BellaSugar

Beauty Products You Didn't Know Existed

BellaSugar — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:00:09 PDT

Our beloved beauty brands have secret lives we don't know about. So many products from around the world mean that whenever I travel, I have to hit up the local drugstore. Of course, I have no idea what some of these products actually are for, but they are nonetheless fascinating, as is how a room full of execs decides that Americans don't want to try Nivea Intensive Cream hair mask but Egyptians totally do (it has lotus blossom, so no doubt smells amazing). Garnier's line of "UVSKI" products (which appear to be sun protection for skiiers) for the Netherlands and Maybelline China's Eye Studio palette look so good I could almost travel across multiple continents for them. I'd also hit up Ireland for those adorable tins of Rosy Vaseline and Sephora France for that cool analog-looking face mask. Any global goodies you've fallen in love with?

BellaSugar's Guide to Beauty Products from Around the World

BellaSugar — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:00:28 PDT

Get a load of these beauties from around the world. Famous actresses such as Debbie Matenopolous (Greek-American), Catherine Deneuve (French), Sophia Loren (Italian), Lucy Liu (Chinese-American) and Gisele Bundchen (Brazilian) all epitomize the beauty traits that each of these countries are known for.

Now, it's not like I've trotted the globe trying all of the latest and greatest beauty treatments (although that would be a dream come true) but I have had the opportunity to try out some of the great imports that have crossed oceans to get to the United States. Below is a five post round-up filled with fun facts about global beauty-as well as my top picks for beauty products from Greece, France, Italy, China and Brazil. I hope you've enjoyed this series as much as I have.

Beauty Products From Around The World Part V: Brazil

BellaSugar — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 11:00:22 PDT

Did you know that Brazil is climbing the ranks in global beauty and by next year it is set to become the third largest beauty market in the world ahead of France and Germany? Maybe it has something to do with the fact that the country is home to the world’s biggest rain forest, the Amazon.

Popular Brazilian beauty ingredients include ginseng (tones the skin), guaraná (stimulates production on melanin), buriti oil (rich in fatty acids), and the Brazil nut (high in selenium). Here are three beauty products that allow us to enjoy a little bit of Amazon biodiversity right here in America.

Molton Brown Invigorating Suma Ginseng Bath & Shower Gel ($25) is a lush, rich and fragrant body wash.

It is made from Brazilian suma ginseng which helps boost circulation and juniper berry oil, cinnamon, oakmoss, armoise and geranium revitalise the senses and and stimulate the energy.

For two more amazing Brazilian beauty products,

Brazillian Fruit Moisturising Body Lotion Guarana ($14.90) is made from a delicious blend of natual ingredients from the Amazon such as guaraná extract, cupuaca butter, sunflower oil and vitamin E, to invigorate the skin and leave it feeling soft, smooth and protected.

Guaraná is also known as an aphrodisiac and metabolic stimulant - ahhh, so that's why Gisele is so thin!

Nunaat Cosmetics is a very popular Brazilian brand that also makes a full range of hair care and bath and body products. They use essential oils and natural ingredients from the Amazon to relax the body through delicate fragrances and textures. The brand is coming to the US in 2008 and I wanted to make sure you were in the know!

Beauty Products From Around the World Part IV: China

BellaSugar — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 07:00:43 PDT

Chinese women have some of the most beautiful skin in the world. This is because many pamper their skin with herbal ingredients-both topically and nutritionally. Among these ingredients are mushrooms, ginger and pearl powder; they are believed to decrease signs of aging, build the immune system and preserve overall health.

The key to understanding Chinese medicine is to take care of not only the skin but the entire body as well. Here are three Chinese beauty products that are currently available in the US. I hope this post will help you gain some insight into the powers of these ingredients.

Wei East Time Delay ($28) is a wrinkle reducer that contains a special ingredient called the Reishi mushroom. This is a rare herb that the Chinese call “the mushroom of immortality” since it works to decrease visible signs of aging.

Reishi mushrooms are believed to reduce inflammation and rejuvenate the skin. Since they are also rich in vitamin B, iron, calcium and magnesium, they are also excellent for the blood, heart and lungs.

For two more amazing Chinese beauty products,

Jenju Pearl Cream is a face cream that I told you about a long time ago. It is made with pearl powder (high in amino acid) to calm inflammation, redness and skin irritations.

The Chinese royal court used crushed freshwater pearls for centuries because of these special properties, as well as for the glowy after-effects it leaves on your skin. You can purchase the cream online for ($28).

Carol's Daughter Lemon Ginger Mint Manicure In A Jar ($11) is created in Brooklyn, but I'm sneaking it in here because it features ginger. This is a delicious-smelling exfoliator created to slew away stubborn skin cells on your hands and feet (it's great for elbows too). Ginger is a wonderful and natural way to awaken the senses and revitalize the spirit.

