Entries Tagged as 'natural beauty buff'

May 16, 2013

natural beauty buff | julia noik, african botanics

I love starting off these natural beauty buff posts with something striking the founder says during the interview process.

Julia Noik, co-founder of African Botanics, couldn’t have been more succinct:

"I think beauty and wellness are connected and begin from the inside." Julia Noik African Botanics

When I started this blog, it was a hodgepodge of everything I liked — fashion, pop culture, beauty, home decor and food.

While it’s obviously become more focused in the lifestyle and natural beauty space, I can’t help but continue to think about our bodies’ connection to food as it pertains to beauty and overall wellness.

Starting very, very soon, I’ll be sharing my tips, questions and other musings on beauty food, supplements and wellness with you.

Today, Julia shares a few of her own beauty tips as well as her naturally beautiful routine.

As usual, I’ve starred the items and activities I also use and do!

julia noik co-founder of african botanics

{Julia Noik was inspired to create a wellness line of beauty products that captured the exceptional beauty and pure floral wealth of Southern Africa. Photo Courtesy Julia Noik}

Julia’s Inner & Outer Beauty Tips

“*Eating healthy, exercising and hydrating are the key for a healthy body and skin.”

“*Practice yoga. Exercise stimulates the whole system and feeds the body with oxygen, which stimulates the skin.”

“Start each day with a glass of water and the juice of half a lemon for a vitamin C, antioxidant, antibacterial, detoxifying and alkalizing boost.  Lemons contain powerful cleansing properties, and drinking fresh lemon juice each day can really help clear up a breakout and contribute to glowing skin! I also love incorporating raw organic juices every day.”

In Julia’s Bathroom

inside julia noik of african botanics' bathroom

Amala Purifying Gel Cleanser

“This very gentle, refreshing, light and natural cleanser leaves my skin with a soft matte finish and a radiant, healthy glow.”

Amala Jasmine Hydrating Toner

“This toner is amazing to use before I apply neroli-infused marula oil. It softens and comforts the skin.”

African Botanics Neroli Infused Marula Oil

“I use this omega-rich beauty oil as an anti-aging moisturizer, an overnight treatment and make-up primer for its high antioxidant properties and naturally high levels of vitamins and nutrients. It is fast-absorbing, hydrating and smells divine. Miracle in a bottle.”

Trinity Candle By NuboNau Organika

“For a euphoric experience and total relaxation, I love that this candle is made from plant wax and infused with real aromatherapy oils. The scent transforms the mood and uplifts your well-being anytime.”

African Botanics Marula African Muti Mud Mineral Body Scrub

“This unique mud scrub is great for detoxifying the skin, increasing circulation and improving skin texture. Wild-grown South African marula and avocado oils hydrate and tone the skin. South African green rooibos tea extract with cocoa and cooling peppermint create a sensory experience, taking you on an African journey.”

African Botanics Marula Firming Botanical Body Oil

“Love the fine aroma of South African green rooibos tea extrac,t which is infused with wild-grown marula and grapeseed oils. The dry oil blend improves elasticity and firmness, providing antioxidant defense against free radicals. It absorbs instantly, leaving the skin glowing.”

African Botanics Marula Botanical Body Hydrator

“I use this daily for retaining moisture and an overall glow! Cooling peppermint, lavender, neroli and tea tree essential oils soothe, soften and revive.”

Inside Julia’s Cosmetics Case

inside julia noik of african botanics' purse

{Julia stores her natural beauty products inside a handmade cosmetics purse from Mjita in South Africa. Photo Courtesy Julia Noik}

*African Botanics Pure Marula Oil

“This helps restore elasticity and protect skin from the hard effects of the environment. I also use it on dry hands, lips and my face when traveling.”

*RMS Beauty Living Luminizer

“Perfect highlighter. It really brightens my eyes and adds just enough sheer glow!”

