Exciting things to come...

Started doing some writing again at blogspot since they want to charge me $2.5 grand for my old .com page. In the future I may revamp to a .dot version, but until then here we are!

XOXO,
Stay Beautiful by Staying YOU! ~Amy

My Favorite Top 5 Ways - Getting Rid of Scalp Acne

Today, I want to talk about a subject that no one likes to talk about but a subject nonetheless that needs to be talked about. That subject being scalp acne! Even as a teenager I was very fortunate. I hardly had any acne, and up until now rarely had breakouts. 

For those that do not know, I have a condition called Crohn's Disease. To learn more about Crohn's Disease click here to read about it. With my Crohn's (and the medicines they have me on currently) I get really bad patches of acne, and most of the time they are in my scalp. The first thing I did once it happened was research! There are so many theories and ideas out there about how to get rid of it. However, I found the following five ways below the most interesting, as well as helpful... (credit goes to Kristen Jackson, hairbudda.net, and Bustle) 

Tea Tree Oil

"This powerful essential oil has some serious anti-inflammatory properties. Purchasing shampoos with tea tree oil in it is a great way to prevent for pimples on your scalp. If you're looking to get rid of a blemish covered in hair, apply ice on the site for about 7 minutes (or as long as it takes for the ice to completely melt) and then apply tea tree oil to continue keeping the inflammation down. This is a great method for one-off pimples on the scalp."

I have personally used Tea Tree Oil, and I have found so far for me this is the best way to get rid of it (or at least "calm it down").

Brush/Comb Your Hair Daily

"One great way to avoid acne is by removing dead skin cells that are clogging your pores. Combing (several times) not only does that, it also boosts scalp circulation, bringing with it more oxygen and nutrients. And this boost of vitamins helps heal acne as well as improve the overall condition of your hair."

"Every night before going to bed make a habit to comb your scalp several times. Be gentle on the areas that hurt, as you don’t want to injure the pimple."

It is suggested that you should either use a wide-tooth wood comb or a bamboo pin hair brush. It really does make a difference, and I have found this tip to be part of daily routine.

Apple Cider Vinegar

"With an innate ability to restore pH levels and all those antioxidants, Apple Cider Vinegar is defiantly one of the easiest and more popular ways to treat scalp acne naturally. Not only will a simple rinse of one part apple cider vinegar and two parts water give your hair a healthy boost, you'll also give your scalp astringent properties that can alleviate painful blemishes."

I especially like using Apple Cider Vinegar for painful blemishes and outbreaks. It is another one of the few things that has helped me, and the best part is most of us have this in our cabinet at home!

Change Your Pillowcase Weekly!

"All of the sweat, oil and dirt from your head is seeping into your pillow case every night. So if you don’t wash them regularly you’re basically putting your head on a pillow of sweat and dirt f0r 6-8 hours. Not a good idea, as unclean dirty pillow clovers and towels is perfect ground for bacteria to grow and thrive – leading to more breakout. So it makes sense to wash your pillow covers and towels at least weekly."

Since I have started doing this I have significantly noticed a difference. It is amazing what accumulates on your covers and sheets in a week. Wanna have fun? Turn off the lights and scan a black light over your bed, you will totally be surprised!

Ditch The Conditioner!

"Conditioners coat the hair and scalp and may cause too much oil/grease to be trapped against the scalp. So, give them a break. If you are worried about how your hair will look after shampoo, try using a hair rinse – which won’t clog your pores, but make your hair look beautiful."

If you would of told me this a month ago, I would of said you were crazy. However, when I have outbreaks this is the one thing that significantly cuts down how long the outbreak lasts. I like using a leave in spray conditioner such as Davines Oi All in One Milk or Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream. I prefer these particular ones, because they not only condition but they prevent frizz as well.

I hope that you will find these tips useful if you are struggling with hair acne like I am. Also, feel free to share any tips you may have below! :)

Until Next Time,

Stay Beautiful by Staying You!

XOXO,

Beauty Tip Monday! - #1

Hello Everyone...

I thought today would be a great day to get things started off on the right track, by having Beauty Tip Monday! Each Monday I will post some of the best tips right here on Allure By Amy.

Want to contribute? Have some great ideas of your own? Submit them here, and you may just see your tip next Monday!

Monday Beauty Tip #1: Avoid SPF at Night

"While wearing a suncreen or a moisturizer with SPF in essential in summer it can be important to wash it off in the evening.  While it might not be necessary to use a separate night cream to moisturize, one of the reasons why you would is because you might be using one with SPF protection."

