Leopard Flats

I paired this basic black t-shirt with simple blue jeans and gold accessories. To add a little extra to this outfit I paired it with some adorable leopard flats.

Leopard Flats by alexisbeautybelle featuring sterling silver rings

Sugar Oats Body Scrub

 

With this Sugar Oats Body scrub, your skin will be left feeling silky smooth. This also makes your skin look like its glowing this body scrub is the best and it is super easy to make too. It’s only 3 ingre­di­ents. Crazy! I know. What’s even better about this body scrub is that the ingre­di­ents are stuff you would normally have in your cupboard if you don’t have the ingre­di­ents, they are very cheap and affordable to buy.

  

Things You’ll Need

•     1 cup of Rolled Oats
•     1 cup of Brown Sugar
•     1 cup of Grape-Seed Oil
•     Bowl
•     Mixing utensil
•  Air Tight Container for Leftovers

Oats are great for deep cleansing and nourishing your skin, Brown Sugar moisturizes your skin while exfoliating it, and Grape-seed oil is a great moisturizer that gets absorbed into the skin very quickly.

Step 1: Grind the rolled oats into a gritty texture.

Step 2: Combine all the ingredients into a bowl.

Step 3: Mix together the Rolled Oats, Brown Sugar, and Grape-Seed Oil.

Step 4: apply the mixture to your body while in the shower and rub in a circular motion until you feel that you have achieved your ideal skin softness.

Step 5: rinse your body off with warm water until the scrub is completely off your skin.

Step 6: towel dry your body and enjoy your new baby smooth skin.

