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Beauty

Beauty Counter is clean beauty

Growing up, my mom was a health and healthy lifestyle advocate.

We would drive miles and miles to a natural food store with dirt floors and pick up bulk food at a co-op. It was no question, that if the meat had antibiotics in it, we didn’t get it. We also made our own calcium pills from egg shells and HAD to drink the full glass of carrot juice, no chaser! I remember shopping with her and a butcher was laughing at my mom when she asked if there were any antibiotics in the meat. I even felt uncomfortable that she ALWAYS asked what the ingredients were or the mode of food preparation, especially when it was’t listed. In addition, she ALWAYS used clean beauty, lipstick without junk she said, and never were allowed to use conventional baby soap. All that to say, she was not only before her time, her actions are respectable. She was our advocate. She wanted to give her 4 children a legacy of good health and a healthy constitution, and guess what, I do too.

A PR company sent some Beauty Counter lipstick , and I guess you could say that changed everything. I didn’t just love it, I LOVED it!! It wasn’t just the perfect color, it was moisturizing, and minty. I only regret that my son got into it and the better half of it sits on his shirt. Since we eat 9 lbs of lipstick in their lifetime, I care about the amount of toxins in my lipstick. This is fortified with jojoba and castor seed oil. If you’re curious, they list the ingredients by the product description.

Atalie is going on 13 years old and there is NO WAY I am giving her junk in the form of toxins and things I can’t even pronounce.

Clean beauty is the future.

Did you know that Beauty Counter restricts 1800 ingredients from their products? That’s almost 2,000 ingredients you don’t want to put on your face or skin. Which is your largest organ. Whether you’re a cancer fighter, survivor, or concerned parent like myself, Clean beauty is the future. As far as makeup goes, I’ve always been a fan of the barely there and healthy glow makeup look. If someone is caked in foundation, you can see that, and I’ve worn it before and it feels like an unhealthy mask, I can’t wait to take off. I won’t name names, but the last time I used conventional foundation by a very well loved brand, I was sitting in church, 11 am or so, and my skin was tightening and I found myself looking in my bag for a facial spray because my skin was SO DRY. I want my makeup to have minerals in it, I want my makeup to help my skin not hurt it. I want my makeup to have vitamins that make my skin G L O W. because when skin in healthy it already glows with minimal makeup.

Learn more of their ingredient selection, HERE!

I now am a Beauty Counter distributor. Which means I get sneak peaks of cool products, discounted product, and commission to support my family. ASK ANY QUESTIONS.

I’m still learning about the toxic free revolution that Beauty Counter that has hit the beauty industry. My only regret is that, I started too late. If you’d like to make some side money and join my team, email me shalice@shalicenoel.com. In the meantime, I rounded up some favorite products I’ve used from skincare to makeup. . . .

Products I’m loving so far . . . .

Lotus Cleansing Balm – love this balm that melts off all my makeup!

Serum, goes on light with Vit C in it! A cult favorite.

This lipstick I WEAR EVERYDAY, just ask Reid. I get color “Be fearless” It gives me a go get em attitude, with color, moisture and mint. What more could a girl ask for? (ask me how to get a discount!)

Want a toxic free skincare regimen? I started using the Countertime Collection and loving the results. I have sensitive skin and my skin looks so healthy.

Just ordered concealer in Medium 1

Lip gloss in “peony” that my daughters both like

Ask any questions, thanks for shopping with me! Ask me how to get a discount, to get your toxic-free products! Sharing more of my healthy lifestyle and diet in this post.

All the best, Shalice

Skincare Game Changer

C E Ferulic // 3 Pack Bundle // Gentle Cleanser I also use this cleanser to melt off my makeup

I found the missing link to my skincare routine. It isn’t a cloth or something unattainable or crazy but serum! I love how it makes my skin glow. I’m in my thirties so I know I must make my skin and face a priority and invest in it. Speaking of, the drops aren’t cheap. If Levi ever wants to play with them, I take them right away. Too much has broken on the tile floors of our house! They currently have a bundle on sale, so “invest” and seize the opportunity, you won’t be disappointed. I haven’t yet used the Gentle Cleanser, but I can’t wait to see the results. I’m all about a double cleanse these days especially as were outside in the sun working on the yard. Lots of free radicals outside that we need to guard our skin against.

That’s my skincare secret, what’s yours? I’d love to hear!

