Category Archives: GROOM

Cultivate Apothecary: Farm To Skin Botanical Skincare

September 12, 2023

I can’t wait to share about Cultivate Apothecary – true ‘farm to skin’ luxury botanical skincare. When it comes to organic clean beauty – this is the motherlode. Thoughtfully and soulfully crafted and created by Jill Rowe and Matthew Benson on their epic, sustainable farm in upstate NY, Stonegate Farm – from medicinal and culinary herbs and all organic, with no chemical fertilizers or pesticides in practice.

Each bespoke formula takes months to complete –  from seed to cultivation, harvest, and creation. The essence of slow beauty and ritual in every bottle. Even the soil at Stonegate is regularly replenished with local compost, minerals and low-impact cultivation.

I have never smelled anything like what is in these bottles (also works of art).

Take a peek at a couple of these luxurious serums. I put a couple of drops in my palm, rubbed them together and when I patted my face with them, it felt like I was putting some kind of botanical ART on my face. My skin thanked me with the most radiant glow. I plan on using these with zero makeup, daily. Day to night.

AWAKEN NO. 1: FACE SERUM FOR NORMAL TO DRY SKIN

AWAKEN No. 1 Rejuvenating Day Face Serum for Normal to Dry Skin with added Flaxseed Oil and Lemon Balm plumps the skin and helps to repair the skin’s cells, creating visible improvement in elasticity, firmness, tone and texture, while Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) contains high levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatories and antibacterial agents.

“Through deeply considered formulation and testing, we’ve developed the best hydrating daytime face serum for dry skin that is targeted to that specific skin type and skincare needs. These custom formulations were designed for optimal skin health, delivering deep hydration, even skin tone, and bright, plump, glowing skin that gets noticed.”

MOONLIGHT NO. 1: NIGHT FACE SERUM FOR DRY SKIN

MOONLIGHT No. 1 Restorative Night Serum for Normal or Dry Skin with added Avocado Oil & Lemon Balm. The added Avocado Oil in Moonlight No. 1 is packed with Vitamins B, C, and E, and these powerful antioxidants are capable of reversing environmental damage to the skin, as well as improving collagen production while lemon balm soothes, cleanses, and tightens the skin.

“Through deeply considered formulation and testing, we’ve developed the best night face serum for dry skin that is targeted to that specific skin type and skincare needs. These custom formulations were designed for optimal skin health, delivering deep hydration, even skin tone, and bright, plump, glowing skin that gets noticed.”

 A peek at some ingredients: 

BALANCE BOTANICAL FACIAL TONER

This multi-faceted clean beauty facial toner drenches your skin with moisture while also being the skin primer you’ve been craving. If you’re looking for a natural facial toner or a clean face toner to add to your daily skincare routine, this was made for you.

“Leading with a full-spectrum list of botanical and natural ingredients, this botanical facial toner has it all! Chamomile Hydrosol and Cucumber Extract cool inflammation while deeply hydrating and toning your skin. Purslane Glycerite, Reishi & Shiitake Mushroom Extract, and Wildflower Honey are powerhouse ingredients within this botanical natural facial toner that stimulate cell repair, reduce hyperpigmentation, and are rich in antioxidants.”

Botan

The Ingredients: 

Jill and Mathew –

Jill Rowe and Matthew Benson are co-founders of Cultivate Apothecary at Stonegate Farm and stewards of this magical and productive piece of earth.

Their mission: Creating beautiful and potent, efficacious, botanical beauty, wellness, and green skincare products, while maintaining the utmost respect of mother earth as stewards of this incredible land.

As someone who thrives on rituals – I love that Cultivate Apothecary believes in finding ways to add ritual to our skincare routines.

Shop the collection here.

Follow the apothecary here and Stonegate Farm (swoon) here.

Vivace Ultra RF With Christie Kidd PA-C: LOVE THE SKIN YOU’RE IN

August 25, 2023

This week, I finally met the phenomenal Chrsitie Kidd, PA-C.

When I recovered from being totally star-struck (Christie is The Queen of all things skin) we got to work with this really exciting new VIVACE ULTRA EXPERIENCE®!

The Vivace RF MICRONEEDLING DEVICE combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy and a specialized treatment serum and a cooling peptide mask to provide patients with superior, natural-looking results. Think dramatic results with minimal downtime. The results are both immediate and improve over time with multiple treatments.

This RF microneedling session is only part of the process. The right serums and recovery system enhance results by improving your skin tone and texture and I left with a few cooling masks and serums.

