New Natural: Crystal Deodorant

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I must admit I was a bit skeptical to try a “natural” form of deodorant. I am very loyal to my chemically-enhanced version and admit to a slight phobia of body odor. However, after testing Crystal Body Deodorant, my feelings have changed.

Crystal is the world’s leading natural mineral salt deodorant. Made from natural mineral salts, these deodorants form an invisible layer on the skin that creates an unfriendly environment for bacteria. While most deodorants mask odor with heavy scents or fragrances, Crystal deodorants neutralize the bacteria that causes the odor.

I have been using these deodorants for a couple weeks and am shocked by their effectivness. My first thought was to use the Crystal deodorants at night and use my regular deodorant when I am more active. However, I found it worked just as well as my regular deodorant.

The original Crystal Body Deodorant is unscented and available in a stick, roll-on, spray, original Rock, and Towelette. Now available in a variety of scents like Lavender & White Tea and Pomegranate that smell lovely and clean, there is no reason not to try it out.

Tell me what you think!

The Double-Cleanse Method: Dermalogica

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Double Cleanse to help relieve skin dullness, congestion and more.

The International Dermal Institute, the brains behind skin care line Dermalogica, conducted a research study that found most women only spend approximately 20 seconds washing their face. Unfortunately, even with the strongest of cleansers, a single cleanse cannot effectively penetrate and remove the dirt, oil, makeup, debris, sun-screen and pollutants left on the skin. In the long run your skin will start to look dull and be more prone to congestion and breakouts. Thus, the Dermalogica Double Cleanse was born.

The first step of the Dermalogica Double Cleanse is PreCleanse. PreCleanse is formulated with plant-based oils that melt the layers of oil-based debris on your skin because the oil molecules bond to each other, unlike the water molecules in your usual cleanser. These oils then emulsify when you add water, encapsulating and removing the trapped debris, thus allowing the second step of the cleanse to penetrate even further than before. PreCleanse is the best oil-based cleanser I have tried. Extremely gentle yet amazingly effective.

The second step of the Dermalogica Double Cleanse is the Special Cleansing Gel (or any recommended Dermalogica cleanser). The Special Cleansing Gel is a gentle, soap-free, foaming gel cleanser that removes impurities without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance. Calming Balm Mint and Lavender extracts soothe the skin, while natural Quillaja Saponaria gently foams away toxins and debris for a super-clean surface. Formulated without artificial fragrances and colors.

With all of these new products on the markets, such as primers, BB Creams, fillers and long-lasting cosmetics – the Double Cleanse Method is the only way to get your skin clean. These products are filled with silicons and oils that a single cleanse cannot penetrate. Try this method and I am sure you will never go back.

Performing the Dermalogica Double Cleanse:

1. Remove eye and lip make-up by dispensing PreCleanse onto damp cotton.
2. Shake a generous amount of PreCleanse into dry hands and spread between the palms.
3. Sweep PreCleanse across neck, cheeks and forehead. Begin the step-by-step Dermalogica Professional Cleansing Technique listed below.

a. Starting at the neck, spread PreCleanse across the face by using light, upward circles with fingertips.
b. Continue by circling chin and cheeks, paying special attention to areas of congestion.
c. Use one fingertip on both sides of the nostril, then circle around the side and top of the nose.
d. Come between the eyebrows and continue circles over forehead, making sure to include the hairline.
e. Wet hands and massage over PreCleanse to create a light, milky emulsion.

4. Remove with the dampened cleansing cloth to gently exfoliate for ultra-clean, super smooth skin!
5. Commence second cleanse with recommended Dermalogica Cleanser.

Drink Your Vitamins: Vital Earth Minerals

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The best vitamin for you is the vitamin that you will take every single day on a consistent basis. Weather in tablet or liquid form, it really does not matter which brand or type is the best – if you are not taking them.

I am a big believer of drinking my vitamins. I find I am much more consistent with a daily regime when my vitamins are in liquid form. Also, liquid vitamins are more effective because they can be assimilated immediately into the blood stream. The liquid form can also be three to five times more concentrated than vitamin pills. This more concentrated form can lead to higher therapeutic benefits and a healthier outcome.

My favorite liquid vitamins and minerals are Vital Earth Minerals. The three major advantages to all Vital Earth liquid products are high potency ingredients, 98% absorption (due to liquid form) and the addition of a unique component – Fulvic Minerals.

Fulvic, the “miracle molecule,” is rapidly becoming one of the key elements in many health and scientific breakthroughs of the 21st century. Fulvic Minerals have occurred naturally in organic plants and soils since the beginning of man-kind. It is created by microbial activity at the roots of plants. Its function is to dissolve and convert the metallic and clay based mineral molecules that are in soils into a form that is usable by plants animals and people. Once the minerals are dissolved, plants uptake, through their root system, the powerful fulvic substance that is loaded with dissolved minerals and trace elements.

