Monday, December 1, 2014

Just call me Khalipid

I was asked to write about my favorite product.  I've raved about oil before but I wanted to share what I wrote. 


Oil! It is my "skin addiction"!! This is particularly true during the winter when I spend my time skiing... One must prevent the damage that can easily be done from exposure to solar radiation in the dry climate of higher altitudes. Thus, I make sure to keep my skin layered with my favorite oils and moisturizers. 
Although it seems inherently contradictory, using oils can actually be good for both oily and dry skin types. Dry skin obviously loves oil for its nourishing qualities, while  for oily skin some oils make excellent pre-cleansers (i.e., oils adhere to other oils and gets skin cleaner). Also, using an oil AFTER cleansing can condition the skin to reduce the amount of oil it produces on its own.
Aveda Energizing Composition 
Espa Face Treatment Oil 

Friday, June 13, 2014

Face Product

Face Product

Espa face care
$89 - johnlewis.com

Espa eye care
$59 - johnlewis.com

Espa cleansing mask
$47 - liberty.co.uk

Espa face care
$43 - johnlewis.com

Aveda face wash
$29 - liberty.co.uk

Aveda body moisturizer
$57 - liberty.co.uk

Aveda beauty product
$48 - liberty.co.uk

Hair Product

Hair products

Beauty product
kerastase-usa.com

Kerastase hair care
$37 - thehut.com

Aveda haircare
$31 - harrods.com

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Spotlight: Permanent Makeup

I am often asked questions by my clients pertaining to permanent makeup, a professional technique that employs tattooing pigments onto the skin as a means of producing a visible effect on one’s appearance, such as imitating topically applied cosmetics.

Permanent makeup can restore the appearance of someone with missing or partial eyebrows, or correct the features for those with faint or uneven eyebrows. It can also eliminate the need for applying cosmetic eyeliner, or used to ensure that you always have a perfectly sculpted design (such as the much desired “cat eye”). Other techniques can be used to hide lip scars or to give more definition to the lips (and thereby reduce the need for lip pencil or lipstick altogether). There are also medical applications of permanent makeup, such as when used to improve the appearance of an areola after breast reconstruction.

While enjoying a relative degree of popularity since the 1930’s, permanent makeup is an increasingly mainstream component of the health & beauty enhancement industry due to its durability and non- invasive nature. It is also commonly referred to using other names, such as permanent cosmetics, cosmetic tattooing, dermapigmentation, or similar such terms.

While I do not offer this type of procedure as part of my own aesthetic services, I can recommend someone who does: Jessica Mitchell, the owner of Face Forward Permanent Cosmetics (www.faceforwardatlanta.com). If you are interested in seeing examples of Jessica’s work, as well as the types of services offered, you can peruse her website to see various before and after photos. In addition to cosmetic services, she does all types of tattooing reconstructions. Jessica's location is in the northern heart of Atlanta, at 3209 Paces Ferry Place; you can setup an appointment online or by calling 770-990- 7354.

As with any treatment, be sure to approach it with the realistic expectations as to your desired results. Feeling completely comfortable is extremely important, so always discuss with your clinician any questions or concerns you have about immediate or long-term consequences of the procedure you choose. 

Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Jamaica me crazy!!

Our Jamaica trip was absolutely epic. I can't believe this is only part one of our spring traveling. 
We stayed at Round Hill Resort in Montego Bay. This wasn't our honeymoon, it actually was our dear friend's 35th birthday party.  

We arrived on Friday afternoon and went straight to the beach. We were having tons of fun just getting acquainted with the friends and family that came from all over the states.  
After the beach a group of about 10 all went to The Pellican for a proper Jamaican meal.  
After that it was time for the hot tub!  

Saturday 
There was a rooster on the road and he was sure to get us up before dawn 5:30 am.  Isaac had a diving excursion all morning so we got up had breakfast and separated till the afternoon catamaran.  When we got on the boat it was amazing.  We watched the sunset, took selfies, danced, and really had the time of all of our lives.  A boat trip always ends with a nap in my case... I really get drained dancing and drinking in the sun. 

Sunday 
Isaac, however, does not need a nap after the boat so he went and got me food and had it waiting on me in the room.  I ate the chicken that had been on the desk over night in the Jamaican heat... I also had a meat patty off the street.  I say all of that to say during the wonderful pool party for the bday girl. I got food poisoning.  So badly, that I had to see a doctor and get a shot and meds.  That normally would have put a damper on a wonderful trip. I try to never regret so... I was stupid...ate bad food.. So, I got to stare at the ocean until I felt better.  It still was an amazing party and part one of our honeymoon.  

