Category: HEALTH + WELLNESS

I recently got my hands on the Laneige Water Sleeping mask. This mask has been really popular , has great reviews and I have seen it in a lot of social media posts. The moment I tried it, it remained me of a product that I already have in my bathroom cabinet and have been using for a little over 2 years now. It is the Freeman Gel Cream Mask. I wanted to write a post about the similarities and the differences between both masks.

What they claim:

LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask- Purifying + Moisturizing

Purchase here- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/f6grmbc5s47

An overnight , moisture-recharging gel mask that quickly absorbs while you sleep to deeply hydrate your skin. It is formulated with hydrolyzed mineral water to deliver high doses of moisture to parched skin.

Suitable for ALL SKIN TYPES

Formulated without

-parabens

-pathalens

Not tested on animals

FREEMAN Gel Cream Mask – Hydrating + Anti-Pollution

Purchase here: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/f6qymcc5s47

Lightweight leave-on gel cream mask that boosts hydration and protects from environmental pollution.

Refreshing Glacier Water replenishes dry skin + Pink Peony delicately calms for petal soft skin.

Suitable for ALL SKIN TYPES

Free of harsh chemicals

Cruelty Free

Both masks have similar texture and color, just a slight difference in the blue shade that they both have. But the gel like consistency feels and applies the same. They both give you a wet like finish and I have to use pretty much the same amount of each to cover my whole face ( a little goes a long way for both). There is a slight difference in the scents but both have a light and soft scents. The laneige claims that the fragrance in their mask is supposed to calm you and give you a more restful sleep. This is hard to detect and I am not going to focus on that since I doubt anyone will purchase the mask for this particular reason lol.

The Lanaige one is meant to be used as a last step in your night time skincare routine and is suggested to go on top of your moisturizer. And be left overnight.

The Freeman can be used for 10-15 minutes, all day or overnight.

I apply both masks after I remove my makeup and wash my face at the end of the day. I apply them straight on my clean and dry face but you can apply face cream or/and serums before that and use the masks as a last step treatment to lock everything in and add that extra hydration.

The laneige one sinks in the skin leaving a slight film that doesn’t feel sticky or greasy.

The freeman mask stays on wet and a bit stickier for longer but it doesn’t go on my pillow it rather stays on my face. I also want to mention that I have switched to silk pillow cases and they make a huge difference in my evening skincare habits. The silk pillow case doesn’t absorb products as a cotton one would. This way the products I invest in stay on my face and don’t end up on my pillow. With the Freeman mask I wake up and still have product on my face as opposed to the Laneige which by the morning would have sank in my skin completely. Which makes the cheaper mask a bit more hydrating for my needs.

After I rinse off my face in the morning both masks leave my skin supple, soft and hydrated.

It is not solely an overnight treatment. The instructions suggest to use it during the day for 15-20 min or overnight depending on your skin and the result you are looking for. Since my skin has been really dehydrated I like to leave it overnight. But I like to use the Freeman after I use a clay or any cleaning mask that is supposed to draw impurities out. Those masks usually leave my skin feeling super tight and I like to follow with the gel cream mask for 10-15 minutes to bring back my skin’s natural moisture. I also always take it with me when I travel. I like to transfer ta bit of this mask in a smaller container (they also offer travel sized packets) and take it with me especially on overnight flights. We all know how the dry air on the plane sucks the life out of our skin and this mask has saved me multiple times. I apply it once I get on the plane and leave it on through the whole flight. It is more inconspicuous than a sheet mask so I don’t have to stress about the person sitting next to me. I land at my destination with soft and glowing skin.

Both masks are a great choice for someone that likes to pamper themselves. If you like spa like experience at home and you are into skincare definitely add either of those to your beauty routine. They are a quick fix for skin that looks tired and parched. You will get an instant smoothness and hydration, brighter complexion and some plump to the face that will smooth out fine lines.

The winner for me is the Freeman because it is a bit more moisturizing and so affordable, also comes in a giant tube. But if you prefer more luxurious products and you like to shop higher end skincare the Laneige will be a better choice for you.

