Put on Your Mascara and Your Party Dress

Put on Your Mascara and Your Party Dress by saraheoutlet featuring evil eye jewelry

Hello Superstars,

Today, I was inspired by the lovely songstress, Lana Del Rey. The young talent is the full package: gorgeous, amazing vocalist, and a brilliant songwriter. One of the lines in "National Anthem", which was a beautiful masterpiece, she says," Put on your mascara and your party dress." Immediately, I thought of a classy 1960's cocktail party. I pictured a brunette with a pin-up hairstyle answering the door for an investment banker with glass of scotch in her hand. The image was so clear in my head that I was able to re- create accurately. Green party dresses have always been my obsession especially ones with a retro touch. I love this dress because it is the total 60's party dress. The woman in my head had on strappy heels like the ones above. Of course, I had to add a bit of spice to the outfit. To make the dress more modern and glamorous add a fuschia heel like the one I chose. You also have two options with the earrings: you can choose the pair with a pop and are compliment worthy or the pair you wouldn't mind losing on the dance floor. Girlfriend, do not forget your mascara. My favorite of the moment is the essential Maybelline Great Lash. It coats every lash, drawing attention to your eyes. So tonight, have a party. Put on your mascara and your party dress. Call up your friends and blast Lana because baby it's summertime!
 
Style it up Superstars,
Sarah E.

Tea Time

Tea Time by saraheoutlet featuring miss selfridge

Hello Superstars,

   I found it important that everygirl has one "ladylike" dress. It should be the perfect blend of 1960's first lady chic and Lilly Pullitzer's prints. The three dresses shown above are perfect for daytime events like weddings, brunches, and of course a tea party. Curl your hair for a voluminous look and pin back your sides. Add a bow for a little more sweetheart glam or grab a hat to prevent wrinkles. I chose a white platform sandal because it is versatile and would go with all the dresses. Grab your shades and pearls and head out the door. And darling, this is 2013 so forget about the frilly gloves.
                                                  Style it Up Superstars,
                                                          Sarah E.

Week One on Accutane

Hello Superstars,

   Yesterday, I completed first week of Accutane. I don't know if it's summer or the anticipation of seeing what the medication can do for the skin, but it seems like the week to forever to be over. Here is a picture of my "results".

   The flaring I had before starting my course has went down, but I know it will not last for long. I have not had a a major initial breakout yet. Next week, I will be going out of town for a leadership conference. My skin usually breaks out when I have a major function to attend. So, I am expecting my breakout to start then. I am experiencing a lot of the symptoms. Dry lips, dry mouth, and dry throat are what I am suffering from right now. All I ever want is water, which is bothering my dad. He is constantly going to the store to buy cases of water. I am trying to convince my parents to get me a mini fridge in my room, so I can hydrated without traveling to the kitchen. They immediately turned me down.

   

 There has been no signs of dry skin on my face, but I am a crazy moisturizer. I am experiencing a rash on my right thigh and major dry skin on back, the places where it is extremely hard to moisturize. 

  

One day, I experienced extreme back pain, which scared me. I always had back pain from carrying a heavy backpack for years, but this pain was different. I highly think it is from the Accutane. Also, I am extremely tired after taking the medicine. Everyday, I must take a nap or I cannot function, which is so unlike me. I'm thinking about switching the times I take the medicine (morning to evening).

 Last night, the end of week 1, I felt extremely nauseous and found myself being tired and weak.  The feeling was sudden, and found it hard to move my pillow. Thankfully, it was to close to my bedtime (Yes, I have a bedtime that I enforce, not my parents), so I didn't feel guilty resting.

 YouTube videos have been helping me get through my journey. One of my favorite Accutane vloggers is a young man by the username of Chrislax16.  A favorite quote from him is,"Bring on the acne." I am ready to fight this fight, so come on initial breakout.

The red pimple you see was a newbie I got a few days ago. Although it seems really red in the picture, the little guy didn't stay for long.

Slight bumpiness, but my skin is really smooth on this side.

