Nourify and Beautify

Staying Sane During the Holidays | Linda Yates

Are you starting to feel the holiday stress? It’s the most wonderful time of the year because we make it that way – all the extra cooking, cleaning, gift-giving, decorating, baking… all that time has to come from somewhere. In this episode, image coach Linda Yates offers advice for how you can thrive this holiday season and actually enjoy the fruits of all your labor.
What is Cortisol?
Cortisol is often called “the stress hormone”, but in reality, cortisol has a lot of different functions. It helps us regulate our blood pressure, our metabolism, and our fight-or-flight response.

Cortisol starts causing problems when we are under stress for a long period of time, like during the holidays when we experience extra stress for a couple of months.

To keep your cortisol levels in check, it’s important to set yourself up for success by getting organized in advance.
Organizational Strategies for the Holidays
Create a dedicated holiday planner or notebook complete with a calendar and space to take notes. Keep track of important dates or events, and schedule time to prepare for those events a little bit at a time.
Whether you’re feeding everyone for a big holiday event or you’re making dinner for the family, now is the time to opt for simple holiday dishes that can be prepped (at least partially) in advance.
Holiday Budgeting
Put your gift ideas into a notebook or the Notes app on your phone and work out costs in advance. Make sure you budget in shipping costs if you’re getting gifts online!
Create a budget that allows for some wiggle room so that you can handle unexpected expenses that tend to come up around the holidays - buying extra gifts, nights out with family, takeout, etc.
Finding the Time to Relax During the Holidays
Set boundaries around your time so you can prioritize de-stressing and getting good sleep. Don’t feel the need to plan and prep from morning until night – make time to do relaxing activities.
Delegate tasks! It’s okay to ask for help. Ask friends, family, roommates, or kids if you have them! Involve them in the process.
Holiday Hacks
Always buy a few extra simple gifts. Have a few unisex items like coffee tumblers, holiday socks, or even Amazon gift cards on hand. It doesn’t have to be pricey!
Bake a big cookie recipe and freeze the dough in cookie-sized portions. Add a couple of minutes to the normal bake time, and voila! Fresh cookies on demand. (Or buy pre-made cookie dough!)
Focus on sharing experiences with your loved ones. Ice skating and decorating gingerbread houses are classics, or choose something unique like going to a holiday concert or a walk at the botanical gardens!
“That’s what makes the holidays – it’s those memories. Yeah, maybe there’s a gift or two that you remember… but most of the holidays that I personally remember are the ones that have those experiences, those family experiences.” – Linda Yate

How to Launch a Personal Care Brand | Brittany Lo

Have you ever thought about starting your own beauty or wellness brand? On this episode of Nourify & Beautify, we spoke to Brittany Lo, the incredible founder of Beia, her personal and intimate care product line. Brittany is going to take us from her childhood dreams into the reality of what goes on behind the scenes when a new beauty/wellness business is born.
Brittany Lo’s Journey
Brittany dreamed of starting a beauty brand when she was in 2nd grade.

After attending school focusing on entrepreneurship, she turned down a full-time position at L’Oreal to pursue starting her bridal beauty and hair business, Beautini.

In 2020, during the pandemic, she wasn’t busy with weddings and had the perfect opportunity to start her brand Beia, which she created to help women feel more comfortable and confident in their skin.
Bringing the Product to Life
Creating mood boards, researching other brands/branding, and brainstorming all played an early role in Brittany’s creative journey.

Brittany talked to friends, family members, customers, and anyone else who would listen about the idea for the product and what they wanted to see.

While FDA restrictions play some role in manufacturing decisions, they are not as strict as the guidelines Brittany follows with Beia.

Finding the right chemist to help her formulate the product and scale it up for mass production was critical to avoiding headaches along the way.
Challenges and Wins Along the Way
One thing that surprised Brittany when she started her brand was the challenge she faced finding a manufacturer.
Brittany also notes that it’s not as simple as Googling “how do I start my own business?”