Get Freeman here – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/f6qymcc5s47

Get Leneige here – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/f6grmbc5s47

Get Silk Pillowcases here – https://rstyle.me/+3hEOp2Okt5DYI8CG-sv1qQ

Skin that starts getting dryer and dryer as temperatures drop is not only unattractive but could be very uncomfortable. And I am not talking about light feeling of dryness but the one that makes you itchy, gives you that burning feeling , red bumps and patches appear on your body and you just don’t know how to deal with it because you have tried every product that promises deep hydration but nothing seems to work.

As someone that has sensitive skin that gets super dry in the winter I can tell you it is always a struggle for me to get through those winter months. But with a lot of trail and error I now manage to get my skin to somewhat healthy state and relieve all the uncomfortable issues that usually arise during that time of the year. It is this very simple routine that has been working with great results and I am here to share.

First I want to start with what you should be avoiding or minimizing in order to keep your skin’s natural moisture under control. Hot showers and bubble baths are unfortunately your enemy. I know a nice, long bubble bath when it’s cold outside sounds amazing but the hot water and the artificial ingredients in the bubbles could really worsen the health of your skin. If you really want to pamper yourself with a relaxing bath though, use Epsom salt, baking soda, essential oils and coconut oil instead of bath bombs or bubble gel, and fill the tub with lukewarm water. (Skip the pink bubbles for some other time.)

One very beneficial thing that you can do for your skin is exfoliating! Even though you might be skipping this step just because your skin feels sensitive and you are afraid to irritate it but the importance of exfoliating is still in effect as any other time of the year. I feel like most of us tend to exfoliate our bodies in the Spring and Summer when our skin is more exposed and we feel the need to have that smooth, silky skin. And then Winter comes we bundle up and kind of put this extra step away . But it is still an essential step for the health of our skin . Our skin renews daily and sheds the old cells, some of those loose skin cells might be washing away in the shower but a lot of them just get trapped on the surface, causing clogged pores, uneven dry patches and affecting our detoxification through the skin. Sloughing off those dead skin cells will not only diminish the look of that ashy skin but will make the products used afterwards penetrate deeper and do their magic.

The exfoliation in the winter should be a little bit more gentle though.

I stay away from rough exfoliating mitts that I usually use to remove old fake tan, also keeping my hands off very abrasive products. Dry skin brushing is my number one way to exfoliate year round plus it has all other kind of benefits. And doing it after a long day in a chilly winter evening actually feels so good and relaxing because it warms your whole body up and helps minimize the stress. Try to find a natural soft bristle brush and use gentle upward strokes or small circles. It helps brush away skin that is dead and dry , leaving fresh skin, unclogging the pores and making the moisturizer applied later go on smoother. Another reason this is my exfoliating method of choice is because it doesn’t involve any artificial products that tend to irritate my already sore skin even more.

get a body brush here: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fx4hxhc5s47

Next I am very carful of the products I use to clean my skin. For my body I use a paraben free shower gel and try to stay away from highly fragrant products. Same goes for the face. A mild cleanser that doesn’t sud and doesn’t leave my skin feeling tight is what I look for.

I am currently using shower gel by Bondi Sands that I find is mild enough to do the job. It has Ph balanced formula that is gentle on the skin and fortified with Aloe Vera and Coconut.

get the body wash here: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuj5a5c5s47

And for my face I use Evoluderm wash that is creamy and non irritating. This french brand is very inexpensive and of a really high quality. I get it at Marshalls. Couldn’t find the same one online but here is another one that’s in my rotation.

get mild face wash here: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9e8nc5s47

Moisturizing is what makes the uncomfortable itchy feeling go away. This is the step I never skip!