Benefits of Fulvic Minerals:

• Makes all nutrients more absorbable which means you get greater benefit from all your nutrients – whatever the source.
• Transports nutrients right into the cells.
• Increases absorption of oxygen and decreases acidity.
• Changes the pattern of metabolism of carbohydrates.
• Helps rebuild and stimulate the immune system.
• Extends the time nutrients remain active.
• Increases energy.
• Is a powerful de-toxer.
• Is the most powerful natural free-radical and antioxidant known to science at this time.

Realizing that Fulvic enhances all the nutrients it comes in contact with, Vital-Earth uses it as the base for all their products.

The Super-Multi is a high-potency formula packed with a combination of vitamins, amino acids, anti-oxidants with a fulvic mineral base. Just one capful per day provides the body with over 100 nutrients. It has a passion fruit flavor that tastes great and is easy to take.

The Fulvic Mineral Complex contains the highest concentration of fulvic found on the retail market. It should be added to almost everyone’s supplement regime, especially if you are facing a health challenge, are recreational athletes (sweating minerals out of the body) or want to take extra preventive measures. It has absolutely no taste and a balanced alkaline pH of 7.0 to 7.8.

Vital-Earth has a wonderful selection of liquid vitamins and minerals. They are of the highest quality and potency. At the end of the day, it is still a matter of, hand-to-mouth, the act of taking a vitamin every day. If you are like me and tend to get lazy with capsule-form vitamins, try a liquid form – I guarantee you will stay consistent.

Summer Must-Have: Facial Mists

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Stay cool this summer with a tantalizing facial mist. A Summer must-have, these sprays will instantly boost your spirits and skin. Throw one in your handbag, beach-bag and/or travel-bag for a quick pick-me-up. Here are my five favorites:

TIP: Always refrigerate facial mists for extra freshness and stimulation.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir is great for those wanting a quick radiance boost. Part-toner/part-serum, this potion contains a mix of essential oils that will tighten pores and awaken the skin. Mist onto face anytime your skin feels dull and in need of a little hydration. Great for travel.

Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Neroli Water is an uplifting aromatherapy water that refreshes and hydrates the skin. Made from the bitter orange blossom, this facial spray soothes and hydrates the skin. The moment your face feels tight, one spritz will instantly hydrate and refresh the skin. Use as a toner after cleansing the face or as a body spray after showering. Perfect for après beach.

Chantiecaille Pure Rosewater ~ See full review HERE.

Avène Thermal Spring Water is a mineral-rich water, great for softening and soothing sensitive skin. Gentle and effective on irritated, sunburned and post surgery/procedure skin. This calming solution provides antioxidant protection that leaves a soothing barrier on the skin. It creates a dewy, healthy finish on the skin. Essential for sensitive skin.

Suti Peppermint Water is a cooling burst of refreshing hydration. Known as the “wake-up” water, this facial spray stimulates the senses as well as the skin. Made with organic peppermint leaves this facial spray relieves redness, inflammation and is famous for it’s anti-inflammatory properties. It instantly energizes and replenishes the skin creating a healthy glow. A beach-bag must-have.

Healthy Skin from Within: Nordic Naturals Complete Omega – 3.6.9

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There are a million reasons to take an omega-3 supplement everyday. One of the many is that EFAs or essential fatty acids control a large number of cellular processes in the body that directly relate to the health of your skin, hair and nails. Before I get to that, let’s look at the numerous benefits of fish oil.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are considered “essential fats” because they are required for optimal health but cannot be produced by the body. EFAs can be found in fish, flaxseeds, walnuts and canola. Fish oil supplies the most beneficial omega-3s, which are: EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Eating actual fish (mostly oily, cold water fish like salmon, tuna, herring and sardines) is the best food source of EPA and DHA, but due to concerns about toxins such as mercury, a fish oil supplement is the safest source.

OMEGA-3:  EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)

*Healthy heart and body*

• Maintains a healthy heart and circulatory system
• Enhances joint flexibility and movement
• Promotes healthy immune function
• Supports optimal metabolism and body composition
• Promotes balanced blood sugar levels
• Supports the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response

OMEGA-3:  DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)

*Healthy mood, mind and memory*

• Supports learning and memory
• Promotes positive mood and well-being
• Supports and protects the brain, eyes, nervous and immune systems
• Essential for the proper development of infants and children
• Recommended by physicians for pregnant and lactating women

OMEGA-6:  GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid)

*Healthy skin, hair and hormones*

• Nourishes hair and skin
• Supports healthy joints
• Enhances Hormonal Balance
• Maintains optimal body fat metabolism
• Supports positive mood
• Supports a regular menstrual cycle

OMEGA-9:  OA (Oleic Acid)

*Healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels*

• Naturally occurs in fish oil
• A “good for you: omega-9 monounsaturated fatty acid
• Supports healthy blood vessel function
• Promotes healthy cell membrane structure

Healthy Skin from Within:

Our skin cells need plenty of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. Without these, our skin can become dry, dull, prone to premature aging and even inflamed. There are two key essential fatty acids that your skin and hair will love. Since your body doesn’t manufacture them, they must be sourced through food and/or supplements.

