Showing posts with label skincare. Show all posts
Showing posts with label skincare. Show all posts

Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Bath and Body Works Holiday Gift Guide


Bath and Body Works is a great place to get your holiday shopping done all at once! It's been a long time since I shopped in-store, and it was a fun experience to get to know the new holiday assortment and discover new scents. As I picked up gifts for myself, I also grabbed a bunch for family. 

The 3-wick candles are at the top of my gift list, as well as the cleansing gel and foaming hand soaps, along with festive holders to pair them with. There are great gift under $20 including the Winter Candy Apple body wash, body cream and fine fragrance mist set, but it's also easy to create your own gift set. Don't forget to pick up stocking stuffers such as the PocketBac anti-bacterial hand gels + holders, hand cream and lip products (scrub, mask or lip gloss), all great for travel or to throw in your bag. With many promotions changing from week to week, it's great to mix and match products and fragrances. 

Some of the new fragrances this season include Woodlands (men's collection), Luminous and Northern Brights Eucalyptus & Pine. If you want to shop for holiday scents I recommend Winter Candy Apple, Bright Christmas Morning, Winterberry Ice, and Snowflakes and Cashmere. 

A must-have for me during the holidays are candles and hand soaps in a traditional pine fragrance and Bath and Body Works has a few options, including Tree Farm and Fresh Balsam which I both love. For year-round scents, check out Champagne Toast, Aromatherapy Lavender + Vanilla and Chasing Fireflies.





- Kim Weling

Monday, November 6, 2023

Defy Facial at Naturopathica Spa & Healing Center



I have been a fan of Naturopathica products for years and was so excited to finally indulge in one of their spa services. As much as I wanted to go with one of their massages, I opted for the Defy Facial since I really wanted to experience several of the Naturopathica skincare products on my face.


The 60-minute Defy Facial includes HydroFacial technology (for exfoliation and painless extractions) combined with firming LED followed by a cooling jade stone mask to bring down any redness. This facial treatment combats fine lines and stimulates collagen with ingredients such as Vitamin C, Retinol, and Alpha Hydroxy Acids. I do appreciate that this facial also extended to the décolleté area and included a mini massage. 


I didn't experience any redness, just immediately refreshed, hydrated and glowing skin! The changing room has amazing lighting so you can really see the difference in your skin right after. There's also a nice relaxing lounge area to enjoy before or after your treatment. 


Here's a look at the products used on my skin:

  • Oat Cleansing Facial Polish
  • Manuka Honey Cleansing Balm
  • Sweet Cherry Brightening Enzyme Peel
  • Vitamin C15 Wrinkle Remedy Serum
  • Manuka Honey Whipped Oil
  • Lavender & Manuka Honey Balancing Mist
  • Sweet Cherry Conditioning Lip Butter

I truly love all the Naturopathica products so it's hard to pick any favorites. Their products are moisturizing and leave my skin looking radiant, and they also smell amazing! I love the Manuka Honey, Sweet Cherry and Lavender & Manuka scents!


A special thanks to my aesthetician Carol, who was absolutely amazing! She really took her time to give my skin the attention it needed. I highly recommend you ask for Carol if you book a facial at the Naturopathica Spa & Healing Center in Chelsea, at 127 West 26th Street in NYC. Be sure to check out their spa menu!


Many thanks Naturopathica! Next time I can't wait to experience one of the massages!



- Kim Weling

Sunday, May 7, 2023

The Makeup Show NYC 2023

I had been anticipating the return of The Makeup Show NYC! This is one of my favorite shows to connect with brands and makeup artists and meet new people in the. beauty industry! It's also a great time to shop and stock up for your makeup kit or for yourself! I usually like to scope out what brands will be there ahead of time and also make a list what items I need, as you'll find product heavily discounted as much as 40-50% off. You can also learn so much about artistry from the educational sessions to speaking with makeup artists to learn some new tips and tricks. Here's are some highlights from walking the show floor at this year's show.

I love Danessa Myricks products and artistry! The shades, pigmentation and palettes are all amazing! Also, be sure to meet with Danessa herself! She is so inspirational and talented -  she is a huge part of The Makeup Show!

