By Shadine Ménard

Photographer . Ixiana Hernandez-Wilmot . Makeup . Gadiel Hernandez . Model . Alexandra Azo

Since the tragic earthquake of January 12, 2010, I can see the light bulb go off in someone’s head whenever I respond “Haitian” to a question about my heritage. It’s clear that the unfortunate earthquake has put my motherland on the map. Unfortunately, it hasn’t changed the stereotypical and ultimately wrong views of Haitian beauty.

Basically, most people fail to associate beauty with Haiti. This is why, instead of writing about make-up, I’ve decided to tackle the most important Spring must-haves that allow your skin to glow from within: natural beauty, self-confidence and pride.

Beauty is not a color, feature or trend. It is a combination of that twinkle in the eye, sweet smile, glistening skin and infectious laugh that can belong to anyone from any country or ethnicity. True, there is a certain je ne sais quoi that aesthetically makes the Halle Berry, Garcelle Beauvais, Jennifer Lopez, Freida Pinto, Megan Fox and Heidi Klums of the world so arresting to watch, but note that none of them have the same background.

In a world full of differences, why is it that some still refuse to believe that there is beauty everywhere and the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere is no exception. So, I happily reply “Haiti” when asked where my family is from and calmly ask “What does a Haitian look like?” when invariably told that I do not look Haitian.  I also always make it my duty to educate people on the historic melting pot that makes Haitian women so diverse and beautiful.

Beauty is Universal

When visiting Haiti, I always see so many naturally beautiful faces. Whether they are selling in the street, sitting behind desks, shopping or dancing in the hottest clubs Haitian women have this glow. Their smiles are genuine and their skin radiates, even when there is sometimes poverty or sadness lurking. Their secret is not voodoo, it is self-love and pride.
I shine brightly because I have that glow within me. If you haven’t already, make sure that this Spring you cultivate your inner glow by nurturing your spirit with activities and moments that make you appreciate YOU. Challenge your mind by tackling new goals and have fun getting your body in the shape you want it to be. Now that you are shining brightly, go on and choose the Spring make-up palette that best illuminates your natural splendor.

Haitian women, like our model, shine brightly because they have loss, yet stay resilient and open-hearted.                                                Tell SBC what makes you shine brightly.

By Shadine Ménard

My hair has been natural since 2003, no dyes, no relaxer and until now, no relief against the constant frizz. Now that I have dreadlocks, my hair care is even more important and dryness is more of a risk. While there are many great products for eliminating frizz and providing shine, there are few who can successfully do so after the initial wash and re-twist of dreadlocks. These past couple of weeks, I put THE ORIGINAL MOROCCANOIL OIL TREATMENT to the test and it passed with flying colors.

Last week, my locks were looking dull, messy and the amount of new roots and hair growth sitting on top of my head signaled that my monthly visit to the hairdresser was needed. As a quick fix and way to make it ‘til next week, I poured just a dime-size of MOROCCANOIL, rubbed it in my palms and smoothed it over my tresses. Right away there was a noticeable shine and smoothing of the hair catastrophe I was experiencing. It helped me for the next two days. This product does work on dry hair. Applying it daily would surely make a difference. I love the fact that hair doesn’t necessarily have to be damp or wet for application.

By Monday, this week, there was no avoiding my hair appointment. I was sporting what I call my “looking like Bob Marley’s step-child” look of dreadlocks that are matted, frizzy, and dry beyond repair. While I love Bob Marley’s songs and sexy smile, there’s no denying his hair could’ve been better-kept and I certainly can’t afford to follow in those footsteps since I lack the money-making voice to get away with it.

BEFORE Styling with MoroccanOil

After washing my hair and sitting under the dryer long enough to get it damp instead of dripping wet, the entire tiny bottle of 10ml was applied to my hair as it got twisted. What can I say? I have a lot of hair.  While I would rather it have a more feminine scent than its faint incense-like smell, it’s not unpleasant and feels so light on hair that after it’s applied and I touched my hair, there was no residue.

