Have you heard of Labrador Tea?

Have you heard of it before?

Also called Hudson's Bay tea, Labrador tea comes straight from Canada and is packed with skin-loving properties. Our latest discovery!

The leaves of this small shrub found in the boreal forest of Canada are harvested in the black spruce forestland of its native Quebec where it grows in thick clusters.

Picked with a scythe in the summer, it boasts a long list of properties from therapeutic to purifying to aromatic. It has an ingenious way of seamlessly interacting with its environment and a singular ability to restore its balance. It's an even more surprising ingredient because it has never been used in beauty products before!

A first in the cosmetics industry, this exclusive active ingredient was entirely developed by Yves Rocher Laboratories – from selecting top-quality leaves to producing the extract – and is patented* in France for its action on oily skin. This ingredient is actually the ultimate skin remedy! The proof is in our Sébo Végétal Flawless Hydrating Gel Cream with its natural lightweight formula that absorbs into your skin in the blink of an eye! The result? It has balancing powers that work deep below the skin’s surface to control shine. On the surface, it stops blemishes and polishes the skin.

It's the star ingredient in the Sébo Végétal line and also comes as a scrub, a mask, an essence and lots of other products that we’d love you to explore!

*Patent pending

Now tell us about your favorite product in this new skincare line!

Let the Sunshine in!

How to protect your skin as soon as the first rays of sun appears!

How do I protect my skin from the season’s first rays of sun?

The first rays of sun are peeking through the clouds and even though summer has not officially started yet, the sun can't wait. So now is the time to begin protecting your skin!

Stay Hydrated! 

We know the great weather just makes you want to run outside and get some sun, but don't forget that any exposure to the rays is not without consequence. Your skin has to be prepared. So it's important to keep hydrating it just as often in the winter with the right skincare product to prevent any signs of dryness. You cannot skip this step if you want to prepare your skin as much as possible for a gorgeous tan.

When your skin is hydrated, then you can apply an oil or tan activator mist to make your body feel fresh and silky smooth. 

What skincare does my skin need? 

This is the big question every year: which skincare products are the best choice for my skin? It’s a common misconception that you won’t get tan if you wear SPF 50. Even when your skin is protected, it is being exposed to the sun and that comes with both benefits and drawbacks.  For example, the sun is a cause of premature aging of the skin, so don't overdo it and do protect yourself well.

Even if it's not July yet, the sun is already beating down and your skin may need daily protection. You can do this by choosing your sun care based on your skin type and where you live. 

Keep Good habits

As soon as the sun starts shining again, get back to and get into good habits.  

  • Keep moisturizing your skin morning and night and, if needed, apply sunscreen before going outside. You can mix your moisturizer with sunscreen or start using a moisturizer that contains SPF.
  • Drink a lot of water every day to make your skin radiant and try to eat more fruits and vegetables that are rich in beta carotene like carrots, tomatoes, green veggies such as zucchini and peas, apricots and mangoes. They will help beautify your skin before hitting the sun.  

Now you're all set to take full advantage of the season’s first rays of sunlight without guilt or taking any risks. Your skin will thank you! 

 

And don’t forget these good sunning habits for your summer vacation: 

  • Avoid peak sunlight times between noon and 4:00 PM.
  • Choose sun care products that are made for your type of skin.
  • Reapply sun products every two hours and after swimming.

How about you? What's your sun protection routine?

Monoi oil is summer’s crown jewel!

Everything you need to know on this iconic fragrance!

The Monoi product line is legendary at Yves Rocher. It has been evolving over the last 30 years to meet women’s every needs!

Its star ingredient has always been Tiare flower. A closer look at the star of summertime, the harvest and how it’s used for beauty.

Monoi oil has a Protected Designation of Origin

Traditional Tahitian Monoi oil (Monoi de Tahiti) is part of an ancient beauty ritual for Tahitian women. It is synonymous with skincare, naturalness, and a heavenly scent that instantly transports you to the idyllic Polynesian Islands.

For more than 30 years, Yves Rocher has been supplying its monoi oil from a sustainable source. The delectably scented tiare flowers are harvested by hand as buds in the early morning, to best preserve their freshness. A controlled, precise procedure is used to transform them into monoi oil whereby they are infused in copra oil (sun-dried coconut pulp) for 10 days.

The Tiare flower that is only found in Polynesia and is used to make Monoi de Tahiti products is certified and protected with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). This designation guarantees that it is authentic, high-quality and locally produced.

