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Welcome friends

Glad you are checking in on the blog. You'll find that it is mostly focused on skin care but I may occasionally write about other things. Know the skin your in is also about being comfortable with one's self and sharing that with you. Be it about beauty or personal life. As a mom, I may be compelled to speak of my children. When it strikes me of course.

Please share any thoughts or questions you may have. I will do my best to reply. Have a product that your not sure about, ask me, happy to do the research or share my thoughts on it.

I do have three little ones at home so it makes it hard to blog regularly. However, I will do my best!

Thanks for stopping by.

Be Blessed, Be Healthy and Be Beautiful!

*The material appearing on this web site is intended for educational use only. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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Friday, September 28, 2012

Laser for Hair Removal - At-Home Laser Hair Removal | Tria Beauty

Tria Beauty Hair Removal System
Get $50 off the Tria Hair Removal Laser when you buy now. The only FDA approved at home device. Enter promo code FIFTY. Expires 10/09/2012

They set up a small two question survey to see if the device will work for you. If you are a medium brown, dark brown or black complexion with medium to black hair you do not qualify and should not purchase. Most dermatologists and Estheticians would say the same in regards to laser hair removal and darker complexions.

Why don't you qualify? The laser zaps the darker pigmented areas i.e. dark hair follicles. If your skin is the same color as follicle because you have higher melanin to your skin, you are more prone to burns or injury.

Also important to note, is that it does not work on blonde, grey, white, or red body hair. These hairs, even if dyed, do not contain enough pigment to absorb the laser light. (Even professional laser hair removal systems that are used in medical clinics are not effective on these hair colors.)

Check out the link below to learn more. 

http://www.triabeauty.com/home-laser-hair-removal

As always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy and Be Beautiful!



Thursday, September 27, 2012

Skincare routine step by step

The most important thing to do when it comes to your skin is to follow basic routine. I call it Mr. C.TEMS. this acronym helps me remember the basic steps to taking good care of my skin on a daily basis.

If you can remember this acronym it will certainly help change your routine and eventually the way your skin feels and looks.

Mr. = Make-Up Remover - Part of your Evening routine.  NEVER sleep with make up on.

C = Cleansing - This should be done at least twice a day (AM & PM) depending what you are doing. Especially after a work out so you may find that you are doing it 3 times a day.

T = Tone - A simple Witch hazel will do or a presoaked pad like the one Noxema makes with 2%Salycilic Acid.

E = Exfoliate - You can use a gentle scrub with Jojoba beads. Avoid harsh scrubs for face with nuts or seeds as they can damage the skin.

M = Mask & Moisturize - Day time skip a mask but use your serum and moisturizer. At night, Use an anti-aging or hydrating mask on face.

S = Sun Protection - Clearly you only do this during the day every day, 365 days a year.

Never use hot water when washing you skin or cleansing face. Some steam is okay but too much will just dry you out especially during the winter months.

As always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy, Be Beautiful!

Friday, September 21, 2012

Should your skin care routine hurt?

So while on Twitter, I seen a tweet that said that someones personal motto for skin care was that if it burns it's working. I was disturbed by this idea. I mean, would you have the same idea if you were talking about your vagina. Why do people treat their skin like a doormat?


I understand that some treatments can be uncomfortable,  for example lasering, waxing or even some chemical peels. And that pain tolerance varies by person to person. However, the last thing I would recommend is that you use a product that burns your skin. Definitely not on a regular!

Now granted, I don't know what context it was said in but it did make me wonder, how many people feel this way about their skin care routine? 

So you tell me, do you think that your skincare routine should involve some discomfort? Giving into the old adage, beauty is pain. Or do you believe that there's plenty of products, treatments and routines that can be just as helpful in maintaining healthy looking skin minus the pain?

You can tweet me your thoughts at @SkinYourIn or comment below. Curious to know what you all are thinking. 

As always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy and be Beautiful!


Elizabeth J


Thursday, September 20, 2012

Pure Saffron Skin Benefits

Saffron flower
Check out this news article about the benefits of Saffron and how it is now being used in skin care products. Because of it's powerful antioxidants, one company is incorporating it into their skin care line.

http://www.heraldonline.com/2012/09/20/4277278/pure-saffron-benefits-produce.html
Saffron threads after harvesting

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

DIY Zit Zapper

Don't pop it, zap it!
Whether you are a long time sufferer of Acne or just get the occasional blemish on your face and body this is a great recipe for you to try. It's a natural Honey Vera Tea Balm.  Easy to make and inexpensive. I found the original recipe in The Green Beauty guide and tweaked it so that it has a more powerful antibacterial effect as well as hydrating.