Monday 
Travel day was not so bad.  My flight however, was one of the most turbulent ever.  Isn't it ironic going out we had the best flight and a row to ourself.  

Part 2 and actual honeymoon is in about 3 weeks in Virgin Gorda, BVI.  Virgin Gorda is my absolutely favorite place I've ever been.  It's so remote, lush, romantic and the energy there is intoxicating.  I will tell you all about that trip later. 

Monday, April 14, 2014

Top Five Fragrances I Own


1.
Clive Christian C
C for Women embraces the Clive Christian Perfume House accord of rose and jasmine absolute, yet here it is pushed to crescendo in union with violet and tuberose to reveal a perfume brimming with voluptuousness and dangerous pleasure.  Top notes: bergamot, coriander seed, lie de vin (cognac oil, wine sediment), narcisse (daffodil), geranium, mandarin, petitgrain, tagete (marigold).  Heart notes: tuberose, jasmine, rose, violet, osmanthus (apricot aroma), ylang-ylang (placed on the beds of newlyweds in Indonesia), orange flower, cistus (rock rose labdanum resin/gum with a smoky, marshy scent).
Base notes: amber, vetiver (thin aromatic roots), vanilla, tonka bean, sandalwood, musk.

This is my ultimate favorite perfume.  My husband gave it to me for Valentine's Day.  I smelled it and vowed to not spend so much on perfume with that said,  It is tied for the 2nd Most exspensive bottle I own. $400 a bottle.  I now don't care about cost when it comes to fragrance.  I just let my nose choose.  

2. Clive Christian X 
The "X" factor—a sexy, modern fragrance infused with the dynamic, captivating scent of Egyptian jasmine.  A chypre-fruity fragrance. Top notes of peach, Sicilian mandarin, bergamot, rhubarb, and pineapple. Heart notes of Egyptian jasmine, rose, lily of the valley, and orris. Base notes of patchouli, cedar wood, vetiver, vanilla, and cashmere musk.

I got a tiny bottle as a gift from for my wedding.  This one is the favorite of my husband but he does not know it.  When I wear it he can't keep his hands off me.  It is like having a love potion #9.   Worth the $400 by far and away. 

3. Love and Tears by By Kilian
Love and Tears by By Kilian is a Floral fragrance for women and men. Love and Tears was launched in 2010. Top notes are bergamot, petitgrain, lavender and galbanum; middle notes are jasmine, water jasmine, ylang-ylang, narcissus, orange blossom and lily-of-the-valley; base notes are cedar, styrax and oakmoss.

This is a $300 fancy bottle one time fee with a $175 refill.  I absolutely love, love, love this scent.  I wore this on my wedding day.  I bought it for myself on an impulse buy at Saks after day drinks.  That's the best way to get me to just spend!! The sales girl had me with refill half off! 

4 Chanel Chance 
Top Notes Grapefruit, Quince  Middle Notes Hyacinth, Jasmine Base Notes
Amber, Cedar, Iris, White musk

This is the scent that got me my husband. If you asked him his fave he would say this one but it's really X.  I was wearing it when we met. Every time I have it on he says, "I love Chanel."  He loves it so much I have all the Chances but this is the one he really likes.  

5. Estée Lauder Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia
The fragrance composition is based on two flowers that Estee Lauder appreciated most, gardenia and tuberose, surrounded by orange flower, jasmine and white lily. In the top notes are neroli, lilac, and rosewood, and the base is composed of carnation and vanilla and bourbon. 

This is my spring go to fragrance.  I always get a million compliments when I wear it and I feel like no one else knows about it. It's super affordable $175 for the large bottle.  

This Top 5 list was the absolute hardest list I've ever made.  I love every single bottle, and I have a story of when I've worn them, and why they are all special. With that said these are the bottles that were game changers in my collection.  

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Peter Pilotto rocks my summer

Peter Pilotto rocks my summer


I made that cute collage of all that I was able to buy at target for just $90 

Sunday, March 30, 2014

Married with friends

Now that I am married, it seems like my whole life is in renewal; and it feels that the more I resist this change, the more painful the process becomes. I wonder if this is what a butterfly goes through, and is the chrysalis just a beautiful torture chamber? Being someone who likes to maintain a constant state of complete control over every aspect of my life, on a visceral level this kind of chaos nauseates me, and in the past the anxiety that would result would make me go a little crazy!

