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leading advice from Lamelle Research Laboratories

Struggling with infertility? Prelox for men can improve the health of your sperm

As a man, chances are you’ve spent a period of your life ensuring you don’t impregnate your partner. But what happens when the time is right to make a baby? Only couples trying to conceive without success will know the true frustration of fertility problems. However, they’re definitely not alone. According to the World Health Organization, data suggests that as many as 186 million individuals are affected by infertility. In the eyes of many, infertility is considered a “women’s problem” but this is hardly the case. In fact, global statistics suggest that just as many men experience fertility challenges. Fortunately, many of these issues can be resolved – sometimes with something as simple as making a few lifestyle changes. For example, heavy alcohol use, smoking cigarettes, abusing drugs and being overweight can all negatively impact the health of your sperm. Still, if you’re already living on the straight and narrow without any success in the baby making department, you might want to consider a science-backed supplement that could make a dramatic difference in as little as one month – Prelox by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals. Potent and proven Created by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals, Prelox is proven to deliver significant improvements in male fertility with no negative side effects. It does this by improving the health of your sperm and increasing its number as well as its motility. (The latter is important because it has a long way to travel, so it needs a healthy “tale”, allowing it to journey all the way to the ovaries. Your sperm also needs to have a well-formed head so that it can anchor itself in an egg.) One double-blind clinical trial revealed that, after taking Prelox for just 30 days, men generated a whopping 93% more healthy, well-formed sperm and saw a 55,5% improvement in motility. It also improved the concentration of healthy sperm by an amazing 83%. It’s all about oxidation We all know that consuming a range of antioxidants is vital for good health. This helps neutralise damaging free radicals that negatively affect every cell in our bodies, including those of your sperm. This is why Prelox contains Pycnogenol, a powerful antioxidant that can help you create strong, healthy sperm that’s up to the task of travelling as well as successful implanting. It also contains L-Arginine, an amino acid that stimulates your body to produce more endothelial nitric oxide (e-NOS). Studies have shown that e-NOS can have a significant effect when it comes to stimulating sperm motility. In a way, you could think of it as a pre-race triple espresso for a sluggish sperm! The bottom line In short, if you’ve been struggling with infertility, it’s always a good idea to chat to your doctor as many things can contribute to this all too common problem. However, in many cases, this can be rectified with the simple yet ingenious patented supplement, Prelox. You’d only need to take two capsules a day and there are no negative side effects to worry about – only the proven fact that it improves the health of every cell in your body, including that of your sperm. With nothing to lose and everything to gain – including a precious bundle of joy – it makes sense to want to reap the benefits. www.preloxrange.co.za

June 10, 2022

Failure to ovulate? Ovaria by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals could be your simple fertility solution

As the creators of Ovaria, a leading ovarian-health nutritional supplement for women with PCOS, we know your ovaries are an amazing organ. While they’re merely the size of an almond, they can hold up to millions of eggs. Not all of these will mature to become – quite literally – ripe and ready for fertilisation but the average woman can expect to release around 300 to 400 of them. But what happens when you don’t? Many women experience regular periods, but they’re not necessarily producing eggs. It’s only when they start trying to get pregnant – and failing – that they realise they might be dealing with a fertility issue. If this is your situation, your doctor might diagnose you with failure to ovulate. While the term might sound scary, this condition is often reversible. It’s also extremely common. As many as 40% of all women dealing with fertility issues are failing to ovulate and it can be caused by several factors. These include gynaecological conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endocrine problems like a thyroid condition and even your weight. The one thing that all these conditions have in common is unregulated hormones. (Yep, it’s true. Having too little or too much body fat can affect your hormone levels to the point that they can’t help your body produce an egg.) Bring back the balance If you suspect you’re simply not ovulating, you should always chat to your doctor. They’ll be able to run a series of simple tests that will give them a clear idea of your hormonal profile and ovarian health. As far as treatment goes, this will always depend on what’s causing your hormonal imbalance. Potential options include taking oral medication or hormone injections. You might also need to make lifestyle changes to help you manage your stress levels and weight – two things that don’t require a prescription pad. However, if you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, you might also want to consider a cutting-edge supplement like Ovaria. It’s clinically proven to increase the ovulation rate of PCOS sufferers in just 16 weeks! How does it work? Made from naturally-occurring ingredients, Ovaria contains Myo-inositol, a member of the vitamin B-complex vitamin group as well as the mineral Chromium. Together, they can activate the signalling pathways that regulate your thyroid hormones as well as how your body uses insulin. The latter is important as research shows that women with insulin resistance (an impaired response to insulin that results in high blood sugar) are at a much greater risk for fertility challenges. Also, by regulating your insulin levels, you’ll improve your ovaries function and this normalises your androgen carriers, thereby regulating the male hormones in your body. Ultimately, your hormones are always entwined in an intricate ballet. If one of them is off-kilter, it’s always going to have a knock-on effect on the other. This is why, by normalising your insulin, you can reduce your androgen levels. And the result? It’s often the normalisation of the menstrual cycle and enhanced fertility! Spotlight on insulin For the record – an irregular period and a struggle with fertility – are both symptoms of PCOS, along with weight gain, acne and unwanted hair growth. This makes sense because 80% of women with PCOS also have insulin resistance. Still, even those who don’t have insulin resistance, will struggle with insulin resistant ovaries or ovaries that are challenged by how they use insulin – as well as well as higher than normal androgen levels. As Ovaria addresses all of these things, it’s become a leading supplement to help PCOS sufferers manage their condition. The bottom line Ultimately, if you’ve been trying to get pregnant and find it to be an unexpected challenge, it’s time to see your doctor. Many things could be causing your problem and it might even be due to your partner’s health, not yours. But if you have been diagnosed with PCOS or insulin resistance, consider taking Ovaria. It’s natural, non-prescription and very safe – and has helped to change the lives of many women around the world. So why not yours? www.ovaria.co.za

June 3, 2022

Nia-Sol by Lamelle: A proven way to reduce your risk of Actinic Keratosis

One of many great things about living in sunny South Africa is the weather. Each year, we get an average of 2 500 hours of sun! Alas, along with the beautiful braai weather comes the bad – a high incidence of actinic keratosis (AK), a pre-cancerous lesion caused by unprotected sun exposure. What makes this type of lesion especially worrisome is its inclination to convert to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), the second most common form of skin cancer. Within 10 years, as many as 10% of AK will convert to this potentially deadly disease. Know your risk Did you know that the diagnosis or treatment of AK is the third most typical reason people see a dermatologist? While it’s extremely common, those most at risk for an AK that could turn into cancer are fair-skinned and over the age of 50 with existing AKs or a history of a weakened immune system, such as transplant patients. Interestingly, men are more at risk than women. While being diligent about sunscreen is vital, research has shown this isn’t enough to ensure the very best protection. This is why Lamelle Pharmaceuticals has developed Nia-Sol, an innovative inside-and-out protection system to significantly reduce the risk of actinic keratosis and pre-cancerous lesions. Get two-part protection The result of extensive research regarding sun protection, the Nia-Sol system is a two-part defence. Your first “weapon” is a capsule containing nicotinamide, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. This is important because both free radicals and inflammation are associated with the progression of AK to SCC. Thus, it’s little wonder that, when taken orally, nicotinamide is associated with a lower incidence of AK. It also helps increase your skin’s cellular energy, giving it the boost it needs to perform essential nucleotide excision repair (NER). While this sounds complicated, it’s a natural process that “snips” out dangerous dimers – kinks in your DNA that can morph into cancer. Another plus? Nicotinamide is proven to inhibit UV-related immunosuppression, essentially damage to your immune system caused by unprotected sun exposure. The second part of the Nia-Sol system is to be applied topically and you can choose from a light textured Gel or the Lotion which is more suitable for larger areas of skin affected by AK’s and sun damage. It also contains that superstar antioxidant, nicotinamide, along with Photolyase, a DNA-repair enzyme with the ability to seek out and correct dimers by 93%! It also reduces MMP-1, an enzyme that damages your skin’s collagen, by 90% while minimising post-actinic damage. The bottom line At the end of the day, new Nia-Sol Lotion, Gel and Capsules by Lamelle Pharmaceuticals are a proven way to significantly reduce your risk of AK and conversion to nonmelanoma skin cancer. It’ll also improve the appearance of red, flaky, rough patches of skin and help maintain your skin’s elasticity while protecting and improving its internal structure. If you fit the risk profile, have been diagnosed with AK or have had a ‘sun damage’ related rough spot removed from your skin, don’t take a chance that could potentially result in deadly consequences. Rather use the very best protection – and pair it with our world-class sunscreen Lamelle Helase 50+ – so you can get back to making the most of your days in the sun. If you fit the risk profile, have been diagnosed with AK or have had a ‘sun damage’ related rough spot removed from your skin, don’t take a chance that could potentially result in deadly consequences. Rather use the very best protection – and pair it with our world-class sunscreen Lamelle Helase 50+ – so you can get back to making the most of your days in the sun. Available at Clicks and online www.lamellepharmaceuticals.co.za www.niasol.co.za

June 3, 2022

Smog & the city: Why protecting your skin from PMs is a must

We hear a lot about “anti-pollution” skincare but, if you’re living that glorious work-from-home life in the burbs as opposed to dashing around downtown, do you really need to worry about it? As it turns out, totally! In 2021, not a single country met the World Health Organisation’s air quality guidelines. Also, over 90% of the population live in an urban areas that don’t make the grade. And when we say “urban” that includes the suburbs. Also, when dermatologists talk about “pollution” they’re not referring to the haze of inner city smog or billowing black clouds from a factory. The impurities you need to worry about are particulate matter (PM) – harmful contaminates suspended in the air and completely invisible to the human eye. Much like a virus or bacteria, just because you can’t see them, it doesn’t mean they’re not there, increasing the risk to your skin’s health while revving up the aging process. PMs are not your friends When last did you head out to run a few errands and forget to apply sunscreen? Most of us are guilty of this, but did you know that being exposed to PMs – along with unprotected sun exposure – puts you on the fast track to premature ageing and can even increase hyperpigmentation by as much as 20%? The bad news doesn’t stop there. When PMs penetrate your skin, they can mess with its barrier function and that means dry, scaly skin; ramped up sensitivity, redness, itchiness and then some! They also increase your risk of inflammatory skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, acne and psoriasis and even influence the development of skin cancer. The way PMs wreak havoc is two-fold. First, they trigger the formation of inflammation-causing free-radicals. (Unchecked inflammation is pretty much the root cause of just about everything you don’t want for skin – think acne, pigmentation, accelerated aging, the works!) Next, they trigger aryl hydrocarbon receptors that act as a “gene switch” in your cells, causing them to slow down the production of collagen while increasing an enzyme that damages your existing collagen. Talk about a “fun” two-for-one special! Interestingly, a recent study has shown PM exposure has a much more profound effect on younger individuals than those who are older. While everyone should be wanting to protect their skin from their damaging effects, the younger generation literally has more to lose if they don’t take action right now. Here comes your weapon of choice Happily, this topic isn’t all doom and gloom. You CAN protect yourself from the scourge of PMs and, we reckon, Helase Urban Defence 30 by Lamelle is the smartest way to do it. Specifically developed with some of the planets most potent antioxidants, it does a brilliant job of mopping up free-radicals AND inhibiting the triggering of those collagen-blitzing aryl hydrocarbon receptors. This means powerful protection from PM cell injury as well as PM-driven ageing, inflammation and hyperpigmentation. In short, it’s your very best defence against the scourge of PMs. (As an added bonus, it also serves up an SPF rating of 30 and contains a DNA repair enzyme that seek out and correct dimers – DNA “kinks” that, if left untreated, can potentially cause skin cancer. So, not only are you investing in a kickass PM protector, but you’re getting a cutting-edge sunscreen too.) Next time you step outside, be it in the burbs or the city, we hope you’ll be wearing Helase Urban Defence 30, your very best weapon of choice.

May 30, 2022

Dry, sensitive skin? Lamelle can keep you glowing over winter!  

If you’ve got dry, sensitive skin, you’ll know that the winter months can be tough. Aside from becoming even drier, your complexion can end up looking dull and ashy. Fortunately, with a cutting-edge hydrator and a super star anti-ager, specially formulated for sensitive skin, there’s nothing stopping you from enjoying plump, radiant-looking skin, regardless of the season. First things first To beat the winter “blahs”, your first step is to bump up your skin’s hydration levels. Many make the mistake of assuming they should swap out their lighter-textured moisturisers for those with a heavier, thicker formulation. However, instead of getting something gloopier, rather choose smarter – opting for the world’s most sophisticated hydrator, Lamelle Correctives HA+ Serum. Our groundbreaking serum contains several different types of hyaluronic acid (HA) to help hydrate your skin on multiple levels – from the surface all the way down to the deeper layers. One of these HA types is something we call HAFi fragments, hydrating micro particles that also stimulate your skin to make even more of your own natural HA while boosting your skin’s ability to rejuvenate and regulate inflammation. You can use this serum on its own or add it to your daily moisturiser to enjoy deeply moisturised, plumper-looking skin. Bye bye fine lines, hello lush hydration! Get your glow back! Right! That’s moisture sorted – how are we going to beat the winter “blahs” and get your glow back? When you have dry, sensitive skin, creating an anti-aging skincare routine can be tricky. Many of the golden standard anti-aging actives such as retinol, can irritate sensitive skin. The same can be true for vitamin C, one of the best collagen-encouraging ingredients on the block. (It stimulates your skin’s fibroblasts – essentially your skin’s “collagen factories”, to produce fresh, new collagen – the protein that gives your skin it’s youthful-looking firmness.) However, just because you have sensitive skin doesn’t mean you have to feel left out. Again, it just comes down to choosing smarter and a great pick is Lamelle Vita-C Lipid Serum. A high potency vitamin C serum, our lovely lightweight, oil-based elixir is suitable for all skin types including the sensitive sort as it contains a form of vitamin C that’s well tolerated by dry or sensitive skin. Better yet, because it’s lipid-soluble, it can penetrate much deeper into your dermis where it can get to work, delivering results that are comparable to ascorbic acid, one of the most potent forms of vitamin C. In short, you get all the benefits, but without stinging, redness or irritation! A bit more about vitamin C As we said, vitamin C is one of the most hard-working skincare ingredients around. Sure, it’s an excellent collagen stimulator, but that’s hardly all it can do! It’s also a powerful antioxidant that can protect your skin from the scourge of cell damaging free radicals. Last, but not least, there’s another reason why you really want to include vitamin C in your anti-ageing skincare routine – it’s a wonderful brightener! As it helps regulate your skin’s tyrosinase production (a chemical involved in melanin production), it can put the brakes on hyperpigmentation and help you create a more evenly-toned, radiant-looking complexion. Ready to glow? Ultimately, if you’ve got dry, sensitive skin, there’s no reason why you can’t hydrate, plump, protect, rejuvenate and even create a more luminous-looking complexion. When you choose and use cutting-edge skincare, Lamelle Research Laboratories believes everyone can look and feel their very best, regardless of the season. To find a stockist near you – visit: www.lamelle.co.za , and follow us @lamellersa

