Category: Beauty

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Kandi Burruss Launches Kandi Koated Luxury Cosmetics Collection #IAMKANDIKOATED

Kandi Burruss—entrepreneur, Grammy Award-winning songwriter, and star of the Real Housewives of Atlanta—has expanded her empire with the launch of Kandi Koated, an empowering collection of luxury cosmetics celebrating diversity and inclusivity across all identities and skin tones. Burruss designed the line for those seeking to express their authentic selves—individuals who know they’re worth and want to look and feel confident on their own terms.

The Kandi Koated collection emerged from Burruss’ desire to see more inclusivity in the world of beauty. The selected ingredients, pigments, and palettes reflect the very diverse community that both inspire and have been inspired by Burruss for more than two decades.

“People come from all walks of life,” Burruss said. “They are not only a rainbow of shades, hues, and colors but also identities. The collection’s color palette ranges from deep espresso and bright, bold reds and purples, to brilliant metallics and buttery nudes. This allows anyone to experiment and celebrate their beauty in the ways that work best for them.”

Kandi Burruss Launches Kandi Koated Luxury Cosmetics Collection

Kandi Koated includes concealers, illuminators, blushes, bronzing powders, lip products, lip, and eye pencils, and eye shadow and liquid palettes in colors for casual daytime wear and knockout evening looks. The collection’s Pretty Powerful line will feature Authentic, a special, limited edition matte lipstick featuring a bold red color that serves as a reminder of the wearer’s strength, authenticity, beauty, and power.

“Kandi Koated is more than a cosmetics line. It is a celebration of beauty, individuality, and diversity in a world where acceptance should be more than a goal. It should be our reality,” added Burruss. “I can’t wait to share this collection and its message of empowerment with people across the country and around the world.”

Kandi Koated cosmetics are cruelty-free with paraben-free, gluten-free, and vegan options available. To learn more and to purchase products in the collection, visit KandiKoated.com or host a Kandi Koated party with a Bedroom Kandi Boutique Parties consultant.

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What Really Works To Eliminate Cellulite: Expert Tips from Certified Dermatopathologist

“Cottage cheese,” “funky gravy.” “hail damage” – whatever you want to call it –  cellulite is never something we want to see on our bodies. That lumpy, dimple-looking flesh on our thighs, buttocks, abdomen, and hips is dreaded by women and men alike. Cellulite is caused by fat cells pushing up against a layer of skin, tethered down by connective fibers that attach to the muscles. When there is a buildup of fat, these fibers pull down while the fat pushes up, creating the appearance of uneven, bumpy skin. Cellulite is not a weight issue and can affect individuals of all shapes, sizes, and ages.

While cellulite is not a serious medical condition, it can make someone feel insecure or embarrassed. However, you aren’t alone; between 80 to 90 percent of women will experience cellulite at some point in their lives. Some might start to notice cellulite as early as puberty.  Dr. Gretchen Frieling is a board -certified Boston Area Dermatopathologist. She cuts out the clutter to define what really works in 2019 to eradicate cellulite, be it a temporary or permanent solution.

Are there at home creams that can provide temporary improvement?

“If you’re looking for an at-home treatment, topical creams are an effective way to diminish cellulite. However, they’re a long-term or complete “cure,” says Dr. Frieling, She adds, “The fat cells are still under there!

To maintain the results, you’ll have to apply the product every day. Use a moisturizing cream with ingredients that treat fatty tissues such as caffeine or retinol to minimize cellulite.

To see results, you must apply the topical cream daily to improve cell circulation. Caffeine works as a diuretic, which can dehydrate the fat cells and change the water content, which can reduce the appearance of cellulite. While creams with at least 0.3 percent retinol work by thickening the outer layer of skin. It is essential to test these products on your skin before long-term use as some have shown to have adverse effects. Most creams can be found online and at any drugstore.”

What are the latest technologies to decrease Cellulite?

Acoustic wave therapy

Studies show that this can reduce the appearance of cellulite. Several treatment sessions are needed to see a reduction.

