WELCOME TO DUPONT SILVER MIRROR FACIAL BAR!

So, not to use labels, but I think I officially moved from a "fashion" blogger to a "lifestyle" and "beauty" blogger.  I've recently had a lot of opportunities to try out beauty products and skincare services and have really enjoyed learning about everything and seeing how my skin has reacted to changes I've made and improved with the different services I tried.  I have a huge favorite products post coming soon.

This past weekend, I was lucky to try out the Silver Mirror Facial Bar in Dupont Circle.  This is their third location, with the first two located in New York.  They offer one-off facials, but their model is geared towards offering a monthly membership at very reasonable prices.   They have a few different 30-minute and 50-minute facials to choose from.  They also have a lot of add-ons which come at a discount with a membership.  In addition to their facials, they also sell skincare products including brands that I love:  SkinCeuticals, Revision and Supergoop!..and one of my new favorites, Sanitas.

The spa is super chic and clean and luckily for me is about a 5 minute walk from my office and my home.  Lucky or dangerous?

The spa doesn't have individual rooms, but spaces are divided by sheer curtains.  I was in an area by myself, but could imagine that you could probably hear the person / service next to you..so I wouldn't call it the most relaxing.  But relaxing isn't really their thing; it's good facials.

My esthetician was Melodie (the spa manager) and she choose to do the 50-minute Anti-Aging facial.  Y'all, it was amazing.  I had her list out the entire process afterwards because there was no way I could remember everything.  Look at this:

- Pre-skin analysis

- Customized double cleanse (customized cleansers for your skins specific needs)

- Steam therapy (opens the pores for better product penetration)

- Custom exfoliation (removal of dead skin cells)

- Extractions (deep cleanse the pores)

- High-frequency treatment (kills bacteria and calms inflammation after extractions)

- Ultra-Lift treatment (electronic muscle stimulation to prevent and help reverse the signs of aging)

- Vitamin therapy (custom blend of vitamins in oil form that best benefit your skins needs)

- LED Light therapy (customized light therapy that penetrates the skin to deliver healing benefits to the dermal layer of the skin.  The light also stimulates regeneration of stronger collagen and elastin in the skin)

- Oxygen Therapy (oxygen and a blend of 87 vitamin and minerals are infused into the skin for better hydration)

- Moisturizer and sunscreen (to finalize the treatment we hydrate the skin with a customized blend of either oil based on water based moisturizer with sunscreen for protection)

All of these treatments are included in the 50-minute Anti-Aging facial, but you can add on the Ultra-Lift to any of the services and a shorter version comes with the 30-minute Party Prep facial.

Here's a look into some of the treatments:

Right after extractions:

This is the high-frequency treatment:

Oxygen therapy:

After your facial, your esthetician provides a card with information about your service as well as recommendations for follow-up services and products that would be good for you to try.  I was also lucky enough to be sent home with a bag full of samples..samples are my fave :)

I highly recommend trying out Silver Mirror Facial Bar whether you're new to getting facials and want something affordable to try out a few things to see what works for you or if you're a seasoned skincare guru looking for something that works and allows you to get a monthly service done at a reasonable price-point.

Thank you so much Silver Mirror Facial Bar for having me!

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MY NEW WORKOUT OBSESSION || RUMBLE

I have recently found my new workout obsession and - no joke - it's boxing!  Who would've thought?  Now, to be fair this isn't the boxing you're probably thinking about.  I'm not fighting someone in a ring.  But I do get to punch a punching bag :)

Rumble Boxing gym moved about a block next to my office (2001 M St NW)

a couple months ago and I was so excited.  I had been walking past the location for a while and kept checking the website to see when it would actually open.  When I was asked to try a class, I jumped at the chance.  And I'm so happy I did.

I can't explain the energy of this place in words, so you'll just have to try it for yourself, but it's insane.  You walk in and are greeted by the most cheerful, fun staff.  They set you up with everything you need.  You need wraps, gloves and water.  All the extras can kinda add up, so I would highly suggest bringing your own water and eventually buying your own gloves if you decide you want to become a regular.  You sign up for a specific spot in advance, but they remind you of whether you start on the Floor or Bag side and what number you are.

