Charlotte Tilbury's Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask Review

Charlotte Tilbury's Instant Magic Facial Dry Sheet Mask has to be one of the most innovative wonders in the beauty world that I've seen in a while! Guys-- it's dry! No cold, wet paper slipping down your face, and no residue left behind. And can we also just say YAY for ear loops?! I think all masks need to incorporate ear loops! You can actually get stuff done while wearing the mask, and while sometimes I may be masking one out in the bath, other times I need to multi-task!

If you saw on Instagram stories I had recently tried Charlotte's Dry Sheet Face Mask. You're probably wondering how it works since it doesn't feel like you're wearing anything at all. Well, it uses a biomimetic vector delivery system which releases the skin mimicking ingredients over time. All you do is unfold the mask, apply to face and massage into the skin for a few minutes. You leave it on for 15 minutes, and ready for the best part?! You can use it 3 times! I was super excited about this and it makes the investment totally worthwhile.

I'm not going to lie, I usually find sheet masks to be uncomfortable and I don't really notice any results. I just end up feeling sticky and wash my face afterwards. I was beyond impressed with the results of this mask. Not only did my face feel incredibly soft and smooth, it looked so hydrated and bright. There is a reason why it's called "magic"! If you looking for instant amazing results you need the mask. So perfect to use to get gorgeous, glowing skin before a big night or outing! 

Side note--I recently treated myself to Charlotte's Magic Cream, and have not looked back since. Trust me when I say this is the day cream of your dreams. Anti-aging, SPF 15, contains hyaluronic acid (read up on my thoughts on Hyaluronic acid here!) and rosehip oil and it's paraben-free. Pair it with the mask for the ultimate beauty experience! 

So why do you need the mask? Here's why:

*It's dry-- no stickiness, no bacteria harboring!

*Can use up to 3 times -- totally worth it!

*Actual results-- skin is hydrated, brighter, smoother, wrinkles and lines reduces and face looks visibly lifted!

This mask was given to me for review, however, all thoughts and opinions on the mask and experience are my own. Try out Charlotte's magic for yourself!

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Chocolate Chia Mousse from Joyous Detox & Giveaway

Okay- let me just say that Joy from Joyous Health is probably one of the sweetest, most genuine people I've come across in the food blogging world! She's a certified holistic nutritionist, author, blogger, mother and to top it up she is insanely bubbly and always smiling! She changed her life and her health with food and has since gone on to do such amazing things, all while inspiring others to live happy, healthy lives. 

I first started following her blog, Joyous Health and became hooked on her simple, incredibly healthy and delicious recipes. I was so excited to finally meet her at the launch of her second book, 'Joyous Detox', which is a detox plan and cookbook. I literally started bookmarking every page because I loved learning about all the foods and how to fuel your bod in the best way possible. Oh, and the recipes are just amazing! The spinach-chicken burgers are like a weekly thing in my kitchen... and don't get me started on the dips! Soooo delish! And ridiculously easy to throw together. 

Today I'm teaming up with Joy to share one of my favourite desserts/snacks from the book-- the Chocolate Chia Mousse. I'm also giving away a copy of her new book, Joyous Detox! The mousse is so creamy, naturally sweetened and packed with superfood ingredients to make you feel good. You'll never need another box of pudding mix again! Be sure to stop by on Instagram today to enter. And trust me on this one... if you're always on the go, looking to make simple yet delicious recipes and learn how to fuel your bod with the best, it's a recipe book you need in your life!

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

Chocolate Chia Mousse

Ingredients:
4 Medjool dates pitted
1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1/2 cup raw cacao powder
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup real maple syrup

Directions:

1. Soak dates in water for 2 hours. Drain
2. Add dates, coconut milk, cacao powder, chia seeds and maple syrup to blender and blend until combined.
3. Chill for 30 minutes or so.
4. Pour into bowls and garnish with additional toppings such as strawberries, bananas, cacao nibs, or coconut flakes.

Huge thanks to Penguin Books Canada for gifting me the book, and to Joy McCarthy for offering to give away a copy of her book!

What You Need to Know About Hyaluronic Acid

What is Hyaluronic Acid and why is it all the rage right now? Is it just me or is this ingredient popping up everywhere and in just about every product as of late. I was recently introduced to the ingredient and now I can't seem to find a company that isn't promoting the benefits of it. Since I really had no idea what's going on regards to H.A., I wanted to break it down plain and simple so we all can figure out just what the heck it does. 

