Holidaze and Your Health: Your Guide to Staying Sane this Season

Can you believe it? Another year coming to an end, and soon enough we will be going into 2017! So EXCITING! While we hustle towards the finish line and tackle the parties, gifting, and stress, let's first remember to stay on track and finish out 2016 the right way. 

With all the holiday cheer, work parties, holiday gatherings, shopping, celebrating, eating, drinking, and more eating and drinking, lets face it: most of us barely have enough time for ourselves. We are dragging along with too many cookies, not enough sleep or exercise, definitely too much coffee and not enough H20. All this isn't meant to make you feel bad, but rather to act as a reminder to stay mindful of some simple things you can do to keep yourself healthy. 

Image via Pinterest.

So here are some quick and little tips and to help you stay healthy during this holiday season.

1. Gargling with salt gets rid of bacteria & is great to do day and night to keep those germ critters away.
2. Vitamin C builds collagen & is full of antioxidants, which helps with holiday stress! Avoid looking like the Grinch and add this to your routine.
3.  Make sure you hydrate.  Water with lemon makes your body more alkaline. Fresh lemons have active enzymes for 30 minutes, so drink up!! Not to mention all the anti-aging benefits. They hydrate your skin, minimize wrinkles, and keep your skin glowing!! Plus, Probiotics and Antioxidants are absolute essentials for your bod!
4. Make a fist. Now look at your fist. That's the size of your stomach!  Remember to be mindful of your servings! Pro tip: try using smaller plates as a mind trick. 
5. 7-8 hours of sleep a night is wonderful & necessary for your health. Try using a sleep mask! I love mine & can't sleep without it. Don't want anything on your face? Try meditation music. 
6. Last but not least: exercise 20-30 min a day just to get moving and get that blood flowing. When you do, NEVER forget to stretch! Hold that stretch for a count of 8 - it makes a huge difference.  

With all that said, remember to enjoy the holidays while keeping in mind what you can do to offset the inevitable fatigue. I hope this helps you this season. Happy Holidays to you from Embellish U!

Hit that button and subscribe!! The one down there! Yeah do it!!  

Xo,  

Lexi

Retinoids: Should You or Shouldn't You?

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Biopelle Retriderm Serum - Available @ EmbellishU!

It's not just a celebrity secret anymore. Retinol is hailed as the holy grail of anti-aging (at least topically) and is known as the beauty worlds best needle-free answer to smoother skin as it lessens scars, lines and wrinkles. As a derivative of vitamin A, retinol has been medically and scientifically proven to speed up the skin's cell cycle. But before you rush off and start Googling retinol creams, know that it's not for everyone and you may find just as many horror stories as there are rave reviews. Let's see if retinol is a match for you:

1. Do you have sensitive skin? If you do, retinol is probably not a good choice for you. Retinol is extremely potent and powerful, and people with reactive skin find it is too harsh for them. You may find your skin more red, dry, flaky, and irritated than it was before using it.

2. Are you pregnant? If so, retinol should definitely be avoided. It's efficiency comes from the fact that it is absorbed into the body and creates activity in the skin cells. Vitamin A is very hazardous to a developing fetus and has been known to cause birth defects.  

3. Will you wear SPF? When using retinoids, whether topically or in over-the-counter medication, always remember to wear a high grade sunscreen, as retinol does increase photosensitivity.

4. Are you ok with the concept of "worse before it gets better"? Many find this to be the case with use of retinoids. As I mentioned before, the redness, dryness and flakiness happens to most people. But with proper care and lots of hydration, both internally and externally, these effects should subside within 2 weeks. And as always if these symptoms continue to persist absolutely stop using any kind of retinoids right away. 

Not so sure if retinol is for you right now? You might be in luck soon. While there is no alternative that is comparable to the effects of retinol at the moment, there are products being developed that are more sensitive skin friendly and include retinol derivatives, which are man made ingredients that negate the bad side effects of natural retinol.

Whatever you decide, just always remember that it's a good idea to always consult your dermatologist, and discuss with them whether a retinol is right for you. 

Xo,

Lexi

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!! 

Fall Specials for Embellish U

Fall Facials? Yessss! And the Best Accessory yet Eyelash Extensions! EmbellishU has specials going on for the Months of October and November.

Our pumpkin enzyme facial is a perfect way to get your skin fresh for the new season, not to mention pumpkin everything is the biggest trend for fall. This facial is cell regenerating, anti-aging and exfoliating. Organically derived pumpkin enzymes will boost your skin's resilience and even your complexion. Also, brightening alpha hydroxy fruit acids and a rich blend of other age resisting antioxidants and vitamins will leave your skin looking healthy, youthful and silky smooth! $75 normally $115. Use code fall732 when booking online. Special running from October 1st to November 30th.

Customized and styled to fit you and your lifestyle!  

