LYRA MAG.

A KA ...lie down and let the machines do all the work. A new shapely you-no gym hours need-just the bucks to pay for it WHAT: Fat melting devices and the latest technology-courtesy of Eastern Europe,  EMSculpt by BTL Aesthetics-that builds up targeted muscles like the most intense workout you'll never do. USING: Radio frequency, ultrasound and electromagnetic waves...bombard the targeted areas...somewhat reminding us of that college physics class taken. First off -what we actually tried for five minutes....the much hyped EMSculpt treatmen t. And yes we were impressed.

Plus Home Scent Inspirations... Part 3 Some Themes from NYSCC Suppliers Day(s) Sustainable Sourcing-Of Nature Akin to the food industry-consumer demands for supply chain transparency, fair labor wages + eliminating child labor, earth concerns and production realities on the finite supplies from Mother Nature (aka major CPG cocoa sourcing initiatives )... KUNCAI -conjures up a synthetic MICA for "effect pigment end use" vs destroying the earth (Brazil, India) and lives by mining for it -to supply shiny metallics for industries varying from cosmetic s (mica-pearlescence qualities- is a staple ingredient in 'natural'mineral based makeup)--to automobile industry's car paints. That big crystal looking MICA is synthetic!!!!   Many companies-claimed ethical sourcing methods...like pictured above, Sudarshan    Ironic that mineral makeup which is booming demand -for its natural composition...can be sourced toxically-tragically, fatally.  Essenti...

Part 2 NYC "Get Your Glow On"  a desired mission condition in global cultures -universally translates into dewy-plump ( youthfu l), even tone-non-spotty, healthy looking- I woke up like this selfie worthy skin . Along with products with 'clean' ingredients, and the quest to combat signs of aging courtesy of- stress, lack of sleep- social media jet lag (yes a thing -tv binging, Instagram addiction-blue light screen savagery), environmental pollution (urban dwellers especially), poor eating-living habits-UVA-UVB sun exposure, smoking, and genetics -the 'Glow On' derma goals are the guiding light direction of many new treatments. We strongly feel that ditching some of the insane pricey creams/lotions that might take months to work  on the upper epidermis layer of the skin's appearance - and opting for one or two- non-ablative/or mildly ablative laser treatments with real positive visible results immediately and over a few month's time-  treatin...

The most recent NYC IBS tradeshow for spa professionals highlighted non-invasive skincare trends. For at home users-the  proliferation of FDA approved beauty tools available...and salon only brands-being sold on Amazon or direct to consumer also lined the aisles... SOME HIGHLIGHTS: CRYO FACIAL SYSTEM-Cryotherapy's deep freeze anti-inflammatory benefits-are now available for the face/neck only-and is very tolerable.  Liquid nitrogen vapors (-130º) targets the area--supposedly increases blood flow, reduces pore size, reduces inflammation+puffiness, reduces dark spots-and- this def makes sense to us-might sooth dermatitis, eczema patches. 

Part 2 TV worthy-mega- wattage teeth...and a bright smile-can erase years off one's visage.  In the past -those pearly whites could only really be achieved with pricey veneers or in-office visits-but now, easy to use at home solutions are helpful-maybe making teeth 1-3 shades lighter... IMO-credible alternatives. via GIPHY TOP PICK: Oralgen NuPearlAdvanced Teeth Whitening kits-are truly a groundbreaking at-home 'beauty' tool...as this system reduces stains+discolorations-without some of the toxic ingredients of other methods. Available in 2 formulas-the one we NuPearl 32X is 99.5% natural ingredients and 100% vegan in fact..but both versions (the other is NuPearl12x with Ultra Pure 12% Hydrogen Peroxide...are free from latex (that would be the LED light mouthpiece), parabens, sulfates, sodium fluoride, Triclosan (you'd be surprised how many whitening toothpastes still have this in them), PEG/PPG, salicylates, gluten, artificial color and flavorings. Oralge...

