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By Amy Zhang March 25, 2019 in Beauty 29 Comments

What Happened When I Removed my Lash Extensions

A few summers ago, I got lash extensions for the first time and instantly fell in love. I mean, who doesn’t want to wake up with dark, full, and perfectly curled lashes? For the majority of the summer, I was diligent about getting my extensions filled. Every 2 weeks on the dot, I went in for an appointment so I could maintain my perfect lashes. They were such a lifesaver on vacation and seriously cut down the amount of time I spent getting ready every morning. So what wasn’t to love? Well for starters, the price. Biweekly fills add up! Not to mention the time. And I couldn’t help but freak out and wonder what was happening to my natural lashes underneath. I knew it was time to remove them, even if only temporarily. After a couple rounds of getting lash extensions and then removing them after a few months, here’s how I learned to take care of my lashes to minimize damage and get them back to normal.

Here’s what happened when I took my lash extensions off.

First, you have to get your extensions off. Let’s talk about how to remove lash extensions. At the end of my last cycle, I could see my natural lashes growing at the base of my lid and the thicker, darker extension would stand out. Seeing it dangling on the middle of my lash was so distracting, all I wanted to do was pull it off. DO NOT DO THIS! It will more likely than not damage your lash by ripping it out or weakening the hair. If you’re thinking about removing your lash extensions, do not do it yourself!!

How To Remove Lash Extensions Properly:

Go see a professional. Removing your eyelash extensions at home just isn’t worth the risk of damages your natural lashes. Think of it like a gel manicure – you can pick it off yourself, but you’re better off going to a professional. It’s worth the $10-$20 price tag.

The process takes less than half an hour. The specialist will use a special remover and tiny tweezers/tools specifically designed to remove lash extensions. My lash technician also told me that getting your lashes removed professionally is very important, because as your natural lashes grow out with the extension still on them, they can eventually break your lash in half.

Keep in mind, you have the option to wait it out and let our lashes fall of on their own. This can take up to five weeks depending on your lash growth cycle. I personally do not recommend waiting it out. Your false lashes will start to fall off, which creates opportunities to pick them off. As I mentioned above, avoid picking off your lashes yourself AT ALL COSTS. If you’ve ever had your eyelash extensions grow out naturally, you might notice that your lashes look extra stubby and short – this is most likely because your lashes broke when the lash extension came off!

Will Lash Extensions Damage Your Natural Eyelashes?

My lashes looked pretty close to what I recall before I started getting extensions (IMO). I made an effort not to pick my lashes, always went to a specialist, and took good care of them. I also start using lash serums when I know I am planning on getting them removed, to give my lashes an extra boost.

If you’re wondering if lash extensions will damage your lashes, I think it really depends on the specialist you go to and how long you’ve had them for. Most lash specialists will say that when done properly (with proper skill, equipment, and individual lashes vs. volume lashes), lash extensions will not damage your lashes. However, I’ve heard that many people think their lashes look thinner or shorter than before their extensions.

The reason for this is twofold – on the one hand, you may have just gotten used to the look of having extensions and forgot what your actual lashes look like. Or, there is the chance that the extension and glue weakened your natural lashes (which have been delicate to begin with), leading to thinner and weaker lashes.

Dangers of Lash Extensions:

I’ve heard about some of the dangers of lash extensions (thinner natural lashes, eye infections from improper sanitary care), but that isn’t why I chose to have mine removed. I really did feel like I got all of the benefits of lash extensions – I loved look of extensions and how they really simplified my daily beauty routine.

When I first had my lash extensions removed, I initially felt kind of naked. My eyes looked more bare than I had seen them in months. However, I quickly got used to the appearance of my natural lashes. I wasn’t sure if I was being paranoid or not, but I quickly researched all of the ways to make my lashes grow back fuller and thicker (just in case, or at least to give the illusion of fake lashes).

Do Eyelashes Grow Back After Lash Extensions?

If you’re wondering – do eyelashes grow back after lash extensions? The answer is, yes!! There are many serums and products on the market to help your natural lashes grow back stronger. I’ve been sticking to a more natural remedy: CASTOR OIL, but I also love some lash serums. I use RevitaLash, and have also heard good things about Grande Cosmetics lash serum as well.

Most people say that their lashes are back to normal within just a couple of months. Your real lashes go through natural growth cycles. They are constantly falling out and new lashes are constantly coming in. So don’t stress!

Are Lash Extensions Worth It?