Francis Star Cosmetics


Neen Pretty Shady Pressed Pigment Eye Shadows

SeSpring vegan and cruelty-free Korean-inspired skincare

Katiely Beauty


1cm2 Art press-on nails - love the variety in designs and they also have options for shorter nails. They had 1 set for $15 or 2 for $20 at the show which was great discounted pricing!

Regen4D created through a patented process with 4D HA

Julie Mollo bags in fun and sparkly designs from clutches to cosmetic bags and totes

Lola's Lashes including magnetic lashes

Faace with skin solutions to help with stress, your period or tiredness

Minimalista featuring scrunchies infused with Hyaluronic Acid

Janet & Jo. nail lacquer in bold shades for summer including neons

Vike Beauty Makeup Melt makeup removal spray

Clinisoothe+ Skin Purifier

Around The World Beauty sharing culture through beauty & travel 

FACE Atelier

Mario Badescu is my go-to for facial sprays! Newest scents: Aloe, Adaptogens and Coconut Water and Aloe, Sage and Orance Blossom

Jones Road Beauty Lip Tints

Make Up For Ever products were all 50% off! Decided to try this lip color in Festive Fuchsia

MOB Beauty 

- Kim Weling

Thursday, March 16, 2023

IECSC New York 2023 Recap and Highlights

Celluma Light Therapy


I've been attending the International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference (IECSC) in New York for the past few years, yet this is the first time I've been able to experience all three days instead of cramming all my time into the first day and it has made all the difference. This year, the show took place from March 5-7 at the Javits Convention Center in NYC. 


I noticed this year there was a lot more focus on demos on the show floor, and if you wanted to book a demo, it was easier to get an appointment, either by scheduling before the show, booking when you get there, or getting a walk-in appointment. I was able to book multiple demos per day, and really learn about the process and the products and devices used. 


Here's a look at all the demos I experienced at IECSC:


Celluma Light Therapy - I enjoyed a relaxing 20-25 minute LED red light treatment on my face for anti-aging, which boosts collagen and elastin, reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin's firmness and resilience. Red light therapy is also great for bringing down redness and inflammation. Blue light therapy is great for diminishing bacteria causing acne, clearing existing breakouts, and restores skin's healthy appearance. Near-infrared is great for pain management: reducing inflammation and increases circulation, relieves arthritis and joint pain, and reduces stiffness and muscle spasms. LED light therapy is great as 60 minute stand-alone treatment or as an add-on for 30-45 minutes. 



Epistep Epifusion Facial - this non-invasive and pain-free treatment uses micro pins made of 3D-lized hyaluronic acid. After the first step of skin cleansing, Jennifer moved forward with the microchanneling needle-free needling process (the vibration was actually soothing and relaxing), and applying a peptide serum. The last step finished up with a moisturizer. I love this treatment because there is no down time and it only took 15-20 minutes. I didn't have to worry about and redness or irritation and could just go about my day with glowing skin! Thank you Jennifer for my epifusion facial!



BIBOTING Massager - I've had a cupping massage before, but the biboting machine was on another level and a lot more intense! The biboting massager not only massages but also firms skin, provides accupressure, healthy negative ions and vital energy and blood circulation. It also has a rhythmic suction and release, comfortable vibration and warm feeling. Different sized cups were used on my back. The strong pressure and suction may feel uncomfortable at first but I got used to it quickly and really felt the toxins leaving my body. Right after it looked like an octopus had suctioned onto my back (all the redness and cupping marks disappeared within a few days) and my back, neck and shoulders felt bruised to the touch immediately and for the next two days. I did feel really relaxed afterwards and was so ready for a nap! As the demo was done on me, the aesthetician can tell by the redness on my back that I frequently get headaches and even pinpointed the spot by my lower neck/upper back area that was causing my headaches. I actually had been experiencing a headache the day before (my headaches can last for days) and my headache did not come back after I got this massage! This massage was a temporary solution, but I do feel that if I continued this type of massage regularly it would really help with my headaches, maybe even stop them from happening all together. 



CryConcepts Esthetics CryoTouch Facial - This facial was quick and easy, with a focus on hydration and reducing fine lines. The entire treatment took only about 10 minutes - 5 minutes with the actual CryoTouch facial device and then 5 minutes of massaging in the serum with using the massage roller balls. The device was cold on my skin but not super cold as a I expected and there the device has a bit of a vibration. This kind of treatment takes advantage of carbon dioxide, helping to release oxygen at the surface of the skin, which boosts the effects of the cosmetic formulas used. The CryoTouch facial is recommended three times in the first month, and then monthly after that. I was glad this was the first demo I got during the show because I immediately felt energized and refreshed. It was a great way to start my day at IECSC! Thank you Sam for the demo!



