Beauty Protector

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

Beauty Protector

I take my hair care very seriously!  So when i come across a few good gems, i simply have to tell my BFFs (you guys of course) all about them! Beauty Protector is a brand i learned about initially through my Birchbox subscription. In fact, i reviewed the Protect & Oil last year and have to say that it's still a favorite of mine!  Aside from the fact that it smells uhhhhhmazing... this beauty does one thing (OK many things) right! First, and quite possibly most important is its UV rays and heat protection.  Listen, it's bad enough the torture my poor locks have endured through chemical processing, but if i can do anything to protect them from further damage, i know my sweet friend Protect & Oil never fails me! Oh and a few drops of this beauty and my hair is silky, shiny and smooth... major bonus right?  Want to read my full review?  Check it out here!

When it comes to my hair products, this busy mommy counts on functionality... and of course, a little multi-tasking action never hurt anyone did it? Well, I've recently began using Beauty Protector's Protect and Detangle for a multitude of reasons.  First, I'm totally embracing my natural wavy/curly hair.  As you can imagine, wavy, curly also means tangle city but this baby has helped me bid farewell to those tangle disasters.  A few spritzes of Protect and Detangle and my hair cuticles are sealed and i can comb easily without any pulling or tugging.  In addition to moisturizing my hair and keeping it tangle free, this baby has a multitude of functions that I'm loving right now.  Did you know that this product protects your hair from styling tools?  Do you know how much i love my NuMe Pearl Curling Wand?????  My locks were thrilled to have Protect and Detangle as their fierce new super "hairo"... ahhhh see what i did there?  Super hero... super hairo!!!  OK Carla settle down!   But really, i think that is major for anyone who loves their styling tools.  Another plus is that  when you spray this product on your hair, you can rest assured that they're protected from the sun's harmful rays just like Protect & Oil.  Oh and if you're worried, rest assured that this beauty is 100% vegan, sulfate and paraben free!

Weekly hair masks have become a natural staple at chez FMM for years now!  My hair needs all the hydration it can get so I'm always on the lookout for a great mask! Well my search is over because Beauty Protector's Protect &Treat has left my hair feeling so so sooo smooth and shiny!  But there's actually a way better reason for using this major hair powerhouse... its anti-aging properties!  Oh yes, you read correctly!  You treat your skin to the very best right?  Why not do the same for your hair?!  You see, this mask is loaded with antioxidants to rejuvenate and protect your strands.  Argan oil, honey, amber, and crushed pearls revive strands and preserve their youthful texture and shine.  This mask works on all hair types and won't weigh your hair down.  While it has benefits galore, i can assure you that you that when you open this jar and sniff this beauty up, you'll instinctively want to reach for a spoon!  Seriously, if i could eat it i would... smells soooo yummies!  But seriously... control yourself!  This beauty is great but certainly not edible!

You can purchase these beauty through Birchbox! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*press sample - all opinions are my own.

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Palladio Brow Powder

Monday, April 27, 2015


Several years ago, brow powder was the only thing i used on my brows because it always gave me the most natural looking brows.  Over the course of the last few years, i've experimented with many brow options leaving me super confused and not overly pleased.  I settled on Anastasia's brow pomade which is great except that sometimes i find the product to be a bit overpowering.  You know... you'll walk past a mirror and your brows are practically screaming at you in the most awkward of ways!  Well, about a month ago i received the Palladio Brow Powder to try and the more i used it, the more i fell in love.  In fact, for the past three weeks, i haven't reached for anything else.  I simply use my brow brush to apply and define my brows without creating any harsh lines or over manicuring them.  This powder creates a soft, natural looking brow that lasts the entire day.  Longevity was definitely an issue with some products i've tried.  However, i haven't had any issues with Palladio's Brow Powder.  In fact, i see myself using this baby 'til it hits pan which is a rare occasion around here... and when i do, i will be sure to replenish!  Best part?  It won't break the bank at only $6! Two big thumbs up from me!



Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

*press sample - all opinions are my own based on my experience with this product. 

Fresh and Flawless With Pixi!

Friday, April 24, 2015

Fresh and Flawless With Pixi


Spring is all about fresh skin!  When it comes to a fresh, natural looking complexion, Pixi knows exactly how to achieve that look! The first step is to reach for a great brush!  Pixi's new Full Cover Foundation Brush works like a gem with its densely packed and silky soft bristles.  This beauty helps create a natural looking maximum coverage for foundation, concealer and powder bases without wasting product.  It's a match made in heaven for Pixi's H2O Skintint!  If you haven't tried these you must! These water based tinted face gels even out your skin tone and give your complexion a flawless no-makeup look.  The formula is hydrating, long lasting and water resistant.  If you have sensitive skin, this product is definitely for you.  I particularly enjoy these in warmer weather when i want subtle coverage. There is no heavy feeling on my skin with these which is nice, especially on no-fuss days!  Finish your fresh and flawless look with a swipe of Pixi's Undercover Crayon.  These fun and very portable concealer sticks will help awaken your complexion with a few swipes!

You can purchase these beauties at Pixi.com or Target.  You can also shop the post below! Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla



How To French Braid c/o ECRU

Tuesday, April 21, 2015


DIY Beauty Recipe: A Lavender-Infused Coconut Oil Hair Treatment

Monday, April 20, 2015


"Applied topically, coconut oil actually does a few things for your hair. First, it nourishes the hair shaft to create a vibrant sheen. It also conditions the hair to restore moisture and repair damage," explains Wendy Rose Gould beauty expert for hair tutorial and advice site Latest-Hairstyles.com. "Also, when applied at the scalp, it can help reduce dandruff and soothe sensitive or itchy skin." Tip: For beauty uses, choose extra virgin, unrefined coconut oil.
"Let’s move onto the lavender portion of this two-ingredient DIY hair treatment. Lavender also has numerous benefits. It’s no secret that it smells amazing, and many simply use aromatic lavender for its calming effects. Topically, lavender, like coconut oil, is antibacterial and therefore helps with dandruff. It also helps to soften the hair."

What You Need For This Recipe:

  • Small Bowl
  • 2 Tablespoons of Unrefined, Virgin Coconut Oil
  • Fresh or Dried Lavender Springs (or 2 drops essential oil)
  • Measuring Spoons
Step 1: Place Oil Into Your Bowl


Measure out 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and add it to your bowl. Depending on your hair length, you may want to add more or less oil to the bowl. For medium-to-long hair, two tablespoons should suffice. If your coconut oil has turned to liquid, just measure it out like normal.

Step 2: Add Lavender


Remove the greens and/or buds from your lavender and place it in the bowl with your coconut oil. If you want to add a little more for fragrance, that’s okay. A few pinches is plenty.
Step 3: Infuse Your Lavender


Next, we’re going to infuse the lavender into the coconut oil. To do this, create a bain-marie by placing your bowl over a sauce pan filled with water. Turn your heat to low-medium and allow the coconut oil to melt down, stirring periodically. If your coconut oil is already liquid, you still want to do this, as the warmth from the water bath will expedite the lavender oil extraction. Keep your bain-marie going for 45 minutes to one hour, then remove from the heat.

Step 4: Cool and Strain


Allow your infused coconut oil to set for 10 to 15 minutes, or until it is slightly warm (not hot). Remove the lavender pieces if desired.

Step 5: Apply to Hair


Work the oil through your hair, focusing on the ends where hair gets dry. You can also focus on the scalp if you’re dealing with itchy, dry skin or dandruff. Let the oil set for 15 to 45 minutes. The longer it sets, the better. Shampoo and style as normal.

Step 6: Revel in Softer, Prettier Hair


Want to improve your hair even more? Check out Latest-Hairstyles.com's Product + Hair Advice section.

