If you live in warm climates, it's always nice to venture out and explore new destinations and climates. For those of us who're from warm weather zones, there are some tips others may consider common practice but absolutely foreign. So for those of you reading in the arctic or tundra, enjoy the laugh and feel free to share your favorite winter living tips in the comments section below!
Socks. In the south, flipflops, sandals, and open-toed shoes are daily footwear. We wear flipflops everywhere, including for more traditionally formal occasions like weddings, graduation ceremonies, and church. You may even own "dress" flipflops. When you consider boat shoes and yachting shoes, which are often worn without socks, it's no surprise that many don't even bother wearing socks, let along owning more than a few pairs. But when it's cold out, especially in snow, socks are essential. Be sure to pick something that will breathe - like cotton blend or wool. If you have particularly sweaty feet, it's important to use powder or special foot sprays to keep dry. And in case no one ever told you - the first thing you should put on whilst dressing is always your socks. Think about it - when your feet are trapped in thick socks and warm ski boots, they're sure to sweat, and are more susceptible to developing an array of athlete's foot or other fungi. If you put your socks on first, you minimize the risk of spreading those undesirables throughout certain unmentionable places...
Hair care. Your hair and scalp probably aren't acclimated to going from extreme cold outdoors to extreme heat inside. And the heat manufactured artificially is usually very dry. When you're outside, chances are you'll have a hat or headband on for extra warmth. The more your head the sweats, the more important to maintain your hair and scalp. I recommend using an exfoliating shampoo at least once a week, and encourage a great conditioner for hair and scalp.
I really love Aveda's invati exfoliating shampoo. They've naturally derived salicylic acid from wintergreen to cleanse, exfoliate, and refresh the scalp, with results clinically proven to remove the build up of skin-clogging sebum and other pesky product residues.Millet seed and milk thistle extracts nourish dry, tight scalps and equalize the lipid balance, while a proprietary blend of Ayurvedic herbs invigorate the hair, including turmeric and ginseng. Smells nice, leaves hair and scalp feeling fresh and free, and makes for a really nice treatment throughout the wintertime, especially.
I've used Origins' Rich Rewards intensive moisture treatment for years, especially in the middle of summertime, when you're having fun in the sun and surf. I also fully recommend this tantalizing treat for those winter weather moments. Once or twice a week, massage a handful of this rich cream into
scalp from roots to ends. Just 5 minutes reaps the rewards. Wheat
Protein bonds with strands to restore health. And Vitamins E and A help
protect. Plus, the succulent scent of William's Pear raises spirits.
Just one use brings back bounce, shine and swing. For more intense
repair, work into wet or dry hair and let sit while enjoying a hot chocolate (or cocktail) by the fireplace.
And speaking of hair, keep a dry sheet in your pocket. After you take your ski cap off, you're bound to experience a bit of static cling. One pass of the dryer sheet will discharge the electricity, calm your mane, and freshen your fragrance, too!
Hands. Your cuticles will dry out. Your hands will probably be very dry. The cold, wind, and sun are not your friend when exposed to these elements. Hydration and protection are very important. I love L'Occitane en Provence's pure Shea butter. This
100% natural origin, certified organic Shea Butter is extracted from
wild kernels of Shea tree fruits. It is produced in a fair trade
agreement with cooperatives of women in Burkina Faso (West Africa).
Certified organic and attested fair trade from Ecocert, this
irreplaceable beauty balm helps to protect, soften and regenerate dry,
dehydrated or sensitive skin. Enriched with antioxidant vitamin E for an extra healthy glow. Shea butter is naturally water resistant as well, so one application will last you all day. Discover 50 other ways to use Shea butter.
Speaking of hands, you'll need a good pair of gloves. Make sure they fit comfortable, aren't too loose or too tight, and keep dexterity. I look for gloves that are water resistant, especially if you're going to a destination with snow. And one thing you might not pay attention to but absolutely will adore? Tech gloves. Your touch screen devices won't work properly with regular gloves. Many brands feature special technology in the fingertips, allowing for normal use of your favorite gadgets and gizmos without having to risk frost bite. Invest in a good pair, and you'll stay warm and functionally normal for years to come.
What're some of your favorite winter tips and tricks?
The weather has definitely been wacky in North America lately. Mother Earth must be confused, blasting the summer heat in Florida, torrential rain and historic flooding in the midwest, and buckets of snow in the plains. Regardless of where you're living or traveling, follow these steps for perfect pores and supple skin.
Step One: Exfoliate.
