Does your hair lack volume, luster, shine, thickness and radiance? If you answered yes to any one of these questions then you need this recipe. Quite frankly anything you can buy in the beauty supply store that claims to "restore" the hair basically doesn't work. All the commercial products do is smooth the hair shaft, make it feel softer and detangle. But feeding, nourishing and infusing the vital nutritional factors that the hair needs to thrive no-way, no-day. To get outrageous hair you will need to whip up this miracle worker right in your own kitchen. 
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Luscious Locks - Superfood Hair Pack
This recipe works like magic, it takes a bit of work to gather the ingredients but it is well worth it. We are going to put together a nutrient dense paste that contains all the vital nutrients needed to bring the hair back to life. The hair basically needs a constant supply of proteins, minerals and essential fatty acids to keep strong, elastic and shiny. I prefer to use as many whole, organic and raw ingredients as possible.
Lets get started:
Your will need a medium sized mixing bowl. I prefer ceramic or glass, please no metal. To begin the base of my hair treatment you will need organic, raw sesame paste. Sesame is the king of seeds it is one of the most condensed nutritious foods on the planet. Sesame contains abundant amounts of manganese, cooper, calcium, magnesium, iron, b-vitamins and zinc. The form we will be using is tahini, you might recognize this tasty ingredient as the lemony sauce you use to flavor your gyros or falafels. As tasty as tahini can be it will be one of the crucial ingredients to give you the big, fat sexy hair that you crave.
My favorite brand of tahini is made by Rejuvenative Foods. They are a great company based in Santa Cruz that make the best and I mean the very best nut butters, seed butters and cultured foods on the planet. Everyone of their products is raw, organic and processed with minimal heat to ensure all the lovely nutrients are brimming with vitality.
Recipe: (2 treatments)
1 Tablespoon Liquid Aminos (Bragg)
1 Tablespoon Bee Pollen (Local Variety)
1 Tablespoon Truffle Oil (Your local Gourmet Store)
1 Tablespoon Raw Hazelnut Oil (Your local Gourmet Store)
2 Egg Yolks (Local Organic Cage Free)
Combine all ingredients in your glass or ceramic bowl. Mix all ingredients until you achieve a smooth paste like consistency. You have just made the very best treatment for your hair that money can buy.
Directions:
With your head over your sink to prevent making a mess, start massaging the paste into your hair. Massage well until the hair is saturated. Then cover your hair with plastic wrap and put on a shower cap and hang out for at least 20-30 minutes. Watch your favorite soap opera, talk to a friend, meditate or do what ever makes you feel good. Then remove the wrapping and wash out thoroughly in your shower. For best results do not shampoo right after the treatment, it is best to wait 24 hours. But if you must that is okay.
This recipe is made for two treatments, it will keep up to 7 days in your refrigerator. If you want the sexiest hair in the city do this treatment twice a week and you will have shinier hair than Charlotte.
Have a beautiful day.
David Parker
The Cosmetic Chef
Thursday, March 20, 2008
The London Look
London's first high fashion export, Twiggy and the latest platinum catwalk pixie Agyness Deyn, are among the generational icons that exemplify UK style. London most definitely is the globe's breeding ground for the avant guard in fashion, design and the arts. Culture in the UK thrives on being at the "edge" of cutting edge.
I just love the English, one aspect of their personality is very invested in being proper, somewhat dry and reserved, but on the other side they are fabulously flamboyant and alive in their very open desire to be adventurous in their self expression. The evolving look of the UK trend is clean and simple with a twist of extreme whimsey. Examples of the hottest looks in fashion were displayed at this years London Fashion Week, upcoming designers such as Caroline Charles, Ashish and Atoni & Alison made their fashion point of view heard.
Taking care of the body is anything but bland in the thriving beauty world of the London underground. One popular treatment for lustrous shining hair uses bull sperm to nourish and bring life to dull locks. The british appetite for beauty is much more bold than the country's cabbage and potatoes culinary roots. I am sure that Peta would support such a use of an animal by-product, the method of extraction is most likely quite pleasant for the bull, but I digress.
The big news from the Cosmetic Kitchen is the exclusive launch of our Superfood Facial at Hari's Salon and Spa. Hari's is an institution in London, for over 30 years Hari's has been servicing the follicles and complexions of London's most beautiful people. From rocks stars to royalty, Hari's has been setting trends in beauty for the UK. Located in heart of Brompton between the locality of Kensington and Chelsea, this area has been the focus of the famous London art scene since the days of Charles Dickens.
