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The Great Give at Caesars Forum Shops!

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Blogger Event

It had all the makings of a disaster day – I split the back of my pencil skirt up to my butt trying to do a Rockettes-style high kick in the ā€˜infinity’ mirrors at our second stop, Donald J Pliner, I broke a nail (the horror!!), and the flu was somewhere in our group, but no one knew it! (even the person who had it!) Still? I had an amazing day – I always do with these girls, and how can shopping – especially at the Forum Shops – EVER be anything but awesome?! What follows is our awesome day, and while I’ll be talking about my favorites from our stops, I don’t think of it as a gift guide as much as I consider it a ā€˜Treat Yo’self’ guide. Better yet? When you shop at these stores (and several others) from Dec 1 until Dec 12, you’re also going to be helping give back to those in need! Read on to hear about my favorite things, and where a percentage of your purchases is going during the Forum Shops Great Give!

ANNE FONTAINE

A French & Brazilian designer known for her clean, crisp white shirts & amazing collars, Anne Fontaine has an abundance of amazing finds to gift yourself for the holidays (or your stylish loved ones!) I’ve been lusting after her collars for ages – they range from delicate and beautiful to slightly gothic and dark, which I love. There are gems, feathers, chain, flowers, and all sorts of amazing embellishments that make these collars so special, and they can really amp up a simple outfit.

Other favorites of mine from Anne Fontaine were this amazing velvet jacket, this ā€˜ruffled’ plaid look, and this brooch that pull double duty embellishing a shoe by simply clipping it on, or in a more traditional brooch application by pinning it on a dress, lapel, or shirt!

Last, if you’re looking for a gift that is a little lower in price, check out the printed totes, they come in three colors, fold into themselves to save space, and plant 6 trees when you buy one!

Anne Fontaine is donating a portion of each purchase to the Anne Fontaine foundation from Dec 1-12 at the Forum Shops location in Caesars Palace.

DONALD J PLINER

You guys know I’m no stranger to Donald Pliner shoes – I’ve posted on my FB more times than I can count! In the last few years, the brand has stepped up their style and has some seriously cute shoes! (I actually wore a pair of DJP ankle/calf boots to this shopping day!) We visited during a time of transition and got to see the best of fall and some of the Spring newness all at once! I have a few pairs from fall, but Spring brightened the store with neon and bright colors and fun sneakers, and there’s still more to come! I’m definitely going to need the white sneakers with the neon orange sprayed where the upper sole meets the side. I’m really digging the rainbow sole with the white and silver upper, too! So bright and fun! (and while I didn’t try them on, I bet they’re comfy too!)

Fall favorites from DJP that I don’t have yet are these adorable leopard spotted boots (head over to my pal Christie’s instagram for a shot of them in action!), and the velvet combat boots! (they also have patent glitter ones!) My only heartbreak is that my feet are too wide for the combat boots, so I’ll have to live vicariously through you gorgeous folks that snag a pair!

Did I mention that store manager Sarah whips up a tasty Bloody Mary? They were garnished with a caper berry, which I’ve never eaten before, and it was super yum! Bloody Mary might be the perfect drink – they’re like a salad in a glass – practically a health tonic, amiright?!

Donald J Pliner is donating a portion of each purchase to the American Cancer Society from Dec 1-12 at the Forum Shops location in Caesars Palace.

MULBERRY

Mulberry England is actually a brand I didn’t know very much about – my only experience with it is my previously mentioned friend Christie posting about it on her blog and Instagram. You might also have noticed that England’s newest favorite Royal, Megan Markle, has been spotted carrying Mulberry bags! (and we all know about the Megan Markle effect, right?)

Mulberry is definitely not a new brand, but it’s gained popularity in recent years because of the royals favoring the brand to other luxury bag designers. It’s delightfully British, through and through, but in a regal, refined way. You can find simple, but unique designs, a couple twists (no pun intended) on their signature Postman’s lock.

I feel like while they definitely stay true to their aesthetic, they have different colors, textures, and styles to satisfy a range of people! I particularly loved the glitter bags from fall and the new bright colors for spring! Croc-embossed leather and amazing leather are trademarks that you’ll see throughout their collections. I also couldn’t resist touching these fab feather clutches – would you carry one?

I ended up grabbing a pair of the most amazing sunglasses – as soon as I put them on, I knew I needed them in my life (and collection). They give serious steampunk vibes while still looking posh. I adore the color, too – such a great color for my gingerness. (and they match my lipstick – SCORE!)

Mulberry is donating a portion of each purchase to the Public Education Foundation from Dec 1-12 at the Forum Shops location in Caesars Palace.

MONTBLANC

I’m not sure if any of you know this about me, but I LOVE writing with fountain pens – I bought my first ā€˜fancy’ fountain pen in early 2012 after trying a cheap-o one and loving how writing with it felt. It was the Sailor Chalana, and coming in around $200, it was definitely a splurge for a pen for me. I don’t know, I feel like there is just something so romantic about writing in real ink, in refilling the pen, having ink stains on your writing hand. Maybe I’m a weirdo, but Montblanc existing is proof I’m not!