*RMS “Un” Cover-Up Concealer

“Gives you that subtle, flawless, even coverage. It contains all the ingredients to treat your skin as it covers.”

Sephora Classic Concealer Brush #46

“Applies and blends my concealer smoothly and evenly.”

Jane Iredale PureLash Lengthening Mascara

“Non-irritating mascara, lightweight and clump-free. Like it for the length and volume, too!”

ILIA Illuminator in Sway

“Love this product as it contains a lot of organic, healing ingredients! Also doubles as a beautiful cream shadow to illuminate the eyelids and contour the face. Gives my skin a fresh, dewy glow anytime!”

 

By Kim Wallace
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April 16, 2013

natural beauty buff | linda alixe thompson, olie biologique

One of the best parts of being a natural beauty blogger active in social media is the ability to connect with niche natural beauty brands and fellow social media junkies.

Twitter is definitely the reason why I’ve become a big fan of natural beauty brand Olie Biologique, which specializes in facial oils and blends designed to treat, nourish and protect all types and ages of skin.

(Twitter and, obviously, the amazing array of natural beauty products Olie offers! Read my review of Olie Biologique Huile Radicale 005 Rejuvenating Oil.)

The Olie B. Twitter team is so good about sharing fun news and links, and are oh-so-lovely at adding value to natural beauty conversations (in 140 characters or less!).

I started connecting with Olie there, and of course became so intrigued by the brand that I had to learn more about its beautiful founder, Linda Alixe Thompson.

linda thompson olie biologique

{Linda just glows. Photo Courtesy Linda Thompson}

Linda was sweet enough to share her most personal information — her natural beauty product loves — with me and, now, you!

Read on to learn what natural beauty products the oil afficienado behind Olie Biologique uses regularly.

As usual, I’ve starred the items I also use and love.

natural beauty buff picks linda thompson olie biologique

{Linda’s collection of natural beauty products has piqued my interest — look at that beautiful perfume! Photo Courtesy Linda Thompson}

Pier Auge Gommage Doux

“This is an all-natural clay peel. Yeast, vitamin B5 and white clay eliminate impurities and gently buff away dead cells. It improves the texture as well as the color of your skin. I found it in a French pharmacy and now can’t be without it!”

W3LL People Lip Gloss in Pink Twinkle

“This line was developed by Shirley Pinkson, a former NARS executive and makeup artist whom I met at Barneys New York.”

W3LL People Blush Sticks and Highlighter

“W3LL People’s sticks are called the Universalists and are the 100 percent organic, super-performing alternative to NARS’ “The Multiple” sticks. I like the luminous formula in a peachy pink, a multitasking superstar for cheeks and lips and a highlighter for a light-catching glow. I also apply on the inner eye and under the brow. Talk about instant glam and youthful radiance. I like the Universalist 2.”

*Soleil Organique SPF 45 100% Mineral Sunblock

“I have nothing against the sun, but let’s face it, too much of a good thing is never pretty. So I use sunscreen without fail. I also think it is really important to select a sunscreen that uses non-chemical sunscreen actives. Soliel Organique formulates with mineral actives and is full of key anti-aging elements like green tea and red algae. Plus, it is super hydrating and is free of parabens or any synthetics.”

Audra James Rose, French Lavender + Rose Geranium Facial Mist

“Developed by Audra James, she’s Brisbane’s ‘IT’ girl when it comes to bespoke 100 percent organic and natural facial oils with intoxicating scents, but it’s the performance that hooked me. I love to use a facial mist, either after I’ve just finished cleansing (in place of a toner) or as a hydrating spritz that helps a facial oil penetrate more deeply. This particular spray is uplifting, soothing and will give your skin a beautiful glow when used in combination with the right oil for your skin.”

Olie Biologique 006 Huile Claire

“I developed the newest Olie organic oil blend, 006 Huile Claire, especially for those stressy skin moments which we all have. With organic marula oil and Roman calendula, Claire provides very specific nurturing when the skin needs it most.”

