Skincare as nature intended is what Kosmea is all about. Certified Organic by the USDA Rose Hip Oil is the cornerstone for all Kosmea products. Visit my Kosmea Store for more info or to order.

Saturday, November 14, 2015

Celebrate The Pumpkin

Celebrate The Pumpkin

Ciao bella,

One of the only saving graces to the end of summer and the start of autumn are the magnificent colors of the season. The grand pumpkin! Bright eye candy! It's an uplifting sight to see them lined up at farm stands and piled up in front of the grocers. Such a sturdy fruit, so yummy and then again another of Mother Nature's beauty treatments and medicinal cures!

This orange squash is native to North America. Approximately 90 percent of pumpkins from United States are grown in Illinois. Pumpkin color can vary but most popular are orange and yellow.

Inside the core, which contains the seeds, is high in nutrients with the seeds having a high Zinc content, known to be terrific for the skin. The Zinc helps to heal acne blemishes and sooth irritated skin. The alpha-hydroxy acids help to exfoliate and revitalize. The pulp is also used to reduce the appearance of scarring. The bright colored fruit are chalk full of multivitamins which nourish the skin.

The vitamin C maintains skin health by preventing the collagen from breaking down. Vitamin A softens and cleanses and softens the skin.

In days gone by it was staple food of the Native Americans. They used it to make medicine and wove dried strips of it into mats. Was also used as a cure for freckles and as a remedy for snakebites! You can find the benefits of pumpkin in your beauty aisle. There are peels and facial masks and anti-aging creams along with lotions, shampoos and body washes.

Here is a do-it-yourself facial with this extraordinary fruit! Mix 2 teaspoons pureed pumpkin, 1/2-teaspoon honey, and 1/4-teaspoon heavy cream. Smooth on face leaving on for 10 minutes. Rinse off with warm water for glowing, smoother skin!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Here's wishing all my associates at The Post-Gazette and my readers a fun and spooky Hallowe'en!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

The Beauty Shoppe

The Beauty Shoppe

Ciao bella,

Mom and Nana in their Beauty Shoppe, circa 1940s
I simply adore live theatre. I attend at every chance I get. Recently I attended "Saturday Night, Sunday Morning" at The Lyric Stage here in Boston.

The whole play was set in a beauty shop of all black women called "Mary's Press and Curl." It was 1945, just before World War II ended. The woman, Mary, lost her husband early on in the war. She decided to turn her big house into a boarding house for women and turned another room into her beauty shop.

The camaraderie of the women as they gathered together with their customers was very touching. Of course each day was a different scenario, however filled with compassion and understanding. They would console the gals in many ways who wondered if their men were coming home to them or if they were even still alive. Remember it was World War II and letters, if any, were far and few between. The men who did return presented another set of problems. The gossip of everyone's business held seat front and center as always in a gathering of women. Yet there was always a sympathetic ear. The shop was a place to vent and break down revealing their feelings. The shop was a place to fantasize and dream of what life will be like in their future. Wishing for better days and also perfect hair. Many experimental hair straightening solutions failed leaving girls vulnerable to ridicule and running to Woolworth's wig department! The shop acted as a refuge to hide from the problems made by the war. It was a place of comfort and sharing.

The memories of my Mom and Nana's Beauty Shoppe came flooding back as reminiscent times told by my Mom so long ago. The familiar "tools of the trade" from the era in the play were very much alike as well. Including the scenarios that women pull through by expressing their inner thoughts to hear advice or a kind word. It got me thinking -- the beauty shoppe was more than just a place to get your hair done.

Beauty and wisdom all do lie in the menu of services in a Beauty Shoppe.

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Saturday, October 17, 2015

Get Scary with LUSH for Hallowe'en 2015

Get Scary with LUSH for Hallowe'en 2015

Ciao bella,

This is one of my favorite times of the year! I started getting my Hallowe'en costume together at the beginning of summer. You must be ready and plan or you'll be wearing your Nana's apron, carrying a spoon and pretending you're a cook or something last minute like that!

