Honest Beauty Launch

I write with very exciting news, Honest Beauty has launched! I was able to attend yesterday's NYC launch event on behalf of BeChicMag. I got to meet Jessica Alba! It was a dream come true for me. After having a rough winter with my sensitive skin, particularly my face the nightmare is finally over. I have been waiting for this moment all year. Finally an affordable, healthy and safe domestic beauty line that I can use on my skin! 

Every single item that was on display is my new favorite -even if it included Sodium Benzoate which I am allergic to. 

I had a beauty love at first sight moment with Honest Beauty's "Truly Lush Mascara + Lash Primer". It's an awesome dual gem! First you apply the primer on your eye lashes. The fluid will appear the color white-give it a few seconds for it to dry. Once your lashes are dry it will turn clear. Then you apply the mascara and magic happens. The primer helps prevent clumpy eyelashes from appearing with a dramatic eye lash look. I have very long natural eye lashes so this will be fun to use!

I was able to sit on the makeup chair yesterday and have even more fun. I still have my summer tan and I  was color matched with two different "Everything Cream Foundation" colors. One to highlight which was Almond and one to contour which was "Camel" . This foundation can look medium to full coverage depending on how you apply. Once my tan fades I will be closer to the "Sand" color. I have yellow under tones and an olive skin complexion which is hard to find a good match with other beauty brands. As Jessica mentioned yesterday "as a woman of color" she wants to celebrate diversity. The diverse colors available definitely made me feel like I can be myself.

One more touch up that was added during my makeup chair session was the "Beyond Protected Daily Sheer Tint" on top of the foundation as a way of bringing out a brighter fresh face. It looked seamless and not as if Tinker Bell sprinkled tons of pixie dust on my face. You can use this under or over your make just like the "Concealer Duo".

Last quick favorite was the "Creme Blush"! It's another silent duo, you can dab it on your cheeks or on your lips for a pop of color- how cool is that! There were so many different colors on sight yesterday! One that caught my eye was "Truly Charming". It's a raspberry/ coral color and very pretty in person.

All in all I can write for days on yesterday's fun! Please check out BeChicMag for more fun beauty and fashion tips! Before I go I must say that what makes me hold onto Honest and Honest Beauty truly are the toxic ingredients that are not included in their products. I feel healthier and happier knowing that I don't have to feel guilty or afraid of harming my body. I am looking forward to seeing what will come next!

Until next time! :)

-V

Post Allergy Blues & Makeup

It's been a month since my last post! I missed writing on here.

Allergy Update:

After my skin allergy patch test I have about ten common allergies due to fragrances, chemicals and dyes found in day to day cosmetics and home products. Since my test I have tried the Dry Bar "Mudslide" and discovered that I am allergic to a chemical that is used within the Dry Bar products and will have to discontinue using them. I was bummed (it smells so good) when I went through the ingredients and found one of my allergens on the list. #sensitiveskinproblems This chemical triggers the eczema on my face which is not fun.

The positive news from post allergy blues is The Honest Company's products. I have switched my hand soap, shampoo and hand sanitizer so far. One wee of using the foam hand soap I have yet to see any itchy bumps on my hand! I love that they use natural and safe ingredients and that I am not allergic to it! I will be trying out their laundry detergent next. If I were a new first time mom I or anyone who has sensitive skin to definitely look into Honest. I wish they had make up as one of their products and I would definitely try out some foundations and blushers.

Speaking of make up, I have not worn liquid foundation in over two months almost. It has been very rough with work, date nights and weekend fun. Now that my skin is bouncing back for the better I have been reading every ingredient possible online before walking into any store! I am considering  having a testing day at Sephora with my list of sensitive skin products. I will update you all if I find a new product that is life changing for me. Until then au natural is the way to go for me and more confidence has been gained with my bare face.

I will continue to embrace my pale olive skin. :)

Allergy & Children's Fashion Update

I've missed writing on my blog! Quick update-I've taken a hiatus on makeup! About three weeks ago I had a bad allergic reaction on my face. Thank goodness that nightmare has passed. I will have my allergy skin test soon to find out what ingredient caused my double allergic reaction from my MAC BB foundation and my medicated ointment.(I miss using my MAC BB foundation.) For now I have been on strictly eye concealer and mascara as my face bounces back to normal.

In other news, I am excited to start my new hobby-PHOTOGRAPHY! I've been noticing how fast my daughter is growing and I need to start capturing all of these priceless moments. I hope to share some of my shots with you once I have my new camera.

