FOR PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT TAKING CARE
A word from our founder
Whether it’s a haircut, facial or manicure, there’s no denying that these instant mood boosters would not exist without the talented and hardworking professionals behind them.
The personal relationships between beauty pros and clients can last for decades, encompassing huge amounts of trust, care and compassion — and they sometimes go unacknowledged. We asked Natasha Boateng, a seasoned beauty editor who has been documenting the industry in The Globe and Mail, Fashion Magazine and The Kit for over a decade, to reflect on the heart and soul of the business for “A Thing of Beauty,” as her homage to beauty professionals.
As we prepare to open the first Living Beauty flagship, my one-on-one relationships with our brands’ founders have grown even deeper. I know that you’ll find the vision, dedication, passion and care of these entrepreneurs as inspiring as I do. Our brick-and-mortar space in Toronto is going to be filled with the brands you already know and love, like Manucurist (check out founder Gaëlle’s 2025 polish trend predictions in “Mani Thanks”) and James Read, who shares favourites from his new line, Self Glow by James Read, as our Guest Editor. We’re also introducing new lines like Mimétique, Ruby Hammer and La Bonne Brosse, three exceptional female-founded brands we can’t wait for you to meet. And in even more newness, I’m super excited that Biologique Recherche has entered the hair-care chat with its disruptive new products for scalp and hair; check out “Good Hair Day” for more on this groundbreaking move. We look forward to welcoming you to our first retail store. In the meantime, shop all of your favourites and more anytime at living-beauty.com or through our partners across the country.
IN THEIR OWN WORDS
Ruby Hammer is taking the guesswork out of enhancing your innate beauty with straightforward techniques and products from her namesake brand, Ruby Hammer Beauty The multi-award-winning London-based makeup artist has lived and breathed beauty for decades in the company of fellow makeup royalty like her dear friend Bobbi Brown. She paved the way for the next wave of brands to follow in her innovative footsteps and, in 2007, was awarded an MBE from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for services to the cosmetics industry. Here, she shares how her lifelong passion for makeup led her to launch her multifaceted brand in 2019.
Keeping in the spirit of celebrating meaningful relationships, we’ve put together a year-round Living Beauty gift guide (“A Gift Guide for All Seasons”) of our favourite things to gift that people actually want. From hostess gifts and stocking stuffers to treats for your work wife, we’re
xo Mariam Founder and CEO, Living Beauty Inc.
grad, and I was going to be a doctor like my late dad or I was going to work at the United Nations. By fluke, I fell into makeup by meeting someone who threw me this pass to British Fashion Week. I did mostly editorial beauty makeup, for better
magazines and lesser magazines, on location and ad campaigns, and there was no social media. When I branched out into TV, it was mostly makeover programs — always about enhancing the subject, whoever was in front of me, whether she was an A-lister, a model or a normal person.
One of those big lifechanging opportunities was creating Ruby and Millie, which was a huge brand. It was a partnership with Boots, the biggest retailer on the High Street. In the end, we were probably too far ahead of our time. Unfortunately, they probably didn't see the potential of this brand. I always say founders are like gladiators. You’ve got to step into an arena and you’re either going to be slaughtered or you’ve got to be prepared to slaughter.
When I lost my mum, I was in the grieving process, and that threw me into menopause, which took its toll on me, too. Suddenly, I had to reinvent myself and ask, “What am I about?”
And putting it into context for beauty, I felt there was an awful lot of noise out there. I decided to do it small, slowly and self-funded because I want to set a good example for my daughter and other women out there.
Everything in the Ruby Hammer line is gentle, easy to throw in your bag and complements the other things you may have bought from all the wonderful brands out there because I’m like that in my kit. I want it to be “as well as” not “instead of.” Because we’re starting fresh, all the formulas are vegan. They are cruelty-free, everything is reusable, recyclable and sustainable, where possible. My goal is to work towards everything being sustainable, but I can’t make that claim yet.
“When I lost my mum, I was in the grieving process, and that threw me into menopause, which took its toll on me, too. Suddenly, I had to reinvent myself and ask, ‘What am I about?’”
I always want to talk to a consumer wherever she is and do the best I can to offer her something, even if it’s expertise. If you don't want to buy my thing, that’s fine. Ask me a question and I’ll guide you. I have enough knowledge to say, “This might not be right for you but you can use this from this brand.” But when something’s not needed, why add another step? That’s always been my philosophy of the brand. It’s like an unsaid. You need to just spend 30 seconds looking at yourself like a pro would and say, “Okay, I’m going to need a bit of work there, but that’s lovely.” And prepare yourself that way, as opposed to having 30 items and thinking you must use the corrector and this contour and put on a highlight you can see from outer space, a lip pencil and a lipstick and a gloss on top. Your makeup bag is a wardrobe. That’s what I want to convey.