Here are some ideas to a spook-takular season!

Get in the mood of the season with LUSH! Their new Hallowe'en limited edition products will help you to smell wickedly good and feeling soft! This year LUSH has packaged up a hanging Pumpkin Ball filled with Lushious goodies as well as a hanging Bat Ball!

The Pumpkin Ball contains Sparkly Pumpkin Bubble Bar to bathe in shimmery, swirling water of bubbles with fruity lime and juniper berry! You'll emerge sparkly and feeling sweet!

Lord of Misrule Bath bomb is a wine colored, mystically scented soak to soften over sun kissed skin!

The Bat Ball contains Nightwing Shower Jelly and a Fang-tastically zesty jelly that smells intoxicatingly delicious. It will brighten up those dark nights!

Lord of Misrule Shower Cream is an herbal wash with a mischievous earthy color! Your body will feel and smell too good and will ward off the nightly ghouls!

So everyone get ready for a spooky season with LUSH and get scared!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Tuesday, October 6, 2015

Airbrush Makeup

Airbrush Makeup

Ciao bella,

Applying a good foundation can be difficult. But when applied properly it should look completely natural. The only way to achieve that true look is professional airbrushing. It will make you camera-ready.

Airbrush make-up has been used for decades by the film industry. As far back as Ben-Hur in the 1920s this technique reigns supreme to cult status. Ever since Demi Moore's 1992 cover shot on Vanity Fair, the actress was wearing nothing but a painted-on suit that a make-up artist created with airbrushing. It caused quite a stir and a trend was set.

Today airbrushing has gone mainstream. From countless celebrities that relied on this flawless look to the everyday woman.

Traditional foundation can look and feel cakey or thick. But airbrush make-up leaves a light seamless veil of color on the skin by misting it on for sheer, flawless coverage. It minimizes imperfections giving skin a natural-looking finish that looks radiant in real-life situations.

What about all those newscasters? Their complexions always look so great. The answer is airbrush make-up. You can now find at your favorite make-up counter airbrush make-up spray. It truly gives a flawless finish!

So for that special occasion whether it's a big birthday, or a bride, or a prom queen, find a salon nearest you that does airbrush make-up, or, do it yourself. Are you ready for your close-up?

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Friday, September 4, 2015

Feed Your Face 2015

Feed Your Face 2015

Ciao bella,

Ahhhhh the ending of summer! Just a few weeks left to enjoy lounging in the sunshine. I always feel that when Labor Day rolls around, that's it! Summer is over! Although we all try to hang on to the last days hoping it will not end so soon. This season I felt many did not fall in sync with the rhythm of summer. Whether it was that devastating winter, the failed MBTA or our complete loss of June?

Anyway here are some fun recipes to cheer up your skin after all the rushing to the next summer fun thing to do!

Get your face and body ready for a natural cleansing and brightening with food from your fridge and pantry.

Exfoliating, Gentle Face Mask: use 4 well ripened mashed strawberries, 1 Tablespoon brown sugar and 1/4 cup Greek yogurt. Mix together and apply as a mask for 10-15 min. Use a damp cloth to buff off. Together the salicylic and lactic acid from strawberries and yogurt help to unclog pores leaving skin fresh. Brown sugar helps to soften.

Honey and Coconut Hair Conditioner: mix 3 Tablespoons coconut oil (less for shorter hair) and 1 Tablespoon honey. Massage into clean, damp hair from shaft down to ends. Leave on for 30 minutes and rinse. Use whenever hair feels dry up to 2 times a week. This protein packed combo acts as a reparative hair mask.

Calming Face Treatment with Cucumber: 2 Tablespoon plain yogurt, 1/2 cuke puréed Apply this mixture like a mask. Relax for 15 minutes then rinse off. Cukes are anti-inflammatory with high levels of caffeic acid to calm irritation and swelling.