Myolift Microcurrent - my treatment was targeted for the under-eye area with concerns to darkness, tired or puffy eyes. It's a great way to prevent the onset of aging and to treat any wrinkles or signs of aging that have already formed in the muscle. Microcurrent stimulates all the muscle around the eyes (plumping it up and bringing it back to life) and also stimulating circulation of blood, and helping to facilitate the movement of fluid. First we focused on relieving tension around the edge of the eye (treating crow's feet) and moved to the 11 lines (two vertical lines between your eyebrows) with the Erase wave form, and then using the Educate wave form for brightening up under the eye and picking up the eyebrow. The Myolift Mini Microcurrent which was used on me, retails for $329 and is available for both consumers and professionals. The only thing that is necessary to use the device is the ReStore Conductive Gel. This treatment is great to do in the morning, as often as every other day or at least once a week to help you feel refreshed and energized. This is a great alternative to Botox. Botox paralyzes the muscle, where this treatment just relaxes it and leaves the muscle stronger, whereas Botox leaves it frozen. Thank you Sam for this treatment! I really did see an immediate difference! 



Cryo-Lean 360 Fat Freezing - Thank you to Chris at 360 Aesthetic Devices for my 15-20 minute demo using the Cryo-Lean 360 device for fat freezing and body toning. First a glycerine sheet was applied on me before hooking the device up to my stomach, as you don't want direct contact with the device on your skin. It felt really cold at first (-4 degrees celsius/24 degrees farenheit) As the cold breaks down the fat cells and toxins come out, you'll want to flush it out of your system by drinking lots of water, sweating it out by working out or going in a sauna and avoiding alcohol. A full session is 35 minutes long, and 6 sessions (between $300-350 per session) is recommended to really see results. 



Prism Light Pod Whole-Body Red Light Therapy - This was the first time I've ever tried full body red light therapy thanks to the 10 minute demo I got to experience at the show. A session is normally 30 minutes, helping to rejuvenate the skin and body, relieve inflammation, stimulate collagen production, reduce sore muscles, aches and pains and enhance relaxation. Prism Light Pod uses non-invasive, non-fluorescent, non-UV rays, and non-infrared heat-based red LED technology. I was so relaxed in just 10 minutes. I was able to tune out all the noise around me!



Procell Therapies Microchanneling - This was my first demo with Procell and it did pinch a little bit but I got used to the feeling which was more like a sand buffer (I also did not have any numbing cream applied to my face). Microchanneling creates micro punctures to stimulate collagen synthesis. Microchanneling uses a stamping technique with a tip that has a fixed circumference, with less injury to the surface of the skin and shorter down time than microneedling. As Isabel does the microchanneling, she also applied the Procell serum on my face. The last step was a 15-20 minute hydration mask. Right after my treatment my face was a little red, and a few hours later my cheeks were a little pink and felt like mild sunburn. The redness was already toned down by the following morning. Results peak after 3 weeks so can't wait to see! For the next few days, I was instructed to avoid direct sunlight and make sure I have SPF on, and avoid using any retinols, glycolic acids and vitamin C serums and continue using the small sample of Procell serum I was given. The Procell serum enhances delivery and collagen growth. Thank you Isabel for the demo and Gillian for walking me through every step and answering all my questions!



Geneo Hand Treatment - Since I had just done a microchanneling treatment done the day before, my Geneo demo was done as a hand treatment with 3 steps: Oxfoliate (exfoliation + oxygenation) creating a bubbly CO2-rich environment on the skin's surface, Ultrasound (nourishment) creating micro-vibrations that instantly smooth the skin and increase permeability of the skin's protective layer, and Sculpting Massage (lymphatic drainage) a relaxing hands-free massage with an instant reduction of redness and puffiness. There are different types of Geneo treatments based on skin concerns: Balance, Detox, Glam, Hydrate, Illuminate and Revive (the one I went with). The Geneo oxypods react with the Geneo primer gel to create a gentle, non-invasive exfoliation, while triggering oxygenation within the skin. The oxypods contain ingredients in their dormant state, which are more powerful than in serum form. My hands never looked so good after this demo! Thank you Marci for my treatment!