New to me and maybe to you too: I have started following a few children fashion blogs and magazines. What a treat and great break I must say it is. Reading and seeing new designs makes me fall in love each day with more little girl clothes ( I try not to break my wallet buying everything insight for my kid) that I wished fit me. One of my favorite children blogs is Babiekins. I love their print magazine as well and so does my Kay. It's a great blog to follow and magazine to read that we can both share and enjoy. We get to do one more favorite thing together which is shop and look at all the pretty girly things out there!

Babiekins has been an eye opener when it comes to dressing Kay now. For me it has inspired me to explore all of these different fashion designers that you do not get to see in the day to day department stores. Everything on the blog and magazine has the most nicest things for your little girl or boy. I think every trendy, fashion, shopaholic mom should take a peak. Even if you want to get a nice outfit for a special occasion or fun birthday party, you will definitely get inspired. I always get tired of shopping and having clothes that don't seem to fit Kay. Little by little I am revamping her wardrobe and with her birthday near I might get a little crazy with it.

Those are my quick updates for today! I will keep you all posted with me and Kay's wardrobe. inspirations! :)

.

Drybar

Hi Everyone,

It has been a very long time since my last post. I got caught up with the holidays and work. I hope everyone reading this had a good holiday break.

I wanted to write about my Drybar experience during the holidays. I never thought about going until one day I decided what the heck let me take my mom and try this out. My mom and I have very fine hair which is extremely easy and quick to dry. I already go to a hair stylist who has been doing my hair for over a year. He has colored and cut my hair the best compared to anyone else in my past. He is very talented and awesome! In between months when he's off or I don't need a cut I have been going to Drybar. I usually go on my lazy/busy days.

The first time my mom and I went was right before the holidays in December. She was going to a wedding and I wanted a mom break. I loved their FlatIron location. They were very attentive and we didn't wait that long at all to be seated. I didn't drink any bubbly because my mom is not a drinker, but the H2O was perfect. What made me a fan was the products being used right away. The hair technician used "Hot Toddy Heat Protector Frizz Fighter" and the "So Belle Volumizing Mousse". The scent is sooooooo nice and nothing like I have smelled before. Right away I was beginning to relax and enjoy my blowout.

I was pretty much sold after my first experience. I booked another appointment right away before new years eve. I always get stuck at work very late and never have enough time to do my own hair due to work hours. I was amazingly able to find a spot and get my hair done! The second technician was just as friendly and attentive as the first. She styled my hair and pinned it exactly as I wanted it. The next day I still had my hair pinned and when I took them off before the party all of my curls were still intact and lovely. This hair technician added the "The Sheriff Firm Hold Hairspray". I so purchased the hairspray right away. It sprayed on smoothly and also smells sooo good. I highly dislike those smelly and rough hair sprays that crinkle up your hair and kill your nostrils.

My next purchase that I might try is the "Mud Slide Nourishing Hair Mask". I've been using the Jafra Spa "Scalp Massage and Hair Treatment"  for about five months. I have noticed it protecting my hair, but I have to order it online through Amazon or  through one of the Jafra agents. My current Jafra jar is almost finished. As soon as I make the switch I will let you all know my thoughts about this product. *I am so excited.*

I definitely recommend everyone to try Drybar at least once. It's super fun and the staff was spectacular. I even got to watch Mean Girls as I had my hair done one night. I don't know about you but, that's one of my favorite movies from my college years. I already booked my next appointment for myself and my daughter. Yes, they even have a children's hair menu. For all you mom's who want to get a nice blowout with your little girl check it out!  :)

Laser Hair Removal

It's been a while since my last post, life got a little busy! I wanted to write about my first laser hair removal treatment a few weeks ago. I have done waxing for the past decade and it has been a bit painful but, I became use to it over time. For the past few summers I notice I began to have ingrown hairs more often (gross I know!) and I decided to do something. I went to see my dermatologist and even GYN about tips to prevent any future in grown hairs. Lase hair removal came up in both conversations. Hearing laser hair removal and LASER period freaked me out a bit. I did procrastinate through out this summer and gave in when I saw a nice deal on Groupon and purchased a package. I scheduled an appointment at Skin Spa New York which was recommended to me.

I enjoyed Skin Spa's services, I was nervous going into the laser room. The laser hair technician was great, she did an amazing job. It was much faster than waxing, it felt as if it was under 5 minutes! The pain is a little different but, not as painful than a wax. I have to go through a few sessions before seeing it take full effect. I have noticed most of my new hair coming in falling right off. I am looking forward to the next 6 sessions or so! I hope by the end of this new year I gain more progress and awesome results. If you have ever considered having laser hair removal I recommend it. It honestly feels like a tiny ticking/pinching sensation and your done before you know it. It's much cleaner than a wax and saves so much more time! If you have any questions feel free to comment below.

