The Little Guru

Author: Nicole – The Little Guru

GLISS BIO-TECH Restore Range

SCHWARZKOPF GLISS Bio-Tech Restore Range just launched.

The latest scientific findings regarding strong hair show that the new BIO-TECH Restore Range from GLISS enhances the care of stressed hair.

The new plant-based Phyto-Stem-Cell-Complex-Technology stimulates hair follicles and strengthens hair. At the same time, fresh rose water softens the hair while giving it a dreamlike sheen and irresistible scent. The scent truly is irresistible!

But what is this Phyto technology about… The Phyto-Stem-Cell-Complex-Technology is inspired by the ingredients found in nature. It’s a plant-based activation system and rose water wonder ingredient. Because of this, it gives hair the nutrients it lacks.

The active ingredients start working in the hair follicle. This helps hair regenerate and recover. The newest discovery for strong, shiny, healthy hair – from top to tip.

Gliss Bio-Tech Restore Range Overview:

The product range, a total of 4 items, includes a Strengthening Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Butter and Express Repair Conditioner. The range is produced by Schwarzkopf, a global pioneer in hair cosmetics and known for quality and innovation – such innovation as the Gliss range that we are chatting about today!

GLISS BIO-TECH RESTORE STRENGTHENING SHAMPOO 400ml: RSP R72.99
A rich, strengthening shampoo that stimulates hair follicles for healthy hair and visibly improved hair quality.

GLISS BIO-TECH RESTORE STRENGTHENING CONDITIONER 400ml: RSP R72.99
A rich conditioner to restore shine and smoothness to stressed or damaged hair.

GLISS BIO-TECH RESTORE STRENGTHENING HAIR BUTTER 300ml: RSP R89.99
An Intensive mask providing care for stressed and damaged hair.

GLISS BIO-TECH RESTORE EXPRESS REPAIR CONDITIONER 200ml: RSP R99.99
An innovative leave-in conditioner for quick repair and beautiful results for stressed or damaged hair.

Review

My hair has been absolutely loving these products! My favourite by far would have to be the Hair Butter! It’s nice to give your hair a good masque and really pamper yourself. If you have never used a hair masque, I would highly recommend this one because it is incredible!

Being an oily hair kinda girl, I do find these products make my hair last longer in terms of washing and my hair keeps its beautiful shine until my next wash. Gliss has really shined with this range!

The BIO-TECH RESTORE range from GLISS is now available in leading retailers including Dischem, Clicks, Checkers and online at Takealot.

October 23, 2020
Fashion Handbook SA- Online Designer Directory

Big Names Sign on with Fashion Handbook SA Online Designer Directory.

Fashion Handbook South Africa (FHB SA) recently created their online Designer Directory. By signing up for the best contemporary fashion brands, they are aiming to help boost South Africa’s local economy.

A Fashion First

Proudly serving as a destination and point of discovery for the best in local fashion – that South Africa has to offer. Fashion Handbook SA is the first to create a comprehensive online fashion directory – one that is remarkably different from its past versions in print. Earlier this year the owner and publisher, Leanne Tlhagoane, made the decision to focus FHB SA’s efforts on the digital side of the business – naturally culminating in the shift towards creating and developing the newer digital offering.

Leanne Tlhagoane – Publisher of Fashion Handbook: South Africa- Image by Obakeng Molepe

“Fashion Handbook South Africa is about amplifying fashion voices and brands, growing community and contributing to the development of a more unified and supportive fashion industry,” says Tlhagoane. It’s also a source of information and inspiration intent on offering access to a diversified pool of talented South African fashion creatives.

The cream of SA’s fashion-crop has flocked to the directory to sign on and form part of this accredited fashion community!

Designer Dialogue

Mzukisi Mbane

“For me, I feel like this directory is becoming the African designer Bible we never had. The idea of creating a space where one can find all / most of South Africa’s noted fashion designers. Working towards the dream I have for the future of African fashion. A dream where all of us create a united front to fight for our rightful place on a global scale.”- Mzukisi Mbane of Imprint.

Image courtesy of Imprint

Image courtesy of Imprint

Isabel de Villiers
”It’s such an honor to be included in the Designer Directory along with all my peers, making waves in the creative world.’’ – Isabel de Villiers of Isabel de Villiers Clothing

Image courtesy of Isabel de Villiers Clothing

Jacques Bam
“I really think that the Fashion Handbook SA directory stands as a symbol for the overwhelming sense of community that we as the South African fashion industry have. Not only is it pushing our names into the public realm, but really it helps us to all work collectively. To build our industry, recognizing that there is power in banding together instead of walking separately. I am honored to form part of this directory and I cannot wait to see what this directory will do for us all.” – Jacques Bam of The Bam Collective.

