The Do’s and Don’ts of Beauty: A Cautionary Tale About Ultherapy!!!! Is It Worth The Price Tag?

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If you’ve been in the beauty world long enough like me, you’ve likely tried a few treatments to enhance your appearance. I’ve certainly explored my share of options, and recently, I’ve been reflecting on the highs and lows of my beauty journey. One treatment I would highly NOT recommend is Ultherapy—and it’s a story that I think is worth sharing. Not mine but a close friend.

A friend of mine tried  Ultherapy at a local med spa. The idea behind this treatment is to boost collagen production through ultrasound technology, which is marketed to help lift and tighten skin. It sounded promising, but after going through her procedure, she noticed some volume loss in my face months later, which was particularly concerning because they already had  a petite face. I realized that if you’re a thinner person … this might not be the best fit for your beauty goals.

It’s possible that the treatment was new at the spa and wasn’t as refined as it could have been, but this experience led me to take a deeper look into how treatments like Ultherapy affect different people—especially those with thinner faces. This journey sparked an idea: why not share these experiences to help others avoid bad advice and prevent beauty blunders?

I dig into beauty treatments—both the good and the not-so-good—and share expert advice on how to confidently navigate the beauty industry. It’s not just about looking good on the outside, but also about feeling great inside, too. I believe that when you truly love yourself, inside and out, you show up better in every area of your life. So, it’s disheartening when you spend money on a treatment with the expectation of feeling better, only to end up feeling worse. Thats why I started my passion for skin consulting and my book.

Ultherapy, in particular, can be a tricky treatment to navigate. As it’s a non-invasive skin-tightening procedure, it has been marketed as a facelift alternative, but it might not be the right choice for everyone, especially if you’re on the thinner side and already have a delicate facial structure.

What Is Ultherapy?

Ultherapy uses ultrasound technology to stimulate collagen production beneath the skin’s surface. It’s designed to lift and tighten skin, especially around the face, neck, and chest. The procedure involves using ultrasound energy to target deeper layers of the skin, which helps to tighten and firm the tissue. While it’s non-invasive and doesn’t require surgery, Ultherapy can still result in some discomfort and, as I experienced, can lead to volume loss in people with a naturally leaner face.

Key Facts About Ultherapy

  • What it targets: Ultherapy is typically used for tightening and lifting the skin on the face, neck, and chest, particularly for individuals who are starting to see signs of sagging and loose skin.
  • How it works: It uses focused ultrasound energy to stimulate collagen production deep beneath the skin. This process can help firm and tighten skin over time.
  • Treatment Duration: A single session usually lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
  • Recovery Time: There’s minimal downtime after an Ultherapy treatment, with some patients experiencing redness or swelling for a few hours.
  • Results: While results can vary from person to person, most people start to notice lifting and tightening in about 2 to 3 months after treatment as collagen begins to rebuild. The full effects can take up to six months.

Should You Try Ultherapy?

While Ultherapy has worked for some, I would urge caution if you’re someone with a more petite or thinner face. Since Ultherapy’s goal is to lift and tighten, it can sometimes lead to volume loss, which might make your features look more hollow or gaunt. It’s important to consult with your provider about whether this treatment is right for your specific needs. And remember, just because a treatment is popular doesn’t mean it’s the best option for everyone.

As I’ve learned firsthand, the beauty industry is full of potential pitfalls, and it’s easy to be swayed by the latest trends. That’s why I continue to record episodes of Reawakening Beauty, where I talk about the best ways to enhance your beauty while protecting your confidence.

Remember, self-love and confidence come from within, and when you take care of yourself—both mentally and physically—you’ll show up better in every part of your life. I hope my story helps you avoid any missteps and empowers you to make more informed choices on your beauty journey.

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more on Reawakening Beauty.

shawna patruno

Breakouts and your Skin …. Let’s Prevent some Breakouts!

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Shawna Patruno, Reawakening Beauty, ReawakeningBeauty, Skin Care Expert, Skin Care, Skin Consultation

We are continuing the conversation on breakouts because I have a lot to say about acne. If that’s something you are struggling with, keep reading.

Here are some do’s and don’ts for acne. If you have acne, sometimes less is more especially with active breakouts. I believe that anyone with active breakouts should do a double cleanse. Having a makeup remover is essential because congestion is trapped dirt and oil and a make remover helps to eliminate this congestion. So you want to make sure that you’re using something to properly cleanse your skin. I recommend using a makeup remover to get your off your sunscreen and make up. Next you will cleanse with a regular cleanser.