Body Deli has officially made its international debut at Hari's Salon. The most nourishing "fresh" organic and raw facial in London. The facial consists of seven steps:
1. Cleanse
2. Exfoliate
3. Feed
4. Tone
5. Hydrate
6. Protect
7. Nourish
Based on Body Deli's signature superfood products such as the intensive regenerating Radiance Enzyme Peel, to the delicious fruity Blueberry Fusion Scrub, to the green enhanced Cucumber Juice Toner this facial delivers a rare combination of ingredients such as: spirulina, chlorella, kombucha, probiotics, and super greens such as barley, wheat and oat grasses. Together with the expert hands of Gita, Hari's renowned facialist the treatment delivers that "London Glow".
The next time you find yourself in the sterling city, please pay a visit to the queen, have a spot of tea and treat yourself to The Body Deli's Superfood Facial at exclusive Hari's Salon and Spa to get the London Glow.
Hari's is located at.
305 Brompton Road London SW3 2DY
Telephone 020 7581 5211
www.harissalon.com
Cheerio!
David Parker
The Cosmetic Chef
Spring Cleaning- beauty is more than skin deep
Spring is upon us the signs are everywhere new leaves, new flowers and best of all the perfect opportunity for a new you. I have been very fortunate that I was introduced to cleansing in my late teens. Regular cleansing has been a godsend. I have cured my self of asthma and acne through my focused cleansing programs that I did in my early twenties. Cleansing works, everyone needs to take the time to flush the body and rebuild it with fresh foods, pure water, appropriate nutritional supplements, rest and proper exercise.
Visualize the body as a river. A healthy river is pure, rushing and flowing on the other spectrum a toxic river is stagnant, infested with micro-organisms/algae and is quite unpleasant to be around. This is an effective metaphor for the human body. At its optimum it should be a well hydrated machine whose circulation is strong and most importantly there are no obstructions that can cause stagnation.
What is the body's number one source of stagnation? The colon. The colon is designed to be an elegant plumbing system that processes ingested nutrition and breaks down food particles into essential nutrients to fuel the body. In its worst cast scenario it is a toxic cesspool that poisons, infects and ultimately leads to the degeneration of the body. Did you know that an impacted colon can actually drain 80% of the bodies immune system to process the junk in the trunk.
The springtime is a great time to invest in your health and take your beauty ritual to the next level. When we face the process of detoxifying the body it can seem overwhelming. All sorts of anxieties begin to surface, can I do it, is it safe, is it necessary, what happens if I feel awful etc, etc. My simple suggestion is "just do it", the mind will always create excuses not to pursue a healthier state of being.
A good detox program should start with the colon. This is the most impacted area of the the body. As much as all the foodies out there love good food, drink and dessert, accumulation of these delicacies over time lead to many not so yummy side affects. If you experience any of these symptoms, I predict a cleanse may be in your near future.
1. weight or fluid gain
2. poor circulation
3. sinus congestion
4. aches/lower back pain
5. skin problems (acne, blemishes, dullness)
6. lethargy/fatigue
7. depression
Yes, I know what all those symptoms feel like all too well, but the good news is with some diligence and a little discipline applying a focused detox program can have magical benefits in reversing these symptoms and bring back the feeling of OMG I am alive again! I feel fabulous again! Then you will be telling yourself, why did I not do this sooner and immediately you will be penciling in your calendar your next time for detox.
Getting Started:
Everyone is different and everyone will not experience the same type of cleansing reactions. For some it might be a mild discomfort to others a barrage of headaches to feeling like your giving birth to Rosemary's baby. All in all with proper preparation and a solid program, cleansing can be very enjoyable. It is a time to retreat from the world, be quiet and give yourself some much needed love and attention.
Hydration.
To prepare for a detox first consider hydration. Most people are dehydrated because they do no drink enough pure water but instead only imbibe beverages that have a diuretic effect such as tea, coffee, alcohol and sugary drinks. The body in a dehydrated state is like a stagnant and congested river and rehydration creates a healthy flow throughout the system that allows toxins to be mobilized and exited via the kidneys and colon.
Start by having about 2 liters of pure water a day, but avoid having more the 2 points within any one hour.
Diet.
Simplify, simplify, simplify. Start to reduce or cut out foods which are often very challenging to the body, and increase foods that are healthy for the body. Challenging foods can often include any of the following: wheat, dairy products, alcohol, coffee, strong tea, refined sugar, white flour, chemical additives, processed foods etc.
Increase your consumption of organically grown and simple foods such as brown rice, quinoa, millet, buckwheat, barley and a wide variety of vegetables. Emphasize foods that naturally grow in this season and in your geographic region.
Environmental Clearing.
Do a spring clean of your possessions, home and garden and recycle anything you no longer need, un-clutter your home and this helps to un-clutter your mind. Letting go of things helps us to let go of the emotional baggage we all tend to carry around. As we are an integral part of the Earth our health is connected to the health of it. The rapid decline in the health of the Earth's environment has a direct impact on our own, make an effort to care for it.
