DIY Moisturising Vegan Face Mask

Heading into winter, your skin is likely to feel dry. Give yourself a moisture boost with this simple recipe made from ingredients you'll likely have hiding out in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 banana
• 2 Tb oats
• 1 tsp lemon juice

Method: 

1. In a bowl, mash the banana.
2. Mix in the lemon juice and oats.
3. Cleanse your face and apply a generous amount of mixture.
4. Allow the mask to sit for 10-15 minutes.
5. Wash off the mask.

*Recipe sourced from Vegancuts.

Glow Sugar Scrub

Combat dry itchy skin with this lovely body scrub. Not only is it easy to make, but if will leave your skin feeling wonderfully soft and smooth.

Ingredients: 

• 1 C sugar
• 3 Tb olive oil
• A few drops of your favourite essential oil

Method:

1. Place the sugar in a bowl and add the olive oil, one spoon at a time. Mix after each addition until you reach a sandy consistency.
2. Add the essential oil and place in a jar for storage.
3. Use while showering after rinsing off any soap.

*Recipe sourced from Simple Veganista.

Whipped Body Butter 

Now that your skin is super soft and supple after using the body scrub, lock in moisture with a homemade vegan whipped body butter.

Ingredients: 

• 3/4 C cocoa butter (available at Takealot.com)
• 1/4 C coconut oil

Method: 

1. Melt the cocoa butter and coconut oil in a bowl set over simmering water.
2. Allow the mixture to set in the freezer for about 20 minutes.
3. Once the mixture is solid but not too hard, whip it up using an electric mixer, for about 5 minutes.
4. When the mixture is fluffy, spoon it into a clean container.
5. The mixture will last for about three months, store in a cool, dark place.

*Recipe sourced from Little Green Dot.

Coconut Foot Lotion

Pamper yourself with a relaxing foot treatment after a long day at the office. Treat yourself to a long foot soak and scrub before applying this cooling coconut foot lotion.

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 C shea butter
• 1/4 C coconut oil
• 1/4 C sweet almond oil
• 2 - 3 drops tea tree oil
• 2 - 3 drops peppermint essential oil

Method: 

1. Melt the shea butter and coconut oil in a bowl over simmering water.
2. Add the almond and essential oils and mix.
3. Store in a clean jar and massage into feet after a foot soak.

*Recipe sourced from Faithful to Nature.

DIY Vegan Hair Mask

Is your hair dry, full of static and impossible to control now that the colder seasons have arrived? Treat your hair to this nourishing mask to give it some much needed TLC.

Ingredients: 

• 1/2 avocado
• 1/2 banana
• 50 ml coconut milk
• 2 Tb coconut oil
• 1 Tb olive oil

Method: 

1. Blend all the ingredients together until you have a smooth paste.
2. Apply the mixture throughout your hair, taking care to work it all the way to the ends.
3. Leave the mask in for 15 - 20 minutes.
4. Wash your hair out with a mild shampoo, ensuring that it is thoroughly rinsed.
5. Condition your hair as per usual.

*Recipe sourced from My Life Well Loved.

Homemade Vapor Rub

With sniffle season in full force, you may want a jar of vapor rub handy. Using just a few ingredients, you can make your own natural vapor rub at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 Tb coconut oil
• 2 Tb shea butter
• 10 - 12 drops eucalyptus oil
• 10 - 12 drops peppermint oil
• 4 drops rosemary oil
• 4 drops cinnamon oil

Method: 

1. Gently melt coconut oil and shea butter in a bowl over simmering water.
2. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Add the essential oils.
3. Pour into a clean jar with a tight fitting lid.
4. Allow the mixture to solidify and cool completely before using.
5. Store in a cool, dry place for up to six months.

*Recipe sourced from Simple Green Smoothies.

Do you have any recipes for vegan beauty products? Share them with us in the comments section below!

We live in a city where it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, everyone is just working towards something or on themselves at the least and sometimes you just want to go on an extended (excuse me, a years' leave) trip to a far away destination. However, a quick reboot never hurt nobody and Africology Skincare & Spa has just the thing.

Pampering yourself can be the closest thing to recouping and getting you fresh and ready to take over the world. A good full body massage treatment can go a long way. Africology will leave you spoiled for choice, and to add onto that - they have skincare products to help you maintain your skin.

A Bit About Africology

Africology has become a spa that people notice without even having seen it's name - they have a very distinct uniformed decor and aroma that you can't help but be drawn in by.

This is work of Renchia, comes from a very deep story of her working in some of the country's most neglected areas and her being the metaphysical therapist that she is, she thought of utilising her message and aroma therapy skills to create what is now one of the best spa's in SA. Not only Mzansi has this privilege, but the United Kingdom has also received the blessing of an Africology Spa.

This amazing pamper spot has about 3 spa's situated around the north of Joburg. The Maslow Hotel, their biggest spa is at the heart of renowned hotel in Sandton.

