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Lifestyle, Uncategorized, Vintage · September 25, 2020

7 Thrifting Hacks You Need to Know

Going on day-long excursions on the hunt for vintage clothing and antique homewares has been a cherished hobby of mine since I was a teen. My mom, little sister and I would pack into the VW bug, top down, and head out to the outer reaches of western Loudoun, Virginia, scouring estate sales and stumbling into small-town treasure troves of relics with past lives. The pieces we found were often quirky, special things that we probably didn’t wear or use too often; it’s not every day one needs a pair of silky, mint evening gloves or a velvet pillbox hat. I inherited my love of fashion from her

As I’ve begun to be much more deliberate about my shopping habits and the CO2 waste that is produced every second from manufacturing new garments, my thrifting habit has become engrained in my lifestyle. I still shop for the ‘special’ pieces, but I’ve also learned to just incorporate many of those into my everyday life.

Most of my dishes, glassware and throw blankets have been purchased secondhand, making for a unique collection of what are typically pretty mundane items. I’ve also curated a wardrobe and box full of jewelry and accessories that makes getting dressed feel like a treat most days.

Fall is officially here, and I’m getting antsy for another secondhand haul. I’ll be heading out this weekend in search of chunky knits, layering pieces and party platters (socially-distant holiday hang-outs, anyone?) and decided to put together 7 Thrifting Hacks You Need to Know for all my thrifty newbies.

1. Go with a plan! Make a list of specific items you’re looking for. Ever walk into a Goodwill looking for grandpa cardigans + you come out with a 3 different salt + pepper shaker sets? I have.

2. Wear fitted, simple clothes. This will help you try on in the aisles without stripping down. Many thrift shops don’t have fitting rooms, + if they do, they’re a no-go because #COVID . I tend to wear leggings and a tank top or a fitted tissue turtleneck if it’s chilly out.

3. Check for moth holes. Not much more to say on that one!

4. Ask if there’s any new shipment they’ll be putting out in the next 30 minutes or so. Thrift stores are constantly getting donations + sorting through them. You may be able to get your hands on some fresh goods before they even hit the sales floor!

5. Mix and match your jewelry. I’ll often dedicate a whole trip specifically to shopping for jewelry, and a lot of times, pendants are sold on their own. I aways ask the store if they have extra necklace chains -my local place keeps a box of these behind the counter. Flat, gold chains are also great on their own for stacking (super on trend right now and a lot less $$ than buying them new!) SUPER PRO TIP: Brooches can be pendants too! Simply string them onto a chain.

6. Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit! However, always be reasonable + ALWAYS be kind! Some shops just want to get rid of their inventory + are happy to make you a deal, especially if you’re picking up a nice haul

7. I’ll just say be kind again here 🙂 Shopping secondhand or for “old” clothes and furniture doesn’t mean you get to mess up hangers + not button things the way you found them or let things fall on the floor. Real people, oftentimes volunteers, are working tirelessly to serve their communities with those “old” clothes so they can be “new” for another real person, just like you! Respect + thank your retail workers. Always.

Beauty, Uncategorized · September 25, 2020

What’s My Skin Type?

Creating the ideal skin routine can be overwhelming when you have no idea where to start. Brands are promoting the newest + shiniest ingredients all the time promising life-changing results. So, you buy the product, you apply the product + you wait for your skin woes to disappear. And they don’t. So you’re out some money and are exactly back where you started.

What if you were armed with the knowledge of the ideal ingredients for your skin type so you could shop a little smarter? I’ve put together ingredients to look for by skin type + my top picks to shop to build your routine. Not sure what skin type you have? Keep reading.

Identifying Your Skin Type

First off, wash your face + don’t apply any products after patting dry. Leave skin bare for between 30 and 45 minutes.

Is your face feeling tight? You’ve likely got dry/dehydrated skin

Your skin is thirsty, so you need to opt for hydrating oils + creams! Look for ultra-hydrating “essence” in product titles. Also, products with antioxidants + niacinamide for their skin balancing properties. There’s a whole range of oils that’ll put the bounce back in your skin – argan, carrot seed and anything Omega 3, 6 or 9.