Ideally you should have a makeup remover, a cleanser, and a toner because depending on which cleanser you have it raises the pH balance of the skin. Finally use a moisturizer, using a non clogging, over top, spa treatment that is non comedogenic would probably be a great place to start.

After this you can then start to assess what’s really happening with your skin. Now everybody’s acne is so different, for some people they thought they had acne, however they discovered over the years that it was in fact rosacea. Rosacea and acne can sometimes seem very similar, in fact they can actually look very similar too. Both acne and rosacea can look like active pustules, so if you are dealing with this issue on your skin make sure you know which skin issue you have. I’ve talked a lot about exfoliating the skin and being careful to not over exfoliate because we all have a natural barrier on our skin. If you strip away too much of your barrier, basically this is what’s protecting your skin, you can make it more vulnerable and than it will start to break out and produce more oil. So if you are struggling with this issue, make sure that you’re not overly stripping your skin because in fact it will start to produce more oil.

It is also important to understand your skin type better. There are so many different skin types that we all have. One common misconception is that sensitivity is a type of skin, this is in fact not true. The types of skin are oily, combination, normal and dry. There’s different conditions that we can have for the skin, so understanding your skin type is super essential to combating your acne. If you would like to learn more about your specific skin type or if you have any questions about the products you’re using then reach out to me or book a personalized one-on-one skin consultation through my website.

It is also very important to understand if you have any underlying issues, so always check things such as your hormone levels to make sure they’re balanced.

Regarding your cleanser, you’ll definitely need to use an oil based cleanser to remove your makeup and sunscreen. Oil is basically the only thing that’s really going to get off your makeup. If you don’t like oil there are some bombs that will emulsify into an oil and that’s really going to break down your makeup and sunscreen. Once you have removed all of that your skin can breathe a little bit more which will help reduce or limit your active breakouts.

So in conclusion, these are some simple tips that you can do to help with active acne breakouts; use a cleanser, a toner, ideally a moisturizer, a spot treatment and a sunscreen. That’s where I would start and then if your skin doesn’t improve, I would recommend looking at things like your hormones, your stress levels, and the foods you’re eating. I hope you found this blog helpful and if you would like a personalized skin assessment and recommendations you can contact me or book a personalized skin consultation through my website.

Reawakening Beauty Microneedling, Review: What is Microneedling?!

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Microneedling is a skin care treatment and/or procedure that repeatedly punctures the skin or scalp with tiny, sterile needles in order to help build collagen by creating a bit of trauma using micro punctures in the skin, thus forcing the skin to heal itself. This is also known as CIT (collagen induction therapy) or skin needling. It has a few sister treatments that I will share soon so stay tuned ✨ on the @reawakeningbeautyblog.

What are the Benefits of Microneedling

The benefits of microneedling have been said to help with pore size, fine lines, skin density, pigmentation, texture, youthfulness, uneven skin tone and when used on the scalp hair growth.  

Who is Microneedling for?

Microneedling is for people who are concerned with aging such as issues listed above as well as anyone who wants to maintain their skin in a natural way. As we age it is said we start to lose collagen at the age of 25 as our cells start to slow down. This treatment is said to help produce collagen so it would be perfect for someone looking for a collagen induction treatment or skin prevention treatment of premature aging.

Who Should Not Have Microneedling?

People who are acne prone people with active breakouts, in my opinion this will puncture the breakouts and spread bacteria to other areas of your face causing more breakouts. I would not recommend this treatment for people who hate needles. If you are on blood thinners or are a cancer patient in radiation or chemo, this treatment is not recommended for you. If you have done botox and filler in the month or if you have done another intense facial. Always tell the facialist and or doctor if you are considering this treatment of any allergies or health issues.

Reawakening Beauty Guidelines for Picking a Quality Place…Who should you go to?

I highly recommend finding a reputable person you trust who has a clean, sterile environment, has been educated and has been working in the practice for a while. Ensure they have a degree and are a board certified dermatologist, nurse or medical aesthetician who has been working for more than a year. You can also check if you can view their own before and after photos from previous clients.

Beauty Expert Pre-Treatment: How Should I Prepare for my Microneedling Appointment?

In order to prepare for this treatment, the week before ensure you come off actives such as retinol. Also plan it carefully with your schedule as you will need to take two days off make up & a week prior to a major events. Also plan to stay out of the sun afterwards for a week after.

What is the Procedure for Microneedling

Most places use a microneedling pen in the office or a roller if done at home, which I personally do not recommend the at home version as you could tear the skin or cause an infection if you don’t know what you are doing. There is a sister treatment which is similar but stay tuned for my next facial article in the coming weeks and my new podcast episodes.

