Category: Beauty

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Benefits of Drinking Vegan Protein Powder: Naked Nutrition Protein Shake

Drinking vegan protein powder such as the Naked Strawberry Banana Protein Shake can offer several benefits, particularly for those following a plant-based diet or looking to incorporate more plant-based nutrition into their regimen. Here are some potential benefits:

Allergy-Friendly: Vegan protein powders are typically free from common allergens such as dairy, soy, and gluten, making them suitable for people with allergies or intolerances.

Digestive Health: Plant-based proteins often contain fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote gut health. They are generally easier to digest for people who are lactose intolerant.

Nutrient-Rich: Vegan protein powders often include additional nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats that are naturally present in plants.

Sustainable: Plant-based proteins tend to have a lower environmental impact than animal-based proteins, as they require fewer resources and produce less greenhouse gas emissions.

Weight Management: High in protein and often low in calories, vegan protein powders can help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness and supporting muscle maintenance during weight loss.

Muscle Recovery and Growth: Like other protein sources, vegan protein powders can aid in muscle recovery and growth after exercise by providing the necessary amino acids.

Heart Health: Plant-based proteins can support heart health by being low in saturated fats and cholesterol, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.

Variety of Protein Sources: Vegan protein powders can be made from a variety of sources such as peas, hemp, rice, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds, allowing for a diverse range of amino acid profiles and flavors.

Ethical Considerations: For those concerned about animal welfare, vegan protein powders like Naked Shake provide a cruelty-free alternative to animal-based protein supplements.

It’s important to choose a high-quality vegan protein powder that is free from artificial additives and fillers. As with any dietary supplement, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs and goals.

Photo Credit:  Naked Nutrition

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DAY THREE OF THE 2024 ESSENCE FESTIVAL OF CULTURE™ PRESENTED BY COCA-COLA

Day three of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® continued to serve attendees with unforgettable daytime experiences with appearances from the first Black woman Vice President Kamala Harris at the Global Black Economic Forum HQ in a candid “Chief to Chief” conversation with ESSENCE Ventures President and CEO Caroline Wanga. One of the greatest athletes of all-time, an entrepreneur and style icon Serena Williams made her debut during the history of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® during BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition and inaugural ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner.

Vice President Kamala Harris held a candid “Chief to Chief” conversation with ESSENCE President and CEO Caroline Wanga at the GBEF® HQ Experience stage. For 50 years, ESSENCE has taught Black women how to unleash their power shared by Wagna. With less than 122 days left before the election for the next Presidential administration in the United States, Harris urged attendees of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola® to enter rooms with their shoulders back and chin up.

Ernest N. Morial Convention Center was filled with an indescribable joy that festival-goers could experience as day three continued with a full spectrum of unmatched daytime experiences. Highlights include:

  • A full day of panels at the ESSENCE Stage™, including:

o    Actress Emayatzy Corinealdi and actors Morris Chestnut and McKinley Freeman provided fans with a behind-the-scenes look at Season 2 of the Hulu series Reasonable Doubt during a fireside chat.

o    Actor Aldis Hodge delved into the mind of Detective Cross and shares how his version of the popular character encapsulates brotherhood, family, and Black love. 

o    Producer Carlos King kept it real(ity) with some of the biggest names in Black Reality TV, the pioneer of bounce Big Freedia, entrepreneur Yandy Smith-Harris,  entrepreneur and TV personality Toya Johnson-Rushing.

o    Mothers of two of the biggest superstars in NBA history, Sonya Curry and Lucille O’Neal, alongside Michelle L. Rice, President of TV One and CLEO TV engaged in a candid conversation around nurturing the talent and minds of children destined for greatness.