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

reVive Light Therapy

Friday, April 17, 2015


Experience the rejuvenating power of reVive Light TherapyreVive "Clinical" systems are designed for the more serious user - with 60 LEDs and a large treatment area these systems provide maximum coverage and effectiveness. The "Essentials" system is an entry level LED device, with less LEDs and a smaller treatment area, this system is excellent for the beginner or younger user.

PROFESSIONAL COLLECTION | PANEL SYSTEM

 
The new Professional Collection Light Therapy Panel is so advanced that you can treat your full face, neck, chest, hands and back in only 8 minutes. Anti-aging effects to include wrinkle and line reduction and prevention, Skin tone and color, Hyperpigmentation and many other skin ailments resulting in healthy, glowing youthful skin!
Blue light treatments immediately destroy bacteria residing in the skin that cause acne and other skin ailments leaving your skin clean and fresh within days!
Powerful IR lights support skin healing and recovery activity minimize damage caused by Sun Burn, Bruising, cuts and scrapes, scarring, etc.


ESSENTIALS COLLECTION/ ANTI-AGING/ACNE TREATMENT

A powerful yet economical light therapy treatment for wrinkles or acne. Featuring 24 medical grade LED lights. Each system includes a free peptide or blemish serum valued at $39.  The anti-aging therapy is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, improve skin tone, color and texture, is dermatologist recommended and takes only a few minutes a day! The acne treatment is clinically proven to reduce acne flareups, kills acne causing bacteria, is also dermatologist recommended and takes just a few minutes per day. 

Check these out at your local Target or any of these retailers! Thank you so much for reading! xo, Carla - FMM

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Night Cap Overnight Protector





The other day, while peeking through Sephora (surprise surprise), i came across Living Proof's Perfect Hair Day Night Cap Overnight Protector.  This beauty instantly caught my eye because I'm always on the lookout for anything that will tame my dry, hard to manage hair! I read a couple of reviews online that totally made me want to go for it, besides, at $28 it was relatively budget friendly considering you only need a small amount for each use.

When the product arrived, i eagerly put it to the test that very night!  I used a few pumps to spread all over my hair, particularly my ends.  The formula left my hair feeling instantly soft and smooth.  I also loved the smell... it's very fresh and clean! The next day, my hair looked great.  I didn't have to do much to it because it just looked great!  Interestingly, when i blowout my hair straight, i typically can't go more than 2 days without washing it because my roots immediately look greasy.  However, with this product, i washed it on the fourth day which is actually quite a bit of time for me but i really wanted to see how the longevity factor with the Night Cap. I'm so impressed.  I've been using this religiously since it arrived and loved what it's done for my hair.  Note that it dries relatively quickly... I'd say within a minute of application.  This is great news for my pillow as it leaves absolutely no residue or trace of anything on it! Personally, i loved it.  Everyone is different and i can't speak for any texture of hair that is not similar to mine but for thick, unruly, dry hair... it's perfection!

Thank you so much for reading! Xo, Carla - FMM

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Last Tango in Paris - A Dreamy Parisian Birthday Celebration!

Tuesday, April 14, 2015


At last.... January 5th was here!  The reason we came to Paris in the first place... our birthday!  I couldn't believe this day was here and this was actually happening... celebrating my birthday with one of my best friends whom i happen to share a birthday with! Amazing!  We had the most adventurous day! While there was much more to see, i was beginning to panic because i hadn't had much of a chance to shop (and lets face it, the sights are beautiful but so is the shopping!).  I decided that for this trip, i wanted to purchase something major.  I wanted a designer piece that i could bring back and remember that i purchased it in Paris!!! We'll chat about that a bit more later.  We began our day by heading to our favorite crepe place... oh what i wouldn't do for another sucre crepe right now! Then we made our way to a boat on the Seine river.  There are simply no words to describe what that's like. Paris is so magical.  Every last inch of the city is filled with so much beauty and is so rich in history. Our first stop was Ponte Des Arts (aka locks of love bridge).  I decorated a lock that Pete purchased for the occasion.  The bridge was not as picturesque as I'd imagined.  Sadly, they covered most of the bridge with wood boards because the locks were too heavy.  We opted to place ours on the side of the bridge as there was still some room there.  That was definitely cool and i love that Pete and I left our mark in Paris.  After we placed the locks we made our way to the Notre Dame Cathedral.  OK, I've seen many cathedrals and churches in my lifetime but this one was like no other.  It was incredibly ornate and nothing short of spectacular really.  When i first walked inside, i literally felt a chill all over my body.  Such a moving experience for me.  We lit a few candles and prayed for our families and friends.  We then made our way out and walked around the entire cathedral.  The day was dark and dreary but my heart was so full at that very moment.  Everywhere i looked was a feast for my senses.































