Microbeads no more!

When you cleanse your skin, you often use an exfoliant of some kind to help slough off dead skin cells. I use to love microbead exfoliants because they are softer on the skin then most scrubs. Especially scrubs that use nut shells or apricot seeds which can be so harsh on the skin. Here are some facts on why microbeads often used in skincare or toothpaste should be banned and has already been banned in some states. See attached link http://beatthemicrobead.org/en/science


Though they are gentler on skin, they pack quite the environmental punch. So try some of these listed alternatives instead.

1. BIORÉ ACNE CLEARING SCRUB

2. PHILOSOPHY THE MICRODELIVERY PEEL

3. MURAD AGE REFORM AHA/BHA EXFOLIATING CLEANSER

4. RENÉE ROULEAU MINT BUFFING BEADS

5. JAN MARINI CLEAN ZYME FACE CLEANSER

6. PERRICONE MD BLUE PLASMA

Or do it yourself with a simple DIY facial/body scrub that is super gentle on skin and easy on budget. 

1 tbsp Baking soda
1 tbsp Honey

Use immediately
Gently scrub skin in a gentle circular upward motion
Allow to sit on skin for 2 minutes 
Gently wash away with warm water
Follow with cool water or skin toner
Serum then Moisturize

There are also gentle washable exfoliating scrub pads that you can use to gently rub away dead skin cells on face and body. You can also buy disposable single use pads that come with or without cleanser, like Buf-Pufs. I like the washable scrub pads because they work great, are easy on the pocket and bonus good for environment. Win, win!

Hope you found this informative and that you make the investment for yourself and the environment. 

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

Happy 4th of July

So while everyone gets ready for one of the biggest barbecue days of the year, don't forget one of the most important things. No it's not the ice or the propane, it's SUNSCREEN!

Be sure to apply your sunscreen of SPF30 or higher atlas 20 minutes before you plan on venturing out in the sun and reapply as directed. I suggest every two hours max. Be sure to protect the kids with sunscreen and hats to protect their young skin and scalps. Often we forget to sunscreen our ear and the back of our necks, so be sure to do that as well.

You want to make sure that the sunscreen you are using has a minimum SPF of 30 and that it is UVA/UVB/UVC protective (Broad Spectrum) and water resistant.

TEACHING MOMENT:

UVA - The wrinkle damaging rays
UVB - The sunburning, skin cancer causing rays
UVC - Most dangerous of rays but does not reach earth atmosphere. More man made, i.e. welding or in tanning beds.
NOTE: AVOID tanning beds. It's like sitting on the sun and giving an open invitation to cancer. "Hi Cancer. Come on in!"

Here is what we use in our house to protect our skin.

Babyganics Sunscreen Spray

Babyganics Sunscreen spray with SPF50

It's very light weight and is non-aerosol, which is great for the kids and the environment.  We use it all the time and my kids have yet to ever burn even while being in the pool or sprinkler. It contains no PABA , Phthalates, paragons, nano-particles and is fragrance free. You can find it at your local Target, Walmart, Babies R Us or most local chain pharmacies. It comes in about a 6 oz bottle for approximately $9.

Personally, I like that it's non-aerosol. So many times I see moms spraying their kids with this, some directly in the face. I understand that it saves you a lot of time and fussing but your kids are inadvertently breathing this is. NOT good. So I prefer the fuss of rubbing it in over long term possible, we only pray not, problems.

J.R.Watkins Sunscreen

 J.R. Watkins SPF-30 Sunscreen

The adults in the house use this when we want a little color but still be protected.  You still need a little Vitamin D right? I love natural products and J.R.Watkins is known for this. 

Their sunscreen protects against all 3 dangerous sun rays, UVA,UVB and UVC. It goes on easy though you may find it initially greasy it absorbs quickly and is a great first layer to your make up. It contains all-natural titanium dioxide, PABA free, plant based Shea butter with environmental bonus of eco-friendly packaging. It's 95% natural. I'm okay with that. Also, it is fragrance free so you don't have to walk around smelling like a coconut or something else. 