  • One of the greatest athletes of all-time, an entrepreneur and style icon Serena Williams made an appearance during BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition in a conversion on channeling her passions into a profitable business model on and off the courts.
  • New Orleans rapper Treety, singer and songwriter 4Batz and the “City Cinderella,” Miami-bred chart-topping femcee JT gave performances at the ESSENCE® GU® Kickback, hosted by actress and entrepreneur Skai Jackson and content creator Raymonte.
  • Legendary actress and producer Sanaa Lathan, award-winning actor Morris Chestnut, trailblazing author, writer and thought leader dream hampton, actress Meagan Good brought Black Hollywood to New Orleans during a candid conversation at ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE STUDIOS™.
  • Actor Lance Gross and TV personality, host, and actor Terrance J. explored how their education at a HBCU influenced their successful Hollywood careers at the Suede: Men’s Experience™ (formerly known as In His Zone).
  • The ESSENCE Authors™ experience on Saturday, July 6th, featured an impressive lineup of authors and literary voices. Notable participants included politician Bakari Sellers, romance pioneers of romance novels Beverly Jenkins, Brenda Jackson, and Donna Hill – showcasing a diverse range of topics and genres, highlighting the richness of contemporary literature and the importance of storytelling in shaping culture and understanding.
  • The NEW VOICES ENTREPRENEUR HUB™ offered practical workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities,  and featured a vibrant celebration of Black entrepreneurship. Attendees engaged in insightful discussions with renowned founders and business leaders, including fashion icon Tracy Reese, and technology expert Iddris Sandu. The day’s programming culminated in a captivating keynote address by branding expert Mellody Hobson, who shared invaluable lessons on building successful businesses.

This inaugural ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner brought together an exclusive group of Black women across making strides across varying industries and fields for a private ceremony at the Four Seasons New Orleans honoring Serena Williams (Investor of the Year Award), Thasunda Brown Duckett (CEO of the Year Award), Esi Eggleston Bracey (Transformer of the Year Award), and Laysha Ward (Community Investment Pioneer Award). As the leading global brand for Black women, ESSENCE launched “Black Women in…” as a series of events to highlight the achievements of Black Women pioneers to applaud the monumental successes and contributions they continue to make. Given the challenges Black women in business face, we are thrilled to continue our tradition of celebrating our own by hosting an exclusive ceremony that will bring together notable women across industries and fields, ESSENCE senior executives, stakeholders, partners, and major media outlets.  Notable attendees include  activist Reverend Al Sharpton, businesswoman Valeisha Butterfeild, entrepreneurs Derek Hayes, and Pinky Cole. The 2024 ESSENCE Black Women in Business Dinner was hosted by Rashida Jones and sponsored by Entergy, Diageo, and Visa.

During nighttime performances, Grammy-award winning singer USHER gave a special one-night only performance of his generation defining album Confessions in its entirety. Legendary R&B singer and 8x ESSENCE Festival performer, Charlie Wilson, returned to the stage for the 8th time in the history of the ESSENCE Festival Of Culture™ Presented By Coca-Cola®, alongside performances from one of the best DJs of the culture D-Nice in a special presentation of his global sensation, Club Quarantine Live, featuring icons of hip hop, latin jazz funk, R&B and soca including Method Man, Sheila E, Big Boi, Donell Jones, Tweet, Machel Montano and Lloyd and the highly anticipated reunion of R&B supergroup, TGT (Tyrese, Ginuwine & Tank).

Beauty /

Keke Palmer’s MET Gala Smile From Dr. Victoria Veytsman

Keke Palmer stunned on the MET Gala carpet showing off her dazzling smile thanks to cosmetic dentist Dr. Victoria Veytsman. The actress visited Dr. Victoria Veytsman for a whitening treatment to get red carpet ready ahead of fashion’s biggest night.

Known for her Smile Makeovers and for creating beautifully restored smiles, Dr. Victoria Veytsman uses innovative and personalized treatments for each client. Dr. Victoria Veytsman also counts Barry Keoghan, Angela Bassett, Hailey Bieber, and John David Washington as clients.

Beauty /

How Med Spas Can Become The Ultimate Weapon in Your Anti-Agining Skincare Journey

It can be so challenging to find beauty within when or even self-care, from time to time, every other day, there seems to be a new skincare trend. There was slugging and glass skin, and there’s going to be so much more soon enough. So, in the pursuit of timeless beauty, the landscape of skincare has evolved (pretty rapidly) by introducing innovative approaches to combat the effects of aging. 

