I, like many resolutionaries out there, am on a clean-eating regimen to kick off the new year. And like everyone else with a resolution – or three – I will be vigilant for a solid two weeks before I slowly start to taper off and end up feeling depressed about my lack of resolve. So rather than subject myself to some overly-ambitious, extreme plan that’s bound to fail, how about taking small steps every day?
Whether or not you’re on a budget, coconut oil is one of those super ingredients that should always be stocked in your kitchen – and in your vanity. We’re going through a serious “fat does not make you fat” moment in nutrition, which is at the basis of this trend since coconut oil is rich lauric acid, a fatty acid (while it’s a saturated fat – aka the “bad” fat – it’s metabolized faster in the body than those found from animal sources). The same fatty properties that make it a healthful dietary addition also make it a near cure-all for beauty woes, along with the fact that it’s an anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial. Make sure, however, that you’re spending the few extra dollars to get raw, organic, virgin coconut oil.
If there’s one look that never gets old, it’s the healthy glow. Of course it’s best if that comes naturally, but it’s approaching the dead of winter and most of us are already pale as ghosts (I’ve been spending a great deal of time in Tel Aviv and without makeup, still look like a dead woman walking!). I swear by Clé de Peau Beauté Luminizing Face Enhancericon and Tom Ford Illuminating Primericon for enhancing my own complexion. If there are two products to splurge on consistently, these would be the two in my opinion, and I’ve found both to be universally flattering and effective. This natural beach beauty/soft ethereal glow look is always popular on the runways, and Spring 2016 was no exception, so I turned to Bluemercury district manager Emma Bruzzesi to get some more insight on how to elevate us all from “dead woman walking” status.
As someone who has very pale and sensitive skin, I would never go crazy with a DIY face mask. I stick with tried-and-true, natural ingredients like coconut oil (a great skin softener…side note: you can also use it to remove eye makeup!), egg (this helps fight sagging skin), honey (it has antibacterial properties, making it a good acne fighter), lemon juice (a natural astringent), and avocado (this boosts moisture). Come fall, pumpkin is also worth adding into the mix since it’s full of antioxidants and vitamins that help prevent wrinkles. Not only are these masks quick to whip up – and odds are they won’t even entail a trip to the supermarket – but they’re cheap and free of synthetic ingredients and chemicals. A simple face mask is likely to be less irritating than most commercial products. Here’s a look at some easy recipes to try now!
It’s that time of year when our bodies are being pushed to the limit, both mentally and physically. We are all crazy-busy between shopping, cooking, decorating, and maybe traveling. Add the endless parties, nice wines, and late nights, and who takes the real beating? Your skin! Then you need to look good all over again the next day, so what do you do? Booking a facial would be ideal, but let’s be serious: Squeezing in an appointment like that just isn’t feasible. Santa is the only who’s able to stop time around here.
Now is the best time of year to shop for beauty products; not only as gifts, but for yourself! Brands that ordinarily never discount offer value sets and limited edition gift sets this time of year, many of which sell out well before the holidays. Here’s a look at four favorites…