The Balm: REN No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm

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Chemistry 101 dictates that “like dissolves like.” When it comes to cleansing the face, oil is better at binding to oil and dissolving it, which is why it is so often the basis of makeup removers.

Ren’s No. 1 Purity Cleansing Balm uses plant-based oils to cleanse the skin. It is extremely gentle on the skin, but powerful enough to remove oil, oxidized sebum (blackheads), daily dirt, and even waterproof mascara. Infused with chamomile oil and pink violet leaf, it calms the skin and soothes redness, while rose oil relieves stress, leaving skin purified and clear.

A totally unique way to cleanse your skin, the creamy clear balm transforms into a rich milk on contact with water. As you rub the product into the skin, the emollient process begins. This gives you ample time to work on a deep-facial massage – a facialist secret and crucial component to great skin. The balm is nourishing and hydrating and leaves the skin feeling clean and supple. It comes with a muslin cloth, which works wonders to remove all traces of makeup, grease and dirt while gently exfoliating the skin at the same time.

Avoiding overly-cleansed skin is key to healthy skin – especially those with acne-prone skin. Dryness sends a signal to your skin to produce more sebum (oil), which can make skin and acne worse. The oils in REN’s No. 1 Purity Cleansing Balm bind to the oil in your pores, and whisk away grime without stripping your skin.  If your cleanser leaves your face feeling tight and dry, you’ve likely been stripped!

Sporty Girl: Hurley Phantom Kini

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Sporty Girl: The girl who doesn’t want to go to the beach or pool to lay there and bronze all day. The girl who wants to be active in the sun. The girl who wants to be in the water, swimming, surfing, paddle boarding. The girl (like every girl) who still wants to look good doing it. Enter: Hurley Phantom Kini.

Phantom Technology:

Blessed with the Phantom Fabric (compressed micro fibers woven with spandex to create unparalleled 140% stretch). Infused with ground breaking nano technology and water repellent fabric to absorb less water with the finest quality micro yarns which produce a soft and silky touch to skin. Designed with no inseam, leaving zero restriction in performance while maximizing comfort.

The Hurley Phantom Kini is made with this Phantom Technology. Stretch woven to hug the body and provide support, lightweight and designed to dry quickly. The suits are also finished with bonded seams that lay flat on the skin, which means you won’t have to worry about chafing and constantly having to pull your suit into place.

Whether you are a sporty girl, a mother chasing after your kids or you just want to be more active on the beach – try on a little style with comfort and have more fun in the sun!

Super Seed: The Chia Seed

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Ch…Ch…Ch…CHIA! The first thing that comes to mind when thinking about the super seed. The many Chia Pet commercials watched on how to grow chia seeds from your very own terra-cotta Chia Frog. Gaining popularity in the United States, Chia seeds are making a big comeback. They offer a wonderful source of nutrients that can easily be incorporated into your diet and can easily be purchased from any health food store.

Chia seeds are a small seed that comes from the salvia plant, which is a part of the mint family. Originally grown in South America, Chia seeds were first used as food as early as 3500 BC and were one of the main dietary components of the Aztecs and the Mayans.

Chia seeds are perhaps best known for their high omega-3 fatty acids content. In fact, chia seeds have the highest omega-3s of any vegetarian food. Just one tablespoon of chia seeds contains 2406 mg of omega-3s, and also contains approx. 792 mg omega-6s and 294 mg of omega-9 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are important for brain function and work as an anti-inflammatory in the body.

Another advantage of chia seeds is their ability to help maintain steady blood sugar levels. Chia seeds form a gel in the stomach that slows the conversion of carbohydrates to sugar. Carbohydrates that quickly break down into sugar stimulate a surge of insulin to be released into the blood, causing blood sugar problems. Eating foods such as chia seeds that break down slowly helps blood sugar to rise and fall steadily throughout the day.

Chia seeds also contain a substantial amount of fiber, protein, essential amino acids, calcium and minerals. Available in white and black seeds, some manufacturers state that the white chia seed is superior. However, there is no research to back up this claim and as of now no significant difference.

Incorporating chia seeds into your diet is easy. Simply add to smoothies, yogurt, salads, dressings, cereal, water… anything. They can be eaten both raw or cooked, though cooking them may damage their fragile omega fatty acids. I like to add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds to coconut water and drink first thing in the morning. When adding to liquid, drink fast, as chia will develop into a gel-like consistency. Enjoy!

Bikini-Ready & Healthy: Vega One

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Start your day off right with Vega One. This all-in-one nutritional shake provides the body with everything it needs to support a healthy and active lifestyle. Free from preservatives, added sugar, artificial flavors or colors, Vega One is dairy, gluten and soy free.

One serving of Vega One contains all this:

• 15g of protein (plant-based protein) / equivalent to eating 2.7 eggs.

• 1 billion CFU dairy-free probiotics / same as eating 100g of yogurt.

• 1.5g Omega 3 / providing the same per serving as 6 oz of wild salmon.

• 6g of fiber / equivalent to eating 3.2 slices of whole wheat bread.

• 3 servings of greens / same as three servings of nutrient-rich vegetables.

• 2.7 cups of antioxidants / equivalent to eating 2.7 cups of blueberries.

Additionally, one serving of Vega One delivers half of your daily intake of vital vitamins and minerals, and 1000mg of maca (rich in amino acids) and 500mg of chlorella (helps immune function).

With summer on the horizon, Vega One shakes are a great way to get bikini-ready. They are great for on-the-go meal replacements and will provide energy, metabolize fats, proteins and carbohydrates and facilitate in proper muscle function and repair. Also, daily protein shakes can help to provide a lasting feeling of fullness and limit total calorie consumption, resulting in weight-loss.

In my experience, it is quite difficult to find a protein/nutritional powder that is low in sugar and low glycemic level (measure of the effects of food on blood sugar levels). Vega One is sweetened with stevia extract and has no sugar, maltodextrin or sugar-derivitives added. On the Glycemic index it is impressively low at 19.2 – compared to popular brands that are between 30 and 45.

Available in Berry, Chocolate, Vanilla Chai (my favorite) and Natural, Vega One tastes great simply shaken with water or blended with ice. Or add a non-dairy beverage of your choice (favorite: almond milk), and all the veggies and fruits you can handle for a healthy, delicious and nutritious meal.

Favorite Shake Recipe:

• 1 serving Vega One

• 6 large strawberries

• 1 sliced banana

• 1 cup blueberries

• 2-4 kale leaves

• 1/2 cup almond milk

• 1/2 cup water

• ice

Blend & Go!

Holy Grail: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil

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Say good-bye to itchy skin and razor burn with L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil. This ultra-nourishing body wash gently cleanses while doubling as a moisturizing shaving foam.

When mixed with water,  L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil transforms from a soothing oil into lavish foam. The unique texture leaves a satin-like softness all over the body keeping moisture locked into the skin. Rich in almond oil, grape vine, rosemary and nourishing lipids, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil is suitable for both men and women.

This shower oil is unique and like nothing I have ever tried. It is by far better than any shaving cream/gel available. A pea-sized amount is enough to use on the entire leg. It permits the closest shave possible and keeps skin soft and hydrated. It cleanses the skin without stripping it dry and the sweet almond scent will blanket the entire bathroom. L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil has graduated to my Holy Grail list of products.

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.

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.