Fab Labs, Digital revolution? Checked!

José Amorim
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Reading Time: 10 minutes

Digital revolution is not a dream anymore, it is already happening and it is happening everywhere. The proof? Check the Fab labs and you will understand that the rules of the game is drastically changing.

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Traditionally, people believe that technology is a top-down approach. It means that a bunch of very educated people are sitting in a white room, inventing tomorrow’s technology. Once this job  is done, they release the technology that might reach the masses at one point in the future.

Fab-Lab-ideology

Internet democratization helped to develop and spread knowledge. According to Forrester, the global internet population in 2013 reached 2.2 billion people. This is 37% of total world population. So as much people who can have access to knowledge and technology. Next year around 200 million people will join internet for the first time in their lives. Imagine what these people can bring. It is a total redefinition of things.  In 2013, there was more content produced and shared online than in the entire history of human kind (McKinsey).

Fab Labs – reverting the innovation process

Technology is a brillant thing if it is shared by many with the purpose of something more than technology for itself. As it is said previously, internet brought people closer in the world scale and knowledge is shared every day. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology developed a few years ago the principle of Fab Lab. This abbreviation means FABrication LABoratory. It is a small local scale workshop offering digital fabrication. From small tools to digital computer controlled devices, you can find everything you need to build what you need to build.

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With this system, Technology is just a tool that allow people to create new technology and innovation, first at the service of one person and in a second step to a greater good. So we invert the process that was generally identified as a top-down approach. In this case the process is more a bottom-up ! From the people to nations, companies and organisations.

Fab-Lab-ideology-model

This initiative was created by Professor Neil Gershenfeld, working at the MIT. He initiated this action of spreading the tools for innovation. Of course today, there are Fab Labs all over the world and its number is growing every year. From Norway, to USA, Brazil, India or South Africa. Here the Ted Talk of Neil Gershenfeld in February 2006.

His speech is interesting as he pretend that from the need of one person, we can help millions. So customization is not anymore a matter of individualism but it becomes the foundation of innovation. By fulfilling the need of a person, we can create new technology or technics in order to help others with their needs. Here is another interesting video that gives you a clear view of a Fab Lab.

3D printing changed the deal

The amazing thing with innovation, is the idea of bringing to reality a dream or an idea. Until now, production or manufacturing was the gap between ordinary people and big companies. Many inventors would be blocked in their creative process because they could not prototype, then going from prototype to testing and from testing to a final product or object. The democratization of 3D printing allows this gap to be filled. In deed with less than 2’000US$ you can buy a pretty good 3D printer with amazing resolution features. Printing a piece can go from a couple of hours to an entire day. It depends on the size and the resolution of the piece. People can accomplish amazing things with it, so dreams become true. Here is a video about 3D printing and how far can we go with this technology. Some of the objects are crucial others more… controversial.

In addition to the 3D printing, laser cutter and many small tooling will complete the workshop, so people have all the machinery needed to accomplish what they need to.

Open-souce: from geek land to everyone

By providing people with the appropriate technology and tools, there is also an important topic of copyrighting and trademarks. How can we open the field of possibilities if this field is limited by property ownership? That’s how Open source software and hardware enter the game. In all official Fab Lab, everything is about open source.  For a reminder, open source means that we offer an universal access to technology and things ruled by free license. Any one with the right skills car adapt, modify, use it for his own benefit and for the benefit of all. Behind the open-source approach, there is a philosophy of sharing. The all story of open source started with software. Projects like Unix and Linux became the bases of many project today. It started in a very small area of experts, mainly IT, but now, it has spread all over the place. Projects like Google Android is based on Linux.

Since the open-source started developing in the world, we now talk about the open-source culture. And it is spreading. Since the creation of the Open-source initiative in 1997, from which Netscape Communicator was born (remember that one?), it started growing more and more. Today it is not only about open-source software but also about Open-Source HardWare (OSHW) or material.

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How can you keep the spirit of “Open” with open-source software running on non-open-source devices? Complex. With both software and hardware being open-source, this means that every new technology coming from a Fab Lab is devoted to humanity, far away from patents and private copyrighting. And this is a big change.

Customization: from individualism to collectivism

As global economy grew since the end of Second world war, the world went from standardization to customization at all levels. Social speaking, the end of several social references as family, politics, religion, army service, etc.. brought the individual, as a person, to a path of redefining his own life and probably identity. So younger generations do not have anymore a single model in mind, they have the choice of several alternatives. It is all about each one needs or aims.

customization

In economy, and especially during economic crisis, people wishes to get the best product possible every time they invest their money. What does it means “best product”? It means the best product that will fit their own individual needs. And the era of customization started. According to the dictionary, Customization means

“to make (something) according to a customer’s individual requirements. To make or to alter to individual or personal specifications and preferences. ” 

The amazing thing about this customization era is that the concept or the main purpose is evolving. Customization was about one single person, one single need. So the goal was to bring satisfaction to an egocentric individualism purpose. Now, we can see that customization in a Fab Lab serves the greater good, humanity rather than individual. Why this change? Probably that the Open-source environment brought this change. So when a engineer comes to a Fab Lab in order to create something that will fit his own need, he might be opening a new field of expertise, creating a new technic protocol or simply contributing to innovation and creativity.

Today MIT has several researchers doing their PHD’s based on discoveries made in Fab Labs. So it is interesting to see how from an individual approach, we support a more wider purpose. Creativity and innovation do not come only from thinking and projecting. It comes now also from making.

