WATCH THE VID! We visited my Grandparents’ place (from the outside, the guards wouldn’t let us in the building) for the first time since I was a kid, interesting to see how much of India has changed and how much has stayed the same!
Anand Bhatt's Ready For the Red Carpet
Host of the TV Show Rock Star Recipes and the 1st Indian-American to walk the Latin Grammy Red Carpet, Anand Bhatt brings us the inside scoop & behind-the-scenes on Everything from Kitchen and Fitness Hacks, who's wearing what, the latest fashion and beauty trends, Inspiration on how celebs keep it together under stress, and more!
WATCH THE VID! We visited my Grandparents’ place (from the outside, the guards wouldn’t let us in the building) for the first time since I was a kid, interesting to see how much of India has changed and how much has stayed the same!
With spring comes humid breezes that can negatively affect your locks in more ways than one
Nothing can ruin a day in the season of blooming flowers and spring showers faster than the onslaught of a bad hair day. There’s nothing more irritating than puffiness and coarse ends that just won’t be tamed despite the countless products filled with quick fix empty promises.
Instead of spending hundreds on products that just won’t work why not invest in hair care essentials that are more than just talk? They’ll actually get the job done.
These products are sure to leave hair full of body and moisture. Surely, this is a lot better than strands that more closely resemble straw and hay. Sometimes, making the smallest of changes in the simplest of products such as shampoos or even towels can make a big difference from looking hot or just not.
Without a doubt these remedies from the world’s leader in beauty, Sephora is sure to put an end to puffy, frizzy bad hair days
DevaCurl DEVATOWEL™ Anti-Frizz Microfiber Towel ($20.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/devatowel-anti-frizz-microfiber-towel-P404778?skuId=1784495&icid2=products%20grid:p404778: Most people tend to associate frizz-free hair with straight or wavy silky locks. Well surprise, surprise curls can get puffy too. There is a difference between a tightly coiled mess and relaxed bouncy locks.
Giving strands some tender loving care doesn’t just involve the right beauty products. Most fail to realize that it all starts with the bath towel. Yes being gentle starts at the drying process as well. This microfiber towel rapidly absorbs moisture minimized the need to ring out locks for a quick dry and style.
Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo ($26.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/no-frizz-shampoo-P244509?skuId=1201557&icid2=products%20grid:p244509: When confronted with frizzy unruly hair most turn to serums to hopefully get things under control. It will probably come as a shock that avoiding the occurrence of frizz starts with prevention. Unlike most shampoos whose claims don’t go further than their labels. This product actually does what it claims to do.
Not only is it completely free of any parabens, sulfates and phthalates, but it’s also suitable to be used for any hair type. From sleek and straight to bouncy and curly to soft waves in between it’ll get the job done.
This product is a perfect first step to gorgeous frizz-free hair. Without a doubt, it’s shield from any humidity no matter what the conditions of the surrounding environment are.
Reverie Milk Anti-Frizz Leave-In Nourishing Treatment ($42.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/milk-anti-frizz-leave-in-nourishing-treatment-P398751?skuId=1737238&icid2=products%20grid:p398751: Most anti-frizz creams and serums on the market tend to fail because of their tendency to be heavy, greasy which could result in the built up residue. Just a thimble size amount of this milk-like substance applied to damp hair is all you need to keep hair tamed and frizz free for days on end.
What’s the secret behind this ultimate repellant against the dreaded bad hair day?
Amino Acids- These strengthen hair preventing breaking and keep colour bright and vibrant as opposed to faded and dull.
Sweet Almond Protein- The ultimate styling protectant against heat brought upon by styling tools or the sun’s blazing heat.
Pracaxi Seed Oil- To soften hair and maintain shine.
This vegan formula completely free of gluten and silicon is sure to leave your locks looking shiny, frizz free and full of body for days to come.
Sachajuan Leave-in Conditioner ($31.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/leave-in-conditioner-P378309?icid2=similar%20products:p378309:product: One of the well-known leading causes of puffiness and frizz are dry strands desperately in need of a moisture boost. Just a dab of this leave in condition infused with ocean silk components will not only keep your hair hydrated, but it will also create a thin barrier on the scalp shielding it from damage brought upon by everyday toxins our bodies absorbed on a daily basis.
As with most Sephora product, it’s completely free of any sulfates and phthalates in addition to being completely vegan.
The application is easy just a dab on towel dried hair from scalp to roots is all that needed to take dull, dried out, frizz prone hair to hydrated locks that’ll kiss frizz goodbye.
No need to fear those rainy, warm and humid days any longer
Stock up on these products before spring really gets going. Humidity may be in the air, but these secret weapons are sure to keep it at bay.
Mary Thompson
Makeup, is Less More?
Beautiful not painted
Could airbrushed looked and full coverage foundations be on the way out? Without a doubt on occasion, the ideal choice for cosmetics are foundations, concealers and powders to cover up every single blemish, acne or dark circles.
