I packed up the ol’ pickup truck and went to Walmart AGAIN to stock up on beauty products. JK, I don’t have a pickup truck, but Jimmy Fallon does, therefore I want one. I digress.

This time at Walmart, I snagged TEN things for under $80, and had to come home, dump them out, and preach the budget beauty gospel.

About the products…

1. Nivea Crème Moisture moisturizing body wash ($4.97):

This superior, ultra creamy body wash is going to keep your skin touchable soft well into 2017 because the bottle is 17 metric tons. Ok actually it’s only 25.4 fl oz, which is also 750 mL, which is also the same size of a bottle of wine. I knew I loved this stuff.

2. Nivea Smooth Sensation body lotion ($5-6):

Follow your creamy cleansing with this and people will literally be trying to skin you to make a silk blouse. What?

3. Eucerin Intensive Repair hand crème ($4.66):

A must-have for fall/winter unless you like to use your bare hands to sand down furniture. At under a 5-spot, you can buy a bunch and keep them everywhere.

4. Neutrogena Visibly Even daily moisturizer ($13.97):

Verdict is in: This is a solid product. It goes on light and truly does even out your skin tone whilst protecting you from the sun’s harmful rays. If you have SUPER dry skin, it may not be enough for the winter, but normal and combo complexions will love it for everyday.

5. L’oreal Youth Code Pore Vanisher ($17.97):

I’ve only used this a few times but I can say that it does make a difference in the appearance of my skin. It smooths everything out and definitely minimizes the look of pores (I mean, with a name like VANISHER it better). It also has a tint so can act as a lightweight BB cream! I don’t wear a ton of makeup, so I put this on with a little under-eye concealer and blush and VOILA: Me and my invisible pores are ready to go.

But first, let me take a #smelfie.

6. Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes ($4.97):

I’m a huge fan of cleansing wipes, as is any gal who likes to party but knows the importance of taking off her face before bed. And Simple is my favorite because it removes all the gunk, but is easy on the skin with zero harsh chemicals, artificial perfumes, or dyes. Seriously, why do other companies perfume these things? No woman ever said she wanted her T-zone to smell like CK One.

7. L’oreal Miss Manga ($6.97):

Look, I’m a believer in splurging on top-notch mascara, but if you’re shopping in the under-$10 range, this is one of your best bets. It gives you dramatic, voluminous lashes with little clumpage (is clumpage a word?). That pink and black tube tho…

8. Revlon Colorstay Gel Envy nail enamel ($4.97):

This. Is. THE WINNER. These polishes go on a little thick, but still smooth. Do two coats of color then the topcoat (no base coat needed). It looks as glossy as gel, and my mani lasted a full two weeks, then came right off with acetone (no tin foil or scraping needed). I’ll admit I was skeptical, but I’m a total believer now.

All of that plus an ink cartridge and mouse traps (don’t ask ) and I still walked out of Walmart at under a hundy.

LYLAS,
Ashley

Every woman has her own unique way of showing her beauty. At Walmart discover the latest products and most trusted brands at everyday low prices, so you can save money and live beautifully.

The post Walmart Beauty Haul: 10 Products for $80 appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

The president built the worst website of all time then expected everyone to use it. Anthony Weiner was a perv, Paula Deen was a racist, Justin Timberlake was a God, and I became a 30-something.

But aside from all that, it was a fab year for the beauty world. Here are my awards for the best products of 2013. (Click on the product links for full W+P reviews.)

Gadget: Clarisonic Opal. This vibrator-esque contraption rocked my world. And by world, I mean crow’s feet. It uses sonic infusion technology to work serum into your wrinkle-prone areas way better than your fingers, and I definitely see a difference in my eye and forehead regions when I use it regularly. (As for serum, I’m loving Origins A Perfect World for Eyes).

Lipstick: Urban Decay F Bomb. The badass cosmetic company FINALLY put out lipstick this year (WTF were they waiting for?), and good God, was it amazing. F Bomb is not only the best named lipstick on the planet, but also a creamy, sexy red that’s long-lasting, moisturizing, and well, fantastic.