The “To Make” culture

Men have always learned from experience. Success and failure are great sources of knowledge. Having a great idea or intuition, can be very frustrating if you cannot experience that. If you cannot materialize the dream. So men tend to make things, create things in reality, so they can accomplish a sort of human satisfaction. And this is still the case, especially in a Fab Lab. There is also an exciting entrepreneurial factor in making things. So the result is not the only interesting point, the “how we do it” it is also part of the journey. Of course, this idea of “Make” goes along with the idea of customization. The self-made or the “Do-it-yourself” trend is stronger than never. So innovation and creativity can rise from experience.

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Nevertheless, before a project is really born in a Fab lab, there was someone or some people who thought about it, shaped the idea in their minds and thanks to the right tools would bring the project forward to execution. Fab labs are also great places to exchange ideas and to be part of a global barnstorming network. You can share your ideas and find someone that can help you with the answer. So the making of a project will probably improve technology or technological processes. It might also increase creativity as by materializing something, the result can push you further and you can accomplish a better version of your idea. And this you might not be able to realize it before hand.

Another important topic in this “To make” culture is also the limits we can reach with such attitudes. In deed, can we all try to make everything? Despite the skills requested we can also get into a more ethical point. Can we allow everything on the name of the open-source? Today some people try to recreate projects that normally would take place in high security labs. Some projects like make your own gun can be easily downloaded from the internet. And what about biological projects? Working on virus or bacterias can be a delicate matter outside an appropriate environment.

DIY-Biology

Communities of DIY people on several topics are growing everywhere and technology becomes cheaper and cheaper, so the results can be amazing, in both positive or negative way. You can visit one interesting and serious website called DIY-Bio about this: http://diybio.org 

Fab Labs in Switzerland

In the world there is already a strong network of fab labs. Most of them are official Fab labs, meaning with a link with MIT. Others are more what we could call Fab Lab “initiatives”. If you want to visit and to use a Fab lab, we can only recommend you to chose an official one. Of course you can always visit a non-official fab lab, or even create your own. All official Fab labs follow a precise chart that you can find here: http://fab.cba.mit.edu/about/charter/

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Switzerland is a very active country in terms of Fab labs as the list is growing fast. There is a website dedicated to it called http://fablab.ch . You can find everything you need to know about Fab labs. Here is the list of the official Fab labs in Switzerland:

You can find more information in the website above or you can connect to the official Fab Lab website at the MIT: http://fab.cba.mit.edu 

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So even if you do not have any specific project, do not hesitate to visit a Fab Lab, you will find the experience very exciting and inspiring. Do you have an idea. Share it. The more we share, the better.

José Amorim

 

Info sourced in all quoted websites. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. All images without source were provided by luxuryactivist.com.

Give Your Home a Breath of Fresh Air – Interior Design Inspired by Nature

LuxuryActivist
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1
Reading Time: 3 minutes

If you are among countless homeowners who are simply tired of looking at the same old, same old, it’s probably time you did something about it. While you could always move to a new location, that may not solve all your woes. After all, you have a small fortune invested in your property and this is the neighborhood you have grown comfortable in. You know your neighbors, the kids aren’t ready to move to a new school and quite frankly, you may not even have the budget to buy the house of your dreams. So why not simply remodel the home you’re in?

If boredom has you down in the dumps, why not give your home a breath of fresh air with interior design inspired by nature? There’s just something awe inspiring when you think about what it would be like to live under the stars with lush vegetation and earthy colors surrounding you. You can have that same effect right here in your very own home with just a bit of planning and a few well-placed interior design tips.

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Avoid Manmade Materials

Wherever and whenever possible, avoid the use of manmade materials. Opt for wood or natural stone tile for flooring, natural fibers for furniture and why not create a totally outdoorsy look with table ornaments made from stone, clay and wood? By using only natural materials incorporated into your design you will create a look that is as close as you can get to nature without living out on the lawn.

Design One Wall with a Floor to Ceiling Mural

Some homeowners have hired artists to paint a mural on one wall that will, for the most part, remain unobstructed from view. Have a scene created that shows a magnificent waterfall, a forest with tall trees and little creatures peeking out or even a meadow with spring blossoms. If you have the fresco designed in your great room why not buy the best indoor grill that is safe for use indoors without all that smoke from barbequing and complete the ‘feel’ with a family picnic without leaving the comfort of home?

Let an Abundance of Natural Light In

If you are looking to get a ‘real feel’ of nature, let an abundance of natural light in your home. Add skylights if at all possible, big picture windows and sliding glass doors if you have a wall that will support them. Remember, even during the dark days of winter there is something about natural sunlight that just can’t be duplicated with artificial lighting.

Remodeling your home with a feel of the great outdoors will give your home a unique appeal unlike any in your neighborhood. Not only can you enjoy the new look but you can invite friends and family over. Some homeowners go so far as to have a picnic instead of a traditional meal for their house (redecorating) warming party. It may take a while to accomplish the entire makeover but once it’s complete you’ll wonder why you hadn’t thought of this years ago.

Daniel Clark

Info sourced by the author exclusively for LuxuryActivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. 

Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser: must have. 

LuxuryActivist
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0
Aesop Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser: must have. 
Reading Time: 4 minutes

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Aesop is an amazing brand with best-in-class products. This month we are highlighting one of the brand’s best seller: the Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser.
Cleaning your skin is one of the basic beauty rituals you can do. Aesop became expert in different beauty treatments, cleaning is a best-selling area. With the Geranium Leaf body cleanser, Aesop gently removes grime, banishes odour and leaves skin beautifully scented and refreshed. Its formula finds the perfect balance between a perfect cleaning and the respect of your skin nature.