See below for some of my favorite products for dry skin

Is your face feeling greasy, or does it look shiny? You’ve got oily skin

Salicylic acid is oily skin’s best friend. Also known as Beta Hydroxy Acid (or BHA), salicylic acid gently exfoliates skin + shrinks pores to help prevent acne from forming in the first place. Look for products with up to 3% BHA to prevent overdrying. For those with acne prone skin with hyperpigmentation (dark acne scars), also look for products including Vitamin C to even skin tone. Opt for lightweight oils + moisturizers to keep skin hydrated, not greasy.

See below for some of my favorite products for oily skin

Is your face dry in some spots, and oily in others? You’ve got combination skin

You’ve got to be on your A game to properly care for your multi-faceted skin. Be sure to hydrate with AHAs, but also to balance with BHAs. Look for “gel” + “milk” cleansers to keep skin super balanced. Try not to go too heavy with cream moisturizers!

See below for some of my favorite products for combo skin

Is your face feeling the same as before you washed it? Close this post – you’re perfect! (Kidding. I’ve got products for you too! You have normal skin)

Your skin is so happy! Be kind + gentle to your face to keep it that way. Use a healthy mix of “lightweight” oils + creams. You can be a little more creative with your skincare ingredients, but remember to do a test patch first. That means applying the skincare to a spot on your skin (I use my inner wrist) + letting the product sit for an hour to see how your skin reacts.

See below for some of my favorite products for normal skin

Beauty, DIY, Lifestyle, Uncategorized · August 17, 2020

DIY Texturizing Hair Spray

Last weekend, I spent a day on the water and I couldn’t feel more cleansed. There really is nothing quite like that salty sea air! When I got back to the city, I missed that mermaid feeling so much, I whipped up a beach hair spray.

Since I’m in protective locs right now, this gives my dreads a grittier, worn-in feel with the loveliest salty scent. Love this as a texturizing spray for my natural curls — also works well for straight hair to give it a sea goddess wave look.

Ingredients

Reusable glass spray bottle

1 cup warm distilled water

1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil

1 tablespoon sea salt

1 tablespoon aloe vera gel

A few drops of essential oil — I used jasmine today for its fresh, herbal aroma

Directions

In a bowl, stir in sea salt with the warm, distilled water until it dissolves. I just heated my water on the stove until it was warm, not boiling. Next, stir in the fractionated coconut oil. It won’t quite mix all the way, but stirring 30 seconds or so will do. Add in aloe vera gel and a few drops of your essential oil. Pour into glass spray bottle and shake vigorously before spraying onto hair each time.

Less is more with this one — spray onto hair and scrunch as you go for textured, mermaid hair vibes. Spray lightly on your bod for some ocean aromatherapy.

Beauty, Lifestyle, Reviews, Uncategorized · August 17, 2020

Boheaux-Approved: Meow Meow Tweet Cleanser, Shampoo Bar and Conditioner Bar

What have you done to reduce your carbon footprint today?

Meow Meow Tweet vows to use as little plastic as possible by packing their skincare in PCW paper and glass containers. In my quest for skincare product sustainability, I’m so grateful to have connected with and partner with Meow Meow Tweet to review a few of their products. Last week, I tried their Face Cleanser, Lavender Coconut Milk Shampoo Bar, and Lavender Hemp Shampoo Bar. Keep reading to learn more about these Boheaux-Approved picks.

Face Cleanser: This herbal-smelling cleanser is a milky dream that’s perfect for oily, blemish-prone skin. It gently cleanses my face and helps remove any lingering makeup, leaving behind soft, fresh skin. It’s the first step in my cleansing routine as I tend to follow up with light exfoliation at least once a day. This cleanser is formulated with some of my favorite plant magic herbs, like rosemary, juniper and basil.