Sample Size (.34 fl oz)

Even more so than its cure on dry hair, MOROCCANOIL’s original oil treatment works wonders on damp/wet hair. After twisting getting my hair twisted and another short session under the dryer (I think it’s thanks to the oil’s ability to reduce drying time), my locks gleamed and looked super smooth. Gone was the head of puffy locks I entered the salon with!

AFTER styling with MoroccanOil

There’s a lot of good about this product: it’s a light, non-greasy, alcohol-free, Argan oil formula that treats all hair types and is efficient on natural, chemically treated, wet, damp and dry hair, as well as extensions. And the fragrance, delicious!

PETA members would be happy to know that none of the MORROCCANOIL products use animal ingredients nor are they tested on animals, and to further endear them in the hearts of environmentalists, the company has a commitment to using recycled materials whenever possible.*

Recycled Materials * - No Animal Testing

MOROCCANOIL shines because it’s a product that can make you shine from your mane to your clear conscience, knowing that no animals were harmed and that you are doing your part by being a part of the green movement.

With celeb fans such as stylist, Rachel Zoe are singing its praises, MOROCCANOIL has showcased at beauty tradeshows across this country, this ultra-convenient, sample/travel size amber glass bottled treatment (.34 fl oz), will soon be a staple in most beauty-addict bags.

For more info or to view the entire product assortment, www.moroccanoil.com . info@moroccanoil.com  . 888.700.1817

By Amelia Hamilton

I have long, thick, frizz-prone hair, so finding natural products that do the job is not always easy. I recently discovered Burt’s Bees Grapefruit and Sugar Beet shampoo and conditioner. It’s gluten-free, paraben-free, and the label says it is for “super shiny” hair.  I decided to give it a try.

The first thing I noticed was how great it smelled. I don’t know about you, but I need my shampoo and conditioner to smell great. It isn’t heavy scent, not at all perfumed, just a wonderful natural scent. After washing and conditioning, I was a little worried. My hair didn’t feel as silky as I was expecting it to feel while rinsing. I have to admit that I didn’t have high hopes for the product.

However, I shouldn’t have worried. Once my hair was dried and flat-ironed, it looked and felt amazing. It was as shiny as the label promised, and felt wonderfully silky and soft. I could hardly stop running my fingers through my own hair. This product is going to become a staple in my basket of products to make my hair shine like every woman’s should!

www.eveswebsite.com

Salon . Eve . 55 West 8th Street

Services .  Hand/ foot therapies, hair removal  and facials

Vibe . Earthy and Green

Price Range . $$  (Affordable)

Type of Nail polish .  Essie and Zoya (natural polish line)

4 of 5 Stars

Mani-pedis are a weekly indulgence for many New Yorkers. A relatively quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city where you get to sit back, relax as your hands and feet are restored to their softest state and beautified. What’s not to love?

During Spa Week it dawned on me: with so many great spas and nail salons in NYC, why limit yourselves to just your neighborhood spot? I read many reviews on salons, but most are brief in details that really matter like the vibe, décor and clientele of the place.

This summer, I’m on a quest to find the best nail service providers in Manhattan and let you know which are worth giving your hand to and which ones deserve for you to just walk on by.

First on the list, Eve Salon, www.eveswebsite.com, 212.807,8057.

Nail Sets for Customers

What makes Eve Salon Unique?

Non-sanitizable nail sets given to customers, you receive discounted services if you bring it back for re-use.

Soothing Rear of Eve Salon

I was running late for my appointment and received a courtesy phone call to ensure I was still coming. We all know it’s a no-no to get to a beauty appointment late because it not only inconveniences the salon, but also takes up some of our needed pampering time.  I was greeted politely without mention of lateness and sent “Idina” whose only remark was that she’d take care of my pedicure and make sure I was in good hands for my manicure.    What else could a girl ask for?

Eve Salon's relaxing mani and pedi stations

Idina knew just what to do, without instruction or comments and did it in a timely, efficient and brisk manner, without being rough.  She knew that “cut them down a little” means just that and how to buff feet to a smooth finish while discreetly discarding the dead skin from the towel as she said “you don’t need to see that.”  I felt so comfortable, Idina’s suggested a pillow roll behind my back for comfort, she was attentive without being overbearing.

