Donna Raheb
April 4, 2017

My bath just got tropical with Ola Tropical Apothecary

Here we are, April 1st, it’s 34* outside and it’s blustery, rainy and cold. One of the cures for this type of weather is a nice hot bath. Oh yes, and Ola Tropical Apothecary Bath Salts. It’s also a great way for me to relax at the end of the day. Now that I discovered Ola Tropical Apothecary, my bath is as tropical as ever. If you like floral scents then you will love Pikake Bath Ritual. As soon as you open the jar, the aroma fills the room with Hawaiian Jasmine. You only need to toss a scoop of the salts  under the hot running water to give you the ultimate exotic bath. This particular fragrance, “Pikake is sweet, intoxicating and sensual.  Renowned in Hawaiian culture because Princess Ka’iulani named this exquisitely perfumed, delicate Jasmine flower after the exotic Peacock. ” 

Slip into you bath and let Bath Ritual cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize your skin while relaxing sore, aching muscles. After you bath, you will smell this beautiful Pikake scent for hours.

 

Bath Ritual is naturally farmed Sea Salt from the island of Moloka’i, Maui Sugar Cane and Coconut Milk. The salts  are also infused with our unique synergetic healing blend of Organic and Wildcrafted Hawaiian Healing Botanical Distillates (Hawaiian Seaweeds, Aloe Vera, Sugar Cane, Bamboo, Banana, Noni, Mamaki, Olena and Taro).  Other scents include Rainforest, Coconut, Plumeria and Passion Fruit.

Ola Tropical Apothecary also has the most amazing Body Butters. I realize that the word “amazing” is quite overused but when you smell the Passion Fruit, it is so full of aroma you will be amazed at how lucisous this body butter smells. The rich scent of Mango and citrus fills the room and will linger on your skin for hours. Not only does the body butter smell “amazing”, but it is a fabulous moisturizer. The body butter contains Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Cocoa and Organic Mango Seed Butters and will repair, replenish and moisturize your dry skin.

Ola’s Passion Fruit Body Butter is a luxuriously rich harmonizing blend of Organic Aloe Vera, Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Cocoa and Organic Mango Seed Butters.  Infused with our unique synergetic healing blend of Organic and WildcraftedHawaiian Botanical Distillates (Hawaiian Purple Sweet Potato, Banana, Seaweeds, Aloe Vera, Sugar Cane, Bamboo, Ginger, Noni, Olena and Taro), to create this creamy, luxurious formula that will repair, replenish and moisturize dry, thirsty skin. Other scents include Rainforest, Coconut, Pikake and Plumeria.

Besides Bath salts and body butters Hawaiin Body Products  Tropical Apothecary skincare line includes Body Mists, Body Oils, Body Washes and Face Masks to name a few.  Visit their site for information on their complete skincare line.

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March 29, 2017

Different Types Of Kurtas To Complement Your Style

When it comes to picking the right kind of jewelry items for the bride, there are a few options that must be included in every list. These jewelry components enhance the bride’s attire and beauty to an altogether different level. They can be made from different stones and metals like, diamonds, ruby/emerald studded pieces, silver and gold.

When it comes to the traditional jewelry items for an Indian wedding, yellow gold is the most common option. Be it the kundan, mangalsutra, bangles or nose rings, gold is always the preferred material, since it depicts class and finesse.

For a traditional Indian wedding, here are 3 essential jewelry items that must be included in the list:

Nose Ring

This is one of the most important jewelry pieces to be worn by Indian brides during the time of a traditional Indian wedding. The most common nose rings exclusively used in Indian weddings are big in shape, with elaborate designing and a string connected to it. The other end is attached to the back of the ear. However, Indian women are also seen wearing small stud-based nose rings as a regular accessory. But, the stud may not be a perfect jewelry element during a wedding.

Necklace

Necklaces are a crucial addition to the bridal jewelry collection. This jewelry must be worn by every Indian bride during the auspicious occasion. The handmade mangalsutra is the most important necklace piece for any Indian woman. It is regarded as the best symbol to denote the married status of women. It is said that the mangalsutra, if worn by a woman continuously, would help in bringing luck and improving the health of her spouse. Mangalsutras are mostly made from gold. However, these days, you can find them available in a combination of gold and silver, with beaded stones to create uniqueness in the design and also to manage the costing part. Apart from mangalsutra, there are other varieties of necklaces worn by the brides during the day of the wedding and the reception ceremony. Some popular choices include jadau, meenakari, pachchikam and kundan.