Forehead is a little red. I can handle it.

Accutane Haul- Drugstore.com

Hello Superstars,
     Former Accutane users say their results are well worth the difficult course of the medication. They also say the money spent on the products to help you survive cost more than the medication alone. And I completely agree. I recently placed an order with Drugstore.com, my new favorite drugstore. My experience with the website was fabulous, and I received killer discounts plus free shipping!
Here are the products purchased:

Maybelline Great Lash Lots of Lashes in Blackest Black $4.79

I could not shop from a drugstore, even if its online, without purchasing. I am an eyebrow junkie, especially for Maybelline. In the past, I had use this product. Reason for not repurchasing: I was on to the next best mascara from Maybelline. Last night, I applied this product. Let's just this will be my main squeeze for a long time,

Aquaphor Healing Ointment $7.32 

While on Accutane, you experience severely dry skin. I know I could have bought Vaseline, but I believe in giving every product a chance. My skin has been very dry around the mouth, and this helped after one application. 

Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss $3.00

I have recently been on a tea tree oil kick. Flossing is important part of oral hygiene, so why not have floss with tea tree oil?

Nutiva Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil $7.49

Coconut oil is a great product for your overall health. You can use it for cooking or as a hair and body moisturizer. I will be using it for the latter. If you have any recipes for a good deep conditioner with coconut oil, please comment below.

Desert Essence Thoroughly Clean Face Wash with Organic Tea Tree Oil and Awapuhi $7.99

Like I said before, I have a growing tea tree obsession. I tried out this face wash and last night. This product does an awesome job of cleaning, but has a very strong smell. Have you ever been on a walking trail in spring and inhaled the overpowering smell of blooming flowers? That is how I would describe this face wash's scent.

L'Oreal Sublime Sun Body Lotion, SPF 50 $10.99

Sunscreen is important for the skin while on Accutane, and skin that is not on Accutane. It is important to always protect your skin from the sun year round. I like this sunscreen because it gives your skin a slight glow.

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream $4.49

I suffer from man hands. My hands are very dry and tough, so I thought this would be a great product to try out. Maybe this will end my worrying of what people think when they shake my hand.

Desert Essence Organic Jojoba Oil $11.99 

I like this product because it is versatile. I can use it for my hair, body, and skin.

Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Control Moisturizer with Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 $13.59

Cetaphil is a brand with great moisturizers. Instead of going on a hunt for a moisturizer with SPF, I knew to purchase one from Cetaphil. It is not too greasy, and gives enough moisture.

Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash with Shea Butter $6.99

After one use of this product, I know I will not need another. This body wash is moisturizing and has a great smell. Plus, you get a large amount for a low price.

Certain Dri Antiperspirant Roll- On for Excessive Perspiration $5.28

Like most girls,and guys, I suffer from excessive perspiration. I have been dealing with this problem for years, and tried different remedies that have failed. Finally, I decided to purchase this antiperspirant. I normally wake up with sweaty underarms. Before bed, I applied Certain Dri, and woke up without any wetness.

Aquaphor Lip Repair, Broad Spectrum SPF 30 (left) and Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Lip Moisturizer SPF 15 $3.49(right)

Lip products are essential to every Accutane users. I have only been on Accutane for a week, and have experienced extremely dry lips. In the 24 hours I have had these products, I already love the products. My lips feel moisturized, smooth, and have a pretty gloss to them.

I know this is a pretty big haul, but I have very happy with all the products I purchased.

xoxo Superstars,

Sarah E.

Rainy Days Are the Best Days

Rainy Days Are the Best Days by saraheoutlet featuring tretorn

Hello Superstars,
          Today, is a rainy day in my city. I am at home relaxing in my PJs and listening to an awesome playlist: rain, thunder, and lightning. If I had the choice of going somewhere today, then this would be my dream outfit. I know it may seem a bit much, but I am- and you are- superstars. This is outfit is normal for us. I could not find the shade of pink the dress is in a flowy skirt,so I decided to put my twist on it. Make the dress a skirt. Simply, throw on the beautiful blue sweater over the dress, and know will notice you are rocking a pretty dress underneath. I love the nude rain boots (could not decide on which pair) because your feet will look stylish while being protected from the rain. Of course, a Sarah E. outfit is not complete without a headband. And every girl must have an adorable umbrella to prevent raindrops dropping on your hair. I hope this outfit gives you inspiration for the next time it rains.
                                                                      Style it Up Superstars,
                                                                            Sarah E.

