Tag: Wellness

Beauty /

LAVANILA Underarm Detox Mask: Breast Cancer Awareness

There is a heightened sensitivity around the use of aluminum-based products and a growing awareness of the importance of sweat and overall health of the underarm area.

Toxins accumulate in the underarm with everyday life such as diet, stress and pollutants. On top of that, when using conventional deodorant and antiperspirant, we push new chemicals like aluminum and metal ions in to the skin, which can accumulate and potentially cause irritation, discomfort, concern and a long transition to natural deodorant.

Why you need this product:

  1. You have chemical and impure build up in the underarm area
  2. You are trying to switch from a chemical to a natural deodorant
  3. You want a lighter, more beautiful underarm

Enter LAVANILA Laboratories’ breakthrough Healthy Underarm Detox Mask, a first-of-its-kind breakthrough. We are excited to introduce the first product on the market specifically created to alleviate concerns around aluminum and build-up in the underarm area, while also helping to ease and shorten the transition from chemical to natural deodorant, a growing movement. Powered by highly effective, all-natural ingredients, this targeted underarm treatment effectively detoxifies the underarm area with a combo of Active Charcoal, Malic Acid and Silica which uniquely bind to dirt, bacteria, aluminum and excess oils trapped in the skin and like a magnet work to draw them out. With a mess-free, soft brush applicator, this mask is good for all skin types and a simple addition to your weekly regimen.

The results:

  • Helps remove aluminum and build up from the underarm area
  • Shortens the transition to natural deodorant
  • Less odor
  • Less perspiration
  • Less irritation
  • Lighter, brighter, smoother underarm skin

 With use of The Healthy Underarm Detox Mask twice a week:

  • 92% of users said that the mask helped eliminate traces of buildup in the underarm area
  • 94% of users said that the mask left their underarms smoother and brighter
  • 95% of said they would continue to use the mask for the ongoing health of their skin

WHAT IT COSTS: $26; A portion of the proceeds going to Breast Cancer Awareness.

AVAILABLE: FALL 2017

WHERE TO FIND IT: Sephora.com / Lavanila.com

About LAVANILA: Made with breakthrough natural technology and packed with pure essential oils and antioxidants, LAVANILA is the authority in 100% Healthy Deodorants. All are clinically tested, dermatologist recommended, and free of Aluminum, Parabens, Petrochemicals, Phthalates, Propylene Glycol, Silicones, synthetic dyes, and Sulfates. A pioneer in naturals, LAVANILA also offers products that are smart, modern and luxurious, made from the purest, natural and organic ingredients, and completely free of harsh chemicals. The brand’s fragrances and body lotions deliver beautiful, long-lasting results, which are also safe, non-toxic, non-irritating, and use 100% natural ingredients.

Birmingham /

Eating Well To Win from Celebrity Chef Richard Ingraham

Excited to share I’m reviewing a new cookbook and creating recipes!  Celebrity Chef Richard Ingraham has launched Eating Well to Win.

He’s the private chef to actress Gabrielle Union and NBA veteran Dwyane Wade. Eating Well to Win is focused on developing delicious, flavorful recipes — many of which include either a Southern, Creole, Italian or Asian flair.

Check back here to find out what recipes were created and an interview with Chef Richard Ingraham.

 

 

Lifestyle Tips /

CANDER PARIS – Luxury Candle Line from Elizabeth Minett launches

Cander Paris is pleased to announce that as of today, Cander Paris’ debut candle collection is now available to online and in select retailers worldwide.

Luxury candle line Cander Paris, founded by Elizabeth Minett, launches today with four signature scents: SCENT 01, ROSE, OUR YOUTH, and RUE VERTBOIS.

Minett worked with world-renowned French perfumer Emmanuel Philip to create her debut Cander Paris collection, all scents are made France with the excellence and tradition of French perfumery, the candles are exquisitely crafted of the highest quality.

“Cander Paris introduces scents that are uniquely refined and euphorically indulgent. These are the fragrances of candid moments.” – Elizabeth Minett, Cander Paris

 

Elizabeth Minett, founder of Cander Paris

Minett was born near Toronto, Canada and raised in a place where candor was the essence of her culture. A childhood filled with the rustic landscapes of harsh winters would forever shape her olfactive tastes. After a chance encounter in an elevator, she was scouted to work as a fashion model and soon moved to Europe. She was an early adopter of the digital influencer trend and transitioned from the modeling world to create her successful lifestyle website. Minett developed a more refined nose during her years traveling the globe as a bon vivant, especially whilst traveling. As Minett moves into a new chapter of her life she becomes now one of the very few young female entrepreneurs to launch their own luxury scent collections with the debut of Cander Paris in 2017.

