the glossarie

that fall feeling0

POSTED ON Posted on September 22, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

it’s back to school season for the very first time in our house this year, which is bringing a new vibe to sundays around here and reminding me of a fresh-start feeling to fall that i’ve always loved. here are some things that lou and i are really loving as we roll into week 4 of our new normal:

cozy jammies, for the best night’s sleep: hers and mine (both are from amazon and the quality is beyond impressive)

backpack: hers (on major sale) and mine (worth every penny – so organized! the best thing i’ve bought for my commute yet.)

fueling our day: hers (i’m obsessed with this lunchbox and all things weelicious for inspiration) and mine (a coffee mug that could sustain nuclear war)

jewels: hers and mine

cool kicks: hers and mine (can’t say enough good things about these! i walk 2 miles a day in mine.)

reading material: hers and mine (mine is meh – i’m looking forward to sinking into this next.)

fall has also brought a few new beauty products into the fold, namely this which i finally pulled the trigger on. i apply it post wonder glow and pre concealer. i can actually feel it lifting and tightening.

i grabbed this lip collab, too. ingrid nilsen couldn’t be cuter and the shade would normally be a touch deep for me, but i’m embracing.

’tis the season!

Posted in accessories, eyes, jewels, kids, lips | Tagged athleta, deciem, fresh cosmetics, gap, mejuri, rothys | Leave a comment

PM beauty capsule no. 10

POSTED ON Posted on September 14, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

Every night (after several episodes of The Affair, which I am tearing through), I drag my feet up the stairs and face what feels like Everest. I don’t know why the task of taking off my makeup is so daunting, but routine has been key to keeping my skin under control, so I muscle through. (Insert applause?)

I prefer Micellar water to do the removing. I recently upgraded from this to this. I love them both, but I’m switching back to the Bioderma. It’s just as effective and less than half the price – although I am a big Origins fan as you are about to see.

I follow up with toner, and after trying two alternatives from Belif and Mario Badescu, I went sprinting back to my favorite. (I will never ever quit you.) I have started buying two at a time and I also purchased the 3.4 ounce size to travel with. Things are getting serious.

As a topper, I alternate between this serum, this mask, and plain old moisturizer. There’s really no method to this madness, I just sense that the serum is too much for every single night, then sometimes due to stress or traveling, my skin needs the extra oomph from the mask, and the moisturizer is a nice in between. Very strategic, I know.

Under my eyes, I’m using a grocery store eye cream that I got in Portugal. It was 2 euros and I snagged it because of the ingredient story – Q10 and Hyaluronic Acid. I should have bought a dozen! This stuff is so good and I desperately need the US alternative, but can’t find this combo in the States for less than $70 (woof). Send help, and suggestions.

On my lips, Biossance has been reigning supreme since it arrived, but I also like this Burt’s Bees option and this Lip Sleeping Pack recommended by Grace.

Posted in eyes, lips, skin | Tagged bioderma, biossance, burt's bees, Elta MD, klavuu, origins | Leave a comment

little bits of happy0

POSTED ON Posted on September 4, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

I got my hands on Biossance’s newest release and it really lives up to the beautiful quality I’ve come to know and love from the brand. It’s got clean ingredients, a gorgeous texture – and it leaves my lips plump and glowing. I’ve been applying a thick layer before bed and waking up to flake-free lips.

This new haircare line is built on the coolest concept. It was created by a harvard dermatologist, so none of the products will cause breakout or skin irritation for sensitives. How brilliant? This has been a huge problem for me over the years, so I was thrilled when the travel kit arrived. A few uses and I’m fully obsessed.

I’m testing out the curology craze (much more to come on this) and was so pleased to learn that my recent moisturizer discovery is on their list of approved products. I just repurchased the AM formula and I’m contemplating the PM version, too (which boasts the addition of peptides and ceramides – two of my very favorite buzzy ingredients for soothing and restoring).

This caffeine solution (discovered via Hitha) is in my Sephora cart and assured to be on its way to me by the weekend. The reviews are stellar and it seems to be just what the doctor ordered for my lack-of-sleep-induced dark circles. Plus that price point? Seriously can’t be beat.

On the home front, I’m dying over the city collection from Diptyque. The New York City candle must be mine – I’m saving the perfect spot for it, on my secretary.

Posted in eyes, hair, lips, skin | Tagged biossance, diptyque, Elta MD, the ordinary | Leave a comment

cool things for 5 year old girls0

POSTED ON Posted on August 19, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

Last week, Lou turned five. She was showered with gifts by our wonderful family and friends. She truly needs nothing, but she received some of the most thoughtful things, all perfectly suited to her personality.

A few favorites:

This butterfly mosaic tops the list. It was by far her favorite thing and she couldn’t wait to complete it. Now, of course she wants more.

This fairy garden is beautifully made for its $10 price point, teaches the science of plants while also providing tiny things to play with while you’re waiting for sprouts. GENIUS.