Now, there’s nothing wrong with this in the slightest; the biggest struggle for most is finding something that works, and if there are constant trends out and about, it’s just hard to find that. So, with that said, med spas like Elan Skin & Laser are blending medical expertise with spa-like experiences and have emerged as the ultimate weapon in the anti-aging skincare journey. 

Basically, it’s like a spa, but then hyper-ramped up to get the job done! It’s no surprise why they’re getting more popular with everyone. Just think about it for a moment: a regular spa usually cannot use high equipment on you for something like wrinkles. 

They’re usually not permitted to, but a med spa gives you that relaxing atmosphere while at the same time being able to perform some procedures on you with their fancy equipment like red light therapy, use high-frequency waves, and so much more. But how can these still be a secret weapon for anti-aging? Well, here’s what you need to know!

You’re Getting Expert Guidance

So, you need to keep in mind that med spas distinguish themselves by housing a team of medical professionals, including dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and skilled aestheticians. So this isn’t like a regular spa where you sit in a jacuzzi and then get a massage. So, instead, the presence of these experts ensures that professionals with in-depth knowledge of skin health and rejuvenation guide your anti-aging journey.

There’s Personalized Treatments

For the most part, with regular spas, you can expect that their view is “one size fits all.” But when it comes to med spas, they know for a fact that one size does not fit all in skincare. They prioritize individualized treatment plans tailored to your unique skin type, concerns, and goals. Whether you’re addressing fine lines, wrinkles, or uneven skin tone, a medical spa crafts a personalized approach to achieve optimal results.

The Technology They Use is Amazing

Seriously, they’re absolutely amazing! Med spas leverage the latest advancements in skincare technology, offering treatments that go beyond traditional spa services. Just think about it for a moment: from laser therapies and radiofrequency treatments to injectables, these advanced techniques provide targeted solutions for anti-aging concerns with minimal downtime. 

A lot of people think, “Well, I can just buy all of this stuff on Amazon,” but spoiler alert, what you buy from Amazon isn’t going to be nearly as strong or as effective as the tools and technology that the med spa owns. 

There’s a Holistic Approach to It

A lot of people think of regular spas and “holistic” being synonymous with each other, but honestly, it’s no different for med spas, either. Med spas often adopt a holistic approach to anti-aging, recognizing the interconnectedness of skincare and overall wellness. Sometimes, but not always, you can find that some of these will offer services such as lifestyle counseling, nutritional guidance, and supplements that may be integrated into your personalized plan, addressing aging from the inside out.

Beauty /

Valentine’s Themed Products from KissUSA, FALSCARA, and imPRESS Beauty

Love is all around – In case you had not noticed, KISS beauty brands have released their new Valentine’s ‘s-themed products as well as new collections coming in.

KISSusa – Create a cool ’90s rocker chic vibe with our collection of edgy, voluminous, and shaggy lashes. New customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 
FALSCARA – Style Drop: Hot New Multipacks, Add Faux Mink and Clear Band Styles to Your Wisp Wardrobe +15% off for new FALSCARA customers with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 
KISSusa -Love Is… KISS Valentine Nails for that special day + New customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection  imPRESS Beauty – Our luxe Bare
But Better NO GLUE manis work with every look and last up to 7 days thanks to our new & improved superior hold adhesive. Shop The Collection 
imPRESS Beauty – MAJOR MANI LOVE – Get your nails Valentine’s Day ready with flirty NO GLUE styles + For New Customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 
KISSusa – The New Natural Lash Collection. Create Effortless, Minimal Looks with a Lifted Effect + New customers 15% off with code NEW15 Shop The Collection 
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Break Free & Flourish: Rediscover Life Beyond Your Comfort Zone

Ever get that feeling where every day feels like a rerun of the day before? Morning coffee, same route to work, same evening shows – lather, rinse, repeat. We all fall into this cycle sometimes. Comfort zones, while cozy, can also feel like invisible chains holding us back from new experiences, opportunities, and genuine excitement. But what if I told you that there’s a whole colorful palette of life waiting just beyond that comfort bubble? Ready for a journey from monotony to marvel?