Mascara: Urban Decay Lush Lash + Cover Girl Clump Crusher. I think Lush Lash is one of the best lengthening mascaras on the market; alone, it gives long, natural-looking lashes for the daytime, but put a thickening mascara on top (I love DiorShow and Clinique High Impact Extreme Volume) and you’re ready for a night out. As for a drugstore cheapie, Cover Girl nailed it with the Clump Crusher, which lives up to its bold name.

Exfoliator: Suki’s Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser + Buff Her. You exfoliate your mug at least once a week, right? Thought so. This year, I fell head face over feet with Suki’s lemon-y scrub (AKA the Jennifer Lawrence of beauty products), and a new, Atlanta-based line called Buff Her, which is natural, food-based powder you mix into your cleanser. Genius.

Face Moisturizer: Origins Make a Difference Plus+. You guys, I found my skin soulmate this year. I have extremely dry skin (like, I could smear olive oil and mayo all over my mug and it would soak it up), and have been on the hunt for a perfect product my whole life. This ultra-rich cream moisturizes like no other without being greasy. If you don’t have super-dry skin, snag the Make a Difference moisturizer for your skin type. Trust me. Game. Changer.

Body Moisturizer: Nivea Skin Firming Body Lotion. Never forget that rough, dry skin equals a rough, dry spell. This lotion with “Hydra-IQ technology for moisture and co-enzyme Q10 complex for skin firming” made my skin feel significantly silkier after just one week. Silky smooth skin = dudes want to touch you (duh).

Nail Polish: Nails Inc. Porchester Square. Remember this gem? As I stated before, “It’s got the light gray-taupe thing going (or um, “muted mushroom,” as they call it), but there’s something in this polish that makes it so magical, which I can only assume is unicorn tears or Adam Levine’s brow sweat.” And of course, the Seche Vite topcoat wins the award for best topcoat this year and forever.

Blush: L’oreal Visible Lift + Pla Cheeky Blush. Comparable to NARS (maybe even better), L’oreal’s cream blush made the grade for awesome, affordable beauty booty this year. And my favorite powder blush has been and probably always will be Pla (I love the Peek-a-Boo and Power Pla hues).

Foundation/BB Cream: Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream + Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick. Per the suggestion of Atlanta makeup magician Julie Benecke, I paired these two and love the results, plus the foundation stick is so handy. HOWEVER, I still use and love Garnier’s Miracle Skin Perfector BB cream (seriously flawless finish), and the most surprising drugstore discovery of the year was Wet n Wild Coverall Cream Foundation. While these are awesome (and cheap), they’re not recommended for super sensitive and/or acne-prone skin.

Hair Products: Recitals. This line was developed by my hairapist Bill Murphy and I cannot express how incredible it is without grabbing your hand and forcing you to feel my hair after using the products. My favorites are the Maestro Mud Masque (serious love for dried out locks) and Ovation Volumizing Spray Oil–use before blowdrying and you will notice a difference in shine, body, and overall beauty, I promise. It’s magic.

2022, you better bring it.

LYLAS,
Ashley

The post The Best Beauty Products of Last Year appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

Just let that sink in.

Here was my convo at Sephora a month ago in NYC:

Me to the uber-groomed gay man with that “I know my shit” look about him: “I’m searching for a new concealer; any suggestions?”

Him: “Ohmygod yes girl, we have the most uh-maaaazing concealer.”

Me: “Great, what brand? Point me to it.”

Him: “It’s Amazing.”

Me: “Yeah but like, what is it…Laura Mercier, Nars, what?”

Him: “Oh girl” (rolls eyes and grabs my hand) “Come with me.”

He led me over to the Amazing Concealer (tucked away under another brand in the back corner like Baby before Johnny arrives) and my world was changed in that instant by this glorious Sephora angel.

I had (embarrassingly) not heard of this cosmetic line (please spare me the “Ohmygod this has been around for, like, ever” comments, you betches), and he explained to me that while the tube is small, it’s super rich and pigmented, so you barely need any.

