#i was going through my lotions looking for aloe vera and/or soy

[badluck990]

Friends, enemies, both, none.

Question.

What the fuck is the difference between a

Lotion

A 'body cream'

And a body butter

[damiano-mylove]

Sunburn

Pairing: Vic De Angelis x GN!reader (as always)

Wc: <1,000

Cw(s): Sunburn, lil bit of skin peeling, probably swearing, fluff

Summary: Vic gets mad sunburn after a beach day with the reader, reader then cares for Vic for the day.

Masterlist

It had been a beautiful day; sunny, warm with a slight breeze, with a good vibe from the moment you opened your eyes to the golden sunlight entering the curtains. You and Vic, your girlfriend, had planned a beach date, for just the two of you. And you went to the beach, it was delightful. Sandy, salty, bright - all of that.

But it was the first sunny day of the year, and Vic said that she tanned in the sun.

The Danish girl was proven wrong by the sun itself.

By the time you two came home around dinner time, she was already starting to appear more red than usual. You both brushed it off as just a healthy glow to show everyone that you had a nice day together. There was no cuddling that night, but Vic was giving off the same heat as a car on fire.

"Holy rat shit," Vic had mumbled in the mirror the next morning. It was a horror scene.

Her skin was already starting to peel in thin but stretchy sheets, she was boiling hot to the touch (though you weren't able o touch her for long) and she was as red as a fire engine. Your heart went out to her, it really did, but you had told her to put on sun cream.

"It's not that bad, Babe, I promise," you told her. You weren't lying; your sunburn was always worse in your own eyes than someone else's.

But Vic cast you a look as if you were mad for even trying to console her. You frowned. "It's horrific, Y/n." Her gaze turned back to the mirror, and you came behind her, looking into her beautiful blue eyes through the mirror. "Do we have any cream or gel or anything?"

"I can hop to the the chemist's and get some aloe gel, if that appeals to you. But all we've got is some regular lotion in the bathroom," you informed her. Vic sighed. Quickly, she spun around and had her forehead on your shoulder. You lightly kissed her red shoulder and smiled as you felt her chuckle.

"I'm not leaving the flat."

"I'm more than happy to run out for you, Vic, Darling, you know that," you smiled. Vic raised her head, then kissed you gently. It seemed even her lips and eyelids were sunburnt. To be fair, she had a nap in the sun like a cat.

Before you left, you convinced Vic to let you put some lotion on her. It would cool her skin down at least. So you kneeled on the bed beside her as Vic lay practically naked. You pushed her shining blonde hair over her shoulder before working the white, cold cream into her back; making Vic jump at first, then melt right into your gentle touch.

When you got to the chemist, you told them you had an intense sunburn emergency, to which they lead you to a bottle of aloe vera gel, Vichy After Sun balm and soy lotion. You bought the whole lot because you didn't want your girl in pain for a lot longer. And a bar of chocolate because it was Vic, after all.

"You're a good partner to have, to go out and get all this stuff," the chemist told you as you paid for everything.

You smiled at them and bowed your head before taking your bag. "Thank you. Have a good day."

To get back home, you practically ran. Vic was found laying on the bed in the same position you left her in, but scrolling on her phone boredly. You cleared your throat, making Vic turn and smile at you.

"My hero."

The rest of the day was largely spent massaging Vic and watching some programme on Netflix. When one side of Vic dried, she flipped over and you rubbed one of the three things of cream into her. It was a cycle, but by the time the evening hit, the redness had gone down an extreme amount.

For dinner, you and Vic dined on a fine meal of sandwiches and rose from the fridge.

It was a day to remember, and potentially even better than the beach day you two had just enjoyed. As Vic fell asleep on her stomach, with her head in your lap, you stroked her hair and just admired her. You really got lucky that this was your girl. And you really did love her, like no one would ever understand.

[dawnasiler]

Best of 2019: The 35 Facial Skincare Products That I Loved Most This Year (from Tools to Treatments)

As we wrap up 2019—and the entire decade—I'm looking back at ALL the products I tried over the last 12 months to choose the absolute best of the best. (I think I've fallen in love with way too many products over the years to even attempt a 10-year retrospective!)

Since my 2018 list was practically a novel, I'm going to break this down into two parts.

First up is facial skincare (my favourite). From cleansers to serums to gadgets, I test-drove heaps of new launches this year, while remaining loyal to a few Holy Grail items. 

Here are the highlights—and stay tuned for my makeup, haircare and bodycare picks, coming up next!

The Best Skincare Products of 2019

Two of my favourite skincare products of 2019: Summer Fridays CC Me Serum and A313 Vitamin A Pommade.

Best Makeup Remover

BIOeffect Micellar Cleansing Water

There's nothing wrong with good ol' Bioderma to remove makeup, but I do love my BIOeffect Micellar Cleansing Water even more. It's fragrance-free, non-drying, and made with clean ingredients—and it's every bit as effective. Plus, it doesn't leave any residue on your skin afterward.

