The Luxi Look | LA based fashion and lifestyle blog

By Amy Zhang November 10, 2017 in Beauty 14 Comments

Skincare Ingredient to Watch For: Hyaluronic Acid

Why You Need a Product with Hyaluronic Acid | by The Luxi Look

Another day, another buzzy skincare ingredient. You’ve probably heard of hyaluronic acid, but are you using products with this simple moisturizing ingredient? At this point it’s overwhelming to shop for skincare and beauty products – there are just so many and new ones hitting the shelves every day. If you’re wondering what creams and products contain hyaluronic acid, and if it really works, read on.

First things first – what is hyaluronic acid?

It’s not some crazy lab made ingredient that goes into your skincare products. Also, it actually exists naturally in our bodies! Hyaluronic acid (HA) holds and replenishes moisture in our skin by lubricating our joints and connective tissues. So, what it does is keep our skin moisturized and firm over time, which is so important when it comes to maintaining healthy, youthful skin! Think plumping, glowing, softening benefits. Who doesn’t want that?

Skincare products that claim to have HA in them contain sodium hyaluronate. Sodium hyaluronate is made in a lab and gives your skin the same benefits as the HA that naturally occurs in our bodies!

Ok, but does it actually work?

HA is a humectant – aka it allows our skin to grab and retain moisture. It can hold up to 1,000x its weight in water! It’s also present in fillers, which plump your skin and give it a more youthful, fuller appearance. If there’s one ingredient that’s worth its salt, it’s hyaluronic acid. You can find this ingredient in several skincare products ranging from serums to thicker creams. It’s definitely one worth adding to your routine! Adding HA to your skincare routine helps deliver a huge boost of moisture and anti-aging properties to your skin. The best part is, it doesn’t have to break the bank!

The best picks to incorporate hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine:

1. Youth to the People Kale and Spinach Cream

2. Peter Thomas Roth Water Drench Hyaluronic Cloud Cream

3. The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid

4. Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Skin Cream

I am really loving the line of insanely affordable, no frills serums from The Ordinary. A dermatologist turned me onto this ingredient a few years ago and it has honestly made such a difference in my skin, which is naturally VERY dry. However, even if you have oily or combination skin, hyaluronic acid can provide important benefits! Anyone who is looking to take better care of their skin as they get older needs to incorporate this ingredient into their skincare routine!

xx, Amy

Love these beauty posts? See also: Powder Cleansers & Brushing Your Lips

By Amy Zhang November 8, 2017 in Lifestyle, Style 16 Comments

Focusing on the Long Game

Playing the Long Game | by The Luxi Look

After a much needed social media break over the summer, I spent some time thinking about my blog and remembering why I started it again. As I talked about recently, I started a new job not too long ago, and have been trying to figure out how to balance work + life + everything in between. I decided earlier this year that I wanted to put my energy into the important relationships in my life and work. Even though I love writing, creating content, and sharing all of this with my readers. I knew I had to take a small step back and learn to be ok with this. At the end of the day, blogging is something I can always come back to. But living in the moment with the ones you love is something that can only be experienced in the present.

All Good Things Take Time

Even though it’s easier to take shortcuts or try to find a quick fix that claims to give instant results, the truth is all good things take time. Rome wasn’t built overnight, and the same applies to anything worth having in your life. Strong friendships and relationships take time and energy. Looking and feeling your best physically takes commitment and discipline. Moving forward in your career or growing your own business takes years. There’s no secret formula to achieving success in any area of your life. The truth is all things take time and lots of hard work.

Stop Comparing

One of the best pieces of advice I received this year was to stay in your own lane. The way I think about this is – we’re all moving along in our own lane, but sometimes we start veering into other people’s lanes. This happens when we compare ourselves to others, focus on what they’re doing, and lose sight of our own journey. It’s not always easy to do, but I’m constantly reminding myself to stay in my own lane. This is particularly important when you’re trying not to get caught up in the short term, and focus on the long term. I think we are all guilty of comparing ourselves to others and wondering why our lives aren’t as great or easy.

This is especially true when it comes to social media. Not to sound like a broken record at this point, but I can’t begin to tell you how many people have completely unrealistic expectations. Mostly of what they should look like, how fun their lives should be, how much money they should have. Even how over the top relationships must be in order to be considered “couple goals” thanks to social media. It helps sometimes to take a break from it all and level set. To refocus and stay in your own lane. You do you and what feels good to you.