Montblanc is said to have been the inventor of the modern fountain pen – they created it to make a pen that could travel – one that could be used anywhere, not simply at a desk with a need to be repeatedly dipped in an inkwell. While Montblanc pens are sadly a bit out of my budget (they range in price from about $600 to well over $1,000), the brand does offer some other, more modern options in the stationery tech realm (is that a real category or did I make it up?). I got to try out their new Augmented Paper, which is a leather portfolio that contains a lined notebook and their StarWalker ballpoint, which allows you to take notes or doodle on actual paper, and then you simply push a button and it transmits to your smart device. Once you have it on your device, you can alter, add color, or even draw/write additional stuff within the Montblanc Hub app!

Another amazing low-tech item they’re currently offering is perfect for that Marilyn lover in your life – they have a White journal with Marilyn’s lip print in her signature red (Max Factor Ruby Tuesday!) – and it even has her beauty mark! In addition, they’ve designed a sleek red pen (inspired by her favorite Ferragamo heels) in a matching red!

Montblanc is donating a portion of each purchase to St. Jude’s from Dec 1-12 at the Forum Shops location in Caesars Palace.

PANDORA

I’m sure you’ve all heard of Pandora, the company that specializes in charm bracelets that you can continually add to over time (which makes them a perfect gift to yourself or others, and a great way to commemorate a milestone or life experience).

This Christmas, they’ve released a fun collaboration with the Rockettes (ironically, we went here AFTER I destroyed my skirt attempting to do Rockette-style chorus line kicks.) Included in the collection is a swirled enamel and silver-tone tree ornament that opens to reveal a swirled white and sparkly charm to add to your bracelet!

Pandora is donating a portion of each purchase to Opportunity Village from Dec 1-12 at the Forum Shops location in Caesars Palace.

THE PALM

What goes best after a day of shopping? How about a delicious meal? We found ours at The Palm restaurant, which is located right near the entrance to the Forum Shops from Caesars Palace. Walking in, we were greeted by 4 handsome centurions who were guarding our private dining room! Talk about an appetizer! The tastiest part of the meal was yet to come though!

I started with a Caesar salad (when in Rome, right?) Fun fact: the caesar salad was invented in Tijuana, and not in Rome at all!! Anyway, enough with the history lesson, this salad was one of the best caesars I’ve had in a long time. I needed a salad fix… BAD.

For our main, we had the choice of Chicken Parmesan, Salmon, Swordfish, Filet medallions, or their Chairman’s Reserve NY Strip, which is what I chose. Topped with shallot butter (my FAVE) and gremolata-seasoned shoestring potatoes, and cooked to absolute perfection, it seriously melted in my mouth. GOD I LOVE STEAK. Seriously, I don’t know how people live on vegetables alone. Alongside the entrees, dishes of their half & half (half cottage fries and half onion straws) and steamed veggies were served family-style. Lets just say the half & half went fast – those onions were AMAZING.

Now, no dinner is truly complete without dessert (says the diabetic – but I DO eat dessert from time to time, I’m only human!), and we had the option of Key Lime pie, New York cheesecake (my choice!), or flourless chocolate cake. Topped with a perfectly tart raspberry sauce, it was just what I needed to finish things off. Well, that and another glass of my cabernet. šŸ˜€

Even The Palm restaurant is getting in on the Great Give action, they’re donating a portion of each purchase to Unshakeable, which is a non-profit that helps woman out of a dangerous or hard time in their life. They’re giving from Dec 1-12 at the Forum Shops location in Caesars Palace.

THE GREAT GIVE

Other stores at the Forum Shops donating during the Great Give are:

Brighton Collectibles, donating to Opportunity Village
Carmine’s NYC Family Style Italian Restaurant, donating to St. Judes
Kalifano, donating to Camp Anytown
Magical Memories Dimensions Art Gallery, donating to Make a Wish
Magical Memories featuring Disney fine art, donating to Make a Wish
Stuart Weitzman, donating to Las Veg Philharmonic Guild
Ted Baker, donating to Opportunity Village

So tell me, if you were a store in the Forum Shops, what organization would YOU donate to? Mine would be the Michael J. Fox Foundation – did you know that 88 cents of every dollar actually goes to research?


Thank you to The Forum Shops, along with Anne Fontaine, Donald J Pliner, Mulberry, Montblanc, Pandora, and The Palm restaurant for an amazing day, I can’tĀ wait to come back and shop with you again!

How Much Sunscreen to Use on Your Face?

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Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in our skincare routine. We slather it on our bodies before heading out for a day at the beach, but what about our faces? The skin on our face needs special attention and care.

When it comes to safeguarding our faces, the application of sunscreen is crucial, but do you know exactly how much sunscreen to use on your face?

It’s important to apply enough to protect your skin, but using too much or the wrong type can also lead to skin irritation. Let Kate Somerville walk you through the ins and outs of facial sunscreen application and the proper amount to use for optimal protection.

Mastering Sunscreen Application

Ensuring thorough coverage without overdoing it is key to maintaining skin health and maximizing sun protection. Here are essential tips to achieve just that:

  • Measure the Right Amount: A common guideline is to use approximately two finger lengths of sunscreen to cover your face and neck adequately. This ensures you apply enough product to achieve the protection stated on the sunscreen label.
  • Apply Evenly: Start by dotting sunscreen on your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and neck. Then, using gentle, upward motions, blend the sunscreen smoothly and evenly. Make sure to cover all exposed areas, including the hairline, jawline, and the tops of your ears.
  • Layer It Right: If you use multiple skincare products in the morning, sunscreen should be the last step in your routine before applying makeup. Allow any moisturizers or serums to fully absorb into your skin before you apply sunscreen to ensure it forms an effective barrier against UV rays.
  • Reapply Regularly: Sunscreen isn’t just a one-and-done deal in the morning. For continuous protection, reapply every two hours, or immediately after sweating, swimming, or towel drying. Using a setting spray with SPF can also help top up your face’s UV defense without disturbing makeup.

