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By Amy Zhang August 22, 2016 in Beauty, Style 32 Comments

Why You Need to Eat Your Water + a Fun Giveaway !!

Reformation Watermelon Dress | The Luxi Look

I had the honor of attending the re-opening of the Murad store on 3rd Street a few weeks back. (If you’re in LA, check out the brand new store!) Murad was actually one of the first skincare brands I splurged on after I graduated from drugstore products in high school. Needless to say, I was super excited to meet Dr. Murad himself, who happened to be in attendance that evening! Dr. Murad was an absolute DELIGHT in person and full of wisdom (on skincare among many other topics). One skincare tip he really emphasized was how important it is to eat your water.

Why You Need to Eat Your Water + a Fun Giveaway !!

Wait, what? Eat your water? YEP. Think about it this way – we’re often told that we need to drink 8 glasses of water a day, but what about the foods we are eating?

It only makes sense that nourishing, water filled foods such as fruits and vegetables would be better for your skin than icky, preservative and sodium filled crap. Right?! When we eat our water, we are able to nourish our body from the inside out. The average human body is about 60% water, which explains why fruits and veggies help our skin glow.

Some other benefits of drinking + eating your water when it comes to skin – less prominent wrinkles, brighter skin, and fewer breakouts. Lesson learned – stay hydrated!! If drinking your 8 glasses a day is tricky, try adding lemon, cucumber, or mint! And, eat your water!

Speaking of eating your water, I LOVE fruits and veggies. In case you can’t guess from this dress, I love watermelon (which just so happens to be 92% water – yesss!). After hearing Dr. Murad speak, I’ve made a point to eat as many fruits and veggies every day as possible. I definitely notice a difference in my skin when I load up on fruit based foods vs. dehydrating foods such as foods high in sodium (anything processed, ick) and alcohol.

I’ve also been incorporating some Murad products into my skincare routine and so far am LOVING them!! Full review of everything to come.

Finally, I wanted to say that I am so incredibly thankful for each and every one of you that follows me and comes by my page to read my posts. I love you guys! That’s why I am SO excited to be partnering with Murad to give away $150 worth of Murad products! There’s no better time to start a new skincare routine than with the changing seasons!

You can enter with your email, Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram – see below for rules and regulations. This giveaway will be open until September 9th. Good luck babes!! And thank you so much for reading.

xx, Amy

Murad $150 Gift Card Giveaway

dress: reformation | shoes: topshop

photos: jordan zobrist

By Amy Zhang August 20, 2016 in Beauty, Style 23 Comments

Blonde Ambition

The Luxi Look Dying Your Hair for the First Time

You may have noticed that something about me is a little different… I colored my hair! As anyone that knows me well can tell you, I went back and forth on the decision for years before finally taking the leap and doing it. I knew that anything other than my natural hair color would look very… unnatural, so I was apprehensive to say the least. If you’re thinking about dying your hair for the first time, read on…

Blonde Ambition

So the title of this post may be slightly misleading, I’m not actually blonde. (Nor am I ready to make that dramatic leap yet.) I am really more of a sandy/honey-colored bronde. I was VERY specific about what I wanted and went in with pictures and a long list of attributes I did and did not want. (TBH I was a complete nightmare of a client. Not too ashy, not too warm, not too brassy, not too high maintenance. The list went on and on).

Dying your hair for the first time

If you’ve never colored your hair before, I highly recommend doing your research in advance to temper expectations and minimize disappointment. It is a BIG change (or was for me, at least) and definitely an investment that requires a LOT of maintenance. With that being said, it is a fun way to change up your appearance. And add some dimension to your hair!

The Luxi Look First Time Coloring Hair Lighter

The Luxi Look Lightening Asian Hair Color

The Luxi Look First Time Coloring Dying Hair

First, know that everyone’s hair reacts to dye differently. And if you have virgin hair (never been colored before) you won’t know how your hair will react to bleach. I’ve always been horrified seeing photos of girls with super brassy hair but I quickly learned that can happen to anybody. This is because underneath your natural hair color are underlying pigments that can show up when you bleach your hair. So underneath dark hair you have red and orange undertones, which explains why dark hair can turn super brassy and orange.

If you have dark hair, know that you won’t be able to go from black to blonde in a day. (At least not without SERIOUSLY damaging your hair.)

Lightening your hair is a process that takes time.

After doing endless research behind the science of coloring hair, I had to find someone I would trust to do the actual service. Instagram is surprisingly helpful – many colorists have and will post on Instagram these days! I stalked my colorist (@biancacolour – she is AMAZING) for a year before biting the bullet and booking an appointment.

The Luxi Look First Time Coloring Hair Blonde

I noticed that Bianca colored a lot of ASIAN hair – that was immediately a huge plus in my book (as I mentioned above, Asian hair can turn brassy and orange easily if you’re not careful). If you’re looking on someone’s page and don’t see 1. any final results that you absolutely love or 2. anyone that has your type of hair, you might want to look elsewhere.

When it comes to the actual appointment, pictures are a lifesaver. When it comes to any beauty service, you can’t expect people to read your mind and give you what you want unless you tell them!

