Multi- Business Facebook event, including Arbonne Hair!

Hey everyone! Sorry I've been a little MIA lately, I definitely have a little bit of a problem getting off track that way. Oops.

I do want to remind everyone that as its getting colder, and we blast the heat in our homes and cars, it is super, super important to moisturize! Don't forget! Dry skin is incredibly irritating! I get tons and tons of moisturizing requests this time of year!

I am taking part in a Facebook event this month. I would love for you to join me. A friend of mine put this together to support her friends that have their own businesses. This is an amazing group of women with an amazing group of products. There are 12 businesses in all. all with different things to offer, giving you all a great opportunity to get some holiday shopping done, or get something for yourself.
The list includes:
*Lularoe VIP boutique
*KeepCollective
*Doterra oils
*Perfectly Posh
*Little Peach Shoes
*WildTree
*Norwex
*Younique
*Oakhill Designs
*Scentsy
*mythirtyone
*Arbonne Haie

These are all run by individual people, who are all awesome and super hardworking so we should support them! We all have holiday shopping to do anyways, why not use this as an outlet!?

Each business was given a day to list a video and post giveaways. Some of the presentations have already been done, but the posts are still there! I am doing mine tomorrow and will be focusing on hair products.

Arbonne cosmetics

​Arbonne Makeup

Arbonne Cosmetics isn’t just about looking glamorous, it’s about bringing out the confidence and radiance within. In simple terms, it’s uncomplicated beauty that enhances your best traits while promoting healthy-looking skin — the perfect line to complement your amazing Arbonne skincare system.

Tips & Techniques for the Face
http://www.arbonne.com/discover/products/face.shtml

Face

For a flawless face, start with a smooth canvas. Then add a touch of color, hint of sun or spark of radiance to cheeks.

 

Eyes

Play up your best feature with colorful shades and eye-enhancing products that beautify, luminize and define.

 

Lips

Revolutionary formulas provide skincare benefits along with vibrant, high performance colors.

 

Get tips, techniques and the products needed to get these looks.
Watch our professional makeup artist show you how.

#ArbonneMakeup
http://www.arbonne.com/discover/products/get-the-look.shtml

Start here! Lindseyelwell.arbonne.com

Cheers!

Arbonne, Network Marketing, Gen-Y

Some of the conversation that I have with people that are considering the business, I want to discuss with them why the industry in general is a positive choice. 

Arbonne seems to be perfectly positioned for your success. Everyone wants to look and feel better, so Health and Wellness is exploding. Network marketing is booming, and people want more from the time that they spend working. 

A lot of my friends from both High School and college are participating in some form of network marketing. Some are involved with Arbonne, others in Rodan + Fields, Beachbody and IT Works. I see a lot of their posts. Many similar to mine, and I have to say that I am proud of every single one of them. Go get it girl, or guy!

We were programmed to go to college then get a job, work 9-5 for the rest of our lives, all the while not spending a dime in order to have a chance at having enough money for retirement. Apparently that didnt sit all that well with my generation. Si suppose you could say that we need instant gratification from growing up in an age of technology.  I'm seeing it in a slightly different way. 

I see an overly motivated group of young people that are passionate, ambitious and creative that are just doing things a little bit differently.

These people are literally building their own empires, usually from the comfort of their own homes. Instead of taking entry level jobs working for someone else and making someone else's dreams come true, they are taking the initiative to make those dreams happen for themselves. I have to say that I am proud to see the people that I went to highschool with or have met since along the way out there rockin it. 

So Post Away people, even if its a different business than mine, I learn something every time I read one of your posts.
Cheers Until next time,

Lindsey

Re9 Advanced Lifting and Contouring Cream

     With age, skin can appear to sag and lose its youthful bounce. Re9 Advanced Lifting and Contouring Cream was formulated with a powerful, hydrating blend of botanically derived ingredients to help achieve a more uplifted, contoured look. These next- generation hydrating formulas support skin's natural collagen and elastin, and help facial contours look tighter, firmer and more defined. Skin feels more cushioned and appears more revived and renewed. We all love a good comeback.

Key Botanicals
*Peony Root Extract
*Algae Extract
*Jojoba Seed Oil
*Sea Buckthorn Oil

Target areas that need a little more lift. Peony root extract helps hydrate, encouraging the look of skin elasticity for a firmer appearance while algae extract moisturizes to support collagen, resulting in a more plump, hydrated look and feel. Our clinical graded study has shown to improve the appearance of facial contours and wrinkles around the eyes. Take a look at the uplifting results.

This rich, hydrating cream gets into the spring of things. The formula targets skin elasticity for a firmer, more lifter appearance, and protects with a mineral physical sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB protection, collagen supporting ingredients, help enhance the appearance of a smoother, more defined silhouette. How beautiful

**Active Ingredient- zinc oxide 4.45%

Eye Cream
Things are really looking up. Achieve the appearance of more awakened, lifted skin along the delicate eye area. This rich cream helps skin look firmer and tighter around the eyes, and feel more plump and cushioned. Reveal skin that looks velvety smooth, replenished and more youthful.


