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Did you know that spring is often referred to as the “season of hope”? Seeing nature come back to life after months of icy temperatures, strong winds, and rain serves as a reminder that there is always a chance for new beginnings. Spring is also a time for renewal, for starting afresh and for implementing healthy new habits.  Image supplied For most of us, winter involves some degree of hibernation. Less going out, less socialising and paying less attention to our skin and bodies, which are usually wrapped up in several layers of clothing. Add in low humidity and harsh indoor heating, and many of us are left with dry skin and hair that require some serious TLC.   Now that spring is within reach and the season for summer dresses and sandals is near, it’s time to pay a little closer attention to our skin, hair and bodies. Scaly skin, dry hair and cracked heels may be associated with winter, but you don’t need to go into spring looking less than your best.    Here’s how to easily (and affordably!) put your spring glow-up in motion.    Get your feet sandal-ready After months of socks, boots and sneakers, chances are your feet need a little bit of attention before you head outside in your favourite pair of sandals. A good scrub twice a week, followed by a nourishing moisturiser, will go a long way in repairing dry and cracked skin.  Citrusway Exfoliating Sugar Foot Scrub  softens and smooths the skin while removing dead skin cells. Gently massage the scrub into your feet in circular motions, paying special attention to drier areas. Next, apply  Citrusway Foot Restoration Cream . With its antibacterial properties, this moisture-rich solution helps soften dry, cracked heels while rejuvenating the skin. Apply daily to get your feet sandal-ready.   Smell fresh as daisies With the weather warming up, you’ll need to be more diligent about applying your deodorant every morning. Spring is the perfect time to switch from your more decadent, woody scents to fresh and floral alternatives. Stay fresh all day long without exposing your skin to potentially harmful ingredients like aluminium, with  Earthsap’s  range of natural  Roll-ons . Made from pure and simple ingredients, these roll-ons won’t harm or irritate your skin. Floral enthusiasts will love the  Wild Rose & Vanilla  scent, while those who prefer a clean, fresh scent will adore  Tea Tree & Lemon .     Slough off dry skin cells Because our skin is covered in winter and we aren’t as diligent about exfoliating and moisturising as usual, there may be a build-up of dead skin cells by the time spring arrives. This can lead to clogged pores, ingrown hair, flakiness and a dull appearance. Incorporate a body scrub into your routine, and be diligent about gently exfoliating your body twice a week. Best applied with a mitt or loofah, gently massage the product into your skin in circular motions, from bottom to top, moving in the direction of your heart. This helps promote circulation and lymphatic drainage.  Bodylab Vitamin C Exfoliating Salt Scrub  contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and vitamin C for radiance. The fine crystals slough off dry and dead skin cells to promote softer, smoother and more luminous skin.   Restore your skin barrier The outermost layer of our skin is known as the skin barrier, and it acts as a protective shield, preventing harmful bacteria and substances from entering the body. Cold and dry air, as well as indoor heating, can weaken the skin barrier, resulting in difficulty retaining moisture and preventing irritants from entering the body. This can lead to dryness, redness, itching, discomfort, and sensitivity.    At the end of winter, your skin likely needs a moisture boost, but if your barrier is compromised, it may need some help locking that moisture in. Invest in a quality serum and moisturiser that contains healing and hydrating ingredients, such as  SKNLogic Hydrating Serum  and  Derma Repair Balm . The  Hydrating Serum  offers an immediate moisture boost thanks to hyaluronic acid, argan oil, olive oil, grape seed oil and more. The lightweight formula works quickly, saturating the skin for intense hydration. The  Derma Repair Balm  was specifically designed to restore dry, damaged skin while deeply hydrating it. It contains a host of nourishing natural ingredients, including prickly pear extract, jojoba, and shea butter. It soothes, protects and heals.   