May 26, 2022

Why winter is a great time to peel with Lamelle

They say summer bodies are made in winter and the same can be said about great-looking skin. After all, the chilly months are the ideal ones to invest in a course of peels with Lamelle Research Laboratories. Peel and reveal We all know unprotected sun exposure is bad news for our skin. After all, dermatologists will be quick to tell you that more than 80% of premature ageing is caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, when you’ve had a peel or any other kind of treatment that removes the uppermost layers of your skin it will always become more sensitive to the sun. Not forever – but certainly while your skin is healing. So, ironically, you can undo months’ worth of improvements made via peeling with just a few minutes of unprotected time in the sun. Clearly, the winter months are ideal as a ‘peel season’. While you won’t be hiding away like a hibernating bear, it’s only natural that you’ll spend more time indoors. You also don’t have to worry about having to turn down invitations to sunny events like pool parties or tennis matches during those critical post-peel days when your skin is healing. Do post-care like a pro Not everyone’s post-peel journey will be alike and that means the type of products you’ll require to heal will vary. Happily, a highly-skilled Lamelle skincare professional can prescribe the best post-care regime. As an example, if your main concern was to soften fine lines, shift dull skin and improve mild pigmentation, you’d benefit from a series of our Alpha Peels. You might be a little red and sensitive after each treatment, but you wouldn’t experience any downtime. You could gently cleanse your skin using Lamelle Serra Cleansing Gel (our extra gentle soap-free cleanser) then hydrate and soothe using our Barrier Repair Cream. It speeds up recovery time thanks to medical-grade lanolin that mimics your skin’s natural lipids and creates a moist wound-healing environment. You can then protect your skin from the sun using our most innovative sunscreen to date, Lamelle Helase 50+. Want to address deeper wrinkles or more severe sun damage lines? In this case, you’d have to improve the structure of your dermis and our retinol-based Retistore Plus Peel can deliver great results in exchange for a little downtime. While your skin might flake for a couple of days, you can apply our ‘bandage in a bottle’, Restorative Balm. It’s ideal to help your skin recover from ‘injuries’ that affect your skin and won’t sting when it’s applied. It’s also semi-occlusive so it can trap moisture within your skin but still allows it to breathe. During the peak ‘healing days’ when you’re using Restorative Balm you won’t want to go anywhere near the sun. But the day you do step aside, again, we recommend investing in Helase 50+. This way, you’ll get full-spectrum protection and can maintain your results and reveal a fresher, more radiant and evenly-toned skin – just in time for the party season!

May 19, 2022

Advice from the experts

The new wet n wild makeup launches are just what you need in your arsenal this summer

Just in time for summer, wet n wild is launching a new collection of high-performance, budget-friendly makeup. Trusted for great quality products, cruelty-free formulations and on-trend collections, wet n wild is not just a favourite among consumers, but also among the rich and famous. Some of their loyal US fans include Solange Knowles, Paris Hilton and Jessica Biel! This summer, you can look forward to six brand new products – from a hard-working primer, to high-impact eyeshadow to larger-than-life lashes mascara, wet n wild makes it easy to achieve this summer’s hottest makeup trends, with ease. Here’s what you can expect: wet n wild Prime Focus Impossible Primer (R189.95) A good quality primer is a summer essential. Not only does it offer a smoother canvas for your foundation (so that you can apply and blend it seamlessly), but it also helps the product stay put in the sweltering heat. This first-of-its-kind silicone-free primer turns imagination into innovation with breakthrough performance and benefits. Mattifying AND hydrating? Yes! This silicone-free breakthrough formula features the silky, seamless application traditionally achieved with silicones, helps to simultaneously mattify and moisturise skin, and blurs the appearance of pores for a flawless soft-focus look. Featuring skin-loving ingredients like Gooseberry and Jeju Blossom Extract – a natural brightener – this impossibly, amazingly do-it-all primer will soon become your ride or die. Tip: Primer is best applied with your fingers, as you’ll get even application and it won’t gather or pile up anywhere on the skin (a makeup brush will drag the product around and it won’t spread evenly). Once applied, allow a full minute for your primer to dry before you begin your foundation application. wet n wild Big Poppa Mascara (R154.95) Luscious lashes never go out of style, and this summer, bigger is better! This outrageously volumizing, dramatically lengthening, and intensely black mascara – infused with Castor Oil – makes even the shyest of lashes stand front and centre. We added Castor Oil because stronger is better, too, so nourish those lashes with omega-6 fatty acids and essential proteins as you boost them with unstoppable drama. Featuring an hourglass brush that grabs and lifts lashes, coating them with our softly buildable, extra-smooth glide formula. Tip: Apply your mascara by looking down into a hand mirror while slightly closing your eye. Gently wiggle the application brush from the root, to the tip of your lash. This lets you coat each lash individually from root to tip, getting the most out of your mascara. wet n wild Color Icon 10 Pan Eyeshadow Palettes (R169.95) Eyeshadow palettes make eye makeup application so easy – and they’re super convenient for travelling too! These tried and true, and now new, palettes feature an improved, richly pigmented and buttery-smooth vegan formula in matte, satin, shimmer, and metallic finishes. From essential transitions to high-impact effects and everything in between, we curated our palettes to feature everyday and ultra-glam shades in cool, warm, and neutral tones, offering endless looks and versatility at an unbeatable value. The formula delivers long-lasting wear, soft-glide application and seamless blending. Rediscover the original Color Icon with these colourful, blendable, and beautiful palettes – each one is a true 10! Available in four summer-ready shades: Nude Awakening, Heart and Sol, Call Me Sunshine and Lights Off. Tip: Do you mess eyeshadow all over your foundation and concealer? Avoid this problem by applying your eyeshadow before your foundation – a quick swipe of micellar water makes removing fallout a breeze. wet n wild Color Icon 5 Pan Eyeshadow Palettes (R119.95) Dynamite comes in small packages: pack a colourful punch this summer with a simple but striking eye makeup look. Our Color Icon 5-Pan Palettes feature a completely vegan, richly pigmented, and buttery-smooth formula in matte, satin, shimmer, and glitter finishes. Great combinations come in five — the points on a star, boy and girl bands, and now these perfectly curated palettes! From essential transitions to high-impact glitters and everything in between, we planned our palettes to feature everyday and ultra-glam shades in cool, warm, and neutral tones, offering versatile looks at unbeatable value. Rediscover the original Color Icon with these 5/5 star palettes! Available in three summer-ready shades: Walking On Eggshells, Petalette and Camo-flaunt. Tip: A wet brush equals a deeper pigment. If you want to intensify an eyeshadow colour, dampen your makeup brush and work the eyeshadow into a paste before applying. wet n wild Brow Sessive Brow Shaping Gel (R124.95) This summer, full eyebrows are still on-trend, but the rise of the “low maintenance full brow” is quickly gaining momentum. This means achieving a full, defined brow with a minimum number of products, and minimum effort. Fall in Brow-sessive love with this soft, lightly tinted brow pomade gel, perfect for an instant touch up or dramatic fluff and volume. Our Brow-sessive Brow Shaping Gel delivers foolproof, mess-proof colour and fullness. Whether your brows are thin or thick, this formula will groom and keep them in place with a soft, flexible hold that won’t stiffen or flake. The light gel-wax provides natural-looking volume and definition with a perfectly-sized mini brush, depositing just the right amount of buildable colour. Layer on coats for more impact or apply a few strokes for subtle perfecting. Tip: Brow shaping gels are buildable, so approach them like you would a mascara. Start off with two or three coats, and build until you reach your desired level of fullness and colour. wet n wild Brow Sessive Brow Pencil (R85.95) For low maintenance girls, the trusted eyebrow pencil will forever be a staple, but it’s so good at its job, that even those of us who are a little more extra when it comes to makeup, can’t deny its capabilities. Get Brow-sessive with this naturally defining dual-ended brow pencil with built-in spoolie brush. Perfect for all expertise levels, the Brow-sessive Brow Pencil softly fills, defines, shapes and builds for subtle to serious colour. Whether your brows are thin, curvy or thick, show them some extra love and attention with this easy to use and all-purpose tool. The formula

November 30, 2021

Introducing Mercedes Benz Sign Eau de Parfum

Luxury car-maker and coveted lifestyle brand, Mercedes Benz, has launched Sign Eau de Parfum, a new fragrance for men. Inspired by the iconic Mercedes Benz three-pointed star logo, Sign celebrates man’s success and his ability to enjoy the fruits of his labour. A rallying symbol for the man who is proud of his achievements, Sign is the true signature of success. The man who wears Sign is a rebellious dandy, a trendsetter, and an avant-garde influencer. His fragrance is an emblem of his uniqueness, modernity and ambition. His assertive, often quirky look never goes unnoticed, and reflects his approach to life: Take initiative, stay alert, and become an exceptionally charismatic leader. The Fragrance The fragrance was created by master perfumer Olivier Cresp. It took over a year to develop and was tested worldwide by Firmenich experts before it was brought to market. Mercedes Benz Sign is a fougere oriental eau de parfum that impresses with power and intensity. The top notes reveal the effervescence of cardamom, which blends with pink peppercorn to bring freshness, and to contrast with a more vanilla base. The base notes feature tonka bean and white musk, which play out a warm and sensual score before mingling with cashmere and woody patchouli. Then come bitter grapefruit, crisp apple, and a floral bouquet comprised of aromatic lavender, orange blossom, rose geranium, and —now rare in perfumery— violet leaf absolute, creating a sophisticated balance that Olivier Cresp has refined with zeal. Top notes: Cardamom, Grapefruit, Apple, Pink Peppercorn Middle notes: Lavender, Violet Leaf Absolute, Orange Blossom Base notes: Tonka Beans, Patchouli, Cashmere Woods A few words from Olivier Cresp… “I came across some exceptional raw materials in Guatemala, notably cardamom. When I came back, I wanted to use this green gold in a new creation for men. Sign is a wonderful, multi-faceted fragrance built around this rare spice.” Excellence now has its fragrance: SIGN. The Design Sign is housed in a harmonious and ergonomically-shaped masculine bottle. An intense and elegant deep midnight blue, the bottle and box feature the iconic Mercedes Benz star logo in silver, with bands that extend around the outline of the packaging. This ultra-visible star becomes the emblem of a highly exclusive club for whom success is a signature. Sustainability Mercedes Benz recognizes the importance of preserving our natural environment, and is working towards implementing more sustainable and eco-friendly initiatives. Sign embodies these commitments: the bottle is made with over 40% recycled glass. Meanwhile, the inner that keeps the precious bottle in its box is produced from FSC-certified recycled paper and can be recycled. Another important point is that Mercedes Benz has chosen (in association with Firmenich) two sustainably sourced ingredients to compose its fragrance. A partnership with local farming communities in Guatemala has been established for cardamom, and development partnerships have been signed with Java and Sumatra to obtain exceptionally high quality patchouli. Mercedes Benz Sign Eau de Parfum is available at Dis-Chem: R1795.00 for 100ml. GIFT WITH PURCHASE: Receive a free Mercedes Benz Weekender Bag with the purchase of a 100ml Mercedes Benz Sign Eau de Parfum. Valid while stocks last.

November 27, 2021

It’s easy to put the breaks on premature ageing – with Lamelle Nourish

If you’re savvy about skincare, you’re probably using superstar active ingredients like retinol and alpha hydroxy acids. But what about growth factors? Being a relatively “new kid” on the block, not everybody knows what they are, let alone their amazing benefits. Worse yet, a lot of people still confuse them with stem cells. So, let’s clear up the confusion and get you up to speed with one of the most innovative ways to create a cutting-edge skincare routine. You’ve got mail! Growth factors are essential peptides – long strings of amino acids – found in abundance in your body. Their job is to float around between your cells and relay vital messages like “grow”, “repair”, “rejuvenate”. They do this by attaching to receptors on the surface of your cells. An easier way to look at it is to think of growth factors as being keys and the cell receptors as being little letterboxes with locks on them. When your growth factors meet your cells, they unlock each letterbox and – just like that – their message is delivered. While we’re young, our skin’s “postal system” is going strong. Everybody gets their mail. Cells run at their optimum. As we get older, however, our body’s produce fewer growth factors. Also, your cell’s letterbox locks start to get a little rusty. As a result, fewer important messages get delivered and your skin starts to show it. After all, less cell communication means less cell growth and that means thinner, laxer-looking skin. Growth factors to the rescue In the past, experiencing a dip in growth factors and the resultant visible ageing used to be a lot like watching your hair turn grey – a seemingly inevitable part of getting older. Now, however, thanks to incredible Nobel Prize-winning scientific research, we’ve realised we can replicate growth factors, apply them topically and reap the benefits. We know this because our bestselling Dermaheal range is full of them and they’re serving up dramatic results. As each product in the Dermaheal range contains growth factors, they can all help optimise the communication system between your cells, essentially instructing it to behave like much younger skin. The result is a boom in collagen and elastin creation to help you enjoy firmer, plumper, more youthful-looking skin. Then there’s the healing aspect. One of the growth factors in our Dermaheal range – the very one that inspired its name – is called TGF-Beta3. It’s an incredibly powerful protein that promotes scarless healing. What’s even more incredible is that your skin hasn’t seen it since childhood. It’s only now, thanks to the miracles of modern science, that we can invite your skin to behave as it did in its youth. Where do our growth factors come from? Thanks to decades of research, our bioengineers have been able to create exact replicas of your body’s own growth factors. Does this mean they contain human tissue? Definitely not! Our growth factors are made in a lab from specially selected amino acids that are then modified to be identical to those in your body. They’ve been scientifically proven to be 100% safe and, because they’re bio-identical, your body immediately recognises them so they can get to work immediately. We invite you to reap the rewards Want to experience the incredible rejuvenating power of growth factors for yourself? Like we said, our Dermaheal line is full of them. However, our most popular Dermaheal product is Lamelle Ultra Renewal Cream that contains 50% more growth factors than the other products in this range. It also includes a non-irritating form of wrinkle-busting retinol, hydrating hyaluronic acid fragments and a patented cytokine complex. (The latter is a spectacular inflammation fighter and that’s important because, if left unchecked chronic low-level inflammation leads to inflammageing – skin that ages prematurely. Chronic inflammation also creates the perfect playground for acne to thrive and hyperpigmentation to run wild.) In short, as you’re reading this, your cells’ function is slowly declining. But you don’t have to accept it. Once you harness the power of Dermaheal’s growth factors, a more youthful, radiant complexion will be yours to enjoy!