Beia products are formulated to work for people with sensitive skin and are vegan, because Brittany’s dream was to create products that she herself would use.
“Before, we saw sexual wellness as one category, we saw body care more in the mass sector of beauty, but now what I’m seeing is personal care and body care really integrating to be defined as skincare below the chin.” — Brittany Lo
Resources
Beia Beauty on Instagram
BeiaBeauty.com
Brittany Lo on Instagram

The Dark Side of the Skincare Industry | Ella Cressman

On this episode of Nourify & Beautify, we get to sit down with certified international skincare educator, licensed esthetician, and co-host of the Esty Talk Podcast, Ella Cressman! As you can tell, she’s got some stories to share. She’s here today to talk about the dark side of the industry and what you can do right now to make sure your skin care regimen isn’t causing more problems than it’s solving.
Ella Cressman’s Journey
Before Ella began working in skincare, she did other jobs. Her interest in anatomy and physiology led her towards cosmetology or nursing, but nursing was hard on her emotionally.
She worked in the world of cold hard business for a while, but soon felt that she wasn’t living her dream and decided to pursue a career in esthetics.
After she finished school, she started her business right away and has become a knowledgeable industry leader ever since!
The Dark Side of the Skin Care Industry
Ella began to notice unethical practices when she was still in school. The types of messaging she was taught to use were concerning to her.
Marketing tactics are sometimes placed above informing consumers accurately about products.
Even the tools we have to help us, like apps we can use to scan products that tell us their ‘safety rating’ can have problems, so it’s important to do your research.
How to Choose Safe Skincare Products
Ella recommends that people who use the apps do so with care. Choose apps that will show you the research that backs up their claims and look at those papers.
Work with a professional to build up your literacy when it comes to different types of ingredients so that you can choose products that work for you.
Do a Yearly Skincare Audit
One way that Ella helps her clients is by working with them to create a good skincare routine that isn’t too extensive and works within their budget.
Our needs change seasonally and over time, so finding a professional like an esthetician that you trust is critical. Let them get to know you and your skin so they can give you tailored advice.
“It's unfortunate that some manufacturers will bend, they will bend messaging… They're preying on vulnerabilities. On the flip side of that, we have this other opportunity for truth fighters to come forward and fight for the honest things that are happening.” – Ella Cressman
Resources
Check out Ella Cress Skincare!
Hear more from Ella on the ASCP Esty Talk Podcast

Is Asian Skincare Right For You? | Shinta Huynh

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok recently, you’ve probably noticed the buzz around K-Beauty and J-Beauty skincare. But should you jump on this trend?
Our lovely guest, Shinta Huynh, is here to help! A skincare product developer gives us the inside scoop on Asian skincare products and whether they’re worth adding to your routine.
Meet Shinta Huynh
Shinta Huynh works in new product development for personal care products in Australia.
She’s also recognized as an expert in Asian beauty, with a focus on K-Beauty and J-Beauty.
Her passion for skincare was sparked during a trip to Taiwan, where she discovered some of the most popular K-Beauty brands.
Do Asian Skincare Products Work for All Skin Types?
Different skin types face different challenges, which might make you wonder if Asian products will work for you.
According to Shinta, one of the best things about Asian skincare is its focus on supporting the skin’s natural barrier and maintaining hydration. These products can benefit all skin types.
Shinta also reveals how to achieve one of J-Beauty’s most sought-after trends: glass skin!
Are K-Beauty Products Expensive?
If you’ve noticed anything about trending TikTok products, it’s that some of them can be pricey.
So, are K-Beauty and J-Beauty products expensive? Fortunately, Shinta assures us they don’t have to be. Many of these products are surprisingly affordable.
Not sure where to start? Shinta recommends beginning with K-Beauty and J-Beauty essentials, such as a cleansing balm or oil cleanser.
Where to Find K-Beauty and J-Beauty Products
For those in Australia, Shinta shares a few ways to purchase Asian beauty products. If you’re in the U.S., be sure to check out our blog for more tips on buying K-Beauty and J-Beauty items.
Shinta also reveals her favorite Asian beauty products, which you can find in the resource section below.
“What's really interesting about K Beauty and J Beauty is that they do use familiar ingredients that you'll probably see in United States’ products, but they partner it up with their regional ingredients that set it apart." - Shinta Huynh.
Resources
Shinta Huynh on Instagram
Shinta’s favorite asian beauty products
Beauty of Joseon
&honey
MEDI-PEEL
TIRTIR cushion pad foundatio