Skin First
Introducing Mimétique, the French brand that’s simplifying biomimetic skin care
SKIN REVIVE 30 ML, $115
“This is an all-in-one serum because it contains the complex with mineral peptides and vitamin C and other natural ingredients that work on plumping, volumizing and lifting the skin.”
Scientifically proven skin care is a part of Fabienne Sebaoun’s DNA. “I come from a dermatologist family, so I haven't been in the sun since I was born,” she jokes. After years of working for some of the biggest names in luxury skin care including Guerlain and La Mer, Sebaoun decided to study formulation at the Université de Lyon where she applied her professional experience.
“I come from a dermatologist family, so I haven't been in the sun since I was born.”
The impressive results of her studies led Sebauoun to launch Mimétique, a line of skin care that takes a no-fuss approach to biomimicry, where formulas mimic the natural processes and structures found in the skin to create more effective and harmonious skin-care solutions. “I like to make all-in-ones,” Sebaoun says of her multipurpose products that drastically reduce the number of steps in any skin-care routine.
CTRL EYE 15 ML,
SKIN RESTORE 50 ML, $99
“This cream will firm, plump and hydrate your skin. It gives a 20 percent improvement in skin firmness. Men love it.”
Suitable for all skin types, the range revolves around the exclusive SMR-C5 Complex, which Sebaoun composed of five active ingredients naturally present in the skin. Selected for their ability to strengthen the skin and maintain its three fundamental functions (support its natural defence systems, improve its hydration mechanism and promote better regeneration), they work synergistically to maximize the effects of each.
What also makes Mimétique special is what’s not included.
“We don't have any fragrance or perfume in any product because I really wanted to have only actives,” Sebaoun says. She remains inspired by the French pharmacy tradition through touches like the tube for her moisturizer, which is an homage to the legendary French staple Biafine. Ultimately, Sebaoun is most interested in offering simple, well-made and effective skin care. “It’s always been just about ingredients and efficacy.”
With Living Beauty as Mimétique’s Canadian wholesale partner and local retailer, there’s plenty for you to explore from the brand.
FABIENNE SEBAOUN Founder of Mimétique
A THING of BEAUTY
“‘The
Given Biologique Recherche’s philosophy of personalized, highperformance skin care, hair-care products are a natural addition to its roster of highly personalized products.
The scalp, much like facial skin, is vulnerable to external factors like stress, pollution and chemical exposure, which disrupt its balance and health.
A well-balanced scalp, with optimal hydration, sebum regulation, microcirculation and cellular renewal, creates a favourable environment for hair.
In addition to proven plant-based active ingredients, what sets this collection apart is its holistic approach that takes into account proper blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients essential for hair growth and follicle strength. It also considers how nerve endings help regulate the scalp’s response to environmental aggressors, manage sebum production and effective lymphatic function, which removes toxins and reduces inflammation.
The best way to experience the benefits of this game-changing collection is through a Scalp and Hair Treatment and by following the routine at home with a selection of hair-care products perfectly suited to your Scalp Instant© and hair condition. The treatment process starts with a precise, personalized trichology diagnosis based on an in-depth analysis of the condition of your scalp and hair.
Good Hair Day
The new Biologique Recherche Scalp & Hair range takes an inside-out approach to giving you the best hair of your life.
What's In Your Head?
To better understand the complexity of the scalp and why its health is so important to the quality of your hair, here’s a breakdown of its complex layers.
Biologique Recherche
Shampooing Traitant VIP O2
200 ML, $75
Eliminating particulate pollutants, this shampoo revitalizes and strengthens the hair, offering protection against external stress factors.
Biologique Recherche
Shampooing Nutri-K 200 ML, $75
Dry, damaged hair is repaired, protected and revived with this shampoo that provides intense
Biologique Recherche Shampooing DermoApaisant 200 ML, $75
Biologique Recherche Keractive
100 ML, $63
An ultra-moisturizing, norinse product suitable for all Hair Instants©, Keractive smooths hair scales while taming frizz and improving styling.
Biologique Recherche
Shampooing Sebo-Reequilibrant 200 ML, $75
This shampoo meant for
and
and health, relieving discomfort.