**Comment below for more information!

Product Review! Re9 Intensive Renewal Serum

  This is my absolute, must-have, number 1, best ever product so far. It totally makes the skincare routine complete. It's called the Re9 Intensive Renewal Serum, by Arbonne. 
  The Re9 Advanced Collection is Arbonne's premier anti-aging skincare line, clinically tested to help improve skin firmness in just 24 hours. The formulas are powered by 9 major age-defying elements plus breakthrough botanicals and a collagen- supporting supplement. This means visible results: the appearance of few fine lines and wrinkles, and more youthful-looking skin. Age is only a number!!
 

It's called Intensive because its full of collagen- supporting ingredients that are clinically tested to hold in moisture and help visibly firm and lift, while lessening the appearance of fine lines. 
Key Ingredients: algae extract, sea buckthorn oil, stabilized vitamin C
Allergy and Dermatologist tested, Ideal for all skin types

**I use this product in the morning before I apply my day cream, and at night before I apply my night cream. While I like both my day and night cream very much, I feel that this product really allows them to work much better. It feels that it prepares my skin, and makes it more receptive to the moisturizer. It's been so unbelievably dry this summer, and being outside all day it has been very essential to properly moisturize. 

  Wait..waaaaiitt. Saved the best for last! This product is vegan certified, gluten free, and doesn't contain anything that's going to seriously harm you now or later in life. ( sad that isn't a given?)


Formulated Without: *animal products or by-products * artificial flavors or sweeteners * benzene * BPA* carbon black* formaldehyde preservatives* parabens*petrolatum * phthalates* sodium lauryl sulfate* synthetic dyes* talc* triclosan * triethanolamine(TEA) 

I hope your just dying to try this product now! I won't use anything else, its amazing. SO amazing. And I'm a massive skeptic. Like eh, whatever. Not here. 

I'd love a comment, an email, a tweet, pigeon message? Do you want this now? I gotchu. Seriously though, if you want more information and pricing, ask.

Cheers til next time,
Lindsey

Lindseyelwell.arbonne.com
 

Carbon Black & Formaldehyde

Hey Guys! 

I am going to do one more series going through the details of two more ingredients that you need to be aware of in your personal care products. The second one is really, really important. And I bet you  never thought that it would appear in any of your household products. 

Starting with Carbon Black, a dark black powder used as a pigment in cosmetics such as eyeliner, mascara and lipstick. It is produced by incomplete combustion of carbon based products such as coal tar and has been linked to cancer.

Found in: eyeliner, mascara, nail polish, eye shadow, lipstick, blushers, rouge, makeup and foundation

On the Label: carbon black, D&C black no.2, acetylene black, channel black, furnace black, lamp black, thermal black

*Commercial carbon black has organic contaminants such as polycyclic acromatic hydrocarbons which are considered carcinogens. Exposure can lead to tumors on lungs, bladder and skin, reproductive and developmental toxicity.

*PAHs bind tightly to the surface of carbon black and can only be removed with the use of solvents such as toluene and using high temperatures.

-Those especially vulnerable include industrial workers and women

***Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde  Releasing  Preservatives

These chemicals help prevent microbes from growing in water based products.

Found in: Nail polish, nail glue, eyelash glue, hair gel, hair-smoothing products, baby shampoo, baby soap, body wash, color cosmetics

On the Label: Formaldehyde, quaternium-1, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, sodium hydroxymethyl glycinate -2-bromo-2- nitropropane-1,3 doil (bromopol) and glyoxal

What is it: A colorless, strong-smelling gas  used in a wide range of industries and products including building materials, walls, cabinets, furniture and personal care products.

*Longer storage time and higher temps increase the amount of formaldehyde released from the preservatives and raises health concerns.

Quaternium: The most sensitizing of the FRP’s (blush, mascara, lotion and shampoo)

DMDM Hydantoin- (lotion, sunscreen , makeup remover) one of the least sensitizing

*Diazolidinyl urea releases the most formaldehyde of any FRP

*** Don’t use expired products or those that have been stored in the sun

Share it with me!

Hey guys!!

I have a couple of things to share with you but I hope youve been tuning in to my blog series lately. It is so important to be aware of what sort of things are in your products (shampoo, conditioner,body wash, shavingcream, toothpaste, baby products, household cleaning products, perfumes and cologne.) I have started with a general overview of how to decipher the labels, then went into detail on a couple of ingredients that I know you use everyday. I personally,am pretty grateful to have found a company that I can buy anything I need from and know that it is safe; However, many of you might want to go through what you already have and decide what to keep, and what else you can get from the grocery store that is safer for you. That option is slightly trickier, but I can help you with that also. I would love to hear back from you all, share some things that you try to avoid and give me a list of some of the things that you use and what you would like to know about them.

Safe cosmetics: Triclosan & Parabens

Hey guys! To continue our discussion on harmful chemicals in our everyday products, I chose two chemicals that are super common in everything we use. I also chose two that affect everyone, because the first one is found in toothpaste, which everyone here should use.

 

The first chemical I want to talk about is Triclosan, which is commonly found in soaps as an antimicrobial. It also appears in toothpaste and tooth whitening products, deodorants and shaving creams.  Can be found on the label as Triclosan (TSC) or Triclocarbon (TCC).