Image courtesy of The Bam Collective

Shoppers can use the Designer Directory as a single point of discovery for local fashion. Each designers’ details are housed on the site. A link to their website where consumers can conveniently get information, connect, and shop.

Listed Designers

The comprehensive Designer Directory list can be found online at Fashion Handbook SA

A few more of the listed designers…

African Style Story
Ezokhetho
House of Lucent
Judith Atelier
Matsidiso
Moraka Interiors
Pichulik
Plasticity
The Bam Collective
Tshepo Jeans

In anticipation of the SAFW show happening on the 23 October 2020, I am beyond excited to see one of our favourite designers House of Lucent showcase their new designs!

House of Lucent- SAFW 2019 Winner

For more info on the hottest designers in SA:

Instagram | fashionhandbooksa

Twitter | SAFashionBook

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Looking for international suppliers? We spotted these green bridesmaid dresses and it is absolutely stunning!

Check out Style Aisle UK for more details!

October 13, 2020
Eucerin- The Solution to Dry Skin

Do you suffer from EXTREMELY dry skin? Goodness I know I do.

As a beauty blogger, I have had my hands on a pretty substantial amount of beauty products. Being a dry skin sufferer, I have spent a lot of money trying to tame the itchy, dry scales on my legs for years, until now. Newly introduced to Eucerin, safe to say I have found a solution to dry skin!

When it comes to hand creams, there are a few that have impressed me, but the one I have been loving the most Eucerin Urea Repair Plus 5% Urea Hand Cream

Eucerin UreaRepair Plus 5% Urea Hand Cream (R142.99 for 75ml)

This ultra-nourishing without being greasy or oily hand cream really sets apart from the rest. Fast absorbing and light-weight. The formula itself is just wonderful & contains the following ingredients:

UREA: Binds moisture to the skin, has a gentle exfoliating action and contains anti-itch & anti-microbial properties. Urea soothes & smooths the skin’s surface.

CERAMIDES: Prevent moisture loss & strengthens the skin’s barrier.

NMF: Natural Moisturising factors are found in healthy skin. They include amino acids, inorganic salts, lactate & urea. These are replicated in the Urea Repair Plus range for optimal hydration.

Eucerin AtoControl Bath and Shower Oil (189.99)

Another favourite is the Eucerin AtoControl Bath and Shower Oil. It gently cleanses and soothes atopic skin, relieves itching and prevents further dryness- It’s Incredible!

Containing over 50% Omega oils and other natural oils, its high oil content softens and protects skin from further dryness. This has been an absolute game-changer for my skin. Guys, after 3rd day of use, I didn’t even have to moisturise my body after a shower, it’s that good!

Eucerin UreaRepair PLUS Lotion 5% Urea, (R185.99)

When the skin on my body is really dry, I find this moisturiser really hydrates and conditions it. It’s quite soothing to the skin as well.

The fragrance-free, super gentle yet hydrating formula used in the Eucerin Urea Repair Plus 5% urea Lotion contains Urea, amino acids, lactic acid and ceramides – all proven to alleviate and soothe symptoms of dry skin for up to 48 hours. It also repairs the skin’s natural ability to fight dry skin by binding, locking and distributing moisture effectively in the skin.

DermatoClean Mild Cleansing Milk (R164.99)

This has to be by far the gentlest cleansing milk I have ever tried! This mild but effective cleanser removes impurities and make-up and helps the skin to maintain its natural moisture balance. I have included this Cleansing Milk in my night routine when my skin is feeling a little dry and in need of extra hydration. Packed with ingredients like APG Complex: mild cleansing complex. Gluco-glycerol: a nature-derived moisturizing active and Hyaluronic acid: high moisture-binding capacity. It leaves skin clean and supple, which I absolutely love!

Eucerin Intensive Lip Balm (R79.99)

The struggle with finding a lip balm has been the absolute pits. Honestly, I think most of them don’t actually work. Re-applying a lip balm to dry lips every 20 minutes is not normal- seriously…

Guys, stop wasting your hard-earned money on lip balms that are actually irritating your lips and spend it on a good lip balm that heals them. You need something that smooths and nourishes, not tingles and smells good.