Sugar Body Polish: 2 Tablespoon honey, 1/3 cup olive oil, 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt. Make into a paste and rub gently into damp skin for a bit, then rinse off. The sugar granules act like a scrub to smooth. Also combined with the Greek yogurt the paste sloughs dead skin, both containing alpha hydroxy acids. The olive oil and honey retain moisture.

Gardening Trick: before putting on garden gloves. Apply fav hand cream then scrape your fingernails over a bar of soap. (Keeps nails sturdy and clean.) Apply thin plastic gloves then your garden gloves! You'll be already to dig and weed!

OK Glamour Pusses that's the lowdown on a Spa Home Beauty Routine! So go out and enjoy the last weeks of summer beautifully!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Monday, August 17, 2015

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall, Who's The Fairest of Them All?

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall, Who's The Fairest of Them All?

Ciao bella,

Many countries and different centuries claim the discovery of the mirror! However, I found some interesting facts on the mirror, a precious tool of beauty and reflection. It can also be an object for dismay, disappointment, and the truth of what is beauty as we see it.

The first mirrors in ancient times were dark colored container of water. Then in Turkey, around 6000 B.C., people started doing non-water mirrors with highly polished volcanic glass.

Then in Mesopotamia, around 4000 B.C., polished copper mirrors were around. The Chinese were making bronze mirrors in 2000 B.C.

Jumping to the 16th century, Venice was already well known for its blown glass. Mirrors were made from glass with a tin/mercury backing producing an extremely similar reflection we experience today. The Venetians mirror making was precious, lucrative and top secret, so that a renegade craftsmen who tried to sell the formula was assassinated!

It's always been said that in this beginning of reflection, the mirror could only be afforded by the wealthy. The materials to make this high quality mirror and their delicate transport made for a luxurious expense!

Lowering the price of the mirror came from the French. When they learned how the Venetian glass blowers were making the mirror they began mass producing them inevitably lowering the prices in Western Europe.

Today the modern process in making a mirror is called "silvering", by spraying a thin layer of silver or aluminum onto the backside of a sheet of glass. However, most mirrors

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Sunday, August 9, 2015

Hair Removal: the Fun of it All!

Hair Removal: the Fun of it All!

Ciao bella,

My experiences have been all over the board when it comes to hair removal! From so many years of waxing, tweezing and shaving my extraneous hair, it's hardly a problem anymore. One good thing of getting older hair does get scarcer -- unfortunately on the top of your head as well. I still have plenty.

Recently my best hair removal, especially for facial hair, is Naad's. Developed by a Mom in Australia whose daughter had very sensitive skin. Once hair is removed, the residue can be washed off with water! Wish this product were around when I was young and hairy! When I used this hair removal product it lasted for several weeks! Hair growth becomes slower.

Then there's waxing which should be done professionally. Keeps hair gone for several weeks as well. After waxing so many years I do attribute that to my lesser hair experience as of today!

My eyebrows are a bit thin than I would like them for the style of the day. Although waxing under my arms left that area sensitive and now can only use a certain deodorant.

Shaving anywhere isn't great, however, it is very quick. Fine for legs although they must be done every week. It's a myth that shaving your facial hair promotes hair growth. The razor cuts a blunt edge making hair look thicker.

I've used a depilatory that dissolves the hair just a few times. For all the fuss, mess and odor it has to be used once a week.

And then there is the epilator, which looks very painful! It rips the hair out of its root in a wide margin. So if you have pain tolerance and invest in one your hair will stay gone for several weeks with the prospect of not returning so heavy.

Any Hair Removal product you use that removes the hair from the root will eventually make hair growth lesser and sparser.

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Thursday, July 9, 2015

Eyebrows Are a Matter of Choice!

Eyebrows Are a Matter of Choice!

Ciao bella,

Japanese noblewomen in the 8th century practiced "hikimayu," encouraging the shaving or plucking of their eyebrows so they could paint ones higher on the forehead.