When you're deep cleaning your home, you always sweep before you mop the floor. Same goes for your skin. Exfoliating is key for fresh faces, allows for maximum efficacy of your skincare products, and makes for a healthy, radiant look. There are a few different types of exfoliants: physical, chemical, and professional. Physical exfoliants literally scrub away the dead skin cells and other damaging debris. There are a number of exfoliating tools on the market, like sonic brushes. You can also use products with texture, like ground seeds and crushed shells. Chemical exfoliants can be naturally sourced or made in a laboratory, and unlock the glue that holds dead skin cells to the face, help soften the skin, and promote healthy skin in general. And finally, professional exfoliating is done in a dermatologist's office or Medical Spa, and usually consists of high potency products and treatments, like laser resurfacing.
In the winter time, I recommend exfoliating once or twice a week. Any more than that and you'll run the risk of leaving your skin raw and chapped. Concentrate especially on the face and hands, as these are the areas most often exposed to harsh winter weather. It's also important to exfoliate the rest of your body. With so many layers of clothes, your body will be more prone to sweating, chafing, and less breathing than normal. Exfoliating will give your skin a chance to breathe a sigh of relief, removing those pesky pimple-causing oils and pore cloggers, revealing fresh, youthful skin.
Step Two: Cleanse.
Cleansing the skin is very important, and isn't a "one size fits all" type of product. You may be dry, combination, or oily. You may have special skin concerns, like acne, redness or other discoloration, sensitivities, or advanced aging. I recommend using a face wash geared towards your skin concerns, with as many natural ingredients as possible. I wash my face in the shower every morning, allowing the steam to also open my pores and help for even deeper cleaning. (And guys, shaving after you shower allows for a closer, smoother shave!)
Step Three: Protect.
Now that you've cleaned the skin, it's important to protect the skin from the elements, nourish it, and address any skin concerns. This is when you may apply specialty serums, balancing tonics, specialty serums, moisturizers, and most importantly, sun protection. There are endless options for all of these, so choose products that address your concerns and desires, that fit both your budget and your lifestyle.
Even in the winter time, you must use sunscreen. Many indoor lights give off UVA (ultra violet aging) or UVB (ultra violet burning) rays, causing damage and even cancer, so don't forget a final layer of sunscreen on the face, hands, arms, and neck.
If you're planning on hitting the slopes, don't forget to moisturize and protect any skin that may be exposed to the elements - especially your lips. Keep eyes protected as well with ski goggles, or at least polarized sunglasses. And while driving a car or snow machine, remember to apply a layer of sunscreen to your hands, or wear sun screening gloves.
You don't have to break the bank to find good skincare. Like food in the grocery store, read the ingredients, ask questions, and do your homework. Here are a few skincare products from every pricepoint:
Say Yes To Tomatoes, for regular use with oily skin, or infrequent use with combination skin. Let this natural, detoxifying cleanser pick you right up and get you on track to beautiful, clear skin. It is
formulated with active charcoal to draw out impurities and other pore clogging offenders, tomato extract for a
daily dose of antioxidants and revitalizing vitamins, jojoba spheres for oh-so-gentle exfoliation,
and salicylic acid to deep clean pores and prevent future breakouts.
Together, these purifying ingredients clear you up without drying you
out.
97% Natural
Paraben, SLS, and Silicone Free
Cruelty-free
US$ 9,99
Scrub away the "ick" to have the most youthful, soft, radiant skin. Sugar softens; salt purifies. I love Origins' Salt Scrub. Skin-scouring Dead Sea Salts and warming Ginger Zest cushioned in
emollient-rich Macadamia, Soybean, Kukui Nut and Sweet Almond Oils
removes all traces of roughness to buff every bit of you. Use it once a week in the shower from the neck down, and more often on the hands, elbows, knees, and feet as needed. US$38.
For dry and very dry skin, I recommend a super hydrating moisturizer. Boots Derma Care Daily Moisturising
Cream is a rich moisturising cream for the management of very dry skin.
The cream is quickly and easily absorbed and starts to soothe the skin
immediately. The skin feels smooth, hydrated and is less dry in just
three days.
I love facial wipes, especially for your gym back or travel case. If you have particularly oily skin, keeping a bag handy in your office drawer or purse will allow for midday freshening and keep skin looking flawless all day long. Specially crafted for normal to dry skin, Burts Bees soothing cucumber
and sage towelettes remove makeup, cleanse, and tone in one easy step,
leaving skin naturally clean without the need for rinsing. 30 pack. AU$9,95.