Now, it's time for class!  Make sure your wraps are on, but keep off your gloves until you're in class.  I choose to start on the Floor side because a friend recommended it..you don't have to end class doing burpees basically.  The class is a high-energy cardio / strength training class focused on teaching you the six basic boxing punches.  The instructor starts every class showing off the punches and then guides you through the entire workout.  The music is super loud and there are screens everywhere showing you your ranking..just kidding..that's the worst.  There are screens up everywhere, but they're showing you how to do every punch and move to complement the instructor.  The class is an hour, but it's so fun, time flies and you're done before you know it.

For all of you that are super smart like me and run straight into the locker rooms after workout classes to use the hair dryers to blow cold air all over you, you'll love Rumble.  The lockers and locker rooms are extremely nice.  The locker rooms are set-up with all Drybar products..dry shampoo, hair dryers, etc.  It has a very spacious and clean feel.

I can't recommend Rumble enough.  Yes, it's expensive, but it's pretty similar to any other boutique workout you're paying for, so just try it.  It is so fun and you know you've gotten an awesome workout in when you leave..and even more so a day or two afterwards. 

Thanks so much for having me, Rumble..see you soon!

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MY FIRST LASER TREATMENT W/ SKINDC

I don't even know how to start this post.  I want to gush about SkinDC in general, but the main objective is to talk about my laser treatment, so I'll start with that.

I recently visited SkinDC in Arlington for a laser resurfacing treatment.  After a few conversations through email, we had decided on one that sounded best for my skin.  I was nervous, excited, anxious.  How was it going to feel?  What would the laser fix?  Would I look like Samantha on Sex and the City afterwards?  However, after my consultation, my mind was at ease.

The laser treatment Dr. Keaney and I ultimately decided to go with was the BBL (not the original choice).  SkinDC has this very cool, very legit technology which, after multiple pictures of your face and skin, determines your skin's "age" and what areas need treatment.  I'm not doing this technology justice; it was one of the coolest things I've seen.  It measures UV, brown spots, wrinkles, texture, pores..you can see in the picture everything it covers.

What we gathered from the pictures, is that I need to focus on the brown spots, UV, and texture way more than wrinkles (who knew?..but also, Botox..).  The BBL laser focuses on exactly what I need treated.

The actual treatment itself takes no time at all.  First they remove your makeup, then they use an alcohol pad to remove any other impurities.  They then apply a thick-gel like substance all over your face, cover your eyes with little stickers and they're off.  The laser feels like hot, little rubber band snaps (as Dr. Keaney described) and he was totally right.  It's not terribly painful, but I wouldn't want to have the treatment last any longer than it did.  It's uncomfortable and your face gets pretty hot..but it's done within five minutes..probably even shorter than that.

My face was a little swollen, red, and tender right afterwards, but it went away in about 2-3 hours.  There is basically no downtime which was super important to me.  I can't miss work for something like this :)

Over the next week, I could tell that my brown spots were getting even darker and eventually they started falling off.  One of the staff members, Laurel, described the feeling as little coffee grinds on your face.  No one would notice but you.

The results were amazing!  I could tell a noticeable difference in the texture and evenness of my skin tone.  The after pictures are proof.  I went back about two weeks later for a follow-up and as you can see from the before and after pictures, my brown spots decreased (as well as my skin's texture improved) by ~100%..in just one treatment.  SkinDC and Dr. Keaney recommend three treatments and you can bet that I'm saving up my $ for two more.

Now, to the gushing.  Mary Keaney, her husband and the doctor who performed by treatment, Dr. Terrence Keaney as well as all of the staff I interacted with were the friendliest, most helpful people.  I typically have a lot of questions when trying something new - especially when it comes to beauty treatments and everyone was so professional and patient..not to mention educated.  Every question I asked was answered in a genuine and knowledgeable way.  They never tried to sell me on more services or try and get me to do something I didn't need, but did a thorough consultation advising me on things I could possibly do down the line.

I can't say enough good things about SkinDC and highly recommend going in for, at least, a consultation.

Thank you so much for having me in, SkinDC..I'll be back :)

I was provided the service in exchange for promotion; however, my love for this place and the treatment is real..they are amazing and I'll continue to do BBL if my wallet allows :)

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BOTOX UPDATE..AND WHY I WON'T STOP GETTING IT

Thank you to Allergan and Dr. Lily Talakoub at McLean Dermatology for partnering on this post!

