in time, it could actually make hyper pigmentation worse. This is because they can be cytotoxic to melanocytes in large amounts. Because of this, skin may respond to these chemicals negatively, resulting in production of more melanin. One of the best benefits of using plant extract and peptide-based products is that there’s little to no chance of doing serious harm to the skin.

I always recommend doing your research and finding a company that uses high quality botanicals and is well-versed on how to handle them during formulation. The effectiveness of these products depend on the knowledge of the developer, especially when it comes to which part of the plant to use. For the best results in treating hyper pigmentation, look for products that work at multiple points during the production of melanin. Since there are so many ways to treat hyper pigmentation, it is better to utilize different methods so that they can work cooperatively for an overall better effect. Keep your skin fresh and glo-ing!

Best,

Lexi