November 25, 2021

Empower yourself with NEW Kiss/Impress at home manicures

Women empowerment plays a very significant role in our ever-changing world. Normalizing such acts envokes an internal spark in a woman and fuels her drive as she manifests her dreams, then shares her light with other women so they can all thrive together in today’s society. This is what KISS is all about – a top-quality brand that is set on empowering women, allowing them to work on their confidence, beauty, and makeup from the comfort of their own home. Kiss allows women to express their individualities, while simultaneously empowering their self-image. Taking time and money into consideration, particularly in the hard times of the COVID-19 pandemic, KISS allows luxuries such as beautiful nails to remain possible. Nothing should stop women from looking and feeling their best, and with KISS, you always will! Impress Nails by KISS is a press-on manicure set that has ultimately revolutionized the beauty industry, allowing women to forget about expensive nail salons but still experience the same, high-quality manicure for a fraction of the price. Living in a world that is so fast paced and has limited time, people don’t have time to do their nails and book tedious nail appointments. Impress nails are not only cheaper, but instead of spending two hours sitting at a salon, a glamourous manicure is now only minutes away. Simply press on each false nail of your choice and you’re ready to go! Perfect for the busy lifestyle of working women and parents! Although these nails are less expensive and much quicker to apply, this at-home manicure looks as good, if not better than any nail salon. Take your beauty into your own hands, quite literally, with Impress Nails’ popular ranges. Their products include the Impress Design collection and the Impress Colour Collection, both containing PureFit technology for easy and comfortable fitting. The Impress Design Nail Collection (R189.95) is an innovative press-on manicure set, coming in environmentally friendly packaging; even the ink printing is biodegradable. They’re not only safe for the environment but also completely safe for your hands too. Impress Design nails are slim, comfortable, and easily applied on top of natural nails, making them feel like your own! Coming in an array of light, more nude colors, these trendy nails are chic, convenient, and classy, all at once. If you’re looking for a bold look, Impress Colour press-on manicures (R139.95) also contain Super Hold technology, making these gorgeous nails feels almost exactly like your own! With 10 different colours to choose from, you’re only a few minutes away from a stunning, top-quality look. Be it red and bold, white and classy, or pretty and pink, these colourful nails will impress (pun intended) anyone who sees them! No glue, no drying, and no damage. If press-on nails are not for you, KISS further supplies Salon Dip Kits, that give you a complete salon experience right from your own home. Imagine the quality, strength, and beauty of an acrylic nail set, yet this time your manicure is gentler and safer on the nails, without any UV light or harsh, unpleasant odor. Kiss Salon Dip Colour System (R499.95) KISS eyelashes, another quick and easy beauty product that saves time and money, without skimping on quality. KISS magnetic lashes are completely smudge-free as well as water-resistant and have been dermatologically tested for consumer safety and satisfaction. Another beautiful beauty product that you can apply yourself at home, a gorgeous eyelash makeover has never been easier! (Magnetic Eyelash Kits – R380.00, Magnetic Lashes – from R200.00, Magnetic Liner – R250.00) You can purchase the KISS products at Clicks and Dis-Chem pharmacies as well as online at www.clicks.co.za, www.dischem.co.za and www.yooper.co.za

November 24, 2021

The perfect spring hair care routine for blonde hair

Spring time is the most popular time of the year to go blonde, and with good reason. Blonde hair is light, fresh and fun; the epitome of the season. But with great hair, comes great responsibility. While blondes require blonde-specific hair care products all year round, the warmer weather, sea water and harsher UV rays we typically associate with spring mean your blonde locks need some extra TLC to look their best. When it comes to Blondes, there are many factors that you may not know which can affect your hair colour and condition specifically in the summertime. Did you know that the sun can change its colour? Blonde hair is prone to brassiness (the term we use to describe warmer pigments in the hair), which occurs when shades of silver or platinum blonde turn yellowish, or shades of golden blonde take on a reddish tinge. Blonde hair is also vulnerable to colour fade. The sea water and salt content of pools can increase the brassiness as well and sometimes in rare cases make your blonde a greenish colour when it is not properly cared for. Spring is the perfect time to give your blonde a proper intensive hair care regime boost: Purple is the colour of your new bestie! Purple hair care products are every blonde girl’s best friend. Purple is the colour opposite yellow on the colour wheel, which means purple and yellow cancel each other out. The purple pigment can thus neutralise brassy and yellow tones in the hair by colour-correcting it. Remember if you’re Blonde – sulphate-free is the remedy Sulphates are responsible for the nice foamy lather we associate with soaps, shampoos and household cleaning products. While sulphates help to effectively remove dirt and impurities, they can be very harsh and drying on the hair, leading to damage and dehydration. They are also known to strip the hair of colour. To protect your hair’s moisture content, strength and colour, invest in a sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner. Try the newly launched Marc Anthony Complete Color CarePurple Shampoo (R179.95) and Conditioner (R179.95) for Blondes & Highlights. Formulated with violet pigments, this duo helps neutralise unwanted brassy tones, while nourishing and providing a boost of moisture to your blonde locks. Try a bonding treatment Hair that gets lightened (be it full colour or highlights), will benefit from a bonding treatment or sealer. For an effective home bonding treatment, try Marc Anthony Colour Bond Instant Colour Sealer (R179.95). It locks in your colour, adds shine and prevents colour fade while maintaining vibrancy. The innovation of the Colour Bond Color Sealer seals the cuticles to lock in moisture, ensuring healthier, stronger hair. Shower with cool water Rinsing your hair with cool water is better for your colour as it closes the cuticle cells and helps preserve hair colour. It also helps lock in moisture and ensures the cuticle lie more smoothly, making your hair look shinier. Protect your blonde from chlorine It’s no myth – chlorine found in swimming pools can give blonde hair a green tinge! Plus, it strips hair of moisture. Prevent it by dousing your hair with fresh water before hitting the pool. Your hair will soak up the fresh water, and will be near saturation by the time it hits the chlorinated water. Shampoo and condition your hair immediately after your swim to undo any damage. Creightons Sunshine Blonde Extra Moisturising Shampoo (R99.95) and Conditioner (R99.95) contain Pro-Vitamin B5 and sunscreens to help protect and enhance your colour. Add some hydration Dryness is a common blonde hair problem, and soaring temperatures certainly don’t help to alleviate it. Be sure to treat your hair to hydrating masks and treatments regularly. Umberto Giannini Grow Mask Hemp, Coconut & Shea (R) is perfect for dry, damaged and chemically treated hair with added coconut, hemp and shea to strengthen and condition hair. For an intensive shot of hydration, try Marc Anthony Hydra Lock Moisture Recharge Conditioning Treatment (R69.99). It offers hair a burst of deep moisture thanks to a blend of avocado oil, grapeseed oil and hydrolysed quinoa that not only hydrates hair from within the cuticle, but also invisibly protects it. Prevent breakage One of the most common causes of blonde hair breakage, is from the damage done to lightened hair by heat styling (rather than damage from the hair colouring process itself). Lower the temperature of your flat iron, curling iron or hairdryer to the lowest setting possible, and try not to use them every day. And a heat protection mist is a non-negotiable! Hask Argan Oil 5-in-1 Leave-in Spray Conditioner (R190.00) is a multi-purpose argan oil spray that restores dry and damaged hair while offering thermal protection.

November 24, 2021

10 Reasons Why You Should Use Caribbeantan

Allowing for an effortless self-tan process, Caribbeantan has been helping people all over the world to achieve a beautiful and bronzed tan with their extensive range of self-tan products and application methods. Using only the highest quality and safest ingredients for their revolutionary self-tan formula, it’s no wonder Caribbeantan is the no. 1 self-tan brand in South Africa. Don’t put yourself through another summer of hopeless and harmful tanning in the sun. Step into the new summer season with golden, sun-kissed confidence with our top 10 reasons why you should be using Caribbeantan: 1. Cruelty-free and FDA approved Take a stand against the inhumane practice of animal testing with Caribbeantan. By choosing animal cruelty-free products, you are helping to prevent the death and suffering of animals all over the world. Caribbeantan’s self-tan products are all animal cruelty-free, which means you can self-tan with ease, knowing that the expertly-designed Caribbeantan range was not tested on animals. Not only are they cruelty-free but also 100% free from parabens. Caribbeantan only uses FDA approved ingredients that are safe on the skin and won’t cause adverse allergic reactions. To top it off, Caribbeantan products are also safe for the environment due to the incorporation of an eco-friendly DHA into their self-tan formula. Self-tan with a clean conscience knowing that no animals nor the environment were harmed in the process whilst gracing your body with Caribbeantan’s natural and healthy self-tan formula. 2. Proudly South African Caribbeantan is the no. 1 selling self-tan range in South Africa and to top it off, 100% proudly South African with all their products produced right in the heart of Cape Town! Established in 2003, Caribbeantan entered South Africa’s shores as the first professional spray tan. After years of winning awards and dominating the tanning industry, Caribbeantan soon became a household favourite in the hearts of many South Africans. Did you know that Caribbeantan also supports local and sources local ingredients for their product range such as the luscious Cinnamon & Coconut Skin Smoothing Exfolia? It’s no wonder Caribbeantan has maintained their distinguished status in the South African beauty industry for so many years. 3. All skin types welcome There’s a product suited to your skin type, need and desired tan level with Caribbeantan’s extensive range of self-tanners. Simply consult the easy Caribbeantan Pro Skin Type Guide to help you select the best-suited product for your skin type with their three specially-formulated self-tan shades. From fair skin (Type A), medium complexions (Type B) to dark complexions (Type C), Caribbeantan’s skin guide will direct you to the right product for your skin shade ensuring a natural, golden tan. Goodbye to the infamous orange tan and hello beautiful, bronzed goddess! 4. Diverse range of products your skin will love Easily maintain your tan with Caribbeantan’s delectable Cinnamon and Coconut Skin Smoothing Exfolia and their Hydrating Milk and Honey Body Butter. Not only will these products help you to achieve a flawless tan, your skin will be transformed into a soft, nourished and glowing canvas. The rich Milk and Honey Body Butter will keep your skin supple, hydrated, and also consists of anti-ageing properties to keep wrinkles at bay. The natural sugar exfoliators in the Cinnamon and Coconut Exfolia will banish dead skin whilst restoring moisture with its added Jojoba oil. Did you know that Caribbeantan products are also rich in powerful antioxidants such as cranberry seed extract? Present in the Caribbeantan Tinted Body Bronzer Shimmer Cream and Instant Body Bronzer Lotion, these powerful antioxidants will boost collagen production and improve the skin’s elasticity. This versatile range will not only help you achieve your desired tan but will maintain the health and integrity of your skin, all at the same time! 5. A flawless, even tan #goodbyestreaks Caribbeantan prides itself on high-quality ingredients and products. With their FDA approved and safe blend of ingredients in their winning formula, Caribbeantan ensures an even, streak-free tan that is long-lasting and natural in tone. This is made possible with the eco-certified DHA (Dihydroxyacetone: natural sugar cane derivative) and Erythrulose, which both work according to your skin type. This revolutionary formula interacts with dead cells by causing a chemical reaction that produces a natural tan. No more patchy elbows and knees, streaks or an orange tan. Caribbeantan’s carefully-curated range such as their Bronzing Mousse, Tanning Spritzer, and Tan In A Can, are known to produce a flawless and natural tan when applied in gentle, circular motions using the velvety-smooth Caribbeantan Self-Tan Application Mitt. Their additional body range also helps prep the skin pre-tan for long-lasting results such as the Milk and Honey Hydrating Body Butter that transforms the skin into a smooth, blank canvas for an effortless self-tan application. With Caribbeantan, streaks, patches and stains are now a thing of the past! 6. Best added accessory to a special occasion With Caribbeantan’s high-quality blend of ingredients and extensive range, you can have sun-kissed skin all year round or simply for when the occasion calls. Whether it be your wedding, matric dance, a special luncheon or even a music festival, their products are quick, safe and easy to use and are guaranteed to give you a flawless, natural tan even if you are a beginner. Simply choose between a gradual or instant self-tanner and locate your perfect shade using the skin guide. Then decide between a mousse, aerosol spray or spritzer before you get your tan on! With their various products and application methods, whether you need a gradual tan leading up to an event or an instant boost of colour on the day, you are guaranteed to have heads turning everywhere you go, no matter the time of year! 7. Instant confidence boost Caribbeantan’s innovative range eliminates all the mess, fuss and disasters of self-tanning whilst being easy on the budget. With their instant to gradual tanners, various application methods and extensive tanning guides available online, you can self-tan like a pro in the comfort of your home. Caribbeantan works with all skin types and ensures a natural and rich in colour tan, free from streaks, patches and the dreaded orange tone. Achieve gratifying

November 23, 2021

Inflammaging and how Lamelle can help you beat it

We’ve all experienced inflammation, from the ache of a sprained ankle to the sting of a bad sunburn. While it can feel unpleasant, short-term inflammation is actually a good thing as it produces inflammatory cytokines (small proteins that trigger an even greater inflammatory response) that tell your body it’s time to get busy healing. Still, in the long term, inflammation isn’t your friend. In fact, if an injury repeatedly occurs to the same area, it eventually won’t heal as well and can result in scarring or abnormal healing. Interestingly, inflammation has the same effect on our skin. Short term, it can help you heal an injury, be it a pimple or a cut. Chronic inflammation, however, causes a chain of events that can damage your skin’s collagen – among other things – and accelerate the aging process. This is what’s known as “inflammaging”. Worse yet, this type of chronic inflammation isn’t even caused by a visible injury. The triggers include “every day”, often unavoidable things like UV rays and free-radicals. Fight that fire! Clearly, none of us are immune to the effects inflammaging but we can protect ourselves in ways that mitigate the damage. One is to invest in skincare that contains potent anti-inflammatory antioxidants. This is why Lamelle products are formulated using some of the most potent and proven, including the super antioxidant Pycnogenol. Now, remember how we mentioned cytokines? You should know that not all of them are “fire starters”. You get many different types and, while some can trigger inflammation, others do a brilliant job of deactivating it. Thus, you’ll find a patented complex of the latter in our anti-aging Dermaheal collection. Interestingly, preventing accelerated aging isn’t just the only reason you’d want to keep inflammation in check. Chronic inflammation also encourages hyperpigmentation and creates the ideal environment for acne to thrive. Other ways to prevent inflammaging While anti-inflammatory active ingredients are a great way to mitigate inflammaging, it’s not your only defense. One of the biggest triggers of inflammation is still unprotected sun exposure. This is why it’s vital to applying a sunscreen every time you set foot outdoors, our favourite being Lamelle Helase 50+. It protects you from the full spectrum of light and contains that potent, inflammation-busting antioxidant we mentioned earlier, Pycnogenol. It then takes thing a step further by addressing any damage that’s already occurred using photolyase. A powerful DNA-repairing enzyme that occurs naturally in animals and plants, photolyase can seek out and correct dangerous DNA kinks (known as “dimers”) that can lead to the mutations responsible for skin cancer. Remember, it’s never too late As with just about everything in life, the prevention of inflammaging is better than cure. But what if it’s too late? What if you’re already dealing with the resultant premature aging that includes fine lines, wrinkles and a loss of firmness? In this case, you’ll be glad to know it’s never too late to take action. Lamelle’s Dermaheal range contains growth factors that help reverse the damage caused by inflammaging by optimizing the communication between your cells, instructing your skin to behave as though it were much younger. This encourages the creation of skin-firming collagen and elastin. You can also consider Lamelle in-office treatments such as peels and collagen-induction therapy (CIT) that can remove old, damaged tissue and encourage the growth of new, healthy tissue. The bottom line Ultimately, it’s very difficult to avoid the triggers of inflammaging. They’re literally everywhere – from free-radicals borne in the air to the sunlight streaming through your window. However, it doesn’t mean we can’t protect ourselves from their effects with powerful inflammation-fighting products such as those we’re proud to create at Lamelle Research Laboratories. Also, it’s never too late to start correcting the effects. Simply chat to a highly-skilled Lamelle skincare therapist who can help you prevent as well as treat so you can enjoy healthier, younger-looking skin for longer. www.lamelle.co.za

