Maintaining Hair Color with Janet Zeitoun

Applying these practical and easy hair color tips can give you an extra mile on your hair color service. Have fun with hair color without the compromise. A little “do diligence” on your part can keep your color fresh and your hair in optimum shape.

1. USE TEMPORARY COLOR PRODUCTS FOR TOUCH-UPS BETWEEN COLOR SERVICES.

Try and stretch out your next color service by using temporary color ideas such as Soft Color by Goldwell or Salon in a Bottle root touchup. Soft Color will carry you through a few more washings before renewing your color professionally. Salon in a Bottle will hold you over from shampoo to shampoo. These are great methods of maintenance between color services when you are graying.

2. GIVE YOURSELF MORE THAN AT LEAST 4 WEEKS BETWEEN COLORING SERVICES.

Maintaining your color as often as every three weeks can weaken your hairline and cause thinning. This isn’t a concern for everyone, but there are individuals that are highly sensitive and susceptible to adverse reactions to hair color if not extending more time between hair color services.

3. CONSIDER SEMI AND DEMI PERMANENT COLOR BETWEEN PERMANENT COLOR SERVICES.

These options are a great way of giving your hair a chance to strengthen up between permanent color treatments or if desiring to revitalize your color.

4. REVIVE THE WAY YOUR HAIR FEELS WITH SOTAH OIL/CREME THERAPY.

When using the temporary touch up colors for the hairline or partings, use SOTAH Oil/Créme Therapy to remove the tacky feel that you may get when applying a temporary root touch up color. Use a small dab of Oil/Créme Therapy by rubbing the product together into your fingertips. Pat the area with fingertips where you have applied the temporary touch up color. You will notice that the tacky feel to the hair will be softened and feel more natural. The Oil/Créme Therapy will help eliminate the possibility of breakage due to the drying affects the temporary touch up color may have on the hair.

5. INTENSIFY NATURAL TONES WITH A GLAZE OR A GLOSS.

The holidays are near and a great time to spruce up your color.  If you’re not wearing the wild and intense colors, intensify your natural tones with a glaze or a gloss. Using a glaze or gloss is a gentle way to even out some of the faded tones of previously color treated hair without the compromise.  Results will be dazzling.

6. PROPERLY MAINTAIN COLOR-TREATED HAIR DAILY BY PROPERLY HYDRATING IT.

Bleaching the hair is extremely popular at the moment, not only for those wanting to be a natural blonde, but for those desiring the daring intense colors that are so popular in the hair world today. I’m sure you know that bleaching has damaging affects to the hair, but we still go for the look. There are products on the market, such as Olaplex that restores the strength to bleached and color treated hair in the process. Properly maintaining your bleached hair is very important on a daily basis. SOTAH's Conditioning Shampoo, Moisture Boost Conditioner and Oil/Créme Therapy work fantastic with hair that has been color treated or bleached. These products contain Kale Oil, Coconut Oil, and Aloe Vera, all natural humectants that will help keep your extremely hydrated. Weather you use them all or independently, you will see and feel instant results.

Be sure to check out there blog and this post also here

World Diabetes Day

Sir Frederick Banting was a Canadian scientist whose pioneering work using insulin to treat diabetes earned him the Nobel prize. He only lived to be 49 but on November 14 - what would have been his 125th birthday - Google has celebrated him with a commemorative Doodle.

WDD

World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated annually on November 14. Led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by IDF and the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat posed by diabetes. World Diabetes Day became an official United Nations Day in 2006 with the passage of United Nation Resolution 61/225.

The World Diabetes Day campaign aims to:

• Be the platform to promote IDF advocacy efforts throughout the year
• Be the global driver to promote the importance of taking coordinated and concerted actions to confront diabetes as a critical global health issue

The campaign is represented by a blue circle logo that was adopted in 2007 after the passage of the UN Resolution on diabetes. The blue circle is the global symbol for diabetes awareness. It signifies the unity of the global diabetes community in response to the diabetes epidemic.

The theme of World Diabetes Day (WDD) 2016 will be ‘Eyes on diabetes’. The key messages guiding the campaign are:

• Screening for type 2 diabetes is important to modify its course and reduce the risk of complications.
• Screening for diabetes complications is an essential part of managing all types of diabetes.

Trade in Your Lotions for Body Oils

We Americans are lotion lovers. But in Europe and other parts of the world, oil is actually the more popular option for hydrating dry skin... The truth is, most natural oils are easily absorbed, not greasy, and noncomedogenic; that is, they have a low potential to clog pores, which makes oils perfect for all skin types.