The beauty secrets of Tahitian women inspire different ways of using monoi oil

Monoi oil is widely known to bring out a perfect tan with dry precious oils that leave the skin silky smooth and beautifully bronzed. No surprise that it's the summer’s best-selling product year after year!

But lucky for us, monoi oil does more than just create a gorgeous tan!  It gives you a chance to prolong the tropical island fragrance with one of the brand's most acclaimed products Lagoon Hair & Body Wash because Yves Rocher figured out how to bottle that magical dream vacation scent. Not only does monoi oil smell great, it also makes your skin soft and supple plus leaves a delicate fragrance on your hair. So give yourself a relaxing break and get swept away to the islands (especially if you're spending the summer at the office)!

 

Want more? Not worries, we have something for everyone. Monoi oil is also amazing for your locks because it works on all types of hair! In fact, it's pretty common that after a swim in the ocean, the salt and sand makes your hair dry and damaged.

Once again it’s monoi oil to the rescue because it protects it when you apply it on the lengths and ends of your hair. There is no doubt about it, the women of Tahiti have known this beauty secret for generations!

To recap, monoi oil is your ideal ally for the sunny season, so find your favorite monoi product and enjoy it to the fullest!

Did you know? The Monoi line made its first appearance at Yves Rocher in 1988.

Which product from our Monoï collection is your favorite?

Interview with Guylaine Guay

Author, comedian, lecturer, actress and mother, Guylaine Guay has touched the heart of Quebecers as a features reporter and through her many roles on the small and big screens.

Mother of boys living with autism spectrum disorder, she puts her humor, honesty and big heart to good use in her writing and her work with the Véro & Louis Foundation of which is she the sponsor… and muse.   

Guylaine GuayPhoto credit: Andréanne Gauthier

You said that you wanted to talk to us about the role of mothers in 2018. What place does this role occupy in your life?

I would say that I’m a woman, first and foremost, and a mother second. I know that this may sound surprising; we’re not used to hearing a mother putting her role second but it’s my philosophy that if Guylaine isn’t doing well, if she’s not happy, then she won’t be able to make her children happy.

Therefore, I make sure that I take time for myself without feeling guilty, when I need it. My family knows I’m there for them but that I also need alone time and silence. And it suits everyone very well. I think that when we explain these things, when we name them, those close to us understand and accept them.

Tell us about your two boys, Léo and Clovis.

My eldest son, Léo, is almost 18 and my youngest is almost 16. They are both living with autism spectrum disorder. Léo is verbal, more functional and Clovis is nonverbal. He understands everything and communicates with his entire being but doesn’t speak.

Clovis got his diagnosis first. He was 3 and showed more apparent signs of autism, he walked on tiptoes, didn’t look us in the eye and didn’t speak. Needless to say, it was a shock. There was still very little information about autism at the time. People hardly talked about it. I had to do a lot of research on my own.

Years later, Léo was also diagnosed. His diagnosis didn’t come as a surprise to us, but rather as a relief, knowing what you’re facing makes things much easier. It allowed him to have access to the schools and services he needed. It’s very comforting for a parent to know that their child is in good hands. Unfortunately, not everyone gets that chance.

What were your more precious tools to face your children’s special needs?

When I got pregnant with my first child, I was living in Nuvanut I was on the pill… His arrival was such a surprise that I saw it as a sign! I had never intended on having children, so I had never dreamt of the perfect child. Therefore, I didn’t have to mourn that lost and I was able to accept my sons as they were. Accepting the diagnosis helped me a lot. I took on that challenge one day at a time without letting the fear of the unknown overwhelm to me.

I also owe a great deal to my natural ability to accept differences; at home, perfection and social pressure don’t exist. I have no interest in what other people think or in competition. Finally, openly discussing the condition with others helps tremendously. Talking opens hearts and minds.

Tell us about the Véro & Louis Foundation of which you are the sponsor and to which you decided to donate a $1 per Act Beautiful Beauty Box sold.

It’s a magical story! In 2014, I wrote a book, Deux garçons à la mère, which told the story of my daily life with my sons. In a chapter about their future I wrote this short sentence: "I dream of a big house filled with love and I know someone who’s very generous will read this line''  Véronique Cloutier read it and got in touch with me.

A year and a half later, the Foundation was born, with the mission of building and managing houses adapted to adults aged 21 years old and older living with autism spectrum disorder. From this age onwards, people with autism are no longer supported by the public system and a number of them, like my son Clovis, will always be in need of assistance on a daily basis as well as an environment designed to provide them with comfort and safety. The Véro & Louis houses will be able to accommodate them in the long term. When he turns 21, Clovis will be able to go live in one of the houses and stay there for life.

