Advice from the experts
Parenting Hub

The Evolution of the Eyebrow Brings Empowered Trends & Entrepreneurship for Today’s Modern Women

Sitting in first position on your face, eyebrows have defined our beauty and prowess throughout the centuries. The most powerful and alluring personalities in history feature beautiful brows from their positions of influence. Think of the iconic Cleopatra, sultry Elizabeth Taylor, the intensely creative Frida Kahlo, to today’s A-listers Queen Bey, Amandla Stenberg and Emilia Clarke. Trailblazers in both fashion and personal style, eyebrows have witnessed an evolution of being plucked, thinned, contoured, sculpted, fluffed, threaded, shaped and arched, making the hair-defined eyebrow line the benchmark in creative self-expression. In the 21st Century, the art of the eyebrow remains an evolving modern aesthetic in service of communication and feminine influence.  Why has eyebrow beautification continued to hold our attention over the eons? They are the facial blueprint of who we are and what we feel. They hold the power to change our face, bringing out our best features and correcting and balancing the imperfections, be it small eyes, a long face or eyes set too far apart. Eyebrow design adds definition and presents a confident look to the world, and no one knows this to better effect than Unaiza Suliman of UniQbrow.  Top Beautified Brow Trends in 2022 & Beyond In the business of beauty, award-winning entrepreneur Unaiza brings quick and affordable brow and lash design into the brow revolution mix with a global standard of excellence. Underscoring her expert understanding of the world of aesthetics and somatology, UniQBrow and lash growth serum products enhance her brow empire and, as a master trainer, Unaiza uses her skills to create engaging online courses that can be accessed from anywhere around the world to upskill professionals in the beauty industry.  Heralding in a new high-browed fashion season, she gives us an inside look at the current trends ahead: Au Naturel: Put down the tweezers, says Unaiza, simple and minimal brow work is the way to go. “I love a clean, beautiful brow that is simultaneously unstructured and natural. I’ve never been a fan of the overly defined brow and we’re now emerging into an era where priorities are being redefined too. While grooming will always be a priority, this season we’re embracing a more sophisticated yet natural look for your brows and this is an unquestionable winner.” Art of the Brow: Brow lamination provides a defined look that must be applied by a certified professional, to deliver a perfectly placed brushed up fuller look that lasts for months.  Providing an  illusion of beautiful fullness while maintaining an “unstructured,” look, this trend mimics a brow “lift,” without the pigment of microblading. As the world of brows keeps evolving, Unaiza has added a UniQBrow eyebrow jam, a slight evolution of the brow gel, to create the laminated effect so complimentary for fuller, thicker looking brows that last throughout the day.  Bush Baby: Think fluffy brows with no pencilling and minimal maintenance. All you need is a clean, damp spoolie brush run very lightly through your soap; followed by brushing, up, out and down in the direction of your brow growth. Bring on your Brow Game: Feather brows are in, defined using a spoolie to create definition and to flick the brows out for a lightweight airy look. Barely There:  Bleached eyebrows make a major statement right now especially on the catwalks and provide a light and versatile look in the fashion scene. Bro Fix: Eyebrow transplants are here to help increase brow fullness. When yours have all been plucked off, hair taken from the back of the head helps to replace a distinctive brow line. Classic Cool: In a return to the classic Audrey Hepburn look, the straight brow is back featuring a minimal arch and a straighter brow tail. Slay them with Play: Coloured brows are fun and add a feel of play to the day. Simply add a pop of colour with your makeup and match the glamour of your outfit. Skinny 90’s: The sleek eyebrow is seeing a comeback featuring a low arch and slimline look for formal sophistication. How will you define your brow look this season and what do your brows say about you?  Uplevel Yourself in the Business of Beauty Unaiza is not only passionate about brow beauty, but she is also intent on empowering other women as she continues building and expanding her UniQBrow business brand through training and inspiring women with no prior beauty or business experience through her distinctive franchise opportunity.  “I want to see other women grow beyond what they thought possible. My franchise opportunity lowers the barrier to entry for women, allowing them to either establish their own business, or expand their service offering, with minimal capital outlay, unlike any other franchising opportunity in the beauty industry.” Designed for select women who might never have laid a finger on a brow, Uniq Brow is serious about cultivating exceptional craftsmanship with a focus on speciality, allowing new Brow Queens a franchising opportunity in the beauty industry. “It’s about giving someone a chance…a chance to start and then a chance to build and grow from strength to strength. This is what I want to see,” says Unaiza, “an empowered army of women standing strong in who they are.” Become a Brow Queen today or get busy defining your brows to the latest trends with Uniq Brow Jams that are vegan friendly, cruelty-free and available for order from the Uniq Brows online store https://uniqbrows.com/shop/ amongst a host of other world-class products for your browsing pleasure.  www.uniqbrows.com [email protected] Tel +27 84 786 0671 Facebook: @UniqBrowsbyunaiza Instagram: @uniqbrowsbyunaiza

October 4, 2022
Lamelle Research Laboratories

Lamelle Correctives HA+ Serum: Our most innovative hyaluronic acid serum

If you’re serious about skincare, chances are you’ve got a mega-moisturising hyaluronic acid serum (also referred to as HA) in your artillery. Still, it’s hard to believe there once was a time when few had even heard of it and many assumed it was an exfoliator. Thing is, HA isn’t acidic at all. In fact, it helps to replenish your skin with much-appreciated hydration, making it a must for every skin type and especially those that have dry skin. This is why Lamelle Correctives HA+ Serum is such a loved and lauded product. However, there are many more reasons as to why it’s a hydrator above all others and we’ll get to that in a bit – but first – for those still unfamiliar with the skincare superstar, let’s get you up to speed fast. Why HA is here to stay   HA is a water-binding, lubricating molecule that occurs naturally in your body. Much of it resides in your skin where its job is to help it retain moisture. As it’s able to attract and hold up to a thousand times its weight in water – and then hold it deep within your skin – it does this extremely well. The result? Happy, hydrated skin that looks younger thanks to a plumping effect that can obliterate fine dehydration lines and soften the look of wrinkles. More good news? Research suggests that HA has antioxidant properties that can help mitigate the effects of sun damage. Not all HA serums are created equally Now that the world’s woken up to this moisture magnet’s seemingly miraculous ability to hydrate and plump, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding an HA-infused skincare product. Thing is, not all of them are created equally. As an example, some might only contain the teensiest smidge of HA and most will only contain one particular type. This is where Lamelle Correctives HA+ Serum gets to shine. Thanks to years of research, we’ve created the most innovative HA product in the world – one that contains five different types of HA to help hydrate your skin on multiple levels. Ready to break it down? Cross-linked HA hydrates the surface of the skin  Hydrolysed HA penetrates the deeper layers  Acetyl HA lingers longer, for continued hydration over a longer period Phyto HA helps retain hydration by reducing water loss through the skin Lucky number five As for our fifth type of HA, it’s a bit of an overachiever. Say hello to HAFi fragments, a range of very specifically sized HA particles that stimulate your skin to make even more of your own natural HA. This is great because your skin’s natural HA content starts to dwindle as you age. (You can also speed up this process if you’re a smoker, skip out on sun protection and don’t protect your skin from the scourge of cell-damaging free radicals.) Also, as an added bonus, HAFi fragments help speed up your skin’s natural healing and cellular turnover process by regulating inflammation. But wait – there’s more! Thought we were done? Nope. Here’s the thing that makes Lamelle Correctives HA+ Serum one of the most innovative in the world – it’s the first skincare product to contain TWO hyaluronidase inhibitors! Why is this a big deal? Hyaluronidase are enzymes that occur naturally in your body; increase with age and degrade the HA content in your skin. Keeping them in check is a must if you’re on a quest to enjoy hydrated, firm and plump-feeling skin for as long as possible.  Clearly, everyone can do with an HA serum in their skincare routine. But it’s only our Corrective HA+ Serum that, serves up a multi-pronged approach to hydration, the stimulation and protection of your own natural HA plus the ability to reverse the effects of ageing and sun damage. So, why settle for anything less when Lamelle has created the best? 

September 20, 2022
Parenting Hub

National Oral Health Month: Here’s how to get your brightest smile yet

September is National Oral Health Month – a month dedicated to encouraging healthy dental habits and oral hygiene. Did you know that dental cavities and gum disease are two of the world’s most common health problems?  It is estimated that up to 90% of South Africans will experience gum disease at some point in their lives. Caused by plaque on the teeth and under the gum line, gum disease can lead to the loosening of teeth, movement of teeth, bad breath, receding gums and inflammation. It’s even been linked to diabetes and heart disease. While poor dental hygiene can lead to health problems, it can also put a damper on your smile. If you don’t look after your teeth and gums, it could lead to discolouration, stains and even erosion of the teeth’s enamel, which can affect one’s confidence and make smiling with confidence, difficult. We smile when we’re happy, but the act of smiling also has the ability to make us happy – and that’s a fact. When we smile, our brains release dopamine and serotonin, two of the hormones that are responsible for making us feel good. And the same thing happens when someone smiles at us: being smiled at can trigger the brain to release feel-good hormones. Smiling is also linked to lower blood pressure, stress relief and a reduction in pain. The bottom line? Smile as often as you can! It’s good for your mental and physical health, as well as the health of those around you. Not everyone is blessed with a so-called perfect smile, but modern oral care products make is easy to maintain healthy teeth and gums, increase the brightness of your smile and treat and prevent discolouration. While there is no substitute for regular check-ups at the dentist and professional teeth cleaning at the oral hygienist, it is absolutely essential to practice good oral care habits at home if you want to keep maintain the health of your teeth and the beauty of your smile. Daily maintenance A healthy oral care routine starts with mastering the basics: brushing twice a day and using a good quality mouthwash. O7 Active® Whitening Toothpaste (R129) contains active oxygen to effectively kill bacteria, remove plaque, maintain healthy teeth and gums and keep teeth beautifully white. It removes superficial stains but is mild on the enamel and does not contain any aggressive bleaches or abrasives. O7 Active® Rinse (R169) can be used twice a day after brushing. This active oxygen mouthwash kills bacteria and helps prevent gum disease, improving your overall oral health by just rinsing for 30 seconds, twice a day. Available on www.takealot.com.  Flossing is for everyone Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough to remove food and plaque – especially in hard-to-reach places like between the teeth and below the gum line. Flossing is the best way to remove food particles and impurities. But before you cringe at the thought of manually flossing with string every night, have you considered water flossing?  Water flossing for one minute before brushing easily removes bacteria and debris from hard-to-reach areas deep between teeth and below the gum line. Quick and easy to use, Waterpik® Water Flossers utilise a unique combination of water pressure and patented pulsations to massage and stimulate gums as well as clean deep between teeth and below the gum line. They are clinically proven to be more effective than traditional dental floss for reducing plaque, gingivitis, and gum disease.  Waterpik® Water Flossers are clinically proven to remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas. The unique combination of water pressure and pulsations is up to 50% more effective for improving gum health than ordinary string floss. Try:  Waterpik® WF-02 Cordless Express Water Flosser (R999.00). Ideal for braces and other dental work, it requires only 3x AA batteries to operate, making it great for travel. Using this flosser for just one minute a day prior to brushing ensures a cleaner, fresher and healthier mouth. The unit comes with two unique Classic Jet tips for general use. Waterpik® WP-450 Cordless Plus Water Flosser (R1 399.00). The WP-450 Cordless Plus water flosser takes up less space on the countertop and includes four unique tips: Classic Jet tip (for general use), Plaque Seeker tip (best for implants, crowns, veneers and bridges and removes plaque in hard-to-reach areas), Orthodontic tip (ideal for braces and is 3x as effective as floss for removing plaque around orthodontic appliances) and the Tongue cleaner (removes bacteria from the tongue to freshen breath).  Waterpik® WP-100 Ultra Water Flosser (R1 499.00). The WP-100 Ultra Water Flosser is the ultimate in water flossing performance. It features 10 pressure settings for optimum control. The contemporary design is compact with a covered reservoir to keep out dust and debris. Six unique tips are stored in the unique undercover compartment in the lid of the reservoir.  To view and shop Waterpik® products, visit www.waterpikflosser.co.za. Also available at selected dentists, Dis-Chem stores and Takealot.  Professional whitening White teeth look healthier and more attractive, plus they go a long way in promoting a more youthful appearance. If you’re looking to brighten your smile or improve the appearance of stained or discoloured teeth, professional teeth whitening is the way to go. Performed by a qualified oral health practitioner, professional teeth whitening is safe and effective, and as it’s done by a professional, it does not carry the risks that a lot of home whitening systems do. The leading choice in teeth whitening, Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening is a fast, safe bleaching process that takes place under the care of your dentist to lighten the discoloration of your enamel and dentin. You don’t have to pay a Hollywood price for your new movie star smile either; Zoom Professional Teeth Whitening is both convenient and affordable in delivering you with the smile you have always wanted. The entire in-office bleaching procedure takes just over an hour. Using the Zoom Whitespeed LED advanced technology, your teeth can be bleached up to eight shades whiter. All of the Zoom bleaching gels have a pH booster, meaning it is completely

