tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56040461417393606022024-03-18T23:56:14.570-05:00Skin Rhythm*Holistic Skincare *Eco-Friendly Products *Makeup Tips & ReviewsJenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.comBlogger99125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-21017248636955009752010-07-18T17:07:00.004-05:002010-07-18T17:23:13.360-05:00Hello Again!!It's been over a year since I have blogged here and for the absence I apologize! <div><br /></div><div>I have tried many new products in the past year and I will be posting reviews of my favorites shortly. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am now working for a few new companies: </div><div><br /></div><div><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><img src="webkit-fake-url://C087775C-54F7-4738-8D91-31DA04A88030/Jane+Carter+products.JPG.jpg" alt="Jane+Carter+products.JPG.jpg" /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><img src="webkit-fake-url://0BA84A07-CEA3-4E70-99A1-C53F4C66C921/Prod_LG-BrallywoodButta-773365.jpg" alt="Prod_LG-BrallywoodButta-773365.jpg" /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><img border="0" src="http://enfusia.com/images/prod_EnfusiaOrganicLotion.jpg" align="right" /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium; border-collapse: collapse; "></span></p><p align="center">So I will probably be reviewing their products quite a bit as I get to know them better. One thing, though--I only work for a company whose integrity and products I admire and I do no get paid to endorse them beyond the scope of my job. (and that is usually limited to my personal territory)</p><p align="center"> So--if you have never heard of some of them, you are in for a treat! I can't wait to introduce you to them soon. I wanted to say hi and promise that I will be blogging again regularly--So check back soon and often!!!!!!!!!!!!!</p><p align="center" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "></p><p align="center" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; "><br /></span> </p><br /><p></p><p></p></div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-37909500235290682832009-05-15T20:33:00.002-05:002009-05-15T21:00:57.313-05:00Mineral Fusion Spring Blossom Color Kit Giveaway!!<img src="http://mineralfusion.com/images/whatsnew-springcolorkits.jpg" alt="spring blossom color kits" /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div> I am a huge fan of mineral makeup and I really love Whole Foods' <a href="http://www.mineralfusion.com">Mineral Fusion</a> line. They recently launched their Spring Blossoms Color Kit loaded with fresh, pretty colors to help you look your best during the warmer months. </div><div><br /></div><div>Whole Foods Market recently posted a fabulous <a href="http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/2009/04/cosmetics-what-to-look-for-what-to-avoid/">podcast on their blog</a><a href="http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/2009/04/cosmetics-what-to-look-for-what-to-avoid/"> </a>educating consumers on what ingredients to look for and which to avoid when choosing makeup.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Want a chance to win one of these amazing kits? All you have to do is listen to the podcast and leave a comment (on the Whole Foods page) Be sure to mention you read about the giveaway on Skin Rhythm!</div><div><br /></div><div>One winner will be chosen at random on May 30th to receive a kit ($19.99 value) in either Innocent Peach or Delicate Rose. Check back here to see if <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">you</span></span> are the lucky vixen!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><table width="450" border="0" align="center"><tbody><tr><td class="font13" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; "><span class="brnsubheader" style="font-family: 'Century Gothic'; color: rgb(117, 53, 55); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Innocent Peach Kit includes:</span></span><br />• Blush in <em>flashy</em><br />• Lip Gloss in <em>dazzle</em><br />• Eye Shadow in <em>prism</em><br />• Blotting Papers<br />• DVD: Tips and Techniques<br /></td><td class="font13" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 13px; "><span class="brnsubheader" style="font-family: 'Century Gothic'; color: rgb(117, 53, 55); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Delicate Rose Kit includes:</span></span><br />• Blush in <em>creation</em><br />• Lip Gloss in <em>captivate</em><br />• Eye Shadow in <em>unique</em><br />• Blotting Papers<br />• DVD: Tips and Techniques</td></tr></tbody></table></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-92164125505357733292009-03-29T12:32:00.002-05:002009-03-29T12:35:45.902-05:00How to Fix a Broken Eyeshadow!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJ6w769UtPtwE2qTZ_6rg-rbma7AApedukoskhy7VmV3fo8XRWSV8iVS6jHTnztJHybAd2BIBiFUQtjsJj7eUvHPL3Pgespa9DVirFZ-bwc5k4RmVf5jhVzol7KigDPFK6M1hdtCDUomi/s1600-h/broken-shadow.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 233px; height: 350px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinJ6w769UtPtwE2qTZ_6rg-rbma7AApedukoskhy7VmV3fo8XRWSV8iVS6jHTnztJHybAd2BIBiFUQtjsJj7eUvHPL3Pgespa9DVirFZ-bwc5k4RmVf5jhVzol7KigDPFK6M1hdtCDUomi/s400/broken-shadow.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318664640696149602" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">photo from: www.thebeautystop.com</span><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Times New Roman';"><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Times New Roman';"><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:'Times New Roman';"><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><br /></div></span></div></span></div><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><br /></div><div style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 3px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 3px; width: auto; font: normal normal normal 100%/normal Georgia, serif; text-align: left; ">I wanted to share <a href="http://thebeautystop.com/tip-stop-how-to-fix-a-broken-eyeshadow/">this great tip</a> from The Beauty Stop! For anyone who has ever tearfully tossed a beloved but broken shadow, rejoice! You will never have to go through that agony again if you follow these simple steps...</div></span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-4470042028677242002009-02-15T23:30:00.004-06:002009-02-15T23:52:50.780-06:00Avalon Organics Balancing Shampoo with Sweet Orange and Bergamot<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK0tqavB5h5bXhGiVn-QgGT1SroOwRtH8rmNnMjMxyjAl_R3IO5KWfeGqYFBQsLcqDAiolvZaa4ntszqftU6BrlgAqR0oj80DJmtom2-etn1nqD3cXXfXj59Wsiyy1Imqr2KsfEF8NDVgi/s400/CIMG9678.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303263650141850674" /><br /><div>As I wrote about recently, I was searching for a new shampoo. I had struck out with my<a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2009/02/hated-it-giovanni-root-66-max-volume.html"> first choic</a>e and exchanged it for an Avalon Organics product I had never seen before: Balancing Shampoo with Sweet Orange and Bergamot. It features<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neem"> neem extract</a> and<a href="http://www.rain-tree.com/nettles.htm"> nettle leaf</a> and that is what truly sold me on the product. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have a dirty secret: my scalp gets itchy and flakey this time of year. The heaters running full blast, the crazy Texas weather (sunny 70's one day, frigid 40's the next) and my overactive sebaceous glands all work together to create a problem that is annoying and embarrassing. I have dark hair and if I scratch a nagging itch just a little I create little flakes that stick to my hair exposing my problem. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have used<a href="http://www.2020skincare.com/dr-hauschka-neem-hair-lotion.html"> great products</a> for my scalp before but none that I can afford regularly. I had started to think this was something I was just going to have to deal with--until now. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's strange because I can't find mention of it anywhere on the internet, even on the <a href="http://avalonorganics.com/?id=88">Avalon website </a>and I'm not sure why that is, but since I couldn't find official info and pictures I have to show you the shampoo in it's natural habitat: my shower. <br /></div><div><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjRiB3LCaZl2u1Tdgm5pVDsNcuVg2FKydjXTY2F_V7vdf1kFNaAZ5PgTnwpz3rO2zjVzY-2mPJNZsGtXfsLvfpKzdtMRzG_Ton17hhzXB_yW4LuCHSnxaVJS_XXJ__zT5mw1ll4CQxYB5I/s400/CIMG9679.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303263654860880130" /></div><br />So far I am really loving this shampoo. It smells great (though sadly, not as great as the Root 66 Shampoo) and makes my scalp feel refreshed and my hair feel shiny and bouncy: exactly what I was looking for in a shampoo. My scalp is feeling much less itchy and dry. I am really happy this mysterious product came out! When my Giovanni conditioner runs out I will be buying the Avalon Balancing Conditioner too. <div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">* Application tip: </span>Be sure to massage the shampoo fully into the scap to get the maximum balancing benefits.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">*DIY tip:</span> Follow up with an<a href="http://www.care2.com/greenliving/apple-cider-vinegar-kitchen-cupboard.html"> apple cider vinegar</a> rinse to further help balance and soothe a dry and itchy scalp or to remove hair product build up. </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Price:</span> $7.99 for 8.5 oz. at select<a href="http://www.wholefoods.com"> Whole Foods Market</a> locations.</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-57877806648285737532009-02-15T23:01:00.003-06:002009-02-15T23:29:54.732-06:00Update: Pai Skincare Geranium and Thistle Moisturizer One Week Later<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqUlLNSNC8xygEGwZEtFtVlpD4H72uKnmSt2hIFaIV4pR9IqYNoxy_hZnqyECY8AJLL_IZDW9fqz8srV4HGLUwxqSXXODb0D9w5Y8H3EVjb171bSo3SXpzUP1a8kpJg0d2tUiavuSFo3l/s1600-h/pai2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 207px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQqUlLNSNC8xygEGwZEtFtVlpD4H72uKnmSt2hIFaIV4pR9IqYNoxy_hZnqyECY8AJLL_IZDW9fqz8srV4HGLUwxqSXXODb0D9w5Y8H3EVjb171bSo3SXpzUP1a8kpJg0d2tUiavuSFo3l/s400/pai2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5303263207094793394" /></a><br />Last week I reviewed the<a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2009/02/review-pai-skincare-geranium-and.htm"> Pai Skincare Geranium and Thistle Moisturizer.