The Formula, nicely done

The basis of the formula is an interesting balance between the Sodium Laureth Sulfate and the Coco-Betaine. The first is an efficient detergent that will work in the cleaning part and the second a gentle soft ingredient (coconut oil based). Both together make a perfect structure to support the rest of the formula. As ingredients are one of the brand’s strength, the product formula has an amazing list:

  • Sea Salt (Maris Sal)
  • Bergamot (Citrus Aurantium Bergamia)
  • Mandarin (Citrus Nobilis)
  • Geranium (Pelargonium Graveolens)

In a daily base, the Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser helps to keep your skin clean and safe. The perfect balance of its formula allows a daily usage without the feeling of dry skin. This is how Aesop advices to use this body cleanser: “Dispense a generous amount into hands or onto a sea sponge. Massage and lather over damp skin then rinse thoroughly. Also perfect to enjoy as a frequent-use hand cleanser.”
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The Geranium leaf extract

Pelargonium Graveolens is a geranium extract used in cosmetics and personal care products as a fragrance ingredient. It is cultivated in large numbers in South Africa, and known for its rose-like scent, although it is also used for other smells it imparts, including citrus, mint, coconut and nutmeg, as well as various fruits. It is sometimes known as rose geranium.
Pelargonium Graveolens has other skin care properties as well.
Geranium-leaf-extract
Geranium-flower
This ingredient is known to create a balance between oily and dry skin by balancing the production of sebum; this balance assists in boosting and improving the elasticity of the skin. It also stimulates the lymphatic system, releasing excess water that may be retained in the tissue. This may not only prevent cellulite, but can also relieve swelling. Pelargonium Graveolens also has therapeutic abilities that can calm irritated skin, clear acne, and heal bruises, burns, cuts and eczema, due to its astringent, antiseptic, tonic, antibiotic and anti-infectious properties. It is a truly small miracle of nature.

The texture and packaging

The texture is in a gel look-like base which makes it modern and adapted to a “in the shower usage”. The scent is sparkling green, like a fresh experience of nature. It is adapted to women and men and most of the skins will get a great result. It is a great kick-start in the morning to help you level-up your energy. It creates a great ambience in the bathroom, spa-like.
There are 2 packaging volume: 200ML and 500ML. The bigger container comes with a pump, which allow you not to carry the bottle in your hands.

In order to complement the cleansing routine, you can also use the Geranium Leaf body balm that will provide you a complementary experience to the Cleanser and still keep you in the same olfactory ambience. For more information and to get more advice about the perfect beauty routine for you, visit the brand website here:
http://www.aesop.com

Aesop takes the best of everything in order to make a reasonable, respectful and efficient product that will make your daily life better.

José Amorim

aesop-beauty-reviews
Info sourced at Aesop official communication release, website, official online retailers like Mr.Porter, wikipedia, Amazon and Dermaxime.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Harley Quinn by Margot Robbie – sexiest Comics character alive? 

José Amorim
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0
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Suicide Squad is pulsing in theathers right now and the world has discovered the sexiest cartoon character of all time: Harley Quinn. Obviously the entire sexiness comes from the interpretation of young Australian actress Margot Robbie.

Margot Robbie, fresh and sexy

Margot Elise Robbie was born in Australia in 1990. She worked in different films before her role of Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad.

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  • Neighbours -2008/2011
  • About Time – 2013
  • The Wolf of Wall Street – 2013
  • Focus – 2015
  • The Legend of Tarzan – 2016
  • Suicide Squad – 2016

On her different roles we can see a fresh, sparkling femininity that renew the cinema landscape. She represents a new kind of modernity in which a whole generation of women will identify themselves. Margot Robbie has a promising career ahead and we feel that Suicide Squad is just the beginning. On a side note, Margot Robbie lived in New York for several years. As of May 2014, she lives in London with her boyfriend and two friends. Since 2014, Robbie has been in a relationship with British assistant director Tom Ackerley, whom she met on the set of Suite Française.

Harley Quinn character, a crazy ray of light into the darkness.

Harley Quinn is a super-villain whose first appearance took place in 1992 – Batman, the animated series, Joker’s favor. Harley Quinn is the Joker’s frequent accomplice and lover, whom she met while working as a psychiatrist at Arkham Asylum, where the Joker was a patient. Her name is a play on the name “Harlequin”, a character which originated in the commedia dell’arte.

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harley-quinn-evolution
She was created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm. Her real name is Harleen Frances Quinzel and she used to be a psychiatrist at Gotham’s Arkham Asylum. It was during her journey there that she met The Joker. She felt under his influence and helped him to escape several times. When the Joker is returned to Arkham after a battle with Batman, the sight of her badly injured patient drives Harleen insane, leading her to quit her psychiatrist job and don a jester costume to become Harley Quinn, the Joker’s sidekick.

She later befriends Poison Ivy, who injects her with an antitoxin which gives her increased agility and strength as well as immunity to toxins. And here is how Harley Quinn was born. The Joker’s side-kick became an iconic figure of the DC Comics world. Through the years her look has evolved from a false childish costume to a super-sexy bomb lolita. In Suicide Squad, this ultra sexy look is highlighted and Margot Robbie played amazingly well the complete insanity in which Harley Quinn lives.

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Margot Robbie and her Harley Quinn – you would sell your soul to the devil

In the Suicide Squad movie, we watch the story of a group of super-villains put together for a greater good. The main idea is to fight evil with evil. Tricky but it can work. In the 2016 film, celebrities as Will Smith or Cara Delevingne play roles in this vrazy team of super-villains.

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harley-quinn-suicide-squad-sexy-pics
Harley Quinn is played by Margot Robbie and,along with the Joker (played by Jarred Leto), represents pure insanity. You can add a mega-ton of wild sexiness and boum! You get a new idol for Comics fans. The 2016 Harley Quinn is already inspiring thousands of fans from all over the world and many of them recreate her costume and attitude through CosPlay characters. This year, Harley Quinn is definitely the it-Girl of the moment. This will probably give ideas to DC Comics to perhaps dedicate a solo movie to her. In the incoming years many female super heros/villains will have their solo movie. It is a big trend that will hit movie theaters within the next couple of years.