Better Aging...or staying the same if you're where you want to be... Today's modern lifestyle-in a positive way- have loads of companies ready to serve up products and treatments that 'erase' a few years, superficially, topically, internally... Part One: Top Pick: Non-Invasive, fast treatment that firm-tighten skin, smooth out wrinkles... via GIPHY BTL Aesthetic' EXILIS ULTRA ® is the latest version of a skin tightening device -that is able to noticeably firm up (increased collagen production+skin thickness))-via  two sized different handpieces- body sagging parts (like thighs, tummy, back of arms...larger piece) ....and the neck-jowls-up (smaller piece). Practically pain free-if not relaxing- with customized heat (power) levels available -it works using a combo of ultrasound energy (like Ultherapy but not as deep or hurtful without a pain killer )...and monopoly radio frequency (same tech as Thermage ). Simultaneously.

A new year often ushers in vows for better beauty habits. The reality...those new routines-often including at-home beauty devices- can have metaphorically,  short shelf lives.  via GIPHY For longer term pro-aging facial boosts-way under one hour procedures, FDA cleared-with little or no downtime...require less effort-and get results, PDQ.

In Cosmetics NY, Women's Dermatologic Society Even with the caveat that a legal definition of  'natural'-isn't exactly USA government regulated as of yet- with regards to beauty products...(or food -for that matter), third party certification, non-profit watch groups ( EWG.org , for example), willing companies ( Proctor+Gamble )  and class action lawsuits -help wised up buyers make choices.  Cause those ingredient lists-as well as efficacy/value proposition/ethically-sustainably sourced and cruelty free factors are big deals-not just 'greenwash' marketing buzz. The term 'simple' ingredients-is  somewhat baffling-as even botanics-algae-rice-and charcoal-components that seem to be popular formula sources-are complex. But familiar ...so no surprise we saw new multi-syllable offerings from a slew of companies at the sourcing makeup/beauty trade show-In Cosmetics NY. New Green Aqua Foundation by French supplier Sensient Technologies -is "...mad...

Our New Hero Product Preventive care+pro-health-are the 'new' positive buzzwords. In the skincare world there are many choices that ascribe to the aforementioned marketing smart adjectives-but rarely do we get too excited about any of these products...scientifically  based or 'natural.' Partially because-after awhile-they all seem similar...with active ingredients sourced from same private label companies-or if blessed with unique components-sell in fancy packaging that doesn't ensure purity or longevity of the ingredients =and are insanely priced. Accessibly priced, mass market skincare---on the other hand-often leans loaded with irritating fillers or fragrances that are off putting, of dubious chemical nature-(maybe even banned in the EU)- and not that effective. Packaging Plus -air tight pump dispensers for 24/7Barrier Cream + 8-in-One BioSerum  ensures efficacy of ingredients-snap off tiny white tab-the top swivels-clockwise/counter-clockwise... open/c...

Selfies for all+complexion perfection ---made easy-from ingredients delivered by under the radar companies from Asia, Europe and USA. The first foundations for many gals we know=customized Prescriptives- dutifully purchased at a department store (1990s). Well, the later might not be the beauty purchase destination of choice-but customized makeup (and skincare)-is STILL a thriving market. via GIPHY Get camera ready with creamy, ultra-light foundations, radiant blushes and self-correcting moisturizing drops- multi-taskers with skincare properties (sunscreen, anti-oxidants, botanicals...) --- in liquid, cream and stick formats... long lasting coverage- that are hydrating and shine-free, matte. Coson 's powder mouse blusher-cream to powder that blends in to impart a natural glow  Matte Contour Concealer....we like this a lot-as 'perfects' without greasy feel that can cause eye makeup to smudge when used under eyes...same company has matte hydrating line-up of por...