**If you have leftovers put it in a small air tight container and save it for later. **

101 Uses for Coconut Oil

1. In cooking as a great oil with a high smoke point. Great for baking, stir-frys or as a dairy free replacement to butter.
2. Taken supplementally for daily energy.
3. As a coffee creamer when emulsified into coffee (The only way I’ll drink coffee)
4. On the skin as a basic lotion
5. In homemade lotion bars for soft, smooth skin
6. In homemade deodorant or deodorant bars
7. As an eye-makeup remover
8. As a cloth diaper safe diaper cream (just rub on baby’s bottom)
9. In making your own Remineralizing Toothpatse
10. To lighten age spots when rubbed directly on the skin
11. To prevent stretch marks during pregnancy
12. To support healthy thyroid function
13. In homemade Mayo without the high PUFA vegetable oils
14. To help increase sun tolerance and avoid burning
15. As a naturally SPF 4 sunscreen
16. In homemade lotion recipes 
17. To get rid of cradle cap on baby- just massage in to head, leave on for a few minutes and gently rinse with a warm wash cloth
18. Topically to kill yeast or yeast infections
19. As a delicious tropical massage oil
20. It’s high Lauric acid and MCFA content helps boost metaboism
21. A tiny dab rubbed on your hands and then through hair will help get rid of friz
22. As an intensive nighttime facial moisturizer
23. Mixed with equal parts sugar for a smoothing body scrub (use in the shower)
24. Rubbed on lips as a natural chap stick
25. Topically, can help skin heal faster after injury or infection
26. Directly on the perineum to help heal after birth
27. As an incredibly intensive natural conditioner- Rub into dry hair, put a shower cap on and leave for several hours.
28. On feet to fight athlete’s foot or tor fungus
29. In place of Lanolin cream on nursing nipples to sooth irritation (also great for baby!)
30. Can help sooth psoriasis or eczema
31. There is some evidence that regular ingestion of coconut oil can help prevent or reverse Alzheimers
32. With apple cider vinegar as a natural treatment for lice that actually works
33. In natural homemade sunscreen
34. In healthy brain boosting snack for kids like coconut clusters
35. In a filling and energy boosting Brain Power Smoothie
36. Rub coconut oil on the inside of your nose to help alleviate allergy symptoms
37. Nursing moms can take 3-4 tablespoons a day (and Vitamin D) to increase milk supply and nutrients
38. There is some evidence that coconut oil helps digestion and may even kill intestinal parasites or yeast
39.  Ingesting coconut oil daily can help with allergy symptoms
40. Can help improve insulin levels
41. Oil pulling with coconut oil and a drop of oregano oil helps improve gum health
42. Can help improve cholesterol ratios
43. Blend a tablespoon into hot tea to help speed recovery from cold or flu
44. In Homemade natural bug-off Lotion Bars
45. As a replacement for vegetable oils in any recipe
46. Better for high-temperature cooking than olive or vegetable oils
47. Can help reduce appearance of varicose veins
48. After initial heat is gone, can help speed healing of sunburn
49. Is an immediate source of energy when eaten and isn’t stored as fat
50. As a natural personal lubricant that won’t disturb vaginal flora
51. As a naturally antibacterial skin cream
52. In natural homemade diaper cream
53. As a natural shave cream and after shave lotion
54. When used consistently on skin it can help get rid of cellulite
55. To season cast iron skillets
56. It’s anti-inflammatory properties can help lessen arthritis
57. Can reduce the itch of mosquito bites
58. Can help resolve acne when used regularly
59. Can be rubbed into scalp daily to stimulate hair growth
60. I’ve used in kids ears to help speed ear infection healing
61. On split ends to de-frizz
62. A small amount can be rubbed into real leather to soften and condition (shiny leather only… test a small area first)
63. By itself as a great tanning oil
64. Mixed with salt to remove dry skin on feet
65. Can help speed weight loss when consumed daily
66. Can help improve sleep when taken daily
67. Can be used to speed healing of fungal infections when taken internally and used externally
68. A tablespoon melted into a cup of warm tea can help sooth a sore throat
69. To help sooth the itch of chicken pox or poison ivy
70. It has been shown to increase absorption of calcium and magnesium
71. Internally as part of the protocol to help remineralize teeth 
72. Some evidence shows that the beneficial fats in coconut oil can help with depression and anxiety
73. By itself as a natural deodorant
74. By itself or with baking soda as a naturally whitening toothpaste
75. For pets struggling with skin issues when used externally
76. Some evidence suggests that the beneficial fats in coconut oil are helpful for those with Autism
77. In homemade vapor rub
78. As a safe cooking oil for deep frying
79. A tablespoon taken before each meal can help improve digestion
80. Can be taken in warm ginger tea to sooth heartburn or nausea
81. As a completely natural baby lotion
82. On hands after doing dishes to avoid dry skin
83. Mixed with catnip, rosemary or mint essential oils as a natural bug repellent
84. Can be used on mom’s nipple and baby’s mouth to help treat thrush
85. Many use it as an anti-aging facial moisturizer
86. Use to make coconut cream concentrate for a brain boosting snack
87. Can be used internally and externally to speed recovery from UTIs
88. When taken regularly, it can help fight candida
89. When taken regularly, it can boost hormone production
90. Can relieve the pain of hemorrhoids when used topically
91. Can boost circulation and help those who often feel cold
92. On cuticles to help nails grow
93. Rub into elbows daily to help alleviate dry, flaky elbows
94. Add to smoothies to give them a nutritional boost
95. Internally during pregnancy to help provide baby necessary fats for development (especially when taken with Fermented Cod Liver Oil)
96. In any recipes where vegetable oils are used
97. Whipped with shea butter for a soothing body balm
98. One reader swears by using coconut oil to treat yeast infection. She suggests soaking a tampon in it and inserting the tampon for a few hours.
99. Naturally clears up cold sores
100. Mix a tablespoon with a tablespoon of chia seeds for an all-day energy boost (do NOT take this at night!)  
101. Ingesting coconut oil daily can increase mental alertness

DIY Honey Face Mask

Honey is very powerful as it contains lots of great enzymes, vitamins and anti septic properties that are great for the skin. It's also amazing to, of course, eat honey as well, but I unfortunately still haven't found a love for the taste! Maybe one day :) But for now, I apply it directly to my face and it does wonders! 