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Lunch time was approaching and we knew we wanted to go to a place we'd heard had the best fallafels in all of Paris (L'as Du Fallafel's) located in the Marais district.  It was walking distance so we made our way over.  We passed the Hotel De Ville section which was spectacular.  There was a large plaza complete with outdoor ice skating and a merry go round.  We took a few pictures and proceeded to our destination.  When we arrived, we waited to be seated knowing there was always a wait for this famous joint! Apparently Lenny Kravitz declared this to be the best Fallafel place ever so if it's good enough for him...  Truth is, the food was sensational!  This place is a hole in the wall, no frills yet always packed.  This was the first time I'd tried fallafel balls and needless to say when we got back home, we craved them badly!  After lunch Vilma and her husband did a little more sight seeing before our birthday dinner.  I knew i needed to go shopping so Pete decided to hang out at a cafe while i did my thing.











 I kind of had no idea where i was but i was determined to complete my mission.  I said a little prayer that went something like this "God, if it's meant to be, you'll lead me to Valentino!" I began to walk, and walk and walk.... i passed the Louvre so i kind of remembered some of that area.  I knew there was a shopping mall near there called Printemps but for whatever reason, i couldn't find it.  I kept walking... at a faster pace because i knew that i was super far from where I'd parted from Pete and had 6:30 dinner reservations that i couldn't miss.  I walked passed a Zara that had the most stunning black cape on display.  While i wasn't totally set on the idea of buying anything at Zara since i have one 5 minutes from my house, that cape totally made me walk in.  No one spoke English there so i pulled together my best french and proudly asked "Mademoiselle, ou est la cape noire?"  "Ah" she said, and proceeded to have a full blown (one sided) conversation with me as i sat there and politely replied 'oui, merci'!  No clue what she said, but i found the cape and it was dreamy so i purchased it! Still, i knew this wasn't the purchase so i walked on.  I walked passed Pierre Hermes which I'd read was one of the most famous chocolatieres in Paris so obviously i was curious!  I wound up purchasing a few more macaroons and a box of fancy shmancy chocolates.  I'm actually not a chocolate lover (shocking i know) but my hubby and girls love chocolate so i bought it with them in mind (i later found out my girls would rather have a non fancy shmancy chocolate any day over my over priced box of disappointments but oh well... it's the thought that counts i suppose).