Je Veux Argan Hair Oil

“Je Veux” means “I want” in French. This oil is the perfect luscious consistency to nourish, add shine and tame my hair’s puffiness. Once you experience its beautiful scent, you’ll want it too!

Arquiste Perfume

“I love the scent of white florals that are delicate yet decadent and intense. This cool white perfume will linger on your skin for hours. This scent instantly will instantly transport you to a lush Mexican flower garden. Plus, Carlos is a friend who is warm, brilliant and passionate about his craft of perfumery.

By Kim Wallace
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April 2, 2013

natural beauty buff | christian toscano, roots rose radish

The way Christian Toscano describes her favorite beauty products reminds me of how my close girlfriends and I gab about the latest and greatest finds on the market.

With such joy and enthusiasm in finding natural products that work, the Roots Rose Radish founder has me convinced that I need to re-think my monthly feminine care choices, scrape my tongue more often and give vetiver a chance.

christian toscano roots rose radish

{Roots Rose Radish founder Christian Toscano shares her natural beauty picks with kimberlyloc.com. Photo Courtesy Christian Toscano}

An herbalist based in Los Angeles, Christian practices Western Clinical Herbalism while allowing Ayurvedic traditions, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Folk Herbalism to influence her practice.

Besides providing healing medicines for health issues, she also creates skin care from wildcrafted ingredients (including this lovely oil cleanser I recently reviewed) and packaged in gorgeous, simple glassware that looks stunning on your vanity.

Speaking of vanity, Christian fills her own healing area with the following health and natural beauty products.

christian toscano roots rose radish natural beauty buff

{Christian Toscano’s natural beauty products picks range from health and skin care products to luxury items such as perfume and nail polish. Photo Courtesy Christian Toscano}

As usual, I’ve starred the products I also use and love!

*1. Now Tea Tree Oil

“One hundred perfect pure, this is a product I can’t imagine living without! I keep it in my medicine cabinet and use it on blemishes, cuts and scrapes. It is my favorite thing for hormonal pimple control!”

2. Diva Cup

“Ladies, this is the most important thing that I wish every women knew about! It is a silicon cup that you insert during your menstrual time, and it catches the blood. You simply empty and wash it out once it gets full — 1-2 times a day depending on your flow. I have never had a spill, and you don’t feel it when it is inside you. Best of all, it is completely re-usable and doesn’t contain bleach (which most non-organic tampons and pads contain and have been linked to ovarian cancer and other female reproductive issues). [The Diva Cup] doesn’t absorb or disturb the delicate tissues of the vaginal walls. Best of all, it is a one-time purchase. I wish this was taught in school, and I tell every woman I know. Once you go Diva, you never go back! I keep this in my bag around my cycle, and it is so lightweight you don’t even notice it.”

3. Rose Face Oil by Roots Rose Radish

“I am a sucker for anything Rose damascena, which is why I designed this formula in combination with 12 luxurious oils. It also has St. John’s Wort oil, which has natural SPF qualities, so I like to use it under my day cream and by itself as a night treatment. You can also use it on a cotton ball to remove eye makeup. This is the one thing I make sure to take traveling as it covers all my bases and lives in my medicine cabinet when I am home.”

4. Dr. Hauschka Black Mascara

“I don’t wear too much makeup, mainly just a lipstick and mascara, leaving my skin to breathe. This is one of my staples that I make sure to put on everyday. Downside: You have to apply in multiple layers to get a thick look, and it flakes off at the end of the day. Upside: It is easy to remove and 100 percent nontoxic. This is the best natural mascara I have tried.”

5. Preserve Tongue Cleaner

“I use this every night after I brush my teeth. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, they study the coating on the tongue as a diagnostic tool to indicate how the systems of the body are functioning. It helps to detox the body and makes sure your breath is always sweet. Plus, it is made from 100 percent recycled yogurt cups. You can mail it back for free (postage included), and they will recycle it for you!”