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Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn is definitely the star in the movie. It opens a new era of female super-villains. Who said women are always the victims?

José Amorim

Info sourced at Suicide Squad official website, wikipedia, DC Comics and Time.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Plane Chic: How to Look Stylish at the Airport

LuxuryActivist
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0
Reading Time: 4 minutes

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Think of the airport as your very own international fashion runway. Hundreds of eyes on you, people from all over the world—it’s your chance to show them just how plane chic you are. Wearing the following will make you look ravishing and let you shine in full force on that moving walkway:

1.Large Leather Satchel

You’ll inevitably need a bag to carry all your personal items onto the plane—make it a good one. A large leather satchel gives you the ample room and compartments to store your most important items like make-up for touch ups, iPad to stream TV up in the air and of course, some cash for the in-flight adult beverages. Choosing a leather one will also give you that classy edge and the quality assurance to endure all the movement that goes along with travelling.

2.Dark Skinny Jeans

The sweatpants look may be enticing, especially when you’re about to sit on a plane for hours on end, but it most certainly is not a crowd pleaser. Some dark skinny jeans (stretch if that helps the marathon sitting) give you that put together look and casual comfort. Plus, the dark wash works to make your legs look slender while strutting your stuff.

3.Summer Scarf

There’s something about a good scarf that makes you feel and look sophisticated. And the fact that it’s summer and you can rock a scarf is even better. Wrap around a bright summer scarf with your airport outfit. It’ll give you a pop of color to brighten your overall ensemble, and make for a make-shift warmer on a freezing plane.

4.Maxi Dress

Dressing up in a maxi dress is the definition of plane chic. The flowy fabric not only keeps you super comfortable but wearing a dress in general states that you are ready to impress. Maxi dresses come in every format—from long sleeve, short sleeve to halter and thick straps. Choose the one that best fits your body type and rock it.
Maxi-dress-fashion

5.Easy Slide Sandals

To pair with your Maxi Dress, throw on designer slip-on sandals similar to these leather slides. Metallic is all the rage right now, and the gold band on it is an eye catcher. On top of that, these are super practical for when you might want to slide them on off during flight.

6.Simple Sneakers

If you prefer to be closed-toed when walking about the airport, get a stylish pair of sneakers. It’s best to wear extremely comfortable flat shoes on the plane—think of how tired your poor feet will be after standing, sitting, walking en route to your destination. If you’re opting for sneakers, select some that easy to slip on and off, similar to Keds. They’ll feel like sneakers, but look like ballet flats!

7.Moisturizer

Glowing skin is a sure sign that you keep up with your health and beauty. While airports and planes are extremely conducive to drying out your skin, you can counter the effect with a high-quality moisturizer. Try packing a gel cream similar to Amway’s Artistry line—their Hydra-V Nourishing Gel Cream deeply hydrates dehydrated skin. It’s perfect for those long-haul flights!

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8.Button Down Blouse

Wearing a blouse to the airport says you’re ready for anything or any business that might come your way. It tells people you are cool, calm and collected and travel at the ultimate standards. Try a button down one to give you a bit more mobility to button up or down for different scenarios and encounters while traveling.

Dress up for the airport while still getting the comfort you need. With all eyes on you, you can take on your travels with a boldness and confidence that’ll turn heads.
Samantha Rivers
Freelance Journalist
Contributing Editor for UpwardOnward.com
@SassySammyBee | Google +

Information sourced by the author for LuxuryActivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. 

How To Dress Up For a Night At The Casino

LuxuryActivist
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0
Reading Time: 4 minutes

In this modern age, women have been putting glamour to the world of casinos. In past years, the rise of popular poker portals have casualized the gambling world. Casino wear has become much more laid back over the past recent years. As the famous casino professionals attending tournaments with regular home-wear clothes (baggy jeans and scruffy t-shirts), this style has become a trend in itself.

However, there are still many people who uphold the spirit of casino fashion as many casino stars take pride in their image and the attention it collects. Indeed, what other ways there could possibly be, to get in a gambling mood for a night in top rated casinos in norway if by not the dressing part? So, go ahead and glam up your wardrobe with one of the following styles.

The Sparkles and The Sequins Look

It’s impossible not to get carried away by an alluring showgirl vibe. It’s an image that is timeless, captivating and covered with sequins. Go with long or short dress that has an open back, in any type of material that shimmers in the light. And, if you don’t like sequins, then go for something cheerful and simple. Also, keep in mind that too much jewelry may divert the focus from your dress, so better to wear just a pair of earrings in this style.

Sequins-look

The Stylish Sleek Look

Imagine a look that combines pearl necklace, long pair of silky gloves and a flawless up-do, does anyone pops up in your head? For me, it’s Audrey Hepburn! The unapogogetically charming look of her has become a worldwide symbol of class and elegance. In this style, you don’t need to wear heels that are too high, just go with something black and simple. And, for jewelry, pick diamonds or pearls. However, I know that doing perfectly in-line up-do can be bit tough without the help of a professional, but you can decorate your hair with mesh fascinator for the same effect without any professional help.

The Androgynous Look

Women now are entering casinos as professional players. The fashion sense of casino stars like Xuan Lio have started a new trend in which, they wear a less traditional style among the women in casino by combining unisex casual with foxy formal. You too can wear your own style vogue look with a plain and loose buttoned jacket and slimfit shirt. Put on some golden jewelry and you’ll have a perfect balance between masculine dapperness and feminine mystique.

Xuan-Lio-casino-player

The Wild West Look

If you want your style to be inspired from Wild West, you might have to go in with a checked shirt, cowboy hat and buckle boots. For this playful look, you’ll need black skinny jeans, bright red boots and tomboy look. With this combination, you can have the most wonderful, thematic and cheeky look. Because, it’s not always necessary to wear a classiest dress in a casino, so why not a Wild West look?