Over time, however, I have learned to let the universe take the wheel and enjoy the ride (and hope that my eventual destination is the one I intended/desired).  People that I thought were like family and would be friends for life are simply people in my life. While that is a bitter pill to swallow, nonetheless having a great husband seems to make anything more palatable, so it's going down.  I guess getting married put it all into proper perspective. The most important person in my life is my husband, everything else is at best a distraction and at worst a disappointment. I see now why I would always lose friends when they got married. The universe forces you to change everything (even in the Khaluaverse).  

My April Fools Day is over and now it’s existential tax time, so every single one of my friendships is going through an audit. I need a new social circle, one that supports me as a happily married woman.  It’s called “growth,” and even though the growing pains may suck at first, inevitably the results they yield are for the better. We have a trip to Jamaica coming up in the next  few weeks.  I'm looking forward to this vacation because I only know 2 people going.  It's the perfect opportunity to form new healthy relationships as a married couple. I feel it's very important in marriage to have friends that didn't know us apart. 

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Having a Psychic helps!


I have been going to a psychic for about 2 years and it's been the best thing ever. My psychic is 81 years old and the sweetest person I've ever met.  I knew a friend that used her for years before I started  and that friend seemed to have all the luck.  
I finally got my invite and she has been instrumental in my learning to trust my own intuition.  She told me I met my husband 9 days after I met him.  Warned me about things in work. How to give bad news the best.  She helps me to avoid drama and predict baby's.  She knows about those babies.  
She has been repeatedly on TV making amazingly right predictions.  I think everyone needs someone that can tap into their energy and help them make tough dicisions decisively. 

So how does it work?
 First, I get my palm read. Next, is the tarot cards. Finally, I make a wish and there are 3 piles of different tarot cards, these are numbered cards, the top 3 cards make my lucky numbers, each pile represents a situation, pick the situation I like most and then find out when the wish will come true.  After all that she answers specific questions.  

I have been teased by some people that think she is fake, a witch, or demonic of some sort.  This is not my religion in any way!  I know she does consider this her religion or consider herself Wiccan or pagan.  I think she could be considered a therapist.  I've never had someone talk about going to therapy and have people say, "Your therapist is fake." If it's helping then negative opinions should be kept quiet.  

The last comment I get often is I'm crazy for believing in psychics.  I guess the best part about being crazy is you never know. So we have to go with ignorance is bliss on this one. 

Friday, March 14, 2014

Spring Lust List

I recently got a new convertible.  I bought it during the winter so I have not really had my chance to a enjoy the fun of the drop top.   The spring lust list is all about what will look good in my super cute car. 
This bag is my new must have!! I think it will tide me over until I can get my birkin money saved. $2500


What is a convertible without the shades and scarf to blow fashion in the wind. 





These earrings are so cute. Not what I normally go for but timeless and cute. 

Thursday, March 13, 2014

Best body creme

DEEPLY NOURISHING BODY CREAM


An intensely rich, body firming cream to condition and smooth

This nurturing body cream melts into skin to help leave it deeply moisturised, smoothed, supple and rejuvenated. Sensual Ylang Ylang and Jasmine nourish and condition while Wild Yam and Soya Bean Oil stimulate natural collagen to help firm and smooth. Mulberry, Liquorice and Bearberry enhance radiance and rejuvenating Seaweed Algae intensifies cell renewal to help reveal newer, younger-looking skin.

When you have dry skin like I do $88 is what you have to spend to get the right amount of moisture. I love this rich creme with added oil in the winter and without oil on the summer.

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Best body cleanser

ESSENTIAL CLEANSING GEL



An aromatic, naturally foaming gentle body wash

Gentle, yet effective, this soap-free, natural body wash helps leave your skin clear, clean and comforted. Naturally foaming Coconut extract effectively cleanses without stripping the skin of vital moisture. Calming Lavender and Cypress soothe to leave skin beautifully soft and supple.

Can also be used as: A shampoo For those who like maximum freedom with minimal fuss, this practical wash is all you need when on the move. Simply pop the tube into your gym or travel bag to enjoy all the benefits of a cleanser that can double as a shampoo, wherever you go. 