Recycle, eat organic, reduce carbon fuel use by walking or cycling more. Plant trees, buy recycled and natural household products whenever you can. Subscribe to one of the green electricity companies such as 'Good Energy'. All this has the benefit of reducing toxins in your personal environment and in your body thus helping your health, the planet and everything else.
The Cleanse.
The number one question that I get asked is can I do this myself and at home. And the answer is most certainly YES. You can visit a spa or holistic clinic to have guidance, but you also can certainly have a very effective cleanse and rejuvenating experience right in your own home. With the help of these cleansing kits you will be on your way to looking and feeling great just in time to get that beach body before summer hits. These are my top favorite cleanses I have done each one numerous times and each one works brilliantly.
1. Arise and Shine (Aggressive)
This program is like jet fuel, Arise and Shine was my very first cleanse almost 15 years ago. A&S is by far the most comprehensive and deep internal cleanse on the market. This cleanse will get deep down to the mucoid plaque from the intestinal wall. It is not for the faint of heart, this is serious business. A&S is a 28 day cleanse. You can do all 28 days or choose to do 1, 2 or 3 weeks. It is up to you on how you can balance your schedule. The full 28 days is best, but hey 1 week is also fantastic. A&S consists of 5 products: Chomper, Herbal Nutrition, Psyllium Husk Powder, Hydrated Bentonite Clay and Flora Grow. Together theses products help to condition, soften and break up mucoid plaque and to remove toxic waste from the alimentary canal, organs and cells. The Psyllium and Bentonite clay are used to make up a shake that is taken 3-5 times daily, it is not the typical shake from the DQ, but a rather bland, thick concoction that acts like a broom to sweep your insides clean.
This cleanse is the most aggressive of the ones that I recommend. Especially in the Master Phase, 6 days without food. This cleanse will by far give you the most dramatic detoxifying results but it is very difficult to do much else but cleanse. If you choose to do the A&S program you might need to take at least 1 week off of work and solely focus on the program.
Retail Price. $240.00
For more information about the Arise and Shine Program.
Check out their website. www.ariseandshine.com
2. Blessed Herbs (Medium)
Blessed Herbs is a family owned and operated herb company based in rural Massachusetts. I love BH they rock! Their quality is second to none and I feel that their product is some of the very best available. Not only do they produce great cleansing programs they also offer over 600 different herbal products to the medicinal trade. Through their vast network of wildcrafters and certified organic farmers they deliver the highest potency and effective blends on the market. Martha VolChok, BH's Master Herbologist is the brainchild behind the company. Her blends and formulations are classically inspired with the main focus to restore and maintain health.
I have used the BH colon cleansing kit quite a few times. And I love, love it. It is more gently that the Arise and Shine program. Personally I like to do Arise and Shine every 2-3 years for a major deep dive and then BH's program is the perfect bi-yearly tune up. It is powerful enough to see results yet gently enough to be able to somewhat still be able to function and go about your normal business. I always suggest a major time out, at least a week off when you cleanse. But with our crazy schedules it is difficult sometimes to get away for that length of time.
The cleanse consists of two products, Digestive Stimulator and Toxin absorber. The kit provides a 30 day supply. Toxin Absorber is a mix that comes in individual packets that are used to make a shake. You can use plain water or organic apple juice. This cleanse like the Arise and Shine can be followed for the full program in this case 30 days or as long as you can dedicate to the process. I don't suggest doing the cleanse less than 7 days. The Benefits of the BH Colon Cleansing Program are:
1. Assures Regular & Comfortable Bowel Movements
2. Removes Old, Accumulated Waste from you Small & large (Colon) Intestines
3. Rejuvenates the Digestive System
The BH cleanse is the perfect program for those that cleanse more frequently, and prefer the option to cleanse more gently so not to distract from normal daily activities.
Retail Price. $89.50
For more information about the Blessed Herb Colon Cleanse
Check out their website www.blessedherbs.com
3. Ejuva (Mild)
Ejuva is also a terrific cleanse. It is probably the most comprehensive of all the cleanses, in that it helps purify the colon, blood and organs. It is a joy to use Ejuva, it is the most mild out of all the cleanses, it is so gentle. Ejuva also works on your body energetically, you will feel lighter and happier when on the Ejuva program. Ejuva consists of the following products, Power, Balance, MoFlora, Combi Shake, Renew and Vibram. It is much the same philosophy as the other cleanses, intensive herbal formulas to loosen and break down toxins, and an herbal shake to help move it on out.
The program is broken down in 4 phases. You can choose to do all 4 or just 1 it is up to you.
Phase 1 (7 days). The initial phase that prepares the body for deep cleansing. Three meals a day may be eaten.