After the whole process is done, it’s time to focus on proper care.

I’m still new to the colored hair game, but I made sure to grill every person I came across in the salon on tips and products to use. Bianca mentioned regular toning sessions to maintain the color and to stay out of the sun as much as possible. I’ll do a post on hair color maintenance as soon as I have more experience living with and caring for colored hair!

The Luxi Look Delacy Set Lili Claspe Horn Necklace

The Luxi Look Delacy White Two Piece Set

With Labor Day coming up quickly, it’s clear that summer is almost officially over. While that may be the case, I have always been the biggest proponent that white CAN be worn after Labor Day (and in fact, is encouraged). Why wouldn’t you want to show off that summer tan before it fades away in winter?? For most, black is the old standby but I have always been obsessed with the color WHITE.

This matching set by De Lacy is not only comfy but also flattering, all white (and tight) can be intimidating to wear, but there is well positioned wrapping and ruching to protect you even if you eat one too many tacos… seriously the best for those days and nights out. If you’re looking for quality basic pieces, De Lacy has you covered – shop my favorite picks below.

As always, thank you for reading (!!) – have a beautiful weekend loves! Let’s make the most of these last few weeks of summer!

xx, Amy

two piece set: c/o de lacy (top on sale!, skirt – both in black)

photos: lauren miller

By Amy Zhang August 16, 2016 in Beauty 19 Comments

5 Minute Makeup Routine

I’ve already admitted it, but I’m the laziest person ever when it comes to beauty. Which is why I’ve come up with tricks to make it work for me, like my 5 minute makeup routine.

I’ve been meaning to get better at makeup for a while now. In an age of YouTube Beauty Gurus, I’ve seen high schoolers that put my makeup game to shame. To be honest, usually I just rub products all over my face and hope it works out.

Only half kidding. I’m working on it.

5 Minute Makeup Routine

But in the meantime, my morning makeup routine is as simple as they come. 5 minutes or less and I’m out the door. Every girl needs a 5 minute makeup routine for those days you’re feeling crunched for time. Am I right?

Especially if it’s daytime. I’m all about that fresh faced look. I just don’t feel like myself when I’m wearing tons of makeup. If anything, it makes me feel even more self conscious. I’m all about a solid skincare routine and minimal makeup.

Despite being totally clueless at doing makeup, somehow I’m a product junkie? I could live and die in a Sephora.

I don’t use many products, but the ones I do I’ve tested a million times over. Here are the products I can’t live without (and the ones that get me out the door ASAP in the morning).

+ Tinted Moisturizer

I don’t typically use primer during the day. My skin is on the drier side to begin with, and I prefer a dewy and natural look. I used to HATE foundation, but Nars Tinted Moisturizer is a godsend (I use the shade St. Moritz). Think your skin, but better. Sometimes I’ll use a beauty blender, but I honestly think it looks just fine using your fingers. Plus, SPF!!! This product is amazing. I could sing its praises for days. I also LOVE Armani Luminous Silk foundation if I want more coverage.

+ Brows

a polished brow is key! I seriously cringe when I look at photos of myself from 5 years ago – talk about a HORRIBLE brow. This pencil is the best and the end with the spoolie is a lifesaver – always brush your brows UP and brush out any extra product. Voila! Fool-proof, easy brows.

+ Mascara

my ladies with lash extensions, this is a step you get to skip! For me, I always make sure I curl my lashes first. The trick to your fullest, most voluminous lashes with mascara is to LAYER. Depending on how dramatic I’m trying to go, I’ll use up to 3 (!!!) mascaras. I always use this primer and this mascara. If it’s nighttime or I’m feeling dramatic, I’ll layer on another one. Right now I’m liking this mascara a LOT.

+ Bronzer

I’m not the biggest fan of blush. But I do love adding a swipe of sun-kissed glow across my face. Check out this list of the absolute best bronzers. I typically just use whichever one I’m feeling that day. And um, I don’t contour. No idea how.

Honestly, that is IT. If I have a little extra time or want to add something more, I like this highlighter and this lip pencil. Easy peasy.

What’s your easy daytime look? Especially my beauty product junkies and fellow bloggers – I am always looking for ways to streamline my morning routine!

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang August 5, 2016 in Beauty 12 Comments

Is Laser Hair Removal Worth It?

It’s officially August, and I realized last week that I haven’t worn pants in what feels like FOREVER. Obviously, summer means bare legs and bare legs mean… hair removal. I touched upon laser hair removal briefly in a previous post, but wanted to do a deeper dive on the topic.

I’ve been getting laser hair removal treatments for over a year and wanted to share my experience. I remember having SO many questions before my first session and being slightly nervous. The process has been surprisingly easy and pain-free, and the results have been completely worth it!

Note – I am not an esthetician or an expert on laser hair removal. I am only speaking from my own experience.

Laser hair removal: Is it worth it?

First things first – what is laser hair removal and how does it work?

Laser hair removal is a hair removal process in which a powerful laser is used to destroy hair at the root in order to permanently “kill” and remove the hair. Essentially, the laser targets your hair follicle and zaps it to make sure the hair does not grow back.