Best Cleansing Water

S.W. Basics Cleanser

S.W. Basics Cleanser is sort of like a micellar water, except it's made with just three natural ingredients, and you do need to rinse it off. I love this one for an ultra-gentle morning cleanse.

Best Foaming Cleanser

Omorovicza Cleansing Foam

My favourite cleanser purchase of 2019 was definitely Omorovicza Cleansing Foam. Unlike most foaming cleansers, it has a luxurious creamy texture, yet it still rinses off clean (and won't dry out your skin). Highly recommend! I also used the Indie Lee Purifying Face Wash this year, which is a good choice for oily skin.

Best Gel Cleanser

Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser

I love the Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser so much, I went through more than half a bottle this year. Most gel cleansers tend to be a bit drying, but not this one—it never leaves my face feeling tight. In fact, it's so gentle, any skin type can use it (even dry skin). The other gel cleansers I tested out were from Glow Recipe, Odacité and Indie Lee, and I'd recommend all of those, too! 

Best Gel-Cream Cleanser

Lano Face Base Gelcream Cleanser

For a slightly more moisturizing cleanse, I enjoyed the new Lano Face Base Gelcream Cleanser. As a gel-cream, it has the cleansing power of a gel, but the gentleness of a cream. Glossier Milky Jelly Cleanser was also in my rotation and has a similar lotion-like texture. Both are nice!

Best Cream Cleanser

Dr Roebuck's Noosa Nourishing Creme Cleanser

The best cream cleanser I used (and probably will go back to this winter) is Dr Roebuck's Noosa Nourishing Creme Cleanser. It doesn't lather, but still works perfectly to cleanse while leaving your skin soft and moisturized. I also appreciate that there's no film left behind on your skin.

Best Cleansing Brush

Foreo Luna 2 for Combination Skin

I've remained loyal to my favourite cleansing brush, the Foreo Luna 2 for Combination Skin. I talk about it all the time because it really does deep-clean your skin (especially after sunscreen or heavy makeup), and is completely hygienic and non-irritating. 

Best Face Wipes

Consonant Come Clean Anytime Natural Cleansing Cloths

I don't use face wipes very often, but when I do, Consonant Come Clean Anytime Natural Cleansing Cloths (reviewed here, for those of us in Canada) are the best. I love the simple, natural ingredients and how they make my skin feel so fresh.

Best Astringent Toner

Pyunkang Yul Acne Toner

I got really into toners this year, with the purpose of ensuring that all traces of cleanser are removed from my skin. But since I use an acid twice daily, I needed to find a toner with compatible ingredients... like Pyunkang Yul Acne Toner! This is a slightly astringent toner that is fragrance-free, alcohol-free and surprisingly inexpensive. The Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner is a similar option, but more exfoliating (thanks to 0.5 percent salicylic acid).

Best Hydrating Toner

Indie Lee CoQ-10 Toner

As a hydrating toner, Indie Lee CoQ-10 Toner (reviewed here) is something I like to use when I need to freshen up my makeup before heading out for the evening. I simply swipe a saturated cotton pad over my skin and then re-apply my concealer or foundation. (Again, I avoid using hydrating toners before acids—in my experience, they cause a weird flushing reaction due to some incompatibility with the ingredients.)

Best Acid Exfoliant

COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid

Is anyone surprised to see COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid (reviewed here) on this list? I think not! I still faithfully use this beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) treatment every single morning and night, and it's what keeps my skin clear, even and glowy. BHAs are so effective, I see no reason to use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) anymore.

Best Hydrating Serum

Consonant HydrExtreme

Another Canadian product to mention—as most of you know, Consonant HydrExtreme (reviewed here) has long been my favourite hydrating serum. This year, it was a godsend for repairing dry, irritated skin under my eyes. It has only two natural ingredients, and has been clinically proven to out-perform hyaluronic acid!

Best Calming Serum

GEORGANIC Propolis Acne Care Serum

I discovered GEORGANIC Propolis Acne Care Serum this year, and it has quickly become a new favourite. I'm calling it a "calming serum" because it contains 78 percent Centella Asiatica extract, 10 percent propolis and two percent niacinamide, all of which have anti-inflammatory properties. It's ideal for sensitive skin as well as acne-prone skin.

Best Niacinamide Serum

Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster

I've tried plenty of niacinamide serums, but I have to say, I've been most impressed by Paula's Choice 10% Niacinamide Booster. In addition to containing a high 10 percent concentration, it has a thin, watery and non-sticky texture that plays well with other products. Everyone can benefit from this stuff—as I explained in this tutorial, it treats dark spots, breakouts, wrinkles, dryness and so much more.

Best Brightening Serum

SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense

While niacinamide is great on its own for pigmentation, I also fell in love with SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense for an even more targeted treatment. Besides five percent niacinamide, it has tranexamic acid, kojic acid and HEPES, which work in tandem to fade brown spots and brighten dull skin. 