It’s an entirely new model that we hope will be replicated throughout Quebec. The construction of the first house has started and it is located on beautiful grounds in Varennes. What touches me the most about this project is that it re-establishes the rightful place of difference. We’re telling people who are different that they too have a right to new and beautiful things. To a happy life. This house gives me peace of mind, and I hope to help as many parents as possible get it as well.

 

Véro & Louis FoundationPhoto credit: Véro & Louis Foundation

Lastly, what advice would you give the parents of children living with autism spectrum disorder?

Even though, everyday life isn’t always easy, don’t be ashamed of your children. Be proud of their difference.

Is blue light harmful for your skin?

Find out how you can protect yourself from its effects on your skin!

We all know about UV rays (ultra-violet) and their effects on the skin. However, we know less about their close cousin, blue light. We have all the answers.

Blue light is the light emitted by the screens on our electronic and digital devices. Some studies have shown that we are spending up to six hours in front of the screen! Naturally, scientists took an interest in this universally known light and how it affects our body.

How does blue light affect our skin?

The most well-known effects are those on the eyes and the brain. Blue light is picked up by specific ophthalmic receptors that send an awakening message to the brain. From there, problems with concentration, attention, and falling asleep arise.

The skin is also affected, as it too is equipped with light-sensitive receptors. It was recently proven that this blue light, which is concentrated in energy, can alter certain functions in the depths of the skin, leading to accelerated aging, changes at the cellular level, and changes to the DNA in the nucleus.

Combined with other intrinsic and external factors, this change in skin cell function can have an impact on the skin’s quality, such as a dull complexion, for example.

Why should you protect yourself against blue light?

Unlike UV rays, where sunburn alerts you to excessive exposure (even if some biological damage has already been done), blue light causes no effects indicating changes to the skin. It’s an invisible aggressor that, in addition to other environmental stressors, can lead to oxidative and cellular damage, which cause accelerated skin aging.

So you should protect yourself all the more!

How can you protect yourself?

The active plant ingredient in our Elixir Jeunesse range, ultra-concentrated Aphloia Extract, will protect the skin against harmful oxidative effects:

- In-depth* : both at the level of the fibroblasts, which synthesize collagen (the skin’s youth protein), and at the level of the extracellular matrix to ensure good plasticity of skin tissue.

- On the surface* : ultra-concentrated Aphloia Extract will also protect keratinocytes, which are essential for a solid skin barrier. This effect on the skin’s barrier function is crucial in helping the skin fight the harmful effects of weather and environmental pollution.

Ultra-concentrated Aphloia Extract protects and repairs the skin, allowing it to remain radiant and youthful during the intense conditions of everyday life.

*These effects have been proven, in vitro, specifically in relation to damage linked to exposure to blue light.

In a nutshell, Blue Light...

- Is invisible and its effects cannot be seen with the naked eye

- Is penetrating and powerful

- It exposure is continuously increasing

- It is now considered a daily environmental stressor, with individuals being exposed to it more than six hours per day

- Protecting the skin is essential in order to fight against environmental stress-related aging

- Ultra-concentrated Aphloia Extractprotects the skin against the harmful effects of blue light deep within the skin

So are you aware of the damage blue light can do? Are you trying to do something about it?

Authentic, compassionate, ethical beauty

Discover or re-discover our iconic brand values!

60 years of beauty and commitment: That's something to celebrate! For its 60th anniversary, Yves Rocher is celebrating women and beauty. (Re)discover our brand’s signature values.

I’m not justa skin type.

I believe beauty comes from the choices that I make. Inside and out.

I'm not for big promises.

Beauty products should be effective, fun and have a clear conscience. They can be vegan, and still knocks your socks off.

I do want to reduce that annoying wrinkle today, but with the most natural products that is possible to protect my skin tomorrow.

Beauty should not be about compromise. 

I'm into true beauty. The one that comes from how you acts: healthy, friendly, conscious and generous. 

And yes! I'm still unstoppable with my red lipstick on. 

I support people who make beautiful things. 

I want to be more than beautiful; I want to be a beautiful person.

A trip to La Gacilly

Follow us on our journey to Yves Rocher's Homeland!

Follow us on a journey to the village of La Gacilly, where the Yves Rocher brand has been for nearly 60 years, and visit milestones in its history along the way.

Yves Rocher and his self-named brand were both born in a little village in Brittany called La Gacilly with a population of 3,000 people. This small town between Rennes and Vannes is not only where he began his life and venture, but also where over 350,000 visitors are now welcomed every year. Follow us on a journey to the village of La Gacilly, where the Yves Rocher brand has been for nearly 60 years. Right this way!

