New Year, New You Health & Beauty Product Purge

A self-care day with all-natural health and beauty products.  What could be better?  Amelie Cloth Shower Turban in Painted Peony by Louvelle 

Oh yes, it's a NEW year and also a new decade.  Trending now is the urge to purge our lives of toxins and unnecessary chemical additives in our food and personal care items. This can be quite the challenge even for someone like myself with a pharmaceutical background.  Reading the label is important but understanding it is essential.  Waxes, parabens, and silicones should be on everyone's product purge list.  You should also note where on the label an ingredient appears.  The products listed first make up the largest percentage of the formulation.

There are also natural health and beauty tools that offer a gentler, better choice moving forward.  Here is my list of the top new "clean", natural health and beauty products to consider for 2020:

Garner's Garden 100% Natural Body Butters

1.) Garner's Garden 100% Natural Skincare Collection - Their Whipped Body Butters are very close to the ones we make at home. The very first ingredient on the list is organic, unrefined shea butter followed by coconut oil. Topped off with pure essential oils like lavender, grapefruit, and lemongrass, these body butters offer deep moisturizing and healing properties with NO artificial chemicals or fillers.  GarnersGarden.com

Royal Hair - The Mystique of Mason Pearson Brushes & Combs

Mason Pearson's iconic boar bristle brush and hand polished combs.

I can remember visiting my grandmother and going to her bedroom to play at her vanity. Among the fragrant little perfume bottles and powder puffs was a brush set in sterling silver. The bristles were of natural hair otherwise known as boar bristle. My mother had a similar brush and her hair always had a beautiful shine. England based Mason Pearson and Kent & Sons brushes are two of the oldest, heirloom quality brush makers who still produce them to this day. In fact Princess Diana was said to keep a Mason Pearson Brush in her handbag. I have a travel sized Kent Boar Bristle brush in my bag!

10 Hot Health & Beauty Trends You Need to Try in 2016

New Year, Renewed YOU with these TOP TEN Health & Beauty Game Changers.

2016 is the year you are going to make it happen! Since overall health effects our beauty, this year is about improving both with natural organic solutions and a few surprises I've discovered along the way. So here they are just in time for the New Year:

Natural Boar Bristle Brush and Polished Comb by Mason - Pearson

1.) Natural Tools for Healthier Hair - Boar Bristle Brushes and Polished Combs

One of the best finds for less breakage and shiny hair is to switch out your daily hair styling tools for boar bristle brushes and polished one piece combs. I've had the best success with Mason-Pearson Pure Boar Bristle Brushes and their polished, one piece Detangling and Rake Combs. The natural bristle brushes clean and stimulate your scalp while closing the strand's cuticle for a brilliant shine. The Rake and Detangling Combs are made from one piece and highly polished with no seams. These DO NOT snag my hair and there is little or no breakage in these combs. Available online/in store at Barney's, NYC

Kathy Heshelow, CEO and Founder of Sublime Beauty

2.) Oil Pulling for Healthier Teeth & Gums

I interviewed Kathy Heshelow, CEO an Founder of Sublime Beauty and Sublime Beauty Naturals. Both lines are big on using natural, organic ingredients with the latter offering certified organic formulations. I especially like her Certified Organic Pure Sesame Oil which I use in cooking and as a supplement. However it also is perfect for "Oil Pulling". Here's Kathy's introduction to the practice:

Pure Sesame Oil can be a part of effective oral hygiene.

Oil Pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that is recognized again today. It improves your wellness in tremendous and natural ways.

There are millions of bacteria in our mouths and all bacteria have an oily or lipid skin.  Oil attracts oil, which is why Oil Pulling works!  You swish about a tablespoon of organic oil in your mouth each morning for a minimum of 10 minutes and up to 20 minutes, then spit it out and take those bacteria with it!

You get a healthier mouth, less plaque, whiter teeth and more energy because you are supporting your lymphatic & immune systems. You can also cut risk on a number of diseases that could develop - there is a strong relationship between oral health and your overall health!

I love this quote from ancient Rome:  "Life is not merely being alive, but being well". Make 2016 a great year by new simple procedure.
To purchase Certified Organic Sesame Seed Oil online, visit:  SublimeBeautyNaturals.com

Mira-Skin Ultrasound

3.) Ultrasound Facials

These are a staple of expensive, European Facials nowadays. I reviewed Mira-Skin HERE but after using it regularly for an extended period of time, I've seen pretty impressive results. Better still is when I use it in conjunction with other skincare products as it opens the pores allowing them to sink in deeper. After using it only twice a week since the fall, my skin is noticeably smoother and firmer. This is a starter kit but you can purchase this plus replacement Ultrasound Gel and Hyaluronic Serum at Mira-Skin-Ultrasound.com

Hyaluronic Acid is a key component of Certified Organic Zen Power Serum.

