NSI Secrets Gel System | Workshop

Hey Everyone,

So today I attended yet another amazing workshop at NSI Western Cape in Durbanville, this time being the NSI Secrets Gel System Workshop. 

I can say that with NSI's new Gel formulation it really has made me so excited to offer gel to my clients especially being an Acrylic Specializing Nail Tech.

Although being trained in Gel systems as well, I never really liked NSI's old gel system because it could not be soaked off, only buffed off which is a nightmare for nail tech and client. Being dedicated to the NSI brand because of superior quality, I have never considered going the other way by using another brands Gel- hence the reason why I have only stuck to Acrylic Systems and the lighter form of Gel application being Polish Pro.

Today has changed my outlook on gel completely and I'm pretty sure that NSI's Secrets Gel system is going to take over the Gel Nail Market by a storm.

    "Our flour stuffed Clients for the day"

So if your a die hard Acrylic Nail Tech like me or if your the client you may take note too but this is what you will like about the NSI Secrets Gel System.

• It's so easy to apply, your able to build, sculpt like an acrylic but without the set time, so you can take your time to perfect the nail before you set/cure the nail.

• It is far more superior to any other Gel. I found the color pigments especially so amazing because you only need one coat to show its true color.

• Easy soak off/removable with Acetone - The "ice breaker" Yes thank goodness!

• This product is self leveling so it basically falls into all the right places making it less of a hassle for application.

• Did I mention less dust? Yes with acrylic there's an crazy amount of dust after filing and buffing- well not with gel.

• The secrets gel can be cured with UV as well with LED lamps. So not to worry to all those who are still using UV lamps you don't have to rush out and splurge on a LED lamp just yet, but you will want to because it will just save you so much more time.

• Easier thinner application but also longer lasting- lasts up to 2-4 weeks keeping in mind that can be filled as well.

• The Secrets Gel is as strong as Acrylic but is more flexible. Oh and ouderless too, Although most of my clients get excited for the smell acrylics. 

The list goes on but the above pointers are what stood out the most for me.

What some well known Techs say about the Secrets Gel Sytem:

"As I am mostly an acrylic tech, I'm always wary about trying new gels, but the secrets gel system is so easy, it self levels without running, the colour pigmentation is lovely and strong. I was able to get a C- Curve by pinching it when scultping and I found the system fast and easy to use. I can see this becoming one of my favorite products to work with!" - Gemma Lambert, 12x UK Nail Champion

 "This product is the future of gels. The Oligomers used allows speed in application, strength and flexibility. It's perfect for Acrylic Techs to use too, so easy to apply and lasts! The Secrets Coloured gels, high in pigment and smooth in texture form a range of rich intense colours. Quality in a Jar" - Denise Wright, NSI Brand Ambassordor 

So there you have it straight from the mouths or I should say hands of the pros.

For me I will say that I will not steer away from my acrylic system but for those clients who prefer Gel you too can now look forward to this amazing product.

Hoping that this has inspired you all.

Until next time.

Xx

NSI Western Cape- 021 979 1011

www.nsiwc.co.za

Facebook: NSI Western Cape

Mani Monday | NSI Nail Art Workshop

Hey Everyone,

So today I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the NSI Nail workshop that was hosted by NSI Western Cape's head office in Durbaville.

I am always excited to spend some time with the NSI family because not only do you feel at home there but you know your always going to leave there with the best Knowlede and skill in the in the nail industry. I can truly stand by this being NSI trained myself.

Flashing back to a few years ago when I first did my advance nail course through NSI I left there feeling so confident but not knowing that I still needed some real practice on clients in the salon industry. I'm not going to lie every client I did I thought WOW I'm actually good at this being fresh out of training, but then some clients came back complaining about simple things like acrylic maybe lifting for example, which really killed my confidence abit. What I'm getting to is that when I struggled like that Bianca who is the NSI educator in Western Cape made it her mission to come out to the salon I was working at to help me where I was going wrong. That is why I call them a family because relationships were built and because they really do care and don't just forget about you when it's your last day at training and you receive your certificate. You really do get the feeling that you can pick up the phone anytime and call them for advice.