Omega-3s in fish oil have been shown to:

• Keep the skin hydrated thus helping to prevent dry skin and other skin conditions
• Help soothe scaly, rough skin by reducing unnecessary inflammation
• Improve blood flow and support the elasticity of red blood cells thereby providing more oxygen to nourish the skin
• Encourage the production of strong collagen and elastin fibers in the dermis making skin look younger by reducing wrinkling and sagging

GLA is an Omega-6 fatty acid that occurs naturally in evening primrose and borage oils and has shown to:

• Relieve dry skin
• Reduce hair loss
• Provide relief for eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis

Your skin is the largest organ in the body and allows approximately 60% of “what goes on it, to go inside it”. Anything that increases the body’s ability to maintain integrity in our highly polluted world is a plus for your beauty routine.

Nordic Naturals is the leading manufacturer of fish oil in the United States. They are committed to delivering the world’s safest, most effective omega oils. The Complete Omega – 3.6.9 is an omega-rich blend that contains all the needed ingredients to support heart health, brain function, positive mood, healthy joints, as well as healthy hair, skin and nails. It has a fresh lemon taste that ensures no fishy smell, taste or aftertaste and all research is based on third-party test results – resulting in an honest and pure product. You will not find a better fish oil than Nordic Naturals.

Simple Sponge: Konjac Sponge

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Konjac Sponge

Konjac is a natural food source that has been used in Japanese cuisine for over 1500 years. Ninety seven percent of Konjac is water and three percent is a dietary fiber. Rich in vitamins and minerals, the Japanese have been using Konjac sponges as beauty treatments for centuries.

The unique net like structure of the Konjac sponge, gently massages and stimulates blood flow and new growth of skin cells.  A naturally moisture-rich plant fibre in the sponge balances the acidity of the skin and leaves it extremely clean and refreshed with no need for additional cleansers or soap.

Available in diferent ranges, according to skin type, the Konjac sponge can be infused with clays and charcoal for added benefits. Pink clay has been used for tired, devitalized skin, green clay for normal to oily skin and red clay for dry and sensitive skin. Also, available in bamboo charcoal for very oily or acne-prone skin.

To use, gently massage sponge over the face and body in a circular motion. A cleansing solution can be added, but is not necessary. If added, the smallest amount is needed as the sponge will create an immense lather. Splash with warm water to reveal squeaky clean and refreshed skin.

Each sponge lasts for around one to three months and can be found at any health-food stores. Can be used on the most delicate, sensitive skin and is even recommended for newborn babies. The Konjac sponge is simple yet effective and works on every skintype.

Tried & Tested: Micellar Cleansing Waters

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Micellar Cleansing Water is used to remove impurities, tone and hydrate the skin without the need of water. These delicate waters immediately eliminate makeup, dirt and oil from the skin with one sweep.

Based on a micelle principle, these technologically advanced products release softening agents to hydrate and calm the skin while effectively removing all traces of make-up on face, eyes and lips. Gentle enough for sensitive skin, (some brands provide a separate sensitive-skin formula) these refreshing waters cleanse and tone the skin without irritation.

The difference between Micellar Cleansing Water and simple makeup removers…

According to Bernard Pochic, Bioderma’s National Trainer, “Micellar Cleansers dissolve the bond between cosmetic pigments and your skin so you can wipe it off.” Doesn’t sound all that different, simple makeup removers primarily smear the cosmetic pigments allowing an easy removal when you wash your face. The Micellar Cleansers is a one-step process that eliminates the need for a second cleanse.

Simply apply product to cotton pad and wipe gently where needed. These products will dissolve even the most stubborn or waterproof product.

Primarily made by French skincare brands, Micellar Cleansers are now popping up everywhere. Here are a few of my favorites, all but one (Bioderma) can be found online, in drugstores or beauty supply.

Vichy – Purete Thermale Cleansing Micellar Lotion, Avene – Micellar Lotion Cleanser and Make-up Remover, Embryolisse – Micellar Lotion , La Roche-Posay – Physiological Micellar Solution, Bioderma – Sensibio H20 Micellar Solution