Today there are many styles and shapes one can choose from, however which shape will look best on you? Well groomed brows will balance your features and frame your eyes. Eyebrows that are incorrectly shaped can throw off the shape of your face. Go to a professional, "Andrea at Eyestarr," on Newbury St in Boston. Voted Best of Boston for her fabulous individual eyelash extensions that last for weeks, she has trained to shape your brows to flatter your best expression. She takes care of many prominent women in Boston. After all Eyebrows can be a form of a facial expression depicting your mood whether it be happy, flirty or sad! One of my favorite ladies of the Silver Screen that graced a lovely, thick arched brow was Audrey Hepburn. You'll see her at Andrea's Eyelash Boutique!

IT Cosmetics by Jamie Kern has put out "BROW POWER" which is a universal pencil with brow enhancing technology. After Andrea shaped my brows and I went home to do my cleansing ritual washing off her magic, the next day I did need filling in since Mother Nature or whatever has thinned mine out. The IT Brow Pencil is fabulous to fill-in or even make your brows thicker. The universal, transforming shade adjusts to your brow color! Press softer for lighter hair, press harder for darker hair! For a finishing touch brush through brows for a natural polished look! The IT Pencil has a spooley brush on the opposite end for easy application.

Look for it at Beautylish.com or www.itcosmetics.com! And shape up!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Sunday, June 21, 2015

BRUSH YOUR WAY TO BEAUTY!

BRUSH YOUR WAY TO BEAUTY!

Ciao bella,

Make-up brushes have always played an important part in my beauty routine. I've gone through several sets in my lifetime. From hand painted, to hand carved, to natural bristles, to artificial bristles, I've enjoyed them all! Right now I have two sets on my vanity and travel sets in every bureau.

The ones on my vanity have a clear acrylic handle with gold specs that are quite glam. The other set are just plain wooden handles with a good tight brush.

The brushes are all different depending the cosmetic you are applying. The newest brush for me out of my collection is the Kabuki with a short handle. It's truly great for highlighting cheekbones, applying mineral powder, and contouring in general.

Using the appropriate brush with your mirror to apply your cosmetic product blends better in the skin tone achieving professional results! A Foundation Brush as well as The Face Sponge also helps to blend foundation into skin with velvet like results. A Powder Brush is soft, full and rounded with fluffy bristles. Use this brush over foundation to seal in cosmetic. A Concealer Brush is flat with a pointed tip and a soft wide base. It's great for blending concealer product under your eyes or wherever you may need it.

In 1835 a German chemist mass produced mirrors by depositing a thin layer of metallic silver onto glass! Mirrors were luxuries along with makeup brushes for the wealthy. Makeup brushes were probably invented by the Egyptians with a finding of a bronze one dating back to A.D. 500! The Germans are credited for inventing the modern makeup brush.

Shenzhen near Hong Kong boasts more than 200 factories that manufacture makeup brushes. A tremendous amount of labor goes into these hand tied and hand trimmed tools for beauty.

I lighten up on my makeup routine in the summer. I like a little tan and Mother Nature's blush all SPF infused safety! However on a night out to look and feel special, out come my brushes to sweep me away into Beauty Land!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Saturday, June 6, 2015

"Eyestarr Will Flutter Your World"

"Eyestarr Will Flutter Your World"

Ciao bella,

Eyelashes are an important part of your face! A quick make-up is lip color, mascara and brow powder/pencil and out the door we go. Lately I've been getting lazy on the mascara. It starts to feel heavy by afternoon. But then when I look at my mirror without it I can see bland Mary. I had to change something to make life easier and still capture the glamour gal that I am.

I decided to make an appointment with Andrea Starr on Newbury Street here in Boston. I had read a raving review on her individual eyelash extensions she adheres to your own lashes. Walking into EYESTARR, an Eyelash and Brow Bar Boutique was a pleasure. I felt comfortable immediately with Andrea's gentle and calm professional manner. Her modern '40s decor included framed photos of Marilyn Monroe (my very fav), Lucille Ball, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and more! There were comfortable chairs to wait and loungers when your lashes are applied!