With the nail industry continuously evolving it's only obvious that certain types of training is necessary to help you as a nail tech to be able to deliver only the best to your clients.

Today seemed only fit for a Nail Art workshop being Mani Monday and oh boy was it fun. 

Bianca provided everyone with the foundation of Basic Nail art and from there it's all up to you as the nail tech to just let your creative juices flow. 

Apart from the Nail Art Workshops, NSI also offers training in; Massage, Facials, Eyelash Extensions, Manicures and Pedicures and obviously Advance Nail Sytems in Gel and Acrylic which are all internationally recognized.

The Nail industry is really booming, I mean who would have thought the red carpet would have a "Mani Cam" yes a camara that features Nail art as an outfit on its own. Nails and nail art has really become a form of expressing ones personality and often takes the place of jewelry as some women just don't feel safe wearing jewelry in today's time. Nail franchises are opening up left, right and centre on a continuous basis, Making Nail Technicians a serious demand.

So do see yourself being a creative Nail Tech? Are you Interested in specializing in nails? I can Guarantee you that you won't go wrong with NSI. If your in the Cape Region, NSI is situated in the Northern Suburbs of Cape Town. For more details check out www.nsiwc.co.za or follow 'NSI Western Cape' on facebook. You can also give them a call on 021 9791011 for more direct contact.

Hoping that you were all inspired by this post.

Until Next time..

Xx

Retail Box "The Pink Carpet" Review

Hello everybody,

So last week I ordered my very first secret box from Retail Box and I must say I am very proud of my purchase. I have always been a bit suspect of these online boxes as following social media I have noticed so many who have had their monthly box delivered to them from 'X'Company would always end up being quite disappointed.

Now if there's anything that I really fuss about it would be my hair, although being a beauty therapist my hair will always be my main spoil.

The past 6 months alone I have gone through so many hairstyles with the latest being short pixie hair. (Definitely My daring act for 2015!)

Back to the point of this review. What I'm trying to say is that I am really excited for my future orders with Retail Box because I aim to grow my hair out healthily and try out various products on my actual "Virgin" hair (which I can finally say) as every form of chemical has been cut off. Of course the excitement of being surprised with each box is EVERYTHING!

So I ordered Secret Box #9 on www.retailbox.co.za at only R149 which is totally worth it and here's why:

Box Consisted of 1xTravel size Moroccan Oil Hair Mask, 2x Decent size Sample Moroccan Treatment Oils, 1x Schwarzkopf Osis+ and 1x Detangling Hairbrush.

The Tangle Teezer

I don't have much hair to detangle at the moment but the tangle Teezer still makes an awesome hairbrush and is so funky, especially to carry around in your handbag for touch ups and then bam you whip it out and be like "Yes I have a Tangle Teaser." (Cool Kid grin)! Ok all jokes aside These retail for just over R200 in hair salons which I actually don't think I would go out of my way to splurge on because the way I see it you gotta be really lazy to comb your knots out to have to buy one of these. Never the less still a complete spoil in this box.

Moroccan Oil- Reconstructive Hair Mask ' Treatment Oil for all hair types ' Treatment Oil for Light colored Hair'

I have not tried these yet but I will get back to you on the results of these babies. I can however say that they smell so delicious and I have only really heard good feedback on these products. With ingredients such as Argon Oil and Shea butter your hair can only thank you.

