Beauty: MOD, Portland Mercury

Illume Day Spa

Marjorie Skinner — Wed, 12 Jun 2013 13:29:00 -0700

Estheticians, like so many specialists, are the sort of people you find either by word of mouth or stabbing in the dark/trial and error. A facial, which usually starts with a commitment of around $60 and an hour or so of your time, is no minor purchase, and so recommendations are crucial to finding someone whose practices match up with your needs and comfort levels. For instance some people don't like to deal with the heavy machinery that you can get into for microdermabrasion, ultraviolet light therapy, microcurrents, etc. Some people value all-natural products over everything, and in general people either get facials as part of the regular maintenance of their bodies, like going to the gym or dentist, or they do it every once in a blue moon just to pamper themselves. Or you have a specific problem that needs to be addressed, perhaps.

Most estheticians will cater to any one of these client profiles, but considering how overwhelmingly many options are out there, it's worth it to seek out someone whose practices perfectly dovetail with your own. And there are more options than you may even know. Aside from the visible salon signs on the road, there are places ensconced on the upper floors of office buildings, people who work out of their homes, and still others who are tucked away off of busy commercial corridors.

The later situation is the case with Illume Day Spa, a petite, tranquil space located just off of Sandy Boulevard at 2453 NE Pacific. It's the workspace of Cate Wheetman and Stara Laborde, a cozy environment with bowls of chocolates in seemingly every room.

On my visit, as I waited for Wheetman to finish with her previously client, I scoped out the all-important product wall, which features a comprehensive but well-edited selection of botanically based, high-quality lines like Astara, iS Clinical, and Epicuren. (One thing I will say about skincare products, is that you really do get what you pay for, and there's something about your skin that is really bothering you it's worth finding something that gives you real results, and you can certainly expect to pay more for it than anything you'll find at Wallgreens. That said, don't waste your money plunging blindly into a $60 face cream. Estheticians are loaded with product samples, and you should try as many as you can before taking the plunge. You know you've found the right one when it seems worth the money to buy.)

Wheetman's approach is based on what I think is the most logical thinking: That your skin's needs are the same as your body's. Your diet and lifestyle are—at least eventually—going to present a direct reflection onto your body, especially your skin. (Both Wheetman and Laborde were educated at The Euro Institute for Naturopathic Skincare in Renton, WA.) Illume specializes in working with clients in the long term to trouble shoot factors that might be provoking unwanted blemishes, dryness, puffiness, and other issues. And while she has a good number of plug-in toys at her disposal, once you're in her hands you'll find that she relies more on applications of some truly exquisite, personalized products than on her gadgets.

But the best thing about a facial with Wheetman is that it's basically and two-in-one facial and massage. The Illumination signature facial includes serious attention to your skin as well as massaging of your hands, arms, calves, feet, and scalp. It is probably the most indulgent facial I've ever had in that regard and at $125 for 90 minutes of thoughtful skin therapy and ridiculously pleasant massage it's a screaming bargain.

If I were to imagine the perfect match-up between client and Illume, I would say that you 1) understand the symbiotic relationship between your overall health and appearance, 2) gravitate toward organic/holistic/all natural products, but make room for some exceptionally effective innovations, 3) aren't particularly eager to break out the heavy machinery (but open to it when deemed advantageous), and 4) you know a good value when you see one—their facials start as low as $60 for 45 minutes.

I've only ever had a facial at Illume, but it's also worth noting, if you like their approach, that they also offer body treatments like wraps, bronzing, and scrubs, waxing, brow and lash tinting. If it sounds like your jam, check 'em out.

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In Which I Write Entirely Too Much About My Three Day KURE Juice Cleanse

Marissa Sullivan — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 14:59:00 -0700

Hmmm, where do I begin… My name is Marissa and I’m a Taco Bell addict. Since moving to Portland I’ve almost completely cut fast food out of my life, but I still have moments of weakness. Usually it involves being drunk, a very nice cab driver ordering for me, willpower being lost, and Taco Bell consumed. My skin, at 32, is worse than it was when I was a teenager, and I’m shocked I’m not 200 pounds considering the amount of sugar I eat. I know that my lifestyle will catch up with me, but more importantly I had a wedding in New York to go to and I wanted to drop lbs, son! Enter KURE Juice Bar to (hopefully) save the day.