After two weeks I have just felt so "Hollywood" everyday with my new lashes that just sweep up so elegantly! Easy to care for with a few lengths to choose from, Andrea is an expert in her field. She is also in the process of developing her own line of products including an eyebrow enhancer that will strengthen and grow in a fuller brow.

Now I just don't have to spend all that time waving around that mascara wand. I will enjoy them as long as my lash cycle lasts. That's just about four to six weeks. After one day I felt like they are my very own. Must remember not to rub or pull at them. Cleanse your face with a face cloth as usual and cleanse your lashes with Baby Shampoo. Spray them with water once a day to keep them hydrated. So easy!

So for a satisfying cosmetic pick me up try EYESTARR Lash Boutique on Newbury Street and put some Hollywood glam in your life!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Monday, May 25, 2015

Get Ready for Summer 2015 with Lush

Get Ready for Summer 2015 with Lush

Ciao bella,

After our brutal winter I've decided to clean out my cosmetic closet with the used up and use by date products. Out with the old and in with the new! I just sampled some LUSH-ious products that really hit the spot to cure it all! Scent-sible fragrances to take you into the sunshine!

LUSH will scrub your skin clean gently and leave a favorable feel good scent always! The aroma therapy is key to uplift any gal's spirit. Here is a list for some summer goodies.

COALFACE CLEANSER - contains licorice root and coconut oil that deeply cleanses your skin and pores leaving skin moisturized. Coal is the the new clean and coconut oil is the new moisture in today's cosmetic world.

FUN SOFTY SOAP- one of my fav favorites! 4 in 1 self preserving pliable soap to mold into fun shapes for body, hair and bubble bath. Tangy lime, lemon dreamy scented with essential oils. Sales from this bar go to The FUNd local project in Japan providing fun and safe play to children in neighborhoods where Fukushima nuclear disaster contaminated areas so badly that children are no longer to play outside. That's what LUSH does all over the world!

DREAMWASH- cooling calamine and soothing aloe vera gel cleanses your skin leaving you baby soft. Essentially needed for irritated summer skin or for everyday of the year. Great companion to Lush Dream cream hand and body lotion with same blend of essential oils both for difficult skin.

THE SUN SPRITZ- what we have been waiting for!! A burst of sensual Brazilian Orange Oil, Mimosa Absolute, Sandalwood Oil and Limonene! Wow essence!

Indulge with the new and out with the old!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Saturday, May 9, 2015

Leadership is Key

Leadership is Key

Ciao bella,

There are some moments in your life that you can remember forever. Another one of those moments happened when I was invited to be a member on The Advisory Board of The Cosmetology/Barbering course at The Greater Lawrence Technical School in Andover. Bring on the ideas and experience of a 3rd generation Cosmetologist! Mom and Nana would be proud! I was so excited to participate in this honor of being chosen by colleagues to be a part of GLTS's future with its students.

I toured the Cosmetology School with a teacher Linda M. whom I worked with many moons ago at her salon "Champagne." Absolute joy!

Those were the days my friend of enjoying a fun job, making lots of cash, loving your craft of making people feel and look great! The many memories of my Cosmetology School days rushed in. Our "silent dolls", the practice manikin heads were plentiful here at the school with some pretty amazing braids and styles. Bravo Linda! You're teaching them well. Of course, practice on the silent dolls is great for learning, however, it is nothing to it compared to getting on the floor in a real, live salon, dealing with real, live people who talk! During our first meeting all of us professionals were trying to explain that to a student who passed her cosmetology test recently. Congrats! However it's the real world that counts. Besides once you receive your license after school in Massachusetts, it's only a permit to work in a salon. Then after working, getting experience for 2 years you will receive your Class 1 Cosmetologist License that allows you to open your own salon. It's a big deal! Two years is long for some.

