Roots reggae artiste Etana has launched a line of moisturising beauty bars. A release sent to THE STAR stated that the products are available for purchase online and feature nine fragrances namely Blue Lagoon, Morocco Sunset, Pure Passion, Oat Cream Dance, Trinity, Ganja Mint, Coco Lave, Mango Juice and Ganjachouli.

Etana is known for her Afrocentric practices, and, according to the release, it comes as no surprise that she decided to invest in products comprised of completely natural components. She says her main goal is to share her recipe for beauty with others.

"I wanted to share with everyone the things I use and wear daily. That's how I came up with Etana Blends. Body soaps are not the only products that I want to introduce. I am working on wholesome oils and body lotions for hair as well as skincare", Etana was quoted as saying.

Etana beauty bars are made from mild ingredients that are expected to smooth and soften the skin while they cleanse.

She further explained, "We use no harmful chemical that eventually strips the skin and leaves it dry. Etana Blends utilises organic products, Vitamin E oil, coconut oil, coconut milk, hemp seeds, fragrance oils and other skincare essentials. Each bar has a unique aroma that can light up any room with the additional benefit of being very nourishing for the skin.:

The singer said that she also plans to release other products in the near future and may even dabble in clothing with the release of a skirt line. Persons who are interested in purchasing or viewing Etana's merchandise can log on to www.etanathestrongone.com.

Etana's publicist, Keona Williams, said that she also believes the artiste is on the right track, highlighting that merchandising is the future of the music industry.

"Record sales aren't really the best right now, people like Jay-Z, Dr Dre and P Diddy are making money with merchandising. Dr Dre recently became the first rapper billionaire and it was because of merchandise," she said.

curtis.campbell@gleanerjm.com