This almost fluid-like consistency, penetrates into the lips, addressing dryness & irritation. You don’t need to constantly re-apply it, because it starts working after the first application. I have never found a lip balm as good as this one, and that is the honest truth!

This brand has really shown some impressive results and can honestly say that it will hold a space on my beauty shelf for years to come. Eucerin- The solution to dry skin.

October 7, 2020
Making an Entrance…

Our favourite Interior creator & behavioural specialist, Kim Williams, is making an entrance! Kim shares that every great space begins by having an understanding of how people use their spaces & how design can help them get more use from it.

Entrance halls are not only for grand Hollywood mansions, but they also offer us a beautiful space to express and introduce the unique identity of our home, as we welcome guests.

Aside from the opportunity for a functional space to store everyday items, entrance halls have gained importance as space to safely sanitize before interacting with our families.

As SA is slowly easing “out” of the chaos, a global shift back towards entertaining guests in our home spaces has come back to life. Having a space to welcome guests creates a sense of excitement. Space and a feeling of welcoming warmth.

I am obsessed with benches and would definitely be on the hunt for one for my own home!

Here is what Kim recommends when designing an Entrance:

Function

Functionality is not only about what you add into space, but more about how well space fulfils your needs. Also, the personality of your family is extremely important. Everyone’s behaviour and needs in their space are different, therefore design must be developed around your unique requirements.

Form

The overall style of the house should guide your design choices. There may also be elements that you cannot change, such as walls, windows, and natural light, or you may want to highlight an antique front door.

Flow

As our spaces get smaller, it is more important than ever that we think about how we create flow with our design choices. How we work with natural light or use of colour. Pieces of art and furniture are more than objects in a home, they add to the flow, overall look, and impression you want to experience in the home.

Old & New

The integration between the old and the new is by far Kim’s forte. By using items that you already treasure creates an emotional connection with your space, gives sentimental significance. It also safeguards your design from being too trend orientated.

Entrance halls have made their grand return to the design scene and are a great way to sweep guests off their feet. Introduce our home’s unique style and organize our everyday essential items.

We are doing a slight home reno and might use this opportunity to spruce up my entrance space! I will definitely be using these tips from Kim!

October 5, 2020
What’s New on the Designer Lanscape…

So what’s new on the designer landscape? Local Fashion Design House: Danielle Frylinck – Launches their ‘Soft Wearing’ Spring Collection

Danielle Frylinck’s Spring 2020 Capsule Collection.

This impactful designer has been creating and crafting fashion to fit the female form since 2016. No stranger to the industry – Danielle Frylinck’s garments have walked the runways and clothed fashionable bodies – for years. In addition to their online portal, the local brand recently launched their flagship store, situated in Parkhurst – Johannesburg.

A peek at the range is a must for the visual palette. Comfortable sense of effortless style – emphasised through key colours and distinctive prints. Natural fabrics, striking tones and simple silhouettes make for a style that easily integrates into one’s wardrobe.

‘Spring 2020 offers you a soft wearing collection made from mostly natural fibres. Comfort is key with a twist to still give you the feeling of ‘dressing up’.

A small capsule collection of pieces that are easy to mix and match with pieces in your current wardrobe. Signature Bowie dresses that can be dressed up or down and linen pieces in clean, crisp lines.’ – mentions Frylinck.

The range boasts a fresh spin on classic styles that have proven successful in the modern-day women’s wardrobe. This paired with local flair and Danielle Frylinck’s steadfast delivery of perfectly tailored pieces.

Here are our favourites:

Linen Mari Blazer

Billie Skirt

Kwi Tee

We look forward to watching yet another season of this ethical designer’s fashion-sprinkle on the streets (and unmapped roads) of Southern Africa.

September 17, 2020
The Adventure Continues… Kosi Bay & Sodwana Bay!

The Adventure Continues –
Kosi bay & Sodwana Bay

The adventure continues as we 4×4 to our next destination: Kosi Bay and Sodwana Bay. If you missed the first installment of our 4×4 adventure, you can read more about it here.
We packed up and moved along to our next destination being Kosi Bay. A couple that love to jam pack our days and get as many activities as we can. We scouted and found an incredible animal encounter experience along the route.
Now before I share this amazing experience with you, I want to tell you that I am totally against any type of animal that is chained and paraded for human enjoyment. I am not about that life. I will point blank REFUSE to take part in any such ‘activity’ that leaves animals defenseless and mistreated.