November 22, 2021

Feminine self-care gift ideas for every budget

Looking for the perfect gift for your mom, sister or bestie? Why not treat her to some of her favourite beauty products, or surprise her with a pamper product that’s new on the market? After a year of lockdown and loadshedding, we could all do with some me-time, and a gift of great quality skincare, body care, hair care or makeup is sure to get her in the festive spirit. After all, we could all do with a bit of extra self-care! No matter what your budget, we’ve got a beauty gift idea she’ll love. Festive fragrance Everyone loves a fragrance, right? Mercedes Benz For Her Eau de Toilette (R1245.00 for 60ml) is the perfect summer scent. Floral, fresh and fruity, it’s versatile, and is suitable for anything from a day in the office to drinks with the girls. Top notes include mandarin, black currant and pear, while white flowers take centre stage at the heart, and sandalwood and musk complete the scent at the base. This season, there’s an exciting gift with purchase promotion: purchase any Mercedes Benz for Women Eau de Toilette or Eau de Parfum and you get a complimentary Swarovski necklace. Looking for something light and fresh? Curls in Bloom Perfume (R99.95) has a light and nourishing formula that delicately scents the hair with notes of green apples, lily of the valley and sandalwood. This multi-purpose product also helps fight frizz, leaving hair soft, nourished and beautifully scented. Home mani Painting one’s nails is an art, and unfortunately one that most women do not have the time or patience for. If she loves a beautiful manicure but is time-poor or tends to smudge her nail colour, a set of high quality press-on nails makes a fantastic gift. Kiss Gel Fantasy Nails (from R140.00) have an ultra-smooth finish with an amazing gel effect. With two ways to wear, whether you glue them on or use the mega-adhesive tabs, they’ll stay put for up to a week, and they’re available in a variety of colours and patterns. Kiss Impress Press-On Manicure, available in two ranges: Colour (R139.95; solid colours in every season’s hottest shades) and Design (R149.95; subtle but striking nail art designs including glitter and patterns), offers a gel look with a super comfortable fit. Plus, no glue is needed, you just press on and go, making them ultra-convenient. Nourishing skincare Skincare is a fantastic gift, no matter what the occasion. In case you haven’t heard, cult favourite skincare brand Nip+Fab has just launched in SA! Why not spoil her with a little something from the range? Nip+Fab Vitamin C Serum Fix (R295.00) contains a powerhouse of antioxidants to brighten and refresh the skin, while protecting it against free radicals and other environmental aggressors. The Nip+Fab Glycolic Fix Daily Cleansing Pads (R379.95) are fantastic for travel (and a little birdie told us Kylie Jenner’s a fan!). Soaked in 2.8% exfoliating glycolic acid, they help to retexture and resurface the skin, leaving it even and glowing. Another brand new skincare launch in SA is the UK-favourite Creightons cruelty-free skincare range. They have something for everyone, no matter what your skin concerns. We recommend the Creightons H2O Boost Hydrating Serum (R179.95) to combat moisture loss and boost the skin with hyaluronic acid during the warmer months. For a targeted treatment, why not try the Creightons Vitamin C 2% Bright Eye Serum(R115.95)? It works to reduce dark circles and revive the skin around the eyes. Bootylicious body care Our bodies are more exposed during summer, which means we need to take extra care to protect our skin from the sun. We know that sun tanning is no longer an option (no matter how resilient you think your skin may be!), so an easy-to-use self-tan product is a great way to secure a sun kissed glow. If she’s new to the self-tan game, we recommend the fool proof St Moriz Golden Glow Moisturiser (R150.00), which is applied daily, like a lotion, to gradually build a natural glow. If she’s a more experience self-tanner, why not spoil her with St Moriz’s Fast, Medium or Dark Tan Mousse (R150.00) It offers a golden tan with a professional finish. No streaks or orange look in sight! No trip to the beach (or anywhere, really) is complete without a broad-spectrum sunscreen. And we all know that Piz Buin is the leader of the pack! No beach bag is complete without the Piz Buin Moisturising Sun Lipstick SPF30 (R54.95), an ultra-affordable, high-quality balm that protects and hydrates the lips. The Piz Buin SPF30 Sun Lotion (R180.95) comes with advanced UVA/UVB filters to protect the skin from the sun and is enriched with antioxidants to prevent premature skin ageing. If she has sensitive skin, go for the Piz Buin Allergy SPF50 Lotion (R229.95). It has been clinically proven to protect sensitive skin from the sun while increasing your skin’s tolerance towards it. Party-ready makeup While life hasn’t gone back to “normal” just yet, this festive season is looking to be a lot more festive than last year’s, and staff functions, weddings and social get-togethers have already been scheduled. Now is a great time to spoil her with some new makeup. The newly-launched wet n wild Big Poppa Mascara (R154.95) is the perfect stocking filler for any makeup lover. It promises a dramatic volumizing and lengthening formula in intense black, for long, luscious lashes. Another fab find is the newly-reformulated wet n wild Color Icon 10 Pan Eyeshadow Palettes (R169.95). They feature an improved, richly pigmented and buttery-smooth vegan formula in matte, satin, shimmer, and metallic finishes. Complete her makeup toolkit with a great quality makeup brush set. The perfect complement to the new wet n wild eye makeup is the Real Techniques Everyday Essential Eye Set (R499.99). With seven new brushes and a metal lash separator, this kit has your every possible eye makeup need covered. The Real Techniques Everyday Essential Set (R599.99) is a must-have brush kit that allows you to achieve a flawless everyday look with ultimate convenience. This set includes four brushes and a sponge to cover every need, from foundation to eyeshadow. Indulgent hair care “I have too many hair masks,” said no one, ever! A weekly hair mask is essential to replenish moisture, hydrate, nourish and soften

November 20, 2021

Be Natural, Be Beautiful, Be You (Blemish Free) with Cruelty-free Products this Summer

Bright and lively with Pure Pink Grapefruit Creightons cruelty-free Pink Grapefruit range is aimed at cleansing and purifying your skin, acting as a natural alternative for clearing away blemishes and achieving a brighter skin at the start of each day. Creightons Pink Grapefruit Daily Face Scrub (RSP R 69.95) offers active ingredients to gently exfoliate, helping to unclog pores, remove dirt and excess oil that builds up leaving your skin feeling clean and cared for with a noticeably brighter complexion. Grapefruit is an energetic skincare ingredient, containing anti-oxidants that add radiance to your skin and reduces any redness, swelling or inflammation. Boosted Beauty with Refreshing H2O Containing Hyaluronic acid, a highly demanded skincare ingredient, the Creightons H2O Boost range gives a complete hydrating skincare routine that moisturises and freshens the skin. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring molecule that binds to water, trapping it in the skin and keeping your face fully hydrated. This allows for the skin to achieve that full, plump and glowing appeal. The H2O Boost Hydrating serum (RSP R179.95) combats moisture loss, especially when out and about during the hotter summer months. Containing the key ingredient of Hyaluronic Acid as well as Marine Algae, this hydrating serum is excellent for toning and revitalising your skin. Sun Safe Vitamin C Superfruits This superfruit ingredient is becoming increasingly more popular in the skincare industry, boasting a large variety of benefits for happier and healthier skin. Creightons Skin Radiance Moisturiser (RSP R89.95) is a moisturising, lightweight lotion to soothe and care for blemish-prone skin without clogging pores or being too heavy on your pores. When you use a purely plant-based product on your skin, you will experience how Vitamin C not only brightens your skin, but also protects against UV damage, and helps prevent signs of ageing by assisting in the skin’s regeneration process. Vitamin C also inhibits melanin production, meaning it reduces pigmentation and evens out your skin tone. Enriched with many superfruits that contain Vitamin C, including orange, pineapple and papaya, the Skin Radiance Moisturiser leaves your skin refreshed, renewed and soft to the touch. Creightons Vitamin C 2% Bright Eye Serum (RSP R115.95) contains the same beneficial ingredients and works to reduce dark circles under the eyes, getting rid of that tired look that our busy lifestyles can so often cause. Soothing Salicylic Acid for Complexion This trending ingredient is proven to fight blemishes appearing on the skin, especially from friction caused by material against the skin, something we experience everyday now due to mask wearing protocols and the pandemic. Salicylic Acid is beneficial in penetrating your skin and acts as an exfoliator, clearing any dirt or oil from the pores. Creightons Salicylic Acid Range is dermatologically tested to soothe problematic skin, promoting clearer skin tone every day. The all natural, cruelty-free Salicylic Foaming Cleanser (RSP R75.95) works to absorb excess oil and clear skin irritations, with its combined ingredients of Kaolin Clay with great anti-bacterial properties, and Lactic Acids which reduce the appearance of pores. Their Exfoliating Tonic also works to maintain clearer skin with Niacinamide acting to improve uneven skin tone and texture and leave your complexion brighter, clearer and more radiant than ever before. When looking for eco-friendly beauty this summer, consider choosing to be a cruelty-free shopper with an alternative beauty brand that is verified to offer you the double benefit of spreading kindness to animals and at the same time avoid the harsh chemicals found in other beauty products. Creightons products are never tested on animals during production. Creightons is available at Dis-Chem stores.

November 18, 2021

Prevent and treat the signs of ageing with Lamelle’s professional peels  

When last did you treat your skin to a good peel? Many are under the impression that peels are the kind of treatment you’d only invest in once severe pigmentation or deep lines have set in. However, Lamelle has a peel for every skin type, concern and age. While they’ll all essentially exfoliate to reveal fresher, healthy-looking skin, the type of acid used has a slightly different “speciality”. To explain, let’s first get you up to speed on two of the most popular acids and how they can help you create your most glowing complexion yet. Choose your weapons When it comes to alpha hydroxy acids (AHA), the two most commonly used in skincare are glycolic acid and lactic acid. Both of them are completely natural but the former is derived from sugarcane and the latter from milk. From a molecular point of view, glycolic acid is a lot smaller than lactic acid so it can penetrate deep into your skin for a more intensive treatment. It also has the added benefit of stimulating your skin to create more collagen and elastin making it a good choice for anyone concerned with fine lines and wrinkling. As far as lactic acid goes, it’s also a great way to get your glow on. However, as its molecules aren’t as tiny as glycolic acid’s, they won’t penetrate as deeply. This means you’ll still get to reap the rewards of exfoliation but, as the peel is slightly more superficial, it’s a lot less irritating. Also, as lactic acid is a lot more hydrating than glycolic acid, it’s a good choice for anyone with a dry or sensitive skin type. Get your glow on Now that you know more about AHA types and how they work, it’s easy to see why we use lactic acid in our very popular Lacti-Firm peel. It involves just five minutes of “tingling” before being neutralised and wiped away by an experienced Lamelle therapist or doctor, depending on the strength of the peel you choose. It’s a great way to get rid of the dry, dead skin cells that can dull and clog your complexion and the milder of the two doesn’t come with any downtime. This way, you could easily schedule it on your lunch break and then pop straight back to the office, with nobody being any the wiser that you’d just had a peel. You could also reapply your make-up straight afterwards and will immediately notice that your skin feels much smoother to the touch and looks more hydrated and plumper. On the subject of moisture, just remember that you should keep your skin hydrated after a peel to avoid any dryness or tightness in the days that follow. Even more importantly, don’t set foot outside without sunscreen. Any peel, even a mild one, will make your skin more sensitive to the sun. We suggest Lamelle Helase 50+, one of the world’s most innovative sunscreens. Treat the signs of ageing If you’re wanting a deeper peel that can address all the signs of ageing, you’ll want to know all about our Alpha Peel. It makes use of glycolic acid and is available in different strengths that can be adjusted to suit your skin’s condition. As it penetrates more deeply, it’ll tingle a bit more than a Lacti-Firm peel, but this only lasts five minutes and, if anything, is slightly uncomfortable, not painful. Immediately afterwards, your skin might be a little flushed and sensitive, but this settles fast. By the time you’ve waved goodbye to your therapist, your skin will be more radiant than red and feel fabulously smooth. Only a few days later, depending on the strength of the peel, you might notice your skin feels a little tight, looks a bit drier and possibly flakes. But don’t worry, this is fleeting and gives way to a more radiant, more youthful-looking complexion. Again, hydrating and wearing sunscreen is essential, but our very knowledgeable therapists will ensure you know everything you need to out proper aftercare. The bottom line Whether you want to prevent or treat the signs of ageing, Lamelle has a peel to help you do it. Simply pop in to any clinic offering our treatments* and you’ll find a highly skilled therapist who can recommend the type and strength that can serve up the very best results for your skin. Find a skin care professional near you visit: www.lamelle.co.za

November 17, 2021

Self-tan tips to ensure an even, streak-free glow this summer

Skirt season is here, and while the temptation to sun tan next to the pool is very real, we know that the only safe tan is a fake tan. Not only can you go from pasty to sun-kissed in a matter of hours, but by opting for self-tan instead, you’ll save yourself from sunburn, premature ageing and even skin cancer. The sun’s rays are dangerous, and when your skin tans, it is actually a sign of damage from UV rays. Applying self-tan at home is a safe and affordable alternative, but some people are still a little bit apprehensive about the process. Getting an even, streak-free glow is much easier than you may think – here’s how. Prep your skin Preparing your skin for fake tan is arguably the most important step for smooth application. Gently exfoliate your skin the morning of, or the evening before you apply self-tan. Buffing away dry and dead skin cells will ensure a deeper colour, a smoother, more even application and a longer-lasting tan. If you shave, shave your skin at least 24 hours before you apply self-tan to ensure the hair follicles have closed up (to avoid a speckled look). It’s also really important to remove any traces of self-tan you might already have on your skin. St Moriz Tan Remover (R300.00) gently and effectively removes self-tan, without the need for abrasive scrubbing. This moisture-rich formulation leaves your skin super soft, and tan-free – ready for your next application! Keep skin clean Self-tan should be applied to clean skin, free from deodorant, perfume or moisturiser (with one exception!). Deodorant can turn green when it comes into contact with self-tan, and perfume can cause blotches, so best avoid both of these on the day of your tan. With regards to moisturiser, you should moisturise the driest areas of your body before you apply your tan (such as your knees, elbows and heels) as these areas tend to absorb a lot of colour and can thus get darker than the rest of your body. Select your formula and shade wisely To find your perfect self-tan product, you’ll need to keep a few key variables in mind. Firstly, if you’re new to self-tan application, or if you have very fair skin, opt for a light shade to begin with. Mastering the basics is a lot less stressful when you are working with a natural-looking shade. Then you have to consider the different types of formulations. For newbies, a tanning moisturiser is a great first product to try. St Moriz Golden Glow Moisturiser (R150.00) is perfect for those looking for a soft and natural golden glow. It is specially formulated with aloe vera and vitamin E to leave your skin feeling soft and looking beautiful. Australian Gold Intensifier Bronzing Dry Oil Spray (R290.00) contains immediate bronzers designed to provide dark yet natural colour and smooth skin. It uses the power of natural black walnut in a ColorBoost formulation that helps to leave skin with a deeper, bronzer colour that lasts much longer. It’s also made with nourishing Australian oils and banana extract to help condition and care for the skin. For that classic sun-kissed look, St Moriz Medium Tan Mousse (R150.00) offers a golden glow and professional finish. A unique blend of active tanning agents leave you with a golden, natural-looking tan. If a quick result is what you’re after, St Moriz Fast Tan Mousse (R150.00) is for you. It gives you a quick tan and allows you to control your shade – bonus! Infused with vitamin E and olive milk, this fast tan mousse makes it easy to achieve the tan you desire in much less time. If you love a spray formula, try Australian Gold Instant Sunless Spray (R390.00). It combines bronzing ingredients and nourishing moisturisers to feed and protect skin while developing a sunless tan that lasts longer. It also contains caffeine to tighten skin, and its oil-free formulation dries quickly and allows for even, streak-free coverage. Use a tanning mitt Don’t ever use your bare hands to apply self-tan as they will over-absorb colour and stain. Instead, use a good quality mitt like St Moriz Tan Applicator Mitt (R99.99), which ensures an even, streak-free finish. For best results, start with your feet, and use long sweeping motions as you work up to your neck. Experts recommend setting aside enough time to take it slow and avoid a rushed job, which often leads to missed spots. Make it last Be sure to wear loose dark clothing after you’ve applied your tanning product, and for the hours in-between your tan application and first post-tan shower, be sure to avoid sweaty exercise or swimming. Keep the water lukewarm for your first shower as hot water can sabotage your glow. After showering, pat your body dry and apply a hydrating moisturiser, a step you must repeat every day (you can even moisturise twice a day if you prefer) to lock your colour in and keep the skin soft and moisturised. Don’t skimp on UV protection Now that you have the perfect golden tan, it’s easy to forget about sun protection, but it’s important to remember that even though you have a fake tan, you can still get sunburn (and the sun can still damage your skin!). Whether you’re heading out for a swim or staying home, it’s important to apply a good quality SPF every day to protect your skin from UVA and UVB damage. Piz Buin Tan & Protect SPF30 Tan Accelerating Oil Spray (R270.00) protects skin from the sun, is fast-absorbing and non-greasy. It’s a beach bag staple as it’s really easy to apply. If you prefer a lotion texture, then Piz Buin In Sun Moisturising Sun Lotion SPF30(R200.00) is a great option. It comes with advanced UVA/UVB filters to protect the skin from the sun, and is also enriched with antioxidants to prevent premature skin ageing. The non-greasy texture allows skin to breathe. A hydrating after-sun product like Australian Gold’s Soothing Aloe After Sun Gel (R165.00) is perfect to apply after spending some time in the sun as it’s filled