"A moisturizer or lotion with SPF should only be used in the day for obvious reasons. If you apply a moisturizer with SPF in it at nigh you risk having your pores clogged in the long term. Remember that your skin is repairing itself at night so it’s better to use a moisturizer formulated to improve the skin’s function."

- Credit to Hanne S.

Until Next Time - Stay Beautiful!

XOXO,

 

Glossybox, My Life, and More...

For all wondering...Allure By Amy is back! We haven't gone anywhere. I have had a recent decline in my health, however that being said I should have more time to spend on the computer with you all. School starts back on the 22nd, but I have online classes this semester. I am excited to bring back subscription box reviews, and just random beauty reviews as well. I miss all of my readers, and thanks to the ones who stayed and are still supporting me.

I just had to let you all know about an awesome recent deal I came across, that I am pretty sure will not last long! If those of you remember way back when I use to sign up to Glossybox, it was a subscription I hated letting go. However, with the income I am on I had to pick my subscriptions wisely. I couldn't pass up this deal though. For a limited time, you buy this month's box (August) and you get two previous glossyboxes free!!! That's 15 products, which is pretty much like a $1 or so a product. I couldn't pass it up, so I have those reviews on the way. 

If you wish to sign up, and follow along with me use this link: SIGN UP FOR GLOSSYBOX and then when it ask for a promo code use the code "DUSK." It should automatically apply. It won't be on there when you check out, but from what I hear this is common and your boxes will show up.  :)

#NoBodyShame

Instead of ending the day with a review, I wanted to share with you a campaign that I think is beneficial to all. No Body Shame campaign was created by Whitney Thore, and I believe her recent video of her story is inspirational for anyone. 

Do you feel like you look weird, or different, too skinny, too fat, not pretty enough? We have all been there! More than anything I want each of you to know there is no shame in who you are. Allure By Amy was not only created for all sorts of beauty reviews, but it was also created for a place to go who share common interests. Stay Beautiful By Staying YOU is the motto here at Allure By Amy. What better way to explain my view on beauty in this fabulous video from Whitney Thore. 

Use #NoBodyShame if you are proud of your body to help pass the word on to others! Who knows? The change of others negative views could turn positive just with one simple tweet or post.

Derma E - Gluten Free Skincare Customized Just For You!

Hello Everyone!

If you weren't aware before, you have to know I am a huge fan of Derma E products. Not only do their products work, but they are good for you as well!  In short they leave out all the yucky stuff, and leave in all the wonderful amazing ingredients that your skin - needs and craves!

You may ask what makes their skincare products so different? By going here you can find out exactly why I love them so much:

 http://dermae.com/about/6083/Our-Formulations.html 

 September marked the start of their campaign for Gluten Free Skincare (which I love!), frankly I think we should keep promoting it year-a-round. I think finding a good skincare regimen that keeps working - is a full time job. Finding and having Gluten Free Skincare is not quite as hard as knowing which ones are right for your skin. However, it doesn't have to be a full time task and knowing which ones are right for you is made simple starting NOW. How you may ask? Thanks to Derma E's custom skincare regimen, the products are catered to your specific needs. After all everyone's skin is different, so it would make sense that everyone should have a different regimen suited to their type of skin.

All you have to do is start here:  

http://www.dermae.com/dermaevaluation

  type in your email (you can use any email, it's just so they can mail your results afterwards) to answer just a few question's about your skin. Then based on your result's they put together a regimen just for YOU!  

Then you can pick and choose what products you want to buy (or buy them all) and done! I did it, and I am so happy that I did. My skin has never felt better.

Now, let me share with you a few products that were chosen for me in my skincare regimen....

 

Tea Tree and E - Face and Body Wash

According to their site...."This natural antibacterial cleanser thoroughly deep cleans the entire face and body leaving skin feeling clean, soft, deodorized and healthy. A unique combination of ingredients provides natural antiseptic action to combat a wide range of problem skin conditions such as blemishes, rashes, irritation, flaking and itching... 100% vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free, lanolin-free, gluten-free, GMO-free."

I love using this face/body wash while I am in the shower. My skin is itchy 24/7, and I have noticed since using it my skin feels and looks so much better. I hardly ever get itchy now, which is amazing for me since I have extremely dry and itchy skin. 