Elephant connections…

So with that being said, we found the Bayete Zulu Game Reserve that offers Elephant Interactions. After having a quick glance over as to how they operate, we re-routed our GPS and made our way to the Game Reserve.

Arriving a bit early we were asked to wait outside the reserve until it was opening time. Once the time came we were lead to a little thatched structure that we all sat under and waited for the arrival of Rambo and Rachel. I LOVED the fact that the humans were the caged ones and the animals came to see us and not the other way around.
They live on a 22 000 hectare piece of land that is theirs to roam. The history of how Rachel and Rambo came to live on the reserve is happy yet sad as many other elephants were culled. Rambo and Rachel are accompanied by their rangers 24/7 in order to keep them protected. No chains, no picks, just a pure bond shared between them all. It’s so beautiful to see.

Rambo is truly a gentle giant. The sheer size of him is actually mind-blowing! With guidance from the keeper, we got to really get up close and personal to the point where I got to stand right under him. Truly an experience for any elephant lover.
If you are in the area, I urge you to give Rambo and Rachel a visit. It truly is an incredible experience. You can grab some more info on their Instagram page or here

Kosi bay hopping…

We had finally arrived in Kosi Bay after a good 3-hour drive and checked into the Kosi Bay Lodge for some well-deserved chill-out time. I had been having some serious bouts of panic attacks and ‘M’ decided that I just needed a timeout from the 4×4’ing. (He has the patience of a saint)

Glorious Kosi Bay is situated on the North Coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, just a few kilometers from the Mozambique border. Kosi Bay is well known for it’s four natural lake systems which form part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Staying at Kosi Bay Lodge for two nights, it was a perfect resting spot. The self-catering lodge itself is very simple. Open-plan bedroom, dining, and kitchen area. The bathroom has a shower available only.
The two days were spent enjoying the incredible views from the sundeck, swimming, and relaxing at the pool deck. We made friends with fellow Joburgers that offered us a boat trip of fishing and seeing the well-known Fish Kraals.

We even came across abandoned traditional Zulu huts near the Kosi Bay Lodge!

The Kosi mouth is known as the aquarium because of the clarity of water and fish species. It is one of the quietest beaches in South Africa and is home to the famous 700+ year old traditional Tsonga fish traps (Fish kraals).

kosi Bay’s hidden gem

My M had chatted with the locals about doing a turtle tour and they advised that we get in contact with the Kosi Explorer. We were in for a treat! Driving about 10 minutes from the lodge we arrived at the Kingfisher Bush Lodge. This would be our meeting spot with our tour guide and our night’s stay before we drove to Sodwana Bay the next day.
The Kingfisher Lodge is BEAUTIFUL! With 4 luxury tented chalets, along with a restaurant and pool area, this lodge is perfect for a chilled stay. We chatted with the lovely Chantel about the turtle tour. As it is a night tour, we opted to stay a night at the lodge. It was bliss and I would highly recommend staying there if you are ever in Kosi Bay! Definitely a hidden gem in Kosi Bay!

Dining Area

Local resident Dippy

Turtle Adventure…

Why is the Kosi Bay Turtle Tour unique, because the guides do everything they can to protect and sustain the turtle growth. That is why you walk and not drive along the beach. You are almost guaranteed to see Loggerhead & Leatherback turtles come up from the shores to lay and actually see hatchlings!
The adventure starts by leaving the lodge with a 4×4 vehicle, a one hour drive to the parking area of Banga Neck Beach. Once there you will meet your guide who takes you by foot to see the turtles. Our tour guide was incredible! Very knowledgable on these beautiful animals and has a sharp eye! I swear he could spot a turtle from kilometers away! He was brilliant!
HEADS UP: When they say adventure, they mean it. The walk along the beach is long so it can get tiring. Be sure to take along comfortable shoes and light jerseys for the late-night chill. Kingfisher Lodge was kind enough to pack a dinner for us to have when we got back, but I would take a light snack and drinks along as you get to sit on the beach, under a sky full of brilliant stars, listening to the ocean roar at the end of the tour.

we saw baby turtles!