Treatments That Beautify 

When you feel like you've been hit by a truck, this is the best spa to go and find your skin, perhaps even a bit of your sanity from all the stresses of daily life. Africology's treatments are absolutely divine past average measure - they are great. With treatments ranging from facials, full body, neck and head message, mani's, pedi's and much more depending on the branch you choose to visit.

The Africology at the Maslow on the other hand deserves to be blessed with your presence for a full day, it is massive, boasting with a sonar, Jacuzzi and you can even go up to their rooftop and enjoy sundowners.

Giving Your Skin Love...

As the seasons change, it can be quite difficult to ensure that your skin does not become victim to the change plus many products are not conscious to the African climate which is where Africology comes in. They specialise in products for the body, hands and feet, aromatherapy as well as some added extras with their lifestyle section.

The most prominent has been their skin range, if you are uncertain - you can ask one of their friendly staff to guide you through their serums, toners, cleansers, exfoliators, moisturisers and more.

With that said Joburg, let's go out and pamper! (Wow! that was cheesy but I had to).

That's it from me...enjoy!

We live in a city where it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, everyone is just working towards something or on themselves at the least and sometimes you just want to go on an extended (excuse me, a years' leave) trip to a far away destination. However, a quick reboot never hurt nobody and Africology Skincare & Spa has just the thing.

Pampering yourself can be the closest thing to recouping and getting you fresh and ready to take over the world. A good full body massage treatment can go a long way. Africology will leave you spoiled for choice, and to add onto that - they have skincare products to help you maintain your skin.

A Bit About Africology

Africology has become a spa that people notice without even having seen it's name - they have a very distinct uniformed decor and aroma that you can't help but be drawn in by.

This is work of Renchia, comes from a very deep story of her working in some of the country's most neglected areas and her being the metaphysical therapist that she is, she thought of utilising her message and aroma therapy skills to create what is now one of the best spa's in SA. Not only Mzansi has this privilege, but the United Kingdom has also received the blessing of an Africology Spa.

This amazing pamper spot has about 3 spa's situated around the north of Joburg. The Maslow Hotel, their biggest spa is at the heart of renowned hotel in Sandton.

Treatments That Beautify 

When you feel like you've been hit by a truck, this is the best spa to go and find your skin, perhaps even a bit of your sanity from all the stresses of daily life. Africology's treatments are absolutely divine past average measure - they are great. With treatments ranging from facials, full body, neck and head message, mani's, pedi's and much more depending on the branch you choose to visit.

The Africology at the Maslow on the other hand deserves to be blessed with your presence for a full day, it is massive, boasting with a sonar, Jacuzzi and you can even go up to their rooftop and enjoy sundowners.

Giving Your Skin Love...

As the seasons change, it can be quite difficult to ensure that your skin does not become victim to the change plus many products are not conscious to the African climate which is where Africology comes in. They specialise in products for the body, hands and feet, aromatherapy as well as some added extras with their lifestyle section.

The most prominent has been their skin range, if you are uncertain - you can ask one of their friendly staff to guide you through their serums, toners, cleansers, exfoliators, moisturisers and more.

With that said Joburg, let's go out and pamper! (Wow! that was cheesy but I had to).

That's it from me...enjoy!

Edgars Beauty Has Been Unveiled!

Edgars is now officially launching Edgars Beauty to the public! This transition from Red Square to Edgars Beauty started last year, July. This change has created much more exciting and welcoming environments in the world of beauty, where beauty fanatics can ignite their senses through touch, feel and smell. Here, customers can play with colour, learn to apply makeup and even treat themselves to a make-over! Not only is the new Edgars Beauty store a haven for all things beauty, shoppers are also guaranteed to have access to exclusive and oh-so popular international brands including Inglot, Dior, Guerlain, Givenchy, Benefit and many more!

A New Look

The format of the new Edgars Beauty stores will boast an updated look and stronger product offering that'll bring new categories to complete the beauty shopping experience. The transformation is creating more space for customers to express themselves as individuals, and what better way to do so than through the playfulness of beauty, as stated by Mike Elliott, Edgars CE. At the same time, Edgars has also committed to providing more specialised training for in-store staff, so services become more personalised to better assist in customers’ diverse beauty needs.

What To Expect

Customers will enjoy the fresh look and feel, as well as the energised staff. They'll also be delighted by the variety of brand offerings in the new smaller stores, finding brands like MAC and Inglot. New categories such as specialised Derma (skincare), bath and body, both dry and wet hair, and selected services will be offered in the new stores.

For More Information

For more information, visit www.edgars.co.za.

Don't forget to check them out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest news, specials and products.