Its powerful aroma has been known to act as an aphrodisiac and is often blended with calming scents such as mint and lemon to balance out its strength. Once you are finished with your vigorous scrub, sit back, relax and enjoy the sensational cooling effect.

Beauty Products From Around the World, Part III: Italy

BellaSugar — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 09:00:00 PDT

I think almost everything from Italy is romantic: the fragrances, the language, the makeup, the men (!), and the skin care. Fresh Italian ingredients such as virgin olive oil, grapefruit, and neroli are often used in beauty products, especially in fragrances. Italians once believed that aside from a wonderful smell, colognes also helped protect you from disease and harm. So it's no wonder that so many of the famous Italian fashion houses (Bulgari, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana...) all have their own fragrances. Here are a few examples of sensational and sweet-smelling Italian beauty products.

Pupa Cosmetics is a Milanese makeup company with chic, compact, rounded packaging and a light and fresh aromatic essence to its products. They are known for their bright colors that work on the runway or red carpet. You can now buy Pupa in more 70 countries, and some products are on sale at Amazon.com.

For two more intriguing Italian beauty products

Incanto Charms by Ferragamo ($77 for a 3.4 oz bottle) is an exotic essence of Italian fruits and flowers-namely passion fruit, honeysuckle, ottoman rose and jasmine. The scent makes you feel just as sexy as if a gorgeous Italian man whispered the word "bella" in your ear!

Clèo Body Cream ($6.76) is a star product in this yogurt-based cult brand. Fortunately, it's just arrived in the US! The lactic acid in yogurt soothes, softens and tightens skin. Plus, the fast-absordbbing cream smells delicious, and it's ideal for dry skin.

Beauty Products From Around the World, Part II: France

BellaSugar — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 11:00:55 PDT

French women are in a constant search for flawless, perfect skin. Some view aging as a a four-letter word and will do everything in their power to seek out preventative, anti-aging treatments. The French describe American women as “vulgaire” for our heavy makeup and cosmetic surgeries and scoff at young Hollywood celebs that prance around with fake tans and fake hair extensions.

In France, if you have the slightest skin condition (anything from eczema to acne) your medical bills for "treatments" can be covered up to as much as 65%. In my recent research there is one thing I've learned about French beauty - despite all of the gorgeous makeup and clothing that hails from France, a glowing complexion is the is the most coveted accessory!

Carita Pearl of Youth Cream ($214) is an anti-aging skincare product that firms, tones, smooths and protects skin from environmental damages that cause premature aging. With continued use, skin should become softer and lines will look more refined. Use one pump on a cleansed skin in the morning and gently massage into the face and neck using moderate pressure.

For two more fabulous French beauty products

Lierac Coherènce- Age-Defense Firming Serum ($60) is a light yet intensive collagen enhanced serum formulated to lift, smooth, brighten and tighten skin to create a more youthful appearance. It absorbs quickly and can be used morning and night to cleansed skin under a moisturizer.

Decleor Aromessence Neroli Comforting Concentrate ($63.50) is a fast-absorbing and deep penetrating facial oil made with neroli oil to help normal to sensitve skin look and feel more hydrated, supple and radiant. Apply three drops in the morning and evening to cleansed skin. Decleor products smell amazing, so take deep breaths to benefit from the wonderful aroma.

Beauty Products From Around The World Part I: Greece

BellaSugar — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 16:58:42 PDT

Greek men and women are known for their thick, plentiful and shiny hair. Ingredients such as mint, rosewater, honey and yogurt are some of the most widely found and consumed ingredients in the country. We are lucky enough to now have access to these great Greek hair products in the US. Please let me know what you think and if you have any more Greek products to share with our growing beauty community.

Apivita Propoline Shampoo ($17) is a line of twelve moisturizing shampoos that have remained a cult favorite in Greece for 20+ years. What makes this brand and these shampoos so amazing is that instead of using ordinary water, they use rosemary water as a base.

Rosemary improves circulation, promotes hair growth, stimulates cell renewal to eliminate dandruff, normalize oil secretions. Wow, I had no idea about the powers of rosemary, did you?

For two more great beauty products from Greece,

How many times have we heard that healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp? This Korres Green Silt and Corallina Oligoelements Intensive Hair Scrub ($30) is terrific for regulating dandruff and sebum secretion. It's a cranial exfoliator that helps to balance damaged scalps, exfoliate dead skin cells, and regenerate the hair to give it a healthy, shiny lustre.

Since it's a treatment, it is recommended for use once a week. Simply
apply the scrub on wet hair from roots to hair ends, massage gently and leave on for ten minutes before rinsing.

Hydra Mastic Mask ($24.80) is a hair hydration mask containing a special ingredient called mastic found on the Greek island of Chios. Company founder Dia Scoufaras discovered mastic, a resin that comes from the mastic tree that has anti-bacterial and ant-fungal properties, while on a family vacation in Chios.

