Consonant Skincare At BlushPretty Studios

Have you heard my big fancy news yet?
Yours Truly is now a contributor to Fashion Translated Online Magazine!
I'm so very excited to be part of this beautiful website, and have such a great opportunity to reach a broader audience! 
For my first post, I went to an event at BlushPretty Studios in Toronto for a kind of Meet and Greet with Consonant Skincare.  You can read my Fashion Translated article here.
Consonant Skincare is a Canadian company which was started in 2006.  All of the products from Consonant are at least 96% organic, with the facial care being 100%.

 

 

Consonant was founded in 2009, because its founder, Bill Baker had been using organic products but didn't like how they felt and looked "too granola"  He wanted a product that felt rich and luxurious, with sleek, unfussy packaging.

That is exactly what Consonant became!

 

 

I was sent home with a goodie bag filled with several products which have made me love them hard!

The Consonant face care system is concise and effective.  It begins with a foaming cleanser that removes makeup as well, and claims to be safe for all skin types.  Its a soft foam which is achieved through  a screen in the pump as opposed to added surfactants which mean its more gentle.  This cleanser will truly work on any skin, be it combo or parched and tissue-thin.

After cleansing, Consonant have two serums to choose from  The Superhero Serum is a powerful ant-oxidant serum which will fill small wrinkles, even tone, and protect the skin with a combination of vitamins and minerals.  The other one is the HydrExtreme, which is a combination of Cassia seed oil and vegetable glycerin..  This potent little beauty is an ultra-moisturizing, anti-aging genius!  It has all the benefits of Hyaluronic Acid with none of the irritation, leaving you with plump, comfortable skin.  The HydrExtreme can be applied directly to the skin, or blended with your moisturizer for a little boost!

The final part of the Consonant regiment is a face and eye cream application.  They make rich,  luxurious creams that would rival any high-end brand.  The facial creams come in formulas for combo to normal skin types, and dry to very dry skin types.  The textures are glorious, as are the results!  I felt smooth after applying this cream, even after a nights sleep in the least humid house in the world!  Plump is, again, the best word to describe my skin.

The two products which had me hooked instantly were the lip balm and the eye cream, though.  The Firming eye cream changed my eye area immediately!  My lines were reduced, and the puffiness underneath was diminished.  The Lip Conditioner is formulated with Sweet Almont Oil and  Fatty Acids for intense hydration that lasts for ever!  This has become my overnight balm because it feels rich, but not waxy, and I can still feel it the next morning!  These two have earned their way into my daily rotation!  They'll soon be joined by some more Consonant goodies so they wont be lonely!

 

BlushPretty Studios

Elaine from TOBeautyReviews, Kristina from Consonant, Steph owner of BlushPretty

Cutest Ladies Ever!

 

The event was held at The BlushPretty Studios at 777 Richmond St in Toronto.  It's an adorable little space which housed an adorable assortment of estheticians and makeup and hair artists.  The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with an assortment of cocktails and cupcakes.  Classy girl that I am, I finished the SkinnyGirl Sangria.  That's how I roll! (To be honest, there was only one glass left in the bottle so I'm not that bad.)  Kristina from Consonant was knowledgeable with the product.  She explained and demonstrated wonderfully, while Steph and Elaine were delightful hosts!  The whole thing turned into a really fun little night out!

You can check out BlushPretty here, and Consonant Skincare here.  They offer both in store and online shopping.

I had such a great experience at the BlushPretty and Consonant event.  Not to mention the products are making my face so happy! 

And I'm pretty excited about my new gig at Fashion Translated!

What do you guys think of organic skincare? Ever tried it, or even wanted to?

 

Donnna Xoxo

 

 



Benefit's The Porefessional And Garnier Ultra-Lift Transformer. What a Pair!

Guys, I've missed you!
I am fighting a really big stupid cold, which has been causing misery for the last week.  It's been tough to string a coherent sentence together!
Today, however, I can see through the fog, so I have absolutely got to tell you about the duo I've been all over lately!

