January 14, 2013
RED CARPET MUST HAVES

Christina Marrale
  01.14.2013   |   CHRISTINA MARRALE    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

With the Golden Globes just days away, it’s no secret the celeb’s and they’re stylists are going mad perfecting every last detail. But, what about the hair & makeup? Here’s a look into a few must have products, that are a major staple for those walking the red carpet this Sunday: 

To get that glowing complexion, stars turn to Gleam Body Radiance by Melanie Mills to give the perfect amount of sheen without taking too much attention away from the rest of their look. Applied lightly onto areas of the body, this creamy formula delivers the ultimate “golden glow” and comes in a variety of shades, “Light Gold, Rose Gold and Deep Gold” to name a few. Not only does this product bring the shine, it also helps to conceal stretch marks, pigmentation, scars or any other imperfect that can be spotted.  Fans of the brand include Kendra Wilkinson, Brandi and Pamela Anderson. Prices range from $15-$40, can be purchased online.

To keep makeup lasting all night long, Laura Mercier’s Radiance Foundation Primer is another must have. Nicknamed “The Candlelight Glow”, The universal pearl tint creates a soft focus effect to minimize the look of imperfections with a radiant finish (perfect for posing on the red carpet!) in addition to long lasting results. Retailing for $32. Fans of the brand include Jessica Lowndes, Kate Bosworth and Cameron Diaz.

And lastly, no big awards show can be complete without loads of lashes! Ardell brand tend to be a favorite for many Celebrity Makeup Artists, as they’re easy to apply, natural looking and come in a wide range of styles, perfect for any glamour gal! My pick? I personally love the #114′s and #118′s, as they blend well into normal lashes and can easily be layered up with other styles. Kim Kardashian and Giuliana Rancic are fans of the brand.

November 26, 2012
WHITEN YOUR TEETH NATURALLY WITH THESE 3 EASY TRICKS

Christina Marrale
  11.26.2012   |   CHRISTINA MARRALE    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

Oral health may not sound like an appealing wellness topic to touch on, but alas- an unhealthy mouth is a major turnoff to most. Bad breath, yellowing teeth and bleeding gums can be caused by a variety of different things. Some of the main contributors?  General wellness, smoking, sugary foods/alcohol and bad brushing habits to name a few.

So, how can we improve our oral hygiene fast? Schedule a visit to your Dentist of course, in addition to picking up better brushing habits, fixing any wellness issues and flossing more. All of these steps will boost your mouth’s help over the course of a few months. For more instant gratification… whitening your teeth is a great way to improve the visual appearance while you work to boost the other areas of concern. White teeth equal a healthy looking smile on the exterior, and who doesn’t love bright, pearly whites?!

If you don’t want to drop major dollars on an expensive treatment,  go for a more organic, cost effective route, using these easy, at home tricks to give your teeth a fresh new look:

  • Strawberries: not only are they a delicious, healthy treat, they actually contain whitening and anti-tarter properties! Cut up a few and rub onto teeth daily for a few minutes. Rinse and brush as usual
  • Baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda on top of toothpaste, or add directly to your toothbrush. The powder in that little orange box is known to whiten teeth fast! Just be sure you do not use it daily, as it may harm enamel.
  • Hydrogen Peroxide: It’s a natural bleaching agent, one that Dentists use to whiten teeth, at a stronger concentration. For at home use, create a mixture of 1 tablespoon peroxide with 1 tablespoon water and swish around in the mouth for 30 seconds. The water dilutes the peroxide, as it’s harmful to our gums when used alone. Another thing to remember, spit….not swallow the mixture!

November 5, 2012
BACK TO THE BASICS: INCORPORATING OLIVE OIL INTO YOUR DAILY SKIN ROUTINE!

Christina Marrale
  11.05.2012   |   CHRISTINA MARRALE    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

When it comes to skincare, there’s a variety of products and brands to choose from. So much so that it can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate through. I was pondering this thought the other day, frustrated at how complicated the skincare industry has gotten. This got me thinking back to what my relatives use to use in their beauty regimen. All the women in my family were never fussy about it, but looked years younger than their true age. Oil of Olay products played a large roll in that, as did olive oil….yes, as in the type of oil you cook with!

Olive oil was one very popular, effective and affordable beauty product back in the day. It hydrated our skin, kept our face clean and gave a glow to one’s complexion. This homemade beauty remedy seemed to have gotten buried amidst all of the industry’s popular gimmick’s and products now a days, but there’s still many who swear by and use the oil religiously.

