Springtime joys

For many of us, fall 2023 is still very present, but as we get ready for the holidays, we find ourselves caught between mourning and the anticipation of Passover. Yet, amid this juxtaposition of emotions, life inexorably moves forward. The recent time change serves as a reminder that it’s time to prepare for both the approaching holidays and the dawn of a new season. Won’t you join me on this journey?

The beauty secrets

Bobbi Brown, renowned makeup artist and creator of exceptional beauty products, has unveiled the latest addition to her acclaimed Vitamin Enriched collection: the Vitamin Enriched Hydrating Skin Tint.

This innovative 2-in-1 moisturizing tint is designed to prime the skin before makeup application, embodying Brown’s philosophy of skincare-first makeup. Infused with a nourishing blend of vitamins B, C, and E, along with pro-vitamin D and cactus flower to fortify the skin’s barrier, this vitamin-enriched formula provides SPF 15 protection against UVA and UVB damage.

The pigment-flex technology ensures seamless blending for sheer coverage that adapts to various skin tones, delivering a fresh, natural-looking finish. Available in 18 shades for a perfect match, it’s a summer essential. NIS 230.

For those seeking a face powder, the Vitamin-Enriched Pressed Finishing Powder offers a brilliant solution. Formulated with hydrating agents, it absorbs excess oil without drying out the skin. Available in four shades: soft yellow; neutral; peach; and golden brown. It’s a versatile addition to any makeup routine. NIS 235.

Both products can be found at Bobbi Brown stores; online at www.bobbibrown.co.il; and at select beauty stores and websites.

Preparing the canvas

For those grappling with enlarged, open pores, the quest for a flawless makeup application can be exasperating. Thankfully, L’Oréal Paris has introduced a solution with its latest primer – Prime Lab 24H Pore Minimizer.

This innovative product swiftly diminishes the appearance of pores, preparing the face – or rather, the canvas – for seamless makeup application. The silky primer instantly blurs pores and smooths skin over time. The non-comedogenic formula extends makeup wear for up to 24 hours. Suitable for all skin types. Dermatologist-tested for safety, the Prime Lab Pore Minimizer may just be the answer to greasy and shiny skin. NIS 80.

Get ready for the heat wave

Lierac Paris has unveiled its latest collection, Arkeskinthe, tailored specifically for post-menopausal women. This innovative line is formulated to rebalance, nourish, and firm the skin while harnessing the power of natural ingredients to provide protection and re-synchronize biological rhythms.

With a focus on achieving long-term anti-aging results, the collection features three key products. First, the facial day cream, enriched with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and herbal extracts, corrects visible signs of menopause on the skin (NIS 249; refill NIS 199). Second, the night cream promotes skin cell regeneration (NIS 249; refill NIS 199). Third, the body cream addresses skin dryness and heat waves, offering a cooling effect without leaving a greasy residue (NIS 269).

These products are available online at Lierac.co.il, bestore.co.il, and super-pharm.co.il, as well as at licensed beauty centers.

Shades of white

Local fashion label Golbary has unveiled its eagerly awaited Spring-Summer collection, and I must say I’ve fallen head over heels for its ethereal white pieces, perfect for the upcoming holiday season. This collection effortlessly blends romance with contemporary flair, offering an array of jackets, suits, tops, crocheted dresses, shorts, and tank tops – everything you need to achieve that chic white-on-white ensemble you’ve been dreaming of.

But fear not, for the collection isn’t limited to white alone. The easy-to-wear jackets and suits also come in an array of colors such as pink, black, and navy blue.

Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on this. And the best part? The prices are reasonable, with pants, dresses, and jackets starting at NIS 199.90. Elevate your wardrobe with a touch of elegance and explore Golbary’s latest collection.

Double duty

As summer approaches, it’s crucial to prioritize highSPF sunscreens to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If you’re hesitant about layering sunscreen and makeup, consider incorporating BB creams with SPF into your routine, like the new Careline BB cream.

Suitable for all skin types, this BB cream comes in three shades – light, medium light, and medium – and offers SPF 30 protection, along with hydrating ingredients. Its feather-light texture is ideal for hot and humid summer days, providing long-lasting wear at NIS 59.90.

With its blend of cosmetic ingredients that nourish and shield the skin, this product is sure to be a hit, particularly among younger consumers. You can find it online at www.careline.co.il and at various stores nationwide.

Dinner made easy

As Passover approaches, many find themselves balancing meal preparation with holiday preparations. This year, I’ve found the perfect solution with Zoglowek’s new line of homestyle, ready-to-eat meat dishes.

Inspired by Ronit Zoglowek’s grandmother, the Madam Perez line offers seven comforting homestyle dishes: meatballs in tomato sauce; couscous soup with chicken, red curry; Massaman beef curry; chicken Szechuan; chili con carne; and Bolognese sauce.

Each serving is conveniently sized for a single person (or two if you’re not very hungry or serving kids) and can be paired with rice or pasta for a complete meal in just four minutes. What’s more, these dishes stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to

60 days, eliminating the need for freezing. Simply heat a few minutes in the microwave and enjoy.

Whether you’re dining alone or mom’s away, the option to mix and match meals for each evening is particularly appealing. I paired the meatballs with rice, finding them simple yet flavorful, albeit slightly salty, so be mindful when cooking rice or pasta to accompany the dish. The curry dishes and couscous soup were also standout options.

Get the Madame Perez line at supermarkets, next to Zoglowek’s dinner line. NIS 34.90.

The five elements

As Passover nears, the urge to revamp our kitchenware becomes more tempting than sneaking a bite of matzah during prep. Enter Cook and Bake, the heroes of culinary upgrades, unleashing their latest creation: the Roso Origin collection.

Inspired by the Chinese five elements, these pots and pans are ready to rock your kitchen with the power of wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. With sizes to fit every culinary whim and a color palette that could make a rainbow blush, these nonstick wonders are induction-friendly and oven-safe, thanks to their removable silicone handles.

Prices range from NIS 39 to NIS 419. Get ready to paint your kitchen with culinary wizardry by visiting Cook and Bake stores or online at https://www.cook-bake.co.il.

Watermelon season

Bacardi Breezer is offering a new watermelon flavor in time for the beach season. It is sweet and red and very refreshing. The new kosher-for-Passover watermelon edition is perfect for our Israeli palate, as are the other two kosher-for-Passover Breezers – the popular lemon and the very sweet pineapple. I packed a few, in case the kids want to go to the beach. NIS 10-NIS 12.

(Shay Yehezkel)

(Tal Terry)