 

These two babies layered leave a lovely glowy, velvety finish to the skin!

Benefit's The Porefessional, is one of the best primers out there.  I have talked a bit about this primer before, with regards to anti-aging, but it's great for everyone!  It has a silky balm-like texture which is light and comfy on.  The Porfessional will work on all skin-types, as long as they're well moisturized.  I have skin like the Sahara, so I use a hardcore moisturizer containing urea. This can leave me shiny and my pores look like little swimming pools!  After I apply this, my skin is matte and lovely!  This primer also has a Vitamin E derivative to protect from free radicals.  A little goes a long way, so, $31.00 isn't really that painful!

Garnier's Ultra-Lift Transformer is a newer product.  This product is a multi-tasker extraordinaire!  It is said to hydrate, correct wrinkles, firmness and dullness.  It starts off white, and then self-adjusts to the skin tone by using micro-pigments to brighten and correct.  Brighten is an understatement!  There is very slight coverage with this, but it has a spectacular blurring effect, which softens any imperfections.  Even though the Transformer has anti-aging benefits, they're not aggressive!  The anti-oxidants, peptides and vitamins will improve the skins overall health, regardless of age.  Drier skins will need a moisturizer under this, like a bb cream would, but if your skin is combination, or normal you should be fine.  I'm not sure how an oily skin would like this.  I don't think it would be bad, but it might not be a homerun.

Don't forget the SPF Ladies!

I hope to be back on my feet, and back on your screens more very soon!  This once a week ish has got to go!

Who has a combo that they love?  Any primer secrets out there? 

Share with the class, Kiddies!

 

Donna Xoxo 



Nude Lips, Olivia Pope Style

I'm a bad blogger guys!
I've been all over the place for the last month, which is why I've been a bit MIA.  Last week I was helping a friend look after her two boys, which are two and a half and three months old. 
Parenting is hard!
I figured I'd have time to post, but Holy Hell, it was non stop!
It was so much fun, though!  Those boys love me like nobody's business, and I cant even begin to explain how much I love them!
During nap time, I discovered the tv show "Scandal" and Olivia Pope.
Where have I been all this time?
How have I not been strung-out on this for years already!
Just watch it and try not to be obsessed with it.  All the intrigue, damaged people and debauchery!
Let alone the fashion!
OHHHH MMYYYY GGOOODD!
I'd sell a kidney for a third of that woman's wardrobe.  (If I had one that functioned, that is.)
If I can't have Olivia's style or creamy glowing complexion, dammit, I can have her lip colour!

 

 

 

Olivia always wears a lip colour which is a pink toned nude.  Hers tends to be slightly more matte than the lip I have in the pic, but I needed to add some warmth to the lip crayon I'm wearing as a base so I added a sheer gold gloss.  It perks the colour up a bit, and gave a nice sheen to my dry old-lady lips.
The product that is used on Kerry Washington on the show is Clinique's Chubby Stick in "Whole Lotta Honey".  Here I have on Pop Beauty's Pouty Pop Crayon in "Rose Romance".  It's a full coverage creamy matte stick with a good wear time and soft feel.  The gloss I added was Dior's Crème de Gloss in "215", which is a sheer gold-taupey shade with small multi-coloured glitter particles.  I love that the glitter gives off more of a sheen than a sparkle.  As far as wear time goes, it's not bad for a gloss!  I like this formula quite a bit!

 



 

I`ve never really been one for a nude lip, but I`m a massive fan lately!  It`s a versatile look that can be as great with a soft eye and sculpted cheek as it is with a dramatic eye.  I think we`ll be seeing more of this on me!
Do you guys do the nude lip thing?  Any tricks to pull it off to share?
More importantly, do you guys watch Scandal?  I'm only half way through the second season, and I'm dying to see what's coming!

Donna Xoxo

MaskerAide in 2014. Lets Hear It For Plump, Moist Skin!