Starting a Supplement Routine | Cameron Excell

It would be nice if there were a magical pill that could make us healthy and strong within seconds. Unfortunately, life doesn’t work that way. Whatever type of supplement you’re considering, you need to ensure it’s right for you. Our guest, Cameron Excell, a Health and Fitness Coach, explains everything you need to know about starting a supplement routine.
What to Know Before Starting a Supplement Routine
Before introducing new vitamins or minerals into your daily routine, consider getting blood work done. Cameron explains that this allows your physician to identify any vitamin deficiencies and recommend the right supplements for your needs.
He also highlights the key supplements most people should consider, including multivitamins, fish oil, vitamin D, and magnesium, which can help manage stress levels.
Common Questions About Supplements
Cameron addresses some of the most common questions about supplements:
Can you get all your daily nutrients from a well-balanced diet? While a healthy diet is essential, it’s challenging to meet all your nutritional needs through food alone.
Is there a one-size-fits-all supplement? The short answer is no. However, a multivitamin may come closest to meeting general needs.
Men vs. Women: What’s the difference in supplements? Cameron explains the differences in supplement needs between men and women, highlighting the essential vitamins women require to maintain optimal health.
Why is it important to consult a doctor about supplements?

Starting a supplement routine without consulting a healthcare professional can be risky. Cameron emphasizes the importance of working with your physician to determine the right supplements for you. Your doctor can also help you understand if a supplement has stopped working effectively.
“As much as we wish for a one-size-fits-all solution, like a magic pill that fixes everything, that’s just not how the human body works. It’s always best to seek guidance from a health coach or doctor who can provide personalized advice, treating you as an individual, not just a number.” - Cameron Excell.
Resources
Excell FitLife
Excell FitLife Instagram Page
Cameron Excell Instagra

10 Winter Wellness Tips | Pria Joshi

The holiday season is here, and between cooking and spending time with family, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The added stress can impact your health, leading to issues like hair loss and dry skin. But don’t worry—the Nortify and Beautify team is here to help! We’ve gathered 10 winter wellness tips from Pria Joshi to help you look and feel your best throughout the holiday season.
Do More Indoor Physical Activities
While warmer weather invites you outside, winter’s chill can make it tempting to stay indoors.
But don’t let the cold keep you from moving! As Pria says, “motion is lotion” for the body.
Engage in some form of indoor exercise to stay healthy and strong.
Head to our blog for a list of YouTube channels with winter-friendly workouts to keep you active.
Consider a Vitamin D Supplement
With less sunlight in winter, our vitamin D levels can drop, impacting our skin, hair, and immune health.
If you suspect a vitamin D deficiency, consider getting a blood test to confirm. You’ll find a variety of supplements, including hair growth vitamins and calcium, to help boost your levels.
If you prefer not to take pills, vitamin D gummies offer a tasty alternative that’s like candy for your health!
Set the Tone with a Hydrating Mask
Holiday parties and family gatherings mean you’ll want to be picture-ready.
Pamper yourself with a hydrating mask to brighten and freshen your skin, helping you feel and look your best.
Make Small Changes
Don’t rush change—it will only add to holiday stress.
If your New Year’s goal is to get in shape, start with small, manageable steps now. For example, try a 10-minute YouTube workout every day.
Smaller steps make changes feel more achievable and help you build momentum for the new year.
Reduce Stress with Self-Care
The holidays often lead us to put others first, but it’s essential to make time for yourself too.
Schedule self-care into your calendar to recharge your mind and body. Your hair, skin, and mental health will thank you.
“Anything you do to help reduce the amount of cortisol your body deals with—daily, weekly, monthly—is powerful for every system. Taking time to prioritize self-care consistently is essential.” - Pria Joshi.
Resources
N&B Episode 3: Are My Beauty Products Safe?
N&B Episode 5: Setting Up a Self-Care Routine That Sticks