You see, many (note, not all) products we buy off the shelf in our local drugstores and beauty stores tend to strip the oil out of our skin, leaving it then fumbling to repair itself by replacing the oil that has been stripped away. Our skin over-compensates for the lack of moisture by creating more oil, created one rather vicious cycle…dry,oily, dry, oily, it’s never balanced!

Olive oil actually soothes the skin as a cleanser: The oil naturally breaks down the pigment and film of makeup, leaving your skin hydrated, cleansed and smooth. Simply apply a bit of olive oil to a cotton ball and rub onto face, rinse with water and hydrate if necessary.

Olive oil also works as a  moisturizer: Applied to face or body, olive oil will penetrate deep into the skin and provide a long-lasting shield of moisture. That’s not all it can do though! The oil can actually relieve and heal dry skin, burns, dermatitis, eczema, rosacea, and psoriasis, Used either as a night cream or daily moisturizer, it is best applied to damp skin, when water can help reduce any feeling of greasiness.

Not sure what type of olive oil to use? Extra virgin and regular work just fine, just be sure they are unrefined and not chemically treated, making them the best options for skin care use.

October 15, 2012
A CUP OF HEALTH BENEFITS

Christina Marrale
  10.15.2012   |   CHRISTINA MARRALE    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

Let’s face it, coffee is king in the caffeine world…and though it serves a great purpose in many of our morning routine’s it may not be the best thing for us beauty and health wise. Teeth staining, Moisture stripping, Accelerating the thinning of skin, and weight gain are just a few of many downfalls associated with the drink daily.

Though the effects of coffee may not be so great, there are alternatives to the standard cup of joe that offer not only a caffeine fix, but loads of beauty and health benefits. Tea is the most popular alternative of course, green tea to be exact, which boasts a major boost in one’s quality of life:

Loaded with antioxidants: Tea contains polyphenols, which help to neutralize damaged skin cells effected by free radicals. Exposure to pollution, smoking and excess sunlight all contribute to the number of increases of free radicals in the blood. When damaged skin cells are present, it increases wrinkles, age spots and loss of collagen.

Weight loss: Drinking a few cups of green/black tea daily by will increase your metabolism through the day and accelerate calorie burning. Coffee, though can also be linked to weight loss, has a negative effect on the body when combined with all of the sugars and dairy commonly used in one’s cup of joe.

Less caffeine: An eight-ounce cup of coffee contains around 135 mg caffeine as where tea contains only 30 to 40 mg per cup. Drinking large amounts of caffeine may cause the jitters, indigestion/headaches, interferes with sleep and leaves you dehydrated. The higher the level of caffeine also increases the level of dependency on the drink, which is never a good thing for balanced health.

Protects your teeth: Yes, really. Tea contains fluoride and tannins that may keep plaque and cavities at bay. Just beware of the additional sweeteners your adding!

Are you a tea drinker? If your just starting to incorporate the drink into your daily routine, try a black tea, which tends to taste and mimic the bitterness of coffee, moving onto a more healthy option, green tea.

October 12, 2012
DETOX AT LA’S NEWEST CRAZE, THE SWEAT SHOP

Christina Marrale
  10.12.2012   |   CHRISTINA MARRALE    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

ABOUT

It’s no secret that local Angelino’s love to detox. Juices, master cleanses, colonics…you name it, we’ve done it. Aside from the typical juice stores and holistic healing centers, there’s never truly been a sauna dedicated to detoxing. Sure, you can hop into one at your local gym, or spa….but all under one roof was hard to find, until now. the Sweat Shop LA is all new and making it’s mark on Los Angeles.

Founders Shamina and Julian Ledesma inspired one another to find a way to create a system where a healthy lifestyle and busy work schedule could be balanced. Thus, the Sweat Shop L.A. was born. A place to unwind, detox and melt away the stress of the day, literally. Offering only Infrared Sauna and massage therapy, the Sweat Shop L.A. is designed to meet the needs of the busy urban dweller, the 9-5 working professional, the “always on the move actor”, the “non-stop party musician”, etc,. If you have 30 minutes to spare per day, you have the chance to detoxify your body, burn calories while sitting still, strengthen your cardiovascular system, beauty your complexion, speed up your metabolism, slow down your mind via infrared sauna therapy.