These are my top two because I have used them for over 4 years nor I or my children have ever been sunburn while using them.

You don't have to use these suggested picks but PLEASE be sure to wear sunscreen. The sun still gets in, it just slows down the process of the sun attacking your skin. Reapply often. Wear sun protective clothing and hydrate, it's hot out there.  Most important protect the kids.

Have fun but be sun smart. Happy 4th of July!

And as always, Be Blessed, Be Healthy and Be Beautiful!

Please take a moment to comment, like, share or Google+ my post. Thanks so much.

It’s PEEL season!!

When the leaves start to fall off the trees, I am reminded of one thing...It's Peel season!

Many of you would like to go to a spa or doctor to turn back the clock but maybe you don't feel you have the time or more importantly, the money to do so. I hear you! Though I believe that peels should be done by professionals, especially the more powerful levels, more and more companies are offering them to non-skin care professionals.  Why? Mostly because people just don't seem to have the time anymore  or money to get it done and at home treatments seems to be the latest movement for DIYers.  There are many different companies out there that sell at-home chemical peel kits. Some of which I have spoken about but be careful, not all peels are of the same quality. 

Chemical skin peels are made up of different strengths for different skin types or concerns. Some can be used by the majority of skin types for mild exfoliation while others are way more specific. Be sure you know what's going on with your skin before attempting one of these at home. If you have open soars or cuts wait until your skin has healed to do a peel. Start off with a very low percentage then work your way up gradually to layering or a stronger peel. Glycolic and Salicylic Acid peels are most common for beginners at 3-50%. TCA 70% or Blue Peels are some of the strongest and harshest peels but those are only done by professionals. For newbies, I like to try an Apple Cider Vinegar peel weeks before to gage how sensitive their skin is and may become. (Give your skin at least a week to heal from Apple Cider Vinegar peel before you try any chemical peel.)

That being said, there are those of you that will still jump right in without testing the waters. So for you, I recommend to please start off low and slow. Work your way up in timed layers. If you are the type of person that thinks, "if it hurts, it must be working", get a licensed professional to do this for you. You may leave it on to long and cause serious and perhaps permanent damage to your skin. Be smart and honest with yourself. Look at your needs as well as your limitations. If you want great skin, take your time to read the instructions and follow them accurately. No short cuts or thinking excess is better when it comes to at-home Chemical Peels. 

There are a few chemical peel companies out there that I have tried and I am okay with recommending. The percentages offered are less then a dermatologists office could offer but they still can cause harm, so again, PROCEED WITH CAUTION. 

Still want to try it on your own? Though I am a bit careful with people that want to do at-home peels, there are great products out there. The key is not to get carried away applying to much, to quickly, to often. 

Now to the brand I currently like and use. 

Perfect Image. Their chemical peels do the job and their recovery products are just as great. This company is strictly about the chemical peel process and skin recovery. They sell and recommend their product lines based on that commitment. The product lines are paraben free, sulfate free, and phthalate free. As an added bonus for you PETA fans, they are cruelty free as well. They have a great Sampler Pack option for those who want to work their way up to a stronger peel. 

As you are looking to shed that summer dry skin, remove sun spots, minimize wrinkles or prep your skin for winter, peels are great for that. You can start anew and have glowing skin all winter long if you follow the instructions, keep a good skin care regimen, exercise regularly, rest well and hydrate both from the inside and out. Also remember that the skin adjusts seasonally,  take that into consideration when looking into peels and the after peel care. I can't say this enough, always apply sunscreen, year round. Especially after doing a chemical peel. 

Before you start any skin care regimen, ask your doctor if there is any reason you shouldn't and learn what would work best for you. Hope you found this informative. Should you have any questions about this or any other skin care related questions, please comment below and I will answer them. 

Please take a moment to comment, Like, Share or Google+ my posts. Thanks so much.