The Nostalgia Look

Bringing back that districtive retro 80s casino look can be really unique. For that, you’ll require long, colorful nails and hairspray do, the bigger the better. This outfit is further enhanced with over-sized coat with leopard print and brazen make up and you’ll look just like Cindy Crawford in a fashion mag. Not everybody can pull off this look, but trying out once is half the fun.

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Conclusion

Remember that whether you’re dressed in a Walmart dressing gown or Dior suit, in the end it all comes down to enjoying yourself, enhancing your strategies and hopefully bringing back extra buck at home.

Daniel Clark

Info sourced by the author exclusively to LuxuryActivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. 

Top 6 best Spas around the Leman Lake in Switzerland.

José Amorim
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0
Reading Time: 9 minutes

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Switzerland has a longtime heritage of cosmetics and beauty treatments. Several Swiss and International brands produce their beauty products in Switzerland. Luxury tourism is a big activity and especially around cities like Zürich and Geneva. The entire country breathes well-being and you can find amazing locations for beauty spas. Luxury Hotels are playing in 2 areas in order to differentiate themselves from competition. The first area is to capitalize on the traditional architecture of their building and the second one is their Spa. In the past 5 years, the biggest trend is the well-being area. It goes from the traditional fitness area to different swimming pools, massage cabinets, hammam, sauna and other water parcours. At LuxuryActivist we decided to rank our top 6 best Spas around the Leman Lake, mostly are located in beautiful and amazing hotels.

Richemont Geneva, The Spa by Sisley

This is probably one of the best spas in Geneva. Since 2013, the Richemond Hotel welcomed Sisley in their daily spa. Located in the centre of Geneva, in a luxurious oasis as you indulge in pampering spa treatments from acclaimed French skincare experts Sisley. Their renowned face and body treatments are based onaromacology – the science of relaxing body and mind through the use of fragrance. Sisley’s skincare products are made from the finest plant extracts and essential oils, applied to the skin using a variety of different massage rituals from around the world, to create impressive results and a deep sense of calm.

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Cabine-Thai-Spa-by-Sisley

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The Hotel itself is a beautiful address for a short of more long stay in Geneva.  Ideally located by the lake, just in front of the famous water-shoot, you can enjoy all the luxury and traditional services from a Grand Hotel in a contemporary ambiance. If you come by train, by car or by airplane, the access to the Hotel is easy. This luxury hotel is definitely one of the best addresses in town. Since the first opening in 1875, the hotel went from a family owned pension to a top luxury hotel just after Second world war. An interesting fact about Le Richemond is that it was owned for 4 generations by the Armleder Family, in which one  of the descendants is the famous Swiss artist John Armleder. Since 2004, the hotel does not belong anymore to this Swiss family and since 2011 Dorschester Collection was appointment to manage the hotel.  And they do it well, always reinventing themselves in order to provide you with the best experience. The hotel is also listed as having one of the top ten most expensive suites, Armleder suite named after the Armleder family. For more details, visit the hotel website here: https://www.dorchestercollection.com/en/geneva/le-richemond/spa/

Lausanne Palace, a beautiful spa with high expertise

The Lausanne Palace is a 5 stars hotel that would deserve a ranking of its own. In a very beautiful Belle Epoque style, this 146 bedrooms hotel welcomes you in the heart of Lausanne. It was initially opened in 1915. Since 1980, it is the official residence of all presidents of the Olympic committee. In 1989, Ute Funke, the German millionaire acquires the Lausanne Palace. She opens a Spa, a Conference center and a underground parking. Since then, it is one of the top addresses. Several celebrities stayed at the Lausanne Palace. From Queen Elisabeth, to Rita Hayworth, Charlie Chaplin, Orson Wells, Marilyn Monroe, Coco Chanel or the Rolling Stones just to quote a few. Ute Funke invested more than 60 million euros to modernize the hotel and today the 4 restaurants are amazing culinary destinations. The Spa is a perfect match between luxury, lifestyle and expertise. Lausanne-palace-spa-installations Lausanne-palace-spa

The personalised care treatment programs of the wellness centre and of the beauty space are designed in a spirit of relaxation, balance and discovery. The Lausanne Palace therapists, trained in the forefront of the new techniques of care treatments, offer to achieve your objectives, by putting their knowledge to work in the service of your wellness. The Spa has chosen the AVEDA, Phyto 5 and marocMaroc for body care. You can find out more about this place by visiting the official website here: http://www.lausanne-palace.com

Le Mirador , the Spa by Givenchy

The Mirador Mont-Pèlerin Lake Geneva is a beautiful building built in 1904 located above Montreux, dominating the breath-taking landscape of Leman Lake. With such an amazing location, Le Mirador offers to the pleasure of its guests an amazing sight-seeing to the Alpine peaks. It is probably one of the most beautiful places to admire the lake and mountain landscape, both in summer as well as in winter.  In each season, the landscape changes and offers you a dream in reality. In winter you can actually be just above the clouds, which gives an impression of litteraly being in heaven. One of the most outstanding parts of the hotel, it is the wellness area. They hold an exclusive Givenchy spa and amazing wellness infrastructures. We could start just with the swimming pool, that is probably one of the biggest and beautiful interior swimming pools.

