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My Make Up Trick...

December 24, 2016 Shannon Taatjes

I want to share my favorite make up trick with you that is fabulous for these cold winter months that can dry out your skin.

First of all....I never used to use liquid foundation.  I always was a fan of powder foundation because liquid foundation looked "cakey" on my skin and I like a more natural look.  I now have learned that powder coverage isn't the best because it can settle into fine lines! ...no one wants that!

I finally found a liquid foundation I absolutely LOVE.  Tint Skin from Beautycounter is the best.  It's "buildable" so you can control the amount of coverage.  It can also make a huge difference how it looks depending on how you apply it.  I never thought brushes made much difference and now I realize they can make all the difference!  When I use the Retractable Foundation Brush, it goes on so evenly and applies it with a sheer, even, natural look.  Then for areas around my nose, etc that I need a little more coverage, the Flat Complexion Brush gives a more medium coverage.

Here's the "trick" I'm dying to share with you guys...

I've been using the Tint Skin by putting a pea size amount in the palm of my hand.  I then add two drops of Face Oil.  I mix it together with the Retractable Foundation Brush and then apply to my face, starting in the center and sweeping outwards.  This gives you a wonderful sheer coverage with a slight dewy glow!  It keeps my skin very moisturized in these dry winter months.  

The best part?  These products are safer and don't contain harmful chemicals like many cosmetics do!  Beautycounter has a "Never List" so it simplifies my life....

Here's a great guide to help you choose the Face Oil that's perfect for your skin type...they are all so luxurious.  I add a couple of drops to my moisturizer too...

Don't be afraid of these Face Oils. Unlike synthetic oils that can sit on top of skin and make it appear "greasy", these absorb beautifully and are so hydrating.  They also balance the pH of you skin!

FACE OILS ARE ON SALE RIGHT NOW!!

I hope you try and love this trick as much as I do!  If Santa didn't bring you safer skincare and makeup this year... treat yourself!

If you need any help choosing a Tint Skin Color, feel free to ask me for help or here is a great shade chart.  I use "Linen".  But you can always shop Beautycounter with confidence with the 60 day, no questions asked return policy.

Shop Safer Skincare + Makeup
In Beauty & Products Tags beautycounter, switch to safer, makeup trick, beauty products, face oil, foundation, tint skin, non toxic makeup
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Can we trust that our beauty products are safe? What you need to know before you shop.

December 17, 2016 Shannon Taatjes

I had something happen yesterday that made me really glad I started my Safe Product Movement at the beginning of this year.  If I hadn't, I might not know what I now know.... and would have just trusted what the fancy packaging was telling me on my new gift.  But I knew better.  When you know better, you do better.

As a blogger, I sometimes get things sent to me to try.  Yesterday I got a package in the mail and at first glance it looked great.  It was a skin care product.  I won't mention the brand as that's not the point.  I'm not trying to interfere with their business.  It was a brand I'd never heard of before.  

Here's what I noticed at first glance.

  • It looked high end like it was something that could be sold in a dermatologist's office.
  • It said all of these words on the containers: "Natural", "Paraben Free", "Cruelty Free", "Vegan". "GMO Free", "Gluten Free", "trusted", and "vitamin rich".

Sounds good, right?  

Well, the reason I thought it was important to share this information with you is because I want to show you what was revealed when I put this product into the Healthy Living App by the EWG (Environmental Working Group).  If you're unfamiliar with this tool, it's a great resource for double checking the products in your home.  It gives products a score of 1-10.  1 being the safest, and 10 being the most toxic.  Here's a screen shot of the result...

I blacked out the brand so it's not visible.

I blacked out the brand so it's not visible.

Something to note about the Healthy Living App is that while it is a great resource, it is not perfect as it does not have every product in it's database...yet.  When a product is not in the database it's usually because the company will not disclose what's in their product.  Why?  Because it's completely legal for them not to.  The personal care industry is essentially unregulated.  

Words like "natural" and "organic" mean absolutely nothing in the beauty industry.  I'm not saying they all mean nothing, because there are absolutely wonderful, safe companies out there.  I'm just saying you cannot trust that it means something.  You have to dive a little deeper if you don't know it's a company that's trustworthy.  Pretty messed up, isn't it?