First I will provide you with the recipe and then provide you the reason to why I believe it works. Granted this depends on the level of Acne you have. Either way, it is worth the try before spending hundreds of dollars on other treatments. And remember, the best way to prevent acne is a cleansing routine that is consistent.

Honey Vera Tea Balm Recipe 

1 Tablespoon UMF 16+ Manuka Honey
1 Tablespoon Aloe Vera (preferably fresh Aloe juice squeezed from plant)
7 Drops of Organic Tea Tree Oil
3 Drops of Organic Wild Oregano Oil (DO NOT exceed 3 drops)
500 mg Vitamin C (as a natural preservative)

Whip them together with a fork or a hand held blender for a few seconds until well blended and place in a small container that holds up to 5 ounces. I like to use blue glass bottles for liquids and for balms plastic or tin containers. You can purchase these on amazon for just a few dollars and you can reuse once you run out.

I recently wrote an article about Manuka honey benefits to the body, especially your skin. Some go as far as saying it is nature miracle cure. See the created link to learn more. Synopsis, Manuka Honey with a UMF rating of 16+ is the best for you inside and out. It is extremely healing and hydrating to the skin.

See this link to learn more about the great benefits of Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis). I have become such a great believer of the power of Aloe that I started to grow the plant myself. I am even planting new ones an contemplating selling them to friends and clients for use. It is a must have in the home for treatments inside and out. Especially in the kitchen when we often get those little burns.

Check out the Tea tree oil article to learn more about this great essential oil. It is antibacterial, anti-fungal so it is great for cleansing the skin. Often used for acne and dry scalp issues. Avoid use if you are pregnant, nursing or on male children.

See link for Wild Oregano oil for more information. With Oregano, preferably Wild Oregano oil as it qualities are better have a anti-fungal, antibacterial, anthelmintic, antiseptic and antioxidant component that is great for the cleaning the skin of acne blemishes and excessive sebum (oil). 

I hope that some of you take the time to try this out for yourselves. Please let me know how it works for you. If you have your own tweaks and would like to share them, please do.

As always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy and Be Beautiful!



        

Thursday, September 13, 2012

Tea Tree Oil benefits against Acne

The leaves and the twigs are
distilled to create the essential oil.
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca oil) is an essential oil created from the Melaleuca alternifolia leaves. Native to Australia. Originally used as inhalation medication to treat colds, coughs and topically to treat wounds by the indigenous Bundjalung people of Australia. Today, it is used on the skin as an herbal remedy used as an antiseptic and was found to help those with mild acne.

Tea tree oil can be used in its full strength or diluted in creams, lotions, ointments and soap. As a natural anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-infection it works well against many skin ailments like acne, boils, dandruff, insect bites and athlete's foot to name a few.

In a comparative study reported on PubMed (Case Study ID # 2145499) they compared Tea tree oil versus Benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of acne. Results showed that both 5% tea tree oil had a significant effect by reducing the number of inflamed and non-inflamed lesions. It was slower then the benzoyl peroxide but less damaging and with fewer side effects to skin. That to me is an absolute benefit to trying Organic Tea tree oil.

It is important to note that The New England Journal of Medicine reported that Tea tree oil is linked to Prepubertal Gynecomastia  (abnormal development of large mammary glands in males resulting in breasts) after repeated topical exposure. That is why it is Not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breast-feeding. It should NEVER be taken internally as it is considered toxic internally.

Recently, I was getting my haircut and had a Tea tree oil treatment done to my hair and scalp. I was surprised that the hairstylist didn't know the warnings that come with use of this essential oil and its by products. There she was pitching it to customers with no real understanding. Not totally her fault, training staff and keeping them knowledgeable is important. However, I was even more surprised that she couldn't really tell me the benefits either. Instead, I had to tell her about the benefits and the hazard warnings for pregnant, nursing mothers or young boys. That's why I write these short articles. It's important that you the consumer are educated on the products and treatments offered out there. Be smart, ask questions and if you don't feel confident in the answers given, do your own research and make a smart decision.

As always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy and Be Beautiful!






  

Sunday, September 9, 2012

All time favorite yogurt

My Favorite Yummie Yogurt by FAGE!
As they say, it's best to nourish the body inside and out. So this ins't a skin tip but it's a great food tip if you haven't heard of it or tried it yet. And is serves as dual purpose from the inside out.

The product is a yogurt by FAGE (fa-yeh) and it is officially my all time favorite yogurt and flavor. It is the Mango Guanabana flavor. I'm telling you, this is so good I could eat them all day. I also like the Strawberry Goji. My wish now is that they will make a frozen yogurt in these yummie flavors to indulge without the guilt.

It's jammed packed with probiotics, great source of calcium and is only 120 calories. Did I mention ZERO fat. Woohoo! The best part is my son loves it too. So though I am not keen on sharing, I know that it is something I can with him. As he often attacks me when he sees his mommy eating something. 