I've missed you guys!  It feels good to be upright and functional again!
So, how's everything?  I hope 2014 has been good to everyone so far!
I have made a decision about this year.  I'm going to make some changes. 
I'm stuck in a style rut, I'm turning 40, and I recently found out that I have Lupus.
Because of my condition my nails, hair, and skin are all dry like the Mojave.  I've also gained some weight, which has sent my confidence down a deep, dark, cold hole in the ground.
I want my soft, glowy skin and hair back!
I want to be brave with my style choices again!
So, I'm going to get these things
And, you're all coming to get them with me!
This is the first post in a series that is going to show us all how to make 2014 healthier, prettier and braver for all of us!
Why shouldn't we look after ourselves?  It doesn't have to be expensive and time consuming!
Unless, that's your thing.  If it is, then knock yourself out!
Alright!  First things first!
Let's get our dry, flaky winter skin under control!

                                             

 

 

 Masks are essential for skin health!  I use them regularly, so I was immediately interested in getting my hands on a MaskerAide sheet mask!

What makes these different than other masks, is the feel of the product on the sheet.  Every MaskerAide mask has Argan Oil in the formula which lends a beautiful richness to the serum-like feel.  Other hydrating masks tend to feel fresh and creamy.  While comforting, I just don't feel as plump after the other masks.  The hydration really did last for days after the initial use!

The application couldn't be easier either!  After a good cleanse and exfoliation, remove the mask from the package, place the mask on your face and reeelaaaxxx!  After 10 or 20 minutes (I really recommend 20.  A little nap never hurt anybody!) remove the mask.  You can rinse if you want, but I suggest just massaging in the serum that's left on the skin.  It feels delicious!  Let everything soak in for a few and follow up with the rest of your routine!  I will say that it's best done at night, or on a day where you don't need makeup.  A little shine is going to happen, ladies!

I did my first Weather Warrior while I was sick.  My skin was dry and dull and angry when I started out.  Let me tell you, it was happy and comfortable after.

There are five different types of MaskerAide masks.  They cover pretty much every skin need out there, and are safe for all skin types.  If healthy, fresh, alive looking skin is what you're after, MaskerAide is for you!  At $5.99 they're a huge steal.

This was such a good start to my "Year of New Donna"!

I can't wait to share my journey with everyone, and take you with me!

I'd love to hear what you guys think about all of this?  There's some pretty exciting things coming up, so brace yourselves Ladies and Gents!

 

Donna Xoxo

 

                   *This product was sent for consideration, however, all opinions are my own!



 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Cold Weather Superstars From The Body Shop

Fall has arrived! 

It's cold and dreary today, and my dog just wants to snuggle on the couch. So do I, so that works for me!

Days like this are perfect for some TLC on your skin, whether it's to treat dryness or prevent it. 

From now on we're all going to be bombarded with cool wind outside and heating inside. The drastic temperature shifts along with dry air are going to wreak havoc on your whole body!  It's all about gentle moisture these days!

The best thing to do is start with a good exfoliation. I said good, not aggressive. Try a home microdermabrasion like The Body Shop Vitamin C Microdermabrasion if your skin isn't very sensitive. It's also available in a single use sachet which is great!  I'm pretty sensitive so I like the Aloe line. It's a gentle exfoliation, but it gets the job done!  On your body, use a scrub with an emollient base, like The Shea Butter Scrub. It leaves you feeling smooth and dreamy!  The grains are all natural with these products, so they're Eco friendly, and they all run about $20.00. 

Next, a hydrating mask is a huge must!  The best thing about this type of mask is there are no real rules!  Put it on and watch a movie, do some laundry, whatever!  Your skin will only take as much as it needs. Wipe the excess off gently with tissue or a damp face cloth, and continue with the rest of your usual routine. In the cooler months it's a good idea to add a serum. It's always a good idea to use a one of these powerhouses whether it's soothing, anti-aging or mattifying, but a hydrating serum will be your best friend this time of year.