At the end of the day, when I think about my experience with lash extensions, I have no regrets or real complaints. I LOVED having lash extensions and will definitely be getting them again in the future – for vacations or special occasions. [ Since I originally wrote this blog post, I have gotten lash extensions several times again, I love having them over the summer so you don’t have to do your makeup. ]

If you’re wondering if lash extensions are worth it, I would say YES! Just know that the upkeep and maintenance can be high, which was really the biggest and only downside to extensions.

I miss my lash extensions, no doubt. But thanks to using castor oil/lash serum regularly and my go-to mascara layering combo of Lash Primer + Benefit’s They’re Real! mascara, I’m happy with the appearance of my natural lashes. The best mascara tip I have – combine mascaras. Drugstore ones are great, honestly. If you’re looking to splurge, I linked my favorite mascaras below (tried and true – I’ve tried them all!). If I want a little extra boost, I combine a lengthening formula with a volumizing one.

Now I get to use oils and creams around my eye again (you’re supposed to avoid using cream based products when you have lash extensions because it weakens the glue), any kind of eyeliner I want, and I can rub my eyes!

You win some, you lose some.

Have you had lash extensions? Love them/keep them/lose them?

xx, Amy

By Amy Zhang March 15, 2019 in Lifestyle, Wellness 3 Comments

Real Talk – Is Caffeine Good or Bad for You?

Is Caffeine Good or Bad for You? | by The Luxi Look

The other day, it dawned upon me that my habit of downing 3 shots of espresso upon waking up might be a problem. A quick Google search showed me that I may be teetering the line of caffeine addiction. Like anyone in denial of a bad habit, I made a laundry list of reasons justifying why my behavior is fine. But I also wanted to know more about the science behind caffeine. Is it actually good or bad for you? How much is too much? Is the right amount none? What are the negative side effects? And how the F do you know if you’re addicted or have a problem? I think a lot of us drink coffee mindlessly and it’s probably okay. To be honest, I think there are much worse vices out there. Here’s what I found on caffeine – the good and bad.

What are the effects of caffeine on the body?

According to the Food and Drug Administration, better known as the FDA, caffeine is a stimulant. It’s actually considered a food and a drug. And they say it’s addictive. Most commonly, it is consumed to wake us up or give us energy.

Some research has shown that moderate amounts of caffeine can actually be beneficial to the body – because it is a stimulant, it can help with improving weight loss (may work as an appetite suppressant), mental function, and alertness. Some studies also suggest caffeine may be good for memory, athletic performance, and even going as far as saying it can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.

The not so good effects of caffeine – it’s addictive and highly acidic, which can cause heartburn or digestive issues. It raises blood pressure, and too much can be bad for pregnancy and fertility. In extremely high amounts, it can be fatal.

How much caffeine is in my favorite drink?

Caffeine actually occurs naturally in some foods – tea and coffee are the most common ones that we consume. It’s also found in cacao beans (chocolate!) and yerba mate. To give you a sense of how much caffeine is in common beverages –

+ An 8 ounce cup of coffee has between 95 to 200 mg

+ A shot of espresso has about 80 mg

+ Black tea has between 60-90 mg of caffeine, while green tea has between 35-70 mg. Herbal teas do not have caffeine

+ Energy drinks can have up to 240 mg

Ok, how much caffeine is too much?

The FDA recommends people not to consume more than 400mg of caffeine a day. That translates to about 4-5 cups of coffee. Most of us should be ok, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind. The long term effects of too much caffeine aren’t super clear. If you’re not sure if you are consuming too much caffeine, definitely talk to your doctor. A cup of coffee or two in the morning out of habit is probably fine – but if you’re relying on it as a crutch, it may be time to revisit your relationship with this.

How do I know if I have a caffeine addiction?

If you feel anxious, irritable, and tired without your cup of coffee, you may have an addiction. Try going without it for a week and see how your body responds. Some people get piercing headaches – me, I get sleepy and need to take a nap around 3pm. If you think you might be consuming too much caffeine, it might not be a bad idea to do a “caffeine detox” – if you’re brave enough to go cold turkey. Even cutting back to just one cup a day can make a difference.

While the jury’s out on whether caffeine is definitely “good” or “bad” for you… I say, keep calm and coffee on. What are your thoughts on caffeine?

You might also like… All About AHAs/BHAs, and Healthy Foods That Can Make You Bloated.