About Kiehl's

The new Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Nightly Refining Micro-Peel Concentrate is the first facial skincare product to use quinoa husk extract with skin exfoliation benefits, to formulate an anti-ageing overnight treatment to replenish and rejuvenate your skin. The treatment accelerates cell turnover, refines skin texture, improves evenness, and makes your skin softer and more radiant. This is the perfect alternative if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use, gentle at-home treatment, rather than a chemical peel at a salon, which can cause redness, irritation, and even scarring.

The Nightly Refining Micro-Peel Concentrate is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin. All you have to do is apply two to three drops to clean skin every night before you apply your serum and moisturiser. It’s that easy.

The Concentrate Offers Amazing Benefits

The Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Nightly Refining Micro-Peel Concentrate offers a number of benefits including:

• Anti-ageing qualities
• Overnight treatment perfect for home use
• An affordable alternative to other anti-ageing products
• Enhanced results, improved tolerability, and faster recovery when used with in-office chemical peels
• An even and radiant complexion

The History of Kiehl's

In 1851, this New York-based skin and hair care brand started as a classic European-style pharmacy. Kiehl’s founding family established their neighbourhood apothecary to fulfill the individual needs of every customer who came through its doors. Kiehl’s founding pharmacists and chemists launched a tradition of personalised service that has become legendary. Nearly 160 years later, the Kiehl’s brand extends around the world as the company continues to delight patrons with its high quality products that assure the health of their skin and hair.

For more information

For more information about Kiehl’s, click here.

You can find your nearest Kiehl’s at Sandton City and Eastgate in Johannesburg, Canal Walk in Cape Town, and The Pavilion in Durban.

What is your favourite Kiehl’s product, Joburgers?

When the seasons change, so should your beauty routine; and Crème Classique products are exactly what you need to give your skin some love and rejuvenation.

Crème De La Crème...

Skin goes through many things throughout the year because of season change and that's why we had to tell you the secret of a product that will have you feeling great. We’d say that the Matrixyl range is well worth stocking up on in order to keep your skin in tip-top condition during the colder months! They offer everything from cleansers and creams to oils and ointments.

Anti-Ageing 

The divine products from the Matrixyl brand are all you need to turn back the clock on ageing and care for a number of other skin conditions. Unlike any other products on the market, they’re uniquely formulated to provide your skin with a tailor-made solution. Say goodbye to dry, dull skin and make room for a plump, glowing complexion!

Eczema

Eczema is a skin condition that normally goes unnoticed by many until it gets to a point where summer has now kicked in and the itchies begin and skin starts to react. That is why we recommend Crème Classique because it rejuvenates your skin and is really good for maintaining and repairing skin to its healthy glow.

Not to mention the fact that they have world renowned dermatologists that strive to ensure that you receive the best concoction to suit your skin.

What’s more is that this fabulous brand is super affordable in comparison to other skincare ranges on the local market… so you don’t have to burn a hole in your pocket to invest in a quality skincare range. And, let us assure you, once you buy into this range, you’ll never look back.

It's Crème ... 'Sun'!

Crème Classique has an amazing sun range to protect your skin, their sun care range is available in SPF 20, 40 and 50 which is great for protection yet delicate on your skin.

Click here to shop online now.

What it is?

The Smile Box is an amazing opportunity to discover new and exciting products/brands to share with family and friends. By joining this monthly subscription, you can look forward to all sorts of goodies from wine and craft beer to bubbly, sweet yummy treats to something neat and quirky.

To get an idea of what kind of goodies to expect, take a look at previous boxes on their Facebook page and website.  A selection of great products such as balsamic vinegar, wine, artisanal chocolate, frog-shaped tea infusers, pasta, olive oils, herb mixes, handmade nougat, hibiscus, herbal teas, hand crafted fudge, beer bread mix and super cute 'Yolk Pig', will have anyone's mouth watering.

What you need to know

• Currently, you have a choice between a 3 month subscription box for R 599 monthly, or a selection of once-off boxes for R649 per box. 3 types of once-off boxes are currently available: The SMILE BOX (a selection of food and wine products and a quirky surprise), The PAMPER BOX (a selection of beauty products) and The MAN BOX (a selection male products).
• With an average value of R1000 in each box, you save approximately R400 per box (note: most products are not available at your local supermarket).
• Each box contains full-sized products.
• All shipping and handling fees are covered in your subscription for your monthly SMILE BOX. Delivery is offered to South African residential and commercial addresses (excluding P.O. Boxes and Private Bags).
• The founder of The Smile Box, Tanya Coetzee, sources all products from local businesses, local markets and local wineries.

For Valentine's Day?

A special LOVE box has been put together for Valentine's Day. In it will be a bottle of bubbly, white or red wine, lots of treats and a selections of matsimela pamper products. Place your order before the 5th of February to have it delivered to you before the special day.

Like their Facebook page to keep up-to-date with what the smile tribe is up to…

Keep smiling.

WIN!

Enter our giveaway below and you could win one of three Smile Boxes valued at R1 200 each!
Win One Of 3 Smile Boxes Valued At R1200!