Hydrate on the go As we transition into spring, your skin may need a little pick-me-up throughout the day. A refreshing facial mist is just the answer. It moisturises, soothes, and refreshes the skin, while also cooling on a hot or humid day.  SOiL  recently launched its debut skincare collection, and its range of Face Mists (with certified organic essential oils) not only benefits the skin but also acts as a mood lifter.  SOiL Facial Mists  are available in four variants: Rose Blossom, Lavender, Rosemary, and Rose Geranium.   Rejuvenate your hair There is nothing quite like dry, cold air and wind to wreak havoc on your hair. The humidity is ultra-low during winter, which means there is very little moisture in the air for your hair to draw from. That means drier hair and a bigger likelihood of breakage and split ends.    For straight and wavy hair in need of some TLC, try the  Two Oceans Argan Oil Collection . Enriched with castor oil and argan oil, the products are rich in vitamins E, A, C and F to revive hair from root to tip and minimise frizz. Start by cleansing with the  Two Oceans Argan Oil Shampoo , then follow with the  Conditioner . For hair in need of a little extra nourishment, apply a few drops of the  Argan Oil Serum  before blow-drying.   Curly hair is particularly vulnerable to dryness during winter, because the shape of a curl makes it more difficult for the moisturising sebum produced by the scalp to make its way down the hair shaft. By the time spring arrives, curly hair will likely need plenty of additional moisture.    If you have a dry scalp or split ends, try applying some  Jozi Curls Hair & Scalp Oil  directly to your scalp and massage gently. This non-greasy formula moisturises the scalp and hair, adding softness and shine. To moisturise, hydrate and refine curls, we recommend applying a dollop of  Jozi Curls Moisturizing Curl Butter to your lengths . This nourishing formula locks in moisture and hydrates hair with the help of baobab, moringa and aloe vera.    With just a few weeks of winter left, there is no better time than now to get your spring routine into place. Softer, shinier hair and smoother, glowy skin is within reach!

Inspired by the vibrancy of a Brazilian weekend, Sol de Janeiro crafted a captivating, limited-edition Sundays in Rio Perfume Mist . Image supplied The tang of caipirinhas cooling lips, the pulse of music, and a deep sense of comfort and togetherness in every moment are just some of the elements that informed this inviting, feel-good scent — uniting notes of warm vanilla, pink pepper, and amber musk. This lightweight mist opens with a sparkling burst of pink pepper and juicy pear, grounded by the soft muskiness of ambrette for an inviting and modern introduction. As it unfolds, warm vanilla and creamy orris mingle with lush Champaca Pure Jungle Essence, settling into a sensual dry-down of amber musk and upcycled Orcanox for a lasting, skin-hugging glow. Perfect for mist-matching  with Sol de Janeiro’s iconic perfume mists, Sundays in Rio brings a playful new layer to your fragrance wardrobe — whether you wear it solo for its radiant floral gourmand energy or pair it with another mist to create your own unique scent story. Never-ending weekend. Caipirinhas and dancing all day long. The thrill of being together. FRAGRANCE STYLE Floral gourmand Image supplied FRAGRANCE PROFILE Top:  Pink pepper, pear, ambrette absolute Mid:  Warm vanilla, orris concrete, champaca pure jungle essence Dry:  Amber musk, upcycled orcanox Image supplied PERFUMER QUOTE “My synesthetic approach and the cozy, Brazilian spirit of aconchego led me on a journey to bottle the sensation of touch. Blending velvety notes with warm vanilla and the tingling pulse of pink pepper creates a sensorial scent that’s deeply comforting.” — Ugo Charron The limited Sunday’s in Rio Perfume Mist retails for  R575, 90ml a nd is available to purchase from these authorised retailers: ARC, Bash, Edgars, Foschini, Superbalist, Takealot, Truworths and Woolworths.