The Amazing Yves Rocher Botanical Garden

Founded in 1977, the Botanical Garden in La Gacilly stretches over 2 hectares of land. It is actually an open-air laboratory where more than 1,500 species are evolving under the watchful eyes of the Horticulture and Botany team. This is where, among other specimens, it keeps its ethnobotanical and tropical collections, national artemisia collection, scented pelargonium, plants used in cosmetics and perfumes, arboretum, and bamboo grove.

The breathtaking garden is open to the public and is also home to rare and endangered species. It serves as a great source of inspiration for the Yves Rocher Botanical Beauty® researchers.

Eight signature plants grown using sustainable farming practices

Sixty years and almost 60 hectares of flowers growing in La Gacilly! It's an even more impressive number considering that the entire farm is Certified Organic and only sustainable agriculture practices are used. Our botanists and agriculturalists observe and study nature to grow our eight signature botanicals in harmony with the plants: German chamomile, Roman chamomile, arnica, calendula, cornflower, mallow, edulis, and glacier lettuce.

They also maintain and even improve the health of the soil, ecosystems and people – and this balance makes our plants stronger! These eight signature plants are used in over 30% of our formulas.

Yves Rocher production sites: Made in Brittany

The story begins in 1959 when Yves Rocher made his first moisturizer in his family’s attic with lesser celandine. Sixty years later, his products are still Made in France or, more precisely, Made in Brittany since three production sites were built a few miles from each other in the area. The first was in Croix-des-Archers (La Gacilly) and then came one in Rieux for makeup and Ploërmel for perfume. Yves Rocher, a visionary and businessman, actively worked to develop industry in the area by creating jobs in his native region.

There are now over 2,700 employees working in Brittany and more than 350 million Made in Brittany products, or 80% of the brand’s production. All of the Brittany industrial sites have also been certified as Biodiversity Refuges by the LPO (French Bird Protection League).

La Gacilly: a heaven for biodiversity

Visiting La Gacilly and Yves Rocher's region is a unique experience, a chance to bond with nature. In fact, all of the Yves Rocher industrial sites are Biodiversity Refuges. And that’s not all because Yves Rocher has also partnered with the LPO (French Bird Protection League) to protect and leverage its natural heritage in La Gacilly.

When you go to his birthplace in La Gacilly, you discover how much work and dedication Yves Rocher put into plants and the wellbeing of animals, which he advocated for all his life. It’s a unique experience of total immersion in this little village nestled in the heart of Brittany. The Yves Rocher brand also has an eco-hotel surrounded by nature.

La Grée des Landes Eco-Hotel and Spa

Now it's possible to live in harmony with nature. Yves Rocher’s son Jacques dreamed up an ecological hotel in the heart of the natural world on 10 hectares of the countryside. The idea behind this veritable oasis of tranquility is simple: to share the same habitat with plants and animals without disturbing them.

The entire facility seamlessly blends into the landscape and everything was designed to be sustainable, from the rooms and the cabin nestled among the centuries-old cypress trees to the three secluded botanical suites on the estate and the spa and wellness center. The hotel also has an organic farm-to-table restaurant called Les Jardins Sauvages that sources products from local growers and its own kitchen garden.

Come to the Spa for a taste of Natural Slow Life to recharge before enjoying a walk through the nearby forest or exploring the village during the La Gacilly Photography Festival!

La Gacilly Photography Festival

The La Gacilly Photography Festival began in 2004 and has since adorned the walls, gardens and house facades in La Gacilly for one of Europe's largest outdoor photo expositions.

The art event is mainly sponsored by Yves Rocher and has been an original way of raising public awareness about environmental issues. In 2017, it brought nearly 400,000 people to La Gacilly who come to visit the village and see the photographs on display. Learn all the details about the La Gacilly Photography Festival.

Maison Yves Rocher

Opened in September 2017, Maison Yves Rocher offers an immersive 45-minute museum tour through five multi-sensory worlds that transport visitors inside the brand itself. Walk into eye-opening scenes that recount the amazing story of a nature-lover and visionary from Brittany as he turns an innate sense into a global cosmetics brand.

Located right in the village, Maison Yves Rocher also houses the Le Végétarium restaurant, full of natural products and good cheer, and the Yves Rocher Boutique & Institute.

The secret recipe for Beautifying Correcting Cream

A safe and effective treat for your skin – discover its main ingredients!

A safe and effective treat for your skin – discover its main ingredients!

Find out our recipe for reversing the signs of aging and getting beautiful, moisturized skin with our NEW Anti-Âge Global range!