6. HIPP X RGB Nude Nail Tints

“I absolutely adore these skin tone “clean” nail colors. You can layer on the different tones in a variety of ways, and they are free of all the toxic ingredients. They come with a two tints and a primer. Super chic!”

7. Vetiver & Lemongrass Solid Perfume by Roots Rose Radish

“This is my favorite winter into spring transitional scent. In California, winter is the height of when citrus is produced, and the vetiver keeps me happily grounded. It is best for closet hippies like myself and so pretty I keep one in my purse so I can freshen up anytime.”

8. Rose Lip Balm by Roots Rose Radish

“I formulated this to use as a lip tint or as a base under a heavier pigmented lipstick. I like to use it under any vibrant red! This lives in my purse at all times—L.A. is so dry, and this keeps my lips moisturized and pink.”

By Kim Wallace
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April 1, 2013

natural beauty buff | p’trique, the platform

It’s been a while since I’ve shared a “natural beauty buff” feature with you.

To kick off a brand new month — and beautiful weather to come — I’m sharing what’s inside fashion girl and style icon P’Trique’s beauty bag!

p'trique the platform beauty bag

{P’Trique is a fan of natural beauty products as well as DIY, but also keeps it real with us by sharing a few of his dirty little secrets.}

See what DIY, conventional and natural beauty products are inside P’Trique’s vintage Stella McCartney Clutch!

As usual, the starred items are ones I also use and love!

*1. Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist

“Some people like to use Evian spray to stay young in the face, but I like this. It smells like roses and supposedly, they got it from the Dead Sea. I always hydrate. I do one round with my eyes open, and then I do the next round with my eyes closed.”

2. Crisco

“When I need a little extra moisturizer in those dry winter months, I kick it up a notch. I use Crisco, shh. It’s best to apply right when you get out of the shower to lock in as much moisture as possible.”

3. Chanel Powder Blush in No. 55 In Love

“I only use a Chanel blush. I use No. 55 in love. I had one friend who had blush dysmorphia. She used way too much rouge! One time we had to stage an intervention and tell her, ‘Not cute!’.”

4. Homemade Chalk Highlighting Cream

“The next item in my beauty bag is a homemade secret from my great-great-great-grandmother Trique. She used to make it in old country. It’s chalk highlighting cream. All you need is your mortar and pestle; some chalk, like the kind you’d use on a blackboard at school; and pinot grigio wine vinegar. It’s best to make it fresh. Start with some chalk. Pulverize it. Grind it. Make it a thick paste. Apply it to the apples of your cheek and rub a little on your third eye for clarity.”

*5. Tarte Maracuja Divine Shine Lip Gloss in Blushing Bride

“Another key ingredient in my beauty bag is Tarte lip gloss. This is the best lip gloss since YSL discontinued their black lip lacquer. I used to think my favorite color was Russian Bride, but then I actually read it, it’s Blushing Bride. Maybe one day!”

6. Tresemme Hairspray

“OK so I’ve got a lot of product in there so there’s not a lot of room, but one item that’s totes ness is a little hairspray. Tresemme, Tresemme, ooh la la. I use it on my hair to tame those flyaways, but also after I’ve applied my makeup, I use it on my face. Set it and forget it!”

7. Assorted Perfumes and Fragrances

“As many of you know, I have a very strict scent regime. I like to use different scents on different body parts. I layer! On my wrists, I use Eternity Summer by Calvin Klein. On the back of my neck, I use Bvlgari Jasmin Noir. I unlock the secrets of Kelly Caleche Hermes on my belly button. On my underarms, I use Gucci by Gucci. I use a little Jo Malone English Pear and Freesia between my index finger and my thumb. It helps my power point. One of my biggest erogenous zones is my décolletage. I spritz a little Chloe there. Sniff, sniff, nibble, nibble, boys. Up the skirt spritz with Chance by Chanel. To top if all off, I put a little white truffle oil behind my ear. I use a cured pheasant’s claw to apply it. It brings all the boys to the yard, and then into your house, and then into your bedroom — shut the door, hello, privacy. And then, my signature finishing move is a mist walk through of Tom Ford Urban Musk.”

