olive oil soap

[Two size options of 100% olive oil soaps from Zeetoon]

In a world in which we’ve been bombarded with innovation in beauty products with a dizzying array of new formulations and chemicals, sometimes getting back to basics via natural ingredients concocted into centuries old, tried and true recipes is all your body really needs to look and feel great.

As an Italian gal who can’t get enough of olive oil beauty products, I’ve tried everything from hand and body soap to face oil, hair serums and even DIY’ed lipstick remover with a dab of EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) from my kitchen, you can say that I know a thing or two about the amazing beauty and health benefits of using this fabulous, antioxidant-rich fruit.

A brand that is certainly doing it right in this category is Michele Shamiyeh, founder of Zeetoon soap (which means “olive” in Arabic), who was inspired by the traditional soap makers found in Lebanon. After she researched, tested out, and scoured the Mediterranean for the best options, Ms. Shamiyeh brought forth a 100% olive oil soap that is hard bar, thanks to a process that extracts the glycerin after curing the soap in small batches to make a sturdy, solid bar that will endure through dozens of uses as well as provide ultra moisturizing properties. As a result of her efforts, these first pressed extra virgin Lebanese olive oil soaps are easy to find in the USA and use, great for everything from the body to the face, appropriate for all skin types, even sensitive ones, and even safe for children.

The handmade soaps are fairly traded and come in a tightly edited variety of five Zeetoon soaps in two shapes (square or a rectangular bar) that include a select amount of scented extracts and oils. I tested out several of them this week, loving that the essence of rose found in the rose bar contains properties can treat skin concerns such as broken capillaries and eczema, while Zeetoon’s honey bar goes on smooth, with a clear layer that not only extra hydrates, but makes a great protective barrier for shaving.

Used in your shower or set on a soap dish in your guest bathroom, Zeetoon bars are sure to be put to good use time and time again, thanks to the ancient formulas that will have your body thanking you for all the natural goodness you’ll be receiving!

See Zeetoon.com for scent, size, and pricing options (approx. $7.58-$8.66 per soap).

[After a week of use, my Zeetoon rose bar is still looking pretty good!]

Fashion Pulse Flash of the Week

The SEPHORA COLLECTION Luxe Combo Travel Brush, $15, is literally the most amazing mini brush I’ve ever used in my entire life. With both plastic and boar bristles, it detangles, smoothes and softens, giving my hair the look of actually being brushed! It really is like a regular-sized brush, just with a mini handle, making it easily portable for every day use and travel convenience. I’m so glad I bought this for myself, as it’s my new favorite beauty item!

[Some of my favorite T.J.Maxx beauty finds]

I was thrilled to discover that I had a T.J.Maxx gift card yet to be spent, and couldn’t help but indulge in some bath and body care items! Some of the products came in generous sizes, so that I can ensure they will last and last throughout the year. From bath balls to sea salts and olive oil soap (my favorite!) I found plenty of options from my favorite brand names to use now, share, and stash for later. I picked all of these up at the T.J.Maxx store at 59th Street and First Avenue; where is your favorite location?

[From left to right; looks from Freya Swim and Huit Lingerie for spring 2014]

Eveden Brands previewed the latest from its lineup of luxurious lingerie and swimwear brands with options for all sizes across the selections by Elomi, Fantasie, Huit, Freya, Fauve, and Goddess. Trends that surfaced in the category, destined to be popular for spring 2014 include lace inserts, retro cuts and prints, and sensual yet practical peek-a-boo detailing. My two personal favorites, Huit and Freya, encapsulated special occasion and silhouettes for daily wear, making it hard to choose just one set to take home with me!

The luxury French skin care line Yon-Ka Paris has recently launched the HYDRA Nº1 Collection, which includes a serum, a fluid, and a cream that fights aging by penetrating the skin with an incredible dose of hydration. Featuring two kinds of hyaluronic acid to successfully seep through the skin, other ingredients include essential oils such as rose, chamomile, and jasmine, along with aloe vera and Vitamins A, C, and E. Some additional benefits of the product line up is that the products are 89%-95% comprised of natural ingredients, paraben free, and have the flexibility to be applied day and night. Products range from $72-$82 per item, and can be purchased at fine stores and spas nationwide, as well as online at BeautyHabit.com, Dermstore.com, and others.