The star ingredient: Botanical Bud Nectar, a natural active ingredient that resynchronizes skin cells and kick-starts cell renewal. It's so potent that only a little is needed for it to be effective!

We’ve proven its effectiveness through in vitro tests. Cell renewal accelerates by 20% in 72 hours, which stimulates a general anti-aging process deep below and on the surface.

Ingredients of natural origin :
- Apple extract that’s rich in oligosaccharides to complement the anti-aging action
- Aphloia extract for its protective antioxidants
- Roman Chamomile flower water to soothe the skin
- A nutrition cocktail of Macadamia and Grapeseed oils, plus Illipe butter for comfort
- The power of natural glycerin, beet sugar and hyaluronic acid for moisture
- Natural esters, glycols and fatty acids to create an irresistible texture

A "spoonful" of synthetic ingredients for your safety and sensory experience (always in the perfect dose!). 
NB: Our secret recipe that contains over 95% natural ingredients is dermatologically tested.

Test it yourself and share your opinions in the comments section!

Holiday Makeup look : Smokey Metallic

Embrace this Glamourous Smokey & Metallic Party Makeup Look!

Follow these steps for a shimmering and smokey makeup look.

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Flawless Complexion

Apply the Flawless Skin Concealer under your eyes, followed by the Flawless Skin Comfort Cream Foundation. Make sure to always apply your foundation from the inside to and outward direction to smooth away any fine lines and lift your skin.


For a more radiant complexion add a touch of Highlighter Duo Rayonnant Jeunesse down the bridge of your nose and right above your cheekbones.

Add a pop of color on your cheeks with the Botanical Color Blush in Coral Pink.

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Intense Smokey Eye

Apply the  Jumbo Pencil Pearly Grey Gold on half of your eyelids, starting from the inner corner of your eyelid. Then, use the Jumbo Pencil in the shade Pearly Silver on the other hald of your eyelid, starting from the outer of your eyelid.

Emphasize your eye by applying a thin line of Botanical Color Eyeshadow in the shade Matte Ebony Black at the base of your lisheline with an Angled Eyeliner Brush.

Intensify and illuminate the eyes with a touch of Botanical Color Eyeshadow in the shade Sparkling White Orchid right in the inner corner or your eyes.

For the finishing touch don't go shy on Mascara.

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Pearly Lips

Your look wouldn't be complete without a touch of lipstick, and the Pearly Rouge Vertige Lipstick in the shade Dusty Pink is all you need.

Share your #HolidayLook with us!

Interview with Sophie Bienvenu

Born in Belgium and settled in Quebec for over 15 years, Sophie Bienvenu quickly established herself as one of the foremost writers on the local and international literary scene.

Her first novel, Et au pire on se mariera, received numerous awards and was adapted for the stage by the Ex-Libris company and the big screen by filmmaker Léa Pool. She has since written two other novels (Chercher Sam, 2014 and Around Her, 2016), a children’s book (La princesse qui voulait devenir générale, 2017) and a poetry collection (Ceci n'est pas de l'amour, 2016). She is currently writing the screenplay for the film adaptation of Chercher Sam and two TV series.

Sophie BienvenuCrédit Sarah Scott

For the past few years, you have been calling for the use of the word autrice, rather than the more common auteure, to describe your profession. Why autrice?

When I started using it, it was a feminist statement. Why would we say auteure when the feminine form of -teur, is -trice? After noticing that it was being used by French feminists, I did some research and found out that in the 17th century, the Académie française – formed exclusively of men – decided to erase from the language all the feminine versions of powerful or public speaking professions on the pretext that there were reserved for men.

The word autrice, in use up to that point, disappeared with several others. Language is my profession; it’s important for me to use the right words because every word represents a choice. Using autrice is making sure that the feminine form is not only read but also heard. 

 

IN WHAT WAY DID BEING A WOMAN INFLUENCE YOUR WRITING?

 Without being an obstacle in itself, being a woman probably didn’t do me any favors. The literary world remains quite macho; it is clear in the number of publishing companies run by women or even the amount of writing done by women compared to the number of literary prizes awarded to them. 

Though great wealth can be found in the feminine experience, people are more interested in male characters with which they are used to identify, regardless of their gender. We easily identify with men, white people and straight characters because they are so widely represented that we perceive their experiences as being universal. However, when we write a story featuring a female character, it immediately becomes "chick lit".

When I started this profession, I didn’t really think about all that. As I was writing my first novel, I didn’t consider myself to be a feminist, but today I openly am. My personal journey has evidently influenced the way I write. The more I find out and evolve in my militancy, the more I feel the need to tell women’s stories and have a feminist and intersectional message in my works.

