KHLOE KARDASHIAN OMBRE INSPIRED HAIR

It's time for a change! While I love my dark brown hair, sometimes I get bored of the same old color. I really love Khloe Kardashian's ombre hair so I got inspired to do the same to my hair. While Khloe more recently has gone for a much blonder look, I decided to go with something not as drastic. 

With my hair being so dark, it doesn't take the blonde so easily. Esthetica Salon and Spa was up for the challenge! Khloe's end's are very bright. It took two different sessions and lots of time spent under the red lights for this to happen but the end result was so worth it!

Thank you Shannon and Courtney at Esthetica for making this happen!

FIRST SESSION

SECOND SESSION

via Instagram @hellocrisst

Get these curls using a NuMe Curling wand! Get NuMe's Titan 3 curling iron set for only $99 AND get free shipping AND a free thermal pouch using code: TITANRUSH  

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HOT STONE MASSAGE - What is it?

via Google

A Hot Stone Massage is a massage that uses heated stones to relax the body.  The stones are heated in a water bath with a temperature of 120 degrees. The therapist places the stones on the back first to relax the body and then works through the body with the stones. Hot Stone Massages can range anywhere between 50-90 minutes. 

Benefits of a hot stone massage: 

• decreases pain 
• decreases muscle spasms
• softens the tissues of the body
• relieves stress

What's the difference between a regular massage and a hot stone massage? Instead of the therapist using their hands as with a regular massage, heated stones are used to work the muscles. The combination of the essential oil and hot stones creates a deep state of relaxation. 

My Experience:
I've received massages before but this was my first Hot Stone Massage! I received a 50 minute massage from Kelly at Esthetica and it was very relaxing! It was definitely what I needed because at the time the muscles in my shoulder/back area were feeling tight. I told Kelly where I was having problems and she focused on those specific areas. The stones were the perfect temperature, not too hot at all. I recommend anyone who enjoys heat and/or has sore muscles to get a Hot Stone Massage! It's "perfect for those are sensitive to touch but need deep work" as Esthetica's menu says.

Interested in getting a massage at Esthetica? If you've never been to Esthetica, enjoy $20 off any service $45.00 or more. Print this coupon out and show at checkout. If you're wondering who you should go to, ask for Kelly! Call 609.646.1816 to make an appointment.

Microdermabrasions - What's the hype?

If you have problems with enlarged pores, sun spots, scarring, or even fine lines and wrinkles, then I highly recommend getting a Microdermabrasion. I suffer from enlarged pores and a few scars on my face so this treatment was definitely worth a try. My pores are noticeably larger on and around my nose and I also have scarring on my cupids bow (above my lip) from popping pimples back in my middle school days. Don't pop your pimples ladies!

Wondering what a Microdermabrasion is? It's a crystal exfoliation that removes dead skin cells.  The esthetician applies the crystals and then uses an instrument to suck up the crystals and the dead skin cells. You can feel a little bit of prickling but on a scale of 1-10, I would give it a 2. No worry ladies, it's not too uncomfortable and you can still enjoy your facial experience. The suction from the instrument that is used creates a collagen plumping effect, which is one of the many benefits of that comes with a microdermabrasion.

I was quite surprised when I learned how many benefits that come with a Microdermabrasion!

Benefits include:

Reduces pore size  (I noticed this immediately)

Minimizes the appearance of fine line and wrinkles

Great for breakouts

Evens out sun spots

Resurfaces rough skin texture

Removes top layer of skin and allows products to penetrate the skin better

More vibrant looking skin

How often should you get Microdermabrasion?
It's recommended that you get a series of 6, getting them two weeks apart. The closer the treatments are, the better the results.

Anything to avoid afterwards?
Avoid direct sunlight - wear your sun screen ladies! Also, no exfoliating for 48 hours.

Overall:
I loved the results from the Microdermabrasion. Right away, my pores were noticeably smaller and I had less blackheads. Also, my skin was so smooth and had a wonderful glow to it. Later that night, I went out and my make up (foundation) looked much better than it usually does. 

I really want to take care of my skin now so I still have youthful skin when I'm older, I mean who doesn't? Therefore, I plan to continue my Microdermabrasion treatments every month. The end results are totally worth it! 

Yes, it's worth the hype :)

ATTENTION!! Special Promo for my readers!
Never been to Esthetica? Print this out and get $20 off any service $45.00 or more!
View their menu of services HERE and book an appointment by calling 609-646-1816.

