Big thank you to Native for sponsoring this post!

Oh hey friends! The last few weeks have been c r a z y as we gear up for our big move from New Jersey to Florida. I’ve spent a lot of time going through all my clothing and beauty items trying to figure out what makes sense to donate and then organizing all the things I plan to keep. Let’s just say the employees at my local Target have become very familiar with my face given how often I’ve stopped in to buy storage bins and boxes.

Speaking of Target! I’ve been using a new  hair care line that’s available only at Target stores: Native Hair Care. Have y’all ever heard of Native? You’ve probably seen Native’s deodorants (aluminum and paraben free!!) Native is a  beauty brand known for making amazing clean personal care products and now excitingly, hair! I love the brand motto: Safe. Simple. Effective.

In the last two years, I’ve made a conscious effort to ditch many of the chemical and fragrance-heavy beauty products I had been using in favor of natural ones. All Native products are thoughtfully made with just 10  ingredients or less and free of sulfates, parabens, silicones and dyes. Another aspect I love? The LABELS! If you take a look at the back of any Native product you’ll find an easy-to-read list of REAL ingredients so you know exactly what you are putting on your hair.

Native’s new hair care line includes three separate collections– Almond & Shea Strengthening, Cucumber & Mint Volumizing, Coconut & Vanilla Moisturizing– that each address a key hair concern thanks to high quality, natural ingredients. Since I’m always wearing my hair pulled back I need all the breakage protection I can get so I was immediately drawn to Native’s Almond & Shea strengthening hair mask, shampoo and conditioner.

The SMELL! Right away I could not get over the yummy, yet still light scent of these products. I’ve been using the hair mask twice a week before showering. All you have to do is put it on for three to five minutes and then wash and condition as normal. It’s an easy way to give your hair a dose of moisture and repair dry ends without a huge time commitment.

I love the Shea & Almond shampoo and conditioner as well. The shampoo has a great lather and leaves my hair feeling cleansed and nourished. I also really like how the conditioner detangles and leaves my hair feeling refreshed and weightless.

If you’re looking to add some natural products to your hair care routine– Native is a great brand to start with. The line is affordable (all products retail under $10) and the simple, easily-recognizable ingredients make the products approachable for everyone– not just beauty addicts like myself You can order Native online at Target.com or shop it in store on your next Target run!

The post The New Natural Hair Brand I’m Loving! Native Haircare Review appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Pantene. All opinions are 100% mine.

As a new mom, taking time for “self-care” is a total luxury. Some days my hands are so full with Nate that I’m lucky if I’m able to brush my hair and wash up before noon. My beauty routine was an everyday priority before I become a mom. Now that things have shifted, I’m working on minimizing the steps it takes me to get ready and focusing on the health of my hair, skin and nails to avoid constant upkeep.

I recently had a conversation with my mom and grandma where they reminded me that despite my new responsibilities as a mother, it was still important for me to have some “me” time. They told me that having a baby didn’t mean I had to give up all of the things I typically did to feel my best self. That’s always easier said than done of course, but I agreed they had a point. While I won’t be hitting the salon monthly or rocking extensions again anytime soon, I still plan to get my hair colored and haven’t been making time at home to care for my locks.

When it comes to my hair “self-care,” I’ve stopped using hot tools on a daily basis and instead opted for heat-less styles like braids and buns. I’ve also been washing my hair with Pantene’s Illuminating Color Care Shampoo and Conditioner in hopes of maintaining the growth and shine I was blessed with during pregnancy. I love this haircare system because it not only smells amazing, but it’s formulated with biotin to strengthen hair and make it look more radiant. It’s also color-safe and free of parabens, dyes and mineral oil. Thanks to this shampoo and conditioner I can go longer in between color appointments, which means more time at home with Nate!

 My Color-Safe Postpartum Haircare Routine

+ Pantene Illuminating Color Care Shampoo
+ Pantene Illuminating Color Care Conditioner

PS both the Pantene Illuminating Color Care Shampoo and Conditioner are part of the new Pantene Nutrient Blends Collection– a collection of haircare products made of ingredient blends inspired by cultures from all around the world. You can learn more and shop the products at Target now.

The post Postpartum Haircare Routine (Color-Safe!) appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

Big thank you to Olay for sponsoring this post! As always all opinions are my own. 

Not only have I been loading up on vitamin C with my vitamins and diet, I’ve incorporated it into my beauty routine too thanks to new Olay Tone Perfection Serum with Vitamin B3 + C. Did you know Olay is the first major U.S. skincare brand to make a commitment to zero skin retouching in their advertising? Hopefully this will encourage more companies to follow suit and be more transparent!

Olay Tone Perfection Serum Review

Serums have always been an integral component of my skincare regimen. Typically these are the products that do the heavy-lifting and have potent ingredients that give skin visible, long-lasting results. I like to apply it directly to clean skin right after I’ve washed my face prior to applying moisturizer and eye cream!