AMBIENCE

Small, serene and private, you get your own studio all for you. Offering organic bath products, a shower to wash the toxins off, towels and water.

EXPERIENCE

Step into your private sauna and 30 minutes later, feel fresh and detoxified as these special infrared saunas work their magic. An easy spot to stop prior to work or get your sweat in after a long day, you’ll be able to touch up, shower and get on with the rest of your evening all within an hours time. After your sweat session, grab a wellness shot for an extra boost of health or experiment with the Sweat Shop’s other services offered. There’s something for everyone in this niche, healthy spot.

IN CROWD

Health conscious folks and newcomers from all over will be stopping in for a sweat.

WALLET WATCH

Each sweat session is $35 with packages offered in 10 and 20 packs (prices range from $300-$500). Also offered are a wide range of massage and facial services, in addition to lash extensions, cupping, acupuncture, laser therapy and more!

NEED TO KNOW

The Sweat Shop L.A is located at: 1503 North Cahuenga Boulevard, at West Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood (310-956-2307 or thesweatshopla.com)

For those that have never had any experience in a sauna, the Sweat Shop offers some helpful tips, straight off their site for the detox newbie:

Sweat Etiquette

-Please use your “indoor voices” when in your sauna station.
-Please place your towels in the laundry basket in your room.
-Please refrain from spraying any perfume while in your sweat station
-Please do not apply any oils on your body while sweating in the sauna
-Always take water into your station with you. It’s best to arrive hydrated!

Suggestions for a successful sweat:

- Arrive well hydrated
– Take water into your sauna station
– Drink 2oz. of our Cayenne water to induce a deeper and quicker sweat response.
– Take a mineral shot and drink a green juice after
– Sweat for about 30-35

October 9, 2012
BODY PRODUCTS FOR BREAST CANCER AWARENESS

LOOK GOOD AND DO GREAT FOR WORTHWHILE CHARITIES
Tanya Sharma  10.09.2012   |   TANYA SHARMA    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, when brands and designers join forces with various charitable organizations to raise funds and increase support for this disease that affects millions of women worldwide. There are many ways to show your own support, but if you’re shopping for staples or searching for heartwarming gift ideas, consider these body products. With the purchase of each, select proceeds will be donated to the cause.

Whish Shave Crave Shaving Cream, $20

I’ve had the pleasure of using this rich, protective shave cream, and I can vouch for its efficacy. A refreshing burst of juicy pomegranate sets it apart from the usual vanillas and tropical blends, but what makes Shave Crave special is its cocktail of skin-loving organic ingredients: coconut oil, pomegranate oil, jojoba seed oil, green tea leaf extract and shea butter. The result is soft, nick-free skin that feels divine.

Donation: With the purchase of this product, 100% of the proceeds are donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. DermStore will also donate 5% of the proceeds to CEW Foundation’s Cancer and Careers program.

Body Products for Breast Cancer Awareness

Whish Shave Savour Hair Inhibiting Gel, $26

You know the drill: your just-shaved skin goes into freak out mode if you dare to put anything on it. Make your post-shower routine more pleasant by applying this wonderful gel all over your skin. Made with healing organic aloe, hydrating shea butter and calming cucumber, this gentle product works over time to inhibit hair growth – something any slave to the razor will appreciate.

Donation: With the purchase of this product, 100% of the proceeds are donated to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. DermStore will also donate 5% of the proceeds to CEW Foundation’s Cancer and Careers program.

Red Flower Japanese Peony Moisturizing Body Lotion, $24

More than just a decadent moisturizer, this incredible body lotion is the answer to most skin woes. Perfect even for those with sensitive skin, it’s made with comforting honey and antioxidant-rich green tea for a hyper-potent combo that heals and protects. With notes of Bulgarian rose, Lily of the Valley, peony and lemon blossom, the scent is at once warm and bright – a scintillating combination that is reminiscent of a spring perfume, but with a versatility that renders it appropriate year round. 

Donation: With the purchase of this product, 100% of the proceeds are donated to CEW Foundation’s Cancer and Careers program.

Body Products for Breast Cancer Awareness

Aveda Hand Relief, $23

An elegant hand cream is an invaluable beauty treatment no woman should be without, particularly approaching the final months of the year. With dry air comes even drier skin, so this formula – rich in natural plant emollients and gently exfoliating fruit acids – is perfect for leaving hands baby soft even through multiple hand washings. 

