THE NUMBER ONE SKIN CARE MISTAKE YOU’RE MAKING AT THE GYM

Treadmills, ellipticals and exercise bikes. Sounds scary, right? As someone who frequents the gym, I love working up a healthy sweat. OK, maybe I don’t LOVE sweating but I DO love the satisfaction of staying fit and putting my health at the top of my To Do list. There’s nothing more exhilarating than finishing a workout, muscles fatigued and mind reenergized. But did you know there’s one common mistake people make during their workouts? Rubbing their face.

When we work out, our internal temperature rises, causing our capillaries to dilate. As our face releases the extra heat and sweat, we quickly grab for that towel to swipe the sweat off our hot and sensitive skin. Unfortunately, all that rubbing elevates redness and blocks our pores, leading up to — you guessed it — major breakouts!

Before you start pumping more iron or sprinting on the treadmill, think twice about wiping your face with a towel.  Avoid unwanted redness by taking a soft towel and gently patting the sweat off your face.

And if you can’t break the habit, try a cooling serum like Enza Essentials RosaCalm to tame redness and calm reactive skin. The solution is really that simple. 🙂

xo Krista

MAKE YOUR PARTY EXIT AS GRAND AS YOUR ENTRANCE

The season for socializing is upon us as our calendars fill with holiday parties and work happy hours. It’s the time for red dresses, glossy lips, smoky eyes and sparkling sequins. We all want to look our best and we usually do when we walk out the door. But, what about after we hit the dance floor, visit the snack bar and sip a glass of champagne? Has your makeup disappeared as fast as Houdini? Follow these 4 makeup tips to look fresh and fabulous all night long!

Gently exfoliate your skin before applying makeup. Most products adhere best to a smooth, clean surface. But, be sure not to over exfoliate!

Don’t forget to prime! It really is the holy grail of long-lasting makeup. Many primers act as pore refiners, color correctors, and oil blockers. Before I go out, I always use Jane Iredale’s Smooth Affair Facial Primer so I can confidently dance the night away. Perfect coverage? Check!

There’s nothing more frustrating than leaving the house with a perfect pout and needing to reapply it an hour later. Problem solved by applying a thin layer of foundation to your lips before your lipstick! My all-time favorite is my Jane Iredale Raspberry Lip Gloss. Want to go a step further? Learn how to stain proof your lipstick!

When curling your eyelashes, heat your lash curler with a blow dryer for about five seconds before curling. Your eyelashes will practically mold to the curler. You’ll be thankful you did this when you lock eyes with that adorable guy smiling at you across the room. Flutter away ladies!

What are some of your long-lasting make up tricks?

xo Krista

 

MEET OUR NEW BEAUTY BLOGGER KRISTA

Favorite Dessert: I like ALL desserts to be honest! 🙂 But if I had to choose just one, it’d be vanilla ice cream with Oreo’s on top!

Favorite Restaurant: The Livery right here in Eau Claire. Their Prickly Pear Mojitos are seriously to die for!

Celebrity Man Crush? Ohhh, Usher, by far.  I saw him perform live at Summerfest and he totally rocks the stage. Plus he has awesome dance moves and an award-winning smile!

I Daydream About: Relaxing on a beach in Mexico, listening to the sound of the waves.

Dream Job: I have so many! I want to do something in Communications or Marketing that aligns with my passions (fitness, beauty, and health).

Beauty Idol: Kate Hudson. We have similar fashion styles- I love how classy she is. I also really like her Fabletics clothing line! And have you seen her smile?! It’s gorgeous!

On Skincare:  I wash my face twice a day and follow with moisturizer. My Sustaining System feels amazing on my skin! I’ve been using the Enza Essentials Vitamin C Serum, which I LOVE. I believe skincare is so important because when your skin looks fresh and bright, you feel better about yourself.

What are your skincare problems? I have slight redness in my skin which can be slightly annoying. My face also gets oily sometimes after workouts, but thankfully I have my Enza regimen to keep my combination skin under control.

What is the best beauty advice you’ve ever received? Beauty starts from the inside. My mom always tells me that! But you should always take pride in your appearance, especially skincare. If you skip beauty steps now, you’ll pay for it later.