Lavender Coconut Shampoo Bar: I’ve never used a shampoo bar, but I may be a convert. I love that it’s almost zero waste (it’s only packaged in a recyclable cardboard box) and that I can apply it directly to my scalp. Since I’m in protective faux locs right now, I give my scalp and good wash and scrub just once a week, and this bar does the trick. I’ve also been using it as as a yummy-smelling body wash.

Lavender Hemp Conditioner Bar: Conditioner in a bar form is a bit tricky at first. You have to adjust your thinking into knowing that the bar is not going to suds up, but once you’re past this, you’re golden! I found this one easier to apply to my hands first and then run it through the top of my hair. Again, it’s a bit different for me with my protective locs right now, so I only used this on my baby hairs (they were silky smooth!!) I’m really looking forward to seeing how it does on my natural curls!

I’m making a concerted effort to create a more sustainable lifestyle + I’m so excited to keep supporting a conscious brand like Meow Meow Tweet! I’d love to know how you’re using less waste in your day-to-day. Let me know in the comments, and keep on the lookout this month for more MMT product reviews.

PR* products, but opinions are all my own.

Beauty, DIY, Lifestyle, Uncategorized · August 17, 2020

Turmeric and Ginger Brightening Mask

I am always down to whip up turmeric and ginger brightening mask when my face needs a little pep talk, especially when I’m on my monthly moon cycle. The first day, my skin is the first thing that loses its “life” – I break out and my complexion dulls and I am not a happy camper. Fear not and TGFTBDIY (Thank God For This Boheaux Do It Yourself!)

Turmeric is a potent root that combats hyperpigmentation and helps unclog pores, while ginger root helps to even skin tone and accelerate circulation for a healthy, flushed look. I add in honey and yogurt for moisture, and some apple cider vinegar for its antimicrobial properties.

Ingredients and Instructions

1/2 tsp ground ginger

1/2 tsp ground turmeric

1 tsp Greek yogurt

1/2 tsp raw honey

Few drops of apple cider vinegar

Blend ingredients with non-metal spoon. Leave on 15-20 minutes + rinse well to reveal fresh, glowing skin.

Pro Tip: Turmeric is prone to staining skin. Try leaving on just 10 minutes to see how skin reacts to coloring. Always rinse this one off with a gentle toner and cotton swab!

Are you more of a visual learner? See below for step-by-step photo slides. Also, check out our Instagram post for tips and tricks from all of you in the comments 🙂

Beauty, DIY, Lifestyle, Uncategorized, Wellness · August 3, 2020

Easy Steam DIY

Use this highly customizable facial steam to open your pores and prep skin for following treatments! When you sign up for our newsletter, you’ll receive The Boheaux Plant Magic Cheat Sheet featuring my top 16 plant ingredients to customize your DIYs!

One of my favorite, easiest DIYs to do is a facial steam. Steams are a great way to open up your pores and prep your skin for whatever treatment is coming after it. I often find myself sticking my head right over the kettle while I’m boiling water for tea (not too close though!) A little more recently, I started making facial steams with my favorite essential oils or fresh floral buds. Adding the buds absolutely makes my steam feel that much more luxurious, but I also love that the fresh essences open up to create a beautiful aroma while my skin soaks it in.

What You’ll Need

Hot water

A bowl

Rose buds (fresh from a bouquet or available here)

Lavender buds (fresh or here)

Chamomile buds (fresh or here)

A hand towel

Directions

Simply boil your water. Once boiling, pour into a heat-safe bowl and sprinkle in your fresh buds. Take your towel and hold over your face while you safely edge your head to the bowl. Use the towel to keep the steam on your face for 3 to 5 minutes. Do not dry face, but let the steam soak into your pores. Follow up with remaining skin treatments.

Thinking about trying this steam, or personalizing your own? There are so many variations to make with a plethora of herbs, flowers and essential oils. Many of my DIYs are highly customizable depending on what skin concerns you’re looking to address. The essence of plants, aka “plant magic,” can definitely be a bit overwhelming, so I’ve put together an easy reference guide including an alphabetical listing of my favorite skin plants and their specific benefits for you! The Boheaux Plant Magic Cheat Sheet will be immediately available for download when you sign up for my newsletter.This is my number one reference to use while I’m concocting any of my plant potions and DIYs and I can’t wait to share it with you as you create Boheaux DIYs with me!