The Long Game.. Even In Style

I think the same goes for style and developing your own personal style. Mine is constantly evolving and I really want to mix things up and try different looks in the upcoming months. Going to the flea market has become a bit of a weekend ritual. I’ve grown to love incorporating vintage finds into my wardrobe. Speaking of shopping at flea markets – it definitely requires going in with an open mind. Yo have to have no expectations, patience, and a willingness to leave empty handed and try again. I stumbled upon this metallic olive-gold pair of high waisted joggers at the flea market a couple months ago. I am so happy I made the decision in the moment to buy them. Sometimes I get buyer’s remorse when I can’t return things, but the loose fit and metallic color of these pants is perfect for the upcoming holiday season!

Since the pants definitely make a statement, I try to keep the rest of the look fairly neutral. You can never go wrong with all black – all outfit details are below.

top: cami nyc | duster: vdv the label | pants: similar | shoes: similar

By Amy Zhang November 6, 2017 in Style 10 Comments

Everyday Fall Style with Restricted Shoes

Fall Style: Boots Under $100 Restricted Shoes | by The Luxi Look

Mondays can be a reaaaal bitch – that’s why fulfilling weekends are so important! After spending the weekend hiking and glamping (we stayed in a yurt!!) with girlfriends in Joshua Tree, I’m feeling so relaxed. I almost think there’s something in the desert air. Whatever it is, a Sunday/weekend well spent really does seem to bring a week’s worth of content. Now I’m back with a little brand spotlight for you guys! Let’s talk about some shoes.

As a big shoe lover, I’ve learned that great shoes come in all shapes, sizes, and at every price point. I try not to incorporate too many fast fashion pieces in my closet as I am a huge proponent of quality over quantity. However, every now and then you find a pair of shoes or a brand that brings quality at an affordable price point.

Fall Style Restricted Shoes

Restricted Shoes brings together shoe trends + an affordable price point. In fact, almost every pair of shoes on the site is under $100. Here I’m wearing the “Silence” boot in black. These shoes are durable, comfortable, and also go with almost any basic outfit. Oh, and they’re $80!! So who says you have to spend half a paycheck to get a killer pair of shoes?

I get so excited when I come across brands that make quality pieces at an accessible price. I believe it’s entirely possible to build a wardrobe of lasting, repeatable pieces that don’t have to break the bank. A great pair of boots can be worn with almost anything – jeans, dresses, skirts, shorts, jumpsuits. Black boots especially are a closet must have! In addition, I love this moto-inspired pair as well.

If you’re looking for a new pair of fall boots or thinking ahead for the holidays, you’re in luck! For the month of November, use code LUXI25 for 25% off regular priced shoes.

top: aoui | denim: hudson | belt: b-low the belt

shoes: restricted shoes | necklaces: dogeared

*This post was written in partnership with Restricted Shoes. As always, all opinions are my own.

By Amy Zhang November 2, 2017 in Beauty, Lifestyle 4 Comments

The Only Three Hair Product Brands You Need to Know

The amount of makeup and hair products and brands available on the market right now is insane. On one hand, there are so many options at every imaginable price point, you’re bound to find something that works for you. On the other hand, it can be overwhelming to try to find the best products. I’ve tried a LOT of hair product lines over the years and can finally say the search is over. I’m always open to trying new brands and products, but when it comes to my tried and true brands that never let me down, there are a few that come to mind. If you’re looking for quality hair products with something in their line for everyone, keep reading.

These are the only three brands of hair products you need to know:

1. Oribe:

This is really the gold standard for hair products. Yes, Oribe products are expensive. But in my opinion, they are absolutely worth it. Quality hair products are worth it, especially if you color your hair because they will help extend the life of your expensive highlights. I also don’t style my hair every day, so I usually can get my hair products to last a while.

I’ve gushed about their Dry Texturizing Spray before, and I’ll say it again. If you’re going to splurge on one hair product, it should be this. It adds the perfect amount of texture and grit to your hair, doubles as a dry shampoo, smells amazing, and will help even the limpest strands come back to life.

