A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to receive a Fraxel laser treatment with Dr. Rednam, in Houston. I wanted to wait to give you my review and experience once my skin had a chance to fully heal, and I could truly share all of the results with you. So let’s get started!
The process first started with a consultation. Here I met with Dr. Rednam one-on-one in her office so that we could discuss my wants, current skin care routine, and provide her the opportunity to give my skin a full assessment before the procedure. – Yes, you need to take off all of your makeup for this, so it’s best to show up fresh faced. I get cyclical breakouts, some of which can be cysts so before I could schedule my Fraxel session she put me on a round of antibiotics to clear up my skin, as well as, started me on Alastin Skin Nectar day and night to prepare my skin for the treatment. *This is the secret, and most important step to a quick turn around after Fraxel! And finally, we discussed what would happen the day of, and what results I could expect.
FAQ
What is the laser like?
There are 2 lasers used to penetrate, and target specific skin needs such as redness, fine lines, discolorations, and scarring. During the treatment, a pass is made over the entire face with one laser; in a sort of crisscross pattern, and then again a second time with the other grade laser.
How long does the treatment take?
The actual treatment itself takes about 20-30 minutes, but you have to numb first for about 40 minutes; so prepare to be there for around 1.5 to 2 hours total.
Treatment Walk Through
When I arrived at her office the day of my treatment I was first escorted to the photo room to take before photos and sign waivers. After, I went to the procedure room and met with the nurse who applied the numbing cream to my face. After that, you get about 40 minutes to sit and relax while your face “falls asleep”. Next, it’s time to actually get started. The numbing agent was wiped off and I was handed a tube of air which contained Pronox. This is a gas to assist with anxiety and pain management during the treatment. Dr. Rednam wants you to be as comfortable as possible, and for you to have a pleasant experience, so she offers wonderful services such as this! I took about 8 breaths through the tube and we got started!
The first passes are over the forehead, and if you are curious, yes you feel it… but it is a tolerable sting. The best way I can describe it is a hot sensation…sort of like poking at a sunburn. Certain areas of the face are more sensitive than others, and at any time you desire a break she stops and you can breathe in more Pronox. Once both passes had been made across my face with each level of laser, she applied the Alastin Skin Nectar and then Oxygenetix foundation which is seriously the BEST thing! It is the lightest foundation which also includes aloe and SPF with full coverage! This foundation, along with the Alastin Skin Nectar was my routine for the next month, and allows you to continue on your day as normal without anyone being able to really tell you had anything done!
After Care, Healing & What to Expect
Because I had been using the Skin Nectar before the procedure my healing time was very quick, as it preps your skin and gets it into the best condition. So when I arrived home after the treatment I was to ice my face. It was still very numb, but I could feel a lot of heat on my face. Later that evening there was quite a bit of swelling but not much discomfort at all; even when the numbing agent wore completely off. The next morning there was quite a bit of swelling still on my face, as well as redness, but nothing the Oxygenetix couldn’t help with! I was even able to do a photo shoot the very next day! *However I will add you need to keep your face out of direct sunlight and wear SPF!
Now over the next few days my face got super itchy and began to peel. I continued with my routine and no one was even able to tell what was happening under the Oxygenetix! The swelling completely subsided by the end of the first week, and most of the peeling had finished. For me, peeling is the worst! It just grosses me out – but that’s just a personal struggle, lol. I’ll add in a close up pic just so you can see how crusty it got, lol!
SO….How’s My Skin Now?
Everyday that passes I notice brightening and softening to my skin, as well as, less redness in my cheeks. I was starting to get fine lines on my forehead and those are pretty much entirely gone and my smile lines have softened. I have a scar on my forehead which is also much lighter now. – And again, this is all just from one treatment. On average Fraxel is done in 3 sessions depending on the desired results, each spaced out over 6 weeks, with results lasting over a year. Again, this is dependent on age, and desired results.
I am very impressed with the results, and also can’t speak any higher about Dr. Rednam, her staff, along the products used. Every step of the way I knew I was in good hands and have seen amazing results from the Fraxel treatment, the Oxygenetix, and the Alastin Skincare Skin Nectar; which is my absolute favorite product now! It even helps to keep my skin clear of breakouts!