I will share my holy grail moisturizing products . And I have tried a lot. I find many of the high end brands feel luxurious and smell nice but don’t really give me that moisture and relief I need. So I use a drugstore, affordable, tried and tested products. Nivea Original Body lotion is the one that really hydrates my body and keeps it nice and moisturized for long. Not only it makes the tight skin feeling go away but it gives a nice glow to the skin making it appear healthy and glowing.

get the body lotion here: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fx4jmqc5s47

And for the face is a bit different story, especially during the day. If you wear makeup, it’s hard to combine it with very heavy moisturizer .But you do need to change your face skincare according to the season. If you are still using that gel like moisturizer that you loved a month ago and wondering why your skin feels rough?? Time to put it away! Afraid to get oil based serums because you are prone to breakouts? Get something that is lightweight but has moisturizing properties, something that is fragrance free and oil free.

I love this one from First Aid Beauty https://rstyle.me/cz-n/favy2yc5s47

It is face and body moisturizer, doesn’t really moisturize my body enough but works great on my face. Feels really light , goes well under makeup and gives me enough moisture during the day.

And at night is when I like to add extra moisture especially on my face. The last step in my skin routine is Weleda Skin Food. It doesn’t replace my moisturizer or any of my skincare products. I usually use it as a last step after my serums/oils and moisturizer to seal everything in. It is a very rich cream that acts like barrier and doesn’t let all the moisture added with other products evaporate. I would highly recommend this product especially if you sleep in heated room that usually makes the air extra dry and this affect the health of the skin in a negative way.

l use a very small amount of the cream, warm it up in between my fingers and gently tap around my eyes, my mouth and a bit on the cheeks. This cream is multi purpose and great for the whole body so I sometimes use it on my hands and any other part I need extra help.

get Welda Skin Food here: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fwphsfc5s47

A little reminder to drink plenty of water to hydrate inside out and don’t forget the use of SPF on all areas that are exposed.

And one last thing is invest in a humidifier. It is a great way to add humility that leaves your home the moment you turn the heater on. It’s beneficial not only for your beauty but your health as well.

get a humidifier here: https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fx4j9cc5s47

Some days or even weeks can be just blah. Nothing excites you , you feel a bit depressed and drained and you just don’t want to do anything. It is okay to let your emotions control you once in a while and just spend some time with yourself . Moments like this can be recharging but also put a toll on your overall well being and confidence.

Here I will wrap up some of my favorite mood and confidence boosting beauty and wellness things that I like to incorporate in my life especially after a bad week that made me feel and look like a train wreck.

Workout

Anything works here. The sweatiest the better. It has been proven by science many times that any physical activity releases hormones of happiness. It will get you nicely tired and can give you a better and restful sleep at night. Which on the other hand can make you feel and look way better. And also when I feel my muscles sore it makes me feel more toned and defined right away. I know that this is just my brain tricking me but it makes me feel sexier and more confident. You should definitely incorporate a workout when you feel stressed and depressed. If that is not for you go on a hike, try biking or jogging . Being outside will also have positive impact on your mood. Whatever you choose, move your body and try to push yourself a little bit out of your comfort zone.

Even if it’s just 20 min . The moment you step into choosing yourself and showing up for you, a lot happens for your confidence, your trust and your love within yourself.

Manicure

Getting a fresh manicure will instantly make you look polished and fancy. Even though maybe not a lot of people will notice the style of your manicure or the color choice it just makes other people see you as put together. A person with done nails will give the vibe of a strong and classy personality, as opposed to the person with chipped nail polish, missing nails, rough cuticles will give a negative vibe as I just woke up, not motivated to do anything. And the way other people perceive you will affect the way they treat you which on the other hand can boost your confidence .Even if you don’t like nail polish or your work environment requires you to have bare nails you can still get a mani to give your nails more polished and clean look.

Pedicure

This sounds very similar to the previous one but not really. I feel it is even more important. Pedicure is definitely something you do mostly for yourself, especially in the colder months. It still makes you look better but what mostly matters here is the way something as little as this can make you feel. It can give you that feeling of “I am ready for anything” and “I got everything under control “.