See my other reviews on Esthetica's services and products:
Nioxin Review
Air Brush Tan
Eyelash Extensions
Skin Ceuticals
Esthetica's Skin Care

NIOXIN HAIR SYSTEM KIT - 30 DAY REVIEW

I've always wondered if there's anyone had the same problems as I do with my hair and scalp. I have a dry scalp that drives my insane. After two days of not washing it, my scalp starts to burn and feels irritated. Also, if I wear black, my whole shirt will have flakes all over it. Then there's the shedding.. Not sure if it's the lack of a thyroid (I was born without one) or the medication I take for it but I shed excessive amounts of hair.. to the point I need drain-o for my bath tub every month and my rugs look like I own a dog. No joke, it's that bad. 

No shampoo I've ever used seemed to help, not even dandruff shampoos. In fact, some actually made my scalp feel worse. I absolutely had to find something to help with the irratation. I explained my problems to Esthetica Salon and Spa and they recommended trying the Nioxin Hair System Kit. It includes a Shampoo, Condtioner, and Scalp Therapy Treatment. 

PRODUCT CLAIMS:

Nioxin complete hair system provides 5 effects for thicker looking hair:
1.  Reduces hair loss due to breakage
2. Delivers denser-looking hair
3. Amplifies hair texture
4. Strengthens hair against cuticle damage
5. Cleanses excessive sebum from scalp.

Guarantees thicker, denser looking hair in 30 days.

REVIEW:

I started using the Nioxin Hair System kit May 1 and it's been over a month since I've started using it and I must say that seen results immeditately or should I say felt results?

NIOXIN Cleanser System - lather in hair for 1 - 2 minutes. Helps to remove follicle-clogging sebum, fatty acids and environmental residues from the scalp skin an hair. Cleanses to provide thicker looking hair.

The shampoo makes my hair feel so clean! It does give the hair a very matte, thick feeler after washing but the next step handles that.

NIOXIN Scalp Therapy - work in scalp for 1-3 minutes from root to ends. A lightweight conditioner that conditioner that helps to provide hair resilience and control moisture balance for normal to thin looking hair.

Wow! I love this conditioner. A little bit goes a long way! The shampoo gives the hair a knotty feeling but the conditioner smoothes it all out right away. I love it. You can feel it working while it's sitting in your hair.

NIOXIN Scalp Treatment - spray to roots evenly. Contains antioxidants, botanicals, and peppermint oil that helps to provide a refreshed scalp environment for normal to thin looking hair.

This makes all the difference! As soon as I spray it to my roots, it relieves any burning sensation from my scalp. It's very soothing for me and a life saver.

OVERALL:

I love this kit! This has been the only brand to relieve the symptoms as far as my scalp. You guys don't understand how much of a problem my scalp really is for me, but I'm so happy and relieved that I've found something that has worked for me! 

As far as the excessive shedding, I haven't noticed much of a difference. Because the fact that I have medical problems, I'm not quite sure if this will ever go away but I must say my hair does APPEAR to be fuller! In a lot of the Nioxin claims, I noticed that the word "appear" comes up a few times.. but yes, my hair does appear to be thicker! Not quite sure what it is in this product that does the trick but it's amazing! 

Totally worth the money! I would recommend this kit to anyone else who has the same issues as me. I will continue to use this product for as long as it continues to work. I used kit number 1. To find out what kit is best for you, visit the Nioxin website or any local salon that carries Nioxin, can help you find the perfect kit for you. 

Amazon has a great deal this week on Nioxin for 50% off!!! You can't beat that! CLICK HERE to get it!

Kit 1 -> Click Here
Kit 2 -> Click Here
Kit 3 -> Click Here
Kit 4 -> Click Here
Kit 5 -> Click Here
Kit 6 -> Click Here

UPDATED - ELLE AND WELLA EVENT PICS AND OOTD DETAILS!

Elle Magazine and WELLA Hair hosted a Salon Soiree at Esthetica Salon and Spa yesterday! If you don't know who WELLA is,  WELLA is a hair product company widely known for their hair color in the cosmetology industry. Models at the event showed off their phenomenal  hair using WELLA color. Guests that came received a complimentary consultation with hair experts in the salon. They also received $20 voucher for a future service and a complimentary gift bag from Elle and WELLA. Through out the night, guests enjoyed Prosecco, delicious hor d'oeuvres and desserts to die for.. all while DJ played today's latest hits! Overall, the event turned out fabulous and I can't wait for the next one!

Outfit details from the event are posted at the end! Check out pictures and vlog from the event..

OOTD DETAILS!
Dress: LULU*S MINT GREEN SHIFTING DEARS DRESS (CLICK HERE)
Shoes: LULU*S (CLICK HERE)
Jewelry: FOREVER21 (CLICK HERE)

Hair and Makeup thanks to Ashley at Esthetica!
Follow her on Instagram: @ayescib

Professional - Individual Eyelash Extensions FAQ's

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! 

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Twitter and Instagram: @hellocrisst

SkinCeuticals at Esthetica - Glycolic Lactic Peel

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. 

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?