  • Alleviate Wrinkles & Fine Lines
  • Immediate Results
  • Minimal Downtime
  • Virtually Pain-Free

(post treatment, flush but zero downtime, by the time I got home I was back to no flush at all)

(measuring depth of the dermis pre treatment) 

(feels SO GOOD!)

The Vivace® Microneedle RF device is the newest generation of radiofrequency microneedling and is FDA-cleared for your safety. This minimally invasive treatment stimulates the natural production of collagen and is shown to be effective in alleviating facial wrinkles and fine lines.

If you are looking for optimal results, look no further. Welcome to The Vivace Ultra Experience®.

The innovators at Aesthetics Biomedical® are dedicated to providing the best patient experience utilizing the best-in-class device that does it right the first time, and delivers results you can trust and share with others.

Learn more at Aesthetics Biomedical®.

WHAT DOES THE VIVACE EXPERIENCE® FEEL LIKE?

Most physicians use a topical numbing cream to make the treatment comfortable. The majority of patients describe a feeling of light pressure with an occasional warming sensation. Other patients report a feeling of minor prickling.


DOES MICRONEEDLING HURT?

Patients should experience minimal pain during the Vivace® treatment. Typically, a numbing cream is applied 30 to 45 minutes before the treatment to ensure a comfortable patient experience. Many testimonials from patients say they found the treatment to be in a range of comfortable to virtually pain-free. The Vivace® Microneedle RF was designed with patient comfort in mind.

Meet the fabulous Christie Kidd, PA-C

Christie Kidd, PA-C graduated with academic honors from the Physician Assistant program at the University of Southern California School of Medicine in 1997. In addition to her excellence academically and clinically she was a leader within her class. As senior class president, she took on extra responsibilities in order to facilitate extracurricular activities, including a wide range of community service events.

Her interest in diseases of the skin led her to pursue a career as a Certified Physician Assistant in dermatology and she has been practicing in Beverly Hills for 25 years. She is dedicated and passionate about her career, giving every patient unparalleled personalized attention and providing individualized skin care regimens for every patient’s specific needs.

The drive behind creating her skin care line, Perfect Skin by Christie Kidd™ comes from a lifelong passion of chemistry and skin care products. She has been a “skin care mixer” since childhood. By age 12 she was creating, in her bathroom, her own self tanning lotions, facial masks and nail polish colors. Her love and passion for helping people mixed with the desire for the perfect skin care line, she spent many years researching and developing Perfect Skin by Christie Kidd™.

Christie Kidd, PA-C provides a full range of skin care services including diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases as well as cosmetic dermatology.

Supervising physician is Dr. Rampradad Dandillaya (drdandillaya.com)

At Rodeo Drive Dermatology & Aesthetics, AMC, Christie Kidd, PA-C, and the team provide a full range of skin care services including both medical and cosmetic dermatology.

medical office where Christie Kidd provides facial treatments and laser skin services

Christie and her team provide cosmetic dermatology services at her Beverly Hills office. Her particular expertise is providing every patient with a “natural-looking” appearance. Click below to view a full range of cosmetic services.

Cosmetic Skin Treatments

Beverly Hills dermatologists office

Christie Kidd, PA-C and her team provide a full range of skin care services including diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases. Browse our full range of medical services such as treatments for eczema, blemishes, moles, rashes and more.

CEZANNE: The Toxin-Free Hair Smoothing System You’ve Been Waiting For

August 20, 2023

  This weekend I finally tried Cezanne!

The first-of-its-kind, in-salon keratin treatment that delivers five-star, frizz-free results that last up to five months made with ZERO formaldehyde. Also hypo-allergenic, dermatologist-tested, free of sulfates, parabens, sodium, phthalates, and gluten.

Let’s just say, I couldn’t wait for this. We all know by now how toxic the old ways of straightening and smoothing are. The process was so easy – and zero anxiety about breathing in noxious fumes! (Because – NONE). I loved my stylist, the salon and the outcome. Is there such a thing as ten stars?!

Cezanne is like no other keratin treatment on the market. One of the standout features of the Cezanne Keratin Treatment is its versatility. No downtime.  This means that after the treatment, you can still enjoy the flexibility of wearing your hair straight or allowing it to air-dry with a more relaxed wave. You can wash your hair, swim, etc., right away, and the treatment won’t weaken the hair follicle over time the way similar options might. Another amazing thing as the others have a whole post-regime that is a real pain for me as I am a trainer and sweat daily.