Heritage travel involves taking a trip that’s connected to your culture or family roots. With so many diverse histories in South Africa, the occasions could range from marking the end of Ramadan, attending an initiation ceremony, or celebrating Diwali, to gathering for a wedding or travelling to a family home over Christmas. Image supplied It’s more than sightseeing – it’s about honouring where you come from and spending time with loved ones, reflecting the spirit of togetherness celebrated during Heritage Month. While these trips strengthen family ties and keep traditions alive, they can put pressure on your budget. Paying for long-distance travel, accommodation, gifts, beverages, and additional groceries, if unplanned, can set you back financially. Fortunately, with some forward thinking, you can take part in these important occasions without breaking the bank, says Sarah Nicholson, customer experience and platform manager of JustMoney.co.za , a platform which helps South Africans make good money choices. JustMoney offers ten smart ways to plan your heritage trip. Research your roots before you go. Delve into family records and photographs, and explore sites such as South African History Online and the online hub of the Genealogical Society of South Africa, https://www.eggsa.org/search.html , to maximise the heritage component. Start saving early. Open a savings account or pocket. Even modest monthly contributions grow over time, making it easier to cover travel and cultural activities. Lock in your spot. Festive and religious holidays are peak travel times, when costs rise. Book transport and accommodation well in advance to access early-bird discounts. If you can, plan your trip during quieter periods, such as just before or after public holidays, when prices are lower. Image supplied Use travel discounts and deals. Look out for specials from airlines and bus companies, and loyalty rewards from financial services groups, fuel stations, and retailers. Download travel apps and sign up for newsletters to keep updated. Share the load. Carpooling with family or friends, and splitting petrol and toll fees, makes a long journey more affordable and fun. Shopping and cooking together during a family gathering also saves money. Budget for family responsibilities. For many families, heritage travel involves visiting ancestral land and homesteads. This comes with responsibilities such as contributing to property maintenance, groceries for extended family, and ceremonies. Factor these expenses into your travel budget. Put safety first. Ensure your car is roadworthy and your insurance is adequate before embarking on a long trip. Check your vehicle insurance, roadside assistance details, and medical aid. If using public transport, keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash. Travel insurance is also worth considering if you are flying, in case of delays, cancellations, or lost baggage. Image supplied Embrace family. The heart of heritage travel is togetherness and respect for culture, not overspending. Simple activities such as cooking traditional meals and sharing family history create lasting memories. Look for free cultural activities. Many towns and cities offer free museum days, local festivals, and community events tied to heritage. These are perfect for teaching children without overspending. Capture memories digitally. Take photos and videos for lasting memories instead of buying expensive souvenirs. “Heritage travel is about honouring your roots and strengthening family ties,” notes Nicholson. “With careful planning, cost-sharing, and smart safety measures, you can celebrate your heritage and teach the next generation about family traditions without blowing your budget.” JustMoney.co.za is a trusted voice within the personal finance sector, helping consumers make good money choices. The JustMoney platform offers personalised insights, numerous articles, and a range of financial solutions and tools, including a free credit score check. Register here .

Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia, co-owned by restaurateur Liam Tomlin and chef-patron Ivor Jones, has launched a new five-course set dinner menu, reaffirming its place as one of Cape Town’s most acclaimed evening dining destinations. Image supplied The Five-Course Dinner Tasting Menu Consistently regarded by industry peers as a favourite food destination, Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia has steadily built a reputation for innovation and excellence. Its awards speak for themselves: 3 Plates from the JHP Gourmet Guide 2025, 3 Stars at the Eat Out Restaurant Awards 2023, 3 Luxe Stars at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards – the platform’s highest level of achievement, signifying a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience – and La Liste’s Hidden Gem Award 2024. The new dinner tasting menu builds on this momentum, marking a shift that deepens the restaurant’s offering without losing the spirit of playfulness that defines Jones’s food. “The evenings at Beau have always carried a certain magic,” says Jones. “This menu gives us the chance to harness that atmosphere and take our guests on a more immersive journey. It’s about building rhythm and flow across the night, but also leaving space for choice and surprise, which I think keeps the dining experience alive.” Image supplied The menu changes frequently, guided by the seasons and supplied by small producers across the Western Cape. Guests can expect bold layers of flavour and texture, with dishes spanning seafood, game, poultry, meat, vegetables, fruits, artisanal cheeses, and cultured butter. Importantly, the dinner format offers diners a choice between courses, with a few unexpected additions woven into the experience to keep things playful. While designed as an evening experience, the set menu is also available for Sunday lunch, allowing guests to enjoy Beau’s signature style in a daytime setting. A wine pairing is offered alongside, designed to echo the progression of the menu and showcase both the wines of Beau