January Q&A

Thank you so much to everyone who sent in questions for this month’s Q&A – sometimes I choose to respond to each person individually via email and other times I think the content might be valuable to share with everyone here.  As a reminder, you can email me anytime with requests for this series – anything related to beauty, health & wellness, home decor & organization, marriage & parenting and, of course, fashion & style!

1) Can you share your updated skincare routine?  I’m always on the hunt for new products and I’ve tried a few of your suggestions in the past and have loved them.

My approach to skin care has definitely changed as I’ve gotten older.  I used to be so focused on finding affordable products, which was fine when I was younger & didn’t need to do as much for my skin.  But, I’m turning 40 this year and I’m starting to see changes in my skin that need to be addressed.  For me, it’s completely worth it to spend more on high quality products that are effective in targeting my areas of concern – so, not all of these fall into the “budget” category.

TULA Purifying Cleanser
I was just introduced to this brand and I’m a big believer in the efficacy of the probiotics they use in their products.  This cleanser easily removes makeup, is gentle on my sensitive skin & my face doesn’t feel dry or tight after using.

CeraVe AM/PM
These are two of my holy grail products that I will probably use forever.  My dermatologist recommended these to me 8 years ago and I’ve never found any other products that works as well to hydrate & protect my skin.

TULA Exfoliating Mask
I mentioned this product in My Monthly Edit and it continues to be a new favorite of mine.  I was previously using this exfoliator but found that I couldn’t use it very regularly or my skin would get irritated.  This one agrees with my skin much more and I can use it weekly.

Rodan + Fields Lash Boost
Definitely a splurge beauty product for me, but it’s been a total game-changer for my lashes.  It took about 4 weeks for me to really start seeing a difference, but the results now are incredible.  When my mom was here visiting, she even commented on my lashes and asked if they were fake!

Rodan + Fields AMP MD System
I did thorough research on microneedling & dermarollers before making an investment in this product.  This is one of the best things I’ve done for my skin and it has helped so much with hyperpigmentation and evening out my skin tone.

Perricone MD Brightening Eye Cream
I’ve had a hard time finding an eye cream that specifically targets dark circles (most help with puffiness, but I have the opposite problem).  Within a few weeks of using this, I noticed a marked improvement…to the point where I have been needing less under-eye concealer, which is huge for me!  It’s not the cheapest product, but a little goes a long way so this tube will last for quite a while.

2) I love the athleisure trend because it really suits my lifestyle, but I feel like every time I try it, I look more like I’ve just walked out of the gym.  Can you suggest some outfit pairing ideas that are more of a blend between activewear & casual style?

To avoid looking like you just wore your workout clothes all day, I suggest finding bottoms that look different than traditional workout leggings – try a slim fitting jogger, black leggings with a cute detail or coated jeggings.  All of the options below involve stretchy pants (with elastic waists!), relaxed layers & comfortable sneakers – perfect for any weekend activities you have planned.

ONE:  Quilted Vest // Waffle Knit Top // Marled Joggers // Metallic Sneakers
TWO:  Hooded Puffer Jacket // Striped Tee // Side Tie Leggings // Black Sneakers
THREE:  Denim Jacket // Graphic Sweatshirt // Faux Leather Leggings // Tweed Sneakers
FOUR:  Faux Suede Top // White Shirt // Gray Scarf // Pull-On Jeggings // Snake Print Sneakers

MORE ATHLEISURE FINDS

3) I just accepted a new job that will require me to travel every month, so I’m needing recommendations for carry-on luggage & travel accessories to keep things as organized & hassle-free as possible.

First of all, congratulations on landing a new job!  It sounds like an exciting opportunity and I’m sure before too long you’ll be packing like a pro & seamlessly navigating all those airports.  Below I’m sharing my top 10 items for making travel a bit less hectic – everything here is practical, stylish & affordable!

1) TSA Approved Bottle Set // 2) Makeup Organizer Case // 3) Stackable Pill Container
4) Electronic Luggage Scale // 5) Nylon Gym Bag // 6) Jewelry Roll // 7) Portable Power Bank
8) Vegan Leather Tote // 9) Travel Accessory Set // 10) Trunk Style Luggage (more here)