Confession: my jeans are tight. I’ve been living in joggers and pj’s till 12 noon. Or later. However, I have started, by day 25 of quarantine, to get dressed, make my bed, and get some blog posts on here! I’m not a dietician, or doctor, but I have included some of my personal tips for avoiding gaining weight during this time at home.

DRINK LOTS OF H20

We need to train ourselves to drink water. We go through our days drinking coffee, smoothies, more coffee, and then we wonder why we have an afternoon headache. We are dehydrated! Here’s a tip: Drink 3 glasses of water before 12 noon. This helps a lot. You should drink a total of 8 glasses a day, and if that feels like too much, lemon water helps. Also, when I get a hankering for a peanut butter cup (more on this later) I make a (calorie-free) lemonade.

Calorie Free Lemonade

8 oz filtered water

1 lemon, squeezed

1 full dropper of stevia

5 cubes of ice

Mix all ingredients and enjoy!

Add Fab4 smoothie to your breakfast routine

I feel more fueled and focused when I have my Fab4 smoothie, originally published HERE.

#FAB4Smoothie: Protein (20g minimum) + Fiber (10g minimum) + 1 Tbsp. Fat + Handful Greens + 1/4 Cup Fruit + Superfoods + Liquid

2 scoops Vital Proteins collagen powder // 1 TB almond butter// 1 frozen banana // 1 cup frozen pineapple // 2 cups frozen organic spinach // 1 TB chia seeds // unsweetened almond milk // 2 meyer lemons (add at the end) //

Directions: blend till smooth in a vitamix or blender. I add the lemons at the end and drink immediately.

I explain more in this post about how I am changing the way our family eats.

Add a pilates ring to your routine

I place it in between my thighs while I sit for a thigh workout. Try doing it 100x!

Drink ACV

Add 2 tablespoons to water and ice and drink before a meal. Reid and I have one after dinner. Whenever it makes sense, just add this to your regimen.

American Eagle

MANGO

Nordstrom

I’m not sure if you’re aware, but Nordstrom is having a HUGE sale. I rounded up some favorites including my shoes on sale!

SkinCeuticals take 15% off!

As always, my shop page is open 24/7, ask any questions and let me know how you are staying fit and healthy during these times. What are your plans this weekend? Reid and I will take the kids to our friends’ pool to swim. Don’t worry, we will still be practicing social distancing. And thanks to the high temps, we will try our hand at margaritas! Will let you know how they go!

I’m nuts about Elemis cleansing balm and I think you may already know this. I stepped it up with the rose cleansing balm recently, and in love with the essential oils in it, the smell of rose oil and overall effects. I mean, it melts off your makeup!! Crazy.

Self- Tanners – You guys know I love to self tan so here is what I use:

Beauty Gadgets

Skincare

That’s it for now. I hope that reminds you to make time for yourself as you homeschool, work, house clean, cook or whatever you’re doing during these strange times. Check the Liketoknow.it app “shalicenoel” for my Elemis sale picks! 25% off in the app. If that’s not a good excuse for self care I don’t know what is.

All the best!

Shalice

Coverup (under $20!)

Do you have a favorite lip gloss you reach for over and over again, you know the one that’s found in your car, random coat pockets, and every third purse? And somehow I’ve become one of those people who can’t go to bed without applying a TON of lip balm, so now there’s one by the bed too. Although whoever created lip balm should have his own museum because it’s pretty darn great, this lip balm is rock-star awesome. 
First of all, it’s moisture-rich, so my lips never feel dry, which is huge in the dry California climate. And it comes in different tints, and the tints are all gorgeous. You know how sometimes you put on lip balm and suddenly your lips are this weird orange-y sick pink color? Never happens with this lip balm. I use the clear one at night and the tinted ones during the day. When I wear the red one (gorgeous slight red tint) my son always asks me where I’m going. So you have the beauty of lipstick, with the convenience of lip balm! Um, yes please. Otherwise, my favorite work from home look is a tee, pajama pants, clear lip balm and a messy bun. 
Another really great thing about this lip balm is that it can be used as a stand-alone or as a primer. It helps with the appearance of full lips (did you know that as you age your lips thin??) and repairs dryness. I reach for it over and over again because I like the soft color and incredible moisturizer. It’s a bonus that it is small enough to fit in my makeup bag and purse, goes on smooth and looks natural. I like all three colors but if I had to choose, Coral works best for me. Honestly, go try them! It’s lip balm, so you’re not breaking the bank, and the pay-out is huge. 
 Do you have a favorite lip gloss we should know about? Do share in the comments below! 

