New York ~ Goodies & Beauties

PROVENCE SANTE: I recently came across a natural - mostly organic - professional skincare brand that I've been playing around with in my bathroom in the last few days.... As most of you know, I only use 100% natural, ayurvedic or homemade products in my beauty rituals but, I'll admit, I'm always game to try something new. I had heard good things about Provence Sante, so I decided to gibe it a try - I did and my skin, who is the only fair judge, was happily surprised. 
I loved their BambooPeachFacialScrub. The fruity smell was very subtle yet enjoyable and the particles were small enough to be gentle yet strong to do their job and leave my skin nice and smooth. 
I also liked their BorageAlmondCoconutAntiAgeingMask (yes, you gotta start early...) and I cannot wait to apply on a sticky NYC summer night, as it had a pleasant cooling effect. 
Their MangoCacaoCarrotTintedCream left a nice glow on my winter cheeks, which was quite appreciated too. 
Next on my list will be their OrganicEyeAndLipContour and I'd also love to try their different oils! What would you try?
stardustbeauty.com                                                                                                                Pictures: courtesy of  Provence Sante

HAIRMATES: Yes, It's been 3 years already since I last lived in NYC and I still managed to get my hair cut by Mika @HairMates whenever I visited during those 3 years... That's how good she is and how much I like this no-frill Japanese hair salon around Astor Place. Mika is not the kind of hair-dresser who's afraid to touch you, neither the artist-wannabe acting all deep and s##t... She just knows what she's doing, she feels you and your hair, she almost gets in some kind of meditation (or that might just be me, that's how much I love getting my hair done)... Long story short, if you want to give your greenjuicedhealthyvibrant mane a shape, HairMates is the place to go and Mika the person to ask for!
www.hairmates-ny.com

LIVE LIVE AND ORGANIC: Have your ever heard of Ali Baba's cave? Well I might have just found my own cave... Right in the heart of the East Village, Live Live (pronounced "leave-lyve") has as many references similar to your neighborhood health food store (natural skincare, superfood, raw chocolate bars, supplements, snacks...) except that everything is super nicely merchandised, clean, colorful, flowered, vibrant...  just a beautiful little store with a stunning artsy window! They distribute various brands but also have their own and are really well know for their Be Yummy Skin Food, an edible face cream made with honey, propolis, bee pollen, royal jelly and other 100% natural goodies that will nourish your skin like nobody's business! I tried it and my dry skin for the last few frigid days was gone in no time! Very unique finds such as liquid crystal deodorant, E3 Live soaps, Pure Synergy superfood blend, Chaga anti-aging tincture make Live Live my favorite lifestyle store in NYC!
www.live-live.com

PRATIMA SPA: I can't express how much I love Pratima Spa. My universe opened up to the world of Ayurveda when I stumbled upon Pratima website many years ago, thanks to a series of synchronistic searches. I have been hooked ever since...
If YOU are looking for the best massages (Cynthia is amazing) and facials in town (Mina will make you glow like noone), look no further, Pratima is THE place to go. The experience will start from the hallway where you'll smell the warming scents of essential oils and opening that door will take you to a whole other dimension, pure bubble of bliss and TLC. You'll also be able to get 100% natural ayurvedic skincare products for the magic to continue in the comfort of your own home. 
Trust me, your mind, body and soul (and skin!) will thank you for stepping in... 
www.pratimaskincare.com                                                                                                 Pictures: courtesy of  pratimaskincare.com