Triclosan was originally made as a surgical scrub in the medical field, now it is much more common and instead of being used once in a blue moon for a medical procedure, sometimes it finds its way on our skin multiple times a day.

The main concerns regarding the use of Triclosan are endocrine disorders, particularly thyroid function.  Using an antibiotic or antimicrobial often is always a concern, and in this case producing Triclosan resistant bacteria may be an issue.

Triclosan is restricted in cosmetics in Canada and Japan. Triclocarban is restricted in cosmetics by the Environment Canada Domestic Substance List. The EPA also regulates Triclosan as a pesticide.

Parabens:

Parabens are a preservative used in a wide variety of personal care products and foods. These include shampoos, conditioners, lotions, shower cleaners and scrubs. We have the potential to absorb a TON of parabens in a day. You can find almost any type of personal care product that contains parabens.

These can be found on the label under Ethylparaben, Butylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Isobutylparaben, isopropylparaben.

Parabens have the ability to mimic estrogen, causing endocrine disorder concerns. Developmental and Repro issues are a concern as well.  Propyl and butyl parabens appear to reduce sperm production, however, methyl and ethyl do not.

Some forms of parabens are banned in Denmark for products intended for child use.

Look for Paraben-Free on the label!

So now, go look and see how many products in your kitchens and bathrooms contain Triclosan or some form of Parabens. Luckily, Paraben - Free products are becoming pretty common, unfortunately there are tons of chemicals that are not being weeded out just yet.

How aware are you of harmful chemicals as ingredients?

Hey Guys!!

I wanted to do a couple of posts about safe ingredients in all of our personal care products. Now that means women, men , babies and everything in between. Everyone uses some type of product..everyday. It has been a topic that interests me and really continues to be quite mind blowing at times. It is alarming how unregulated the industry is; the companies can do whatever they want to make their products, and whatever they want as far as labeling the products (this really gets me). They certainly do not have the consumer's best interest in mind. 

Now this really does apply to everyone. It doesn't matter if you do not wear makeup regularly or get your nails done, or visit the salon. Everyone here brushes their teeth, right? That happens to be one of the worst offenders. (Triclosan) (sodium lauryl sulfate= responsible for foaming, the reason things have a poor taste if you eat them after brushing your teeth) (Propelyene Glycol - used in antifreeze, paints and enamels) (microbeads- bad for the environment) Not to mention that many of the ingredients have been linked to cancer. 

I have a hard time understanding why any of this can be allowed. It does not benefit anyone other than the bank accounts of the larget companies. 

I am going to touch on some of the major offenders, chemicals to avoid, and finish with some reviews on products that I have found that fit much stricter criteria yet actually produce results. That sounds like a win-win doesn't it??


I hope you guys tune in, and that I can give you tips to put to use to use with what you already have in your own kitchens and bathrooms. Have stuff that you think passes all the tests? Share it! I'd totally love to hear about it and try it as well.

Until next time,
Cheers,
Lindsey

Chemicals to avoid by product. Most commonly found harmful chemicals.

Here are some specific ingredients to avoid , broken down into the products that they are most commonly seen in .

*Soap: triclosan and triclocarban
*Skin moisturizer and lip products:  Retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, retinoic acid  and retinol in day time products
*Sunscreens: avoid SPF above 50, retinyl palmitate, aerosol spray and powder sunscreen, oxybenzone and added insect repellent
*  Toothpaste: triclosan
*Nails: Formaldehyde or formalin, hardeners, Toluene and Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
* Baby Wipes: Bronopol, DMDM hydantoin, fragrance
*Diaper Cream: BHA, Boric Acid, Fragrance
*Acne Products: triclosan, parabens, PEG, ceterej, polyethylene
*perfume, cologne, body spray: diethyl phthalate, fragrance
*Make up: loose powders , vitamin A in skin and lip products
*Anti-Aging Products: alpha and beta hydroxy acids (Lactic acid and glycolic acid)
  *FDA-Sponsored studies find UV- caused skin damage doubles for users of products that contain alpha hydroxy acid

Quick Tips to Avoid Harmful Chemicals in Your Skincare

1. Simplify: choose products with simpler ingredient lists and fewer synthetic chemicals. Avoid synthetic fragrance by skipping products with "fragrance" listed

2. DIY: Personal care products can be easy to make! Check pinterest or other social media places for ideas on how to make them yourself!

3. Research products yourself: since the beauty industry is largely unregulated, its up to you to become knowledgeable about what you want and don't want in your personal care products for your own safety. There are no legal standards for personal care products labeled as natural or organic. Read labels carefully.

4. Use Apps like Think Dirty: To find out whether your go - to products are safe or not, Think Dirty's shop clean app ranks the safety of specific products on a scare or 1-10 and offers clean solutions.

5. Get Involved: It's becoming easier to find products that are safer for everyone. Stay informed and spread the word.

Safe Cosmetics Series: Arbonne Ingredient Policy

Arbonne Ingredient Policy 

Transparency and honesty. For 35 years, this has been the hallmark of our product integrity. From the beginning, Arbonne has developed products by combining the best of nature with leading science.m Our mission is to always improve and evaluate our ingredient policy as an ever- evolving standard of excellence. This means we continuously challenge ourselves to do better and better.

