Self-care is simply taking the time out to do something for you!
Most times that involves tending to your own needs to make you happier, healthier, safer, rejuvenated, etc. As I say often, self-care isn't always bubble baths, but in some cases, it does include facials and bubble baths!
I've discussed not only the need for taking care of yourself but also the impacts on your health.
Skin care is extremely important. Our skin is typically the first thing we see in the mirror, so not only is it important to take care of it for the sake of your self image, but having healthy skin keeps not only your skin hydrated but also your body temperature regulated; as your skin acts as a barrier.
I sat down with esthetician, make-up artist, and entrepreneur Alisha Ward to discuss her new skin care line, how to achieve healthy skin, and more!
What initially drew you to skin care and make up?
I started doing make up in 2016, starting with my own. During college, I started wearing make up more because I went out more and wanted to look a certain way. Back in 2019 I decided to enroll in cosmetic school to learn more in depth about esthetics and skincare.
What are a few things people should know about skincare ?
Skincare takes time. It will not happen overnight. It's a process. Build your skincare routine up with cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. Then build up to serums and facials to maintain healthier skin.
Hormones happen, allergies happen, so be aware of what you use on your skin. Similar to hair care, it is all "trial and error". Everyone's skin is different, so use what works for you. Be mindful and cautious of what ingredients are in your products.
What does healthy skin look like and how can one achieve it?
Taking care of it. Despite many beliefs, you can still have healthy skin with blemishes, break-outs, and even acne. Healthy skin is really just maintaining your skin care routine, getting facials once per month, etc. You have to keep up a skin care routine, beyond the monthly recommended facials. So making sure you are taking your make up off at night.
Use the 60 second rule, where you spend at least one minute cleansing your skin. Use a double cleanse technique, which is using an oil based cleanser followed up by your regular cleanser.
How do we get and maintain hydrated, moisturized skin? Any particular products?
Add a serum into your skincare routine. Do the thinnest to the thickest. Do cleanser then toner then serum. Products with hyaluronic acid adds moisture to your skin. Lock the moisture in with an SPF to protect it from the environmental elements.
How important is diet on your external beauty?
Very important, make sure that you are drinking plenty of water. Just like your with your diet, your face is a reflection of what you put in your body. Your diet is something you have to control in order to have healthy skin and a healthy body.
What are foods to eat or avoid for boosting good skin?
Foods that are rich in antioxidants.
Avocados, strawberries, fruits and vegetables. Avoid sugary foods, like candy and sweets. Also avoid greasy and oily foods like French fries and items that carry heavy grease and heavy acids. Breakouts normally come from unhealthy foods.
What’s the proper way to remove make up or wash your face daily?
Start off with a make up wipe just to get the bulk of the foundation off, but then I follow up with an oil cleanser, normally they're lightweight so its easy to rub across your face and eyes.
Rub it in a circular motion to break down all the residue from the make up on your face. Then follow up with your normal cleanser. Your basic steps are cleanse, tone, moisturize, and spf. Toners help to create a balance in your skins PH level.
What are three cosmetics/make up everyone should have in their home?
Foundation or a cc cream, mascara, and a lip gloss.
They create an instantly classic face.
What’s your go-to cosmetic item? Your go-to skin care item?
NARS foundation, it's very easy to match with anything and the quality is awesome. I love the consistency and I'm able to wear it all day with no issues. For skin care it's moisturizer, I need my skin to glow, and to look clean, in particularly the Neutrogena gel moisturizer.
Any advice for someone looking to start a career or business in make up/beauty/cosmetics etc?
It's a big industry, do your research, learn as much as you can, take classes, etc.
I have taken so many classes, I was investing thousands of dollars in classes and workshops to learn different techniques and trends.
It's a true investment.
Never be afraid to be a student. I have learned from my friends and peers. Learn as much as you can, know that you are not in competition with anyone, there's always going to be a client for you. You have to want to do it, you have to want to show up, you have to want to learn, put the effort in. And even outside of school you have to still be willing to learn from other people, take classes, learn business strategies, like how to network and market yourself, etc. Once you find your niche and actually focus on it and get better at it, you'll start to see the results.
Tell me more about your recent skincare and beauty venture/business?
It's called Garden of Virgo. Garden of Virgo is a natural plant based skin care line. I do the production, labeling, shipping. You can visit the www.gardenofvirgo.com to shop items. I have a cleanser, and I am coming out with a toner and face oil. I have a blemish oil and bath soap. I just want self-care to be the main focus of my skin care line, I want people to just take the time, I have a candle on there, because when I start getting into my skin care routine I start relaxing, I need to light candles, have scents, vibes, music I need a whole vibe.
Be sure to follow Alisha on Instagram to book a make-up or skincare appointment, purchase skincare items, connect with her on getting into the beauty business, and more!
Head to the blog's Instagram to see bits of our interview!
What are some of your favorite grooming and/or beauty maintenance go-to's? Email or comment!