I’ve used so many products from Oribe and love them all, but two of my other favorites are the Gold Lust Nourishing Oil and the Supershine Light Moisturizing Cream, which I swear make such a difference on days I do decide to blowout my hair!

2. Ouai:

Even though this line has only been out for a couple years, it’s already made a huge splash. Ouai products are more reasonably priced than high-end brands such as Oribe and Kerastase. But that doesn’t mean they sacrifice quality. The sleek packaging doesn’t hurt either. My favorite products from the line: Smooth Spray for untangling the most gnarly knots in my hair, Rose Oil for my hair and body, and Memory Mist as a heat protectant and style extender.

3. R + Co:

Not only do I love R + Co’s products, I can’t get enough of their colorful, quirky branding. These products are among my favorites, especially the ones I keep in my gym bag: the Palm Springs pre shampoo treatment for when my hair needs a little extra conditioning, the Pinstripe spray to detangle and moisturize my hair after washing, and the Death Valley dry shampoo (<< seriously one of my faves!!).

I included some of my other favorites below, if you’re interested in trying them out you can get $10 off your first order here using the code FAMILY + FRIENDS.

By Amy Zhang October 30, 2017 in Wellness 13 Comments

You Are What You Eat! Superfoods to Add to Your Diet This Week

Superfood is a bit of a health buzz word, but for good reason. The name is fitting – superfoods are exactly what their name sounds like! They are foods that are highly rich in nutrients and have a variety of health benefits. Basically, foods that you should be eating more of. After doing some research, I found out there are so many superfoods that are not only good for you, they happen to be in season right now! Read on for some of my favorite fall superfoods (bonus: they’re all vegan!) that I’m really loving right now + some of the health benefits they offer. Notice how they’re all fresh and so vibrant in color and taste.

Vegan superfoods that are in season right now:

+ Pomegranate:

A real bitch to get all the seeds out (unless you buy the little packages of seeds that have already been removed and cleaned), but trust me when I say the juice is worth the squeeze. Pomegranates are filled with antioxidants and Vitamin C. This superfood packs a real punch and has anti-inflammatory benefits, which helps reduce the risk of a variety of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. If you’re drinking green tea or red wine for their antioxidants, then you need to be drinking pomegranate juice. Pomegranates contain 3x the amount of antioxidants as green tea or red wine! Insane, right? I love just eating the seeds raw on their own, but they also taste great in an arugula or kale salad or mixed into greek yogurt.

+ Apple:

Turns out an apple a day really does keep the doctor away. Apples are a cheap and accessible superfood! My favorite is the Honeycrisp variety, but there are so many different ones you can try at your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Growing up in the midwest, apple picking was one of my favorite fall activities! Apples are full of antioxidants and fiber and are the perfect snack! Studies have also shown that eating a small apple before meals can help you eat less during your actual meal, helping with weight loss!

+ Acai:

I love a good acai bowl! I love making my own topped with berries, bee pollen, and coconut flakes (<< even more superfoods!). Acai has even more antioxidants than other types of berries, and is a great way to get vitamins, fiber, and satisfy any sugar cravings you might have.

+ Brussels Sprouts:

These little guys made a huge resurgence in popularity over the past several years. On their own, they are full of vitamins C and K as well as tons of other nutrients! These sprouts are a great source of vegan protein, iron, and potassium. As delicious as they are cooked with bacon, the healthier option to eating them is roasted with some olive oil, sea salt, and pepper, or raw in a shaved brussels sprouts salad (I love adding dates to mine!).

+ Turmeric:

This bright yellow spice has so many health benefits! The main active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory effects. It has also been shown to help prevent cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. This spice has been used in Indian cooking for centuries. If you’re new to using turmeric, try adding it to roasted vegetables or rice. Turmeric lattes have been gaining popularity recently as well – I like this recipe.

+ Sweet Potato:

One of my favorite sources of healthy carbs! I love a good roasted sweet potato or sweet potato fries (my absolute favorite! Make them healthier by making your own at home). Not only are sweet potatoes delicious, they’re insanely good for you. This superfood is chock full of vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D, iron, magnesium, and potassium. They also provide your body with healthy carbs that give you energy without causing your blood sugar to spike. Make sure to include sweet potatoes in your fall recipes and at Thanksgiving dinner!

What are your favorite superfoods? xx