De-regulation of certain industries is a dominate Fed Thing , these days- but in the USA- cosmetics and supplements- elude FDA oversight -ALREADY-in ways that might surprise consumers/users. One solution-stick with European made products- load up on your favs when there. That includes mass globally marketed brands...where-we suspect...same name products are made differently-as in higher standards-on the other side of the Pond. Another solution-for supplements-opt for brands with 3rd party verifications of potency/contents-while for beauty-buy small cult brands that have ditched the unregulated/tested for safety stuff to begin with. via GIPHY Top Picks: For fuller brows... EES™ ( Essential Eyebrow Solution® )-developed by RMV Trademarks LLC-a clinically tested topical solution (on chemotherapy patients) that encourages the appearance of eyebrow hair growth/conditioning. EES™ is patented, paraben free, hypoallergenic, pH balanced with natural black cohosh -and it's s...

Buzz generator Gwyneth Paltrow put cupping (via her backless gown revealing "CUP KISSES") on our radar-but it was Olympic swimmer/winner Michael Phelp's torso adorned with the characteristic red circles (when a pro uses traditional glass 'fire'versions- and heats it up)...that had us convinced of CUPPING's true value. Lure Essentials An Eastern medicine practice-aka been around for hundreds of years...cupping promotes Qi energy-improves circulation to remove toxins, drain and rid body fluids stagnation etc-to relieve aches, pains, stress, reduce inflammation to increase oxygenation of the blood and treat tight muscles and sports injuries. Easy to see how this would benefit one's skin...and overall facial glow...and as an anti-aging tool too. AT HME USE: LURE ESSENTIALS. -offers facial and body cupping kits...like the one pictured above- the GLAM facial kit (onside $29.95)... made from surgical grade BPA free silicone...for at home use. For th...

Athletes from the pros to weekend warriors-know the benefits of an ice pack-placed just so...which is why the whole body deep freeze treatment aka CRYOTHERAPY -a purported  anti-inflammatory and anti-aging technology- is somewhat going mainstream.  Intriguing?   via GIPHY Steve Harvey-does more than just offer consultation for winner announcements gone wrong One practitioner who offers this is Chicago area based  - Dr. Jessie Cheung , Director, Jessie Cheung MD Dermatology & Laser Center -who has a   Whole Body Cryotherapy cryochamber installed in her office. 

ACTIVE BEAUTY Spring Training Ramps Up Skin Care Help Part One via GIPHY source nymag.com Living life without a team of makeup experts getting you gorgeous for the next event?  Of course!  Fortunately at home-do it yourself effective skincare/treatments -are easier than ever- with some cutting edge prescription-not needed products hitting the market now. TIP: Our most visual proof of who wears must  wear sunscreen....is at triathlon races where the whole set-up for gear/bike is by age/gender...and the distinct differences in skin texture/tone amongst gals who are the same age-is scary stark obvious.  Even the sunscreen addicts though can benefit from skincare tune-ups via easy to handle ablative procedures (like Fraxel)...or what we recently tried, a Micro-Needle/Laser (RF WAVE) treatment-that in theory are both 'lunchtime treatments'-that require not much downtime -but can also be aggressively performed-thereby requiring  a day...

NYC BBL Broadband Light Phototherapy (Review) via GIPHY source perfectlyalahuman.tumblr.com Whether facing the world -barefaced (aka #IWokeUpLikeThis), slightly hidden under tinted lightweight lotions - or full-on hiding under thick concealer - one's skin's texture and tone -from the neck-up-is never really masked. And as the saying goes-want to know a person's age-check out the back of his/her hands. SO TRUE. Which is why-post summer-non-invasive complexion improving treatments for those most visible parts-are growing in popularity. Fortunately-the best solutions don't  require the most time commitment or $ either.

