April 28, 2016
April 23, 2016
Oils 101
Oils are really only thing I put on my skin. I use them to cleanse my skin as well as to moisturize my skin. I know you are probably thinking that i'm nuts to use oil. Who wants their face to be a greasy mess? Not me! Well what you might not know is that one of the most basic principals of chemistry is that 'like dissolves like.' The best way to dissolve a non-polar solvent like oil, is by using another non-solvent similar in composition: other oils. By using the right oils, you can cleanse and moisturize naturally with oils extracted from natural botanicals, vegetables and fruit.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil is extracted from the edible portion of the almond and has a slight nutty smell. It's a mild hypoallergenic oil that protects from UV rays and softens the skin. It has high vitamin A and vitamin E content which prevents blackheads and acne. It also provides the amino acids required for the formation of collagen.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is exactly what it sounds like, it is the oil extracted from the seeds of grapes. It's packed full of antioxidants, including skin brightening vitamin C. It treats acne, tightens skin, relieves dark circles under the eyes, moisturizes, and fights aging. It's a very light oil that quickly absorbs into the skin.
Apricot Oil
Apricot seed oil has a high level of B17 in the kernels, which is known to kill cancer cells and has been used as a holistic treatment in cancer patients. Apricot seed oil has also been used in ancient medicine to treat inflammatory skin disorders. The oil is made from cold pressing dried seeds. It's packed with fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and a ton of antioxidants. It's also a very light oil and smells great!
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is structurally and chemically very similar to the human sebum. It's actually the closest naturally occurring substance to sebum. Sebum is the oil your skin naturally produces. Despite its name, jojoba oil isn't actually an oil, its more of a liquid wax. It's non-toxic, non-comedogenic, non-allergenic, and antibacterial. I think this is the lightest of all oils and I use this in the morning as my skin absorbs this oil the fastest.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal. It's protein rich, softens the skin, and contains a lot of vitamin E. Coconut oil has been praised for its anti-aging properties. It makes an excellent makeup remover or moisturizer. Just make sure you get one that's pure, unrefined, cold pressed, and 100% organic.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is extracted by pressing the seeds of the castor plant. It's famous for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Castor oil reduces pigmentation, fades blemishes, and reduces acne. The fatty acids in castor oil help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. It aids in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and works especially well for crows feet.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Olive oil is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. It is a brilliant moisturizer, helping to heal and nourish the skin. It also helps stimulate cell repair for firmer and smoother skin. It penetrates deep into the skin providing a long-lasting shield of moisture. It is best applied to damp skin, the dampness helps absorb it quicker.
Sweet almond oil is extracted from the edible portion of the almond and has a slight nutty smell. It's a mild hypoallergenic oil that protects from UV rays and softens the skin. It has high vitamin A and vitamin E content which prevents blackheads and acne. It also provides the amino acids required for the formation of collagen.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is exactly what it sounds like, it is the oil extracted from the seeds of grapes. It's packed full of antioxidants, including skin brightening vitamin C. It treats acne, tightens skin, relieves dark circles under the eyes, moisturizes, and fights aging. It's a very light oil that quickly absorbs into the skin.
Apricot Oil
Apricot seed oil has a high level of B17 in the kernels, which is known to kill cancer cells and has been used as a holistic treatment in cancer patients. Apricot seed oil has also been used in ancient medicine to treat inflammatory skin disorders. The oil is made from cold pressing dried seeds. It's packed with fatty acids, vitamins A, C, and E, and a ton of antioxidants. It's also a very light oil and smells great!
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is structurally and chemically very similar to the human sebum. It's actually the closest naturally occurring substance to sebum. Sebum is the oil your skin naturally produces. Despite its name, jojoba oil isn't actually an oil, its more of a liquid wax. It's non-toxic, non-comedogenic, non-allergenic, and antibacterial. I think this is the lightest of all oils and I use this in the morning as my skin absorbs this oil the fastest.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is naturally antibacterial and anti-fungal. It's protein rich, softens the skin, and contains a lot of vitamin E. Coconut oil has been praised for its anti-aging properties. It makes an excellent makeup remover or moisturizer. Just make sure you get one that's pure, unrefined, cold pressed, and 100% organic.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is extracted by pressing the seeds of the castor plant. It's famous for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Castor oil reduces pigmentation, fades blemishes, and reduces acne. The fatty acids in castor oil help stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. It aids in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and works especially well for crows feet.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Olive oil is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. It is a brilliant moisturizer, helping to heal and nourish the skin. It also helps stimulate cell repair for firmer and smoother skin. It penetrates deep into the skin providing a long-lasting shield of moisture. It is best applied to damp skin, the dampness helps absorb it quicker.