MaangTikka Or The Tikli

This is one of the most popular traditional Indian jewelry pieces. It creates a sensational look when worn by the bride. It fills the center parting or the maang of the bride before it gets filled with sindoor by the groom at a later stage of the wedding. Those having a broader forehead can opt for a heavier maangtikka. However, if you have a small forehead, the light and the designer ones would be the best options to consider. The maangtikkausually comes, with the bridal set comprising of bangles, necklaces, nose rings and earrings to match the metal and the color stylization.

Apart from these three items, some other important jewelry pieces for Indian brides are wrist bangles, feet bangles, finger rings and ear rings. Royal weddings witness the brides wearing several other expensive jewelry items like, a gold with diamond head gear, pure gold waistband, a platinum wristband and more.

Author Bio: Mandy Bular is a jewelry fashion designer working with traditional Indian wedding jewelry items. You can view her creations on Perigems.com.

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March 27, 2017

You can have bolder darker brows with Osmosis Colour Brow Gel

“Mom! What did you do to your eyebrows? They look really nice. “There is one thing I can tell you about my kids, especially my daughters, they are very honest with me. They will never say something looks good on me if it doesn’t. When my daughter noticed my eyebrows, I knew Osmosis Colour Brow gel was a great choice for me. My eyebrows have become a little sparse with age and Osmosis Colour Brow Gel filled them in easily and quickly. With a little practice (just a few times), I darkened and defined both brows in as little as 1 minute.

I like the gel better than brow pencils because the gel goes on with the attached angled brush and the results look very natural. The brush allows you much control when filling in the spaces or adding a bit of length. The gel is also very blendable.  Osmosis Colour Brow Gel Collection is available in 4 shades.

I like the following features: The brow gel is water-resistant and  smudge-proof. There is no flaking and no fading. My brows looked just as bold at 10 pm as they did at 8 am, therefore, the gel lasts all day. Osmosis Colour Brow Gel is Gluten-Free and Oncology Friendly.

Osmosis Colour Brow Gel is formulated with emollient beeswax, and this unique gel formula dries quickly while mimicking actual hairs to give you full arches in a flash.

I don’t have gray eyebrows but according to Osmosis: “To cover  grey hairs, simply dip a clean mascara wand into your brow color, painting each side the desired color. Mix and match tones to coordinate with hair color.”

Here are my actual before and after photos

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March 20, 2017

The Mane Choice brings you Ancient Egypt

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If you have read my blog recently, I found a great shampoo line called  The Mane Choice. I have been using The Mane Choice for quite some time now and having nice results. The line has offered features for my hair such as detangling, softening, extra shine and strengthening. The Hair Mask was amazing!! You can imagine how excited I was to learn of another line they have, The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Anti Breakage and Repair Antedote.  As soon as I see “Anti-breakage” I know I am going to try it. After all, I want to keep as much of my hair as possible. Pony tails, headbands and decorative combs and hot appliances have caused breakage to my hair and I have a few split ends that I want to get rid of now!

The Mane Choice Ancient Egyptian Anti Breakage and Repair Antedote line consists of 5 products; Shampoo and Conditioner, Hair Mask (used every 1 t 2 weeks), Oil which I use often for fabulous softness and shine, and a Split-End Treatment Serum. Right off the bat let me tell you they smell amazing. You will get the benefits of the tropical scents while washing and conditioning your hair and afterwards, with the split end treatment, Oil and Hair Mask. This Ancient Egyptian line is excellent for repair as well as prevention so everyone in the family can use it no matter what their hair type is. I love how my hair looks and it feels soft as ever.  I am loosing a lot less hair in the shower and not a split-end in sight.

As stated by The Mane Choice, “During the ancient Egyptian times hair was something that was considered a personal and important method of self-expression, and from the high positions of the pharaohs to the lowly servants, a great deal of thought was put into the way that they wore and cared for their tresses. Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Collection has come close to duplicating the most historical formulas used during the ancient Egyptian era. Filled with some of the most rare and robust natural oils such as Kalahari Oil, Oleaster Oil, Mongongo Oil, and Baobab Oil to strengthen, repair and add remarkable shine.

My younger daughter loves the Split-End Treatment Serum too! I’m sure it won’t be hanging around the bathroom too much longer. Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Split-End Treatment Serum is formulated to replenish and prevent split ends. Loaded with fatty acids omega 3,6,and 9, this powerful serum willleave your hair stronger, shinier and healthier. The Serum penetrats deep within the layers of the hair shaft and prevents and repairs cuticle damage. The serum really does work.