During one minimally invasive laser treatment called Cellulaze™, a tiny laser fiber is inserted beneath your skin. When the laser is fired, the laser energy breaks up the tough bands beneath the skin that cause us to see cellulite. This treatment can also thicken your skin, which is important. The skin often thins where cellulite forms. Thickening the skin can help reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Bottom line: Cellulaze™ may reduce the appearance of cellulite. Patients see results that last a year or longer. More research is needed to know for sure how effective this laser can be.

Subcision

Called Cellfina™, this medical procedure involves your dermatologist inserting a needle just under the skin to break up the tough bands beneath the skin that cause us to see cellulite.

Bottom Line: Cellfina™ has been shown to reduce the skin dimpling that you see with cellulite. In a study of 232 patients, 99% of them said they were satisfied with the results. The results can last two years and possibly longer.

Vacuum-assisted precise tissue release

This also breaks up the tough bands that cause us to see cellulite. During this procedure, your practitioner will use a device that contains small blades to cut the tough bands. After the bands are cut, the tissue moves upward to fill out and eliminate the dimpled skin.

Bottom line: This may be an effective treatment for reducing cellulite. A small study shows that many patients who received this treatment had less cellulite for up to 3 years. It’s too soon to tell, but the results may last even longer.

Radiofrequency

This is a type of treatment that heats the cellulite. One FDA-approved device combines radiofrequency with a laser, suction, and massage to target cellulite.

Bottom line: Recent studies suggest some patients see a little less cellulite. This result, however, is short-lived and several treatments are needed to see this minor change.

After treatment, bruises are common. These fade with time.

Are there lifestyle exercise or diet changes that will reduce cellulite?

AVOID SUGAR

Dr. Frieling explains, “Your diet may be playing a significant role in the amount of cellulite you have, so it’s important always to have a well-balanced diet. One of the biggest culprits for causing cellulite is sugary sweet snacks and processed foods. Sugar is stored in our fat cells, and having too much will cause them to expand, thus creating the appearance of cellulite. The same goes for foods with high sodium intake, which cause bloating and water retention, making cellulite more noticeable. Other foods to avoid are cheese, soda, deli meat, fried food, and white bread.”

EXERCISE REGULARLY

If you’re struggling to get rid of those stubborn dimples, it’s time to get up and get moving. “While it isn’t exactly the cure for cellulite,” says Dr. Frieling, she adds that “regular exercise will help in its prevention by strengthening the muscles underneath the fat in your butt, thighs, and hips.

Squats and lunges, as well as a 45-minute walk, are great exercises that target the leg muscles and make the skin look evener.”

STOP SMOKING

Smoking reduces the amount of blood that flows to your skin, causing the skin to become thinner and saggier. While it is a difficult habit to kick, the cellulite on your legs, arms, and butt will be less visible.

REDUCE YOUR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

“Elimination or significantly reducing the amount of alcohol you consume may aid in decreasing the toxins that accumulate underneath our fat cells. Alcohol also has high amounts of sugar, which will only make the cellulite more noticeable,” says Dr. Frieling.

STAY HYDRATED

This probably won’t be the first time you’ve been told to drink more water, but it does help! Dr. Frieling explains that “By drinking 8 to 10 glasses of water every day, you’re helping to remove the toxins stored underneath the layer of fat which cause our skin to look lumpy. Staying hydrated also helps with the overall health of your skin, making it appear more plump and full”.

FAKE IT!

If you have fair skin, a self-tanner may help. Dimpled areas are less noticeable on darker skin. Start with a gentle body scrub, then apply a self-tanning lotion to cellulite areas only. Next spritz your entire body with a tanning spray. Pass on a real tan. It’ll damage your skin and make cellulite look worse.

About Dr. Gretchen Frieling

After graduating summa cum laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, Dr. Frieling completed her medical school at The University of Florida College of Medicine. She continued to excel academically and personally and pioneered a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic to provide free medical care. After medical school, Dr. Frieling completed her training in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at the Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital/Harvard Medical School. She then completed her Dermatopathology fellowship at the University of Vermont Medical Center. Currently, she is also a practicing Dermatopathologist in Newton, Massachusetts.