He hooked me up with the medium golden shade (perfect match, of course), and I couldn’t wait to try it. I don’t get blemishes often (thanks, dry complexion), so I really only use concealer for under-eye circles (and I’m no stranger to those gems).

And this product is perfection. It feels thick but doesn’t cake. It goes on smooth and you seriously need like, a smidge.

On the complaint side, I soon realized how fast this shiz squirts out (that’s what she said?). You need to very gently squeeze the tube and get just a dab on your finger to use for areas that need coverage. Is that annoying? Yes. But is it worth it? F*CK YES.

And I did get a bitch of a zit a couple weeks ago and you would have never known thanks to this magic (no wonder it’s preferred and beloved by celebrity makeup artists).

As for shades, there are a lot to choose from, but Dermstore offers descriptions of each and you can enlarge the color swatches to get a better look. If you have a medium skin tone (even on the fairer side), the medium golden should work for you even when you have a tan or are wearing bronzer.

If you don’t want to go for the large tube ($42), you can buy the smaller size ($28) on Dermstore.com. (FYI, Dermstore has free shipping/returns AND free gift/samples with every purchase.) But I know you’re going to be hooked just like I am.

Because it’s amazing.

LYLAS,
Ashley

The post The Most Amazing Concealer Ever appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

But when some photos of me surfaced on the Web post-vacation, I realized one thing had been less than perfect.

Apparently, I thought it was Spring Break 1976. One thing was official (besides the fact that I just posted an unedited picture of myself in a bikini on this blog): It was time to book my very first Brazilian.

Obviously I had to document this momentous occasion and all the fears, pain, and glory that came with it via video.

Recap: I’m a big fan of the bikini wax.

The fact that I don’t have to take a razor to my nether regions for three(ish) weeks is reason enough to incorporate this into my regular beauty regime, despite the “discomfort” (which I’m assuming is going to get better each time…right?).

Atlantans, I highly recommend WAX, whether it’s your first or fiftieth treatment–the salon is chic, welcoming, and sparkling clean, the staff is beyond friendly and professional, it’s affordable, AND there’s a nail salon upstairs called Buff with chairs that recline all the way back so you can drink wine and pass out take a nap while getting a pedi. I mean, that’s basically heaven on Earth if you ask me.

Happy bikini season, ladies!

LYLAS,
Ashley

Join the Witty + Pretty party on Facebook for more fun & beauty! 

*Special thanks to my friend Cara for helping me film (and making me laugh through my pain). Check out her fitness guru awesomeness at 10-Pack.com.

The post My First Bikini Wax (Ever) appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

Read all about her beauty must-haves, tricks, indulgences, and disasters, and don’t forget her sixth novel, Where We Belong, comes out this July!

What is your can’t-live-without makeup product?
Diorshow mascara and La Mer lip balm.

Tell me about a total beauty fail you’ve had.
A very layered haircut while I was living in London—in the vein of one Posh Spice. Halfway through the Saturday morning haircut, I realized that the stylist was still drunk from the night before.

Yikes! Speaking of, what is your secret weapon for great hair?
Louis Licari. Definitely. I live in Atlanta, which has wonderful salons, but I only get my hair cut and colored at my favorite New York salon. I go to Dana Fiore for my cuts.

She must stay sober on the job. What’s a guilty pleasure of yours that you feel is completely acceptable for all females?
Drinking whiskey.

Amen. So, you hung around a lot of stars with Something Borrowed the movie. Did you pick up any red carpet beauty tricks?
Hair clip-in. I have my own set now. My hair doesn’t become longer but it looks twice as thick.

Ooh, I may have to look into that. What’s your fitness regime?
I have a trainer, Jeff MacFarland, who has completely reshaped certain body parts. I also take a circuit-training class called Fast Twitch. Both are at the Forum Athletic Club at Lenox Mall.  I just started yoga as well. I’m horrible—as flexible as your average grandmother.

Ha! What is a beauty trend you are loving right now?
Spray tans. Healthy and now, they look so natural. Especially with Laura Underwood at Ecobel Day Spa!
(Click here for W+P tips on spray tans). 