September 20, 2022
Lamelle Pharmaceuticals

Bring back the spark with Lady Prelox


Many consider a women’s 30s to be their “sexual prime” – but is it really? Most will tell you it’s the most stressful time of their life, whether they’re working hard to keep up with ever increasing costs or running ragged to raise a family. While you don’t have to be a scientist to know that stress and your sex drive are inextricably linked, there are loads of studies to prove it regardless. A lot of this has to do with the cortisol connection. When stress is chronic, the body leans on your sex hormones to meet the increased demands for higher cortisol production. The result? A huge dampener on your sexual spark. Worse yet, constantly pumping out cortisol is the fast-track to narrowing your arteries which negatively affects your blood circulation. So, what’s a busy woman to do? Clearly, if you want to heat things up between the sheets you’ll want to get a handle on your stress levels. But we’re not going to tell you how to do that. You’ve been doing your best to survive a pandemic, chances are you have already have a meditation app on your phone. Also, managing your stress levels isn’t the only way to improve your cardiovascular system and boost your sexual health. If it’s good, healthy blood flow that you’re after, consider a potent and proven supplement like Lady Prelox. Ignite the spark! Lady Prelox is an all-natural oestrogen-free supplement clinically proven to enhance blood flow to the clitoris to improve sexual satisfaction. During trials, 60% of women saw an improvement in as little as four weeks. After two months, a whopping 78% reported increased sexual desire, arousal, satisfaction and reduction in vaginal dryness. What’s in the mix The result of years of research, Lady Prelox contains the powerhouse antioxidant Pycnogenol. Derived from French Maritime Pine Bark Extract, it’s a brilliant oxidative stress-buster that can help improve circulation. Lady Prelox also contains L-Citrulline and L-Arginine, two non-essential amino acids that work together to increase your body’s nitric oxide production. This helps improve blood flow to your clitoris, creating an increase in pressure that’s essential to orgasm.  The bottom line  Life is busy. You’re stressed. We get it. But you deserve to enjoy a healthy and fulfilling sex life, especially since intimately connecting with your partner is one of the best stress-busters around. So, if you’re looking to re-ignite your relationship, consider Lady Prelox. You only need to take two capsules a day and there are no negative side-effects – but you’ll have everything to gain, including your sexual spark! www.preloxrange.co.za *data on file

September 13, 2022
Cartoon Network Africa

What to watch Cartoon Network this September

JELLYSTONE! JOURNEY TO JELLYSTONE!, WHERE ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN! Take a trip to the quaint little town of Jellystone!, chock-full of all your favourite Hanna-Barbera characters from Yogi Bear and Huckleberry Hound to Top Cat. It’s the perfect place to live, work and play. Join in on the silliness and misadventures as the colourful residents accidentally cause crazy trouble for each other! This month, Augie, Shag and Yakky accidentally turn everyone into babies in the hope of having other kids to play with. In another fun-filled episode, Yogi has a midlife crisis and starts a rock band. A mishap could even be in the making when we look to Mayor Huck to put together a team of astronauts to save the world from an impending cosmic disaster. Tune in for this brand-new season. You’ll love it … and laugh a lot. PREMIERE:        Monday, 05 September 2022 TUNE IN:             Mondays to Fridays @ 18:10 CAT NINJAGO WHAT’S YOUR NEXT NINJA MOVE? Get into stealth mode and tune in to the new season of Ninjago: Crystalized! The ninjas are back with some brand-new adventures, and this time, they have been locked up in the Kryptarium Prison, surrounded by some of their old enemies. Here they learn a mysterious Crystal King is recruiting a council of evil enemies. To find out the identity of this new enemy, they escape from prison and become fugitives. Who is the Crystal King? Why is he gathering a powerful counsel? Team up with Wu, Kai, Lloyd, Zane, Nya, Jay and Cole and get ready for some more action-packed missions! PREMIERE:        Saturday, 03 September 2022 TUNE IN:             Weekends @ 09:15 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up CN MOVIES SPECIAL: BATMAN LET’S CELEBRATE EVERYTHING BATMAN! To ensure you don’t miss any of the Batman Day festivities, Cartoon Network is handing you three back-to-back LEGO Batman movies to celebrate the day with the funniest Batman movies of them all. Starting with Lego DC Comics: Batman Be-Leaguered Superman and other superheroes start disappearing mysteriously – will Batman save the day? Batman then teams up with the Justice League to face the Joker and Lex Luthor in Lego Batman: The Movie – DC Super Heroes Unite. And finally, inLego DC Batman: Family Matters, Batman and his team encounter the villainous Red Hood, who’s obsessed with destroying the Bat-family and all of Gotham City. The super-villains are up to no good on Batman Day! TUNE IN:             Saturday, 17 September @ 09:35 CAT

September 2, 2022
FertilitySOS

Infertility – the uninvited monster!

So, let’s get real. You and your partner have discussed starting a family and decided that you’re ready to settle down! You want to get pregnant and that’s all you can think about. You’ve adapted your lifestyle (partying less, eating healthily, and exercising a bit more). You’ve been trying for a few months but nothing is happening. All your friends are becoming pregnant and you feel a bit jealous (to be honest). It’s beginning to impact your relationships, work, and social life; it’s all you can think about and it’s consuming you. As a result, you feel angry, sad, isolated, anxious, hopeless, and, quite frankly, a mental mess – happy one minute and crying the next. Your life was perfect until infertility showed up uninvited. You’re asking your doctor what’s wrong and aren’t getting any answers. You’ re just told to keep trying. So instead, you blame yourself for a million things you did when you were younger – because the problem sits with you, right? Infertility, the inability to conceive or sustain a successful pregnancy, affects more couples than you think. One in six couples is struggling to conceive. Of those, fifteen to thirty percent of couples are diagnosed with unexplained infertility, meaning that doctors cannot find a cause or reason for their infertility. Moreover, male infertility is also on the rise and responsible for thirty-five to fifty percent of infertility cases. Sadly, fewer couples can afford assisted reproductive technologies like IVF with the increases in living costs. Even if couples can afford the treatment, it comes with certain risks and is seldom successful the first time, so it’s a substantial financial investment.  Did you know that couples who struggle with infertility have stress levels comparable to those of cancer patients? The stress, anxiety, and grief surrounding unexplained infertility and pregnancy loss can wreak havoc on your life and fertility health, making an already tricky situation unbearable! Between the endless struggles of failed fertility treatments, unanswered questions, and hopelessness, there are those who feel they have exhausted every possible option. I’ve learnt from my fertility journey that there’s a great need for a robust support system and it’s perhaps time for a fresh perspective and to rope in the help of an expert – a fertility coach. Everyone experiences infertility differently; some can’t get pregnant, others can’t stay pregnant. Navigating this path to parenthood is not an easy-to-follow, straight line for all! Fertility coaches will spend significantly more time with their patients than most health care providers, as they work with you to identify possible root causes for your particular case of infertility and how to make sense of it all. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach and each case is different, either mentally, emotionally, or physically. Your fertility coach will work with you to craft a tailored strategy that’s likely to counter your unique case of infertility. Once you have a plan for how to tackle this infertility monster, you will feel better, more empowered, and more optimistic. According to a recent Harvard study, you are fifty-five percent more likely to conceive if you work on your mental health and mindset when trying to conceive. Thankfully, we’re there to help you shift your perspective and to encourage and empower you with our knowledge and expertise. The data speaks for itself: various factors significantly impact your overall reproductive health, ranging from your genetics to the chronic medications you take to blood groups and other assorted lifestyle factors. Fertility coaches help couples regain their hope and confidence by guiding them through one of the most challenging times in their lives. Fertility coaches are there to support you through each step of journey. The stress, anxiety, and grief that surround pregnancy, miscarriage loss, and new parenthood isn’t something you shouldn’t go through alone.  Even if you have an excellent medical team, they don’t always have the time to emotionally support you and your mental state might suffer as a result.  In my fertility journey, I’ve learnt that the struggle to parenthood isn’t something you should navigate alone. If you are trying to conceive, whether male or female, you could benefit from the support of a coach – especially if there have already been challenges. FertilitySOS can help you and your partner if you are struggling with infertility, recurrent miscarriages, PCOS, secondary infertility, of male infertility. Visit FERTILITYSOS for more info about our FertilitySOS book. You can also book a free discovery call to see how the FertilitySOS coach can be of assistance in your fertility journey.  www.fertilitysos.com