I was stunned to see the cosmetology textbook quadrupled in size compared to mine back in the '70s. You could barely pick it up! Learn well my future fellow colleagues.

I really feel like I can give some good advice to the committee and recommend a "Shadow" program that was brought up at the meeting. A program that would encourage students to interact in salons, experience the real world and at the same time achieve the confidence they need to succeed. I've seen the program nourish and teach the passion I hold dear with tremendous success!

Go forth all of you future stylists and curl it and swirl it!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Monday, April 27, 2015

What Is Beauty? Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder! Better than Calgon!

What Is Beauty? Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder! Better than Calgon!

Ciao bella,

As I sit, here on Brattle Street in Harvard Square, I almost thought it would be forever before I would enjoy a spring breeze! The birds are playfully pecking at each other and singing their welcoming songs of spring. The crocuses are busting up out of their mulched ground. Peeking through their green sprouts are shades of white, purple and yellow. They will smell so delightful.

People dining upstairs and outside at The Algiers Restaurant next door, casually discussing the problems of the world and their upcoming courses. Next door, where I'm enjoying a lovely bench in front of The Cambridge Center for Adult Education, I see my classmates and Cabanaland friends strolling from lunch. It seems I hadn't seen them for months, and I haven't! All had negative descriptions of the past season we just survived --enough about that! This lovely spring day is all that matters now -- the beauty of it all.

Looking forward to baseball season, lazy sunshine days in Cabanaland, and outdoor dining there!

The sand and sea touch our feet and we will come alive. We shall never again take for granted these beautiful days! Or at least not for a very long time!

So step out and actually feel the spring breezes caress your body and soul! It's a beautiful thing!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Monday, April 6, 2015

Hair Gone-thanks to Sue Ismiel!

Hair Gone-thanks to Sue Ismiel!

Ciao bella,

Building an empire isn't easy! However with determination and need, Sue, an Australian housewife, has become an inspirational woman and innovative entrepreneur. She has developed her iconic Australian company, NAD'S, a gentle hair removal company, with an enviable global reputation. Starting this trend was Sue's middle daughter who was not able to find a hair remover gentle enough for her sensitive skin. So Mom went on to create NAD'S Hair Removal Gel. From ingredients she had in her own kitchen came a gentle, natural, and effective hair removal product. And so NAD'S was born!

After a successful run of infomercials in Australia, NAD'S was launched in 1998 in the US and reached the pinnacle of success. She was inundated with orders, air freighting one 40-foot container to US every single day!

This phenomenal success of this one product allowed Sue and her three daughters to develop a range of innovative depilatory products.

Sue and her husband have given back to the community tenfold. As one example: Sue has become an exemplary philanthropist encouraging women, some less fortunate, to become owners of their own companies. The list of "paying it forward" for Sue and her family goes on and on!

Hear ye, hear ye! Summer is right around the corner! Let's get ready with some wonderful and gentle hair removal from NAD'S.

NAD'S Body Wax Strips -for face and body for last minute touch-ups, crafted with natural beeswax.

NAD'S Natural Remover Gel -- the original NAD'S, no heating, natural ingredients, gel washes away easily with water.

NAD'S Facial Wand Eyebrow Shaper -- slim line twist action applicator tame facial hair and eyebrows. Pop it in your purse! I love this because it's simple & quick!

NAD'S Brazilian & Bikini Wax -- for an all summer tamed bikini line, cheeky bikini shapes, no backing strips necessary.

Please find NAD'S at Walgreens, Target, and Safeway, and more.

So gals and guys let's all go hairless and feel some soft smooth skin!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Friday, March 20, 2015

Face, Skin and Hair Food- try it you'll like it!

Face, Skin and Hair Food- try it you'll like it!