Happy April 1, friends! ;)

Do you use any of the same items as P’Trique? What do you think of everything P’Trique fits into that vintage clutch?! Tell me in the comments section!

By Kim Wallace
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February 21, 2013

natural beauty buff | sheryl lynn gibbs, sevani botanica

Sheryl Lynn Gibbs, founder of Sevani Botanica, has submitted one of the most refreshing “natural beauty buff” features I’ve put together in a while.

natural beauty buff sheryl lynn gibbs sevani botanics

{Sevani Botanica founder Sheryl Lynn Gibbs is a licensed holistic aesthetician with more than 25 years of experience. Photo Courtesy Sevani Botanica}

Because it’s easy to get wrapped up in product overload, reading a simple, to-the-point submission that focuses on skincare from the inside out reminds me to 1) hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and 2) eat well and take my vitamins.

Like most natural beauty company founders, Sheryl Lynn was inspired to create her own skincare line to serve the needs of her own sensitive skin.

A student of Ayurveda, aromatherapy and herbal medicine, Sheryl Lynn took her knowledge and applied it to what we know as Sevani Botanica, a beautiful, old world-inspired line of artfully crafted skincare products that is cruelty-free, vegan and champion-status with the Environmental Working Group.

A few of my favorites from her line include C + Resveratrol Anti-Aging Elixir and Serum Vitale Essential Nutrient Oil (review coming soon!).

I hope Sheryl’s profile inspires you to pare down your products to the ones you truly love, and I hope you too remember to take care of yourself from the inside out — because if your insides aren’t clean, your outsides will show it.

(OK, I will say, I am curious what mascara Sheryl uses — look at her gorgeous eyes!)

As usual, I’ve starred the products that I also use and love.

sheryl lynn gibbs sevani botanica natural beauty product picks

{Sheryl Lynn’s beauty bag is simple and to the point — goodies for your insides and out. Photo Courtesy Sheryl Lynn Gibbs}

Sevani Botanica Ageless Eyes Revitalizing Eye Serum

“I never leave home with out one of my oil-based serums, and this time of year the Ageless Eyes Revitalizing Eye Serum is my ‘must have’ as it is small and portable. It contains a synergistic blend of therapeutic essential oils including helichrysum, geranium, frankincense and neroli in a potent, antioxidant-infused base. These ingredients are highly beneficial not just for the delicate skin of the eye area but also for the thin fragile skin of the lips.”

Sevani Botanica Ageless Radiance Refining AHA Cleanser and Sevani Botanica Rapid Renewal Resurfacing Crème

“When I have the luxury of a more spacious bag, I will also travel with my Ageless Radiance Refining AHA Cleanser and Rapid Renewal Resurfacing Crème.”

*Organic Lemon Juice

“A must-have staple that I am fortunate enough to purchase in any town if and when I travel is my 100 percent organic lemon juice. Lemons are an all-natural beauty treatment that you can drink — potent in vitamins and nutrients to strengthen the immune system and promote a healthy glow through detoxification. I add it to warm water every am and even on salads regularly.”

Licorice Root Elixir

“I also make licorice root elixirs to help support my adrenal glands and minimize stress. Licorice root is not recommended for those with high blood pressure, but as mine generally runs low, it supports my hectic days.”

*Smoothies and Tea

“I’m a big fan of Pomegranate and Acai Berry powders in my smoothies as I utilize these ingredients throughout my product line due to their organically available vitamin C content. I also drink a variety of Green and Rooibos Tea for their antioxidant properties.”

By Kim Wallace
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