Germaine de Capuccini Timexpert Hydraluronic Facial - I was excited to end my last day of IECSC with a traditional (no device), luxurious facial including the Hydraluronic 3D Force Moisturising Fill-In Serum, Plumping Moisturising Cream. The new products are powered by a formula featuring Germaine de Capuccini's patented HLG nonopolymer to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and dehydration, while restoring elasticity and skin's natural glow. First step was cleansing, then after toning applying the concentrate, followed by the soft scrub/exfoliate. Then the glass gua sha-inspired sculpting tool was so soothing and cooling when massaged on my face. The tool is prepped / immersed in cold water and chilled repeatedly as needed. The last step was a peel off gel mask that stayed on for about 15-20 minutes. Thank you to the whole entire Germaine de Capuccini team for all your hospitality! I was the last appointment and the show was breaking down and they took their time with me to make sure I got the full hour length of the facial, leaving my skin glowing and hydrated. It was a truly pampering experience, one I would indulge in at a spa or resort. 


I was very grateful to all the aestheticians that gave me demos at their booths. Everyone was so friendly,  informative, accommodating and took their time - I didn't feel rushed at all really got to take everything in. 


In between demos, I visited some favorites brands such as G.M. Collins, Tzol' Skin, PCA Skin, Voesh and Noshinku (their first IECSC NY booth - so glad to see them here)! I also got to know exhibitors that were new to me like Face Reality, Tizo, Nuebiome, Sugarbear. 


Tzol'Skin

Nosinku Hand Sanitizer in two newest scents: Vetiver and Limon. Love their flat packaging to easily fit in your back pocket or clutch bag and they also have refills available.

New from G.M. Collin! 4D Visible Lifting Neck & Décolleté Serum (this was already sold out at the show when I got to their booth!)

Face Reality Skincare

Nuebiome
                       
Sugarbear Hair Vitamins! They also recently launched their Lashcare Vegan Vitamin Serum

The Lipgloss and Aftershave scavenger hunt was also a lot of fun and introduced me to exhibitors I wasn't familiar with. I can't wait to try all the product I collected!

Check out my IECSC show highlights here
and the Instagram reel of all the demos I received at the show.

- Kim Weling

Thursday, May 12, 2022

The Makeup Show NYC 2022

Nick Lujan, Director of Artistry and Education at Kevyn Aucoin Beauty

 One of my favorite shows I look forward to each year is The Makeup Show NYC! This year it took place May 1-2 at the Metropolitan Pavilion. It is the perfect place to check out the demos for some inspiration, attend artistry classes and pickup some tips and techniques, and walk the show floor to see new product launches, see your favorite brands and explore new ones,  and pickup must-have beauty items you may need for your kit or just for your own personal use! 

The best part of buying product at The Makeup Show are the discounts, gifts with purchase and show exclusives! My advice, know in advance who the exhibitors are and have a checklist of who you want to visit and what products/shades you need. Even though I always have a list, there's always more there that catches my eye! Every year at the show I learn new things and meet new people, but it's also a reunion and great to see familiar faces! Here's a look at this year's show highlights!

Kevin James Bennett, Educator & Industry Expert

Model, Danessa Myricks Stage

Ada Lip Beauty with lipsticks pigmented from vegetables such as beets, radishes and chili peppers

SUVA Beauty intensely pigmented UV Primaries Hydra FX Palette

TZOL'SKIN Lluvia 72 Hr. Moisturizer
Love the entire line, including the Youth Igniter Eye Gel!

B3 Balm

MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Skin Undetectable Longwear Foundation 
MAKE UP FOR EVER has been my go-to for foundation for years!

CōTZ Face Prime & Protect mineral sunscreen with SPF 40

Jones Road Beauty What The Foundation Tinted Moisturizer Balm

Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner, Tropical Lemon Scent

Rebels & Outlaws Sacred Ceremony candles with different fragrances, herbs and crystals

Baseblue Cosmetics - Framed art that doubles as a palette 

Beautélanin Skincare Golden Honey Micellar Cleansing Oil

Narené Beauty Magnificent Matte Lipstick

Beauty Creations x Luis Torres Beauty Palette

NUDESTIX Tinted Cover Skin Tint Foundation

- Kim Weling