Hunter, Author at VITAL BLONDE

The Perfect Tan

Jun 01

First off: I’M BACK. This semester was by far my hardest semester of college, hence the unplanned 2 1/2 month hiatus. It’s over now (thankfully) so I’m switching my focus back here! Now on to the good stuff.

So, it’s June. And if you’re in Texas, chances are your skin hasn’t seen the sun in a good month. How on earth do you convince yourself it’s actually summer with all this rain? Two words: self. tanner. St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse (pictured above) is by far my favorite. It has a green undertone, so it won’t make you look orange at all and it dries SO FAST. So how do you get the perfect tan? Just follow these four easy steps.

One. Exfoliate! Trust me, you don’t want to skip this. Don’t come crying to me if you do and a week later you’re scaly and your arms are 2 different skin colors. Exfoliating will help make sure your tan is even and help it last longer. Also, a loofah alone is not enough. Get yourself a heavy duty scrub and be rid of all the dead skin you possibly can. I recommend exfoliating about a day before you plan to apply your self tanner, this way your skin cells can rebuild just enough for perfect application.

Two. Apply your tanner. Clean skin is a must- this means no lotions and no deodorant. Deodorant can sometimes make the self tan turn green. I don’t know about you, but green pits are not my jam. If you’re using a mousse like the St. Tropez one, be sure to purchase the mitt that goes with it. This will ensure even and easy application, and you won’t have any over-tanned hand mishaps. For tanning lotions, I just use my bare hands and wash them immediately after.

Three. Rinse off. Most self tanners you’ll want to rinse off a set amount of time later. Some are okay to rinse off after a few hours, but only if the bottle specifies this (try the express bronzing mousse if you wanna shower earlier!) For most other products you’ll want to wait 8-12 hours before getting your skin wet again. If you feel sticky at all during this time, brush your skin with baby powder and a powder brush to keep the stickiness at bay. When you shower, use a shower gel without any exfoliation (no washcloths, loofahs, exfoliation beads in the wash) and PAT your skin dry with your towel. Rubbing your skin with a towel after showering exfoliates your skin, hence taking off your tan that you’ve so carefully applied.

Four. Moisturize frequently. This is so important! You have to keep your skin moisturized if you want your tan to last. The best lotions to use are those that are unscented and have very low (preferably none) alcohol contents. I really like Eucerin for post-tanning. I also love Jergens gradual tanning daily moisturizer in medium to tan. Alcohol is higher up on the ingredients in this one, but it also is gradually maintaining your tan as you moisturize. Even though I don’t exactly fit the bill for “medium to tan” skin, I like that this one gives more color than the “light to medium” formula.

And there you have it! Following these steps will help give you a beautiful, lasting tan that will trick everyone into thinking you just spent a week at the beach. Do you have a favorite tanning product? Let me know!

Current Makeup Favorites

Mar 13

Okay, so I know I’ve been MIA for over a week, but midterms got the best of me. I’m now officially on spring break and I’ve got some posts coming up for you! I originally intended for this post to be kind of a “February Favorites” but considering we’re almost halfway through March now (how did that happen?!) it’s just kind of a “current makeup favorites” that I can’t get enough of instead! Some are new products, and others are some rediscovered loves I had forgotten about.

Anastasia Contour Kit

First up is a new product. You’ve probably heard about it by now since it has a cult following. I bought it recently because I had run out of bronzer and was looking to try something different. If I want to go for an all over bronze look, I use the bottom left bronze color. For contouring, I like the bottom middle bronze color. It’s more cool toned, so it’s more suited for contouring than the other two. Your ideal contour shade is more cool toned, and maybe even a little bit grey. I bought a contouring brush to go along with the palette to create the perfect look. Of the highlighting shades, the middle banana one is by far my favorite. I use it under my eyes, and nothing brightens up your face like this powder does, it’s amazing. You don’t really even need under eye concealer with it. I also like the top right highlighting color for the tops of my cheekbones since it has shimmer to it. They’ve also just released a palette for medium to tan skin if these shades are too light for you.

Benefit Roller Lash Mascara

Okay, so ignore the fact that this is a little sample of the mascara (I just bought the full size one!) and let me tell you – this is my new favorite mascara. The whole “hook and lift” thing it’s got going on seriously separates and perfects your lashes. I’m one for using multiple mascaras to achieve the lash look that I like, but I don’t really need to with this one. Benefit really knows their stuff with mascara. I still love They’re Real but this one will be taking the role as my favorite for now.

Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit

This product is actually a rediscovered love. It’s amazing at covering under eye circles because it is peach toned and cancels out the blueness of the circles. The color I have is “Natural” and it’s a little bit dark, so if I repurchase it I will definitely go lighter. I had it color matched to me when I had an intense airbrush tan (not my best decision for purchasing a product…) but since I still try to maintain a faux glow the color works for me. On the right side of the compact is a light yellow powder, and I use that to set the concealer. It works really well and also helps to brighten up your under eyes.

