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.

Thursday, October 10, 2019

Italian Movie Stars: Olive-skinned Beauties

Italian Movie Stars: Olive-skinned Beauties

Ciao bella,

Mirror, mirror, on the wall who’s the fairest of them all? — “Olive” them”
Keeping the rhythm in celebrating Italian Heritage Month, let’s remember some of the beautiful women of Italy from the silver screen.

Silvana Mangano, born in Rome, 1930. Famous for her role in the earthy Bitter Rice. She was so sexy working in the rice fields. Later Lucille Ball did a hilarious spoof of this story in one of her I Love Lucy episodes. Remember “Bitter Grapes,” when Lucy was spotted by a famous Italian movie director and was chosen to play a part in his new movie? It ends with her now famous grape stomping vat scene.

In 1947 Silvana won the Miss Italia contest and became “The Queen.” The third runner-up in that contest was another beauty queen, Gina Lollobrigida. She was born on July 1937, also in Rome. In Hollywood she was well-known for her break-out movie with Humphrey Bogart, a John Huston film, Beat the Devil. In 1955, as her popularity and fi lm roles increased, she was tagged as “the most beautiful woman in the world.”

And then there’s Sophia Loren, also born in Rome, in 1934. She may have been the voluptuous sex goddess as an adult, but as a skinny child growing up in Naples she was nicknamed, “the stick.”

In 1961, she received an Academy Award for Two Women. That certainly advanced her budding career in Hollywood. In 1991 she also received a second, special Academy Award for the whole of her outstanding career.

Here’s a quote from Sophia, “A woman’s dress should be like a barbed-wire fence: serving its purpose without obstructing the view.”

Isabella Rossellini, born in Rome in June 1942, who I had the pleasure of meeting in Boston at a book signing! Besides being a well known Italian actress she was a filmmaker, philanthropist, model for LancĂ´me, and an author. Her movies were quite memorable such as Blue Velvet, Big Night, Death Becomes Her and she received a Golden Globe nomination for Crime Of The Century.

A beauty from Umbria, Italy, born in 1964 is Monica Bellucci. She started her career as a successful model and went on to a film career, debuting on TV in 1990. She starred in Bram Stoker’s Dracula in 1992. Her career shot to stardom when she won the French equivalent of an Oscar nomination for the French thriller, L’Appartement in 1996.

And last, but not least, what we know her best for is her fabulous portrayal of Mary Magdalene in the The Passion of the Christ.

I’m sure you’ll agree these beauties are to be celebrated.

38C-24-38 — can anyone guess whose form this is? Check this space for the answer in my next column!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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, September 8, 2019

Beauty is “Outlander”!

Beauty is “Outlander”!

Ciao bella,

Summer is gone so we must fill in our days of fantasy! So who’s hooked on this marvelous tale of love, beauty, and adventure? I never would have believed in my lifetime that a story so well told could capture one's soul.

The main character is a healer. I have learned of the many herbs she used as a 17th century Scottish lady that are still used today. Beauty and healing rituals with herbs are and have been used for hundreds of years. These herbs found their way to Scotland.

Here are some:

Greater Celandine - applied directly to the skin is used to remove warts and ease symptoms of eczema. Also known as St. John's wart and also used for other internal maladies.

Camomile - used to help acne and tend inflammation. Wonderful as a prepared tea.

Lavender - as an essential oil has powerful antiseptic properties. Used to help inflammation. Also decreases the appearance of scars.

Ransoms - used as a tea to cleanse and strengthen the blood.

Valerian - known to treat cases of anxiety, insomnia, and stress, used to this day. The Greeks used it to ward off evil and used sprigs of it under their window sill.

Turmeric - known for its great healing powers for its detoxifying and regenerative qualities.

Garlic - has many healing properties as an anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral medicine.

Comfrey - increases cell division for speedy healing of flesh and bone.

And so many more!

The East India Company was created in 1600 for English merchants in the spice trade later went on adding silk, tea, opium etc. to its wares. "So sing me a song of a lass that is gone, say can that lass be I?" Title song from Outlander

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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 4, 2019

To Keratin or Not to Keratin ... That is the Question?

To Keratin or Not to Keratin ... That is the Question?

Ciao bella,

I’ve been in a quandary this month on whether to Keratin my locks or not. Finding the right salon is dizzying! The Keratin application is quite marvelous as it tames the hair like an unruly classroom! It makes the cuticle of your hair lie flat without all the Frizz that we all dread. Who can live with smoother hair that is more manageable, is damaged repaired and noticeably softer? I can. It can leave your locks very straight or depending on the Keratin formula used by your professional, leave it with a bend/curl. My Mom would have adored this treatment as her hair was actually kinky. Let’s not forget about the amazing Shine the Keratin treatment performs on the hair!