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

Product Review: Pineapple Facial Enzyme Mask

While wandering the product aisles, I have often seen these little pouches for facial masks but never grabbed one to try them out. Since I had some time, I grabbed one and new that at one point I could try it prior to jumping into the shower. Considering that now a days shower time is the only alone time I get anymore, I try to fit in a quick pampering session in.

Their claims:

 - Restores radiant skin

 - Contains natural ingredients

Made with natural, botanical ingredients, Freeman Feeling Beautiful products help you look and feel your best. This enzyme mask, with Pineapple extract and AHA's gently exfoliates while lightly moisturizing, leaving your skin soft, supple and younger-looking. 

Key Ingredients:

Pineapple Extract  - Contains the enzyme bromelain, which can break down the connecting layers between skin cells to exfoliate skin. However, bromelain used alone is a more effective source of exfoliation, and does not have the irritating properties of the pineapple.

 

Sea Kelp - Rich iodine, mineral, anti-oxidant and natural anti-inflammatory aspects, kelp is believed to moisturize, soften and help skin retain its moisture.  Kelp also contains elements that help remove toxins, soothe and can easily penetrate the skin for instant hydration. It also aids in keeping skin smooth. This nourishing extract has no adverse side effects and works well with other antioxidants and vitamins such as Vitamin C and E.

 

Alpha Hydroxy Acid - Similar to microdermabrasion - erasing fine lines and giving the skin a smoother appearance
Note: It is important to note that the effects depends on the percentage of AHA used. The higher the percentage the better and longer the effects last. Consumers use an AHA of ten percent or less. Trained professionals, Dermatologist or Estheticians can give a AHA treatment like a Glycolic peel ranging from fifty to seventy percent.

The Freeman Beauty lab is a familiar name in home beauty products that has been developing products for over 30 years. With that much time in the business you know they must be doing something right. Right?

The packet I chose was the Freeman Beauty Feeling Beautiful Pineapple Facial Enzyme Mask in the travel size for $1.99. This is a great way to try out a product before committing yourself to a large tube or tub. Following the instructions I cleansed my skin then while my skin was damp I gently scrubbed the mask into my skin and let stand for a few minutes before washing it off.

My final thoughts:
I have to say that I liked it. The product gives you a gentle exfoliation, slight tingle and it does leave your skin feeling refreshed and prepped for serums, gels or lotions. I don't think it left my skin glowing but I did feel refreshed. By refreshed I mean that it did the job of scrubbing away the dead skin cells on my face and neck. There by allowing my skin to absorb my Vitamin E serum afterwards much faster.

So if you are looking to fit in a Microdermabrasion like treatment, I suggest you try this. One packet can be used 3 times. I would use this every other day and I say it works for all skin types except for skin with extreme acne or lesions. Be sure to gently rub skin in upward circular motion from decolletage to forehead. Trust me it matters. Scrubbing up and down harshly can lead to damaged skin and scarring.

Check out the attached link to the Freeman website where they currently have a promo code for 25% off on their products. Happy shopping!

As always, Be Blessed, Be Happy, Be Beautiful! 

October means the start of peel season

October has arrived and for many, Autumn is beginning to show itself with cooler temperatures, changing foliage and falling leaves. NaturalSkinShop.com is celebrating the season with their Octoberfest celebration and 20% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE, Now - October 10th. My viewers are sure to "fall" for Natural Skin Shop's glycolic acid & salicylic acid peels that renew and revitalize the skin. NSS offers quality skin care treatment such as: vitamin C treatments, skin lightening, anti-aging formulas, Botox-alternatives, acne treatments and at-home microdermabrasion.

I want to prepare you my readers for the change of seasons by promoting Natural Skin Shop on my blog and Twitter.

Though I don't recommend you trying a harsh peel on yourself, I do recommend you try the scrubs, serums and moisturizers. See attached links for the Octoberfest promotions.

Celebrate Octoberfest at NaturalSkinShop.com by Saving 20% on Entire Purchase. No Coupon Code needed. This saving ends on October 10th.





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