4.) Hyaluronic Acid 

This is a new watchword in beauty products so look for it when choosing moisturizers. On another note, try skipping products with Dimethcone within the first ingredients on the label. Silicones are OUT for 2016.
Hyaluronic Acid is included in Certified Organic Sublime Beauty Naturals Zen Power Serum along with vitamins and peptides. Since it is all natural, it is what I use everyday after cleansing and after my Mira-Skin Ultrasound Facial. Like pure moisture without any greasy residue. Check it out at SublimeBeautyNaturals.com

Boscia Cool Blue Hydration Essence.

5.) Boscia Cool Blue Hydration Essence

This is a deeply hydrating fluid based on a fermented Japanese Sake yeast filtrate. Spreads effortlessly but is only about 1% water! Just two drops covers your face and works well under other moisturizers and makeup. I noticed a plumping difference after the first application. See more online at Boscia.com

Raw fruit and vegetable juices.

6.) Drink Raw Fruit & Vegetable Juices/Smoothies

Try this out for your morning jolt! In addition to getting in some delicious vitamins, minerals and enzymes, you get a daily, healthy cleanse going. Try a VitaMix for whole food juices or smoothies. If you prefer less pulp, get a juicer like the TriBest FruitStar. 

Coconut Oil & ready made coconut milk smoothies.

I have both and drink raw carrot and tomato juices with Neocell Derma Matrix Collagen Skin Complex, organic coconut oil and my Usana Probiotics mixed in. Another good probiotic to mix with your raw juices and smoothies is Lowfat Kefir.  If you are in a hurry and need a quick shake to go, you might try Cocojoy Pure Coconut Milk Smoothies.

Infused Honey and Fresh Goats Milk Soap

7.) Infused Organic Honey - Bee in Your Bonnet 

Time to switch out fake, chemical sweeteners with all natural, delicious alternatives. Bee in Your Bonnet makes organic infused honeys in wonderful flavors like Vanilla Bean, Harvest Spice and Ghost Chili. These organic honeys can also be used for facials, (I'd skip the jalapeno though), skincare and haircare. Honey is amazing for healing and organic infused honeys like these are very versatile. See all the flavors at Bee in Your Bonnet Online.

Fresh Goat's Milk Soap

8.) Fresh Goats Milk Soap - Serenity Acres Farm

These handmade soaps are cold pressed and made with fresh goats milk, olive and coconut oils with essential oils. They are gently cleansing yet very effective as they are sodium hydroxide (lye) based soaps. You will not believe how smooth your skin will feel after bathing or washing your face with them. My favorite is the Almond Oatmeal. See all the varieties at SerenityGoats.com

Start Running!

9.) Start Running

I've always walked with a little jogging thrown in. However it wasn't until 2015 that I really got serious, especially when training for the More Fitness Half Marathon in April. That was the first milestone of the year and I went on to complete three 5k runs and three 10k races in 2015. I suggest getting fitted for comfortable, supportive running shoes. Start off by alternating fast paced walking and running. Little by little, you will be running more than you walk. Running shapes your body like nothing else while increasing circulation for beautiful skin all over.

Start Using Kettle Bells

10.) Start Using Kettle Bells

Now while running is primarily an aerobic exercise, kettle bells offer weight bearing exercise to increase strength and tone muscles. Lifting free weights of any kind ups your metabolic rate by building lean muscle. Start with at least a 15 - 18 lb weight for women. Men can start off with 25 lbs. Make 2016 the year you drop body fat as women should be between 18-22%. Studies have shown that people in this range of body fat are seen as more fit and attractive. Better than that, you will have more energy while helping to strengthen your bones. There are lots of workouts online or on DVD. Both are great and will help you to get stronger and sculpted. 

Grass Fed Whey Protein

10 and a Half! Get the Right Protein Into Your Diet

When you're done with your workout, grab a Whey Protein Shake for at least 25 grams of protein, Organic Naked Whey Protein is a pure grass fed choice that can be used in other foods/dishes. Just increasing your lean protein intake can help shape you up without changing your diet. Aim for 25 grams of protein at every meal for a total of 75 grams per day.  What does that look like? 7 ozs of Salmon offers 48 grams and 1 cup of cottage cheese gives you 28 grams of protein. A whey protein shake can count for one of those 25 gram servings or more, especially when you add dairy, coconut or almond milks. Your skin, hair and nails will also benefit!