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The Givenchy Spa will offer you all the relaxing and revitalization you might be looking for. Switzerland’s only Givenchy Spa, is dedicated to purity, replenishment of your youthful complexion and well-being. Le Mirador Medical Centre offers complete cures and tailor-made preventive programmes that will restore your inner balance.From a high standard of luxury day-spa to the private spa suite, you can take time for yourself and just let the amazing spa team take good care of you. Every single spa team member are highly professional, friendly and at your service. The Spa Director is a delightful lady that manages all the details with passion and caring. For more information you can visit the hotel website here: http://www.spa-givenchy.ch

Chalet Royal Alp, The Spa by RoyalAlp

Chic and casual, cosy and authentic, the Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa, member of Leading Hotels of the World, invites you to enjoy relaxing moments in a unique setting. In winter or in summer, the Chalet RoyAlp Hôtel & Spa is a haven of peace in the heart of the Villars-sur-Ollon resort in the Swiss Alps. It is probably one of the most beautiful chalet hotels in Switzerland. Its ambiance will welcome you for a stylish and authentic journey. The universe of the Spa by RoyAlp is a breath of fresh air in the Vaud Alps. Like a lagoon, this 1200 m² Spa offers a warm atmosphere designed for the well-being of body and mind.

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The perfect destination to relax and recharge your batteries. The Spa by RoyAlp offers high quality spa treatments with Cellcosmet, Biologique Recherche, Pure altitude, Aromatherapy Associates products for adults and organic TOO FRUITS eco-certified treatments for children. Generous care provided by unparalleled professional staff who will give you a breath of fresh air in the heart of the Vaud Alps. More information, click here: http://www.chaletroyalp.com

Fairmont Montreux Palace, the Willow Stream Spa

There are hotels that represent a good place to stay and there are palaces that you need to stay at least once in your lifetime. And one of these unique places is the Fairmont Montreux Palace in Switzerland. This 5 stars hotel has an amazing reputation and is a place for great holidays as well as business trips. Placed in the heart of Montreux, this beautiful city by the shores of Lake Geneva, the Fairmont Montreux Palace offers one of the best stays in the region. Every summer, Montreux gets funky thanks to the Montreux Jazz festival.

Nestled by the shores of Lake Geneva, the Willow Stream Spa instills wellbeing and a deep feeling of relaxation in you. The secluded building provides more than 2’000 sq.m. of comprehensive facilities dedicated to your cocooning and addiction to fitness. Your very first laps inside the indoor or outdoor pool will help you connect with the water elements while Lake Geneva sets a most inspiring décor. As you step out of the pool, your sunbed awaits at our solarium so you can indulge in sunbathing with the fresh air of the Alps reinvigorating your spirit. The climax of your experience remains, as you face the comforting smile of our expert therapist, ready to lovingly apply the signature massage or treatment of your choice. You leave Willow Stream Spa feeling rejuvenated, though you only wish to come back!

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The energy of the idyllic Montreux re- gion and the luxurious resort extends to Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Le Montreux Palace. The spa hums with the revitalizing elements of nature. Come and connect with your energy in the heart of the Swiss Riviera. Har- mony and well-being await you. More information can be found here: http://www.fairmont.com/montreux

Royal Savoy – New spa for a urban luxury lifestyle

The legendary Royal Savoy is writing a new chapter in hotel history: 196 rooms and suites, business facilities, an exclusive terrace restaurant, lobby lounge, cigar lounge, a Sky Terrace on the roof with its unique 360° panoramic view and an extensive spa area. The historic building in the “Grand Château look” is being complemented by a new construction. The hotel’s own 5,000 sqm park, situated between the new and historical building, will become an incomparable oasis of tranquility, right in the middle of the city.

The modern spa at the Royal Savoy, covering an area of approximately 1,500 sqm, will leave nothing to be desired, providing a comprehensive range of cosmetic treatments and massages. It will include an indoor and outdoor pool, eight treatment rooms, a “ladies only” Spa area, two additional private spa areas, as well as a 24/7 fitness facility equipped with the latest machines.

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Royal-Savoy-Lausanne

Spanning 1500sqm our modern spa features a Spa Boutique, Hair Studio, Fitness Centre, an Indoor and outdoor Pool, a “Ladies only” Spa, two Private Spa areas, Hammam, Sauna, Steam, Whirlpool, eight Treatment rooms and two relaxation rooms. For more information you can visit the official website here: http://www.royalsavoy.ch 

Now you can choose the best place for a relaxing moment. The Leman lake is a beautiful area naturally adapted for well-being and the above hotels are outstanding places for a magical journey. In our western countries, we never take enough time to treat ourselves with a personal moment of wellness. Our advice: take your time and spend an afternoon in a spa!

José Amorim

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Info sourced at different hotel’s website and official communication. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

10 Hottest Travel Accessories You Need This Summer

LuxuryActivist
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1
Reading Time: 6 minutes

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Summer is in full swing and now’s the time to take advantage of long, warm, sunny days. Whether your summer travel plans include lounging by the pool, basking in warm beach waves, or island hopping on a luxurious yacht, these travel accessories are the hottest, must-have items you’ll need this summer.

1. The Perfect Luggage

Every traveler needs the perfect luggage and nothing is more convenient or stylish than the Prada Trolley. The Prada Trolley has two wheels and a telescopic handle for ease of navigating through busy airports. Approved carry-on size, you’ll be able to take all of your essentials with you and avoid the hassle of baggage claim. The Prada trolley is made of luxurious Saffiano leather and is available in chalk white, baltic blue, burgundy, and black.

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If you’re looking for something more compact and equally stylish, Prada also makes a beautiful squared backpack that can double as both a carry-on and for carrying daily essentials as you explore exotic places abroad. Prada’s backpack is made of soft calf leather with a fabric lining and three inside pockets; and of course, everyone will know it’s a Prada thanks to the beautiful enamel triangle logo on the right side of the backpack.

