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By Amy Zhang July 14, 2017 in Beauty 6 Comments

Get an All Natural Glow – What is Organic Spray Tan All About?

There’s nothing better than a good tan. I’ve tried accepting my pale skin, but a little sun-kissed glow is flattering on basically everyone. With that said, I do my best to avoid too much sun because, well, wrinkles. The older I get, the more I take skincare seriously. Luckily, sunless tanning has come a long way. There’s nothing better than a good, all natural spray tan. If you’re thinking of the Friends episode where Ross gets a spray tan (too funny!), you don’t need to worry. There are safe, non-orange, organic spray tan options available on the market now. If you’re wondering what is organic spray tan, read on for a little interview I did with LA based spray tan queen, Valerie Mya of On the Go Glow. So, let’s get right into it!

Get an All Natural Glow – What is Organic Spray Tan All About?

Hi!! Introduce yourself and your business.

Hey everyone! I’m Valerie Mya, the CEO & Founder of On The Go Glow. We are an organic mobile spray tanning company. We come to you in the comfort of your home, office or hotel. Open 24/7!

**What inspired you to start On the Go Glow?**

I’ve always loved being tan – I mean who doesn’t? – but as I got older I knew I had to get tan a healthy way. No more sun, no more tanning beds. I disliked a lot of the spray tans on the market because of the chemicals in the solution and the not so natural color. I also knew the experience of going to a salon and standing naked, in a cold uncomfortable room, didn’t sound appealing.

The idea of having convenience, comfort, and an organic solution was my plan. On The Go Glow was born. I now get inspired everyday when we make people feel comfortable in their own skin. The confidence a spray tan gives someone is remarkable. I was inspired to start On The Go Glow from my own desire to feel confident. I didn’t realize how rewarding it would be to give that to others.

Why should you get an ORGANIC spray tan?

Everything we eat or products we put on our skin absorb into our body. A spray tan covers all of your skin – so organic is the only way to go! The difference is pretty simple: non organic solutions have chemicals.

Why is organic better?

Would you drink chemicals? I didn’t think so. Your pores drink everything you put on it. That is why organic is better.

I really, really don’t want to look orange – what do I do/say when I get a spray tan?

The worry everyone has and the question I always get, and I totally get it. Most chemical base solutions you just have to hope have natural pigmentation. So yet another reason to go organic. If it is an organic solution, you want to make sure ‘beets’ or ‘carrots’ are not in the solution. That causes a red/orange pigmentation which causes the orange look you’re not wanting. Our signature solution is made of brown sugar from apples, giving you that brown look.

What’s the best way to prep for a spray tan?

Make sure to have nothing on your skin. No lotion, makeup, deodorant. It is best to exfoliate to get off any dead skin. Really scrub any dry areas – feet, knees, elbows. Shave. We recommend shaving at least an hour before your appointment. Run cold water to close your pores if you can’t shave. Do waxing and manicures/pedicures before your spray tan.

Any tips for making the spray tan last longer?

Our solution lasts 7-10 days. The main after care is to lotion. This locks in the solution. Other tips to prolong the spray tan – take quicker showers, don’t use super hot water, and obviously no scrubbing.

Are spray tans safe?

Spray tans are the safe way to get a tan, but ask for organic.

How often can you get a spray tan?

As often as you like! We have clients who do it every week, every other week, or just for special occasions. Just depends on how consistent your want your tan. I usually recommend at least waiting a week in-between tans so your not laying solution on top of solution causing too much build up.

Any other skincare tips and tricks you have up your sleeve?
We have our secret tricks we do while spraying to give the most natural look. But for the clients, a great tip if you’re wanting to get sprayed and go out, use baby power or face powder and put it in the creases (where your knees & arms bend etc.). This stops the solution from rubbing while its developing.

What are your favorite at home tanning products for girls that want to DIY?

Most at home spray tans can be tricky! My tip is to get something that is in an aerosol can. They come out more even, less likely to have streaks. St. Tropez has a great aerosol at home tanning product.

**What’s next for On the Go Glow?**

We are expanding! On The Go Glow was started in Los Angeles 2013. We opened in Las Vegas October 2016 and now opening in San Francisco Sept 2017. We hope to continue to grow in other cities and boost confidence in women and men!

Will be sharing more sunless tan tips and tricks as the summer continues!

Finally, LA ladies – be sure to check out On the Go Glow for the most convenient organic spray tan you can get (seriously, nothing better than a spray tan that comes to you!).

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang June 26, 2017 in Beauty 7 Comments

Clean Beauty Products 101

You know the saying, “beautiful inside and out”? Although it’s often used as a compliment, maybe it should also be something we strive for in our daily routines. After all, we’re constantly talking about what we put into our bodies, but what about what we put on our bodies? Many of us stop and think before going in face first into a plate of fries or a slice of cake (but not all the time – balance is key, right?) because we know it’s not the best thing to eat for our bodies. But we rarely think about what our foundation is made of or what chemicals are in our skincare products.

