My Stiletto Nails Are Back!

Thursday, May 29, 2014

nail designs, stiletto nails, pointy nails, glitter nails, pink nails, acrylic nails, gel nail polish, gel polish

It feels so good to have my nails back! I took a break from my nails because life just got a little bit too busy to get a simple fill-in.

 Anyway, I got these bad boys today, which is a full set with gel nail polish on top. I didn't know they also had glitter gel polishes. Usually, I would get the glitter acrylic powder, but it would be a pain in the ass when I would want to change the color. They would practically shave my nail off and start over. Wish someone told me that months ago because I won't be in the salon forever when it's time to get a fill! 

Click the "Pin It" button on  (top left corner of the picture) to pin them on Pinterest! Do you have a board with your favorite nail designs? Follow me @hellocrisst 


ELLE and #WELLAHAIR Event at Esthetica!

Wednesday, May 28, 2014



Join ELLE and #WELLAHAIR at Esthetica Wednesday, June 4 from 7PM-9PM. They will be having complimentary consultations from styling experts! Get $20 off any future services that are booked for new clients.

RSVP to ELLErsvp3@hearst.com with Esthetica in the subject line!

Post pictures from the event using hashtag #WELLAHAIR

HOW TO ACHIEVE THE BEST AIR BRUSH TAN RESULTS

Monday, May 26, 2014

how to achieve the best air brush tan, spray tan, organic tan, dha tanWant a nice healthy tan without the harmful effects from the sun? Scared that self tanner that will look uneven and orange? If that's the case, you should try getting a professional air brushed tan. I'm not talking about the machines in some salons that you walk-in to that sprays you from head to foot. I'm talking about actually having a PROFESSIONAL that uses an air brush machine to give you a natural, even looking tan! I recently received a professional air brushed tan and have some tips and tricks for you to achieve the BEST results. 

Prepping at home:
Shave:
Freshly shaved legs are better than stubbles! For maximum results, I recommend shaving the day of your appointment for the smoothest legs possible! If you want to know a little secret of mine, use hair conditioner instead of shaving cream. Hair conditioner moisturizes your legs, leaving them noticeably soft afterwards. I NEVER get razor burn with conditioner. After trying this trick, you'll never buy shaving cream again! (pshh.. I haven't bought shaving cream in years.) Don't forget to shave under arms and bikini area. 


shaving tips
Exfoliate: 
Remove all the dead, dry skin from your body. This can be done by using a loofa and a good sugar scrub. You can find loofa's at target or local dollar store. As far as sugar scrubs, you can make you own (I made a DIY lip scrub found here, which can also be used for your body), or you can buy your own sugar scrub. I use a sugar scrub found at Esthetica, which leaves my skin feeling silky smooth afterwards. They key is use some type of abrasive to scrub off dry skin, especially on elbow's, knee's, and the bottom of your feet. 

Moisturize: 
Moisturizing helps achieve an even tan. We don't want a blotchy - uneven spray tan do we? Generously, apply a good moisturizer to your whole body, ensuring to get every part. My favorite is Jergens Shea Butter.

tanning tips

TIP: Before you get to the salon for your spray tan, I recommend getting any waxing you need done first. For example, you don't want to get your eyebrows waxed AFTER or else you'll have white marks from where the wax removed the color. Same goes for your bikini area!




THE TAN

NAKED OR BATHING SUIT?
Deciding to wear a bathing suit or getting sprayed naked really depends on your personal preferences. Do you want tan lines or do you feel comfortable going topless. It's completely up to you! No shame ladies, we're all women and just think how many naked people the person air brushing you has seen before you! I personally don't mind either way, but I did wear a black strapless bikini for picture purposes. If you wear a bikini, make sure it's a dark bikini or something you don't mind messing up!

Priming!
The person spray tanning you will apply a primer and a barrier cream. Ally, from Esthetica, first sprayed my whole body with a primer and then applied a barrier cream to my cuticles on my fingers and toes, and also to the palms of my hands. This step helps prevent dark spots in those areas and helps make your tan look as natural as possible!

Tip: If you're using anything for acne or a retinal cream, it's suggested to stop using this product 1 week before you get your air brush tan. (Only if your choose to get your face air brushed.)