 This product is more of what I call a gel, but gives you that soapy look and feel once wet. It smells mostly of Chamomile to me, and I rather enjoy the scent. It's quite different than previous products I have used with Chamomile in it, but in a good way. The only negative thing I have to say is not about the product itself at all. When I first opened it the product came out really fast, and I had way more than I needed, so just keep that in mind if you purchase this product. I sort of tilt mine to the side, instead of straight down when using it now.

 

Deep Wrinkle Peptide Moisturizer

"Visibly soften and smooth the appearance of even the deepest wrinkles with this revolutionary double-action peptide crème that contains two of the most powerful and effective peptides that bio-science has to offer. Peptide Matrixyl® synthe'6® tells the skin to synthesize new key components such as collagen and to restructure itself. Peptide Argireline® helps relax facial muscles, smooth wrinkles, and discourage the formation of new lines.."

I love putting this on right after I exfoliate my face. I think it absorbs that much better when I do. I like how this moisturizer isn't too thick or thin, and is basically everything I could ask of a moisturizer and more. With time I hope to come back and show you my full results, but so far I have significantly noticed my skin feels tighter and overall healthier. It is recommended for all skin types. I have more dry skin than anything, and this helps a lot with my dry skin. 

Microdermabrasion Scrub

"Immediately improve the appearance of your skin using this gentle yet effective multi-award-winning Microdermabrasion Scrub. This salon-perfect formula uses an exclusive crystal blend including Dead Sea Salt and Volcanic Sand (rich in Silica) to buff away dull surface cells, help diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars, and absorb excess skin oils. Enriched with natural astringents Lime and Lemon Peel plus antioxidants Grapeseed and Vitamin E, this pro-grade treatment retexturizes skin, leaving it soft, smooth and younger-looking. May also be used on your hands, elbows, knees, heels or any part of the body to promote soft, smooth and healthy skin..."

 

This is one of their most popular products, and has received a ton of awards. After trying it even just once, I can understand why. It truly eliminates any dry or flaky skin off your face, and ultimately makes your skin softer. After having tried this, I am kicking myself asking why haven't I tried it until now. It is probably the best Microdermabrasion scrub I have ever used, and for $32 (not to mention the amount of product you get) that is a steal!

I hope that if you get anything from my post today that you learn choosing the appropriate skincare routine is an important decision. It truly can make your skin 10 years younger (or 10 years older if choosing the wrong routine). Make sure you get your customized skincare routine here, and use coupon code ICANTWHEAT to take 25% off your order (expires 11/20/15). 

Feel free to ask any questions and/or comment below, and I will do my best to help you. Your feedback is highly appreciated.

Until Next Time - Stay Beautiful!

XOXO,

 

Ipsy - September 2015

(click to enlarge)

Greetings! I hope everyone is doing okay. Today, I want to share with you what was in my September Ipsy Glam Bag! September you may ask, isn't it October? While yes, yes it is. I actually had an issue with the eyeliner in my bag. It completely fell apart. Being the wonderful company Ipsy is they sent me a replacement! Ipsy has the best customer service I have ever dealt with. This month's theme was "Face Fashion!"
 

Now that the contents are all here, let's get to it!

If you don't know what Ipsy is, it's a beauty subscription bag designed just for you, (by taking the beauty quiz) that cost $10 a month. The $10 also includes shipping. Beauty Guru Michelle Phan curates the bags, and you generally receive 5 items. 

If you wish to sign up you can sign up through my personal referral link here: Ipsy Sign Up

 

Every month you receive a bag with your Ipsy items in them. This month the bag design (as seen above) opened from the side of the bag; instead of the top. I noticed they have been having a lot more that open from the side. I love the ones that open from the top, so I am hopeful they will go back to that design.


This design (seen above) was a gold metallic bag. On the front the material has a wave pattern on it, while the back of it does not. I love the gold bag this month, and the style is sooo me!

Now let's see what I got inside my Glam Bag this month. Feel free to click on any of the pictures below if you want to see up close any of the products...

 

J. Cat Beauty - MOTD Waterproof Slide on Pencil for Eyes in Bronze

"This eye-catching pencil has a soft & smooth formulation. It’s an eyeliner with an innovative staying power. A long-wearing, waterproof liner will keep your eyes inked and smudge free."