Victoria handled my manicure and although just as quick and efficient as Idina, her manner was softer. She was inquisitive about my manicure requests, and then told me to sit back, relax and wait 10 minutes to dry once she was done. I usually tend to rush out of salons before my nails are even completely dry because of the noise or eerie silence. Surprisingly, I did relax and sat on the bench waiting as my nails dry. Maybe it was because they were air drying as opposed to my hands and feet being hostage to light boxes. Or perhaps it was due to the green décor that is serene without being sterile. I also noticed that members of the staff would smile at each other or clients as they spoke and exchanged pleasantries.

The finished manicure and pedicure from Eve Salon

All in all, my experience at Eve was a great one: the perfect combo of calm, personable and professionalism made me feel right at home, so much so that I didn’t really mourn the absence of OPI polishes.   I left Eve Salon with beautifully manicured nails and feet!

By Tinéa Williams

April 22, 2010 marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Earth Day was born in 1970 and ushered in the era of modern environmentalism on a grand scale. Today we live in a place where ‘going green’ is a fad for some and a lifestyle for others. Saving the planet and reducing our carbon foot-print is quickly becoming a large part of the beauty industry.

With Earth Day quickly approaching retailers across the nation (and world) are doing their part to offer or highlight an earth friendly option. Some retailers are just getting revved-up in their eco-pursuits; while others are expanding their passion for green beauty well beyond the borders of Earth Day. This Earth Day do something good for the planet and treat yourself to some environmentally conscious pampering. Here are some shining stars to consider in order for you to love your body and love the earth too!

www.lushusa.com

LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics: NAKED 6 unpackaged products for $20. Love your skin with a Solid Facial Soap, Toner Tab, Sexy Peel Body Soap, Buffy Solid Body Butter and Therapy Solid Massage Bar. These are natural, vegan, preservative free products that you take home in a 100% biodegradable bundle!  www.lushusa.com.

On Going Green: 70% of all LUSH products are unpackaged – so less waste to throw away and less energy to transport.

www.aveda.com

Aveda: Cut-Athon for $25. Love your hair by participating in an Aveda Cut-Athon. Aveda boutiques around the country have partnered with their salon counterparts to raise money for the Global Green Grant Fund www.greengrants.org. Get a great cut or color and your $25 donation goes to help providing clean drinking water around the world. Aveda uses the whole month (sometimes 2) to raise money for their non-profit global partners. Visit an Aveda salon or store for details. www.aveda.com

On Going Green: Aveda has become the first beauty company to use 100% wind manufacturing!

www.lululemon.com

Lululemon Athletica: Love your body inside and out by experiencing a new yoga class or run club event for free! Yes, I said it free. Lululemon doesn’t just sell active wear; but encourages the community to live healthier lifestyles by offering complimentary yoga classes and athletically focused events that benefit Mother Earth and our bodies. Contact your local Lululemon to see what they are offering. www.lululemon.com

On Going Green: Not only does Lululemon use recycled materials for yoga mats and some fabrics, but their charitable giving is a grassroots campaign. Stores are given the freedom to donate and fundraise for organizations that directly impact their local communities.

Photo . www.awarenessdates.com

Allow your passion for beauty to benefit the planet by shopping one of these local retailers.  Shine brightly by knowing you are doing something good for the earth and good for yourself!

By Tinéa Williams

Photo . Elta MD . www.eltamd.com

We are all out to get flawless skin and the market is ready and waiting. Beauty brands everywhere are focusing on serums that promise a smoother, more even toned complexion and we are ready to try and buy.

However, if we don’t invest in a sunscreen we are throwing our money away. Yes, I said it, sunscreen. If you suffer from acne scars, sun spots and or wrinkles the best serum in the world is not going to work correctly if you don’t protect your skin. I know you probably feel like I am beating a dead horse, but think to yourselves when was the last time you invested in a good SPF.

All we are doing is creating a vicious (and expensive) cycle of damaging, treating and damaging our skin if we don’t protect it from UVA rays that cause the wrinkles, lines and spots and the UVB rays that burn. Regardless of the old wives tales that we have been told–ALL skin tones and types need protection from the sun. The usual complaints are that the products are too greasy, too thick or cause breakouts.