November 16, 2021

Fight the Fade with the New Marc Anthony Complete Colour Care™ Collection

It’s often said that blondes have more fun, but we’re guessing whoever coined that motto isn’t referring to one of the biggest obstacles blondes have to deal with – brassiness! Whether you’ve gone platinum, cool ashy blonde, or wanting to lighten your hair for the warmer months, the new COMPLETE COLOR CARE™ collection by Marc Anthony will fast become your secret weapon in bringing down the brass! With anti-fade technology, fighting the fade and keeping your blonde tresses vibrant and shiny all summer long has never been easier! COMPLETE COLOR CARE™ PURPLE SHAMPOO FOR BLONDES & HIGHLIGHTS RSP R179.95 Formulated with violet pigments, this purple Shampoo helps neutralise unwanted brassy tones and with anti-fade technology, keeps your blonde colour and highlights looking their best. With added moisture they look and feel it too. Who’s up for some color play? COMPLETE COLOR CARE™PURPLE CONDITIONER FOR BLONDES & HIGHLIGHTS RSP R179.95 Infused with violet pigment, this Conditioner conditions your blonde colour and highlights to neutralise brass tones. Anti-fade technology keeps your colour vibrant and shiny to keep it going long after your color’s been set. Benefits (Complete Colour Care™ Purple Shampoo and Conditioner): Violet pigments neutralise brass tones Maintains colour vibrancy and shine For all blondes & highlights Anti-fade technology protection Ultra-moisturising Free from sulfates, SLS, parabens and phthalates Essential ingredients (Complete Colour Care™ Purple Shampoo and Conditioner): Anti-Brass Violet Pigments – prevents unwanted brassy tones Hydrolyzed Quinoa – a multi-functional ingredient that improves both colour uptake and retention while also providing protection and increasing the shine and healthy appearance of the hair Grapeseed Oil – containing both antioxidants and Vitamin E, grapeseed oil has the potential to aid in hair growth, restore moisture to the hair and scalp as well as strengthen and add shine to the hair. It also helps to lock in moisture, therefore preventing split ends and dryness COMPLETE COLOR CARE™ NOURISHING HAIR MASK (for ALL hair shades) RSP R189.95 You’ve got the colour, now get the protection. This hair mask nourishes to reduce fading, locks in nutrients, and protects against environmental damage. For all the time and effort you put in to get your colour just right, it’s time to give back with lushness and body. Rich in fatty acids, Castor Oil helps keep your scalp hydrated and nourished, resulting in stronger, shinier, and healthier hair. Benefits: Deeply nourishing Anti-fade technology protection For ALL hair shades (not just blonde hues) Free From sulfates, SLS, parabens and phthalates COLOUR BOND INSTANT COLOUR SEALER RSP R179.95 Iridescent looks good on you! Lock in your colour, add shine and prevent colour fade to maintain vibrancy. Sounds dreamy? It’s the innovation of the Colour Bond Color Sealer. It seals the cuticles to lock in mositure and treats your colour right: day and night, from week to week. Benefits: Locks In colour and shine Anti-fade technology protection Extends the life and vibrancy of ALL shades (not just blonde hues) Free From sulfates, SLS, parabens and phthalates Essential ingredients: Just as the Complete Colour Care™ Purple Shampoo and Conditioner, both the Instant Colour Bond Sealer and Nourishing Hair Mask are infused with Hydrolyzed Quinoa and Grapeseed Oil, boasting a varieties of benefits Moonstone Extract – energises the scalp which in turn may promote hair growth, adds moisture back into the hair to prevent breakage and strengthens and smooths the surface of the hair, making it silky and accentuating the reflection of light The Marc Anthony Complete Colour Care™ collection is available at Dischem stores nationwide.

November 16, 2021

Lamelle Dermaheal: Harness incredible age-defying power of growth factors

November 1, 2021

essence – What’s Your Fruit Mood

We’re almost out of winter, and just as we prepare our wardrobe and bodies for Summer 2021, it’s time to get into the summery mood with our beauty items too! Sweet watermelon, refreshing grapefruit and exotic coconut – this trio is just as much a part of summer as the sun, sea and sand! Inspired by these three super fruits, essence is bringing the new Trend Edition “What’s your FRUIT MOOD?” with bright colours and fruity-summer fragrances to our face, body and nails this June to put us in the mood for the summer! Whether you’re enjoying a sundowner on the balcony or a picnic in the garden – with primer, fixing spray, nail polish, lip balm and co, everyone is sure to find just what they need for their very own summer vibe! Now it’s time to find out: “What’s your FRUIT MOOD?” Refreshing Jelly essence jelly primer – 01 Be The Coolest One In A Melon! / R57,95 Wonderfully refreshing – and the perfect base for any make-up! The fruity jelly primer with a delicious sweet watermelon fragrance instantly creates a good mood. It makes your foundation last longer and ensures a smooth complexion thanks to its soft-focus effect. The pampering gel texture also offers a cooling sensation for a boost of freshness in the summertime! Smells Fruity essence Mini Scented Nail Polish – 01 Let’s Melong Together! | 02 Be My Main Squeeze! / R30,95 Girls just wanna have fun! The two nail polishes in the Trend Edition don’t just make your eyes light up – the summer-y nuances also have a delightful scent! Whether as refreshing as grapefruit or as sweet as watermelon, the minis turn your manicure into an absolute summer highlight for all the senses and they’re sure to find their space in any beauty bag. Sweet Lips essence Grapefruit Lip Balm / 01 Grab The Fruit! / R47,95 This mini grapefruit is so sweet, you almost want to eat it! And the contents are great too – with this pampering lip balm that gives the lips a subtle red tint and a delicious grapefruit fragrance to put you in the mood for summer. Kissable Lips essence Mini Lip Set / 01 Let Your Moods Swing! / R57,95 Matte or glossy? Or both? In this case, the mini lip set in a cute bag is just what you need as it offers two different colours, finishes and summery fragrances: the highly-pigmented matte liquid lipstick enchants you with its sweet coconut fragrance and the super shiny jelly lip gloss refreshes with invigorating grapefruit. For gorgeous lips with a feelgood factor! Refreshing Mist essence Refreshing All Over Mist / 01 Fruit Up Your Energy! / R67.95 The ultimate body spray by essence with an invigorating grapefruit fragrance offers the perfect boost of freshness on hot days – now even the midday lull at high summer temperatures won’t stand a chance. What’s more, it protects against UV-rays with an SPF of 25 and is PERFECR for your handbag. Simply spray on the desired area of your body – and feel refreshed all around! Super-fine Spray essence Mini Fixing Spray / 01 Keep Calm And Coco On! / R47,95 For maximum durability – even on hot days: the super-fine Mini Fixing Spray with moisturizing coconut water is perfect for on the go and is sure to fit into any handbag. The pleasant coconut fragrance is super relaxing – just like the knowledge that your look will last. Because thanks to the fixing spray in the practical mini format, eyeliner, blush & co. are sure to stay in place even at the height of summer! Stylish Brushes essence Mini Brush Set / 01 In The Mood For Mixed Fruit / R95,95 4 in 1! A total of four stylish mini brushes with transparent handles and pink-metallic elements create the ideal set for an easy beauty look. And the most important thing – the super-soft bristles optimally apply powder textures and effortlessly blend every foundation. Now there’s nothing standing in the way of a fantastic summer look! FAN-tastic! essence Watermelon Fan / R67,95 This fan is your soon to be cutest summer accessory! Stay cool on hot summer days – because this watermelon fan offers a breath of fresh air! With its cute design, it’s also a true eyecatcher and gives every outfit that extra special touch. Available at Clicks, Takealot and House of Cosmetics. Ready to get your fruity on? We can’t wait to see it! Please tag us in your look – here’s to the perfect summer ahead!

October 14, 2021

The Dry Shampoo Phenomenon

Once just a standby for hair emergencies, dry shampoos have fast become a staple in more or less everyone’s beauty routine and even more so since lockdown hit last year. With many of us still working and studying remotely and practicing social distancing, dry shampoo has become particularly handy on days when we feel like skipping a wash day or two but still want our tresses to look fresh when we need to jump on that last minute Zoom call. Lockdown has taught us many things with one of them being to never underestimate the confidence boosting power of a dry shampoo! No longer do we turn to dry shampoo just to banish greasy roots; we also use it as a quick fix to breathe life into second-day styles and let us not forget to mention all the time and water you save washing your hair less frequently. After all, we all know that washing your hair daily strips away the natural oils that keep your hair healthy and well moisturised. As with most things in life, less is often more and when it comes to looking after your locks, less shampoo equals healthier hair! A phenomenon when it comes to dry shampoos, COLAB, the multi award-winning dry shampoo, created by a team of beauty industry experts is a favourite amongst many. Loved by all hair types, colours and textures, not only does COLAB offer powerful oil absorption but it’s completely invisible and smells amazing too. What’s more, COLAB is totally cruelty-free, against animal testing and vegan-friendly! Developed using a very fine starch, COLAB’s innovative formula uses tiny particles to effectively absorb excess oil and grease from the scalp, whilst instantly refreshing roots. Because less product is sprayed onto the hair, COLAB dry shampoo goes to work invisibly, leaving absolutely no white residue! Not even on dark hair. Hair feels instantaneously clean, soft and beautifully fragranced without the hair’s natural body and bounce being compromised. The perfect choice for reviving your tresses quickly and on the go, simply spray directly on to your hair, massage and style! Packaged in a confident, colourful and cool vibe and available in a range of incredible fashion-forward fragrances, COLAB has something for every occasion and every mood! Below we’ve rounded up some of our favourite scents, including the two most recent additions to the COLAB family – Boho Rose and Black Violet. COLAB Dreamer Dry Shampoo COLAB Dreamer dry shampoo gives hair an instant heavenly fix, while softly scenting tresses with delicate notes of cotton and musk. Dare to live the life you’ve dreamed! If you prefer a lighter, barely there fragrance, this award winning scent is a must-have. COLAB Boho Rose Dry Shampoo COLAB Boho Rose is a sweet blushing floral with a vintage soul, inspired by whimsical flower crowns and fine spun with fragrant notes of peony and delicate rose. All whilst instantly and invisibly absorbing oil – with no white residue to ruin your flower crown. COLAB Black Violet Dry Shampoo COLAB Black Violet is a rich, dark floral fragrance inspired by hedonistic evenings under the moonlight, surrounded by sultry wild orchid and sensual violet. Dance the night away with this absolute hair essential! COLAB products retail for RSP R88.95 and are available at Clicks stores.

October 1, 2021

The superior way to treat hyperpigmentation? It’s from the inside-out!

