My Beauty Diary – The Gratitude Edition
Gratitude is a state of mind. I am inspired to write and share my gratitude for this community. As I have evolved and shared my beauty journey, I have enjoyed the connection with you all on this platform. I want to give you a virtual hug and say I see you, I hear you and I appreciate you. I have decided that this is the perfect space to announce that I am writing a book. My Beauty Diary has been the prelude. I’ve always wanted to write a book and I have been asked by many along the way, however like everything it is all about timing and being inspired to write. While working with Wendy Goldman Rohm of the Rohm Literary Agency during 2020, I was able to clarify what I want to say and how I want to say it. This story is fluid and I will share more as it unfolds.
Today let’s give gratitude, not only for each other but for ourselves. Gratitude for how far we’ve come, for who we’ve grown into and for having the courage to be our authentic self unapologetically. As my beauty lovers know, My Beauty Diary’s philosophy is beauty from the inside out. I live holistically and that is reflected in how I beautify. I have recently discovered some gems that I can not wait to share with you. Think of these as a gratitude gift to your largest organ. Your skin.

I am in love with the skincare created by Youth To The People. I have been using the 15% Vitamin C Clean Caffeine Energy Serum since the summer and my best friend, who is an esthetician, is asking me what I am using. She said, “Whatever you are doing. Keep doing because you get more and more beautiful. Wow”. That best friend love. This is my pop pow glow in a bottle. The price tag is up there I know, think quality over quantity, as with everything you pay for what you get. What makes this supreme is the 15% vitamin C content. This formula is great for us sensitive girls and penetrates deep into the skin, boosting collagen, reducing hyperpigmentation, and protecting skin from free radicals. I actually had the girls at my local Sephora ask what I am using also and so I directed them to this serum, role reversal. Superfood ingredients that are combined with the vitamin C include anti-oxidant rich passion fruit and dragon fruit (yummy) for skin health and moisture. The serums key hydrator, Squalane really locks in the moisture. The other star ingredient is Caffeine, (coffee lover smile), derived from yerba mate and guavas, this increases microcirculation to help the depuffing process. The result is a glow like I have never seen before.
Collagen is essential for our skin and hair. As a vegan it has been a challenge to find collagen that is not animal based until now….please welcome Vegan Collagen Boost by RAE. This is a new relationship and we are just getting to know each other and I already want to take it to the next level baby. This vegan alternative, combines a blend of vitamin C, bamboo extract and plant derived collagen support. Bamboo extract is a powerhouse; it increases the silica in our body, thus supporting collagen production, and contributing to our skins overall dewy appearance. It also strengthens blood vessels, contributing to enhanced circulation and blood flow to the skin and scalp. This helps maximize glow….we like that. Silica is critical to the activity of the hydroxylation enzymes that are vital to collagen synthesis. With more silica comes tighter, firmer, more elastic skin. Healthy skin is sexy skin and there’s more….It also prevents moisture loss in the skin, ensuring radiant suppleness. Bamboo extract naturally stimulates hyaluronic acid, supreme moisture boost, it fights oxidative stress in the skin (this is something to be aware of regardless of age. Prevention being key), and for those unwanted blemishes bamboo extract also protects skin from inflammation and has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities. Boom. Welcome to the crew, you can always sit with us Rae.
Let’s talk dry brushing. I have dry brushed for the past two years and actually went 6 months this year without it and noticed a significant difference in my skin tone and how my skin actually feels. I picked up a new Yerba Prima Skin Brush from Wholefoods earlier this month and my morning routine is back. I literally feel and see the difference in the tone of my skin (this can also lessen any cellulite). I am so invigorated by this simple habit. Move in circular motion in the direction of the heart, working with the body’s lymph flow. The lymphatic system, which helps rid the body of toxins and waste, only travels in one direction, up towards the neck. Dry brushing exfoliates dry skin and unclogs pores in the exfoliation process. It helps to detoxify the skin by increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph flow/drainage. Please note if you have any serious skin conditions this may not be right for your skin.
May you all feel loved up from the inside out as we enter the holiday season. Creating daily habits that support you in being your best self. Radiating in our own love and igniting that in others as we navigate this life, and staying grounded as a result of our self love. Shine brighter than ever….
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Youth To The People is available at your local Sephora.
RAE and Yerba Prima at Wholefoods.











The vegan collagen sounds really interesting! Lovely post, thank you for sharing this.
Happy Wednesday, AMEN! It is great to hear from you and thank you for your note, I loved reading it. Yes collagen is important, prevention is key as the body begins to lose collagen when we turn 30. Love Emma.
Hello Katherine, I am so humbled and grateful for your comment. My heart is bursting. Yes try dry brushing. Love Emma.
Congrats on writing a book! What an exciting time in your life. And I can honestly say I’ve never done the dry brushing, but omg now I need to try it.
Your skin does look so youthful!
I need to start taking collagen! It’s been on my list for a while now and it’s especially important as we get older. Wonderful post…self love is important. I’m grateful for my health and everything the Lord has made me capable of…it’s important to take care of ourselves in return.
Hello Jupiter (what an incredibly beautiful name), thank you so much. I appreciate it. Love Emma.
Hello Luna, thank you for your comment and kind words, it is greatly appreciated. I have to say I am loving this collagen and notice a difference already. Love Emma.
I had heard of dry brushing before, but I have not tried it yet. It sounds like you had wonderful results!
That is awesome! I am so glad that you’ve decided to write a book. I can’t wait to check it out!