What about a trend that appalls you?
Glitter.  Period.

Well put. Who’s your celebrity girl crush and why?
Jennifer Aniston. She is perfect.

If you had to choose…who is the wittiest and prettiest character in all of your books?
Darcy [from Something Borrowed and Something Blue].

Agreed. Last question–favorite place to pamper yourself in Atlanta?
Therapeutic massages with Amor Largo at Robin Stiles Salon. She is, hands down, the best masseuse I’ve ever gone to—and you feel the benefits for days afterwards.

Stay tuned for the next W+P Q+A, and if you liked what you read, why not show it on The Facebook or Tweeter via the handy buttons below? 

LYLAS,
Ashley 

The post Q&A: Author Emily Giffin on Great Hair, Whiskey & Glitter appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

Wait, could it be? Is that…? Oh thank God.

Between #PollenFest2k13, the bipolar temperatures of the past two months, and the big, fat, heinously grotesque beast we call taxes, us Southerners have been hesitant to get our hopes up. But I’m here to shout it from the rooftops (and rooftop pools): WARM WEATHER HAS ARRIVED! Which (if you’re human) should mean two things: Day drinking and a serious need to be bronze.  So whip up that much needed Mai Tai and listen read up as I go through some of my top picks for self-tanning bliss.

First things first! The biggest must-do for at-home self-tanning is absolutely, 100%, no ifs ands or butts about it, EXFOLIATE before you amp up in skin color. Now this does NOT mean you should jump in the shower and ferociously scrub off the first layer of your skin. Just take a good loufa and moisturizing body wash with exfoliating beads and really lather up every inch of your skin to get the daily dull off.

I love Olay’s Total Effects 7-in-1 Advanced Anti-Aging Body Wash ($9), which exfoliates and replenishes (i.e. makes your skin perfectly primed for a smooth, streak-free tan). Or you could do something with a little more scrubbing power like Bliss’ Lemon + Sage Body Scrub ($36) or Alba Sea Salt Body Scrub ($11).

There are several different types of self tanners, neither of which is remotely better than the other. It’s more about finding which form of application works best for you and your lifestyle.

Gleam Body Radiance

You know those products you discover and wonder, HOW THE HELL DID I EVER LIVE WITHOUT THIS!?

This is one of them (ps, there’s a 25% discount at the bottom).

Gleam Body Radiance is unlike any beauty product I have ever used. It was developed by superstar makeup artist Melanie Mills, who was the makeup department head for Dancing With the Stars (and won an Emmy for it). As in, she’s literally the reason the dancers looks so bronzed and flawless while they’re twirling around in sequin lingerie. And praise the Lawd, she’s bottled her magic potion for us common folk.

This miracle product is the “go-to professional face and body makeup that transforms skin into a perfect velvet canvas, hiding imperfections, and improving overall skin texture.” It can mask veins, skin discolorations, even psoriasis.

But more importantly, it gives you a beautiful bronze glow (instantly!) without some of the nasty stuff that goes into actual self tanners. The primary ingredients are jojoba, aloe, and vitamin E so it moisturizes the skin without irritating it or clogging pores.

Gleam also infuses seaweed extracts for wrinkle filling and skin tightening (hollaaaa!), green and white tea for antioxidants, and the glow is so unique thanks to high-grade crushed pearls (#rich). And get this: It washes off when you want it off, which means you never run the risk of Cheeto hands (or Dorito knees). Also, there’s zero funky smell.

Here’s the deal. You CAN rub Gleam right onto your skin (it’s made for that), but I like to mix it with moisturizer. For my face, I mix a small amount with my Avene cream:

Behold #NoMakeupSelfies before and after a modest amount of Gleam (you could go much darker):

Holy Casper on the left.

For body, I use a higher concentration. The beauty of it (literally) is you can play around with the amount until you perfect your own concoction–start small and add more if you need it. It blends beautifully and if you F it up, just wash it off. I actually poured half of a 1 oz. tube of Gleam into a 5 oz. bottle of body lotion, so now I have my mixture ready to go at all times.