It took every being in my body to not bend down and cradle these tiny beautiful creatures in my hands.
We had been walking for the longest time without seeing a single thing and I was losing hope on us seeing anything until I tour guide told us to wait while he walked ahead. He said he will signal us with his torch if he had found something. We halted heaving (at least I was) and waited in the darkness. Ten minutes had passed and in the corner of my eye, I saw a flicker. Our tour guide found hatchlings!!!
It was like we had all gotten a shot of adrenalin because we got there fast! With a special red light, our tour guide pointed to a patch of sand that was moving. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw hundreds of little turtles, crawling out of the beach sand.

They are so teeny tiny and you will find yourself ‘ooo-ing’ and ‘aww-ing’ the entire time. It was the most incredible experience. It got even better as on our walk back, we saw a Leatherback come up form the waters, dig her nest and lay eggs! We were so so lucky to see all of it! Definitely one for the books!

The 4x4ing continues…

After an unforgettable time in Kosi-Bay, we made our way towards Sodwana Bay. This was the part that my ‘M’ was most excited about because this was the 4×4 route that he has been wanting to do for the longest time. We made a pit stop to a local market and grabbed a carved frame to take home as a keepsake.

The 4×4 route that we took was the Coastal Route from Kosi Bay to Sodwana Bay. It took us 5 hours to drive 60km.
Yes, it was long but we took a very slow drive and stopped at a few beaches that were completely isolated and spent time just enjoying the quiet and beauty of it! We were practically driving on beach sand the entire time so be prepared to climb little dunes and possibly getting stuck!

HEADS UP- There is no signal in some parts of this route so if you are depending on Maps, try to save it and print it. If that doesn’t work then you can count on one of the local “Gillies” to help you navigate to the beautiful beaches. It truly is a maze and we would be totally lost if it wasn’t for our amazing Gillie.

The excitement on this kid’s face!

sodwana Bay

Sodwana Bay is a beautiful unspoiled jewel on the east coast of South Africa. Known to be the best place to Scuba Dive, it is the diver’s haven when you drive into the small town. The streets are filled with vibey restaurants, local pubs, and lots of dive shops.
Not having booked any accommodation, we drove around and found a beautiful resort to rest for 1 night.

Mseni Beach Lodge is a neat little spot that is just a luxurious little log cabin! Beautiful rooms, crisp beds, and the restaurant has the most incredible views, pretty good food too!
these views from the restaurant were unreal!

Sodwana is wild! It’s beautiful and rustic and I wish we stayed there longer. It’s a place that holds such a peaceful tranquility about it, that can only be felt when you standing on the beach.
When heading out of Sodwana, be sure to check out the little market to help the local community. They have the most beautiful hand made items and souvenirs and at a really good price!

the long way home

Our 4×4 adventure was coming to an end, but not before we made our last stop to our favorite place, St Lucia.
It was our last stop of the trip where we decided to just use this time to wind down and enjoy it relaxing. A great memory from St Lucia was M & I decided to lounge by the pool. I was sitting on the step with my feet dipped in the water and decided rather move to the other side of the pool to work on my tan.
I walked across the pool on the step, got out, and laid on my towel in the sun. A second later, a loud thud with something that had fallen in the exact spot that I was sitting. M and I looked up confused to examine if it was a branch that had fallen and laughed that it could have fallen on my head. It wasn’t a branch, it was a snake! A Boomslang to be exact! A luminous green snake could have been resting on my head!
I had never gotten up so fast in my life! That scared me enough to stay away from the pool for the rest of our days there.
What an adventure it was! If you looking for a wild, adventurous holiday, I would highly recommend taking a drive to Kosi Bay and Sodwana Bay- It will leave you with unforgettable memories.

September 11, 2020
Chin Breakouts? You could be suffering from Maskne…

I was the lucky few teens that had good skin for the majority of the time. I never suffered from acne or really bad breakouts. As of late, my chin has been breaking out, TERRIBLY! I put it down to stress due to these crazy COVID times, but in actual fact, it’s Maskne!

Everyone’s new accessory is a face mask for the protection of others and ourselves, and with this comes a new skin concern being Acne. You could be suffering from Maskne!

Masks can trap in humidity, dirt, oil, and sweat if you are not cleaning them properly or you are reusing them for long periods of time. Wearing a mask has made me realize how bad your breath can really get too, Ew.

When oil and debris clog the pores, this causes pimples. Any friction and irritation from the mask can push bacteria into your skin or even create micro-tears, which allow for easier entry of bacteria and dirt and can lead to further inflammation.

With a great skincare routine, you can definitely avoid the maskne. Just keep your skin clean twice a day so that you remove excess oil and clogged pores. And always, ALWAYS wash your masks in hot water and soap!