What to Expect from a Beauty Expert?

They should start by asking a series of questions (listed below 👇)

Reawakening Beauty Expert Guidelines a Professional Should Ask:

  • Are you on any blood thinners?
  • Are you on any medication?
  • Do you have any filler?
  • Do you have any allergies to numbing agents?
  • When was your last beauty treatment filler appointment or facial such as beauty booster or laser?
  • Are you using retinol

They will start by thoroughly cleansing your face and then applying a topical freezing agent on you. After the freezing has taken affect they will begin by using the pen with a clean, new tip. The pen will have different settings such as the speed and the depth of skin treatment. These settings will be decided based on your skin sensitivity and if you are new to the procedure. They will run it over your face causing a bit of redness, by creating micro punctures, remember your face should be numbed beforehand and your skin should be cleaned.

Beauty Expert Post-Treatment: What Should I Expect After Microneedling?

You may be a bit red with tiny prick marks, sometimes your face might be slightly more puffy hence no big dates that night or next day.

Be sure not to use make up for at least 12 to 24 hours after the treatment. Also avoid excessive heat or exercise for 24 to 48 hours after. Use hydration after care products, these are often given from the office with simple, non-active ingredients such as real hyaluronic acid or calming ingredients. 24 hours after, use sunscreen I always choose a mineral based one and serum for a week or a gentle moisturizer that won’t clog your pores. Avoid actives like retinol and vitamin C for about a week afterwards as well. And lastly, don’t exfoliate for 72 hours. Often these places will give you a post treatment kit or serum so you dont use the wrong thing.

Reawakening Beauty Expert Recommendation

I personally have done microneedling and from a cost, effective standpoint I think microneedling is amazing. With multiple treatments it’s better for your bank account and just as effective than very expensive treatments, if you work with a great provider. Stay tuned for the next blog talking about the beauty booster facial.

Retinol 101: Do’s & Don’ts

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Model: Shawna Patruno
Photographer: Margaritaua Photography
Agency: Orange Models
All Rights Reserved

Retinol, also known as Retina A, is such a hot topic for its anti aging properties, keeping pores at bay and helping you keep a clear, blemish free glowing complexion.

Dermatologists talk about it being the gold standard of anti aging ingredients. Retinol helps boost your cell turnover. It helps produce collagen, it’s important as we age to keep our collagen in tact so we can look youthful longer. Collagen depreciates for everybody at about the age of 25. In order to trick the hands of time we can add retinol into our skin care routine and encourage rapid cell turnover so your skin acts younger.

If you are using retinol you’ll need to be using a minimum SPF 30 (the higher the better up to SPF 60) be sure to apply every 3 to 4 hours to protect your new cells and prevent photo-aging (a.k.a dark spots).

Do not apply a retinol in the day time. In all my research and trainings I was told that is a big “no no”. Instead apply at night and allow it work while you sleep. Trust me you will thank me for this tip alone.

Another major tip is to start slow. Start once a week to avoid massive peeling and thinning of the skin. Less is more until you build up.

The seasons and the weather also need to be considered with retinol use. Do not start the use of retinol in the summer months to avoid unneeded sun exposure. Trust me I learned this the hard way. This simple mistake will cost you hundreds of dollars in corrective measures.

Make sure you are using the right moisturizer, you may need to switch for the duration of your retinol routine. Also you’ll need to use a great exfoliator in tandem.

Keep the basics such as a cleanser, toner, moisturizer with SPF 30 to 60 and exfoliator. It’s important to note that retinol is an added tool, not a replacement.

Be careful when applying it and avoid the eye area. The skin around your eye is way too thin and sensitive for this concentration of retinol.

Check with your doctor if you are on any medication that could make your skin thin or sensitive to burning and tell your skin advisor if you have any illness that impacts your skin.

Lastly, create a plan with a professional, don’t go in blind! Most likely you will get pink and when you increase your usage you will peel, this is completely normal.

Beauty Expert Review! OxyGeneo, the Best Facial in the Greater Toronto Area?

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Shawna Patruno, Oxygeneo Facial, Facial, Skin Care Review, Beauty Expert, Orangemodels, Toronto Model, Beauty Expert, Reawakening Beauty, Model, Model Management, Portrait

My most recent beauty find was the OxyGeneo Facial at Allure Medical Spa in Hamilton Ontario. This is a three-in-one facial in which Allure uses medical grade ingredients to ensure you achieve the best results. 