What do you mean by intersectional feminism?

For me, intersectionality is the encounter between feminism and anti-racism, two inseparable battles that are very important to me. While aware of the oppression I am subjected to as a woman, I acknowledge my privileges as a white person. It is my duty to use them to support the women who don’t benefit from those privileges and make sure that they also have a seat at the table.

Feminism means to claim the right of women to make their own choices. To say what they think, wear what they want and live as they see fit. There is no single choice that is valid or a single outlook on life. In my opinion, it is important to change perspectives; avoid judging what is good for other people through my privileged eyes and impose my values on everyone else.

I find white and occidental feminism hypocritical in the way it infantilizes women from different cultures and tries to control them on the pretext that it wants to free them, assuming that they are incapable of making decisions for themselves. Deciding on behalf of another woman has nothing to do with feminism. The right to choose should be granted to all women whether or not their decisions are ones we would make for ourselves. 

How do you broach the subject in your stories?

It’s important for me to talk about women in their plurality, complexity and difference. I make an effort to include a greater diversity of characters but most importantly, to do it correctly. For my next novel that takes place in the Caribbean, for example, I had discussions and will continue to have discussions with several Caribbean women in order to properly represent them. It’s not enough to write a character, color them brown and say that they are Caribbean.

In literature, too many female characters are stereotyped. In detective novels, there’s the sexy girl or the serious girl; these days, everywhere we look there’s the perfect, quasi-superhero female character. The way in which writing meets intersectionality is that there isn’t just one woman’s story; there are as many different women as there are stories to be told.

As you know, Yves Rocher Canada made a commitment to donate funds to the organization of your choice as part the Act Beautiful campaign. Why did you choose the Centre des femmes d’ici et d’ailleurs?

 It’s an organization that represents the society in which I would like to live. A place where women from all origins can come together, share and help each other. I love the idea that a woman coming from elsewhere without any points of references, resources or even speaking the language, can go to the Center and receive services suited to her needs. We often speak about the integration of new immigrants, but integration isn’t possible without breaking the solitude.

The Centre des Femmes d’Ici et d’Ailleurs is a place of mutual support for women with, rather than in spite of, their differences. And female solidarity is one of the most powerful and transformative thing there is.

Centre des Femmes d'Ici et d'Ailleurs

Holiday Makeup Look : baby doll

Sweet shades of pink, try this soft makeup look!

Follow these steps for an iridescent pink and nude party look enhanced by an ultra-luminous glowy complexion. Get the on-trend romantic chic look!

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Glowy Complexion

For a perfect glowy complexion, apply the Youthful Glow Foundation with the Universal Foundation Brush.  

Then apply the Radiant Youth Corrector Pen under the eyes using the brush and then tap with your fingertips to perfectly melt the texture onto the skin.

To sculpt your face, apply the Bronzing Powder Duo using the blush brush or contour brush in the hollows of the cheeks, temples and below the jaw. 

To highlight the glow, apply the Powder Highlighter Duo on points where light hits: the bridge of the nose, cheekbones and brow ridge and the Cupid's bow of the lips.

Finish with a touch of Blush in shade Peach over the cheekbones.

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Pink Dolly Eyes

Apply a bright Pink eye shadow all over your eyelid,n then a mat soft pink on the inner corner of your eyelide, slightly fading the 2 colors together. Then apply a thin line of black felt-tip liner to the upper lashline.

Apply the White Khôl liner on the lower lashline of your eyes.

Accentuate your look by applying the eyebrow crayon and mascara to create fuller looking eyebrows.

To finish up your look, apply the black Vertigo Length mascara.

Share your holiday look with the #HolidayLook

Holiday Table Inspiration

A chic and festive tablescape inspired from nature!

Here's a step-by-step guide to create this gorgeous Christmas table, and impress your guests this Holiday season!

Christmas Table Inspiration

Canadian blogger Emily Hall, founder of "Threads and Blooms" shares her tips on how to create a gorgeous festive tablescape filled with christmas folliage, in simple way. 

Natures offers a lot of options when it comes to creating the perfect holiday table: pinecones, branches and twigs, holiday flowers. Bring together a collection of bud vases, candles, and ribons to create a unique centerpiece! 

Emily Hall

To dress-up the table, opt for neutral tones. Covering your table with a neutral draping will give you a simple base that you can build upon and the end result of your tablescape will be more clean.