Donation: With the purchase of this product, $4 will go to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation to support cruelty-free research. 

Sprayology Woman Power, $32

We can all relate to feeling blue, exhausted and generally irritable from time to time. Sprayology aims to conquer these issues with its FDA-regulated treatment spray, formulated to rejuvenate, de-stress and relax the body. Not only does it relieve symptoms of low energy, it also claims to enhance vitality and reduce anxiety with its potent homeopathic blend.

Donation: With the purchase of this product, 25% will go to CEW Foundation’s Cancer and Careers program. 

October 5, 2012
VIOLENT LIPS, YOUR NEXT BEAUTY OBSESSION!

Christina Marrale
  10.05.2012   |   CHRISTINA MARRALE    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

ABOUT

What’s not to love about long wearing lipstick? Plenty of Los Angeles ladies simply cannot say no to the products long lasting effects and smudge proof guarantee. Only issue is, with all of the latest Fall trends leading to funky, interesting lips, it can be difficult to mix it up with just one hue. Enter, Violent Lips, the ultimate form of self-expression, mixing it up with a loads of prints that range from animal, polka dots, fishnets, and the ultimately glittering sparkle! The innovative line of Temporary Lip Appliqués keep the print and color on your lips for up to 8 hours.

Created by entertainment industry veteran Jeff Haddad and his daughters Isabella and Sophia. At 13 years old, Isabella Haddad and her sister were playing with their mom’s temporary Chanel tattoos when she affixed them to her lips. Just like that, the idea for temporary lip art was born as Isabella and her family set out to create FDA approved, cosmetic grade lip appliques. Fast-forward two years later and her company, Violent Lips is one of the fastest growing trends in beauty – being hailed as the “Future of Lipstick” by Allure Magazine.

AMBIENCE

The prints are bold, the selection is wide and there’s an applique for every type of woman. Packing comes easy with 3 simple, one time use applications per each design with easy to use instructions to ensure safe wear all through the day.

EXPERIENCE

These funky lip “temporary tattoo’s” are vitamin enhanced with a smooth feel and glossy finish. The appliqués are easy to apply to lips of all sizes, pick your style that suites you best and wear it well!

IN CROWD

Katy Perry and Keisha Cole are just a few of the many celeb’s hip to this trend.

WALLET WATCH

Prices range depending on collection, be sure to check the website for a full range of products. Also, be sure to check out the “sale” items, which boast many fabulous styles for half the price!

NEED TO KNOW

Looking to add an extra “punch” to your Halloween costume this year? Be sure to check out Violent Lip’s picks for a stylish Halloween applique!

October 2, 2012
TIPS FOR FABULOUS FALSE LASHES!

Christina Marrale
  10.01.2012   |   CHRISTINA MARRALE    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

False lashes are a fabulous way to turn up the volume on any look, but can be quite a pain to apply, last all night and look natural. If you’ve ever run into any of these issues, Here’s some essential tips for that are sure to solve your lash dilemma:  

Trim to fit: If using strip lashes, be sure to lay onto your natural lashes for measurement prior to gluing on. Are the ends hanging off? Maybe a bit too long looking? Trim them down to the appropriate size and desired length with a pair of brow scissors for a more blended look. 

Get your glue to the right texture: when laying down your glue, allow the formula to dry for about 30 seconds prior to application. This creates a more tacky texture, grabbing onto your lash line better as opposed to a wet, freshly set glue. Just be sure to apply a thin amount along the falsies lashline, too much will create a mess and simply will not lay down 

Apply mascara after lashes are set: Many may argue, but I enjoy bonding my real and false lashes together with mascara after they’re set. It looks more natural and creates a more consistent look. When you place mascara onto the lashes prior to application, you’ll have more trouble laying down the falsies onto lashline and it simply will not blend well.  

Use the right glue: Not all glues are created equal! Lashes bond better when higher quality glue is used, so avoid the cheap stuff and splurge on a 5 star product. There’s a reason Duo’s lash adhesivecomes highly recommended, it’s used by some of the top makeup artist and celebrities now a days! The formula comes in white, gray or black, to which I recommend getting the black, as it will blend in best along your natural lashline. 