Best Vitamin C Serum

Summer Fridays CC Me Serum

L-ascorbic acid serums and I don't always get along, as per my bad experience with Drunk Elephant's this year. So I was happy to discover Summer Fridays CC Me Serum, which combines two types of vitamin C derivatives with niacinamide and peptides. So it has some pretty powerful ingredients in a lightweight and stable formulation (which hasn't broken me out!).

Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum

Timeless Hyaluronic Acid Pure

I don't apply Timeless Hyaluronic Acid Pure as a day-to-day serum (although you certainly could). Instead, I've been using it on my skin after I do a microneedling treatment. That's because it contains high-molecular weight hyaluronic acid and a minimal ingredients list. Since microneedling significantly increases the penetration of topical products, you want to be careful to avoid anything that is potentially inflammatory. 

Best Moisturizer

Truly Doll Skin Face Cream

One of the most incredible products I discovered this year has to be Truly Doll Skin Face Cream. Who knew you could make a moisturizer out of only a few simple ingredients, like soy lethicin, xanthan gum, aloe vera, coconut oil and cocoa butter?! It's honestly perfect (and so inexpensive). I also used lots of Biologique Recherche La Grande Crème this year, which is equally wonderful... but that one's $600+!

Best Moisture Stick

Cocokind MyMatcha All-Over Moisture Stick

In the colder months, I've been carrying Cocokind MyMatcha All-Over Moisture Stick in my handbag. It's a blend of coconut oil, beeswax and matcha powder in a solid stick form. So it's easy to swipe on any dry patches, such as around my nose or on my lips.

Best Face Oil

RMS Beauty Raw Coconut Cream

The face oil I used most this year was RMS Beauty Raw Coconut Cream, which is a high-quality, 100 percent virgin, raw coconut oil. My skin and coconut oil get along really well (even though I am acne-prone), so I use it as a final layer to seal in my serums and creams and even as an eye "cream." (I still love squalane, by the way, even though I didn't use my Indie Lee Squalane Facial Oil as much this year!)

Best Eye Serum

Indie Lee I-Waken Eye Serum

Sometimes, you just want a light layer of moisture to wear during the day underneath your eye makeup. That's where Indie Lee I-Waken Eye Serum (reviewed here) comes in. I love that it sinks in fast and is just hydrating enough, with zero greasiness. Best of all, it doesn't irritate my sensitive eye area!

Best Eye Cream

Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream

I'm still searching for the perfect eye cream, but Drunk Elephant C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream (reviewed here) was one of the best I tried this year. Although I wish it was a little more stable, I love the texture, that it doesn't cause irritation, and that it has so many actives. I feel the exact same way about Caudalie. But I may just go back to Dr Roebuck's, which I initially found a bit too rich, and try applying less.

Best Sunscreen

Ava Isa Pure Untinted Ultra Matte SPF 45 Sunscreen

I was already a fan of Ava Isa Pure Untinted Ultra Matte SPF 45 Sunscreen when it launched in 2018, but after doing this tutorial, even more so! The fact that it gives you such high protection against UVA (the rays that cause skin aging and skin cancer) makes me not want to use anything else! I also loved REN Clean Screen Mineral SPF 30 for its super lightweight texture, but how much UVA protection it offers is unknown.

Best Hydrating Mist

Dr Roebuck's Bondi Hydrating Mist

I'm a total face mist junkie, and Dr Roebuck's Bondi Hydrating Mist (reviewed here) was new to my collection this year. It's got aloe vera, glycerin, niacinamide and cucumber extract for refreshing, hydrating and soothing your skin.

Best Mattifying Mist

Tatcha The Satin Skin Mist

In the warmer weather, I had Tatcha The Satin Skin Mist (reviewed here) on high rotation. This is such a unique mist—it's actually a liquid powder that tames shine while it refreshes your skin. It could even replace the need for blotting papers or powder touch-ups. 

Best Retinoid

A313 Vitamin A Pommade

The best retinoid I used in 2019 is one of France's best-kept secrets: A313 Vitamin A Pommade (reviewed here). Even though it only contains retinol derivatives, it's actually very strong—even stronger than some one percent retinols I've tried, like Lixirskin. The texture is not the best, but the results certainly are!

Best Lip Balm

Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm

I used to get chapped lips all the time, but never again after using Lanolips 101 Ointment Multipurpose Superbalm every night. As a 100 percent medical-grade lanolin ointment, it's honestly the most healing thing you could ever use on your lips. (If you don't care about cute packaging, Lansinoh Nipple Cream is the exact same thing!)

Best Purifying Mask

Indie Lee Clearing Mask

I didn't have a lot of time for face masks in 2019, but I did use Indie Lee Clearing Mask (reviewed here) on occasion when my skin felt on the verge of breaking out. (This is nice to use premenstrually!) It has clay, zinc, sulfur, glycolic acid and salicylic acid—all the good stuff for acne-prone skin.