SKINCARE PICK-ME-UP // Olay Tone Perfection Serum (now on sale for $28.99)

For the last few weeks I’ve been applying a few drops of Olay’s Tone Perfection Serum to my face and neck every morning and evening before bed. Considering how much time I’ve spent indoors recently, I can vouch that it’s an amazing pick-me-up for dull skin. The vitamin-rich formula brightens and hydrates after one day of use and with extended use with only continue to benefit your complexion.

I personally love how lightweight it feels on my skin and that it absorbs quickly. No waiting around before applying my moisturizer–  I can just apply it and quickly finish my routine! It also doesn’t leave any sticky residue.

PS those with sensitive skin will be happy to know this serum is fragrance-free and doesn’t contain any parabens, phthalates or synthetic ingredients. And yes, it’s pregnancy-safe!

The post Olay Tone Perfection Serum Review appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

Whenever I consider trying a new skincare product the most important benefit I look for is anti-aging. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when the new Olay Retinol24 collection arrived on my doorstep last month! Over the last month I’ve been playing around with all three Retinol24 products: a moisturizer, serum and eye cream. The eye cream in particular has become a staple in my nighttime routine.

OLAY RETINOL24 COLLECTION // Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Facial Serum | Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer | Olay Eyes Retinol24 Night Eye Cream

Before I get into reviewing the products, let’s chat about the key ingredient: Retinol. Never heard of it? Do you know about it but feel intimidated?

Retinol is considered by many a “holy grail” anti-aging skincare ingredient. It’s a synthetic form of Vitamin A that boosts collagen and cell turnover to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots. With regular use skin will look smoother, brighter and more youthful. When products containing retinol are applied correctly the results can be very visible, but as with any highly-effective ingredient you need to follow directions.

OUTFIT DETAILS // Off the Shoulder Sweater | Abercrombie High Rise Jean Leggings

Olay Retinol24 Review

The reason the Olay Retinol24 collection is a big deal is because products with retinol are typically very expensive. I was shocked when I first learned of the line because I had been under the impression that retinol was reserved for luxury brands or dermatologist-prescribed products. Leave it up to Olay to shake up the drugstore skincare aisles with not one, but three affordably-priced products containing this power-packed ingredient!

Each Retinol24 product contains a unique formulation of B3 + a game-changing Retinoid Complex using two types of retinol. These ingredients are meant to give skin the maximum results of a retinol, without the irritation or adverse side effects. The reason the collection is named Retinol24– emphasis on the 24– is because the products work for 24 hours providing skin maximum hydration. Gentle is definitely a word I would use to describe it!

Prior to using the Olay Retinol24 collection, I’d only ever tried one other product with retinol and my experience was positive. I introduced it to my skin gradually– starting with twice a week and slowly working my way up to every other day. I followed that same strategy with my new Olay goodies and would recommend anyone who is new to retinol to do the same. Start with 1-2 days per week, see how your skin reacts and then work your way up to more frequent use.

Olay Retinol24 products can used as a trio or you can incorporate just one into your routine if there’s an area of your face where aging is a concern. After playing around with the collection, I found myself gravitating most to the eye cream. The skin underneath and at the corners of the eyes is incredibly delicate and prone to aging. Olay Retinol24 eye cream is a great defense against crows feet and sagging– two signs of aging I am working very hard to prevent.

I have been using the eye cream every night in my evening routine. I dab a small amount to the skin underneath my eyes and along my brow bone, gently working it into my skin. It’s a very rich and hydrating cream that will work overnight to firm and brighten, while also reducing dark circle and lines. It’s very gentle too and I haven’t experienced any irritation with daily use. On top of giving my skin incredible anti-aging benefits, I love how it’s super moisturizing.

Olay Retinol24 moisturizer, serum and eye cream are all affordably priced (currently $28.99 on Olay.com— though prices may vary by retailer.) You can’t deny the savings when comparing to luxury retinol products which tend to retail for $100+. If you’re new to retinol and looking to test the waters without spending a fortune, the Olay Retinol24 collection is a good place to start.

The post Drugstore Skincare Review | Olay Retinol24 Collection appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

Big thank you to Olay for sponsoring this post!

There are two things I need every morning to start my day on the right foot 1) COFFEE and 2) great skincare! As much as I love my a.m. drink of choice, today’s post is going to focus on the latter– particularly why Olay Red Jar products continue to be a staple in my at-home & travel beauty routine.

You’ve all heard me rave about Olay products, and for good reason! It’s one of the only drugstore beauty brands you’ll find in my bathroom cabinet and toiletry bag. Anytime I’m shopping for skincare, I can always count on Olay for affordable prices AND quality products that will keep my skin healthy and hydrated. Some advice: when in doubt just look for the red jars! Some of my Olay favorites are:

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream— super rich and nourishing moisturizer for normal to dry skin! I love using it at as my daily moisturizer when my skin is feeling extra dry or as a decadent treat for my face before bed.

Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer— lightweight, breathable moisturizer with a matte finish that dries fast. It’s great for all skin types, can be used as a makeup primer and comes in a fragrance-free version (my personal favorite!)

Olay Daily Facials— the absolute BEST cleansing cloths for removing makeup, dirt and oil

Olay Ultimate Eye Cream— gentle hydrating cream that combats wrinkles and dark circles.

Trust me– these won’t disappoint!

To me, what sets Olay apart from other brands is that anytime I use an Olay product I know that I can TRUST it. My skin is so sensitive and prone to irritation– the wrong ingredient or overpowering scent can trigger a pimple or eczema flare up. These are two things I want to avoid at all costs considering my wedding is close to one month away.

I’m not alone in my thoughts! Olay actually put their Red Jar products to the test over a 10-year span and the results were incredible: in 12 countries Olay ranked supreme over 131 products. It goes to show that you don’t always need to search far and wide for amazing skincare. In my case I shop for Olay right at home at my local drugstore!

PRODUCTS FEATURED // Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer | Pink Thermal Top | Similar Distressed Jeans

Moisturizer is by far the one product in my routine I couldn’t live without. I can’t imagine leaving my apartment for the day or putting on makeup without first applying a hydrating cream. To me it’s essential nourishment for my skin! I regularly use both Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream and Olay Regenerist Whip Face Moisturizer, however if I was going to suggest one, I’d pick the Whip for its matte finish and dual function as a makeup primer.

When I travel, I always try to condense my beauty routine to as few steps as possible. Packing the Olay Whip in my toiletry bag means I don’t need to bring a primer or any extra moisturizers– this cream does it all! Some key ingredients include Vitamin B3, which regenerates surface cells and strengthens skin’s natural moisture barrier, along with Amino–Peptide Complex II to help improve skin’s elasticity, smoothness and firmness. It also comes in a fragrance-free version– if you have sensitive skin this is something you should always look for when considering a new product!

I packed my trusty red jars on my recent trip to Idaho and these truly saved my skin in the dry mountain air. I’d never experienced a climate with such little humidity– my face was so parched after just one day! Lathering on my Micro-Sculpting Cream every night helped prevent some substantial dryness and dehydration– two things my skin is always prone to when I travel. During the day I wore Olay Regenerist Whip to keep my skin hydrated when I was outdoors. Both moisturizers are total lifesavers!

I truly can’t imagine not having these two little red jars in my skincare routine. Whether I’m traveling or just going about my day at home– these are tried and true favorites that I know I can trust!

PS I posted this fun lil video to Instagram chronicling my morning routine– check out it to see how I get ready and use Olay Regenerist Whip!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2WmCGshGEy/?igshid=x484ne37iu0k

The post My Favorite Drugstore Moisturizers appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

Let’s talk body care! For the longest time I didn’t pay attention to the products I was using in the shower. Since I have always focused the bulk of my beauty budget on skincare and my hair, all other toiletries had to take a back seat on my priority list.

Now that I’ve pretty much nailed down my skincare and hair routine (it took a years!) I’ve been able to spend some more time testing and trying new in-shower products. In the last few months I’ve become much more discerning about body care, specifically shave cream and razors. Anyone else procrastinate on buying replacement blades for these? Or just me?

I’m definitely guilty of using mine for way longer than I should (aka until the blades are completely dull) solely because I don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for a new replacement. For my entire life I’ve always bought the least expensive option available at the drugstore, never putting much thought into the features or the quality. Your girl here is VERY familiar with the 2-blade plastic razors you can buy bagged in bulk LOL. The cheaper = the better.

PRODUCTS MENTIONED // Billie Starter Kit Razor | Billie Shave Cream

So this topic brings me to Billie: the first affordable razor subscription for women, by women. Their brand mission is focused on providing gals premium shaving supplies and body products, without the hefty prices. I’m normally a skeptic of subscription services because the prices can add up and you often have to jump through hoops if you ever decide to cancel, but that’s not the case when you sign up for a Billie razor subscription. The pricing is 1) an affordable $9 and 2) you can adjust or cancel your plan at any time without penalty.

I’ve been using my Billie razor and shave cream for the last two months and love the results! The razor head really molds to your skin and get every hair with one swipe– with no cuts or nicks! It’s hard to explain in words, but my Billie razor just moves in a way unlike any razor I’ve used before.

You probably wondering why these are just $9… The price has to be a joke or the quality must be terrible, right? Totally understandable, because if you’re like me you are have conditioned to seeing women’s razors priced at $20+ thanks to the Pink Tax.