I hope you enjoyed this and if you are interested in Fraxel, or any of the products mentioned just click on the words and you can get everything you need!
A special thank you again to Dr. Rednam and her team for providing me the pleasure of experiencing a Fraxel treatment first hand and for treating me with the upmost care!
I was recently invited to visit my local Crossroads Trading, to experience what all it had to offer. I love the idea of thrifting, but haven’t been to a location quite like this before!
Everything is that “one amazing treasure hunt item” you hope to find, and you are sure to leave there with something special!
First things first, you can sell your gently used, current season items for cash or store credit! While the sales associates are appraising your items, its time to shop! While browsing I came across items from Manolo Blahnik, Salvatore Ferragamo, Halston, Kate Spade, and Burberry! Those are some serious labels people!!!!
I tried on a Burberry dress, which was priced at $85 and a beautiful tan long coat from a Los Angeles brand, DRA for only $37.50, still with the original tags! The dressing rooms are super roomy with great lighting and plenty of space and mirrors.
H&M dress $12.50
Elaine Turner dress: $32.50
My next score was a mini Longchamp bag in Navy…can you believe it was under $40!? You cannot beat that price.
The store is categorized my clothing type, accessories and there is even a men’s section! I was very much impressed with the cleanliness as well as the breadth of assortment. And most shockingly, the labels! Every item I sifted through the rack was a recognizable label. And to see those price tags…it will bring a smile to your face! Everything is so reasonable- not to mention, all items are very gently used, if not brand new! I can’t remember when I have had that much fun shopping!?
So if you have a Crossroads Trading near you, stop in and check it out! Better yet, purge your closet for the new year by taking in those items you aren’t wearing anymore and trade them in for something designer! You seriously don’t know what amazing product you might find! For locations click here!
For my birthday weekend I wanted to relax and have a staycation, and what better place to do so than the newest downtown Houston destination hotel, The Hotel Alessandra!
This beautiful, and might I add, glamorous hotel offers it all! From a sleek bar lounge, to a full dine in restaurant, spacious outdoor pool with a skyline view, and plush guest rooms I could not have picked a better place to unwind!
The Room
We were in a corner room so the views were spectacular! All of the appointments from bedding to the tile were perfectly selected to create a chic ambiance. I personally loved the emerald green accents, complimented by their white embroidered logo.
Amenities at a Glance
For dinner we dined at the Bardot. This in house gastro-plush bar features a fabulous view of downtown, and comfortable relaxed seating. We decided on chicken strips and a burger (so there would be plenty of fries) I must say the burger was spectacular! SO GOOD! I am thinking about going back just to eat at Bardot! The food and ambiance were perfect, and with the excellent selection of specialty drinks they offer, it is the ideal location for a date night.
Even though it was a bit chilly, I wanted to check out the other on site amenities! The Alessandra offers an outdoor pool area which was so beautiful! Again, the view of downtown seemed within arms reach and the patio chaise were perfectly placed for a retreat within the city. The the gym offered everything you need for a well rounded workout all nestled perfectly in a floor to ceiling windowed room. Soon there will even be a spa available on property – even better!
Check out the Hotel Alessandra if you are visiting Houston on vacation, or just want a weekend staycation like I did. It is the perfect hotel to unwind, but also keep you in the center of everything, just step outside and you are in the heart of downtown! I would also like to add that it is right next door to a Forever21 so shopping is just inches away! What else can you ask for?
This past weekend myself, Kristine, and Alessandra went on a girl’s trip to Dallas for StyleCon. We had the pleasure of staying at the Fairmont Dallas for the weekend which was not only convenient, as it was located right across from StyleCon, but also a luxurious and relaxing getaway for the three of us!
Upon arrival, we were welcomed to a table of evening snacks and a bottle of wine. The traditionally appointed rooms are spacious and decorated elegantly leaving a relaxed at-home feel. One of my favorite special touches was the personalized toiletry items!
Since we are bloggers we travel with quite a bit of accessories. To keep everything organized, here is our shoe and handbag set up! We found the best space for these items to be the living area. I will also add the closets are spacious and provided enough hangers for the three of us to hang all of our clothing!
We stayed in an adjoining King Suite and a Double Room. The bedding was plush and extremely comfortable. When I stay at a hotel usually the first night I cannot sleep well just because I am in a new place, but at the Fairmont I fell asleep almost as soon as my head hit the pillow!