Facial Assessment

When I first arrived at Allure I was treated to a skin assessment and cleansing. This process was completed to ensure they found the best beauty treatment for me. They assessed my skin under six different lighting settings allowing them to assess skin damage in all forms including; photoaging, inflammation, texture pigmentation, redness, and fine line wrinkles. 

Shawna Patruno Beauty Expert. Skin Consultation.
Skin Assessment from Allure Medical Aesthetics

OxyGeneo Facial

An OxyGeneo Facial is a treatment that uses 3 steps to renew and anti age the skin using exfoliation, infusion and adding oxygen into the skin resulting in a beautiful glow.

The ingredients in the facial are said to be vegan, natural and paraben free, which I am a large advocate for. For those who don’t know, parabens can disrupt your hormones and lead to health issues.

The best part about this facial is that it is customizable to suit your individual needs such as balancing, brightening or revitalization (this is the one that I did). It uses red algae to help reduce fine lines, improve texture and give you refreshed hydrated skin. They come in individualized pucks with unique benefits.

Facial Process

The facial is completed in three different steps which are detailed below: 

Step 1: Exfoliate

This process removes the topical layer of dead skin. It reminded me of wet microdermabrasion with a bit of a kick. It felt kind of spicy, almost like a chemical peel, which I personally do love. While it was being performed I did however wonder if I would end up looking like a tomato afterwards as I am very prone to redness. Surprisingly I did not!

Step 2: Oxygenate

This uses something called the bohr effect which results in a natural body process that oxygenates blood cells. This process will help your cells to function younger and healthier resulting in a more youthful appearance.

Step 3: Infusion of Serum

During this process things like hyaluronic acid are added for hydration, vitamin C for brightening or anti-aging ingredients like peptides to help increase collagen production. 

Facial Results

The Oxygeneo Facial will produce immediate results making your skin baby soft and glowy. As time passes you will begin to see improved texture in your skin and will notice that your products work more effectively. This is the part that I loved the most as normally my skin looks best immediately after a facial, but with the Oxygeneo Facial my skin continued to improve even two weeks after the treatment. 

I would recommend booking an appointment with Allure and having them personally assess your skin, and if you choose to do the OxyGeneo Facial ….. Get ready for the ultimate facial experience!

Website: http://www.alluremedical.ca

For other beauty expert finds in the Greater Toronto Area click the links below

Beauty Expert Review! Cryotherapy, Worth the Hype?

Beauty Expert Review! Mesotherapy, Healing the Skin with Vitamins

The Best Anti-Aging Treatment in Canada for your Skin and to Boost your Confidence

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Hi, in case you are new to Reawakening Beauty my name is Shawna Patruno. I review the best skin and body treatments so that you don’t end up wasting your money. I provide you with health hacks to look beautiful, have healthy skin, boost your brain health and feel confident from head to toe.

A while back I was very stressed and so I took a vacation to Blue Mountain. While there I had the opportunity to visit the famous Scandinavian Spa where I got a massage and did the circuit of the baths including; hot tub, cold plunge, sitting by the fire and back into the pool. My amazing friend joined me and I am so glad she did because we rocked the cold baths so much that a man asked if we were training to become a Navy Seal. I told him we weren’t, we were just seeing how far we could push our mind and body into submission. The answer for me was five minutes sitting in a tub filled with freezing cold water.

At this moment you’re probably thinking, that sounds completely unenjoyable, but I assure you after five rounds of doing the circuit your body is forced to relax and you’re submerged into the present moment. The only thing I didn’t love was the locker size and the fact that you had to be completely silent.

“Scandinavian Baths and Hydrotherapy circuits have many benefits including cleansing the body, stimulating blood circulation and releasing of endorphins.”

https://www.scandinave.com/blue-mountain/en/baths/

It’s all about the eyes, making aging beautiful!

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Tip Tuesday for aging around the eyes! Last week we spoke about how aging doesn’t need to be scary and I educated you on collagen loss…

Well this week we are going to talk about your eyes, aka the window to the soul … The skin around your eyes is very thin and it’s the first place you age along with the lips.

However we can prevent this, woo hoo! So listen up …

An eye cream in your 20s, 30s and 40s is essential, but be careful because if you pick the wrong one you can develop Milia, and that is not fun. Milia are small cysts that can develop around the eye area. They are not pimples and attempting to pop them can cause further inflammation, damage and scarring.

