Meet Lunden De'Leon, Actress

Actress Lunden De'Leon has played a number of diverse roles in television and film ranging from a caring therapist (Somebody's Child), to a young African mother (Vital Signs) and a sexy villain (Cryptz). Yet over and over again, the actress wins over audiences by making these characters very memorable. After taking on small roles in film and television, De'Leon began to transition into leading roles on the small screen. She soon landed bigger roles and gained worldwide recognition portraying the role of Joanne Mbutu on the television series Vital Signs. De'Leon later went on to appear in over 50 movies and television shows working alongside some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Just recently, De'Leon starred in the romantic comedy An Inherited Life, portraying the role stylish lawyer, Bianca Wallace. Whether it's a thriller, a funny comedy, or a tear-jerking drama, De'Leon has done it all. When asked what's next for the actress she replies, "I'm currently revamping my cosmetic line 'Lunden De'Leon Cosmetics', as well as working with a few charities in South Carolina. So I'm juggling a number of great things right now."

Learn more about her by visiting LundenDeLeon.com.

1. What do you enjoy most about acting?

I enjoy analyzing my character and becoming that character while staying as organic as possible.

2. How have your experiences differed when it comes to working on movie projects contrasted with working on TV projects?

I appreciate both film and television. I'm just thankful to be working. However, I can take more creative risks in film, so that gives it a little edge.

3. Would you tell us a bit more about your cosmetics line?

I started Lunden De'Leon Cosmetics years ago but decided to revamp it around Christmas time. The line offers a variation of beautiful shades for darker skin tones.

4. What are some of the charities in South Carolina that are dearest to your heart?

I dedicate my time or money to a number of charities in South Carolina. I know what it's like to struggle; therefore, I have to give back. From homeless to helping at risk youth--it's all dear to my heart.

5. Do you have any projects you're especially looking forward to in 2017 and beyond?

I have two movies coming out in 2017: a horror movie called The Lake House which should hit theaters this fall and a romantic comedy for television called An Inherited Life.

Thanks, Lunden!

Meet Marie Kapetanakis, CEO of Kosmea Australia

Marie Kapetanakis is CEO of the Kosmea Australia skin care company, whose products are underpinned by the healing properties of certified organic rose hip oil. Founded in the year 1993 by Marie, the company has grown from a home-based business in Adelaide, Australia, to an international success story. Kosmea products are now sold around the globe in fine department stores, pharmacies, and beauty shops.

1. What is rose hip oil, and why is it good for your skin?

Rose hip oil comes from wild rose hips and is naturally rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants that are essential for skin health. These are vital for our general health and the health of our skin, but our bodies are unable to produce them. Essential fatty acids help to regenerate skin cells and to repair damaged skin tissue, and it is the essential fatty acids in rose hip oil that quench dry, sun damaged skin and help to improve the appearance of burns, scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks. Rose hip oil is rich in a natural source of vitamin A, known as trans-retinoic acid. Research shows that topical trans-retinoic acid is effective in helping to prevent premature aging caused by sun exposure. When skin is exposed to the sun, it can increase levels of enzymes that lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. The trans-retinoic acid in rose hip oil reduces the activity of these skin-damaging enzymes, reducing damage caused by the sun. Rose hip oil is a natural source of antioxidants that protect tissues in the body. Rose hip oil is rich in a range of antioxidants, including beta-carotene and lycopene, which help to protect and repair skin from premature aging caused by modern living.

2. What is rose hip oil used for?

Rose hip oil can be used by any skin type, including oily skin and the most sensitive skin types. It is suitable for all ages from newborn babies to seniors. It can be used during and after pregnancy to promote smooth elastic skin and help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks. In general, rose hip oil will relieve and improve the appearance of: scars, burns, wrinkles, stretch marks, acne, dry skin, sun damage, pigmentation, uneven skin tone, oily skin, rashes, age spots, eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, diaper rash, and cradle cap.