NARS And God Created the Woman Eye Kit

This one is also rediscovered. I actually thought that I didn’t like the product for a while, but then I started using a different eyeshadow brush with it and loved the pigmentation of all the shadows. The palette has a very 60’s vibe, which is pretty much my favorite decade as far as makeup trends go. Mine is from the first release of the palette, so if you buy it new now the colors are in a little bit of a different order. I love the top two corner ones the most, if you couldn’t tell. Also, I believe that all of these colors can be found in NARS duos or single eyeshadows as part of their permanent line, so if you run out of one it’s easy to replace.

YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in Rose Libertin

And lastly, a more recent purchase. I love the formula of YSL lipsticks because they’re so creamy and pigmented, and I actually think I prefer the Rouge Pur Couture over the Rouge Volupte Shine. I picked this color because it’s similar to one of my all time favorites, NARS Roman Holiday, but Rose Libertin is a bit brighter and more lilac. Plus, who can resist the perfect gold packaging of this lipstick… how can you not feel glamorous putting it on?!

Thank you so much for reading, I hope you all have a great Friday!

Spring Break Wishes

Mar 04

Spring break is just around the corner! Mine doesn’t start until the 14th, but I know that for some it’s next week. I’m headed to Los Angeles for the break, and these are the top six things I want to snag for the trip.

1. Wildfox Baggy Beach Jumper

What’s more perfect for the beach than a beach jumper? I also love the flamingo one Amber from Barefoot Blonde is wearing here.

2. Illesteva Palm Beach Sunglasses

I need a pair of round sunglasses. I’m not sure I could pull off completely round ones, so I love the kind of cat eye that these have.

3. Dolce Vita Ziggie Sandals

Seriously lusting after these flatform sandals.

4. Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather Drawstring Bag

I want a soft pink handbag for spring so bad. This one is chic and relaxed.

5. YSL Rouge Volupte Shine in Coral Incandescent

Fiery reds/corals are a huge lipstick trend for spring, and also happen to be one of my favorite colors to wear.

6. Kate Spade “Georgica” Bikini Top / Bottom

How can you not love the vintage look of this swimsuit? I love everything mod, so this will most likely be my next swimsuit purchase.

Where are you headed for spring break, and what’s on your wishlist? Thank you so much for reading!

P.S. Today marks one month of blogging! Special thank you to all of you for being so loving and supportive this past month.

Weekend Reading

Feb 28

{photo via pinterest}

Happy weekend! I need a kitten like that ASAP.

1. I’m dying to stay at this hotel after seeing this post.

2. Don’t usually wear lipstick? Here are a few helpful tricks.

3. Orange is actually my favorite lipstick color to wear. Here’s how to find a wearable shade.

4. Is “athleisure” the future of fashion?

5. The trick to always looking great: the third piece rule.

6. My newest favorite mascara is finally available for purchase!

7. Are you pronouncing these designers wrong?

8. I’m in love with these mani-pedi combos. Especially the chartreuse & aqua!

How to Get Better Skin

Feb 26

Your skincare routine has a great effect on determining how “good” or “bad” your skin is. I used to be perfectly content with simply using a makeup wipe to take off makeup and then go straight to bed. That lazy girl within me was probably the entire cause for any skin problems I had. My skin right now is the best it’s ever been, because of my skincare routine. Although I’ve been pretty lucky I’ve never had problems with acne, (thanks for the good genes Mom & Dad!) I do still get an occasional breakout like everyone else. However, with my current skincare routine I’ve seen less redness, softer skin, and I can’t remember the last zit I had (knocking on wood now…) You can live this dream of great skin too! Here are my suggestions on how to get better skin.

1. Actually wash your face.

Okay, I know that this seems like a no-brainer but a face wipe does NOT count as washing your face. I used to be so guilty of this. Face wipes don’t clean your pores as well as they need to be, but they can be a good first step to remove makeup. However, I suggest using a cleansing oil or cleansing milk to remove makeup. (Read my whole post about these here!)

2. Wash it again (and use a wash cloth!)

My post on cleansing oils also talks about why double cleansing is great. It helps you deeper clean your pores. After removing makeup with a cleansing oil, I wash my face with this detoxifying cleanser. Also, using a wash cloth will help clean your face better. Into the Gloss has a great article on how to pick the best wash cloth.

3. Use a toner.

Toners will help remove anything your cleanser left behind – any little traces of makeup, oil or dead skin. Avoid using one that contains alcohol because it can be too drying on your skin. I really like this one because it’s natural and soothing.