August 1, 2012
Sparkle On With MAC Cremsheen Lipstick and Cremsheen Glass

15 NEW ASIAN-INSPIRED SHADES
Tanya Sharma  08.01.2012   |   TANYA SHARMA    |   LEAVE A COMMENT
    

Sparkle on, ladies! What a way to bring the drama, and just in time for fall. New from MAC come 15 delicious Cremesheen Lipsticks and Cremesheen Glasses, all in gorgeous, eye-popping, Asian-inspired shades. Each is infused with crushed pearls that tinge them with show-stopping shine and light-reflecting glamour that goes on for miles.

The gorgeous colors run the gamut from soft nudes to radiant corals to sultry pinks, all in different variations formulated to suit various skin tones. You have to give it up for MAC, who always make basic pinks look special and radiant oranges look wearable, and who can somehow dream up the most interesting nudes in the business.

Take a peek at the frosty lineup and get those wish lists started now. The goodies will be available at all North American MAC locations on August 9th and internationally at selection locations in September.

Cremesheen Lipstick ($14.50)

Japanese maple: Frosted light beige
Pure Zen: Frosted warm nude 
Peach Blossom: Frosted cool nude   
Shanghai Spice: Frosted neutral pink
Sunny Seoul: Frosted light warm pink
Pink Pearl Pop: Frosted mid-tone pink   
Coral Bliss: Frosted light coral  
Saigon Summer: Frosted bright orange  

Cremesheen Glass ($19.50)

Paper Lantern: Frosted soft warm pink 
Double happiness: Frosted light nude
Dynasty at Dusk: Frosted neutral pink
Imperial Light: Frosted light peach  
Pagoda: Frosted cool pink  
Floating Lotus: Frosted soft rose  
Rising Sun: Frosted bright orange

July 17, 2012
Bronzer 101

The Product Worthy of Worship

Caitlin Murphy  Posted Monday, July 16, 2012 by ,

I worship my bronzer.   Though I love using it year round to wake up my complexion…it’s absolutely essential in the summer. It’s also of utmost importance that  you apply it in the most flattering way since no one wants to look muddy, orange, or overly tan. With the right formula and application techniques, you’re bronzer can create gorgeous cheekbones and a Victoria’s Secret sexy glow!

You want to choose a color that is one, to two shades, darker than your complexion and find the best bronzer formula for you. (Tip: if you have very fair skin you can actually try a darker pressed powder to create a very natural look.)

Powder: This is the most popular type of bronzer and comes in a compressed or loose form. It looks great on fair skin, and can be layered to create a darker color. Guerlain Bronzer

Cream: These bronzers are perfect if you have dry skin. You need to have a bit of a light hand with this formula because it can get muddy very easily,  so I love to use a stippling brush to apply cream bronzers. I this technique creates the most natural looking color. Hourglass Cream to Powder Bronzer

Liquid: Liquid bronzers are more of an illuminator and are best mixed with your regular foundation or tinted moisturizer. Add a drop or two to create a gorgeous golden glow.  Make sure that your face matches the rest of your body; you can do this by simply adding a few drops into your regular body moisturizer as well!Nars Iluninator

Application Tips:  When using a powder or cream blush on a brush, always apply in the the shape a of big number “3″ starting with your temple areas, going under your cheek bone and under the jawline. Go back under the cheek bone just a bit to create more depth and give the illusion of more defined cheek bones. I like to do just a quick swill over the cheeks and faintly down the bridge of the nose. Then pop the cheeks with a coral blush for a beautiful bronze glow.

If you’re using a cream bronzer, and you’re not using a stippling brush, think of the bronzer more like a blush, and apply sparingly to the apples of the cheeks. This is actually my favorite bronzer formula, but a little goes a long way.

July 11, 2012
Want the Secret to Jennifer Aniston’s Gorgeous Hair?

Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Oil Helps The Star Create Her Silky Straight Style

Caitlin Murphy  Posted Wednesday, July 11, 2012 by ,

The Hot Product

She has one of the most famous heads of hair in the world, and with good reason! With it’s luminous shine, multi-dimensional color and silky smooth texture, it’s no wonder everyone envies Jennifer Aniston’s tresses. Since her natural texture is wavy,  Jennifer can easily wear waves, but my favorite style is stick straight. So I was super excited when I found out Jennifer’s stylist’s secret weapon for her signature style…Shu Uemura Essence Absolue Oil.