During her training, Dr. Frieling built an extensive resume, including but not limited to many articles in the Dermatology and Pathology literature, textbook chapters, and national conference presentations. She was on faculty at Harvard Medical School and participated in the first year Histopathology course.

In her spare time, Dr. Frieling continues to give back to her community and beyond. Currently, she is spearheading another medical mission to the Dominican Republic and partnering with Pedro Martinez and The Pedro Martinez Foundation.

Along with splitting her time as a practicing dermatopathologist, Dr. Frieling enjoys spending time with her husband, her two kids, and extended family, as well as volunteering in the community. She is a resident of Wellesley and loves good music and is always up for trying a new restaurant!

Beauty /

Nia Long Protective Twist Braids: Photo of The Day

Nia Long showcased her new summer hairstyle. We all remember the days of mom braiding our hair for the warmer months.

It was a protective style and you knew better than to sweat out your braids when playing outside with your favorite cousin!

That reason alone is why this picture gives us “all the feels” and her perfectly laid edges are icing on the cake.  Nia Long will always be a 90’s favorite and epic actress for our time!

Ladies, what’s your favorite protective hairstyle?

Photo Credit: Instagram

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Nanacoco Professional Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

Excited to share the newest launch from makeup brand, Nanacoco Professional: Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes—a gentle wipe that removes 99.9% of all waterproof makeup, oil, and impurities while brightening and moisturizing skin.

Perfect for all skin types, the remover contains extracts of lotus, peach flower, green tea, and rose. Alcohol-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free and, like all Nanacoco products, cruelty-free, these wipes are guaranteed to wipe the day away.

Beauty /

KINDri: NEW Celebrity Favorite, Cruelty-Free Beauty Brand

Robin McDonald is the celebrity esthetician, actress, writer and extreme cactus enthusiast behind KINDri. Embodying the holistic lifestyle of the Southwest, you’ll find her formulas are infused with the potent plant-based components of the southwest like organic prickly pear cactus seed oil, apple stem cell, aloe vera, avocado, and citrus.

Discover the LA-based brand and creator/founder that Charlize Theron considers her “go to”. Robin McDonald’s passion and care for the wellness of the skin is evident in KINDri’s mantra which is to not only be kind to your skin but the earth as well.

Summer must-haves:

Cactus & Rose Illuminating Face Oil – Your skin will glow! Hydrating Organic Prickly Pear Seed (cactus) Oil, reparative 4% Apple Stem Cell and the anti-inflammatory properties of Rose Essential Oil make up this potent serum.

Quench – A lightweight drink of water for the skin. Contains Organically Grown Aloe Vera, Citrus and Eucalyptus to clarify, soothe and calm a normal to the oily complexion.

Desert Dew Facial Mist – Hydrating Cactus and Rose Floral Waters are infused with uplifting cucumber Seed and Organic Witch Hazel to refresh and balance any skin type.

Avocado Smoothie – A powerful blend of 2% Organic Apple Stem Cell and potent Organic Prickly Pear Seed (cactus) Oil naturally increases cellular rejuvenation.  Our newly reformulated extra rich day to night cream defends skin against harsh environmental conditions in the day, soothes and revitalizes while you sleep and has a fresh, clean aroma.

For more information, visit https://www.kindri.com/.

 

Beauty /

Warning: Trendy At-Home Skin Care Devices or Gadgets

Life hacks, DIY tricks, and at-home devices that are meant to “mimic the effects of in-office skincare treatments are all the rage right now. They are posted on Instagram, YouTube, and all over the Internet. While some are very constructive and budget-friendly, others are ineffective or downright dangerous. To be safe, it is imperative that you read reviews from Skin Helpers before deciding to buy a gadget for your skincare routine. We asked Dr. Gretchen Frieling, who is a Boston area Dermatopathologist, to highlight several highly publicized methods that should bear the warning, “don’t try this at home.”