Why Facial Sunscreen is Important

The sun emits harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, categorized as UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing premature aging, while UVB rays primarily lead to sunburn. Sun protection acts as a barrier that absorbs or reflects these harmful UV rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin and causing damage.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Choosing the right sunscreen will provide effective protection while suiting your skin type and lifestyle needs. Opt for broad-spectrum sunscreens, which shield against both UVA and UVB rays, to ensure comprehensive coverage. Additionally, consider your daily activities. If you spend a lot of time outdoors or in the water, look for water-resistant formulas that maintain their efficacy as you sweat or swim.

With many benefits and easy application, HydraKate Illuminating SPF 50+ Drops stand out as a clear choice for sun protection. This mineral-based sunscreen features an impressive 24.5% concentration of Non-Nano Zinc Oxide, one of the highest levels available on the market. Zinc oxide in sunscreen ensures superior defense against the sun’s damaging rays, but what makes our SPF drops special is that they don’t leave any white cast, blending seamlessly into the skin for a clear, radiant finish.

Beyond mere sun protection, HydraKate Illuminating SPF 50+ Drops are meant to be part of your skincare routine. The formula of the SPF drops includes ectoin, a powerful ingredient known for supporting long-term skin health. Ectoin in skincare helps to fortify the skin’s barrier, safeguard against urban pollution, and maintain hydration levels, effectively contributing to a healthier, more resilient complexion.

Incorporating SPF drops into your daily skincare routine enhances skin quality with its moisturizing and illuminating properties of ectoin and zinc oxide. Our formula is engineered to hydrate, illuminate, and refine skin texture, leaving your skin looking luminous and evenly toned. By choosing a product that combines effective sun defense with skin health benefits, you’re taking a proactive step towards maintaining youthful, healthy skin in the face of everyday environmental challenges.

Types of Sunscreen

When it comes to sunscreen, chemical and mineral sunscreen are the two main types. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat, while mineral sunscreens create a protective barrier that reflects the sun’s rays away from your skin. For those with sensitive skin or a preference for natural ingredients, mineral sunscreens, often containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are an excellent choice. On the other hand, chemical sunscreens offer a lightweight and transparent option for easy everyday wear.

So, when choosing between mineral vs chemical sunscreenconsider your skin type and preferences to ensure you’re getting the right protection for your needs.

What SPF to Choose

You’ve seen the letters SPF followed by a number on every sunscreen product, but what do you need to know about SPF? SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, indicates the level of protection a sunscreen offers against UVB rays. As we mentioned earlier, UVB rays are mainly responsible for causing sunburns. Dermatologists generally recommend using an SPF of 30 or higher for daily use.

For extended outdoor activities, such as beach days or hiking, consider using SPF 50 or above to safeguard your skin against prolonged UV exposure. Remember, sunscreen is not just for sunny days. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still penetrate through the clouds. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen on your face every day, regardless of the weather.

It’s important to understand that no sunscreen provides 100% protection, regardless of the SPF. The key lies in proper application and reapplication.

Optimizing Sunscreen Use

Getting the most out of your sunscreen not only includes choosing the right product but also integrating it into your routine effectively. This section will guide you through how to incorporate sunscreen effectively into your skincare routine, ensuring that your skin reaps the full spectrum of benefits from sun protection. Additionally, we will detail how much sunscreen you should be using to maintain optimal protection throughout the day, helping you prevent common mistakes that can lead to inadequate coverage.

Incorporating Sunscreen into Your Skincare Routine

Wondering if sunscreen helps acnesigns of aging, hyperpigmentation, dark spots, etc? The answer to all of these is yes! Sunscreen offers a variety of benefits for the skin and incorporating it into your routine can work wonders. Here’s how to add sunscreen to your skincare routine:

  • Cleansing: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and impurities from your skin. The DeliKateĀ® Soothing Cleanser is a great option, especially for sensitive skin.
  • Toning: Use a toner to balance your skin’s pH levels and prepare it for the next steps.
  • Serums and Moisturizers: Apply any serums or moisturizers you typically use. Wait a few minutes for them to absorb. If you’re looking to add a serum to your skincare routine, opt for a gentle yet effective one like the DeliKateĀ® Recovery Serum that aids stressed skin and restores the skin’s protective barrier.
  • Sunscreen: Apply the recommended amount of sunscreen to your face, neck, and any exposed areas.
  • Makeup: If you wear makeup, apply it after the sunscreen has fully absorbed. Looking for extra protection, use the UncompliKated SPF 50 Setting Spray after applying makeup.
  • Reapplication: Throughout the day, remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours or as needed, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.

The Correct Amount of Sunscreen to Use

Using the right amount of sunscreen is as important as selecting the correct SPF. Most people apply far less sunscreen than necessary, which can lessen its protective effects. When it comes to applying sunscreen on your face, the recommended amount is around 1⁄4 teaspoon. This may not seem like much, but applying enough is important to get adequate coverage. An alternative method to determine how much sunscreen you need is the two-finger rule. Squeeze out enough sunscreen to cover the length of two fingers.