Nevertheless, let’s be honest with busy schedules and fast-paced lives the chances of anyone regularly attending a hip cocktail party is out of the question. With that said could the natural option be pulled off while looking awake and fresh?
These are sure to get the job done without looking like a slowly melting awake hot mess.
Tinted Moisturizer
Without a doubt no matter how chemical free and all natural ingredients are it’s no secret that all makeup is highly detrimental to skin’s health. Great skin care combined with the absence of heavy foundations and concealers are always best.
Nevertheless, going through the day without any makeup at all simply isn’t an option for most women. Wouldn’t it be great to safely, apply cosmetics on a daily basis without the fear of clogged pores and breakouts?
Tinted moisturizers to the rescue! These products are sure to add just enough covered, but be good for you too.
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 ($45.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/tinted-moisturizer-broad-spectrum-P109936?skuId=870337&icid2=products%20grid:p109936: This is one of those products whose brand name speaks for itself. In addition to providing just enough covered to get you through the day, but its moisturizing capabilities give your skin a boost of softness as well.
Just when we thought things couldn’t get any better anti-oxidant capabilities together with vitamins C and E protect skin from the harmful side effects of life’s everyday environment. With 15 shades to choose from, there’s bound to be a shade to suit anyone.
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 – Oil Free ($45.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/tinted-moisturizer-broad-spectrum-oil-free-P140906?skuId=905364&icid2=products%20grid:p140906: For those with especially oily skin this option is sure to get the job done. Not only will skin be hydrated all day long, but the coverage is just enough to look pretty and fresh. Who knew all the benefits of a good foundation could come without the harmful pore clogging side effects.
With 15 different shades to choose from there going to be a shade for everyone to choose from.
Estee Lauder DayWear Multi-Protection Anti-Oxidant Sheer Tint Release Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 15 – Normal/ Combination Skin ($54.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/daywear-multi-protection-anti-oxidant-sheer-tint-release-moisturizer-broad-spectrum-spf-15-normal-combination-skin-P401118?skuId=1468131&icid2=products%20grid:p401118: This is another product whose reputation for quality has stood the test of time. For most women finding the next great product to make you look good but good for you too goes hand in hand with anti-ageing capabilities.
If staying young and looking great is on the top of your priority list this product is an absolute must-have. It’s moisturizing and coverage is just enough to have you looking radiant all day long.
bareMinerals COMPLEXION RESCUE™ Tinted Hydrating Gel Cream ($30.00) https://www.sephora.com/product/complexion-rescue-tinted-hydrating-gel-cream-P393356?skuId=1687912&icid2=products%20grid:p393356: For a brand who is well known for chemical-free cosmetics, they’ve once again gotten it just right with the tinted gel moisturizer. It’s not surprising that this was voted to be Allure beauty’s 2017 product of the year. Not only will it provide a hefty dose of moisture suitable for any skin type. But, it will also provide noticeable coverage without the skin clogging side effects of foundations and concealers.
At a wide array of 16 different shades, there’s bound to be a type for everyone. Then again could anything else, but excellence is expected to come from a brand whose reputation echoes high-quality makeup which is well known for delivering breathtaking results.
Could the capabilities of lightweight tinted moisturizers revolutionize the way most people see cosmetics?
More than likely the answer would be yes. So many things may change, but the importance of great skin care remains the same. The occasional need for flawless airbrushed looks will never go out of style. But, it sure is good to know that tinted moisturizers are viable options for those days when just a bit of coverage is all you need to get you through the day.
So ditch the heavy clogging options for much lighter ones which will do you a lot of good and leave you gorgeous too.
Mary Thompson
Is it Cribs or Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous? Let’s take a video walkthrough through a Malibu Mansion.
By Mary Thompson –
Can add a bit of glam echo sophistication?
Looking pretty and presentable while either going to the office or a night out on the town has become almost a normalcy given the wide array of cosmetics to choose from.
On the contrary, with just a little bit of searching and smart shopping, anyone can easily accumulate enough products to take their look from polished, smart and pretty for a day at work. Or glamorous with a little spice for a fun night on the town.
Who knew a little sparkle could do so much?
Is it possible to have a little more fun while getting dolled up? Most of us can relate to first exploring makeup while getting into mum’s stash and discovering different shades of glosses, powders and creams. At first glance, these first experiments were nothing but little girls playing dress up. However, in reality, these were the beginnings of discovering what works and what doesn’t.
After all knowing what looks good has to start somewhere.
Another essential element that sticks out in anyone’s mind while recollecting early childhood explorations is glittery cosmetics which transformed looks from boring to magic and enchanting. Most people normally associate these glittery concoctions to plastic containers decorated with Disney Princesses to Hello Kitty. In short not real makeup.
Clearly, times have changed
Now it’s possible to add some glitz to days that go beyond playing dress up. These bits and pieces from Sephora are sure to put a spring in anyone’s steps and perhaps forget about the seriousness of adulthood and perhaps replace it with a touch of whimsical magic.
These products may be far from economical, but for just a few touches every once in a while surely they’re worth the price.