Dermaplaning- Dermaplaning is a cosmetic procedure that removes the top layers of your skin. The procedure aims to remove fine wrinkles and deep acne scarring, as well as make the skin’s surface look smooth. It uses an exfoliating blade to skim dead skin cells and hair from your face.

The Risks– Anecdotally, the risk of infection, complications, and experiencing pain during home dermaplaning is higher when you do it yourself.  “If you have acne, there is a chance that the blade could nick a pimple,” says Dr. Frieling which means it would take longer to heal. In addition, the tool used for dermaplaning is not a safety razor like what we ladies shave with. The device or tool used to accomplish the dermaplaning on the face is made of a sharp blade with a handle or wand.

At home “Derma-Rollers” for MicroNeedling” Aestheticians and dermatologists use derma rollers on clients to increase elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and help with discoloration. Professional treatment can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,200 per session. According to Marketwatch, “A trend report for 2018 from lifestyle site Pinterest says it’s seen a 345% increase in posts for the “derma-roller” over the past year.”  Dr. Frieling is not in favor of using the tools at home because, “the needles aren’t big enough to penetrate the proper holes into the skin, so you’re essentially damaging your face for no reason. And without proper sterilization, derma rollers can harbor harmful bacteria causing infections, breakouts, and can trigger skin conditions such as rosacea, which causes redness and bumps on the face; eczema, itchy inflammation spots; and brown patches on the skin.”

Injecting Botox or other “Black Market” Filler into Your Face– First, even if you were able to get your hands on “real” Botox or filler such as Juvederm or Restylane® it’s almost like putting a firearm in the hands of someone untrained at shooting.  There is no safe way to give yourself Botox. You can’t trust what you’re buying, and even if you could, no amount of YouTube-ing will ever adequately teach you the skills you need to inject it. First, you need to know where to inject the substance. The answer is not to point the needle at the fine lines. After all, you’re relaxing muscles, not filling in wrinkles. Injecting Botox requires an understanding of facial muscles. You need to know which muscles should be relaxed for the desired results and where to target them. Second, you need to know how deeply to insert the needle and how much of the mixed substance you should apply in any given location.

Incorrect injection practices can lead to a host of complications, including eyelid drooping (ptosis), excessive swelling, excessive bruising, and a greater risk of infection. In fact, the infection may become so severe that it becomes a staph infection, an infection that spreads throughout the body and causes a variety of diseases. In any case, recovery will be longer, and the results may not be what you intended.

Lip Plumper Suction Devices- We have Kylie Jenner to thank for these! They are much less expensive than filler in the lips but with a far shorter shelf life. Dr. Frieling’s verdict: “Overuse of suction cup lip plumpers can cause misalignment of the teeth due to the outward pressure of the suction. Devices such as these can also cause swelling and bruising of the lips (and sometimes permanent scarring) when used excessively. The advice is to use these devices sensibly and with caution.”

At home acne extractors- The county has become obsessed with popping pimples thanks in part to the success of the TV show “Dr. Pimple Popper.” Acne extractors sold online, and people are using them at home. But should they?  Picking causes scars or scabs by ripping off the top layer of skin, whereas extracting by a professional pulls out the fluids or solids inside a pimple. It’s far more sterile, sanitary, and cleans the pore of extra debris. Why can’t you simply do this yourself? Acne extraction, be it white or blackheads, is a ‘don’t try this at home procedure.’ It’s a one-way ticket to scarring, infection and even more breakouts. Only through a professional facial will your skin be prepped and steamed correctly for extractions – by the hands of a trained, licensed esthetician. Skin that has not been adequately prepped for extractions may be resistant, requiring more pressure and manipulation. If used too aggressively, the pressure of the extractor tool can inflame and even bruise the skin. Additionally, a skin care professional is well-practiced in gentle and efficient movements to maximize results while minimizing potential harm.