A general rule is to cover all areas of exposed skin, including your ears, neck, and dƩcolletage.

If you’re using a spray sunscreen, make sure to apply it generously to ensure complete coverage. It’s also recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.

Achieving Full Sun Protection

Achieving full sun protection involves more than just applying sunscreen; it’s about making sun protection a regular part of your daily routine. Protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves can keep you out of harm’s way. Reapplication of sunscreen is also just as important as putting it on before you head out for the day. These combined efforts will help defend you against harmful UV rays, reducing your risk of sun damage and skin-related health issues.

Sun Protection for Healthy Skin

Among the various methods of sun protection, applying sunscreen is undoubtedly one of the most effective. However, the effectiveness of sunscreen largely depends on using the right amount, besides choosing the right type and SPF. Sun protection is the cornerstone of healthy, protected, and glowing skin.

When it comes to sun protection, don’t forget to also seek out shaded areas during the peak sun hours, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, when the sun’s radiation is at its strongest. If you wear makeup, consider using products that have built-in SPF to provide an additional protective barrier.

Remember, taking care of your skin is not just a seasonal concern but a year-round commitment. Prioritize your skin’s health, your skin will thank you for it!

Reapplication and Coverage Tips

To maintain the effectiveness of your sunscreen throughout the day, remember to reapply! Sunscreen can wear off due to sweat, water, or simply the passage of time, making regular touch-ups essential for continued protection.

  • Reapply Regularly: As a general rule, reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you are outdoors. However, if you’re swimming, sweating, or towel-drying, you might need to apply more frequently. A handy tip is to set a reminder on your phone as a prompt to reapply.
  • Ensure Complete Coverage: When reapplying, don’t overlook areas like the tops of your feet, back of the neck, and the ears, which are often missed but still vulnerable to UV damage. For the face, a mineral-based powder sunscreen can be a convenient reapplication option over makeup.
  • Use Adequate Amounts: Make sure to use enough sunscreen to cover all exposed skin. Keep the two-finger rule in mind as you reapply to get the most protection out of your chosen product without overdoing it.

Embracing these reapplication and coverage tips will help you achieve comprehensive sun protection, keeping your skin healthy and shielded against the premature aging effects of sun exposure.

We hope this guide to how much SPF for face protection has illuminated a sure path to staying safe while basking in the sun.

Augustinus Bader Luxury Gift Guide 2023

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Augustinus Bader 2023 Holiday sets are out now! Give the gift of youthful skin with these Augustinus Bader choices. With their patented formula to help regenerate the skin, they will be grateful for these gift choices.

Shop from Augustinus Bader luxury beauty line and pamper yourself with their rich creams, luxurious oils and high end haircare products. These splurge worthy gifts are perfect for the luxury lover in your life. Be sure to get something for yourself too.

Augustinus Bader Luxury Skincare Gift Guide

Shop everythingĀ  here: https://shopmy.us/collections/304976

Augustinus Bader the Rich Cream:

Augustinus Bader the Cream:

Augustinus Bader the Face Oil:

Augustinus Bader the Body Cream:

Augustinus Bader the Lip Balm:

Augustinus Bader the Cream Cleansing Gel:

Augustinus Bader the Cleansing Balm:

Augustinus Bader the Essence Exfoliating Toner:

Augustinus Bader the Eye Cream:

Augustinus Bader the Serum:

Augustinus Bader the Eye Patches:

Augustinus Bader the Ultimate Soothing Cream:

Augustinus Bader the Hand Treatment:

Augustinus Bader the Body Oil:

https://go.shopmy.us/p-2710923

Augustinus Bader the Face Cream Mask:

Augustine Bader the Retinol Serum:

Augustinus Bader the Light Cream:

Augustinus Bader the Starter Kit with the Rich Cream:

Augustinus Bader the Foaming Cleanser:

Augustinus Bader the Winter Recovery Kit:

Augustinus Bader the Skin Renewal System:

Augustinus Bader the Body Cleanser:

Augustinus Bader the Bader Ritual:

Augustinus Bader the Hero Face Hydrators:

Shop more of my favorite products here: https://shopmy.us/lyfestilebeauty

Augustinus Bader Hair Care Luxury Gift guide

Items marked with an asterisk were gifted. As always, all my reviews are my own. This post contains affiliate links. This means that I will make a commission on any purchase you make when you click on one of my links.

New Products at skinfoĀ®

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Love to stay up-to-date on the latest in skincare? Here is a highlight of what’s new at skinfoĀ®!

SEENā„¢ Fragrance-Free Shampoo ($29, 8.6 oz) and SEENā„¢ Fragrance-Free Conditioner ($26, 8.6 oz) are a gentle shampoo and conditioner duo that will not clog pores. Clinical trials showed that hair shedding was reduced by 44% when used together. They will leave the scalp and hair feeling clean and healthy.

Neocutis® Journée Firm ($88, 15ml) ($198, 50ml) is the ultimate anti-aging day cream. Users of Neocutis® Journée or Neocutis® MicroDay will love this new and improved formula that combines the technologies of the two. Growth factors and Proprietary Peptides help nourish your collagen and elastin, smoothing and tightening the skin. Hyaluronic Acid restores moisture, while Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide protect skin from harmful UVB and UVA radiation.