As summer approached my hair became quite dry and unruly. After all it had been over one year since I had my Keratin done at my salon where I worked. My Keratin lasts since I shampoo only once a week which is plenty for me.

Being a licensed cosmetologist there are perks. One is being able to purchase professional products from suppliers.

Many months ago I bought a professional Keratin treatment. Once I read the directions I fully realized it would be too difficult for me to do solo. So my husband David offered to help. We shall now call him “Monsieur Davide!”

He performed a rocking Keratin treatment on my locks and I’m in my glory!

I mean there are so many salons near me offering the Keratin service even with Groupon discounts. However, I’ve had my share of bad salon experiences!

I just colored my hair and styled it straight. I am one happy gal! The Keratin tamed down the hair to give it life, body and shine! Hope it lasts! Time will tell!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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, July 7, 2019

Natural Beauty

Natural Beauty

Ciao bella,

What is Natural Beauty? Are you really born with it? Is it in your genes?

My experience seems to grow curious with time. I must say Mother Nature has been kind to my mug! Hardly a wrinkle! Is it because I started using a good skincare regimen in my early twenties? I look at photographs of my great Nana and my Mom and they looked ageless. I know my Mom daily and nightly took care of her complexion with fab products at the time. My Nana also took care of her face using the best moisturizers of that time. Although she loved the sun, I feel the rays really didn’t catch up to her. She kept a beautiful complexion. I’m sure their Cosmetology careers helped lead the way! So how is it some complexions stay looking ageless? I’m sure stress is a huge factor. And back to those genes you are born with. Mediterranean ladies with their Mediterranean diet seem to age quite well. I still think that really good skin care factors in to keeping your skin well hydrated, replenished, and full of the vitamins and nutrients it needs to look ageless. An every day and every night routine is a must. Someday I’d like to take a survey of who keeps such a routine! That routine is what the gym/exercise is to your body!

Right now there are so many Skin Care routines that I could write a book about them all. There are some better than others, however, I found you must choose which one works for you. I had that kind of time in my twenties. Always experimenting in those days! Also affordable product plays an important role in choosing which one. I can tell you right now ... you don’t have to pay an arm and a leg for good skincare. Importantly is maintaining a daily and nightly regimen.

Removing daily makeup and daily grime is imperative to maintaining good skin!

It’s never too late to care for your complexion. Your smile will show through!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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.

Annual Pool Bag Necessities 2019

Annual Pool Bag Necessities 2019

Ciao bella,

Now if the weather will get warmer, we should start getting our Pool/Beach totes ready. So important to be prepared for lovely summer days! No stress ... just lounging on your lawn chair for fun in the sun.

So our Cabana is fully stocked ... and so is the Tiki Bar that’s in it. We splurged on a Cadillac of a grill and we’re ready for summer! Herb Garden is all planted so we can enjoy Mint in our iced tea, Basil in our salads, and Rosemary for our grilled meats!

Are you ready? Is your Pool/Beach tote ready?

Here are a few items to keep things going smooth.

1) Sunscreen is number one for protection from the sun. SPF 30 with limited exposure.

2) Hats are great sun protection. Some have sunscreen built in.

3) Water to stay hydrated throughout the day. A frozen water bottle will last the whole afternoon.

4) Sunglasses are a must ... eye protection and fashionable. I must own over 35 pairs!

5) Towels ... I need a few to stay comfortable.

6) Lip Sunscreen for added protection for those kissable lips!

7) A Cover up for after a full session of sun or cool breezes.

8) Towelettes are handy to freshen up! A New product that’s out is “busy Beauty Showerless Body Wipes” Tried and true from me to you! Great after sun bathing for a quick clean feel.

9) Pack of tissues to wipe away whatever!

10) Hair brush/comb to touch up and refresh the do!

11) Insect Repellent for the beach bums. I’ve yet to see a mosquito by the pool.

So my Glamazons that’s it for today. Live, laugh, and love everyday and savor the summer that’s finally here

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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 4, 2019

JOJOBA

JOJOBA

Ciao bella,

If any part of your skin care regimen includes Jojoba you are in luck! Jojoba Oil is a carrier of Vitamin E which is an antioxidant. Jojoba has been found to mimic the skin’s natural sebum, making it penetrate sufficiently with no greasy feel. Great for sensitive skin, Jojoba Oil is rich in omega 9, a natural source of a fatty acid which promotes regeneration of the skin’s lipid barrier aiding in healing inflammation. An advantage of Jojoba oil’s fatty acid makeup is that it’s less comedogenic (won’t clog your pores) than other fatty acid oils such as coconut.