For all skins, nourish the skin with this incredible mask from Peter Thomas Roth. Deeply hydrating and nourishing intensive gel mask. Take a deep dive
into refreshing hydration as glacial lake blue marine algae helps
deliver nutrients and maximum anti-aging moisture to help defend against
the effects of damaging dehydration. Rich tea, sourced from Korea's
Jeju Island, helps deliver replenishing nourishment to depleted skin.
Antarcticine, sourced from Arctic glacial ice, helps create an
eco-bubble over skin to help defend against varying environmental
attacks that can increase the signs of skin aging, dehydration lines and
the development of visible wrinkles. Helps smooth and revitalize skin
leaving it feeling soft and instantly hydrated with a dewy, radiant
glow. US$52.
The skin around your eyes is some of the most delicate skin on the entire body. Moisturize and protect it accordingly. Say goodbye to puffy lids, raccoon eyes, and those bothersome bags with Tom Ford's Antifatigue Eye Treatment for Men. From Mr. Ford himself, "I
believe
an eye
treatment
is
an
essential,
not
a
luxury.
The
eyes
are
the first
place people
look
when
they
meet
you.
They
are
also
the
first
part
of
your
face to show
signs
of
aging
and
fatigue.
I
developed
this
multi-beneficial, restorative
eye
treatment,
infused
with
the
Tom Ford
Skin
Calming
and
Infusing
Complexes,
to
lift
and
firm
the
look
of
the
skin around the
eyes,
helping
to
diminish
the
look
of
lines
and
wrinkles.
The silver-tip
applicator
helps
to
cool
your
skin
to
help
reduce
visible
puffiness,
leaving
your
eyes looking
refreshed
and
awake." €68.
I love how energizing and fresh citrus smells. The Body Shop Satsuma Soap 100g is made with made completely certified
and sustainable palm oil and satsuma oil. A completely veggie-based soap
bar for the gentlest clean. Leaves skin feeling fabulous and fresh, without over drying or over hydrating. R45.
Alpha Fit by Clarisonic is a sonic cleansing device engineered
specifically for men's skin to give a closer shave, cleaner beard and
healthier-looking skin. It features two different settings to suit your
style, whether you're going with the beard look or rocking clean, shaved
skin. The powerful system is specifically made to clean thicker, oiler
skin thanks to its patented sonic cleansing technology, which oscillates
at a frequency of 300 movements per second. Its flexing action works to
loosen dirt and oil, removing impurities from pores and prepping skin
for a closer, smoother shave. US$189.
What skin care products, tools, tips, and tricks are you loving?
I love tea - hot tea, iced tea, tea in my skincare, tea in my candles, and the tradition of "high tea". Here's just a few of the many reasons why:
In high school and college, I worked for Origins, a division of the Estee Lauder Companies. One of the products we launched was called A Perfect World - a skin guardian made from, among other miracle workers, silver tip white tea. The silver tip white tea was the star ingredient - harvested in China just a few weeks each year, the leaves protect the skin from dehydration, deterioration, and oxidation by minimizing damage from free radicals, environmental stress, and harmful ultraviolet light rays. The skin guardian was so popular and gave such proven results, that additional products have been added to the range throughout the years, including body cream, face wash, moisturizers, and balancing tonics. I can't say enough good things for what this product has done for my skin - literally stopping the clock on aging. (Not kidding - a study in the UK by Professor Declan Naughton, from the School of Life Sciences at Kingston University in South West London, said the research showed white
tea had anti-aging potential and high levels of anti-oxidants which
could prevent cancer and heart disease. “We’ve carried out tests to
identify plant extracts that protected the structural proteins of the
skin, specifically elastin and collagen,” he explained. “Elastin
supports the body’s natural elasticity which helps lungs, arteries,
ligaments and skin to function. It also helps body tissue to repair when
you suffer wounds and stops skin from sagging.” Collagen is a protein
found in connective tissues in the body and is important for skin,
strength and elasticity, he added.
Results showed white tea prevented the activities of the enzymes
which breakdown elastin and collagen which can lead to wrinkles that
accompany ageing. These enzymes, along with oxidants, are associated
with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. Professor
Naughton said: “These enzymes and oxidants are key components of normal
body processes. However, in inflammatory conditions, suppressing the
activities of these excess components has been the subject of decades of
research. We were surprised to find such high activity for the white
tea extracts in all five tests that were conducted.”)