Colorescience SunforgettableĀ® Total Protectionā„¢ Color Balm SPF 50 ($32, 0.32 oz) provides sun protection while giving your lips and cheeks a pop of color! It will keep skin hydrated while providing antioxidants for environmental protection as well as Zinc Oxide for UVA/UVB protection. The color Blush is nude with undertones of pink for a natural look. Berry is a raspberry hue for more vibrancy.

SkinMedicaĀ® Firm & Tone Body Lotion ($165, 6 oz) improves the appearance of crepey and sagging skin while smoothing out uneven skin texture. Green microalgae and shitake mushroom extract support collagen and elastin, while lemon balm extract renews skin cells. This lotion also contains antioxidants to prevent free-radical damage. Skin will appear firmer over time.

SkinCeuticalsĀ® HA Intensifier ($106, 1 oz) delivers a high concentration of Hyaluronic Acid to the skin to support hydration and firmness. Skin texture will improve, including the appearance of crow’s feet, marionette lines, and nasolabial folds. HA Intensifier can also enhance the results of dermal fillers.

AvĆØne RetrinAL Advanced Correcting Serum ($78, 1 oz) contains bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative, which helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Niacinamide strengthens the skin barrier, keeping skin hydrated all day long. Skin tone will appear brighter and more radiant. This serum is lightweight and fast-absorbing and does not cause irritation.

AlastinĀ® A-Luminate Brightening Serumā„¢ ($168, 1.7 oz) is a powerful non-hydroquinone, non-retinol serum that targets hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and melasma. It helps to even and brighten skin tone without drying or irritating the area. It also reduces redness associated with hyperpigmentation, including post-inflammatory redness. Powerful antioxidants help prevent further discoloration.

Visit the “new arrivals” section on skinfo.com for a full list of all our new products!

Benefits and How To Apply

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When you think of hair oils that help promote healthy hair, baobab oil probably isn’t the first one that comes to mind. But baobab oil is a hidden gem that is slowly becoming the hair hack you never knew that you needed.

Baobab oil doubles as the perfect moisturizer for both your hair and skin. Originating in tropical Africa, it’s a plant-based oil filled with healthy nutrients like omega fatty acids (such as linoleic acid, which helps to seal in the moisture in your hair), antioxidants, vitamins A, C, D, E and F. It has a plethora of benefits for your hair including moisturizing extremely dry hair, smoothing out frizzy hair and healing damaged hair and so much more.

Intrigued? Keep reading to learn why baobab oil is a must-have in your hair product stash.

What are the benefits of baobab oil?

#1: It moisturizes dry hair

If you have extremely dry, damaged hair, baobab oil will give you the burst of hydration that your hair so desperately craves. It’s moisturizing properties work its way through every inch of your scalp, which helps to heal your damaged hair follicles. The oil is composed of omega fatty acids three, six and nine, which make it one of the most hydrating oils on the market. Baobab oil works great for those with dry hair and iis a definite must-have for those with type 3 or type 4 hair which tends to be drier than other hair types.

#2: It helps to detangle

Baobab oil is also a great detangling agent. It has an acid profile which consists of one-third saturated fats, one-third monounsaturated fats, and one-third polyunsaturated fats. When these fats penetrate your hair cuticles, they separate any knots and pieces that may be stuck together, leaving your hair soft and smooth. OurĀ wide tooth Cloud CombĀ can help you get rid of knots and tangles.

#3: It repairs itchy, flaky scalps

Baobab oil is also a great product to repair an itchy, flaky scalp or dandruff. If left untreated your scalp can become a host for harmful bacterias that will lead to excessive hair loss, but regularly using baobab oil will help to stop harmful bacteria dead in its tracks. It’s anti-inflammatory properties also help to combat an irritated scalp. Baobab oil is a perfect fit for those who may have skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, which can often inflame the scalp.

It protects your hair (and skin) from pollution and Ultraviolet rays
Let’s face it – most of our environments are in full-on crisis mode. But baobab oil provides your hair with an extra layer of protection for both your hair and skin. It also has insulation properties that help protect your hair from extremely cold or warm temperatures.

baobab oil hair treatment

#4: It doesn’t weigh down your hair

Have you ever applied oil to your hair only to realize that it made your hair look greasy and weighed down? Baobab oil does the complete opposite. It provides a blast of moisture to your hair, leaving you with a soft and silky finish that looks lightweight and natural.

#5: It’s great for promoting hair growth

Baobab oil contains an extraordinary amount of collagen, which helps to build up keratin proteins in your hair which is the key to hair growth. Whether you can’t seem to grow your hair past a certain length or you’ve recently undergone a ā€œbig chop,ā€ baobab oil will grow out your tresses in no time. If you’re looking to expedite the growth process, use a length repairing hair mask at least once a week.

#6: It helps to strengthen your hair

If you have weak and brittle hair strands, especially due to chemical damage, baobab oil can help strengthen and rejuvenate your hair strands. Because it’s so rich in vitamins and nutrients, it helps to replenish your hair cells and will not only strengthen your hair, but as we mentioned earlier, will also promote hair growth.