The Experience

Chris McMillan, Jennifer’s stylist since her Friends days, told Elle and People Magazine her uses lots of Shu Uemura products on the star. But when it comes to creating smooth, straight hair, he relies on the Essense Absolue hair oil to give it a glossy finish. This oil’s texture is pretty thick, so simply apply a small amount to wet hair and apply from the mid shaft to the ends. (The fact you only need a little bit is great since the products is pretty pricey at $68) Be careful to avoid the roots since you don’t want to weight your hair down. To get Jenn’s complete look, blow your hair dry with a large round brush. If you can believe it, this stuff works so well, McMillan never even uses a flat iron!

Not only does the Essence Absolue oil help you create a gorgeous pin straight style, it will also moisturize and nourish your hair leaving it healthier. So let’s get this straight…not only do you get get one of Jennifer Ansiton’s beauty secrets, you also get healthier hair in the process. Who wouldn’t love that!

Get your Fix

You can order the Essence Absolue from theShu Uemura website or visit the Bowie Salon which carries Shu Uemura products

Bowie Salon

1507 Belmont Avenue

Seattle, WA 98122

            206.568.3300      

July 10, 2012
Nail Garden’s Annual “Beauty for a Cause”

Enjoy a Night of Festivities While Giving Back to Others

Christina Marrale  Posted Monday, July 9, 2012 by ,

THE HOTSPOT

Spend a night out pampering yourself all while giving back to a wonderful cause at one of LA’s most popular mani/pedi spots, Nail Gardenthis coming Monday, July 9th from 6 -9 pm. Nail Garden is known as quite the urban retreat where guests can experience the best nail spa services in a modern, trendy, and comfortable environment without having to spend a fortune!

Proceeds from ticket purchases benefit the Chase Child Life Program, which seeks to ease that fear by familiarizing young children, adolescents, and their families with the hospital experience. For nearly four decades, Chase Child Life Program  has been a pioneer and a national model for how to appropriately address the social, emotional, and developmental needs of each child and his/her family in a culturally sensitive manner.

 THE SCHEDULE

Time to get your “glam” on, with quite a variety of services offered, such as: Gelish Harmony Manis, Wen Haircare Blowouts & Styling, Glad Lashes Treatments, Spa on Location Massages, Glittertainment Art, Nail Garden mini polish manis, Mobile Mixtress Fragrance Bar and more! In addition to indulging in all of the wonderful treatments, treat yourself to a little shopping at the Kendra Scott Jewelry bar, Mini Kittour Cosmetics Travel Accessories, and more pop up boutiques! And of course, it wouldn’t be a true “Ladies night out” without a few fabulous desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth, delicious Hors d’oeuvres, and specialty drinks!

GUESTLIST:

Spend the night out with a group of great girlfriends or bring along your beau as this event will certainly draw quite a crowd!

EXTRA DETAILS

Nail Garden, Brentwood is located at:  11677 San Vicente Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90049.

Be sure to purchase tickets ($25 each) prior to arriving at event here. All services are on a “first come, first serve” basis, so be sure to arrive early! Also, be sure to pick up an amazing gift bag on your way out, valued at over $200!

July 2, 2012
PRESERVE YOUR SUMMER ‘DO

Four Secrets to Healthy Hair

Christina Marrale  Posted Monday, July 2, 2012 by ,

Having a tough time preserving your new summer ‘do already? Well here’s a few quick tips to keep your color lasting longer, fight frizz, and keep hair hydrated all summer long.

- Don’t let your pool time damage your hair:  It’s no secret chlorine can absolutely ruin our hair color. You can indulge in a relaxing dip in the pool on a warm day without having to worry about color fading by rinsing your mane right after your out of the pool with cold water to keep color strong. Cold water helps to seal the hair cuticle, preventing further damage, as where rinsing with warm to hot water tends to split the fiber, and leave the hair cuticle open and susceptible to further damage.

-Keep hair hydrated & protected: Add coconut oil to the hair prior to swimming, or while laying in the sun. Coconut oil is a natural hydrater; when applied to the hair, it creates a barrier between harmful chlorine, salt water, sun rays, and other damage. Add just a few tablespoons to hair about 10 minutes prior to your time in the sun/pool. The product is usually in a hard form when first purchased, yet when placed onto fingertips or scalp, will instantly break down into an oil. Forget to use it during the day? No problem! Apply as a mask overnight to repair any damage created earlier in the day.