2. Stay Organized with the Smythson Panama Marshal Travel Wallet

Keep your passport, boarding pass, foreign currency, and metro tickets organized with the Smythson Panama Marshall Travel Wallet. This travel wallet has three document dividers, beautifully labeled with gold stamping and includes a boarding pass pocket for ease of hopping from airplane to airplane. Available in a variety of colors, including pink, green, black, red, navy, and light blue, the Smythson Panama Marshal Travel Wallet is perfect for any jetsetter.

3. Waterproof Digital Camera

You’ll be able to capture all of the best memories from your summer travels, even in the water, with the Nikon Coolpix AW120 waterproof digital camera. The Nikon Coolpix is waterproof up to 18 meters deep, freezeproof up to 14º F, and can withstand a drop of two meters. If that’s not enough, the Coolpix has other waterproof digital cameras beat with its high performance NIKKOR lens, built in Wi-Fi, and can take full HD videos.

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4. Literally the Coolest Cooler

Whether your summer travels lead to you partying on the beach, sailing the coast, or roughing it in the great outdoors, you’ll need to keep your drinks chilled, the margaritas flowing, and the beats playing.  With the Coolest Cooler, you’ll be able to do all that and more! Not just a cooler, the Coolest Cooler is basically the Swiss Army Knife of coolers. Equipped with a built-in, rechargeable blender, detachable blue tooth speaker, USB charger, 4 BPA-free plates, a knife, a corkscrew, and a bottle opener, the Coolest Cooler will have you prepared for any summer party adventure. It’s also so well insulated, ice can last four to five days.

5. Waterproof, Floating Bluetooth Speaker 

Make the most of your summer days lazing in a pool with the Monster 24K™ Superstar Backfloat waterproof speaker. Not just for the pool, the Backfloat brings your favorite music anywhere and everywhere. Boasting all of the perks of the classic  Backfloat, like powerful wireless sound and waterproof floating design, the 24K™ Superstar Backfloat has the added style and bling of 24K gold.

6. Classic Shades

No matter where you’re summer travels take you, you’ll need a stylish pair of sunglasses and Ray-Ban is the epitome of timeless, classic style. You can’t go wrong with a pair of Wayfarers (they’ve been a must-have accessory since Ray-Ban introduced them in the 1950s) or a pair of lightweight, breezy aviators. For a modern twist on the classic aviator, try a pair of bold, vibrant Aviator Flash Lenses. These gold framed aviators with lenses in vivid colors like orange, violet, green, blue, and cyclamen (a beautiful mix of orange and pink, reminiscent of a sunset over Nantucket) will make you look summer ready.

7. A Smartwatch for the Beach

Stay connected at the beach or while relaxing in a pool with the Pebble Time Steel water resistant smartwatch. The Pebble Time Steel smartwatch provides up to 10 days of battery life on one charge, includes a health tracker to count steps, monitor sleep, and help you stay fit even when on vacation. Water resistant up to 30 meters, you can take a dip or go snorkeling without worrying about missing a notification or losing track of time. The Pebble Time Steel smartwatch is available in classic gray, black, or burgundy leather bands, and sophisticated silver or gold links.

8. Bring the French Riviera Everywhere You Go with a Gorgeous Straw Bag

One of this summer’s hottest trends is vintage inspired straw, raffia, and wicker handbags and totes. And it’s no surprise, these classic bags perfectly represent the carefree breeze of summer days. Large straw totes, like the Naomi Large Woven Straw Tote by Michael Kors, are perfect for traveling as they’re both stylish and large enough to carry essentials wherever you go, whether that be a swimsuit, book, or bottle of wine.

9. Straw Panama Hat

Straw isn’t just for tote bags! Straw Panama hats are a perfect summer accessory as they look great on both men and women. Style a Panama hat with a pair of Wayfarers and you’ll be at the top of summer chic. J. Crew offers the Paulmann Panama hat, handmade by Paulmann Hats & Accessories, in natural toquilla straw and accented with a classic indigo band.

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10. Keep Your Smartphone Charged on the Go with the QBracelet

Never get stranded with a dead iPhone with the wearable iPhone charger, the QBracelet. The QBracelet can charge an iPhone to 50% in as little as 40 minutes so you’ll be able to stay charged on the go. Available in polished silver, matte silver, polished gold, and matte black, the QBracelet looks sophisticated and makes a great addition to any wardrobe.

Summer will be gone before you know it so don’t wait any longer! Get the most out of your summer with these must-have travel accessories.

– By Jennifer Thayer

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Jennifer Thayer is a freelance writer from Southern California. She is passionate about travel, technology and exploring new adventures. Follow her on Twitter.

Breaking luxury news: Ladurée opens at Quai des Bergues in Geneva!

José Amorim
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0
Reading Time: 4 minutes

We just got the information, Ladurée will open a new store in Geneva, in one of the prestigious adresses in town: Quai des Bergues. The store is designed by India Mahdavi. This is definitely the luxury news of the month. Geneva is the perfect place in Europe to enjoy a stylish and a luxury life. Ladurée is already present in certain point of sales but here it will be a central point for the brand.

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Ladurée is a French luxury bakery and sweets maker house created in 1862. It is one of the world’s best-known premier sellers of the double-decker macaron, fifteen thousand of which are sold every day. Parisian tea rooms’ history is intimately tied to the history of the Ladurée family. It all began in 1862, when Louis Ernest Ladurée, a miller from the southwest of France, founded a bakery in Paris at 16 rue Royale.