Schwarzkopf Osis+ Rough Rubber

Now this one I am most excited about. With my hair being so short I am quite the fan of the textured out of bed kind of look. Just over a week ago I asked my hair stylist to recommend a decent wax for my hair as I have been left rather disappointed by most because most left my hair looking dull and not really doing anything at all. I have tried this one and with the rubber texture you can really shape and mould your hair to how you wish. I'm not going to lie the shine however is not of the greatest with this product but it really does give great effect texture wise. Lets not forget about the super yummy smell coming out of that pot, (because yes who dosnt want nice smelling hair for their partner to sniff in) - it really makes up for the minimum shine.

To conclude I am really impressed with my first secret box, all these exciting treats that's actual value is over R500 it's really something to look forward to in your post.

Hoping that I could have left you all inspired.

Until next time.

Xx

 

Product Review | The Caribbean Collection

Hey everyone.

So last week I popped over to NSI to pick up some stock and as I walk in at the front door are these exciting products almost purposefully displayed for suckers like me. Ofcorse I had to open and maybe re-open every tub again to smell each flavor to decide which I liked best. 

Honestly I couldn't decide because they Are all so amazing in their own flavor!

The Caribbean Collection is compiled of 4 yummy Fruity Flavors: "Coconut and Lime"; "Papaya and Strawberry"; "Mango and Passion Fruit" and "Pink Grapefruit and Mandarin". In this range you will find body butters, body lotions; sugar scrubs; Exfoliating Liquid Soap and Shower Gels.

If your a fan of The body shops products you will love these too.

I got a few products in each flavor but decided to variate between the scrubs, lotions and butters.

I love the packaging it's simple but also bright and appealing to the eye and really just makes you wanna open up those tubs to get a wiff of what's inside.

Above is the Sugar scrub which I found is not too harsh on the skin and absolutely just melts right into your skin. Perfect for an luxurious full body pamper during bath time. I for instance have already used these on my clients for manicures and pedicures and they absolutely loved the scents bursting out of those tubs. Plus the scrubs are so pretty like the Strawberry and Papaya is almost a shocking pink and the smell is sweet and fun it kind of releases a feeling of happiness when you smell it.

Then there's the coconut and Lime which  is lime green in color and has a slight coconutty scent with an citrus zing of lime- it's so good it's incredibly fresh and relaxing.

Both scrubs are Aah-ma-zing and comes in a nice big 500ml tub which will last you quite long time.

What I love about a The Caribbean Collections Body Lotions and Body butters is that it's easily absorbed into the skin and dosnt leave a tacky film on top of your skin if you look at the consistency in the examples above. Its so fresh and hydrating; the body lotion is perfect to use summer time. However for dry skin types I don't think that they would really find the lotion moisturizing enough and would rather then go for the body butter. I also found that the body butter also isn't really thick and butterish like most body butters but the consistency is slightly thicker than the lotion and even the butter does not leave a tacky layer on the skin.

Above is an Exfoliating Anti-bacterial Liquid Soap which is perfectly fun to have in your bathroom or kitchen. With the smell and feel you'll be washing your hands over and over. 

So what are the prices like? 

Really affordable with prices ranging between R60 and R150 you can't resist but to just buy them all.

These are also awesome stocking fillers for last minute Christmas gift ideas.

I do stock these through Miyoko Beauty so if your wanting to get your hands on these email info@miyokobeauty.co.za 

If your wanting to order these for Christmas, I have to state though that with the supplier closing this Friday 19 December I can only take orders for Cape Town. 

So that's it from my side and The Caribbean Collection. 

Until Next time.

Xx

Try it Tuesday | Protein Treats

Hey everybody,

Today I thought I'd cover protein treats and if your like me and can't go without chocolates or anything sweet for the matter then you will like this.

I am a protein Junkie. My eyes are shaped in a Capitol 'P' for protein! I can't go without, only because it really does work for me and results are visible. I have monitored my body on weeks with higher protein intake and weeks with a lower intake and with lower protein intake my body most definitely does pick up in body fat%. Most importantly just try to keep it all balanced. Now obviously you can obtain your protein from your chicken, egg whites, tuna and so forth. But that's food not a treat and that's why I rely on the following being my favorite Protein Sweet Treats.