15 Weird Questions Tag

15 Weird Questions Tag

Hello Superstars,

I have had this blog since December, and feel that you know very little about me. Late last night, I decided to do the 15 Weird Questions tag normally found on YouTube. This fun way for you all to get to know me, Sarah E.

1. What's a nickname only your family calls you?

A nickname that only my family and some close friends call me is  Tuttie. My father gave me the nickname during the first months of my life, and it has stuck with my family since then. As much I strongly dislike hearing the nickname, especially in public, I always close birthday cards to my parents with,Forever and Always, Tuttie .

        2.What's a weird habit of yours?

It really isn’t a weird habit, but more of a Southern gene. I walk practically everywhere I can barefooted. Around my house, outside, sometimes even at school I go shoeless. Every since I could walk, I have been walking barefooted. I guess I like being free.

        3.Do you have any weird phobias?

A weird phobia that could land me on any talk show is my fear of candy wrappers. There was not ever a traumatic to cause this phobia, but since second grade I have been terrified of the suckers. Starburst, Now or Laters, Laffy- Taffy’s are the wrappers that you MUST keep away from me or I WILL have a panic attack.

       4.What's a song you secretly love to blast and belt out when you're alone?

Honestly, I love all kinds of music, and have no shame in singing any song. I think most people would be surprised that I love singing “Love  You Like a Love Song” by Selena Gomez or “Redneck Woman” by Gretchen Wilson.

       5.What's one of your biggest pet peeves?

I am easily annoyed, but my top pet peeve is hearing someone talk negatively about a person’s appearance. People have the right to wear what they want, when they want, so buzz off.

        6.What's one of your nervous habits?

  When I am nervous, I normally don’t show it. Wait, yes I do. My cheeks and ears get increasingly red. I have a natural red tint to my cheeks, but when the time comes for me to give a speech. My cheek and ears grow so red I can feel the warmness.

       7.What side of the bed do you sleep on?

       I am actually one the few teenagers that still have twin beds in my room. Surprisingly, I still have a certain side I sleep on, the right.

       8.What was your first stuffed animal and it's name?

  My first stuffed animal was a bear named Mr. Bear ( I know very original). Mr. Bear was sleeping buddy throughout most of my childhood. During kindergarten, my father was in the military and was the deployed to the southern part of our state. I decided to pack my bear into my father’s suitcase, so he could always remember my sweet face. But right before, I took Mr. Bear out because I could not live without him. I mean who could?

        9.What's the drink you always order at Starbucks?

To be honest, I am girl that prefers a cup of homemade coffee with a splash of soy milk and a dash of cinnamon. Back in the day, sixth grade, I would always get the caramel frap.

        10.What's a beauty rule you preach, but never actually practice?

The person I ever preach beauty rules to is my mother, and that preachings include,” Always apply primer”, and “Just because you’re older, does not mean you can leave your makeup on overnight.”  I normally practice all those when I do wear makeup, so there are not any beauty rules I preach without practicing.

          11.Which way do you face in the shower?

         I am all over the place in the shower. Most of the time I am doing the Hokey Pokey. Just kidding. For the most part, I am facing towards the shower.

          

         12.Do you have any 'weird' body 'skills'?

  I can move my big toe. Does that count?

       13.What's your favorite comfort food thats 'bad' but you love to eat it anyways?

Since I am an African American, Southern girl, comfort food is all around me like fried chicken, macaroni, and mash potatoes and gravy. But the comfort food I love, are my mother’s taco. Even though the taco shells are fried to perfection, the tacos are divine!