Not familiar with the Pink Tax? This write up on the Billie website sums it up well:

“Ah, the pink tax: that extra amount women are charged for certain products or services, for no good reason. You see it with fashion, dry cleaning and personal care. And you see it with razors. We’re strongly against the pink tax. That’s why our razors aren’t just half the price of women’s shaving brands, they’re priced in line with men’s razor subscriptions…”

They have such a good point. Why ARE women’s razors priced so much higher than men’s when the products are essentially the same? It’s kinda wack if you think about it and I’m glad brands like Billie are bringing attention to something a lot of us gals probably didn’t even realize. Hopefully more brands will take note and follow suit!

Now here’s how Billie works:

HOW IT WORKS

Step 1 | Pick your handle color!

Step 2 | Select your delivery frequency (I do every 2 months)

Step 3 | Choose your body care extras.

I have the Shave Cream and it’s the perfect consistency! Thick enough to protect and moisturize skin, but still allows the razor to do its job!

Step 4 | Checkout!

Have I convinced you yet? The Billie Starter Kit comes with a Billie handle, Mag(net)ic holder (you can stick on your shower wall), and two 5-blade razor cartridges. For just $9!!! I’m so glad I discovered this product and look forward to never having to visit a drugstore again to buy an overpriced razor

Big thank you to Billie for sponsoring today’s post!

The post My In-Shower Shave Routine + Affordable Razor Subscription appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

WHAT I’M WEARING // Becca One Piece Swimsuit via Everything But Water c/o | Yellow Headband | Circle Tote | Sunglasses | Necklace | Kendra Scott Bracelets

You don’t need to bake in the sun for hours to get a gorgeous tan. Did anyone else spend their teenage year summer weekends “laying out”? Those days for me are long gone and I’ve realized that the potential sun damage is just not worth the exchange for a real tan.

So how do I achieve a bronzed glow at home? Self tanning doesn’t have to be difficult and depending on the products you use, it can be applied relatively quickly, inexpensively and with no down time. I’ve tried a lot of different products over the last few months and have discovered a handful that I really love! These won’t streak and I promise you won’t end up looking orange

If you’re looking for a once-and-done type of tan, then you’ll likely want to use a tanning mousse or mist. These tend to have deeper formulas with long-lasting effects, similar to if you went into a salon for a spray tan.

SELF TANNING MOUSSES & MISTS

St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse— the OG self tanner! This was the first tanning mousse I ever tried and has been a favorite of mine for over five years! It blends into skin so seamlessly and all you need is one application to get a gorgeous dark summer tan. I recommend putting it on with a tanning mitt rubbing in circular motions (I have this mitt) and then waiting at least 8+ hours before showing or getting skin wet. I’ve also found that St. Tropez gives me one of the most long-lasting tans too and depending on how aggressively I shower mine will stick around for at least five days.

L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Tanning Mist— no tanning mitt required! This self tanning spray is so easy to apply and the product never needs to touch your hands. I usually will stand in my shower to apply it and then similar to St. Tropez, wait at least 8 hours before showering. I find that this one dries faster than most tanners and won’t transfer to clothing or bed sheets. The only downside is that it does take more than one application to really give you a dark tan, but since it’s so simple to apply you could easily incorporate it into your routine 2-3 times a week.

NKD SKIN Tinted Tan Mousse— a recent self tanner discovery! This one isn’t as aggressive as St. Tropez in that I didn’t have to wait 8 hours for my tan to appear, plus it dried almost immediately. It’s also a lot cheaper too. It’s a great option if you’re looking for something easy without the wait time. PS you’ll definitely want to apply this one using a mitt!

As much as I love the deep look tanning mousses and mists give my skin, I don’t always have the time to apply these every week. Solution? Tanning towelettes. These are SO easy to use, dry instantly and give close to the same effect. You can also pack them with you when you travel!

SELF TANNING TOWELETTES

TanTowel Full-Body Plus 6-Pack–these towels come in two shades: classic and dark. I have the dark and love how one towel gives my entire body a nice even glow. It takes a few uses to get a super dark tan, but the instant dry time is such a big bonus! These have a nice light citrus scent too.

Kate Somerville 360° Tanning Towelettes— a little bit pricier than TanTowel, but I’d say my tan is much more lang-lasting. I have even used these on my face too!

Looking for a product you can use everyday to maintain a subtle glow? You’re going to want these in your life asap!

GRADUAL SELF TANNERS

Isle Of Paradise Self Tanning Drops— As much as I love a one-and-done self tanner, the application process can feel like a chore. Say hello to TANNING DROPS. When I discovered these it was like finding the holy grail! I raved about them in my 2018 Best Of Body Care Favorites post because these are so easy to use. You just mix a drop with a bump of your body lotion, apply to skin and instant natural glow! The more drops you use = darker tan. These come in 3 different shades: light, medium and dark. I personally go back and forth between the medium and dark depending on how I’m feeling. The only downside to these drops is I can’t use them on my face. Even though they say safe for the face, my skin is just too sensitive and prone to blemishes.

Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Water— Similar to a tanning mist, but much easier to use everyday. It dries instantly and you can also blend this in directly using your hands. The formula color corrects and evens out skin tone, so it’s a great product to use if you are trying to fix tan lines!

FOR THE FACE

Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi Anti-Pollution Bronzing Drops— Self tanners do not work on my face the same way as my body. My skin is just too sensitive and I find that the formulas clog my pores giving a dirty-looking effect. It’s frustrating, but there is a solution! These bronzing drops aren’t permanent, but give skin an instant glow without the irritation (thanks to the clean vitamin-packed formula). I mix a small pump in with my serum before applying my makeup and find it bumps up my skin tone to more closely match the rest of my body. Super easy and I don’t have to fear getting pimps or blemishes. You can actually use this anywhere on your body too!

The post My Favorite Self Tanners | No Streaks + Easy To Apply At Home! appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

It’s been a minute since I talked haircare with you guys! While we were in the moving process my hair was in a bun or braid more days than I’d like to admit, but now that the weather has warmed up and I have some fun travels on my calendar I’ve made haircare a top priority.

Is it just or is EVERYONE raving about Colleen Rothschild products? I swear over the last year I’ve had soooo many friends switch to a Colleen Rothschild skincare routine. Whenever I ask for product recommendations from you guys? I get multiple recommendations for a Colleen Rothschild product. Clearly I’ve been living under a rock! PS when I was in Dallas I picked up a few CR skincare goodies that I’ve been testing– keep a lookout on Instagram story for my thoughts!

Alrighty so back to the point of today’s post… Did you know that Colleen Rothschild recently launched a hair care line? When I received the Colleen Rothschild Hair Care Essentials Set in the mail it was as if they knew that my hair was in need of some TLC. The $34 set includes a full-size conditioning mask, nourishing hair serum and a compact brush you can use in the shower to detangle/stimulate the scalp– basically all the essentials you need between shampooing and heat styling.

Since I have extensions and my own strands leans on the dry-side I really only wash my hair 1-2x a week (the other 5-6 days I wear a shower cap.) If I’m being honest, I hate doing it and feel incredibly lucky that I can get away with such a minimal routine. Because I don’t wash my hair everyday I’m very selective about the products I use in the shower. Basically if I’m going to put a mask or serum on my hair when it’s damp it HAS to be good because it’s going to be in my hair at least 3-4 days.

After hearing so much praise about CR skincare, I had high hopes for the hair care products and so far I could not be more obsessed with this set. My number struggle when post-showering is detangling my hair. Thanks to my extensions I have a lot of it and if I don’t do a good job conditioning it can very easily turn into a tangled lion’s mane. It’s not a good look and an absolute nightmare to comb out.

What I love so much about the Colleen Rothschild Quench & Shine Restorative Mask is that it’s a miracle worker at softening and detangling hair. After shampooing, I apply it as my conditioner and leave it on for 5 minutes while I shave and wash my body. The first time I used it and went to rinse I could not believe how easily I was able to brush through my hair with the shower comb. I was even to give myself a little scalp massage with the brush! I honestly thought I’d made a mistake and had accidentally left product in my hair…. It’s been a long time since I could easily run my fingers through my hair without drying and detangling it first, so I couldn’t believe the results I was experiencing immediately after rinsing. Who knew a conditioning mask and compact shower brush could work such wonders?

Colleen Rothschild Quench & Shine Restorative Mask Benefits:

+ color-safe
+ softens hair
+ detangles even the most tangled manes
+ safe for all hair types
+ contains Kokum, Shea, Capuacu & Bacuri Butters for nourishment
+ and Argan + Moringa Oils to smooth split ends
+ improves elasticity
+ reduces frizz

After washing my hair I always use a serum or some type of smoothing cream, ideally one that tames frizz, hydrates dry strands and won’t leave my hair feeling greasy. It can be hard to find a product that does all of this and more, but leave it to Colleen Rothschild to figure it out. Just a few drops of the Smooth & Shine Hair Serum tackles frizziness while protecting, nourishing and strengthening hair. Once I’ve towel dried my hair, I take a few drops in the palm of my hair and run my fingers through my locks concentrating product mostly from mid-length to the ends.

My results from this mask and serum have been so good that I’ve actually been letting my hair air dry naturally and rocking my natural waves. Usually I struggle with frizz and have to smooth out the natural texture/crazy volume of my waves with a 1.5″ curling iron or flat iron, but my hair has just been looking so healthy and feel so soft that I haven’t felt a need to do any heat styling. I can hardly believe it myself!