Cleanse Day One: I’m bummed that I decided to start my cleanse on Memorial Day, a day most widely celebrated by BBQ-ing and drinking. Thank god it’s raining; I spend the day blogging and watching the new Arrested Development. I’m constantly thinking about food, I think I’m hungry, I’m day dreaming about pizza, and I’m kind of bummed I’m writing about this because if I wasn’t I would’ve already cheated. I text my friend, "I’m doing a juice cleanse I’M SO HUNGRY" and she texts back to watch the documentary Hungry For Change. I take her advice and my mood is instantly lifted, I’m hopeful, I’ve realized that sugar is as bad as cocaine, I’m absolutely doing the right thing for my body, and I’m unstoppable! I finish my fifth and final juice of the day and I’m actually full! YES!

(My one cheat today: I have a soy-au-lait with a bit of sweetener in it. Even though Kure's co-owner, Nate, told me I was supposed to "pre-cleanse" before my liquid cleanse, I did not. He told me that this is the most important part of my experience, and I had good intentions to abide, but instead I drank bottomless mimosas at Club 21. What I should’ve done is cut out processed foods and eaten lots of fruits and veggies, exactly what that documentary was preaching.) Note: Coffee is not a total cheat, Nick the other owner of Kure told me they don't like it because of the acidity, but ultimately this is your cleanse, do what you think is best for you.

Day two and three after jump...

Cleanse Day Two: I’ve lost 1.4 pounds. I can’t wait to pick up my juice at 11 am; I’m drinking water until then. I’ve convinced myself that I will not have coffee today. With the five juices you also get yerba matte tea, so there is actually plenty of caffeine if you need it. This is the first day I’ve skipped coffee in years, and I have a headache. I keep drinking the matte and water and eventually it goes away. Sitting in my office, I’m fine. No temptation, just a little hungry, but more I just want to eat something. I travel out around 4 pm to get my nails done, and feel as if I cannot be trusted. Temptation on every corner: Pita Pit, Sizzle Pie, Starbucks—it doesn’t matter what I walk by, I envision myself going in and getting down. But I don’t. When I get back to the office I down another juice and realize I’m totally fine. Sitting in bed at the end of day two, I’m hungry but hopeful that I’ve lost another pound by tomorrow. We’ll see.

Cleanse Day Three: Feeling awesome. I weighed myself, and I’m down another two pounds from yesterday. The day was easy: I worked, rode my bike home, packed, and took off for New York. I slept the whole way there, and when I got off the plane I was hungry but barely thinking about food. Day three was really the easiest. I'm not sure if it’s because you know food is coming soon, or if your body is finally happy with what you’re giving it. There was a part of me that felt like I could keep going, and there was a part of me that didn’t want to eat real food, thinking about how little food we need and how much we over consume. And then there was a part of me that wanted to eat all the pizza in NY.

I tried to weigh myself at the end of day three in NY but it didn’t happen. I was positive I had dropped another pound or two but I can’t be certain. What I can tell you for sure is that I lost 3.5 pounds in two days. I only mention that because before I did a juice cleanse that was the only bottom line I cared about. But what this cleanse gives you is better than weight loss. If you take it seriously it can be the start of a beautiful relationship with your body to feed it things that make you not only feel good but look good (sorry, hippie moment). I mean, have you seen the staff of KURE?! Them's some good looking juice slingers.

I did end up eating all the pizza in New York (I was on vacation!) But, like co-owner Nate told me before I left for my trip, "Sometimes ya gotta get clean to get dirty!"

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Blush Beauty Bar Beautypalooza 9

Elizabeth Mollo — Fri, 17 May 2013 11:57:00 -0700

Need a little perk in your beauty routine? Well you are in luck, because Blush Beauty Bar is celebrating it's 9th birthday this weekend with Beautypalooza 9. Today through Sunday Blush will be offering a gift with every purchase, special deals and discounts, and $5, $10, and $15 beauty bins. Plus the staff is always super friendly and helpful so you'll be looking fabulous in no time, all without breaking the bank.