What are you looking forward to most as the new Beauty Blogger? I’m passionate about heath, beauty, fitness and fashion! I can’t wait to share tips and tricks that I’ve picked up over the years. I’m so happy to be a part of the Enza Team!

Any tips from the past Beauty Blogger, Kayla? She told me to let my own voice shine through in my writing and just have fun with it. I can’t wait to bring all stories beauty-related to my readers!

MIDWEEK INSPIRATIONS

I hope all of you lovely ladies are having an amazing week so far! Time sure does fly when you’re having fun, right?! Today I want to show you what I’m LOVING on this Wednesday afternoon:

Photo Creds: January Hart Rizzo

Have you read January Hart’s Enza Essentials review post yet? Seriously, we are obsessed with her! “There’s something about going through the process each morning and night and seeing visible changes happening on a daily basis that’s really encouraging.” -January

Read her complete review here!

‘Tis the season for boho chic styles. This tuck and wrap headband updo is my new favorite – it’s the easiest thing ever AND I get so many compliments when I wear it. Be sure to stay tuned to the blog for a how-to tutorial video!

Fashion trend that I’m loving? Floppy hats. Kourtney Kardashian looks stunning in this black one and I’m thinking I need to invest soon. Added bonus of wearing one? Your skin will be extra protected from sun damage (but don’t forget to apply your SPF too)!

Nothing says spring like a colorful bouquet of fresh flowers. How beautiful are these??

Can I just tell the world how much I love and adore Enza Essentials’ Vitamin C Serum? Ever since I started using this product in my AM skincare routine, my complexion has became SO much brighter, smoother, and softer. Seriously, this is no joke. I can’t believe the difference it has made on my skin! I officially can’t live without my Vitamin C Serum.

So, Julianne Hough dyed her hair bubblegum pink and it looks OUTSTANDING. Even though I’m not going to run out and change my color to this pastel hue, I think the girl looks fab in it. I read that Julianne chose pink because “it’s the color of kindness!” Awwwww!

Have a great rest of your week! -xo Kayla

 

POWER COUPLE: CLEANSER & TONER

We all know the power couples in the celebrity world – Brad and Angelina, Beyonce and Jay-Z, Kim and Kanye, even Blake and Ryan. But, what comes to your mind when you think about skincare and the perfect match? Yes, you guessed it – the hottest couple in the skin world is cleanser and toner! Here’s why:

It’s common sense to know how important it is to wash our face with a great cleanser morning and night. The AM cleanse is for washing away any sweat, dirt, bacteria, and products you put on before bed, while the PM cleanse is for removing makeup and other impurities your face has collected throughout the day. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, you want to find a cleanser that gives your skin a deep, gentle clean.

Here’s where the love connection between cleansers and toners start…

Washing your face leaves your skin at it’s purest, most vulnerable state. That’s exactly why you need to use a toner immediately after, restoring the pH levels. Cleansing your skin removes oils from the surface, while toning your skin brings it back to it’s balanced state. And, using a toner directly after washing will help it be most effective, giving you a glowing complexion.

This is exactly why the cleanser and toner are being awarded the “Most Powerful Couple” award. And the best part? Now through Valentine’s Day, the Extraction Cleanser and Toner Duo, Sustaining Cleanser and Toner Duo, and Saturation Cleanser and Toner Duo are 25% off! Order now at enza.com!

 

HOW TO GET READY IN 20 MINUTES

If you’re like me, you hate oversleeping in the morning, even if it’s only a few minutes or so. Well, this morning I overslept an hour because silly me forgot to set an alarm last night! When I looked at my clock and saw that I had to leave the house in 20 minutes, my heart shot through the ceiling and I was on a SERIOUS mission. But I made it to work on time, with even 2 minutes to spare! So, if you ever need to be ready in 20 minutes, here’s a few tips and tricks to get you out the door on time.

Prep your skin. 

Even when you’re crunched on time, it’s so important to start your day with fresh skin. Keep it quick with a cleanser, toner, and SPF so you can moisturize AND protect at the same time. Next stop, makeup!

Keep the makeup simple. 

Take this as an opportunity to try out the “Natural” makeup look that is hot right now. Jane Iredale’s Dream Tint Tinted Moisturizer is very lightweight and easy to apply. Then, swipe on a coat of mascara, and finish with your favorite lip color. Voila! Your makeup is already done and you still have 9 minutes.