Add your personal touch and a simple detail to each place setting. This can be as simple as a sprig of greenery or a wrapped chocolate on each plate, or, like with this table, the cutlery tied with a festive ribbon and a sprig of greens. So simple and it really elevates your table.

As for the "pièce de résistance", put your favorite flowers into a vase in the middle of the table.  Sticking to greenery and simple florals in just one colour, like these tulips, sets you up for decorating success. Finaly, add candles to create a warm atmosphere: lighting definitely sets the cozy and festive mood!

Discover more of Emily's creation on her blog right here.

Emily Hall

How are you going to decorate your holiday table this season?

Interview with Natacha Besançon

Natacha has been a midwife for the past 6 years on the island of Montreal at the Côte-des-Neiges Birthing Center, Integrated University Health and Social Services Centre.

 In 2018, she decided to go work on occasion for the Tulattavik Health Center in the Ungava Bay in Nunavik in the Inuit village of Kuujjuaq. She tells us about her experience and her first contact with the Inuke woman.

Natacha Besançon

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO BECOME A MIDWIFE? TO CHOOSE A PROFESSION WHICH ESSENTIALLY REVOLVES AROUND WOMEN?

It is primarily the philosophy of the Quebec midwife that steered me on this path. She aims to encourage women’s empowerment, free choice in the transformative process that are pregnancy and childbirth but also the holistic approach intend on creating a link between the needs of the body, the psychosocial and at times, even the spiritual aspect of the experience.  

WHAT LED YOU TO MAKE THE TRANSITION FROM PRACTISING YOUR PROFESSION IN MONTREAL TO THE COMMUNITY OF WOMEN IN KUUJJUAQ? WHY MAKE THIS DECISION?

The willingness to put my expertise to the test and learn more in a completely different environment. Kuujjuaq is a small northern town inhabited by 2800 souls, who make up a community, now settled down in one place, living between tradition and modernity, and where issues relating to pregnant women are so far removed from that of Montreal women. And yet, the need is the same: make this experience transformative and positive.

WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST IMPRESSIONS AFTER YOUR FIRST 3-WEEK STAY IN KUUJJUAQ?

The remoteness of the town calls for an extraordinary multidisciplinarity between the different personnel members; there is unique cohesion among the treatment team because it is essential. Kuujjuaq is one of the treatment centers that welcome pregnant women from different surrounding villages. They come to the center a few weeks before their due date and leave a few days after giving birth. We hope that someday there will be enough midwives, preferably from the local population, to allow them to stay put. I’m inspired by the resilience of these women with often difficult life circumstances. I admire the intergenerational feminine support, although dysfunctional at times, which characterizes the childbirth experiences I took part in while I was there. The woman giving birth is surrounded by women of all ages, family or community members, who saw her grow up. I seem to have a lot more to learn and see, that’s why I’m going back for two months this summer.    

WE THINK THAT YOU COULD INSPIRE WOMEN TO TAKE INITIATIVE IN THEIR OWN FIELDS. WHAT WOULD BE YOUR BEST PIECE OF ADVICE FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO CONTRIBUTE TO WOMEN’S CAUSES?

Give yourself room to grow, overcome your fears; don’t let them stop you from reaching your potential. Be at the service of others, be part of a group instead of putting individualism first. Step outside your comfort zone to always learn more about yourself and others. Just like a woman giving birth, we are capable of unexpected strength, go through hardship and reveal our most beautiful qualities.

AS YOU KNOW, YVES ROCHER CANADA MADE A COMMITMENT TO DONATE FUNDS TO THE CAUSE OF YOUR CHOICE THROUGH OUR ACT BEAUTIFUL CAMPAIGN. CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT THIS CAUSE? WHY IS IT CLOSE TO YOUR HEART?  WHAT’S THEIR MISSION?

I chose La Maison Bleue in Côte-des-Neiges. It was founded in May 2007 to break the isolation of pregnant women living in vulnerable situations and provide them with the necessary resources in order for their child to be born and grow up in conditions conducive to their full development.

Inspired by the courage of these women, the co-founders set about creating an entire community of mutual aid around these women and their families, a network of support made up of health and social service professionals (family doctors, midwives, nurses, social workers, special education teachers and psychoeducators) of therapists and volunteers providing a welcoming environment where the women have access to care and services given on a human level.

La Maison Bleue

It is located next to the Birthing Center where I’ve been working for the last 6 years. This non-profit and charitable organization now has three houses in Montreal (Côtes-des-Neiges, Parc-Extension and Saint-Michel). Though I have projects in Kujjuuaq, I’m aware of the numerous needs of families here in Montreal and I would like them to benefit from your campaign. I thank you on their behalf.