How about we let your fresh eyes make everyone wonder how you’re aging so well (or hardly aging at all)! I use a vegan luxury eye cream. This gives all skin types a youthful glow while reducing the appearance of puffiness, fine lines and dark circles thanks to a special combination of caffeine = isn’t for everyone

I use a vegan retinol alternative that has been better tolerated by the skin. This anti-aging eye cream formula also features Plant Stem Cell, vitamin C, Peptides and Vitamin B3 to improve the appearance of skin tone around the eyes for an overall healthier, younger-looking appearance that all skin types (including sensitive) will love. This product is allergy tested, dermatologist-tested.

Beauty Expert Review! Mesotherapy, Healing the Skin with Vitamins!

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The goal when doing mesotherapy is to allow your skin to work in tandem with the vitamins to heal any issues, boost collagen and the elastin production.

Mesotherapy uses multiple micro injections of minerals, plant extracts, amino acids, vitamins, and other ingredients like hyaluronic acid that are put in the skin in order to help the skin heal. It helps with pores, scars, hydration , fine lines, lack lustre skin, loss of elasticity and premature aging.

The procedure takes about 30 mins and can hurt a little if your face isn’t frozen completely. Through the treatment you’ll be enduring multiple micro needles injected all over the face. You’ll bleed for sure, as it’s going into the skin and you’ll be left with little dots of solution which will dissolve within a day.

They have different types of mesotherapy, some are just cocktails of vitamins and other have more hyaluronic acid to help with lost hydration or volume.

A mesofacial depending on the concern can very from different vitamins and can range anywhere from $125 to $500 dollars depending on what you choose to heal your skin with.

It will not freeze the skin movement like Botox or fill your face like a filler, it will just make the foundation of the skin to be stronger, allowing your face to look more youthful and hydrated & Over time the issues you were concerned will dissolve.

I do it once a year at most, as my skin is pretty healthy and I maintain my skin at home. However, if you are correcting issues you may need to do it more frequently.

I started doing mesotherapy because I wanted to prevent wrinkles and keep my skin young. Based on my results I do enjoy it and I know it does help to maintain my youthful skin.

If you would like to work with me personally to find unbiased skin care advice please email me and I’ll set up a consultation

Vitamin shot, yes please

Beauty Expert Review! Is Cryotherapy worth the hype?

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What standing in a literal freezing chamber pretty much naked can do for your body, mind and health for only 3 minuets and why it was one of the first things I did when things opened up from covid.

First off the definition of Cryotherapy is a treatment of extreme cold temperatures, using liquid nitrogen on the body to go anywhere from -160c to -196c in an enclosed space for 1 to 3 minutes. You are simply in your undies with knee high socks, gloves and slippers to protect yourself. It’s a great look!

Cryotherapy tricks your body to go into survival mode. These frigid temperatures trick your body into thinking something extreme is going to happen. Making your major organs the prime focus and therefore your mind sends signals to redirect all you blood to protect your organs. Once completed and you leave the chamber, your mind realizes it’s “safe” again and starts pumping new oxygen rich blood throughout the body. It decreases toxins with the extreme blast of cold.

Its said to decrease inflammation, help produce collagen, detox the blood, boost metabolism, heal injuries faster, improve sleep, hair and elevate your mood and it did all these things for me.

After 5 treatments I noticed a significant decrease in the swelling in my knee, a decrease in pain for up to 4 to 6 hours afterwards, I slept like a peaceful baby that night, my skin looked more toned on my face and body. My water retention also decreased. I noticed an elevation in my mood and my hair is shiny and more manageable, which is rare for me. The results are temporary at this point.

I have done over 50 treatments ish in total to see if the results are long term and honestly this treatment rocks and I’m addicted to my skin looking firmer, and my eyes looking brighter and pain management. You do have to keep up with it so I go at least twice a month now ✨

I would invest in cryotherapy if you are in pain or your an athletic person with aches and pains. It would be highly beneficial if you are jet legged from travelling, as it instantly gives you a jolt of energy. There are skin benefits, but I can’t say if they are long lasting at this point. I’ve been doing it for two years and it has been such a help. However be careful where you go as you need someone experienced.

I would say it’s worth a shot at least once and decide for yourself, however, i f you have heart problems or health issues check with your doctor before proceeding.

Now go freeze your ass of literally 😉 Seriously it burns extra calories too 🌿

How to find happiness in the chaos!

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Everything happens for a reason: the good, the bad, & the ugly…

I know this is a cliche you have heard many times. How bad do you want to punch me in the face this second? Here’s the thing no one likes struggle, but what if I can switch up your mind set and shake up your world. Give me until the end of this blog post to do so.