By Amy Zhang March 11, 2019 in Recipes, Wellness 2 Comments

The Best Refreshing, Low-Cal, Vegan Afternoon Snack: Watermelon with Tajin

Every year as the weather gets warmer, I automatically crave lighter and healthier foods. It’s almost as if hibernation is over and my body is naturally telling me to start moving again, get some Vitamin D, and put down the box of Girl Scout Cookies (fun fact; Thin Mints are vegan). Now that I’m looking for healthier and more natural snacks, I’ve started to look for ways to make fruits and vegetables a little more exciting. That’s where watermelon with Tajin comes in. If you’ve never had watermelon with Tajin, you’re honestly missing out.

It’s one of my favorite guilt free snacks for so many reasons. Watermelon is high in fiber and filled with water, which makes it the perfect hydrating summertime snack. Add some Tajin and lime and you have a little salty, a little sweet, and a little eat. The IDEAL healthy and easy snack that you’ll want to eat all the time. I buy this from the fruit carts around LA and make it at home myself. It’s literally the easiest thing to make (my kind of cooking is “non cooking”). And although I crave it even more in the summer, I’ll eat it all year long. I love fruit and vegetables with Tajin so much. Honestly, I travel with a little bottle of Tajin in my bag. No shame there.

What is Tajin?

It’s a popular Mexican seasoning used to give foods a chili lime flavor. Tajin ingredients are simple – chili peppers, salt, dehydrated lime juice, and silicon dioxide. If you’re worried about silicon dioxide, you’ll be relieved to know that it is commonly used in foods without any side effects. According to the EPA, it falls on the second to lowest degree of toxicity rating scale. Tajin has no artificial flavors, no sugar, and no weird ingredients. If you’re worried about the ingredients in Tajin, you can replicate yourself with chili powder, salt, and fresh lime juice. Personally, I can’t get enough of the tangy flavor of Tajin. I want to put it on everything! Which brings me to my next point…

More Tajin Seasoning Uses

Truthfully, you can put Tajin on anything you would put seasoning on. The best part is, it can be used with sweet AND savory foods. It’s slightly salty and spicy, but not so much that it’s overpowering. Also, if you love the chili lime flavor, you will like it on pretty much anything. The most popular use is on fresh fruits and vegetables. I love it with watermelon the most, but it also is amazing with mango, oranges, other melons, jicama, coconut, and cucumber. For my favorite spicy fruit salad with Tajin, check out this post.

Anytime you use chili powder, salt, or lime in a recipe, you can add or substitute Tajin. The spicy seasoning also works as a marinade for seafood or meats. It also works well with Bloody Marys and Micheladas. As far as seasonings go, Tajin is SO versatile. It adds spice and flavor to so many dishes. You can get it at pretty much any grocery store – try it for yourself, and let me know what you think!

By Amy Zhang March 8, 2019 in Beauty 3 Comments

All About AHAs/BHAs

AHAs and BHAs products | by The Luxi Look

If you’re not familiar with Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), keep reading – incorporating a product with these ingredients could be a game changer for your skin. Essentially, they are different types of acids that exfoliate your skin. Exfoliation is key for skin maintenance as you get older – our cells naturally turnover but this process slows as we get older. It explains why we lose our youthful glow with age since our skin cells are not able to turnover as quickly on their own. AHAs and BHAs usually go hand in hand but they are not the same – AHAs are glycolic or lactic acids and are water-soluble, which BHAs are salicylic acid and are oil-soluble. Together, they create a supercharged product that helps speed up cell turnover and helps maintain a softer, smoother skin texture.

Why You Should Use AHAs and BHAs

AHAs and BHAs are two key ingredients for your skin as you get older – not only do they exfoliate your skin, they also can fade dark spots and minimize wrinkles. Typically, they need to be present in a certain percent before they become more potent. Before using a product with AHAs/BHAs, be sure to check the percentage of concentration. Using a product with AHAs or BHAs is a great way to improve your skin at home before resorting to more professional methods (lasers, peels, more intense facials).

AHAs work to exfoliate the skin

Some people find these acids to be more harsh than others, so be sure to test out a small patch of skin before going all on. I personally love AHAs because I feel like it creates a better canvas for my other skincare products. You know that feeling you have after a deep, cleansing facial? It feels like all of the product is actually sinking into your skin and you’re getting the most out of it, rather than just sitting on the surface of your face. Regular exfoliation is key, and AHAs are a great way to do that.

BHAs are common in acne products.

If you’re familiar with salicylic acid, you’ll know it’s a popular ingredient in skincare products that treat acne. Typically BHAs are used to treat oily skin to keep your pores clean and bacteria free.