Pure
We're working diligently to understand the latest science, consulting our Scientific Advisory Board and adapting to new standards. Each product contains carefully selected, botanically based ingredients.

Safe 
 We rigorously test our products. We're vigilant about the latest research regarding chemicals to ensure were being mindful and cautious.

Beneficial 
Our products deliver results. As Trailblazers, we must educate, empower and inspire people to make better choices for the beauty, health and wellness of their families and friends.

**Our list of no-no ingredients has evolved over time, based on industry knowledge, research substantiation and establishing stricter guidelines before it became stylish.

*We formulate without:
-animal products or by products
-artificial products
-artificial sweeteners
-benzene
-bisphenol-a
-carbon black
-formaldehyde-donating preservatives
-hydroquinone
-mineral oil
-parabens
-petrolatum
-phthalates
-sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
-sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
-synthetic dyes
-talc
-triclosan
-triethanolamine (TEA)

We adhere to the standards of:
*U.S FDA, Health Canada, Austrailia Therapeutic Good Administration, United Kingdom Food Standards Agency, European Food Saftey Authority, Austrailia National INdustrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme, International Fragrance Assoc, European Commission Cosmetics Directive, European Registration, Evaluation , Authorisations and Restriction of Chemicals Agency

Arbonne Self - Tanner

TINTED SELF-TANNER
FEATURES
■■ Lightweight, non-oily, quick-drying formula provides a natural-looking tan, visible within 2 hours after application
■■ Lightly scented, creamy lotion rubs right in with no sticky residue, streaking or color transfer
■■ Tan can be built to a deeper tone with continued application, delivering a healthy, natural glow to the face and body
■■ Hydrating, refreshing formula is recommended for ages 18+
■■ Allergy- and dermatologist-tested, vegan formulated
BENEFITS
■■ Aloe vera and green tea hydrate and soothe skin
■■ DHA is utilized to deliver a natural-looking, rich, bronze-colored tan

The Liquid Sunshine Story

THE LIQUID SUNSHINE STORY
Liquid Sunshine was developed to let you enjoy the positive aspects of sun exposure. Featuring a physical mineral sunscreen
rather than a chemical one, it delivers a collection of sun protection products that align with our core philosophy: pure, safe,
beneficial™. Chemical sunscreen works by absorbing the sun’s rays while physical sunscreen offers protection by deflecting UVA
and UVB rays. The collection contains 4 key ingredients utilized to deliver soothing benefits. The collection includes:
■■Aloe vera leaf juice: Soothes, moisturizes
■■Green tea leaf extract: Soothes; antioxidant
■■Edelweiss extract: Antioxidant
■■Grapeseed extract: Moisturizes; antioxidant

Arbonne Liquid Sunshine Suncreen for Face & Body

MINERAL SUNSCREEN BROAD SPECTRUM SPF 30 FOR FACE
FEATURES
■■ Instead of using chemical actives, this mineral sunscreen is formulated with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide along with botanicals,
antioxidants, minerals and moisturizers in a non-oily, lightweight formula suitable for the whole family
■■ Creates a physical barrier on the skin to protect against both UVA and UVB rays
■■ Non-greasy formula glides on easily and absorbs quickly without whitening
■■ Non-shiny formula can be worn alone, over the Tinted Self-Tanner, or under makeup for sun protection along with
soothing hydration
■■ Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
■■ Allergy- and dermatologist-tested, vegan formulated
BENEFITS
■■ If used as directed with other sun protection measures, reduces the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging, and helps
prevent sunburn
■■ Aloe vera and green tea hydrate and soothe skin
■■ Vitamin E soothes skin
■■ Contains non-nano titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to help prevent sunburn
■■ Skin conditioners moisturize and soothe delicate facial skin

Understanding Sunscreens

** Labeling guidelines for sunscreens in the U.S are changing

*Only sunscreens that offer protection from both UVA & UVB rays can be labeled "broad - spectrum"

*Only broad- spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher can claim to reduce the risk of skin cancer or prevent early skin aging




Safe Sun Tips

Avoid the sun during peak hours (10-2) regardless of season


*There are two types of UV light that can harm your skin, UVA & UVB. A broad spectrum or full spectrum sinscreen is designed to protect you from both
*UVA rays can prematurely age your skin, causing wrinkling and age spots. UVB rays can burn your skin. Too much exposure to UVA or UVB rays can cause skin cancer. The best sunscreen offers protection from all UV light
*SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. That is a measure of how well the sunscreen deflects UVB rays. Manufacturers calculate SPF based on how long it takes to sunburn skin that has been treated with the sunscreen as compared to the skin that has not been treated.






Theoretically, the best sunscreen has the highest SPF number. When applied correctly, a sunscreen with an SPF 30 will provide slightly more protection from UVB rays than SPF 15, but not twice as much. Sunscreens with SPF greater than 50 provide only a small increase in UVB protection.

Sunscreen is often not applied thoroughly or quickly enough and it might be washed off in any water.