September 2, 2022
Boomerang

Boomerang September Highlights

BATMAN DAY – MOVIE STARS SPECIAL It’s a case for Batman! Did you know that 17 September is Batman Day? And Boomerang is taking on the villains to celebrate everyone’s favourite superhero! On this day, Boomerang’s Movie Stars features Scooby-Doo and Batman in the movie Scooby-Doo & Batman: The Brave and The Bold. It’s a thrill a second! After saving Scooby-Doo and the gang from some truly dangerous villains, Batman enlists the help of the Mystery Inc. gang to solve one of his few unexplained cases. Meanwhile, they must also deal with a new mysterious villain who calls himself the ‘Crimson Cloak’, who is planning to take over Gotham City! It’s a big case – are you brave enough to be Batman’s sidekick and help him save the day? TUNE IN:             Saturday, 17 September @ 09:40 CAT THOMAS AND FRIENDS It’s all engines go! All aboard for some brand-new episodes of Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go!With an adorably fearless “I think I can” attitude, Thomas and his friends are not afraid to take on any challenge, big or small. In the first of these brand-new episodes, a big storm approaches and Thomas and the tank engines must complete a week’s worth of deliveries by the end-of-the-workday whistle. But Sandy needs repairs … will they make it on time? Then, another big wind blows in, and Sir Topham Hatt’s Hat has swept away, and it’s up to Thomas and his friends to catch it. So, join Thomas and Friends for more episodes like this where they lift, load, pull and choo-choo through every new adventure. PREMIERE:        Monday, 29 August 2022 TUNE IN:             Everyday @ 07:05 CAT AKISSI: A FUNNY LITTLE BROTHER Fiercest adventures with our amazing adventurer of Africa Tag along for a funny African adventure with Akissi: A Funny Little Brother. This heartfelt Boomerang half-hour special follows a fearless and feisty little girl, Akissi, and her monkey friend, Boubou, as they set out on hilarious adventures in their contemporary African city. But oh, she has some big hoops to jump through when the neighbourhood cats try to steal her fish, and Boubou almost ends up in a frying pan! How will that turn out? Join in on the adventure – and all the mischief – with the beloved Akissi, who seems like a pest to her brother when in fact, she is nothing but a true adventurer, always looking for the next thrill. Nothing scares her away from hilarious escapades in her modern African city, only on Boomerang! TUNE IN:             Saturday, 24 September @ 09:15 CAT

September 1, 2022
Cartoon Network Africa

THE ANGRY BIRDS MOVIE -KEEP CALM AND CHIRP ON!

In The Angry Birds Movie, we’ll finally discover why the birds are so angry. Based on the hugely popular video game series, the movie takes us to an island paradise populated entirely by happy, flightless birds – or almost entirely. Red is a bird with a temper problem, and together with his mates, speedy Chuck and the volatile Bomb, they have always been outsiders in the colony. So, when the island is visited by mysterious green piggies, it’s up to these unlikely outcasts to figure out what the pigs are up to because only Red and Co. can see that the whole world is in danger from the secretive swines. TUNE IN:             Saturday, 27 August @ 08:30 CAT

August 26, 2022
Parenting Hub

How to install your car seat and correctly strap in your child correctly for optimal safety

According to the law, children under the age of three have to be strapped in when travelling in vehicles on South African roads.  The type of seat your child needs depends on several things, including your child’s age, size, and developmental needs. Once you’ve established what car seat you’re after though, correctly installing it and knowing how to strap in your child is the next very crucial step to securing your child’s safety when in a vehicle. According to Maxi-Cosi car seat manufacturers, their seats are among the safest you can buy, but all car seats need to be fitted and used correctly for safe travel and maximum protection. Here are their top tips for car seat safety: Install car seats correctly Baby car seats must always be rear facing. If you have ISOFIX in your car use an ISOFIX car seat, it’s easy to install the seat to the anchor points. If you don’t have ISOFIX you can use a seat belt installed car seat. Make sure you know how to guide the belt correctly and pull the car seat belt tight. Make sure the seat is locked down – a simple check is to check if the car seat is moving around a fair amount, in which case it’s not installed correctly Pull the car seat’s safety harness tight. If you can just slip one finger between the harness and your child’s chest, it’s tight enough. Read the car seat manual or watch the installation video and follow the instructions carefully. Various baby stores can also install carseats for you and check that your seat Secure your child correctly Always use a car seat, even on short trips It’s obvious, and it’s the law, but we still sometimes see children travelling without a car seat. Accidents can happen, even on the shortest trips. Use a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible It’s safest for babies and toddlers to stay in a rear-facing car seat until they are at least 15 months old. It doesn’t matter if their legs stick out, but if their heads are higher than the seat shell, they need the next size. Avoid second-hand car seats You can never be sure a second-hand car seat is a safe car seat. You don’t know if it’s been damaged in an accident, or has pieces missing. Use the correct size car seat It’s best to buy a car seat for your child’s current height and weight, then buy the next size up. Avoid seats that claim to cover all ages in one. Make sure the safety harness is at the right heightThe harness should be at shoulder height.    Take your child’s coat offA thick coat can make the harness less effective. If your child is cold, use their coat as a blanket over the harness. Beware of activated frontal airbagsThe safest place for a rear-facing car seat is on the back seat, passenger side. This avoids the danger of front airbags inflating against the seat. Deactivate the front airbag if you use your car seat on the passenger seat and place this seat in the rearmost position. Make sure the safety harness straps are not twisted. Keep loose items off the rear parcel shelfIn an accident, even small loose items can turn into dangerous projectiles. Tuck them away safely. Follow these tips and enjoy lots of fun, safe outings with your child.

August 21, 2022
Parenting Hub

Why fruits and vitamins are the skincare ingredients of the moment

Like our bodies, our skin needs plenty of nutrients to look and feel its best. Scientists continually find new sources from which to extract these nutrients for our skincare products. But other than laboratory-created ingredients, where do our skincare ingredients come from? Nutritional skincare ingredients are extracted from plants, flowers, seeds and nuts, herbs, spices and even fruit! And while you might not think “skincare” when you see an orange, grapefruit or pineapple, these are popularly used in skincare formulations because of their nutritional content.  Fruits are also packed with vitamins, another popular addition to skincare products. As much as vitamins feed and nourish our bodies, they also feed and nourish our skin.  We take a closer look at a few star ingredients you should be incorporating in your daily skincare regime: Pineapple When it comes to skincare, the word “pineapple” is usually closely followed by the word “enzyme.” That’s because pineapples are rich in bromelain, a group of enzymes that have the ability to gently, yet effectively, exfoliate the skin. Bromelain has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, which makes pineapple good at reducing swelling and redness in breakouts. These enzymes slough away dead skin cells and reduce the appearance of blackheads without irritating the skin.  Pineapple-rich products to try: *new* wet n wild Prime Focus Brightening Primer Serum (R219.95) This water-based primer serum boosts your skin’s radiance as it preps and primes it for makeup. Formulated with a luxurious blend of pineapple, calendula, and other flower and fruit extracts that help to brighten, refine, and condition the skin, this face serum will leave you feeling positively radiant. *new* wet n wild Prime Focus Pore Minimizing Primer Serum (R219.95) This water-based pore-refining primer serum blurs and softens the appearance skin as it preps and primes it for makeup. It reduces the appearance or pores with the help of Bakuchiol, a natural retinol alternative known to improve skin texture, as well as other naturally-derived ingredients like antioxidant-rich dragonfruit extract, lavender extract, pineapple and calendula. Grapefruit Grapefruit is a popular breakfast fruit and boasts an amazing array of health benefits. Not only is it high in vitamin C, but it contains fibre, is high in antioxidants, helps promote a healthy body weight and is good for the heart. When utilised in skincare, grapefruit has the ability to tone the skin, balance oily or acne-prone skins and brighten dull or uneven complexions. Grapefruit is packed with antioxidants, which help combat harmful free radicals (naturally-occurring in pollution and sunlight) that can lead to premature ageing and skin damage.  Grapefruit-rich products to try: Creightons Pink Grapefruit Face Wash (R69.95) This refreshing cleanser effectively removes dirt and impurities while invigorating the skin to help encourage a fresh, healthy looking complexion. Creightons Pink Grapefruit Face Scrub (R69.95) Gently exfoliate and unclog pores with this face scrub to help promote a brighter, more radiant complexion. Papaya Papaya contains powerful anti-inflammatory enzymes that help promote healing, and is also full of antioxidants. Papain, an enzyme present in papaya, is known to help soothe skin irritations and its strong anti-inflammatory properties makes it an ideal ingredient for blemish-prone skin. Like the enzymes present in pineapples, papaya enzymes gently exfoliate skin, effectively removing dead skin cells and flaky patches to reveal a brighter complexion.  Papaya-rich products to try: Creightons Vitamin C Superfruits Skin Radiance Moisturiser (R89.95) Working to enhance skin’s natural radiance, this moisturiser promotes a brighter, healthier-looking complexion. Formulated with vitamin C, natural fruit acids and enzymes, this skin-lovingformula is lightweight and refreshing. Creightons Vitamin C Superfruits 2% Bright Eye Serum (R115.95)  This is a lightweight eye cream fortified with vitamin C, natural fruit acids and enzymes, to rejuvenate and replenish the under eye area as well as minimise the appearance of dark circles. Vitamin C Renowned for its ability to boost our immune systems and general wellbeing, vitamin C is a skincare ingredient you do not want to be without. Also known as Ascorbic Acid, vitamin C is one of the most powerful antioxidants. It protects our skin from environmental extremities such as pollution and blue light from cellphones, tablets and computers. It is also a brilliant pigmentation fighter. Vitamin C helps to inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase (a catalyst that aids melanin production), thereby helping prevent melanin production, and in turn, prevent hyperpigmentation and dark marks. It has the ability to aid healing in the skin and assists the skin with collagen production.  Vitamin C-rich products to try: *new* wet n wild Take Your Vitamins Super Nutrient Face Mist (R199.95)  Boost your skin with the ultimate vitamin-packed primer water from wet n wild. Blended with the skin-loving ingredients you crave (vitamins C, F, B3 and B5), this primer water acts as the perfect prep for any skincare routine, while helping to hydrate, firm, and brighten the skin. Simply spray it on and enjoy the rejuvenating effects of this ultra-fine mist. NIP+FAB Vitamin C Fix Cleanser (R250.00) Cleanse your way to fresh, glowing skin with the Vitamin C Fix Cleanser. This daily-use gentle cleanser helps to protect skin from everyday environmental pollutants whilst revealing clearer brighter skin. Wash away dirt and impurities and leave skin refreshed and glowing. NIP+FAB Vitamin C Fix Serum (R295.00)  This serum uses a powerhouse of antioxidants to leave skin brightened and refreshed. Vitamin C helps to protect skin against environmental damage and decreases fine lines and wrinkles, whilst acai berry acts as a cooling anti-inflammatory.