Is it natural?
Yes. Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring substance in our bodies. It's not even an acid, it's actually a sugar. But, over time, aka as we age, our bodies produce less and less of it which means more wrinkles and cartilage destruction. Boo. But the good news is that we can at least apply it topically to get that plumpness back. 

What does it do?
It binds and locks in moisture, so it has a firming effect on the skin that tightens tones and plumps. It also holds 1,000 times its weight in water, so that's where we get the supple plumpness from. 

Can I get it from other substances?
Yes-- magnesium rich foods like dark greens, nuts, seeds, bananas and dark chocolate can all stimulate its production. You can also inject it (i.e. fillers) to regain some of your lost Hyaluronic acids. 

Yes or no-- What's the verdict?
Applying it topically will moisturize and hydrate your skin and leave your skin looking plump and firm. Injecting it is the only way to actually increase your levels on HA, though. Don't know about you but I'm fine with just the dewy moisture from serums and creams!

My results.  
I've been using the SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier for about a month now and can report that my skin does have such a dewy, moisturized glow to it! Especially if I apply it before bed. The H.A. Intensifier increases the appearance of refreshed and hydrated skin, and it makes it feel so soft! It's a product you can actually see working (which can be rare)!

I also used the Flawless by Friday Mesmereyes, which is a three-day eye treatment. The blue one (to be used on the first day), is all about hydration, so it's obvious that H.A. would be one of the active ingredients. Once again I found incredibly great results and the eye mask was incredibly cooling and fresh feeling (no gross residue). Dewy, hydrated and rid me of all the consequences of a late night and one too many glasses of vino. Almost as if I just had an injection! The results lasted well into the next day, too! 

Both products gave me great results and the effects are long-lasting. Overall, it may be temporary but since I'm not interested in getting any injections, I am totally okay with this! It's just a fact that to totally restore the skins' H.A. you need it to penetrate the skin. If you want to gain some moisture back into your face, have some wicked plump, dewy skin I would definitely try them out!  

Have you tried any products with Hyaluronic acid? I've posted more below that you can shop! Let me know what works for you.

You can read more on H.A. here, here, and here. 

I was given both products to test out for review however, all opinions are my own. 

SkinCeuticals H.A. Intensifier will be available for $120 CAD in May 2017 at medi-spas and dermatologist offices nationally.

Flawless by Friday Mesmereyes are available at Trade Secrets locations and at TradeSecrets.CA

Shop some more products that contain H.A. :

Polka Dot Pant

Just when you thought winter was on its way out we were graced with winter wrath in the form of snow and extreme temperatures. But it's funny because you could never tell by these photos, right? My mood, energy and overall levels of positivity are generally dictated by the amount of sunshine. It could be -16 and be starting to flurry but if the sun is shining I am a happy girl. I wore this outfit last weekend for brunch at Lavelle. 

Two things I love about this outfit. The high waisted polka dot pants are a nice change from classic all black and I love how they accent the chrome heeled bootie. And also the texture play between the leather perforated top and the faux fur coat. Each element really kicks up the drama but it's still casual enough for Sunday brunch for a rooftop brunch, 16 stories up, at Chez Lavelle. Even though I had to pull a fast one and remove my coat for the shots, I think it was worth it because I'm hoping it will one of the last black on black looks for a while, since spring officially kicks off this week! I could not be more excited. 

I can't wait to wear flats, frolick in the late afternoon sun, and enjoy some perfectly crisp rosé. What about you? What are you most looking forward to this spring? 

What I'm Wearing: H&M coat (similar), Haight & Ashbury Crop Top (similar), RW&CO Modern Stretch Printed Legging, Rebecca Minkoff marble MAB mini (similar), Zara silver heeled boot (similar), Celine sunglasses 

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Almond Butter Super Seed and Goji Granola Bar

These are the ultimate energy boosting, superfood snack! You guys, I can't stop eating these bars. First of all, you should know that I am a huge granola fan. I would eat it every day if I could keep it around long enough. I'm just a huge nut and seed lover, so when I saw this recipe on Ambitious Kitchen I literally jumped to the pantry.

Make these easy, energy boosting almond butter, sunflower seed and goji granola bars tonight! 