Ciao bella,

Everyone has been talking about how they survived the winter of 2015. Come on we're hearty New Englanders and choose to live here. The winter camaraderie was actually quite entertaining. Of course I could sit back and listen and see it all. My commuter rail days of running to the train are gone. I live across from the Massachusetts State House so the snow removal is fantastic and I don't have a roof to worry about since I don't own a home. In over 24 years of living here I have never picked up a shovel and the electricity has never flickered. I consider myself lucky and enjoyed the beautiful snow and ice formations from pictures, Facebook, and my window. Beauty is everywhere.

Spring is around the corner and I've found some food recipes to use on your body to cleanse, hydrate and feel human again.

  1. Natural Skin Scrub-use sugar or salt with one-third cup of olive oil and adding a few drops of your fav scented extract. Gently rub on damp skin in circular motion while concentrating on rough spots. Rinse off. This will remove dead skin cells so skin looks brighter and feels softer.

  2. Clove Hair Conditioner-known to thicken hair and enhance brown color. Boil one cup of water with two tablespoons of whole cloves for five min. Leave it overnight straining twice in the A.M. Use once a week over strands before detangle conditioner. You'll have soft, fuller hair.

  3. Exfoliating Facial- make a paste with baking soda, honey and a few drops of water. Apply for five min., then rinse. This mask will gently absorb excess oil while gently exfoliating leaving skin soft and clear.

So if this record-breaking winter has got you down? Just use these few spa-home pick me ups for a lift and think of all the spring flowers that will be coming your way!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

"Queene Helene" -- going strong since the 1930s

"Queene Helene" -- going strong since the 1930s

Ciao bella,

There are a zillion face remedies out there. You must find the one that's right for you for whatever complexion malady you may face. One standby for over 75 years strong is Queene Helene Mint Julep Face Masque. I'm sure most of my audience has heard of it and may even use it. The Mint Julep Masque is one of those stand by products that lives up to its name and reputation.

In the 1940s my Nana and Mom's salon not only used the product on their customers but also retailed it. I remember it always around. The all time favorite green masque helps to extract purities, absorb excess oil and minimize pores. Just one time after use your skin is purified and oil free with a velvety touch complexion. It works so well on normal skin although great for oily and acne prone complexions. The best news is its quite inexpensive. I've been educating gals for years that you don't have to break the bank for good skin care.

The founder of Queene Helene, Richard Estrin, expanded his knowledge of the beauty industry by obtaining a degree in Chemistry. In New York he became a partner in Para Laboratories a cosmetics lab. This is where Mr. Estrin launched his hair and skin line of Queene Helene proudly named after his daughter when a fellow sales rep referred to his baby as "Queen Helene!"

So for soft clear skin go green today!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Japanese-Style Watercolor Nail Art

Japanese-Style Watercolor Nail Art

Ciao bella,

As a Nail Technician, when I worked mostly full time, I enjoyed painting art on finished polished nails. I owned different fine brushes and painted free style art with some rhinestones to glam it up. I owned a nail art paintbrush kit and would sometimes decorate one or two nails on each hand or sometimes all ten. Rainbows of colored stripes and swirls, flowers and gold accents with a holiday decal were my fun and quick specialty. Certainly made people happy!

Recently there has been a new development in the world of nail art. Hailing from Tokyo, with a home and salon also in Vancouver, Canada, comes an innovative gal. Her name is Jasmine, a Japanese Nailist who is a certified nail artist. She trained in Yokohama and wants to bring Japanese nail art to the forefront of our industry creating Neiru! This is a subscriber online workshop to train Nail techs the latest in Japanese trends, technique and style. The watercolor art is just amazing, simulating a unique and one-of-a-kind design. Picture your fav watercolor painting and visualize a small part of it on your nail! Perhaps a flower which Neiru is popular.

So the next time you make a manicure appointment

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Sunday, January 25, 2015

Dry, Itchy Skin? Tame It Now!

Dry, Itchy Skin? Tame It Now!