• Soft and smooth
• Intense color
• Waterproof and smudge-proof

 

While I was crushed that when I opened the pencil it had been damaged and unusable, I am glad I contacted Ipsy to replace it. I wear mostly black eyeliner, but after trying this eyeliner in bronze it is now one of my new favorite colors! This pencil glides on very easy, and has a ton of pigment. 

 

You may want to known since I wasn't sure, that you can use it once it runs out by sharpening it. It doesn't look like it can be sharpened, but it does. Making this product go a long way!

 

Price: $3.99 (FULL SIZE!)

 

 

NYX Cosmetics - Ispy Eyeshadow Trio

"This 3-color eye shadow palette gives you go-anywhere intensity day or night thanks to the highly pigmented formulations. Provides intense eye colors with a silky texture for seamless application for any eye look that you desire. It consists of 3 complementing eye shadows to wear together or alone."

• Each eye shadow provides great color payoff with every application.

• Create any look on the go with the help of the dual applicator that allows you to apply, smudge and line your eyes effortlessly.

• Exclusive palette designed by NYX just for ipsters!

I love how NYX made this palette just for Ipsy. I think it's pretty cool that we have a customized product. They are really pretty shades of brown, and their are two shimmers and one matte. I think these colors will look good almost anyone, and I enjoy the fact it takes me out of my comfort zone.

 

Price: $6.00 (FULL SIZE!)

 

 

Eau Thermale Avene - Soothing Moisture Mask

"This rich, creamy, non-setting skincare mask provides intensive soothing care to dehydrated and over-stressed skin. Its unique formula deeply penetrates skin and in minutes, sensitive or tired skin can become supple, soft and radiant again. It also offers instant relief for burns, sunburns, redness and tightness.

• Replenishes moisture to dehydrated skin and helps restore skin’s barrier

• Minimizes redness 

•  Paraben-free, Hypoallergenic, Non-Comedogenic, Vegan and Gluten-Free

 I have so many skincare masks it isn't even funny, so at first I wasn't thrilled to see this. However, after trying it this is now one of my favorite masks. It does a really great job at hydrating the skin. I also like the fact I can use it when my skin gets sunburned. I will defiantly be buying a full size of this in the future.

 

Price: $26.00 (for a full size; value for sample size around $4?)

 

 

City Color Cosmetics - Be Bold 3x Volume & Length Mascara in Black

"Create bolder, fuller lashes with Be Bold 3x Volume Mascara. Available in 3 different lash enhancing functions, each with a unique brush to add volume, length + volume, or curl + volume to every lash. Each mascara comes in a deep black shade."

• 3X lash volume
• Long wear formula
• Smudge proof

Usually, I really enjoy City Color Cosmetics products. Their highlighting powder is amazing. This product did the job when it came to mascara, but I was a little disappointed. It just wasn't anything special in my opinion. It will get used though.

Price: $5.99 (FULL SIZE!)

Trust Fund Beauty - Nail Polish in "Elegantly Wasted"

 "If you enjoy yourself, it’s not really a waste - it’s your prerogative.” Trust Fund Beauty is a quick-drying, chip resistant polish comes in cute bottles complete with some seriously sassy names. Plus, it’s 7-free, non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free. Don’t mind if we do!"

I was super excited to receive this nail polish! The make such pretty colors, and I love that their polish is vegan and non-toxic. This color (dark lilac) was no exception. 

Price: $15 (FULL SIZE!)

BONUS ITEM(S)

For every product that you review you can earn points, you can also earn points other ways such as for referrals. Once you save up enough points you can go to the points store to spend your points. 

Here is what I spent some of my points on this month:

 

 

IT Cosmetics - Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil 

"A universal, transforming long-wear eyebrow pencil infused with cutting-edge brow enhancing ingredients and technology. The oval shaped tip is perfect for both thin and thick brows. The spooly end brush gives a natural polished look. Brow Power Universal Eyebrow Pencil matches all hair colors and covers gray perfectly. Full brow lift guide included with each pencil."

This is my favorite eyebrow pencil. This thing works, and it is really amazing. It makes my brows look even and precise. I would highly recommend this product, if you are looking for a good brow pencil.

Price: $24 (FULL SIZE!)

This month we received a value of around $55! Not only did I get to try some new products, but I received a great deal since I only spent $10. What do you think about this month's Ipsy "Face Fashion"? What variation did you receive? I love hearing your questions/comments, so feel free to leave them below.

Until next time STAY BEAUTIFUL by STAYING YOU!

XOXO,