First things first, hi!  I know I've probably lost a lot of you all in my recent hiatus, but any post featuring Botox usually gets a lot of action, so here we go :)

I recently had the opportunity to attend a breakfast with Allergan and Dr. Lily to discuss the Allergan brand and what products they own.  Their most popular:  Botox.  

I've been a huge fan of the product for the past year and have always loved the results, so when Allergan reached out to see if I would be up to partnering with one of their favorite doctors, Dr. Lily, I was super excited!  McLean Dermatology is located in..you guessed it..McLean.  When you arrive, the lobby is fresh, chic, and smells so good (I know, weird).  Someone kept commenting on it and the girls at the front desk said that the practice just released a candle..and I was super tempted to buy..but that's not why I was there. Just wait until you see the pics of their product walls.  The pictures don't do it justice, but let's just say I stayed a little longer than I planned going through all they sold..

After a short wait, I was greeted by a medical assistant and was taken back into one of the service rooms.  Very typical of most medical offices, but these rooms were sterile..in a good way.  Everything was super clean and tidy.

After going though the basics (why I was there, allergies, etc..), Dr. Lily came in to perform the injections.  I guess the medical assistant had told her my past history with Botox, so she just got down to business.  Total, it took about 45 seconds (check out my Instagram stories) and I was done.  I received 20 units and let me tell you..no pain.  It's weird..like I was thinking "is she actually doing anything??".  Well, yes..the results show up in about two weeks and I was told to come back in for a check-up at that point.  Honestly, if I like the results, it's no biggie not to go back, but any patient is welcome to.

To be honest, I don't think I really needed to start getting Botox, but now that I've started, I'm not going back.  I feel as if it makes me look more awake, alert and fresh.  It's also like a semi-permanent makeup primer.  And it doesn't hurt at all!  I highly recommend getting Botox if you've been thinking about it.  Start small, see a reputable doctor, ask questions..and you're good!  But be careful, you won't be able to go back ;)

Also, if you're a nerd like me and want to learn more about Allergan, their products and the industry as a whole, check out this interesting report their team worked on!

Thank you again to Allergan and Dr. Lily Talakoub!

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BOTOX WITH WEST END PLASTIC SURGERY || TAKE 2

So, really it's technically take three, but only my second post..

I had my third Botox appointment with West End Plastic Surgery about 2-3 weeks ago and this time saw Norah Gourlay, N.P. This was my third round and guys..I'm not going back.  And by "not going back", I mean I'm not going back to my old non-Botox self.

Botox in itself has been such a small, but hugely noticeable change for me and I'm obsessed.  Having it done at WEPS is a completely different thing altogether.  As I noted in this post, the staff is incredibly professional and friendly and no one there is trying to push you into anything you don't want to do.  Because it's an actual doctor's office, I feel totally comfortable because they're experts.  There is actual science behind the placement of Botox and how it will affect the muscles and if you're not getting it injected by doctors..well, you know what I'm getting at.

Norah was incredibly knowledgeable and made the slightest tweak to what I had done previously and I am in love with the results.  

Also, there is practically no down time.  I went in on my lunch break and was back to the office within an hour.  The redness you see in the third picture had already subsided by then.

I can't imagine going anywhere else..

Thanks again for having me, WEPS..see you in a few months!

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SHOPPING & SPA DAY WITH GAYLORD NATIONAL RESORT & TANGER OUTLETS

Two weekends ago, Ashlee and I were invited by Gaylord National Resort to experience a day down at the National Harbor.  I was so excited because even though I've lived here for three years now, I had never made the trek down there.

We started our day at Tanger Outlets and met with Isida and Katherine who gave us a shopping 101 crash course on how to utilize all their coupons.  Let me tell you..you can save a lot!  They have so many ways to save from joining their TangerClub membership club, getting the Tanger Style coupons, checking the website to just stopping into Shopper Services for random coupons the stores will provide.

Once we had been given all the savings advice, I started by stopping into one of my my favorite outlet stores, Theory, to pick up a few of my everyday tees and tanks ($90 t-shirts for $30 and they are the exact same quality you would get in their regular stores).

We then tried on some fun sunglasses at Sunglass Hut..may have to go back for those since my favorite pair broke a few weeks ago..

After that, we walked around and Ashlee made some purchases at H&M and the The Cosmetics Company Store and we both got some workout gear at Nike.