Jojoba oil is known for its healing, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging elements. It’s odorless and is frequently used in beauty regimens as in cleansers, moisturizers, massage creams, scalp treatments and even baby products. Using topically, Jojoba Oil has been helpful in treating acne, psoriasis, stretch marks, scars, sunburn and hair loss by unclogging follicles. Also a great carrier for essential oils.

Facts on Jojoba: an Italian priest Francisco Clavijero used it in berry form aiding in childbirth and healing wounds. Used for centuries to heal skin conditions and promote hair growth. It wasn’t commercially produced until 1976. Today, Jojoba is used in personal care products around the world. All of 5,000 tons of it is manufactured for its use. It’s a perennial shrub found in the Sonoran desert, northwest Mexico, California and Arizona.

So my Glamazons go out and find your Jojoba!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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 8, 2019

Frizz ... What is it, What Causes it and Why Do We Hate it so Much?

Frizz ... What is it, What Causes it and Why Do We Hate it so Much?

Ciao bella,

The weather and hair damage are mostly to blame. Strands tend to lose their smooth alignment also when exposed to hot tools, hair brushing, and chemical treatments such as coloring. The outer layer of strands which is known as the cuticle become like layered scales which lift instead of lying flat. The puffed up cuticle allows humidity and moisture to enter the strands causing Frizz. Frizz is mostly common in curly hair. To get a handle on it use a conditioner from root to tip and apply a leave in Serum. Of course, it doesn’t last long.

In my experience over the years, with my extremely curly hair I’ve gone through stages. I really hate Frizz on me! It may look good on other people but not me! I have pictures of myself with the Frizzed out curly look and I really don’t like them. I think I don’t like the Frizz as it takes on a life of itself. There is absolutely no control over your hair do ... Mother Nature at her finest!

I remember living in Florida one winter. You know how humid The Sunshine State can be? Sitting in front of the mirror and blow drying my hair straight. When I was done “drying my hair,” I sat in front of the mirror a bit and just watched my hair in slo-mo just curl right back up into a halo of Frizz! You can’t make stuff this up!

From a professional point of view I suggest this course of action ... My best and only solution

is The Keratin Blowout which lasts me up to a good 6 months.

The fabulous advantage of the Keratin is that even when your curl starts to return, the Frizz stays away! I love my curls don’t get me wrong, however, the Frizz must go!

Remember dippity-do, ironing your hair, and the beer can rollers to straighten out cuticle and hair? Be gone my fine friends!

For a list of professionals or to ask about any beauty inquiries just email me or call.

For now, stay beautiful!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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, March 3, 2019

“25 Divas Live! Your -Fabulous -Diva-Living -Next -Door -Jive”!

“25 Divas Live! Your -Fabulous -Diva-Living -Next -Door -Jive”!

Ciao bella,

Beauty is the in the eyes of the beholder, as they say. At least it does for authors John DeVito and Frank Tropea. Publishing The Immortal Marilyn: The Depiction of an Icon; and Epic Television Miniseries: A Critical History with great success, they are incorporating a new project #25divaslive with friends and relatives alike.

Their New upcoming book and exhibit will celebrate 25 Legendary Divas. A special literary tribute for each Diva will be presented. Then their fabulous photographer Jefferson Ariaga will present a photographic tribute of a real live Diva of today paying a unique visual tribute to the Diva of the past! Simply genius!

I was a Diva for a day as Mae West. Let me tell you a bit about that. I greeted everyone in a rose satin dressing gown Mom gifted me on one of my Christmas Birthdays. The star vibe was kicking in.

With my makeup done I was put in a sexy black lace negligee, something Mae would adore. Marisa Ciarlone, the Art Directer slipped on a huge blonde wig ... red feathers adorning! Elbow length pink gloves graced my arms! The bling sparkled out loud!! Rhinestone’s dazzled in my hair and almost every finger! “Alexa” was playing Mae West songs in the background thanks to my husband David.

I dressed up as Mae West one Halloween many moons ago. I remembered many of her quotes and shared them with present company. “When I’m good I’m good but when I’m bad I’m better!” I was truly transported to another time! A magnificent Real Baby Pink Fur stole was wrapped over my shoulders, all I could hear was the clicking of Jefferson’s camera ... I was posing and in another world outside my bedroom where this transformation was taking place! It was a memorable moment for a gal who just celebrated a huge birthday recently. Click, click, click, was a kind of music to my ears. With every click I Was Mae West!