Only three chapters into the first one, but I’m pretty fond of these Princess in Black books. A nice entry point for eager readers, spot on for my bookworm.

This camera needs no explanation. An awesome gift if you’ve got a kid (or adult) of any age in your life.

I’ve seen a bunch of variations on these pop beads, but this particular set comes with a case for easy cleanup. Love.

An über empowering coloring book. Obsessed.

Finally, it feels worth noting that sometimes the most simple gifts are the best. One set of sweet friends gave her this totable art kit and a fresh pad of drawing paper – an amazing gift combo that I plan to replicate soon!

Posted in kids | Tagged crayola, fuji, melissa & doug | Leave a comment

AM beauty capsule no. 10

POSTED ON Posted on August 18, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

On shower days, I use this Japanese wonder, with water in the shower to exfoliate my face.

Once dry, I tone and moisturize. My go-to hydrator (discovered at the Amazon 4-star store in Soho) is amazing. I know I really need something with SPF, but I just haven’t found one that I love. Suggestions very welcome.

Then I apply this complexion hybrid generously, all over. It’s glowy and good, plus it provides an extra boost of moisture. From there, depending on how rested I feel, I apply this god-send corrector (instant awake, conceals all) or this lightweight concealer (softer, super brightening) under my eyes. I follow up with this foundation.

I give my brows two heavy sweeps of this. (You can have your Boy Brow and your Anastasia everything; they’re just not for me.) My lashes love, love, love this Perricone mascara. It doesn’t smudge, yet comes off in a single swipe of micellar water or even just toner at the end of the day. I have anxiety dreams that it gets discontinued.

On my cheeks, I’m using BECCA in Flowerchild – she’s tough to find, and I’m on the prowl for my next blush. This one is a highlighter and pop of color in one. I think it’s better than Orgasm if you’re cool toned and fair, like me.

On my lips, I use this in Sweet Potato and let it really soak in during my commute. Once I get to my desk, I apply this lip staple in Bloom or Spice, depending on my mood and the vibe of my day. Both of the Fresh shades feel like Aquaphor yet have the flawless color payoff of a sheer lipstick. I just can’t quit.

Posted in blush, brows, foundation, lips, primer, skin | Tagged becca cosmetics, charlotte tilbury, dr. lipp, Elta MD, fresh cosmetics, perricone md, salux, tarte | Leave a comment

just a few things1

POSTED ON Posted on August 16, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

Hi. It’s me. The web’s most elusive, semi-retired beauty blogger / industry-working (crazy how that happened) / NYC-area dwelling (double crazy) / 5 year old girl raising (wild) / balance seeking (ha!) woman – still with a few things to say about what she loves, in beauty and elsewhere.

So, I’m sharing five, because it’s what I can handle. And if you’re still out there, please say hi :)

Here goes.

I’ve run out of this toner for possibly the sixth time since discovering it in 2014. It’s now to the point where I’d like to call Origins and ask if they can please install a tap in my bathroom. While I eagerly await their response, I’m purchasing it in all sizes so that it’s always handy. It’s that good.

This summer, I’ve broken up with my flat iron and tried desperately to fall in love with the natural bends in my hair. In Portugal, I air dried with this, but back in NY I’m loving this spray and a rough dry with this guy. It’s perfect. Day 3 requires a moderate dose of this miracle, but I’m loving the natural vibe.

This. Dress. It looks so expensive, feels like a soft nightgown and travels like a dream. Do not sleep on this beauty!

Wishing hard for these.

Tested this primer last weekend at Target and I was blown away. It’s a spot-on dupe for my current Charlotte Tilbury holy grail, but somehow feels better on skin? Gotta have it.

Posted in hair, jewels, mixed bag, skin | Tagged anthropologie, bumble and bumble, honest, origins, target | 1 Comment

watermelon face and sleep mask0

POSTED ON Posted on March 3, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

happy sunday, kids!

popping in with a handful of highs from the week, not the least of which is the $9 luxury shown above. i would call it a dupe for this stuff, but since i kind of hated that one, let’s just say that it’s far superior than its $45 inspiration. it hydrates beautifully, leaves my skin so glowy and there are 35 applications in each packet. it’s a STEAL – for sure one of the best things going in mass beauty at the moment, though i do find target to be generally killing the beauty game of late.

a few more delightful discoveries:

this was my favorite podcast listen of the week – and for the record i am also SUPER enjoying these two and their royal musings (incred.) #godsavethepod

very much looking forward to experiencing the restorative powers of yin yoga this week (whilst we prepare to get buried in snow) and i’m also planning to do this.

a little gem at the top of my beauty wish list. the reviews are so compelling! i’m a touch worried that it will break down my mascara and cause smudge city, but this setting powder works great as insurance.

my latest eileen fisher acquisition is a game changer, somehow perfectly appropriate for a chic rehearsal dinner and a power presentation at work. plus you can crumple it into a ball, throw it in a suitcase, and it won’t wrinkle. worth. every. single. penny.

hope it’s cozy and warm in your ‘hood!