Clean beauty has been becoming more and more popular over the past few years, and while I’ll be the first to admit I can’t say goodbye to my beloved Armani foundation or Nars bronzer, it has been fun to dabble in clean and organic beauty brands. Although I was initially hesitant to use clean beauty products, I’ve found some brands that I really do love and think are worth trying out. The best part is most of them are available on Sephora now!

Clean beauty products that should be on your radar:

Ilia

Ilia is a brand I discovered last year and their lip products have since become one of my favorites. Clean beauty products tend to lack the punch of color and staying power as other brands (in my experience), but Ilia’s tinted lip conditionermulti-stick adds the perfect layer of color and hydration for day and night. It doesn’t go on like a matte or liquid lipstick and needs to be reapplied every now and then, but the berry shades are some of my go-tos in the winter. I’m a huge fan of the as well (who doesn’t love a good 2-in-1 product?!).

Kjaer Weis

If you think clean beauty products aren’t luxurious, think again. Kjaer Weis is a super luxe brand of clean and organic beauty products. The line was started by Danish born makeup artist Kjaer Weis, and you can see the simplicity and quality of the products immediately (Danish women are so naturally stunning!). The mascara is as good of a natural mascara as I’ve found, and the cream blush and bronzer go on so smoothly.

rms beauty

My first foray into natural beauty. The entire line is simple and holistic, made entirely of raw, food-grade, and organic anti-aging ingredients. But that doesn’t mean the products are weak! The living luminizer is a cult classic (before highlighting was the craze it is today!) and gives you that lit from within glow (it’s also tough to overdo, so if you have heavy hands you won’t go overboard!). The concealer is effective yet lightweight and clean enough to use every day. Also, the pots are really cute!

Tata Harper

Clean makeup is a little harder to transition to fully, but skincare is something I can get behind. I’ve been trying samples of a lot of different brands and had heard amazing things about Tata Harper. I love the brand’s mission to create luxurious yet natural products! The purifying cleanser is especially wonderful if you have oily skin, my dry skin has responded well to the face oil.

Herbivore Botanicals

I can’t get enough of these facial and body products!! The minimalist packaging and design caught my eye right away. Although what I really love is how gentle they are! My skin doesn’t usually have issues with natural and organic skincare lines. Which is exactly why I tend to gravitate towards them. The coconut + rose body scrub (YUM) smells amazing and leaves your skin so soft, and I’ve been using their masks regularly ever since an aesthetician recommended them to me!

Coola

I don’t mess around with SPF. Sunscreen is an absolute must if you’re going in the sun. All natural sunscreen is even better! Coola smells like the best possible version of sunscreen (coconut everything!) and gives you the right amount of protection from UV rays. The #1 thing I hear every dermatologist say is WEAR SUNSCREEN. If you’re going for color, FAKE IT! I will have safe ORGANIC sunless tanning tips on the blog soon!

What are your favorite clean beauty products?

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang May 11, 2017 in Beauty 9 Comments

Talking to Lash Guru Amanda from Iris + West on Everything You Need to Know About EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Iris + West Lash Co Amanda Robinson Interview | by The Luxi Look

Dying to learn everything you need to know about eyelash extensions and see for yourself what they’re like?

Trust me, I was too. I heard from friends who got them how life changing they were. How they totally open your eyes and let you waltz out of the door in the morning with barely a speck of makeup. How they made you feel instantly pretty everyday. On and on they sang the praises of lash extensions.

For the longest time, I held off. The process sounded way too high maintenance and costly. How was I supposed to carve out time for fills? What if my natural lashes got ruined permanently? What if I became addicted and could never go back to my normal routine of extreme mascara layering because nothing would ever be good enough?

Then I heard from Amanda from Iris + West Lash Co. You could say she’s a bit of a lash guru. SO – I went to find out for myself, first hand, what the fuss is all about.

You guys – the hype is real.

Lash extensions really are kind of life-changing. Yes, they’re expensive and time-consuming to maintain. But all the good things you hear about them are true. The key – as with any sort of beauty service you’re having done – is to find a skilled technician. More of an artist, to be honest. After visiting Amanda, I’m (not so) embarrassed to say I’m totally hooked.

The process was totally painless and honestly felt like a breeze.

Most girls say they fall asleep while getting lashes done, and I can totally see why. It’s strangely relaxing and therapeutic to close your eyes and either nap or disconnect from the rest of the world for a couple hours. Once I was done, I was surprised by how comfortable the extensions felt on my natural lashes. I honestly couldn’t tell a difference at all.