</a> Everyone should be aware that aside from a negative reaction, either an aversion to the smell or texture or something like contact dermatititis it is very hard to form an opinion about a product until you have used it for a length of time. (months)<div><br /></div><div>I know a lot of consumers buy a product and expect nothing short of a miracle the very first time they use it--which just isn't realistic. </div><div><br /></div><div>I thought at first that the <a href="http://www.paiskincare.com/product_details_3.htm">Geranium and Thistle Moisturizer</a> was too light for this time of year but after using it daily all week I realize that it is very mattifying (thanks to the thistle) and for my skin, that's a good thing. If the moisturizer can help balance my oil production than I will experience less congestion and with the bacteria-fighting <a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2008/06/miracle-ingredient-manuka-oil.html">manuka oil</a>, it attacks existing breakouts and clogged pores. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have noticed that a lot of the congestion on my cheeks is smoothing out but my skin does not feel dry or stripped. </div><div><br /></div><div>I think this one is a keeper! (now if they would just carry it at my local Whole Foods!)</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-89261501252326655532009-02-10T21:35:00.005-06:002009-02-10T22:38:51.364-06:00Hated It: Giovanni Root 66 Max Volume ShampooI was in need of a new shampoo and conditioner and saw that my local Whole Foods had <a href="http://www.giovannicosmetics.com/">Giovanni</a> hair care on sale.( $5.99 for 8.5 oz down from $7.99) I've always loved Giovanni: I like their packaging, the products are very affordable and perform well. (one downside: they have a REALLY obnoxious and frustrating website)<br /><br />I was excited to see an unfamiliar bottle:<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOso-8ukB4YAv9hxo4HD3rpH2ozmzVqUFf98OIBHR5zeQf7hd7nqA7F1JVdw-t6oSDCk9pYGRtjbKqmG59lDQ7bmwZLDqyPe-pRXNk6kUawoYGj2PLiEL5N7e-eBCytP8ChqiCqZUWhxuO/s1600-h/root+66.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 121px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOso-8ukB4YAv9hxo4HD3rpH2ozmzVqUFf98OIBHR5zeQf7hd7nqA7F1JVdw-t6oSDCk9pYGRtjbKqmG59lDQ7bmwZLDqyPe-pRXNk6kUawoYGj2PLiEL5N7e-eBCytP8ChqiCqZUWhxuO/s400/root+66.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301370646379094626" border="0" /></a>I know this is embarrassing to admit, but I was sold when I saw the fuchsia dots on the logo.<br />( it's my current favorite color.)<br /><br />I have long, fine, snarly hair that tends towards the oily side. I also prefer to shampoo about every other day but would love it if I could get away with two or three times per week.<br /><br />The first time I used the shampoo I was completely captivated. My hair felt slick and drenched with moisture immediately. I couldn't believe how nourished it felt so quickly.<br /><br />I hesitated when I followed up with conditioner--I usually only apply it to the bottom half of my hair, away from the roots but it DID say "root 66" and was specified for "limp and lifeless hair" so I decided to throw caution to the wind and go for it.<br /><br />After blow drying I preened in front of my bathroom mirror--my hair was a glossy, silky mane and smelled fantastic, like ripe mangoes.<br /><br />The very next morning, however my vanity was crushed when I saw the flaccid, oily strands that were plastered to my forehead. I attributed it to the fact that I had applied conditioner all over my hair instead of the ends, like I normally do.<br /><br />The next time I showered I was careful not to apply conditioner willy-nilly, convinced that would do the trick and I could go on loving my new products, but the same exact thing happened. Frustrated and confused I flipped the bottle over to read the ingredients:<br /><br />The offending ingredient jumped out at me:<a href="http://sci-toys.com/ingredients/dimethicone.html"> dimethicone. </a>Silicone derivatives coat the hair making it feel smooth and shiny but do not actually nourish it like natural oils such as jojoba. Coating the hair weighs it down immensely which makes it an odd choice for a shampoo for limp <span style="font-family:arial;">hair. </span><br /><br />To test out my theory that it was the shampoo that was causing the problem I used a different shampoo the next time I washed my hair. I used the Giovanni conditioner like usual. (it doesn't contain dimethicone) My hair was shiny and smooth and did not get oily for a record three days.<br /><br />As much as it pained me I exchanged the shampoo, something I hardly ever do. I just knew I wouldn't use it. I love the way silicones feel but I would much rather use a product that is actually feeding my hair instead of just pretending, and ultimately causing it to be in worse shape than it was before. <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /><br /><br /><b>Ingredients:</b><br /><pre>INGREDIENTS: Aqua (Purified Water), With *Mango (Mangifera<br />Indico), *Kiwi (Actinidia Chinensis) Fruit Extract, *Papaya (Caroca<br />Papaya) Fruit Extract, *Plumeria (Plumeria Aculifolia), *Aloe Vera<br />(Aloe Barbodensis), *Horestail (Equiselum Arvense), Awopuhi<br />(Zingiber Zerumbel), *Soybean Protein (Glycine Soja), C12-14<br />Olefin Sulfonate (Cocunut Derived), Cocamidopropyl Betaine,<br />Polyquatenium 7, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimethicone,</span> Polysorbate 20, PEG -8<br />Caprylic/Copric Glycerides, Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5),<br />Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Phenoxyelhanol, Fragrance With Essential Oils,<br />*Certified Organic by Guaranteed Certification Services<br />No Animal By-Products and Cruelty Free<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /></span></span><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Bottom Line:</span></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"> </span><span style=";font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" >Very disappointing. And by the way, what<br />IS a "horsepower</span><span style=";font-family:verdana;font-size:100%;" > expander" anyway??!</span><br /></pre> <span style=";font-family:verdana;font-size:130%;" ><b>Front label panel:</b></span><br /><pre>ROOT 66<br />MAX VOLUME<br />SHAMPOO<br />PureOrganic Technology<br />for limp, lifeless hair<br />with <span style="font-weight: bold;">horsepower expanders</span> to increase body<br />and shine while infusing weightless texture<br />giovanni<br />ORGANIC HAIR CARE<br />8.5 fl oz e 250mL</pre>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-72794330468985353912009-02-08T23:10:00.003-06:002009-02-08T23:38:22.700-06:00Review: Pai Skincare Geranium and Thistle Moisturizer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCMZgOIwdpilS36d1xm098dyUYEcaL-ZMG49T0ITezxcjxTtGNB7vJQ2Ehz6VUbwzq5LnExd8ReUtYOzwYh7X8c6Z9ue-ipHN2PvQh-Sr_35q2ILx8PuDtV5PDpmFN1eH7ZDkyj_wqaCy/s1600-h/pai.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 230px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHCMZgOIwdpilS36d1xm098dyUYEcaL-ZMG49T0ITezxcjxTtGNB7vJQ2Ehz6VUbwzq5LnExd8ReUtYOzwYh7X8c6Z9ue-ipHN2PvQh-Sr_35q2ILx8PuDtV5PDpmFN1eH7ZDkyj_wqaCy/s400/pai.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300660996813884018" border="0" /></a><br />Pai Skincare (Maori for "goodness") is an organic line from England and certified by the<a href="www.soilassociation.org/"> Soil Association</a> . I recently tried the <a href="http://www.paiskincare.com/product_details_3.htm">Geranium and Thistle moisturizer.</a> From the description, it seemed perfect for my skin:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">*</span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >From the Pai website:</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"Geranium and thistle work in perfect unison in this light organic moisturizer to clear and re-balance congested or combination skin. Apply to face and neck as required. "</span><br /><br />The first thing I noticed was a mild cooling sensation, from the geranium apparently:<br /><br /><strong>*Geranium </strong><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"This common garden plant has a cooling and calming effect on the skin, making it great for balancing combination complexions. "</span><br /><br />I love geranium and am thrilled anytime it is featured in a product. This moisturizer also contains manuka oil which is another <a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2008/06/miracle-ingredient-manuka-oil.html">huge favorite</a> of mine. It had a nice lightweight texture and penetrates quickly without greasy residue. It may be a bit too light for me for this time of year but may be great for warmer temperatures. I haven't used it long enough to experience any reduction in congestion but if I notice a difference I'll definitely write about it. I'm always looking for the holy grail of products that will keep my naturally bumpy skin baby-smooth.<br /><br />The texture and aroma of this product really reminded me of <a href="http://gratefulbody.com/">Grateful Body products</a> and like Grateful Body products they are handmade in small batches. The pump makes it easy to dispense the proper amount without contamination from hands or air. My husband really liked it, the smell was not overly feminine despite the geranium aroma.