3. Why is Kosmea Rose Hip Oil the best?

Our oil is produced in Australia by a family-owned and operated company that is dedicated to ethically sourcing hand-picked, wild grown rose hips. Our 100% certified organic rose hips are sourced from the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho in southern Africa, where rose hips grow wild and are not commercially farmed. The region is 10,000 feet above sea level, resulting in high rainfall, clean air, and plump, juicy rose hips. The area is certified organic, which means no artificial fertilizers or pesticides are used. Kosmea uses the entire fruit, skin, and seed of the rose hip to extract the oil. The seed is rich in many of the essential nutrients that make rose hip oil so good for the skin and is responsible for giving Kosmea Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil its rich amber color. Oil is extracted from the oil hips without heat or solvent in a process using CO2 supercritical extraction. Heat, air, water, and light can all affect the quality of rose hip oil, and so these are avoided as much as possible during the manufacturing process.

4. Do all of your products use contain rose hip oil?

Our signature product, Kosmea Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil is pure rose hip oil and guaranteed to contain a minimum of 80% essential fatty acids! Our other all-natural skin care products are formulated around organic rose hip oil along with the finest herbal, plant, and flower extracts from Australia and around the world. We offer cleansers, exfoliants, moisturizers, and healing balms and oils.

5. Where can I find Kosmea Rose Hip Oil in the United States?

We recently intensified our efforts to add traditional retail outlets in the USA. But you can always find all of our wonderful products online at www.kosmea-usa.com with free shipping to any location in the country.

Thanks, Marie!

Meet Paul Scherer, CEO at Devirex Ltd, Maker of Lipivir®

Paul Scherer is the CEO of Devirex Ltd, a company in Switzerland which has recently released a product called Lipivir, which helps treat and prevent cold sores.

1. How long has Lipivir® been on the market?

A sampling campaign took place in December of 2014. But the real launch in UK started in May of 2015.

2. What distinguishes it from other cold sore medications?

Lipivir® is the only product which can prevent cold sores from occurring. People who suffer regularly (every month or so) use it twice daily (i.e. after brushing the teeth for being safe not to forget). Others will use it a few days before a special event (birthday, wedding, going out with friends) to be safe. And some people will use it when they feel the first signs (tingling).

We'd better not call it a medication because the transparent gel preserves the beauty of your lips. There are no side effects known (except if someone uses much to big amounts for each application; in this case it can dry out the skin). And the usual daily skin care routine can be continued after applying Lipivir®. Also lipstick is fine after Lipivir®'s application. We'd better call it a beauty product. It's an extension of your daily cosmetics (for cold sore sufferers)!

3. Is Lipivir® available over the counter to consumers worldwide, or in selected countries?

Lipivir® is available online (www.lipivir.com) and is delivered to your home 3 to 4 days after you order. It is delivered to the UK, France, Italy, Switzerland, and Austria so far. Further EU countries will follow soon.

4. Why are cold sores so common?

Cold sores is the symptom of a viral infection (herpes virus). 85% of the population carry the herpes virus. But most of the people who carry it even don't know it. 33% of the population suffer from cold sores every year. 10% of the population suffer from cold sores several times every year (up to twice every month). 50% of the population who carry the virus don't know it.

5. Is there anything people can do to prevent cold sores from occurring?

As mentioned above Lipivir® is the only product preventing cold sores that is generally applicable. If someone is exposed to heavy sunlight (UV light, also sun studio) I would combine Lipivir® with a sun-protecting lipstick.

Thanks, Paul!

A Perspective on Beverly Hills MD Lift and Firm Sculpting Cream

As you know if you're a regular reader of this blog, I generally don't write product reviews but instead do posts that introduce different products, services, companies, etc. There are a lot of other websites out there that review products--and the beauty industry is a great example of an area where you really do want to surf around and check out some reviews before making a purchase, especially since many products are pretty pricey.

This Beverly Hills MD lift and firm sculpting cream review is a great example of a thorough, point-by-point review of a beauty product. I love that the author of the review is 68 years old and is reviewing a product intended for helping you to repair, improve, and protect your skin--it's great to find a reviewer who really is the intended market for a product (and hey, we're not all 22 years old any more!).

The review gives you a lot of detailed information about the product and has a friendly, personal tone. Really it was more like reading about someone's personal experiences and ups and downs with dermatology rather than reading a review. The personal touch definitely makes a difference when it comes to keeping me reading. She found the cream to be helpful and effective, but she also doesn't make miraculous claims for it. She says that it makes her look like she's in her 50s rather than her 60s, and I appreciate the realism in her approach.

The other nice thing about the review was that the author included two different links for purchasing the product: one direct from the manufacturer and another with discounted prices from affiliates who contract with the manufacturer. If you're in the market for a lifting and firming cream, why not check this one out?