Have a Protein Smoothie and enjoy a Happy Healthy New Year!

Top Hot Styling Tools for Cool Hair - John Frieda, Revlon and Theorie

Top NEW Hair-styling Tools for the looks you want this fall.

The cooler, crisper days of fall are headed our way. This means less humidity which usually makes for better hair days but can also dry out your locks. What do you do? 

In order to have healthy, shiny hair this fall, take my advice and invest in the newer hair styling tools which offer ionic conditioning and precise, digital heat control. Somewhere around 325-350 degrees is plenty hot enough to style your hair without damaging it. Also make use of extra rich conditioners especially formulated for increasing moisture. My favorite? Nexxus Humectress Ultimate Moisture Conditioner. Also prior to using your heat styling tools, spritz on a good heat shield or protector. I like Theorie's Heat Shield Thermal Spray and Philip B's Thermal Protection Spray. Both are infused with botanicals and silk amino acids. The Theorie Heat Shield especially offers a beautiful shine and blocks humidity for up to 24 hrs.

So that's the basics. Here are the new hair-styling tools you need to check out:

Revlon Pro Collection One-Step Paddle Brush Dryer

Revlon's NEW Paddle Brush Dryer for Instant Blowouts
This is a game changer. You can actually blow out your hair with ONE HAND with this dryer. At first, I didn't think the flat paddle shape would effect a blow out very well. I was expecting something more like the large round brushes my stylist uses with the blow dryer. The One Step Paddle Brush Dryer has three settings on a dial: Cool, Low and High. It is very smooth and easy to use without pulling your hair. In fact the design allows it to contour to your head and reach easily in the back. The Ionic Technology means a sleeker, shinier finish.

The perfect blow out starts by getting lift at the roots.

Best Way to Use The Revlon Paddle Brush Dryer:
After shampooing I like to let my hair air-dry. Try wrapping your hair in a cotton tee shirt or silk scarf.  Next I add Nexxus Pro-Mend Split End Binding leave in treatment to the ends of my hair. Lastly, I apply my Thermal Spray of choice. To get the lift at the roots as your stylist would with a blow dryer and round brush, flip your hair upside down and start at the roots. Begin at the nape of the neck with your hair inverted. This will allow the hair the lift and movement you want. The Paddle Brush Dryer works very quickly and I only had it on LOW. Does a beautiful job of blowing the hair smooth so you are ready for the next styling step. If your hands are small like mine, you may have a little trouble with the large round brush handle. However, it is no big deal and I was able to to maneuver it just fine by choking up towards the brush head a little. Very reasonably priced, the One Step Paddle Brush Dryer retails for under $50. Check it out online at RevlonHairTools.com

John Frieda Volume Curls 1 1/2 Barrel

John Frieda Volume Curls with Digital Thermal Control
This is the closest sized curling iron to the one my stylist at Christo 5th Avenue uses on my hair. The John Frieda iron is ultra-smooth with a true titanium-ceramic finish. It has 11 heat settings, visible digitally in the unit's display. It heats up from 290 to 400 degrees in only 30 seconds and maintains your selected temperature for consistent results. This is really one of the best curling irons for home use. The only minor gripe that I have is that the ON/OFF and temperature control is on the handle as shown by the long purple bar. If you are not careful. you can unknowingly change your heat settings by gripping the handle too hard. You just need to keep an eye on it but even so you will get professional results with a curling iron like this. Available at Ulta and other fine retailers or visit JohnFrieda.com online.

John Frieda's Volume Curls with a Titanium-Ceramic finish.

A Note About Heat Protectors
Please don't go too heavy with the leave in sprays and heat protecting conditioners. They can weigh your hair down and leave it greasy looking. The curls also won't last because of too much product. Below you can see my hair after being professionally styled with a similar sized, 1 1/2 inch curling iron at Christo 5th Avenue.

My hairstylist, Marianna of Christo 5th Avenue.

Theorie's Saga II Classic Flat Iron 1 inch
I reviewed both this flat iron and Theorie's Heat Shield Thermal Spray this past summer which you may read HERE.
This is a very high quality, polished floating titanium/ceramic plate flat iron. What I like is the digital LCD display thermostat and the ability to choose a setting which best fits your hair thickness and styling objectives. It is a beautiful unit and comes with a thermal travel sleeve and luxe hard leather carrying/storage case. Even the cord is heat resistant! Temperature ranges from 310-450 degrees F.