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Top Drugstore Beauty Finds

Kayla Rekofke — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 08:59:00 -0700

Penny pinching is not particularly a strength of mine, however keeping up with my usual beauty routine lately has gotten to be pretty spendy. In my mind I think “Oh one little lipstick here, eyebrow waxing there.” Before I realize it I’ve spent a sizable chunk of change on my grooming habits. Dreaming of the perfect coral lipstick, but not wanting to shell out $15+ on a designer brand I popped over to my local Walgreens last evening, here’s what I found and how I’m liking it:

Maybelline #880 Electric Orange Lipstick: Comparable to MAC’s extremely popular ‘Lady Danger’ shade, but at half the price! Seriously, this color rocks, it’s the perfect orangey coral of my dreams, not overly shiny, but not flat matte. Don’t forget to compliment the this lippy with a pretty peachy blush—anything too pink will clash with the orange hue.

Roc Multi-correction Eye Treatment: As I recently discovered some pesky eye wrinkles (Aghhh!) I decided to ponder the skincare aisle, where a friendly sales associate recommended this Roc eye cream. I was desperate for something effective and affordable, and this fit the bill.

Sally Hansen Hair Remover Wax Strip: Accounting for monthly brow/lip waxing appointments can be dicey, so enter these handy little wax strips. Ok, so maybe not as glam, but Sally Hansen delivers in the waxing department. I had zero irritation and saved a whole lotta $$$.

L’eggs Silken Mist Ultra Sheer: A cutie customer at Yo! (where I work) recently turned me onto the L’eggs stockings. I’m super fed up with American Apparel $14 tights that rip the moment I attempt to put them on, so L’eggs' $6 price tag intrigued me. I opted for a sheer black shade called “Black Mist,” and although I’ve already managed to get a small snag in them I’d still say they are worth a try.

Studio 35 Oil-free Witch Hazel: A welcome addition to your normal skincare routine, this affordable witch hazel astringent is key after cleansing your skin for the evening.

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Men, You Are Less Beautiful Than You Think

Elizabeth Mollo — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 17:29:00 -0700

It was only a matter of time. On Tuesday we posted the Dove Real Beauty Sketches video, which has taken the internet by storm this week, garnering both positive and negative feedback from a variety of people. Now someone has gone and done a parody of it, highlighting the fact that men often think they are more good-looking than they actually are. Pretty funny stuff.

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I'm Still Not Buying Your Dumb Soap

Alison Hallett — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 11:15:21 -0700

But this Dove ad—in which an FBI sketch artist draws women first the way they describe themselves, and then the way a stranger describes them—plays to female insecurities in a fucking masterful way. "These women are prettier than they think they are, so maybe I am, too." 'Course, if they'd picked some less conventionally attractive women it would be a much more powerful message... but then they probably wouldn't sell as many soaps.

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Tattoo Removal Update: Session #7

Kayla Rekofke — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 09:37:00 -0700

Last time I wrote about my ongoing tattoo removal process I was on session two in July of 2012 (here)—due for an update! I can see the light at the end of tunnel now; I’m only three more sessions away from being done. I see Nicole Carter at Oregon Aesthetics, and wouldn’t trust anyone else with my removal process. Once you reach about the halfway point, a second laser is used to further break down the ink in your skin. This makes the time in between sessions longer (8-11 weeks.)

Although this whole process has been extremely painful, expensive, and drawn out, it has been worth it to see the results. The colorful pink flower on my foot is hardly noticeable; the “put a bird on it” bird on my wrist is very faint, with my back tattoos being the most faded of the three. The grossest part comes after the laser treatment is done, when your skin starts to burn, bubble, and blister (not the three best Bs one could hope for). As you can see from the photos below, it’s not a pretty picture, but this is what it looks like. The healing phase lasts anywhere from two weeks to a month, and then you’re back up and running. If you have a tattoo that you look at everyday and wish wasn’t there anymore it is possible for it to be gone. Check out more information about tattoo removal and Oregon Aesthetics here.