Get a fake tan

I feel like when I loose that summer glow my pale skin makes me look tired even when I am not. Go explain everyone you had enough sleep when you look pale and washed out. Once I apply some self tanner I right away look more toned, fresher , more youthful and it right away makes me feel like a new , sexier version of myself.

Whiten your teeth

Bright smiles goes a long way! It’s an easy way to make yourself feel good in an instant. I like this 5 minute gel https://rstyle.me/+_ORLJjv3Bc5v4J0RQbbxXw that is super inexpensive and doesn’t make my teeth sensitive and 10-15 minutes is usually what it takes to notice a difference.

Water

Drink plenty of H2O! It might sound irrelevant but when you stay well hydrated you help your body get rid of toxins which can have all kinds of negative influence on your body and mood. I have noticed when I drink adequate amount of water my skin shows it up right away. It makes my complexion clear and glowing and that’s a mood booster for me right there. I also like adding citrus or cucumber to my water to give it a more desirable taste.

Check out my latest YouTube video on how I do my pedicures at home to get perfect looking feet every time. It is a spa like relaxing pedicure routine and I hope you enjoy it 🙂

PRODUCTS THAT I USE:

Bondi Sands Shower Gel – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuj5a5c5s47

Exfoliating Glove- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/favzf6c5s47

Exfoliating Scrub- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuj48wc5s47

Nail Clipper- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuwhbgc5s47

Nail File- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fucdwyc5s47

Sally Hansen Cuticle Removing Gel- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuj5e5c5s47

Cuticle Pusher- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fub6rrc5s47

White Nail Polish- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fub5yzc5s47

Moisturizer- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuceauc5s47

Moisturizing Balm- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuwgxjc5s47

Top Coat – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuv8bsc5s47

Nail Dryer Spray – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fuj5dvc5s47

Summer fun associated with long beach days, partying till sun rise, sipping on yummy cocktails by the pool are sadly gone. Tepretures are slowly but surely dropping. Aside from the good memories and a few great IG posts , summer has left some not so fun sun spots and dry brittle hair. Sure that bronzed glow looked really good at one point , but soon after seasons change we start seeing sun discoloration, dehydrated skin, dull complexion. And on top of that the drop in the temperature makes things even worse. Our bodies feel the change of the seasons more than we even know. Skin is the first to show all those signs. I hate to say it but you need to add a few new products to your daily regimen, just to make this transition smoother.

Here I carefully selected products that will target all fall skin needs and leave you with a youthful complexion! The main focus is repairing skin damage, hydration and restoring skin’s natural balance. We need to bring that firmness back and make the skin look supple and revitalized .

• Starting with cleansing the face. This antioxidant rich cleanser is gentle to the skin but yet powerful enough to remove all impurities. Loaded with vitamins it acts like a powerful smoothie for your face and support skin’s pH balance. A great start for your fall skin routine.

Facial Cleanser – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftcj9tc5s47

• Hylauronic acid is something I swear by year round. If you haven’t added it to your beauty cabinet now is the time. HA simply locks in the moistures in your skin. So the best time to apply it is right after you wash your face, ideally when it is still wet. It absorbs quickly, doesn’t leave a film on your skin and you can proceed with all your other face products. It will make your skin look plump and supple instantly.

Hyaluronic Acid Serum – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9esac5s47

• One thing you should absolutely add to your routine and now more than ever is Vitamin C serum. It is great to treat that sun damage, diminish dark spots and fine lines associated with it. It restores dullness and makes the complexion glowy. Vitamin C goes really well in combination with the hyaluronic acid but works great on its own as well.

Vitamin C Serum – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftf2wxc5s47

• Good face oils are essential in my routine and especially in the colder months when my skin needs that extra boost of hydration. So many on the market but when I choose one I try to get a combination of oils rich in vitamins in order to target as many skin issues as possible. This one from Summer Fridays visibly boosts the look of skin elasticity and infuses the skin with intense soothing moisture. It is a great cocktail of luxurious oils like pomegranate oil, grapeseed oil, rosehip oil, cucumber, prickly pear, sunflower, cranbery, olive. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants your skin will feel plump, soothed and moisturized.