PS: There's a Holiday sale going on their website! I hope you take a look. :)

Post Contour Trial & Hourglass Makeup

I have been busy for the past few days was not able to upload my blog. I wish I had a nice picture of me with the Motives contour palette. Sad news bears, I had a small allergic reaction to it around my chin and mouth area. I didn't get to apply it as much once I started to feel the tingly sensation.

 I am almost sure it was due to the fragrance. The make up was very easy to apply and looked awesome until my allergies kicked in.

After letting my face breathe and I went to my favorite retail therapy store ever, Sephora. I was on the hunt for a fragrance free, oil free and paraben free foundation. I came across Hourglass and it has been smooth sailing since. I purchased the Hourglass "Veil" mineral primer, the Hourglass "Immaculate" liquid powder foundation "Nude" and the Hourglass "Hidden Corrective" concealer in "warm". I feel my skin softer and more comfortable in it, especially with the primer. I do have a powdery finish which is a nice change during the week. I will continue to alternate this with my Makeup Forever HD foundation.

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I ended up snagging the "Sculptor Contouring Face Slenderizer" pencil from Tarte.

This will be for my Holiday trial, I will update you all how it goes! Wish me luck and no allergic reactions. :-P I love

NoMakeUp MakeUp

MI recently purchased a blush palette from Toofaced called "NoMakeUp MakeUp". I've been using it for work as a way not to use so many products each day. So far I love it, it's simple and quick! I might need a darker concealer for under my eyes (thanks to recent acne scars, dark circles and bags) but besides that everything I need is on it! 

Morning Make up routine at Work! 

My Daily Make Up Routine :)

My daily make up routine for work involves a few items from NYX Cosmetics. I love NYX because I can find it at my local Rickys store. I have a few matte lipsticks like Butter , Forbidden, Pale Pink, and Whipped Caviar to name a few.

Forbidden

"Nude 02"

I love using Forbidden daily because it's light and it's not too bold for my office. I also use the Beauty Balm (BB) cream along with the Stay Matte Foundation. What I like about this foundation is that it did not give me an allergic reaction (SCORE!), it's water based and that it blends well with my skin tone compared to many others that I have tried before. I apply my foundation with a Beauty Blender sponge-which I love. I feel very confident and comfortable when I use it. I no longer feel self conscience if the sun light is making me look like an Oompa Loompa.

 

I don't add anymore makeup after my foundation besides my Cover Girl mascara. I prefer this mascara for my daily use because it does not clump up and it's gentle to remove at night. I have very long natural eyelashes and I have had some mascaras harden my lashes by the time I got home to wash my face. I do also add a tiny bit of blush. I am looking into a new blush book, any suggestions? This NYX blush pallet definitely caught my eye, it's called BUTT NAKED-TURN THE OTHER CHEEK. This is should be in my hands by this weekend!!! 

 I like keeping my daily makeup routine very simple and easy to do with my crazy mornings. What is your morning routine? Do you use make up everyday? Which is your favorite liquid foundation? 

Eyebrows...Thick or Thin?

I always had full eyebrows as a child. That was until sophomore year in high school when I decided to go wax them for the first time with my cousin (without my mother's permission)-yikes! 

During that time thin eyebrows were "in". Once I graduated college I began to thread them in my neighborhood since waxing always left me a bit of irritation or acne. Threading became my life! I found a great eyebrow lady near my office and never looked back. She helped me grow them out and shaped them along through out the process. This helped me not look like Oscar the Grouch.

Unfortunately my eyebrow lady no longer works at the same salon and I can't find her anywhere. She was my eyebrow guru! I tried out a few new places and one did decent work but, it's not the same.

I decided to start growing them out a bit more and tweezing the unwanted hair myself. As of now I am still going through the growing out phase🙈.

This is how my eyebrows currently look.

I am now hunting for a great eye brow kit that's affordable but, does nice work. So far I use my brow brush from Maybelline and tweezer from Tweezerman.

I am now looking into Tweezerman's "Mini Brow Rescue Kit" in Sephora. I think this would work perfect for me since I usually don't have time to do my makeup at home before work. I can pack it in my purse and work my magic in the ladies room. Sometimes a girls gotta do what a girls gotta do. 

Let me know your thoughts on thick eyebrows. How do you maintain your brows? Do you use an eyebrow kit? If so, which one?