In the morning it was just a short elevator ride and hallway walk to Starbucks! We loved that there was one conveniently located in the hotel, perfect for getting the morning started on the right foot!
After that, we spent the day at StyleCon, which I will chat about in a separate post. Once we arrived back at the hotel, we found lemonade and sweets in the entry to welcome us back, along with a beautiful fresh floral arrangement. After refreshments it was back to the room to change and get ready for dinner!
We met up with our fellow blogger friend Zaira at Mercat Bistro, a short 0.4 miles away from the hotel. We dined in the gazebo on steak, beet salad, shrimp ravioli, bread pudding, and creme brulee! The French inspired restaurant was beautifully decorated and elegantly appointed with printed china, linen table cloths, string lights and dark green rot-iron scrolled posts.
I would also like to add in the evening turn down service was provided by the hotel including a fresh bag of ice and a bottled water.
Since the weather was so beautiful while we were at the Fairmont Dallas, we had the opportunity to check out the amenities on the Terrace floor. Here they have lovely gardens and a sparkling pool overlooking the Dallas skyline.
If you are planning a trip to Dallas, or just want a relaxing weekend getaway, this is the place to stay! You will feel comfortable, welcome and leave well rested! Thank you Fairmont Dallas for the wonderful stay, be back soon!
Since it gets pretty hot here in Houston, my summertime wardrobe generally consists of shorts. Because of that, I like to find creative ways to spice up my ensemble with sparkling and fun accessories that maybe wouldn’t normally be paired with shorts. Enter this over the top large and in charge statement necklace from Mirina Collections. I had the opportunity to try out their brand and selected two pieces from their collection. This one is by far my favorite! Pairing such an eye catching piece with shorts, and a solid top really changes the feel of the look.
For added fun and sun protection I paired this look with my current favorite grey faux suede hat, and to coordinate with the texture and shade, I am wearing these on-trend mules by Kensie from Stage. This style of shoe is super comfortable and gives any look a little 90’s throwback.
By adding these accessories to my look an otherwise simple top and classic pair of shorts is transformed into a trendy ensemble that demands attention.
What I’m Wearing
The top I have on is from Romwe. I am actually really pleased with the quality of the piece. The design is well crafted and the fit is on point. This top is only available in one size so I am sure it will fit everyone a little differently, but I do like how it fits!
For bottoms, I am wearing high waisted shorts from Shein. These are currently my favorite pair of shorts! They are super flattering and I can pair them perfectly with my cropped shirts for a modestly trendy look.
My top was only $9.99 and the shorts were just $15.00 so if you are on a summer budget, these pieces are definitely worth ordering as they are transitional and can easily pair with other pieces in your wardrobe!
If you are looking for a great one-piece ensemble to wear to a polo match, wedding, the movies, or even brunch with the girls, this is the piece to purchase!
This lightweight romper from The Mint Julep Boutique is as elegant as it is comfortable! The flowing material flatters any figure, as the culotte crops add style and on-trend vibes. The bodice features cold shoulders and a split back detailing, all on a cool shade of blue accented with soft white stripes.
I decided to dress it up with a blazer and sling back heels, for a more formal touch. I can easily see this romper paired with a large floppy hand and sandals as well! It is such a versatile staple piece for your spring and summer wardrobe!
My impressions
I was contacted by The Mint Julep Boutique, for a brand review, and selected this piece to try out. Their customer service is impeccable and all of their products are cute and well made. I especially love how easy it is to determine your size based off of their sizing guides and model specs. Their site is extremely user friendly and they have a dress for almost any occasion! All of their assortment is very affordable, and in my opinion, adorable!
My order arrived in a timely manner, and was packaged very neatly in identifiable mint packaging.
This piece is available on Shop the Mint.com for $46.00 which is an excellent value for the quality of the garment. I ordered the romper in a size Medium, and am happy with the fit. I believe the Small would have fit as well but as I am 5’8”, I choose to go up a size when it comes to one piece garments for length purposes.
I hope you love this jumpsuit as much as I do! And don’t forget to sign up for Mint Julep Boutique emails, when you do you will receive $10.00 off your first order!