I adapted the recipe just a bit with what I had on hand. Subbed out the sunflower butter with almond butter, took a pass on the dried figs and added in goji berries and raisins instead. I also took a pass on the chocolate drizzle to keep them more breakfast friendly. Still loaded with sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, quinoa, flax meal, chia, and oats, they are beyond good, and good for you! Although the original recipe is nut-free (mine is not), these are still gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats. The almond butter and honey come together to create such a subtly sweet, chewy mixture that binds all the tastiness together and then every once in a while you'll get a sweet pop from a raisin or goji! I just made these on the weekend and must divulge that there are barely any left! B even approves! (I love it when he approves of my nutty creations!)

They are so incredibly easy to put together and if you don't count toasting the seeds they really are a no-bake. I urge you to make these as soon as possible. They are the ultimate superfood bar and you know exactly what is going into them. Later grocery store bars with added sugars and weirdo ingredients!

Superseed Granola Bars
Makes 10-12 bars

Ingredients:
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup uncooked quinoa
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup raw almond butter (or any nut/seed butter you have)
1/3 cup honey
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp cinnamon
pinch of sea salt
1/4 cup flaxseed meal
1 tbsp chia seeds
1/3 cup mixed dried fruit (I used goji berries and raisins)

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F
2. Spread oats, quinoa, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds on parchment lined baking sheet and toast for 10 minutes
3. While toasting, place almond butter, honey, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt into sauce pot and simmer on low heat until combined
4. Remove from heat and add to bowl with toasted oat/quinoa mixture
5. Add in flaxseed meal, chia seeds, and dried fruit
6. Line a 9x5 baking dish with parchment paper and pour in the granola bar mixture
7. Pack down tightly with your hands (you may need to get your hands a bit wet to pack down)
8. Place in freezer for 20 minutes to set, then move to fridge

I like to enjoy these at room temperature! Get ready for a seriously delicious and good for you burst of energy with these little ones.

Recipe adapted from Ambitious Kitchen

DIY Straw Clutch

After I rounded up my favourite woven bags here I just had to put together a MUCH more affordable DIY version. I knew they would quickly make their way to Toronto, and they officially have, which can only mean one thing-- hello, spring! I love my DIY version for the round shape, size and just for the fact that it cost me $2.00 to make. It's going to be such a summer staple!  The project took all of five minutes to put together and while it may not be as polished as the ones you'll find in the stores, it's a fun piece to take with you just about anywhere this spring/summer. I am so eager for spring like weather... can you tell? I had just to whip it out this weekend for a quick coffee date. Also, can we discuss this bell sleeve v-neck top? It's from the Who What Wear line at Target and I can't get enough of the tie-up arms! So cute! Okay, now back to the bag... Ready to see how easy it is to make?

What You'll Need:

1. 2 woven trays/thin baskets that are roughly the same size (I found mine at Value Village in the home section). I opted for one slighter deeper than the other to create more of a clutch style.
2. 2 pieces of small fabric (I used some random 2-inch leather I had, you can use string too). It's to permanently close one end of the bag.
3. An old chain bracelet or necklace that has a clasp.

How to Make:

1. Lay 1 woven tray on top of the other ensuring the outer rims meet all the way around the 2 pieces.
2. Twist the trays looking for decent sized "holes" or openings/gaps in both pieces of the tray that will allow you to weave a piece of fabric or string through.
3. Take a piece of fabric/leather/string (whatever you have on hand) and weave it through both pieces. Tie tightly to secure of if using fabric like me (glue gun the piece together).
4. On the opposite end of the bag take a piece of chain and weave it through the top of the two woven pieces. This will act as your clasp on the top of the bag. You may need to cut your chain smaller to make for a tighter clasp (use proper pliers if needed). The bracelet I used has a basic lobster clasp so I can easily open and close the bag. Adjust your chain accordingly.
5.*If your bag doesn't have handles try weaving a strap or chain of your desired length through the sides as well.

What I'm Wearing:
AEO Denim X4 Skinny Jean, Who What Wear Bell Sleeve Vee, DIY woven clutch, Sam Edelman leopard D'Orsay Pump (similar, similar)

Check out my DIY pillow case clutch here!