Beauty /

5 Life Triggers that Inspire Bold Beauty Transformations

It is common for women to alter their appearance when faced with a significant life challenge. When we are tested we transform. When we shift our mindset, and transform on the inside, it’s only natural that we want the outside to change as well. It’s as if we shed old skin like a butterfly ready to take new flight soaring to new heights. Below are some common life challenges and the typical beauty treatments sought for each.

A milestone birthday.

You don’t have to be turning 50 to freak out about a birthday. Women as young as 25 are having quarter life crisis.’ Women who turn 30 or 35 often feel blah about it. Even if women feel great about a milestone birthday they still may desire a change. According to Dr. Sanam Hafeez, a NYC based licensed clinical psychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, “when we have birthday’s, we focus on aging. We look at our faces in the mirror and may think a refresher is in order. It’s common for women to book appointments for Botox around their birthdays. However, when aging becomes an obsession causing anxiety or depression, it’s important to speak to a professional.”

Surviving an illness.

“After recovering from illness, especially if the road to recovery was long and hard, it is normal to want a new look,” explains Hafeez. When people feel healthier and happier they may desire a new wardrobe; especially if there was weight loss. Dr. Margarita Lolis a Board-Certified Dermatologist in northern New Jersey who specializes in anti-aging and longevity adds, “they may also want to explore fillers to the face to replace volume lost while ill. It’s important to make a full recovery before doing any invasive procedures. You really must speak to your doctor to clear you for any elective surgeries.” “There’s a lot of empowerment that comes from battling back from illness. It makes sense that someone would want to celebrate their good health with a ‘new me’ approach to their appearance,” says Hafeez.

Going back to work after a stretch of unemployment.

You got laid off and for months your job has been finding a new job. After months of sitting at the computer in sweats only showering to go on interviews you finally get hired! Elated you decide to treat yourself to a spa day, get a pro to cut and color your hair and splurge on new eyeglass frames. “Being unemployed crushes the spirit. The longer someone is unemployed the greater their chances are of sinking into depression. When a new job is secured there’s a feeling that the weight of the world is off the shoulders. Of course, you want to treat yourself” says Dr. Hafeez.

Divorce or a breakup.

One of the most profound triggers motivating a significant change to a woman’s appearance is divorce. Breast augmentation, tummy tucks, liposuction, face lifts, weight loss, new hair, new clothes and total transformation is common. Divorce is such a significant severing that most women feel that the person they were before must change. The fastest way is to change their appearance. The challenge here is that they are often hurting inside as they grieve the loss of their marriage. Even if they are happy for the divorce and ended it amicably the stress over dating again is a motivator. Dr. Lolis says many new clients come to her by referral because they recently divorced and want their “cry lines” removed and a fresh look to their faces.

Moving to a new city.

“Uprooting to a new city can be very scary. There are a lot of unknowns which makes people feel as if they are out of control,” says Dr. Hafeez. The one thing they can take control over is their appearance. It’s common for people who relocate to assume a whole new identity that blends in with the other people of that city. If you’re moving from New York City to a beach town in Miami, your attire is going to change.

About the Doctors

Dr. Sanam Hafeez PsyD is a NYC based licensed clinical neuropsychologist, teaching faculty member at the prestigious Columbia University Teacher’s College and the founder and Clinical Director of Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services, P.C. a neuropsychological, developmental and educational center in Manhattan and Queens. 

Dr. Hafeez masterfully applies her years of experience connecting psychological implications to address some of today’s common issues such as body image, social media addiction, relationships, workplace stress, parenting and psychopathology (bipolar, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, etc…). In addition, Dr. Hafeez works with individuals who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), learning disabilities, attention and memory problems, and abuse. Dr. Hafeez often shares her credible expertise to various news outlets in New York City and frequently appears on CNN and Dr.Oz.

Connect with her via twitter @comprehendMind or www.comprehendthemind.com 

Dr. Margarita Lolis, M.D. is a board-certified cosmetic, medical dermatologist and a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon with over 20 years of experience. In her practice, she addresses common skin concerns such as acne prevention and treatment in both teens and adults, sun-damage, skin discoloration, wrinkles, changes to skin texture and loss of volume. On the medical side, she is a trusted expert in melanoma and over-all skin health. Dr. Lolis prides herself in honoring facial symmetry to deliver a natural look to her clients. She always recommends a healthy skin care regimen plus lifestyle habits that are aligned with her holistic approach to beauty. Dr. Lolis is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society of Anti-aging. Her practice, Skin, Laser, and Surgery Specialists is in New York City and Bergen Country, New Jersey.