And the results? I like a dramatic lash (LOTS of mascara) when I go out, but for the most part I’m a no fuss, light makeup kind of girl. Getting lash extensions has made getting ready for day and night such a breeze. For daytime – a little swipe of brow gel and I’m good to go. For nighttime – foundation, brows, bronzer, highlighter, and a bold lip.

I knew I just had to interview Amanda for the blog. SO if you’re curious at all about lash extensions (and just Amanda’s story in general – she’s a total badass entrepreneur!), read on.

Introduce yourself.

Hi! I’m Amanda, the founder of Iris +West Lash Co.

How did you get into the business of eyelash extensions, and how did Iris + West originate?

I started my career as a hairstylist and makeup artist in Seattle, Wa. which is also where I learned how to do eyelash extensions. During that time I became really passionate about creating easy beauty regimes that require minimal steps and effort but left my clients looking and feeling polished. Lashes fit perfectly into that attitude, and I fell totally in love with extensions.

What inspired you to start your own boutique lash studio?

When I first started working in L.A. four years ago, I was seeing a lot of bad extensions and hearing that a lot of women were having bad experiences with their lashes. I started Iris+West because I’m obsessed with giving my clients eyelash extensions that are not only comfortable and easy to wear but that are safe for their natural eyelashes. (<< she really is amazing!)

What has been the biggest challenge in owning and operating a boutique beauty studio in a city filled with big names and companies?

Valuing my own time and work. Being a small business owner means doing all sorts of jobs, not just applying eyelash extensions, so I have to check in with myself a lot to make sure I am putting my energy towards the most important task at hand.

How did you go about growing Iris + West?

Mostly word of mouth and social media. I have a very loyal clientele and they are the best advertisement! Instagram has also been a great platform to showcase the work that comes out of the studio, and the diversity of our clients. (<< SO COOL. Love seeing businesses grow from social media.)

I’ll be honest, eyelash extensions totally intimidated me for the longest time! What’s the key to finding the right technician and the right set of lashes for your face?

Do your research, and don’t compromise quality for a cheaper price. Look for good reviews, and check out their website and social media for pictures.

Top 3 care tips for eyelash extensions?

1. Don’t pick or pull at them 2. Avoid oily products on or near your eyes. 3. Brush them a couple times a week.

Can you still wear eye makeup? Take showers normally? Work out?

Yes, yes, and yes. Just make sure you are using an oil free remover to take off your makeup. You should also try to avoid getting your extensions wet for the first 12 hrs after you’ve had them done, but after that you should definitely wash your face and eyes like normal.

True or false: eyelash extensions make your regular lashes fall out.

100% FALSE! Your natural eyelashes shed, just like any other body hair, so when it’s time for a natural lash to come out, the extension just comes off with it. The only reason extensions would ever pull your natural lash out is if they’re being applied incorrectly.

True or false: lash extensions are addictive (ha!)

True! Jk, but because they are so easy, and simplify your beauty regime most clients never want to go back to their “pre-lash life”.

What are your favorite LA spots?

I try to hike up to the observatory a few times a week. It’s really peaceful early in the morning and I love being able to disconnect and spend some quiet time on my own. I also LOVE a good cup of coffee, and my current favorite is the Tesora blend with a splash of almond milk from Philz Coffee.

Beauty trends/lash trends do you see in the next year?

I think that soft, fluffy, dimensional lashes are always on trend. I’m hoping to see more fresh, dewy skin and graphic eyeliner. My favorite artists to watch for makeup trends are @violette_fr and @katiejanehughes (following them now!).

Be sure to check out more of Amanda’s work on Instagram! And for my LA babes, if you’re looking for a lash artist/expert – go see Amanda at Iris + West!

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang May 5, 2017 in Beauty 12 Comments

At Home Spa Day: Face Masks That Make You GLOW

Face Masks That Make You Glow | by The Luxi Look

Minor confession: I’m a total sucker for skincare products. My bathroom is a mess and my boyfriend hates it, but I can’t help it. I love testing and trying new products (even though I’m fiercely loyal to my favorites) and let’s be honest – there’s nothing better than a little at home spa day. Even though I recently discovered the wonders and benefits of finding a trustworthy esthetician and getting regular facials, I still like to do a little mask session every week at home.

I swear at this point I’ve tried almost every mask on Sephora and the various K-beauty sites and these are my absolute favorites. Some that I thought would love turned out to be overhyped and too expensive (*cough SK-II*), but some clear front runners eventually emerged. I swear these are the face masks that will make you glow!

At Home Spa Day: Face Masks That Make You GLOW

Fresh Rose Face Mask

If you have dry skin, this mask by Fresh will be a godsend. This hydrating mask is good for anytime and is full of ingredients your skin will love – rose petals, cucumber extract, algae, and aloe vera. I’ve had really good luck with this mask (goodbye, dry and flaky skin!) and love using it after traveling or whenever my skin isn’t feeling particularly fantastic. This one’s a heavy hitter in the regular rotation.