Tousle your locks. 

Unless you are Superwoman and can wash your hair and be ready within 20 minutes, you’re not going to have time to shower. Use dry shampoo to absorb any oils in your hair and to give your locks some volume. And don’t worry if it’s not perfectly straight or elegantly curled – messy beach waves are ALWAYS in style. But if it’s too horrific to wear down, pull it up into a chic topnot.

Grab and go. Even if it’s a granola bar or a piece of fruit, make sure to eat something before you start your day. It’s easiest to eat on the go when you only have 20 minutes, and it’s totally worth it!

 

WHAT INSPIRES ME

As summer is coming to an end and fall is right before our eyes, I wanted to take a moment to think about what I’ve enjoyed this past season and what I am looking forward to next. Here are a few of my current inspirations!

Photo Cred: Rubies and Ribbon

I wore one on the 4th of July with my lovely mother!

Flower Crowns. Since flowers and my hair are two of my favorite things, why not wear flowers in my hair? This simple yet beautiful hair accessory looks great on anyone, and nothing brings out my girly side quite like a flower crown. I’m obsessed.

Taylor Swift’s Shake it Off. I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty hooked on Tay’s new song she released on Monday. The video made me giggle and I think the message behind this song is wonderful and very inspirational for anyone. Plus, Taylor has some fabulous dance moves in the vid 🙂

Reflection of Fall Colors by Carl Devine

Fall Colors. Whether it be the colorful leaves, a shade of lipstick, or an infinity scarf, all of the colors that we find during the fall season are my favorite. I love the warm hues of red, orange, brown, yellow and burgundy that I find everywhere from clothing to paintings to outdoors.

Chrissy Teigen. This girl rocks. She’s so beautiful, her skin is flawless, she’s wifey to John Legend, and her Instagram photos are fantastic. I love keeping up with her social media – it seems like she’s everywhere right now! I’m so envious of her complexion, she always looks amazing! I read that Chrissy is crazy about skincare and she wears SPF everyday.

Oversized Sweaters. Although I love summertime fashion, I must admit that this year I’m looking forward to cooler weather clothing. I’m a strong supporter of leggings, boots, and oversized, slouchy sweaters. Literally, it’s my fave thing to wear. I feel stylish yet super comfy in a large sweater like the one Lauren Conrad is wearing above.

Paris. I may be a little biased with this one because I’m going there in about 3 weeks, but the City of Love inspires me in many ways. I’m so excited to visit the city, learn about it’s culture, eat the food, see the fashion, and overall enjoy the trip with my beautiful Aunt. I honestly couldn’t be more excited!

What are some of your inspirations? -xo Kayla

 

 

5 WAYS TO MAKE SKIN BRIGHTER

It’s no secret – we ALL want clear, bright, flawless skin. Some of us have to work a bit harder than others to feel satisfied with our complexion, whether it’s due to genetics, environmental factors, or lifestyle. If you need a little advice on how to get brighter skin, try these five tips:

1. Exfoliate. 

Exfoliation is key if you want a brighter complexion. Your skin is covered by a thin layer of built up oil, dirt, and dead skin cells that make your beautiful face look dull. Exfoliation sloughs off the dead skin and unclogs pores while promoting cell renewal. By exfoliating 2-3 times per week, your complexion will become brighter and radiant in no time. I love using the Fine Facial Polish to exfoliate my skin. Also, a Clarisonic does a wonderful job of removing impurities from your pores so creams, serums, and moisturizers are absorbed better into your skin after exfoliating.

2. Eat the Right Foods. 

We can all agree that beauty starts from the inside out so it’s important to eat foods that will help your skin look amazing. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, trout and herring work wonders because they give your skin oils that reduce inflammation and keep skin smooth. Dark, leafy greens like spinach also give your complexion a radiant glow, while melons keep your skin hydrated and looking young.

2. Vitamin C. 

This antioxidant is nothing short of fabulous – it fights signs of aging AND brightens skin. Vitamin C works to lighten the hyperpigmentation that’s already on your skin, while also preventing further spots from appearing. Try Enza’s Vitamin C Serum if you’re in need of a brighter complexion.