It made me angry yesterday after seeing these results.  Why?  Because the average person would choose this product.  The average person would not think this product could possibly cause allergies, cancer, or reproductive harm.  The average person doesn't know that companies don't have to tell us the truth.  The average person would actually think they were doing something good for their health!  We deserve better, don't we?

I used to think if a product made it to store shelves, it was at least somewhat safe.  Some years ago, I started to hear about the big offenders, like parabens and phthalates and started to avoid those ingredients...but what about the thousands and thousands of other toxic chemicals that are on the market today?  The truth is that most of them have never even been tested for human or environmental safety.  Of the ones that have, many contain known carcinogens, allergens, and hormone disrupters.  Yet they are still widely used today.

Here are some facts to consider:

  • 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.
  • A woman uses approximately 12 products a day, which can equate to over 100 different chemicals.
  • 80% of ingredients in our personal care products have never been assessed for human safety.
  • Today, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, 40 years ago it was 1 in 20.
  • Of the women diagnosed with breast cancer today, 90% do not have a mutation in the BRCA gene, the gene most commonly associated with breast cancer.
  • The European Union bans/restricts nearly 1,400 toxic chemicals from the market, while the United States only bans 30.
  • There has not been a federal law passed governing the personal care industry since 1938.

So why do I know about this and why do I care about spreading this important information?  Because I decided to link arms with other women who are making a difference.  I joined Beautycounter's mission of getting safer products into the hands of everyone.  I fell in love with this company because they are an education first, products second company.  As long as we can help people make a safer choice, we've done our job.  Plus I get to share safe skincare, body care, face oils, a kids line, sunscreen and a baby line!  Check out all of our products here!

I have made my life so much simpler by just using Beautycounter skincare and make up.  There's no other company in the industry that's delivering on both performance and safety to the extent that we are.  I don't have time to scrutinize every ingredient on my products, especially if I can't even trust it.  I also understand as women....we want products that perform as well or better than our department store brands.  

Beautycounter has what's called a Never List™ which means that when formulating their products, they prohibit the use of over 1,500 harmful of questionable ingredients.  I know that this company is completely transparent and discloses every single ingredient for safety.  What's more?  They have an entire public policy arm dedicated to pushing for more health protective laws.  It's completely simplified my life...and lets me share this important mission with others so they can make a healthier choice.  We vote with our dollars, so you can make a difference too just by becoming a customer!  Want to help us even more my sharing our mission?  Join us!

I encourage you to download the Healthy Living App by the EWG today and start scanning your products!  You may be surprised.  You don't need to throw everything out the window at once.  I understand that can be expensive.  What I recommend to people is to replace things slowly, over time as you run out of items.  Get rid of your worst offenders that are most toxic first.  Replace items that sit on your skin the longest like lotions and foundation.  It's a process, but it's worth it.  Don't forget all your family members too like your husband and your kids.  Your teen girls that are starting to wear makeup....start teaching them now what to look for.  Just move in a healthier direction.

Want to know what else you can do to detoxify your whole home?  Download my FREE 15 Tips to Detoxify Your Home.  Sign up here and I'll send it to you straight away....right to your inbox.  Some things on the list might even surprise you!

Here's to starting the New Year off right!

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In Beauty & Products Tags safe product movement, safe beauty, beauty products, safe beauty products, EWG, safe skin care, beautycounter
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Beautycounter for Target

September 12, 2016 Shannon Taatjes
Shop Beautycounter at Target

It's HERE!  Beautycounter has partnered with Target and will launch in stores on 9/12/16 for a limited time.  But you might want to hurry because when it's gone.... it's gone.

I wanted to let you guys know the inside scoop because as you know I'm a Manager Consultant for Beautycounter so I can help you guys save the most by giving you some extra tips!!  

I have made the switch to safer skincare and makeup this year and LOVE how these products perform just as good as my old products.  ...and trust me, I was a "product junkie".  The problem was, I learned that the products I was using weren't safe.  SO MANY of the products we use every single day are full of toxic chemicals that are making us sick. 