Moisturizers often contain the most synthetic chemicals and petroleum by-products, many of which are linked to health concerns. Seeing as moisturizers work by deeply penetrating skin, it's smart to consider using green products, which contain fewer synthetic chemicals that may enter your bloodstream.

If you are looking for a natural brand that is effective, look no further than Province Apothecary. 

An alluring body oil ideal for all skin types, their blend of beautiful plant-based essential oils quickly absorb deep into the skin to effectively nourish and soften, boost cellular circulation, and gently detoxify the body. The light and invigorating botanical fragrance will enliven and empower your spirit, leaving you balanced and revitalized.Organic Argan Kernel oil is considered one of the most valuable and sustainable oils in the world. It is an extremely moisturizing oil, high in Vitamin E, Omega-6 fatty acids and antioxidants. It is abundant in plant sterolins, which help restore skin’s lipid layer, improving its ability to retain moisture and resulting in softer, smoother skin.

Black Cumin Seed oil is long recognized in the Middle East as a medicinal oil. It soothes and moisturizes the skin and is high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, and C, potassium, copper, zinc and selenium. Avocado oil is rich in antioxidants, Vitamins A, D, and E and omega-3 fatty acids which deeply penetrate skin to fight dryness, dullness, and dehydration.

Oct 11th - Day of the Girl

“Empowerment of and investment in girls are key in breaking the cycle of discrimination and violence and in promoting and protecting the full and effective enjoyment of their human rights”

-United Nations Resolution 66/170

In 2011, as the result of youth advocacy around the world, the United Nations declared October 11 as the International Day of the Girl Child. Its mission is “to help galvanize worldwide enthusiasm for goals to better girls’ lives, providing an opportunity for them to show leadership and reach their full potential.” It’s a day when activist groups come together under the same goal to highlight, discuss, and take action to advance rights and opportunities for girls everywhere.

Day of the Girl-US is the United States branch of this global movement. We are an 100% youth-led movement fighting for gender justice and youth rights. Our work to dismantle the patriarchy and fight for social justice is rooted in girl-led activism across the country, using October 11th as a day of national action.

October 11 is not just a day; it’s a movement.

A worldwide revolution.

We want ourselves, and girls everywhere, to be seen as equals, in the eyes of others and in our own eyes.

Time to do Pumpkin Spice Right

Its definitely that time of year again...and no...I don't mean christmas time. Its Pumpkin Spice!...(ahem) I meant Fall. If you are one of those who haven't given into the seasonal guilty pleasure yet then you are definitely missing out! However delicious Pumpkin spice may be. The products that you are consuming are most likely not the best for you, do to artificial "pumpkin" flavoring. 

There's a chain coffee shop in particular, not to name names, that is very well known for their pumpkin spice latte, however, there is less than 2% of actual pumpkin puree in its recipe, and it is mainly added just to supply the drink with its color! It's easy to consume more than your daily supply of sugar on your morning coffee alone. Try this recipe instead that we stumbled upon on PopSugar 

My mother always said, if its too easy, then it's probably not good. Wake yourself up 15 minutes earlier everyday if you are usually running late and make yourself something to eat that will get you in a good mood for the day. The way your day begins is usually a good indicator of how the rest of the day will go. #besubstantial 

October is #LiverAwarenessMonth

"Fall" Back in Love with Hot Tools

        Summer is definitely coming to an end and as sad as I am to see it go, I am absolutely thrilled for this Fall season! The scent of Spices and Spruce and Cinnamon fill the aisles of stores and Foliage throughout the city turns from green to warm ambers and chestnuts and reds. The chill begins to carry though the air and stepping out your door no longer feels like stepping into a sauna. For me that means that I can now take hot showers, order hot drinks and dust off my hot tools.

        Fall means that Hairstyles come back into fashion as you hopefully wont sweat out your style before you make it to your final destination. Blowdryers, Curlers, Wands and Flat Irons, these are a few of my favorite things. But with all that heat...be sure to keep your hair protected and safe. 

Make Spa Day, Everyday!

Java Skincare Discovery Kits Available at Cedra

Java Skincare has been on our shelves and part of the Cedra line now for some time and we really feel like it needs the attention online that it sees here in our store! These kits sell so well because they are the perfect sampling size for people who want to try an array of the products from the company before committing to the larger sizes. At only $25 Retail this item makes the perfect for a friend or just for you!

The products are natural and invigorating, and perfect for an at home spa treatment. The scrub will remove dirt and dry skin and the bar soap and body wash will cleanse it all away. Finish off your beauty regime with the body serum to leave your skin oh so soft. 