Drinking tea is incredibly good for you, too. Many studies have shown that drinking tea may help minimize the effects and progress of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes; encourage weight loss and manage cholesterol; possesses natural antimicrobial properties; and improves mental focus. Speaking to WebMD, American Dietic Association spokeswoman Katherine Tallmadga, MA, RD, LD, said, “There doesn’t seem to be a downside to tea. I think it’s a
great alternative to coffee drinking. First, tea has less caffeine. It’s pretty well established that the compounds in tea – their flavonoids – are good for the heart and may reduce cancer." Subsequently, white tea contains antimicrobial properties that kill the germs in your mouth often associated with plaque, tooth decay, and bad breath. Tea experts suggest choosing loose leaf tea, often less processed than the bagged varieties, and avoiding bottled, often sugary quick-serve options.
Lastly, I love the time honored tradition of high tea - taking care to add an extra dash of style + class to your appearance, spending leisurely time with those you care about, enjoying carefully prepared snacks and treats, while sipping on piping hot brews.
When you look good, you feel better. When you feel better, you look your best. Tea time is more than just an afternoon delight - it's a lifestyle we can all incorporate and celebrate.
Whether we want to acknowledge it or not, we're all connected to nature and Mother Earth. When the seasons change, it's easy to implement other changes in your life as well. Wash away the winter blues and prepare to blossom with spring cleaning. Shed those unwanted pounds and dull skin in the spring with a fresh outlook and lifestyle for summer. Now that it's all, we're bundling up more, enjoying time outside as much as possible, and preparing ourselves for holidays, family gatherings, and other traditions. Here are a few things I love, that just may help you get in the spirit, add a little dash of style + class to your day, and optimize your time so you can ultimately be your best self.
I've talked about the many benefits of candles multiple times, but it's always worth mentioning again. Candles are the easiest way to add ambiance and festive cheer to any space. As autumn's crisp nights creep upon us, I love the warmth, soft glow, and pleasant scents that great candles provide. Choose candles that are as natural as possible, so they don't leave soot or irritate allergies. In the fall months, I love fragrances that are a little spicier, like amber, cinnamon, and clove, with dashes of brightness, like citrus or herbs, and deeper woods, like sandalwood, teakwood, and oud. Agraria Home has a fabulous bitter orange, Nest offers Hearth, Diptyque Paris now features Oud, and Firefood from Henri Bendel are all sure wins.
You've spent the summer outside, holidayed as much as possible, and exposed virtually every inch of your body to the summer sun - it's time now to prepare for the cooler, drier months ahead and refocus your skincare routine.
Exfoliating is very important. Once or twice weekly, gently slough away dead skin cells and other icky irritants. You can either physically exfoliate, by using a textured masque or scrub, mechanically exfoliate, with a sonic brush that literally polishes the skin, or chemically exfoliate, with powerful acidic solutions and serums. Choose a natural product, free from fillers and other harsh ingredients, and always consult your dermatologist if you're going to try something drastic. I love Origins' Never a Dull Moment. It's made with ground mango and apricot seeds, crushed walnut shells, and powerful papaya and grapefruit extracts, dissolving lackluster dead skin, revealing more radiant, fresh, and renewed skin. It's good for all skin types, smells delicious, and is gentle and effective enough to use a few times per week. My skincare maven and friend for life Linda F. recommends Peter Thomas Roth's firmX peeling gel - a potent potion of multi-action enzymes from pineapple, pomegranate, and keratinase, with cellulose
that effectively peel and help uncover a smooth, fresh, new complexion
without drying, irritating or causing undue stress to skin. Also excellent at removing impurities and decongests clogged pores for a youthful, radiant look.
Cleanse the skin, preferably both morning and night. Look for a wash that leaves the skin feeling crisp and cool, without over drying. Face washes don't have to be complicated or overly fragrant - I look for one that foams, leaving behind no residue for that squeaky clean feel. In the summer, I find my skin is a bit more oily, so I'll look for a wash containing a bit of salicylic acids and fruit enzymes, to cut down on the shine. Intended for acne, Philosophy's Clear Days Ahead is frequently in my rotation - this gel packs a powerful punch on bothersome breakouts. Plus the orange extract leaves skin feeling fresh and radiant - and smells incredibly refreshing. Because Philosophy's Clear Days Ahead can be a bit too drying, I limit its use to the summertime or for troublesome times only. Year round, I love Biotherm Homme's Aquapower Cleanser, This powerful double-action daily cleanser, which also includes a small dose of exfoliating power,
effectively removes impurities while refreshing the skin. Its
ultra-cleansing fresh gel formula contains a combination of
oligo-elements and potent cleansing agents that leave the skin soft,
comfortable and exceptionally fresh.