Lifestyle, Uncategorized · June 26, 2020

Beauty Brands for Human Rights

Now, more than ever, I have been taking the extra time to be conscious about the brands I’m supporting. From where I buy my groceries, to where I shop for clothes, I’ve been more diligent about researching what that company stands for and what causes they support. Very recently, some beauty brands have taken to their Instagrams to declare their support and advocacy for Black people, and what more they can do to actively amplify Black voices. In light of recent events in our country, I’ve been pleased to see that some brands I’ve been buying for years have spoken out and donated to organizations supporting people of color, and have been transparent about how they can continue to diversify their companies. I’ve also discovered brands that echo the same support for people of color, and have become their customer as well. I’m sharing 4 beauty brands for human rights you should buy now.

Cocokind – This San Francsico-based beauty brand has been one of the most vocal for the BLM movement I’ve seen to date. Their Instagram caught my eye on May 29, 2020, when they posted a colorful graphic of a quote by Desmond Tutu, and a caption pledging to donate $10K to the ACLU. That’s when I ran to Target and bought my first Cocokind product, the Turmeric Stick spot treatment. They didn’t stop there, though. On June 1, they also announced that for a full week (June1- June 8), they’d be donating 100% of their online profits to different human rights organizations, including Black Lives Matter, NAACP and Reclaim the Block, which totaled $55,110! I was floored. They’ve continued to show up and show out by shouting out over 150 Black-owned beauty and wellness brands, as well as calling on Black creatives, including photographers and influencers, to work with.

Acure – Acure has been a go-to brand for me for years now. Their well-priced, vegan line is a staple in several big box retailers, making it one of the more visible clean beauty brands. Over the last few weeks, they’ve taken that responsibility seriously by being extremely vocal in their support for Black people. In conjunction with making ongoing donations to the NAACP Empowerment Programs, they’ve also pledged to participate in local Florida HBCU recruitment fairs for more Black representation in their company (they divulged their company’s demographics, which includes 40% Latinx, 33% White and 13% Black.) As far as their social media outreach, they’ve also pledged to continue to reach out to Black influencers and ensure we are represented on their channels. I was super honored when on June 16, they borrowed my content for their Instagram feed that I’d created using their award-winning Brightening Facial Scrub, with the hashtag #amplifymelanatedvoices.

Versed – Versed, like Cocokind, was another brand I’d seen in stores but never had bought. With prominent shelf space in Target, they’ve got a large audience and consumers are watching. On May 30th, they announced they’d be donating to the NAACP and urged their followers to actively discuss anti-Black racism. Along with putting their money where their mouths are, the cool girl beauty brand has kept up their Black advocacy beyond the black box movement, notably when they asked Black creators to share what Juneteenth (!!!) means to them. On just about every trip to Target recently, I’ve picked up one of their products, my current favorite being their Shortcut Overnight Facial Peel.

Meow Meow Tweet – I wasn’t surprised at all to see one of my most beloved skincare brands stepping up for Black voices. My clean beauty mama introduced me to the brand’s Lemon Rose Cleansing Oil years ago, and I’ve been hooked on them ever since. Committed to being “made with spirit,” I already knew that every month, the clean/vegan company donates at least 1% of its profits to various organizations in Earth + Nature, Social Justice and Animal Rights. In May, those profit donations included some towards The Bail Project, in direct response to the murders of Breonna Taylor and Ahmaud Arbery. They didn’t slow down in June either, pledging donations to the Black Trans Protestors Emergency Fund. Meow Meow Tweet has also pledged to hire (they released their org demographics which is 2 Asian people, 1 Arab person and 5 White folkx) and partner with Black people moving forward. This is one brand I hold very close to my heart, and I’m so excited to see their growth. Buy them right meow!

I’d love to hear more about anti-racist beauty brands. Have any favorites you want to share? Let me know in the comments!