The Air Brush
I'm naturally very pale, so I chose to go with a medium color. Ally applied the product to the front of my body first, working in small sections at a time. Once she was finished with one part of my body, she would dry that area before moving on to the next part. I like the fact that the spray doesn't have a strong scent (thank god it doesn't have that corn chip smell) and doesn't leave you feeling sticky afterwards. The whole process took about 30 minutes. 

Getting professionally air brushed gives you a more even tan and makes it look more natural than a self tanner or a walk-in spray machine would do. Ally ensured every part of my body was sprayed and afterwards rubbed the barrier cream off my cuticles and palms. She even made sure I didn't have any excess product in my knuckles. Talk about paying attention to detail! 

Tip: Come to your appointment with baggy clothes!

Maintaining
tanning tips, million dollar tanThe tan gradually gets darker and by the third day you will see the maximum results. Your spray tan will last anywhere between 1-2 weeks. To achieve a longer tan, it's best to not exfoliate when showering. Also, you can touch up with a self tanner as it fades. I recommend Million Dollar Tan (CLICK HERE), which is fabulous organic self tanner. 


Keep up with me! Follow me on all social media platforms @christinasciblo.

MAY IPSY GLAM BAG

Sunday, May 18, 2014

Via Instagram: @hellocrisst

A few days ago I received my May Ipsy Glam Bag and as soon as I opened it I could smell the chocolate goodness of the Too Faced Chocolate Soleil Bronzer! Definitely by far one of my favorite products I've ever received from Ipsy. My other three MOST favorite products would be the Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner Pencil, Benefit POREfessional, and Macadamia Heating Oil Treatment, which I received in past bags.

Pacifica is another great brand. In this bag I received a duo eyeshadow, which I didn't even know they sold eyeshadow. Pacifica is known for their amazing body butters. My favorite scent would be the Tuscan Orange Blood. I'm interested in also trying out their Hawiian Ruby Guava. They also carry incents, candles, soaps, nail polish, the list goes on. Their 100% vegan and cruelty free. CLICK HERE to check them out! 

Avene Eau Thermal (Thermal Spring Water) - Michelle Phan speaks highly of this one of her recent videos! It has many uses you can spray on your face to remove make up, razor burn, damaged skin, and itching.

Other products:
Eva Nye Therapy Session Hair Mask
Hang Ten Sunblock

If you're interesting in learning more about getting your own glam bag.. CLICK HERE.

I've been with Ipsy for a little over one year now! Check out my one year post.. HERE.

Don't forget to follow me!
@hellocrisst (twitter and instagram)

Professional - Individual Eyelash Extensions FAQ's

Wednesday, May 14, 2014




Before getting eyelash extensions:
If you're thinking about getting professional eyelash extensions, come to your appointment make-up free. Remove as much mascara as possible. Also, eyelash perming and tinting before is not ideal as the glue used for the eyelashes will not stick. 

The Process:
First your bottom eyelashes are taped down so they don't get in the way. It is a little awkward at first but, you get used to it and there's no pain. Then, each faux lash is individually applied on top of a real eyelash. What's great about this technique is the fact that lash growth isn't hindered. A minimum of 60 eyelashes are used on each eye. Mink or synthetic eyelashes are used during this process.



How long do these extensions last?
Extensions will shed with your natural lashes. Natural lashes grow in cycles of 30, 60, or 90 days before they fall out. Depending on your lash growth cycle, is when they'll shed. 

Can you get them filled in?
You can get them filled every 2 weeks after first application for a natural fill in.

Can you still wear mascara?
If you decide to use mascara after seeing how beautiful your eyelashes are, non-waterproof mascara is preferred. Also, a standard eye lash curler is not desirable as it can tug on the lashes and remove them but a heated lash curler (CLICK HERE) can be used.

To take off mascara, use an oil free make-up remover.

How do you take care of eyelash extensions?
The best way to take care of eyelash extensions is to use a clean mascara wand (can be found at your local beauty supply store) and baby shampoo! 

How do these eyelash extensions differ from local nail salons?
Most salons use lash clusters, which actually hinders growth and only last about two weeks.