#7: It’s great for your skin

Because it’s so rich in collagen, baobab oil has great anti-aging properties that can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Not only is the vitamin C it contains great for your hair, but it also is great for your skin. It helps to reduce dark spots and hyperpigmentation that is often caused by acne scars. It also helps to balance the production of the natural oils that your skin produces. This is a great benefit because excessively oily skin can often lead to severe acne breakouts.

#8: It’s the perfect serum for your eyes

Whether it’s hereditary or caused by a lack of sleep, many of us suffer from dark undereye circles, puffy eyes and bags. Baobab oil helps to brighten and depuff your under eye area.

#9: It strengthens your immune system
Because our bodies can’t naturally produce Vitamin C, eating baobab fruit can help to fulfill one-third of the recommended Vitamin C intake.

How do you apply baobab oil to hair?

Baobab oil can be applied to your hair in a number of different ways either as a pre-shampoo treatment, with other hair oils, a conditioning treatment or a leave-in cream.

hair oil treatment

Pre-Shampoo Treatment

You can use baobab oil as a pre-shampoo (also known as pre-poo) treatment to your hair. Those who have curly hair textures know that a good pre-shampoo treatment can help to cut your hair wash time in half.

We loved this ingredient so much we ended up adding it to our Luminous Hair Oil Treatment which contains a blend of baobab oil, coconut oil and kukui nut oil to add some extra shine.

To apply baobab oil as a pre-shampoo treatment, warm it up in a bowl for approximately 30 seconds in the microwave. Once ready, apply the warmed oil from root to tip. As you would do with a normal pre-shampoo treatment, you can leave it on your hair for up to 30 minutes, throw on a shower cap to add some heat to your hair and seal in the product then rinse it out and proceed with your regular shampoo routine.

If you’re looking for extreme moisture, you can also leave the oil on overnight, apply a headwrap for protection then wash it out and shampoo as normal in the morning. We recommend using a charcoal detox shampoo to give your hair a solid, clarifying cleanse.

Baobab Oil + Coconut Oil Treatment

Coconut oil is arguably the veteran of all hair and skin oils. Together baobab oil and coconut oil make the most beautiful luminous shine hair oil that your hair will thank you for later. To achieve these amazing results, mix one-third coconut oil with one-third baobab oil in a bowl then warm it up for approximately 30 seconds just as we recommended for the pre-shampoo treatment. Next you’ll want to divide your hair into four sections (our Tortoise clips are perfect for this!) and apply the baobab and coconut oil mixture onto your hair from root to tip. Leave the mixture on your hair for no longer than 45 minutes then rinse it out, shampoo then style your hair as usual with your favorite pair of hair extensions.

Baobab Oil Conditioner Treatment

Because of its potent moisturizing properties, baobab oil can also be used as a conditioner. In lieu of your usual conditioner, apply baobab oil to your hair, letting it set for about 10 minutes then rinsing it out. You can also mix your favorite high gloss smoothing conditioner with about a quarter of baobab oil for soft bouncy locks.

Baobab Oil + Leave-In Cream

So far we’ve shown you how you can apply and rinse off baobab oil to provide a blast of moisture to your hair. But did you know you can also apply baobab oil after washing and conditioning your hair? Baobab oil is a great mixing agent to add to leave-in conditioning treatments then applied to either damp or dry hair. Mix just about one part baobab oil with four parts leave-in conditioner then apply the mixture to your freshly washed hair then style as usual for beautiful silky locks.

hydrated hair

Why do you need baobab oil in your hair product collection?

Hair care is self care and there’s no better way of taking care of your hair than making sure it’s hydrated, healthy and damage free. While you may have previously slept on baobab oil, we’re happy to open your eyes to a beauty product we’re sure will be a mainstay in your hair routine.

Looking for more hair advice and styling tips? Subscribe to our newsletter to step up your hair game.

Written by Ashley Inkumsah

6 Bad Style Habits You Need To Break ASAP

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6 Bad Style Habits You Need To Break ASAP

Are you guilty of bad style habits holding you back from being the best-dressed version of yourself? Today is your lucky day because I’m here to help you break those habits ASAP!

First on the list is mindless shopping. We’ve all been there, buying clothes when bored or without a purpose. But this bad habit can be expensive and wasteful. So let’s take a cue from the guys and start shopping with intention. Make a list of what you need and prioritize your purchases. Trust me; it will save money and help you wear more of what’s already in your closet.

Next up is buying the same things over and over again. I’m guilty of this one myself. It’s so easy to get stuck in a style rut and buy the same clothes. But let’s be real; no one wants to be a cartoon character with a closet full of the same thing. So, let’s break this bad habit and try new styles and silhouettes.

The third bad style habit is not taking care of your clothes. It’s easy to get lazy and not want to go to the dry cleaners or do laundry, but this bad habit can ruin your clothes and make you look sloppy. So, take the time to properly care for your clothes, whether at the dry cleaners or using an at-home kit.

Moving on to bad habit number four, wearing clothes that don’t fit properly. We’ve all been guilty of this one, holding onto clothes that are too small or too big, hoping we’ll fit into them someday. But the truth is, ill-fitting clothes can make you look messy and unpolished. So, let’s break this habit and invest in clothes that fit us properly.

Bad habit number five is not experimenting with new styles. It’s easy to get stuck in a style rut and wear the same thing repeatedly, but trying new things can be fun and refreshing. So, let’s break this habit and start experimenting with new styles, colors, and silhouettes.