All-In-One Face Oil- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftckbuc5s47

• And the one oil that I reach for is Marula oil. It has been favorite of mine for many years. Rich in critical antioxidants and omega 6 and 9 it has so many great benefits for the skin. Makes it look and feel rejuvenated and radiant, soothes dry skin, diminishes scars, reduces wrinkles and fine lines. Doesn’t make your skin feel greasy and provides great moisture and the powerful antioxidants act as a defense against pollution and damaging environmental free radicals.

Marula Oil- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftckcec5s47

• A mask here and there will give our skin that extra boost it needs right now. The first one I am obsessed with is this Youth To The People mask that has my favorite ingredients Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C. An overnight mask packed with skin loving ingredients that feels super comfortable on the skin . This rich mask is great at brightening skin, boosts the skin hydration and also helps combat free radicals which is a great strep at preventing future damage.

Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftf2xrc5s47

• Another mask that is an absolute must-have this fall and not only because it has pumpkin in it, but it is a great post summer skin healer. This 3 in 1 product works on 3 different levels to reveal smoother, younger and radiant skin.The Pumpkin Enzyme provides enzymatic exfoliation to polish away dead skin cells, revealing smoother complexion. The Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) acts as a chemical peel to get you younger and radiant looking skin. And the Aluminum Oxide Crystals polish the skin surface to improve the look of uneven texture.

Pumpkin Enzyme Mask- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftf2zhc5s47

• A hydrating mask works anytime anywhere. This particular one from Summer Fridays is especially good for skin that lacks luster, feels dry and irritated. It nourishes, hydrates and calms the skin. Loaded with great ingredients like antioxidants, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. It will give you visibly brighter skin that is soft and supple.

Jet Lag Mask – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftf2ydc5s47

• Even though sun is not as strong as in the summer, you should not forget your daily SPF to prevent future damage. This one from Fenty is really lightweight, oil free and doesn’t clog the pores. Great for under makeup.

SPF Moisturizer – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftigy8c5s47

• And last but not least I am including a simple face moisturizer that provides 24 hours of ultra-lightweight hydration. Because you need hydration but you also need to avoid products that can clog your pores and make things really bad and ugly. This one is great to combat dryness, dullness and uneven texture. It will make your skin nourished, will retain moisture and give you baby soft face.

Ultra Facial Cream- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/ftig2wc5s47

Thanks for stopping by! If you tried any of these products let me know your thoughts !

xoxo Ivelina

So you know very well that sunscreen is important! But you had an incredible day at the beach, too much fun, a cocktail here and there and didn’t follow the recommendations to REAPPLY!! Hopefully you learned your lesson and won’t let it happen again. But the damage is done and your skin feels parched, red and sore. Here are a few steps you can take to get your skin to a somewhat healthy state and make things more comfortable.

One of the first things you need to focus on is hydration inside out. Drinking plenty of water is essential to heal the sun damage and restore your body and skin. Make sure you drink at least 8 cups of water during the day.

Start by a cleansing shower, you need to get rid of all the sweat , dirt and gunk from your body. This will allow your skin to better absorb the products applied afterwards.

Make sure you moisturize your body right after shower. I like using body lotions with Aloe Vera and cucumber. They are super hydrating and cooling. And do reapply them as needed. Sunburned skin is super dehydrated and it soaks the moisture right away.

Aftersun Soothing & Hydrating Lotion – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9ewgc5s47

If things feel really uncomfortable you can try some of those home remedies that work pretty good and will ease the feeing of burning.

Yogurt- it restorers skin’s natural barrier, balancing the pH level. Apply a thick layer plain yogurt on any areas you want to soothe. You might want to get help from someone if you need to do your back. Wait 15-20 minutes and gently wipe off with a damp towel or wash it out in the shower. Your skin will start cooling down pretty quick and will feel much better. Repeat as necessary.