Best Brightening Mask

Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask

Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask (reviewed here) is my "going out" mask—the treatment I like to use to quickly brighten and soften my skin before I apply my makeup for a night on the town. It's a classic!

Best Hydrating Mask

Dr Roebuck's Icebergs Hydrating Mask

Dr Roebuck's Icebergs Hydrating Mask is unique among hydrating masks, because it's oil-free and non-occlusive, with a light jelly texture. So I don't have to worry about it clogging my pores, and it's great year-round (not just when my skin is drier in the winter).

Best Balancing Mask

Biologique Recherche Masque Vivant

No matter what new mask I discover, I always come back to Biologique Recherche Masque Vivant (reviewed here). There's just nothing else like it. No, it's not pretty, and the smell can be off-putting, but the yeast, clay, vinegar and lactic acid work wonders.

Best Microneedling Device

BeautyBio GloPRO Microneedling Regeneration Tool

I experimented with microneedling this year (after not having done it for several years), and my tool of choice has been the BeautyBio GloPRO Microneedling Regeneration Tool. I like this one because the needles are only 0.3 mm, and it emits red light to enhance your results. You can also replace the head (rather than throwing out the whole thing), as well as switch it out for the body, eye and lip attachments.

Best Microcurrent Device

ZIIP Nano Current Device

Last year, my Christmas gift to me, from me, was the ZIIP Nano Current Device—and I haven't regretted it! This sleek little gadget, which emits both microcurrent and nanocurrent, lets you target virtually any skin concern via its app and step-by-step videos. There are programs for lifting, calming, clearing, brightening and more. But I do still use the NuFace Trinity as well. That one is microcurrent only, and best for firming and anti-aging. 

Best Red Light Therapy Device

Red Light Man Red Light Device

It's no secret that I'm a huge proponent of red light therapy for all aspects of skin health. You won't find a more powerful, effective device than the Red Light Man Red Light Device. I still use this several times a week (every night if I can!) to keep my skin firm, plump and clear. If you can only invest in one device, get this one. (Read more about its benefits here and here.)

Best Lip Plumper

PMD Kiss Lip Plumping System

Last but not least, we have the PMD Kiss Lip Plumping System (reviewed here). This suction device produces temporarily fuller lips, and is my alternative to lip injections and overlining. I don't use it every day, but it's a fun quick fix. (Not that thin lips need to be fixed!)

Shop Editor’s Picks

Have you tried any of these products? What were your favourite skincare products of 2019?

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Best of 2019: The 35 Facial Skincare Products That I Loved Most This Year (from Tools to Treatments) syndicated from The Skincare Edit

[gothify1]