The Saga II Classic Flat Iron by Theorie

The plates on the Saga II are highly polished and rounded to avoid snagging. This is one of the sleekest, smoothest flat irons I've ever used. Very well constructed. See it at Theorie.com


Long Hair, Don't Care?  Some Additional Hair Raising Thoughts
If you are trying to grow your hair longer and healthier, I have a few additional tips. Keep heat styling at a minimum and always replace lost moisture by deep conditioning at least once a month. Nourish your hair from within by getting enough Biotin in your diet as well as these other essentials nutrients:

Neocell makes both Collagen and Biotin Bursts

Lean Red Meat - is rich in both protein and iron. Deficiencies in either can stunt hair growth.

Biotin Rich Foods - include eggs, peanuts, almonds, salmon, cheese and avocados. A lack of biotin can cause brittle hair. One of my favorite supplements are Biotin Bursts by NeoCell. One Chew a day and you'll notice healthier hair, skin and nails.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids - are found in high fat fish like salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel. Omega 3's are also found in walnuts and flax seeds. In fact Rainbow Light makes Everyone's Omega with Fish & Flax. One liquid filled capsule per day is almost like having two fish servings per week. Personally, I'd rather eat the fish but if this is not your thing, I would consider supplementing.

My prized Mason Pearson Boar Bristle brush from London England

Why Lady Diana Carried a Mason Pearson Brush in Her Purse
One of the beauty secrets handed down from my grandmother's vanity table is a Boar Bristle Brush. The ones made by Mason Pearson are bar non, some of the best brushes in the world.  It is a cushion brush which allows it to contour perfectly to any shape head. The natural bristles evenly distribute sebum from your scalp to the ends of your hair. The bristles also help keep your scalp and strands clean. These last for years as a hair brush like this is heirloom quality. So Lady Di was said to take along a Mason Pearson hairbrush in her purse every time she stepped out in public. Her hair was beautiful so now you know one of her secrets.


Hair Styling Tools & Products c/o the participating companies included herewith.

Top NEVER FAIL Valentine's Day Gifts Us Ladies Will Love

Yes, something in a little teal box from Tiffany & Co.!

If you are at a loss for what to get your girl for Valentine's Day, here's my short list of the TOP NEVER FAIL gifts us ladies love. Pay attention! These are the top winners in both the romance and thoughtfulness categories. If your guy drops the ball, go and get a few from this list YOURSELF. So here we go:

Valentine's Day Gifts that are both thoughtful and romantic

Trendy Fragrances
Usually perfume is a bit of roll of the dice. Still us girls appreciate that you think we are sensuous enough to pull off wearing something a bit daring. Trending now are creations from pop artists like Katy Perry and Lady Gaga as well as fashion houses like Tom Ford and Juicy Couture. This is not your Mom's Chanel No. 5! Keep it new, keep it fresh.

Malibu by Juicy Couture says "Beach me".

MAC-BollyDoll Makeup Brushes and Bag Collection
Here's a new collaborative release between MAC Cosmetics and BollyDoll featuring Moghul era inspired designs by artist-singer Amrita Sen. Choose between Pink or Blue Indian motifs. Set of 5 limited edition MAC Makeup Brushes is sold separately but fits neatly inside the bags. Get both! See them at MACCosmetics.com

MAC-BollyDoll Makeup Bags and 5 Piece Brush Set

Chocolates
This may seem trite but NO. Get these especially if you KNOW the girl likes chocolate. My favorites are Godiva, Russel Stover and Whitman for their All Milk Chocolate Sampler. Reusable heart shaped boxes and tins gain you extra points! 

Godiva Chocolates...the bigger the box, the better!

Fine Wine
Now you should pretty much know what we like by what we order at dinner such as a Riesling, Chardonnay or Zinfandel white or red, etc. Get something you will also enjoy as we don't like to drink alone!

South African wines from Kaia Wine Bar

Wine Charms
Cate & Chloe's delightful Wine Charms are perfect for a date night or toasting with others for Valentine's Day. Delicate heart shaped wine charms let you know which wine glass is yours when placed around the stem! The February Perk of the Month from Cate & Chloe.

Lovely Heart Shaped Wine Charms from Cate & Chloe

Jewelry
This is another area where your powers of observation are going to help. Does she like big bold statement pieces or small demure chains and stones? One caveat. If she has been hinting about setting a wedding date, skip this one all together unless you are ready to present the serious ROCK. That is what she will be expecting so don't go there. 