I love that Beautycounter has a "never list".  That means that there are 1500 toxic ingredients that Beautycounter will NEVER put in their products.  Ever.  The Beauty industry is one of the most unregulated industries we have, especially in the U.S.  It's up to us to educate ourselves and switch to safer.  Here's a short video that will give you more info about the Target launch and the products that will be offered.  With ingredients like coconut oil and charcoal....this is super exciting!  CLICK ON PIC BELOW FOR VIDEO:

Click here to watch this short video about the Target launch!

Click here to watch this short video about the Target launch!

Here's the scoop:

---> This is a very limited edition line of some of our most popular products, mostly from our skincare line, and a couple from our makeup line.  

---> You can shop these items in Target stores or on Target.com online.  Want to see if the Target near you will be offering Beautycounter?  Click HERE to check by entering your town.

---> These products are designed exclusively for Target but are the same exact formula as the original line, just in smaller sizes, which keeps the cost down.  This makes it the perfect time to try out some of these amazing safer skincare and makeup options!

---> Target will be carrying individual products, along with a few gift sets.  What's one of my favorites they'll be offering?  This set of our best selling purifying Charcoal Bar and this Nourishing Face Oil is simply a "must try".  This particular Face Oil was designed specifically for Target.  I LOVE BC's Face Oils...they are absorb beautifully.  I also use this Charcoal Bar on a daily basis and it does not dry out my skin.  It just makes it clean, clear, and bright!

Gift Set - $36 at Target, also sold separately.

Gift Set - $36 at Target, also sold separately.

---> Like I said, these products are smaller in size than the one's available on Beautycounter's website, so they are perfect for travel!  I will be picking some up myself for my upcoming trips!  I'll also be grabbing some of my favorite Rosewater Mist for my purse because this one's the perfect size for on the go!

Tips on how to save more and get the best deals:

---> When shopping online, you'll notice it says spend $20 and get a $5 Gift Card.  Want to get that same deal in stores?  You can with this tip:  text the word BEAUTY to 827438.  

---> With each Target purchase, there will be a coupon code inside the products offering a FREE gift with purchase when you shop at Beautycounter.com anytime before December 31, 2016.  These free items will be changing often and can be redeemed by entering the promo code at checkout online on Beautycounter.com..  They are kicking it off with a free Lengthening Mascara!  You can check out this amazing mascara here.  I use it every day and I LOVE it.  This mascara was three years in the making to make it safe and high performing. 

---> Curious about the many other skincare and makeup options we offer?  Browse the FULL Beautycounter Line here.   If you ever have any questions about products I use myself and recommend, feel free to reach out to me at shannon@happywifestyle.com.  

We, as Beautycounter consultants, are so proud that these amazing products are being introduced to the masses through being sold at Target stores.  Our mission is to get safer products into the hands of everyone and this will help that mission.  But like I said, when it's gone, it's gone.  They ordered a certain amount of each item for each store and will not be restocked.  If you try and fall in love with Beautycounter and want to continue using the skincare and makeup, I appreciate your future business!  You can always ensure you're shopping through me if you shop through this website under SHOP....or go directly to HappyWifeStyleBeauty.com.  I truly appreciate it!  I offer my customers up to date information, offers and goodies:)

Purifying Mask at Target - $30  BEST SELLER!

Purifying Mask at Target - $30  BEST SELLER!

Cleansing Balm at Target - $30 (multi-purpose.... oil cleanser, make up remover, and hydrating mask!  BEST SELLER!  Comes with this amazing muslin cloth.)

Cleansing Balm at Target - $30 (multi-purpose.... oil cleanser, make up remover, and hydrating mask!  BEST SELLER!  Comes with this amazing muslin cloth.)

P.S...

- Want to make a difference?  This Target partnership indicates the growing awareness of consumers who are looking for safer products, and we need people like you to help us spread our message.  My team is expanding and I would love for you to become a Beautycounter Consultant in time to take advantage of the busy fall selling season. Now more than ever is the perfect time to consider the Beautycounter business opportunity and I would love to help you get started.  I'd be happy to answer any questions you have.  Feel free to reach out to me at shannon@happywifestyle.com

The full line available at Target Stores and Target Online.

The full line available at Target Stores and Target Online.