Rather than looking at sunscreen's SPF, choose a broad spectrum sunscreen that will protect you from both rays.

Sunscreen Ingredients
*Organic- Also called chemical sunscreens, organic sunscreens absorb UV radiation and convert it to a small amount of heat. This group of actice ingredients is the most widely used in sunscreens. organic suncreens might contain avobenzone, cinoxate, emasule, menthyl anthranilate, octyl methoxycinnamate, oxybenzone and sulisobenzone

*Inorganic- Also called phyiscal sunscreens. They reflect and scatter UV radiation. Inorganic sunscreens might contain titanium doixide or zinc oxide. Most broad spectrum sunscreens use both ingredients to block both UVA and UVB rays.


*Vitamins- Vitamin E can protect against UV-induced DNA damage. Vitamin C helps protect from sunburn

**Some sunscreens also contain the antioxidant retinl palmitate. A form of vitamin A or retinol. Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals- unstable oxygen molecules that break down skin cells that cause wrinkles. While concerns have been raised about sunscreens containing retinyl palmitate, research currently suggests that it is safe. However, there are no recommendations regarding pregnancy

Re9 Advanced.. Anti-Aging Skincare Results

Re9 Advanced- visible results in 24 hours

Collagen and elastin are two major protein fibers found within the skin cells. They are responsible for the skin structure and elasticity. As we age, collagen adn elastin production slow downand become sluggish and less effieient. Thickness of the skin decreases 6% every ten years, and skin loses its ability to hold moisture and becomes drier.

Re9 Advanced is a comprehensive, botanically based product assoprtment that addresses anti-aging concerns. Re9 Advances synergizes not one, but 9 major age defying elements and botanicals in a powerful system of products clinically proven to start working within 24 hours. the Re9 Advanced approach addresses skn health by pairing topical products with an age defying supplelement that accelerates results twice as fast, based on a a clinical study.

*Botanically based
*allergy tested
*dermatologist tested
*clinically proven
*formulated without gluten
*formulated without parabens, or formaldehyde-donating preservatives

Pt#4 Aging and Skin Care!

*Good, Anti-aging skincare helps to lessen the physical appearance of the 9 signs of skin aging, thereby giving the skin a regained youthful, healthy and vital appearance.
1. Loss of moisture
2. Rough skin texture
3.Signs of Fatigue
4. Loss of Radiance
5. Red Blotchiness
6. Loss of Elasticity
7. Loss of Firmness
8. Wrinkles & Fine Lines
9. Uneven Skin Tone
**All come from the 5 universes within the skin
  - skin barrier
  - skin protein structure
  - cellular DNA
  - cellular metabolism
  - skin pigmentation



Skin Barrier:
*Skin becomes more vulnerable to aging environmental aggressions
*skin becomes drier and require more moisturization
* Repair and protection of the moisture barrier is needed to achieve a radiant, healthy look

Skin Protein Structure:
*Skin's ability to maintain proper collagen and elastin synthesis declines
*skin loses its firmness and elasticity
*skin shows signs of slackening and sagging as a result
*deep lines and wrinkles form
* skin slackens around pores , making them look enlarged

Cellular DNA:
* cellular DNA damage is caused by free radicals
*cellular DNA damage has limited time to be repaired before its replicated
*once the damage is reproduced, it cannot be repaired. The skin's integrity is compromised and it looks more and more aged


Cellular Metabolism:
*metabolic energy is the life force of each cell, energy is needed for regeneration and protection
*cellular nutrition is required for proper cell metabolism
*cell longevity is affected by nutrition, energy loss and metabolic slowdown

Skin Pigmentation:
*melanin becomes over expressed due to excessive sun exposure and free radicals'
*skin tone becomes uneven, freckled and blotchy
*melanin accumulates and forms stubborn, dark age spots

9 Signs of Youthful Skin
1. skin texture looks smooth
2.skin looks radiant, young, refreshed
3.skin looks healthy and "alive"
4.skin is moisturized and protected
5. skintone looks even
6.skin looks and feels firm
7. skin is strong and resilient
8. skin looks calm and harmonious
9. no signs of lines or wrinkles


9 Signs of Skin Aging
1.skin texture looks rough
2. skin looks dull, lifeless and lackluster
3. skin looks tired, fatigued
4.skin loses moisture, looks/feels dry
5. dark age spots are visible
6. skin is sagging, loses firmness
7. skin is lax, loses elasticity
8. skin becomes reddened more easily
9. lines and wrinkles from

Part 3 : The aging process

** The skin ages in two different ways:
    Biological (intrinsic aging)
    Environmental (actinic or extrinsic)

When waging a war against time, you must know your enemy..prevention and protection are critical to maintaining a youthful appearance


*According to the American Academy of Dermatology:

     - production of collagen and elastin slows down a dramatic 65% between ages 20 and 80.
    - the thickness of skin decreases a staggering 6% every ten years
     -  the sun causes 90-95% of the wrinkles, lines as well as brown, red and white discolorations on our bodies

**Intrinsic aging accounts for 10% of the visible signs of aging. Many intrinsic factors are hereditary due to the genetic information being passed down through the generations. Family background and history play a major role. In general, the darker the skin, the less visible aging will take place. Thicker skin does not show aging as fast as thinner, more fragile skin types.