Read about 3 anti-aging products I’m using and my facial with Cle de Peau here!

More clean beauty lips below:


Friday afternoon, Reid and I visited a gorgeous mid-century modern home in the hills with Clé De Peau for an amazing facial. He did his architectural wanderings while I relaxed in bliss–definitely a win-win.

Joanna Czech, the celebrity esthetician, started off by applying Clé De Peau la crème, eye contour creme supreme, and the serum onto my face, neck and decolletage. Initially, I was a little worried about my sensitive skin reacting to the new products, but not only did my skin not react negatively, it actually glowed. So of course, I’m continuing all the products! She also used red and yellow LED lights and a steamer to give me the most relaxed hour and a half that I’ve had in ages.

Here are two useful, and easy, tips for beautiful skin from Joanna:

1. You can use eye cream all over.

2. Don’t forget the neck and chest. When our neck skin ages, it makes you look old. Take care of your neck and chest with quality anti-aging products like la crème and serum. 

I wish I could go back tomorrow, but instead I’ll be in Dallas in April, and hope to pay her a visit. If you’re in the area, you should too! You won’t regret it. In the meantime, you have all the Clè de Peau products at your fingertips at Nordstrom.

Here are the products Joanna used in my facial:

La Crème – the ultimate night creme that helps rejuvenate your skin while you sleep. Did you know that your skin temperature rises when you sleep leading to increased blood flow? Additionally, your skin’s ability to function decreases during sleep and is exposed to oxidation as well. The crème is targeted to react to those factors and help improve skin density and prevent signs of aging. Mais oui!

The Serum – smoothing plumping and great for anti-aging. It has a blend of red brown and green kelp that activate the skin’s regenerative powers and helps promote a smoother looking skin texture. Skin is brighter, softer, and more intensely hydrated after use.

Eye Contour Creme – This eye creme can be used all over the face and visibly re-contours the entire eye area. After use, the eye area appears more plump and youthful. My favorite benefit to this eye creme is the significant decrease in dark circles and bags underneath the eyes. This is especially helpful after long nights up with a teething toddler.

So grateful for a wonderful facial and valuable information about these anti-aging products. I’m excited to see the results! 

These four for anti-aging:

Thank you Clé de Peau for sponsoring this post. All opinions my own.

Sweater dress // Fendi bag // Eyeshadow palette

So instead of being late every year for Christmas cards and gifts, I am trying something new this year and DOING IT ALL EARLY. Holiday cards have been sent, with the exception of only a couple, and gifts have been ordered (just not wrapped). Most of you know I’m working on a secret project and spending time on last minute gifts is just out of the question. Nordstrom made it easy this year to get holiday gifts. I was able to get Reid some much needed skin care in an affordable gift set, my friend some facial sprays I’ve been telling her about, and myself, some makeup! I only use Charlotte Tilbury eyeshadow and this case was too pretty to pass up. Below are some of my reoccurring purchases on Nordstrom online and why. Have you tried any of them? Let me know in the comments!

One // Two // Three // Four // Five //

Six // Seven // Eight // Nine // Ten //

Supergoop self tanning: two years ago, I forgot my self tanning towels on a business trip to Dallas, and a friend recommended this lotion. That weekend, I got a ton of compliments on my tan!! I ended up buying another bottle and the rest is history.

Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen: I use this as a makeup primer. Goes on almost weightless and works well with my concealer and foundation I apply over this primer. Hello sunscreen you can feel, smell, or see, and protects you from dangerous rays all day.

Mario Badescu Facial Sprays This gift set is so good! (you’re basically getting one for free!) This is a great makeup setting spray or afternoon pick me up. It smells so amazing that I packed the lavender spray in my hospital bag when I had Levi. It’s so refreshing!

Jack Black Travel set: Reid hasn’t used a ton of skincare because he doesn’t need it. I sometimes get jealous of men and their good skin and they barely take care of it. This is gentle on his skin and he said he liked the moisturizer a lot.