My favorite products with AHAs/BHAs

+ Glossier Solution

I’ve raved about this product before and it’s one of my favorites in the Glossier line. I just finished my bottle and repurchased it – which is something I do very rarely. I found this formula to be gentle enough (10% blend of AHAs/BHAs) to use every day and my skin honestly feels so clean and smooth after I use it. If you’re interested in trying, here’s 10% off your first order.

+ Farmacy Honeymoon Glow

A nighttime serum that helps exfoliate skin while you sleep! This is slightly stronger at a 14% AHA/BHA blend. Do not use more than one product with AHAs/BHAs! You do not need to layer them. I keep this in my suitcase and use it during the week when I am traveling for work. This one also smells amazing!

+ Drunk Elephant T.L.C Framboos

I wasn’t sure if I liked this when I first started using it as I did have some very minor irritation, but after a couple weeks my skin became more used to the formula and I feel like I am absolutely glowing when I wake up. I’m obsessed with everything Drunk Elephant and this night serum is no exception! I will use this one every other night as that seems to be the frequency my skin agrees with the most.

+ REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

I started using this recently and love this as a gentle exfoliating daily toner. I also love that REN is a clean beauty brand.

Something to keep in mind when you are using a product with AHAs/BHAs – the chemicals can make your skin more sensitive to the sun than usual, so be sure to wear sunscreen during the day when using them (which you should be doing anyway, duh!). Your skin may also be very sensitive to the acids, especially if you’ve never used them before. I would recommend using a product once a week and working your way up to every day. I never had any skin sensitivity with my products, and typically use them every other day or every day. I’ve noticed a definite difference in my skin tone and texture, especially when I go a few days without product. Always follow up with a hydrating serum, moisturizer, or facial oil after using a product with AHAs/BHAs. Once you find the right one, your skin will be absolutely glowing! xx

You might also like … The Best Plant Based Substitutes For Whatever You’re Craving and Switching Up Your AM Caffeine Boost: Yerba Mate vs. Coffee.

By Amy Zhang March 6, 2019 in Wellness 4 Comments

The Best Plant Based Substitutes For Whatever You’re Craving

Working on transitioning to a primarily plant-based diet has meant finding substitutes for things that were once staples in my diet. While I initially thought the switch would be difficult, it’s actually been surprisingly easier than I anticipated. Fortunately for me, plant-based food has come a LONG way and there are so many easy, healthy plant-based swaps for pretty much anything you are craving. Gone are the days of relying on french fries and Oreos as a vegan option in the grocery store or at restaurants. If you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based foods in your diet and don’t know where to begin, read on for easy plant-based swaps for common foods and cravings.

The Best Plant Based Substitutes for Common Foods & Cravings

+ Eggs

This one is hard for me and I’ll admit I haven’t cut out eggs entirely. I have always loved the convenience of eggs for a protein packed meal or snack. They are on pretty much every menu and usually a safe bet for a healthy breakfast. If you’re used to having scrambled eggs for breakfast, try scrambled tofu as an easy swap. I’m still working on perfecting my own recipe, but this one has been an easy one to follow on the weekends.

+ Chocolate

I am obsessed with Hu Chocolate, which is vegan and paleo but doesn’t taste like any of those things. In fact, everyone that has tried it becomes instantly obsessed and has remarked how it “doesn’t even taste vegan.” The cashew butter + vanilla bean dark chocolate is my favorite, and I always keep some on hand, especially for *that* time of month. To be honest, I like it better than normal chocolate. Hershey’s tastes gross in comparison.

+ Burgers

Veggie burgers don’t have to taste like cardboard. If you’re feeling up for it, you can make a pretty tasty and easy version at home – we’ve made black bean and quinoa burgers at home and really liked them. I tend to buy frozen patties to keep in the freezer and cook when I’m in a bind – I love stocking up on ones from Trader Joe’s or a Beyond Meat burger if I want something heartier. If you’re trying to avoid carbs, you can throw a patty over a bed of lettuce and add sliced avocado and you have a healthy meal with a balance of good fats and protein. If veggie burgers freak you out, I can tell you a portobello mushroom cap makes a killer substitute as well.

+ Store Bought Dressings & Sauces

Homemade is best, but for the convenience factor we keep some pre made ones on hand. Follow Your Heart makes some of my favorites – they have a killer ranch dressing that I put on everything. I’m also obsessed with B*tchin’ Sauce – it’s a hummus like sauce made out of almonds and it tastes so good with everything. The spicy version is my favorite with raw veggies or as a marinade for tofu (perfect for stir fry!). YUM.