After you've scrubbed your body into deliciousness, go immediately and grab you Body Shop Body Butter. This is the OG of body butters and nothing beats these. The richness of the texture and the scent is beautiful. Back in the mid 90's Kate Moss used the mango butter in a Vogue editorial. I have been hooked ever since!  God, I love the Brazil Nut!  It's just gorgeous, and it makes your skin so soft and, well, buttery!  

This year, a Dry Oil was released in corresponding scents. The Beautifying Oils can be used on hair, face, and body. I've used it on all three and I'll tell you, it lives up to the claims. Since going blonde my hair's dry. I smooth a few drops through it every day and it's shiny and healthy looking. I also put a little on the driest areas of my face at night. I wake up soft and dewy since I've started doing that. When used on the body? It leaves the prettiest sheen on the skin. It's amazing on the cuticles too!

Go to The Body Shop right now!  The quality is spectacular and they have amazing promos all the time.  Not to mention the best loyalty card program I've ever heard of!  

If you've read my blog before, you know how much I love The Body Shop. I truly believe that you will too!

What are your skin superstars?

Donna Xoxo

My Secret to Smooth Glossy Nails.

There are a few things in life which, for me, are non-negotiable.
Clean, healthy looking nails are one of them.
A lot of the time, my nails aren't freshly manicured.  Life gets in the way, whether its time, money, or gardening.  Just not a major priority. My nails do, however, always look good!
It is the easiest little routine! 
A few years ago, my health started to decline.  My nails started to develop deep ridges, and became very brittle.  They would peel and tear all the time.  Regular strengtheners did nothing but make them more brittle.  The key to a brittle nail is moisture!
Every night I apply a cuticle oil, like Creative Solar Oil.  Rub it in well and let it soak.
Next the nail needs to be smooth.   
I have been a fan of nail buffers for ages now.  I have always used the four sided ones, and never thought the two sided ones were all that great.
Until now! 
The Revlon Crazy Shine buffer is Fab. U. Lous!  When they say crazy shine, they're not kidding!
It leaves the nail smooth and glossy like nobodies business!  Could not believe my eyes first time I used it.  My nails were as shiny as glass!  I'm so in love!
The treatment that I find works best for me, is Sally Hansen Complete Care 4-in-1 Moisturising Treatment.  It softens and protects the nail, so you don't get those little cracks at the edge of the nail, or peeling at the tips.  Dries in record time too!

 
I buff my nails, and do a coat of the treatment in about five minutes flat!  Easy Peasy!
So, that's my secret!  I'd love to hear yours!

Donna Xoxo

The Body Shop All-In-One BB Cream. Yes, I Jumped On The Wagon

Like most ladies out there, I've been curious about BB creams. I've hesitated to try one mainly to avoid the disappointment of it turning out to be just a fancy tinted moisturizer. I love a good tinted moisturizer, but why would I need another one?
A couple of weeks ago I was in The Body Shop getting some toner. A special was available on their BB cream. I grabbed one, thought "why not?". The cream itself is white with self-adjusting colour spheres. I was slightly skeptical of the colour matching ability, (Whitey Whiterson over here) as it did go slightly orange on my hand.
On my face, however, Holy Mackrel!
It was perfect!
The texture was silky, and the spread was smooth. The hydration from this was beautiful! I have dry, tight, early menopausey skin, but not with this tube of deliciousness! Even after a few hours my skin was still comfortable.
As for coverage, it was on the lighter side, which I expected. The finish, however, was glowy, and even. My skin was gorge! Bright and comfy!
The one downside here is the lack of SPF. I'm a total SPF whore, so I wear a 60 over my moisturizer and a 30 in my powder, so it's not the end of the world for me. It is a shame that I do have to put that extra layer on every time, even if I'm desperate to be lazy that day. If you won't do the separate sunscreen, this isn't the BB for you!
The bottom line here is that my Aveeno now has a run for its money as a fave! I'm really enjoying this product, and I'm looking forward to a little test-drive of other BB's!
I think I need Body Shop rehab. I'd probably do a Lindsay and beat the hell out of someone standing between me and my Aloe Toner though!
Step off be-hotch, get yo own Body Butta!

Donna. Xoxo