“Goodness Mae, what beautiful diamonds” “Goodness had nothing to do with it!” Looking forward to viewing the other Divas ... Katherine Hepburn, Liz Taylor, Jackie and Rose Kennedy, Marilyn Monroe of course!, Marie Curie, Billy Holiday, Maria Callas, Mary Magdalene, and more!

Stay tuned my Glamazons ... I couldn’t have done it without you!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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, February 9, 2019

The Beauty of New Orleans

The Beauty of New Orleans

Ciao bella,

So off the beaten Beauty track of magic potions I divert into the beauty of travel to a unique place.

As I still lounge here in my scenic hotel room facing a double view of The Mississippi River in New Orleans, Louisiana, I just finished watching a documentary Kevyn Aucoin Beauty & The Beast in Me, a native of “The Pelican State” (Louisiana). He was the makeup artist for the supermodels and stars of the 1980s and ’90s. Fabulous story that’s a must see!

New Orleans is still in the midst of it’s makeover from Hurricane Katrina. The devastation was unimaginable here. I’ve spoken to many people who went through it. One bright element that hasn’t changed is the spirit of the New Orleans people.

There is so much laughter and kindness here from all angles. Could be the food! As you travel around the city you can smell the delicious flavors of cooking wafting through every neighborhood. One thing I can say is New Orleans knows how to cook!

From Emeril’s (a Massachusetts native) to Popeye’s Fried Chicken, the cuisine is outstanding!

The grittiness of Bourbon Street attracts all the party goers! All kinds of music from jazz bands to pail drums can be heard on the street corners and inside pubs. Specialty cocktails, beer, and wine can be purchased street side and carried out. The bright colors of purple, green, and gold adorn not only people but the balconies and galleries of the wrought iron buildings New Orleans distinctively owns. For all the glorious gaudiness of the tourist area New Orleans also boasts of blocks upon blocks of homes of elegant refinement.

In The French Quarter, I love Rue Royal ... that’s my kind of street that has a magical aura about its shopping. The stores are street level and so inviting with spell bounding window decor.

I’ve also been fascinated with New Orleans above ground cemeteries. We visited where Ann Rice developed her vampire characters and where "Interview With A Vampire" with Brad Pitt was filmed. Families with a tome are buried one on top of each other, saving space! After all New Orleans was once a swamp and below ground burials were impossible due to the water issue.

We left Boston last week at 4 degrees! Here in The Big Easy it’s been a balmy 58 and 60 degrees.

Oh, how I’ll hate to leave this seductive, thrilling, and warm place! It’s been a great getaway, however, there’s nothing like home sweet home!

So my Glamazons I hope I took you away for a few moments to another place!

Stay warm and remember spring is around the corner!

Stuffed from Beignets!!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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.

Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Happy New Year ... or is it?

Happy New Year ... or is it?

Ciao bella,

Once again, another year has closed. And once again, we are at the crossroads of “what can I do to be a better me?” I realize that the first traditional resolution is “I must lose weight” ... an absolute fail for all of us! Right?

So instead of the latest diet trend, I want to initiate the most important aspect of feeling better ... Eating better! This just may promote the goal in which you want to achieve.

The standard American diet consists of carbs, unhealthy fats, and processed foods. This way of eating increases “cytokines,” which are substances in the blood that produce sky rocketing inflammation making you susceptible to chronic pain. Find foods with anti-inflammatory effects. Recent studies have proven that a Mediterranean diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids is key. Eight to twelve ounces a week of fresh or frozen fish fillets and shellfish are a good way to start. Also, canned salmon, tuna and sardines, walnuts, ground flax seed, chia seeds, leafy greens, broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower are great. Stay away from foods high in Omega-6s, such as deep fried foods, mayo, and salad dressing. People that follow a Mediterranean diet have better heart health and less risk of acquiring dementia. Vegetables and fruit should rock your world!

Next up is getting enough sleep. I don’t know what it is ... but my iPad is always calling me just as I should be going to sleep! Very bad ... since the blue light in your device is a calling card for a sleepless night! So take a magazine or book to bed and, nighty night.

Sleep deprivation is most common at a certain age, however, it can be overcome with patience, a little bit of Melatonin and meditation. Hitting the sack at the same time nightly is necessary to keep your body in sync. A great night sleep is key to enjoying the next day and all its glory.

So my Glamazons ... hope these beauty tips will get you on track and stay there in the coming year! Have a beautiful one!

Buona Giornata and God Bless the USA!

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.