  

It's important to use raw honey for your mask in particular because that means it hasn't been heated or processed, so it still contains all its essential nutrients and enzymes (which are usually destroyed otherwise when heated and processed).  This mask is really inexpensive and works just as good as the high-end face masks (possibly even better) and you don't have to worry about harsh chemicals, fragrances and irritants.

Step 1: Squeeze 1/2 a lemon (organic is always better) into a bowl

Step 2: add 2 tbsp of honey (Organic, raw, natural).

Step 3: Mix it with a spoon until it’s a liquid consistency.

Step 4: Apply it all over a clean face avoiding eye area. *Also make sure that your hair is pulled back away from your face as the mask is rather sticky!  

Step 5: Leave on for 15-20 min and rinse off.

If you’re feeling really adventurous, try and sleep with it on.”Let us know if you try it and how it works!

The Benefits of Honey

- Honey is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.

- Honey absorbs impurities from the pores and the skin.

- Ancient beauties used honey and milk on their skin regularly to keep their complexion looking young, radiant and smooth.

- You can use honey as a wash, toner or mask.

- You can mix honey with so many other ingredients depending on your needs (apples, pumpkin, and papaya. yogurt). It’s quite versatile.

The Benefits of Lemon

- Lemon brightens and exfoliates.

- Lemon is great for acne prone skin, age and sun spots or uneven skin tone.

- Lemon is also a natural source of vitamin C and rich in alpha hydroxyl acids.

TIP: Raw honey can also be used as a face cleanser for those of you looking for a natural alternative. (Just apply a teaspoon of honey to your finger tips and use as a regular cleanser onto damp skin.) 

The best thing is that it's both exfoliating and moisturizing! Others have been doing this for years and I definitely recommend it if you haven't tried it out yet! What are some of your favorite DIY face masks? Share with me below! XOXO

Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal

Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal is made from minerals and salts that occur in nature. In theory, the thin layer of salt applied to your skin can prevent the growth of bacteria, and thus control odor. A crystal can be very low cost and can last up to a year. But does it work?

The Good                              

§  It actually works – odor protection for 18+ hours

§  Better for you – crystal deodorants have a hazard rating of 0 on the Environmental Working Groups Skin Deep Cosmetics Database.

§  Saves Money – the cost of a deodorant crystal is about the same or less than commercial antiperspirants, but can last for months and months.

§  Does not stain clothes

§  Doesn’t leave little deodorant balls under your arms

§  Fragrance free

§  Easy to travel with, not messy at all.

The Bad

§  Not an antiperspirant – does not prevent sweating, only odor

§  Must be applied wet and then allowed to dry

My Experience

         After trying countless deodorants that barley worked, I feel that I have a stronger odor than other people and I have very sensitive skin. I wanted to find something more natural than my commercial antiperspirant that helped prevent all these problems. I was vaguely familiar with Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal, but it seemed so silly in concept that I didn’t really believe it. Then a friend mentioned that she used crystal deodorant, and was happy with it. I started using the next weekend, and never looked back.

          The crystal deodorant looks just like a giant, clear crystal. Each night I run it under water, shake off the excess drips and give my armpits a good coating. I always do this between putting on my undergarments, and my outer layer as the product needs a couple of minutes to dry. This product is so clean, any product that gets on my fingers rinses easily away with no yucky residue is good.

          Amazingly, I found this product protects from body odor all day long! I am relatively BO free. Sometimes, there is a scent, but I’ve realized that it’s the scent of me – not sweetly fragrant like a perfume, but a mild, non-offensive scent. The product does not protect from sweating, so you need to be okay with occasionally damp pits. But I don’t sweat a lot. The crystal is so effective, it can be re-applied and it knocks out any bit of odor that may have developed and continues to work through the day. The only complaint I have is that application onto freshly shaved skin can sting for a few seconds.