**Actinic aging is caused by external factors such as smoking, excessive use of alcohol, poor nutrition and sun exposure with 90% of premature facial aging attributed to sun damage. The visible symptoms of actinic aging include: wrinkling, sagging, discoloration, unsightly pigmented spots, thin skin, spidery lines and lack of color. The appearance of actinic aging can be minimized with proper protection from the sun and lifestyle changes.

The Role of Free Radicals in Photo-Aging
Free Radicals, also known as reactive oxygen species (ROS) are considerred to be a major contributor to the aging process. Free Radicals are created by UV exposure, pollution, stress, smoking and normal metabolic processes. Free Radicals bring about chances that lead to the degradation of the skin's firmness (collagen) and elasticity (elastin) that is characteristic of photo-aged skin. Antioxidants help neutralize and stablize these ROS. Antioxidants are a primary detense against the aging effects of free radicals.

Wrinkles:
The aging of skin follows a biological timeline, Changes occur throughout the skin, which results in a wide range of changes in the appearance of the complexion. Visible aging of the skin starts at about age 25 as the natural regenerative process begins to slow. The skin replaces old cells more slowly, and there is a slower turnover of the surface skin and slower wound healing. Wrinkles start to form.

***In your 20's
    -First wrinkles appear around the eyes and lips
***In your 30's
    - skin becomes less resilient, allowing gravity to take its toll
***In your 40's
    - As elasticity begins to diminish, skin loses its ability to snap back
    -Repetitive movements, such as frowning, squinting or smoking form the first permanent wrinkles
***In your 50's
    - Gravity combined with the decrease in collagen and elastin synthesis, causes the skin to sag
     - Exposed skin has mottled hyper-pigmentation and shows dark spots referred to as age spots.
     - oil producing (sebaceous) glands become much less active and skin becomes drier, more fragile and sensitive to environmental factors

The aging skin series Part 2: Skin Types

Skin Types:
1.Oily
2.Combination
3.Normal
4.Dry

Oily: Produces an excessive amount of oil all over the face everyday, all day long. The skin looks shiny due to the presence of an oily film. It also looks course and rough in texture. Blackheads and blemishes may be present. Pores generally look enlarged.

Combination: This skin type is like having two different skin types on the same face. Combination skin generally experiences an oily skin type in the t-zone and dry skin on the cheeks.

Normal: Not too dry or too oily. Blemishes are uncommon, as skin looks soft and supple. Pores are generally small and not noticeable. Skin looks healthy and smooth.

Dry: When skin loses its ability to product oils and maintain moisture, it feels dry. Though it may look smooth, with small pores; it may have a tight, leathery appearance.

Aging Skin...Part 1

Hey there! I'm going to do a short series on aging skin and anti aging products. So you have a better understanding of why the process happens and what you can and cant do about it. I'll start with a little bit about understanding the skin in general, and well go from there. This post is going to be about pH balance.

A few things in stores now, like water for example are starting to state that the product has a balanced pH. This can be confusing because they all say a different number..so what is balanced and what are the alternatives??

The pH factor:
The acidity or alkalinity of a substance is measured on the pH scale, which ranges from 0 (extremely acidic as in lemon juice) to 7 (neutral as in water) to 14 (extremely alkaline, as in lye).

Maintaining the skin's pH factor helps maintani a proper balance of the "acid mantle", which aids in protecting the body from bacteria and helps prevent moisture loss. An exception to this is any product containing significant levels of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA's). AHA's require an acidic pH around 3.0 in order to maintain an effective exfoliating ability.

Our skin has a special feature:its surface is slightly acidic . On average the pH value of the skin is 5.5.

Arbonne products that contain AHA's are formulated to be as gentle as possible, without losing their effectiveness.

Look for THESE plant powered ingredients for anti-aging skincare!

**Look for these ingredients in your anti-aging skincare labels, to replace the harmful chemicals that are in many of the common over the counter or even prescription products that are out there.

Re9 Advanced: Want to stop skin from acting its age? The Re9 Advanced Collection is Arbonne's Premier anti-aging skincare line, clinically tested to help improve skin firmness in just 24 hours. The formulas are powered by nine major age- defying elements plus breakthrough botanicals, and a collagen- supporting supplement. This means visible results; the appearance of fewer fine lines and wrinkles, and more youthful - looking skin. Age- Its only a #.

Scientific Ingredients:

Stabilized Vitamin C, Elhibin: Helps to support skin's moisture balance and condition skin for supple appearance

Alpha Lipoic Acid: promotes the appearance of radiant skin

Vitaspheres: provide antioxidant protection for smooth and supple skin

Peptides: Enhance skin smoothness, diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

                                                 Key Botanicals 


Algae Extract: Moisturizes to support collagen and help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

Bio-Hydria complex and copper: Soften and condition the skin

Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids: Reveal the next layer of skin, reduce signs of aging and improve skin texture

Sea Buckthorn oil: supports supple tone and smooth looking skin

Kudzu Root Extract: Improves the appearance of skin firmness and tone

Marine Lavender: Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles

Beech Tree Bud Extract: smooths the appearance of wrinkles 

Plant powered Nutrition part 2 : Key Botanicals

Key Botanicals for Plant Powered Nutrition

*Black Pepper: Contains piperine, a constituent in black pepper that helps increase select nutrient uptake so nutrients are better utilized by the body.