This statement was born because every time I forced something to be different was when I suffered. It was always chaos, heartbreak, illness and I am not saying give up, but I am saying accept it. Two very different things.

When I accepted what my reality was and moved in fluidity to this I was gifted something better out of chaos and rebel. It was like a dance where you let life lead and you are gifted a new blessing from your demise.

My life was not a cookie cutter life, we moved around a lot, I was poor, bullied and constantly felt alone. My mom was ill and was in and out of hospitals. She did her best, but People judged us and I learned fast to act happy and to be whatever I needed to be to survive.

I would often wish for friends, a mom who wasn’t sick, a stable home, to travel and was constantly trying to change everything. Force, force, force which resulted in pain, pain, pain!
However, I surrendered and accepted some huge pain points, such as, I can’t learn the same way as before because of brain aneurysm and accepting that I had a severe ED and moved through it. I was gifted with a real best friend and some amazing blessings.
I grew stronger from the ashes and that paved the way for friendships, love, a purpose and authentic relationships.

When I pushed for what I thought was right, I was often scorned. When I fought for friends they often betrayed me. When I fought for my moms approval my eating disorder got worse & when I fought for anything it often blew up in my face. Trust the process, let it go it’s not for you… Surrender!

DIY Flaxseed and Hibiscus Sheet Mask Recipe

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Dried hibiscus flowers on a white background.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp flaxseeds
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 tbsp hibiscus powder
  • Rice paper (for the sheet mask) optional you can apply the mask with a brush too

Instructions:

1. Make the gel: In a small bowl, combine the flaxseeds, water, and hibiscus powder. Mix well.

2. Let it sit:  Cover and let the mixture sit overnight so it thickens into a gel in the fridge.

Prep the sheet mask  In the morning, cut your rice paper into face-sized pieces eyes, nose, and mouth openings if you want

4. Soften: Soak the rice paper in warm water for 3–4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and flexible.

5. Apply:  Spread the flaxseed-hibiscus gel onto your face, then place the softened rice paper on top to create your sheet mask

6. Relax:  Leave it on for about 10–15 minutes, then peel off and rinse if needed

7. Do : A test patch before applying all over behind the ears or on the wrist 

A visually appealing DIY recipe for a flaxseed and hibiscus sheet mask, featuring ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and decorative design elements.

🎄 Get Glowing Christmas Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub!!

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Close-up of a jar of homemade Christmas Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub on a speckled surface, surrounded by round white cotton pads and a small wooden stick.

Looking for the perfect festive DIY treat? This Christmas Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub smells like warm holiday baking and leaves your skin soft, glowy, and pampered. It’s super simple, made with natural ingredients, and perfect for gifting — or keeping all to yourself!

✨ What You Need

  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice (or 1 teaspoon for a lighter scent)
  • ¼ cup coconut sugar (or regular sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground vanilla bean
  • Almond oil (add until you like the consistency)
  • 1 tbs cinnamon 

🎁 How to Make It

  1. Mix the pumpkin spice, cinnamon and sugar.
  2. Add the vanilla extract and ground vanilla bean.
  3. Slowly pour in almond oil and stir until the scrub becomes thick and scoopable.
  4. Spoon into a cute little jar — done!

💛 Why Body Scrubs Are Amazing

  • Smooth, soft, glowing skin
  • Removes dry, dead skin
  • Helps your skin absorb moisture better
  • Boosts circulation
  • Smells delicious and feels relaxing

🕒 Shelf Life

2–3 weeks. Keep water out of the jar.

A beautifully styled recipe card for a Christmas Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub, featuring a list of ingredients and instructions, decorated with festive elements and a soft color palette.

My Makeup & Skincare Empties, Honest Reviews…..

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Portrait of a woman with long, straight, blonde hair, wearing a black denim jacket, against a neutral background. She has a natural makeup look and an expression that conveys confidence.

Here is a little breakdown of trying these products. There’s something so satisfying about finishing up beauty products you truly used and loved (or maybe didn’t love.)


O-Bloos™ Rosi Glow Drops with Vitamin F Price 53.USD Shop At Sephora

These rosi drops are such a beautiful way to add a fresh tint to your skin. Perfect for those days you’re only wearing sunscreen, but you want a bit of colour and life. I love mixing them into my moisturizer or sunscreen, or using them as a light blush on the cheeks.