Natasha Denona Diamond and Blush Palette This, palette is the perfect way to add a few shimmery touches to the workday beauty routine. The colours of creams and pinks are perfect for a more conservative casual business look. Sometimes just a hint of shimmer and shine is all you need.
What hidden treasures come in each palette?
As with most Sephora products rest assured this is free of any parabens. With that said this product is perfectly suitable for daily use without the fear of rashes and breakouts.
Stila Glitter and Glow Highlighter One of the keys to applying sparkly cosmetics is putting on just enough to the pigments standout when hit by light. While at the same time being careful not to apply too much, after all, there is such a thing is going overboard.
What colours does this come in?
Each of these products is practically translucent, so you won’t have to worry about pink or green stripes across your skin. Just a hint of colour is reflected depending on the lighting and angles.
The best thing about this product is you can actually control where to apply it. Thus, avoiding the unfortunate occurrence of too much glitter and ending up resembling a 100 watt light bulb. Since this gel-like cosmetic is completely free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates it’s safe to use not only on the face but arms and legs as well. The perfect addition for sun-kissed skin on those lazy laying on the beach days.
Make Up For Ever Star Lit Glitter Palette Saying that the first people notice when being attracted to someone is the person’s eyes is hardly a cliché. On the contrary, it’s one of the most noticeable features. The thing I love about this product is its versatility. Its soft colours make it perfect for a day at the office. While the darker shades are great for a fun night at the club.
All six shades come in fun names such as Beam, Flame, Flicker, Prism, Reflection and Spark. So play around blend a few colours and discover new looks.
After all, no girl is ever too old to play with their makeup.
Looks like you’re never too old to get your sparkle on
These products may be a far cry from princess themed cosmetics of our childhood. But, their sparkly undertones are just enough to make anyone feel carefree and whimsical even for just a little while.
Mary Thompson
By Mary Thompson –
A passing fad diet or the real secret to not only getting healthy but fit as well?
Anyone from every walk of life if honest will admit that getting fit and losing weight is a goal that always lingers in the back of their mind. More often than not being thin doesn’t always equal health. Most of these unfortunate outcomes are the result of crash diets brought upon by miracle supplements which promise weight loss but only result in adverse side effects.
But what if it was possible to look good and feel good too?
The key to accomplishing this is hardly a long-held secret, now it is some hard to find ingredient. On the contrary, we all have access to it in almost any home.
What remarkable substance am I referring to?
It’s none other than juice.
The secret behind losing weight and good health through drinking juice is all about the ingredients.
Just because it’s good for you doesn’t mean it can’t taste great
One thing that isn’t up for debate is that vegetables are good for you. Unfortunately, most of the ones that truly are beneficial are also quite bitter and unpalatable. But, what if their flavours could be camouflaged?
Yes, it’s possible to hide the taste of kale, spinach and broccoli by combing them with berries, kiwi and oranges. Most combinations overtake the bitter flavours so much that they aren’t noticeable at all.
Most of these blends can buy at your neighbourhood grocery store or health food speciality stores such as Whole Foods or Trader Joes. One of the most popular brands because of its lack of additives is Naked Juice.
For those looking for a more economical option, juicing at home may be the answer through the use of juicers. These may be far from reasonably priced, but it sure beats paying $4 per bottle.
What benefits can juice bring?
In addition to being packed full of everything that’s good for you juicing can also jump-start weight loss. This is accomplished through low-calorie diets with the consumption of ingredients that encourage detoxification.
Health starts at your gut
Expelling harmful ingredients from the body will not only encourage a reduction in fat cells but harmful toxins from the stomach, liver and cells. This is accomplished through in short giving the liver and stomach a break through the elimination of otherwise harmful foods.
Most health complication is the result of everyday foods most people tend to not even give a second thought. By eliminating the consumption of dairy, wheat and gluten the liver and stomach acids will not have to break down so many harmful foods thus, drastically improved digestion. As well as naturally increasing the bodies probiotic enzymes and immunity to everyday illnesses as well as serious diseases.
How long should a juice cleansing last to take effect?
Juice cleanses as with all diets that really work and not miracle cure doesn’t take effect overnight. Depending on the weight loss goals of an individual to make any difference a minimum of three days is strongly advised.
For those seeking to improve their physical and emotional health a few weeks or even months is recommended. These long periods should then be followed by a healthy diet high in nutrients, fruits and vegetables.
Unlike more diets juice cleansing can also be undertaken as often as desired without the danger of adverse side effects. After all, how could anything bad be the result of something packed with so much good?
Are there any factors that can directly result in weight loss?
Absolutely
Undertaking a juice cleanse can directly result in a suppression of hunger as well as an increase in metabolism. In addition, most people who have chosen to embark on a juice cleanse have also reported an increase in energy. Which can help to encourage a dedication to the regular fitness routine that can be continued even after the cleanse is finished?
Surely there can’t be a healthier and safer way to lose weight.
So what’s the consensus? Could juice evidently be the key to good health and looking great too?
That could quite possibly be the case.
What are you waiting for?
Juice the pounds and germs away.