I think my favorite purchases were at Le Creuset.  I finally upgraded my wine glasses (I see you, rosé season) and picked up a new wood spoon since Mollie somehow discovered how to jump on my kitchen countertops and chewed up all my wooden utensils..fun.

After shopping, we headed to the Gaylord National's Relâche Spa for some R&R..not like shopping is that strenuous..just saying.

Right when we walked in, I knew it was going to be good.  The spa & salon were gorgeous and the staff was so friendly and attentive.  We were given a a mini-tour of the spa and then we went on to our service rooms.  We both had an Elemis Biotech facial and I opted for the Radiance Renewal one which was amazing.  If you watched my Instagram stories, you'd know I thought it may have been the facial I've ever had.  My aesthetician, Irene, was incredible.  She explained everything that would be happening during the service and made the experience so relaxing.

After our treatments, we were greeted with a glass of champagne and then guided to a room overlooking the river and the Capital Wheel.  They also had a jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna.  Side note:  I was super close to stealing the robe..it was so comfy.

We had the best day and I would highly recommend checking out the National Harbor area if you haven't already..don't forget to stop by the Relâche Spa ;) It's more than worth the trip and my only regret is not spending more time out there..

Thanks so much hosting us and for the experience, Gaylord National Resort and Tanger Outlets!

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MY FIRST EXPERIENCE WITH BOTOX

I have received so many questions on my first experience with Botox, so I wanted to dedicate a whole post to it..it's a long one, though, so sit tight.  Also..there's a video at the end :)

To preface, even just a few months ago I was pretty against the process.  I thought 'Why in the world would I have Botox? I barely have any wrinkles and the ones I have don't bother me..just seems unnecessary'.  I had also been to a Botox party before that completely turned me off - the doctor at that party came up to me and said "Oh honey..you really need to start getting Botox now" - let's just say that's not the way to sell me something.

However, about a month or so ago, I was invited to attend an event at West End Plastic Surgery and was pleasantly surprised with how different the experience was.  Everyone there was so friendly and professional, and although it wasn't specifically a Botox party - more of an informational session with a Q&A portion with the doctors and staff - a lot of people ended up asking about Botox and the doctors answered a ton of questions about it.

A couple weeks after the event, I went into WEPS for a consultation with Dr. Ruff and again was so surprised with how helpful the meeting was and how at ease he made me feel about the process.  He answered all of my questions and I never felt any pressure to actually go through with the procedure.  However, after leaving the consultation, I knew I was going to go through with it and here's why:

1.  It's so safe.  I was thinking there were tons of things that could go wrong, but Dr. Ruff eased those fears.  Botox has been around for decades and is used for many other medical issues than just wrinkles.  Knowing that doctors have been using the product for ~40 years made me feel a lot better about it.

2.  It wasn't going to significantly change the way I look.  I've always thought it would raise my eyebrows a ton and I would look like a deer in headlights.  I also thought I wouldn't be able to show any expressions..I was totally wrong.  Dr. Ruff works with each patient individually on the look they want to achieve and for me he didn't want to do a ton of units..just wanted to "soften" my face.  I also decided to only have my "11's" and one small horizontal wrinkle above my nose done since the rest of my face didn't need anything.

3.  Your wrinkles aren't going to be deeper once the Botox wears off.  I had always heard that once the Botox wears off (average of 4 months), your muscles are stretched out and so your wrinkles will appear deeper.  That's a total rumor.

Basically, those were the three issues I was worried about and after my consultation I felt much better.  The one thing I didn't really think about until I actually went in for the injections was if it was going to hurt (see my nervous smile below - I was sweating I was so nervous).  Well, let me tell you..I literally couldn't feel a thing.  It was totally painless.  There is also practically no down time and you can easily go into work or meet friends out immediately afterwards.  The only thing is you don't want to rub the area or work out for ~4 hours following.

Dr. Ruff explained that the results fully appear in about a week or two and he was right.  For the first couple of days afterwards I was a little disappointed because my wrinkles were still there, especially when I squinted.  I'm now two weeks out and I can't see them anymore..the wrinkles are completely gone!  I still look the same, I'm just unable to furrow my brows.

So overall, I had a wonderful experience with WEPS and with Botox and 100% recommend trying it out if you've been thinking about it.  I also highly recommend going to WEPS as they'll make your experience really great..just like mine :)

Thank you for hosting all of us, WEPS..can't wait to come back!

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