Posted in skin | Tagged becca cosmetics, eileen fisher, glow recipe, kopari, nugg | Leave a comment

becca aqua luminous concealer0

POSTED ON Posted on January 27, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

sunday scaries in full effect over here as i negotiate tylenol consumption with a sore-throated 4 year old and prepare to send my husband off for his 4th consecutive week of work travel. (sigh – i’ve got this! right?)

so, i’ve found myself with a few quiet moments on the couch, with paw patrol in the background, to muse.

and i’m mulling how it’s ironic that this blog’s primary goal – leading me to a career in beauty – has led to its near silencing. i don’t want to say that the shine has rubbed off of the penny (because i’m fairly certain that i will always be beauty obsessed) – but when products and their making/selling fill your days, it can be hard to find the extra creative headspace to produce content after hours.

but i still play with beauty a lot so i’m trying to make a conscious effort in 2019 to share more of the winners with you as frequently or as randomly as i’m able. (we’ll see how that goes.)

in the meantime, a few recent favorites:

an $8 lip balm that feels luxe and melts away rough spots on contact
nearing the end of this eye cream recommended by courtney chiusano – i’m obsessed with her and this stuff. nothing has ever attacked fine lines and dark circles so effectively for me!
these pads are back in my life and i am getting constant compliments on my glowing, healthy skin
this concealer by becca – 4 dots under each eye and my whole face wakes up; and i’ve also rediscovered this foundation from almost 3 years ago – the finish is flawless and feel is soft and serum-like #goals
i’ve been on a mascara BENDER of late, trying everything new and retrying my old favorites. the hands-down winner? this $6 gem. nothing beats its volume, length, staying power and easy removal.

Posted in concealer, eyes, face, lashes, lips, skin | Tagged becca cosmetics, covergirl, elizabeth arden, mario badescu | Leave a comment

briogeo scalp revival charcoal + coconut oil micro-exfoliating shampoo0

POSTED ON Posted on January 12, 2019 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

this is our second winter in NY and the drier climate has officially freaked out my scalp. i haven’t had dandruff since i was a teenager – and this winter it’s back with a vengeance.

(eww.)

so i tried the thing the cured me in the 90s (to no avail). i tried a much spendier version. nope. i went back to this gem which temporarily helped, but made my roots kind of oily. i was struggling, but the universe provides. (insert praying hands emoji) the wonder that is Instagram kept serving me ads for this stuff, so i put it on my christmas list.

when i pulled it out of my stocking (yes, my mom/santa is THE cutest) i all but raced upstairs to give it an immediate test. verdict? aside from the tub packaging of which i am not a fan, briogeo has truly created perfection. one small scoop rubbed into my scalp somehow eliminates flakes and treats the ongoing dryness problem. there’s no lather, but my hair feels clean and my head feels cared for – plus, it smells like candy canes.

it’s less harsh than my previous favorite (which i think may have perpetuated this issue, the salt being a bit drying) and more hardcore than regular shampoo, which was not dealing with the flakes and buildup. the price is also very fair for what you’re getting and i predict the jar will last me a lifetime.

once rinsed, i follow up with this conditioner, wrap it up in this and spritz it down with this new discovery before blowing it dry. i’m getting a solid 3 days out of each wash without a drop of dry shampoo – which, it turns out, is terrible for everyone, but especially those of us with finicky follicles.

in many thanks to a christmas miracle, my scalp is back to being balanced, healthy, and happy – pretty much all i can ask for and the exact right omen for the new year, yes?

Posted in hair | Tagged briogeo | Leave a comment

BIOSSANCE Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum0

POSTED ON Posted on September 24, 2018 by lara ramos BY lara ramos

it’s probably no secret that i love a thoughtful, well-made product – and biossance may be queen of them at the moment. in fact, I don’t know how I’ve managed to get almost down to the last drop of my bottle of this serum without writing about it.

i’ve been applying this gorgeous, light as a feather potion every morning, after my toner and in place of moisturizer for months. (it somehow took me until the tender age of 36 to realize that my combination-sensitive skin does not need a moisturizer in summer.) it’s absolutely perfect under makeup and one pump covers everything from my hairline to my chin.

this serum is opaque and lotion-like, less like your typical watery formula, so it’s easy to smooth on and feels really refreshing once it hits my skin. i’m also guessing it’s the miracle of squalane that lets me go hydration free and the very gentle retinol is helping me to keep my skin plump.

my only gripe is that the glass bottle is a little tricky to travel with, but it looks so pretty sitting sink-side in my bathroom that i’m willing to let that go. at $78, this one is on the pricier side for 1 oz, but biossance runs an amazing sample program – or you can hustle into sephora for a solid week’s worth of test product to take home before you pull the trigger. i think your skin will thank you.