Lifestyle Tips /

Simple Tactics: Channel Your Inner Creativity

Working on your creativity may feel as if you have to wait for it to happen naturally. But that’s not always the case. It’s the ability to push yourself forward in a range of different ways that will encourage your inner creativity to come out. But how are you going to be able to do that? When you’re not really sure on how to make the most of your creative calling, there are things you can do to hurry it along.

Take Up A Hobby

First of all, you could consider taking up a creative hobby. There are lots of different things you could think about doing for this. Whether it’s painting or knitting or writing, actively working on your creativity in your spare time is one way to keep it alive. Not only will you be able to enjoy taking part in creative activities, but you may also find yourself coming up with a range of different ideas on a more regular basis, just because you’ve put more time into your creativity.

Befriend Other Creatives

Next, you should think about mingling in more creative circles. When you surround yourself by people who inspire you, you should find that your mind starts to feel a lot more inspired too. Although you don’t have to ditch your lifelong friends for a new crowd, you should definitely try to network more. Not only will you find yourself surrounded by new ideas, but you may also gain access to different creative opportunities too.

Encourage Your Natural Creativity

You may also want to think about the ways you can work on your own natural creativity. You could do this with the use of encouraging stones like https://accessgems.com/labradorite-meaning/ or by trying to clear your mind. You may find that allow yourself to relax and keep calm will help to bring out your most creative thoughts. Sometimes you need ideas to spur you on, and you have to be able to bring them out naturally.

Join A Group

There, you could think about the different groups you could join to bring on your creativity. Networking with friends is just one way you can open up to new opportunities, but professionally networking can help too. Take a look at the different creative groups that are active in your area. You may find that you can meet up with other writers or artists to get professional feedback on your work that can help to nurture your creativity further.

Read More

Whether you want to be a writer or not, you will also benefit from reading more. There are lots of books for creative people that can help you with this. Books written by creatives will often contain a lot of helpful and supportive information for helping you to get in touch with your own creativity. You may even find ideas and exercises that can help you to keep pushing in your field and bring out the best of your talents.

Collaborative Post

 

Beauty /

Avon ANEW Anti-Agining Skincare: Packing Staple from Dr. Kim Nichols

Summer may be fading away right before our eyes, but that doesn’t mean your skin routine should too. Avon’s consulting dermatologist, Dr. Kim Nichols, offers her weekly skincare tip below to keep your skin fresh and glowing for the rest of the summer and right into fall.

 

Pack carefully. Take along travel sizes of your gentle cleanser or convenient Avon ANEW Clean Facial Cleansing Wipes and Avon ANEW Ultimate Multi-Performance Day Cream to moisturize the skin, especially if you’re planning a vacation or trip with ultra-dry humidity.

 

Using hotel products or saying “I’ll just take a few days off” from your skincare regimen is a no-no! This can lead to an otherwise preventative flare-up, pesky pimple, or dull appearance.

 

Beauty /

Nutrafol Supplement: Hair Loss Awareness Month

August is Hair Loss Awareness month, and although you may not be losing your hair, everyone has a unique hair history consisting of factors that may have caused damage or can contribute to hair thinning/loss in the future.

Nutrafol, a multi-targeted nutraceutical supplement goes beyond conventional hair loss research to improve overall hair health and help you achieve the fullest head of hair possible. Using clinically-tested, standardized botanical ingredients, the natural solution works to increase length and volume while aiding in strengthening your hair and preventing future hair loss.

In honor of Hair Loss Awareness Month, Dr. Joshua Zeichner and Nutrafol have hosted a webinar regarding hair loss:

 

https://attendee.gotowebinar.com

Beauty /

How to Fix Summer Skin Issues by Board Certified Dermatologist

As we head into the cooler months the weather change impacts our skin. We may notice changes to texture, tone, perhaps some breakouts and over all ruddiness and damage from being outside enjoying the summer. Here are some of the most common post summer skin issues I see in my practice along with some solutions for them.

  1. Sunspots and wrinkles.

Days at the beach or pool can lead to sunspots even if you apply sunscreen. We cannot reach every spot and sometimes we forget to reapply after swimming. Also, even when wearing polarized sunglasses, we may put them on our heads; temporarily squinting leading to crow’s feet.