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Top Spring Beauty Picks

Kayla Rekofke — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 08:59:00 -0700

I am always on the lookout for new beauty products to fall in love with, and lately I just can’t get enough of:

Tan Towel: I would never advise stepping into a crispy tanning bed, but to get over the “Portland Pale” look I would recommend trying Tan Towel. I have done a couple applications, and really enjoyed the natural looking results. Similar to a make-up wipe you would use at the end of the night, Tan Towels come in single use towelettes that you simply apply to your face and body. (Don’t forget to wash your mitts after to avoid the telltale orange hand look.) After two applications in two weeks, my skin is looking sunkissed, and thankfully not Snooki orange! The only downside is the wipes do have a little bit of that faux tanner scent, but definitely not enough to deter me from using them. Pick them up locally at b-glowing.com, or online here.

Maak Soap Lab: What’s not to love about Maak Soaps? Made from vegan ingredients, amazing scents, and handmade here in Portland, I can’t think of any reason not to! I recently picked up the Rose City bar and can’t get enough. This soap is exfoliating without drying out my skin and smells incredible. Click here to shop entire collection.

Amika Obliphica Nourishing Hair Mask: After trying nearly every shade under the rainbow, my color treated hair has seen its fair share of damage. Amika’s Nourishing Hair Mask has done wonders for my thirsty mop! After a few treatments my hair feels smoother, softer, and my split ends are less noticeable. Read all about it here.

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Going Grey: Do or Don’t?

Kayla Rekofke — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 08:59:00 -0800

Who would have thought silvery grey would be the next big thing in hair! Many ladies dread the day they discover their first grey hair, but now the fashion glitteratti are all gung-ho on going grey. Is grey just the new “it” shade to replace lavender, vibrant blue, and dip dyed ends or is the Ice Queen vibe here to stay?

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It's Spa-o-clock!

Rose Finn — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 09:22:35 -0800

This is that time of year when our skin starts to wrinkle and pucker, our faces start to twitch, and every part of our body starts to generally disassemble. It's times like these that we most need a massage, and steam, and a facial. Luckily, Loyly (off of SE 21st and Clinton) has new packages with cheaper rates through March 31st.

For $89, you can get a 45 minute massage, an aromatherapy foot soak, a facial mask, and two hours use of their sauna and steam room. This is a great way to de-stress, and it's much cheaper than flying to Florida.

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European Union Banning Animal Testing

Elizabeth Mollo — Tue, 12 Feb 2013 15:44:00 -0800

Even though I am not a straight edge vegan like I was in high school, I have remained a staunch supporter of using beauty products that are not tested on animals and make a conscious effort to put my money where my mouth is. Recently Europe, who has always been on the forefront regarding these types of issues, has stated that they will be banning the sale of animal tested cosmetic products and ingredients on March 11th, 2013. This comes has a huge victory for animal rights advocates everywhere, and hopefully they will set an example and other countries will soon follow suit. One country that will be harder to crack will be China, however, as they actually require animal testing on all of their products, even ones that are manufactured in other countries. While there are some Chinese scientists who are taking steps to remove this requirement, setting up ethical regulations in China in general is pretty hard (remember the fire that no one noticed for three hours because their air quality is so bad?).

In the meantime, we can make sure to buy products from companies that don't test on animals, and write to the companies that do and state you are boycotting them until they change their ways. For a comprehensive list of companies that do and don't test on animals click here.

Sources: Refinery 29 and PR Newswire

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M. Steves Launch at Beauty Bar

Rose Finn — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 17:46:00 -0800

A new product line, "M. Steves," launched this weekend at Blush Beauty Bar on NW 23rd. I recently met with THE "M. Steves" for an interview, in her quest to be the next best-selling provider of "high-impact, natural, anti-aging skin care." She is quite high-impact herself; a graduate of Parsons school of design, an ex-corporate attorney and interior decorator, and an LA resident.

Steves' selling point is the anti-aging benefits of rose hip seed oil. "Rose hip seed oil is different than just rose oil," Steves' notes. Rose hip seed oil is derived from very few places in the world, and in the case of her product, high in the Chilean Andes mountains. What makes rose hip oil different, according to Steves, is that it has "the highest percentage of natural fatty acids, like Omega-3" out of any anti oxidizing agent. Steves' also makes her proprietary blends using a particular mixture of "anti-aging botanical actives." "Not all oils work well with rose hip seed oil," says Steves.

Her products range in pricing; from affordable to hardcore. The consumer can commit to her product in varying degrees; from a once-or-twice-a-day pat of her serum, to an elaborate, multi-step regimen. Her product has already sold tremendously well in its hometown of LA, as well as at its Blush launch this weekend. "I have customers that are on their 5th round of purchases, and we just launched last November," Steves dishes.