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Price</span>: <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:Arial;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><span class="EC_468285412-20012009"> £22.00 ($30) </span></span></span>for 30ml<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients:</span> Purified water, geranium water*, jojoba oil*, corn-based emulsifier, thistle oil*, borage oil*, vitamin e, manuka oil*, rosemary antioxidant*, geranium, juniper*, lavender* <p>*Certified Organic<br /></p><p><span style="font-weight: bold;">Where to Buy:</span> Online at <a href="http://www.paiskincare.com">www.paiskincare.com</a><br /></p>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-40140255250282948092009-02-08T00:41:00.001-06:002009-02-08T00:43:47.948-06:00Great Video!My friend Marie did a video for <a href="http://www.elephantpharm.com">Elephant Pharmacy</a> on how to smooth wrinkles on your neck. There not that many great alternative aging references but <a href="http://www.marieveronique.net/">Marie</a> is a wealth of information. She was a co-worker of mine there and she is brilliant.<br /><br /><embed src="http://blip.tv/play/qmjD0h6KhRQ" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="304" height="202"></embed>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-53097122671531716512009-02-07T13:14:00.003-06:002009-02-07T13:19:27.745-06:00Be Good to Your Whole Body Podcast: Libido and Medicinal Plants<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzz-Jm0izLSiKDDT73Kit8ONm-5r4FRVtRaohxArOktcSSEa68BImj8EBMMgYnDwQZ7dNw1odVUuY99KZEbK-EzP7TXdXEZVlT56I950OKh6PxnzG63YXNJysRja-G1wqokd7D3CtAfknY/s1600-h/libido.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 184px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzz-Jm0izLSiKDDT73Kit8ONm-5r4FRVtRaohxArOktcSSEa68BImj8EBMMgYnDwQZ7dNw1odVUuY99KZEbK-EzP7TXdXEZVlT56I950OKh6PxnzG63YXNJysRja-G1wqokd7D3CtAfknY/s400/libido.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300133388862235650" border="0" /></a><br />Just in time for Valentine's day, there is a <a href="http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/category/whole-body/">podcast</a> on the <a href="http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/category/whole-body/">Whole Foods blog</a> covering ways to increase libido using medicinal plants.<br /><br /><a href="http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/author/fleishmanm/">Mara Fleishman</a> interviews <a href="http://www.medicinehunter.com/About_Chris.htm">Chris Kilham</a> (aka Medicine Hunter) author of over ten books the most recent being: <b>Hot Plants: <i>Nature’s Proven Sex Boosters for Men and Women.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span></i></b><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span> Plants are powerful and effective and can quickly and effectively boost libido as well as increase overall health and wellness. Chris is widely respected in his field and<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"> </span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Verdana; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;font-size:100%;" >has conducted medicinal research in over 20 countries including India, China, Siberia, Brazil, Venezuela, Peru, Chile, Vanuatu South Pacific, Lebanon, Syria, Ghana, Austria, Germany, Thailand, Malaysia, Morocco and the US</span><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms;">. </span><br /><br /></span></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Go check it out<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span>and surprise your sweetie with your...newfound knowledge!</span><b><i><br /></i></b><b><i><br /></i></b>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-2280944993376158142009-02-07T11:41:00.001-06:002009-02-07T11:43:01.962-06:00Dead Elephant: Elephant Pharmacy Closes After Six Years<h3 class="post-title entry-title"> </h3> <div class="post-body entry-content"> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwbH7wEbJJXj3R3STel50XHb1SRBbXIfw3-lnODLTjrhiMXKgcxxqDvx1QjDppn6PTFXHMFVqLeZxcmN0TprHwmK5G8xHS29iRrg33ZMpquAEOWqBcpCT26a0i7YFb7X1e0ofOLvTqaQ3/s1600-h/dead+elephant.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 340px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwbH7wEbJJXj3R3STel50XHb1SRBbXIfw3-lnODLTjrhiMXKgcxxqDvx1QjDppn6PTFXHMFVqLeZxcmN0TprHwmK5G8xHS29iRrg33ZMpquAEOWqBcpCT26a0i7YFb7X1e0ofOLvTqaQ3/s400/dead+elephant.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299760257265827762" border="0" /></a><br /><br />In 2002 I decided to rent a space and open a skincare studio. I was in no way ready to do so, but I took the plunge anyway. Painted Ladies Skincare was open for about six months and I learned a lot about failure and humility from that experience.<br /><br />I needed a new job and wanted to take a break from practicing esthetics on a spa level for a bit. I found an ad on <a href="http://www.craigslist.com/">Craigslist</a> for an esthetician needed for an integrated pharmacy. I had no clue what this meant but I applied anyway.<br /><br />I had a phone interview and they asked if I had any natural skincare experience. I was Aveda-certified and so I said yes, thinking that I did, in fact have tons of experience. But, I had never heard of any of the brands the interviewer threw at me: <a href="http://www.lavera.com/">Lavera</a>, <a href="http://www.logona.co.uk/">Logona</a>, <a href="http://www.drhauschka.com/">Dr. Hauschka</a>, <a href="http://www.mychelleusa.com/">MyChelle</a>...um, what?!<br /><br />I had a great face-to-face interview a while later and was convinced that I had the job in the bag. I was stunned when I received a letter telling me thanks...but no thanks. I saw a week later that the job was still posted online so I sat down and wrote a letter telling them that they had made a HUGE mistake in not hiring me. It was soul-crushing but--it worked. I was hired and started training immediately.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEUHXlDRmX_Eg3Q_PYlJLErYcTJrebspFCJSFGFuQr_RZSLsH0qfrHSywcUDAKzBwP4UAYdvKNR6g7dkGGgLpsAnoyquDBNu1DGCn_gYWSgujjudaMnhn6v_2Y9NhbYtTCcSav2YR3zia/s1600-h/CIMG9576.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuEUHXlDRmX_Eg3Q_PYlJLErYcTJrebspFCJSFGFuQr_RZSLsH0qfrHSywcUDAKzBwP4UAYdvKNR6g7dkGGgLpsAnoyquDBNu1DGCn_gYWSgujjudaMnhn6v_2Y9NhbYtTCcSav2YR3zia/s400/CIMG9576.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299768048761226834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I love working for start-ups, everything is new and exciting and wide open for opportunity. The building on North Shattuck was completely empty when I started and I worked many hours helping set up shelves, stock products and sweep up dirt.<br /><br />I quickly became passionate about this new (to me) approach to heath and skincare and gave many interviews to various <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2003/05/18/LV282484.DTL&hw=elephant+pharmacy&sn=005&sc=478">newspaper</a><a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2003/05/18/LV282484.DTL&hw=elephant+pharmacy&sn=005&sc=478">s</a> and <a href="http://kalx.berkeley.edu/">radio stations</a>. It was so much fun connecting with various professionals under one roof. I learned about Chinese medicine and Ayurveda and diabetes management. There was an Eastern pharmacy and conventional Western Pharmacy so I also learned about complementery treatments.<br /><br />When I got married I had my bridal bouquet made at <a href="http://www.elephantpharm.com/">Elephant</a>. I loved the culture and my co-workers and spent many hours talking to the very interesting founder, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stuart_Skorman">Stuart Skorman</a>.<br /><br />I worked at Elephant for two years and wore many hats: esthetician, skincare educator (I taught classes every week) bodycare manager, buyer, trainer. When I left I had earned a really good amount of stock options that I hoped would pay off at some point.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">*From www.sfstation.com</span></span><br /><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Elephant Pharmacy, one of the East Bay's fixtures in alternative retail, is a supplier of everything from pragmatic Walgreens-type products to alternative health, beauty, and lifestyle commodities from around the world. Elephant Pharmacy offers over 100 free events and classes per month that are led by local practitioners. Every Sunday in May, licensed aesthetician Jennifer Tanner offers a free seminar in making spa products: teaching participants how to craft their own moisturizers, lip balms, and more. Moreover, complimentary makeup consultations and applications happen every Sunday from 12-6 pm. </span></span><br /><br />I was sad to leave and thrilled when I was asked to help write their skincare training manual from my new home in Texas. I also spent the first summer I moved here consulting for Elephant and traveling first to Iowa then to Alabama to set up <a href="http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-126552960.html">mini-Elephant stores</a> inside Saks-owned department stores.<br /><br />The original plan had been to expand rather quickly, but after six years there were only four Elephant locations. I read from time to time that they were in trouble financially and I always hoped they would work it out. I was saddened but not surprised to hear from a friend that they had finally folded due to the current economic downturn.<br /><br />I have so many fond memories of my time at Elephant Pharmacy and I learned so much. I sometimes regret going out on my own and opening Painted Ladies so soon but if I hadn't have failed at that venture than I would not have gotten a job at Elephant and became a holistic esthetician.<br /><br />Berkeley, California holds so many happy memories for me and a lot of them include Elephant Pharmacy. I rode my bike there every day in the sun and the fog and the drizzly rain. I sold makeup and skincare and met so many wonderful people and was exposed to many ideas that have shaped who I am today.<br /><br />I wish they could have made it and I hope that one day they will be able to re-open. The thought of visiting Berkeley without going into Elephant Pharmacy is really sad to me.<br /></div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-13246162103688117992009-01-31T10:59:00.003-06:002009-01-31T11:04:24.897-06:00Eco*Pretty!<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span>I am now a contributing writer over at<a href="http://www.ecopretty.blogspot.com"> Eco*Pretty</a>, <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></span></span>one of the very best beauty resources on the web! <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span>My<a href="http://ecopretty.blogspot.com/2009/01/new-juice-beauty-moisture-concentrate.html"> first review</a> is up now, let me know what you think!