If you are looking for a lightweight and easy skincare product, then you should definitely check out the Cetaphil Range. You can read more about it here.

A lightweight skin care regime that will keep your skin clean. Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin!

Get Masked

These gorgeous masks are THE most beautiful masks I have ever worn! They are so comfortable and have a wire inside to curve around your nose for that snug fit. The best part is, they are custom made to your measurements!

Support local- You can get in touch with Sandy from Masked Designs

September 1, 2020
JHB’s Hidden Gem- Issy’s Coffee & Gift Shop

There is something quite special about finding a little haven that just makes you feel so warm and fuzzy inside. As much as I want to keep this little haven a secret, it’s too special not to share. Let me introduce you to Jhb’s Hidden Gem- Issy’s Coffee & Gift Shop.

Not many people know this, but I have been captivated by the Holocaust. Many years ago I watched a film called “The Boy in Striped Pajamas”, since then I have been hooked on searching and reading stories about the survivors of the Holocaust.

Issy’s is Something Special…

Issy’s is managed by Courtneigh Bernstein, who opened the shop in memory of her grandfather, as well as in honour of all survivors of genocide. Courtneigh’s grandfather, Israel Gurwicz, was a Holocaust survivor.

I briefly got to meet and chat with Courtneigh, granddaughter and owner of Issy. The loveliest person you will ever meet!

Israel Gurwicz was born in Vilna to Bluma and Moshe-Hirsch. In 1941, the family was forced into the Ghetto. Issy’s brother Allan escaped and hid with Tonia Pietryk, their Polish governess. His mother and sister Deborah were murdered in the Ponary Forest and his father was murdered in Dachau. Issy escaped and found his way to Tonia’s house where he hid with his brother until their liberation by the Red Army. Tonia was later recognized as Righteous Among the Nations by Yad Vashem for her bravery. After the war Issy and Allan immigrated to South Africa.

Goosebump moment right?

Good Food, Good Vibe

Looking out onto a little courtyard, it’s on the ground floor of the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre in Forest Town. It’s a quiet little coffee shop, that really is the perfect oasis to spend the morning. I loved how peaceful it was – it’s a place where you can take a deep breath, and just be.

Along with coffee, good coffee as said by my M, you can have bagels and sandwiches, and there are a few things for sale, like books and jewellery. The books on sale, in particular, grabbed my attention. Of course I bought one, who are we kidding here…

I bought, The Holocaust.

The crew who work there are the perfect combination of humble & friendly . Lucky, who is Issy’s front man, welcomed us with open arms and chatted to us about all the locally made gifts in store. This humble man went on to tell us that even though it has been tough (due to Coronavirus) he is still able to look after his family by the local communities support. This is why I love supporting local, it’s important because places and people as good as these, will still be around. They deserve to be!

Lucky- Hardworking & Humble guy!

The Holocaust and Genocide Centre will be re-opening on the 1st of September 2020. I cannot wait to experience it with a good old cuppa in hand.

Many may think that the centre would be a bit of a downer, but dont. Let it be a space where you go on a historical journey. I for one, cant wait.

More Info

Jhb’s Hidden Gem-Issy’s Coffee and Gift Shop can be found inside the Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre, 1 Duncombe Rd, Forest Town (just off Jan Smuts Avenue and opposite The Westcliff). – Open Mon to Fri, 9am–4:30pm; Sun and public holidays 9am–3pm.

Read more lifestyle content here.

August 24, 2020
Say Hello to SKIN Functional!

I am beyond delighted to share my views on yet another incredible local skincare brand. Say hello to SKIN Functional

SKIN Functional- Who are they?

SKIN functional is a range of products expertly formulated using optimal concentrations of ingredients to restore and maintain the skin’s ideal functioning. Skin enthusiasts will love the fact that each product contains ingredients that have earned the right to be there, leaving no room for redundancy. Delivering potent treatments that bring you everything your skin needs. Equipped with skintelligence, you can confidently adapt your skincare program to your everchanging skin needs.

I have had many gals reach out to say that it’s very similar to The Ordinary brand. Can you believe that I have never tried any products from The Ordinary? Living in SA means we would have to import it and we all know those import charges can be hefty. So, I never did take the plunge but I’m taking those gals word for it!

Being the skincare enthusiast that I am, I got in contact with the brand to find out more info about their products and they were kind enough to send me products to try. The first thing they did was ask me what my skincare needs were – this is key to finding the right product for you and it is phenomenal service what they offer.