        14.What's a phrase or exclamation you always say?

“You go, girl”, “Oh, yeah”, or “Darn” are common phrases you could hear me at anytime exclaim.

       15.Time to sleep, what are you actually wearing?

Umm...why do you need to know? Fine, I’ll tell you. When it is time for bed, I hang up my fashionista hat. I am normally caught in a flannel PJ bottom and some random spirit shirt from school.

Daddy's Little Girl

Daddy's Little Girl by saraheoutlet featuring a flared skirt

Hello Superstars,

Today is Sunday, Father's Day, but tomorrow is Monday, a day of struggle trying to find the right outfit to wear. Instead of worrying, wear something inspired by your dad. My dad's must have is the denim shirt. He can normally been seen looking conservative in denim shirt and khaki pants or preppy in shorts and a rolled up shirt. There has been times I borrowed his shirt to pair over leggings or knot in the front for a retro look. But today I decided to show a denim shirt from Topshop (which can be easily found from the men's section of Forever 21 or even your dad's closet) paired with a black high waisted circle skirt. This creates a girly, unique touch, so you are not a duplicate of your father. Although my father owns only one bow tie- a boring black one, I find this the perfect outfit to pair a funky bow tie like the leather burgundy tie on the left or the batman inspired tie to the right. Bringing my father back into the picture, he LOVES Bass shoes. Thursday night, we spent two hours looking for a pair he found in an ESPN magazine. The shoes are a classic, and will make you look sophisticated. This outfit would not be complete without the right earrings. The decision is yours, but I love stud earrings with a pop. I found this outfit very simple and accessible. A few of the pieces- denim shirt, bow tie- can be found in your Dad's closet, and for the rest check any local store like Forever 21 or Target. I wish all your father's or any man look at as a father figure a very happy and enjoyable Father's Day.

Style it Up Superstars,

  Sarah E.

What is Accutane?

Hello Superstars,
   As you have read in my acne story, I am starting my journey on Accutane. I know this is an unfamiliar medication to most of you, but  I am here to explain what the medication is, process of getting on it, and side effects.


*Gents, I'm sorry I can only really give information to the ladies about the process of getting on the acne medication.
   
What is Accutane?
  
 Isotretinoin or Accutane is considered the miracle pill in the acne community. It is used to treat nodular acne, a form of acne that has not be cleared by acne treatments, medications, even antibiotics. Treatments can last anywhere from three months until six, unless there is an allergic reaction.

Process of Getting on Accutane for Girls:

  In May, I had my first visit with a new dermatologist. While listing off several of the top medications I had been on, my dermatologist stopped me. First, asking who my previous doctor was. Then, asking if I ever heard of Accutane. I nodded my head as images of the commercials I saw on T.V. of lawsuits filed against the medication brand popped into my mind. After a long explanation of the pill, I was confident that the medication would not harm me too severely  but give me close to flawless skin.
  That day I started my process. I received my first pregnancy test. Pregnancy test are an very important factor in this medication. Accutane causes severe birth defects that sometimes end in miscarriages or abortions. To protect patients and the medication's company, female Accutane patients must go through a long process called iPLEDGE. Which is pledging not to get pregnant.
  I sat through a five minute video that turned into Sex Ed, giving another "talk" from my dermatologist and nurse, and was then told that I could not get the prescription that day. I had to come back in a month for my follow up appointment which would involve another pregnancy test. So, ladies you have to have two negative pregnancy test before your doctor would even prescribe you the medication.

  During my second visit, I had to take three other test which I would get monthly to check my liver and kidney function, cholesterol, and triglyceride ( a type of fatty acid found in the blood), all of which can raise through your course. Then, your blood goes through the medical process of getting tested. If everything comes out fine, you are given the okay to complete the iPLEDGE comprehension questions, and can get your prescription filled.

iPLEDGE

  iPLEDGE is a program designed to make sure women DO NOT get pregnant during their course of Accutane. To make sure of this you must have two valid forms of birth control: a primary and secondary. For me my primary source is abstinence and secondary form is birth control pills.
  You would be given "The iPLEDGE Program Isotretinoin Educational Kit for Female Patients Who Can Get Pregnant" workbook. Also, you would have to complete online iPLEDGE questions to make sure you are staying true to your pledge. In my opinion, the questions are a waste of time for me since I have no plans of doing any type of baby making. But I have to follow the rules.
  Once you have completed the questions for the month ( Yes, you have questions monthly along with monthly dermatologist visits), you are given a seven day window to pick up your prescription.