With that said, I am really hoping that no one comes along and burst my bubble here. I am thinking this is a good go-to-food for all to enjoy. Hope Dr. Oz doesn't come out saying something otherwise. LOL! I don't see how since Greek yogurt is all the rave now. 

Plain is great when you add fresh fruit.
Seriously though, if you enjoy eating yogurt, especially a greek base yogurt, I just know you'll love it. If you don't, you could always make a yogurt mask for your face.The lactic Acid found in yogurt is great for the skin as it exfoliates and brightens. So there is no waste and no harm in trying. I also read in the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC) that dairy items like yogurt with probiotics is easier digested by the lactose intolerant. Bonus!  They have plenty of other flavors to that you can try out too. Check it out, try it out and I do hope you enjoy it like I did. 

Below is the index information of FAGE Mango Guanabana yogurt.  

Happy Healthy eating! 

As always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy and Be Beautiful!





Serving Size: 1 Container 5.3oz (150g)
Servings per Container 1
Calories120
Calories from fat0
Total fat0g
% DV Total fat0%
Saturated fat0g
% DV Saturated fat0%
Trans fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
% DV Cholesterol0%
Sodium45mg
% DV Sodium2%
Total carbohydrates18g
% DV carbohydrates6%
Dietary fiber0g
% DV fiber0%
Sugars17g
Protein13g
% DV Protein26%
Vitamin A0%
Vitamin C0%
Calcium15%
Iron0%
Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
  • Ingredients:
  • STRAINED YOGURT: Grade A Pasteurized Skimmed Milk, Live Active Yogurt Cultures (L. Bulgaricus, S. Thermophilus, L. Acidophilus, Bifidus, L. Casei). MANGO-GUANABANA FRUIT PREPARATION (20%): Sugar, Mangos, Water, Guanabana Puree, Corn Starch, Contains 2% or less of: Lemon Juice Concentrate, Natural Flavors, Xanthan Gum.
  • Appropriate for:
  • Gluten-Free
  • Vegetarians
 
  

Saturday, September 1, 2012

UMF Manuka Honey benefits


U.M.F. Manuka Honey works wonders!!

The most important thing you need to know about Manuka Honey is that not all Manuka honeys are created equal. When purchasing Manuka Honey you want to be sure it is U.M.F. (Unique Manuka Factor) graded. U.M.F. Active Manuka Honey, also known as MediHoney is found in New Zealand and Australia.

The grading system was created buy Dr. Peter Molan of the University of Waikato. He was examining honey for its peroxide and antiseptic properties and discovered that Manuka Honey had a powerful more stable antibacterial property. Laboratory testing determined that NOT ALL honey or Manuka Honey is "Active" or active at the same levels.  Their are variances in the honey so a standardized measure of its antibacterial strengths was developed. The rating system goes form a minimum level of 10 (table honey) to 16+, which is considered superior with very high activity.

Dark Amber color
U.M.F. Manuka honey / MediHoney has been found to have healing properties. Some on the internet are calling it a miraculous natural remedy. In relation to skin care, it is impressive. It contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hydrating and soothing properties. These properties alone would make it great for those suffering from Acne, Rosacea and Eczema. Because U.M.F. Manuka honey has the ability to penetrate skin tissue and treat infections beneath the skin surface it is highly recommend and used in skin care industry, as well as in the medical community. Clinically proven to cure wounds, infections, ulcers and other skin conditions. See University of Waikato for research information.


Has a thicker consistency
 then regular honey.
With that said, I recommend U.M.F. Manuka Honey as a treatment after extractions or for those who tend to have red inflamed or acne prone skin. I use it under a rubber mask so that it absorbs and really penetrates the skin. At home it can be done with just a very small amount. And the great things is you don't have to worry about getting it in your mouth, it's delicious. It is super important to note to be sure to NEVER double dip as you don't want to invite germs into your honey. No one likes a double dipper.

You can purchase it at your local Health Food store or online I like to buy the highest rating I can find which generally is U.M.F. 15+ or medically sterilized honey (Super Pricey).

Don't be alarmed buy the cost. It is expensive. Especially when you're thinking just honey. However, remind yourself that this is not the same honey you get in the bear shaped bottle. It is so much better! Not all Manuka honey's are created equal, so look for the U.M.F rating on the jar and that it is a product from New Zealand.

I hope you all take the time to try it out. Enjoy a relaxing cup of tea while you let the honey soak in. Add a small scoop to your tea for a healthier in and out effect.

A small thanks to the Manuka Honey bee that works so hard for creating pure and natural perfection.

As always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy and Be Beautiful!