Last but not least, bad habit number six is not wearing what you already have. It’s so easy to get caught up in the cycle of wanting something new, but we often forget what we already have in our closets. So, let’s break this habit and start wearing what we already have. Mix and match pieces to create new outfits; don’t be afraid to wear something again.

So, there you have six bad style habits you need to break ASAP. Let’s commit to breaking these habits and becoming the best-dressed version of ourselves. And if you’re an aspiring personal stylist, don’t forget to download my free ebook to learn industry secrets and turn your dream job into a reality.


Skin Benefits of Honey

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Ingredient:

Honey

Why Do We Love Honey?

Raw honey is a simple yet luxurious ingredient. This golden substance is rich in pollen, propolis, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants—all of which contribute to its deeply soothing and reparative qualities for the skin.

What’s the History of Honey?

Honey has a global story stretching back more than 20,000 years. Early humans across Africa, Asia, Australia, and Europe were harvesting wild honey from nests long before organized agriculture existed. About 9,000 years ago, civilizations began domesticating bees, developing hives to harvest honey without harming the colony.

Throughout history, honey has been used to sweeten food, heal wounds, and nourish the skin. In ancient Greece, it was often combined with olive oil for cosmetic use. In ancient China, honey and turmeric masks were popular among women of the court to plump and hydrate the skin.

What Are the Skin Benefits of Honey?

  • Hydration: Honey is a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin and increases water retention.

  • Microcirculation: It encourages circulation in the outer layers of the skin, which may support nutrient delivery.

  • Antibacterial Action: Especially in manuka honey, this helps reduce acne-causing bacteria.

  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: Honey can calm swelling and redness in conditions like eczema and dermatitis.

  • Antioxidant Protection: Minimally processed, organic honey—especially darker varieties—is rich in antioxidants that help support skin elasticity and resilience.

How Do I Use Honey in My Skincare Routine?

You can use high-quality, organic honey as:

If sticky fingers aren’t your thing, our products make it easy to enjoy the benefits without the mess. Our Lip Repair, made with manuka honey, has earned a cult following for how dramatically it helps heal dry, chapped lips overnight. And our Detox Exfoliating Mask uses powdered honey to capture the healing benefits in a dry format that you rehydrate with warm water before each use.

What Are the Health Benefits of Honey?

Honey occupies a rare space between traditional and modern medicine. It continues to be studied for its role in supporting wound healing, treating moderate burns, and calming inflammatory skin conditions. Many of these uses have been passed down across cultures for centuries and are now being validated in clinical settings with medical-grade honey.

Further research is still needed to understand the full extent of honey’s therapeutic value, but it remains one of the most fascinating overlaps between natural tradition and modern science.

Fun Facts About Honey

  • Honey never goes bad. Archaeologists have discovered 3,000-year-old jars of edible honey in Egyptian tombs.

  • Bees must visit about 2 million flowers to produce a single pound of honey.

  • One hive can hold 30,000–60,000 bees and yield up to 100 pounds of honey annually.

  • Bees ā€œdanceā€ to share directions to food sources.

  • Osmia bees (yep, our namesake!) are from the Osmia genus—solitary, mud-nesting bees known for their powerful pollination abilities. Osmia avosetta even uses flower petals to build nests (it’s worth googling for the photos).

With love and bee-utiful golden honey,


The information contained in this post is for educational interest only. This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment of any physical or mental illness, disease, or skin conditions.

Resources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7036894/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7700082/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S168411821500033X?via%3Dihub

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5661189/

When to use L+ and M Specialty Eyelash Curl — EBLLashes

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Lash artists have a variety of different curls to choose from when doing eyelash extensions. Although C and CC Curl are the most popular curls to use currently there are other options out there. Today we are going to talk about L+ lash curl and M Lash curl and when you may use them. Some people are scared to use different curls, but we promise you will love them!

Let’s talk about L+ and how you can use it in your lash sets. L+ has a straight base. A straight base is great for those with straight natural lashes. When you match a straight base lash extension with a straight natural lash you will have great retention. If you think of it the two bases will have a greater surface area to meet join and come together, which will result in better retention. If you were to put a CC or a D curl lash extension on a straight natural lash it would have a greater chance of popping off rather than holding on. After the straight base the L= curl is comparable to a CC Curl eyelash extension. If someone has deep set eyes an L+ is also a great option for them because that extensions straight base allows the extension to come out from under that deep set eye and be seen! Once it is seen it is a pretty CC Curl look. For that reason L+ blends seamlessly with a CC Curl. When doing an L+ Curl set we recommend to use a CC Curl on the inner of the eye for a bit of a softer look. L+Ā is a great option for clients with straight natural lashes, downward pointing lashes, deep set eyes, or someone that simply wants curl to their natural lashes. Purchase L+ Curl here.

Let’s dive into M Curl lashes and when you would use them. M curl lash extensions feature a straight base as well, making them also great to use on clients that have straight natural lashes. They have a soft bend and then curl upward. There is no other curl that is comparable to the M curl which is why we call it a specialty curl. M curl can give a client great lift to their eyes. M curl is great for those that want lift and have straight natural lashes. M curl is a very pretty curl and we promise you won’t regret it! Shop M Curl lashes here.

Both L+ and M Curl lashes come in single and mixed trays as well as classic and volume lashes!