 Part 2 GOOD KARMA SKINCARE, DEVERA NATURALS, I X XI Cosmetics "Clean ingredients' are certainly a skincare concern-just as pronounceable food labels are a must -for growing numbers consumers of ALL AGES. Solution-check out the under the radar brands-launched by small regional beauty entrepreneurs-that are noticeably without the toxic ingredients of many big name beauty brands-def have more of the natural (often pricier) 'stuff' higher up on the ingredient list-yet have reasonable retail prices- challenging some of the mass marketed prestige brands that are more widely available. Good Karma Skincare  -has a travel pack -aka convenient sizes of three products in their  Facial Systems To Go -$35-part of the Lux7 Age Defying Products' collection. Pictured-The Four-In-One Face Cream (for normal/dry skin), Purifying Facial Cleanser, and Balancing Spray Toner. BONUS POINTS : With a serious list of " stuff we don't use "including collagen that is h...

PART ONE: APPRIYA Embracing Naturally Sourced - Cutting Edge Ingredients -the newer skincare/cosmetic labels from ladies-  are gaining favor without the massive marketing budgets or fancy packaging of the big names. via GIPHY Today's consumers have easier access to everything -including information on what works, toxic ingredients to avoid (the well respected EWG 's -or Credo Beauty 's lists of no-nos-avidly read), awareness of the Canadian  Euro Zone's Cosmetic Directive   -a ban of 1300+ chemicals-.and the latest science vs the hype. Our latest favs: Founded by two women- APPRIYA  is a special skincare line based on mineral rich, mountain sourced neutral pH waters containing respected skin/nail strengthener-skin volume inducer, silica- and copper-a natural anti-inflammatory/anti-bacterial-as its main ingredient. With the added benefits of an impressive list of other active ingredients in each product-i.e. the Mineral Complex Serum-with m...

Park Hyatt, NYC With temps reliably dipping...and summer's tans fading (fake or otherwise)...real skin conditions reveal themselves...making NOW the perfect time to prep/correct one's largest organ from the effects of the sun. WHAT: At home gadgets aimed at skin rejuvenation are popular for good reason-often FDA approved, these products go through rigorous testing to prove health claims-and really REALLY are easy enough for  time pressed humans (and that wool be everyone) who may also be technically challenged. Which is why we jumped at the chance to experience the latest products-courtesy of the meetings of the minds -between the at home facial technology inspired by dermaplanning DEMAFLASH (founder Dara Levy) and the best-selling anti-inflammatory PERRICONE MD skincare line based on patented science by Dr. Nicholas Perricone.  Interesting-an introduction via Connecticut's Senator Joe Lieberman (we asked)...resulted in these two entrepreneurs ...to launch a V...

Unisex Beauty Treatments by Galderma A real ice block...a presentation, four live performances -depicting the whys of why a frown slayer-Dysport® would be appropriate via GIPHY source: ineedthisforreactions.tumblr.com NYC One might need forehead/eyebrow muscles to be in Olympic medal shape to achieve the above extreme expression...but most folks aren't going for the Gold, facial -wise. Which is why at a recent media event, the Galderma company, makers of fast acting DYSPORT® an abobotutinumtoxinA injectable treatment- that is an effective muscle relaxing competitor to the Botox® brand...presented four live performances depicting individuals who represent the target market for those wanting to get rid of those deep frown lines between the eyebrows---in an FDA approved manner. And importantly, that's a done in a day (really maybe 5 minute) treatment. With long-lasting results. Whether moms who name their frown lines after ...

I X XI  Cosmetics  Soho Grand Hotel-Media Introduction Part Two stunning floral arrangement- Hailing from Southwest France, new to the USA- IXXI Cosmetics- is a subsidiary of a private, family owned company with decades worth of products based upon the unique regenerative/healing properties of marine pine bark (sustainably sourced, fyi from the Landes Pine Forest). The secret sauce, so-to-speak-is the powerful active ingredient-the patented  OPC PIN  -extracted from the aforementioned ancient tree bark...that has more anti-oxidant power than Vitamin C (neutralizes damaging free radicals), protects skin more effectively than Vitamin E (maintains firmness+elasticity of youthful skin), and repairs collagen III and IV -evening tone and increasing density over time. Impressive.  screen shot of clinical studies... research link