<span style="font-weight: bold;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /><br /><br />Jen McGuire, Contributing Writer</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoPuNUcTwNo7RBohQRo7XRZ9eWlr5gOXZwciHnEfcaJOFtX52gZubqad5NWeI6BusZffmwfSuLZqjDYkju8mpEmhmfKTc5gU46mtVf0L2D7IMBI_fHiIdSLm0ZSBo2bTKvucPA2EzzaK7/s1600-h/jen+lilly.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 149px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQoPuNUcTwNo7RBohQRo7XRZ9eWlr5gOXZwciHnEfcaJOFtX52gZubqad5NWeI6BusZffmwfSuLZqjDYkju8mpEmhmfKTc5gU46mtVf0L2D7IMBI_fHiIdSLm0ZSBo2bTKvucPA2EzzaK7/s200/jen+lilly.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296423924712940802" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Jen is a San Francisco-trained licensed esthetician and makeup artist with 12 years of experience in the beauty industry—seven as a holistic esthetician. She works for several natural companies in different capacities, including skin care education and product representation and demonstration. She is thoroughly trained on the Dr. Hauschka, Jurlique, Juice Beauty, and Aveda lines, plus countless others. She and Lindsay quickly became blogs friends (Jen writes an informative skin care site called </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://skinrhythm.com/" target="blank" rel="no follow">Skin Rhythm</a><span style="font-style: italic;">) and Lindsay brought her on in January 2009. Jen lives in Austin, Texas with her hubbie and twin boys.</span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-42448517217036484962009-01-30T22:11:00.002-06:002009-01-30T23:29:42.058-06:00Skin Rhythm Spa Tip: Slow Down<a href="http://photobucket.com/images/shower%20woman" target="_blank"><img src="http://i223.photobucket.com/albums/dd86/babygirl78601/woman-steam-shower.jpg" alt="shower woman Pictures, Images and Photos" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />I realized recently that I rush through my showers. I have many lovely natural products made with delicious essential oils but I don't usually take the time to enjoy them.<br /><br />I'm always thinking about the next great product or reading about products I haven't yet tried. I thought about it and had to admit to myself that I already have enough products to last me the next five years (if only natural products could last that long!) so I decided to enjoy what I already have, especially since ( like most people) I am on a pretty tight budget.<br /><br />This time of year is especially stressful for your skin so now is a good time for a little pampering!<br /><br />I decided recently to commit to turning my regular shower into a spa experience once a week. Here's how you can do the same.<br /><br />1. <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dim the lights.</span></span> Chances are you could do your shower routine in your sleep, so why not in the dark? Light a few candles and turn off the overhead light. This will automatically cause you to slow down and focus on each phase of your regimen.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVy2T9o073dyrbVM3i1heoM7NhXa_2931ne7L4n8Zsd1vRTNmChok3mE-6GVaUJallKgGvQitg5ryzy1E60_YopTnnsvD93Pn1hggqSwj7geg_R3gcO94ASYga2ZSjuIOzwDCiMDTgCky/s1600-h/candle+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 180px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTVy2T9o073dyrbVM3i1heoM7NhXa_2931ne7L4n8Zsd1vRTNmChok3mE-6GVaUJallKgGvQitg5ryzy1E60_YopTnnsvD93Pn1hggqSwj7geg_R3gcO94ASYga2ZSjuIOzwDCiMDTgCky/s400/candle+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297323788183468834" border="0" /></a><br /><br />2. <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stay present.</span></span> If you find yourself thinking to the day ahead (if it's morning) or to the events of your day (if it's evening) take a deep breath and try to focus on the sensation of the water and allow yourself to relax.<br /><br />3. <span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Choose the right products. </span></span>If you are taking a shower in the morning use products that will help you feel awake and rejuvenated. Anything with citrus or mint is great. If it's evening choose products that will soothe and relax you. Lavender or geranium are both great choices. Are you off on a date or other special event? Try a sensual oil such as jasmine, rose, palmarosa or ylang ylang.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBNQZmR8zpsRAaWRexgsO6l2BGmQQj2LcJEPu0r9WtIrdf6glFTZXIo4zSuJATfvE7ixknLT1fXCQBv2VuKMJAnEClWalYZlCXW3tybMdKRG3sHveGFRZ9Ci6BVqDoAAm-4lVRnFDmw_g/s1600-h/shower+gel.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 83px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBNQZmR8zpsRAaWRexgsO6l2BGmQQj2LcJEPu0r9WtIrdf6glFTZXIo4zSuJATfvE7ixknLT1fXCQBv2VuKMJAnEClWalYZlCXW3tybMdKRG3sHveGFRZ9Ci6BVqDoAAm-4lVRnFDmw_g/s400/shower+gel.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297324199830978770" border="0" /></a><br /><br />4.<span style="font-size:130%;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Breathe.</span></span> As you lather your shampoo, rinse your conditioner or wash your face be sure to breathe deeply. Really take the time to inhale and enjoy the aroma of each of your yummy products.<br /><br />5.<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Exfoliate.</span></span> How do you feel when you leave the spa? Soft and relaxed, right? That's how you should feel after your weekly spa ritual. Be sure to slough off the dead cells from your entire body so you emerge feeling fresh and supple.<br /><br />Don't have a pre-made exfoliant? Whip one up with any kind of oil mixed with brown or white sugar and a dash of any essential oil you have handy. (my husband swears that salt will eat our forty year old metal pipes) or use a loofah or wash cloth. For your face you can mix a bit of plain yogurt, a teaspoon of honey and a bit of oatmeal--leave on about ten minutes and rinse off.<br /><br /><a href="http://photobucket.com/images/loofah" target="_blank"><img src="http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w281/gunitsoldier2021/loofah.jpg" alt="loofah Pictures, Images and Photos" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />6.<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Nourish</span></span>. After you are fully rinsed apply any kind of oil (I have jojoba, coconut and olive oil on hand. Any of these are fine or you can use any body or massage oil you happen to have laying around) Don't rinse off, you will pat off excess as you towel-dry. Once you apply your regualar body lotion on top it will seal in moisture and leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN49rWapU_VANwdoUJJBd396l9C2cLISxYkfrLfRN4nqrdrBOEoCrNTDRuizBuMaukLN9KM1ZmwZoABXP6XaWvgB1OfXV0S1wpb13gbtISA37Ln16_TVD04P6Qjn2a6iGsK35zolVbeZfL/s1600-h/jojoba.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 43px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN49rWapU_VANwdoUJJBd396l9C2cLISxYkfrLfRN4nqrdrBOEoCrNTDRuizBuMaukLN9KM1ZmwZoABXP6XaWvgB1OfXV0S1wpb13gbtISA37Ln16_TVD04P6Qjn2a6iGsK35zolVbeZfL/s400/jojoba.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297325337880376754" border="0" /></a>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-10079892791237773302009-01-13T16:14:00.003-06:002009-01-13T16:43:57.857-06:00How the Recession Affects Beauty Rituals<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1M1CnWBx3iCF-BvrJHL56bkIGmJi2Qa4regDyWB4-KCrzQxqLKBhGu51V18s7QyM5mdmR9eMzQfLC6V0A2YCT1jOc9TRBKDxs3vX7frm3rE0A9An1gzubzWDX4hzr1GC8kMAPwy_OJuCv/s1600-h/CIMG9367.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1M1CnWBx3iCF-BvrJHL56bkIGmJi2Qa4regDyWB4-KCrzQxqLKBhGu51V18s7QyM5mdmR9eMzQfLC6V0A2YCT1jOc9TRBKDxs3vX7frm3rE0A9An1gzubzWDX4hzr1GC8kMAPwy_OJuCv/s400/CIMG9367.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290905529358138722" border="0" /></a><br />With most people tightening their belts, I'm wondering how that has affected the beauty industry as a whole. Does the stress causes folks to rush to their closest massage therapist/esthetician/hair stylist and request the deluxe treatment or do are you like me and just hole up in the bathroom for a bit until things are smoother, shinier and happier?<br /><br />With my busy schedule and rampant brow growth I pretty much HAVE to wax my own brows, but there are many services I would love to have done regularly if I had the disposable income.<br /><br />Are there any beauty rituals that you used to outsource that now you attempt at home? Any tips you want to share?<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">*Above:</span></span> <span style="font-style: italic;">My favorite brow-wax trick--draw over the parts you want removed with a</span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.benefitcosmetics.com/gp/product/B000FBF586/ref=sr_11_1/190-6749800-2820150?ie=UTF8&bcBrand=core&nodeID=APS"> nude pencil. </a><span style="font-style: italic;">This will allow you to see your new shape before you commit to it and you can wax right over it!</span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-58035253375364265912009-01-11T18:19:00.004-06:002009-01-11T18:26:18.846-06:00The ABC's of Supplements<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMKjLuPH2BaWTxh6HTQh2txGgDduDmtnN46E7YZEssoq8SSTNOnLbAFOzoJcl-mIjxbVpi_fxQ3cr_i8k6yu_A2tak8v976It1Ssc_GzRTsx6klJSb1RDI7-da8yhYxqu_E0ayxlS6RLl/s1600-h/supplements.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFMKjLuPH2BaWTxh6HTQh2txGgDduDmtnN46E7YZEssoq8SSTNOnLbAFOzoJcl-mIjxbVpi_fxQ3cr_i8k6yu_A2tak8v976It1Ssc_GzRTsx6klJSb1RDI7-da8yhYxqu_E0ayxlS6RLl/s400/supplements.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290195695931328818" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Have you resolved to take better care of yourself in this new year? Do you want to begin taking supplements but have no idea where to start? Try heading over to the <a href="http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/2008/12/the-abcs-of-supplements/">Whole Foods website</a> and checking out their latest podcast on the ABC's of Supplements.