Cuticle Cutters-Trimming or cutting cuticles during a manicure is purely cosmetic and doesn’t benefit the nail in any way. In fact, it’s actually harmful to your nails. “The small area of skin is there to protect your nails from infection. When this skin is removed, your nail is left unprotected from bacteria and fungus. Dr. Frieling recommends pushing back the cuticles by applying cuticle remover on each nail.

Chemical Peels- Chemical peels are designed to work by removing part of the top layer of skin to reveal fresher skin for a more youthful appearance. Many products containing low concentrations of acid are sold through beauty retailers and drug stores, and are often safe to use. People also are treated with peels using a higher concentration at medi-spas or doctor’s offices.  When it comes to alpha hydroxy acids or (AHAs) like salicylic and glycolic acids, a concentration of 10 percent or less is safe for home, and more than 30 percent should be reserved for a professional environment, according to a Food and Drug Administration advisory panel. Like many substances, illegal concentrations of chemical peels can be purchased online for substantially less than they would cost in a doctor’s office. But what price do you pay for a “bargain?”  According to Dr. Frieling, “the dangers of experimenting with a medical grade peel at home are numerous and can include: extreme pain in the form of stinging, actual burns to the skin, blistering, scarring, changes in skin color, infection.” What’s more, a skin care professional will determine if you are even a candidate for a chemical peel and possibly rule you out if you have taken the acne medication isotretinoin in the past six months, have a dark complexion, have a personal history of ridged areas caused by an overgrowth of scar tissue (keloids), have abnormal skin pigmentation, have a history of frequent or severe outbreaks of cold sores.

Dr. Frieling says that there are worthwhile “skin care hacks,” DIY recipes for the skin, and some at home devices that are safe and effective. Before buying into the latest Instagram sensation, consult with your doctor first to make sure that you are a good candidate and that what you are considering is safe and effective.

 

Beauty /

Beach Day Hair Care: Carol’s Daughter Products For Summer Hair Routine

Don’t let the fun in the sun dry out your hair. Keep your tresses hydrated and happy with nourishing good-for-you products. Throw these in your beach bag or make them part of your summer hair routine for the sunny days ahead. 

 
 

Featured Photo from BuzzFeed.com
 
Prep your mane for long, sun-filled days with Carol’s Daughter Coco Crème Curl Quenching Deep Moisture Mask. It helps add deep moisture, touchable softness and improves manageability.
No time to deep condition before your beach day? No problem. Spray Carol’s Daughter Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner in between your swim/tan rotations.
Give your curls a boost with Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Refresher Spray. The lightweight mist remoisturizes, redefines and renews hair without weighing it down.
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Manage Beautiful and Voluminous Curls with These Frizz Fighting Products

As the days heat up, our hair… grows outward. Hair is naturally porous which allows for humidity to seep in expanding our strands making it poufy and frizzy. Instead of fighting it with high heat, embrace it!  With the right products, you can own frizzy hair and unveil naturally beautiful and voluminous waves and curls.

 

Renpure Whipped Coconut & Peony Shampoo & Conditioner ($7.99, Target, Walmart, Whole Foods) Formulated with pink jasmine and creamy coconut to help to stop hair breakage, fight scalp conditions, tame frizz and soften hair, while clementine leaves hair looking youthful and shiny. The collection is specially designed to enhance curly hair for a noticeably healthier look!

 

Gold ‘N Hot Professional Conditioning Heat Cap ($47.50, Amazon, ULTA): Restore hair’s natural beauty with the Gold ‘N Hot Professional Conditioning Heat Cap. With three thermostatically controlled heat settings for expanded versatility, the heated cap delivers ultra-deep conditioning that leaves hair sultry-soft and revitalized. The Reusable/Washable Inner Liner Cap cleans up easily after use, and the Adjustable Chin Strap ensures a snug, effective placement.

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Father’s Day Gift Box Sets: Beards, Gym Rat, and Coffee Lover

Do you have a dad in your life who needs a fun, one-of-a-kind gift that fits your budget? KELLER WORKS natural & organic bath, body and grooming products put together some thoughtful gift box sets that any dad would truly dig.