Setting Up a Self-Care Routine That Sticks | Linda Yates

Self-care days are a special time when a girl can relax and get herself together. But with so many people demanding your attention, it’s hard to find time to focus on yourself.
This is why, in this episode, I’m showing you how to set up a self-care routine that will actually fit into your busy schedule. Join me and learn how to kick back, relax, and vibe on your own terms—because you really deserve it.
Why Do You Need a Self-Care Routine?
Have you noticed that when you neglect yourself, everything else in your life starts to fall apart? You didn’t get enough sleep, so now you’re snappy when someone says hello to you.
When you take the time to care for yourself, it improves every aspect of your life—spiritually, emotionally, physically, and mentally.
Self-care routines help you show your true self to others. When you feel good about yourself, you’re more likely to show your authentic self to the world.
Decide What Type of Self-Care Routine You Need
There are several routines you can include in your self-care day. Take the time to self-reflect and decide what you need for self-improvement. This can include:
Makeup
Skincare
Exercise
Supplements

I share a personal story of how I started embracing my makeup routine. But during the pandemic, I realized it was time to make changes in that routine. It taught me when it’s time to let go of something that no longer serves you.
I’m sure you’ve experienced something similar. Making changes in your routine allows you to grow and embrace change, even if it’s just a small shift in your makeup routine.
How To Start a New Routine and Make It Stick
I share several strategies to help you create a self-care routine that actually works:
Let your internal motivations guide you, and don’t fall into external pressure
Meditate and envision your ideal self-care routine
Conduct research on your routine
Schedule it on your calendar

If you find it difficult to stick with your routine, open up to your friends and family. They may be able to help you make adjustments where needed.
“In my 40 years of marriage, I’ve learned that when I work on myself, everything improves. When I work on myself, my relationships improve. When I work on myself, my income improves. When I work on myself, my health improves. All of these aspects improve when I prioritize self-care.” - Linda Yates

Design Your Personal Image | Linda Yates

Your inner self plays a big role in your overall beauty. If you’re not feeling positive about yourself, it will show in how you carry yourself and the way people view you. But how can you create a self-image that reflects strength and beauty? Join us in this episode, where we share advice on how to build an empowering self-image and boost your self-confidence.
The Power of Self-Talk
The way you talk to yourself shapes your outer appearance. If you’re always telling yourself negative things, your self-image will be affected.
By reframing negative thoughts and focusing on self-supporting phrases like “That’s so unlike me,” you can improve your self-image and confidence. This mindset shift allows you to project a more positive version of yourself to the world.
What Constitutes Your Image?
Linda has identified 15 different aspects of image, ranging from the clothes we wear to our body language and self-care routines.
Whether it’s through the food we eat, the colors we wear, or the words we use, each element contributes to how we are perceived by others and by ourselves.
Practical Tips for Enhancing Your Image
Linda provides actionable tips for those looking to improve their image:
Mind Your Words: Eliminate filler words like “um” or “ah” to sound more confident.
Color Matters: Choose colors that complement your skin tone and highlight your natural beauty.
Positive Self-Talk: Replace negative thoughts with affirmations to maintain high self-esteem.