Have questions or what to chat? Send us an email hello@ebllashes.com

COACH SS19 Trunk Show – The Daily Nail

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Press DiscountĀ Ā Press Gift

We carry it, our mothers carried it, our grandmothers carried it, but COACH isn’t your grandmother’s brand anymore. With increasingly badass ready-to-wear collections and killer collaborations like The Viper Room and Disney, COACH has won over generations of all ages. Read on to see key pieces from the SS19 collection and the fun and fabulous Disney collaboration!

First things first. DISNEY! You guys know I’m a huge Disney dork, so I knew that I needed to check out this limited edition capsule! With old favorites like Bambi and 101 Dalmatians, it’s sure to capture the hearts (and wallets) of my generation! From bold, in your face interpretations to subtle floral prairie prints, there truly is something for everyone! (If only they’d come out with some Genie pieces, then I’d be SO set!)

Dumbo definitely takes center stage (big surprise with the latest live action Disney flick, right?!), but you’ll also see favorites from The Aristocrats, Peter Pan, 101 Dalmations, and Bambi!

Check out some of my favorite pieces!

Disney isn’t the only thing up their sleeve, COACH is seriously flirting with punk rock and mixing in some prairie for good measure! You’ll find feminine prairie skirts and prints, sweet white dresses with eyelet embroidery edged up with studs, patchwork, moto jackets, and some totally badass studded boots that this ginger blogger wants SO BAD.

With several COACH pieces in my collection (from shirts to combat boots to everything in between), I’m definitely not immune to COACH’s charms; I barely set foot into the boutique in Caesars Palace Forum Shops when my eyes fell upon THE most PERFECT bone white leather moto jacket. Seriously, I swear my eyes twinkled and I think I heard a love song.

Dare I try it on? DARE I?! I dared, and I haven’t taken it off since. It’s nothing short of perfection, a buttery mix of perfect supple leather, rockstar badassery, and a hint of western sensibility with a bit of a tassel just above the cuff.

My rationalizations:

1. Moto jackets never go out of style
2. The second I slipped it on I instantly felt immeasurably cool
3. I didn’t have a white moto jacket yet.
4. TREAT YO’SELF.

Lindsay’s (of The Nomis Niche) rationalization:

1. You work in an office, right? It gets cold in the summer, you’ll be able to wear it all year!

Obviously all the rationalizations worked, and I added it to my collection, and honestly, I don’t regret it for a second! It truly is the most beautiful jacket, both masculine and feminine in its styling – perfect for someone like me who likes to change up her look!

I mean, come on, right?! Ā It’s everything and then some.

Of course, they still have some amazing bags for fashionistas that lean towards the more classically COACH, but with a twist. Wallets and handbags dipped in ombre color ways adorned the displays, modernizing classic silhouettes and drawing my eye! The ombre stripe crossbody is AMAZING, and also comes in a bone leather with a pink ombre! (Though the black is much more my speed!)

OK. so you’ve chosen your bag, your wallet, your luggage tag, what now?

My favorite thing about the COACH boutiques is that you can really make something your own – they offer on-site personalization with literally hundreds of embossings that you can choose from! There is just something about personalization – it makes something feel truly special, and the amazing team at COACH was kind enough to put up with all of our requests for hangtags, pouches, etc.

I’m absolutely in LOVE with my new little pouch – it’s the perfect way to help me organize my handbag, and I was able to have it heat embossed with #TDN and some sparkly red lips – it’s ridiculously cute, and I give you permission to be jealous. 😜 (But why be jealous when you can just get your own?! It’s easy, fast, and oh-so-worth-it!)

Loved what you saw? You can find the amazing pieces in this post at COACH Forum Shops for a limited time, and certain pieces are available online at coach.com!

Disclosure: A discount was provided for the purchase of goods at this event, but all opinions (and credit card bills šŸ˜‚) are my own.

USDA Organic Certified – HollyBeth Organics Luxury Skin Care

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Being USDA Organic Certified is something we are quite proud of. As a small company being certified for 15 years is no small task. The annual audit always makes me nervous as rules change all the time, not to mention the financial investment. So sometimes I ask myself, is it worth it? Let’s look at what this entails:

Organics

Did you know that to have ā€œorganicsā€ in the name of your company all the products you sell must be USDA Organic Certified? Yes the National Organic Program actually owns the word. You could also be Ecocert certified, a European certification process that is less stringent and also ingredients that are manmade.

Process

It is not an easy process to be certified, we are audited annually. This audit isĀ intensive and exhausting. This involves for example, tracing back each ingredient used in each product and cleaning logs.

Farming

For an ingredient to qualify as USDA Organic, regulation begins at the grower. Just like food, essential oils are agricultural products, which means that growing, harvesting and distillation must all meet government regulations. The actual farms, as well as the processing facilities, must be certified, and not just the final product.

Commitment

As a USDA Organic Certified company, HollyBeth Organics follows a strict set of government standards and practices. And using USDA Certified Organic ingredients means that not only are we using the very best ingredients for my products, but I feel an even a greater sense of good knowing I’m supporting organic agriculture, organic farmers and sustainable practices. USDA organic certified guarantees there are no agricultural pesticides, herbicides, chemicals and GMOs, which means a cleaner and healthier planet, and in the case of HollyBeth Organics, healthier skin!