          Overall, I highly recommend the Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal. It is clean, and easy to use. It is low cost, natural, and highly effective.  I’ve heard it also works on stinky feet, although I’ve not tested it on feet yet. Most importantly, it’s safe to use every day without worry about cancer causing chemicals leaching into your body. The Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal is everything I’ve been looking for!

Note that my review is based solely on my use of this product, and I have not tried any other brands of stone crystals, but my understanding is that they all work in the same way.

Click Here for more information on how to get your own Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal 

Have you ever tried a stone crystal deodorant? What was your experience, comment down below!

DIY Glitter Makeup Brush Holders

Today’s DIY project is creating a sparkly makeup brush holder out of a used candle. As you know, I am a total Bath and Body Works candle junkie. Since I go through candles a lot, I found a way to recycle and reuse those empty containers. This DIY will work on alternative candles too such as Yankee Candle or whatever your candle preference is.

What you will need:

      ·               Parchment or Wax Paper

      ·               Mod Podge or Watered Down Glue

      ·               Glitter of your Choice

      ·               Nail Polish Remover

      ·                A Few Cotton Balls

      ·               Craft and Glue Brush

      ·               Knife

      ·               Glass Gems or Plant Filler

      ·                One used up candle

Step 1: Taking your candle that has been the freezer for several hours, use the knife to trace around the edge of the candle

Step 2: Insert the knife to the center, and pull out the chunks of wax.

Step 3: To remove the wicks, take a glass of hot water and pour into the candle container

Step 4: Use a knife to remove the wicks.

Step 5: Use soap to clean the container. Remove the labels with a knife or your fingers.

Step 6: Use the nail polish remover and a cotton pad to remove any excess of residue.

Step 7: Taking your craft and glue brush, paint a thin layer of Mod Podge or your glue all around the inside of the container. (Make sure the Mod Podge is spread out evenly, leaving no big globs. Your container should look like this.)

Step 8: Taking your glitter, pour a generous amount into the glass container. Turn the container on to its side, rotating slowly. To get an ombre effect, focus on getting more of the glitter to stick to the top versus the bottom.

Step 9: Turn upside down and let the container dry for 12 hours to insure its completely dry.

Step 10: Fill with glass gems or plant filler to store your makeup brushes.

   

These sparkly containers are very versatile. They would be perfect to store make up brushes, cotton pads, hair ties, jewelry, lip gloss, thumbtacks, candy, or even use as a cute gift container. Above is a picture of how my sparkly containers look on my vanity. Try out this easy DIY project and leave a comment below letting me know what you would store in this container.

10 Hair Care Tricks

1)     Find a shampoo that lathers less. Sudsy doesn’t necessarily mean clean—sometimes, it means the opposite. Shampoos that lather too much are often overloaded with moisturizing products, which can leave build-up in your hair, making it look and feel dirtier quicker. So opt for a sulfate-free formula.

2)     Give your locks a burst of cold. Before you hop out of the shower, turn the cold water on for a second and quickly rinse it through your strands. It helps seal the cuticle, adding a sleek finish to your locks.

3)     Play hot-and-cold as you dry. When using a round brush to dry your hair in sections, start from the roots and dry all the way to the ends, letting the brush linger at the tips of your strands. Let your hair cool off like this on its own for five seconds, then repeat on another section. Alternating between heat and cool-down time helps set your style, and your blowout will have more body.

4)      Do an at-home glaze between color appointments. Glazes fill holes and rough spots in your hair cuticles, helping smooth your locks and put moisture back into your hair. This keeps your color shiny and bright so it lasts longer and look better. Plus, you can snag an at-home kit from your local drugstore.

5)      Use rollers for high-volume. For sex-kitten lift, blow out your locks until they’re dry. Then, section off the hair on top of your head—between your temples and all the way back to the crown of your hair. Divide that section into three smaller sections vertically (as if you were making a mohawk), and wrap each in a 2-inch velcro hair roller. Let your hair sit like this for 30 minutes, and then unwrap your strands, lightly comb them out, and spray for hold.