As i walked farther down, i began to recognize a few stores that we walked by a few days prior though they were closed before.  And then there it was... Valentino!  I darted in with major excitement.  The guy that held the door open for me mumbled something in french so i told him i didn't understand.  He quickly blurted out "I said welcome" in a very unwelcoming sort of way! Then i realized this was the men's store!  I asked someone where the women's store was and she gave me great directions... in french!  Hmmmm off i went... but at least i had a glimmer of hope that Valentino was somewhere nearby.  As i walked, i stumbled into a beautiful plaza with the fanciest stores ever... Chanel, Dior etc.  I took a quick video and all i kept saying was 'omg'.... i was in Paris surrounded by the most beautiful stores!  Totally felt like a dream.  Still, i didn't have much time to waste so i continued on my mission... a few blocks later there it was... my prayers were answered... Valentino in all its glory!  I looked up at the sky and smiled... thank you GOD! I walked in and asked the gentleman who opened the door for me if he spoke English... he did not.  I quickly pointed to my shoes and he smiled (in a much friendlier way than snotty pants) then pointed upstairs.  I ran up the stairs, drooled past the clothing section and then.... the SHOES!  OH the shoes!  My dream shoes in fact.... the Rock Stud Valentino shoes in all their glory!!!  There were pink ones, yellow ones, blue ones, beige ones, high heeled, medium heeled, flats... all i know is that i was sweating, my heart was racing and i may have even felt a few tears run down my face.  This.... THIS was the moment I'd waited for... my Parisian moment!  I decided to purchase the flat Rock Studs because i knew I'd get way more use out of them then the heels.  I have bad knees so heels tend to hurt my knees.  I asked the sales lady to bring me all of the colors she had in my size.  Sadly, there were only two... the beige and cherry which were a deep berry hue.  I was sooooo confused.  On the one hand, the beige went with everything and if I'm going to shell out a million euros for these shoes, they better go with everything.  Then i remembered that I'd always said if i were to get these shoes, I'd want them in a fun color!  I asked the two sales ladies for a little help deciding and they all agreed the cherry was the way to go!  Cherry it was!  So here i am... little old me, walking out of Valentino with a massive red bag walking down the streets of Paris!!!!!  Did i say walking? I was actually running as though I'd stolen something because my GPS told me i was over 2 miles away from Pete and at this point he's texting me asking where the heck i was!  So i ran and ran and ran with my fancy Valentino bag until i finally saw the Louvre.... a place I'd recognized.  Pete had asked me to meet him by the pyramid. When we met, we walked by the Seine to see if we could catch the boat back to our hotel near the Eiffel Tower, but there were none to be found.  We were worried that we might miss our reservations if we didn't head back now.  But for a few minutes, i took in that moment.  It's so clear in my mind... the beautiful Seine river, the Louvre in the background, the love of my life next to me and Pete!  OK kidding... obviously Pete is the love of my life... but this girl LOVES her shoes!  Sadly, that moment was short lived because we got in a cab and headed back to our hotel to get ready for our last night in Paris.








A few weeks back, we'd made reservations to have dinner inside the Eiffel Tower.  I put on my pretty new cape and fancy Valentino shoes and headed out with my BFF and our hubbies!  We sat by a window and had a view of the entire city of Paris draped in lights.  It was so dreamy!  We started our dinner with champagne and feasted on a ton of french delicacies.  The entire night we just sat there in aw reliving this magical trip and in disbelief that we were actually having dinner inside the Eiffel Tower on our birthday!  Wow!  At the end of dinner, our waiters brought over dessert with candles and they sang happy birthday.  While we were a bit bummed that they didn't sing in french, Vilma and I were so grateful for that moment!  Dinner was delicious and the view was incredible.  The chef came over and took pictures with us which was super cool too.  Sadly, dinner was over and it was time to go.  As we headed back downstairs, the tower began to sparkle!  We screamed and cried... what a perfect send off!  Honestly, this was one of the best nights of my entire life!  We walked back, stopped to pick up a bottle of champagne and sat in the hotel lobby chatting about our trip.  We didn't want it to end.




















Honestly, i fell so madly in love with Paris.  I want to go back so badly!  There is just so much that i want to see... i will definitely go back one day.  If you ever have the opportunity, it's a must!  Simply beautiful.  Thank you so much for reliving this journey with me and for being so patient with my delivery of these stories.  I know it's taken quite some time to get them all out but truth be told, sometimes it's just so hard to find the time to sit down and write... in peace and quiet.  Did i mention i have twins?!

If you missed any of my other Paris posts you can read them here, here, here and here!  Thank you so much for reading! Xoxo, Carla - FMM
- DESIGNED BY ECLAIR DESIGNS -