I was introduced to this product by Atlanta’s tan guru, Tiffany, at RAW Bronzing Studio after I saw a photo she posted on Facebook about the “magic of Gleam,” and immediately got in my car and sped over to the salon to see what the hell this was all about (seriously).

Since Tiffers is the expert on all things sunless tanning, she also schooled me on the product before I went home with my tube, put on “California Gurls,” and started rubbing it all myself whilst singing “sun-kissed skin, so hot we’ll melt your popsicle, oh-oh-a-oh-a-oh-a-oh-a-oh.” I digress.

From her: “I personally do Gleam after my moisturizer/sunscreen. I let it dry before adding the Gleam. A little goes a LONG way. Start with a pea size for upper body and if you want it darker, add more. For Gleam to be truly transfer-resistant, use on clean, dry skin (NO lotion, oils, sunscreen, etc).

Let it dry, then get dressed and you should be fine. To make Gleam water-resistant, use it on clean, dry skin, let it dry, then apply a natural, water-based SPRAY sunscreen (like Coola) on top. That will help ‘seal’ it a bit.” (PS, this product is a great compliment to spray tans. I will get my RAW bronze on, then as it starts to fade, I’ll use Gleam to bring myself back to super-sun-kissed status.)

It seems like a lot of info, but it’s truly a simple product to use. I just want to cover all the questions you may have. I have not noticed any rubbing off on my clothes at all, but with wearing white, you just have to be cautious (especially if you’re sweating).

Always make sure the Gleam is dry to the touch before pulling on a white top. And if you do get any on your shirt, bra, or sequin onesie, it will not stain (hallelujah).

When you put it on your face, it may look dark, but know it will blend well and not look as dark as you think. As for shades, I use the bronze gold, but all of the shades are made to work with any skin tone (again, magic).

As for size, a little does go a long way (that’s not what she said), and if you plan on only using Gleam on your face and upper body, the 1 oz. tube ($15) will last you a while.

But I recommend getting the 2 oz. ($30) or 3.5 oz. ($40) bottle because I know you’re going to be obsessed, and what if you ran out before a big date? THE HORROR.

Your date on Gleam:
Your date when you run out of Gleam:

Now that’s scary.

You can shop online (PS, check out the game-changing lip gloss, too), or if you’re in Atlanta, pick up Gleam at RAW. And if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to answer them. Also, this video is not only fun to watch, but gives a lot of info on using the product.

Glow on, gurl.

**Use code BASIC for 25% off your purchase through May 2016**

Tanning Lotions

Estee Lauder’s Bronze Goddess Golden Perfection Self Tanning Milk for Body ($28), L’Oreal’s Sublime Bronze Luminous Bronzer Self Tanning Lotion ($11). Lotion may be the old-school form of DIY tanning, but it’s stuck around for a reason. If you can master even application, you’re golden (literally).

Tips: Use broad stroaks and spread the product on with uniform swipes in all directions. For more subtle, streak-proof results, blend half tanning lotion and half regular lotion in the palms of your hands before applying to skin (especially helpful in the drier knee and elbow areas, which can absorb more product and turn darker). If you have dry skin, this is also a great way to get buildable color and necessary moisture all at the same time. Skip areas where the sun don’t shine (hello, heels and hoo-ha) and wash your hands immediately after.

Tan Towels

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads for Body  ($48 for 8 towels), Tan Towel Self Tan Towelette Full Body Application ($24 for 5 towels). The Dr. Dennis Gross pads are my personal fave and the ultimate in realistic and healthy self tanning. Without harmful parabens and sulfates, they utilize active Vitamin D to give skin believable, natural color.

Tips: Cut the towel in half to get the most out of each application. Use the first half on the bottom part of your body, rubbing in circular motions, and use the second half on chest, arms, and face. Just make sure you rub the towel on every part of your skin and you should stay streak-free. Keep in mind it takes about 3-5 hours for color to fully develop.Tanning Mousse: St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse ($42 and comes with the must-have tan applicator mitt). This is your ticket to looking like a cast member of  Dancing with the Stars (seriously, this is what they use). While I’m not promising you’ll appear to have .02% body fat like those freakishly coordinated dancers (b*tches), you can see where the color goes as you apply it, which means less mess-ups. Note: In general, St. Tropez products are badass, so you can’t go wrong when choosing this brand.