She was kind enough to donate free samples of her product to me, including the lovechild of her line, the "RHSO Power-Packed Ultra-Nourishing Boost." After using this product for a few days, I can safely say this product gets an A+ for anti-aging; this magical "boost" serum fought my age so well that my face broke out like an overweight 15 year old in gym class. This could have been due to a number of other factors; I'm in my twenties and have an oily complexion. I also have yet to grow the wrinkles that maybe are necessitated for such a product. But if you're looking to fight some of those years off your face, I'd recommend at least giving it a try. It's all-natural; can't hoit, right?

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Give More Lip!

Rose Finn — Sat, 09 Feb 2013 08:59:00 -0800

There's nothing quite like being out with your Valentine's date, wanting to kiss them, but realizing your lips have shriveled into a couple of yellow raisins. Event Cosmetics, a cosmetic studio on SW Broadway specializing in make-up for special events, is hosting a lip product sale, from February 12th-16th (perfect timing!).

Also, if you're in the mood for a little more beauty help than just lips, they'll be giving out a FREE lip and cheek palette, and tote bag with every purchase of a Clarisonic Cleansing System. With such a youthful, pampered face, your date won't even notice that you've ordered four martinis on his bill!

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Geometric Eye Makeup: Love it or hate it?

Kayla Rekofke — Fri, 01 Feb 2013 08:59:00 -0800

Anyone who has met me knows how completely obsessed with eyeliner I am, so when this look hit the fashion week runways I was really excited slash nervous to try to steady my hand enough to recreate the look. Now, I don’t think this is an “everyday” look, however I do think it would be super rad to try for a special event. What do you guys think?

all images via Pinterest

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Beauty Crush: B-Glowing

Kayla Rekofke — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 08:59:00 -0800

I got hooked on local beauty e-tailer b-glowing when I briefly worked for them as a graphic designer. They recently launched a beautiful brand new website chock full of hard to find brands like Rodin Olio Lusso, Ellis Faas, and Paul and Joe. Look no further for all of your skincare, hair care, and cosmetic must-haves. I recently fell in love with the Ellis Faas skin veil foundation, I find it much less chalky than my usual MAC formula but with a great coverage on days my skin is looking less than perfect. Another one of my favorites has got to be the super affordable Adara coconut oil; use it for practically anything! Slather on your skin as a moisturizer, put a dab in your hair for hydration, and use it as a gentle eye makeup remover for mascara. B-glowing’s headquarters are located in the Pearl, which makes it easy for me to pop by and pick up my order to save time on shipping. Skip Sephora and click here to start shopping.

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Pop Art Pinup

Marjorie Skinner — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 14:44:00 -0800

In a town with this much love for vintage, it comes as little surprise that there's a photo studio that caters specifically to fans of retro-style pin-up photography, in that they have a huge studio, an enormous wealth of wardrobe, hair and makeup services, and experienced assistance to help you model for your own classic pin-up style portraits. It's called Pop Art Pinup, and I recently had the goofy-fun pleasure of sampling the experience.

In an assuming SE Industrial building stands a surprisingly spacious—and when I say "spacious" I mean "amazingly huge" suite that houses both Pop Art and Tatyana Cathcart's Baby Girl Boutique. There's a velvety, lounge-y office space, a large warehouse for Cathcart's inventory of pinup style clothing, costumes, and accessories, and a roomy photo studio with an attached dressing room. Pop Art owner and photographer Tony Mancini has a symbiotic partnership with Cathcart, and is able to use much of her vast inventory as costuming for his shoots.

"My background is as a visual artist," says Mancini. "Photographically, I practiced still life and macro photography—lots of pictures of flowers and bees—but I also used the camera when planning a painting or drawing as a visual reference. This was important for portraits as I could not pay a model to sit for me for that long. It was a natural progression to start processing the images as works of their own. I'd develop the film in my kitchen, and print in my laundry room—very do-it-yourself. Once I switched to digital I started doing more photography than anything else, and after practicing portrait, fashion, still life, and other forms of studio photography, I found myself shooting pinups more than anything else."