If you’re struggling with hyperpigmentation, you’ll know that treating it can feel a lot like doing a country line dance – one step forward and two steps back. After all, you can be as diligent as you like about treating it but spend just one day outdoors without sunscreen and unravel all your progress in minutes. This is why a high SPF protection sunscreen such as Lamelle Helase 50+ is always your best weapon in the war against hyperpigmentation. But what are you doing to beat it? As it turns out, in this case, a multipronged approach is your best form of attack. Invest in the best Many of the lotions and potions you’ll find promising to help treat pigmentation simply don’t contain the right ingredients to do it, nor are they using them in the right concentration. This is why, switching to a hyperpigmentation-focused medical-grade skincare brand like Lamelle Luminesce is a must. Luminesce Brighter Day, the day cream, contains a recently updated mix of pigmentation-inhibiting superstars that include a triple peptide complex, a resorcinol derivative and DKK 1 gene agonist. The latter can help normalize your skin’s production of melanin, the pigment that gives it its colour. As far as the peptides are concerned, these do a great job of inhibiting tyrosinase – the enzyme that helps create excess melanin as well as transfer it from the depths of your skin up to the surface where it creates the uneven, dark parts we know as hyperpigmentation. Our night hyperpigmentation-beating night cream, Luminesce Evening Glow, contains similar actives to the day but includes an anti-inflammatory turmeric extract as well as Arbutin, Niacinimide and a form of retinoic acid with proven hyperpigmentation-minimising benefits. Get your glow back Another way to bolster your quest for a more radiant, evenly-toned skin is to take an inside-out approach by using Lamelle Ovelle 3D. A twice-a-day, easy to swallow gel capsule, our bestselling supplement is clinically proven to reduce the look of pigmentation by 37-percent in as little as 28 days! What’s in the mix? Tried and trusted vitamin D3 and Pycnogenol, a mega-antioxidant botanical extracted from pine bark. Together, they help boost your skin’s natural resistance to the damaging effects of the sun. Better yet, Ovelle 3D will also help preserve your skin’s collagen stash while improving hydration so firmer, plumper-looking skin can be yours to enjoy! At the end of the day, we get it – treating pigmentation can be tricky. But it’s not impossible – especially if you’ve got the right products scientifically proven to help you get your glow back! Get that glow Waging a war against pigmentation can feel like a losing game. But if you’ve got highly advanced skin brightening products in your artillery, a more evenly-toned, radiant-looking complexion can be yours for the taking. www.lamelle.co.za

September 21, 2021

Why adopting a green beauty regime matters

When we first started using the word “green” to describe beauty products, very few brands came to mind. There were a handful of options available, some completely natural and others cruelty-free. It was a niche market with a small following. Today, a lot has changed and globally, a major mind-shift has taken shape. Gone are the days when shoppers chose products mindlessly: today’s consumers want to know what’s in their products, how it was manufactured and what brands are doing to offset their carbon footprints… And rightfully so. Mindfulness is the new black, with a major global uptake in vegan lifestyles and minimalist living. These movements paved the way for new and existing “green” beauty brands to grow, and major international brands have also come to the party. We are seeing more and more mainstream or “mass” brands do their bit to be kinder to the Earth, be it adopting a cruelty-free policy, changing their packaging or re-formulating their products. While this is fantastic news, it can be quite difficult to navigate the realm of green beauty products if you’re not certain what to look for. A couple of popular terms to look out for are: Vegan: If a product is labelled “vegan,” it means that no animal products, or animal-derived ingredients have been used in the manufacturing of that product. Vegan products are also cruelty-free. Cruelty-free: If a product is “cruelty-free” it means that it has not been tested on animals, and that no ingredients used in the manufacture of that product has been tested on animals. Cruelty-free products are not necessarily vegan. Plant-based: These products are made only from plant ingredients, such as such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, seeds, whole grains, legumes and nuts. Natural: Natural products refer to products that are made from ingredients found in nature. The term sometimes suggests that the product is free from synthetic chemicals that may be linked to health problems or that many people get irritated by such as fragrance, dyes, and certain preservatives such as parabens. Organic: Organic products refer to items which contain organically grown ingredients: it must be prepared and grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, GMOs, sulphates/parabens or antibiotics. Why does it matter? Taking a greener approach to life and making sustainable choices is not just a fad – it’s crucial in slowing down the process of global warming and protecting nature and our natural resources. A small act like changing your shampoo might seem insignificant, but every bit helps. Sunpac boasts a number of beauty brands making a difference: Skincare ZERO skincare is a 100% natural, plant-based, vegan skincare brand from the UK. Made from the highest quality botanical ingredients, all ZERO products are sustainably packaged and fully recyclable. Try: ZERO Natural Face Wash (R299.00) and Face Scrub (R299.00). This gentle duo is highly effective in removing makeup, dirt and impurities, leaving skin thoroughly cleansed and smooth. Get an all year round glow with St Moriz – this award-winning self-tan brand is vegan and cruelty-free. Try: St Moriz Fast Tan Mousse (R149.95) for a quick tan where you determine the intensity of the shade, or St Moriz Golden Glow Moisturizer (R149.95) for a soft and natural golden glow. Makeup Not only is wet n wild known for their high quality makeup products at affordable prices, but they’re also known for being 100% cruelty-free! Try: wet n wild Dewy Foundation (R119.95) for all day, glowy skin, wet n wild Mega Length Mascara (R92.95) for extra long lashes and wet n wild Megalast Matte Lipstick (R99.95) for long-wearing lip colour. When it comes to makeup brushes, you’re spoilt for choice. Real Techniques, one of the world’s leading makeup brush brands, is vegan, cruelty-free and PETA-certified, meaning that all products have not and will not be subject to animal testing, regardless of where the product is sold. Try: Real Techniques The Everyday Essential Set (R599.99) – a must-have brush kit that will allow you to achieve a flawless daily look with ultimate convenience. This set includes four brushes and a sponge to cover every need from foundation to eyeshadow. Eco Tools is known for their quality selection of environmentally-friendly makeup brushes. The brushes are made from sustainable bamboo and recycled aluminium and the bristles are cruelty-free. Try: Eco Tools Flat Foundation Brush (R152.00) to evenly apply liquid or cream foundation, and Eco Tools Precision Blush Brush (R233.00) for fantastic blending of powdered foundation or blush. Hair care Hask hair care products are not only cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny certified, but their products are also formulated without the bad stuff (including: Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, Gluten and Aluminum Starch). Try: the new Curl Care collection by Hask, a range of products developed to help support smooth, defined and bouncy curls, without the stiff and crunchy feeling sometimes associated with curl products. Quench and restore your curls with the HASK Curl Care Intensive Deep Conditioner (R189.95). This rich, luxe formula (a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E) adds strength, softness and shine, whilst resisting humidity to help lock-out uneven stands and lock-in moisture to help maintain your natural curl pattern. Give your curls long-lasting control with the HASK Curl Shaping Jelly (R189.95). This flexible, non-sticky formula sculpts waves and curls without leaving them stiff or crunchy. Colab dry shampoos are not only vegan and cruelty-free, but they’re also highly effective at refreshing hair and soaking up grease without leaving any white residue behind. Try: newly-launched scents Colab Boho Rose (R89.99) and Black Violet (R89.99). Blessed with curly hair? The Perfect Hair’s Mango & Marula range is vegan! Enriched with nourishing mango butter and marula oils, this range is designed to treat and protect natural hair of all curl textures. Try: The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Detangling Deep Conditioner (R89.99) for an intense moisture boost and The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Soap-Free Silky Soft Shampoo (R89.99) for a soft and gentle cleanse.

September 17, 2021

How to tame your baby hairs

There’s nothing like spending hours styling or treating your hair to perfection, only to have the rebellious little hairs along your hairline misbehave and stick up or out, ruining your look. Those fine, wispy strands of hair located along your hairline are referred to as “baby hair” or “edges,” and one of the biggest problems is that they are usually too short to clip back, and too unruly to let loose. This is where edge styling comes in. Edge styling is not a new concept, and can be traced back to the 1920s, when entertainer Josephine Baker was known for her spit curls. Originally, edge styling was done to tame baby hairs, but today it is often done to make a statement and form part of one’s hairstyle. There are endless ways to style your edges: you can swoop them to the side, slick them down or gel them over. You can even create a swirl using a swoop motion – we’ve seen a number of A-list celebs like Alicia Keys and Jennifer Lopez pull off this look! To combat unruly edges, or help you achieve your desired look, hair care brands have developed special edge control hair products that help you secure your edges into place. These are designed to offer ultra-hold, while adding shine to the hair. Edge control products There are two types of edge control products: oil-based and water-based. Oil-based products are often more effective on curly hair, but you may need to try both to find a perfect match. It’s important to use an alcohol-free formula, and if you can use a product with castor oil in the ingredients, you’re on to a winner, as it helps control frizz. Cantu Extra Hold Edge Gel (R139.95) conditions and smooths frizz and flyaway hair for shiny, sleek styles with a long-lasting, flake-free hold. Made with pure shea butter and formulated without harsh ingredients, this extra hold gel is perfect for polished, smooth styles and ponytails. The right tool Whether you are looking to style your baby hairs, or brush them down, a toothbrush, fine tooth comb or mascara wand are the best tools you can use. They’ll give you the precision you need to flatten each strand of hair, plus they’ll help you flatten the desired baby hair without pulling your longer strands into the mix. The Evolve Triple Edge Styler (R119.95) is brush/comb combination to allow for polishing and grooming edges gently and a rat tail for parting hair. The rat tail tip end creates sharp parts and prevents frizz. For natural, relaxed, and braided/protective styles. Protect against breakage In many cases, baby hairs are fragile and tend to be dry, so you’ll need to nourish them to prevent breakage and further damage. Firstly, avoid heat styling them, as far as possible. Secondly, apply a hydrating and nourishing hair care product regularly. Try Cantu Shea Butter Tea Tree & Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil (R169.99). It conditions the scalp to support healthy hair growth and uses the power of some of nature’s most moisturising oils to help protect dry and damaged hair from breakage. You may also want to invest in satin pillowcases or a satin bonnet to wear while you sleep. Satin helps hair retain moisture, while reducing frizz and breakage. Evolve’s Sunset Bonnet (R89.95) made from high quality satin, helps protect your hair as well as maintain its moisture. Getting started Edge styling may take some practice, and the key to not overdoing it, is to ensure you don’t force your hair into positions that isn’t natural. Make sure your hair is in its natural state before you start, and take a good look in the mirror. You’ll notice some thin hairs along your hairline that grow forward and lie flat against your skin. These are the hairs you want to focus on neatening / styling. Shape or style your edges with your preferred product and tool, and then use a diffuser to dry the baby hairs in place. If you prefer, you can also secure them in place by using a scarf and wait until it is dry before removing it. Edge styling may seem straight forward, but mastering it requires practice. There are so many styles and looks you could try, that you may need to play around and experiment before you find the perfect look for you.

September 14, 2021

Benefits of a Gua Sha & Roller and How To Use Them

Did you know that Gua sha and facial rolling aren’t just recent Instagram beauty hacks. Gua sha is an ancient practice evolved from Traditional Chinese Medicine which has been used for thousands of years! Are you keen to try these iconic beauty tools yourself? We discuss their benefits, how to use them and where to get them! Gua Sha and Its Benefits Gua sha literally translates to stroking. Gua sha is used to stimulate blood flow and movement through the body. Its uses are many, but it’s generally used to decrease pain and tension in the muscles. In the last few years, the beauty community has discovered that the gua sha provides many benefits for facial work. The gua sha assists in: Increased facial lymphatic drainage (a workout for our face? Yes please!) Facial muscle tension relief (goodbye sore muscles) Decreased fine lines and wrinkles (woooohoo, bring on youthful skin!) How to use Gua Sha: 1) Always move in the direction of your lymph nodes: scrape from the inside of your face to the outsides scrape up and down the neck scrape to the outsides of the forehead scrape from the middle of your chin towards the bottom of your ear scrape your eyebrows up towards your temple 2) Make sure there’s either some oil or serum on your face and begin your gua sha routine for at least 5 minutes or longer. 3) Apply light pressure with the gua sha but do not overexert. The lymphatic system is stimulated through light stroking so you do not need to push the tool with too much pressure into the face. If you push too hard you may cause bruising or exacerbate inflammation. Ouch! 4) Store your tool in the fridge, if you can. The cool touch of the stone can help decrease redness. 5) ALWAYS clean your gua sha to prevent bacteria build up! How to use Gua Sha for Specific Body Parts: AROUND EYES Work from the inside out TEMPLE Work upwards BACK Work downwards LEGS Work upwards Facial Roller and Its Benefits So what’s up with facial rolling and why is everyone so obsessed with it? Put simply, jade rolling is actually a type of gua sha! The facial roller is a tool that allows for easier usage of the gua on yourself. It allows for easier rolling and stimulation of the lymphatic system without having to stare in the mirror while you do it (but that’s part of the fun right?). The facial roller assists in: reduced redness and scarring muscle pain relief potentially reduces signs of aging How to use Facial Roller for Specific Body Parts: FOREHEAD: Work the roller slowly from the centre of your forehead towards your hairline and the sides of your forehead towards the temples EYES: Sweep the roller across your eyelids, gradually working your way towards the temples. EYEBROWS: Sweep the roller from the arch of your eyebrows up towards your hairline NOSE: Sweep the roller along the bridge of the nose upwards towards the forehead CHEEKS: Using the wider end of the roller, follow your cheek contour towards your ears. JAWLINE AND NECK: Work the roller from the centre of your chin outward and upwards towards your cheeks. Sweep the roller upwards from your decolletage to your chin and downwards from your chin along the neck to your decolletage. 2) Make sure there’s either some oil or serum on your face and begin your roller routine for at least 5 minutes or longer. 3) Apply light pressure with the roller but do not overexert. The lymphatic system is stimulated through light stroking so you do not need to push the tool with too much pressure into the face. If you push too hard you may cause bruising or exacerbate inflammation. Ouch! 4) Store your tool in the fridge, if you can. The cool touch of the stone can help decrease redness. 5) ALWAYS clean your roller to prevent bacteria build up! Ready to get your gua sha and facial rolling on? Well then you’ll be THRILLED to know that you can now purchase your FAVE beauty tools directly at House of Cosmetics! You’re welcome! Can’t wait to see all your glowy faces, remember to tag us!

September 8, 2021

HASK Launches New Curl Care Collection for Long-Lasting, Curl Retention & Definition

On a quest to find the perfect range of products that offer smooth, defined and bouncy curls, without the stiff and crunchy feeling after your curls dry? Thanks to the new Curl Care Collection by HASK, achieving a soft, healthy halo of curls is easier than you think. Enriched with coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E (familiar names we’ve grown to love because they show our curls the love they deserve), HASK has combined this miracle blend with its own Curl-Activating Complex to hydrate and protect your curl texture – reviving curls with definition and bounce. Coconut Oil: Softens and adds shine to hair Argan Oil: Fights frizz and moisturisers hair Vitamin E: Fortifies and strengthens hair Created for the curly haired girl, the new HASK Curl Care Collection is suitable for all curl patterns, with clean beauty ingredients in mind. Free of sulphates, parabens, phthalates, gluten, drying alcohol and artificial colours, HASK’s formula is also silicone free, vegan and cruelty-free. Maintain and Protect Start your wash day with the HASK Curl Care Moisturising Shampoo (RSP R179. 95). Enriched with a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E, this formula hydrates and protects your curl texture from damage. Each wash gently removes build-up without stripping away natural oils, revealing bouncy and weightless curls. Infused with a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E, the HASK Curl Care Detangling Conditioner (RSP R179. 95) helps to retain moisture, soften and smooth curls. Providing an instant slip to easily detangle, the conditioner helps to prevent breakage and improve manageability − reviving curls with definition and bounce. Quench and restore your curls with the HASK Curl Care Intensive Deep Conditioner (RSP R189. 95). This rich, luxe formula (a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E) adds strength, softness and shine, whilst resisting humidity to help lock-out uneven stands and lock-in moisture to help maintain your natural curl pattern. A miracle product, the HASK Curl Care 5-in-1 Leave-In Spray (R189. 95) offers five amazing benefits! Detangles to prevent breakage Up to 24-hour curl control Seals-in moisture Thermal protection Softens & adds shine Smooth and Hydrate Keep those curls in shape with the HASK Curl Defining Cream (RSP R189. 95).This lightweight, humidity-proof formula works to enhance your natural curl pattern, leaving curls soft and defined. The miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E helps to seal-in moisture and shine for a smooth finish. Define and Control Give your curls long-lasting control with the HASK Curl Shaping Jelly (RSP R189. 95).This flexible, non-sticky formula sculpts waves and curls without leaving them stiff or crunchy. A miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin, hydrates the hair to prevent curls from drying out. The HASK Curl Care range is exclusive to Clicks stores.