Tips: Unlike lotion, there’s no need to rub this mousse in. You literally take the mitt and paint yourself from head to toe. Check out this instructional video for assistance. (Pssstt… Give your body one good coat then feel free to go back and subtly darken the sides of your abs for a little contouring.)

And those are my personal picks for quick and easy summer sun. There are tons of other tanning products which can all be found on the PRIMP app. Use the bar code scan or search for the self-tanner you’re inclined to buy and find ratings, reviews, and more product details. While you’re at it, don’t forget to find yourself a top-notch moisturizer to help your fab fake bake last longer.

Happy bronzing, babes,
Hayden

The post Time to (Self) Tan: The Best Products & Tips for At-Home Bronzing appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

But it’s true–using cleanser on your hands just can’t scrub your mug completely clean. That’s where the Clarisonic comes in. I recently got the Mia 2 model (in pink, duh) and have fallen in love with this cute little contraption that can easily be mistaken for a vibrator.

My skin feels so unbelievably soft and clean without being dried out, and my complexion is definitely brighter. AND, since it gets rid of all the dirt and residue on your face, your serums and moisturizers soak in better and can work more effectively (read: it helps with that whole aging thing).

Hellooo, life changer.

After I had the Mia 2 in hand, I went to visit my friends at Derma-Luxe so they could show me how to use my new toy properly.

A few more tips and tricks when it comes to the Clarisonic:

1. Wash makeup off first using your regular cleanser/cream makeup-remover cleanser/cleansing cloth/whatever. You do not want to take the Clarisonic to a face full of makeup (foaming foundation = not pretty). Then use your regular cleanser with the Clarisonic.

2. It’s gentle enough to use every day, even twice a day if you like.

3. Change the brush head every three to four months (you’ll see how to pop it off and put it back on in the video).

4. Do not use an exfoliating cleanser with the Clarisonic. Talk about unnecessary roughness.

5. Don’t be fooled by imitators. The Clarisonic uses a rapid sonic pulse–the brush head does not spin. Cleansing brushes that spin can feel like they’re working a little harder on your skin, but they’re actually pulling it, which can lead to wrinkles!

6. There are obviously various models to choose from (I like the Mia 2 because it’s affordable and not so giant), but there are also different brush heads for your skin type/cleansing needs: Normal, sensitive, delicate, deep pore, acne.

And now…an exclusive web offer if you purchase a Clarisonic via this link: Clarisonic Skin Care web exclusive. You’ll get free engraving (a little weird, but hey, to each their own), free shipping (!!!), and a gift.

In other words, you just cleaned up.

LYLAS,
Ashley

The post Everything You Need to Know About Clarisonic appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

But Allure didn’t just do brown. Click on the images to peep the primo products for green, blue, and hazel eyes, too.

BROWN-EYED BEAUTIES:

BLUE-EYED BOMBSHELLS:

 GREEN-EYED GLAM GIRLS:

HAZEL HOTTIES:

You’ll be a sight for sore eyes.

LYLAS,
Ashley

The post The Prettiest Makeup for Your Eye Color appeared first on Witty + Pretty.

It absolutely has gotten better over time, but let’s be real–you’re ripping hair out of your skin in a sensitive area, so (some sort of) pain is a given, ESPECIALLY if you’re going Brazilian.

I consulted two of Atlanta’s top hair removal experts, Myka Barbato of WAX and Raquel Souza of Sweet Peach Wax & Sugaring Studio, to share their expert tips for less ouch factor.

1. Meds.

Both pros recommend taking your normal dosage of ibuprofen/aspirin 30 minutes to an hour before. It can reduce pain but also help with potential inflammation.