Constantia’s own vineyards and select producers from across the Cape. Image supplied A Fresh Take on Wine Service Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia is part of a growing shift away from the traditional, old-school sommelier model. Instead of relying on a single authority, every member of the service team is trained in wine knowledge, creating a more inclusive and engaging way of guiding guests through the list. “We wanted to move away from the idea that one person holds the key to the wine list,” explains Jones. “Instead, the whole team is empowered to share their insights and recommend wines they love alongside the menu. It makes the conversation around wine more open, natural, and enjoyable for our guests.” For serious wine enthusiasts, Beau’s senior managers bring extensive expertise to the table, ensuring that the experience satisfies both casual drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs. F rom Left to Right: Head Chef Chad Graham, Floor Manager Imke Botha and Pastry Chef Caitlin Drake The Team Behind Beau Cape Town-born Ivor Jones, is known for his adventurous, original approach to food. His creative process draws heavily from nostalgia and seasonality, along with inspiration from Southeast Asia, where he has travelled extensively. “With each trip I take, I look for flavours and textures that can spark something new. Often, I’ll see a technique or an ingredient and ask myself, ‘what if we did this differently, with our local produce, or over fire rather than poached?’ That’s where the ideas start.” Joining Jones is head pastry chef Caitlin Drake, who has quickly distinguished herself as one of South Africa’s most exciting young culinary talents. Since stepping into the role in late 2024, she has brought technical skill, creativity, and instinctive flair to Beau’s dessert offering, making the final course of the meal a highlight in its own right. Together, Tomlin, Jones, Graham and Drake are guiding Beau Constantia into a new chapter, staying true to the restaurant’s heart of adventurous food and warm, genuine hospitality. Image supplied The Space Perched high on Constantia Nek, Beau Constantia’s dining room is a striking glass-encased space in harmony with the vineyards around it. The open kitchen gives guests a direct connection with the chefs, while private dining rooms such as the Protea Pod and Bronn’s Box provide intimate, elevated spaces with sweeping views. Interiors combine wood, leather, and eclectic handmade crockery with elegant restraint, creating an atmosphere that is modern yet welcoming. The new five-course dinner menu is served Monday to Saturday evenings, with a Sunday lunch seating also available. The menu is priced at R1,250 per person, with the option of a wine pairing at R850 per person. Pescatarian and vegetarian variations of the menu are offered. For daytime service from Monday to Saturday, Beau’s four-course lunch menu remains available at R1,100 per person, with a wine pairing option at R750 per person. For table reservations, book online via  www.chefswarehouse.co.za/beau-constantia . Follow Ivor and Beau’s story via @chefswarehousebeauconstantia.

This Women’s Month, AMAZI and Women For Change launched their Safety is Power initiative to raise R500,000 for survivors of gender-based violence. Every AMAZI product sold funds safety, dignity, and hope for women in South Africa. Image supplied In South Africa, Women’s Month is both a celebration and a reckoning. In a country where   one in three women  face violence in their lifetimes, safety remains one of the most urgent and unmet rights for women.  This year, the month also marks the launch of the Safety is Power initiative. This is a partnership between purpose-driven beauty brand AMAZI and the non-profit Women For Change as they aim to raise R500,000 to support 10,000 survivors of gender-based violence. When Women Refuse to Be Silenced, Change Follows For AMAZI, this fight is deeply personal. Through the AMAZI Academy, the brand trains and mentors previously unemployed women, equipping them with beauty skills, personal development, and job readiness training. They go on to become professionals in AMAZI Beauty Bars, where they are able to turn self-care into a source of both income and independence. Yet, for too many of these women, the barriers to economic freedom are not just about skills or opportunity. They are about safety. Without protection from violence, the path to financial empowerment is dangerously fragile. Previously, AMAZI and Women For Change stood side-by-side at the Union Buildings in a powerful act of solidarity. Together with survivors, advocates, and allies, they joined the Women For Change march, which drew over 150,000 signatures calling on the government to declare gender-based violence and femicide a National Disaster. It was a testament to the collective strength of women refusing to be silenced—and the Safety is Power initiative is the next step. Buy With Purpose & Build a Safer Future From 1 August 2025 to 31 October 2025,  AMAZI is donating R10  from every product sold to Women For Change’s digital emergency response platform. This is a lifeline that connects survivors of gender-based violence to legal aid, crisis counselling, and essential services. Shoppers can take part simply by choosing AMAZI products, with each one turning an act of self-care into an act of solidarity. For those who want to go further, additional contributions can be made through a  dedicated campaign page . The goal is to raise R500,000 to support 10,000 survivors in reclaiming their safety, dignity, and future. This initiative is a declaration that women’s safety is not negotiable. It’s a stand against a culture that has normalised fear, and a commitment to a future where women can live, work, and dream without violence shadowing their steps. Women have spoken. They have marched. And now is the time to act. Visit any AMAZI Beauty Bar or  shop with purpose online . Every purchase between now and 31 October 2025 brings us closer to a South Africa where women’s safety is a right, not a privilege.