Example of Cluster Lashes
Photo Credit: fabyoulashes.com
How do they differ from strip lashes bought at the drugstore?
Strip eyelashes are manufactured to fit most eye shapes but if your like me, I have to cut them to fit my eye shape or else they constantly poke the inner corner of my eye. Like eyelash extensions, no damage is done to the real lashes with strip lashes. What makes eyelash extensions more desirable than strip lashes is that eyelash extensions are customized to each clients eye. In my case, the outer corners are sparse and have little gaps. Extentions help fill those areas where my natural eyelashes lack.

How much do they cost?
Because of the skill and time it takes to apply each individual eyelash, it typically costs about $200 for this service and takes about 2 hours.

Overall:
Let's just say I forgot I even had eyelashes on! Also, they are very light weight and unlike strip extensions, they look natural, yet very long. It's 100% worth the money. If you have thin and short eyelashes, I definitely recommend trying individual eyelashes out! Plus, it's one less step you have to worry about in your make-up routine.

Ashe, the Extension Expert at Esthetica, was incredible! She's such a genuinely nice person and is truly amazing at what she does. Book an appointment with her 609.646.1816

Thank you Ashe and Esthetica Salon and Spa! 

Please follow Esthetica Salon and Spa!
Twitter: @estheticasalon1
Instagram: @estheticasalonspa

Follow me!
Twitter and Instagram: @hellocrisst



SkinCeuticals at Esthetica - Glycolic Lactic Peel

Monday, May 12, 2014


I'm so excited to share with you guys that I had my very first skin peel this past week. SkinCeuticals came to Esthetica Salon and Spa to share their incredible products.  All that was needed was an appointment at Esthetica, with a $50 deposit which went towards SkinCeutical products. 

esthetica

THE PEEL

The peel I received was called a Glycolic Lactic Peel. The GL peel itself is actually very quick. There was a little bit of tingling experienced but nothing that can't be handled ladies. It was relaxing and refreshing! Some benefits of the GL peel include: improving the appearance of hyper pigmentation and dullness, reducing fine line and wrinkles, and smoother and softer skin. 





THE RESULTS
My skin felt so soft and my skin tone was even (no redness!) I noticed that each client that received the peel had an wonderful glow to their skin. 

AFTER THE PEEL



Afterwards, an account executive for SkinCeuticals, Denise Gannon, helped recommend products for at home use.  SkinCeuticals is a brand that is clinical based and has one mission- provide advanced skin care that is backed by science. They are truly passionate about skin care and make it their first priority. SkinCeuticals is big on protecting the skin (get your sun block girls) and providing the skin with the nutrients it needs, such as Vitamin C. They provide products for treatments that can be done in doctors offices or medical spas. SkinCeutical products are medical-grade and can be combined together to meet specific needs and skin types. SkinCeuticals is highly recommend by doctors and skin professionals and have been mentioned in magazines such as Allure and Vogue. 

PHYSICAL EYE UV DEFENSE
I was able to try SkinCeuticals Physical Eye UV Defense, which is a non-migrating protective eye base to enhance skin tone. Did you know that the skin around your eye shows the first signs of aging?  The Physical Eye Defense has SPF 50, which helps protect your eyes from the sun. 

Not only does it protect your eyes but  it is also very hydrating. The skin under my eyes is typically very dry. When applying concealer under my eyes, I notice a lot of cracking due to dryness. The Physical Eye UV Defense alleviates the dryness under my eyes while protecting my skin from the sun at the same time. It's a great base/primer for make up application.

OVERALL
Overall, I'm blown away. I can't believe how incredible the quality of these products are. If you have specific concerns and feel as though drug store products aren't for you, definitely try SkinCeuticals. Drug store products are meant for a broader market, where as SkinCeuticals is a medical-grade product meant to meet specific needs.

Remember every skin care regimen needs three significant elements - a product to prevent, a product to protect, and a product to correct! What are you missing?