Meet Kimberly Fisher, Writer and Entrepreneur

Kimberly Fisher is former model and actress. She is the founder of Jetsetera.net and LuxeSoul.com, and she is a busy lifestyle writer, media personality, and internet entrepreneur.

1. How did you first become interested in blogging?

I have always had a love for reading and writing, and I was offered a column when I was modeling entitled "Ask the Model." From there I read everything I could on freelance writing, and just starting pitching different publications. In 2008 I started Jetsetera as a way for friends and family to keep track of me while I was traveling the world, and it eventually turned into what it is today: a curated luxury travel blog with a focus on lifestyle.

2. What are some of your favorite topics to write about?

Travel is always a favorite topic, but I tend to also cover beauty, fashion, and eco-friendly living.

3. In building your websites, what are your personal guidelines for creating content that catches the interest of readers?

With so many different blogs out there, it is hard to get noticed. You have be uniquely you. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and speak your voice. Also, write about something you are passionate about--it won't be work if it is something you enjoy doing every day.

4. What are some things we can do to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle while also being mindful of the environment and sustainability?

There are so many ways to give back. You can mix entertaining with giving back by attending charity event, or buy luxury clothes and goods that give back and support a community or a cause in some way. Even choosing hair, makeup, or skin products that are not only good for the environment, but are better for you. I have also seen a huge jump in sustainable and eco-friendly travel over the past few years.

5. What projects do you hope to pursue in the next year or so?

I am looking at branching back into hosting with the development of video and online shows for both Jetsetera and LuxeSoul, as well as some other projects and collaborations.

Thanks, Kimberly!

Introducing Younique Mascara

Have you ever wanted to find a mascara that makes your lashes longer and fuller? Younique Make-Up has created a mascara that is a fiber and gel combo, and it's designed to help your lashes become more full and long.

Younique sells a lot of different cosmetic and skin care products, and their Moodstruck 3D Fiber mascara is their number one selling product. They are also known for products that are designed with science and nature in mind so that they are specially made to nourish your skin.

The nice thing about their mascara is that it's very easy to apply, though it feels a bit different than other mascaras because you apply it in gel form. Basically it is a simple, two-step application process, and you can learn more about applying the mascara as well as some other tips for use by visiting this Younique Mascara page.

This product is currently available for just under $30, and you can only buy it from independent Younique presenters, so check out the links above for more info and to purchase it if you wish!

Introducing the ISA Professional MIRROR Titanium Flat Iron

Many women with naturally curly or wavy hair use a flat iron several times a week--or even every day--to achieve the smooth quality of their hair that they desire. It's one of those tools that you can learn to use at home so that your hair looks like it was just styled at the salon.

Whether you use a flat iron every day or only on special occasions, if you're looking for the best flat iron for under $100, check out the ISA Professional MIRROR Titanium. It's currently on sale at the ISA Professional website for just $90, discounted from $299.

One of the convenient features of this particular flat iron is that it has 4.5" titanium plates that allow for styling more hair at once. The plates are also tapered so that the iron can be used on bangs or anywhere close to the scalp without worrying about getting burned.

It's also easy to use with an LCD display and no-tangle cord. Use the digital temperature control to set the temp anywhere between 265 to 450 Fahrenheit, based on your own preferences with your hair. The ISA Professional MIRROR Titanium comes with a two-year warranty.

You can find this and other hair care products on the ISA Professional website.

Meet Cassandra, Makeup Artist

Cassandra M.u.a. (make-up artistry) was nominated as makeup artist of the year for Washington state in 2014. She has recently taken on global representation by agencies based in Dubai, landing her jobs in Qatar working for top brands like Bvlgari. She also does beauty and bridal work in Seattle and will be available for bookings in Seattle this September. Cassandra is an artist in every aspect of her life. She is currently in Africa working as a private stylist for clients on the European Golf tour.

Follow Cassandra on Twitter to keep up with her work and her travels.

1. How did you first become interested in a career as a makeup artist?

Watching my mom apply blue eyeliner, mascara and a little powder was enough to get me interested in makeup at a young age! I remember going to the grocery store when I was 5 or 6 and running to the makeup isle to try different products! I have loved makeup for as long as I remember and it has translated beautifully into my life today!