In Beauty & Products Tags beautycounter, target, beautycounter for Target, charcoal cleansing bar, better beauty, switch to safer, target coupon
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My Anti-Aging Drink

July 19, 2016 Shannon Taatjes

We all wish we could find the Fountain of Youth, right?  I've always taken pretty good care of myself.  That...mixed with good genes, has kept me looking more youthful than I actually am.  I'm all about anti-aging because I believe in aging gracefully and don't plan to have cosmetic surgery anytime soon.  ...by that I mean ever.

I'm a "healthy food first....supplement as needed" kind of gal, but there is a drink that I concocted myself as my insurance for healthy skin and anti-aging that I drink every day.  It's my own Fountain of Youth that I drink to combat aging and ensure my skin stays as youthful looking as possible.  

Whenever people hear my actual age, which is 44 by the way, they are usually surprised and I want to keep it that way.  I know what supplements I need to keep my skin looking young and combat those pesky signs of aging.  I learned a lot about this when I became Nutritious Life Certified.  I know that some of the ingredients that can help me keep my youthful appearance, my body doesn't make, so I need to get them from outside sources.  This drink ensures I get them every day!  I'm a stickler about ingredients though....so it took some research to find reputable sources.  I found the best resources for each of these ingredients for you.  I've done the research so you don't have to.  Just drink up and know you're getting quality with no sugar, chemicals or additives.

These are my "fountain of youth" must-have ingredients and why they're important:

  1. Antioxidants:  By now you probably know that antioxidants are important for anti-aging because they fight free radicals in our bodies.  It was important to me to find a supplement with a very high ORAC value with healthy ingredients with no added chemicals or sugar.
  2. Minerals:  Americans are deficient in minerals due to our soils being depleted.  We need minerals.  Vitamins cannot work properly without them and they are absolutely vital to maintain our mental and physical well being.  They help keep the blood and tissue fluids alkaline, help transport nutrients to cells, and help prevent bone loss.  Since the body cannot manufacture minerals, they must come from our diet.  It was important to me to find a source that I trusted, without any chemicals, added junk, or sugar.  I did my research and found an excellent source from 100% sea vegetables (versus minerals derived from rocks) that tastes amazing without anything artificial.
  3. Collagen:  This is all the rage, with good reason.  Collagen is kinda the key to the "fountain of youth" that promotes youthful looking skin, healthy hair and strong nails .  It also supports bone health, healthy joints, and can help maintain weight.  The one I found even promotes healthy immune, digestive, and central nervous systems.  It was important to me to find a high quality grass-fed, non-GMO, pure source.  The one I found is all of those things and completely tasteless.
  4. Greens:  This is where it can get tricky, because when you start looking for a truly healthy greens blend...you usually lose good taste.  I found organic raw greens that are grown in glacial soil and cut at peak harvest before the jointing stage, so you get the best quality greens. They are raw, so they retain more nutrients than cooked greens. This formula I found adds a certified organic blend of reishi, maitake, and shitake mushrooms to provide a vegetarian source of iron and B vitamins, and also a great source of phytonutrients and antioxidants.  It also contains Dulse, which is the new hot superfood!  What's the best part?  It tastes amazing, so it leaves you smiling...rather than gagging.  This has a delicious-yet-subtle berry flavor, silky smooth texture, and leaves no "grassy" aftertaste. 
  5. Lemon Juice:  Drinking fresh squeezed lemon juice brings a healthy glow to the skin.  Lemon juice benefits the enzyme functions in your body, stimulating the liver and flushing out toxins.  It's great for detox, digestion, and the Vitamin C, which our bodies don't produce on our own so we have to get it from outside sources.  Vitamin C helps the body produce it's own collagen.  Great news all around....we need collagen to combat those wrinkles ladies!  Lemon juice is simply FAB for aging and health.

Here's how to make my Anti-Aging Drink

Ingredients:

  • 16 oz water
  • 1 scoop Collagen Peptides
  • 1 scoop Greens Blend
  • 1 scoop Minerals & Antioxidants
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • a couple of ice cubes - if you like it chilled a bit, I do ;)

Place all ingredients in a Blender Bottle or "shaker" with a blender ball and shake well.  Perfect for mornings on the go, or you can pour into a pretty glass and enjoy leisurely.  I recommend using a good quality Blender Bottle with a metal blender ball.  I like this one.  They work better and will last longer.