La Maison BleueLa Maison Bleue
La Maison BleueLa Maison Bleue

Hygge, the essence of coziness and wellness

The essence of coziness and wellness straight from Denmark!

As the stress of holiday preparations begins to rise... Get yourself into a Hygge state of mind for a peaceful holiday season!

What is Hygge? (Pronounced "hoo-gah") 

So what’s the secret of the Danes, who’ve been named the world's happiest people? It's the "hoo-gah", a Danish concept and way of living that is all about comfort, well-being, warmth and coziness.

With the holiday season fast approaching, here are some tips to get your Hygge on to make sure you'll enjoy this holiday season peacefully.

 

1/ Make yourself comfortable

Gather together everything that contributes to your comfort and wellbeing (yup, including that ugly but super soft and warm sweater your aunt knitted for you...). Get comfy with a big blanket, grab yourself a warm cup of tea or coffee. Turn down the lights, light a few candles and take your first steps toward the Hygge spirit.

2/ Create an area dedicated to Hygge 

Create your own relaxation area at home: make it super comfortable by decorating it with lots of cushions and throws. Don’t forget one or two stacks of your favorite books, a jar filled with yummy cookies and a photo album to flip through... 

 

3/ Cut off of any negativity and sources of stress

Put your smartphone on airplane mode and log out of your mail accounts, for an entire evening, an afternoon or even a weekend...  Avoid discussing any sensitive subjects, you can postpone these topics for another time. This is a happy and relaxing moment.

4/ Eat what you want 

No food restrictions (though beware of indigestion!)... eat what makes you happy: sweets, cheese, cakes, everything is allowed! It's also the perfect time to finish that book you've been wanting to read for so long or watch your favorite series!

5/ Spend time with friends and family

Hygge is also the perfect opportunity to spend time with your loved ones, to invite friends over and be with your family. Why not plan a warm and homey evening, and cook a hearty stew?

Now you’ve got the basics of Hygge down! All is left for you to do is to get cozy on your couch and watch snow fall outside of your window.

 

How will you get the Hygge vibe into your holiday season? Tell us in the comment section below!

Our DIY Christmas Ideas

Make your home warm and cheerful with our DIY decorating ideas!

Making your own Christmas decorations is a great way to add a personal touch to the holiday season. Here are some DIYs to inspire you and help you create homemade decorations!

 Christmas Wreath

1/

Material

  • Pine and eucalyptus branches, seasonal foliage
  • Vanilla pods
  • Eyelets
  • Holly sprigs
  • Cinnamon sticks
  • Flexible branches
  • Linen thread or wire
  • Ribbon
2/

Form a circle

Twist all the branches together to form a circle. Tighten them together with wire or thread.

3/

Join the pieces together

Using these same threads, tie together small bunches of foliage and mixed branches. Don’t forget to arrange vanilla pods around your circle for a more fragrant wreath.

4/

Assemble the wreath

Place your first bouquet on the wreath in the desired position and make sure to place each bouquets one after the other, always going in the same direction

Your handmade wreath is all set! Don't forget to tie a pretty ribbon to it so you can hang it in your home!

 

Terrarium Christmas Ornament 

1/

Material

  • Open glass baubles
  • Eucalyptus and dried pine branches
  • Thin thread
2/

Prepare the branches

Cut small twigs of eucalyptus and pine, and make sure they don't extend beyond the opening of the ball

3/

Decorate the glass baubles

Place the twigs and plants in the baubles. You can place one twig in each ball, but don't overfill it.

4/

Place your Christmas Terrarium Ornaments

Once the balls are embellished with holiday branches, you can hang them individually on the tree or group them together: make small knots with the thread to create a garland of  christmassy terrarium ornaments, and place them wherever you like!

 

Botanical Candles

1/

Material

  • Empty glass bottles
  • Natural wax candles
  • Sprigs of foliage (eucalyptus, pine, olive or rosemary)
2/

Create the base of your candle

Start by setting aside pretty glass bottles of different sizes:they’ll serve as elegant stands for your candles. Then buy natural wax candles. 

For the green touch, get some sprigs of resistant foliage like eucalyptus, pine, olive or rosemary.

 

3/

Assemble your candle holder

Fill the bottles with water right up to the base of the bottle neck, and insert a piece of foliage (about four inches long) into the bottle. Slide the candle into the neck of the bottle by pressing lightly until it's safely tight. 

Voilà! You now have your very own and unique Botanical Candles ready for Christmas!

Show us your Christmas DIYs creation by tagging us in your Instagram photos!