Via Pexels

Why We Cling To What’s Familiar

Think about it. Everyone has their comfort rituals. Maybe it’s that TV show you binge-watch every weekend (even though you’ve seen it a million times) or that local diner where the waiter knows your order by heart. Familiar is comfy, like a well-worn pair of shoes. It’s predictable and safe. But while there’s nothing wrong with having a comfort spot, it’s good to remember that sometimes the magic happens when you step out of it.

Missing Out While Staying In

Being stuck in a routine can be a real party pooper. For starters, when was the last time you learned something new or surprised yourself? If you’re always in your comfort zone, those moments might be few and far between. Plus, think of all the cool opportunities you might be missing out on. The new cafe around the block, the dance class you’ve always wanted to try, or even making new friends. Who wants to look back and wonder about all the adventures they never had?

Shaking Things Up In Your Job

Now, here’s a thought. Ever considered giving your career a little jolt of excitement? For instance, ever heard of a travel nurse? They don’t just stick to one spot. Instead, they’re off jet-setting from one location to another, helping patients and soaking up new experiences along the way.

It’s not just about the job, it’s about the journey. And even if hopping around various states isn’t quite your jam, the main idea here is to consider ways you might be able to infuse a little excitement into your everyday 9 to 5.

Easy Ways To Step Out

Start With Baby Steps: 

Change can be daunting, no doubt. But who said it needs to be a giant leap? Start small. Maybe instead of your usual latte, try a cappuccino. Or take a different walking path during your evening stroll. Small changes might seem insignificant, but they can lead to bigger, more exciting shifts down the road.

Get The Lowdown: 

The unknown can be intimidating, primarily because, well, it’s unknown. But a quick Google search or a chat with someone in the know can turn the unfamiliar into something approachable. So if there’s something you’ve been curious about, do a little homework. Getting informed can turn those nerves into excitement.

Find Your Tribe: 

There are people out there who thrive on trying new things. Find them. Hang out with them. Let their enthusiasm rub off on you. Whether it’s joining a new club or just following some inspiring individuals on social media, surrounding yourself with go-getters can give you that little nudge you need.

Shift Your Perspective: 

Challenges? They can be downright scary. But what if you started seeing them as opportunities waiting to be grabbed? Sometimes, a tiny shift in how you look at things can turn a mountain into a molehill.

Celebrate Your Brave Moments: 

Every time you try something new, take a moment to appreciate yourself. It doesn’t matter if it went perfectly or had a few hiccups. The point is, you stepped out, and that’s worth a toast.

The Cool Stuff Waiting Outside

Discovering A New You: 

Imagine all the new things you can learn, the new experiences you can gather, and the stories you can tell. Every time you step out of your routine, there’s a chance to discover a side of you that you never knew existed.

Toughening Up (In A Good Way!): 

Life’s challenges are like a gym for your soul. The more you face them, the stronger and braver you become. Over time, things that once seemed daunting will feel like a breeze.

Meeting All Kinds Of Cool People: 

New places and experiences introduce you to all sorts of amazing folks. These are people who can introduce you to even more new things, teach you, inspire you, and who knows, some might even become lifelong friends.

Wrapping Up

Comfort zones, they’re like those old sweatpants you wear on a lazy Sunday. Super comfy, and familiar, but maybe not the best choice for every occasion, right? Stepping outside of that routine isn’t just about seeking thrill for thrill’s sake. It’s about growth, discovery, and filling your life’s album with diverse memories. It’s time to stretch, explore, and sprinkle a little unpredictability into your routine. Adventure, learning, and a refreshed zing for life are just around the corner. So, are you ready to unlatch that comfort cage and soar?

Beauty /

Skincare Tips to Transition from Summer to Fall

As the sun-drenched days of summer gradually give way to the cooler, crisper air of fall, it’s time to recalibrate your skincare routine. The changing seasons bring about shifts in humidity, temperature, and environmental factors, all of which can impact your skin’s health and appearance. What worked during the sweltering summer months may not provide the same benefits in the fall. Adapting your skincare regimen to these changes is essential for maintaining a radiant complexion throughout the seasonal transition.