1. USN Ultra Whey "Salted Caramel"

I prefer my protein in my oats on my oats all over my oats in the morning after my workouts. It's what I look forward to the most in the mornings because its super yummy. Not everyone can do oats but gosh it's the best when you add some protein to it. Although this meal being breakfast for me I do consider this as a treat only because it tastes like a desert.

2. GNC Breakfast Squares "Iced Cinnamon"

160 calories | 12g protein | 5g Sugar

A newbie to me and- Where have you been all my life you breakfast square? Now this baby might look small to the eye but it's so satisfying to the tummy and not to forget the flavor that goes on inside your mouth- so tasty.

3. Woolworths Protein Bar "Apple & Vanilla"

249 calories | 18.4g protein | 11.6g sugar

These would always catch my eye on my way to the tills only because the word PROTEIN is very visible to the eye. Now I was not quite familiar with woolies protein but thought I'd give it a try anyway. Result- Really tasty and what I like about this is that it's not too sweet and is super low in calories.

4. GNC Oatmeal Protein Bar Deluxe "Glazed Cinnamon Roll"

30g Protein | 400 calories | 6g Sugar

Probably noticing the trend with the cinnamon hey? but I can't help it as it's the closest healthier option I can get to the actual famous Cinnabon doughnut. GNC really mastered this one as it is most definitely the closest tasting to the actual Cinnabon doughnut and they even state on the pack "microwavable" it really is the best way to enjoy this treat. Guilt free, low calorie, high protein. I could eat this all day everyday. 

5. USN Pro Protein "Strawberries & Cream"

287 calories | 29.6g protein | 20g Sugar 

Also one of my favorites and is different to the rest as it's not cinnamon. Really satisfies the sweet craving, is low in calories, high in protein and best of all it's pink hehe.

Now guys and girls kindly note that too much of a good thing can also be bad I suppose. With regards to some protein bars it is recommended to only have them every 3rd day as some products content could be higher in carbs and sugars. I have to just mention this because as tempting as it is you cannot eat this for breakfast, lunch and supper. These are simply snack options for when your craving something sweet or when you need to snack on something on the go. You need to consume your whole foods and vegetables too.

That about covers today's theme "Try it Tuesday" Happy treating everyone.

Xx

Wisdom Wednesday | Building an Empire

Hey everybody,

So Tonight I thought I would share a bit of my business journey and how Miyoko was created.

I often get emails and messages from my former work colleagues asking me for advice in the line of "Do I regret leaving my permanent job, working for a boss or is it worth it to work for myself?

Now for those of you who don't know me and what I do I own Miyoko Beauty Mobile spa. If your not familiar with Miyoko Beauty either thats fine because I can guarantee you that we are going to become a house hold name in the years to come because I really believe and have so much faith in what God has planned for me.

Basically we are a mobile spa offering professional beauty treatments from head to toe in the comfort of your home or location of choice making it way more convenient for those who simply do not have the time to get to a salon/spa.

So here's the thing, I always knew that I was going to be a boss but to be one you have to first work for one in order gain experience, well that was something that I have learnt along the way and I am truly grateful for all the experiences and leaders 'ie Bianca NSI WP' that I have come across along the way. You really have to take in as much as you can and learn from others.

So yes I am in the beauty industry, my talents lie in everything creative. I thrive on end results, the before and afters. So nails, skin care, mani, pedis, makeup, eyelash extensions the works all pretty much sums up my passion and most of all my clients Aaah my clients they are reason I am where I am today.

I left my permanent job at the age of 23 and from there I started building up Miyoko Beauty Mobile Spa from scratch financially- My last pay cheque basically went into some starting up costs. Yes it is a risk as most of you might think, even my dad tried talking me out of it, but when I want something I will do everything in my might to achieve it. It was definitely a risk well worth taking.