We can't help it—there's just something so captivating about French-inspired beauty . Not surprisingly, certain cult-loved brands like La Roche-Posay, Bioderma, Nuxe, Klorane, and so, so many more have gained momentous popularity here in the United States. After all, who doesn't want to remove their makeup, apply sunscreen, or drench their strands in shine like a chic Parisian? (Thought so.) But , there is a but. During a recent dinner and wine date I had with one of my very favorite women, Marie-Laure of Fournier PR+Consulting  (who also happens to be French—surprise!), we got on the topic of French beauty —two words that here in the U.S. have slowly morphed into a sought-after aesthetic and, eek, don't hate me, a diluted, debatably basic category of beauty product. The brand: Embyrolisse. The It product: Lait Creme Concentrate. It may have French origin, but this luxurious cream can surreptitiously be found tucked into every celebrity and makeup artist's kit. (It's actually considered the "star makeup base" for makeup artists—hence the inevitable cult celeb following.) It's especially great for those with dry skin and is equipped with satiny ingredients like shea butter, soy protein, aloe vera, and essential fatty acids to keep your complexion's moisture levels (and glow!) intact.  The brand: Payot Paris. The It product: Pâte Grise L'Originale. Although it might look like your average drugstore jar of cold cream, this 70-year-old cult-classic ointment is the French woman's secret for clear, blemish-free skin. (It's their coveted acne secret.) Essentially, it works by bringing small, just-bourgeoning blemishes to the maturation phase while you sleep so you can wake up to less noticeable (or vanished!) breakouts in the days following.  The brand: Le Petit Olivier. The It product: Hand Cream with Olive Oil. Smartly formulated with 98% natural ingredients, this olive oil–infused hand cream is the dreamiest send-off for beauty sleep or a long, dehydrating flight. It also features glycerin and shea butter, absorbs quickly and deeply, and never leaves your skin feeling greasy or sticky like other intensely hydrating formulas.  The brand: Durance en Provence. The It product: Shower Gel in Blue Lavender. Everything from French skin and scent staple brand Durance is lovely, but its shower gels in freshly floral scents like rose, lavender, vanilla flower, and verbena are especially lust-worthy. Plus, what's better than transforming your stateside shower into a French garden-inspired oasis?  The brand: Institut Esthederm Paris. The It product: Adaptasun Body Lotion Strong Sun. As one of the brand's best-selling products, this milky elixir might be the sole reason French women always look perfectly sun-kissed. By activating the skin's natural pigmentation process, this luxe body lotion encourages a natural, faster-forming tan that will last and last and last. It also helps prevent symptoms of sun damage like photo-aging, dark spots, and cell injury thanks to the brand's patented Global Cellular Protection Technology. All you have to do is rub it in 20 minutes before your sun time, taking care to reapply every 20 minutes or so.  The brand: Thalgo La Beaute Marine. The It product: Reviving Marine Mist. Don't even try to buy this mist from Thalgo's website because it's so beloved, it's consistently sold out. (Luckily, Amazon totally has your back on this one!) Founded back in 1964 with the goal to manufacture top-notch algae-based beauty products, the brand has pretty much been a staple on French vanities since. This specific formula helps rejuvenate a tired, dull complexion with aid from French sea marine minerals, skin-friendly oils, and other radiance-enhancing fares.  The brand: Sanoflore Laboratoire Bio. The It Product: Merveilleuse Essence Merveilleuse Anti-Ageing Regenerating Night Oil . The pure, organic skincare brand is not only chicly packaged (like, so pretty) it's also prioritized in French women's carefully curated beauty routines. Admittedly, I wanted to buy everything while scrolling through the brand's hero products, but it's this new night oil that I'm voting most destined for fresh cult stardom. It's organic and vegan (as mentioned above) but also so fine and lightweight you'll forget you're wearing it when you tuck in at night. Of course, when you begin waking up with fewer wrinkles and more plumpness and luminosity, you'll remember its magic.  The brand: Ducray. The It product: Ictyane Moisturizing Micellar Water. Since 1930, Ducray has specialized in treating dermatological disorders of the skin, hair, and scalp, and it offers a plethora of results-focused antidotes. Though it's hard to choose one product as your gateway elixir of choice, we'd recommend this hydrating and calming micellar water which, ahem, might be better than other (more well-known) formulas on the market. It's great for those with normal to dry skin and won't exacerbate sensitive eyes.  The brand: Garancia Paris. The It product: Diabolique Tomate Enriched. As Marie-Laure told me, this specific cream is the cult-favorite product from Garancia Paris—a French-girl favorite. The iconic orange-tinted cream is a savior for parched skin, formulated almost entirely with natural ingredients (which, mind you, is the norm in France). It restores skin with 24-hour hydration, plumpness, and luminosity.  The brand: Leonor Greyl. The It product: L'Huile de Leonor Greyl Pre-Shampoo Oil Treatment. Okay, so this brand you may have heard of (just because my fellow beauty editor Amanda Montell is beyond obsessed and it's a tad bit easier to track down in the U.S.), but when it comes to French haircare, Leonor Greyl is the just it. You can't go wrong with any of the products—we hoard everything and anything—but this pre-shampooing treatment smells like heaven encapsulated. Oh, and it also has this amazing habit of transforming even the most straw-like strands into the prettiest satin situation. You need it.  The brand: Collosol . The It product: Eau de Lait. Micellar water gets a lot of attention and love when it comes to the French method of makeup removal, but this milky makeup-melter from Collosol is the real under-the-radar product catch. You can now also by the formula in wipe form, but there's something ritualistic and luxurious about drenching a toning cloth or cotton ball with this iconic French pick. It removes makeup insanely fast and leaves skin soothed and velvet-soft.  The brand: Talika. The It product: Eye Therapy Patch. Talika has been a French beauty staple since its inception in 1948, which is why we're so frustrated it still flies under the radar in the States. The brand has amassed lots of best sellers and continues to dole out new amazing launches (hello, Vegetal Gold Mask), but its the masses—and countless celebs—love the 2001-born eye patches the most. (But again, this is sure to spark some debate among Talika lovers.) Infused with ceramides and shea butter for hydration and a meld of pretty plant oils including avocado, rose, and musk, regular use will revive and make over your under eyes so you look more bright-eyed and bushy-tailed and less stressed and sleep-deprived.  Want more French Girl-inspired beauty content? Here's what you should buy at the drugstore.

[moniaceblog]

Welcome!

Hello and welcome to my blog! I blog about my traveling adventures starting with my NAU travel abroad experiences through the ASNAU GO scholarship. This post will be a little longer than usual because the NAU in Mexico program meant a lot to me. More about me:

My name is Monique Acedo, I am a senior at Northern Arizona University and I major in Spanish, Graphic Design, and I have a minor in art history. My dream is to travel the world, which thanks to NAU and their scholarship opportunities (and maybe a couple of loans, but who’s counting?), has started to become true.

Why Mexico?