Calling all new clients! Have you always wanted eyelash extensions, but were skeptical and wanted to know more about them? Fear not, beginning on the 27th of September until November 30th you can receive a full set of classic lashes for $199, normally $250. Have lashes that will totally open up your eyes and save you a few minutes on your morning routine. I assure you will fall in love with them! *Does not apply to volume lashes. Use code embellishu when booking online.

Our signature, results-driven treatment will change the Image of your skin in just one session. Vitamin C, alpha and beta hydroxy acids, and gentle yet effective enzymes and speed up cellular turnover lightening, tightening and brightening all skin types, even Rosacea and sensitive skin.

Lighten, brighten and tighten your skin! Our Signature Facial Treatment will help you get rid of summer damage with its vitamin C and enzyme properties that are suitable for and will treat all skin types, including sensitive and redness-prone skin. Gives noticeable results in just one session. Don't forget it's just as important to follow up after your treatments just as much as getting the service is. Keep your skin hydrated and help you support the regenerative process with Post Treatment Recovery Balm. Dramatically helps reduce transepidermal water loss, discomfort, redness and irritation with plant-derived botanicals and antioxidants. Also receive a free eye brightening cream with your facial. While supplies last. $150normally $175. Special running from September 27th to November 30th. Use code brighten while booking online.

Xo,  

Lexi:) 

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  

A Little Tuesday Pick Me Up

Be on Purpose! Turn every negative into a positive::)) we have gifts from God all day. You just have to see them.  

Hi all (: Today I want to spread some positivity and inspiration to all of you. This is for anyone who may feel stuck, or any type of negativity whatsoever. We've all been there, and it's easy to feel like you're the only one who's ever felt the way you do. Know that you are not alone!! For every emotion or feeling you've ever felt, there's so many other people who have felt the same or similar without you even knowing it. A lot of people don't speak about what their internally feeling for the fear of being misunderstood.

What I want to instill in everyone going through any kind of hardship right now is that you have the power to change it. Yes, you! You are the first, and only person that can help yourself. It's easy to get into a negative cycle and think that there's nothing you can do to make your situation lighter, but the longer you think that way, the longer things will stay the same. Be the change you wish to see. Your mind is your most powerful organ in your body. It's a lot stronger than you may think. Everyone has the ability to attract what they want in life through positive thinking. You know the saying, "a negative mind will never lead to a positive life." It sounds corny, but it's true. What you put out into this world is what you attract. In religion we call it spirits, in science we call it energy, in the streets we call it vibes. However you look at it, those energies you give out will come back to you. Don't get me wrong, nobody's perfect, and everyone can get down every once in a while, but taking those negative circumstances and letting it fuel you to make it a positive instead of letting them bring you down is your key to having a better outlook. It's not about what's going on around you, but how you choose to look at it. Perspective, my friends. 

I would like everybody starting today to pick out all the good things about your day, even the tiniest, most insignificant things. Make it a daily practice, and watch how your mind set changes. You can thank me later (;

Love and Light, 

Lexi

A Look Into Permanent Makeup

As all of you know, I love and am a huge advocate on expanding my education and furthering my skills in the beauty industry, which is solely built on the fact that I love to make others feel beautiful, inside and out. So without further revue I'd like to announce that I am officially certified in permanent cosmetics! I will be finishing my apprenticeship this week. Then off to take my test to get licensed my the American Association of Micropigmentation. This has been a long time goal of mine and I'm so glad I now get to offer this to wonderful clients. With permanent cosmetics your daily makeup routine can be even more effortless. You can be out the door in literally under 5 minutes. Never worry about getting that fine line of eyeliner to be just right only for it to smudge halfway through the day. Want a little more color on your pout but hate the feeling of anything on your lips? Permanent cosmetics can help that. I can add a little color, even enhance your natural lip line, if you so desire; the possibilities are endless. Maybe your hand shakes and it's just not possible anymore, or you had a sickness that claused you to loose all your hair, allergies,and sensitivities never help! Well look no further. I have been trained by the leading school the Geru herself at Beau Institute. Now, keep on the lookout for my new permanent cosmetics location, which will be separate from my new business you've all heard about. This summer's going to be fun (:

Love and Light,

Lexi 

These were all different eyebrows on different woman. They barely had hair. Some were done with a shading technique, then came back for hairlike strokes after words. 

This is still Healing:) but a huge part to remember, Heal, Peel, and fade. My mom literally just wears gloss. Your color then disappears and comes back. Faded though.  