April 18, 2016
Why I love turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It's been around for centuries and widely known for its healing properties. It contains a yellow colored chemical called curcumin. Curcumin is the key to turmeric's healing power and used to color food and cosmetics. Turmeric is common in Asian food, the main ingredient in curry, and gives mustard it's bright yellow color. It's anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and rich in antioxidants.
When applied to the skin, turmeric can help treat acne, eczema, rosacea, and aids in skin rejuvenation. Regular use of turmeric can soften the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Turmeric has an amazing ability to reduce acne and scarring. It helps correct uneven skin tone, reduces the appearance of dark circles, and provides great relief to aging skin. It helps stimulate new cell growth and keeps the skin's elasticity intact.
Since I mentioned above it's used as a dye, it can temporarily stain your skin. Don't let this scare you. I have been using turmeric for a year and it's never stained my skin. I do, however, have a friend that experienced some some staining on her face and hands after using turmeric. It all depends on your skin tone. If you have lighter skin, you may notice slight staining. If you have a darker skin tone, like me, you may not notice anything but a radiant glow! If you do notice staining, simply wipe it off with a toner. Preferably an all natural toner like witch hazel. If you are still scared, just use turmeric at night before you go to bed.
Below are my favorite ways to use turmeric:
Turmeric Face Mask
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp raw organic honey
1 tsp milk
Pour the turmeric in a bowl. Add the honey and then the milk. Mix ingredients together until you get a paste like consistency. You may need to add more or less milk to achieve the paste. Turmeric stains EVERYTHING so make sure the paste is thick and not going to drip off your face. Apply the paste and leave on until it dries, about 20 minutes. Wash off with water. Turmeric and honey both contain lots of antioxidants as well as antibacterial properties. Milk contains lactic acid, which is a form of alpha hydroxy acid, the same ingredient in most chemical exfoliants. The lactic acid in milk brightens and exfoliates the skin. It also treats breakouts. Don't forget that turmeric stains! Make sure you are very cautious of your clothes and whatever else you come in contact with while using turmeric.
Botanique Neem and Turmeric Face Wash
The Vitamin Shoppe carries this Neem and Turmeric Face Wash. Neem is a plant found throughout India. It's great for anti-aging as neem oil contains vitamin C. It's also has antiseptic properties to help those who suffer from acne. The neem and turmeric together make a great face wash.
Stay Gold Hydrating Face Mask
Perfectly Posh sells an amazing face mask called Stay Gold. Skin brightening turmeric will give your face the Midas touch while shea, milk, and honey calms, soothes, and hydrates.
Whiten Teeth with Turmeric
Wet your toothbrush and dip it in the turmeric powder. Brush your teeth as normal but instead if rinsing, allow the turmeric to sit on your teeth for 5 minutes. Rinse and brush again with your regular toothpaste. Your toothbrush will be stained yellow. If that does not bother you, use your normal toothbrush. If it does bother you, keep a separate toothbrush when you use turmeric. I noticed a significant differnece the first time I tried this.
When applied to the skin, turmeric can help treat acne, eczema, rosacea, and aids in skin rejuvenation. Regular use of turmeric can soften the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Turmeric has an amazing ability to reduce acne and scarring. It helps correct uneven skin tone, reduces the appearance of dark circles, and provides great relief to aging skin. It helps stimulate new cell growth and keeps the skin's elasticity intact.
Since I mentioned above it's used as a dye, it can temporarily stain your skin. Don't let this scare you. I have been using turmeric for a year and it's never stained my skin. I do, however, have a friend that experienced some some staining on her face and hands after using turmeric. It all depends on your skin tone. If you have lighter skin, you may notice slight staining. If you have a darker skin tone, like me, you may not notice anything but a radiant glow! If you do notice staining, simply wipe it off with a toner. Preferably an all natural toner like witch hazel. If you are still scared, just use turmeric at night before you go to bed.
Below are my favorite ways to use turmeric:
Turmeric Face Mask
1 tsp turmeric
1 tsp raw organic honey
1 tsp milk
Pour the turmeric in a bowl. Add the honey and then the milk. Mix ingredients together until you get a paste like consistency. You may need to add more or less milk to achieve the paste. Turmeric stains EVERYTHING so make sure the paste is thick and not going to drip off your face. Apply the paste and leave on until it dries, about 20 minutes. Wash off with water. Turmeric and honey both contain lots of antioxidants as well as antibacterial properties. Milk contains lactic acid, which is a form of alpha hydroxy acid, the same ingredient in most chemical exfoliants. The lactic acid in milk brightens and exfoliates the skin. It also treats breakouts. Don't forget that turmeric stains! Make sure you are very cautious of your clothes and whatever else you come in contact with while using turmeric.