*Milk Thistle : contains silymarin, supports liver health, which in turn supports production of the body's powerful, internally made antioxidant glutathione

*Red Clover: contains antioxidant isoflavones to help support bone health

*Green Tea: Great source of antioxidants, such as epigallocatechin gallate

*Black Cohosh: Botanical known to help support women's balance during menopause

*Marine Algae: Source of DHA, an omega 3 fatty acid for the maintenance of good health and cognitive support

* Green Coffee: Source of chlorogenic acids to help support weight management

*Glucomannan Root: Gives sense of fullness to help support weight management

*Senna : Helps support gastrointestinal health

*White Willow: salicin, a constituent of white willow, helps support joints

*Gingseng: Helps support alertness and enhance cognitive performance

*Pea Protein: Supports sense of fullness and delivers amino acids to support muscles

*Epicor: clinically proven to support immune health

Plant Powered Nutrition Part 1.

Here's something easy to take: Arbonne plant powered nutritional products provide all the nutrients you need with high qualify formulas for everybody.

**What is plant powered nutrition??

It's formulas with phytonutrients, which are unique, beneficial botanical compounds that support your health. Most Arbonne Nutritionals are formulated with standardized botanical extracts so you get the same nutrient amounts everytime, for optimum health benefits.

Our vegan and gluten-free certified products are developed with premium blends of vitamins, minerals, botancals, antioxidants, enzymes, prebiotics and probiotics for maximum product effectiveness.

Good for your whole family and good for you. Live an extraordinary, healthy life.

Personal care ingredient awareness in the U.S vs Europe

http://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/natural-beauty-fashion/stories/us-government-has-little-authority-to-stop-unsafe-cosmetics

Thankfully for social media, this awareness is starting
To spread like rapid fire, on a hot, dry day. Cancer awareness, mental health awareness
Have all aided in this completely unacceptable topic.

What's even more upsetting is that this is the easy way out for personal care companies,
The toxic chemicals are the cheapest way out, cheaper and faster. Which makes
It incredibly hard for product lines that do a respectful job with proper ingredients
To even come close to competing in that price range.

To any followers in England, Ireland ,Switzerland , anywhere really, I am
Familiar with some of the laws and guidelines you may have for this industry,
But what about the public view and the public awareness?
Cheers

GMO Safety, Information and Tidbits thanks to GMO Free USA

GMO SAFETY

THERE IS NO SCIENTIFIC CONSENSUS ON THE SAFETY OF GMOs

GMO LABELING MUST BE MANDATORY

Though the debates continue, experts agree that there is no consensus on the safety of GMOs. Organizations aligned with the agrichemical/biotech industry often mislead the public with claims of absolute safety when, in fact, the safety of GMOs is fully inconclusive. In the absence of a consensus on the safety of GMOs, it is recommended that mandatory labeling standards be enacted to allow the public a choice whether they consume Genetically Engineered/GM food or not.

American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM): “because GM foods pose a serious health risk in the areas of toxicology, allergy and immune function, reproductive health, and metabolic, physiologic and genetic health and are without benefit, the AAEM believes that it is imperative to adopt the precautionary principle”
http://www.aaemonline.org/gmopost.html

Glyphosate is the active chemical ingredient in Roundup herbicide as well as many other name brand glyphosate-based weedkillers. These herbicides are the most widely used in the world and their use has increased exponentially with the introduction of Genetically Engineered (GMO) crops. Largely because of the spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds, herbicide-tolerant GMO crops have led to a 527 million pound increase in herbicide use in the U.S. from 1996 through 2011 (1).


*** Also see Boston Article that I blogged about earlier noting the most common fruits and veggies to have the highest level of pesticides in them.

• GMO – genetically modified organism. GM – genetically modified. GE – genetic engineering or genetically engineered. GMO and GE are interchangeable in contemporary terminology.
• GMOs are created and patented by agrichemical (chemical/biotech) companies such as Monsanto, Syngenta, DuPont-Pioneer, Dow, Bayer CropScience, and BASF.
• GMOs are banned or restricted in over 60 countries. [1]
• GMOs are created through transgenic engineering, completely unlike traditional breeding. GMOs are made by forcing genes from one species into the DNA of an unrelated species in order to introduce a new trait. This can not occur in the natural world. For example: inserting a coldwater fish gene into a tomato plant so that the tomato plant won’t freeze in the winter. Another example would be inserting a bacterial gene toxic to insects into corn plant so that corn worms die when they attempt to eat the corn. [2]
• GMOs are inadequately or not safety tested. In the United States the FDA does not do safety studies and allows biotech companies to do their own studies. These industry “studies,” which always present GMOs favorably, are kept secret from the public. [3] [4] [5] [6]
• The FLAVR SAVR tomato was the first genetically engineered crop product to be commercialized, but failed in the market and now no longer exists. GMO soy was introduced in 1996 and GMO corn shortly thereafter. Since then, many commodity crops have undergone genetic engineering and represent the majority of what is grown in the USA today, unbeknownst to most Americans.
• GMOs currently on the market are corn, soy, canola, sugar beet, cotton, alfalfa, Hawaiian Rainbow papaya, yellow crookneck squash, zucchini, and derivatives of those crops including cottonseed oil. Aspartame is also a GMO. GMO ingredients are used in as much as 80% all processed foods in America. [7