<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >From the Whole Foods site: </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"Confused about so many supplements on the shelves? Tune in and let us help! We’re going back to the basics and answering some common questions. Nutritionist Malia Curran talks about various benefits and forms of supplements, things to know about regulation and explains a few terms that are often confusing.</span>"Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-7302834429728664782009-01-11T17:45:00.004-06:002009-01-13T17:00:21.282-06:00Stress and the Skin<a href="http://photobucket.com/images/stressed" target="_blank"><img src="http://i473.photobucket.com/albums/rr98/Ramiel/Chronos%20Mood%20theme/stressed.png" alt="Alkanphel Stressed Pictures, Images and Photos" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Stress is a part of modern life. Many of us have way more stress than we can ever manage effectively with our busy and hectic schedules especially when you throw in inconsistent exercise and poor eating habits.<br /><br />Ironically, most women I encounter (myself included) choose high-stress times to try new skincare products with mixed results. When you are feeling overwhelmed and it is showing up on your complexion it is tempting to race to the nearest store and find that magic potion that will make it all go away. Shopping can be soothing and the excitement and hope a new product can bring can really distract you from your problems.<br /><br />The problem with trying new products during times of high stress (both emotionally and physically) is that your body and skin can react to them in ways that they normally would not-- causing you to discontinue using a brand or product that may work quite well for you.<br /><br />What can you do? Strive to live in balance--view topical skincare as only one small part in an overall self-care package. Navigate stressful times by exercising more, relaxing more, making sure to participate in activities that make you feel calm and happy, drink more water and <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">simplify </span>your skincare routine.<br /><br />Use a gentle cleanser and step up your exfoliation with a product containing mild enzymes. If you do try new products add one at a time to your regimen and buy a starter kit with trial sizes (about a month's supply is ideal) whenever possible. It's hard to tell if something is right from you after only using it once or twice.<br /><br />Once when I was pregnant I tried a new deodorant and it gave me the worst rash. Itchy, bumpy and really ugly. I put the product aside and forgot about it. After I gave birth and my body had begun to get back to normal I found the deodorant in my cabinet and decided to give it another shot. I did and it was fine. I have never had another problem with it in the three years since.<br /><br />Another time I was going through some high-stress times and not taking very good care of myself. I decided to try a pillow pack sample of a moisturizer I had received at Whole Foods. Soon after I applied it I felt that familiar itchy tingle along my jawline and all over my lower face--even on my hands. I decided that this brand was not for me. Luckily I changed my mind a few months later and gave it another shot: it is now one of my favorite brands and I have not had another problem with it. In fact, this same line has cleared up a lot of my skin care issues.<br /><br />The point is: good skin comes from many factors only one of which is your topical skin care. Managing stress and diet are also key factors in maintaining a bright and healthy complexion.<br /><br />And if you are out of whack and craving satisfaction...rush to your favorite personal care store and <span style="font-weight: bold;">buy a lipstick!</span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-10140806679557519462008-09-19T17:27:00.009-05:002008-09-21T21:35:31.806-05:00Duchess Marden Damascena Creme Cleanser<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBaNm2fjKVobydn6DM_xxCfw0rPHn0adVLjES4l26ygxFkDsxBVC_r2tDzrVXtsAUvMK3Df7mgDt9qtLaCWTOyAW4F5_e-NNkzvlZjbuMPj_aM5tcJkAbRVsSqrPe8lR-cI2q0WJ5hRJU/s1600-h/creme+cleanser.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPBaNm2fjKVobydn6DM_xxCfw0rPHn0adVLjES4l26ygxFkDsxBVC_r2tDzrVXtsAUvMK3Df7mgDt9qtLaCWTOyAW4F5_e-NNkzvlZjbuMPj_aM5tcJkAbRVsSqrPe8lR-cI2q0WJ5hRJU/s400/creme+cleanser.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247863070318895906" border="0" /></a>I briefly touched on the <a href="http://www.beautyhabit.com/product3998.html">Duchess Marden Damascena Creme Cleanser</a> in an earlier post but I wanted to dedicate an entire post to this delicious product.<br /><br />I've been using it for several weeks and really, really enjoy it. I use it to remove my makeup in the evening ( after first massaging with<a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2008/03/jojoba-oil.html"> jojoba oil </a>to break down all the grime from my day) and in the morning on days when I don't<a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2008/09/fall-is-in-air.html"> exfoliate. </a><br /><br />The creme cleanser has the texture of melted vanilla ice cream: soft and creamy and not too thick or heavy and no matter how tired I am I always find myself deeply inhaling at the first whiff of the elegant rose aroma.<br /><br />I also love all the many emotional benefits that are to be found by using products containing high-quality damascena <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosa_damascena">rose oil</a>, especially for women:<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">(from </span><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-rose-essential-oil.html">www.organicfacts.net</a><span style="font-weight: bold;">)</span></span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Rose Oil boosts <span style="font-weight: bold;">self esteem</span>, <span style="font-weight: bold;">confidence</span>, hope and mental strength and efficiently fights depression. This can be very helpful to drive away depression from those who are suffering from depression due to any reason. This also relieves <span style="font-weight: bold;">anxiety.</span> Being an anti depressant, patients of acute depression or who are undergoing rehabilitation can be given routine and regular doses of this essential oil to bring hope in their lives. This oil is widely used in aromatherapy and invokes <span style="font-weight: bold;">positive thoughts</span>, spiritualism and feelings of j<span style="font-weight: bold;">oy,</span> happiness and <span style="font-weight: bold;">hope</span>.</span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-78571530107764485102008-09-18T12:54:00.006-05:002008-09-18T22:21:31.994-05:00Food for Thought<a href="http://media.photobucket.com/image/fruits%20and%20vegetables/JLaporte_2006/e832a5cc.jpg?o=24" target="_blank"><img src="http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n190/JLaporte_2006/e832a5cc.jpg" /></a><br /><br />*<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >From the <a href="http://www.aoma.edu/">AOMA</a> newsletter:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Foods for Skin Health:</span><br />What you put on your plate can be more important than what you put on your skin:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Carrots and Sweet Potatoes </span>- Healthy skin is directly dependent on the amount of vitamin A in our diet. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Vitamin A</span> acts as an antioxidant to neutralize harmful elements in our skin, helping to prevent wrinkles, resist infection and maintain the skin's elasticity. One of the best places to get Vitamin A is vegetables that are deep orange in color.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries, and Plums</span> - In a study recently published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, these four fruits weighed in with the highest "total antioxidant capacity" of any food. The<span style="font-weight: bold;"> antioxidants </span>and other phytochemicals in these fruits can protect the cell from damage and disintegration, thus guarding against premature aging.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Salmon, Walnuts, Canola Oil, and Flax Seed -</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Essential fatty acids (EFAs)</span> are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet. Fish, walnuts, and flax seed oil are among the best sources for omega 3 fatty acid.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Olive Oil</span> - Olive oil contains <span style="font-weight: bold;">more than essential fatty acids.</span> Eating good-quality olive oil helps keep skin lubricated and keeps it looking and feeling healthier overall.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Whole Wheat Bread, Brown Rice, Turkey, Tuna and Brazil Nuts </span>- <span style="font-weight: bold;">Selenium </span>is an antioxidant mineral responsible for tissue elasticity and healthy skin. It may play an important role in preventing skin cancer, as some recent studies are showing that skin damaged by the sun may suffer fewer consequences if selenium levels are high.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Green Tea</span> - Green tea's ability to slow down the development of some signs of aging is attributed to its high levels of <span style="font-weight: bold;">polyphenols</span>, which have been well-documented for their <span style="font-weight: bold;">antioxidant and anti-inflammatory</span> properties. Green tea also may help prevent or reduce the risk of skin cancer according to a study published recently in the Archives of Dermatology, which shows that whether taken orally or applied to the skin, green tea can reduce the risk of damage from ultraviolet light and thus reduce the risk of skin cancer.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Water</span> - Hydration plays a key role in keeping skin cells healthy. It is essential to maintaining your<span style="font-weight: bold;"> skin's elasticity and suppleness.</span> Keeping cells hydrated helps cells move nutrients in and toxins out, which helps keep skin clean and clear.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" >Source: www.acufinder.com</span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-46742911719832382382008-09-18T12:54:00.005-05:002008-09-18T18:47:19.083-05:00Fall Lip Pick!