Blog Archives
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.
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.
Conceal It: Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Multi-Tasking Concealer
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bareMinerals Multi-Tasking Concealer
Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Multi-Tasking Concealer is a mineral-based miracle powder that can be used in many different ways.
As a concealer: This powder can be used to neutralize redness or applied directly to blemishes, brown spots, broken capillaries and other skin imperfections.
As foundation: The multi-tasking powder is finely milled to provide deeper coverage. It can be added to the foundation powder if heavier coverage is needed or to lighten or darken the exsisting color.
As an eyeshadow base: Use this powder as an eyeshadow or eyeshadow base to alliviate any oils, veining or discoloration on the eyelid.
As an under-eye concealer: This powder will mask dark circles and brighten the entire eye-area.
The multi-tasking powder is available in five shades. Free of preservatives, talc, waxes, dyes, oils and fragrances – it will not irritate skin.
In my opinion, this is one of the best concealers on the planet. It erases every imperfection flawlessly and in just one step – no setting needed. I do not use this product as an under-eye concealer, as it is a bit too drying for my skin, but it does work as a fantastic eyeshadow primer and color.
TIP: Spray concealer brush with setting spray or a little water to deepen the coverage and create a paste-like formula that applies flawlessly on dry skin.
True Believer: Mineral Makeup
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No matter how many different products I experiment with, mineral-based powders is what I always revert back to.
Many of us were enthralled by the swirl, tap, buff philosophy of Bare Escentuals bareMinerals, in which, these miracle mineral powders seemed to erase every flaw from the skin and leave the face glowing and radiant. Or similar brands that jumped on the mineral band-wagon and created comparable products all promising the same outcome – flawless skin.
There is no set regulation for what constitutes “mineral” makeup. The main ingredients (minerals such as mica, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide), have been the basis of most makeup foundations for decades. But, many dermatologists report that because mineral makeup frequently eliminate classic irritants such as fragrances, binders, synthetic dyes, talc, and preservatives, it is considered purer and gentler to the skin.
Whether or not, classifying a product as “mineral” makeup, is propagation or even beneficial, the undisputed truth is they work beautifully. These light, finely ground loose minerals are buffed into the skin to achieve a flawless and glowing complexion. The makeup provides long-lasting coverage and looks natural.
I am a true believer in mineral-based powders which is why I seem to reach for them more than any other.
Tip: Before application, spray brush with water or fixing spray. This will provide a glowing, even, airbrushed-like complexion.
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