I was fortunate that some of my previous clients decided to follow me which got me going and believe me in the beginning I was quite quiet and was continuously thinking of various ways to grow my business. Being a mobile spa I was working strictly on referral basis and word of mouth and that's pretty much how Miyoko grew. 

Now almost 3 years later I have girls working for me, I have added on Pamper party packages as well as offering our services to corporate companies for corporate events. I pride myself in using the best quality products as well as attending various courses to keep the knowledge and creativity juices flowing. My mind is continuously working over time thinking of ways to better Miyoko and in ways that I cannot wait to share what I have planned in the pipe line.

Unfortunately you will not find Miyoko Beauty on the web as of yet because that's something I only recently had the guts to actually do. It has taken me a while to consider a website for Miyoko Beauty but I am please to let you know that our website will be launched at the end of this month. 

Back to the purpose of this post. To everyone who is thinking of being their own boss, starting up and asking me if it's worth it? It's so worth it if you make it worth it. I'm not saying it's easy all the way but how would we grow and succeed if everything were to come to us easily? Patience is key, it's not going to be all cupcakes and butterflies from the start believe me and yes your going to experience bumps along the way but I'll tell you it's the most rewarding feeling seeing your "baby" grow Infront of your eyes and recieving positive feedback from people on a daily basis.

I will always encourage people to start up something for themselves if they have the ways and means to, I mean who wants to work for a boss when you can be the boss? Now please don't get me wrong everyone is unique and has their own personality when it comes to work ethics and some people just prefer to play it safe which I totally respect. 

This message is simply for all the natural born entrepreneurs who are stuck and unhappy in their work place- Who have that voice in their heads that keeps on popping up, telling you that YOU CAN DO IT for yourself-OWN IT on your own! Let me tell you, that's the moment "You gotta step out in order to step up"

Seize the moment, but only if you have what it takes to pull it through and make it work.

Lotsa love

Recipe | Sweet Potato Nachos

                 By: Micarla Justine

Over  the weekend I tried Sweet Potato Nachos. My honest opinion is that I did not enjoy making this one. Mainly because I hate peeling sweet potatoes as well as it was quite a long process- waiting 40min or so for the sweet potatoes to get all nice and crispy is not so much fun. I like to be busy throughout preparing a meal and well with this one I had to just sit and wait.

The outcome result however was really tasty and super filling. My boyfriend loved it and found this serving satisfying, I on the other hand could only eat half of this serving.

So here we go:

Sweet Potato Nachos

Prep time: 15min - Cook time: 45min Servings:1-2 depending on how much you can stomach I suppose. Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients:

- 2 Sweet Potatoes; thinly sliced.

- 1 tbsp Olive oil

- 1 tsp Paprika

- 1 tsp garlic powder 

- 1 Skinless Chicken breast; cooked

- Shredded reduced fat cheddar cheese

- 1 Avocado; diced, cubed or smashed.

- 1/4 cup spring Onions

- Greek Yogurt

Method:

- Preheat oven to 240•c and lightly spray and cook your baking tray.

- Wash and dry your sweet potatoes and then using a vegetable peeler to peel them.

- Slice your potatoes into thin rounds also not too thin or else they could burn and stick to your pan. 

- Place sliced Sweet potatoes into a large bowl and drizzle with Olive oil, using your hands to ensure that each round is evenly coated.

- Season with paprika, garlic powder, salt and pepper.

- Place rounds in a single layer on your baking tray and bake for 40min, turning them halfway through ensuring thatthey don't burn.

- Remove from oven and transfer to a oven proof dish, allowing edges to slightly overlap.

- Top with chicken and cheese before returning to oven for an additional 5min or until cheese is melted.

- Remove from oven and top with avocado and Greek yogurt. Eat and enjoy.

Ps.

If your a veggie, I'm sure beans and vegatable toppings would be just as great with this recipe.

Happy, healthy eating everyone.

Xx