Mia Gordon
Reporter, Host, Content Creator, Blogger

Find out more about my new favourite skin care product from VIIcode

As an on camera personality I am always trying to look and feel my best, as a new mom that isn’t always easy. I am tired ALL…THE…TIME. So in order to fake it until I make it I rely on good beauty products.

I have shared some of my favourites here before but recently I did a big haul. I wanted to make sure that anything going on my face is high quality with trustworthy ingredients. Out with the old and in with a new they say. And one area I am really focusing on lately is my eyes – because as many moms know, that is the first place to give away how tired I really am. It is also a really sensitive skin area and so I wanted to chose my product wisely. I have recently fallen in love with VIIcode’s latest T2 Oxygen Eye Cream.

About the product

This eye cream is created to regenerate skin cells near the eye  with the help of some true superheroes aka natural ingredients which include

Elderberries

This product is filled with antioxidants. It helps maintain the cells around the eye to keep the skin firm and glowing

Jojoba oil

Another oil filed with antioxidants that helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Evening Primrose oils

Primrose is great for boosting blood circulation, helping give those tired eyes life.

What I love

The first thing I noticed when I opened the bottle was the smell. It smelled really fresh and earthy. I also really loved the texture. I have tried a lot of eye creams over the years but have never felt one quite this smooth before. I have been using the cream at night for the past few weeks and I am already noticing a softer texture around my eyes.

There you have it my friends, my latest beauty secret for you all.

xo

Mia

 

 

Why VIIcode beauty eye mask is my must have beauty product

I haven’t had a proper sleep in 7 months, hello new mom life. While it is slowly getting better and now I am having one 5am wake up instead of a 1, 3, 5, and 7 – it is still an adjustment. Oh and on top of that I then am required to entertain a tiny human for an entire day. Don’t get me wrong, I love my job as mom but it sure is exhausting.

While pre baby I would find the time to take care of myself, that has now been put on the back burner. Gone are the days where I would have time for a facial, I mean I barely have time to wash my face twice a day anymore, and it was starting to show (the bags – oh the bags). That is why I was excited when I came across VIIcode eye masks.

About the VIIcode Eye Masks

I ended up getting the VIIcode 02M Oxygen Eye Mask for all night repair. You apply these gentle eye pads under your eyes and they go to work right away. The best part is, is you put them on at night and can leave them overnight for the best results so it doesn’t take away anytime from playing with my son.

The pads are made up of natural antioxidants that help  nourish and rejuvenate the skin. They are safe for the eye area and can be on for up to 8 hours. I woke up the next morning noticing such a difference in my eyes. The skin around them was soft and smooth. And since using them for the last 3 months I have felt that my eyes just look more awake – even after a sleepless night.

You can find out more about these eye masks on their website: https://www.viicode.com/ but from one mom to another I have to say this is one must have postpartum beauty item

xo

Mia

4 Simple Ways to Level Up Your Looks

For some people, looking good is near the top of their list of priorities, while others might differ in opinion. Either way, it will probably appear somewhere. The good news is that, even if you’re far too busy to spend much time on your appearance, there are some simple ways to level up your looks.

1, Your Smile

Often, someone’s smile is one of the first things that you notice about them. Keeping your teeth generally clean and healthy can do wonders, not only for your health but for your appearance as well. Brushing and flossing can take care of the general maintenance, but be sure to get regular checkups with your dentist. As well as making sure that your teeth are healthy, you could also fix some dental problems that can affect your smile. These can include stained teeth, missing teeth, or other common issues. There are several treatments recommended by this cosmetic dentist.

2. Your Skin

Good skin can have a huge impact on your looks, but it’s also important for your general health. Dry skin isn’t just uncomfortable, but it can invite infections through cracks and damage that forms over time. 

One of the best ways to make sure that your skin is healthy and smooth is to keep a regular skin routine. This doesn’t have to be hugely involved, but it does need to be done at least once or twice a day. A regular morning and bedtime skincare routine will keep your skin looking its best.

3. Your Health

In case it’s not clear by now, general good health can do wonders for how you look. More importantly, you’ll feel better as well. If you consider the aforementioned importance of good skincare, there’s another step that will do wonders for your skin. Drink plenty of water, it’s as simple as that. 