Note:  Yes, you must use the exact ingredients in my recipe for it to taste good....and ensure it's non-GMO, chemical-free, sugar-free, gluten-free, preservative-free, and soy-free.


By the look of this dark green drink, it may scare some of you who have tried healthy greens drinks in the past.... because you may recall the nasty taste you had to choke down.  I sure had.  Nasty tasting drinks don't last long.  I get it.  No matter how good it is for you, in time it will sit on the shelf and collect dust because it's, well...it doesn't taste good.

I've got great news for you!  This combination tastes SO good.  I actually look forward to it because it tastes so delicious.

I hope you give it a try and enjoy!  Let me know!  Here's to aging gracefully.

Here's what people are saying about my anti-aging drink recipe:  'Hey Shannon!  I received the products a few days ago and have been using them to make that green drink you posted on Instagram - it is SOO good and I love that it is filled with so many healthy things! I have also noticed an improvement in my skin tone - my mother in law complimented me on it! Thanks so much for sharing your recipe and these products on instagram ;)'  -Erin

P.S.  When you purchase the ingredients for my Anti-Aging Drink... I'll give you my entire BEAUTY DETOX Program for FREE!

In Beauty & Products, Food & Recipes, Health & Fitness Tags anti aging, antioxidants, minerals, collagen, fountain of youth, healthy skin drink
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My Top 10 Mothers Day Gift Ideas

April 25, 2016 Shannon Taatjes
These are in no particular order of what I like best, they are numbered to show what they look like for the list below;)

These are in no particular order of what I like best, they are numbered to show what they look like for the list below;)

Have you gotten your Mothers Day gifts yet?  You may need to pick something up for your friend who's a new mom...or an expecting mom...a sister...a daughter...a grandmother... 

I've got you covered.  Here's some great ideas for all the "moms" in your life... in all different price ranges.  I've even given you a couple different options of each item depending on what your budget is.  Here we go...

1.  A Special Scarf  - This gift is perfect for any mom.  Since Spring has sprung, a colorful light-weight scarf is handy for any woman of any age.  It's so versatile and is a pretty accessory....you can't go wrong with this gift.  I love this Marc Jacobs one if you're looking for one that is extra special and want to spend a little more.  If you're looking for one that is beautiful but less expensive, I love this Vince Camuto one.  Each of these come in more than one color also.  

2.  Body Oil - Every mom wants to be pampered.  With this gift you're not just giving the gift of soft, hydrated skin... you're giving the gift of safe skincare.  This Lustro Body Oil in Rosemary Citrus is amazing (I use it myself right out of the shower on wet skin).  This is the perfect gift for the expecting mom to rub on her expanding belly.  It smells heavenly and will keep her skin moisturized and she can feel good about using skin care that's free of harmful chemicals.  I have the PERFECT idea for the new mom... I love the idea of getting something special for mom AND baby for the new mom.  This unscented Baby Soothing Oil is a new product on the market and is safe for newborns and up...absorbs easily without feeling greasy.  Babies can easily absorb chemicals through their skin and are more vulnerable to harmful chemicals than adults, so this is a wonderful gift for the new mom (she can also use it to moisturize her own skin).  Let's make it better and add a little treat especially for her to feel pretty... a Lip Sheer.  A perfect quick pick-me-up for all those selfies she'll be taking with her new little bundle of joy.  It's easy to pick out as a gift because each of the nine shades compliment many skin tones and this is also free of harmful chemicals.  Not sure which one to get?  I recommend nude or petal...both safe choices and are very popular.

...an additional creative option for the "new mom"...she'll LOVE this.

...an additional creative option for the "new mom"...she'll LOVE this.

3.  A Multi-Use Blanket - This gift is for the practical mom, but still feels luxurious.  This soft turkish towel is 100% cotton... it's an ultra absorbent towel, a blanket, a beach throw...perfect for everyday use.  It takes up less space than a traditional towel so it's great for travel or to throw in a tote.  It's machine washable, won't unravel, and gets better with each use.  It comes in a ton of colors to choose from... check out the link to see how crazy cool this versatile blanket is.  