Blushers & Brownzers

I have yet to decide on a favorite blush or find the perfect brownzer that goes well with my face. I have always switched on and off from #BobbiBrown to #Tarte when it comes to blushes. I use Bobbi Brown's "Apricot" blush on a daily bases for work. When I feel like I want to add a bit more blush I switch to Tarte's "Rosy Red". I am beginning to get a new blush itch and try some new colors that compliment me.

Bobbi Brown "Apricot" Blush

Tarte's "Rosy Red" Blush

As I await my #MotivesComestics contour pallet in the mail I want to make sure I have all the right components. I use to wear #Nars "Laguna" brownzing powder all the time until I felt that my skin tone was too fair for it and didn't match so well during the winter. As the winter is now approaching NYC I want to have all the right tools for my holiday face. Does anyone know or have any suggestions for a good  brownzer? I totally see a stop a Sephora this weekend!

Nars' "Laguna" Brownzing Powder

I also have an eye on Tarte's "Smooth Operator" finishing powder. Have you tried it before? What do you think? This is definitely on my shopping list. I am on the edge of my seat waiting to try my new look.

Tarte's "Smooth Operator" Finishing Powder

This is how I usually do my make up for work each day. Very simple and I use a touch of the Bobbi Brown blush. 

Contouring & Highlighting...I so want to try!

Lately it's been non stop news about contouring and highlighting in all of my social media feeds. I am always very hesitant when trying a new foundation or just about anything that goes on my face. I have very sensitive dry skin and it has been a journey of trial and error. My next face adventure will be contouring and highlighting. I doubt I will be able to do this everyday before school drop off and joining the morning rush hour train ride to work. I definitely want to try this as my weekend look and my go-to for special occasions!

So far my following inspirations came from finding Teni Panosian's Contour YouTube Video a few days ago on contouring & highlighting-I am so a new fan of hers. When I saw Teni work her magic using #MotivesCosmetics contour pallet,  Motives® Mavens Sculpt Series I made my decision to go for it. I placed my contour order today and I am looking forward to trying it out and sharing it with you all. I am no where near a makeup artist but, I do tend to apply simple makeup each day for work and fun events.

My boyfriend always says I look better without makeup but, I begin to feel exposed. I have minor adult acne that has improved over two years -thank goodness for my dermatologist. I consider myself very lucky not to have this as a huge burden but, I can't ignore it.  Makeup comes in handy when it helps me cover a few tiny blemishes and old scars. I can honestly say I still look exactly the same just not as tired around my eyes. I haven't been this excited about trying new makeup in about a few months!

Please leave a comment below on your thoughts or advice on contouring and highlighting. Have you tried it yet? Is it true that once you start contouring there's no looking back?

-VanillaPaella (Vanessa)

Manicure & Nail Polish Faves.

One of my closest bloggers posted a manicure she had during fashion week with @polishjoey from #primpandpolish. 

I loved the nail art design that @polishjoey created on her and I had to try! I called and made my appointment right away and took it from there. I went on an early Thursday morning and saw #Winnie. She was a very nice and good technician who gave me a nice gel manicure. After that day in Brooklyn I never went back to my old East Village salon for a manicure.

I continued to head over to their Driggs Avenue location in Brooklyn where I felt comfortable, calm and happy to be there. I am even more excited that they just opened a new salon in Manhattan where I no longer have to travel to and @polishjoey is also there now. Feel free to check out some of my manicures below. 

#ellen #primpandpolish #opi #youresovanilla #essie #matte

#joey #gel

VanillaPaella Intro

Hello Everyone :)

Quick Facts About Me:  My name is Vanessa and I am from NYC.  I have a fun little girl. I work full time. I love anything that's bright and girlie! I am still in my 20s.

I've decided to create my first blog as a way to connect my personal interests, ideas and questions within my day to day VanillaPaella life as a mom/daughter/sister/girlfriend/cousin/friend/young Latina/New Yorker with the world.

There are so many great things that happen each day that I don't get to write down, save on my iPhone, Pin, Instagram  or post anywhere else. I continue to see so many cool trends from beauty, health care, food, fashion, crafts, kid activities and entertainment that I can't manage  to go through in one day. It kind  of seems like a big bright cool display of fireworks when I scroll down my phone. I'm always double tapping, clicking "like", re-tweeting so many things such as a pretty nail polish color, makeup, an awesome pair of shoes or something to cook/bake  with my seven year old etc. 

I hope to create something new and exciting within this blog. My goal is to utilize this blog as a fun way to connect with my family, friends and anyone else who has a love for what I enjoy.

Let the blogging begin!

-Vanessa