A lot of people are perpetually slightly dehydrated. This causes headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms that are usually attributed to just feeling a bit “off”. Rather than only drinking when you’re thirsty, aim to drink at least eight glasses of liquid each day. Also, if you do have an unexplained headache, drink some water and see if it helps.

As well as poor hydration, poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle are bad for both your health and your appearance. No, you don’t need to turn into a health fanatic. But, if you try to get at least half an hour of exercise a day and swap out some of your food for something healthier, you’ll notice a difference.

4. Your Clothes

Finally, your clothes can make or break your look. Even if you don’t want to make much effort every day, some tips can work with every style. One simple thing is to have well-fitting clothes. True, not all of us can afford fitted clothes for every occasion, but if there’s one special event that you’re dressing up for, perhaps you can get something fitted for you. 

Most people have their own style, whether it’s technically “on trend” or not. Whatever you like, find clothes that you like and that you’re comfortable with.

5 tips to maximize your bedtime skin routine

When it comes to your skin routine, we all know there’s one part which is possibly more important than all the others put together. And that’s the bedtime skin routine.

At the end of a long day, it can be really tempting to just get those comfies on and sink into bed without taking your make-up off – but it’s absolutely vital that you get into a regular skin routine at night to avoid any nasty skin issues further down the line.

1. Know your Skin type

First thing’s first, you need to know your own skin – really know it.

Many of us are confused about what skin type we have, so if you’re unsure, get yourself down to your local beauty counter and get some help. From this, you’ll be able to select the best products which will be kind to your skin and work hardest to keep it looking its best.

2.  Use Cleanser

Cleanser, or cleansing wipes if you’d prefer, are an easy way to get rid of all the day’s impurities – make-up, pollution, and even sand if you’re lucky enough to live on the coast.

Use soft cotton make-up pads if you’d prefer to use a liquid cleanser, being careful not to apply too much (as your skin will struggle to absorb the moisture).

Be extra careful around the eye area, it’s super delicate!

2.  Exfoliate

Many people are scared to even touch their face with an exfoliant, but it’s not the enemy (in fact, it’s far from it).

Exfoliating our facial skin (gently!), is an easy way to keep it clean, buffing away any dead cells or dirt which could cause issues if left in the pores.

Use a sensitive one if you’re new to the world of exfoliating, and be gentle, moving upwards in small circular movements. The result – fresh, clean skin!

4. Explore New Products

So many of us are guilty for sticking to the same products, even if they’re no longer suitable for our skin. Like our bodies, our skin changes as we age, so using the same product at 29 as you did at 22 may not be the best approach.

Once you’ve established your skin type, explore new product ranges to ensure you’re getting the most out of your skincare. More and more consumers are now taking the cruelty-free approach, and you should do the same. In fact, a recent study found more than 35% of women only bought from brands who didn’t test on animals – it’s the best way.

 

5. Know Your Water

Before using any products, wash your face with warm water. The temperature helps to open up your pores, making it easier to remove any dirt or grime.

After completing your routine, splash your face with cold water and pat dry with a clean, soft towel. The cold water (not too cold!) will close the pores up again, preventing your skin from absorbing any additional nasties in the night.

 

This is a contributed post written by Dale White

7 tips to get your skin ready for a special event

I have mentioned on my social media that this month I was focusing my blog on some lifestyle and beauty features. With a wedding coming up I have really been focused on taking care of myself, whether it be through fitness and eating healthy to taking proper care of my skin and today I wanted to share some of my skin care secrets with you.

As an on air TV reporter, I wear a lot of makeup. Working for the Weather Network takes me outside a ton so it is really important for me to take good care of my skin when it comes to both protecting it outside and keeping it clean. A challenge for most of us after a long day but something that your future self will no doubt be thanking you for.

I have worked with many makeup artists throughout my TV career. I am also working closely with my wedding makeup artists to get me ready for the big day. Over the years from makeup artists and dermatologists I have picked up a few tips and tricks that I wanted to share with you.