4.  A Beautiful Robe - Every woman needs a special robe.  Robes like these just plain make you feel prettier, period.  I've picked out a couple, with different price points, that I think are beautiful in colors that would brighten any mom's day.  This kimono-sleeve Robe will make a mom feel like she's wearing a piece of art.  This is an extra special gift for the extra special lady in your life that you want to spoil.  Looking to spend a little less, but still get that same look?  Try this beautiful Robe that will make any mom feel special.

5.  A Kindle PaperWhite Reader - This is the perfect gift for the mom that loves to read...and loves to travel.  It's light-weight, holds thousands of books, and has no glare in sunlight like other screens.  I don't think you can go wrong with this Kindle.... you just might get called the "favorite child".  LOL.

6.  A Glass Teapot with Flowering Teas - This Glass Teapot is a great idea for the mom who has everything...and loves tea.  Looking to spend a little and impress a lot?  This is perfect.  It has the option to add flowering teas that look beautiful through the glass pot and it's even dishwasher safe.  It can be used with loose tea, bagged tea or flowering tea.  It's so inexpensive you could add some pretty glass cups to this for a fancier gift;)

7.  A Fitbit - For the active, health conscious mom, (or the inactive mom that should be moving more), this is the perfect gift to get mom moving...and tracking.  She'll love seeing just how active she is ...or make her realize how inactive she is and get her stepping up her game!  It's a great motivator for the mom who's always saying she wants to exercise more but you know needs a little extra inspiration and motivation to get going.  This is such a fun way to make sure she moves more throughout the day.  You want the mom in your life to stay healthy, right? ...so she's around longer!  A Fitbit is a great way to say that;)

8.  A Mother Is A Story Book - This is a very special, inexpensive way to show mom you care.  It's a collection of hand lettered quotes and cool watercolor illustrations with contributions from all kinds of people... this book is a perfect gift for that cool mom that's hard to buy for.  She won't return this one;)  She'll treasure it for years and pass it on.  You could get this for ALL the moms you know.

9.  A Tote/Handbag - What woman doesn't love a handbag?  None that I know of.  The bright spring colors of these totes will definitely make her smile...and make her feel extra spoiled on mothers day.  If she's not a fan of bright colors, a simple white will be perfect too.  This roomy tote will be super functional, and the Kate Spade quality will last for years to come.    

10.  A Love Bomb Mug - You definitely need to LOVE BOMB your mom this Mothers Day!  I'm obsessed with The Love Bomb Company's mason jars and coffee mugs....and these two mugs are perfection for a Mothers Day gift that will definitely make her smile.  Get the "I effing love you, Mom" mug or the "Thanks Mom, I turned Out Awesome" mug ...or both if you can't decide!  I've got an extra special bonus for my readers!!  Save 15% with the promo code MAMALOVE15 ....but it's only good until Tuesday, April 26th at 11:59pm... so ACT FAST.  They already ran a mothers day promotion that's ended but she's extending it for one more day for my readers because I asked her and she's nice like that;)  

That's my top ten!  I hope you found something special here to show the mom in your life just how much you care.  I tried to include something for every type of "giver" and "receiver"!  Share your thoughts in comments if you found some good ideas...and share with your friends because they might be stumped on what to get the mom in their life;)

In Fashion & Style, Beauty & Products Tags mothers day, mothers day gifts, gift ideas, top ten
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How To Create Beachy Waves

April 3, 2016 Shannon Taatjes

It all started with my wedding...a day that was absolutely perfect.  Aside from getting to marry the man of my dreams...I got to feel beautiful that day, as most brides do. 

That was the day I learned a trick that I've been using ever since.  My stylist used a "Clip-less" Curling Iron.  She wrapped my hair around the barrel and just held it there with her hand...no clip.  By doing this, the hair is "wrapped" rather than "rolled".  This is what creates a "wave" rather than a "curl" ...or ringlet.  She did them tighter on this day because she wanted it to last as I have straight hair, but I'm going to share my favorite trick for loose, easy-looking, beachy waves....

