Raw African Black Soap

Black soap is the primary soap used in West Africa. It is all natural, made from barks and oils such as coconut oil, shea oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil, and cocoa butter. It takes a full day to make and is cured for two weeks.

The final and authentic product should look raw and crumbly with an earthy smell. A reliable and very reasonable source is Shea -N- More.

African Black Soap is said to have anti-aging properties and helps to deter stretch marks. It's excellent for acne, blemishes, oily skin and other skin conditions. For extra strength, let it sit on your skin for about a minute before washing it off. It is an astringent so there may be a slight burning sensation. The burn let's you know it's working. And it does work.

Oil Reserve

The olive oil in your kitchen will moisturize your hair like none other. Wash, lightly condition, rinse if you want, and apply generous amounts to your ends and upward. Comb it through and let it sit for anywhere from a half an hour to overnight. Wash it out and recondition. Shiny. Silky. Smooth.

Liquid Gold

Liquid Gold. Shu Uemura has created this hair care line that is surprisingly expensive. It is also surprisingly effective. Curly hair gone straight via the Japanese Thermal Treatment plus a flat iron, I have tried everything. It will change your hair life but it will cost.

Only available through Shu Uemura and Sally Hershberger Salons.

Radiant Touch

or touche e'clat as YSL has aptly named this concealer. It is elegantly and smartly designed as a gold wand that disperses concealer into the the brush with the click of a button. It is a bit pricey but it is the absolute best in my opinion. It is fluid in its application and flawless in its appearance.

Aztec Secret

Aztec Secret, Indian Healing Clay Mask boasts that it's the "World's Most Powerful Facial." Cleopatra is rumored to have used clay masks to maintain her legendary beauty. I use it weekly to tighten and cleanse pores. It's also really effective as an overnight spot treatment. It does sting and pull your face as it dries but it makes me feel that it's working.

Find it at Whole Foods Market, health food stores or online for less than 10 dollars.