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vrd_fj3sXxpLUm4Y5r5jBk24QDvDws1MAYmWn3P3572z9Bo1KRkJEdj9PSp2u6_wumY5Q9ydybTCAatmkWdnvDPk-MPmER_syjn63GYZPryPIirptKFm5hSsG5n9r8yh0YfhZKy0JfpB/s1600-h/Decoratives_lip-colors.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3vrd_fj3sXxpLUm4Y5r5jBk24QDvDws1MAYmWn3P3572z9Bo1KRkJEdj9PSp2u6_wumY5Q9ydybTCAatmkWdnvDPk-MPmER_syjn63GYZPryPIirptKFm5hSsG5n9r8yh0YfhZKy0JfpB/s400/Decoratives_lip-colors.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5247509633456913506" border="0" /></a><br />As the weather cools off, inevitably the lip colors deepen. My very favorite for this season is the brand-new Dr. Hauschka #3 Decoratives lip color. It comes in a beautiful and modern square compact and provides a gorgeous sheer blackberry stain on the lips.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">From the Dr. Hauschka website:</span><br /> <h1 id="ctl00_ctl00_Navigation_PageContent_productName">Lip Colors 01-04</h1> <br /> <br />Four new lip colors in shimmering, semi-transparent tones that can be applied by brush or finger. Mineral pigments are fused with healing waxes and oils to soothe and protect lips. <ul><li>Creamy consistency for easy application</li><li>Extracts of anthyllis, carrot and rose hip keep lips moist and nourished</li><li>Rose and Jojoba waxes soften and protect</li><li>Colors from nature highlight your natural tones</li><li>Natural mineral pigment tin oxide provides a silvery shimmer</li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients:<br /><br /></span><a title="Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=25&ingredient=Ricinus+Communis+%28Castor%29+Seed+Oil">Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil</a>, <a title="Rosa Canina (Rose Hip) Fruit Extract" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=84&ingredient=Rosa+Canina+%28Rose+Hip%29+Fruit+Extract">Rosa Canina (Rose Hip) Fruit Extract</a>, <a title="Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=210&ingredient=Simmondsia+Chinensis+%28Jojoba%29+Seed+Oil">Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil</a>, <a title="Lanolin" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=62&ingredient=Lanolin">Lanolin</a>, <a title="Beeswax/Cera Flava" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=9&ingredient=Beeswax%2fCera+Flava">Beeswax/Cera Flava</a>, <a title="Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=24&ingredient=Daucus+Carota+Sativa+%28Carrot%29+Root+Extract">Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract</a>, <a title="Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=122&ingredient=Argania+Spinosa+%28Argan%29+Kernel+Oil">Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil</a>, <a title="Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=19&ingredient=Euphorbia+Cerifera+%28Candelilla%29+Wax">Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax</a>, <a title="Mica" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=70&ingredient=Mica">Mica</a>, <a title="Silica" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=93&ingredient=Silica">Silica</a>, <a title="Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=23&ingredient=Copernicia+Cerifera+%28Carnauba%29+Wax">Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax</a>, <a title="Rosa Damascena (Rose) Extract" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=252&ingredient=Rosa+Damascena+%28Rose%29+Extract">Rosa Damascena (Rose) Extract</a>, <a title="Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=5&ingredient=Anthyllis+Vulneraria+Extract">Anthyllis Vulneraria Extract</a>, <a title="Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=209&ingredient=Prunus+Amygdalus+Dulcis+%28Sweet+Almond%29+Oil">Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil</a>, <a title="Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=146&ingredient=Prunus+Armeniaca+%28Apricot%29+Kernel+Oil">Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil</a>, <a title="Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil (Jojoba Wax)" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=60&ingredient=Hydrogenated+Jojoba+Oil+%28Jojoba+Wax%29">Hydrogenated Jojoba Oil (Jojoba Wax)</a>, <a title="Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Wax" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=221&ingredient=Rosa+Damascena+%28Rose%29+Flower+Wax">Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Wax</a>, <a title="Fragrance/Parfum (Essential Oil)" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=43&ingredient=Fragrance%2fParfum+%28Essential+Oil%29">Fragrance/Parfum (Essential Oil)</a>, <a title="Linalool" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=138&ingredient=Linalool">Linalool</a>, <a title="Benzyl Benzoate" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=168&ingredient=Benzyl+Benzoate">Benzyl Benzoate</a>, <a title="Farnesol" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=131&ingredient=Farnesol">Farnesol</a>, <a title="Limonene" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=137&ingredient=Limonene">Limonene</a>, <a title="Geraniol" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=140&ingredient=Geraniol">Geraniol</a>, <a title="Benzyl Salicylate" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=169&ingredient=Benzyl+Salicylate">Benzyl Salicylate</a>, <a title="Eugenol" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=128&ingredient=Eugenol">Eugenol</a>, <a title="Lecithin" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=65&ingredient=Lecithin">Lecithin</a>, <a title="Maltodextrin" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=188&ingredient=Maltodextrin">Maltodextrin</a>, <a title="Tin Oxide" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=125&ingredient=Tin+Oxide">Tin Oxide</a>, <a title="Carmine/CI 75470" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=22&ingredient=Carmine%2fCI+75470">Carmine/CI 75470</a>, <a title="Iron Oxides" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=56&ingredient=Iron+Oxides">Iron Oxides</a>, <a title="Titanium Dioxide/CI 77891" target="_top" href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/glossary/default.aspx?id=110&ingredient=Titanium+Dioxide%2fCI+77891">Titanium Dioxide/CI 77891</a>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-65466790325010346022008-09-18T12:54:00.001-05:002008-09-18T12:54:47.409-05:00Martha!<a href="http://media.photobucket.com/image/martha%20stewart/geo63_bucket/Martha.jpg?o=30" target="_blank"><img src="http://i158.photobucket.com/albums/t102/geo63_bucket/Martha.jpg" /></a><br /><br />Martha Stewart is having a contest at her <a href="http://www.themarthablog.com/">blog:</a> simply leave a comment with a link to your blog and then link back to her blog on yours and she will choose several winners to feature. There are a lot of applicants, but you should enter too!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-21278067357005488582008-09-16T15:25:00.014-05:002008-09-16T15:49:55.397-05:00Fall is in the Air!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Wo_NZ0OiyFoGm_su41Z_k_O03Gg4yvP1aFGeWqgjhzdx593gun8H_rmYZsuvH37gw0_l35Wxw9ZJICp9Nqz0UHp-RsJZy1arC3QwmpAPY3KBTfb_oD5C8_lclhbIn2M4uPoWoSz3nUBb/s1600-h/enzyme.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Wo_NZ0OiyFoGm_su41Z_k_O03Gg4yvP1aFGeWqgjhzdx593gun8H_rmYZsuvH37gw0_l35Wxw9ZJICp9Nqz0UHp-RsJZy1arC3QwmpAPY3KBTfb_oD5C8_lclhbIn2M4uPoWoSz3nUBb/s400/enzyme.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246720746640987154" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKu8-5IIXVW3sun8aNFxR7BrREbf2YkGnQXsOZlW_gSBAFgq0B0Yk4Lkteg8qfGAe9LpCVfxssYHPrSQsppRDtxnUDQ_tFBll4eBA8eY-bxrAWhlfA4aht19pj4Mwm2ZslwIrL0gVJuEW/s1600-h/CIMG7655.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKu8-5IIXVW3sun8aNFxR7BrREbf2YkGnQXsOZlW_gSBAFgq0B0Yk4Lkteg8qfGAe9LpCVfxssYHPrSQsppRDtxnUDQ_tFBll4eBA8eY-bxrAWhlfA4aht19pj4Mwm2ZslwIrL0gVJuEW/s400/CIMG7655.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246720948338935746" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I usually re-evaluate my skincare regimen at the beginning of each season. I am so excited for Fall to finally be arriving but even more excited about a new product I've been using: <a href="http://www.beautyhabit.com/product5445.html">Duchess Marden Damascena Enzyme Exfoliant. </a>It is a pumpkin-based exfoliant that also contains jojoba wax beads. So it exfoliates both chemically and manually.<br /><br />I didn't set out to change my entire skincare routine, but that's what happened. I began using the exfoliant a few weeks ago and now use it three times a week. I wasn't expecting it to be anything other than a decent way to slough off a few dead skin cells. Well, what happened to my skin was much more dramatic.<br /><br />Since I was a teenager I've struggled with congested skin: my cheeks get bumpy and clogged and hard to extract. My skin doesn't do a good job of sloughing it's own dead cells and add to that poor beauty habits (picking at and/or touching my face too much, neglecting to wash it twice a day, not rotating pillow cases often enough, not cleaning my phones enough, etc.) and you have a complexion nightmare.<br /><br />Anyway, I continued with my lazy skin habits (sometimes I am religious about my skincare and stick to it like glue, but during the dog days of summer I tend to let all things except sunscreen slide) but simply added this exfoliant to the mix. The other day I went to absentmindedly pick at a dry patch of skin and realized...there weren't any to pick. I grabbed a mirror (magnifying no less) and examined my pores: no congestion to be found.<br /><br />Yesterday I decided to put on makeup (before kids I never went a day without it, now it's maybe once a week or if I have somewhere special to go) and just stood there holding my concealer: I couldn't find anywhere to put it aside from under my eyes.<br /><br />Today I put on eyeshadow, blush and lipstick and finished with a bit of translucent powder: no foundation. Usually I can't do this, but I took a picture of myself after makeup and realized my skin looked great. Not my makeup, but my SKIN. Clear and even-toned. And--I'm on my period.