My favorite tool is this clipless curling iron by Sedu.  I got a high quality one like I do with my flatiron to cause as little damage to my hair as possible...I already have naturally dry hair!  Here's what the clipless curling iron looks like...I got the largest barrel that they had since I have long hair and like BIG waves.  I think it's their 1  1/2 inch.  They have smaller ones....which I would recommend if you don't have hair as long as mine or want tighter waves.

When learning to use the clipless iron, it's a good idea to use the GLOVE that comes with it (mine did anyway) that protects your fingers from burns. You are wrapping your hair around the barrel and holding it there....so it's very close to that VERY hot barrel.  Until you get used to using it like a pro...use the glove;)

Here's my secret to getting a truly "beachy look"...

If I want a loose, easy-looking waves that're pretty quick to create, I take large pieces of hair, the most that will fit around the barrel, and wrap random pieces around the barrel WITHOUT WRAPPING THE VERY ENDS AROUND.  This leaves the very ends straight and creates a really messy beachy look.  (It also protects your fingers;)  The key is to just get a "bend" in your hair.  Take a look at the top pic in this post.  See how there's just a wave... and the ends aren't curled?  That's the trick!   Easier too!

Of course, if you want tighter waves, you can do more...or use a smaller barrel.  In this case if you have many curls.... once you are done, and the curls are cool to the touch, run your fingers through the curls to break them apart so they aren't in "rolls".  Then take your fingers and "twirl" sections to make it look piece-y.

Here's the next tool I love...my secret weapon.

Sea Salt Spray.  This is what creates that TEXTURE in beachy waves.  The key is to use just enough....but not too much!  It doesn't take much at all.  I spray a spritz on the roots because it creates GREAT volume where my hair tends to get flat.  I also spritz the ends, one on each side and one spritz on the back...that's it!  Spray, then don't touch for a moment.  Let it sit and you'll see the texture start to happen.  Now you can touch it, shake it out if you want, play with it to get it just right.  I also will do touch ups at this point with the clipless iron where needed for a finishing touch.

Since this year I am doing my Safe Product Movement, I recently switched my Sea Salt Spray to a safer product.  Why?...

Fact:  Volumizing hair sprays & sea salt sprays often contain hormone-disrupting phthalates in their synthetic fragrances, as well as polyethylene glycols (PEGs), conditioning agents that may be contaminated with measurable amounts of the carcinogens ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane.

So that's why I tried a new safer spray!  So how does it WORK?  Because safe products are awesome....but they have to perform, right??  Well, I LOVE this stuff.  It creates touchable texture that's not too stiff and doesn't dry out my hair.  

Hello new best friend....

Ditch the curls and try the beachy look!  Everbody's hair is different, so it's worth a try to see if this method works for YOU!  I'd love to see your new beachy looks, so tag me on social and show me your beachy locks!  


P.S.  Have you always wanted to be a Girl Boss?  Do you love sharing products you love with friends?  If you love Beautycounter products as much as I do... there's a reason fashion icon Rachel Zoe just named this company #1 on the Zoe Report of "Side Hustles That Actually Make You Money".  If you're interested in learning more about starting your own business like I have, or just earn extra money, email me at shannon@happywifestyle.com.  I can't wait to chat with you!

photo courtesy of Christy Coleman

photo courtesy of Christy Coleman

Glam fashion icon Rachel Zoe rocking the beachy waves with straight ends.

Glam fashion icon Rachel Zoe rocking the beachy waves with straight ends.

In Beauty & Products Tags beachy waves, hair style, clipless curling iron, beautycounter, safe beauty, hair tutorial, sea salt spray, hair product, hair waves, hair texture, hair volume, how to
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Hi friends!  I'm Shannon and WELCOME to my health + lifestyle blog.  I often found myself being asked about things like nutrition, health, and fashion...so I decided to start sharing...and Happy WifeStyle™ was born in 2014. Sharing led to inspiring people...inspiring people has led to coaching...and now I've turned my little blog into a business and I couldn't imagine doing anything else.  I hope to inspire you to live your happiest, most nutritious life.  I hope to empower you to know that you can do anything you set your mind to.  If I can do it, you can do it.  Thanks for stopping by and feel free to introduce yourself!

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