August 19, 2022
Parenting Hub

Could this just be the world’s first infinitely interchangeable kid’s sneaker?

There’s a new buzz around the playgrounds of Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durbs (Bloem too!) as JoyJoy Kids’ Sneakers make their way to hundreds of South Africa’s little feet. ‘The world’s first insanely cool sneaker’ qualifies as an interchangeable kaleidoscope of fashion-fun as kids ages 3-12 get to snap on, snap off and swap out their choices of shoe design. Ready to impress, JoyJoy hits the online space this Winter with an addictive collection of shoe reverie that will affect (and improve) the carpool, the playground, the classroom, Saturday parties, extra lessons and extra – everything. Started by Mompreneurs, Jade Kirkel and Daniella Silbermann – on a lounge floor somewhere between a playdate and a bottle feed. This fresh, interchangeable sneaker allows kids the freedom to experiment with their unique sense of style: to change their look and their mood, in a snap – and to ultimately help build their self-confidence on and off the playground. “We intended to think of everything along this journey, ” says Dani Silbermann, Co-founder of JoyJoy, “the comfort factors, the confidence factors, the convenience factors and the fashion factors – but mostly, the JOY factors of wearing shoes at a young age.” “Beyond that – we also wanted to build a fashion brand that would make our little ones feel in charge of their feelings and their style choices,” adds Jade Kirkel, Co-founder of JoyJoy. “Imagine a pair of sneakers that gets kids excited about wearing shoes, and, at the same time, makes mom or dad feel like they’ve won the war in the ‘dress-myself department’; that’s what JoyJoy does,” says Kirkel. But that’s not the only problem this sneaker solves: it saves on money (and tantrums too). For parents, a trip to the shoe-shelf is no fun feet, with kids’ needing to replace their shoes more often, due to wear and tear or fashion trends. JoyJoy relieves this with the convenience of just one quality pair of white sneakers and 100’s of ways to wear it. The fun won’t ever end in this theme park of shoe exhilaration and gone will be the days of tying laces. Designed to meet young girls and boys where they’re at, all JoyJoy Snap Packs are themed to suit a day in the life of a little grown up: from The Sweet Life to Snap Dragon to Play it Cool to Princess Squad, Goal-Getters and, even, The Chill Out Snap Pack – kids can’t go wrong with changing their minds, hearts or vibes in a moment. Better yet, besties will have a roaring time swapping out their snaps for their best days ever. And when the day goes wrong? And the shoe doesn’t fit (by foot size nor fashion sense), guess what – they don’t have to wear it! Knowing the inevitable frustration that comes with fussy pirates and mermaids, Jade and Dani offer a problem-free Joylosophy with their J.S.I.B promise – JUST SEND IT BACK. No laces attached. Too big? Too small? The glitter’s come off? The shark looks funny? Want a last- minute crown and not a dragon? No fashion faux pas is too little nor too big for these Moms on a mission to serve joy. Parents can easily reach out to the JoyJoy team for a return or refund. Undoubtedly, Jade and Dani have made it their sole mission to impress little big humans and to remove the grudge from shoe-wearing. Even the parents at home might have shoe envy (sorry folks, no adult sizes yet!). Where to start? The JoyJoy Starter Box is Mom and Dad’s first port of call along the JoyJoy journey, picked and packed and delivered straight to your door. The Starter box includes a pair of signature white JoyJoy sneakers (which can be worn on their own) and a Snap Pack of mix and match snaps of your choice. The starter box retails for R799 including free delivery (yay more added joy!). Once you have your signature base JoyJoy sneaker, you have now opened up a world of infinitely interchangeable snaps. Snap Packs are a mixer-matcher dream and are released regularly in collections of three Velcro snaps per pack. Here’s a SNEAKer Peek: The Ice Cream Starter Box: Pair of White JoyJoy Sneakers Ice Cream Patch Snap Purple Glitter Snap Gold Glitter Snap Butterfly Starter Box: Pair of White JoyJoy Sneakers Butterfly Patch Snap Purple Glitter Snap Navy Glitter Snap Shark Starter Box: Pair of White JoyJoy Sneakers Shark Snap Patch Red Snap Grey Snap JoyJoy is your child’s answer to confident dress-sense and self-awareness; giving them the freedom to stand up and stand out; the power to express their feelings through fashion and to choose and change their vibe, style and mood – as many (many) times as they like. Go on, add to cart Mom. Shop JoyJoy online at www.joyjoy.co.za

August 15, 2022
Disney +

She-Hulk: Attorney at Law

A new comedy series starring Tatiana Maslany as She-Hulk/Jennifer Walters, a lawyer who specializes in superhuman-oriented legal cases. Directed by Kat Coiro (Episodes 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9) and Anu Valia (Episodes 5, 6, 7) with Jessica Gao as head writer, “She-Hulk: Attorney at Law” follows Jennifer Walters as she navigates the complicated life of a single, 30-something attorney who also happens to be a green 6-foot-7-inch superpowered hulk. The nine-episode series welcomes a host of MCU vets, including Mark Ruffalo as Smart Hulk, Tim Roth as Emil Blonsky/the Abomination, and Benedict Wong as Wong.

August 15, 2022
Bramley Cosmetics & Toiletries

How to maintain a healthy skincare regime on a budget

As the cost of living rises, it’s becoming increasingly important to find affordable skincare products that don’t skimp on efficacy. The majority of South Africans are feeling the pinch right now. With fuel prices at an all-time high, food prices increasing by the day and the cost of electricity continuously going up (despite constant loadshedding!), there’s a little too much month at the end of everyone’s money. For a lot of people, this means cutting back on expenses and finding more affordable alternatives for pricey items. For some, it has meant adjusting their beauty routines: from purchasing fewer products to switching over to more affordable brands, women are finding ways to maintain a beauty regime without a hefty price tag. There’s a common belief that if a product is expensive, it has to be good. But what science shows us, is that this is not necessarily true. While some ingredients are innately expensive to produce and ramp up a product’s price tag, it’s not the only factor determining pricing. Marketing budgets, advertising campaigns, packaging and celebrity endorsements all add up, often putting a high cost behind products that would otherwise be more affordable. When we consider how “good” a beauty product is, we should be looking at its ingredients and efficacy in isolation, without taking the other factors into consideration. After all, that’s what it’s really about, right? The same goes for more affordable products: a reasonable price tag does not necessarily mean inferior quality. There are some incredibly effective, top quality ingredients out there that are not expensive, and allow brands to produce affordable skincare products that deliver on their promises. But how can you know which is which? In a beauty industry that’s flooded with product options, we recommend always looking to ingredients first. Do your research and find out which ingredients offer the results you’re after, and then determine which products offer the most bang for your buck. One of the best affordable skincare ingredients on the market is Bramley’s Bio-Pharm Oil, used in their much-loved tissue oils. Bramley’s very own unique ceramide blend, Bio-Pharm Oil, enhances the functionality of the skin’s moisture barrier, keeping moisture locked in. The use of Bio-Pharm Oil gives the tissue oils a modern scientific treatment to maintain the healthy appearance of the skin. The ceramides influence the water-holding capacity of the skin and provide structural integrity. Bramley tissue oils are suitable for all skin types and provide best results when applied daily over a period of time. Bramley’s tissue oils also contain another very affordable and highly effective ingredient – vitamin E. Known for its healing and antioxidant properties, vitamin E also helps skin cells repair, softens skin and protects cells from damage. Bramley’s tissue oils are the number one selling tissue oils is South Africa for a reason: Not only are they highly effective at nourishing, moisturizing and softening the skin, but they are affordable, multipurpose and versatile, meaning you only need to buy one product to cover a variety of needs. In a time when we could all do with a little bit of relief when it comes to spending, Bramley’s tissue oils are the answer to maintaining your beauty regime at an affordable price. Use it on your skin Apply a few drops onto a cotton pad and use it as a makeup remover. Apply to dry and cracked lips to soften and moisturise the skin. It can be applied to the skin to help fade dark marks. Use it on your body It can be used as a massage oil. It can be used to minimise the appearance of scars and stretch marks. Use for cracked heels (apply some onto feet and put socks on before bed). Apply it to your cuticles and nail beds to promote healthy nail growth and softer cuticles. Use it as a bath oil – simply pour a few drops into your bath water. Apply before and after shaving your legs to soothe irritation. Mix some tissue oil into your body lotion or butter and apply all over for silky soft skin. Mix some sugar crystals with tissue oil to make your own body scrub. Use it on your hair Use it as a deep treatment to moisturise and soften hair. Apply to your lash line and eyelashes before bed to help promote longer, healthy lashes. With so many uses, it’s easy to understand why Bramley tissue oils are the number one choice of South Africans.

August 12, 2022
Parenting Hub

LEGENDS OF SPARK

Tick-Tock Racetrack, up for the challenge? The engines on Tick-Tock Racetrack are revving loud and proud, and our hero Spark is bustling busy in August. Watch all the new episodes that will take you around tight new turns of fun! You will be able to join in the celebrations for Spark’s birthday and find out where Flash disappears to when he goes missing. There’s also panic when the repair shop receives a mysterious package that appears to be a ticking time bomb. When the town becomes covered in fog, it’s up to Spark to complete the Tick-Tock Racetrack challenge to disperse it. But that’s just the starting line in the line-up, so tune in and start your engine! PREMIERE:        Monday, 15 August 2022 TUNE IN:             Monday to Friday @ 17:00 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