Here are some tips for finding a great sunscreen:

1.) Pay attention to your skin type – is the product too light or too heavy.

2.) Make sure it is paraben-free.

3.) Look for SPF 15 or higher that is broad spectrum or complete coverage – UV Clear protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

4.) Does it provide a good base for make-up?

5.) Don’t be afraid to try it on – it’s your face you want to make sure it works.

Many times you will be able to find a moisturizer with sunscreen that works effectively from your favorite retailer, but if you have very sensitive or acne prone skin see your doctor and ask about ‘UV Clear SPF 46’ by Elta MD ($30). This is my favorite stand-alone sunscreen!

UV Clear is paraben and fragrance free helps with acne, reduces discoloration and fabulous under make-up. The bottom line is we have take better care of our skin by protecting as well as treating. So grab the SPF and make sure that skin stays flawless and shines brightly!

By Amelia Hamilton

I’ve been gluten-free for health reasons for several years, but only lately realized that I need to be careful of the ingredients in my beauty products. So many mainstream products contain gluten that it can be difficult to find good products that won’t interfere with the lifestyle.

Since avoiding gluten means avoiding anything with wheat, barley, or rye (oats are still up for debate) this can rule out a lot of beauty products. A large percentage of our products are absorbed into the skin, making it imperative that you keep your products gluten-free to keep your body gluten-free.

Always read the label to ensure that a product is gluten-free. The label won’t say “gluten” but list wheat, barley, oats or rye. Although some companies are getting better about labeling their products “gluten-free” you usually have to check the product. You can contact companies directly to obtain a list of their gluten-free products as well, so you can be prepared when you go shopping and put your mind at rest that you didn’t miss anything on the label.

Nothing will make you shine more brightly than health, so make sure that your beauty products aren’t sabotaging you.

By Assunta Catalano

TheraPearl has a new eye mask; it claims to have analgesic powers from the healing gel pearls by simply freezing the packs. The frozen beads are said to provide natural body rehabilitation healing of cold as they mold to the contours of the affected area to reduce pain, puffiness and swelling without drugs or messy alternatives.

Created by a leading doctor and entrepreneur as a practical alternative for healing. The revolutionary ice packs are a great option instead of using leaky ice packs, messy frozen peas, or dripping hot gauze pads and towels and they’re reusable.

So I tested it myself. . .

Monday, 7pm-I opened the product and fell in love with the squishy blue pearl gel eye mask. I was so excited to use the product, but could not until I placed the eye mask into the freezer, for at least 2 hours.

Wednesday, 3pm-I returned to my freezer, not having a chance until now to actually use the product.  The eye mask was frozen completely, due to the freezing of a few days rather than a few hours. I placed the eye mask on my eyes but it was way too cold and the gel pearls were rock hard and turned to ice crystals. I had to place the eye mask aside to thaw out.

About a half hour later, I was able to place the eye mask on my eyes and immediately felt the cool sensation over my eyelids and eye area. The pearls in the eye mask are very comfortable and conformed to fit to my face perfectly. Once I removed the eye mask from my eye area, about 25 minutes, my eyes area felt smooth, firm, and not puffy. I would consider myself very relaxed.

TheraPearl Eye Mask is perfect for:

Swelling / Puffiness / Bruising

Cosmetic Surgery

Facials / Spa Treatments

Migraines / Headaches

My rating for TheraPearl Eye-Essential Mask shines brightly with 4 out of 5 stars. While it made me very relaxed, relieved under my eye puffiness, and firmed my eye area, I have to say, waiting to use the product was no fun. I suggest you use the product freezing time as directed so you can feel glam in no time at all.   Visit www.therapearl.com for more product information.

By Shadine Ménard

It takes more than piles of gloss to plump those lips to perfection.

Famed Make-Up Artist, Gadiel Brijan Hernandez. He's been working as a make-up artist since 1998. His work has been featured in TV, film, print and stages in Puerto Rico, Florida and New York City to name a few.

Try NYC Makeup artist Gadiel Hernandez’ tips to perfect the ultimate pout.

