Courtesy of Apotheca Beauty
Hailing from Kuwait, Nora Al-Ramadhan alongside her two sisters Sarah and Dana are the brains behind Apotheca Beauty. Bringing your favorite niche beauty brands to the region including Anastasia Beverly Hills and Lancer, they not only organize the logistics but with an online store, a boutique in Kuwait and one opening in Dubai very soon, their feet barely touch the ground. Here Nora shares her daily routine, some of her favorite things and what inspires this true beauty boss.
My Morning Ritual
My morning routine is quite dynamic, as I believe a great routine sets you up nicely for the rest of the day. I first wash my face with a gentle cleanser, followed up a toner comprised of 50/50 apple cider vinegar and drinking water. I then follow with Lancer’s Advanced Radiance Vitamin C Serum and allow that to absorb before following with an oil-based serum, such as Odacite’s All Embracing Serum.
Once I apply the oil, I take five to 10 minutes doing my Gua Sha facial massage. This really helps me wake up, get rid of any puffiness and help my products fully absorb into the skin. It is also a great way to detox your skin via the lymphatic drainage movements. Following the Gua Sha massage, I seal everything in with a moisturizer and a strong SPF (minimum SPF 30).
Every morning, the first thing I put into my system is hot water with lemon and apple cider vinegar followed by a green juice I make at home. I also practice Pilates in the morning before work four to five times per week. Pilates helps me clear my mind, functioning as a form of physical and mental exercise.
And Evening…
During the evenings, I follow the Lancer Method: Polish, Cleanse, Nourish. I use a different routine in the evening as I am more focused on cleaning my skin from any pollution, makeup, or build-up. I also alternate between a retinol-based serum and glycolic based serum every other night, followed by a richer moisturizer loaded with antioxidants and hyaluronic acid.
Before I go to bed, I have a cup of chamomile tea and mix a scoop of Bodyism Pure Serenity Supplement with some almond milk. This is such a delicious drink that promotes total body rejuvenation while sleeping and helps the body recover from stress.
What I’m Reading
My top book suggestions for wellness are James Duigan’s Blueprint for Health and Lancer Younger by celebrity dermatologist Dr. Harold Lancer. Both books focus on beauty and wellness from a 360 approach – food, exercise, sleep, and routine. Your daily behaviors in life have a massive impact on your skin, energy levels, and wellbeing. I found these two books to be incredibly insightful.
Books I would recommend for business would include Good to Great by Jim Collins and Branding In Five And A Half Steps by Michael Johnson.
Who Inspires Me
Several women have inspired me throughout my life; however, the most powerful inspiration I have had is my mother. I am proud to have a mother that lives such an active, healthy lifestyle. She has taught me to always make the time to take care of yourself. Your physical and mental wellbeing will dictate the person you become in your relationships and life you lead.
What I Do To Relax
I usually take a Pilates reformer class followed by a hot bath and a face mask. There is nothing more relaxing to me that a luxurious sheet mask after a nice bath.
My Favorite Country To Visit
I do not have a favorite country. The world is filled with beautifully diverse countries worth touring. I make it a point to visit new countries every year – either for work or pleasure. I love traveling and exploring new cities, learning about new cultures, food, and environments.
I Can’t Live Without…
An oil-based serum. I drench my skin in serums for long-lasting hydration and a lovely glow.
What I Always Carry In My Handbag
I always carry a facial mist, lipstick, natural hand sanitizer, hand cream, and concealer in my handbag. Whenever my skin needs a hydration boost or a refresh, I pull out my facial mist.
What I’m Listening To
I listen to music constantly throughout the day depending on what activity I am doing – exercising, working, getting ready. I lean towards classical music while working as I find it relaxes and helps me concentrate.
How I Unwind
To unwind after a long day, I make myself a cup of peppermint tea, put on a face mask, and watch an episode of Friends.
Secret To A Good Night’s Sleep
I help myself get a good night’s sleep by giving myself time to get through my entire routine. I make a point to get into bed 30-60minutes before I want to fall asleep. This gives me time to gradually drift off to sleep, and ensure I get my total eight hours of sleep. I also try to avoid watching TV in bed, however, of course, this is easier said than done.
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