+ Milk

I’m not the biggest dairy fan, so I was happy to find out that pretty much all grocery stores carry decent dairy replacements. There are so many non dairy milk alternatives available – almond, cashew, oat, soy milk, etc. Oat milk is super trendy right now and it’s for good reason – if you like the thickness of dairy milk in your coffee you will love oat milk. For smoothies and protein shakes at home, I usually use almond milk.

+ Cheese

Vegan cheeses have come a long way but they still aren’t as close to the real thing. That said, I’ve had some amazing vegan mac & cheese over the past year so I am convinced they will get there! There are some nut based cheese substitutes that are creamy and delicious, but keep in mind these are very calorically dense from all of the ground nuts. Not a reason to avoid them, but just keep that in mind – remember, eating plant based foods does not give you a free pass to eat whatever you want!! Nutritional yeast is also a vegan pantry essential for giving a rich umami flavor to plant-based dishes.

+ Ice cream

if you like coconut you are in luck. Coconut ice cream is delicious – the texture is as creamy as dairy based ice cream. Of course, even vegan ice cream is still ice cream, so this is better consumed in moderation.

+ Ground Meat

If you like to cook at home, you will want some convincing meat substitutes. A lot of recipes call for ground meat, and we have been experimenting with lentils, chopped mushrooms, and crumbled tempeh and other meat substitutes. Trader Joe’s has a surprisingly delicious soyrizo (meatless chorizo) that is amazing in breakfast wraps and vegan chili.

+ Seafood

Coconut makes a very convincing seafood substitute. I’ve made coconut ceviche at home before – perfect for the summer – but I recently also had coconut calamari at Cafe Gratitude in Los Angeles, and it was honestly some of the best calamari I’ve ever had.

+ Butter

Coconut oil is your best friend for cooking or baking. If you want more a butter taste and texture, Earth Balance also comes in handy when you want to bake.

For the times when we don’t feel like cooking at home, we also have some go-to spots for a plant based meal. Here are some of my favorite plant-based restaurants in Los Angeles.

Favorite Restaurants in Los Angeles for Plant-Based Options

+ The Butcher’s Daughter

My go-to pick for breakfast or lunch in Venice. Not only is the restaurant super Instagram worthy, the coffee is strong and the food is healthy and delicious. Also great for people watching on Abbot Kinney.

+ Cafe Gratitude

With locations all around LA, Cafe Gratitude is a vegan staple. Some of my favorite dishes – the salads, pad thai, coconut ceviche, and smoothies. The location in Beverly Hills has a “chicken” and waffles that is to DIE for.

+ Gracias Madre

From the same owners as Cafe Gratitude but with a Mexican menu. I’ve always found the food to be slightly overpriced and mediocre (sorry!!), but their spicy margaritas are some of my favorite and the patio is a great spot to catch up with friends over a drink and some chips and guacamole.

+ Monty’s Good Burger

Basically vegan In-n-Out. This burger is legit vegan fast food at its finest. It’s almost freaky how much this burger tastes like the real thing, but everything on the menu is 100% vegan. If you’re looking for a vegan cheat meal, this is it.

+ Green Table Cafe

Just discovered this cute cafe on Pico and it might be one of my new favorite spots to work and hang out for the day. Their smoothie bowls (pictured above) are filling and the salads are vibrant and fresh. Everything you would want in a neighborhood cafe.

+ Vegan Glory

When my boyfriend and I are craving Asian food, this is our go-to. The food comes out quickly and you leave without the greasy feeling of Chinese food. The menu is massive and slightly overwhelming, but you can’t go wrong with one of the rice or noodle dishes.

+ Araya’s

Comforting vegan Thai food. This cozy neighborhood spot makes the best Tom Yum soup, curries, and stir fried noodles,

+ Erewhon

Not technically a restaurant but I frequent this place more than I care to admit. The hot food bar is my go-to, you can pick from a variety of salads and entrees, but the most notable vegan options are the buffalo cauliflower (I could eat this every damn day) and the vegan lasagna. Wander the store for every vegan snack and ingredient imaginable – it is a wellness junkie’s heaven.

+ Van Leeuwen

Can’t forget about dessert!! Most ice cream shops in Los Angeles will have a vegan option, these are usually coconut cream based. Van Leeuwen has my favorite flavors that don’t all seem to have the same coconut base but you should not have too hard of a time finding a sweet vegan treat in this city.

A vegetarian or plant-based diet does not have to be difficult! You can still eat a balanced, satisfying diet without having any cravings. Whether you are looking for store bought options or want to enjoy a nice meal out of the home, eating a plant-based diet has never been easier or tastier. What are some of your go-to restaurants or cooking tips for a plant-based meal?

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