Side Effects

Although I am new user of Accutane, I already dread the side effects. 

Here is a list from rxlist.com.

• depressed mood, trouble concentrating, sleep problems, crying spells, aggression or agitation, changes in behavior, hallucinations, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself;
• sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
• blurred vision, sudden and severe headache or pain behind your eyes, sometimes with vomiting;
• hearing problems, hearing loss, or ringing in your ears;
• seizure (convulsions);
• severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back, nausea and vomiting, fast heart rate;
• loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• severe diarrhea, rectal bleeding, black, bloody, or tarry stools;
• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms, purple spots under your skin, easy bruising or bleeding;
• severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash; or
• joint stiffness, bone pain or fracture.

Less serious side effects (although most common) may include:

• joint pain, back pain;
• feeling dizzy, drowsy, or nervous;
• dryness of the lips, mouth, nose, or skin; or
• cracking or peeling skin, itching, rash, changes in your fingernails or toenails.

The side effect that was not on the list I am most terrified of experiencing is hair loss or hair thinning. Not all patients experience, but from the online forums I think it is quite common. Hopefully, I won't find more loose strands collecting on my bathroom floor.

Diet

  I feel that it is important to have a healthy, but simple diet while on Accutane. To keep your cholesterol levels down, avoid a lot of greasy fast food and anything high in sodium. But it is all right to treat yourself every now and then to your favorite comfort food. Also, do not have too many foods in a day with Vitamin A. Accutane is drug rich in Vitamin A, and you do not want to overdose on too much of the vitamin. And if you are of age to drink (21 in the U.S.), please do not go buck wild. Accutane is already harsh enough on the liver. Do you really want to risk your health over a shot of tequila? Mainly, just remember to drink PLENTY of water because your body is being stripped of all its oils and fluids.

  I hope this gives a little incite of the drug. Remember, I am only a high school student, and does not have any certification or medical school experience. This is only my knowledge from hours of research and listening to my dermatologist.

                                                                            Thanks for Listening Superstars,

                                                                                         Sarah E. 

Summertime Safe Keeps

Summertime Safe Keeps by saraheoutlet featuring a flared skirt

Hello Superstars,

Crop tops, high waisted shorts, and all of the items in this set are safety items you can in your wardrobe for summer. These items can be easily paired with a white tee, maxi skirts, or just a denim vest. Instead of spending an hour throwing items all over the lace in search for what to wear, you would just need five minutes and would look like a summertime superstar.

Style it Up Superstars,

Sarah E.