“Monique, you’ve already studied abroad in Costa Rica twice!! Why did you decide to go abroad again?” Well, I was not planning on studying abroad again since I had already gone twice, but once I heard the Mexico program was restarting in Mérida, I just knew I had to go. My family is Mexican and a question I get a lot when people find out that I’m Mexican is, “when did your family cross the border?” Well, my friend, my family did not cross the border, the border crossed us. Technically we did have to cross back over the border, but we had the right to do so as my great grandfather was an American citizen who was illegally deported during the mass deportations of the 1930’s. My family fought hard to be here and travelled through a lot of the southwest. My grandfather (I call him Papá) was around five years old when our family returned to the United States. He went to 17 different schools across the southwest by the time he reached high school. After meeting my grandmother, or my Nana, who is Mexican and Spaniard, my grandparents became high school sweethearts. After high school, they got married and started a family. Unfortunately, as they had more and more kids, their passing down of Spanish was lessened and lessened. My mom, being the second to youngest of four, says she can understand some Spanish, but she has no idea how to speak it. My mom and her sisters being the third generation after the US border crossed us, had already been “Americanized.”

For me, growing up in Arizona and not knowing Spanish, made me somewhat of an outcast. My extended family from my Nana’s side was the most annoying experience I would have regarding the fact that I couldn’t speak Spanish. Anytime there was a birthday party or barbecue, I would hear, “Mija, why don’t you speak Spanish?” “What a shame you don’t know Spanish.” I would get really upset. It wasn’t my fault I didn’t know Spanish. I would come to find out that this would prepare me on how to react when I was older, because to this day, I still hear questions like that from other latino people who should mind their own business. They would tell me that I’m not Mexican enough or assume that because I only spoke English, my family didn’t partake in Mexican traditions. I guess you can’t really stop people who don’t even know you from telling you how to live your life. Just for the record, Spanish and English are both colonizer languages and no one should be put to shame for not knowing these languages.

My friends growing up were really nice about me not knowing Spanish, they didn’t think anything of it and were willing to teach me words here and there. Never once did I think they were talking about me, I just wanted to speak a language everyone else did and feel included. Unfortunately, I moved schools halfway through elementary school from my predominantly latino school to a predominantly white school. I went to two different elementary schools after the move where I experienced racism for the first time. I also started feeling insecure about my body because I had darker hair on my arms and on my upper lip and my classmates who looked different than me weren’t afraid to point it out. I know for a fact that I wasn’t the only brown girl told this at my school. In middle school, I found friends who were like me. Latino, but also couldn’t speak Spanish. I finally knew I wasn’t the only one.

There’s this saying about Mexicans in the United states that says “No soy de aquí, no soy de allí,” which means, “I’m not from here, I’m not from there.” It was a saying I hadn’t heard of until I was in college and I instantly related to it. From being too Mexican for American people and being not Mexican enough for Mexican people, I always felt like I wasn’t good enough. Not being enough in two different societies is hard and can be discouraging at times. One day, I want to be able to confidently say “Soy de aquí, soy de allí.” I don’t have to live up to everyone’s expectation on what being a true “American” or a true “Mexican” is. I am American and I am Mexican, and that’s what makes me Mexican American. I decided to learn Spanish in the first place, not to become more “Mexican,” but to connect with my family’s past and try to revive something that was once a part of our culture.

When I heard about this program opening up, I knew I had to do it. Here I was, Mexican and had never been to Mexico. I wanted to feel more connected because even though I was learning Spanish, I wanted to be immersed into the culture of my ancestors that hadn’t been Americanized. What was it like to live amongst my people in a place that hadn’t been touched by the United States?

Preparing for Mexico

What to Pack

Mérida is a city that resides about forty minutes to an hour away from the ocean. That being said, during the summer months like June, July, and August, it is at its hottest. Not only is it hot, but it is also pretty humid (which makes it feel even hotter). Here is the list of things I brought for the three weeks I spent in Mexico:

Sunscreen – the sun is almost always shining

Aloe vera – I don’t think anyone on the trip ended up needing it, but you can never be too careful

Bug spray – there’s always mosquitos

Clothes – bathing suits, jeans, T shirts, shorts, work out shorts, a dress or two, and a couple of blouses; shoes: chacos, hiking shoes, and vans (I also ended up buying heels for nights out)

My essentials: Shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, razor, face wash, face lotion, lotion, make up, make up remover, feminine products, etc.

US cash to change at the airport for pesos (I kept some American dollars to keep myself from spending too much money too fast, and a lot of places accepted US dollars as well)

School supplies – laptop, paper, pencils, etc.

Phone Plan

I use T Mobile, so I was fortunate enough to get service while I was there. Although it should be unlimited roaming data, it’s still good to use wifi as much as possible as sometimes the data coverage there is not great. (That being said, I had a way better signal in Mexico than I ever do in Flagstaff.)

Expectations?

I wasn’t really sure what to expect while being on this trip. I was excited and nervous to start another adventure in the same year. I couldn’t wait to learn the history of the nation where my ancestors were from. I was more responsible and packed for the trip a few days before, so I had no reason to stay up late the night before my trip. I stayed up anyways, it’s my pre-travelling ritual you could say.

