Fashion Illustration

It's been a while since I've picked up a needle and thread - lately I've been heavy into sketching my designs. I'm thinking about creating scarves and other faith-based headwear (such as the Hijab, Kippah, etc.) Looks like I'll bust out that sewing machine soon enough.

I know controversy surrounds various religious headwear/accessories. I've heard the arguments that they're "demeaning", and "divisive". I disagree. All clothing is a form of expression: In this case, the wearer chooses to express personal beliefs and cultural pride. Many associate covering the head with respect for God; others enjoy the privacy it gives them while out in public.

Anyway, here's one of my sketches. Enjoy!:

Didn't realize it came out so distant. Here's a closer version:

Derma e Overnight Peel (with Alpha Hydroxy Acids)

I recently purchased derma e's Overnight Peel from Ulta. This is a quality Vegan resurfacing treatment. It boasts 5% Glycolic Acid (which is fantastic for skin), as well as a mix of other nourishing fruit acids. It is pH balanced at 3.5, which makes it acidic enough for thorough exfoliation/resurfacing without damaging skin's protective barrier. That said, it's too strong for daily treatment - the recommended use is once or twice a week.

Tangent for those wondering WTF is up with the recent "pH balanced" trend: A scale of 1-14 is employed to measure acidity. 1 is the most acidic; 14 is the most alkaline. 7 is smack dab in the middle. Skin's ideal phH balance is 5.5 (slightly acidic). You run into problems when skin pH ventures too far into either extreme of the scale. Too alkaline, and the protective barrier erodes, resulting in dry, wrinkle-prone skin. Overuse of peels and exfoliation treatments can result in overly acidic, easily irritated complexions. Hence, the recommended once to twice a week usage.

Back to the review: I'm in love with derma e's Overnight Peel. My skin has never felt so soft and balanced (no more dry, flaky patches or oily T-zone. Yay!) It makes my other products, such as Retinol moisturiser, more effective.

Tips for using this product: This product loosens up old, dead skin cells. I apply it at night, and wash my face the next morning with a natural exfoliating cleanser (I recommend St. Ives Blemish Control Apricot Scrub - it contains gentle, natural exfoliants. Once-a-day use of St. Ives completely eliminated the stubborn patch of acne under my chin).

Combining these two products improved my skin. The Overnight Peel will smooth and dissolve any scarring/discolouration left over from acne.

Bobcat Video Experiment

I started a new job at the beginning of August - I'm a photographer at a local studio. Senior portraits are a huge leap from landscapes and wildlife. Photographing people has its challenges, but I'm enjoying the experience. It's fun, and there's always something new to learn.

I've recently ventured into video. One lesson learned (the hard way): Tripods are essential. I didn't realize I had such shaky hands, lol. I did manage to capture a mother cat and her kitten. They regularly visit our backyard. We believe the mom is some type of bobcat and/or wildcat mix (her face/markings are quite interesting). Anyway, I hope you enjoy the video - she and her kitten are adorable!

California Love: Coachella Valley (Continued)

Okay, here's the desert mountains (as promised). I loved those clear blue skies! Many view deserts as desolate and isolated - Coachella doesn't fall under either category. Besides its famous music festival, it is home to spa retreats, film festivals, scenic nature trails, and plenty of shopping. 

California Love: Griffith Park

I stayed right down the road from Griffith Park. I spent the better part of an evening photographing the scenery. I only saw a fraction of it - I didn't realize how expansive it was. Griffith Park is home to the famous Hollywood sign, the LA Zoo, the Greek Theatre, a Bird Sanctuary, and the Griffith Observatory. Looks like I have plenty to check out next time!

The park offers hiking trails, and gorgeous mountain views. The sunset isn't bad, either. I managed to sneak in a few photos as the sun went down.

California Love: Coachella Valley

I'm enjoying my time out here in California. Yesterday my friend and I hit up Wet n Wild water park out in the desert (close to Palm Springs). I'm still in awe of the desert (native Floridian here - naturally we don't see too many of them, lol). Wet n Wild was lots of fun - my naturally pale skin now has a bit of color (don't worry - I wore sunblock). Anyway, I took a few photos from the passenger seat on the way home.

I was intrigued by the windmills and barren landscape. It's interesting, the things you learn while travelling. Apparently, the windmills provide energy for all of Southern California. Next up: Beautiful desert mountains!

Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Moisturiser

I'd been curious about Neutrogena's new line of anti-ageing products for quite some time now. The products boast "Accelerated" Retinol SA: This is an effective combination of Retinol SA, Glucose Complex, and Hyaluronic Acid.

I purchased the Rapid Tone Repair Moisturiser. In addition to the accelerated Retinol SA forumula, it contains Vitamin C. Unlike many products, its Vitamin C is potent enough to be effective. (Tip: "Ascorbic Acid" should be listed among the ingredients).

I've used this product for nearly a month - I'm pleasantly surprised by the results! My skin is more smooth, balanced, and a bit "glow-y" (I know, I know, so cliché). It even gave my pale complexion a healthy flush, and diminished acne scars. Rapid Tone Repair absorbs quickly & won't dry you out (Hyaluronic Acid is great for hydrating skin). That said, I find it more effective when I use it every other day (as opposed to every day). Overall, this is a great moisturiser & exfoliator - I'm a big fan of multi-tasking products. It should fit into just about any skin care routine.