<br /><br />I am now alternating between the enzyme exfoliant and the <a href="http://duchessmarden.com/">creme' facial cleanser</a> (a really lovely creamy cleanser that is just the right consistency: not too thick) plus using the rose water several times a day. (to freshen up and hydrate, after cleansing, to set my makeup) At night I skip moisturizer but pat a few drops of the anti-wrinkle serum onto my skin before bed. It absorbs immediately and leaves my skin feeling soft and dewy.<br /><br />But like I said, before I was trying the other products just the exfoliant alone completely transformed my skin. Love, love love it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ingredients: </span><br /><br />Water, helianthus annus (sunflower) seed oil, lactobacillus/curbubita pepo (pumpkin) fruit ferment, jojoba beads, cetearyl alcohol and cetearyl glucoside, sodium lauryl glucose carboxylate and lauryl glucoside, cetearyl olivate and sorbitan olivate, aloe vera gel, candeia, rosa damascena (rose) oil, pelagrgonium graveolens (geranium) oil, rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) extract, xanthan, dehydroacetic acid and benzyl alcoholJenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-28783274065817203102008-08-02T16:08:00.002-05:002008-08-02T16:13:14.178-05:00Weird Product Alert: Play-Doh Is Not For Lovers!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx03cjhxGLdVW18pjOG3CfuSt-Y-ar6Wqx1kdfFmkQ15uTkLl2vLsj-K1OyiGx8lBj04SxmXcuRfp6pRBNqo0udnWoQF4CoRiLn8WHBUDxQ45pGyO7_MPI_EktKBsN2SvlPgSe4RBD3dI/s1600-h/PlayDoh-Left.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx03cjhxGLdVW18pjOG3CfuSt-Y-ar6Wqx1kdfFmkQ15uTkLl2vLsj-K1OyiGx8lBj04SxmXcuRfp6pRBNqo0udnWoQF4CoRiLn8WHBUDxQ45pGyO7_MPI_EktKBsN2SvlPgSe4RBD3dI/s400/PlayDoh-Left.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5230026879509782290" border="0" /></a>When I was at Whole Foods last night with S I spied this perfume on the shelf with all their other Demeter Fragrances. I couldn't believe it.<br /><br />"Play-Doh?? Yuck!" I said as I sprayed it all over myself. The Demeter version seemed slightly more almond-y than Play-Doh but all the familiar Play-Doh scent components were there.<br /><br />I went to find S who was browsing in another part of the store and thrust my wrist out for him to smell. He wrinkled his nose and pushed my arm away.<br /><br />But...I can't stop thinking about it. It was soothing and I found it amusing. With small kids around the smell of Play-Doh is always in the air...or it would be if I allowed it into the house. The boys eat too many of their art supplies for me to think Play-Doh is a good idea.<br /><br />But we were recently at a friend's house and the boys grabbed an kneaded the "doh" immediately. It is a classic childhood favorite. And I will at some point let them play with it.<br /><br />I am<span style="font-style: italic;"> such</span> a scent-oriented person. Smells instantly transport me back to another time and place regardless of how long it's been since I was physically there.<br /><br />I didn't buy the <a href="http://mamasingstheblues.blogspot.com/2008/07/best-cookies-ever.html">chocolate discs</a> (there just wasn't enough of them in the package to justify the price, I felt like I would have to buy two packages to make one batch of cookies and I just couldn't do it) so I still have my gift card. I will be there in about a week and a half so if I'm still thinking about it, I may just treat myself.<br /><br />I know I said I had already found my <a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2008/07/my-summer-fragrance-pick.html">summer fragrance</a> but unfortunately as much as I love everything about that one, it doesn't seem to wear well on me. I find myself catching little whiffs and wondering what it is, but not in a good way.<br /><br />Ok, I just went and grabbed the shirt I was wearing last night to see if there was any of the perfume lingering on it...there is and it smells even better today. Am I losing my mind??? Does this mean I spend entirely too much time with three year olds? Yes, my sweet boys will be three in less than SIX DAYS!!!!!<br /><br />Happy Birthday, Play-Doh!<br /><br />(From the <a href="http://www.demeterfragrance.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=1025">Demeter website:</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:Arial;" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder1_lblDescription" >Demeter has bottled that fresh, just-out-of-the-can, “eau de PLAY-DOH” aroma as part of a year-long celebration of the beloved modeling compound’s 50th birthday. The 1-ounce, spray bottle fragrance is meant for ‘highly-creative people, who seek a whimsical scent reminiscent of their childhood.’<br /><br />“One of PLAY-DOH compound’s most notable characteristics is its scent,” said Leigh Anne Cappello, vice president of marketing for the PLAY-DOH brand. “When you open a can of PLAY-DOH compound, you are instantly transported back to childhood. What better way to celebrate the 50th birthday than by bottling the scent for adults everywhere to enjoy as a reminder of their youth.”<br /><br />PLAY-DOH® brand modeling compound was invented in 1956 at Rainbow Crafts, a Cincinnati-based cleaning company. Scientists there were trying to develop wallpaper cleaner when they discovered the now iconic children’s toy. Realizing the compound’s play potential, the company introduced it at the American International Toy Fair in New York City in 1956. PLAY-DOH compound was first available only in one color and size, an off-white, 1.5 pound can. Now, a half a century later, kids can explore their imaginations and express their creativity with up to 50 colors. The formula for PLAY-DOH compound still remains a closely-guarded secret to this day.<br /></span><p><span style="font-size: 12pt; color: rgb(31, 73, 125); font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><b>Are Demeter Products “Natural”?</b></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> We subscribe to a philosophy that says our products should be as natural and as sustainable as possible. That means: </span></p> <ul style="font-style: italic;"><li><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> No secondary packaging that you rip apart and then throw out</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">No artificial colors</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> No binders</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> No emulsifiers</span></li></ul> <p style="font-style: italic;"> <span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> Regarding essential oils, the percentage varies by scent between natural and artificial ingredients, with a bias towards using the highest <u>degree of natural ingredients possible</u>. For certain things, however, like Vinyl, for example, no natural ingredients are even available. Our experience is that the binders, emulsifiers, and colorants seem to lead to far more negative reactions than the oils themselves. We believe this is for two reasons (but please, this is our unsubstantiated opinion, not proven scientific fact):</span></p> <ul style="font-style: italic;"><li><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> The “palette” of materials we use to make a fragrance is very much tried and tested. Most of those that are prone to create allergic or negative reactions have already been screened out, or exist in such small amounts, they are not highly reactive</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> With over 200 different scent formulations, we very rarely hear of negative reactions. The common factor among all our different scents is in what they lack – the colorants, emulsifiers, and binders. Consequently, we draw the conclusion that those are the culprits.</span></li></ul> <p style="font-style: italic;"> <span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">N</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">one, of which, unfortunately, guarantees you, as an individual, will not have a reaction to a particular scent.</span></p><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:Arial;" id="ctl00_ContentPlaceHolder1_lblDescription" ><br /></span>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-38500216384499492192008-07-07T11:22:00.004-05:002008-07-07T11:45:30.241-05:00Whole Foods Video Series: Ingredients to Look For Part 1, John Masters<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKr9jJ-UUGt26trSm1t-oXlXFKIiaoxLPXeF8hgY6NI94JPRG3J7rvZSB3KanhOQ1t4jtzMOyEkno-8VPxQ05wDijIbbdnH9Ztv9OxQZckxVh7kb_3Fe4hFdAY7rCOHDI1XneZ8OUe-dE/s1600-h/jm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggKr9jJ-UUGt26trSm1t-oXlXFKIiaoxLPXeF8hgY6NI94JPRG3J7rvZSB3KanhOQ1t4jtzMOyEkno-8VPxQ05wDijIbbdnH9Ztv9OxQZckxVh7kb_3Fe4hFdAY7rCOHDI1XneZ8OUe-dE/s400/jm.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220314028616935186" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">photo taken from www.johnmasters.com (uh...john? you know it's not really legal to have dogs in salons, right?)</span></span><br /><br />The latest video podcast over at <a href="http://blog.wholefoodsmarket.com/category/whole-body/">Whole Story</a> the Whole Foods Market blog features a tour of <a href="http://www.johnmasters.com/">John Masters'</a> Manhattan salon, one of the first natural salons in the country.<br /><br />I love the John Masters products, especially the elegant <a href="http://www.johnmasters.com/fc.htm">rose foaming face wash</a> and the <a href="http://www.johnmasters.com/sc.htm">zinc sage</a> shampoo which has a faint coconut aroma that is absolutely yummy.<br /><br />This is the best video podcast so far, in my opinion. John is very, very knowledgeable about holistic haircare and ingredients. It was great to put a face to the name.<br /><br />I'm really excited because he mentioned that<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chondrus_crispus"> seaweeds such as chondrus crispus</a> are great ingredients that mimic silicone. I am a holistic junkie, however it's been hard for me to break my silicone habit. <a href="http://www.isisnaturalskincare.com/2006/04/13/skin-care-ingredient-profile-dimethicone/">Dimethicone and cyclomethicone</a> are ingredients that make the skin (it's great in foot cream) and hair feel slick and shiny. The problem, though is that it does <span style="font-weight: bold;">nothing</span> to actually nourish the body and starts to build up on the hair and scalp resulting in dullness and scalp issues. And since it has occlusive properties it can trap perspiration and bacteria leading to deep cystic acneic breakouts.