Why I love it:

  • Adds a natural, healthy flush without feeling like makeup
  • Blends seamlessly into skincare
  • Keeps skin dewy rather than sticky

✨ Verdict: Definitely a repurchase for me

Caudalie Vinoperfect Brightening Dark Spot Serum Price: $82 USD

I finally finished this bottle, and wow . it’s such a beautiful brightening serum. It evens out tone without any irritation and gives your skin that soft, luminous finish.

Why I love it:

  • Gentle but effective (no harsh AHAs sting)
  • Evens out dark spots and discoloration
  • Absorbs quickly, layers beautifully under moisturizer
  • Verdict: 100% repurchase. It’s perfect for most skin types, especially if you want brightness without the burn

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Lip Blur in Pillow Talk Blur Price: $47.50 USD

This was one of those formulas that completely surprised me. It gives that blurred, velvety finish with a comfortable matte feel no cracking and dryness.

What I liked:

  • Smooth, cushiony texture that feels light and hydrating
  • Soft matte finish that blurs fine lines
  • Long wear without feeling heavy

I probably wouldn’t repurchase this While the shade is iconic, it just didn’t suit my undertone perfectly.Verdict: Wouldn’t buy again

DermResults Solutions Lip Serum **Shop Here ← ($40 USD)

This was a newer addition to my lip care lineup and ended up being a nice surprise. It’s a serum designed to plump and hydrate the lips, ideal for daily use or before lipstick. which I love.

What I liked:

  • Adds hydration and smoothness instantly
  • Subtle plumping with mint fresh tingle
  • Great base for matte lipstick or bedtime repair

👄 Verdict: I loved it and I would repurchase it, new favourite.

EMPTIES I WOULD REPURCHASE : GLOW UP ADDITION!

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A young woman sitting thoughtfully in a modern brown armchair, dressed in a light pink top and black jeans, styled with black heels.

I am always on the hunt for products that truly deliver, and these ones made it to the empties pile for a reason.

First up, the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray This keeps my makeup locked in, gives that soft-focus glow, and helps with longevity.

When it comes to lip care, I’ve been loving the Pharmacy Apple Lip Mask which is super hydrating and smells amazing.

I also used the Arbonne Lip Mask gentle, nourishing, and perfect as an overnight treatment and one more little gem: the lip oil is a lightweight, nourishing oil that gives my lips a soft sheen and hydration boost throughout the day

These are all products I truly love and will keep coming back to. Hope you find something here that becomes a favourite for you too!

Bloody Rose Vegan Calming Jell-O 🫀

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A visually appealing image of Bloody Rose Vegan Calming Jell-O with ingredients and instructions for preparation. The dish is presented in a bowl, showcasing a rich red hue, surrounded by decorative elements such as rose petals.

A spooky-sweet, calming treat that’s as good for your nerves as it is for your skin.

Ingredients

  • 1 packet vegan Jell-O mix
  • 1 tsp rose powder
  • 1 scoop calming elixir
  • Water (as directed on Jell-O packet)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Jell-O according to package instructions.
  2. While warm, stir in rose powder and calming elixir.
  3. Pour into mold or bowl and refrigerate for 2 hours.
  4. Serve chilled — soft, soothing, and deliciously eerie.
  5. mix up to make it look like blood

Skincare Benefits

  • Rose Powder brightens skin and reduces inflammation.
  • Calming Elixir helps combat stress-related breakouts and dullness.

Blue Glow Goddess Smoothie

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Ingredients

Easy, tasty, and perfect for beginners!

  • 1/2 cup Cranberries
  • 1 cups Filtered Water
  • 2 scoops of Greens Powder (or this skin and hair elixir)
  • Evivie Sapphire 1 or 1/2 Wheel

Reawakening Beauty Method:

Makes 2 servings

1 blend and serve in 2 cups. It’s full of vitamins in antioxidants.

Follow Reawakening Beauty and Reawakening Beauty Podcast for more skin tips, self care tips and recipes.

Benefits: antioxidants, which are said to help protect your body from oxidative stress, potentially slowing down the aging process and benefiting your skin health.  @shawnapatruno @reawakeningbeauty

Berry Glow Smoothie Bowl

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Wet Ingredients:

  • ¾ cup Blueberries
  • ½ cup Raspberries
  • ½ or cup Strawberry Kombucha
  • ½ cup Almond Milk
  • 1 tbsp Sea Moss Gel

Dry Ingredients:

Toppings (optional):

  • 1 scoop Peanut Butter
  • Fresh Blueberries (to your liking)

Instructions:

Place all wet and dry ingredients into a blender (preferably glass) and blend until smooth. Be careful when removing the lid of the blender and the Kombucha is carbonated. Add optional topping to your liking.