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Shampoo & Conditioner gently cleanses and conditions your hair helping to protect and repair damage.  I use the shampoo and conditioner every time I wash  my hair. They both contain fatty acids omega 3, 6 and 9, reduces frizz, reflect damaging UV rays & protect hair from the sun, helps to replenish hair & fight against split ends and strengthens and moisturizes. All great qualities when choosing the perfect shampoo and conditioner

Of course, the older I get the more I notice my hair becoming dryer and fragile, the Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Hair Mask does the trick for me. It is the best one hour spent deep conditioning. After the mask treatment, my hair feels great, I feel great! The hair mask contains all the properties the shampoo, conditioner and serum do. The mask gives you added moisture for much stronger hair. You won’t know the difference until you try it.

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote Oil (Retention Oil) is a perfect choice if you adore Hot Oil Treatments. I choose to add a little bit of oil to my scalp every few days for the shine and the smell. Like I stated earlier, the oil smells amazing. My daughter could  smell the tropical scent on me which was a big reason for her trying the serum.

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote are formulated WITH Signature K.O.M.B. Oils (Kalahari Oil, Oleaster Oil, Mongongo Oil, Baobab Oil)

Ancient Egyptian Anti-Breakage & Repair Antidote is formulated WITHOUT Mineral Oil, Petroleum, Parabens Sulfates or formaldehydes.

You can find The Mane Choice Collections at their website www.themanechoice.com, Target, Walmart, and other large retail stores nationwide.

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March 7, 2017

My new find…The Source For Muscles from Born Skincare

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I found an incredible oil formulated for skin called “The Source for Muscles”, created by Born Skincare. When I read that this oil was recommended for sore and achy muscles I was quite intrigued. I also liked the fact that the oil contains Organic eucalyptus oil, Menthol and and is blended with 100% Pure Muscadine Oil, giving it anti-inflammatory benefits. “The Source for Muscles”  is perfect for soothing sore muscles, neck and back pain.  The scent is strong (and I mean that in a good way), is quite calming and it will pleasantly clear your nasal passages. After applying the oil to your skin, you will feel a slight cooling affect as the oil is penetrating to your muscles. I have been using the oil on my body after spin class and I feel amazing afterwards.

Other oils contained in this line include; The Source for Sensitive Skin, The Source for Skin, The Source for Men, The Source for Mothers as well as serums and moisturizers.

Simply apply a light layer of oil on your achy muscles twice daily until pain subsides. For added benefits, massage oil into skin and allow muscles to relax and oil to penetrate deep into the skin. The entire line of facial and body oils from Born Skincare  contain zero harmful ingredients.

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If you are looking for a facial cleanser that gets the job done, I recommend Born Skincare’s Pure Foaming Cleanser. It’s perfect for sensitive skin and is unisex. I love the fact that it is a foam so it does not drip. I leave it in the shower so my husband and I can both enjoy it. It works very well and it removes my makeup beautifully. Your skin will not feel dry after using this cleanser. Born Skincare’s Pure Foaming Cleanser is cruelty free, vegan free and contains no perfumes, parabens, phthalates or dyes. This is just the kind of skincare you want to pamper yourself with.

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Another aspect of this skincare line that I love is that a portion of each Born Skincare purchase is donated to the Breast Cancer Fund.

View the entire line at www.bornskincare.com

 

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March 2, 2017

Sarah Jessica Parker Wears GRANA!

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LOS ANGELES – March 1, 2017 – Sarah Jessica Parker was photographed wearing GRANA yesterday in New York City. The actress/designer accented her metallic look in the Cashmere Crew Neck ($99, www.grana.com).

Photo Credit: www.startraksphoto.com.

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March 1, 2017

Get the Look: Miranda Kerr at the Vanity Fair Oscars After Party

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Celebrity Makeup Artist Lisa Storey worked with Miranda Kerr for tonight’s Vanity Fair After Party. Below is how to get the look from Lisa.

Inspiration: Lisa went for a natural but slightly defined look that was radiant and soft, creating an overall pretty and delicate feel.

 

Face: Lisa lightly applied Avon True Color Liquid Foundation all over Miranda’s face, then used Avon True Color Flawless Concealer Stick under the eyes and areas that needed a little more coverage. She lightly dabbed the concealer around the lip line to prep for lipstick. On the cheeks, she blended two shades of blush, Avon True Color Luminous Blush in Antique Rose and Avon True Color Luminous Blush in Candlelight, to create a delicate, flushed glow.