BEARD OIL SET; $40
This antiaging oil blend of grapeseed, jojoba, argan and rose hips oils are great for softening facial hair and moisturing skin. Apply by putting a little on your fingers and rubbing into the beard and skin.

PATCHOULI BEARD OIL: A mix of patchouli and lime gives this beard oil and refreshing earthy scent.

CEDAR WOOD BEARD OIL: This blend of cedarwood, tea tree, and lavender will leave you smelling like a lumberjack.

SANDALWOOD BEARD OIL: This sensual beard oil contains sandalwood and tangerine.

GYM RAT BOX; $27
Been crushing it at the gym lately? This set is for you! This box includes Keller Works chilling Cold Flash Roll-On Oil to keep you cool during a workout, high magnesium Muscle Soak Bath Salts, and our Chillax Magnesium Spray – recovery must-haves!

Cold Flash Roll-On Oil
Send a cool tingle of peppermint down your neck if you feel overheated, apply to temples for tension relief, or use to stay cool while working out.

Muscle Soak Bath Salts
Keller Works bath salts are a combination of high-magnesium epsom, dead sea salt, mineral salts, clays, and essential oils.

Chillax Magnesium Spray
Keller Works spray can be applied to your feet at night before bed, on your arms or trunk for a mid-day refresher, or directly on an aching muscle. These oils are 50/50 magnesium chloride and water, so be sure to dilute them for sensitive skin and babies. The skin may turn red and tingle upon application. This spray also contains a light blend of our Chillax essential oil blend.

COFFEE LOVERS BOX; $16
This box contains Keller Works Daily Grind Body Scrub, Vanilla Lip Balm, and Daily Grind Soap.

Daily Grind Body Scrub
Made with fresh roasted Carpe Diem coffee grounds for maximum caffeine, this caffeine-infused scrub is great for waking up your skin and fighting cellulite.

Vanilla Lip Balm
Keep your lips kissably soft with this balm made with beeswax, mango butter, coconut oil, shea butter, grapeseed oil, and vanilla extract.

Daily Grind Soap
This bar contains locally roasted Carpe Diem coffee. Caffeine can reduce the appearance of cellulite and coffee grounds exfoliate dead skin.

Keller Works soaps are handmade, organic, and cold-process. They have a thick, creamy lather and last 6-8 weeks. This bar contains organic coconut oil, organic and sustainable palm oil, organic refined sunflower oil, raw shea butter, rice bran oil, castor oil, Carpe Diem Coffee, coconut milk, and vanilla oil.

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Summer Skincare Needs: G.M. Collin Face Masks

Ready to put your best face forward this summer? New face masks from G.M. Collin have you covered!

This undisputed leader in skincare just added three new brilliant masks to their product range: Aqua Mask, Glow Mask, and Pure Mask. No matter your skin care needs, you can now pick from a variety of uniquely formulated dermo-corrective solutions to perfect your complexion.

Aqua Mask ($48, gmcollin.com)

  • A refreshing turquoise gel mask created for all skin types and all ages. It is infused with a powerful blend of moisturizing ingredients, like Polynesian water microorganisms, to visibly smooth and restore the suppleness of dehydrated and stressed skin.

Glow Mask ($48, gmcollin.com)

  • A trendy, deliciously creamy orange mask guaranteed to bring fatigued skin and dull complexions back to life. Formulated with key ingredients such as Suprastim™, an innovative camu camu extract that revives tired-looking skin, reduces visible inflammation/ redness, and improves photo-protection, providing a radiant glow.

Pure Mask ($48, gmcollin.com)

  • A velvety purple clay rich mask that purifies and reveals a fresher looking skin. This mask is the ultimate solution to localized imperfections and comedones. Formulated with a new Rose Myrtle extract called Acnilys, which acts as an oily skin regulator, decreases visible skin redness, tightens the appearance of pores and limits inflammatory lesions.