If you’re noticing some new spots, freckles and wrinkles reach for a retinoid. Your dermatologist can offer prescription strength creams. Deeper wrinkles like the ones between the eyes usually require something like Botox but, you can minimize the appearance with creams that feature glycolic acid or alpha hydroxy acid. These are wonder vitamins for the skin stimulate skin shedding and cellular turn over. A serum used at night will help; but be patient and use it regularly to see a gradual change. Chemical peels and intense light treatments (IPL) can handle any discoloration.

  2. Clogged pores and dullness.

During the summertime, we perspire plus we are exposed to daily pollution in the air. When you combine these factors plus daily use of make-up, pores get clogged. Beneath the skin are our sebaceous glands which secrete an oil called sebum. Sebum sticks to dead skin cells like glue and funnels these dead skin cells through the pores. This is a process that is supposed to help you maintain healthy skin. The problem is when the weather and elements speed up the process pores become clogged. The dead skin cells get trapped along with bacteria and this leads to dull, ruddy skin with breakouts. An exfoliating face wash with glycolic acid or salicylic acid helps tremendously. Your dermatologist can create a skin care regimen based on your specific skin type and issues so you don’t deregulate pH levels in the skin which will only make things worse leading to…

  1. Acne flare ups.

Consistent heat and humidity combined with cell phone use and touching our faces after touching dirty surfaces, leads to a post-summer breakout. These breakouts can be cystic which means bigger, deeper, more painful pimples. It also can lead to a cycle of breakouts that include, treat, pick, peel, scar, and heal only to see another pimple and another. Over the counter acne treatments such as face washes with sulfur, black charcoal masks and soaps, spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide can certainly help. However, when the breakouts are consistent a dermatologist can assess your skin and present solutions that may even involve nutritional changes, vitamins and light therapy for mild or moderate acne.

  1. Dry lips.

We all know about winter time lip chapping. In the summer lips can get incredibly dry. Using a lip balm with SPF is very helpful but unless we are applying it regularly while at the beach, pool, or working out outdoors, one swipe under lip gloss isn’t enough. Drinking water, and keeping alcohol consumption to a minimum helps keep us hydrated. When we are dehydrated, we see it on our lips. Pay close attention to any freckles or discoloration to the lips after prolonged sun exposure. If you see any odd changes, see your dermatologist.

  1. Ashy, flaky, itchy, skin.

If you are often in chlorine or salt water you’ll find your skin to feel rough and dry almost as if it is shedding. Also, going from extreme heat to cool air conditioning leads to skin going from perspiration to goosebumps. This rapid drop in temperature affects skin. Taking luke-warm showers and using a gentle exfoliating skin wash followed by a hydrating moisturizer keeps skin supple. Add a few drops of vitamin E to your lotion for added nourishment.

When it comes to the face, peeling foreheads and noses points to sun damage. Oftentimes people wait until something is visible to them or when an is followed by a dry patch. Dermatologists can look at things with a more discerning eye plus magnifiers that enable them to flag something that could escalate into something more. If everyone put October on their calendars as the month to see a dermatologist for a skin check we would see many skin conditions be solved quicker. This includes melanomas.

About the expert:

Dr. Margarita Lolis, M.D. is a board-certified cosmetic, medical dermatologist and a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon with over 20 years of experience. In her practice, she addresses common skin concerns such as acne prevention and treatment in both teens and adults, sun-damage, skin discoloration, wrinkles, changes to skin texture and loss of volume. On the medical side, she is a trusted expert in melanoma and over-all skin health. Dr. Lolis prides herself in honoring facial symmetry to deliver a natural look to her clients. She always recommends a healthy skin care regimen plus lifestyle habits that are aligned with her holistic approach to beauty.

As an anti-aging, functional medicine physician, Dr. Lolis masterfully addresses age management, starting with internal issues, such as hormone and gut health, nutrition, and detoxification leading to a vibrant appearance from the inside out.

A graduate of Yale University and Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Dr. Lolis has authored numerous book chapters and medical articles in leading dermatology journals, and completed a melanoma research fellowship prior to residency.

Dr. Lolis is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American College of Mohs Surgery, and the American Society of Anti-aging. Her practice, Skin, Laser, and Surgery Specialists is in New York City and Bergen Country, New Jersey.

Lifestyle Tips /

Boy Smells Scented Candles Eclectic Collection

Boy Smells scented candles are the creations of David Kien and Matthew Herman who established the brand in 2014 in the Pico-Union District of Los Angeles California.

Whimsical and irreverent, the eclectic collection offers a variety of smells ranging from subtle to bold, designed in easy sophistication and hallmarked by the signature Boy Smells matte pink label.