Here we  dropped her lower lip line to give her a more pout look:) also defined her lips more. Created more shape:)  

Cat eye on this lovely woman with a light beige line above

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

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 

Detox Your Skin with Charcoal

Everyone's been all about cleansing and doing detox's for your body. I want to introduce another "detox" that's also very important, for your skin. Activated charcoal is one of the buzziest ingredients in skincare right now. So, how exactly does activated charcoal (also known as activated carbon) work? Opposed to absorbing toxins, it adsorbs them. Meaning that, instead of soaking up dirt, all of the positively charged debris sticks to the negatively charged charcoal. This process erodes the charcoal to create a more even surface area, allowing it to adsorb 1,000 times its weight. Science! 

Good to know! A quick at home recipe!! 

EmbellishU Derox Mask

According to The International Dermal Institute, most women only spend about 20 seconds washing their face. With such a short amount of time, the binding and attraction properties of charcoal can really work for most people! Start incorporating charcoal into your skincare routine for noticeably softer, smoother and less-lined skin; vibrant, even tone, renewed clarity and a healthy glow. Who doesn't want that? 

For spring I'm introducing a detox clay mask with activated charcoal to address dullness that your skin can have after these winter months. Also I have a balancing moisture mask for those with dry skin. Book your detox today and get glo-ing! 

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 

Attract some love into your life this Valentine's Day

With Valentine's Day right around the corner, I wanted to share some ideas on manifesting love and the law of attraction. The secret of manifestation is that you do not create reality by what you think but by what you feel. Everything is a vibration and you attract those things that you are in vibrational resonance with. Your vibration is your feeling. The more you experience the feeling of having what you want, the more you will have it. You have the power to create anything your heart desires! If there is anything you want to create more of, focus upon it. Whatever you turn your attention to, you will create. What we give out, we get back. 

Imagine what your life would be like if your mind could always be focused on thoughts that were filled with joy, peace, love, abundance and feeling successful! Whenever you feel good, you are in vibrational harmony with your desires.

Along with just your thoughts, there are a few things you can practice to draw love into your life. Using select essential oils in your visualization and meditation practice create the ambience of magic. You could use rose essence, being that roses are the symbol of love. Jasmine, Ginger, Lavender, Ylang-Ylang, and Vanilla are great as well. Apply a bit of the oil under your nose, or on a tissue, and inhale while visualizing yourself as a beautiful, confident person, attracting the perfect love into your life. 

You could also create an altar in the relationship corner of your home. According to Feng Shui, the far right corner of your bedroom is considered the relationship area. Your altar can include fresh flowers, pink or red candles, romantic photographs, or statues that represent to you the image of love and family. Adding crystals is another great way to manifest your desires. Crystals are natural transmitters of energy. Rose quartz offers unconditional love and infinite peace and protection. It's the perfect choice for strengthening self love and forgiveness, and is also the crystal for manifesting and attracting true love. Malachite works to clear away painful heartache and make way for new love. Green Aventurine is known as the stone of love and luck. Carrying this stone with you will increase your confidence and luck at attracting new love in your life. 

I hope you can take these methods and incorporate them into your life to aid you in creating the life you want. Whether you're looking for romantic love or working on loving yourself. Always remember, if you believe it, you can receive it. 

Love and Light,

Lexi 

The benefits of Glycerin and battling crepe skin

ILUMA  Innovative Technology. 

Get full advantage of all your product deep within your layers of skin!! 

Dry skin is a common issue for many of us. It can be even more prevalent during these winter months. Between freezing temperatures, wind, lack of vitamin D, and other conditions, it can be tough to find relief. A common ingredient that can be used for multiple skin ailments is glycerin. Glycerin can be used to make cleanser, toner, moisturizer, treats acne, blackheads, dry skin, wrinkles, and various other conditions. Since glycerin is a humectant, meaning that it draws water into the skin, it is very beneficial for dry skin. It is also an emollient, which form an oily layer on the skin to trap water in the skin. These types of ingredients decrease itching and flaking, thus protecting the skin. 

Glycerin and other topical ingredients would also be useful in treating crepe skin; or mature, extremely dry skin. Crepe skin is caused by the loss of production of elastin and collagen, the protein that allows the skin to contract and stretch. For some people, it manifests itself in deep lines and facial wrinkles. With age, skin will feel drier because the body will stop producing as many new skin cells. That means the skin will also slow down the production of oils that are designed to rid the body of dead skin cells. To improve crepe skin, it is important to help the body naturally replace the supplies of collagen and elastin. Peptide creams or hyaluronic acid creams can help to stimulate the production of these proteins by making the cells reproduce more quickly. Microdermabrasion is also a great treatment to help aging skin. It works by scrubbing the upper layer of skin causing the skin to generate a new, healthier layer of cells. It is especially effective with crepey skin because the wrinkles are more prominent on the upper layers of skin. 

Book online Now!! At EmbellishU.net

Check out my list of treatments and services to find the one that best suits your needs. Let me aid you in looking and feeling your best (:

Love and light, 

Lexi

Body exfoliation is key to making skin look at it's finest!! Then moisturize to plump, rejuvenate, and firm your skin!