In celebration of Colleen Rothschild launching haircare, they’re offered this 3-product set for just $34 ($48 value.) This price is baffling to me because I feel like I’ve had better results using these products than I’ve had with some of my high-end masks and serums, all of which costs upwards of $35+ each. It’s truly a steal and if you’re like me and only wash your hair a few times a week, these products are going to last F O R E V E R. I doubt I’ll be able to finish either one in less than six months!

The post The Best Hair Mask I’ve Ever Used + In-Shower Haircare Routine appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

Hellooooo long hair! I currently feel like a combination of Rapunzel/Barbie/Nicole Kidman in the Stepford Wives (all in a good way of course) thanks to my new tape-in extensions. I’ve been getting them done for the last eight months and really have loved my experience. It’s been a lot of fun having so much more hair to play with and style.

So why did I get them? To be honest it was mostly curiosity (I’d been intrigued since high school!) but also because you guys know I love braiding. My extensions give my hair added thickness, slight length (mine are about an inch longer than my own hair) and brighter blonde highlights. My goal wasn’t drastically change how I look, but to just enhance my own hair in a way that still looks natural.

Where I Get My Hair done

I could not be more obsessed with my salon, Fourteenjay. In the 2+ years I’ve been going there I feel like the health of my hair has improved SO much. Stepping inside the salon I always get a sense of calm– it’s such a relaxing environment and I always look forward to my appointments (they give great hand massages :P)

FOURTEENJAY SALON
14 JAY STREET
NEW YORK, NY 10013
646.869.5970
[email protected]

It’s important to point out that Fourteenjay is an Aveda salon and they specialize in doing color. I adore Aveda hair products so this was a BIG bonus for me. I love knowing that every product used on my hair is naturally formulated with organic ingredients.

So who do I see? Michelle does my highlights and from the get-go she’s prioritized the health of my hair. Over the last two years she’s gradually lightened my blonde in a safe way vs just aggressively bleaching me to my current shade, which likely would’ve damaged my hair. She’s AMAZING at doing blonde color and worked with Heather to decide on what shade of extensions to order to match my hair best!

Heather has my been go-to gal for styling and now she does my extensions. My top hair goal over the last three years has been growing my length and I really appreciate how Heather has never tried to pressure me into chopping it (as I’ve experienced at other salons.) Heather was the one that explained the extension process to me and ultimately convinced me to give them a try. She was awesome at answering all my questions and fully explaining details on the cost and maintenance.

My Extensions

I have tape-in Vomor extensions and love them! They are incredibly lightweight, low maintenance and I have noticed absolutely no damage to my own hair. Vomor is an extension line exclusive to Aveda salons, which means they can only be ordered and placed by a licensed Aveda stylist. Here are a few more facts about Vomor extensions:

+ Vomor extensions are exclusively made from cuticle intact Remy hair, collected and manufactured in a humane manner, and packaged according to environmental guidelines.
+ Recommended wear is 6-8 weeks and panels can be re-sued up to 3 times.
+ Available lengths: 12, 16, and 20 inches aligned to the Aveda color wheel
+ Available colors: each length is available in 30 colors ranging from ash blonde to deep black.

^^ Here you can see the size of each extension panel– I get 12 total!

Each box of Vomor extensions contains 6 panels of hair. Since Vomor extensions can only be purchased by salons, your stylist will work with you to decide what shade of extensions will best complement your own hair color. At my last appointment I used 12 panels, so two total boxes of extensions. I LOVE how Heather ordered mine in two slightly different shades (I use Aveda 8N/10N & Aveda 12G). This was done to naturally match my highlights, but also to avoid that one dimensional obvious solid color look.

Curious how the extensions are installed? It’s incredibly quick, easy and pain-free. The top of the extensions are pre-coated with a medical-grade adhesive tape that your stylist will place at the root of your hair. The adhesive is literally the same as what’s used in hospitals to close wounds– it’s seriously strong stuff. From the moment your extensions are taped to your hair, they WILL NOT BUDGE. Literally the only way these can get detached from your head is if you rip out your own hair that the extension is taped to.

The removal process is easy as well. The adhesive strip at the top of each extension gets sprayed with a solution that instantly dissolves the tape, allowing each panel to be safely combed out of the hair. Next the panels are washed, given a conditioning treatment and then blown dried. Each extension is then resurfaced with a new adhesive strip so it can get placed back in my hair that’s also been washed, cut and blown out.

All of this happens at the same time over the course of two hours. If I get my color done at the same time then my appointment will take 4+ hours. I personally find the in-salon maintenance for my extensions to really simple/hassle-free (I usually bring my laptop to work) though it does require regular appointments every 6-8 weeks.

I’ve found that I’m able to use my extensions up 3 times and can go 7ish weeks between appointments. Keep in mind that everyone’s salon visits are going to be different based on how fast their hair grows and how well they care for their extensions. As your natural hair grows, the extensions will grow with them and eventually there will be a gap between the root of your hair and where the extensions were adhered.