Kiehls Hydration Essentials set: gentle on the skin and works for my tween! Honestly, this set caught my eye because I LOVE their lip balm. And I’m familiar with their creme de corps lotion. It is very dry here in LA, and I’m always misplacing lotions. My hands are dry from mom life, long nights on my laptop, etc, so this creme is a lifesaver.No guarantees I won’t loose this one too, lol.

Nuface Trinity (20% off!) If I want a good lift before a shoot, I use the trinity on my face. I love the results and moisturizing gel (with anti-aging hyaluronic acid)!

Altera Caviar Shampoo and Conditioner: My hair stylist recommended I use this duo on my color treated hair and I must admit, I like the results. My hair feels full and healthy. I don’t think I could ever go back to drugstore shampoo. Plus, did I mention it smells amazing?

Charlotte Tilbury Eye Shadow: So many good shades I found similar to the Naked palate but with more shine for the holidays and a limited edition Swaroski crystal case that is stunning! The best thing about this palette is that it compliments every skin tone.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm OMG. Have you tried this? I bought a sample off an Instagram ad, for $5. I’ll admit, I squeezed every last bit of balm out of that travel size. And may have cried a little when it was done. It smells like a botanical garden, luscious essential oils, and goes on like butter. It melts all your makeup off from the day, and after rinsing off, I feel like a new woman. I’m not frivolous, but this stuff is WORTH.EVERY.PENNY. I wish it could clean my room as well as it cleans my face.

Charlotte Tilbury bronzer and Highlighter I was introduced to this from my make-up artist Morgan. She uses the bronzer on my cheeks, and highlighter for my cheekbones for an evening glam. The queen of Hollywood glow, Charlotte makes a mean highlighter few can rival. Also, fits great in a stocking. Your stocking 😉

You probably already know this but, Nordstrom is your destination for ALL things beauty! Don’t forget on cyber Monday (December 2), head to Nordstrom to check out the gifts with purchase and can’t be beat deals. Which are your favorite?

Thank you Nordstrom for sponsoring this post!

Why I Take Collagen

by Shalice Noel

Sandals // Skirt wearing a 4 // Square Neck top worn in xs // Faux Shearling Coat


Why I Take Collagen


If you follow along on Instagram, you see me adding collagen to my morning coffee every day. Because of this, collagen is something I get asked about a lot in my DMs, so I thought I’d put together a post on why I take collagen and what it’s benefits can be as a reference for when I get asked. I hope this answers any questions you have!

First things first, it’s important to understand that collagen powder and protein does not equate to collagen in your skin, or on your face. What it does do is line the gut and help to support your gut health. Almost every skin issue and inflammatory issue humans have is linked to our gut health. Crazy, right? So, a healthy gut equals less inflammation. And, it just so happens that inflammation is the number one factor when it comes to aging. Therefore, a healthy gut = healthy skin.

In addition, healthy skin is more hydrated and strong, and can even result in fewer instances of rosacea and acne breakouts. Then, of course, consistent hydration and less inflammation mean fewer wrinkles. 

For me personally, I’ve seen a dramatic change in my hair and nails since adding collagen to my daily routine. I’ve always struggled with thin hair, so taking 2 scoops a day for over a year has given me fuller, thicker hair. Even my makeup artist noticed and asked what I’m doing different! My nails have also gotten stronger.

So, this is what motivated me to start taking collagen. Like I said, it doesn’t directly put more collagen in your skin, but it can play a huge role in how your skin ages, along with other benefits like stronger/thicker nails and hair.

Have you used collagen before? Tell me about your experience with it – I’m kind of passionate about it at this point!

Forward me any questions. Click HERE for my smoothie recipe.


Did you know “retinol” is the number 1 searched skincare ingredient on Google? I haven’t always used retinol, but I left a facial appointment recently and the advice given to me was to continue with retinol 2-3 days a week. I know that in my 30s I need to take aging seriously and make use of the resources available to me. I spoke more about my routine here and how I’m sharing the importance of a skincare routine with my daughter Atalie. But after a little research, I found that finding affordable retinol is a challenge. I used another retinol product and it dried out my skin so I was hesitant to try again.

However, after just two weeks of use, I’ve noticed a brighter, smoother complexion. That’s why I got excited about this product from Olay! The best news is, Olay Retinol24 is only $28.99. That is less than 10 lattes! I’ll make note that out of all the products (there’s three in the Retinol24 collection), I liked the Olay Retinol24 night serum the best. Those who know me well know that I love serums! I found this one to be super moisturizing, smoothing and it had to be my favorite of the 3! I use 1 drop and that usually covers my whole face. And ladies, don’t forget an additional drop for your neck – you don’t want tech neck!

