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STRIPPED is a safe space for our No Mo-Stache besties to reveal what’s underneath their smooth skin. Here, we talk about vulnerability, empowerment and confidence through skin care journeys. This month, I spoke with Lucila Arellano- a self-taught makeup maven from the South Texas border making a stamp on Instagram with her aesthetic shots of all things fashion and beauty.

What started your journey as a make-up artist and creative?

I’ve always been fascinated with all things beauty and fashion. Throughout my life, I was able to express myself and have a unique sense of style. As I began my journey, I would watch tutorials to improve my techniques, practice for hours in my room, and take pictures in a blank corner of my room. One day, I thought posting would be a fun idea, and thinking about this now, I’m so glad that I did because what began as a hobby is now something that has blossomed into a beautiful journey.

What is your “go-to” product in your skin care routine?

Moisturizer is definitely my go to baby. Without it, my skin feels lost. They’re like a match made in heaven!

How does No Mo-Stache play a role in your skincare routine?

The No Mo-Stache facial razor has a very special place in my heart. Derma planing my face feels so easy now; and as a dry skin gal, I know I can trust and recommend this beauty tool to my fellow dry skin beauties!

In what ways do you strive to inspire your community of followers on Instagram?

One of the important messages I give my followers is to stay true to themselves. I know social media can be a place where one can question themselves physically and mentally, but it’s important to embrace ourselves. There is no other YOU, so show the world what you got!

I can also tell you're a fashion lover by the shots of your fabulous shoes- Where do you come up with your concepts to bring together fashion + makeup + lifestyle with your graphic design?

I started to incorporate fashion and lifestyle content a little after I started with just makeup. Most of my makeup looks are considered to be on the bold and creative side, therefore I wanted my other content to have the same type of aesthetic. I love embracing my uniqueness, so I always try to do anything out of the ordinary!

What’s a weekly self care ritual that makes you feel great?

This may sound a little bit silly, but an iced coffee is one of my favorite weekly self-care rituals! Siempre hay tiempo para un cafecito!

What is something positive you say or do to lift your spirits?

One of the things I like to say to myself is to remain positive, and to be proud of how far I’ve come on my journey. I’ve learned that life isn’t a race. So it’s best to enjoy the ride and achieve my goals at my own pace.

Do you have any words you live by to keep you grounded?

You are the author of your story, So echale ganas, mija! Vida solo hay una.

You can find Lucila on Instagram at @lucilaslife.

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STRIPPED is where we sit down with our makeup mavens and muses and let them reveal what’s underneath that smooth skin of theirs. We chat it all—skin care, self-care, fears and fame. Here are some highlights from our oh-so-real interview with Karina Bingham. She chats us up on her Brazilian roots, becoming a momma in a new country, and navigating life’s little adventures with authenticity.

What started your journey as an Instagram Influencer? I worked as a dentist in Brazil, until 2016 when I moved to the USA. I had a baby here, finding it difficult missing my family and friends in Brazil. Moving to a new country and adapting and building a new life here was a difficult process, especially emotionally, as it is not easy to immigrate. I was here alone, and couldn't work as a Dentist with its long process. I felt the need to occupy my head with something besides motherhood. 2017 is when it all started. I started sharing my routine, giving tips on fashion, makeup and motherhood. Not only sharing the good things, but the difficulties of life too. I soon created a community mainly of Brazilian and Latino immigrant women who were going through the same thing.

What is a tip you like to give others about skin care? Hydration. Well-hydrated skin is everything, and it always looks healthier.

How does No Mo-Stache play a role in your skincare routine? It’s better for my skin to absorb my skincare products. Since I started using No Mo-Stache products, my skin looks healthier and smoother.

How do you strive to inspire your community of followers on Instagram? Showing a real life. I know that behind cellphone screens, there are real people, with real lives. I don't show a perfect routine because no one has one. I show my reality, I share my problems, my insecurities, my fears, and my challenges because I know all of these things make me human and can help someone else in some way.

What is one thing you have found rewarding about motherhood? Being a mother is growing up and maturing. This is a big reward, but it’s also understanding the real reason for my purpose in life, and for what I feel for my daughter.

And most important of all, the love and the connection with my child, this is the biggest reward that motherhood gives me.

What is a self-care ritual that helps you feel grounded? I always like to take a moment to myself. I like baths with hot water and foam, light my favorite candle and put on my favorite music. Then I moisturize my hair, exfoliate my skin, and take care of myself almost like it’s a day spa. It makes me very relaxed.

Do you have any words you live by to keep you motivated? Yes, my favorite quote is: ‘Bloom where God sows you.’ This always reminds me that no matter what country I am in, or what situations I face, wherever God places me, he will give me some opportunity. And I must use this opportunity to grow.

STRIPPED: Nanci Carrero
STRIPPED is where we sit down with our makeup mavens and muses and let them reveal what’s underneath that smooth skin of theirs. We chat it all—skin care, self care, fears and fame. Check some highlights from our most recent interview with gal pal, Nanci Carrero. Nanci is super sweet to sit down with us and let us know what makes her glow!

What started your journey as an Instagram Influencer? Since I was a teenager I loved makeup. At the age of 19, a friend invited me to a basic self-makeup course. I fell in love with makeup so much that I couldn't resist it, and continued my studies until I was a professional makeup artist.

How does No Mo-Stache play a role in your skincare routine? I love No Mo-Stache because when I wax my face it makes my skin so soft and smooth. It also helps to make the application of my makeup much easier, leaving it with an incredible finish.

How do you strive to inspire your community of followers on Instagram? My way of inspiring my followers is reminding them we can do everything that we desire, and that to achieve our dreams we must work hard. Everything has a sacrifice, but the rewards will come.

In what ways has being a makeup artist been an emotional outlet for you? I love doing makeup and I am grateful that my job is doing what I love most. I love seeing the smiles of each person when they look in the mirror after doing their makeup is priceless. I love teaching and it makes me happy to teach others.

What’s a weekly self-care ritual that makes you feel grounded? Definitely putting on makeup, creating content, working on makeup, pampering myself and spending time with the family make me feel alive.

Do you have any words you live by to keep you motivated? Consistency and Discipline.