Moisturize and Protect - after you've exfoliated and cleansed the skin, it's time to moisturize and protect. I look for products that protect against dehydration, deterioration, and oxidation, like Origins' A Perfect World serum, Just one tiny drop of this workhorse literally stops the clock on aging, protecting the skin from damaging environmental factors like smog, stress, and other oxidizers and keeps skin looking fresh, toned, and radiant. I also love Murad's Invisiblur Perfecting Shield - a one-stop-shop for anti-aging, flawless looking skin and protection from the sun's harmful rays (and is really great for both men and women).
And I'm absolutely adoring Tom Ford's oil free daily moisturizer for men. This lightweight,
quick-absorbing,
skin-mattifying
moisturize urses
the
Tom
Ford Skin
Calming
and
Infusing
Complexes
with
a
combination
of
luxurious
butters
to hydrate
your
skin,
help
reverse
dullness
and
help
reduce
the
look
of
fine
lines and pores.
It
leaves
your
face
looking
toned,
polished
and re energized, without looking primped or too done.
Spot treat with masques: sometimes all you need is a quick "rescue" - whether sudden dryness, breakouts, or too much oil and shine, a quick masque will often steer your skin back on track in no time. Exfoliate and cleanse as normal, then apply a thick layer of the masque to face, neck, and decollete. Let the masque work its magic for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly and continue with your regimen. For dry skin or a quick moisture surge, I love Fresh's Black Tea Firming Overnight Mask - their special blend of black tea ferment and extracts of blackberry leaf, black tea, and lychee seed pump the breaks on free radicals and restore skin's elasticity, while Belle de Nuit extract soothes and rebalances the skin to optimal condition, peptides firm the skin and visibly defy the signs of gravity, and hyaluronic acid attracts and maintains moisture for smooth, sheer suppleness. Origins' Out of Trouble is a just what the doctor ordered to fix over productive pores, prevent pesky pimples, and put the kibosh on shine. It packs a one-two punch with super absorbent zinc oxide and sulfur. (Side note: If you didn't already know, products with zinc oxide naturally block harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun and light sources, has natural anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, is a natural astringent, and reduces pore size. If you suffer from Rosacea, Psoriasis, Eczema, diaper rash, or dandruff, products and foods with zinc may be your answer.) It also contains Camphor, which naturally calms the skin. You'll notice a smoother texture and clearer skin in no time.
If you travel frequently, or want to make sure you're prepared without breaking the bank, Origins offers the perfect dose of masks in convenient travel or "just in case" sizes.
If you're like me, you can't live without your iDevices - whether iPhone, iPod, iPad, or iWhatever, they're an essential part to our everyday function. And that means one thing - we must always have power. My favorite chords and charging accessories are from Blue Flame. The cables are brilliantly braided and secured, preventing the dreaded "cable split" so typical of the basic white bits provided by the fruits at Apple. I had a Blue Flame cable last several years with my last iPhone, and immediately went out when I updated last. Especially handy if you travel or are frequently on the go, I've had no problems whatsoever.
Makes a great stocking stuffer or Secret Santa gift at the office holiday party, too.
Don't get me wrong - espresso has a place in my life, regardless of the temperature outside or season we're celebrating, but it's nice to finally enjoy hot beverages now that the temperatures and leaves are falling. I'm loving hot beverages, especially piping hot coffee. Williams-Sonoma stocks a delicious concentrate of five different apple varieties, making for a quick and easy pot of mulled cider. I can't get enough of Teavana's Pineapple Kona Pop herbal tea, either. When I was growing up, my Mom would make a delicious "percolator punch" - a marvelous mix of equal parts pineapple juice and cranberry juice, with cinnamon, cardamom, clove, and ginger in the percolator basket. I think it'd be really nice to mix this Pineapple Kona Pop with Mom's "percolator punch" for an added layer of tasty treat. And for a boozy punch, a mighty measure of Solerno Blood Orange liqueur will make mouths happy.
My favorite activity during fall: spending time with family + friends. Get outside. Throw a cocktail party. Just because. Take a hike. Literally! Keep a soccer ball in the trunk (boot) of your car for a random pickup game in the park. Open the windows, feel the fresh air, and remember why you're alive. Be spontaneous. While it's important to look to the future, don't forget to see your now.
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