<br /><br />I am happy to have alternatives to my (admittedly unhealthy) silicone habit and excited to have watched this great video.<br /><br />Check it out!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-32887169748135463972008-07-07T10:57:00.003-05:002008-07-07T11:16:40.176-05:00Heal Humanity, Heal the Earth!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg15xzcuXzzD3TYqfpEIT6AX3KWsIIO3Y8vPQW9wDcYZ9VFXGL3nk8kRiDrJ-_rD5Iy7YfvNkYNB9FBEPqbfmhyODtEY-GLSI3GuHxO655msklEjl-bTS_Aop_GM7lnuEIfJ4Sx1a1xXtnG/s1600-h/garden.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg15xzcuXzzD3TYqfpEIT6AX3KWsIIO3Y8vPQW9wDcYZ9VFXGL3nk8kRiDrJ-_rD5Iy7YfvNkYNB9FBEPqbfmhyODtEY-GLSI3GuHxO655msklEjl-bTS_Aop_GM7lnuEIfJ4Sx1a1xXtnG/s400/garden.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220306530607542850" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Photo taken from the New York Times article</span></span><br /><br /><br />There are two great recent articles about <a href="http://www.drhauschka.com/">Dr. Hauschka </a>skincare and their manufacturer in Germany, <a href="http://www.wala.de/english/">Wala. </a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/28/business/worldbusiness/28organic.html">Here </a>is an article from the New York Times that discusses Dr. Hauschka's 'cult following' and discusses their <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biodynamic_agriculture">biodynamic</a> garden and a little about the company's history and background.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.cosmeticsdesign-europe.com/news/ng.asp?n=86310&c=u%2BnBTIXcUBv7EHd8niBLhg%3D%3D">This </a>article focuses on Wala and talks about their program in Afghanistan to buy rose oil and other rose products from farmers who otherwise would be forced to earn a living growing opium poppies.<br /><br />They are such an amazing company and I love reading articles that highlight some of the many great programs they are involved with worldwide.<br /><br />Stay tuned for my upcoming entry on the FIFTEEN new exciting products from Dr. Hauschka that are launching for fall!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-17637551238152064542008-07-04T18:45:00.006-05:002008-07-04T19:30:21.722-05:00Sunscreen Application & Protection: 10 Tips!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_pGKuTauzGYD6yyQs3iDGBjlgoTrpuqg214YCpmDVIys9Df_cdVuTNQA8_17EryTgIl9HgeyKe0pRfarN71wESqwXdKB-wLpN4rIA72k7cOYgLNnoH_7Y1jM6eKG-Kmv6IVVwNAUJVUi/s1600-h/sunscreen.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_pGKuTauzGYD6yyQs3iDGBjlgoTrpuqg214YCpmDVIys9Df_cdVuTNQA8_17EryTgIl9HgeyKe0pRfarN71wESqwXdKB-wLpN4rIA72k7cOYgLNnoH_7Y1jM6eKG-Kmv6IVVwNAUJVUi/s400/sunscreen.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219310206208143330" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KZgGYQqno9KYmZiu4zY-l5o2TEHjld12O1sT4lySsTs70Sl8hA6kyzYfIDv7UE3SHd7aYllQKbtbA3hzakwnfaFmW9pjbA9-QNA6n-wLRGLRCY2zoS0NW3Mz36S4Azp_ndy5P7KXEBOL/s1600-h/sun.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KZgGYQqno9KYmZiu4zY-l5o2TEHjld12O1sT4lySsTs70Sl8hA6kyzYfIDv7UE3SHd7aYllQKbtbA3hzakwnfaFmW9pjbA9-QNA6n-wLRGLRCY2zoS0NW3Mz36S4Azp_ndy5P7KXEBOL/s400/sun.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219310210256063810" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />It is probably no surprise that I do not use chemical sunscreen products. I don't want some of their more <a href="http://www.worldchangecafe.com/2008/03/28/cdc-americans-carry-body-burden-of-toxic-sunscreen-chemical/">toxic ingredients</a> making their way into my body, my children's bodies or the bodies of any <a href="http://pubs.acs.org/subscribe/journals/esthag-w/2006/jan/science/te_sunscreens.html">unfortunate fish or other wildlife </a>that may be swimming along with us.<br /><br />That being said, I think that the way mineral sunscreen is applied can decrease the level of protection it can provide. I wanted to give a few sunscreen tips now that we are officially into the hot and sunny summer months to help you maximize the effectiveness of your chosen (mineral!) sunscreen!<br /><br />1. The two mineral sunscreen ingredients are<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zinc"> zinc</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Titanium_dioxide">titanium dioxide</a>. In my two favorite sunscreens, <a href="http://www.juicebeauty.com/za/JB?PAGE=PRODUCT&CAT=MAIN.SPF_SUN&PRODUCT.ID=42">Juice Beauty SPF 30 mineral light moisturizer</a> and <a href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/sun-care/details.aspx?id=160&product=Sunscreen+Cream+for+Children+and+Sensitive+Skin+SPF+30+-+">Dr. Hauschka SPF 30 for Children and Sensitive Skin</a>, the only sunscreen ingredient is titanium dioxide. It's easy to tell what the sunscreen ingredient is in any product by looking on the ingredient list under "active ingredients."<br /><br />2. When using a moisturizer with sunscreen it is best to apply two thin layers: a moisturizing layer that will penetrate the skin and a protective layer that will sit on top of the skin's surface and physically filter out the sun's harmful rays.<br /><br />3. When applying, it is best to "warm" the first layer in your palm and gently press into the skin including the neck and upper chest. The second sunscreen layer is best applied to the top of your non-dominant hand and dotted on your face, neck and chest. After letting it rest a minute, it will easily blend over the moisturized surface of your skin. Rubbing vigorously to blend or apply will break up the minerals. They should be as large as possible so they protect more fully.<br /><br />4. You do not have to wait fifteen minutes before going out into the sun with mineral sunscreen. They will protect immediately.<br /><br />5. The use of sunscreen does <span style="font-weight: bold;">not</span> fully block out all of the<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultraviolet"> sun's rays</a>. UVA and UVB rays are only two of the many kinds of UV rays there are. Even products labeled "broad spectrum" can't block them all, they only filter out UVA and UVB, which are the rays associated with burning and aging/skin cancer.<br /><br />6. The SPF factor indicates how much of the active ingredient is present in the product. The number will be a guide as to how long you are protected. It takes me about ten minutes of unprotected sun exposure to begin to burn so ten times (spf) 30 is 300 minutes or five hours of total sun protection. After that I should cover up or move to the shade. Reapplying after five hours will not give me five more hours of protection. After that, burning will occur because the skin has already absorbed the maximum amount of UV rays it can tolerate.<br /><br />7. Most sun damage occurs from incidental exposure: driving, walking from your house to your car or workplace, etc. Even if you won't be out in the sun all day or even if it's cloudy, sunscreen should still be applied daily to exposed areas. Remember the tops of your hands and feet and ear/earlobes too! (trust me, I have had a serious burn on my ear and it is not pretty!) Use<span style="font-weight: bold;"> a lot </span>of product, do not skimp! Have someone help you with hard to reach areas.<br /><br />8. Sun damage is especially present on the left side of the face along the temple area due to exposure while driving. I always apply an extra layer of mineral makeup on top of my mineral sunscreen along that area.<br /><br />9. Mineral sunscreen should be reapplied if it has been washed off while swimming or perspiring or has been rubbed off with hands or a towel. It will then protect you for the remainder of minutes you have since you first applied sunscreen.<br /><br />10. Clothing such as a wide-brimmed hat or loose-fitting button long sleeve shirt are very effective along with SPF to help protect from the sun. When I was younger I would have rather died than wear a long sleeve shirt during the summer but now I do so religiously. I was surprised to find that it feels much nicer against my hot summer skin than the scorching rays of the sun. It also absorbs excess perspiration and keeps me dry and fresh even on the hottest of days.Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5604046141739360602.post-38399653796424014532008-07-04T13:00:00.004-05:002008-07-04T13:11:29.461-05:00DIY Deodorant!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmXRRPMHTKDWMPmsNNAuAyD0f8rnluARhSNQe803skJarOBbaygaY8-_UVKLNEbm9HomgMKOFbz52tg66nSSjzrX0MW7YDoWwAIB17zEnrymGpGIl4CU5fOb5EWX3zezt03QaZlBG5id2/s1600-h/deo3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmXRRPMHTKDWMPmsNNAuAyD0f8rnluARhSNQe803skJarOBbaygaY8-_UVKLNEbm9HomgMKOFbz52tg66nSSjzrX0MW7YDoWwAIB17zEnrymGpGIl4CU5fOb5EWX3zezt03QaZlBG5id2/s400/deo3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219221084683741746" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Photo from http://angrychicken.typepad.com/</span></span></span><br /><br />My friend <a href="http://www.baby-bolt.blogspot.com/">B</a> directed me to <a href="http://angrychicken.typepad.com/angry_chicken/2008/07/homemade-deodor.html">this blog post</a> about DIY deodorant. I already <a href="http://skinrhythm.blogspot.com/2008/05/natural-deodorant-tips.html">posted </a>about my favorite store-bought natural deodorants and although I'm always looking for the homemade alternative, I've never seriously thought about making my own deodorant.<br /><br />I've used cornstarch and powder sprinkled with essential oils in a pinch but I have never replaced my store-bought deodorants altogether.<br /><br />This recipe is for a creamy deodorant that is stored in a jar. I have seen <a href="http://www.fubaohealthstore.com/LavilinUnderArm.html">cream deodorant</a> in health food stores before but never tried it. I was surprised at the price. (I know I use <a href="http://www.drhauschka.com/holistic-products/body-care/deodorants.aspx">Dr. Hauschka</a> which is close to $20 but I know and trust them and it comes in my favorite applicator--the roll-on bottle)<br /><br />I have an empty roll-on deodorant bottle. I may research roll-on style recipes. If I find a good one I'll post it and I'll report back once I've tried this recipe.<br /><br />Thanks, B!Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05580103372667255663noreply@blogger.com2