Levi’s ®  Icons have been lived in and loved by generations. They’re part of our collective memory. Timeless, versatile, and durable - they’re still defining the modern dress code. For the Spring / Summer 2025 Collection, icons come in the form of elevated essentials that blend Levi’s ®  brand heritage with modern innovation. Rooted in Levi’s ® legacy, reimagined icons reinterprets classic styles with updated fits, rich textures, and innovative fabrications – offering effortless versatility with a contemporary edge. Image supplied For women, the 501 ®  Curve is the first-ever pair of 501 ®  jeans designed specifically for curvy bodies, balancing an authentic straight-leg look with an engineered fit through the hips and waist. It can be paired with the Shrunken 90s Trucker for a modern denim-on-denim ensemble. To give the timeless staple a truly unique look, customisations and embellishments can be made at Levi's ®  Tailor Shop locations worldwide.  The Levi’s ® 501 ®  Family is one of the most enduring denim icons. This season, the standout 501 ®  90s offer a relaxed, vintage-inspired fit that pairs seamlessly with structured outerwear and soft layering pieces. It can be styled with our range of blouses for a feminine contrast or the iconic trucker jackets for an effortlessly cool edge. For men, the 501 ®  Original remains the backbone of Levi’s ®  denim. This collection takes an Americana-inspired approach to the classic jeans. Layer a Standard Denim Shirt under the Western Shorthorn Trucker for a rugged, fashion-forward look, or embrace denim-on-denim styling with the Relaxed Fit Trucker. The 501 ®  Thermodapt innovated an icon by introducing cutting-edge functionality to classic denim. Made from 100% cotton, non-stretch fabric, this adaptive denim technology wicks moisture to keep cool in warm weather and insulates for warmth in colder climates. This icon delivers all-season comfort with an authentic denim look. The Spring/Summer ‘25 Collection’s icons are available for purchase worldwide now on Levi.co.za   and select Levi’s ®  Stores.