David Petrillo is a Nevada-based cosmetic chemist and founder of www.perfectimage.com. He provides tips on how to keep your skin healthy and glowing as the season changes.

Featured Photo from Instyle Magazine

Consider Retinol: Fall can be an excellent time to introduce retinol into your routine, as it helps with cell turnover and addressing fine lines.

Lip Care: Prevent chapped lips using a nourishing lip balm with shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil.

Eye Cream Emphasis: The delicate skin around your eyes can become drier. Use a hydrating eye cream to maintain elasticity and prevent fine lines.

Layer Skincare Products: Layer lighter serums and essences under richer moisturizers to provide a barrier against the dry, cold air while ensuring effective hydration.

Sunscreen Continuation: While the sun’s intensity might decrease, UV rays are still present and can cause damage to your skin. Continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect against harmful UV radiation.

Switch to a Heavier Night Cream: Use a richer night cream during the cooler months to nourish and repair your skin as you sleep.

Gentle Exfoliation: After months of sun exposure, exfoliation is essential to remove dead skin cells and promote skin renewal. Opt for gentle exfoliants to reveal a fresh layer of skin without irritating it.

Avoid Hot Showers: While hot showers might be tempting during the cooler months, they can strip your skin of its natural oils. Instead, use lukewarm water to prevent excessive dryness.

Introduce a Hydrating Serum: Invest in a hydrating serum containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture and combat the drying effects of cooler weather.

Protect Your Hands and Feet: As the temperature drops, your hands and feet can become susceptible to dryness and cracking. Apply a moisturizing hand cream and foot cream regularly to keep them soft and well-nourished.

Adjust Cleansing: Consider switching to cream-based or oil-based cleansers during the fall. These cleansers are more hydrating and can help prevent stripping away too much moisture from your skin. Avoid using harsh cleansers that can further dry out your skin.

Introduce new actives: Autumn may be a good time to introduce new active ingredients into your skincare routine. Look for ingredients like vitamin C or retinol to address specific skincare concerns.

Stay Hydrated

Hydrating your skin from the inside out is just as important as using topical products. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Humidifier:

If you’re using indoor heating during the fall, it can lead to dry indoor air. Using a humidifier can help maintain a more comfortable level of moisture in the air, which benefits your skin’s hydration.

Soothing Ingredients:

If you experience any redness or irritation due to the changing weather, look for products with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or centella asiatica (cica) to calm your skin.

David Petrillo

Reno, Nevada

https://perfectimage.com/

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New York Fashion Week’s Must-Have Foundation + Concealer

One of the best parts of fashion week (aside from the fashion, of course) has to be the beauty! Fashion Week showcases many incredible trends with amazing products, it’s hard to pick which ones to test out! Looking good is only part of the story, models and consumers alike want their skin to feel as good as it looks! So when in doubt, use the tried and true foundation and concealer of Hollywood!
After a long history in Hollywood, Oxygenetix is proven to look good on camera and remain luminous under hot lights. This no-sweat foundation and concealer even hold up during the most active runways, making their look last. Its buildable coverage and pore-blurring capabilities make it a must for a great photo payoff and light-friendly appearance.
Beauty /

Celestial Silk Labor Day Sale: 20% Off All Scrunchies

Labor Day is just around the corner, and we’re excited to announce a great deal to celebrate the occasion. From September 2 to 4, everyone can enjoy a 20% discount on all our stylish scrunchies. It’s the perfect opportunity to stock up on hair accessories and add a pop of color to the everyday look!

Scrunchie Inspired Hairstyles

Product Review:

Is anyone else excited to see that Scrunchies are the latest hair accessory?  In the midst of the heat, we need something that will provide ease and style.  Wearing a scrunchie is a simple way to instantly cool off without compromising your outfit. 

Personally, I like to keep a scrunchie in my handbag for future use and if you purchase one from Celestial Silk it won’t damage your hair like other accessories.  They also have a variety of colors to select from.  Girl, be carefree and cute! 

Visit my Instagram account to view, “how I styled” my Scrunchie.