6)      Drop the towel. Keeping wet strands wrapped in a towel for a half-hour as you do your make-up will just cause frizz! The roughness of the cotton forces your hair cuticles open, making them more likely to go every-which-way. Instead, squeeze out excess water as soon as you’re out of the shower, then let your hair air-dry for five or ten minutes before blow-drying.

7)      Apply products 10 minutes before you style. Whether you’re curling, straightening, or whatevering, applying product 10 minutes in advance helps it fully absorb into your strands so you get all of its benefits and more bang for your buck.

8)      Wrap—don’t clamp—your hair for quick curls. When using a curling iron, you don’t need to fasten your locks to the barrel. Wrap sections around the iron and hold in place for about 10 seconds to score the same soft, sexy curls.

9)      Use spray bottles as your new lazy-day BFF. If you wake up and your locks are totally flat or grungy from the day before, just spray the top layer of your hair until damp, and then use a big barrel round brush (2 inches or more) to blow your locks dry. You’ll score high volume on that top layer, and since it’s freshly blown out, you’ll create the illusion of all-over smooth hair.

10)   Use dry shampoo a different way. Instead of waiting until your locks need an dirt-fighting pick-me-up, apply a dab of dry shampoo to your roots immediately after you wash and dry them. Though your hair’s already clean, the barrier will stave off the debris and oil your strands will collect throughout the day before it hits. Bonus: It also gives you killer volume.

Tips to Lightening Your Underarms

Underarm and armpit skin can darken for many reasons. Excessive sweat is the most common reason, since our armpits are constantly perspiring and cooling our body whether we feel sweaty or not. The sweat never completely dries out in the folds of armpit skin, and it secretes uric acid, which will darken anything over time. Age, hormonal changes, pregnancy, excessive shaving, poor-quality deodorants, and genetics may also be the culprit. Dark underarms may cause embarrassment and even cause you to avoid wearing tank tops, sleeveless dresses, or bathing suits. But you can lighten dark underarms in various ways. Here are some tips and tricks that will help to lighten them.

● Avoid using hair dissolving/removal agents and depilatory creams and you may notice your dark armpits getting lighter. These products contain strong acids and other substances to remove hair, but they can also darken the skin beneath.

● Shaving may also cause your armpits to darken, so shaving less often may help lighten the skin. Since shaving removes the top layer of skin along with the hair, the newly exposed layer can darken instantly when exposed to sweat. Try waxing underarms instead, or use a sugar-waxing procedure to remove unwanted hair. It’s best to have your underarms waxed by a professional, as your skin is very sensitive in that area and can burn or bleed. (Click here to check out my Homemade recipe for a Sugar & Honey Hair Removal Wax)

● Tight blouses rub against armpit skin and can make matters worse. Wear loose, breathable clothes instead.

● Poor hygiene can cause dirt and oil to accumulate in your armpits, which may darken them. Wash well with soap and rinse with warm water.

● Mix lime juice, milk powder, and honey into a paste and apply to underarm skin. Leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. After several weeks of this treatment, your skin will become lighter.

● Stir a paste of white vinegar and baking soda and apply to your underarms twice a day. Baking soda, a natural cleanser, combined with vinegar, a natural stain remover, can help lighten the skin.

● Spread lime juice on the area twice daily. Use real lime, not reconstituted juice.

● Alternatively, rub lemons under your arms after you shower.

● Apply apple cider vinegar to dark underarm skin and do not rinse off. Repeat daily for a few weeks and your underarm skin may get lighter.

● Consider using a skin lightening cream on occasion to lighten skin under arms. Be sure to purchase a safe one. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor for guidance.

Dark underarms can be lightened with a few hygiene changes and some common ingredients from your kitchen. All it takes is a little time and patience to lighten dark underarms.