Phase 2 (7 days). Two meals per day.
Phase 3 (7 days). One meal per day.
Phase 4 (7 days). Most potent phase of the Ejuva program. No food is eaten during this phase, which allows for maximum detoxification.
Ejuva also uses extremely high-grade ingredients in their products. Ejuva is kind of considered the Cadillac of cleanses. Also as an added treat Ejuva gives you an aromatherapy incentive. Vibram is included with the kit, it is a very nice gem enhanced aromatherapy blend that encourages clarity of the emotional body. It actually really makes a big difference.
Retail Price. $325.00
For more information about the Ejuva Intestinal Cleansing Kit.
Check out their website www.ejuva.com
Cleansing has greatly increased my quality of life on many levels. The body is our temple and it is our responsibility to keep it pristine. The benefits are so great, it easily outweighs the discomfort or inconvenience of making the choice to commit to a serious cleansing program. I love the cleansing programs that I have outlined, they are the best on the market and you can be sure that they will help create the best spring break that you have ever had.
Have a beautiful day
David Parker
The Cosmetic Chef
Friday, January 25, 2008
Rose Milk Bath
Rose Milk Bath
Valentine's day is just around the corner. The season for lovers, and everything romantic. I personally believe loving yourself is the best gift you can give yourself on Feb. 14 and for that matter everyday of the year. It is no secret that I love rose, in my opinion roses are the closest reflection that we have on earth to the divine. For Valentine's day roses become the star, and here is my uber fabulous recipe to roll out the red carpet right to your bathtub.
Cleopatra was doing something right, her beauty rituals included soaking in whole milks. Whole milk is rich in lactic acid, which is an "alpha hydroxy" acid which are known to help soften and beautify the skin. Valentine's day is all about pampering and feeling sexy. This bathing experience in guaranteed to make you so soft and irresistible that any other aphrodisiacs might not be necessary.
RECIPE:
2 cups Organic Whole Milk (Horizon)
2 cups Buttermilk (Freshest Local available)
1 tablespoon Jojoba Oil
1/2 cup Honey (preferably raw and local)
1/2 cup Epsom Salt
1/2 cup Sodium Bicarbonate
1 cup Fresh Rose Petals
5 drops Rose Oil (preferably Bulgarian)
5 drops Rose Geranium
Combine Milks, honey and jojoba oil in saucepan and "slowly" heat to dissolve honey. Do not heat to a boil. Then remove from heat and place in a glass jar. In a small mixing bowl mix together the epsom salt and sodium bicarbonate then drop in the essential oils.
Draw your bath water to your desired temperature and add the salt mixture then slowly pour the entire milk and honey mixture. Just before you get into the tub sprinkle the fresh rose petals to create that alluring atmosphere of luxury.
Then all you have to do is step in and soak for at least 30 minutes. A few other hints to create the full romantic effect. Remember your favorite soft music, aromatherapy candles and in my opinion a bath is not complete without a bottle of Veuve Clicquot chilling on ice by your side.
*Bathing partner optional
Have a beautiful day
David Parker
The Cosmetic Chef
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Aromatherapy - Starring Fragrance
As the Cosmetic Chef my job is to always be on the lookout for interesting "natural" aromatic products. I really love GOOD essential oil based perfumes. There are very few on the market that pass my olfactory test. A little birdie told me about this new line of mostly organic and naturally based fragrance products. The new line is called Starring... The latest celebrity inspired personal care line by Ashley Peldon.
Ashley started acting in her native New York when she three years old. She began with starring roles in multiple films opposite the likes of Diane Keaton, Bette Midler, and Goldie Hawn. At six, Ashley was the youngest child ever nominated for an Emmy Award. After moving to Los Angeles, CA, Ashley continued her busy career starring in popular television shows “The Mommies”, “The Pretender”, and “That 70’s Show”. She also kept her spare time full working on multiple films, like the cult classic “Drop Dead Fred”, alongside Winona Ryder in “The Crucible”, and with Scarlet Johansson in the Oscar nominated “Ghost World”.
The line looks promising, I look forward to experiencing the aroma blends. The products looks a little kitschy, but hey fragrance and beauty is supposed to be fun. The fragrances come in both a base of coconut oil and organic jojoba, or perfumers alcohol. I tend to go for the alcohol, if the alcohol is an organic grape it makes for a pure delivery system for the fragrance. With scents like "Femme Fatale" and "The Supermodel" using blends of amber, neroli and orange blossom. I look forward to experiencing the product and getting a more intimate point of view on the nuances of the aromatics. The products will be available in select Whole Foods and boutiques for more info please visit the site.
www.starringfragrances.com
Have a beautiful day
David Parker
The Cosmetic Chef
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