Which fruits tend to have the most pesticides?

http://m.wcvb.com/buzz60/which-fruit-has-the-most-pesticides/38995644?utm_campaign=WCVB%20Channel%205%20Boston&utm_content=sh2014&utm_medium=FBPAGE&utm_source=Social

Blog to blog : touching on another healthy writers advice on summer preparation

http://www.hellobeautyblog.com/2016/03/tips-for-getting-ready-for-warmer-weather/?sf24018811=1

Cellular Renewal Masque mentioned in "Mom Blog"! Check it out

http://www.allbeautifulmommies.com/blog/entry/3973070/-why-you-need-to-take-a-break-from-your-beauty-routine

Natural News Chemical Numbers

All from NaturalNews.com
* The average woman puts 515 Chemicals in her body everyday.


The following products are things that we all use EVERY DAY.

*Shampoo: Average # of Chemicals: 15
   Most worrying: Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Tertasodium, propylene glycol

* Eye Shadow: Average # of Chemicals:26
     Most worrying: plythylene terephthalate
     Possible side effects: linked to cancer, infertility, hormonal disruptions and organ damage

*Lipstick: Chemicals:33
   Most Worrying : polymenthyl methacrylate


*Nail Varnish: Chemicals:31
   Most worrying: phthalates

*Hairspray: Chemicals:11
    Most worrying: octinoxate, isophthalates

*Blusher: Chemicals:16
    Most worrying: ethylparabens, methylparaben,propylparaben

*Foundation: Chemicals:24
    Most worrying: polymethyl methacrylate

*Deodorant: Chemicals : 15
    Most worrying: isopropyl myristate "parfum"

*Body Lotion : Chemicals : 32
   Most worrying: methylparaben, propylparaben, polyethylene glycol (found in oven cleaners)

*Perfume : Chemicals: 250!
    Most worrying: Benzaldehyde


*Fake Tan: Chemicals: 22
   Most worrying: Parabens

**Tidbits from a study done by Bionsen, a company in the U.K that sells aluminum free body products

*Average woman applies 515 chemicals to her face daily
*Average 13 different beauty products, most contain at least 20 ingredients and additives
*Most perfumes contain over 400 ingredients

Rain for Dayz

Hey everyone! Total weather bust down here in the south this weekend. Although I have to say that we are just on the line of it being just crummy weather, and it being pretty dangerous. So were lucky on that one. Its just warm enough here in not-so-sunny SC that the storm front is only bringing rain, and it has yet to freeze on us. Just north of us in Charlotte is looking pretty messy at the moment. So this is what I'm up to today.
Cuddly sleeping dogs...


And inspiring success stories....what more could you want? Coffee or tea to go with that?

Cheers and enjoy!

Jojoba beads intead of microbeads in scrubs

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells. Its key to healthy, soft and glowing  skin.
Microbeads are use in a wide variety of bath and beauty products and can be found in soap, toothpaste and scrubs. The difference is that microbeads are not made from jojoba oil like the jojoba beads. Microbeads are made of plastic (commonly polyethylene)
After the microbeads are used, they usually go down the drain. The microbeads then flow through the sewer system and wastewater treatment plants, which are not able to filter the beads due to the small size. This causes plastc water pollution. In 2015, samples from 6 ny filter plants found that nearly 3/4 of the treated water contained microbeads. Microbeads are not biodegradable.

There is something you can do to help. Chances are if the ingredients are this bad for the environment, they are bad for your skin as well. Luckily there are products out there that do not contain microbeads. Arbonne products use jojoba beads, among other botanicals as a safer alternative.

Jojoba beads are commonly mistaken for microbeads as they look similar. Jojoba oil is a liquid wax, when made solid, become the jojoba beads. Beat the microbead is a campaign to ban the ingredient from products in the u.s. Which has just been succesful. Microbeads can act like tiny sponges, taking in harmful chemicals before being eaten, usually by marine life. It provides an app that allows consumers to determine whether they contain the plastic beads and whether the manufacturer has agreed to remove them or not.

Just another thing to look out for in the saftey of your personal care products!

ahhh Teavana!!

I'm so excited to be totally immersed in these products now. I got a ton of the products for Christmas, and my interest  has sparked the interest of a lot of my family members. Now we all enjoy the tea! It started when I was served loose tea from a friend. She remarked that it was markedly better than bagged tea. Up until that point I hadn't thought too much about it but after I had what she gave me, I was totally hooked. Loose tea tastes so much more pure, I love it! Lots of flavors to choose from , there is something for everyone!!