1) Before coloring lips, apply a lip primer or use a light coat of foundation/ concealer over lips, and set lightly with a translucent powder.

2) Pick a lip liner color that is slightly darker than the natural shade of your lips and subtly line lips following their natural rim to keep from looking over-dramatic.

3) Once the lips are lined, use the pencil to fill-in and color your lips, then go over with a matte lipstick of your choice. The lips will then be colored uniformly.

4) Pick a second lip color or gloss that is a shade or two lighter than the one previously used and apply to center of lips (especially the bottom lip). This will create a highlight and draw attention to the fuller part of the lips, making them appear slightly larger than usual.

Hernandez’ tips are easy to follow and effective.  I created this look on the model’s pout myself.

So pucker up and get your Shine On!

1) Try one of the many shades of CoverGirl Queen Collection foundation to find one that matches your skin tone and set with Bare Minerals translucent powder which is so light you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

2) MAC’s lip pencils are great for seamlessly lining lips.

3) Clinique High Impact Lip Color comes in many beautiful shades of nude, pink and red while protecting and moisturizing your lips.

4) Booty Parlor’s Kissaholic lip gloss is rich in color but low on the stickiness.

Make-Up Artist, Shadine Ménard . Model, Elizabeth .Photo, Philippe Eli . www.hipmagonline.com

By SBC

Spa Week, April 12 – April 18, 2010, the brainchild of New Yorker Cheryl Reid.  Inspired in 2004 to educate hurried, stressed-out, exhausted New Yorkers about the benefits of the spa lifestyle as a normal part of a healthy lifestyle in a cost-effective way.  Discounted Spa services at approximately $50, rates you can’t get any other time.

No longer reserved as an indulgence for the rich and famous, Spa Week makes the Spa Experience an oh so affordable experience.  Spa treatments aren’t just massages, manicures, pedicures, facials and waxing, they also highlight healthy living utilizing specialty treatments to relieve stress, quit smoking, improve circulation, assist in weight loss and much more.

Today Spa Week has spread to over 29 cities across North America with over 700 participating spas, with corporate sponsors like Saab, eBay, Conair, CEW and Allure Magazine to name a few.

Shine Worthy Steals & Deals

Vajazzling (exactly what it sounds like, bedazzling your vajajay) – Vaginal Crystal Adornment, a new concept to feel great about your privates. Try Completely Bare – Bond, NEW YORK CITY, www.completelybare.com

Teeth whitening changes your reflection to the world.  Try Atlanta Medical Day Spa & Surgery Center, MARIETTA, GEORGIA.  www.atlantamedicaldayspa.com

Manicures & Pedicures are part of beauty “101.”  Experience the decadence and get your skin and nails ready for Spring. Try the 90 Min Chocoholic Manicure and Pedicure at Chocolate For Your Body , an Aveda Family Spa, CHICAGO, IL.  www.chocolateforyourbody.com

Acupuncture promotes health and alleviates pain and suffering by stimulating the internal organs to naturally treat imbalances.  It treats many conditions ranging from addictions, weight loss, depression, PMS, indigestion, allergies and headaches to name a few. Try the 45 Min Total Body Acupuncture Treatment at Farashe’ the Day Spa, COLUMBIA, MD.  www.farashe.com

Massage is one of the oldest and simplest forms of therapy.  The goal is to help the body heal itself and increase health and well-being.  Try Body Bar Spa, LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA.  www.bodybarspa.com

A Brazilian Bikini Wax can polish your presentation for yourself, the beach or a romantic evening. Try Toka Salon & Day Spa in Georgetown, WASHINGTON, DC.  www.tokasalon.com

Facials cleanse, exfoliate and nourish to promote clear well-hydrated skin.  A good facial captures the fountain of youth. Try Clarins Signature Youth Booster Facial Treatment at Clarins Skin Spa at Bloomingdales, Bloomingdales The Falls Mall, MIAMI, FL. www.clarins.com

Find out about Spa Week in your city and book your appointment today, www.spaweek.com.  Here’s to a stubble free, vajazzled, relaxing week, Shine Brightly with Spa Week.