In addition the coffee element to the line has benefits far beyond just an invigorating scent. The Green Coffee will reduce the appearance of scar tissue, another important benefit of antioxidants in skin care. Scar tissue has a different cell structure than that of healthy skin, making it rigid. Antioxidants increase blood flow to scar tissue, minimizing the look of the scar and blending in the development of new skin. Antioxidants produce valuable anti-inflammatory results by increasing circulation and cell metabolism. Reducing inflammation promotes more even skin tone and helps keep acne and wrinkles at bay.

Yogurt, The Multitasker

Full of protein, calcium, vitamin D, and probiotics (the healthy bacteria that aid digestion), there’s no doubt yogurt provides delicious benefits for your insides. But it can also do beauty wonders for your outsides as well especially your skin.

Yogurt contains lactic acid which is an alpha hydroxy acid, that can dissolve dead skin cells. This gentle exfoliation not only helps to create a natural glow and prevent breakouts, but works to diminish the appearance of lines and wrinkles. When topically applied to the skin, a velvety yogurt face mask will help moisturize, fight acne, prevent premature aging, relieve sunburn, and reduce discoloration. It’s an all-around beauty multitasker.

Yogurt Mask Recipe DIY:

• 2 tablespoons greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon oats
• 1 teaspoon honey
• squeeze of lemon (careful to mix well and keep away from eyes!)

Directions:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a small mixing bowl and mix well.
2. Apply a thick coat to your face with clean finger tips. Let it settle for 15 minutes.
3. When the time is up, gently rinse your face with warm water and ensure the entire mask comes off.
4. Splash cold water on your face to close up your pores. Pat dry with a soft clean towel.

Cleanse The Acne Away

All types of skin can develop whiteheads, blackheads and pimples. Acne tends to develop when an oily substance called sebum produced by sebaceous (oil-making) glands mixes with dead skin cells and other debris to plug pores and cause bacteria to thrive.

A common benefit of facial cleansing is the removal of dirt, oil, and other unwanted debris. Throughout the day the skin on your face is continually covered with bacteria, pollutants, viruses, dirt, and old (dead) skin cells. Daily facial washing removes these impurities to give the skin a fresh look.

Province Apothecary Moisturizing Cleanser + Make Up Remover with Avocado & Raspberry Oil is great for all skin types. This hydrating oil removes make up & excess oil, restoring your skin’s natural radiance while gently cleansing without over-drying your skin or destroying its natural pH. Raspberry Oil stimulates cell turnover, rejuvenating skin. Bergamot Oil clears congestion. Frankincense tones the skin. Lavender heals blemishes and works as a restorative. This essential oil blend calms, reduces stress, and relaxes your parasympathetic nervous system. This cleanser helps your skin stay nourished, balanced, and healthy. Also available unscented. 

Liver Life Walk Dallas/Ft. Worth Texas

Fragrance is in the Air

Although we may not think of our sense of taste as one of our most vital senses, it actually may be more important than you think. We all know that our sense of sight and sound are blessings but actually our sense of smell also helps us stay safe. Smell is an important sense as it can alert us to danger like gas leaks, fire or rotten food but also it is closely linked to parts of the brain that process emotion and memory. Unpleasant and bad smells actually send pain signals to the brain to warn us of possible danger.

The limbic center, or the area of the brain that processes emotions, is tied to the brain’s olfactory bulbs, which process smells. This close connection in the brain helps make the relationship between smells and moods, scents and memories, quite strong. Smell is also important as it can affect our sense of taste. Researchers say 80 percent of the flavors we taste come from what we smell, which is why foods can become flavorless when you have a blocked nose. Taste buds on our tongues can only identify four qualities being sweet, sour, bitter and salt and the remaining ‘tastes’ are actually distinguished by smell.

Colognes and Perfumes are marketed all the time and people buy them because of the way they make them feel. A scent can prove efficient when trying to attain a partner but even as well when simply changing your own mood. A spray of a citrus based scent can boost energy levels and make you feel more alert. Vanilla based scents can ignite feelings of joy and relaxation (also in the case of pine) Come on into Cedra and we will help you find the right scent to put you in that mood you're looking for. 

You know how they say the most beautiful thing that you can wear is a smile, well that all starts with being in the right mood. Every time you walk into one of our stores, you are guaranteed to leave happier than when you came in. 

Best Bug Buster

During the summer we always complain that there are more bugs than usual. For the most part, many bugs and insects go into some form of hibernation during the colder months. Other insects migrate someplace warm to wait out the colder months. Still others decide the best way to stay out of the cold is to camp out in your home. 

