Category: Beauty

Anyone in the beauty community can tell you brows are a hot topic and an important feature. From sharply defined arches to soft, fluffy and natural looks, there are countless ways to achieve whatever brow style you’re after. But, if you’re looking for something more permanent than daily cosmetics, you may want to consider nano-blading, and the technicians at Merle Norman Cosmetics will be your new go-to!

Nano-blading is a form of semi-permanent cosmetic tattooing that is used to create shaped, full brows. Unlike micro-blading, nano-blading uses fine and flexible pins to deliver pigment and create thin strokes that mimic natural hairs, with less trauma to the skin.

Techniques used in nano-blading not only thicken the appearance of your brows, but can also aid in re-shaping the brow, and filling in thin spots. Because the pins are incredibly small, or micro, the application is precise and extremely accurate, and with proper aftercare, the results can last for years.

When you begin your nano-blading journey, a Merle Norman Cosmetics technician will consult with you to determine your desired eyebrow shape and colour. From there, they’ll mark out the shape, tidy up your natural brows if necessary, and apply a numbing cream to the area being bladed. Then it’s time to nano-blade and fill in the area with fine hair-like strokes to give you the brows you’ve always wanted.

During the healing process, your brows may look darker than you anticipated. This is totally normal and in just a few weeks, your nano-bladed brows will blend seamlessly with your natural hairs.

Once everything is fully healed it’s important to see your technician again for a follow-up. At this point, your trusty technician will evaluate how your nano-blading healed and may make a few final adjustments or additions to ensure your brows are nothing less than perfection.

PROMOTION

Pssst…while you’re thinking about brows, Merle Norman Cosmetics is offering Twelve Dollar Tuesdays for the month of May. Get your brows done in-store for only $12 and say hello to a whole new look*! Visit in-store for more details. *offer not valid on micro or nano-blading.

We do cardio for our heart health; take fish oil for our brains; wear blue light glasses to avoid eye strain. But what about our skin?

Skin is the largest organ in the human body and it’s more than just a covering. Our skin is a barrier that protects us, warms us and regulates our temperature, and is one of our body’s first lines of defence. It’s time to treat it right—especially in the winter.

Say it with us: MOISTURE. Hydrating your skin is vital not only to its look (Hello healthy glow? It’s us, we miss you.) but its functionality. And moisture starts internally. Getting enough water is a key component to the health of your skin overall (and there’s tons of other health benefits to drinking water, too). But it’s hard to trade in a vanilla latte for a bottle of Evian. Try adding some sliced fruit like lemon, lime, or strawberries, to your water, or a few sprigs of mint to easily and naturally flavour your drink. Or look for liquid collagen (aka the beauty vitamin—great for skin, hair, and nails) and vitamin mixes you can add to your glass of H2O giving you the benefit of internal hydration with an extra kick. Find them at Nutrition House.

TLC wasn’t wrong when they said, “I don’t want no scrub” but the scrub we want belongs in your bath or shower routine. Scrubs are an effective way to exfoliate, removing flaky dead skin cells to brighten your complexion and release your inner glow. But remember to be gentle—avoid using scrubs on delicate skin like your face and don’t overdo it or you can cause microtears. The Body Shop has an incredible range of scrubs for you to choose from.

Mask up. No, not just when you leave the house but at home, too. Face masks can be a great boost of hydration and relaxing way to soothe and care for your skin. Plus, there’s something out there for everyone no matter what your skin type or product preference. Step into Sephora and try traditional mud masks, luscious gel, or go quick and convenient with a ready-to-go sheet mask.

Seek out a specialist. When it doubt, consult with a product specialist or aesthetician to learn more about what products to use (and avoid) and how to care for your skin. With the right products and a set routine, we know you’ll love the skin you’re in.

If the idea of camping makes you think of mosquito bites, sunburns, and family fights trying to pitch a tent you’re not alone. Camping may not be for everyone but with a few essentials and slight upgrades you can glamp (glamorous camping) comfortably. We put together a list to help you save time so you can pack your glamping go-to bag quickly and get ready to hit the beach, park, or patio of your favourite re-opened restaurant.

GET A CUTE BAG

Who doesn’t love a hands-free option to carry all your stuff? Show off your maple leaf pride just in time for the long weekend with a cute Canadian drawstring bag from Hudson’s Bay.

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Don’t know how to pack light? Don’t worry about it. A simple tote from Hudson’s Bay is all you need to hold all your stuff. And we mean all your stuff.

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BE READY FOR ON-THE-GO TOUCH-UPS

Sephora goodies, galore! Tans are great but may we suggest some sunscreen? Even if you manage to score a comfy seat in the shade, you still need an SPF. Reach for a lightweight, hydrating, silky sunscreen and remember to reapply. Trust us, your skin will thank you.

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Okay so, it’s possible you might break a nail while on your glamping adventure but don’t fret. A glass nail file is all you need to touch up your mani between spa appointments. The benefits of glass files are huge not to mention they last forever! And who wouldn’t want a cute floral set?!

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Protect and polish your pout. Stay fabulous and selfie-ready with a bright lip stain that offers the benefits of a balm with pop of colour that screams summer.

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Got a little sweaty? It happens. Wipe the day away and freshen up with a soothing coconut water wipe. This purse pack is just what you need to stay fresh and smell great.

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HAVE A DRINK

How do you make the great outdoors even greater? Cocktails. That’s right. Shake up a martini, keep the wine cool, and sip slowly on your favourite adult beverages. Be an environmentally friendly glamper with reusable straws from House of Knives. Snag an adjustable ready-to-go set (meaning it’s the perfect size no matter what chic glass you’re sipping from) that packs down into a compact case—perfect for on the go!

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No one wants a warm drink. Keep those bevvies cold with their own chic cooler bag from Hudson’s Bay. As a bonus, the more you drink, the lighter it is to carry.

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No matter where you’re spending your long weekend and how adventurous you get, we know you’ll be prepared and stylish, from start to finish.