I simply love Espa products they smell great and they are really amazingly lush. I have very dry skin and this cleanser leaves my skin feeling clean and never too dry. It's $37 and it lasts me about 3-4 months.  That is a little on the exspensive side but it's sooo good.  ****


Khalua's Rating 

*hate it!

**not the best

***so-so 

****amazing 

*****amazing boots!


Monday, March 10, 2014

I LOVE Venus Freeze

Venus Freeze works by incorporating Multi-Polar Radio Frequency and Magnetic Pulsed Fields into one device and delivering it safely and effectively to the patient.

Skin tightening, wrinkle reduction and cellulite reduction occur because the multi-polar radio frequency causes a thermal reaction in the tissue which stimulates the body`s natural healing response. That restoring response causes new collagen to form, and the production of new elastin fibres. The active collagen in the skin contracts, causing skin to look and feel firmer and the elastin fibers unravel making the skin appear more elastic.

I found out about Venus after I got engaged.  I needed to make some quick extra money for the wedding so I got a second job just for 6 months.   I'd never heard of it and the people in the office did not have the right entusiasium to make me believe in it right away.  I didn't care at first, I was there for my wedding.  After 2 months of going on the journey with my first patient, I was a believer!  I immediately started treatments on my face. The Venus tightened and smoothed my face back to the way it was when I was 18.  


My favorite patient allowed me to blog her transformation.  She had back rolls and was married to spanx.  After 12 treatments of Venus she no longer wears spanx at all!! 


I love the fact it does not hurt, no cuts, and no down time or restrictions.  I doubt I'll ever get a facelift now that Venus is in my life. I can get one treatment every other month to maintain the results.  Forget forever 21 I'm forever 18. 

I am still working at Sono Bello Atlanta because I love Venus and I can't let go of the access.  I'm completely hooked! 

Saturday, March 8, 2014

Aura

 An aura is a field of subtle, luminous radiation surrounding a person or object. The depiction of such an aura often connotes a person of particular power or holiness. 
I don't see them very often but when I do it's special. 
The first time I saw one I was 17 and I snuck into The Gold Club with Jimmy the Greek.  We were VIP and I had only one request, introduce me to the girl on the VIP card in the blue bikini.  I found out her name was Baby.  Baby was the most beautiful human being I had ever laid my eyes on.  When she walked into the room she was glowing blue, her hair was huge beautiful curls and everything she touched was glittery.  I was convinced fairies were real and I wanted to be one.  We crossed pathes a little later and became the closest of friends. 

The next time I saw one I was 21 and I got a job where you had to shadow someone to learn the job.  There was this tall, red head, girl that wasn't my buddy but all night she was glowing a bright white.  It felt as if she was walking back and forth off in the distance.  At the end of the night she walked right up to me and said, "Hi, I'm Amber! Do you want to come over my house and hang out?" 
I kinda wondered if she thought I was glowing too? I went over her house, we told each other our whole life stories, fell in love and when the sun came up swore to being best friends forever. She has been so special to me.  We can be apart for years and we pick up just like no days have past.  We are a love at first sight best friends story.  

The third, most current time I've seen one was when I met my now husband. He was meeting me for a quick drink to test the chemistry between us. It was a super casual meeting at my night job.  I was away from the store when he arrived and when I was walking back he was standing in front of the door dimly glowing yellow or a light golden color.  Our meeting was soo familiar, we danced, laughed and I fell inlove right then.  After he left my co-worker asked me what I thought about him and I told her, "I think I just met my husband." 




Press


Friday, March 7, 2014

First purchase together


I won't embarrass myself and show you the before couches, but we were in desperate need of a furniture facelift.  My condo was on the 29th floor, amazing view and very modern. I did not focus on furniture and decorating the condo because I knew it would be too hard to leave if it was perfect, it was too small to be anything but a bachelorette pad. 

It's been about 12 years since I last couch shopped and when I did it last time it was all alone.  As a married couple we went to By Design, my favorite store in my budget, and picked our top 3.  The next day I went shopping and found a more expensive better couch. 


My accountant husband immediately fell inlove with the top pick from the first store and gave me orders to go buy the original less expensive couch. Sometimes you need to show them how good of a deal you have. 😉 I'm so glad we went with the brown leather. It's the leather version of the couch we had.  


Doing these things as a couple makes me feel like a grown up.  I love consulting with my husband. I love that he pays even more!  He has made sure to make me happy in every way.  I swear marriage is a hard decision but when you find the guy it's the best thing ever.