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Skin Novela - Is It Scam Or What ? Read More About It !!!

Skin novela there could be many pores and skin care product however in terms of the powerful skin care merchandise then there could be infrequently just a few. I had been making the search in this regard for a long time as i was having the wrinkles on my face and those wrinkles were increasing day by day.

Excellent pores and skin is what a lady expects nowadays on every occasion with more youthful visibility that is retained for long years however alas the expectancies don’t turn out to be reality always. Stepped forward radiance is all responsible for improving their self belief level and drives them to stay satisfied existence. Nonetheless there are one of a kind situations while face might also start to seem confined with youthful presence and people elements might also encompass pollution, uv rays of solar and growing older issues. Right here the harm brought about is extremely high and might take lots of time to restore skin tissues if you significantly practice a few herbal formulations.

The nastiest harm is induced with growing older factors that drives wrinkles, pleasant linings, expression traces, puffiness, creases and darkish circles. Here botox and laser won't paintings on every occasion to repair pores and skin tissues and if anyways you control serums or lotions that are not proven then scenario would even become out of control. All that happens most effective due to much less collagen peptide production and reduction in moisture stage. However, there are few formulations which have potential to enhance collagen and moisture degree and are approved through fda.

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Skin novela: product evaluation

Pores and skin novela is all about attaining impeccable looking skin that consists of all herbal and herbal recipes, which resource to accelerate collagen peptide and increase immunity of pores and skin floor. The regular application of its vital serum might generally tend to lift up surface smoothness, and increase it with excessive oxygen degree for better radiance.

It clearly fights the getting old troubles, solar harm and pollutants strain that degrade skin charm and lift it up evidently without making any inclusion of botox and laser.

The components delivered right here generally tend to work from deep dermal layer as they may be without difficulty absorbed after application and do not motive any blockage of skin pores. You can enjoy reduction in puffiness and dark circles presence after 2 weeks of time duration and it would by no means purpose any irritation after use.

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Seen benefits of pores and skin novela

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Boosts up collagen and elastin peptide formation

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Better firmness of face

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No extra formation of dryness or skin infection brought about

Counter effects premature growing older

Gets rid of the arrival of expression lines and creases

Nourishes face and removes pigmentation and crow’s toes

Upkeep broken pores and skin cell and opens up the pores and skin pores

The way to use skin novela?

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Progesterone Cream Review: Don’t Buy Before You Read This!

What is it?

Progesterone Cream is a topical solution that delivers the natural steroid hormone progesterone into the blood stream. Progesterone Cream is used during menopause to help increase production of the hormone.

Progesterone Cream helps restore the drop off of progesterone in women during and after menopause, offering overall hormonal balance to those using this product. The idea here is, boosting progesterone levels will improve metabolism, reduce anxiety and depression and prevent overgrowth of breast and uterine tissue.

After looking at both natural and prescription solutions to balancing hormones during menopause, we’ve found Femmetrinol best brings users dependable relief from the rollercoaster of symptoms women may experience at this time in their lives. For further information on how Femmetrinol can help you, click the link provided here.

Do you know the Best Menopause Supplements of 2017?

Progesterone Cream Ingredients and Side Effects

Progesterone Cream is made from a variety of manufacturers, but most products contain some combination of soy isoflavones, wild yam extract or other sources of phytohormones. Here’s a look at what you can expect to find in a typical natural Progesterone Cream:

Wild Yam Extract Soy Isoflavones

Wild Yam Extract: A plant that can be made into various steroid hormones like DHEA or estrogen, wild yam is often used as an alternative to estrogen therapy for treating menopause symptoms, PMS or menstrual cramps.

Soy Isoflavones: Soy beans, as well as other plants, contain a compound known as isoflavones, which are thought to change while inside the body into phytoestrogens—plant-based hormones thought to mimic the effects of estrogen naturally found inside the human body.

Side effects may include bloating, constipation or gas. Those with soy allergies or sensitivities should avoid products containing this ingredient.

Side effects associated with progesterone creams may include adrenal fatigue, insomnia, anxiety and more.

More serious side effects may include breast cancer, blood clots, heart attack, stroke or pulmonary embolism.

The most effective solutions for menopause that won’t cause any negative effects. Click here for more info.

EDITOR’S TIP: Combine this supplement with a proven menopause pill such as Femmetrinol for better results.

Progesterone Cream Quality of Ingredients

Progesterone Cream relies on a couple key ingredients, wild yam extract and soy isoflavones to deliver the advertised benefits. Though the name makes it sound like this product is a traditional hormone therapy treatment, it’s made from plant extracts and a variety of binders and skin soothers like aloe vera and jojoba seed oil.

While both soy and wild yam have been shown to have some positive effects as natural treatments for menopause and other conditions affected by hormone levels inside the body, we’re not sure if using a topical solution is as effective as actually taking these ingredients orally in a traditional supplement.