August 12, 2022
Parenting Hub

Tips for longer-lasting fragrance

Have you ever sprayed your favourite perfume, only to find the scent disappeared after a couple of hours? It is common for fragrances with light, fresh notes to disappear faster than fragrances with heavier oriental, floral or woody notes. However, the longevity of your fragrance is not just dependent on its composition – it’s also largely dependent on how you use it. Follow these simple tips to ensure you get the most out of your fragrance and increase its longevity: Know your EDT from your EDP Most fragrances are either an “EDT” – eau de toilette, or an “EDP” – eau de parfum. An eau de toilette typically contains around 8-15% fragrance oil which lasts around 4-6 hours, in comparison to an eau de parfum which typically contains 15-30% fragrance oil and can last up to 8-10 hours. An eau de parfum therefore has a higher concentration of fragrance oil, meaning it will typically last longer on the skin. If you prefer not to reapply your fragrance during the day, then an eau de parfum is your best option, as it typically lasts for most of the day. For him, try: Mercedes Benz Sign Eau de Parfum (R1895.00 for 100ml). A fougere oriental, this fragrance features top notes of cardamom and pink peppercorn, heart notes of aromatic lavender, orange blossom, rose geranium and base notes of tonka bean, white musk and cashmere.  For her, try: Mercedes Benz For Woman Eau De Parfum (R1495.00 for 60ml). It’s an enchanting, luxurious, unexpected fragrance created to accentuate and exalt a woman’s personality with a rich, sophisticated accord composed of sandalwood, vanilla, musk and cashmere woods. Moisturise your skin Moisturised skin holds onto fragrance a lot longer than drier skin. To make your scent last longer, we recommend applying a fragrance-free body lotion all over before you begin spritzing.  Apply your fragrance after a shower The steam from a shower helps open the aroma of your fragrance: When you get out of the shower, your skin and body temperature is high, and heat helps diffuse fragrance. In addition, clean post-shower skin is free from sweat, oil and impurities which can interfere with your fragrance.  Layer your fragrance If you have a shower gel or scented body lotion or oil of the same scent as your fragrance, layering these products will increase the longevity of your fragrance, and may also enhance your fragrance.   Love an uplifting scent? Layer your fragrance with Superdry Re:Vive Body+Hair Wash (R95.99) and Superdry Re:Vive Body Spray (R79.99). Invigorating and zesty, this duo is powered by notes of cardamom and lemon.  Prefer a marine-inspired scent? Try  Superdry’s Pacific Men’s Body+Hair Wash (R95.99) and Pacific Men’s Body Spray (R79.99) features oceanic citrus marine notes and masculine mineral depths for a fresh, marine-inspired scent.  Don’t rub your wrists together If you apply fragrance to your wrists, you may feel an instinctual urge to rub them together, but in doing this, you can make the top notes disappear faster. Not only does this affect the fragrance’s longevity, but it also alters its scent.  Store your fragrance correctly Exposure to light and heat can chemically alter your fragrance. Maintain its scent and longevity by storing your fragrance correctly. Store your fragrance in a cool and dark place. As tempting as it is to keep it on your dressing table, exposure to sunlight and humidity can cause unwanted chemical reactions to occur. We recommend keeping it in its original bottle, in a drawer or cupboard not too close to a bathroom where it can be exposed to steam. Apply to your pulse points Experts recommend applying fragrance to your pulse points as your skin is the thinnest at these points, meaning the veins are closer to the skin, making these areas warmer. Essentially, pulse points are like mini radiators, and heat helps diffuse fragrance. Pulse points are found on the insides of your wrists and elbows, behind your ears, on your neck and the back of your knees. A few spritzes of Rockford Homme Wild Black Eau De Toilette (R425.00 for 100ml) on the wrists is all you need for all-day fragrance. This oriental, warm fragrance features ginger and citrus notes at the top, cinnamon and incense in the heart and leather and amber bottom notes. Don’t spray regular perfume in your hair The temptation to spray perfume in your hair is very real – after all, it holds fragrance longer than skin does. But most fragrances have a high alcohol percentage, and alcohol is dehydrating. Because dryness and dehydration is such a common hair concern, it’s best to avoid spraying your fragrance in your hair. Instead, opt for a hair mist or hair perfume. Formulated without drying alcohol, hair perfume is safe to use and won’t damage or dry your hair. Try Curls In Bloom Hair Perfume (R69.95). A light and nourishing formula that delicately scents the hair with green apples, lily of the valley and sandalwood, it also fights frizz, leaving hair soft and nourished throughout the day.

August 8, 2022
Cartoon Network Africa

GIRL POWER GO! WHEN THE GOING GETS TOUGH, THE GIRLS GET GOING!

This Women’s Month line-up is packed with Girl Power Go!From a crazy girl’s night out with Starfire and Raven in Teen Titans Go! to our favourite sisterhoodDC Super Hero Girls, tracking a mysterious warrior, powerful women are our stars.In The Amazing World of Gumball, Anais faces her bully, and in Craig of the Creek, Kelsea takes on a terrifying quest. Stay tuned for the Lego DC Super Hero Girls: Super-Villain High movie, where the girls discover a new high school for villains and must rescue the students from their own fate! Get ready for this girl power stunt, only on Cartoon Network Africa. TUNE IN:             Tuesday, 09 August @ 09:55 CAT

August 8, 2022
Disney +

I Am Groot

“I Am Groot” is a collection of five original shorts starring Baby Groot, everyone’s favourite little tree, and will feature several new and unusual characters. All five shorts will be available for viewers to watch upon launch. There’s no guarding the galaxy from this mischievous toddler! So get ready as Baby Groot takes centre stage in his very own series, exploring his glory days growing up—and getting into trouble—among the stars. Vin Diesel, who is the voice of Groot in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise, is the voice of Baby Groot. 10 August

August 8, 2022
Bonitas – innovation, life stages and quality care

ASTHMA

Asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses, affecting over 339 million people worldwide.  According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), asthma kills around 1 000 people every day and the prevalence is rising.  South Africa is ranked 25th worldwide for asthma prevalence and is ranked fifth for asthma mortality. The lack of appropriate diagnosis, treatment or access to care may be important considerations in tackling asthma morbidity and mortality in South Africa.  What is asthma? Asthma is one of the most common respiratory complaints in the world where your airways – known as bronchial rubes – become inflamed. This swelling or inflammation makes the airways extremely sensitive to irritations and increases their susceptibility to an allergic reaction. In an allergic reaction, the airways swell and the muscles around the airway tighten, making it difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. It affects approximately one in 10 children (10%) and one in 20 adults (5%) and can occur for the first time at any age, even in adulthood. Although asthma usually begins before the age of five, a few children affected will ‘outgrow’ it during their teenage years but it usually persists if contracted in adulthood. Asthma tends to run in families, as do related allergic conditions like hay fever and eczema Signs and symptoms Asthma is often under-diagnosed and under-treated.  If you fail to recognise and avoid triggers that lead to your tightened airways, you may have an asthma attack, feel respiratory distress or experience a life-threatening situation.  So, it’s important that you know how to avoid the triggers and recognise the signs of this condition to enjoy a better quality of life.   Symptoms can range from mild to more serious depending on the severity of the illness but include: Coughing that does not subside and gets worse at night Wheezing Shortness of breath Tightness or pain in the chest What causes asthma? The exact cause of the asthmatic process is not well understood but it is thought to be triggered off by an allergy or when the lungs are irritated by something in the air. Research shows that the risk facts are a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to inhaled substances and particles that may cause allergic reactions or irritate the airways.  These include indoor allergens – such as dust mites and pet dander in the home, outdoor allergens – such as pollen and mould as well as tobacco smoke and air pollution. Other triggers can include cold air, stress or physical exercise. Certain medications, such as aspirin and other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and beta-blockers (which are used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions and migraine) can also set off an asthma attack.  Factors associated with asthma prevalence or disease severity in South African children include the adoption of an urban lifestyle, atopy (a genetic predisposition),obesity, respiratory infection, or exposure to industrial pollution or tobacco smoke.  Treating asthma Asthma can be life threatening when left untreated and cannot be cured but, with the right treatment most asthmatics will lead completely normal lives. The aim of treatment should be to make the lungs and breathing tubes as normal as possible so that there are minimal symptoms and as little disruption to ordinary life as possible. Get help Bonitas Medical Fund says, ‘If you are experiencing asthma symptoms or think you might have asthma, it is important for you to talk to your GP.  This will help you establish if your symptoms are linked to asthma or whether something else is causing them.’

August 8, 2022
Cartoon Network Africa

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 – WHAT ARE YOUR MOST “MONSTERIFIC” MOVES?

Take in this treat of a monster boot camp movie on Cartoon Network. Ever since Mavis, Dracula’s daughter, became a mom, he has been the happiest vampire grandpa in the world! His toddler monster grandchild, Dennis, is the apple of his vamp eye. So much so that even his monster-only hotel policy has relaxed, and he now allows human guests to visit. But behind closed coffins, he’s secretly worried because his adorable half-human, half-vampire grandson isn’t showing signs of being a vampire. When the time comes for Mavis to take a trip to visit her in-laws, “Drac” takes his chance to test and train Dennis to be a “vamp”, and the boot camp rampage begins. TUNE IN:             Monday, 08 August @ 09:55 CAT

August 5, 2022
Boomerang

ZIG & SHARKO

Singing seashells! It’s marvellous Marina! Marina, the mermaid with the merry laugh and melodious voice, is singing her way into the spotlight this Women’s Month. In this special two-day Zig & Sharko marathon, Marina is simply adorable! She may live on a rock in a heavenly lagoon, but her days are filled with excitement, and she has so many suitors! A castaway, a fisherman and even King Neptune himself. Boomerang can’t wait to bring you these episodes full of her playful stories. And while her melodies make her a superstar singer, watch out because there is a rumour that another mermaid might show up in the lagoon. PREMIERE:        Monday, 08 August 2022 TUNE IN:             Monday & Tuesday @ 07:30 CAT

August 5, 2022
Disney +

SUMMER GETS HOTTER WITH NEW CLIP AND POSTER FOR “LEGO® STAR WARS SUMMER VACATION,” PREMIERING AUGUST 5, 2022, EXCLUSIVELY ON DISNEY+

All-New Animated Special from Lucasfilm and the LEGO Group Features the Voices of “Weird Al” Yankovic, Yvette Nicole Brown,  Kelly Marie Tran, Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, and  Returning Cast Members from Previous LEGO Star Wars Specials  Summer just got hotter with the arrival of a new clip and the poster for “LEGO® Star Wars Summer Vacation,” the all-new animated special from Lucasfilm and the LEGO Group premiering August 5, 2022, exclusively on Disney+. The clip, which debuted yesterday at LEGO’s San Diego Comic-Con panel, and the all-new poster, highlight the newest entry in the popular signature branded cross-saga storytelling series which is set shortly after the events of “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker” and features the voices of “Weird Al” Yankovic, Yvette Nicole Brown, Kelly Marie Tran, Anthony Daniels, Billy Dee Williams, and returning cast members from previous “LEGO Star Wars” specials.  Looking for a much-needed break from stormtroopers and TIE fighters, Finn arranges a surprise vacation for his friends Rey, Poe, Rose, Chewie, BB-8, R2-D2, and C-3PO, aboard the ultra-luxurious Galactic Starcruiser, the Halcyon. But Finn’s plan to have one last hurrah together quickly goes awry when he’s separated from the group. While searching for his friends, he encounters three Force ghosts: Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin Skywalker, and Leia Organa, who each share their own unexpected stories of vacations gone wrong, helping him to understand that holidays are about more than just having fun. “LEGO Star Wars Summer Vacation” features the voices of: “Weird Al” Yankovic as Vic Vankoh; Yvette Nicole Brown as Colvett Valeria; Thomas Lennon as Wick Cooper; Paul F. Tompkins as Rad; Dee Bradley Baker as Boba Fett; Ashly Burch as the Tour Droid; Kyliegh Curran as Sidero; Anthony Daniels as C-3PO; Trevor Devall as Emperor Palpatine; Allie Feder as Sy Snootles; Jake Green as Poe Dameron; Matt Lanter as Anakin Skywalker; Ross Marquand as Han Solo; Omar Miller as Finn; Kevin Michael Richardson as Jabba the Hutt; Matt Sloan as Darth Vader; James Arnold Taylor as Obi-Wan Kenobi; Kelly Marie Tran as Rose; Helen Sadler as Rey Skywalker; Billy Dee Williams as Lando (Holovid); Matthew Wood as Ben Solo; and Shelby Young as Leia Organa.  David Shayne is writer and executive producer, and the director is Ken Cunningham. James Waugh, Josh Rimes, Jacqui Lopez, Jill Wilfert, Jason Cosler, Keith Malone, and Jennifer Twiner Mccarron are executive producers. Produced in collaboration with Atomic Cartoons.