Along with Mancini and Cathcart—who, at least in my experience was very hands off other than in supplying the wardrobe, from which I was able to pick my own getup—is stylist Kira Distler, a very sweet model and self-taught hair and makeup artist who is not shy with her falsies and mascara wand (nothing peeves me more than a mere single coat of mascara) and draws some of the most impressively dramatic cat-eyes I've ever worn. Having been in front of the lens many, many times for this style of shoot, she obviously has a good handle on what works best in the final product. Her experience also made her a great help on set. Pin-up style is over-the-top cheesy, with big goofy grins and "s-shape" postures, and she helped make it fun and easy instead of awkward.

"I'm fascinated with classic pinup illustration, the work of artists such as Charles Dana Gibson, Gil Elvgren, Earl Moran, Vargas, and others," continues Mancini. "I'd try to create photographs that looked like old pinup illustrations, and Kira modeled for most of them. It was natural for us to concentrate exclusively on pinup photography because of our love of classic pinup illustration and a desire to create positive, fun, colorful images."

Mancini also is great with direction, which amateurs like me are always grateful for. Also helpful is the fact that Mancini works quickly. Modeling, while usually fun, is work, especially if it goes on for too long, but having people who are specific and un-shy goes a long way toward getting what you're after efficiently. Mancini says their clients include people "from all walks of life. There is no typical age or background, but the attitudes are often the same. We find our clients confident, liberated and looking for an empowering way to express themselves and enjoy a positive, memorable experience. Plus, we have found that everyone loves to play dress up."

Hello, Christmas cards! Or, an idea I think is really cute, is that Pin Up will make you your own calendar. Either 12 months of you in different get-ups, or you and a group of your friends. Mancini told me that a bride and her bridesmaids all did this once, which sounds like a super-fun way to create keepsake. As for my own shots, which involve a travel theme and leopard print pencil skirt, I'll be keeping those under wraps for now, but you should check out Pop Art's gallery to get a sense of the mood and variety.

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Natural Beauty Aid: Dry Skin Brushing

Elizabeth Mollo — Wed, 09 Jan 2013 08:59:00 -0800

This is the time of the year where most people try to rid their bodies of the booze and crap they consumed the last couple of months and start fresh. I am not really a fan of New Year's resolutions or crazy beginning of the year exercise and diet plans, because inevitably they are abandoned and old habits win. I am a huge believer of starting with small and easy to execute rituals that lead to a healthier life, and this one is cheap, fast, and super simple. Dry skin brushing takes about a minute a day and offers huge benefits. Often called the third kidney, the skin is the largest organ of the body and is responsible for a quarter of the body's detoxification, resulting in one pound of waste each day (so gross, I know.) Dry skin brushing stimulates the lymphatic system which in turns helps your body to detoxify itself. Other benefits include dead skin cell removal, a stronger immune system, reduced cellulite, and tighter skin.

As I said before, dry skin brushing is super simple. All you do is start at the bottom of the feet and brush up and always toward the heart. Brush upwards on the legs and torso and down on your chest. Then brush up the hands and arms. Do this everyday before showering or bathing, preferably in the morning. Brushes can be found pretty much anywhere, but make sure it has natural bristles and opt for one with a long handle to reach your back. I have been doing this everyday for a while and I personally definitely feel the benefits, plus if I am feeling a little sluggish doing this and taking a quick shower always makes me feel energized.

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New Years Beauty/Style/Health Resolutions

Kayla Rekofke — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 08:59:00 -0800

As the year comes to a close it is the perfect time to make resolutions, take a second to re-evaluate, and hit the ground running in the New Year. Now I’m not a granny or anything but I am not getting any younger. Doing a little reflecting of my own I realized I have been breaking a few of the cardinal rules in skincare, style, and overall mind, body wellness. (The first step is admitting your issues right?) Therefore I am going to do my damnedest to actually follow through with my resolutions, and make 2013 “my” year! What are you some of your resolutions? Not to make resolutions? Hit the gym, be a “yes” person, whatever they may be I’ve read writing down your goals, and telling your friends makes you more inclined to follow through. So...Here’s my top three for 2013!