2. What helped you to learn your craft as an artist and to develop your own unique style?

Back when I was young, YouTube and facebook didn't exist so I turned to reading beauty magazines. My older cousin, Crystal also impacted me. She was a beautiful cheerleader a few years ahead of me and eventually worked at Sephora where, in my teens brought me and my friends samples of product to try. My mom always supported my love for makeup and fashion and surprised me by buying me beauty and celebrity styling.. I still have them to this day! Her and I also used to make beaded bracelets and necklaces and sold them for .50 or $1 so we could buy new beads each week!

3. How does your experience as a print model inform your work as a makeup artist?

My work as a model came as second nature as I was really into photography and being in front of the camera. One of my earliest memories of this was with a friend named Kim, she came over and we did our hair, makeup and tried on different clothes.. We even created backdrops and used props for our "photoshoot" then took photos of each other posing.. Back then we used disposable cameras so we weren't even sure how the photos would look until a week later.. But it was a true passion of mine that has grown into several business ventures and I'm glad my mom bought me all of those cameras back then!

4. Would you tell us about some of the work you do overseas and how it compares to the work you do in the Seattle area?

My work overseas is more commercial, working for bigger companies like Bvlgari with the help of my agents based in Dubai. In Seattle my work tends to be very personal and creative, for instance I do maternity, newborn, senior and family portrait photography and styling a few weddings each summer as well. I think this is because I grew up in Washington and people feel comfortable with me on that level, plus my prices drop dramatically when I'm home because I like to give back to my community. In the past we have done charity shoots; for example last time I was home we held a day for single parents with newborns/young children so their parents could have professional photos of their little ones!

5. What are some of your favorite projects that you've worked on so far?

I think my all time favorite gig was working with Rym Ghazali overseas in Algeria and Dubai. As head stylist to the production I got to choose my own assistant makeup artist, BTS photographer and hairstylist, which were all came together from my contacts in Dubai. I really loved the fast pace styling of working on a reality TV show because it kept me on my toes and I got to work with a 20 man crew 12 hours a day! Also, I really love weddings..again, it is a very hectic environment which I tend to handle very well as I work very well under pressure! I think that anything involving a little adrenaline gets me creating some of my best work! The last big gig I organized in Seattle was a 30 person crew of my own makeup artist & hair team, 10 models, a airbrush artist and fashion designer for RAW, which led to my Makeup Artist of the year 2014 nomination!

Thanks, Cassandra!

Introducing MyBesty Callus Remover

If you're looking for a product that focuses on cracked heel treatment, there is a new callus remover called MyBesty which can be found on Amazon. You can also find more info about the product--plus special offers--on the product's website, http://www.mybesty.net.

I have to admit that I'm one of those people who's never thought very much about foot treatments, but I know a lot of people who regularly have pedicures and other spa treatments for their feet, and the price can really add up. The idea of MyBesty is to help you keep your feet smooth by treating them at home, using this simple, battery operated device which has a roller grinding head made of mineral materials to work away at even the hardest calluses.

The product promises to be safe and long-lasting. The idea is that it buffs the feet in a gentle way like a pumice stone, but in a way that is much faster and easier than using a pumice stone.

It's a small, lightweight product, measuring 6.1 x 1.3 x 2.3 inches and weighing just 3.8 ounces.

The reviews on Amazon look good, too. If you want to try MyBesty, there is a current promo running where you can get $8 off if you enter "PROMO8" at checkout on Amazon. It also comes with a 30-day money back guarantee.

Meet Denyce, Hair Extensionist and Entrepreneur

Denyce is an expert hair extensionist, manufacturer, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of MyLuxury1st, which is the leading luxury eTailer of 100% real human hair extensions. She hand-makes them, so they are proudly handmade in USA and sold exclusively online.

In addition to her company website, find out more about Denyce and her products by visiting her Amazon store, her Facebook page, and her Instagram site.

1. How did you first become interested in making and selling hair extensions?

I first became interested in making hair extensions actually when I was just a little girl. I don't even know where I got the idea; it just popped in my head. My mother or sister never wore them, and I used to make hair extensions out of paper and wrap them about my head at home! That was then. Now from a business standpoint, I have always done my own hair and just wanted to try other methods. After not getting the customer service I thought I deserved from other companies, I decided why not make my own hair extensions and see how that goes? I began just making a few different clip-in sets and posting them online; you know how we make something at home and post it on Facebook or social media... Well, I did that, and people began to show their interest, so I was definitely onto something. Stylists wanted to know where they could get them and offered to pay me for my work, so I went into business!