Freshman Year Recap

Hello Superstars,
   I believe freshman year is a time in your life that no YouTube survival tip video can help you with. The beginning of your life in high school is an individual and personal experience for everyone. My year as a freshman was an eye opener, leaving me with lessons and appreciation for myself.
   In the beginning, of this year my main concern was my dad. He is the security guard at my school, and I was terrified that I would have to tone down my outgoing and sometimes loud personality. During the first week of school, I noticed a different side of my dad. I was surprised to see a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant shaking hands with the senior boys, a listening ear to girl drama, knowing almost every students' first name and with most their last, and not seeing any sign of annoyance when a boy dressed in a head to toe Urban Outfitters said," Have a nice evening, man". I realized the students looked up to my father and actually respected him more than I did (what I'm a fifteen year old girl with an outspoken mouth). Soon, I accepted the fact my dad worked at my high school, and I started to loosen up and continued to be crazy Sarah. 
   Another problem of mine was dealing with my health. The summer before ninth grade I dealt with a slight depression and was worried if I had PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome). I was trying to maintain a smiling face, while wondering every minute if I had a syndrome that could prevent me from bearing children or living a life with continuous painful cramps. Thankfully, I was able to see an OB-GYN ( first appointment was five days after my fifteenth birthday). After peeing in a cup ( sorry for the TMI, but it was quite difficult) and taking four blood test ( so much blood!), no signs of PCOS was found. I was prescribed birth control, but was still down because I did not know the cause not being able to lose weight.
  I still did not feel like myself, especially when it came to learning. As an all A- student every since being enrolled in school, I was not able to say that after freshman year. I made my first and only B on my report card in physical science honors. There were many nights I drank two cups of coffee and read chapters from the science book, but still made an 83% on all of my science test. This made me feel like maybe I couldn't do any better in the class, which was so unlike me (I optimist, always believing that things will be better, that I will better). It was hard for me to deal with getting a B, but God ( I do believe in God, but do not believe on pushing my faith on to anyone. I apologize if you feel uncomfortable) spoke to me and said," Sarah, if you cannot deal with a B, then you cannot deal with what I have in stored for you." I know he has great things in my future, so I got out of my funk and dealt with the second letter in the alphabet that made me feel so bad. I told myself," Girl, you worked extremely hard for that B." And that is all that matters.
   This year I definitely learned a lot about girls. I saw that many of the girls I went to middle school with still had a very basic mindset. The high school I attend is known for the academics and performing arts. Students are encouraged to be themselves. Most come to school dressed like Lady Gaga, L.A. hipsters, or an extreme pair of Jeffrey Campbells. I thought all of these kids were walking billboards of art, and were my inspiration of dressing outside the norm. But most of the people I knew thought they were freaks. They were not use to seeing someone dressed for an Alexander McQueen fashion show in my town. The girls would say offensive things that only showed more of their lack of exposure to the real world.
  This was not the last of their vicious comments. Most would say awful things about each other and someone's business. I was disgusted at how "friends" could do this to each other. But I do thank these girls because they showed the meaning of a friend.

  If you were to look on Dictionary.com at the definition of friend, its first definition would state,"a person attached to another by feelings of feelings of affection or personal regard." But to me I don't think there is a word or phrase to describe a friend. I think when you have one, you will know, like a soul mate. You won't find trouble or hesitation releasing things off your chest or telling your dark secrets. You will only find trust and openness. I think I only found that with one person, while other girls would not listen to me or my deep thoughts. They would brush me off or would focus on something else. But I am find with that one friend I am able to share things with rather than saying things to someone else and worrying if they listened or they listened and would tell someone else.

  I also realized how boy crazy girls are especially with the wrong guys. I saw girls fall for guys that did not care about school, would talk to other girls, were Instagram whores. Girls would chase after them only to get hurt, and would then repeat the same process with another guy. They would often wonder why I wasn't talking seriously to a guy. I was even asked if I was gay by a friend. My parents taught me that  I did not ever have to explain myself or answer a dumb question. So, I didn't, but I had reason for the girls. I did not want  to end up worrying about a guy that did not bother thinking about me. If there was someone out there for me, then I know he would not make me cry or worry about his morning text. Anyways, who wants to be tied down at this age. This is your time to be selfish,focus on your well- being and growing into a beautiful person inside and out.

 Drugs did play a part this year's experience. Although my school is known for having brainiacs, other high schools that my school's student body is all potheads. That is not true, but like all high schools there is a portion of students that have formed a relationship with drugs. I go to school with that deal drugs, smoke drugs occasionally- during final week, last day of school, or 4/20, or the ones so addicted they do them on the school campus and even under the same roof as their parents. I am not judging them in no shape or form, but seeing the lives they live I pray that do not ever smoke, sniff, or swallow any type of an illegal substance.

    Staying away from drugs is one of the reasons I am proud of myself along with receiving a Superior Cadet award in JROTC, be elected twice to Student Government, and staying true to myself. Staying true to yourself is a difficult but achievable task in high school. I was able to do, and am so glad because I could not imagine being anyone else.