August 3, 2022
Cartoon Network Africa

BIG BLUE – JOIN THE CREW AND FIND YOUR FUN-CAPTAIN

There are brand-new episodes just waiting for you in Big Blue, where every day is a daring underwater adventure with siblings Lettie and Lemo and the Calypso crew. The funniest team under the sea gets carried away in August as they take on a top-secret mission to escort superstar Lea to a concert and learn new teamwork moves when they take part in a dance competition. Do tag along and join the fun as Lettie becomes their full-on ‘fun captain’ under the training of Captain Tubular. Join Cartoon Network this month as we unravel the mysterious secrets of Big Blue’s underwater universe. PREMIERE:        Monday, 01 August 2022 TUNE IN:             Monday to Friday @ 16:40 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up

August 1, 2022
Disney +

DISNEY AND PIXAR’S “LIGHTYEAR” BLASTS ONTO DISNEY+

Today, Disney+ revealed plans to stream Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” beginning August 3, 2022. A new spot celebrating the upcoming launch is now available. “’Lightyear’ looks amazing on the big screen, of course, but we are so excited to bring it to Disney+,” said Angus MacLane, who helmed the film. “We devoted years of our lives to this film and we are so proud of it. We want to share it with as many people as possible. Disney+ not only gives more fans an opportunity to see ‘Lightyear,’ it gives us all the means to see it again and again.”  ABOUT THE MOVIE A sci-fi action adventure and the definitive origin story of Buzz Lightyear, the hero who inspired the toy, “Lightyear” follows the legendary Space Ranger after he’s marooned on a hostile planet 4.2 million light-years from Earth alongside his commander and their crew. As Buzz tries to find a way back home through space and time, he’s joined by a group of ambitious recruits and his charming robot companion cat, Sox. Complicating matters and threatening the mission is the arrival of Zurg, an imposing presence with an army of ruthless robots and a mysterious agenda.  The film features the voices of Chris Evans as accomplished Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear, Uzo Aduba as his commander and best friend Alisha Hawthorne and Peter Sohn as Sox. Keke Palmer, Taika Waititi and Dale Soules lend their voices to the Junior Zap Patrol’s Izzy Hawthorne, Mo Morrison and Darby Steel, respectively, and James Brolin can be heard as the enigmatic Zurg. The voice cast also includes Mary McDonald-Lewis as onboard computer I.V.A.N., Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Commander Burnside, Efren Ramirez as Airman Díaz, Keira Hairston as Young Izzy and Tim Peake as Tim/Mission Control (in U.K. release). Directed by Angus MacLane (co-director “Finding Dory”), produced by Galyn Susman (“Toy Story That Time Forgot”) and featuring a score by award-winning composer Michael Giacchino (“The Batman,” “Up”), Disney and Pixar’s “Lightyear” is in theaters now. The film streams on Disney+ beginning Aug. 3, 2022. 

August 1, 2022
Parenting Hub

Hair trends to try this winter

Every season sees an influx of new hair trends that dominate the runways, red carpets and social media, offering endless inspiration for those of us who are keen to try something new. Winter 2022 is no different, except this year, we’re seeing the biggest trends coming from celebrities.  After two years of Covid-19, the start of 2022 saw in-person awards ceremonies back in action, giving our favourite A-listers plenty of opportunity to show off new post-pandemic looks. Plus, new seasons of some of our favourite shows (hello, Stranger Things!) have also played a major part in shaping Winter 2022 hair trends.  This winter, we’re seeing a major revival of past trends, giving 2022 real nostalgic energy. Think hairstyles from the 70s, 80s and 90s, but with a modern twist.  Keen to try something new? Get ready to add these trends to your inspiration folder: Natural textures The inspo: Rihanna and Tracee Ellis Ross  Texture is big this winter, and if you’ve thought about going natural, now is the time. Whether your hair is naturally curly, coily or wavy, it’s time to ditch the straightener and embrace your natural texture. Reminiscent of the 80s, it’s all about celebrating curls, coils and afros. Filled with the very best ingredients that nature has to offer, The Perfect Hair products are the ideal companion for your natural hair. The Mango & Marula range is specially designed for curly hair, adding and locking in plenty of moisture while nourishing, softening and adding shine. Try the Mango & Marula Silky Soft Shampoo (R100.00) and Detangling Deep Conditioner(R100.00) for an intense moisture boost. Copper brunette The inspo: Zendaya and Kendall Jenner Also referred to as “luxury copper”, this is the hottest hair colour of the season, and finally, it’s a colour totally attainable by brunettes! Warm and full-bodied, the colour is rich and luxurious – just what the chilly season calls for. Prolong the life of your copper colour and maintain its vibrancy with Marc Anthony Complete Color Care nourishing Hair Mask (R189.95), a nourishing hair mask that reduces colour fade, locking in nutrients and protecting against environmental damage, and Marc Anthony Complete Color Care Colour Bond Instant Colour Sealer (R179.95), a treatment products that seals the cuticles to lock in moisture, adds shine and prevents colour fade.  Fringe benefits The inspo: Zoë Kravitz and Dua Lipa Fringes or bangs are a hit every winter, likely because they’re more manageable in colder weather. The two most popular fringe styles this winter are the blunt bang (straight-cut and thick) and the French fringe, a soft cut with rounded, textured ends that blend with the rest of your haircut. This colour won’t require a lot of maintenance, but you’ll need to switch up your hair care regime to ensure you use colour-protecting products to increase its longevity.  Chances are your fringe will be heat-styled a lot more often than the rest of your hair, so it’s essential to spritz on a product to protect it from heat damage. Try Hask Biotin Boost 5-In-1 Leave-In Spray (R160.00) which thickens and adds body, provides thermal protection, controls frizz, adds shine, prevents breakage, and detangles and moisturises.  Your fringe will also need to be washed more regularly than the rest of your hair. If you’re pressed for time, we recommend a few spritzes of Colab Dry Shampoo (R99.95). Not only does it leave hair looking and feeling fresh (without the dreaded white residue) but dry shampoo is known to add volume, too. Layers The inspo: Lily Collins and Georgia May Jagger 90s-era layers are back with a vengeance. Bouncy and fresh when styled and feminine and soft when left to air dry, this French-inspired style frames the face and adds dimension and texture to your cut. Plus, this is the perfect style for anyone wanting a new look while maintaining the length of their hair. Try OGX Coconut Miracle Oil Air Dry Cream (R215.00). This air-dry cream is ideal for style on the go – simply work through damp hair to reduce frizz as hair dries naturally for beautiful heat-free style. Sleek ponytail The inspo: Bella Hadid A versatile style for straight hair, the sleek ponytail is easy to wear, any time of the day or night. The key to perfecting it, is to use a fine-tooth comb to smooth out any bumps once your hair’s been pulled back. Use a gel or mousse over the top for a smooth finish and to flatten any flyaways. The  Evolve Triple Edge Styler (R129.95) is a must-have for smoothing your hair and taming flyaways. This 3-in-1 pure boar brush can be used for smoothing and styling edges or sleek ponies, the fine-tooth comb can be used for shaping edges and the rat tail can be used to part your hair. Smooth edges and flyaways with Cantu Shea Butter Edge Gel Stay Gel (R150.00). It conditions and smooths frizz and flyaway hair for shiny, sleek styles with a long-lasting, flake-free hold. For a sculpted finish, we recommend applying a little bit of Cantu Shea Butter Styling Gel with Jamaican Black Castor Oil (R110.00). It smoothes frizz, protects against humidity and holds hair in place without it drying or flaking.  The classic bob The inspo: Alexa Chung and Dakota Johnson The great thing about a bob is that it works with just about any hair type and texture. Cool and understated, it’s a youthful and fun hairstyle that never dates. The key to a modern bob is to not over style it, but rather to work with your natural hair texture. If your hair is wavy or curly, embrace the shape to keep it looking somewhat “undone”. If your hair is straight, allow it to air dry to get some movement and prevent it from looking too rigid. For a wavy or curly bob full of volume, we recommend Umberto Giannini Curl Whip Curl Activating Mousse (R150.00). This mousse helps you achieve weightless, flexible, frizz-free curls and waves with extra definition.