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Black Babydoll Dress

A definite change up from my usual style has me feeling kind of dramatic in this black babydoll dress and over the knee boot combo. Sometimes it's nice to switch things up and get into a black on black ensemble. A few weekends ago I did run over the border to stock up on some essentials at Target and Trader Joe's. (Side note-- guys... I seriously love Trader Joe's. It's an addiction! Make it a point to visit next time you are in the Niagara Falls, NY area. It really is just a hop, skip, and a jump over the border! Stock up on all the cheap nuts, nut butter, kombucha and pantry items you will ever need!) I came across this babydoll dress at Target and thought it was the cutest thing. The slit sleeves, the lace detailing on the front and the way it billows under the bust are what sold me.

I have to say... I haven't bought a black dress in a LONG time. I am just far more gravitated towards all the blush and floral the world can offer, but something about this one caught my eye.  I'm looking forward to wearing this dress more and more as the weather gets warmer, but for now, I am pairing it with my over the knee boots. I may have done this for protection from the wind but I ended up loving the look of the mini paired with the boots. It's fun and retro, yet still sleek! To keep things fun I went with a bright lip. The Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipsticks are seriously matte perfection. They last all day and don't smudge! So smooth, deep in colour and they don't dry out! I'm hooked on them and you should be too. Next, I need to get my hands on "Stepping Out". What do you think of the look?

What I'm Wearing: Target Lace Babydoll dress, Sam Edelman Elina Boots, Poppy & Peonies crossbody, Smashbox Always On Liquid Lipstick

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Cape Blazer Velvet Top

One way to seriously add some drama to your outfit? Throw on a cape blazer. Not only are they mysterious and chic, but they are down right cool. Am I right?! Leather mules, trousers and a black blazer-- the outfit just screams borrowed from the boys. A total switch up from my go-to floral dresses and skirts. I did add in a pink velvet top  (dress that is tucked in), and tassel earrings to keep things feeling fun.

This past weekend I went on a whirlwind trip to Montreal. But before that, when the weather was seriously pleasant and warm, I headed out with my mom for a quick Sunday afternoon day date. I may still have worn a jacket on top, but the sun was shining which can only mean spring is on its way. I've slowly been incorporating spring pieces into my wardrobe, like this dress that I actually tucked in to act as a shirt. It's super soft, velvety and classic blush, but it's also a mini dress. That wasn't going to stop me from wearing it. There are many ways to play with your spring wardrobe even while it's still cool out. Don't get stuck in wardrobe limbo. Whether you tuck it into your pants, layer a turtleneck underneath, or throw on a pair of tights and over the knee boots, you can dive into your spring wardrobe in winter.

What are you doing to break into your spring attire, because I know you are just itching to do it! Let me know.

What I'm Wearing: Shein Black Shawl Collar Cape Sleeve Blazer, RW&CO Modern Stretch Legging, Zara Mules, Velvet Dress (similar), Francesa's earrings, Poppy & Peonies Crossbody,

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Over The Knee Boots and a Mini Dress

I had been on the hunt for a pair of over the knee boots for years. Years, I tell you! I could never find the right ones...unless we're talking about the Stuart Weitzman pair that stole my heart years ago. But, I needed to find a pair that wouldn't break the bank! I love a good block heel for work and walking around town so I was definitely sold when I saw this pair on Amazon. I had them sitting in my closet waiting for the perfect day and a few weekend ago finally provided me the opportune moment to bring them out. The snow had melted, the sun was shining and the temperature was above 0 degrees. A lovely little taste of spring! 

I paired the boots with a pink layering overcoat and black mini sweater dress and headed out for the biggest blogger brunch I had ever attended. Layering pieces for spring are so key. This one is such a great shade and I've been getting so much wear out of it. It pairs with anything! Did you catch all the fun on Instagram Stories from the brunch, though? My dear Rebeca of Wishbone and Clover Media had put on the most fabulous affair at one of my favourite Toronto restaurants, Planta. We ate, drank, snapped pics, and mingled for hours. Since I know many of you are fellow bloggers, I'd love to know if in your towns you have a similar blogging community. One you can connect with, count on and share experiences with. Do you plan blog meet ups? Fill me in! 

What I'm Wearing: H&M sweater dress (similar), Sophie Hulme tote bag, Sam Edelman boots, Shop for Jayu V necklace, marble (similar), Celine sunglasses, Urban Behaviour coat (similar)

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