Now the company has over 175 products that contain lots of good-for-you ingredients such as red wine for its anti-oxidant properties and olive oil as an emollient. Hydra Mastic Mask helps to hydrate, protect and add shine to normal and dry hair. To check out the four Mastic US spa locations online here!

Model Liya Kebede Talks Minimal Makeup in Cannes

Allie Merriam — Thu, 24 May 2012 13:25:43 PDT

For model Liya Kebede, Cannes feels like magic. "It gets into you the minute you arrive here," she said this morning. "It's very glamorous, and I like that it's very international as well. You see all these different people from all over the world coming with their films, which is great." It's been a big year for Liya, who was named a L'Oréal Paris brand ambassador last June and is making forays into the film world. She's currently working on The Best Offer from Cinema Paradiso director Giuseppe Tornatore.

There's more to Liya than her stunning looks, though. She won a BellaSugar beauty award thanks to her philanthropic efforts. Her eponymous foundation is dedicated to improving maternal health, and she's created a clothing line, Lemlem, which helps support craftswomen in her native Ethiopia. Today, the supermodel talked about her various work endeavors and shared her best tips on beauty, the inside scoop on her own makeup routine, and more.

BellaSugar: It's pretty surreal here. Have you ever had an incredible Cannes moment?
Liya Kebede: I think you get it every time you get here. Last time, I ran into Woody Allen in the lobby. You can't believe it - it's just insane. There's so many of these great people and stars. At some point, you don't even react anymore. You get overstimulated. Every corner is some incredible person, or you go to a party and it's full of everybody. It's amazing. You just go, "I'm in Cannes!"

BellaSugar: And part of Cannes, is of course, getting made up and looking great, which you're quite familiar with, I'm sure. What's the best tip you've learned from the pros?
Liya Kebede: Less is more. If you're going do an eye thing, then don't do a lip thing. Try to find a balance about what you do. Also, nothing is necessarily specific - using a lip thing on your eye or cheeks is fine, and it works, and it's light. Play around! Nothing is so fixed.

For the rest of our chat with Liya, just read more

Are You Getting All Your LilSugar?

Rebecca M Gruber — Fri, 18 May 2012 01:49:57 PDT

We know moms are busy and that the last thing you need is another site to add to your daily Internet-surfing routine, but reading LilSugar is only one way to get the latest baby and parenting news, tips, and trends. We love sharing our latest finds, funny tidbits, cool photos, and sneak peeks - things that often don't make it onto the site - four different ways!

"Like" us on Facebook to see our favorite stories of the day - both our own and our friends' - for some extra baby and parenting goodies in your daily feed.

"Follow" us on Twitter for up-to-the-minute breaking news in the world of parenting, celebrity tots, and more!

Start "Pinning" with us on Pinterest, where we're sharing all the pretty things - from beautiful nurseries to out-of-this-world birthday parties - we can find around the web.

"Follow" @lilsugar1 over on Instagram for behind-the-scenes looks at the items that are piquing our interest each day - whether it's the latest products we're seeing or snapshots of our daily lives.

Avery Island, Part Deux: Boils, Bottles, Bloodies & Boudin

OnSugar Blog — Thu, 03 May 2012 05:45:45 PDT

If you're itching for a culinary adventure, there's no need to leave your home! Escape to Avery Island for a crawfish feast with Food Orleans.

This was my lunch. I ate it all.

Avery Island is a gorgeous place; it's surrounded by a long lace of bayous, has plenty of wildlife roaming around freely (deer, bears, raccoons, alligators), and houses the beautiful Jungle Gardens and Bird Sanctuary. You can spend a full day there soaking up the splendor, especially if you pack in a trip to the Tabasco factory.

We had a lovely, long ride down the bayou to the McIlhenny family's trapper's camp, just so we could get in some air boat rides (FUN!) and a little of this:

My favorite lunch in the world! These fellas were HUGE.

I'm only partly responsible for this amount of crawfish carnage. Let's just say that my tablemate, Cecil, is one fast picker.

Earlier that day, we had a tasting of all seven flavors of Tabasco sauce, led by CEO and Chairman of the Board Paul McIlhenny. His chief flavor developer, Charlie Chang, who has worked for the McIlhennys for over 30 years, was also present at the tasting. It was fascinating listening to the two describe how certain flavors were inspired, or how they were refined to become what they are today. I have to say, my new favorite hot sauce is Tabasco Habanero. It's Jamaican inspired and has a lot of fruit flavor to it, plus it packs a slow, intense heat that hits you at the end. For the tasting, we had saltine crackers and softened butter to help us tolerate the high amounts of heat in some of the sauces. I discovered that a saltine cracker spread with butter and topped with a little Habanero sauce is extremely delicious--like eating a wicked little butter cookie. I'm in love.

For more on this tasty adventure, plus a Tabasco-inspired mixology lesson, keep reading!