Glamglow Thirstymud Hydrating Treatment

Another one my thirsty, thirsty skin loves. If dryness isn’t your problem, no problem. Whatever your skincare woes are, Glamglow has a mask to solve them. This one goes on in a thin layer so sometimes I’ll put it on before bed and let it absorb into my skin while I sleep before rinsing off in the morning. Your skin will literally glow after using this : ).

Too Cool for School Egg Cream Mask

I’ve had luck with all sorts of sheet masks – you can generally expect to spend between $5-$15 bucks a pop on these babies. Usually I’ll just go on a beauty site and snag enough to last me several months, but I always make sure to include a couple of these masks. These “egg cream masks” are a good price and work really well in hydrating and brightening dull skin. I haven’t worn these on an airplane yet but I’m always tempted to, especially on particularly long flights. A sheet mask once a week keeps my skin happy and if it isn’t in your rotation yet, it should be (if nothing else for the frightening photos and reactions that ensue).

Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Mask

Have a little too much fun in the sun? Nothing is worse than getting sunburned, but it’s especially awful on your face. Soothe any red patches with this cooling and moisturizing cucumber mask to help your skin recover ASAP. Keep in the fridge for added comfort and relief. This one’s a must have with summer coming up.

Korres Greek Yoghurt Mask

This mask feels SO luxe and nourishing – slather on before bedtime and wake up to smooth, supple, and hydrated skin. It’s a major lifesaver in the winter!!

xx

By Amy Zhang April 28, 2017 in Beauty 12 Comments

Beauty Products on Repeat: My Holy Grail Items

Beauty Products on Repeat: My Holy Grail Products | by The Luxi Look

Let’s talk about holy grail products. I learned about this term from watching beauty gurus on YouTube years ago and it’s one that is not to be taken lightly! Seriously – HOLY GRAIL PRODUCTS. These are all products I’ve purchased and repurchased for myself at least ten times. They’re beloved even after many years and testing other alternatives. No matter what, I always come back to them and keep them in my bathroom. (Sometimes multiples.) I would never recommend a product I don’t love and stand by wholeheartedly. These are my tried and trued, repeat purchase, holy grail products.

Shop my beauty products on repeat

Glossier Boy Brow

Glossier products have my heart. They’re cute, come in fun packaging (hello, STICKERS!), and actually work well. Perfect for the minimal, fresh faced look. But the one product I buy again and again is BOY BROW. Trust me on this. If there’s one Glossier product you need in your arsenal constantly, it’s this. Swipe on for perfect brows in under a minute. The gel is just the right consistency and goes on smoothly and flawlessly, filling in and shaping your brows to perfection. Sometimes I add some powder or pencil if I’m going for a more dramatic brow at night, but usually Boy Brow is my daytime go to (I use the shade “brown”). If you’re interested in trying Boy Brow or any other Glossier brows, use this link for 20% off your first order.

Benefit They’re Real! Mascara

Trust me, this is the best mascara I’ve tried. I’ve gone through countless tubes of this mascara. It’s pricier than drugstore but totally worth it. I won’t go anywhere without this mascara (especially when I travel) and I always get tons of compliments on my lashes and it truly multiples their length and volume.

Kopari Coconut Oil

So you’re probably thinking, can’t I just use the coconut oil from the grocery store? Trader Joe’s was my go-to for a long time, but after trying Kopari’s Coconut Melt, I’ve been 100% converted. Turns out there is a difference in food grade vs. beauty grade coconut oil and you really can feel the difference with Kopari. The coconut oil from the grocery store worked well for me as an eye makeup remover but always felt too slippery and didn’t absorb into my skin as a moisturizer. This coconut melt works well as a moisturizer, hair mask, makeup remover, shaving cream… the list goes on and on.

Becca Highlighter

THE BEST HIGHLIGHTER. Becca’s Champagne Pop gives the perfect glow. Just a little bit goes a long way – I really love the way it photographs and how build-able the color is. The only problem? I will admit it the powder breaks easily, so you do have to baby the compact a little bit. But it’s worth it! I’ve tried so many other highlighters but this color is my favorite by far.

Nars Tinted Moisturizer

Foundation for girls who don’t love foundation. Buildable coverage that creates a glow from within – and has SPF!! I love this foundation so much, I bought a couple shades so I could mix and match when my skin inevitably gets darker in the summer. Definitely a go-to daytime foundation that won’t make your skin break out and will protect you from the sun.

Eminence Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum

Bonus points because it smells soooo yummy, but this serum has done wonders for my skin. The hyaluronic acid helps your skin retain moisture and stay plump. Plus, Eminence products are all natural and organic so you don’t have to worry about nasty add ins that you’re putting directly on your skin everyday.

What are your “holy grail” beauty products??

xx, Amy