Also, unlike some other keratin treatments, it doesn’t completely straighten the hair or create a stiff, unnatural look. Instead, it aims to retain the hair’s natural texture while enhancing its overall appearance and making it more manageable.

As with any hair treatment, it is essential to consult with a professional stylist who is experienced in applying the Cezanne Keratin Treatment. They can assess your hair type and condition, discuss your desired results, and provide aftercare recommendations to help you maintain the benefits of the treatment. That being said – I headed to the texture-specific salon, organic, plant-based salon VIRGO (omg obsessed!!!) in DTLA, for my treatment. Cutest. Place. EVER.

More about Cezanne:

Benefits:

·       Reveal smooth, frizz-free, and manageable hair

·       Long-lasting results that improve with time

·       No formaldehyde or harsh chemicals

·       Safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair

·       Restores and strengthens hair from within

·       Reduces blow-dry and styling time by 30%

·       Retains natural volume and movement

·       Provides a radiant, healthy shine

Besides the professional treatment itself, Cezanne offers 8 different consumer-based products that’ll help maintain the life of the treatment including: The Ultimate Blonde Shampoo, Ultimate Blonde Conditioner, Perfect Moisture Shampoo, Perfect Moisture Conditioner, Clarifying Shampoo, Leave-In Perfector Spray, Silky Nourishing Oil and the Perfect Blowout & Smoothing Crème – all available on cezanne-hair.com.

And some more Cezanne non-toxic keratin:

Cezanne Keratin Treatment is designed to transform frizzy or unruly hair into smooth, manageable locks. Named after the renowned French Post- Impressionist artist Paul Cezanne, this treatment seeks sleek, smooth results and long-lasting results.

The Cezanne Keratin Treatment is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients and advanced technology. Unlike traditional keratin treatments, it is free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, making it a safer and gentler option for your hair. The primary active ingredient is Sericin, a protein derived from silk that helps to repair and strengthen the hair cuticles while locking in moisture.

The treatment process typically starts with a thorough cleansing of the hair to remove any product buildup and impurities. Afterward, the Cezanne Keratin Treatment is carefully applied to the hair, section by section. The product is then left on the hair for a specific period to allow the keratin and other ingredients to penetrate the hair shaft and work their magic. Once the processing time is complete, the hair is blow-dried and flat-ironed to seal in the treatment.

The results of the Cezanne Keratin Treatment can vary depending on the hair type and texture, but in general, you can expect to enjoy silky hydrated hair, air dries smoother,shinier, and more manageable hair for an extended period, usually around three to five months. The treatment helps to reduce frizz, tame unruly curls, hydrate and smooth greys and cut down on styling time, making it an excellent option for those with busy lifestyles.

Stylist : Ashanti Brigham – Texture Specialist. A DOLL!!! 

 Website: ilovevirgo.com

Phone Number: 323.332.2200

Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 9-5 (by appointment only)

Address is 513 Molino St., Los Angeles, CA 90013.

Onekind’s Aciddrops and Solardrops: Your Dynamic Duo for the Ultimate Summer Glow!

July 31, 2023

For too long, the world of skincare has been defined by exaggerated promises, suspect chemicals and sky-high price tags.

“Meet The New Skincare Line That’s Bringing Luxury Formulas At The Dreamiest Price Point – The Zoe Report

Summer is officially here and that means getting your skin glowy for all the selfies you’ll be taking this summer. Meet Onekind’s Drops Collection which includes Solardrops and Aciddrops – two serums that work in perfect harmony, leaving you with a luminous and flawless complexion that will make you the envy of every beachgoer.

First up is Aciddrops Overnight Resurfacing Serum ($48) – the transformative solution for a smoother, radiant complexion. Packed with AHAs and BHAs like glycolic, lactic, malic, and salicylic acids, this innovative serum gently exfoliates and improves skin texture. Top off your skin with Onekind’s hero and origin product, Dream Cream Nighttime Moisturizer ($40) to wake up with brighter, baby soft skin!

   

Finish your morning skincare routine with Solardrops SPF 55 Daily Spectrum Serum ($48), your sun protection with a touch of summer glow. This lightweight, non-tinted formula shields your skin with broad-spectrum SPF while adding light-reflecting pigments for a gorgeous, luminous finish. Embrace your radiant, luminous self with these skin gamechangers!