September 7, 2021

What to know about Covid 19 vaccines and skin reactions

As we all know, our skin is our biggest organ, and our skin is affected by EVERYTHING in life – our lifestyle, what we eat, drink, medication, sun exposure and also when we are sick. With this pandemic, a lot of focus has been on the vaccines, and obviously the main focus is to stop the spread of the virus. This, however, leaves a few questions regarding treatment before and after receiving your vaccine. Guidelines has been given to our industry, as well as to the aesthetic medical industry, on timeframes to make sure adverse reactions do not occur. The main aim of this, is to prevent FURTHER inflammation as this is the main reason why we struggle with skin problems. Inflammation is the umbrella of all problematic skin conditions. Ageing is caused by inflammation, pigmentation, acne, atopic skin conditions like eczema, rosacea and skin sensitivity. These all caused by inflammation of some kind! Now, with the Covid 19 vaccine, we are introducing inflammation into the body therefore it could definitely affect our skins too! It can make the skin super-sensitive, it can dry out the skin, cause severe dehydration, it may cause hyperpigmentation etc. We actually don’t know, but based on what we DO know about inflammation, it is necessary that we know how to treat skin in these times. If you have received your vaccine, or are planning on getting your jab, please make sure to support your skin! This can be done in a number of ways. Q: What should we use on our skins to support our skin against inflammation of any kind? A: We need to use medical grade skincare products and ingredients that are well tolerated by the skin, and specifically growth factors and antioxidants to fight against the inflammation that may be caused in the skin. Hydrating, barrier repair as well as sun protection! This doesn’t mean that you need to change your whole skincare routine or product range at home, you would need to only slot in a product like the AQ Active Serum once a day under your day moisturiser! Q: How long before receiving your vaccine should you introduce these ingredients into your skin care routine, if you are not already using them? A: This is quite an open-ended answer, as some medical specialists say 4 –6 weeks and other say 14 days. I think to be perfectly honest, we should rather be safe than sorry, and try to prepare the skin at least 4 weeks prior to getting your vaccine, as this is how long a regular, healthy cell turnover will take in your epidermis. Q: What about recommendations for aesthetic treatments and medical aesthetic procedures? A: For superficial, mild and non-invasive treatments, 14 days before and 2-3 weeks after getting the vaccine… For your more advanced skin treatments such as micro needling, plasma pen, certain chemical peels, laser and medical aesthetic procedures such as botox, fillers and threads etc: 4 –6 weeks before and after getting your vaccine. Q: What types of treatments are totally safe to have done? A: Focus on anti-inflammatory treatments like Growth Factor induced therapy that we refer to as GFIT treatments. This is where we use the AQ Skin Solution Recovery Serum with different modalities. In this case just an application with LED light for about 30 minutes or a light stamping with 0.5mm depth. Certain chemical peels that have anti-inflammatory properties. Calming, healing and antioxidant-type ingredients plus of course hydration and barrier protection. Q: How long after receiving the vaccine should you keep using these ingredients? A: I think it is hugely important to understand that all of us are different and all of us will react or respond in different ways, therefore I would suggest to keep on using these ingredients on your skin for an extended period of time. Q: What do growth factors do in the skin? A: It is very important to use growth factors at a time like this because AQ growth factors allows your skin to heal itself! It will work differently on each person’s skin because it will assess what needs to be done. Some patients have more inflammation than others, or maybe the vascular system within the skin isn’t functioning properly or it’s affected their collagen production. The growth factors will regulate the cell functions and bring it back to its norm, therefore it will work on any and all skin conditions. It basically regulates the different processes within the skin so that the skin can heal itself correctly and be in its healthiest state. Q: What makes AQ Skin Solutions growth factors different to other growth factors on the market? A: The Human Growth Factors found in AQ Skin Solutions is fibroblast-derived, and then cloned in the lab to react the same way your natural growth factors do. We have a Halal Certificate showing that no genetic material from the donor line is utilized within the formulation. Human growth factors will be easily recognised by the cells, meaning no side effects, no contra indications and it can be used on skin of all ages and all skin types. Other growth factor products are derived from plant extracts or some from bacteria. AQ is one of 5 Human growth factor products worldwide, the only HGF range available in Africa! We use between 150 and 200 different growth factor families within each formulation at optimal combinations and percentages to ensure sufficient communication to the cells. Q: Medical-grade skincare is surprisingly affordable, isn’t it? A: There is a misconception that medical-grade skincare is expensive, but the reality is that investing in it will likely save you money in the long run. While you may have to pay a little more upfront, using medical-grade skincare that is tailored specifically to your concerns means you’ll get the visible results you’ve been seeking. Also, because they are highly concentrated with active ingredients, you only need to use a small amount to get your results. Therefore, medical-grade skincare products

August 31, 2021

Take Your Hair Pick from Our Line-up of Three Multi-award Winning Hairbrush Adapted to Suit Every Hair Type

Ever since the Original — the multi-award winning hairbrush that launched the brand, Tangle Teezer has amassed a growing number of devoted fans and Tangle Teezer siblings. It has been referred to as the magic hairbrush with superior detangling powers. Nobody can quite put their finger on why these hairbrushes work so well, they just do! THE POWER’S IN THE TEETH Well now here’s the answer, the unique and innovative patented two tiered teeth which can’t be found on any other hairbrush in the world! Tangle Teezer’s innovative technology has been adapted across each hairbrush to suit every hair type. Detangling and smoothing without breakage or damage, whatever Tangle Teezer you choose, The Power’s in the Teeth! Thanks to this ground-breaking technology, their prescriptive detangling hairbrushes quickly and gently detangle all hair types and textures with minimum damage, leaving hair soft and shiny. HOW THE TEETH WORK The long teeth detangle, removing tangles, reducing breakage and leaving hair healthier-looking; while the short teeth smooth the cuticle, leaving the hair glossy and frizz-free. It’s as simple as that! From their innovative two-tiered teeth technology and iconic ergonomic palm shaped design, coupled with their cool, bold and fun on-trend colours, Tangle Teezer stands out from the crowd! THE ORIGINAL The Original Tangle Teezer detangling hairbrush isn’t a multi-award winning hairbrush for nothing! A cult classic loved by everyone, it’s ideal for regular hair types, but particularly well-suited to regular or flyaway locks. Detangling wet or dry hair with its two-tiered regular-flex teeth, which glide through the hair with no pulling and tugging, the Original delivers a pain-free detangling experience, leaving tresses tangle-free and super-smooth with increased shine. Boasting a variety of popping hues, the Original is available in coral/lilac, pink/mauve and red/pink which makes for one big beautiful colour clash! THICK & CURLY Adapted for thick, curly, textured and afro hair, Tangle Teezer’s Thick & Curly detangling hairbrush delivers increased confidence in detangling challenging hair types! Using the innovative two-tiered firm-flex teeth – both longer and stronger than the Original, it gently detangles wet or dry hair quickly and easily. The result is less time spent on detangling without any tugging or pulling, minimizing breakage, whilst leaving curls totally tangle-free, healthier looking and super-defined with plenty of bounce. Available in a delightful azure blue and lilac fondant, the Thick & Curly detangling hairbrush will soon be available in a beautiful mint green/lilac fondant colour combo! FINE & FRAGILE The perfect detangling hairbrush for sensitive hair, take the fear out of brushing with Tangle Teezer’s much-loved Fine & Fragile detangling hairbrush. Aware of the numerous reasons someone may have delicate hair, Tangle Teezer was inspired to reinvent its Original design to cater for those who have colour-treated, fine or fragile hair. For those worried about hair loss, there’s no need to be extra careful. Detangling wet or dry hair with its two-tiered soft-flex teeth – they’re 30% softer than The Original – it glides from root to tip with 85% less tugging and up to 5 x less breakage for tangle-free hair. The most recent colour additions to the Fine & Fragile family include; coral/blue, blue/coral, and lilac/mint. Whatever your hair texture, Tangle Teezer has every strand covered for fabulous and healthier hair! All three detangling hairbrushes retail for (RRP R255.00) and are available to purchase at Sorbet Dry Bar and Candy & Co.

August 26, 2021

Most common makeup mistakes and how to avoid them

Have you ever wondered if your day-to-day makeup routine consists of beauty horrors? From wrong blending techniques to clumpy eyelashes. There is a very good chance that your daily makeup routine could consist of beauty blunders, and you may not even know it. Below are three common makeup mistakes to avoid at all costs: 1.Applying makeup in the wrong lighting Hold on! Before applying anything to your face, have a look at the lighting around you. It is best to use natural light as much as possible when applying makeup. Natural sunlight provides the most accurate reflection of your face in a mirror, making it easier to neatly apply the makeup. If natural light is not an option a warm white LED light, which most closely resembles the outside, can be used instead. 2.Applying makeup before moisturising How do you prep your skin? Applying makeup on dry or oily skin can cause flakiness and prevents the makeup from setting correctly on the skin. A great skincare routine can prevent acne and allows your skin to stay hydrated and healthy when applying products on it. Make sure your face is correctly cleansed and moisturised daily. When applying makeup, it is best to use a moisturiser that can double down as a primer to smoothen the skin and keep the makeup in place. Using serums are also always great to incorporate into your skincare routine. CATRICE has some great serums that do different things. There is a Hydro plumping serum with hyaluronic acid which is great for hydration & the skin elasticity. Pore minimizing serum with niacinamide which is great for shrinking pores. Glow serum with vitamin C which is great to brighten up tired and dull looking skin. 3.Wrong foundation shade Blend! Blend! Blend! When purchasing foundation, you can test whether you have purchased the correct foundation shade by applying it to your jawline rather than your arm for the most accurate result. The correct foundation shade smoothly disappears onto the skin while blending and will not look like an extra layer of skin when applying. Straying away from your favourite day-to-day makeup routine can be strenuous, however, avoiding these common beauty errors makes applying makeup 100% more fun! How to Winter proof your makeup The rainy season is upon us, and if you find yourself outside without an umbrella your full face of makeup will suffer as well. That is, unless you take a few extra steps in your makeup process to avoid the smudging that occurs when your face is drenched. 1.Start with a primer Setting your foundation with a good primer sets your face for success throughout the day. A primer will not only make the application of your makeup smoother, but it will also help it last longer by acting as a barrier to prevent foundation, concealer, bronzer, blush, and highlighter from penetrating too much into the skin. Try the CATRICE Tensational 10 in 1 Primer. 2.Use a makeup sponge When applying foundation, CC creams, or BB creams, a damp beauty blender will help buff product into your skin for a longer-lasting look. Try the essence makeup & baking sponge. 3.Utilise the baking technique Use a setting powder and apply a little to your face with the straight end of a beauty brush, leaving it on for a few minutes, then gently wiping it off with a wider brush if you want a long-lasting look. Try the CATRICE Nude Illusion Loose Powder. It has blurring properties which really helps to set the makeup and give it a flawless finish. 4.Use a setting spray Setting spray can be used to increase the lifespan of your makeup look as it helps to add hydration to the skin and refresh lived-in makeup. Try the CATRICE Shake, Fix & Glow Setting Spray. 5.Lock Your Lashes Applying a lash primer before using waterproof mascara will turn any formula into a tear-proof force. Try the essence lash primer. Now, not even a downpour can stop you from looking fabulous! Celebrity Makeup Artist Reveals Top 10 Favourite CATRICE Products Whether you are walking in store or shopping online to pick up a concealer or mascara it is easy to become lost in the variety of options and it’s something every makeup addict has experienced. There is no way to make a definitive list of the best makeup products, but there is a way to get a better idea of what the greatest options are, so we have asked celebrity makeup artist, La’eeqa Yunus for her top ten favourite CATRICE products, and here they are: 1.Pro Neon Earth Slim Eyeshadow Palette 010 I love how versatile this palette is with all the warm brown shades that can be used all year round. 2.Glam & Doll False Lashes Mascara Waterproof 010 Black I love the silicone wand & the staying power of this mascara. No racoon eyes for me. 3.Matt Pro Ink Non-Transfer Liquid Lipstick 090 This Is My Statement It is my favourite because it is mask proof and the deepest red which makes my teeth look extra white. Choosing a red with a blue undertone will always make your teeth look whiter. 4.Volumizing Lip Booster 150 Everyone’s Nude I love a good nude gloss. Apply on the cupids bow & centre of the lips for pout. 5.Kohl Kajal 140 Chocwaves This pencil great for creating a subtle sultry smokey eye. 6.More Than Glow Highlighter 010 Super pigmented and a great addition to your makeup routine. 7. 3 Steps to Contour Palette 010 Such an amazing palette to contour your face & add definition. 8.Blush Box 025 A lovely nude peach shade to warm up the face. I always like to apply blush to the apples of my cheeks & then run the brush across the nose, forehead & chin area. 9.Full Satin Nude Lipstick 040 The perfect nude lipstick. So comfortable on the lips & a shade that can be worn all year round. 10.Shake, Fix & Glow Setting Spray I love that this setting

August 23, 2021

NEW – FLOWER MAGIC FROM MAVALA

A virus has turned fashion codes on their heads. Isolation and social distancing have created new energies and paved the way to an irresistible burst of imagination and improvisation, leading designers to explore new worlds of creation: livestreamed fashion shows, Instagram releases, artful videos, … Fashion is reinvented and gives birth to a fiery blooming of vibrant and flowery colours, a bold and beautiful bunch of optimism. The Spring-Summer 2021 colour trends respond to this urgent need for a joyful palette of colours full of freshness and comfort, able to give us energy and the strength to move forward. Passion and fantasy express themselves in flowery, sunny motifs, vivid red and orange shades, incandescent or sweet rose nuances: it will definitely be a cheerful and liberating season. The 2021 shades are a real treat for the eyes, an exciting feast of magical buds and petals. The FLOWER MAGIC Color’s collection of MAVALA, with its bright, luminous and resolutely optimistic red-and-rose-coloured variation of shades, reveals the floral magic: Faro, an ardent red, true bloom of force and energy Mandalay, a blazing pink, dazzling embodiment of the joy of living Pondicherry,a shining and invigorating coral cultivating good mood Kingston, an incandescent marigold, saturated with sunlight Cartagena, a vibrant fuchsia, sparkling blossom of optimism Lugano,a flamboyant red, quintessence of passion Price R105.00 and available online at www.mavala.co.za