2. Alcohol.

You can have one or two drinks to take the edge off, but Myka says, “Not too many! Alcohol thins the blood and you don’t want to be more prone to bruising, etc. just from too many cocktails!”

3. Your period.

Good Lawwwd, don’t go getting waxed right before your cycle is supposed to start as you’re more sensitive down there up to three days before.

You can also be sensitive up to three days after, but once you’re past that point, it’s a perfect time for a hoo-ha haircut because as Myka says, “The grow-out period isn’t so hard to bear because the last week you are most likely on your cycle and probably not getting any action anyways.” #TRUTH.

4. Pregnancy.

Myka says, “During the first two trimesters, it’s business as usual, but the last one can be more sensitive.”

That’s not to say it can’t be done (hello, you’re going to want to be groomed right before you have a crowd of people down there cheering on your vagina), but just be sure to go to a top-notch salon (like WAX or Sweet Peach) as they know how to handle a delicate mom-to-be.

5. Exfoliation.

Raquel recommends exfoliating the area within the 24 hours before your appointment for a smoother ride.

As I’ve mentioned before, I die for the sugar peach scrub exclusively sold at Sweet Peach ($20). Also, if you can take a warm shower or bath prior to your treatment, it will help open up the pores for easier and less painful hair removal.

6. Distract yourself.

Chat with your waxer, make a mental to-do list, or even text/email/Facebook on your phone (no X-rated Instagrams, please). I recommend asking politely if your aesthetician minds you using your phone during the treatment, but she won’t.

She gets it. (Just don’t sext with your man; being turned on during a wax could get awkward quick.)

At Sweet Peach, Sex and the City plays in the treatment rooms, so I actually get excited to go and see which episode is on. Nothing like seeing Miranda’s full bush while you’re getting yours removed.

7. Numbing cream + panties.

If you’re really scared of pain, Raquel recommends Dr. Edna’s BareEASE prep kit ($18-$22, available online and at Sweet Peach).

Forty-five minutes prior to the treatment, you put the topical analgesic cream on the area, then slide on the latex panty to isolate the application. It’s safe and doctor-developed, and many of Raquel’s clients swear by it.

I tried it and did notice less pain, but nothing takes away ALL of the discomfort (except like, an epidural).

8. Post-treatment activity.

Your “baby” skin is so sensitive right after hair removal that wearing tight clothing/working out or getting your freak on within the following 24-48 hours can irritate the area leading to bumps, pimples, and ingrown hairs (OUCHIE), so keep that in mind when making an appointment.

With sugaring, there’s generally less or no irritation (I can work out within 24 hours with no issues), but still keep tabs on how your body reacts. And for the love of God, don’t go getting a spray tan right after a wax/sugaring unless you are wearing thick-ass panties that cover the entire treated area. Trust me on this one.

9. Wait time.

Don’t go TOO long between treatments or it can make for a more uncomfortable experience the next time (in more ways than one). Everyone is different, but three weeks to a month is ideal. I think we’ve all pushed it past the limit during those winter droughts, but when you wait two months or more, you’re getting into scary territory.

10. Shaving.

Ladies, I know the scenario.

Some hot guy asks you on an impromptu date/your long-distance booty call flies in town unexpected/the ex shows up on your doorstep with flowers and a much hotter physique since the breakup…….and you’re rocking full ’70s bush. You could take a razor down there, but know that if you’re a regular waxer/sugarer, this could lead to ingrowns and make your treatment more painful next time.

So what’s a girl to do?

I say embrace the bush. He’ll understand; or better yet, he might really dig it and you’ll be getting down like Joanie and Chachi in no time. If he’s turned off by it, send that loser packing. Then put on Sex and the City and call it a (pain-free) night.

Good luck out down there, sisters!

LYLAS,
Ashley

**I’m giving away one Brazilian wax from WAX and one Brazilian sugaring from Sweet Peach. Head on over to the Witty + Pretty Facebook page to find out how to win!**

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Hayden from Pretty In My Pocket fills us in on the BEST products on the market, whether you need clinical treatment for your underarms, prefer all-natural sweat protection, or just want your pits to smell rich.