It’s important to be aware of the common bugs that you are sure to see in summer months, as some of them may actually pose a threat to you or your loved ones. Mosquitoes, which are certainly some of the most annoying insects out there, can actually be quite dangerous. These pesky creatures are known to spread diseases, some of which may actually be deadly. West Nile Virus spread by mosquitoes has become a serious threat in the United States in recent years. Other diseases that one may suffer from after a mosquito bite include malaria, dengue fever and chikungunya. And not to mention the now popular threat of the Zika Virus. 

Stay ahead of the disease-carriers with these tips for keeping the bugs at bay:

1. Get rid of stagnant water. 
2. Hire a pro to check hidden spots. 
3. Cover exposed skin. 
4. Eat indoors when possible. 

One of our popular baby brands in our store "Erbaviva" makes this wonderful organic bug repellant called 'Organic Buzz Spray'
Star ingredients: Catnip and Citronella
This spray is organic, and it contains the Lemon Eucalyptus listed above, citronella AND catnip! The EPA recommends a few different skin-applied ingredients to deter mosquitos  including Catnip and Citronella, so this spray covers a lot of bases!  This was also recently featured in Well Rounded Ny

And yes you read correctly above, Catnip...Researchers report that nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip that gives the plant its characteristic odor, is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET the compound used in most commercial insect repellents. Due to the ingredient lemon eucalyptus oil, this should be used on children 3+. If any questions on use please feel free to contact us!

Womanhood Vs. Motherhood

Motherhood is a real spectacle. The thought of the actual process still seems to leave me in disbelief. One of the true miracles of life. When preparing for the baby it seems like here begins the stage when the change begins to happen. Women begin to form attachment to the life that is growing inside of them, and they realize that "Wow, Im about to be someone's mother!" A man can be there for his wife but they can never fully understand what they are going through.

Whether you decide to go back to work after giving birth or to stay at home, that should be your personal decision, and you should feel no pressure from anyone else because at the end of the day, you and your child's life has nothing to do with them. Motherhood is a full time job, when your partner is out all day at work and socializing with co-workers and friends, you are at home taking care of your child, cleaning up after them and ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Never let your partner expect that when they come home from work that you should dote on them hand and foot because You've been working all day as well! How would they like it if they had to be at work 24 hours a day. Exactly. 

Take time to cherish the first year of your baby because it is true "They really do grow up fast" take photos of them at monthly intervals and marvel at the miracle that you created (with some help of course). As I've said, motherhood is a job and who wants to work 7 days a week? Not anyone that I know. You need to remember to take some time to yourself. Take one day out of the weekend or when your partner is off and go hang out with your friends, get your hair done or do some shopping for YOU. The baby is also your partners, so make sure they get their one on one time so that you can spend some time with your original number 1 (yourself). 

It is true that your priorities shift in life, after marriages, and then after you have children but that doesn't mean that you should forget about how important your wellbeing and sanity is to you and those around you! You need to be taking time to refresh and recharge. Make yourself look good for you because that outward confidence will remind you how you were blessed with your wonderful family in the first place, because you are beautiful inside and out. 

World Breastfeeding Week 2016

        This year's WBW theme is Breastfeeding: a key to Sustainable Development. 2016 commemorates the start of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). A broad approach using the sustainability theme is thus relevant and inclusive. It will enable the breastfeeding movement (and beyond) to connect with a variety of development issues over the next 15 years (2030) for maximum impact.Breastfeeding is linked to the SDGs in several ways. 
        The WBW materials will cover the main link areas between breastfeeding and the SDGs along 5 broad themes:

1. nutrition/food security,

2. health, well-being and survival,

3. environment and climate change,

4. work productivity, empowerment, social protection,and

5. sustainable partnerships and rule of law. Watch this space for more information and updates. 

In honor of our mommies to be and their little bundles of joy, Cedra retail stores will be giving a 15% discount for this week Aug 1st-6th in honor of World BreastFeeding Week. Making your joy even more joyful, one smile at a time. 

World Hepatitis Day

Today is World Hepatitis Day. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. It may be caused by drugs, alcohol use, or certain medical conditions. But in most cases, it's caused by a virus. This is known as viral hepatitis, and the most common forms are hepatitis A, B, and C.

Testing is important for anyone with the risk factors particularly injected drug users and people who have had multiple sex partners. Health advocates are also urging people of Asian heritage to get tested. Stanford University's Asian Liver Center estimates that 1 in 10 Asians living in the U.S. has chronic hepatitis B. Many of them have probably had the virus since birth.