4. Take a Makeup Break. 

I know this is easier said than done, but whenever you get a chance to be sans makeup, do it. If you refuse to leave the house without it (I would rather have a root canal than be in public fresh-faced), wait until the last minute to apply it and wash it off as soon as you get home. Makeup doesn’t allow your skin to breathe very well, making it appear dull and sometimes even damaged. If you need a great cleanser to wash off your makeup, try the Sustaining Cleanser!

5. Use Toner. 

Often underestimated, a toner is essential to brighter skin. When used after cleansing, a toner will remove any excess oil buildup and balances the pH levels in your skin. I am obsessed with the Cool Sustaining Toner because one of it’s key ingredients, chamomile extract, helps reduce any inflammation on my face while brightening and clarifying my complexion. I use this toner morning and night and absolutely love it.

 

BEST BEAUTY LOOKS: TEEN CHOICE AWARDS

The 2014 Teen Choice Awards aired Sunday night and the Red Carpet was hot with celebrities and the latest trends! Here’s my five favorite beauty looks from the night:

Lucy Hale. 

Lucy looks stunning in this red dress. The color compliments her lighter skin tone and dark hair. Her makeup is dewy perfection. But when you have skin that clear, it’s easy to look great! I love how bright her eyes look with black eyeliner and mascara, while her nude lip doesn’t distract.

Nina Dobrev.

I always thought the Vampire Diaries star was beautiful, but this look takes it to a whole new level! This metallic and colorful crop top ensemble is super fun, while her side braid makes her look elegant and girly. Nina’s skin is absolutely flawless – it looks so fresh and hydrated. She must drink lots of water and use Hydra Gel!

Kim Kardashian.

Her hair is perfect. Her brows are perfect. Her makeup is (as usual) perfect. When doesn’t she look – how should I say it – perfect? Kim looks fab in this sleek black moto top and skirt. And her skin tops everything! She must use an eye cream to look this good with a 1-year-old running around the house.

Sarah Hyland.

I’m seriously loving this Modern Family star’s show-stopping look. Her slightly bronzed glow makes her stand out among the others, along with this plunging dress. The smokey eye compliments her green eyes and her skin looks literally like a baby’s. She must take great care of her skin by using SPF.

Taylor Swift.

Ahhhhhh, America’s Sweetheart. I honestly wish I could hang out with her for just a night. She looks so pretty in this mint crop top and skirt combo. (Do I see a midriff-exposed trend??) Her makeup looks fantastic – winged eyeliner and a coral lip is definitely a great look for her. But, I loved when Taylor would embrace her natural curls so I wasn’t too thrilled about her hair for the awards.

 

KAYLA’S AM SKINCARE ROUTINE

When most people wake up in the morning, they’re probably not too excited about walking to the bathroom to wash their face. But honestly, it’s one of my favorite things because I know how much my skin will benefit from it. Plus, having amazing products like Enza Essentials makes it all the more better too!

Here’s the low-down of my morning skincare regimen so I’m ready for each day:

Step 1: I wash my face with Enza’s Sustaining Cleanser to clean any dirt, oil, or impurities that my skin may have collected overnight. This cleanser works great for getting deep into my pores, while still gentle enough to not cause any irritation. I work it into a soapy lather with my fingertips, then rinse it off and pat dry.

*2-3 times per week, I substitute the Fine Facial Polish in place of the Sustaining Cleanser. This way, I can exfoliate my pores of dead skin cells that have built up. 

Step 2: I spray a cotton ball with the Cool Sustaining Toner and wipe it all over my face. This step literally feels downright good. Using this toner balances my pH levels in my skin and brightens my complexion. And the cooling effect is pretty fantastic, too!

Step 3: I pump 1-2 drops of the Glycolic Serum into my hand and apply it onto my face and neck, avoiding my eye area. The glycolic acid helps even my skin tone and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. Since I’m only 22 and haven’t spotted any wrinkles quite yet (even though I know they’ll be here before I know it!), this is a crucial step in preventing them as well. I’ll thank myself in about 15 years 🙂

Step 4:  After the Glycolic Serum has completely dried, I cover my face in the Advanced Protection SPF 30. This lotion obviously protects my skin from the sun, but also works as the perfect lightweight moisturizer. AND it doesn’t have the usual sunscreen smell which makes me love it even more. Now I’m ready to start my day!

-xo Kayla