August 1, 2022
Parenting Hub

6 Simple ways to live greener (and use more Earth-friendly products!)

Let’s face it – even if you’ve implemented greener habits in your home, we can all do more when it comes to protecting the environment. We can all do better at recycling, reusing, supporting local businesses, and making greener choices. Some may argue that in reality, we need major corporations, the public and private sectors as well as government on board for real, transformational change. And while that’s true, we as individuals are not powerless. When united with other like-minded individuals, we can create a movement that is powerful and impactful. While it’s important to support larger initiatives that work with government and corporations to initiate change on a large scale, it’s also important that each and every one of us do our bit to make a positive difference. And guess what? It’s much easier than you might think! What can we do in our day to day lives to make a positive change to the environment?  Recycle Glass, paper, cardboard and aluminium are all recyclable materials. Keep a separate bin in which you throw your empty glass bottles, tins, old newspapers and cardboard packaging, and drop it off at your local recycling depot. Many types of plastics are also recyclable. Check the back of plastic items like milk bottles, toiletry packaging and food packaging. If it has the recycling symbol on it (three arrows pointing towards each other in a triangular shape, also known as the “chasing arrows”), you can add it to your other recyclables.  Choose cruelty-free products Testing household and cosmetic products on animals is cruel and unnecessary. Be part of a positive change by actively supporting cruelty-free brands. Check product packaging for a cruelty-free stamp, Beauty Without Cruelty endorsement or PETA-approved logo. Because the demand has increased, more and more cosmetic companies are going cruelty-free. Whether it’s makeup, skincare or haircare, there is a variety of cruelty-free options available for you to try.   wet n wild prides themselves on offering fantastic quality, cruelty-free makeup products at affordable prices. Every item under the brand is 100% cruelty-free and they are endorsed by PETA. In fact, a lot of their products are vegan too. Shop wet n wild makeup at Clicks online here. For a cruelty-free haircare range rich in high quality botanical ingredients, try Hask. Formulated without nasties like sulphates, parabens, phthalates and gluten, Hask is a favourite among hairstylists on films and TV show sets! Shop Hask haircare at Clicks online here and at Dis-Chem online here.  Cruelty-free skincare on your mind? NIP+FAB offers regime-based skincare solutions and products of purpose to help you achieve your clearest, healthiest and most radiant skin yet. And best of all, they’re cruelty-free and vegan! Shop NIP+FAB skincare on Dis-Chem online here. Support local brands We will always have our favourite international brands that we love and support, but one of the best things you can do for the local economy and the environment, is to support locally-produced products too. Not only does this support local entrepreneurs and drive job creation, but it also means that your products travelled a shorter distance (thus using less fuel!). Local haircare brand  The Perfect Hair was created by a local female entrepreneur, and has grown from a small start-up to a big player in the natural haircare market. Not only are the products filled with nourishing natural ingredients and effective at treating and maintaining healthy hair, but they’re also affordable. Shop The Perfect Hair haircare products at selected Clicks, Spar, Checkers; Pick ‘n Pay & Foschini stores as well as Take-A-Lot. Say no to single use plastic Not all plastics are bad. Many are designed to last. We manufacture furniture, appliances, homeware and industrial products from plastic instead of valuable natural resources. Many types of plastics are recyclable. But one of the biggest challenges facing the planet is single use plastic. This is the type of plastic that gets thrown away after one use. Things like drinking straws, plastic packets and food packaging, that are only used once, or used for a very short period of time, is considered a single use plastic. It takes about 1000 years for plastic to decompose, and every year the world produces around 380 million metric tons of plastic. Limit your use of single use plastic whenever possible. Use a refillable water bottle and fill it at the tap instead of buying water, take fabric bags for shopping, avoid using straws and balloons and choose glass alternatives whenever possible. Embrace vegan options We can’t all follow vegan diets, but we can all do our part to consume less animal products. Start small by introducing “Meat-free Monday” in your home. Try plant-based food alternatives and introduce them into your eating plan gradually. Before you know it, you’ll be consuming a lot less animal products. Next up is cosmetic, personal care and household items – switch to vegan alternatives, it’s a lot simpler than you think. While not all brands are 100% vegan, a lot of them have vegan options within their ranges.  wet n wild has a wide variety of vegan makeup products within their ranges.   Umberto Giannini, an award-winning haircare brand from the UK offers transformational haircare products for every hair type, and you’re in luck, as the entire range is 100% vegan! Now you can get the hair of your dreams without the guilt. Shop Umberto Giannini haircare at Clicks online here. Say yes to sustainability When taking ingredients from nature, it’s important to give back to the environment, to ensure the supply runs strong. Sustainability is key when sourcing natural and organic material. Support brands that do their part to manufacture products containing ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients.  EcoTools manufacture exceptional makeup brushes and sponges from recycled and renewable materials like bamboo and eco-foam. They’re a sustainable alternative to the plastic makeup brushes and synthetic sponges we find on the market. Shop EcoTools at Clicks online here.  And what about botanical ingredients? Curls in Bloom, a local haircare brand, knows a thing or two about two about sustainable ingredient sourcing. They source their precious botanical ingredients from is a small pro-active farming community,

July 22, 2022
Parenting Hub

5 indications that your period is not ‘normal’

Every girl at a certain time in their life will start her journey into womanhood through a natural and necessary physical development known as menstruation. Sadly, despite this being a normal and natural phenomenon that every female experiences monthly until often in their 50s – menstruation and periods have a pretty negative stigma attached to them. This stigma often results in periods not being spoken about openly and a further unfortunate reality of many women being misinformed or simply clueless about what constitutes a ‘normal’ period. And herein lies the source of many common women’s reproductive health problems.  3Sixty Biomedicine’s CEO, Boitumelo Sebambo, shares these basic warning signs that every woman should look out for when having their menstrual cycle that could be an indication that their period is not ‘normal’ and they should seek advice from a medical practitioner.  A normal period lasts four to seven days, you can start getting worried if you have periods that occur less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart If you miss three or more periods in row If your menstrual flow is much heavier or lighter than usual Severe pain during your period or between periods that interferes with normal day to day activities Unusually heavy bleeding (soaking through a sanitary pad or tampon every hour for two to three hours) or passing large clots.  These abnormal period indicators can be caused by stress and underlying medical conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) that affects approximately 8 – 13% of women, and that can cause infertility in addition to hirsutism, acne, irregular periods and even hair loss. These conditions can be managed but diagnosis by a gynaecologist is important. Parents are  encouraged to take their teenage girls to visit the gynaecologist and be on the lookout for irregular symptoms in their cycles to avoid long-term effects on their health.  According to Sebambo, part of their mission this youth month is to help educate and empower women throughout their journey of womanhood so they can manage and overcome common women’s reproductive health conditions. “We believe that every woman’s journey matters. No matter what stage of life they are at, we want to help other South African women live quality lives uninhibited by common health issues that could be limiting to their success”. For more information about the Salome range and to be part of the conversation, visit www.salome-range.co.za. The full Salome range of products that helps to manage menstrual pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, premenstrual syndrome, infertility in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and menopause are available to the public from pharmacies nationwide or online at Takealot.com and Salome’s website and can be reimbursed from medical aid savings. Facebook: Salome Range Twitter: SalomeRange Instagram: SalomeRange

July 21, 2022
Parenting Hub

How to brighten blonde hair

Whether you’ve gone platinum, golden, ash or honey blonde, you’re bound to love the effects of your fresh new colour. But while newly-coloured blonde hair looks great, it requires a fair bit of maintenance and TLC to keep it looking that way.  Blonde hair tends to lose its shine and is prone to brassiness and colour fade. The truth is that even when you’re diligent about your blonde hair care routine, dullness and brassiness (when shades of silver or platinum take on a yellowish tinge) can creep in and steal your shine. This is because blonde hair is vulnerable to sun damage, the effects of hard water (tap water that contains colour-stripping minerals like copper and chlorine), pollution and using the wrong hair care products. But while blonde hair may require a bit of maintenance, the reward is truly worth it. Brightening your blonde need not be difficult or stressful – follow these simple tips and product suggestions to enjoy your best blonde yet. Go sulphate-free Sulphates are present in the majority of soaps, shampoos and household cleaning agents. They are responsible for that foamy lather we’ve all come to love, and they are extremely effective at removing dirt and impurities. However, this also makes them very drying on the skin and hair, as they strip moisture along with dirt. This can lead to dehydration, damage and breakage, plus, using sulphate products on coloured hair may also strip the colour. To preserve blonde hair’s moisture, colour and strength, it is essential to go sulphate-free.   Try: 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. Embrace purple Purple and violet shampoos are a great choice for blonde hair, as they can neutralise brassy and yellow tones in the hair by colour-correcting them. How? It all comes down to colour science. Purple and yellow are opposite one another on the colour wheel, which means they have the ability to cancel each other out. You know how you’d use a green concealer to cancel out redness on the skin? This essentially works the same way. Try: Pro:Voke Brightening Shampoo Touch of Silver (R130.00) neutralises brassiness and brightens colour in coloured, natural or highlighted platinum, blonde, white, or grey hair with a toning violet pigment. Follow with Pro:Voke Colour Care Conditioner Touch Of Silver (R130.00). Its creamy, protective formula strengthens and helps repair damaged hair by infusing extra moisture for an improved smooth and silky texture. It also contains optical brighteners to instantly boost shine and retain rich hair colour. Correct brassiness As with all things, prevention is better than cure, however, if you are struggling with brassiness, it’s not too late. Invest in colour-correcting products to remove unwanted brassy tones and restore your original colour.  Try: CreightonsSunshine Blonde Silver Intense Brightening Shampoo (R89.95) And Sunshine Blonde Tone Correcting Conditioner (R99.95). These products help correct unwanted brassy tones brought on by sun exposure. Formulated withviolet pigments and UV filters, the shampoo helps brighten your hair from the very first wash.  Rinse with lukewarm water Avoid the temptation to use hot water when shampooing and conditioning your hair. Not only is hot water drying on your skin (think an uncomfortable and flaky scalp!) but it also opens the hair’s cuticles which can result in faster colour fade. Cold water seals the cuticle rather than opening it, which helps preserve colour and increases shine.  Hydrate All hair colours need added hydration in winter, but for blonde hair, it is particularly important to use hydrating or moisturising hair care products. The process of lightening one’s hair can be very drying and sometimes even damaging. That’s why it is essential to replenish moisture with conditioner and hair masks or treatments. Use a generous amount of a nourishing conditioner for blonde hair after every shampoo, and apply a hair mask to strengthen blonde hair at least once a week. Try: Creightons Sunshine Blonde Brightening Silver Treatment Masque (R74.95). Quick and easy to use, this product is formulated with nourishing argan oil and violet pigments to protect and brighten blonde hair, while also repairing damaged hair.  Protect against breakage Because blonde hair is prone to dryness and damage, it is also at risk of breakage. While taking all the necessary steps to preserve your colour, don’t forget to also pay some attention to increasing your hair’s strength and resilience. Gently pat your hair dry with a towel rather than rubbing it dry, as the friction can damage wet strands. Wait for your hair to dry before you brush it as wet hair is vulnerable and can snap easily.  Apply a nourishing hair mask like Marc Anthony Complete Color CareNourishing Hair Mask (R189.95). This mask reduces colour fade while locking in nutrients and protecting against environmental damage. It is rich in fatty acids and castor oil which helps keep your scalp hydrated and nourished, resulting in stronger, shinier, and healthier hair. Follow these simple steps to keep your blonde hair in its best shape yet. 