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In 1871, while Baron Haussmann was giving Paris a « new face », a fire in the bakery opened the opportunity to transform it into a pastry shop. The decoration of the pastry shop was entrusted to Jules Cheret, a famous turn-of-the-century painter and poster artist. The story of the Ladurée macaron starts in the middle of the 20th century with Pierre Desfontaines, who first thought of taking two macaron shells and joining them with a delicious ganache filling. Since this time, the recipe did not change. Today the brand has a worldwide reputation and people from different continents enjoy the amazing culinary creations of the French brand. Currently there are 5 different segments:

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  • LADUREE FABRICANT DE DOUCEURS: Half-way between a Parisian café and a cake shop, Ladurée Fabricant de Douceurs is the temple of gastronomy and pastry innovation where each creation moment is of high intensity.
  • LES MARQUIS DE LADUREE: Like an ode to chocolate, Les Marquis de Ladurée is the third Ladurée Maison aimed at creating as good as aesthetic chocolates. The secret lies in the combination of the highest
    quality product and a gorgeous setting.
  • LES SECRETS LADUREE: This gift collection has been created for Ladurée amateurs who want to take back some Ladurée delights.
  • BEAUTE LADUREE: Combining pleasure and softness, Ladurée Beauté collections for home, bath and body tell soft, sweet and ancient stories.
  • LES MERVEILLEUSES LADUREE: Les Merveilleuses is a collection dedicated to sensitive and refined women. Make-up turns into a ritual, a special and confidential rendez-vous and even a very sophisticated accessory.

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145 years later after the first store in Paris, it is in Geneva that Ladurée decided to extend its amazing brand thanks to this beautiful new place. India Mahdavi was asked to create an amazing, stylish and luxury environment, perfectly matching the ambience of Quai des Bergues.

India-MahdaviIndia Mahdavi is based in Paris. Her studio is known for the diversity of its international projects. The interiors she creates are elegant, fluid, and reflect the essence of their location. Her signature has become a reference for renowned hotels and restaurants such as Condesa DF in Mexico, Hotel on Rivington in New York, Monte Carlo Beach in Monaco, the Coburg bar and Hélène Darroze’s restaurant at the Connaught in London, suites at Claridge’s in London, Hôtel Thoumieux in Paris, Hôtel du Cloître in Arles, Café Français in Paris in collaboration with M/M (Paris),

Ladurée is a garden of delights – India Mahdavi

India Mahdavi has become an exclusive brand, offering a complete philosophy, based on a special vocabulary: high end, joyful, nomadic, chic, elegant, ‘art de vivre’. With the Rue du Rhones, Quai des Bergues is one of the chic addresses of Geneva. The name Bergues is given to the bridge and the all area as well as the street name.

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The name Bergues comes from the 16th century. At that time, in the current place of the Hôtel des Bergues, was the stylish residence of a German merchant Hans or Jean Kleberger. His neighbors used to call him “Clébergue” which deviated into “Bergues“. Today Quai des Bergues keeps the stylish lifestyle of “Rive Droite” thanks to the presence of the Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues hotel. And it is precisely inside the luxury hotel that Ladurée will open this beautiful space split in 3 different areas: Patisserie, Restaurant and Tea-room.

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The inauguration date is still to come and Geneva is already celebrating the good news. You can discover more about the amazing universe of this sweet brand by connecting to the official website:
https://www.laduree.com

José Amorim

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Info sourced at the official Ladurée communication release, wikipedia and the brand website. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. 

4 Ways to Get Silky Smooth Skin

LuxuryActivist
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0
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Every woman wants the smoothest, silkiest skin possible but it seems like no matter what they do or how hard they try, their skin just seems to get rougher and drier. Actually, according to board certified dermatologist, Dr. Jessica Krant, that may be the problem. Women just try too hard and in so doing will do more damage than good. If you are looking for the silkiest smoothest skin imaginable, here are great four ways for you to have the skin of your dreams.

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1. Avoid Over Washing and Harsh Soaps

Most women are laboring under the impression that they need to scrub their face several times a day. This could be the most worst move they can make if the silky smooth skin they are looking for is on their face. Dr. Krant says that the market is flooded with all kinds of anti-aging products that dry the skin and result in rough patches that will then need to be re-moisturized. Also, makeup should be removed gently and the face only needs to be washed in the morning and before bed. But, you should never use strong soaps or facial scrubs.

2. Drink Plenty of Water and Eat Healthy

Although everyone should have to drink plenty of fresh water each and every day, anyone looking to clear up skin problems and promote smoother skin should pay special attention to the amount they drink. Women need to drink at least a half-gallon of water daily – this will accomplish at least two things. Water flushes toxins known to cause blemishes from the body and will also help to keep your skin more moisturized and smooth. When it comes to a healthy diet, ensure that you get plenty of the Omega-3 group of fatty acids and green vegetables. It is even suggested that you blend a green veggie juice to help with the water you need while adding those nutrients needed for clear and smooth skin. Antioxidants also help to rid the body of blemish-causing toxins.

3. Exfoliate Gently

There has been so much attention given to exfoliation that sometimes women tend to get carried away. If you are looking for smooth skin, especially on the face and legs, exfoliation can help slough away dead, flaky skin cells. However, don’t take it to extremes. Use a technique and exfoliating product that gently removes dead skin without causing those angry red spots that result from rough exfoliation. Again, less is more.

4. Use a High Quality Epilator

One of the detriments to silky smooth skin is hair. Shaving to remove hair from the body tends to cause dry skin. But, with a high quality epilator you can literally tweeze body hair so that it is removed from beneath the epidermis, thereby reducing that rough stubble that is left when shaving the arms, legs and facial hair. The best epilator to use would be one that can be used with or without water. These are labeled ‘wet / dry’ epilators and should normally be used with water for the best results if you are looking for gorgeous and smooth skin.

Of course there are a number of other ways to accomplish your goals but these four ways to get silky smooth skin are the best ways to get started. If you do nothing else than what you’ve read here, you can expect your skin to start improving almost immediately. Remember Dr. Krant’s mantra – ‘less is more’ and you will see that it isn’t as hard as you thought it would be to get the results you desire.

Daniel Clark

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Info sourced by the author exclusively for LuxuryActivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. 

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