 

1. Drink lots of water

Trust me, I know this one can be tough. You are rushing to the office, to your workout classes, to cook dinner. It seems that in this day and age we are always rushing somewhere and to do something but it is so important to remember that in between rushing places, chug some water. I really started focusing on this when I had my makeup consultation for the wedding and the first thing my makeup artists asked me was; “how much water do you drink? Your skin is a bit dehydrated.”

We tend to forget that a big portion of our body is made up of water, including your skin cells and without water they cannot function and repair properly. Because of this I start every morning by chugging a glass of water and make sure I constantly have a full water bottle (even if I am going out for a story).

Since focusing on drinking more water not only has my skin started to look healthier, but I also feel like I have more energy during the day and it has also helped me curve food cravings. Win, win, win.

 

2.Follow the routine, no matter how tired you are

After long days at work and the gym, sometimes I just want to crawl into bed with my face still covered in makeup, but it is so important to keep those pores clean. It is also so important to make sure you find a routine and products that work for your skin type. My skin is fairly neutral so I don’t have to worry about products for oily or dry skin, but recently I started using Dermalogica. My mom has always sworn  by their products and now I do to.

  • Every day and night no matter how tired I am and even when I am traveling I start with the Precleanse balm, a deep cleansing balm to oil which helps melt the makeup off my skin.
  • I then use the multi activate toner to help keep the moister locked in.
  • Next I slather on my secret weapon. It isn’t a Dermalogica product but I picked up a wonderful facial oil in the Yukon made with all natural ingredients including carrot seeds and vitamin E. I use this as my serum. Serums are great because they are made up of smaller particles that can dive deeper into the skin
  • Don’t forget those eyes. After serum I throw on the Mac cosmetics fast response eye cream. This eye cream has caffeine in it which helps with de-puffs and firms skin
  • Lastly I finish it all off with a moisturizer. I use the Dermalogica skin smoothing cream. What I really love about this moisturizer is that it protects for 48 hours against environmental stress which is important when you spend your days working outside.

3.Wear Sunscreen

This one is super important to me for so many reasons. Firstly, a few of my family members have suffered from melanoma. Secondly, as I have mentioned working with the Weather Network I am outside a lot. Protecting my skin from sun damage is super important, not only because of skin cancer but also sun can lead to aging. No matter what the temperature is or if it is raining I always put at least SPF 30 on my face. I also try and find makeup that includes SPF for some extra coverage.

4.Collagen is key 

I have spoken about my love for Biosil in my previous piece for hair care, however the product fits in with skin care as well. Biosil helps create collagen, which creates elasticity in your skin. In return it helps promote glowing, vibrant skin. I take two tablets daily for skin, nail, and hair benefits.

5.You are what you eat 

Eating well doesn’t just have health benefits for your physique but also for your skin. More and more studies that have been done on the connection between skin and diet show that a poor diet can age your skin. Some foods that are good for your skin include:

  • Omega 3: Fatty fishes help keep skin healthy and moisturized. I take a fish oil vitamin daily to help with this.
  • Avocado: Avocado has compounds that can protect your hair from skin damage. It also is an excellent source of vitamin E.
  • Sunflower seeds: Seeds are great for skin health. They help produce vitamin E and Zinc, all excellent products for your skin’s health.

 

6.Get your beauty sleep 

Your sleep time is also your skins time to recover. Also when you are sleep deprived, that produces more stress hormones, which directly impacts the look of your skin. Also, if you don’t get proper rest collagen and hyaluronic acids break down and so your skin looses that glow. I know it is cliche but a good nights rest really has health benefits for your skin.

7.Splurge on a deep cleanse 

No matter how much you scrub and clean and clear sometimes you just don’t have the tools in your tool box. My wedding makeup artist suggested getting regular facials leading up to the big day. I love that the work is all done for you. From hydration to extractions they take care of it all and can also recommend some products that will work well for your skin. Now I know facials can be expensive but sometimes there are Groupon deals (just read the reviews) or membership plans. I joined Skoah’s membership and now my facials cost $60 instead of $90!

Whether you are getting ready for your wedding, a special event, or just want to have beautiful skin these 7 tips can help you get the glowing skin you want.

xo

Mia