July 15, 2022
Parenting Hub

Nilotiqa welcomes a fresh new look

Nilotiqa, a proudly South African hair care brand known for its nourishing, plant-based formulas, has a fresh new look. The local favourite, which celebrates natural hair in all its forms, aims to keep hair as healthy as possible, and offers products suitable for natural hair, hair in protective styles and hair that is undergoing transition.  What can you expect from the new packaging? Inspired by the incredible ingredients sourced in South Africa and Africa, Nilotiqa utilises rich African colours of orange, brown, gold and green in the new packaging. This unique colour combination is bold and unlike anything else you might find on the shelves, making it instantly recognizable. To celebrate the use of African ingredients, the new packaging features the words Shea & Coco written in a free-flowing font, which alludes to the natural ingredients in the products. The products now also feature certification logos on the back, not only to reinforce their efficacy-driven ethos and science-driven claims, but also to offer consumers transparency. The luxurious new packaging is true to the luxurious nature of the products. Keep an eye out for the new-look range on shelves from mid June 2022.  Nilotiqa founder and all-round natural hair care enthusiast, Thokozile Mangwiro, gives us some insight into the brand’s journey thus far: You have an impressive resume, and plenty of corporate experience. What made you decide to leave the corporate world to create your own hair care brand? “Creating Nilotiqa was more of a necessity than just starting a brand. I had struggled with my natural hair, which I started growing from high school, for 14/15 years. While working in corporate, I started looking for solutions for my very dry hair. There were no hair products that were made for my type of hair; products that could nourish and really moisturise my hair.  Noticing that there was a huge gap in the market, I met up with a formulator to start formulating products that would ‘work’ on my hair. This process started in 2014 and in 2016 I launched beautiful products that were so moisturising and really worked! I knew that I had to get these products into as many hands that struggled with dry hair as I did.” Can you tell us a little bit about the process of creating the Nilotiqa brand? “I started researching ingredients that would moisturise my hair, when I quickly realised that raw ingredients were not penetrating my hair strands. I worked with a formulator for about two years to create products that felt and smelled good. I then sourced the packaging (travelling all over JHB to find bottles and lids) and created the label designs myself and found a labelling company to print the labels. I eventually launched Nilotiqa through a Shopify website and registered with a delivery service.” How far into the journey did your partnership with Sunpac come about? “We partnered up with Sunpac a few months before Nilotiqa turned 6. We had been in the retail space for 4 years. The back story to this partnership is that we met Sunpac a year before we partnered up. I would say, the stars had not quiet aligned yet. When we met again a year later, it was definitely perfect timing and the perfect fit for both businesses.” Who is the typical Nilotiqa customer?  “I typically split the Nilotiqa customer into two: a. A busy working mom who loves to give her hair all the TLC, but does not have time to take the whole day for hair wash day. She wants products that work fairly quickly and make her feel amazing without too much effort. b. A very educated consumer, who wants clean ingredients in her products. They do not want chemicals in their products and are aware of #greenbeauty as being part of their regimen.” What sets Nilotiqa apart from other hair care brands? “As black women with natural hair, we’ve all come face to face with the uncomfortable and often embarrassing question of ‘So when will you do your hair?’ Because our hair is not considered ‘done’ when it is in its natural state. This is a perception that has formed a huge part of our relationship with our hair. Where most products aimed at black women speak to how to curl and style your hair, and offer you many ways to alter the structure of your hair, I wanted to create a product that was specifically suited for my type of hair; not to change it but to keep it in its healthiest form. Through our research we found that African hair is characterized by kinky curls and grows closer to the scalp. It is the structure of the hair that makes it challenging for the hair’s natural oils to travel down the hair strands to its tips. Nilotiqa is the solution to maintaining hair’s natural moisture.  Nilotiqa isn’t selling black women dreams about how it’ll change their hair to something so different they won’t recognize themselves. It is offering a solution which allows them a way to retain the moisture that their hair requires for healthy maintenance and growth, which is often tarnished by the use of inorganic products and many years of use of harmful products aimed at altering the form of our already beautiful hair. Whether you wear a weave or braids, Nilotiqa is aimed at keeping what is beneath, which is your natural hair, in its healthiest state.” What have been some of your biggest challenges and your biggest successes? “Biggest successes: First purchase of a Nilotiqa product online Launching into Clicks in 2018 Partnering with Sunpac Biggest challenges: A lack of resources (staff and funds) and knowledge of how retail works, can kill your business. You could be spending money ineffectively and watch your business fall apart. Surrounding yourselves with people that know better than you is a game changer. Trying to run the business with a small team proved to be more challenging that ever expected. Expanding to the other retail houses was

July 15, 2022
Bethwel Opil

Internet safety tips for kids of all ages

During school holidays your children’s social media or interactive game time online may kick up a notch. As a parent, you want to make sure that they have a safe experience. Though the Internet can be a wonderful place to play and socialise, parents need to be aware of what their children see and hear on the Internet, who they meet, and what they share about themselves. Every age group – from toddlers to teens – comes with its own parental concerns. But there are some general guidelines that are good to keep in mind for children of all ages. Keep usernames and passwords safe Many of the websites your kids use require usernames and passwords. Make sure they know not to give this information to anyone – even their friends. Teach them to keep usernames and passwords private and change their passwords if you suspect they’ve been compromised. In fact, it’s best to change passwords intermittently as a matter of online hygiene. Every 3-6 months, or if accounts or platforms report hacking or data breaches, is a good habit for children to get into.  Don’t give out personal information Children should never tell anyone their full real name, address, neighbourhood, or phone number online. They should never share any information that could lead a predator to find them. Even small details like their school’s name or sports team are enough to give away their identity.  Be discerning on social media The Internet is vast, yes. But embarrassing pictures, rude comments, and personal information can leave a lasting, even permanent, mark. Remind your children that anything they post online immediately becomes public property and anyone can view it. Check age requirements Many apps and websites have age restrictions to set up accounts, browse, or join them. But they seldom actually have age verification in place. For instance, Facebook and Snapchat only allow users 13 and up, but signing up is as simple as filling in a false age. Explain location sharing Most apps and websites these days have some kind of geo-tagging or location-sharing feature. Children need to know the dangers of sharing their location – from online predators who can find them to identity theft – so they don’t agree to it or unknowingly click the pop-up boxes that allow it.  Create a list of Internet rules Sit with your children and make a list of Internet rules together. You can introduce them to kid- and teen-friendly sites, talk about why Internet rules are important, and encourage them to tell you if they feel uncomfortable or threatened by anything they find on the Internet. Set boundaries but be realistic. Use the golden rule online, too Teach your children that the golden rule applies just as much online as it does face-to-face. Children should be kind and polite to people online and should say nothing over text they wouldn’t say to someone’s face, even if they are posting anonymously.  Explain fake ads Talk to your children about Adware and similar scams they might encounter on the Internet. Often, these look like real offers to entice children to download a fake app, sign up for a sweepstake, or offer personal information in exchange for free products. They can be links to share with friends or post on social networks. If children know that these scams exist, they’ll be less likely to fall for them. Educate children about meeting strangers in person Children should never meet up with strangers they met online unless you are there to supervise the meeting. Teach them not to interact with people they don’t know offline. Online predators or cyberbullies can disguise themselves so your children might not know they are talking to someone who found them online. Monitor Internet history For all ages, it’s a good idea to spot-check your browser history to get a sense of what sites your children are visiting. Be completely transparent about checking their usage so they don’t feel spied on. Enable history tracking and check it across all Internet-enabled devices. If you come across any untoward  sites, ask your children about them.  Set parental controls Set up and review parental controls on all your devices at age-appropriate levels to protect children from accessing inappropriate content online. You can also use them to set usage times, monitor activity, and prevent the sharing of personal information.  Run antivirus program Run antivirus software on all your devices to protect them from incoming threats. It can also seek out, destroy, and warn of threats to the system. Antivirus software keeps up with the latest threats and stays on top of new viruses, which come out all the time. Use a trusted cybersecurity solution Cybersecurity tools, like Kaspersky Safe Kids, help you safeguard your children’s activities, monitor their behaviour and protect them when they are online. Choose one you can use on all your child’s devices, and that is flexible enough to change with them as their needs change and as they get older.  Most importantly, talk with your children about how to use the Internet safely, the tools you use to protect them, and how and why you monitor their online activities.  To support parents and guardians in keeping their children safe online, Kaspersky and Parenting Hub are giving 5 lucky readers a chance to win a license code to Kaspersky Safe Kids – a parental control software that helps to safeguard children’s activities online. You can enter this amazing give-away when you click here By Bethwel Opil, Enterprise Sales Manager at Kaspersky in Africa

July 14, 2022
RediscoverDairy

Value of flavoured milk for children – choose smartly!

Think about the role of your milk children’s diet. Are they getting enough of the essential nutrients needed to grow and stay healthy? When choosing a drink for your child, you should consider both hydration and nutrient content. A sweetened drink that provides nine essential nutrients, like flavoured milk, is a wiser option than a high sugar, low nutrient beverage. Flavoured milk is a tasty, nutrient­ rich choice for a growing child! Did you know?  Flavoured milk contains the same essential nutrients as unflavoured milk, including calcium, potassium, phosphorus, protein, vitamins A and B12, riboflavin and niacin. Flavoured milk is liked by children and helps them achieve the requirement of three dairy servings daily.  Studies have shown that consuming low-fat or fat-free flavoured milk can boost adolescents’ intake of nutrients without adding unnecessary energy to their diets. Flavoured milk helps meet nutrient needs: Maretha Vermaak, registered dietitian at Rediscover Dairy, says: “During adolescence, children often decrease their milk consumption while increasing their intake of soft drinks. Scientific evidence shows that bone fracture risk is three times higher in girls who drink carbonated beverages and seven times greater in physically active girls who consume both carbonated and non­carbonated drinks.”  Some parents are reluctant to offer children flavoured milk because it is sweetened.  However, according to the American Dietetic Association increasing the palatability of nutrient­dense foods and beverages by sweetening can promote diet healthfulness. Flavouring and sweetening milk does not take away its nutrients.  When you compare a glass of low-fat milk to that of flavoured milk, the nutrients are still present and the differences between the two are not significant: Comparison of low-fat flavoured and unflavoured milk Facts Flavoured milk is rich in nutrients, meaning it contains many nutrients in relation to its energy content. Although it is sweetened, it does not add empty kilojoules to the diet. Milk – flavoured or unflavoured, full-cream, low-fat or fat-free, provides three of the five nutrients that fall short in children’s diets, namely calcium, potassium and magnesium. Studies showed people who drank flavoured milk had higher calcium and nutrient intakes compared with those who did not drink flavoured milk. Flavoured milk can increase children’s overall milk consumption. The protein in flavoured milk increases satiety, contributing to the feeling of fullness. Research has shown flavoured milk to be a good rehydration and recovery drink after sport. For more information visit www.rediscoverdairy.co.za or follow Rediscover Dairy on Instagram (rediscoverdairy) or Facebook (RediscoverDAIRY)

July 13, 2022
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