If you have chronic hepatitis, there are steps you can take to keep your liver resilient. Avoid alcohol, which can cause additional liver damage. Check with your doctor before taking any medications or supplements, because some are tough on the liver or may not be safe in people with liver disease. Most importantly, keep your appointments for regular monitoring. By watching for any changes in your liver, you and your health care provider can stay one step ahead of the virus.

This is why you should be going in for your annual check ups and if there are any other issues or mishaps that come up, make sure to contact your doctor as soon as possible. Prevention Before Cure.

Every action is an action towards elimination of viral hepatitis. This year sees the first ever World Health Organization’s Global Strategy for Viral Hepatitis, which sets a goal of eliminating viral hepatitis as a public health threat by 2030.

Let's join together on this World Hepatitis Day to make the elimination of viral hepatitis our next greatest achievement.

Drink Your Stress Away

And no, I don't suggest testing out alcoholism. Although, alcohol is believed to be a stress reducer, it can also add to your stress as well as creating various other problems, so remember to drink responsibility. 

This post is to tell you some drinks that can keep your stress levels down and help you get though the week a little bit easier. 

Water: I know you probably hear about this one all of the time. But it is true!  The link between water and stress reduction is well documented. All of our organs, including our brains, need water to function properly. If you’re dehydrated, your body isn’t running well and that can lead to stress. On average, the adult body consists of 50-65% water, stay hydrated. 

Tea: Have a cup of tea to help relax. While all teas can be relaxing, certain herbs are scientifically proven as the best for relieving stress. Some of the best to drink in your tea are valerian, passion flower, and St. John's wort.

Fruit: Juice: Juices high in vitamin C, including orange juice, grapefruit juice, and strawberry juice, help reduce stress levels by lowering levels of the body’s stress hormones such as cortiso

Reduce Your Stress Levels

As you may have seen on our twitter page today we have been discussing stress and how it's not all bad. Some levels of stress which you are accustomed to handling can help keep you focused and challenge your abilities. There are those times however when stress can be overwhelming and we can begin to feel like we are out of control. 

When we are stressed, our bodies produce this hormone called Cortisol; high levels of this could lead to diabetes, high blood pressure, weight gain or inability to lose weight, and various other detrimental health issues. When there isn't enough time for you to get out and have a workout there are vitamins and supplements. We live in an age where we are becoming more conscious of what it is that we put into our bodies, especially anything that might alter our state of being. 

We have our own line of vitamins and supplements to help your every need. Our "Calm" line of supplements are designed to address your daily stress by increasing the production of the neurotransmitters serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. The formula includes ingredients historically used to promote a state of calm and centered relaxation. While many other alternatives providing GABA-agonist effects may cause dependency over time, out natural GABA support found in our formula is non-habit forming.

Stop by today and have a chat with our friendly pharmacy team and see what we can do for you!

'Mix' up your Monday Routine

Waking up on Monday can sometimes be a downer. You probably just had an eventful weekend full of friends, laughs, and brunches and now you're back to waking up early and headed into work. Instead of going to your usual coffee shop that makes your coffee good but never great, try this recipe out. 

Coffee Protein Shake: 

• 1/2 cup almond/coconut milk
• 1 banana
• 1 tablespoon nutella
• 2 scoops Aloha Protein Powder (preferrably chocolate)
• 3/4 cup Gradys cold brew coffee (if available) 
• 1 cup ice
• top with chocolate shavings (optional)

Monday doesn't have to be so bad when you make time to mix things up. You can blend this up at night and store for a morning grab and go, or just throw everything in the blender the morning of in less than 5 mins!

July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month

Juvenile arthritis (JA) is not a disease in itself. Also known as pediatric rheumatic disease, JA is an umbrella term used to describe the many autoimmune and inflammatory conditions or pediatric rheumatic diseases that can develop in children under the age of 16. Juvenile arthritis affects nearly 300,000 children in the United States.

Although the various types of juvenile arthritis share many common symptoms, like pain, joint swelling, redness and warmth, each type of JA is distinct and has its own special concerns and symptoms. Some types of juvenile arthritis affect the musculoskeletal system, but joint symptoms may be minor or nonexistent. Juvenile arthritis can also involve the eyes, skin, muscles and gastrointestinal tract.

The Arthritis Foundation understands the needs of families with juvenile arthritis are unique and pressing. Learn more about their research efforts through their work with CARRA and their involvement with PARTNERS.