If your hair grows fast, you’re likely going to want your extensions repositioned sooner than someone with slower hair growth. Heat causes damage to extensions just like normal hair, so if you’re doing a blow out/curling/straightening every single day the quality of your extensions will deteriorate quicker and you may only be able to get one or two uses out of them.

the cost

There are so many different factors that determine the pricing of extensions. The cost varies depending on the brand, extension length (longer=more expensive), the salon, your stylist’s fees and how many extension panels you want placed. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing at my salon:

Box of 12″ Vomor Extensions: $237
Box of 16″ Vomor Extensions: $306
Box of 20″ Vomor Extensions: $392

So those are just the costs for the actual box of extensions. You also then have to add in the fees your stylist will charge for installing, removing and resurfacing the extensions (if you decide to use them more than once.) These fees all vary depending on the amount of time required to do this work too. If you only have six panels of extensions that take 30 minutes to install/remove, your service pricing will be less than someone who has 12+ extensions whose service takes an hour or more.

Your first appointment will be the most expensive since you’re paying for the actual extensions on top of the install and styling fees. If you decide to reuse your extensions at latter appointments, you’ll only be on the hook for styling, install and resurfacing.

If you’re seriously considering getting extensions, I highly recommend calling your salon and setting up a consultation. This way they can walk you through the exact pricing and give you a clear picture about what you’d be investing.

Answering your hair extension questions

How often do you have to have the extensions maintained and adjusted? I go every 6-8 weeks. It all depends on how fast your hair grows as the extensions will grow out with your own hair.

Did you get extensions due to hair loss? Nope, I actually have pretty decently thick hair. For years I had wanted to try extensions solely out of curiosity (thanks America’s Next Top Model!) but more recently because of my love for doing intricate braids. Anytime I’d braid my hair I’d have to use a bunch of clip-in extensions (which are a great easy way to add thickness to hair) but I wanted to try something more permanent and natural looking.

Can I get long extensions if I have short hair? Of course. One of the top reasons people get extensions is to add length. If you get them installed by a great stylist, they’ll be able to blend and place the extensions in a way to naturally incorporate with your shorter layers.

Have you noticed any hair loss or damage from the extensions? Nope. Tape-in extensions are the safest extensions you can get and won’t cause any damage to your own hair as long as you take care of them and brush gently at your root.

Can you feel the extensions? Do they hurt? I can feel my extensions when I run my fingers through the roots of my hair, but it’s not a feeling I notice just going about my daily life. The reason tape-in extensions are so popular is because 1) they are incredibly lightweight and 2) they’re pain-free and literally just adhere to your own hair. There’s no braiding, bonds or beading involved, all of which can cause hair loss and discomfort to the scalp.

^^ My hair with extensions styled straight

Can you wash and dry your extensions like you normally would your hair? Yes! Extensions are made from real human hair so you wash them in the same way as your own. The only difference to my shower routine is I’m much more gentle when I go to scrub and wash my scalp/roots. After showering I like to let it air dry about 75% of the way before casually going through it with a dryer + flat brush. I then will curl my hair like normal with a 1.5″ round iron. The only downside I’ve found with my extensions is my hair takes much longer to dry and heat style. Luckily I can get away with washing it only 1-2x per week so it’s not too much of pain!

My hair is very fine and thin. Could I still get extensions? Definitely. Extensions are a great solution if you’re looking to add volume to thin hair or if you’re suffered from hair loss. Vomor extensions are lightweight and the adhesive tape is very gentle/easy to remove in the salon so these are a very safe option for those with fine, thin hair.

Can you wear you hair in a bun or updo with extensions? Yep! I do all the time. It can just get a little tricky after a few weeks because there will be a gap in between your root and where your extensions are adhered to your own hair. I can totally still do a top knot, but it does take me slightly longer than if I wasn’t wearing extensions. This is a reason why it’s SO important you get them installed by an experienced stylist who knows how to strategically place your extensions so you can style your hair like usual.

How do you brush your hair with extensions? The same way I do without extensions except I’m much more careful around my roots. Here’s the brush I use to prevent breakage and hair loss!

Thoughts on permanent extensions vs clip-in extensions for a wedding? I think it all depends on how you’re styling your hair. If it’s just for added thickness in a updo or braid, then I don’t see why clip-ins wouldn’t be sufficient. I’d just make sure you hire a good stylist, do a practice glam session and wear your hair in the way you plan to for your wedding over an entire day so you can feel confident they’ll stay put.

It’s also important to keep in mind that you want to look like the best version of yourself on your wedding day. In the months and years following your wedding, you don’t want to look back at photos and feel like you’re seeing a completely different person. I’m clearly all for permanent extensions, but if it’s something you’re considering doing just for the month of your wedding, maybe think twice before going for a drastically longer length or totally new color.