Misconceptions About Image
One common misconception is that focusing on one’s image may be seen as shallow or superficial.
Linda dispels this myth by sharing her experience of being perceived as unapproachable due to her strong presence.
By making small tweaks, such as smiling more and adjusting her body language, she successfully changed how she was perceived without compromising her authenticity.
“What are you saying to yourself? What do you tell yourself when you experience victories? And when you face stumbling blocks? Instead of beating yourself up with thoughts like, “Oh, you’re so stupid,” or “This always happens,” change that narrative. Reframe it by saying, “That’s so unlike me.” Doing this will help elevate your image and build your confidence, shaping the way you show up in the world.” - Linda Yates.

Are My Beauty Products Safe? | Nour Abochama

How do you really know that beauty products are safe to use? You can’t always trust what companies say, and even an ingredient that is generally safe may still cause a rash or reaction due to an allergy. In this episode, Nour covers the full details to help you learn whether a beauty product is safe to use.
The Importance of Beauty Product Testing
Before fully using a new beauty product, it’s important to test it on a small area of your body. This way, if you start to experience a rash or an upset stomach, you’ll know it’s because of the new product and not something else.
However, product testing isn’t just about checking for safety—it’s also about ensuring that the product’s claims are accurate.
Big Companies vs. Farmer’s Market Regulations
In the U.S., regulations for natural health products and pharmaceutical products differ.
The regulations for natural health products are less strict than those for prescription drugs.
It's a good idea to review the ingredients list for natural health products before buying to ensure there’s no contamination.
What Happens if a Beauty Product Fails Testing?
When a product fails to meet regulatory requirements, a quality control specialist will take corrective actions to ensure consumer safety.
For example, if a multivitamin does not match its label claims due to contamination or incomplete formulation, the manufacturer may revise the formulation or retest it.
In some cases, the entire batch may need to be destroyed if the contamination cannot be resolved, affecting product availability on the market.
How to Know Which Products Are Safe
Nour’s advice is to stick to organic beauty products from big brands. This way, you know the product was tested and regulated properly.
Also, always trust your body. If you notice a reaction after testing a product on yourself, it may not be safe for you.
“The most important thing is: don’t panic. Trust your body. If there’s something you’ve been using for a long time, it’s probably safe. When you have a problem, your body will usually tell you right away.” - Nour Abochama.

Beyond Beauty Trends | Ariane Poole

In this episode, we talk with renowned makeup artist and entrepreneur Ariane Poole, who shares her expert advice on making informed beauty choices. With over 45 years of experience, Ariane covers everything from industry trends to choosing the best products for your needs.
Meet Ariane Poole
Ariane Poole is a highly respected makeup artist with over 45 years of experience in the beauty industry.
She has worked with celebrities, royalty, and everyday clients, earning a reputation for her expertise in enhancing natural beauty.
As the founder of Ariane Poole Cosmetics, she offers a range of makeup products designed to cater to diverse skin types and ages.
Importance of Demographic Knowledge
Ariane emphasizes the value of choosing influencers and beauty experts who understand your demographic.
She explains that while younger influencers might provide great tips, they may not fully address the concerns of women over 50.
Product Education
Consumers often fall into the trap of buying trending products without fully understanding their suitability.
Ariane highlights the importance of educating oneself on how different skin types, ages, and face shapes require different products and techniques.
One-Size-Does-Not-Fit-All
Contrary to marketing messages, Ariane explains there is no "one-size-fits-all" product.
Every individual has unique skin needs, and it’s essential to find products tailored to your specific concerns.
Confidence is Key
We all have flaws and unique traits, but we often tend to only notice our flaws.
Ariane shares why it’s important to embrace your flaws and how being confident helps you find the right beauty products.
“Our skin is constantly evolving. My skin isn’t the same as it was when I was 50. Now that I’m in my late 60s, I have to adapt to the changes.” - Ariane Poole.
Resources
Ariane Poole on Instagram
Ariane Poole Cosmetics website