TrueFacet
You can find a lot of new, never worn & vintage pieces at TrueFacet. This is especially wonderful if a certain piece is no longer being made or you simply want something a bit "off menu". Here is a lovely Tiffany and Co. "Return to Tiffany" round charm bracelet in sterling silver. Simple yet exquisite. Visit TrueFacet.com for more fine designer jewelry selections.

Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Charm Bracelet

Cate & Chloe have a great Monthly Jewelry Subscription that will deliver new pieces to her every 30 days. Chances are she will find something she loves in the subscription. You can also purchase pieces "a la carte" such as this set I made with these stunning Danielle "God Like" Earrings and Layla"Beauty" Bracelet. White gold plated with cupid cut CZ stones and Austrian Crystal embellishments. Shown here with my designer Isaac Mizrahi cocktail watch, get ready to wow her. Visit Cate and Chloe online.

Danielle "God Like" Earrings and Layla "Beauty" Bracelet by Cate and Chloe.

Lingerie
This can be a bit tricky but when you get it right, SO worth the effort. Check out GaveThat.com's Lingerie Buying Guide: On Giving Lingerie first. Otherwise, just keep the receipt and include it with your gift. That way she can swap out for something else. Most of the time we will feel flattered that you took the time to purchase something sensuous for us and will wear it for you. Ta dah! That's a Valentine's Day gift for you!

Lingerie from Victoria's Secret and Donna Karen, NYC

Young&ng Lingerie Gift Sets: Two Sheer Boxed Panties,  Dinha Marie Bra & Brief

Loungewear-Zooops Designer Adult Onesies
Perfect for snuggling up by the fire are these super comfy Zooops are made of 80% cotton/ 20% Polyester with a super soft fleecy lining. Shown here in the Classic American Flag, they come in lots of designs with sizes from XXSmall-XXXXLarge. Two hand pockets up front with two zippered pockets on the side. They are unisex adult onesies so get a set for yourself too! Visit Zooops Online 

Zooops Designer Adult Onesies-Classic American Flag Design.

Manicure Travel Kit
While you may not know what color nail polish to get, you can't go wrong with a really well made manicure travel kit. This one is from Crabtree and Evelyn, London and has everything she'll need to keep up her mani on the go.

Manicure Travel Set from Crabtree and Evelyn

A Mason Pearson Hairbrush & Rake Comb
An iconic, luxury hairbrush that Lady Diana was said to have kept in her handbag. Mason Pearson has been making these beautiful brushes in London, England since the 1800's. The natural boar hair bristles likewise clean the scalp and distribute sebum from the oil glands. The Mason Pearson Handy 100% Boar Bristle Brush below has 6 rings of stiff bristle tuffs and should last for many years. Likewise the Rake Comb is made of one piece and highly polished. Available at Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom as well as online. 

Mason Pearson Pure Bristle Brush, Rake Comb and Brush Cleaner

Salon Gift Certificates
Salons such as Christo Fifth Avenue offer many beauty services as well as hair care products to take home. If you know where we go, why not give a gift certificate for our favorite place?

A day at the salon! Christo himself of Christo Fifth Avenue

Our Favorite Store Gift Certificates
You most likely already know our favorite stores because we've probably dragged you to quite a few! Gift cards or certificates are a great way to let us pick something out that we'd like, be it shoes, jackets, dresses or tops which might otherwise be hard to size for us.

Store Gift Certificates make a great gift. Pineda Covalin - Soho, NYC

A Night In
Valentine's Day evening is often the busiest restaurant night of the year. Added to that, Valentine's Night falls on a SATURDAY this year. With crowds like that you can expect long waits and rushed service. Why not cook something yourself or grab some exotic take-away and bring it over? This way you both can enjoy the wine, chocolates and presents with a cozy dinner. Now THAT is a romantic Valentine's Day!

A night in. Asian Take-away!

A Sensual Massage
One of the best oils to use for massage is Sweet Almond Oil. It is light, nourishing and easily absorbed. This delicious blend by Sublime Beauty contains this plus: aloe oil, sesame oil, argan oil jojoba oil and vitamin E. Give the Mini Face Brush Set and Daily Body Oil together for the ultimate skin pampering treat. The perfect way to end (or start) the evening! Find both at SublimeBeautyShop.com

Going away for Valentine's Day Weekend? Pack this Natural Body Oil for the: bath and massage.

Godiva & Whitman Chocolates - Mine
South African Wines - Mine
Mason Pearson Cleaner Brush - Mine
Victoria's Secret & Donna Karen Lingerie Sets - Mine
Clothing, jewelry,fragrances and accessories c/o the designers so mentioned herewith.