What happens if your natural hair dries curly but the extensions remain straight? Good question! While my own hair dries naturally wavy/slightly curly (depending on humidity) my extensions tend to dry smooth with a very slight wave. Luckily the difference isn’t incredibly noticeable, but for the sake of consistency I like to blow out my hair with a flat brush once it’s about 75% air dried.

should you get them?

I had been intrigued by extensions since I was in high school, but never considered actually getting them until going to Fourteenjay. Extensions are a big investment, both financially and in the time required for upkeep. I probably would have never pulled the trigger on getting them if I hadn’t found a stylist and salon I trust.

So were my extensions necessary? No. Of course not. I honestly got them of curiosity and a desire to braid my hair without having to deal with clip-ins. I have so much fun with my extensions and definitely plan to continue getting them up until our wedding next October, but I don’t think this is something I’ll do forever. It is a big commitment and certainly in my case, it’s a vain one.

That said, extensions can be a life-changing solution especially for those with hair loss or naturally thin hair. The best part about them is you can get as many or as little extensions as you want, all at any length you please. Extensions can be a great way to increase thickness, add length or give yourself platinum blonde highlights without having to color your own hair. No matter you’re reasoning for considering them, I can’t recommend Vomor or the gals at Fourteenjay enough.

The post Everything You Need To Know About Tape-In Hair Extensions appeared first on Katie's Bliss.

I can’t tell you how happy I am to share this news: a scent-free formula of my favorite drugstore moisturizer just launched! Cue the celebration music because you can now find Olay Regenerist Whip fragrance-free on shelves at your local Walgreens or Duane Reade store!

So, you guys know I have sensitive skin. I’m super prone to dryness and irritation, especially on my face and neck, so I’m incredibly picky when it comes to products. While I’ve tried many drugstore moisturizers over the years, Olay Regenerist is really the only cream I’ve liked enough to repurchase. At this point I think I’ve been through 3 or 4 jars! The fact that I could love a scented moisturizer that much, really goes to show how good of a cream it is.

After trying it for the first time I remember thinking, wow the only way this could be better is if it was fragrance-free! Clearly I’m not the only one who felt this way because Olay got the memo and developed not 1, but 2!!! new formulas without any added scent: Olay Regenerist Whip Fragrance-Free and Olay Total Effects Whip SPF25 Fragrance-Free. Us gals with sensitive skin have no need to worry because when you use these all you’re going to notice is lots of hydration and anti-aging goodness.

OLAY REGENERIST WHIP FRAGRANCE FREE REVIEW

So, I tried both new formulas and surprise, surprise I was pleased with both! This was actually my first time trying Olay’s whip-textured formula instead of the smooth cream typical of the original Regenerist Moisturizer and right away I noticed that how weightless it felt on my skin. I was worried at first this would mean less hydration, but after a few weeks of use I can tell you Olay definitely didn’t sacrifice any potency. You can expect all the same thirst-quenching benefits– it’s really only the lightweight feel of the cream upon application that’s different.

Other Benefits // Formulated with advanced Amino-Peptide Complex II, this anti-aging moisturizer actively hydrates to improve elasticity and firm skin for a lifted look, while diminishing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Its innovative Active Rush Technology features a unique three-dimensional structure that transforms from cream to liquid on skin to deliver potent ingredients in an ultra-lightweight form.

Another aspect I loved about this cream is how quickly it absorbs. Normally I like to wait at least 10 minutes after doing my skin care routine before applying makeup, but since the whip formula absorbs immediately there’s no down time. The matte finish is a game changer too. It’s a perfect cream for wearing underneath foundation and leaves your skin feeling like a smooth shine-free canvas– you could even skip applying a primer!

Formulated with vitamins C and E, Olay Total Effects Whip SPF25 fragrance-free moisturizer delivers 7 benefits in 1: actively replenishes nourishing moisture, evens skin tone appearance, enhances brightness, visibly smooths fine lines, minimizes the look of pores, restores firmness and visibly reduces dark spots.

If you don’t have an SPF in your foundation or if you prefer a moisturizer with a creamy consistency, then I’d definitely suggest Olay Total Effects Whip SPF25 fragrance-free. It will give you all the same benefits found in Olay Regenerist Whip Fragrance-free, except with added sun protection. Below you can see both creams side-by-side! Olay Regenerist Whip Frangrance-Free is on the left (note the foamy whipped texture) and on the right is Olay Total Effects Whip SPF25 (opaque creamy consistency.) It’s really just a matter of personal preference– you can’t go wrong with either one!

Have I convinced you to check out the Olay Regenerist line yet? Hah! If you’re looking for a trustworthy everyday moisturizer with an affordable price tag these are 100% worth considering. Head to Walgreens to get you a cream packed with ingredients that fight signs of aging, a ton of hydration, a finish that’s smooth and matte– all fragrance free! Talk about the ultimate cherry on top

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Olay. The opinions and text are all mine.

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