Aloe vera gel is another great remedy for sunburn. Really cooling, soothing and hydrating. Everything you need right now! If you have a plant at home that’s your best bet. If not you can purchase aloe vera leaf from most food markets or grocery stores. Slice a leaf in half and run the inside part of it all over the affected skin. Keep reapplying throughout the day as your skin is most likely super dehydrated and will absorb it immediately.

Cucumber- this veggie that is probably already in your fridge is 90% water and is rich on vitamin A and C that are great to combat irritated or inflamed skin. Use refrigerated cucumber to add a little extra cooling. Slice it and put the slices on the sunburned skin.

Your face will probably suffer the most and will show some damage first.

So we need to take extra care of it.

Make sure you wash your face with mild cleanser and avoid any exfoliating products for at least 5-7 days.

Gentle Clenser – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9e8nc5s47

A sheet mask that you pop in the refrigerator for a few minutes before applying it will feel like heaven. Try to get one that has soothing ingredients like rose water, which hazel, camomile and loaded with vitamin C, vitamin E or Collagen.

Variety Pack of Sheet Masks – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9em3c5s47

Or a soothing and extremely hydrating gel mask can do great for your skin.

Cucumber Extreme De-Tox Gel Mask- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9ejcc5s47

Hydration is very important to bring back the natural balance of the skin and make it recover faster. So you need to add serums and facial oils that will ensure you have that extra hydration boost.

Hyaluronic acid serum applied on your clean wet face will lock in that extra moisture.

Hyaluronic Acid Serum- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9esac5s47

Another serum you should definitely add is vitamin C , it will help boost cell recovery.

Vitamin C serum:

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9et9c5s47

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/e2bydmc5s47

Try to use a face moisturizer that is fragrance free so it doesn’t further irritate your already broken and sensitive skin.

Fragrance Free Moisturizer- https://rstyle.me/cz-n/favy2yc5s47

Have a facial spray handy to mist your face throughout the day for some cooling effect and hydration.

Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater – https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fs9e94c5s47

And don’t forget to load on the sunscreen next time!!

My sunscreen picks:

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fjuu6pc5s47

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fetnrmc5s47

https://rstyle.me/cz-n/fetnuqc5s47

I am very firm believer that the way you start your morning can set the tone for your day. And for someone that is not a morning person it is very important for me to start the day slowly but yet be productive.

7:30am Get up

I usually wake up around 7:30 and I don’t like laying in bed for long once I open my eyes. I try not to reach for my phone immediately after I open my eyes. So after a quick stretch and a moment of silence I get up. I go to the bathroom wash my face and teeth. I get dressed in my workout clothes and go downstairs. Putting on my workout clothes kinda sets my mind for a workout.

7:45am Coffee

I first drink some water just to rehydrate my body ! I then have to have a few sips of coffee in order to make my brain function. When the weather is nice I love having my coffee outside at the patio. It is just so relaxing, fresh air, birds singing, the sun light coming. It gives me positive energy right away! And while I have my coffee I like to catch up with news and social media. I also open my planner and see what I need to do for the day. I love writing everything down and crossing it off once finished. Makes me feel accomplished and gets stress off my shoulders.

8:30 Workout

Lately my schedule allows me to work out in the morning. Which is great for me because it really wakes up my body and pumps me up for the day. I usually do pilates, HIIT or barre class from YouTube.I try to do a class 4-5 times a week. Intense morning workout sessions really keep my anxiety levels low, keep me grounded, confident and happy. I prefer going to a studio or the gym and get a class there because it keeps me accountable and I push so much harder but with my schedule and the pandemic still around I would rather do it at home. I switch the workouts daily just so I don’t get bored.

10am Shower

I take a quick shower and get dressed for the day.

10:30 Breakfast

I start with a little fruit while I prep my breakfast. And for my main breakfast I usually have an avocado toast with 2 eggs. I switch up the way I make it pretty much daily and I rotate the eggs style. Having satisfying and nutritious breakfast really helps me refuel my body and stay full till lunch . This way I can focus on important tasks throughout the day.

And I start with my day.