1. I will not sleep with my makeup on.
Although this may seem like an absolute no brainer, after a few glasses of Malbec it happens much more often then it should. Besides just being gross, your skin will get clogged up with dirt, oil, and bacteria. Also sleeping with mascara and eyeliner on can cause your lashes to become dry and brittle. If you really can’t make it to the sink before hitting the sheets, stash some makeup cleansing wipes next to your bed. I just pick up the generic kind from Walgreen’s or Freddies, the options are endless.

2 .I will not buy cheap shit from F21 or H&M.
Ugh you would think after going to that incredible event with Elizabeth Cline I would have given up the cheap goods forever. Alas, I did have a mini Forever 21 spree about a month ago, and I still feel bad. To each his own, but for 2013 I want to purge my closet of all junk and focus on a very carefully curated wardrobe. I basically want it to be like Frances May, where clothes are so much more than clothes, they are art. Each item is exquisite, with impeccable quality and longevity that will undoubtedly last past one season. The focus will be investing in a few amazing pieces per season, first on my list, a custom hat from Pinkham Millinery, and anything by Adam Arnold.

3. I will limit my drinking to 2 nights a week.
Talk about empty calories. Drinking is the absolute pitfall when it comes to diet and exercise. It’s like a chain reaction, go to an event, drink, continue the party well into the night, then either the hangover sets in or you seem to be late to work out in the morning. In Portland there is always an art opening, fashion thing, or music show to go to. Going forth, it is essential to prioritize partying nights! Since I’m terrible at math I found this evil website that adds up all of your drinking cals during the week, check out your number here.

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Photos from Lille Boutique's Astral Bodies Fashion Show

Marjorie Skinner — Wed, 19 Dec 2012 10:59:00 -0800

If you missed last Wednesday's presentation of Fortnight Lingerie, a Planned Parenthood benefit held by Lille Boutique, fear not: photos of the runway, by Kai Hayashi, are up now.

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Holiday Hair + Makeup

Kayla Rekofke — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 08:59:00 -0800

The holiday season is the perfect excuse to try that hair and makeup trend you’ve been lusting over on Pinterest all year. Crazy nails, why not? Big hair? Yes please! And obvs the more glitter the better. Here are my picks for fun, festive looks:

Black and gold liner: Umm, obsessed with this look! A different take on the traditional black cat eye, this look is easy. Swipe on a loose gold glitter over the top with a wet brush, or simply dip your brush into a powder gold shadow and recreate effortlessly. Don't forget a few coats of dramatic black mascara.

Oxblood red lips, fulls brows: A twist on the classic red lip, try a deeper, darker oxblood red. Keep the look glam with a full filled in brow, soft eyes, and dewy skin. Perfect to sass up a little black dress, or winter white look. Tip: don’t forget to line your lips, I love doing this look with a lip liner that’s a shade a smidge darker. Liner is essential to keep the lipstick looking vampy not trampy.

The “wavy-straight” hair: This look is the perfect mix of flirty and feisty. Lots of girls get this look with just their flat-iron, but since I am not the best when it comes to hair styling I like to use my no clamp curling wand, then straighten the ends with my flat iron. I like to put a few drops of Rodin’s luxury hair oil in my locks before stylin—this stuff is spendy but so worth it! Whatever method you prefer, don’t forget a spritz of hairspray to finish your look and keep it from getting frizzy while cab hopping to your next destination.

All images via Pinterest.

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Dream Pre-Holiday Detox

Kayla Rekofke — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 13:26:14 -0800

I’ll be the first one to admit I’m feeling a little haggard these days, not enough beauty sleep, a few too many glasses of Malbec, and the constant run-around of my day to day routine have left me feeling less than my best. Does anyone else feel the pre-holiday stess of parties, fam time, and errr more holiday parties? In my dream world this is how I would prep for the long holiday hoorah coming up:

Loyly’s November Spruce Treatment:
I visited Loyly for the first time with Marjorie during the summertime for some pre-wedding beautifying and let me tell you, it is absolutely worth every penny. The facilities are just gorgeous, and the staff is both accommodating and super friendly. Pop in with your bestie, or go alone for some quality “me” time. For just $85 receive a 45-minute massage, up to two hours in the steam/sauna facility, a spruce aromatherapy foot soak, cleansing tea, and lemon spruce body salt. Click here to book now.