Lifestyle, Reviews, Uncategorized, Wellness · June 26, 2020

My 3 Quarantine Sleep Savers

During quarantine, keeping a routine has been crucial to keeping some type of normalcy throughout all this. I’m a habitual person by nature, so when that’s thrown out of wack, so is everything else. My bedtime routine, especially, is crucial for my productivity the next day. I’ve put together three of my favorite things that help me get the rest my body craves. Keep reading for my quarantine sleep savers!

Hot water + Lemon – We all know that hydration is a key to a healthy, happy life and body. While I keep a bottle of lukewarm water on me at all times, before bed, I switch that our for a very warm cup of water and a squeeze of lemon. Warm water is a natural cleanser for your digestive system, which works a lot less while you’re resting than it does while you’re awake. Working with the lemon, it also helps to detoxify your system so you can wake up ready to expel and feel lighter all day.

CBD Oil – CBD might be all the rage right now, but it has an ancient history with calming the body and nervous system naturally. While CBD is derived from cannabis plants, unlike the THC also found there, it does not get one “high” in the traditional sense. Every night, I take a few drops of CBD oil and let it dissolve under my tongue for one minute. Not only has this nightly ritual helped to deepen my sleep, I’ve also found that I can recall my dreams much more vividly (which I write down in my dream journal!) There are so many brands to try, but right now, I’m loving the tincture oils from Qwin.

Essential Oil Linen Spray – Essential oils have been used for centuries to cure various ailments. While they’re not FDA-approved to “cure” sleep disorders, such as insomnia, or the ever more common anxiety disorder, those who partake in plant healing have said they have helped. I, for one, use a homemade blend of lavender and vetiver to help me to rest every night. A simple recipe of the oils, distilled water and rubbing alcohol, are all you need for a linen spray to lull you to sleep. See my recipe tutorial on IGTV.

This ultimate sleep trio has been my bedtime ritual for years, and really, one of the only semblances of pre-COVID sanity I can look forward to each evening. What about you? What’s the one thing you can’t sleep without? Let me know in the comments.

Lifestyle, Uncategorized, Wellness · June 11, 2020

5 Black Businesses You Can Support Now

Amidst a global pandemic that has rocked the world, we are also finding ourselves in what seems to be deja vu of the 1960’s Civil Rights Movement. All eyes are on America as people in all 50 states organize marches, sign petitions and put up signs (NO JUSTICE, NO PEACE!) On June 2, Instagram went dark as users vowed to suspend posting their everyday content, instead, opting to share a black box with the hashtag, #blackouttuesday. Launched by music recording industry executives, Briana Agyemang and Jamila Thomas, Black Out Tuesday was born with the idea that it would challenge an industry that has profited hand over fist from Black people and our culture. It quickly began to spread to all facets of world commerce, including the beauty and wellness industry. Big name brands like, Sunday Riley and Cocokind, put their money where their people are, pledging big bucks to the NAACP, The Loveland Foundation, and a host of other Black organizations.

The non people of color of the Instagram clean beauty community have been especially vocal about the injustices against Black people, and creatively thinking of other ways to check their privilege and support their friends and followers. There’s been an overwhelmingly positive information dump of Black businesses to support shared across stories and posts all over the ‘gram. As I too continue to read and share, I’ve rounded up 5 Black Wellness Businesses You Can Support Now.

Real Raw Shea – Launched in 2019 by Ghanian-American partners, Aisha Suraz and Alfred Glover, RRS sources their ingredients with a cooperative of 1,000 Ghanian women. Their shea butter, sold from 3.4 ounces to 55 pounds, is raw and unscented, making it the perfect base for your own DIY essential oil concoctions. Real Raw Shea is a staple in my house at all times. Pro tip: Use a leftover (or new!) tin can to fill with RRS and make a handy mini travel balm.

Sidebarre – This high-intensity, low-impact class is a workout that always has my muscles burning for more! Black, technically trained ballet dancers, Jillian, Maya and Alexis, alternate teaching these heart-pumping sessions to my favorite hip-hop vibes in the Washington, D.C. area. Not in the DMV? Their Three Sixty program will keep you updated via newsletter with online classes and other health-conscious content to keep you well from top to (pointed) toe.