 In conclusion, my freshman year was a learning experience. I learned about the good and bad in people especially girls (a species I have a hard time of understanding even though I am one), embracing others, and what to focus on. I need to focus on making myself happy and accepting the fact that I am not perfect, but I am freaking awesome. Also, to stay away from negative energy next year. I need to take a stand, and show more of who I really am. Show more of the Sarah that is on this blog. Show more of the superstar I am. I dare you to do the same next year, and feel free to share your experience no matter what grade you are in. 

                                                         

Stay True to Yourself Superstars,

                                                                       Sarah E.

" To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest          accomplishment."

                                                             Ralph Waldo Emerson

Summertime Jewelry Pieces

Summertime Jewelry Pieces by saraheoutlet featuring a leather charm

Hello Superstars,
 I have been posting a lot of full outfits, but I thought it was important to showcase basic jewelry pieces. Jewelry is the best way to dress up an outfit in the summer. After finishing this creation, I think it is important for me to post summer clothing basics. Stay tune!
 Style it Up Superstars,

   Sarah E.

Horse Play

Horse Play by saraheoutlet featuring a trilby hat

Hello Superstars,

The temperature in my town was killer today. I could not imagine putting an outfit together that consisted of a maxi, and would not dare recommend leather even for a night outfit. That is how much the sun is affecting me.

  The farm animals near my house did not have a problem relaxing in the sun, so they were my inspiration for today's outfit. I decided to feature two horse shirts (one high end the other affordable from Urban Outfitters) because horses are the poster children for being carefree. The denim high waisted shorts are a trendy basic. I recommend  tuck the front of the shirt or rolling the sleeves one time to add a little personal touch.

Hats and sunglasses are essential in this weather.They protect your skin, hair, and eyes from the harmful UV rays. 

You cannot forget carrying a crossbody bag that keeps your hands free. If you do not like the oxfords, then replace them with a boho styled sandal.

I find this outfit perfect for the hot summer afternoons or early morning farmer's market runs. 

                                                                         Style it Up Superstars,

                                                                               Sarah E.

Accutane Day 1 !

       

Hello Superstars,

  Today is the start of my accutane journey. I took my first pill today, and to my surprise feel normal. This is the calm before the storm because the medication's symptoms are intense. I had a healthy breakfast (banana nut muffin and fruit) with a whole glass of water. To be honest, I was freaking nervous swallowing the pill after the warnings of it melting in the esophagus. Tomorrow, I will be placing an order from Drugstore.com for some accutane goodies- chapsticks, moisturizers, and more chapsticks. Don't worry, this blog will still include fashion. This blog is an outlet for me so you will get that are extra and random like my accutane journey. I wish luck to other accutane users on their journey.

                             Stay Moisturized Superstars,

                                        Sarah E.

