Increasing Awareness: Parabens

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Parabens are compounds used as preservatives in many cosmetics and beauty products. Many of these compounds are mild and safe to use on an everyday basis. However, there is one that I look-out for when purchasing cosmetics.

Methylparaben is an anti-fungal and preservative that may be found in many products including food, drugs, cosmetics and skin cream. It is used to kill unwanted bacteria, fungi and microbes that might grow in products and may be potentially harmful.

The October 3, 2006, issue of Toxicology published a study that shows when skin treated with creams that contain methylparaben were exposed to the sun’s UVB rays, the skin cells died and there was considerable oxidative stress on the skin’s tissue.

There is reason to be mindful of these chemicals but not to have an all-consuming concern. Always check the ingredients list before purchasing a product and become knowledgeable of what the ingredients are. Be observant of the products applied to skin that will be exposed to the sun. There are many products on the market that are paraben-free and I imagine more will be made available.

To see if some of your favorite products contain methylparaben – go here:

http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/703937/METHYLPARABEN/#

Natural Detox: Elemental Herbology Detox Bathing Infusion

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Detox Bathing Infusion

After a long weekend away, nothing is better than coming home and diving into a bath. Since the weekend was filled with long nights, food and drink – the Detox Bathing Infusion by Elemental Herbology is what I reach for.

Simply add 2-3 capfuls of this magical elixir to your bath and your body is instantly revived. This detoxifying botanical bath oil helps stimulate circulation, reduce fluid retention, increase lymphatic drainage and eliminate toxins that can manifest in cellulite. Free from parabens, sulfates, preservatives and synthetic fragrances this natural detox will leave your skin soft and nourished and your body energized and “back-to-normal.”

Key Ingredients:

• Grapefruit has a powerful astringent, diuretic and thermogenic action which helps stimulate circulation, fight fatigue, detoxify the blood, shift fluid retention and eliminate cellulite.
• Juniper Berry helps tone the skin and stimulate circulation, aqua-drainage and cell renewal.
• Rosemary helps stimulate circulation and invigorate body and mind. Great oil for helping alleviate depression and improve concentration and focus.
• Geranium has a wonderful ability to harmonise the body while stimulating circulation and encouraging aqua-drainage.
• Sweet Almond, Jojoba and Peach Kernel combine to soften and nourish the skin.

Tried & Tested: Urban Decay All Nighter

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Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray is a must-have product for people who need their makeup to last.

In an exclusive partnership with SKINDINÄVIA, the originator of the makeup setting spray, All Nighter promises to keep makeup fresh for 16 hours. Originally used on movie sets in Hollywood, so makeup artists would have fewer touchups through long days of filming, setting sprays prevent makeup from melting, creasing, sliding or caking.

But does it work?

A night of dancing with the girls proved this product’s legitimacy. At the end of my makeup routine, I had sprayed the super fine-mist on my face, about three sprays. The product felt nice on the skin and there was an immediate cooling/setting sensation. Fast-forward to end-of-night, after dancing for about 2-3 hours, makeup was still intact and I was left with a “healthy glow.”

All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray is allergy tested, dermatologist tested, vegan, cruelty free, and free of oil, parabens and fragrance.

If you are planning on getting married, going to prom or out-on-the-town – pull an All Nighter.