2 Skin Benefits:

  1. Sea moss is rich in collagen-supporting nutrients like zinc and vitamin C, helping to improve skin elasticity.
  2. Berries are packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals, reducing signs of aging and promoting a healthy glow.

Easy and fun Vegan Naan Bread Pizza

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Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 15–18 minutes
Makes: 1–2 servings per naan

🧀 Ingredients:

  • 1 piece naan bread (gluten-free if needed) better if struggling with your skin
  • 2–3 tbsp low-sugar pasta sauce
  • ¼ cup chopped mushrooms
  • ½ cup shredded cheese (mozzarella dairy-free) vegan 
  • Optional: extra toppings (e.g. cooked spinach, bell peppers) drizzle hot sauce if desired after it is cooked

🔥 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place naan on a baking sheet.
  3. Spread sauce evenly over the naan.
  4. Add mushrooms and any other toppings.
  5. Top with cheese.
  6. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are slightly crisp.
  7. Cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve or pack.

do you struggle with Perfectionism? Here Are Some Tips to Help You Break Free!

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Let’s talk about perfectionism.
It’s that feeling that you have to be perfect at something before you even begin. Sound familiar?

I used to struggle with this a lot. I wouldn’t start projects, I wouldn’t try new things—I’d get stuck before I ever got going. Perfectionism was a huge deterrent in my life.

But here’s what I’ve learned over the years, and I really hope it helps you as you’re reading this blog:

Perfectionism is an illusion.

No one is ever going to be perfect. There will always be someone further along, someone with more experience, or someone who makes it look easy. But the truth is: the only way to get better at anything is to start exactly where you are—imperfectly.

I remember being younger and wanting to be perfect at sports. But how could I ever learn or grow if I never allowed myself to begin? All it did was hold me back.

So here’s my message to you today:
Start in your imperfectness.

Whatever it is—a new workout routine, a creative pursuit, a business idea—start small. If it’s the gym, commit to going just once a week. If you want to be a painter, paint once a month for the next 12 months. It doesn’t have to be grand or perfect. What matters is that you start.

Because here’s the truth: confidence doesn’t come before action—it comes from action.

And every time you show up, even in your messiness, you grow stronger, braver, and more capable.

Practical Ways to Overcome Perfectionism:

  • Set “imperfect” goals: Instead of saying “I’ll work out every day,” say “I’ll move my body once a week.”
  • Use a calendar: Physically write it down. One action. One date. Commit to it.
  • Limit comparisons: Unfollow or mute anything on social media that makes you feel less than. Your journey is your own.
  • Celebrate progress: At the end of each week or month, reflect on what you did do—not what you didn’t.
  • Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself. Growth takes time, and the mess is part of the magic.

Action Steps:

  1. Choose one goal you’ve been putting off.
  2. Set a small, manageable action step related to that goal.
  3. Add it to your calendar.
  4. Show up—just once.
  5. Repeat.

That’s how momentum builds. That’s how you break free from perfectionism.
Not by waiting to be ready.
Not by waiting to be perfect.
But by simply showing up—today.

You’ve got this.

Head to my podcast reawakening beauty or my blog for more resources to encourage your journey  on mind, body, skin and soul

Glowing Skin Protein Birthday Banana Bread

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A delicious and nourishing banana bread packed with ingredients that support healthy, glowing skin. This recipe is gluten-free, protein-rich, and filled with nutrients that promote skin elasticity, hydration, and overall radiance.

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown rice flour
  • 1 cup coconut flour
  • ½ cup coconut sugar
  • 2-4 tbsp protein powder (plant-based)
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 1 pinch Celtic sea salt
  • 2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp Fiber Boost
  • Sprinkles if you want it for a birthday vibe 1 tbs

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • ¼ cup almond milk (unsweetened)
  • 2 packet MCT oil or 4 tbs MCT oil
  • 1 flax search my blog for how to make it

Preheat oven to 320°F. Mix all the wet ingredients and dry separately, than mix together in a mixing bowl. Now add to a baking or muffin pan thats greased or sprayed with avocado oil spray bake. Bake for 24 to 30 minutes. only last 3 days so be sure to eat fast and store in the fridge.

Skin Benefits Breakdown

These ingredients contribute to skin health in the following ways:

  • Bananas: Rich in vitamins A, B, and E; which is said to help maintain skin elasticity and moisture.
  • Protein powder: Collagen-based or plant-based protein helps with skin regeneration and firmness.