-Suffering from major product build up? Add 1 pinch of baking soda to your shampoo weekly to clarify hair. A baking soda hair wash cleans out excess product, removes impurities, and cleans your hair better than many expensive products on the market. It is also used for absorbing oils, and is therefore ideal when used as a dry shampoo to remove sebum, the oily substance the skin secretes to keep skin and hair moisturized.

-Avoid the frizz: Invest in a silk pillowcase to keep your mane tame! Silk contains proteins hair follicles need, which creates a softer and more nourishing sleeping surface for one’s hair. Rougher fabrics, such as cotton and jersey sheets, may break strands of hair when sleepers toss and turn at night.

June 25, 2012
Glowing Green Beauty

A Smooth Philosophy for Wellness

Christina Marrale  Posted Monday, June 25, 2012 by ,

I recently came across the wonderful Kimberly Snyder’s website, and I really admire and respect her outlook on health and beauty. Kimberly, a nutritionist to such celebs as Channing Tatum, Olivia Wilde (and more!) is best known for her her unique philosophies/principles that help clients discover their ultimate health and beauty potential without the obsessing of diets. She believes food and nutrition are the key to ultimate health and beauty inside and out, and I could not agree more.

I was intriqued by the wide variety of smoothie recipies on her blog, and decided to try the ever so popular “Glowing Green” smoothie. I love incorporating a green smoothie into my everyday diet and this recipe sounded too good to pass up. After a week of drinking, my skin truly has been glowing and I have had bursts of energy from the drink! Not to mention it tastes amazing, I actually get excited to have this every morning! I highly recommend checking out and trying the Glowing Green smoothie and all of her other fantastic concoctions. Check out the GGS (Glowing Green Smoothie) recipe below: 

Ingredients (64 ounces / 2-4 servings)

  • 1 ½- 2 cups very cold, filtered water
  • 6 cups spinach, chopped
  • 5 cups organic romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 2 stalks of organic celery
  • 1 organic apple, cored and chopped
  • 1 organic pear, cored and chopped
  • 1 organic banana
  • 1–2 Tbs. fresh organic lemon juice

Optional Ingredients

  • Ice cubes (the extra coldness can help newbies with the taste)
  • 1/2 cup of organic cilantro
  • 1/2 cup of organic parsley

Directions

Add water, spinach and chopped romaine to the blender. Starting the blender on a low speed; mix until smooth.
Gradually move to higher speeds and add the herbs, celery, pear, and apple. Add the banana and lemon juice last.

*For 1 serving, cut out one of the fruits and the celery.

June 22, 2012
Philosophy’s The Microdelivery Peel

Get Spa Worthy Results In the Comfort of Your Own Home

Caitlin Murphy  Posted Friday, June 22, 2012 by ,

Who doesn’t love the way their skin looks after a facial? The smooth texture, radiance, and even tone are a necessity, so when you don’t have time to make it to the spa, you have to try the next best thing.  That’s why I’m currently obsessed with this Philosophy Microdelivery Peel.

It’s a simple two step process that includes vitamin c/peptide resurfacing crystals, and a lactic/salicylic acid activating gel that basically amount to a miracle in a jar. You start with dry skin and apply the resurfacing crystals, which sort of resemble a mask; then gently massage them in a circular motion around your face ( This step is similar to using an exfoliating product on your skin). Next, apply the lactic/salicylic acid gel with your hands over your face and on top of the crystals. FYI you will feel a warming sensation similar to what you feel when you get a peel in a facial at a spa. Simply rinse your face clean after 2 or 3 minutes, and you’ll notice just how much smoother your skin is.

So let’s talk results…because they are pretty impressive. Not only does the peel exfoliate and resurface my skin, but it also takes years off, minimizing those pesky lines around my eyes and forehead and reducing my sun damage. Immediately upon using it, you’ll have incredible skin, but I really love how my skin looks the next morning. It’ so bright and  radiant, like I’ve had the best night sleep. And the true test..people actually notice a difference… even my husband has commented on how good my skin looks. 

I really appreciate that the Microdelivery Peel doesn’t irritate my sensitive skin. I’m very selective about the professional facials I book and always choose the gentlest ones, so I love that the Philosophy peel (as with all Philosophy products) is not invasive on my skin. While this doesn’t replace my regular facials (because after all, I love a good trip to the spa), I do love using the peel on a regular basis for glowing, youthful skin. With summer here and weddings, parties, and events to attend… at $68, I definitely recommend giving it a try!

You can purchase the Philosophy Microdelivery Peel at Sephora and Nordstrom.

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