4. MOISTURIZE.

This was the hardest one for me to learn. My thought was always, “I don’t need to moisturize, I’ve got oily skin.” I was wrong. Not moisturizing can actually make your skin over-produce oil, which can lead to breakouts. You have to make sure to pick a moisturizer that is suited to your skin type. If you’ve got oily skin like I do, opt for something lightweight or a gel. If your skin is dry, you’ll want something more like a cream. You will also want to use something with SPF during the day. I use this moisturizer in the morning, and this one at night.

5. Use face masks or pore strips.

Masks and pore strips are also great to deep clean your face in ways cleansers can’t. I love Lush’s face masks (especially cupcake – smells so good!) as well as this Boscia mask (I really like the whole Boscia black line ok) and Biore pore strips to get rid of unwanted blackheads.

6. Drink lots of water.

Seriously. LOTS of it. Your skin and body will thank you. Avoid hot showers too – they strip your skin and hair of moisture!

7. Sleep (on a satin pillowcase!)

Of course, get plenty of zzz’s as well. You’ll get more health benefits than just great skin from that. You should also sleep on a satin pillowcase. It’s easier for your skin & hair to slide around on satin than cotton, so it will help prevent wrinkles, keep natural oils in, and it’s also nicer to your hair and eyelashes. Mine is from Savvy Sleepers and I love it.

8. Be Consistent.

This one is SO important! One night of sleeping in your makeup can wreck all of your hard work maintaining your skin. Believe me, I learned this lesson the hard way. Consistency in your skincare routine is key to see lasting results!

So there you have it! These are all things I’ve done to improve my skin. Keep in mind that not everything that works for me will work for you, since everyone’s skin is different. Each tip is a pretty general category so that you can find products within it that work for you. Always test out new products to see how they will react with your skin to find what works and what doesn’t! Sephora is awesome at giving out samples, next time you’re there just ask for a one of any product you want to try out before purchasing the full size.

As always, thank you so much for reading! What products are your skincare must-haves?

Minimalist Nail Art

Feb 24

The trick to great nail art is minimalism. It’s so much easier to do and harder to mess up. This design is inspired in by the nails from the Delpozo Fall 15 show.

When I’m at home I typically just go to the salon and have gel nails done. I have a love affair with that salon and I can’t find one that compares here in Austin. So when I’m away at college (about 80% of the year) I forgo the salon trips unless it’s for a formal and just paint my nails in my apartment. I’ve got a ridiculous collection of nail polish (think 100+ polishes…. it’s a problem) but even then I sometimes get bored of just a simple one-color manicure. Too much nail art can look tacky, and any amount can be difficult to accomplish on short nails.

Enter this beyond easy and still chic look. Here’s what you need:

Start out by applying a base coat. I use OPI Nail Envy because it’s a great strengthener and my nails can be pretty weak and break easily. It’s pricey (way cheaper from Amazon!) but I’ve used barely half the bottle in a year & a half, and I paint my nails A LOT. Then apply your nail color. You can use whatever color you want, but I used 3 coats of Essie Marshmallow– 2 coats looked too streaky. Let this dry completely. Once dry, use a nail striper to apply a straight line down the center of your nail. You can use a specific nail striping polish like this gold one I have, use a striper brush with any polish, or use striping tape. Then apply your top coat and you’re good to go! My favorite is Seche Vite – it dries so quick.

Seriously the easiest “nail art” ever. I love all of these nail looks from NYFW last week! Have you ever tried nail art yourself before? Thank you so much for reading!

Weekend Reading

Feb 22

{image via theyallhateus}

I guess I should probably have titled this “Sunday Reading” but better late than never right?

1. Obsessed with the makeup look from Rachel Zoe’s Fall 15 show.

2. My other favorite makeup look from NYFW? Diane von Furstenberg, of course.

3. Wishing I could have makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury’s life after watching this.

4. Some great resume & cover letter advice for those job or internship searching!

5. Definitely going to trying out this metallic nail look.

6. We’re getting almost to the midterms point of the semester. Here’s how to stop stress eating.

7. The top six trends from NYFW.

8. Can we predict who will win the Oscars tonight from what designer they’re wearing?

Hope that you all are having great weekend!

Wednesday Wishes // Beauty

Feb 18

one // two // three // four // five // six

1. bareMinerals Complexion Rescue.

Full coverage foundation is not really for me. I’ve found that it just feels like too much on my skin, and I honestly don’t need a lot of coverage anyway. I’ve been on the hunt for the best BB cream or tinted moisturizer and I found this. It’s a gel cream that actually helps improve your skin while you wear it. I got a small sample of it from Sephora (I’m huge on sampling products – especially foundations) and I’m in love. I’m definitely going to be ordering this one.

2. YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in Rose Libertin.

Okay, so I’m kind of cheating here. This one’s not so much of a “wish” considering I just bought it… oops. I haven’t worn it yet so maybe it still counts? It’s a gorgeous pink, and the formula of YSL lipsticks is amazing.

3. Benefit Roller Lash Mascara.

Benefit, you’ve outdone yourself here. They’re Real has been my holy grail mascara for so long now, but I think it’s going to have to step down to make room for Roller Lash. I’ve got a sample of this baby that I will be using every drop of. (Told ya I love samples!) You literally don’t even have to curl your lashes with this mascara, it does it for you AND separates them beautifully. If you’re a Sephora VIB or VIB Rouge member, you can purchase this heaven in a tube now, but if not it will be available to purchase on February 27th.

4. Elizabeth and James Nirvana White Perfume.

Alright, cheating here again. I just bought the rollerball of this perfume because I really don’t need another perfume, but it just smelled so good! Nirvana Black also smells amazing and would be a great nighttime perfume. I bought Nirvana White because the scent is more suitable for daytime wear, while a lot of my other perfumes can be a little too much during the day.

5. Victoria Beckham x Nails Inc Judo Red.

Red nails are my absolute favorite because they’re classic. In Saturday’s Weekend Reading I shared a link on how to find your perfect shade of red. The article focuses on lip color, but also goes great for nails too. My perfect red is a tomato, orange-toned red just like this gorgeous polish.

6. Charlotte Tillbury “The Rock Chick” Eyeshadow Palette.

I’m dying to try any of Charlotte Tillbury’s products. I’ve read nothing but great reviews and the packaging is to die for. I’m obsessed with this look of hers, so I definitely want to get my hands on this palette.

Thank you so much for reading, I hope your week is going well! We had kind of a weird day here in Austin yesterday, so hopefully that doesn’t set the tone for the rest of the week. Also, I’m working on scheduling out posts for the next few weeks, so if you have any post requests please send them my way! What beauty products are you dying to try?

YSL Volupte Tint in Oil

Feb 16

I’m back, to talk about more oil. Or is it lip gloss? Or lip tint? What is this?

For all you lip product newbies, or for those of you who are looking for something effortless: I have found your perfect product. It is YSL’s new Volupte Tint in Oil.

What on earth is a tint in oil, you ask?

It’s defined as “A revolutionary lip color with a lip tint suspended in a deep conditioning oil.” Ok. What? It’s essentially a super moisturizing oil that also tints your lips. You apply it similar to a gloss, and the color develops as you wear it. It’s basically the easiest lip product ever since the color stays even after the glossiness of the oil has worn off. Just put it on and you don’t have to worry about reapplying for a while thanks to the “tint” part of “tint in oil.” Best part? There’s no stickiness like some lip glosses give, which is a huge pet peeve of mine. The formula is very smooth and fluid like you would expect an oil to be, but it’s not runny because the applicator is precise.

There are 8 colors in the collection and all are very wearable. Some are lighter, some are brighter. I picked up #4 I Rose You (right in picture) and #6 Peach Me Love (left in picture). I Rose You is a lighter pink, that looks pretty much clear when you apply it. It does develop into a subtle pink as it’s worn though and looks very natural. Peach Me Love is one of the brighter colors from the collection, and it is a peachy-coral color. This one is much brighter than I Rose You and more color shows immediately upon application. I’m a huge fan of orange-y hues so I can already tell that Peach Me Love is my favorite of the two. The colors are also pretty sheer, so I would recommend going with the brighter colors available.

I think these are perfect if you don’t really wear lip products and aren’t quite ready to jump into bold lipsticks just yet, or if you just want something easy for everyday. What do you think? Have you tried any product similar to this? Happy Monday & thanks for reading!

Weekend Reading

Feb 14

{image via theyallhateus}

Happy weekend! Here is probably the only thing you’ll read today that has absolutely nothing to do with Valentine’s day. You’re welcome.

1. I am too excited about the Seventies return in Pantone’s colors for Fall 2015.

2. Think red lipstick is not for you? I disagree. Find your perfect shade of red.

3. Audrina Patridge has me wanting to dye my hair grey and purple.

4. Cried actual tears when I found out MAC’s newest collection featured my favorite Disney Princess. Pretty sad that it supposedly doesn’t perform well, but I’ll be buying something for the packaging anyway.

5. Makeup to intensify your eye color. Brown eyes, blue eyes, green eyes.

6. How to take better iPhone pictures.

7. If I do this every morning will I look like Karlie Kloss?

8. This spreadsheet is what’s getting me through the semester.

9. In case you want Kylie Jenner lips.

10. My favorite color this season.