Onekind is currently offering a mix and match deal – buy 2 drops and get 1 drop free! Add 3 Aciddrops and or Solardrops to your cart to get one free.

Onekind’s Drops Collection is available at www.onekind.us.

MUD ORGANICS FROM AU

July 21, 2023

I am LOVING MUD Organics!

Mud’s products combine a unique blend of supplements and ingredients that can be ingested or applied to the skin! Key ingredients come from the world’s richest soil and includes powerful electrolytes that assist the body in assimilating up to 60 times more minerals and vitamins. 

They have a Supplement Powder that I am drinking in water – first thing    daily  – to restore and repair with the combination of Fulvic Acid and Omegia™ Powder (Sea Buckthorn) powder which liberates and optimizes your body from the inside out.

They also have the Sea Buckthorn Serum (loving, putting on as I drink my powder) made from a single organic ingredient, this vegan and cruelty-free hydrating serum nourishes your skin with vitamin E, Omegas 3 6 7 9, amino acids, and antioxidants.

After experiencing their own personal health scares, Courtney Thornton & Imogen Van Haagen decided to help others with the same experiences they were challenged with. What started as a business to help people with chronic illness, has now transformed into a versatile supplementation and skincare business, known best for their anti-aging products, that only use 2 natural ingredients, derived from the Earth.

Mud Organics is the new innovative way of how we ingest organic supplements but also the safest way to detox your body. Mud is now known as the world’s most trusted 2 in 1 anti-ageing formula. For your inner health and outer beauty. Using only two ingredients, Fulvic/Humic Acid and Sea Buckthorn, when combined, are made to deliver more nutrients, vitamins and minerals into your cells. These include Vitamin C, E, antioxidants and all of the fatty acids that your body requires. Instead of taking 10 different supplements every morning, this combination served in a third of a teaspoon as the ability to attain the nutrients and vitamins that your body requires to function optimally. These two most powerful ingredients help support your immune system as well as acting as the world’s greatest electrolyte to help you stay
ultra-hydrated.

It also works as a twofold – vitamins and minerals enter your cells, however the Fulvic Acid acts as a detoxing agent and has the ability to remove toxins, waste and heavy metals from your cells. Bios on Founders Courtney: Born and raised in a small town in Western Australia, 23 year old Courtney Thornton is an aspiring young entrepreneur, who began her career in the health and fitness industry as a Personal Trainer. At the age of 18, Courtney was diagnosed with Epilepsy and this catalyst was what pivoted her path to more focusing on her health on the inside. After experiencing many mental health battles, from depression, anxiety, ADHD and Bipolar, Courtney wanted to improve her quality of life by finding ways on how to manage these health issues. She is also creating an awareness for others out there, to ensure that they are not alone.From running a country charity gala, ‘A Night Under the Stars’, raising funds for regional mental health, to raising funds for third world countries, Courtney and her Co-Founder Imogen are here to change the world, starting with developing Mud Organics – a versatile supplementation and skincare business.

With what began as an idea in 2021, Mud Organics is now a well-known Australian brand, with recently expanding globally in the beginning of their second year in business. Known as the world’s best 2 in 1 anti-aging formula, Mud is catching the eye of thousands with its unique ingredient combination. As a young entrepreneur, Courtney is achieving yet still learning on how to juggle life as a young adult, running multiple businesses, and showing up as a leader. Imogen: One of 13 Children and now a Mother of two young children, now 34 years old, Imogen has over a decade of experience in International Business, Business Ownership, and Nutrition. Imogen is a certified Health Coach & Nutrition Expert and over the last 7 years has built and sold a successful health & wellness business based out of Perth, Australia. Working with people who suffer from chronic gut issues and endeavor to ‘crack the code’ on their personal health to live more optimally (AKA increase energy, sleep, digestion, stress, mental & emotional health, physical fitness, and outer glow -skin).

After having her own health scare in 2013 and years of personal development, research in psychology, nutrition, and optimal performance, Imogen is on a mission to help people with the same problems she was once faced with. What most people don’t know is gut health is just as complex as the brain, just far more under-studied. Poor gut health is interconnected with anti-aging, mental health, hormone balancing and living optimally.

When Co-Founder Courtney approached Imogen with a business idea to develop a gut health supplement, it was a no-brainer for Imogen. In August 2021 the power couple developed and built the Skin Care & Supplementation brand Mud Organics which is the ultimate 2in1 aging formula to help people with their health & beauty from the inside out.

Instagram: @Mud.organics Mud Organics