Absolute Joi – This clean skincare line for all types and tones, was founded by Dr. Anne. When she and her daughters realized that many products in the market didn’t address their melanin-rich skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, Dr. Anne decided to address it herself. Absolute Joi includes single and multi-step solutions derived from natural ingredients. With their recyclable packing, there’s not much more you could ask for in a skincare company.

Vinyl and Vinyasa – “Give up hope? Nah, namastay advocating for my people!” Nigerian-American, Mary Mbaba, hosts and teaches an all levels flow the first Saturday of every month at Songbyrd in Adams Morgan. With a DJ spinning Nipsey Hussle on the basement stage, this is not your Bethesda moms’ yoga class. Bring your own mat and arrive a bit early to grab some space!

Nola Skinsentials – Nola Skinsential’s owner/founder, Jane, was tired of overpriced brands with no attention to melanin skin. When she said to herself in 2017, “If I want something the right way, I have to do it myself,” she created her company. Their product line covers all genders, and has some of the most chic packaging I’ve seen as of late! Not sure of your skin type and where to start? Take their skin quiz for some guidance.

As we all navigate the revolution happening right now, supporting Black companies and businesses is crucial. We are your neighbors, we are your friends, we are you family and we are here to stay. I’d love to hear more about other Black businesses you can support now. Drop your favorites in the comments!

Beauty, DIY, Uncategorized, Wellness · June 11, 2020

3 Step Clarifying Mask

I’m always getting asked about my favorite products and skincare hacks. Amongst my friends, it’s no secret that I’m a product junkie and have a high-low collection from CVS to Goop. Truly though, I’m super basic when it comes to my weekly routine, and I’m into keeping it reliable, no-fuss and inexpensive.

Most Sunday evenings, I whip up a potent, skin clarifying DIY treatment. With its primary ingredients being Bentonite clay and activated charcoal, this powerful mask packs a green beauty punch for your skin!

Bentonite clay is nature’s not-so-secret weapon to naturally detoxify skin. It’s not only packed full of minerals to control natural oil production, but it also has a strong negative electrical charge that attaches to impurities to yank them out of your pores. Yes, an electric charge! Aztec Clay is a cult favorite amongst green beauty gurus, and is also what I use for this mask.

Activated charcoal is a holy skin grail in its own right too! It has a gritty texture which is a great gentle exfoliant, as well as antibacterial properties to deeply cleanse your skin.

I’ve more recently begun studying the ancient medicine of essential oils, which led me to add Frankincense and lavender to this treatment. Uneven skin tone is a constant struggle for me, and adding these oils has been a game-changer! On top of smelling divine and creating a mini aroma therapy experience for your DIY spa night, they also target scarring and dislocation, making them a perfect ally for this powerful mask.

What You’ll Need:

1 small bowl

1 non-metal spoon (This is important! Metal reacts poorly with the clay’s electric charge. I use a small plastic spatula)

1 clean wash cloth or towel

1 Tablespoon Bentonite clay

1 Tablespoon activated charcoal

1 Tablespoon water (Optional: Switch for apple cider vinegar for even more detox power)

3 drops Frankincense oil

3 drops lavender oil

Instructions:

Mix dry ingredients together in small bowl with non-metal spoon. Slowly add in water or apple cider vinegar until you create a slightly thick paste. The paste shouldn’t be watery. If it is, no worries. Just add a bit more of your dry ingredients until you reach desired consistency. Next, add in your oils and mix all together. Use non-metal spoon to apply to your face and leave on for 10-12 minutes or until mask is dry. Rinse off with warm water and dry wash cloth. Follow up with toner and moisturizer.

This clean, homemade masks is truly one of my secret weapons. If you’re looking for a simple introduction into diversifying your skincare with greener ingredients, I’d definitely recommend starting here. What other types of skin remedies would you be interested in? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!