An irritated scalp’s best friend, this high-tolerance treatment soothes while restoring the skin’s ecosystem and microbiome.
Biologique Recherche P50 Capillaire
250 ML, $132
Containing the core ingredients of the famous P50 formula and scalp-specific actives, this exfoliating lotion balances and regulates sebum secretions.
REPAIR
Biologique Recherche Creme de Soin
200 ML, $104
Combining the nourishing repair of a mask with the detangling of a conditioner, this treatment strengthens hair, smooths cuticles and reseals ends.
CONNECTIVE TISSUE —
GUEST EDITOR
JAMES READ FOUNDER, SELF GLOW
BY JAMES READ
The world’s foremost expert in sunless tanning, James Read says that wellness and lifestyle are at the heart of his identity.
“Taking care of yourself is essential, especially when juggling a busy life,” he says of personal rituals like beauty treatments, exercise, travel and dining with friends.
“These moments are vital for my mental health and overall well-being.” With the launch of Self Glow by James Read, he’s combined his love for skin care with self-tan to create products that boast multiple benefits for body and soul.
We caught up with Read to discover a few of his personal essentials, from his nighttime routine to his favourite restaurants, plus his must-have skin-care products.
Self Glow by James Read Break of Dawn
Rejuvenating Glow Mask
60 ML, $68
“It’s more than just self-tanning—it gives you a beautiful, natural tan while caring for your skin. I wanted to develop a product that didn’t feel like the typical self-tan but rather an extension of your daily self-care routine.
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50T
250 ML, $136
“Years ago, Mariam, the CEO of Living Beauty Inc., introduced me to Biologique Recherche products, and I’ve been hooked ever since. The P50 is a favourite—it’s gentler on my skin than retinol but even more effective.
Biologique Recherche Masque Visolastine + 100 ML, $138
Biologique Recherche Facials
“I’ve had so many facials over the years and nothing compares to Biologique Recherche’s. The results are transformative.”
Biologique Recherche Masque Vivant 100 ML, $84
“I’ve always been obsessed with using face masks at night. Sometimes, I’ll even layer two or three in a single evening—yes, I know that’s a bit excessive, but it makes me feel incredible. It’s my little ritual, paired with a cup of herbal tea.”
Eating Well
“Discovering excellent restaurants is one of my favourite things to do. I adore Thai cuisine, and Pai in Toronto is one of my goto spots. My Italian heritage has also made me a lover of Italian food and Norma in London is a must-visit along with Café Sydney in Sydney. For breakfast, I can’t resist The Wolseley in London.”
Staying Active
“Exercise is an essential part of my life. I love taking long evening walks with my dog, especially on weekends, with a few pub stops.”
World Travel
“Some of my favourite cities are Sydney, Melbourne, New York, Toronto and Los Angeles. In Toronto, the Kimpton Hotel holds a special place in my heart—it was the first hotel I stayed at in the city and is close to some of my favourite coffee spots.”
Mental Wellness
“Recently, I’ve started seeing a counsellor, which has been incredibly helpful in clearing my mind. As someone who lives with ADHD and an anxiety disorder, being open and talking about this has been vital to managing my mental health.”
The Power of Touch
“I make time for a weekly massage to release tension and help me unwind.
I also recently trained as a facialist and love giving facials to friends and family using a curated selection of my favourite skin-care products. I always include a touch of Self Glow to give their skin a beautiful, sun-kissed warmth.”
MANI THANKS
BY HANNAH JOHNSON
We’ve all been there: Your day is going smoothly and then—ouch—you’ve broken a nail. Upon closer examination, your cuticles are looking a little rough and, on top of that, you’ve got a hangnail that just snagged on your favourite sweater. Sigh, it looks like it’s time to pencil in a manicure. But let’s be real: Getting your nails back to an Instaworthy state can feel tiresome.
Thankfully, Manucurist founder Gaëlle Lebrat Personnaz created a solution that puts the health of your nails first without sacrificing style. After years of overhearing common frustrations from clients at her mother’s Parisian nail salon, she was inspired to design a line of green and clean gel polish alternatives and pampering after-care products that work synergistically to make the process of painting your nails feel exactly how it should: refreshing, relaxing and oh-so chic.
With her well-manicured finger on the pulse of the fashion and beauty industry, Gaëlle spoke to us about trends for 2025. Thanks to Manucurist’s lineup, you can easily achieve the latest looks on your own, without sacrificing your nail health. It’s time to light your favourite candle, engage your chill-out playlist and get ready to bring your nails into the New Year.