Botanique Neem and Turmeric Face Wash
The Vitamin Shoppe carries this Neem and Turmeric Face Wash. Neem is a plant found throughout India. It's great for anti-aging as neem oil contains vitamin C. It's also has antiseptic properties to help those who suffer from acne. The neem and turmeric together make a great face wash.
Stay Gold Hydrating Face Mask
Perfectly Posh sells an amazing face mask called Stay Gold. Skin brightening turmeric will give your face the Midas touch while shea, milk, and honey calms, soothes, and hydrates.
Whiten Teeth with Turmeric
Wet your toothbrush and dip it in the turmeric powder. Brush your teeth as normal but instead if rinsing, allow the turmeric to sit on your teeth for 5 minutes. Rinse and brush again with your regular toothpaste. Your toothbrush will be stained yellow. If that does not bother you, use your normal toothbrush. If it does bother you, keep a separate toothbrush when you use turmeric. I noticed a significant differnece the first time I tried this.
April 13, 2016
My obsession with activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is my new best friend. About a year ago, I bought some activated charcoal capsules at the Vitamin Shoppe. I bought them because I was looking for a natural teeth whitener and activated charcoal was one. I took a capsule, opened it up, and poured the black powder in a dish. I wet my toothbrush and brushed my teeth with the powder. I left it on my teeth for about 10 minutes swishing it around. The results were instant. I was shocked to see my teeth noticeably whiter.
Activated charcoal has been around for years. Its a fine black powder that is orderless, tasteless, and non-toxic. It's used in hospital emergency rooms for patients who overdose on drug and alcohol. It removes toxins from the body. The charcoal is "activated" because it is produced to have a very fine particle size. One 50-gram dose of activated charcoal has the surface area of 10 football fields. Activated charcoal traps chemicals and toxins to prevent absorption. It helps reduce the instances of acne and other skin impurities and works wonders for completely removing makeup.
My favorite activated charcoal products:
Charcoal Cleansing Bar by Beautycounter - Charcoal Cleansing Bar
Currently I'm washing my face with the charcoal cleansing bar. This bar detoxifies and absorbs impurities in your skin without drying it out.
Gender Bender Bar by Perfectly Posh - Gender Bender Bar
This was my first experience with activated charcoal. I received a sample of this bar was I was hooked after the first time I used it. This can be used on the face and body.
Whole Lava Love Exfoliator by Perfectly Posh - Whole Lava Love
This is a mix of charcoal powder, sugar beads, and volcanic ash. This exfoliator leaves your skin feeling amazing. Exhilarating natural tea tree and mint fragrance make this ash as good as it gets!
Boscia Konjac Cleansing Sponge from Sephora - Boscia Konjac Cleansing Sponge
This pillow-soft sponge is infused with bamboo charcoal. It cleanses and exfoliates to detoxify the pores. The sponge should be replaced every two to three months.
Activated Charcoal Capsules from the Vitamin Shoppe - Activated Charcoal Capsules
As I said above, you can whiten your teeth with these capsules. You can also add the powder to your existing face wash. Either way, just BE CAREFUL. This powder form of charcoal gets everywhere!
Activated charcoal has been around for years. Its a fine black powder that is orderless, tasteless, and non-toxic. It's used in hospital emergency rooms for patients who overdose on drug and alcohol. It removes toxins from the body. The charcoal is "activated" because it is produced to have a very fine particle size. One 50-gram dose of activated charcoal has the surface area of 10 football fields. Activated charcoal traps chemicals and toxins to prevent absorption. It helps reduce the instances of acne and other skin impurities and works wonders for completely removing makeup.
My favorite activated charcoal products:
Charcoal Cleansing Bar by Beautycounter - Charcoal Cleansing Bar
Currently I'm washing my face with the charcoal cleansing bar. This bar detoxifies and absorbs impurities in your skin without drying it out.
Gender Bender Bar by Perfectly Posh - Gender Bender Bar
This was my first experience with activated charcoal. I received a sample of this bar was I was hooked after the first time I used it. This can be used on the face and body.
Whole Lava Love Exfoliator by Perfectly Posh - Whole Lava Love
This is a mix of charcoal powder, sugar beads, and volcanic ash. This exfoliator leaves your skin feeling amazing. Exhilarating natural tea tree and mint fragrance make this ash as good as it gets!
Boscia Konjac Cleansing Sponge from Sephora - Boscia Konjac Cleansing Sponge
This pillow-soft sponge is infused with bamboo charcoal. It cleanses and exfoliates to detoxify the pores. The sponge should be replaced every two to three months.
Activated Charcoal Capsules from the Vitamin Shoppe - Activated Charcoal Capsules
As I said above, you can whiten your teeth with these capsules. You can also add the powder to your existing face wash. Either way, just BE CAREFUL. This powder form of charcoal gets everywhere!
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