LET ME UPGRADE U + GIVEAWAY
After months of hibernation, the sudden arrival of April has reminded me that Summer is fast-approaching, and I, like many others, desperately need to make a few self-improvements before re-entering the real world. My current isolated state has encouraged the disposal of my razor, avoidance of the sun, and has ultimately led to a feeling of indifference when it comes to taking care of myself. With less than 100 days until Summer it's time to go from 0 to 100, real quick. Good-bye unshaven bits, pale skin, and lack luster skin.
THE PLAN
TAN + TONE
Nothing says summer quite like a tan, but given the current temperatures I doubt I'll be able to bask in the sun any time soon. In the mean-time I've turned to the St. Tropez Self Tan Luxe Dry Oil($60), a DHA-infused luxury oil riddled with bits of shimmer. While many head to the tanning salon, I find this method of self-tanning to be a great cost-effective alternative that lasts for days. The oil is non-greasy, ultra-hydrating, and features a 100% natural fragrance that is not reminiscent of tanning. I like to apply the oil directly before bed, allowing a few minutes for it to sink in before hopping under the sheets. When I awake in the morning my skin is typically 3-4 shades darker with no signs of dryness. I also use the oil as a moisturizer, massaging it into my legs before heading out on the town for the night; the inclusion of gold shimmer provides a seductive glow, while the DHA slightly deepens my tan. As for my face, I've been using the complimentary St. Tropez Facial Oil($45), which, like the body oil, is extremely hydrating and imparts natural colour, ensuring I never look orange. To help maintain my faux-tan I've been moisturizing daily with the Vichy Ideal Body Sorbet($30), which not only makes claims to supremely hydrate, but is said to keep skin well-toned all day long. Formulated with Hyaluronic acid and Gingko Biloba, this deluxe cream helps skin retain water, leaving it plump and toned in appearance for up to 24hours. The end result? A tan that will leave others asking where you just returned from (and what personal trainer you used before you left).
BRIGHTEN UP
Living off a diet of earl grey tea, coca cola and perogies may have seemed like a good idea at the start of winter, but come spring my teeth have stained, leaving me weary to smile. Luckily, I recently had the chance to test out the Smile Brilliant at-home teeth whitening system in hopes of returning to the land of pearly whites. The Smile Brilliant system is unique in the fact that prior to it's release custom fitted trays were only available at the dentist office for upwards of $500. Sitting at $120/system, which includes 3 syringes of teeth whitening gel (typically lasting 9-12 sessions), Smile Brilliant is undoubtedly the better option.
The system is surprisingly easy to use. The Smile Brilliant team sends you all the materials necessary to make your own dental impressions, which you then send back, at no cost, in order to have your custom-fitted dental trays created (upper and lower). Once you receive your customized trays in the mail you are ready to whiten; simply use the teeth whitening gel for 45mins-3hours, followed by the desenitizing gel for 30mins-2hours once daily for a week. The desensitizing gel is essential for anyone with sensitive teeth, as it removes the common aversion to hot/cold items following teeth whitening. With daily use of the Smile Brilliant system I noticed intense results after a single week, and so have those around me; I'm constantly being complimented on how white my smile has become. I definitely recommend it to anyone looking to whiten up for the summer. For more information see additional reviews/testimonials here, and check out this great video, here.
LASH OUT
To complete my self-upgrade I decided to spoil myself with some lash extensions from the lovely Linda at GTA Lash Dolls. Having had a bad experience with lash extensions a few years ago I was hesitant to do it again, but with so many great reviews coming from Linda's clients I felt safe in her care. Linda exclusively uses natural Mink lashes, and has an unlimited lash count policy, something that is rare in the biz. The process took a total of 3 hours as I chose the statement-making Volume Doll lashes, which required 3 lash extensions per natural lash. The final outcome was more than I could have hoped for – how did I ever feel pretty without long lashes? It's been two weeks since I had the lashes applied and they are still holding up well; minimal bare spots, and still lots of lashes to bat at babes. I'll definitely be heading back for refills within the next two weeks.
For those who shy away from lash extensions there are always false lashes, which can be applied for nights out to place emphasis on your eyes, leaving you feeling like a bombshell. Lately I've been loving the Make Up For Ever Lash Show Collection($22), which features 50 sets of false lashes, ranging from natural to artistic. The lashes come complete with glue, can be re-used, and are perfect for the girl looking for a short term relationship with long lashes.
Other notable products / Make Up For Ever Pro Sculpting Face Palettes to keep my face slim, full review here. Aerin Amber Musk to bring an airy-ness to my always-dark/manly scent. Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Caramello to keep my lips polished and neutral, allowing my smile to be the star, full review here.
GIVEAWAY
After a rough start to the year, a mini-makeover was essential to boost my self-confidence, and ultimately help me get back to 'me'. That said I completely understand that everyone needs a pick-me-up now and again, and therefore I wanted to do something nice for you, my readers. So I'm hosting a giveaway, in which one lucky reader will win their very own St. Tropez Facial Oil to help propel their self-upgrade for summer - not that you need an upgrade, girl you fine! To enter the giveaway simply complete the Rafflecopter form below, which will be open from Monday April 4th at 12:00am to Tuesday April 12th at 12:00am. The winner will be announced and personally contacted via e-mail on Tuesday April 12th. This giveaway is only available to those living in Canada or the United States. Good luck!
SHOP THE POST
Do you do anything special in prep for Summer? Or simply for a boost of confidence?
Let me know in the comment section below.