From that info, they put together a combo of products for me to target my main concerns – fine lines, wrinkles, and hydration. I’ve been using the 2 for over 2 months now, and I am SO impressed.

What we Tested

We tested out 2 serums: The Anti-Oxidant Complexion Firmer & Barrier Support. I implemented these two serums into my day and night skin regime and I can honestly say that I have absolutely fallen in love with these products.

The Anti-Oxidant Complexion Firmer

The Anti-Oxidant Complexion Firmer 10% Ascorbic Acid + 3% Ferulic Acid (R260) An anti-oxidant powerhouse! I used this in the mornings to give my skin a boost in collagen, thanks to Vitamin C. It left my skin glowing!

Remember these are active serums, so slight warming sensation will be felt on the skin. I love it though because, for me, I know that the product is working. I did find that the Anti-Oxidant Serum is slightly oiler than the Barrier Support, but my skin absorbed it and left it feeling moisturized and plump. My last step was to pop on my suncreen and I was good to go!

Barrier Support- Rescure Oil

The Barrier Support- Rescue Oil (R270) A pure blend of Squalane and Cannabis Sativa Oil to inhibit loss of hydration that reduces skin suppleness. Rescue Oil actively reduces inflammation and irritancy while restoring the barrier function of the skin. This lightweight formula gives the skin serious hydration, especially during these cold spells! I never thought I had such dry skin until I started with this product. Skin absorbs it beautifully leaving it hydrated- No oiliness at all and is perfect for those sensitive skin gals!

In the beginning, I applied the serum and my Clinique moisturizer on top. Four weeks into using the product, I was purely using the Barrier support on its own at night because it was more than enough hydration for my skin.

All in all guys, this brand is awesome! We finally have access to quality, no BS skincare at decent prices here in SA! Head over to their website and check out their range of products! The website is amazing because there is so much info on all the products, so no doubt you know exactly what you are buying!

I’m definitely getting my hands on more products and will try out the Glow Tonic and the Vitamin A!

Have you tried any products from SKIN Functional?

I think it’s time you said hello to SKIN Functional!

July 28, 2020
We Got to Interview Kim Williams + Giveaway!

If you haven’t been introduced to Cape Town’s most stylish Interior Designer, you can read more about Kim Williams Design here and here

We had the pleasure of interviewing Kim and asked her some questions around interiors and home workspaces.

Kim Williams Interview

1. Change has definitely invaded the homes of many due to the pandemic and I wholeheartedly believe that change is good for the soul. Have you made any changes in your own workspace at home?
I created a pause area outside of my workspace as well as a wellness/exercise space. My office and studio is on my premises but with all of us working from home, we needed extra spaces to retreat to.

2. What would be your 3 “key” items for a small workspace?
Natural light, a comfortable and good-looking chair, as well as storage to put up and take down in your workspace to keep the space clutter-free.

3. Absolutely love that the nature trend is back! What plants have you included in your wellness space?
Me too! I think it’s going to take off even more. I have a combination of faux and real plants. Faux ferns and aloes where I do not get natural light and then hanging silver satin pathos plants in the corner of the space.

4. Colour does play a big roll in our overall mood, what would the best colour scheme be for the ideal gym or workspace area?
Ideally, you want to start with the floor – a vinyl floor will work well given you can wipe it off, and it will be cool in summer and warm in winter. This is the first prize. It really adds warmth and light.

Then you have to consider how you are using the space. If you are only using it as a traditional gym then energetic colours such as red, orange, bright colours work well. In my case, I combined a retreat (spot to escape to), yoga space, sauna, and exercise so I used pastel blue and green, combined with darker shades of green, a spot of pastel yellow, grey and white. I wanted to create a sense of serenity and connect with nature given the kind of exercise we would be doing in the space. I think in most homes these spaces will have to double up in function so you have to consider colours that will work across this.

5. What is your favourite spot in your home at the moment?
The corner couch in our PJ lounge. I have a winter fur in the space, and relaxing there with a G & T watching the sunset is my best at the moment.

6. What is an absolute “NO NO’ for a wellness space?
Clutter, white bulbs used in lighting, bright energetic colours.

7. What has been the highlight of your career to date?
The freedom I have right now in my business to choose the work I want to do. That is a great moment.

Kim not only is an Interior Designer but a behaviour strategist as well! Talk about fierce females!

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July 8, 2020