Everyday-Brood

This post is some what of a realization post.

So, recently I bought this sleek, new, "clinically proven," expensive face wash called Peter Thomas Roth Beta Hydroxy Acid 2 percent Acne Wash (well I technically got it for my sister for her birthday, but we share everything so I used it too). Although this product was supposed to be a spectacular panacea for my skin, it turned out to be a complete and utter NIGHTMARE!


Before using the acne wash, sure I had some pimples here and there, but I definitely didn't have any major breakouts. When I started using the face wash though, BAM the zits just kept coming. On top of the unexpected breakouts, my skin was sooo dry, which is extremely surprising in itself because I have naturally oily skin. Being positive, for once, I decided to keep using the product thinking that the breakouts were just temporary. Safe to say, that didn't work. So here I am, typing away and feeling sad about my skin. Even though I'm devastated at my results after using this supposedly "miracle" product, I guess I do have some good hindsight, which I will address later in the post in order to end on an upbeat tone.

Well, after having a sudden panic attack at the realization of what was most likely causing the breakouts, I've decided to go back to my old face wash and do a two week test. The two week test is nothing official, so don't expect to find any real results by searching it on Google; it's actually something my mom created. Basically, for the test, I am going to resume my old face care regime with all my old products and see if the switch makes a difference, which I am fairly confident it will. I'll probably do a post on the results, so keep a lookout.


As previously mentioned, I will know tell you what I have learned through this depressing and traumatizing experience.

What I've come to understand is that just because a piece of merchandise may have a certain brand name or a large price tag, does not mean that it's going to work miracles. I know that many people would find this realization obvious at first glace; however, I don't think people truly acknowledge the tremendous importance of this idea until they actually purchase something expensive that is not only ineffective, but also worsens their situation. Regardless, researching the acne wash mentioned above, I found out that it was supposed to be AMAZING at clearing up zitty skin and when I say AMAZING I mean people were just praising and raving about this so called "god-sent" face wash. The undeniable praise paired with the elaborate packaging and substantial price, assured me of the face wash's magical powers. In hindsight, I can safely say that my previous drug store products worked just as well (and were way cheaper), if not better than this high-end face wash. So, was it all worth it? Yes and No (mostly NO!). I will admit that the purchase was worth it because it made me understand that a certain brand name or a big price tag doesn't guarantee a product's effectiveness. I also realized the immense differences and discrepancies in skin types. Even though this product may have worked for numerous, fortunate people around the world, doesn't magically guarantee that it's going to work the same way for me. Overall I think the bottom line is to not buy into ridiculous prices and assume that products will work miracles for you just because you shelled out the big bucks for them. This may seem somewhat cynical but hey, it's the truth! (At least in my experience)


In closure, I just want to make it clear that I'm not trying to deny the legitimacy of the Peter Thomas Roth Acne Wash because it clearly worked for countless people. I'm also not trying to discourage others from buying the product because, hey, you never know, it may work for you! All I'm saying is that the product didn't work for me and that although I'm upset about the results, I've managed to learn a valuable lesson that I certainly won't forget!

All in all, I'm sad about the current state of my skin, but I know that it will get better. I've also learned a good lesson and therefore I can't complain. After all, there are other people out there who have MUCH bigger problems than my petty, little struggles.

As always continue to experiment and always remain fearless, but remember to never set high expectations for products based upon their luxuriously high prices!

AND NEVER FORGET...

I have a slight obsession with nail polish, but then again who doesn't. I consider it to be the most perfect, subtle accessory. There's no fear of anything falling off or irritating your skin. Ok sure, I'll admit that your nail polish might chip here and there, but in my opinion, a quick touch-up takes no time at all. Plus, you can buy a top coat that prevents chipping, keeping you oh sooo glamorous for longer.

My nail polish journey/obsession began in the 5th grade. I always wore the sheer, glittery colors. The colors that retain a natural feel yet simultaneously give your nails a glow similar to those of a mermaid or fairy. Later in middle school as I progressed in my nail polish craze, I began experimenting with  bright, overly-cheery colors. You know the ones I'm talking about. The florescent colors that are sure to make a statement. Now that I'm a junior in high school, I think I have finally found the color pallet that suits me.