Ciao bella,

This time of year is such a struggle to keep warm and moisturized! I have bottles of moisturizer and massage bars for my hands and skin everywhere in my house and purse. One thing I must say is I never had such dry and itchy skin since these last couple of years. Oh Mother Nature you are trying my patience once again!

Here are some dry skin helpers from my arsenal--

LUSH has as array of wonderful massage bars. Containing essential oils to sooth and smooth your skin and mood!

  • New - PEARL: scented with Rose and textured with tapioca and sago bubbles to work out knots.
  • New- YES YES YES: exotically scented with jasmine, ylang ylang, rose and sandalwood oils.
  • My fav Lush scent and moisture product is AFRICAN PARADISE! After showering apply this African Flower scented wonder on wet skin then rinse off. Hypnotic.

On my kitchen counter, bedside and next to my TV chair are small pump bottles of OPI Avojuice Quenchers in all the most lovely scents. Just to name a few are orange/vanilla, hibiscus blossom and ginger lily. You can find the small bottles in my purse. Many wonderful scents to choose from! It's lovely and lightly scented and absorbs into skin and last for hours. I just love the pump style since it is easy and quick. Find these at your local salon.

Cuccio is the word! Their Body Butters come in many scents including unscented and most popular the Milk and Honey dreamy scent. It absorbs into your skin and best used after cleansing. Works as a barrier on your skin until you wash it off. You wouldn't know you had cream on your skin! So unbelievably soft! Light scent. Also at your salon.

A big hit with my clients were Bodi Pure's moisturizing gloves and socks. A waterless high-level of moisture benefits. Heals skin and strengthens nails all in one! Just slip on for 20-30 minutes and there you'll have once again touchable and lasting soft Hands and Feet. Call me to find any of the professional products!

So all you winter babes should take my advice to stay soft and smelling fresh with these tried and true products!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.

Monday, January 12, 2015

Vicki Peters, Jan. 1954 - Dec. 31st, 2014, "A Nail Industry Pioneer"

Vicki Peters, Jan. 1954 - Dec. 31st, 2014, "A Nail Industry Pioneer"

Ciao bella,

You always hope that the New Year will bring a fresh beginning, whether to start something over or take a new path in whatever your dreams hold. However to lose someone who mentored you immeasurably in your career just at the start of a New Year truly reflects on my past accomplishments. I took it for granted.

I had the pleasure of meeting Vicki Peters many moons ago when nail shows were locally easy to get to! She became an icon in the nail industry. Wearing many hats in her never ending career as working in a salon, nail competitions, consulting, having her own line of products and the way I came to know her best was writing for and cover photos for my (nail Bible) fav mag NAILS MAGAZINE! She was also known for many other nail publications.

As an award winning professional Vicki demonstrated her championship nail expertise as a global educator training nail techs from around the world with online educational programming. Always a staunch advocate for nail techs her determination never wavered!

When I say, "Took it for granted," I'll explain. I would receive my monthly Nails magazine and always couldn't wait to see the latest products, nail colors and nail fashions! And there would be Vicki doing some extraordinary task to make our industry a noteworthy profession. The inspiration was always there with Vicki. Her educational Nail Cruises to the islands always sounded so amazing that I thought someday I might actually have the privilege to sail with this mighty group of nail techs. Just the idea was enough encouragement to be the best I can be as a nail tech. Of course Vicki's passion set me on a successful course in my trade.

Her stories of accomplishment and fame will forever be cherished from all of us who knew her. As for the newbies get a grip on Vicki's philosophies and let her ideas flourish so you can be the best YOU can be! Pay it forward darlings!

Buona giornata and God bless the United States of America!

--Mary N. DiZazzo-Trumbull


Read prior weeks' "All That Zazz" columns at www.allthatzazz.com. Mary is a third-generation cosmetologist and a Massachusetts distributor of Kosmea brand rose hip oil products. She may be contacted at (978) 470-8183 or mary@mary4nails.com.