Portland Juice Press Cleanse Package:
Get rid of those nasty built up toxins (before you replace them with all that spiked eggnog) and feel better about slipping into your festive holiday best. Portland Juice Press will deliver 5 fresh-pressed juices and 1 hazelnut milk to your door, by 8AM. Cleanses range in price depending on length, anywhere from 3-6 days but start at $165 for 3 days. I love a good cleanse, and Portland Juice Press makes it easy to commit because their juices are just so darn good. More deets here.

Skin Treatments by Rebecca Boatzel at Red Magnolia Salon:
I recently got some waxing done by Rebecca and it was such a great experience. Not only did she pay attention the every little detail regarding my bushy brows, she gave me tons of great skincare advice about why I was having breakouts and even sent me home with some samples to try. I can’t wait to book my first facial with her! Affordable but thorough waxers are hard to come by, so if you aren’t in love with your current de-fuzzing method, definitely give Rebecca a try.

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Yo Vintage! First Thursday Event

Kayla Rekofke — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:59:00 -0700

Yo! is hosting a special First Thursday event featuring the brand new collection from Portland’s favorite “it” bag designer Seaecho with your chance for first dibs to buy (I can’t wait to get my mitts on one!) A braiding and hair styling workshop by the lovely ladies at WindowWall Salon and an art installation by General Merriment will round out the evening. Champs and snacks will also be on hand for so don’t miss your chance to scoop up a Seaecho original while they last. It all goes down this Thursday, November 1st from 6-9pm. (Full disclosure: As previously mentioned, I work at Yo! and will be at the event, so pop by and see me!)

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The Great Nail Debate: To Shellac or Not to Shellac?

Kayla Rekofke — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 08:59:00 -0700

Shellac has been one of my fave nail treatments for a while now. The chip resistant, lightning fast-drying, and super shiny gel color lasts way longer (up to two full weeks) versus the standard mani, which I somehow manage to fuck up within mere minutes of leaving the salon. But is it bad for you? Anyone who has gotten Shellac knows the best part is being able to leave immediately upon popping your little mitts under the dryer. The problem is that the dryer uses UV Radiation (similar to what they use for those yucky tanning beds) for that speedy dry time. Although research is still pending, there have been a small number of reported cases linking nail dryers to skin cancer. Considering the number of things that are said to be cancer causing (Diet Coke, anybody?) will this stop my love for Shellac? The jury is out on this one.

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Wolf's Apothecary

Marjorie Skinner — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 11:14:00 -0700

Jewelie Randall’s last name means "Wolf’s Shield" (beat that), so in keeping with the old time tradition of apothecaries named after their owners, she brings us Wolf's Apothecary, a temporary source for locally concocted health and beauty products (Randall herself has 20 years of experience as a "city herbalist"), plus vintage and modern home goods, and jewelry. Appearing set to exist for just two short months in November and December at 902 SW Morrison Street, the list of products it is expected to carry is being meted out in updates on Facebook. Here's what we know so far:

The store will stock "soap, candles, jewelry, furniture, medicinals, candy, body care, haircare, skincare, leather, wood, ironwork, vintage housewares, etc." Oh man, I'm so listening. Confirmed vendors include Portland Black Lipstick Company, Heather Bell Jewelry, "raw organic local" honey (this one perhaps?), Gretchen Nation Collection, Molly Muriel, and From The Reliquary, with presumably more to come.

Also, I love this console:

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Three Beauty Trends To Try Now

Kayla Rekofke — Fri, 05 Oct 2012 08:59:00 -0700

All images via Pinterest

Neon Eyeliner: Is the cat eye your go-to morning makeup trick? Kick it up a notch by switching out your everyday black or brown with something bright and fun. I love to do a bright blue, electric green, or bold yellow. And you don’t have to spend a lot to try out something new; hit up your local Freddies, Walgreens, or whatevs to scope out the selection by Wet n Wild or other cheapies.

Vampy lips: It sounds pretty dramatic, but try a dark lip ranging from kinda bold to extra daring with hues varying from blackberry all the way to black. Keep the rest of your look neutral to avoid looking like an actual goth.

Hair Extensions: Call me crazy, but I’m super excited about clip-in extensions. Over the past couple of years affordable, natural looking options have become readily available. Look for some locally at Mid-K Beauty. Super long has never looked so hot.

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