Let’s be honest. Reaching for a sugary soda or that extra coffee might give you a quick boost, but the crash that follows? Not so helpful when you're trying to stay sharp and focused. Image supplied As workplace wellness continues to take centre stage, what we drink during the day matters more than ever. From steady energy to better concentration, smarter choices can help you stay on top of your game, without the slump. Here are three simple, healthier options worth considering: Image supplied 1. Keep It Clean If you can’t pronounce half the ingredients in your drink, chances are it’s not doing your body any favours. Colourants, artificial sweeteners and chemical additives are common in everyday beverages, but they’re hardly aligned with a balanced lifestyle. Hydration is always step one. Start with water, and dress it up with lemon, cucumber, or mint for a natural flavour lift. If you’re after something fizzy, reach for a clean-label soda with minimal sugar and no hidden nasties - PURA Soda is a solid option. 2. Cut the Sugar, Keep the Balance It’s easy to overlook how much sugar hides in everyday drinks. Sodas, iced coffees, and flavoured teas can push your intake over the limit and lead to the all-too-familiar energy slump. Image supplied Choosing options with 5g of sugar or less per 100ml can help you stay on track without giving up flavour. It’s about finding that sweet spot between enjoyment and making smarter choices. 3. Warm Up, Without the Sugar Bomb Caffeine isn’t the problem. It’s often what gets added to it. A straightforward black coffee? No problem. But throw in flavoured syrups, full-cream milk or whipped toppings, and suddenly your drink starts to resemble dessert. Green tea offers a gentler caffeine lift and is packed with antioxidants. It’s also been linked to appetite regulation and metabolism support. Rooibos or herbal teas are great alternatives too - warm, comforting, and free of added sugar. Image supplied The Takeaway Your workday drinks should help you power through - not slow you down. With a few easy swaps, from water and green tea to a low-sugar option like PURA Soda, you can stay refreshed, focused, and crash-free all day long.

A new design language. A new era of brand expression  Under Armour is stepping into a new era of footwear with the launch of UA HALO, a collection that reimagines the brand’s design philosophy from the ground up. Built for the everyday athlete, UA HALO introduces a holistic approach to performance, where symmetry, balance, and harmony are both aesthetic choices and functional principles. Image supplied At the center of this evolution is a design shift. For the first time in Under Armour’s history, the brand’s iconic double-arch logo doesn’t just serve as a badge representing our performance and innovation but is also functionally integrated into the design. It becomes part of the sneaker’s structure, delivering balance, stability, and support with every stride. It’s a visual signature with real performance benefits, paired with UA’s HOVR superfoam for powerful energy return and impact absorption. Yassine Saidi, Chief Product Officer at Under Armour says, “Every element of UA HALO, from the embedded double-arch logo to the symmetry of the silhouette, was created to reflect a deeper sense of balance, purpose and performance.” “It’s not only about how the shoe looks, but how it moves with the athlete, how it supports them, and how it expresses who we are as a brand.”  Shop the UA HALO Racer and Runner shoes and apparel at Under Armour stores nationwide and online at www.underarmour.co.za .

In today’s digital age, those seeking skincare advice are bombarded with a large quantity of information online. While some sources offer valuable insights, the amount of misinformation and trendy but unproven treatments pose significant risks. A trained skin therapist plays a crucial role in guiding patients through this sea of advice, ensuring that you make safe, informed choices that prioritise skin health over fads. Image supplied   The dangers of misinformation and self-treatment   Many turn to online platforms for quick solutions, often without an understanding of their skin's needs. Unverified tips about DIY remedies, aggressive products, or untested home treatments can lead to adverse reactions, worsening skin conditions, or use of ingredients that lead to long-term damage. The risks add up when individuals use harmful or inappropriate products, expecting rapid results without understanding potential side effects.   An example of this is at-home microneedling solutions, while the allure of this treatment lies in its affordability and convenience, it carries significant risks when not done by a trained professional. Home devices often can't be fully sterilised, increasing the risk of bacterial or fungal infections, which can lead to prolonged inflammation or more severe complications. The wrong technique, such as using bent or dull needles, applying uneven pressure, or microneedling too frequently can result in scarring, hypopigmentation, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin tones. "A trained skin therapist serves as a vital guide in navigating the complex world of skincare, translating science into safe, effective treatments and empowering patients to make informed decisions about their skin health," says, Dr. Bradley Wagemaker, Medical director, Lamelle Research Laboratories.   