August 20, 2021

Winter makeup tips for glowing skin and striking eyes

South African summers can bring about harsh weather, and going from extreme heat to icy temperatures, dry air and rain in winter, can wreak havoc on our skin. When winter hits, it’s time to adjust your skincare and makeup routine to accommodate the cold, the wind, the rain and the effects of indoor heating. While there are some pretty standard makeup tips you can follow all year round, one thing is for certain – if you don’t apply and wear your makeup cleverly during the colder months, it can draw attention to dryness, dullness and flakiness (all of which are prevalent in winter!). This winter, our focus is on dewy, glowy skin (yes, this is totally possible to achieve in the heart of winter!) and – because our protective masks aren’t going anywhere – a focus on the eyes. Here’s how to get glowing skin and striking eyes this winter: Prep your canvas You should be applying moisturiser every morning, but if you’ve been skimping, now is the time to pick up the pace. Moisturised skin wears foundation much better, as it provides a hydrated base (which helps with the glow) and a smoother canvas to work on. ZERO’s Day Cream (R399.00) and Night Cream (R399.00) offers intense nourishment and moisturisation in a plant-based, gentle formula. Because your skin likely needs all the hydration it can get, a hydrating primer is your new best friend. We recommend wet n wild Prime Focus Primer Serum (R149.95). This lightweight, ultra-hydrating water-based primer serum refines skin for longer-lasting makeup application, allowing your foundation to glide on effortlessly for a luminous, flawless finish. *Tip: Save your matte primers for summer – in winter you’ll need all the help you can get to create radiance! Avoid powder formulas Powder foundations can make dry skins look dull, and are best saved for the summer months when your skin is more likely to get oily. Matte formulations can highlight flakiness if your skin is dry. So, for winter, select a foundation with a dewy formulation, like wet n wild’s Photo Focus Dewy Foundation (R119.95). Silky and creamy, coverage is buildable from medium to full, and it easily transitions from day to night wear. Ideal for normal to dry skin types, this moisturising formula blends seamlessly, blurs imperfections and helps minimise the appearance of pores for a perfectly smooth, dewy finish. We recommend always applying foundation with a good quality makeup brush, to ensure it blends seamlessly into the skin. The newly-launched Real Techniques The Flawless Base Set (R499.99) contains everything you need for flawless foundation application: four brushes and an added bonus brush cup for your convenience (including the Square Foundation Brush, Buffing Brush, Contour Brush, Detailer Brush and Brush Cup). The Square Foundation Brush is densely packed and unique cut to build custom coverage with liquid foundation – our top product for applying liquid foundation! If you find blending easier with a sponge, try the Real Techniques Sponge Duo Set (R219.99). Boasting flat edges for high definition contouring around the eyes and nose, a rounded side for easy blending on the forehead, cheeks and chin and precision tip for blemish and imperfection coverage, these are the only sponges you’ll use this season. Use highlighter Yes, you can totally pull off highlighter in winter! In fact, it’s one of the best ways add a faux glow to your complexion. Select a highlighter with a pearlescent finish for noticeable glow. We recommend wet n wild’s Megaglo Highlighting Powder (R109.95) to perfectly accent your features. Master false lashes False lashes are the quickest and most effective item to vamp up your makeup and draw attention to your eyes, but lots of women struggle with application. Enter the brand new Kiss Magnetic Lashes: With no glue, no adhesive and no hassle, the secret behind these miracle lashes is its game-changing Magnetic Liner and double strength magnets embedded into each lash. As easy as it sounds, this game-changing product takes the hassle out of false lashes. Simply draw a line along your lash line using the Magnetic Liner and then gently apply the Magnetic Lashes. The Kiss Magnetic Lash and Magnetic Liner can be bought separately or together in a kit for your convenience (R379.95) | Lashes sold separately (R229.95) | Magnetic eyeliner (R249.95). A wintery take on the smokey eye Traditionally, we bring reach for our best shades of charcoal, silver, grey, brown and nude when it comes to a smokey eye on a night out. In winter, you can switch up your eyeshadow shades to create a daytime smokey eye. wet n wild’s 10 Pan Eyeshadow Palettes (R139.95) offer ten super pigmented shadows in one convenient palette. For an office smokey eye, try Rose in the Air, a pretty collection of pinks, nudes and mauves. Some something a little more daring, try Cosmic Collision. Here you can really mix it up with shades of blue, purple, green and earthy shades. The new Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Eye Set (R499.99) is your go-to for every eye look from a soft day shimmer to a bold and striking night get-up. With seven new brushes and a metal lash separator, this kit has your every possible need covered. Get the perfect smokey eye, every time.

August 19, 2021

Hair in Need Of a Miracle?

Repair & Protect Your Strands with the OGX® Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Range There are more than a few reasons why coconut oil is said to be a holy grail when it comes to health and beauty, but one of coconut oil’s crowning achievements is its many hair benefits. A treasured ingredient that deserves a spot in your haircare routine, coconut oil helps to repair and protect damaged hair, while softening and increasing shine. If you like piña coladas and… soft hair, then engage and indulge your senses in an island escape with the Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle range by OGX®. This ultra-rich repairing, nourishing and rejuvenating blend infused with coconut oil, essence of tiare and vanilla bean extract helps to calm frizz and tames flyaways, leaving you with soft, bouncy, shiny hair. OGX® Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Shampoo and Conditioner (RSP R199.95 each) Create a tropical escape in your shower with this ultra-moisturising formula. Not only does it repair, soften and revive even the most damaged strands but it contains the NEW science-based, salon-quality pH balanced formula. This PH balanced duo will help give you stronger strands with more shine, less frizz and long-lasting smoothness, thanks to its gently cleansing formulas that helps to keep the hair and scalp balanced while still providing all the essentials your hair needs. OGX® Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Oil Hair Mask (RSP R209.95) Drench dry, damaged strands in this ultra-nourishing hair mask, whilst sending your senses on an adventure of coconut vanilla dreams. This Creamy and decadent, but super powerful moisturising mask will help restore and revive your locks, leaving your hair supple and smooth, keeping frizz and flyaways at bay. OGX® Extra Strength Damage Remedy + Coconut Miracle Penetrating Oil (RSP R 219.95) This Penetrating Oil is essential to the final step in your hair repair routine. Rich in many key repair ingredients such as Coconut oil and Vanilla Bean extract, this oil will help to calm flyaways and tame frizz all while leaving your hair looking, feeling and of course smelling great! The NEW FORMULA used in our OGX® oils and masks means that it is also thicker and therefore lasts longer as you only need 2 – 3 drops to achieve that dreamy hair look and smell. And, you know what that means, less product used = more cash dollar saved. Available at Clicks stores, Dis-Chem Pharmacies nationwide and www.takealot.com

July 31, 2021

Shine with The Perfect Hair’s New Sunflower Range

Moisture is the key to healthy, shiny and luscious hair and with the new Sunflower Range from The Perfect Hair, it has never been easier to give your locks all the love they deserve. Made from locally sourced quality sunflower oil, blended with bases of coconut and castor oil, this new range is rich in vitamin E and focuses on nourishing, treating and uplifting your hair. With four new products that range from a leave-in treatment to an oil spray, The Perfect Hair knows exactly which oils are vital in treating and styling your curls therefore ensuring that your hair will be Soft ‘n Smooth from root to tip. So whether you are all-natural afro styling, transitioning, in a protective style, or treating your scalp and hair while in a wig or weave, the Sunflower range has what you need: The Sunflower Moisturizer (R69.99): Natural coconut and castor oils soothe dry hair and scalp daily, locking in moisture that leaves hair frizz-free, softer and manageable. How to use: Use daily before styling for a big moisture boost. Using your fingers, apply to wet or damp hair evenly from root to tip to soften hair before styling. Complete your style with the Afro Sheen Spray for high shine and healthy looking hair. The Sunflower Leave-in Treatment (R69.99): Natural sunflower , coconut and castor oils penetrate the hair to soften, strengthen and repair. A mild and effective treatment product to use on curly and coily Afro hair types. To treat dry, damaged or dyed hair. How to use: Apply generously to clean, wet hair, leave on overnight to boost hair health. Or simply allow to soak into wet clean hair for 20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly then apply Afro Moisturizer to style and Afro Oil Sheen Spray to seal in all the goodness. Use weekly for best results. The Sunflower Oil Spray (R79.99): Infused with quality sunflower, coconut and castor oils to give your hair and skin a natural shine boost! How to use: Spray oil generously into wet hair & scalp. Massage with fingers or a wide tooth comb distributing product evenly. For best results, use the oil spray after using The Perfect Afro Moisturiser or Leave-In Treatment to seal in all the goodness. You can also apply to wet skin for a radiant & moisturised glow The Braid Spray (R59.99): Natural Aloe & coconut water provide nourishment to hair and scalp. Restore moisture to soften and moisturize hair & scalp in braids, twists, dreads or weaves. Use every day with zero product build-up. How to use: To prevent dryness, itch and odour, spray directly onto scalp and braids, locks or weaves as often as needed to refresh and moisturize. For best results, use daily with the Afro Oil Sheen Spray, for moisture and shine.

July 31, 2021

Winter with Pretty

Winter is coming in cold, dark and gusty, and as each day passes it is becoming less and less appealing to leave bed any earlier than you have to. However, the good news is that winter looks often require less colour and complexity than their summer counterpart, with more emphasis rather being put on flawless finishes and sleek, clean lines. Pretty by Flormar understands this and with its Cover Up Foundation and show-stopping mascaras, your winter routine has just become so much easier and more glamorous. Winter can be harsh on your complexion, with cold temperatures causing discolouring, chilly winds drying and chapping your face and the change of seasons causing general confusion for your skin. Yet despite these challenges, a radiant complexion is still easily achievable! Pretty’s Cover Up Foundation (R164,95) (promotes dewy, smooth skin finishes that are gentle and sensitive to all skin types. With a creamy texture, focus on intense coverage and an SPF15 to ward off any stray rays (this is cloud-burn season after all), this product covers any blemishes and is the perfect first layer to enhance any winter look you desire. With cool tones being showcased in the winter catalogue, you don’t want to go too big when dressing up your eyes. Therefore, this season, look to accentuate your eyes with a bold and striking mascara for elegant but eye-catching detail. Pretty by Flormar has three different mascara types to suit everyone’s personal preferences. If you like definition and want to showcase each individual lash then the High Definiton Mascara is made for you, yet if you are searching for more volume or shape, then either the Curling Mascara or Volumising Mascara is what you’re looking for. You don’t need a lot to shine this winter and with these two fundamental products in your make-up bag, you can catch those extra winks of sleep comfortably knowing that Pretty has you covered.

July 29, 2021

Who took my collagen and how can I get it back?

Four benefits of taking a collagen supplement to support your body through menopause There’s so much about menopause that just isn’t discussed. Deepening wrinkles, sagging skin and weight gain go hand-in-hand with hot flushes and broken sleep. Most of us know this is due to waning estrogen levels but did you know this hormone also plays a powerful role in the promotion of our human elastic glue: collagen. So, what can you do during menopause to help restore your collagen and reclaim some of your youthful virility? Catherine Clark, the Owner and Founder of Harvest Table says that generally, menopause begins 12 months after a woman’s last period. Women enter this stage of life anywhere from their mid-40’s to their late 50’s and when it hits, your body has a sudden and steep drop in estrogen, triggering major changes throughout your body. “The decrease in estrogen as women age is directly tied to the decrease in collagen production. In fact, when you hit menopause, you experience a 30% drop in collagen which means that your skin becomes thinner, your bones become more brittle and your organs struggle to maintain levels of tissue,” Catherine explains. Catherine explains four key symptoms of menopause and how regular collagen supplementation can improve women’s health as they age: 1. Sagging skin Estrogen is key for the normal functioning of your skin and as your levels of this hormone decline in menopause so does your collagen production. As a result, our skin loses its firmness and begins to sag causing jowls to appear and wrinkles to become more pronounced. That’s because your whole body is actually kept together by collagen protein, which makes up the majority of tissue that connects organs and skin. It, therefore, makes sense that collagen originates from the Greek word ‘kolla’ – or ‘glue’. Supplementing your diet with collagen can help restore this glue and support your system’s ability to improve your skin’s elasticity and hydration and reduce the signs of ageing. 2. Cellulite While most women are familiar with cellulite – that dimpled “orange peel” look that appears on your thighs, upper arms, buttocks and stomach, it develops much more quickly in menopause. Cellulite is fat that pushes up through the connective tissue under the skin creating an uneven or lumpy surface. Cellulite may appear anytime in a woman’s life, but when estrogen levels decline, cellulite generally increases. Again, taking a collagen supplement on a regular basis will help reduce cellulite as it will increase the skin’s thickness and elasticity and thus reduce the appearance of cellulite. 3. Hot flushes Your liver is one of your most important organs as it regulates your health. It performs over 500 different functions on a regular basis so when your body changes during menopause, your liver suddenly gets hit with a lot more things to do and it’s no surprise that it starts to protest. Cravings, mood swings, hot flushes and sleep issues are just some of the symptoms that your liver is taking strain. Collagen feeds not only your liver but all your organs, so by taking a regular collagen supplement, you will also be supporting your liver too, helping it to deal with all the changes taking place in your body. 4. Weight gain The hormonal changes of menopause may make you more likely to develop an extra tyre around your middle as well as heavier hips and thighs. This is part of the natural ageing process because as your muscle-mass decrease, it is replaced by fat. By taking a collagen supplement you will be able to build more lean muscle mass which is great news for weight loss as muscle burns calories faster than fat. Muscle fires up your metabolism and your body becomes a calorie-burning machine. So if you couple collagen with a sensible, healthy diet, you should lose or maintain a healthy weight and feel great. Catherine concludes: “Once you’ve started taking a collagen supplement, the health benefits are notable. Whether you are concentrating on the appearance of your skin, maintaining a healthy weight or overall wellbeing, taking a collagen supplement can help you reach your health goals and counteract the symptoms of menopause.” Harvest Table has a wide range of collagen products that are available from www.harvesttable.co.za. Follow Catherine on Instagram: @whole_healthy_me.

July 25, 2021

Creightons | the Perfect Solution to Your Winter Hair Woes

Along with the upsides of winter (snuggling under cosy layers, sitting in front of a fire place with a good book and hot chocolate in hand) come a few downsides, especially when it comes to your hair. We’re talking dryness, frizz, and lackluster tresses. Switching up your shampoo and conditioner is a good idea to give your mane some TLC. Professionally formulated and expertly developed, Creightons award-winning Argan Smooth Moisture Rich and Pro Keratin Strength and Repair collections offer the perfect solution to your winter hair woes. Whether you’re looking for intense nourishment and moisture to transform dry and damaged hair into silky soft locks, Creightons will ensure salon-worthy tresses every day, without breaking the bank! An age old beauty secret, Moroccan Argan oil (extracted from the kernels of Argan Trees) is a luxury inclusion in hair care products. Thanks to its moisturising and conditioning properties, this beauty elixir (rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential fatty acids) has become a popular addition to our hair regimes. Harnessing the natural power of Moroccan Argan Oil, Creightons Argan Smooth range helps to deeply nourish, hydrate and protect even the driest of hair against frizzy and damaged strands, whilst increasing the hair’s elasticity and adding shine to dull lifeless hair. Argan Smooth Moisture Rich Shampoo and Conditioner Perfect for hair types in need of hydration, shine and light frizz control, Creightons Argan Rich Shampoo and Conditioner (RSP R99. 95 each), infused with Moroccan Argan oil and silk proteins, replenishes moisture, leaving hair silky soft and more manageable from root to tip. Hands up if you’re tired of dealing with lackluster, frizzy locks? If that’s you, investing in a keratin shampoo and conditioner is a must to help tame your mane and make it more manageable. Keratin is a protein that is found in your hair and when your hair suffers from dryness or damage, it loses this protein, making it weaker and more prone to damage. Pro Keratin Strength and Repair Shampoo and Conditioner Suitable for all hair types, but particularly beneficial for those with dry, damaged, natural or colour treated hair, Creightons Keratin Pro Strength and Repair Shampoo and Conditioner (RSP R99. 95 each) gently cleanses and conditions the hair from root to tip, reducing frizz and adding maximum shine. It also helps boosts keratin levels, providing an extra layer of protection for silky smooth and more manageable locks. Tip: Washing your hair every day will remove important natural oils, known as sebum, and will leave your hair feeling dry and brittle. Additional signs of over-washing include the colour of your hair beginning to fade, frizziness and a flaky scalp. Made with the highest quality formulations, Creightons products are 100% cruelty-free and where possible their products are vegan friendly. Available from Dis-Chem Pharmacies.

July 24, 2021

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