6 Gift Ideas for Mother's Day

Monday, May 5, 2014


1. Perfume
Getting your mom perfume is probably one of the easiest gifts. Don't know mom's favorite? Find where she keeps all her perfume, see what she's low on, and buy her a new bottle. She'll be like "oh my god, how did you know this was my favorite?" (Well obviously it's the one you use the most of mom, but she doesn't need to know that LOL) 

Mentioned in video: Tom Ford - Black Orchid -> CLICK HERE


2. New Bag
If you're on a budget you can honestly find a nice bag at Target! Target has so many cute bags for under $40. If you want to be a little bit fancier, go for a Michael Kors bag. Mom will love it!

MERONA - TARGET --> CLICK HERE
MICHAEL KORS- NORDSTROM - CLICK HERE

3. Jewelry
Diamonds are a girls best friend right? Show your mom your appreciation with some diamonds! They'll last forever and she can wear it everyday. Piercing Pagoda has plenty of affordable options as far as Jewelry. Gold, Silver, Diamonds, Earrings.. you name it, they'll have it. Also Infinity necklaces are really popular this year! Infinity is a symbol for forever.. so show your mom you'll love her forever.

PIERCING PAGODA --> CLICK HERE

4. Gift Basket
This is where you get to have fun and be creative. You can grab a basket and stuffing from your local dollar store or craft store. Buy some lotions, sprays, hand soaps, nail polish, and other things mom can pamper herself with.

MICHAEL TODD TRUE ORGANICS --> CLICK HERE
ESTHETICA PRODUCTS - IN STORE ONLY

5. New Camera
Mom's love to take pictures of their babies right? I know I do! I have over 3500 pictures on my phone and majority of them are of my kids! LOL. Get your mom nice camera. I use the Canon Powershot camera. I love it because it has an option for me to upload to my phone or computer via WIFI!

You can get awesome deals on Amazon and get two day shipping when you try Amazon Prime 30 day trial! 

CANON POWER SHOT - AMAZON --> CLICK HERE

6. Pamper her!
Mom's work so hard to make sure you have everything you need and always there for help when we need it, so why not let her take some time off to pamper herself. Get your mom a gift card to a local spa so she get a massage or a facial. Let her get her hair done or mani/pedi...whatever she chooses. Mom's love that stuff! It lets her get away and relax even if it's just an hour, she'll love it.

If you are from the South Jersey area, Esthetica Salon and Spa is having a great promotion! Purchase a $100 gift card and receive a $20 voucher for yourself AND if you like them on Facebook or follow them on Instagram/Twitter you get 15% off retail items!

ESTHETICA GIFT CARDS --> CLICK HERE

Exotic Scents from Esthetica

Saturday, May 3, 2014



If you didn't already know,  Esthetica has their own line of products which I must say I'm quite impressed on how great they smell! Their line of products include lotions, sugar scrubs, and shower gels in different scents that have powerful aromas and make you feel pampered in your own home.

My favorite of the four scents would be an exotic scent, White Tea Ginger Lemon Grass. It has a wonderful smell that makes you feel fresh and clean. The smell is lasting and the combination of the lemon and ginger is amazing.

I've never tried a sugar scrub prior to using Esthetica's. (I can't believe I've gone so long without using one.) It's perfect for exfoliating. I definitely recommend using this before you ever get a spray tan! It gets off the dead skin, yet makes your skin feel so soft and silky. It's very moisturizing and leaves your skin glowing.

The lotion is very moisturizing yet doesn't make you feel oily. These lotions are way better than anything you would find at Bath and Body works. The "E SPA" line is made with quality and is luxury for your skin!


The owner's, Julie and Cece, of Esthetica did an amazing job picking out these scents. They have a total of four scents, White Tea Ginger Lemon Grass, Papaya Mango, Lavender Orchid, and Mineral Salt Spa. My two personal favorites are the White Tea Ginger Lemon Grass and Papaya Mango.

These would make great basket stuffers for Mothers Day coming up! LIKE or FOLLOW Esthetica on your favorite social media platform and get 15% off these products.

Facebook: Click here!
Twitter: Click here! @estheticasalon1
Instagram: Click here! @estheticasalonspa

Also for every $100 in gift cards, receive a $20 voucher for yourself!


All products are cruelty, paraban, and dye free.

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