Manucurist
Green Polish in Armeria
15 ML $20
Balance Style with Comfort
In terms of nail art, Gaëlle reports that bold looks inspired by niche subcultures will be trending, with hand-painted designs or even mini spikes and studs. That said, she is aware that over-the-top styles aren’t for everyone. “We’re also expecting pastel shades like soft green and baby blue to remain trendy, as they bring a gentle and refreshing touch to nails.”
For those who favour a subtler look, fresh and glowy nails that evoke minimalism will be just as soughtafter. “In the end, the most important thing is selfexpression,” says Gaëlle.
Texture Takeover
While nail art will continue to have its moment, varying textures and finishes will bring new life to classic shades. “Think: glazed effect on a red manicure,” says Gaëlle, with new jelly finishes creating a mouthwatering candy apple look. Meanwhile, timeless white can be modernized with a lightcatching pearlescent finish like Manucurist’s Green Polish in Moon.
Inspiration Is Everywhere
The runways of Paris and New York continue to provide eye candy for all corners of the beauty world, but social media is the new guidebook for nails. The Instagram feeds of stars like Selena Gomez, Dua Lipa and Hailey Bieber (glazed donut nails, anyone?) offer up #manimonday inspo, while nail artists and DIY design lovers alike take to reels and TikTok to share their looks, making musttry manicures “more accessible and easy to follow for everyone,” says Gaëlle.
Shaping Up
The almond style continues to be a popular and flattering shape thanks to its elongating effect, but Gaëlle says we’ll see a resurgence of shortand-square looks thanks to their clean and modern lines. Whichever you choose, keep everything smooth and snag-free with Manucurist’s Emery Boards and Buffers.
Perfect Your Prep
Whether you’re opting for an intricate or minimalistic look, Gaëlle says, “The key to maintaining a fresh manicure is preparation and aftercare.” Start by gently degreasing your nails with Manucurist’s Nail Polish Remover and always use a Base Coat to protect your nails and enhance the longevity of your polish.
Maintenance Matters
For nails that look “day one” fresh, Gaëlle recommends topping up your manicure with the superglossy Top Coat Sunshine. Once that’s dry, a daily application of Manucurist’s Huile Verte Cuticle Oil is ideal for post-mani maintenance. Massage a few drops into your nail beds to prevent roughness, and follow up with the nourishing Rose Hand Cream to keep your skin and nails in top condition.
A Gift Guide for All Seasons
Your Bridal Party at Your Bachelorette
Help your wing women get their tips in shape for your big day and beyond with this groundbreaking at-home nail-kit gift that keeps on giving.
05 MANUCURIST Green Flash Starter Kit, $105
all seasons. Whether you’re shopping for a national holiday, a personal milestone or simply “just because” here are our top picks for every gifting occasion.
Your Crush on Valentine’s Day
Subtlety has no place in the pursuit of love. This Valentine’s Day, tell them how you really feel with one of Biologique Recherche’s pout-perfecting patches.
10 BIOLOGIQUE RECHERCHE
Liftkiss Contour and Volume Lip Patch, $37 each
Your Mum on Mother’s Day
Because our generousto-a-fault mothers rarely spoil themselves, the gift of the world’s best facial customized to their unique skin will show them how grateful you are for all they do.
BIOLOGIQUE RECHERCHE Facial, visit biologiquerecherche.com to find a spa
Your Expecting Friend/Wife/Sister Ahead of her Due Date
Help them reset and mentally prepare for this life-changing moment with a calming mani-pedi appointment at their favourite spa.
Your Children’s Teacher
After a busy school year, a collection of everything they need to restore their hardworking hands says it all.
01 MANUCURIST Active Glow Set, $72
Your Heartbroken Friend During a Breakup
There’s no time like a breakup for a glow-up.
Boost their dating confidence with a skinperfecting face mask and a lip colour that’ll
02
Your Hostess With the Mostess
Gone are the days of schlepping a bouquet of grocery-store flowers to your hostess that they’ll need to find a vase for. Give them something they’ll actually want and use again and again like this indulgent body treatment they’ll love even more for its firming results.
06 OLVERUM Firming Body Oil (100 ML), $99
Your Work Wife on Her Retirement It’s never too late to deal with unwanted hair— including those pesky additions that keep cropping up in new places. Get her a gift card for laser hair removal.
Yourself When You Head Out on a Vacay
04
When You Need to Say You’re Sorry
12