One thing worth noting is, we did come across several positive reviews for Progesterone Cream though women have been using this product to treat a wide range of conditions from menopause to endometriosis and even have been using this as a face cream to combat the effects of aging.

Take a closer look at the products that best address your menopause symptoms. More information on our website.

The Price and Quality of Progesterone Cream

Progesterone Cream is sold on several e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Jet, iHerb, GNC and more. This product has been around for quite some time and is easy to find.

Progesterone Cream is sold in a 4-ounce container, as well as an 8-ounce container, which sell on Amazon for $18.70 and $39.99, respectively, with free shipping for Prime members. The suggested retail price for this product is $22 for 2 ounces and $34 for four ounces, and prices vary across platforms.

The manufacturer does not sell this product, though they do have plenty of information for users looking to track down a  jar for themselves and provide an MSRP for retailers that carry this product.

Learn how to gain control over your estrogen levels –experts discuss best menopause solutions here.

Business of Progesterone Cream

Progesterone Cream is made by a company known as Source Naturals. Here’s their contact information, according to the official website:

Phone: (800) 815-2333

Address: Source Naturals Customer Service Department 23 Janis Way Scotts Valley, CA 95066

Source Naturals is an established manufacturer of all kinds of natural supplements. They’ve been around since the early 1980s and make a number of products that combine herbal ingredients with essential vitamins and minerals.

While users can’t buy directly from Source Naturals, they do provide a store finder for both online and brick and mortar carriers, and have included plenty of wellness articles and information about their philosophy, charitable works and more.

What the site is missing, however, is more detailed information regarding how this product works—especially since ingredients are delivered through the skin rather than orally—nor if there are any clinical studies that have been conducted on the product or individual ingredients.

It’s clear this company is reputable, and consumers don’t need to worry about customer service issues as Progesterone Cream is primarily available from major retailers. But, widespread availability doesn’t ensure this is the best choice on the market, and we’re still not convinced of its overall efficacy.

Customer Opinions of Progesterone Cream

Before we dive in, there are a wide range of reviews for this product, since it’s been around for so long and is quite easy to find. Most reviews for Progesterone Cream have been positive, but there are a significant amount of users who were somewhat disappointed with the results they got from taking this product. Here’s a look at how this cream worked for previous customers:

“We tried to get pregnant for years before conceiving our now-two-year-old child. I’m not sure if it was the cream, but I think it definitely played a role in getting my hormones in order.”

“This product helped me reduce the effects of endometriosis and have more normal periods that don’t go on forever. I’m so glad I started taking this —I was so uncomfortable before.”

“Be careful. I used this product for three months and thought it was fantastic, I was feeling less anxious and moody, but after trying to take a break from this stuff, it felt like I was going through withdrawals”

“I’ve been using a wild yam cream for years, and thought this cream would help compound the benefits I’ve seen from the wild yam. It’s been completely ineffective. Save your money and skip the soy.”

Progesterone Cream has a lot of good reviews, but one thing that came up repeatedly was the unpleasant smell of the lotion. It’s also hard to get a good sense of what the best indication for this product is, as many people of all different ages with varying conditions have used this—we’re seeing a lot of people that have had some success in conceiving as well as those with just general hormonal imbalances using this cream, with mixed results.

While many of the reviews suggest promising results, we’re not entirely sure this is the most potent menopause solution on the market, though it may have some effects.

Some users will likely find that taking these ingredients orally may yield better results, as can a supplement that contains a broader range of herbal ingredients known to relieve symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats, as well as regulate moods and energy levels.

Our experts have put together a list of the best solutions for treating menopause symptoms quickly and effectively.

Conclusion – Does Progesterone Cream Work?

Based on the information we found for this product, we feel that there may be more potent solutions on the market for women suffering from more severe symptoms of menopause.

While it’s evident that Progesterone Cream has an effect on the way hormones act inside the female body, there were far too many uses to get a good sense of whether this product can effectively treat specifically menopausal symptoms, or if it’s better used as a way to boost fertility or find some relief from endometriosis or other menstrual conditions.

While there’s not really any clear explanation as to why there was a user that mentioned she experienced some withdrawal symptoms after trying to stop using this product, this statement has led us to believe that there may be some potential for risk associated with taking this product. Users should discuss incorporating Progesterone Cream into their daily routine with their doctor to see if there is any reason for concern.

Finally, it seems that the smell of this product, as well as the fact that users should wait for this product to dry may make it less appealing for consumers. It might be more cost effective to use a topical cream, but an oral solution may yield better (and more convenient) results.

We’ve reviewed a wide range of supplements before discovering Femmetrinol best helps women take on the symptoms of menopause and restore a sense of hormonal balance. Ingredients like chasteberry, damiana and black cohosh work together for side effect free relief during this transitional period of life.

The makers of Femmetrinol follow current GMP standards, keeping users safe, and ensuring that the product works as advertised. Get more information on the range of benefits Femmetrinol can provide — click here.

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