But first, let’s address the obvious: Antiperspirants can cause cancer. There is no scientific proof of this, but some people do believe the aluminum agents that block your sweat glands are harmful and there are some great articles on how to stop wearing deodorant without smelling bad all the time.

Personally, I use clinical strength antiperspirants in the summer and tone it down to a regular ol’ formula in colder seasons in an attempt to minimize risk that may or may not even be there. 

One more thing before we dive in to these deodorants: Should you swipe it on at night? The answer: If you are wearing clinical strength, you can definitely put it on before bed and it will work just as well (or better!) through the next day.

This is great for gals who are always getting ready in a hurry (like myself) and have the potential to perspire whilst rushing around trying to get out the door. If you have even a little bit of moisture under your arms and put on antiperspirant, it won’t work as well, so apply when you’re completely dry. And nightly application ensures you won’t forget it in the morning (NIGHTMARE).

Off the top of my head, some of the most endorphin-rich activities you can do are: Hanging outdoors in the sun, partying/dancing like there’s no tomorrow, and getting in a good workout. But what else do all of these things have in common? SWEAT. And no, not THIS kind of sexy sweat.

We’re talking the no-thank-you, total mood killing, pit stain type sweat. If you need a refresher as to why pit stains are THE WORST, let Buzzfeed demonstrate.

Have no fear. Deodorant is here.

And there are so many different types nowadays so you’re armed and ready to defeat your personal type of pit problem. I’ve broken down my picks for the best into each category.

Thank me later.

Everyday Protection: Suave Clinical Protection PROSolid Antiperspirant and Deodorant in Everlasting Sunshine ($5) has a passion fruit/vanilla scent and is the perfect go-to for 24-hour protection. Straightforward and sweetly scented.

Major Sweat and Stank: Whether you’re a nonstop gal on the go, marathon runner, or seem to have an extra engine in those sweat pores, try CertainDri Solid ($8). It’s one of the most recommended products for staying dry all day long, and at less than a 10-spot, it’s worth the purchase.

Another favorite is Secret Clinical Strength Antiperspirant ($8). Swipe that bad boy on at night so your body can absorb the formula and voila, prescription-like power.

*Editor Note: Ashley swears by Dove Clinical Strength in original clean scent ($10), which works like a charm and is also great for sensitive skin.

Irritated Skin: Nothing’s worse than having to shave your underarms with any kind of irritation. To combat unruly redness/bumps, try Kiehl’s Superbly Efficient Antiperspirant Deodorant Cream ($16).

Deemed “underarm therapy,” this gentle formula not only works to combat wetness and odor, but it won’t break out your skin or overwhelm your pores, and in fact, it works to soften hairs making them less noticeable. CHA CHING!

Sensitive Skin: There are several deodorants out there geared toward sensitive skin but one of the best hands-down is Dermadoctor Total Nonscents Ultra-Gentle Antiperspirant ($20). It’s a bit pricey, but this roll-on is fragrance-free, quick-drying, and non-irritating so you can apply it right after a fresh shave.

In Need of Streak-Free: Dove Go Sleeveless Deodorant ($4) is gentle on tender underarm skin with killer wetness and odor protection. The big sell? This deodorant won’t rub off on clothing, so glide it on when you rock that LBD.

Au Natural: Tom’s of Maine Aluminum-Free, Fragrance-Free Deodorant Stick ($5) is one of the best in the odor/wetness fighting biz without any of the (potentially) harmful chemicals that you find in a lot of other products.

Best Scent: Donna Karan Cashmere Mist Deodorant/Anti-Perspirant ($20) is one of the most popular scented deodorants that keeps you sans sweat and smelling like a queen. You get what you pay for with this one as it’s high-quality and will also bring all the boys to the yard, er, your pits. Wait, that’s weird…

Anyway, there you have it. Keep it dry so you can keep doin’ yo thang!

XO, Hayden *

Want more expert reviews on all things beauty? Download the FREE Pretty In My Pocket app  for reviews,  recommendations, AND perks (read: free stuff). 

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