Can anyone get laser hair removal?

Long story short, yes. You can do it on any part of the body where there is hair, although I would recommend avoiding your face. Apparently laser hair removal works best on dark hair (the laser is attracted to the pigment in your hair) against lighter skin (so the laser can differentiate between the hair and skin). HOWEVER, apparently there are special lasers that can better target blonde hair or darker skin, so make sure you do your research in advance!

How do I prepare for my first session?

Shave (yes, SHAVE) the night before – this was hard for me as I was a waxing devotee before laser, but the laser needs to have a hair follicle to zap!

No plucking or waxing the hair.

Avoid tanning in the sun or in a tanning bed (gross) two weeks before hand.

Also inform your esthetician of any medication you are on, as that might impact your skin’s sensitivity to the laser.

Does it hurt?

Not terribly, but it does sting a little. The most common comparison I heard was that it feels like a rubber band snapping against your skin. It was a liiiiittttle more painful than that for me, but if you’re used to waxing it isn’t that much different. If you’re really worried about pain, popping an Advil half an hour before usually does the trick.

How often do you have to go?

It’s recommended that you go every 4-6 weeks in order to target every hair until the hair thins out completely (hairs tend to grow back in cycles). I went every month for half a year until the hair in the areas I was zapping was essentially gone. As someone who used to go in for regular waxing sessions or shave, I can say that laser hair removal is SO much faster. I’m in and out in 15 minutes, and only have to go in 3-4 times a year now for touch ups.

How long do the results last?

I was actually shocked when I learned laser hair removal isn’t permanent. Yes, your hair will grow back eventually. More in some areas than others. As I mentioned, I still go in a couple times a year for maintenance. On the whole, it lasts much, much longer than any other hair removal method (for me). I started laser hair removal over a year ago and for me it has been absolutely worth it!!

Is it expensive?

As if being a girl wasn’t already expensive enough – laser hair removal can get pricey depending on where you go! I was lucky to find a great deal on session packages in LA – I would definitely recommend checking out deal sites for packages (just make sure the place you choose has good reviews), otherwise sometimes you can find seasonal deals or sales by calling your local medical spa.

So there you have it – not such a scary experience after all! When it comes to beauty, I’m probably one of the laziest people ever. Saying buh-bye to my razor was the best, and it’s been even better during summer months when you’re most likely wearing a skirt or shorts 24/7.

If you have anyyyy questions at all, let me know in the comments below! Have you tried laser hair removal? If so, how were your results? Hopefully all good! Have a wonderful weekend everyone!

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang July 16, 2016 in Beauty 5 Comments

The Best Bronzers for Medium Skin

I am forever in pursuit of the perfect sun-kissed glow. I really do believe that most people look better with a tan! I’m not a makeup expert by any means, but I do love trying new products. Bronzer is a year-round staple in my makeup bag. I have medium toned skin and have found many bronzers do not really show up on my skin. I’ve tried so many different products throughout the years, but in my opinion, these are the absolute best bronzers for medium skin tones. Read if you’re looking for the perfect bronzing powder for medium skin tones and warm undertones.

These are the best bronzers for medium skin

Nars

My OG bronzer (seriously obsessed with everything Nars). This product is the bronzing master. Sometimes I’ll even use just this product on my natural skin without applying foundation! (But it does admittedly work better with a smooth canvas). I fell in love with NARS products years ago because I liked their packaging. The products happen to be amazing as well ; ). There’s a reason why their bronzers are loved by makeup artists. Laguna is sometimes a little too light for my skin in the summer, but I like it for a soft shimmery glow. Casino is a darker shade that is gorgeous on medium skin tones. Although these bronzers do have a little shimmer in them, it’s just the right amount. You don’t need to worry about looking like a disco ball with NARS products.

Too Faced

Recently I wanted something a little more matte and bought this bronzer off a recommendation. I absolutely LOVE it. This is another powder bronzer (I prefer powder to any other form) that I use almost daily. I think matte bronzer can give you a more natural look, plus this one smells like chocolate when you brush it across your face. I never really mastered contouring but I think this matte bronzer would be great for it if that is something you do. The deep shade is dark enough to be a contour for even my tan skin tone. Apparently even the queen of contour, Kim Kardashian said contouring is over, so I’m not going to sweat it if I can’t get it right completely.

Benefit

Benefit products are some of my faves as well! Again the packaging is super cute and I love the little brush it comes with. This one is matte as well and seems to be loved by many beauty bloggers and YouTubers. I actually think the Benefit and Too Faced bronzers are pretty comparable but I use enough bronzer that I like having both.

Again, these are all great products that come in a variety of shades for all skin colors and undertones, but I specifically love them for matching my warmer coloring and more yellow undertones. I love powder bronzer best as it goes on easily with a good brush and is easily layerable, but if you have a cream or liquid version you like better, please let me know!

I am ALWAYS looking for product recs – do you have a list of the best bronzers you’ve come across? And what are your thoughts on contouring – still a good look or are you all about the non-touring now?

xx, Amy