Nowadays I prefer darker colors which often reflect my mood. They have this amazing edgy yet sophisticated vibe. I also like nude colors because I think they're just so classy and elegant. Typically I buy L'Oreal nail polishes because they dry SUPER fast, which is good because I can't stop using my hands for more than like 10 minutes. Also, L'Oreal nail polishes are pretty cheap but still have a good quality to them. Let's be honest, spending ten bucks for a tiny bottle of nail polish is ridiculous!

So without further ado here are some of my nail inspirations!

Lets be honest...I'm sure everyone reading this post has at some point gotten bored of their hairstyle. To become weary of your hair is unavoidable simply because, I believe, it is part of human nauture to lust for change and adventure. 


Every time you look in the mirror you can't help but notice a monotonous blob of hair just sitting on the top of your head. You long for what you don't have whether that be a waterfall of luscious locks or a short, super chic hairdo. Tired of your pretty yet stodgy hair you decide to take a leap of faith and make the change you've daydreamed about for so long. So, you make an appointment with your hairstylist and go in for the makeover. Everything is fine and dandy until you look in the mirror after the chop and realize you've made a grave and terrible mistake. Instead of the edgy hairstyle you pictured in your mind, you are left with a mess of unruly hair.


Well, after you have had a nice long cry coupled with a well-earned mental breakdown, it is time to get yourself together and figure out your next line of action, after all you are a strong, put-together individual.

So here you have it...a list of ideas to grow your hair...AND FAST!

1. The Inversion Method--Okay this may seem crazy, but it works; I can vouch for it.
Basically for the Inversion Method you need some kind of enriching, moisturizing oil that you can apply to your scalp. The possibilities are endless: olive oil (the one I used), coconut oil, argan oil, jojoba oil...the list goes on and on. You must lightly heat up the oil so that it is warm to the touch. (Note: You do not have to make it super hot unless you want to burn your scalp!) Next, thoroughly apply the oil to your scalp by massaging it in with your fingers. Make sure you get your whole scalp and continue gently rubbing for about 3-4 minutes. Afterwards, tilt your head, either by doing a handstand, lying over your bed or simply bending over, for about 5 minutes. Slowly...I repeat, slowly, rise back up and continue on with your life. Do this method for a week about every 3-4 weeks. Do not use the method too often or else your body will get used to the routine and the shock of blood flow will not stimulate hair growth as efficiently. You should grow about an inch of hair in a week. I grew about 3/4 of an inch in a week.

2. Do Not Wash Your Hair Everyday--Especially if you have dry hair
As weird as it may seem to some people washing your hair everyday is not healthy for it. Try to avoid everyday shampooing and do it every other day or two instead, depending upon how greasy your hair gets.
Washing hair everyday strips the hair of natural oils which protect it and keep it moisturized, promoting healthy growth. If you start feeling self-conscious about the greasiness and can't seem to embrace it, try using a dry shampoo in between washes.

3. Vitamins!
Vitamins such as Biotin are known to promote hair growth...FAST! Another widespread, yet somewhat expensive, vitamin supplement which has become popular is Viviscal. Although, the brand is pretty expensive it is known for it's magical hair growing powers. Country Life's Maxi-Hair is another great option which seems to have worked for lots of people. It's also cheaper then Viviscal which is great! Lastly, oddly enough, prenatal vitamins have been found to be great in encouraging hair growth. In my humble opinion, a regular skin, hair and nails vitamin should help as well even if it may not grow hair as fast as some of the previously mentioned supplements, it will definitely make your hair healthier. (NOTE: You should check with a doctor before starting any vitamins/supplements and only take the recommended amount!!!)


There you have it: three tips to hopefully get you your tresses back. Change is good so don't let this small set-back make you scared to take risks. And remember...plenty of people have been where you are and survived! Your not alone considering I too have recently chopped my hair in an effort to produce an edgy layered look. The result: a butchered mess of random layers that don't curl properly. As a result, I too am trying to hurriedly regain my desperately missed just-above-the-shoulder curls.