My Acne Story

Hello Superstars,
    I feel that I have not had a deep post since "What 2012 Has Taught Me"(my first ever post!). I was thinking of making a YouTube channel, but I would like to focus on this blog- my baby. So, today I would like to tell my acne story. I feel that it is important for me to open up about an issue that most girls experience (For the girls that do not have an issue with acne, I am not mad at you. But very jealous.)
  Acne is one of the few shared traits in my family. My mother and father both had their fair share of the skin condition, and could not get it controlled until their late thirties. My sister also had a short, but difficult battle with acne. So, it was not a surprise when I started flaring up.
  I remember my first severe breakout was a few days before the start of fifth grade. My chin was taken over by dark colored pimples, there were pimples along my hairline and forehead, and to top off the acne sundae my T-zone was the home of oil. Instead of back to school shopping, I spent an afternoon browsing through the Walgreen's skincare aisle looking for a holy grail product to knockout- my- breakout. I came across Noxzema, and thought it would do the job of erasing my breakout in two days. Sadly, it did not and I entered fifth grade as the "girl with the crappy skin". My skin continue to go downhill.
   That December I started my period, and learned that it really was a b-word. Also in that month, my best friend at the moment decided to become Regina George. One of the few things I remember her saying to me is,"Eww you need to do something with your skin,"looking at my chin,"That is not cute." Honey, I know it was not cute. You could have checked my bathroom cabinet and seen the amount of products I used.
     Another friend had the nerves of using her pencil to poke a huge pimple that I had for a month. While she laughed and said,"That thing was huge", I was thinking of all the bacteria on the pencil that could start a new breakout. The pencil did just that plus I still have a scar from the poke.
    Those girls did not know I had started my period, and was the only one in my group of friends that had. They did not understand I was developing early, and acne was just an amigo of the period. I hope they understand now what it is like to experience both a cramp and a pimple at the same time. And that they know karma is a bigger b-word than the time of the month.
   Moving on to the summer in between fifth grade and middle school. I was spending everyday walking at my local park and staying hydrated on H2O. By the time I started middle school, I had slimmed down and my skin was clear and had an amazing glow. Like light, a glow eventually burns out. After my first month of sixth grade, the pimples returned and did not want to leave. "Is my skin that comfortable?"I thought. It most of have been because blackheads joined the party.
  My mom, the hero in my acne story, told me that I would be visiting a dermatologist. In three months. So, I waited and finally my appointment, which was a few days before Christmas came. I was so excited. The dermatologist was a nice man in his late thirties. He prescribed me an oral pill and a gel. That was my first time experiencing something getting worse before it got better. But the ending results were amazing.
  I spent the rest of sixth grade enjoying my clear skin until the summer. All the YouTube beauty gurus were going crazy over the St. Ives Apricot Scrub. Of course, I had to get it. The scrub did well the first few times, but after a month of using it two to three times a week I noticed it was a little too harsh for my skin. And that was the beginning of my acne scars.
  During that year, I was doing well on my medications, but was searching for something to help with the acne scars. Every time I would ask an medication to help the scars, my dermatologist would prescribe something that would not do the job.
 Jump to eight grade year, my skin could have been a roller coaster at Six Flags. I was always on a new medication- something to help the acne scars, the breakouts, and reduce my oil production. I even brought medicated pads to school and used oil blotting pads to use throughout the day nothing was working.
  During the summer, I was so depress. I was working out everyday, but did not see any results. I was treating my skin properly, but did not see any results. Plus, I did not have a period for three months. After hours that turned into weeks of research, I thought I had Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS-I will make another post dedicated to the syndrome).
  Five days after my fifteenth birthday (September 25th), I had my first visit with the OB-GYN (separate post). The doctor was a laid back woman that could have been a model. I took test for PCOS which all came out negative. But I was prescribed birth control (100% not for sexual reasons, I swear).
    I was taking the pills as scheduled for three months without seeing any results for my skin. I went to my dermatologist around February and was two oral medications to balance out the birth control and a topical cream, none of which worked.
   During that time, I given up fried foods and dark sodas for Lent. No results. I even went the extra mile of giving up a lot of my dairy intake. No results. Finally, the acne story hero, my mom, suggested for me to see a new dermatologist. This time I did not have to wait three months to see the dermatologist, which was a female. As a former acne victim, she understood my struggle. After seeing my long list of medications, she suggested Accutane which was a big "no, no" in my house.
  My mom heard horror stories from friends and co- workers. Thankfully, my dermatologist explained that that was only one person out of the millions of people that have taken the medication. From the explanation, my mom was on board. And that was the start of my Accutane journey.
  In three days, I will start my first dose of Accutane. I know that it is going to be a difficult experience, but one well worth it. Don't worry, I will definitely post updates. I hope this post will help anyone going through acne. Please remember, never to give up because one day we will know what it is like to have a clear face.
                                 xoxo Superstars,
                                      Sarah E.

 
List of acne medications:
Oral Pills
Minocycline
Spironolactone
Sulfamethoxazole

Topical Creams
Ziana
Aczone
Tazorac

Birth Control
Junel (1 month)
Gildess