What began as a scent experiment has quickly emerged into a robust collection of eleven styles. Each candle is designed with a uniquely personal expression in mind; notes plucked from a catalog of olfactory memories are offered in a modern context by crafting candles that are familiar yet unexpected.

BOY SMELLS  – BRAND IDENTITY

Boy Smells is purposely tongue and cheek. We approach candles the same way we approach all design: with a sense of humor and accessibility for everyone.

Identity is so much more layered and complex than it used to be, and the scent is a landscape that can truly explore these cultural changes. There are masculine scents that our girlfriends like, and feminine scents we love. So, for us scent is gender-fluid. In fact, Boy Smells intentionally plays with the preconceptions of scent designed for gender.

It’s meant to be fun and irreverent and enjoyed by all. This is what differentiates Boy Smells.

BOY SMELLS  – THE PRODUCT

Coconut and beeswax blended candles with a braided cotton wick, in a glossy black glass tumbler. Comes in an embossed matte pink carton. Manufactured in Los Angeles, CA. 8.8 ounces (249g). 3.4 inches (8.6cm) tall.

RETAIL PRICING RANGES FROM $29.00 – $30.00

Accessories /

Sweat In Style With DYI – Define Your Inspiration Activewear

We all love being active and exercising, but sometimes it’s easy to make up excuses and say it’s just too hot. DYI, the company that Forbes named the next Lululemon, has your perfect solution to the scorching summer heat!

Everyone has a different way they enjoy being active so DYI- Define Your Inspiration created a line of clothing for any and all athletic endeavours. While they’re known for their leggings, they have created shorts, a skirt and tops that are perfect when it’s just too toasty outside.

The too hot for leggings DYI bottoms include:

  • Active Short: Comfort meets style in our all new summer Active Short! A sporty stretch woven fabric stretches and moves with you. Two invisible zipper pockets allows you to carry a phone hands free while you focus on your workout. Two pockets on the back side give a little style and extra interest to this perfect breathable, lightweight short. The inseam on this short is 4 inches.
  • Relax Ponte Short: LIFESTYLE short for Pre and Post workout. This short is a part of our STREET Collection- made for women who need a comfortable, but polished look this summer. This short has a fold down waist made from our famous BOND fabric. Perfectly comfortable, but can be dressed up for a night time look.
  • Active Skirt: Whether you’re on a hike, a bike or traveling this summer, our Active Skirt is a perfect addition to your Summer workout wardrobe. A lightweight woven, stretch fabric moves with you and keeps you cool during warmer months. Built in short gives coverage and comfort no matter what you plan on doing. Two invisible zipper pockets allow you to carry a phone or other items hands free.

Pair these shorts and skirt with some loose tanks including:

  • Deep Breeze Tank: Get Breezy in our Deep Breeze tank! Our lightweight, breathable tanks is the perfect layering piece to transition from spring to summer.
  • No Sweat T-Shirt: Made for your most intense sweat session. With our super soft and pliant Bond fabric for the body, and our signature power mesh on the back, a staple to have for every workout.
  • Simply Sporty Tank: The tank that is missing from your workout wardrobe. Longer length, all mesh striped back, tencel front, and easy to take on and off. What more could you ask for?
  • Take It Easy Tee: The perfect fit V neck T-shirt! Made for those days you just feel like wearing a t-shirt, but you can still look fabulous!
  • Breathe Tank: Our Breathe Tank is our most popular top this Spring! Whether you wear it loose or tied in the back, this tank will look incredible with every yoga tight in your wardrobe!
  • Balance Tank: This Active Tank is not only beautiful, but also ready for your next sweat session! Made in Tencel fabric, this tank will keep you dry through your workout, but beautiful enough for your night out. Drapes and twists in the back.

Whether you run, yoga, weight train or rock climb, DYI’s apparel is perfect for you to sweat in style!

To learn more about DYI visit www.shopdyi.com.

ABOUT DEFINE YOUR INSPIRATION

DYI I Define Your Inspiration is an activewear and lifestyle apparel brand with the perfect fusion of fashion, performance and function. What inspires you to move? Whether you’re inspired by a maximum intensity sweat session, strength training, or a rejuvenating yoga class, DYI designs apparel specifically for your state of mind. The DYI brand brings together fashionable clothing and healthy living in a unique way. It isn’t just clothing, but a mindset, a philosophy and a movement! It’s about living a happy, active and balanced life by doing things that inspire you!

Follow DYI:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Pinterest