The role of the trained therapist   Your skin therapist is more than just a professional, they’re a supportive partner in your emotional journey through the changes and evolution of your skin. As your skin reflects different stages of life, from hormonal shifts to the natural ageing process, your therapist offers a personalised, deeply attentive service that adapts with you. Every treatment is tailored to your unique skin needs, acknowledging that no two skin journeys are the same. This differs from being in store inundated with products that many are just trying to move off the shelf, with very little understanding of what is affecting your day-to-day life. With a focus on care, understanding, and expert guidance, your therapist creates a safe, nurturing space where your skin is seen, supported, and celebrated - helping you feel confident and connected in every phase of your life.   Here is how your skin therapist can help you in the right skincare direction:   Educating about evidence-based practices: Skin therapists can clarify myths versus facts, and emphasising the importance of active ingredients supported by research Personalised treatment plans: By understanding your skin type, history, and concerns, skin therapists tailor treatments that are safe and effective, discouraging the use of trending but potentially harmful products Monitoring and adjusting treatments: Regular follow-ups allow therapists to adjust skincare routines based on progress and reactions, in return minimising risks Ingredient selection: Therapists educate on how active ingredients work, their benefits, and potential side effects, that enables you to make informed choices   Skincare science over trends   The allure of trendy products often overshadows the importance of understanding ingredients. Instead of falling for marketing hypes, you should prioritise skincare science and focus on active Ingredients, which are the foundation of effective skincare. Active ingredients like those found in Lamelle Research Laboratories products such as growth-factors, retinoids, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) have proven benefits. Furthermore, before using active Ingredients you should consider proper formulation, concentration, and application which are all key to maximising benefits while minimising irritation. As an example:   If you are using Vitamin C serum with a dry and sensitive skin – you need to look for one that does not require acclimatisation of the skin Avoiding harmful combinations, some ingredients can interact negatively, where a therapist can guide clients on safe combinations, such as avoiding excessive use of acids and retinoids together without guidance Choosing the right ingredient for the right indication, like salicylic acid for acne-prone skin or vitamin C for stubborn hyperpigmentation this ensures each product targets its specific concern accurately   While online advice can be a valuable resource, it often lacks the small details and safety considerations that a trained therapist provides. Like Lamelle Research Laboratories products, prioritising skincare science over fleeting trends ensures patients use appropriate, effective treatments that support long-term skin health. Evidence-based formulations are designed to address real skin concerns with clinically proven ingredients. Professionals play an essential role in dispelling misinformation, educating about active ingredients, and customising routines, ultimately empowering you to make safe, informed decisions in your skincare journey.

International Dog Day on Tuesday, 26 August, is an opportunity to come together to celebrate the joy, loyalty, and unconditional love dogs bring into our lives. However, it’s also a day to acknowledge the many dogs still waiting for their forever homes in shelters. Image supplied In South Africa, thousands of dogs spend weeks, months, or even years hoping for that moment when someone chooses them. There are more than 1.7 million stray dogs in the country and only 650,000 shelter spaces, a stark reminder that adoption can be life-changing. This year, Hill’s Pet Nutrition marked International Dog Day by setting out to match shelter dogs with their own interim best friends while they wait to find their forever homes. Repurposed Hill’s branded materials, such as old banners, bandanas, shirts, and jackets, were upcycled into colourful, durable dog toys. These toys, affectionately named ‘Hillies’ were hand-delivered to shelters around the country with dogs choosing their favourite toy. These heartwarming moments of the Hillies journey to the shelters to find their perfect match were documented on film and photographed. The pure delight of dogs choosing their new best friends from a pile of toys is beautiful to see. Some dogs pounced immediately; others took their time, sniffing and testing before finding ‘the one.’ Every choice revealed a glimpse of their personality, showcasing that behind every kennel door is a dog with a story. “These moments are more than cute; they're a reminder that every dog deserves to be seen and valued,” says Jackie Quail, Hill’s Shelter Channel Manager. “International Dog Day is about celebrating that bond and inspiring people to consider adoption. The right home, the right care, and the right nutrition can completely transform a dog’s life.” “Remember, while the Hillies toys offer valuable companionship, they are ultimately a stand-in for something deeper: a loving forever home,” Quail adds. For those thinking about adding a dog to their family, Hill’s offers a way to make the journey easier with the Pet Matchmaker app. The app helps potential adopters connect with their ideal match by showcasing shelter dogs ready for adoption. Whether it’s a high-energy puppy needing the right balance of nutrients or a senior dog looking for comfort and support, the Pet Matchmaker app makes it easier to find and care for the perfect companion. How you can celebrate International Dog Day : Download the Pet Matchmaker app to see and make an appointment to meet adoptable pets. If adoption isn’t on the cards for you right now, you can always contact your local shelter to enquire about volunteering. Share your own ‘perfect match’ story on social media using #PetMatchmaker and tagging @hillspetfoodsa “Adoption changes two lives, the dog’s and yours,” says Quail. “Today is the perfect day to take that step and meet the dog that’s been waiting for you.” By sharing these Hillies stories or considering adoption, you can help make a difference. The dogs featured in these videos are all up for adoption and can be found at the following shelters on the Pet Matchmaker App along with many other gorgeous pets waiting for a home. Animal Anti Cruelty League Cape Town Animal Anti Cruelty League Johannesburg Tears Animal Rescue Cape Town Animal Welfare Society Stellenbosch Woodrock Animal Rescue Pretoria   Visit the Hill’s website for more information and click here to view the heartwarming Hillies content

The world's leading luxury tequila, Don Julio, is elevating the culinary landscape of Johannesburg with its new collaboration with Pantry. This exclusive partnership brings Mexico to the heart of South Africa, celebrating the bold and vibrant flavours of Mexican cuisine through a meticulously crafted, limited-edition burger. Image supplied This collaboration serves as a beautiful opportunity to educate consumers on Don Julio beyond the serve, highlighting how  tequila can be enjoyed with food pairings that bring out and celebrate its unique flavour. "At Don Julio, we believe in creating experiences where luxury is not just seen, but tasted, shared, and remembered," says Ifeoma Agu, Head of Culture at Diageo. "This collaboration with The Pantry allows us to showcase that tequila is more than a spirit for sipping; it's a foundation for pairing, for celebration, and for sparking conversations. We’re bringing authentic Mexican flavours to Mzansi in a way that is both intentional and sophisticated." The Don Juliio burger is a journey of flavour and culture, thoughtfully designed to be enjoyed alongside a perfectly paired with a Don Margaritta or Paloma or an age old loved simple serve of tequila and soda or tonic.   Available at Pantry by Marble in Johannesburg, this exclusive creation is retails for  R115.00 and will be available until mid-September. The burger's premium ingredients are curated to offer a symphony of textures and tastes: Juicy beef patty Melted mozzarella Crisp baby gem lettuce Crunchy tortilla chips Creamy guacamole Fresh pico de gallo Smoky chipotle mayo Charred salsa verde Savour the bold and vibrant flavours of Mexico, reimagined for Johannesburg., but hurry, this burger is here for a good time, not a long time.

As winter fades, your skin craves renewal. This is your moment to refresh your beauty ritual and shine unapologetically because glowing isn’t just a look, it’s a lifestyle. image supplied Start your ritual with irresistible Sol de Janeiro delights, indulge in the nourishing Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Body Cream, which smooths and tightens skin with its addictive pistachio and salted caramel scent, ideal for a velvety finish post-shower. Layer it with the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Touch Body Fragrance Oil, a subtle yet enchanting blend that carries a whisper of pistachio and warm amber, elevating your everyday scent to pure luxury. Together with the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Scrub, these three products form the Ultimate Firming Ritual, delivering exfoliation, hydration, and long-lasting scent while irresistibly staying smooth, firm and radiant. BRAZILIAN BUM BUM CREAM FROM R565.00, BUM BUM BODY FIRMEZA OIL FROM R1 100.00 and BUM BUM SCRUB FROM R900 Image supplied SILK PEONY CLEANSING BALM FROM R1 100 Next, elevate your skincare with Sensai’s exquisite Silk Peony Cleansing Balm, which gently melts away impurities, leaving your complexion feeling fresh, soft, and radiant, perfectly prepped to shine through the brighter days. Bring mindfulness into your morning with a peaceful walk at sunrise, a soothing breathwork practice, or simple moments of journaling, a perfect way to ground your vibrant energy before the day begins. Image supplied Spring preparations aren’t just routines, they are invitations of celebrations, because glowing isn;t just how you look, it’s how you live.