 

Brows and Eyes: On the eyes, Lisa started with the peach shade from the Avon True Color Multi-Finish Eyeshadow Quad in Mocha Latte. She applied it across the eye lid followed by shade #4 from the quad on the outer corners (top and bottom) to give some depth to the eye and applied #3 from the quad as a contour for the eye socket. She blended and smoothed the edges of the colors together to create a soft but upward finish to the eye. Lisa applied a few coats of NEW Avon True Color SuperExtend Nourishing Mascara in Black to Miranda’s lashes to open the eyes. Miranda’s brows were kept soft, just lightly defined with Avon True Color Glimmerstick Brow Definer in Dark Brown and highlighted with #1 from the shadow quad.
Lips: Lisa first applied Avon Ultra Luxury Lip Liner in Rosebud, followed by NEW Avon True Color Nourishing Lipstick in Peony Blush. She blotted it, reapplied then with her fingertips patted the center of the lips with Avon True Color Lipstick in Lava Love to give the color a boost.

 

 

 

 

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February 27, 2017

Get the Look: Nathalie Emmanuel in Avon

BEVERLY HILLS, CA - FEBRUARY 26: Nathalie Emmanuel attends the 2017 Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Graydon Carter at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on February 26, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Anthony Harvey/Getty Images)

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – FEBRUARY 26: Nathalie Emmanuel attends the 2017 Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Graydon Carter at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on February 26, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California. (Photo by Anthony Harvey/Getty Images)

Celebrity Makeup Artist Kelsey Deenihan worked with Nathalie Emmanuel for last night’s Vanity Fair After Party. Below is how to get the look from Kelsey.

Inspiration: Sultry, smokey eyes and a nude lip to compliment Nathalie’s black lace Monique Lhuillier gown.

Face: Kelsey applied Tom Ford Graceless Foundation Stick and NARS Soft Matte Concealer to Nathalie’s face where needed. She then created a bronzy contour with mark. Touch & Glow.

Eyes: The eyes were soft and smokey and Kelsey used a selection of shades from the NEW Avon True Color 8-in-1 Eyeshadow Palette in Nude Muse, applying the lightest shades of the palette on the lid. Next, she started applying the warmer, darker browns on the upper and lower lash lines as well as the outer corners of Nathalie’s eyes, smoking the shadow outward. To add more drama to the eyes she applied a few generous coats of NEW Avon True Color SuperExtend Nourishing Mascara to the top and bottom lashes.

Lips: As a finishing touch, Kelsey used NEW Avon True Color Nourishing Lipstick in Nude Truffle to complete Nathalie’s neutral, monochromatic look

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February 23, 2017

Elegant and aromatic soaps with a message from Senteurs d’orient

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I love beauty products with a message and Senteurs d’Orient is one of those products*. Their line consists of the most beautiful hand crafted soaps, all  formulated with natural ingredients. The invigorating aromas of greens, herbs, florals  and mints are made by artisans at their Beirut atelier.

The Mint Tea Soap Leaves (shown above) are hand crafted with a unique blend of essential oils, aromatic fragrances, vitamin E, shea butter and glycerin for a skin softening experience. The Mint Tea Soap Leaves are perfect in a soap dish especially in a guest bathroom, as they are perfectly cut for individual use. These delicate soap leafs are  perfect for travel if you are space conscience.  30 individual soap leafs are beautifully packaged. They smell amazing and make fabulous gifts, maybe Mother’s Day perhaps?

FYI: One soap leaf is just the right size for your shower so they are the perfect size if you have overnight guests. Individual soap leafs are such a great idea for this reason alone!

*About Senteurs d’orient: This is a company by women, for women. “Driven by our shared entrepreneurial spirit, we set off to make empowering women at the heart of our brand DNA. We employ women in every tier of our company – from the founder to our chemists to the artisans -, which is why we’ve teamed up with the United Nations Development Program to support women’s education in Lebanon. 10% of our sales go to support this initiative.”

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At usa.senteursdorient.com you will find Ma’amoul Soaps and one of my favorites, Hamman Soap on a Rope (shown above) in scents like Orange Blossom, Amber, Jasmine of Arabia, Tuberose and Rose of Damascus.

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February 15, 2017

Under $75: Kate Upton Wears 21HM on Cover of Sports Illustrated!

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LOS ANGELES – February 15, 2017 – Supermodel Kate Upton was revealed as the 2017 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition‘s cover girl today wearing 21HM. The model looked stunning adorned in 21HM‘s Mariah Necklace while gracing the cover for a third time ($60; www.21hmboutique.com).

Photo Credit: www.si.com/swimsuit

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