2. Could you tell us a little about your process of making hair extensions by hand?

The process I use in handmaking hair extensions is all up to my customers. Although I have patterns set out for customers to choose from just in case they are not familiar or may not know how to choose, they can always tell me what they want! With that information, I choose the weft and amount of hair needed and begin production: whether it's clip-ins, U tip, tape-ins, or even just cutting hair so that they can have a certain amount of hair for the style they have in mind.

3. As a consumer, what should someone look for when it comes to choosing a high-quality hair extension product?

As a consumer, you should look for quality and also read reviews. You can study the product and check for reviews of past consumers. If you don't have time to do this, you can also check for thorough listings and contact the company to see what their customer service is like. This goes a long way.

4. Do you have specific suggestions for people to take good care of their hair extensions (and maybe just their hair in general!)?

My suggestions would be to baby your hair extensions. They are high maintenance and need all the care you can give them because they are now considered dead hair. They are no longer attached to a human head where they are getting constant nutrients, so in order for them to last, you need to wash them every so often with special hair extension shampoo such as the sulphate-free one I offer, and you don't need to wash them constantly. You also need to deep condition them, as this will keep them soft and tangle free. Trim them if needed because hair extensions do get split ends after styling. As for your own hair, treat it just as well. Use heat protection and wrap your hair at night or put it in a lose braid. You can also sleep on a silk or satin pillow sheet so that it reduces the friction.

5. What advice do you have for other people who would like to get into the business of selling beauty-related products?

My advice for anyone trying to get into the business of selling beauty-related products would to be dedicated. Without dedication, your dream will not be brought to reality.

Thanks, Denyce!

Introducing Minerals By Bee

Minerals By Bee is an up-and-coming beauty company which creates and sells unique, handmade bath and body care products alongside alcohol-free fragrances and mineral makeup.

With a goal of helping you discover the beauty of well-being, Minerals By Bee offers earth-friendly natural skin care, and natural beauty and personal care products. Minerals By Bee uses quality essential oils or flavor oils in all of their body care products. No artificial fragrances will ever be found in any of their natural products.

Most importantly, Minerals By Bee products are never tested on animals, and they help protect both people and the earth by being sulfate-free, paraben-free, and phthalate-free. In fact, the products are free from all synthetic ingredients and are all tested on very willing friends and family.

To keep up with the latest product offerings and additional information about botanical skin care, follow Minerals By Bee on Facebook.

Also, anyone who creates an account on the Minerals By Bee website can receive a free sample kit!

Sweetywedding.com: Discount Wedding Dresses

When the owners of www.sweetywedding.com contacted me about doing an interview for this blog, their answers were, as the saying goes, short and sweet. They sell wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and evening dresses for proms, dances, and other events. Their goal is to offer well-made dresses at reasonable prices.

I asked, "How are you able to offer high quality dresses for such low prices--what do you do to keep your costs down?" And their reply was, "Our expense in operating is much lower than a local retail store. There is no need to rent the store and have sales staff or an alterations department."

When I asked about their advice to buyers for making sure their online-ordered dresses fit properly, they suggested that buyers work with a tailor.

The company is based in China, and their website promises to help buyers find "unique style and fashion according to your shape" and to help you become "an elegant Greek goddess" or "beautiful princess."

Besthairbuy.com for Hair Extensions

Because I've always had long hair, I never thought much about hair extensions until I was contacted by the owner of Besthairbuy.com. It's a site for selling hair extensions, but it's also an informative look at the many kinds of extensions available in the marketplace.

I never realized that there are so many different ways that you can attach hair extensions. Some of the most popular items are clip in hair extensions, which are a good alternative for people who want to try a new hairstyle (and/or are unable to grow their hair long) but who want a temporary/changeable option. These small clips are unobtrusive, and they don't damage your existing hair through the use of glues or tapes.

I thought most hair extensions were artificial hair made from synthetic fibers, but that shows you how little I knew. Turns out that there's a lot of availability of extensions made from human hair, and these extensions last longer and look and move in a more natural way.

You can take care of your hair extensions like your own hair, treating them with a mild shampoo. This is a product that's been around for years now, and there are lots of options for trying different styles with different kinds of hair. Straight, curly, wavy, and everything in between--there are hair extensions out there, as I discovered on Besthairbuy.com.