I thought I’d address some common questions about retinol and specifically what happened after I tried Olay Retinol24. Let’s dive into some questions, shall we?

1. What does Retinol do for your face?

After using the Olay Retinol24 night serum, I noticed smoother, brighter skin. Just after 24 hours, I noticed more hydration. Because I liked the results so much, I brought my Olay Retinol24 routine to Lake Arrowhead where it is notoriously dry and cold this time of year and it made a huge difference.

2. Which products have the highest amount of retinol?

Oddly enough, it doesn’t matter the amount of retinol in a product, rather it is the combination that should concern you. Retinol is a difficult ingredient because it degrades once exposed to the sun, air and heat. However, Olay’s formula stays stable from first to last use. Amazing! It’s an effective blend of Vitamin b3 and retinoid complex and more hydrating than the #1 best selling retinol on the market.

3. What are the side effects of retinol?

While 96% of women who tried Olay Retinol24 didn’t experience irritation, you can adjust how often you use. If you see any irritation, you can use 2-3 times a week instead of daily.

4. How do I personally use it? After I cleanse my face, I apply the Olay Retinol24 Night Serum before my moisturizer. It’s a milky consistency that leaves my skin feeling smooth and plump. One or two drops usually covers my face and neck and viola, younger-looking skin! What I do like is that it’s not a hard way to incorporate retinol into my skincare routine. I can accomplish this routine pretty fast and get back to putting the kids to bed, drinking chamomile tea, applying lavender oil and telling the kids no more water before bed. You know, the usual. But the best compliment was yesterday was when Reid looked at me in the car and said, you look younger. SCORE. I would definitely re-stock Olay Retinol24 Night Serum because A., it’s affordable and B. it WORKS.

Click HERE to try it for yourself

Thank you Olay for sponsoring this post. All opinions my own.

Tula Eye Balm Stick Review

If I’m honest, the eye area is my biggest concern with aging. I fear unwanted fine lines under my eyes and apply eye cream daily. I tried both the pink and blue Tula stick under my eyes a couple weeks ago because I saw some of my favorite bloggers using it. I was curious to see how I would like it. I want to note that it is a VERY convenient size for travel and my ever growing makeup bag. First off the bat, I love that it is clean beauty which means it is free from alcohol, fragrance, parabens, mineral oil, etc. Which gives me peace of mind. I have already used Tula moisturizer and cleanser, which I have really liked. I have since given both to my tween who is now in need of skincare. She was having breakouts and I plan to only give her clean skincare and eventually makeup. Why would I ruin her virgin skin with parabens, mineral oil, and alcohol? Girls, I’m feeling old, I have a tween!! Hence the need for good skincare, less stress and 8 glasses of water.

While these don’t take away the need for eye cream, they add another step. But a welcome one that has benefits. After all, I’m still loyal to my bliss eye cream, here are some benefits to these convenient eye sticks:

The blue one: has a SUPER COOLING EFFECT and acts like a dewy highlighter. After a long day staring at my laptop, I like to keep it nearby for a pick-me-up. 1850 reviews with almost 5 perfect stars don’t lie!

The pink one: has rosehip oil (a natural retinol alternative) and hydrating rosewater which SO many benefits one of which makes me look more “awake.” The pink has a slight shimmer. I’m all about an “instant pick-me-up.” The cool thing is, if I use it over my makeup, it appears like a highlighter. Score!

How do they work?

I applied it before concealer for a cooling effect and after makeup as a highlighter. I tried both ways as some days are a 5 min make-up job, and other days, maybe a 10 minute make-up day. Either way, I added this refreshing stick to my routine.

The Low Down

If I could get just one, I’d probably get the rose glow and get it for the rose hip oil and rosewater ingredients. If you’re planning on traveling, it is a great pick me up for the plane ride both for convenient size and much needed hydration.

Have you tried either stick? I’d love to hear about your experience.

GIVEAWAY!!!!!

(this is not sponsored by Tula)

Comment below which one you would use and why you need it. I’ll pick one winner Monday to send an eye stick of their choice!

Also, you can use my code SHALICE for 20% off!