Kefir is a fermented dairy product that has been around for centuries. The exact origins of kefir are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the Caucasus Mountains, a region that spans the modern-day countries of Russia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. According to history, kefir was first discovered by nomadic shepherds who noticed that their milk had fermented and preserved during their long travels after being carried in leather pouches made from animal hides. Over time, these shepherds discovered that the fermented milk had a pleasing taste and could be stored for very long periods of time without ever spoiling. They began to use kefir as a staple food, and eventually, the knowledge of how to make kefir spread throughout the region.
Kefir grains are a combination of lactic acid bacteria and yeast, and they look like small, rubbery cauliflower florets. When added to milk, they feed on the lactose and convert it into lactic acid, which gives kefir its pleasing tangy flavor, and carbon dioxide, which makes it slightly effervescent. One of the main benefits of kefir is its ability to improve digestion. The lactic acid bacteria and yeast in kefir help break down lactose, making it easier for lactose intolerant people to digest dairy products. Kefir also contains a variety of other beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, which can help balance the gut microbiome and reduce inflammation. Kefir also contains a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are important for maintaining strong bones, healthy nerves, and overall vitality.
While kefir and yogurt are both fermented dairy products, there are some key differences between them. For one, kefir typically contains more bacterial strains than yogurt. While the exact number can vary depending on the specific kefir or yogurt product, kefir generally contains anywhere from 10 to 20 different strains of bacteria and yeast, whereas yogurt typically contains only a few strains of bacteria, usually two to three. The greater variety of bacterial strains found in kefir is one reason why it is often considered to be a more beneficial food for gut health than yogurt. This variety of bacteria can help to populate the gut with a diverse range of beneficial microbes, which can have positive effects on digestion, immune function, and overall health. The bacteria in kefir are also known to be more resilient and longer-lasting than those in yogurt, which means they can survive better in the harsh environment of the digestive system. The yogurt bacteria is typically flushed out of the system within 24-48 hours, whereas the Kefir bacteria strains actually stay for a much longer time and begin to populate and grow in the gut. This is important because these bacteria can lead to better digestion and better overall health.
One of the great things about kefir is that it is very easy to make at home. You can purchase kefir grains online (here’s where I get mine: yemoos.com) or at a health food store, and then use them to ferment milk for 24-48 hours. Once the milk has been fermented, you can strain out the kefir grains and use them to make another batch of kefir and keep repeating the process. With each batch the grains multiply and you have more. I usually give my extra away to family and friends. It's a simple and sustainable way to incorporate this beneficial food into your diet.
Kefir can be a great addition to your skincare routine, whether used topically or consumed internally. When applied topically, kefir can provide a number of benefits to the skin. The probiotics found in kefir can help improve the skin's natural barrier function, which can reduce inflammation and irritation, and improve skin hydration. Kefir also contains lactic acid, which is a gentle exfoliant that can help brighten and smooth the skin.
Face Mask: One way to use kefir topically is to apply it as a face mask. To do this, simply apply a thin layer of kefir to your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. Mix kefir with other ingredients, such as honey or oatmeal, for an even more nourishing mask.
Cleanser: Kefir can also be used as a gentle cleanser. Simply apply a small amount of kefir to a cotton pad and use it to cleanse your face. The probiotics in kefir help remove impurities from the skin, while the lactic acid can gently exfoliate and brighten the complexion.
Bath: Add kefir to your bath. Simply pour a cup or two of kefir into your bathwater and soak in it for 15-20 minutes. This can help to soothe dry or irritated skin, and leave skin feeling so soft and hydrated.
Kefir’s probiotic and nutrient-rich properties can help promote a healthy body and healthy skin from the inside out. You should give it a try!
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I saw this on TV and couldn't help but begin my research! It was so interesting to me.
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that is 30 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide, and cows produce a lot of it during digestion. The amount of methane from livestock production alone is about the equivalent of the emissions from about 650 million cars. But, there might be a solution to this problem, and it involves seaweed. Yes, you read that right, seaweed!
Asparagopsis seaweed, a type of pinky-red fern-like seaweed found in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, has been getting a lot of attention lately for its potential to reduce methane emissions from cows. When Asparagopsis is freeze-dried and fed to cows as a supplement, researchers have found that they can significantly reduce the amount of methane the planet’s 1.5 billion cows emit in their burps. In fact, studies have shown that it can reduce their methane emissions by 98%. That's a pretty big deal, right?
So, how does it work? Well, when cows digest their food, the bacteria in their gut produce methane as a byproduct. Asparagopsis seaweed contains compounds that inhibit the growth of these bacteria, which means less methane is produced. It's a simple solution, that does not harm the animal or their meat and could have a big impact on global greenhouse gas emissions.
But, the benefits of asparagopsis seaweed don't stop there. Seaweed farming is a highly sustainable practice. It requires no fresh water or fertilizer, and can be grown in areas where other crops cannot. Furthermore, seaweed has a high growth rate and can absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as it grows. This means that seaweed farming could play an important role in mitigating climate change.
Of course, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. One of the biggest challenges is scaling up production. Currently, there is a limited supply of asparagopsis seaweed, and it can be difficult to cultivate on a large scale. However, researchers are working on developing new methods of seaweed cultivation that can be more efficient and scalable.
Another challenge is the cost. Asparagopsis seaweed is more expensive than traditional cow feed, which could be a barrier to widespread adoption. However, the benefits of reducing methane emissions and mitigating climate change could outweigh the cost in the long run.
Asparagopsis seaweed could be a game-changer in the fight against climate change. By reducing methane emissions from cows, seaweed could significantly reduce their contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. It might not be the most obvious solution, but sometimes the most innovative solutions come from unexpected places!
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This is actually a very common question. Dry skin and dehydrated skin are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Here's what you need to know:
Dry Skin
Dry skin is a skin type and is caused by a lack of oils. It occurs when your skin doesn't produce enough oil (sebum) to keep it moisturized. Dry skin is often genetic, meaning that you may have inherited it from your parents. It can also be exacerbated by environmental factors such as the cold, dry weather, or exposure to harsh chemicals in products.
Dehydrated Skin
Dehydrated skin is a skin condition and is caused by a lack of water. It occurs when your skin doesn't have enough water. Dehydrated skin can affect any skin type, even oily skin. Dehydrated skin is often caused by external factors such as air conditioning, heating, or exposure to the sun. It is also caused by internal factors such as a poor diet or not drinking enough water.
How to Tell if You Have Dry Skin or Dehydrated Skin
Now that you know the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin, you may be wondering how to tell which one you have. Here are some signs to look for:
Dry Skin
Dehydrated Skin
The good news is that both dry skin and dehydrated skin can be treated with the right skincare routine and a few lifestyle changes. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Dry Skin
Dehydrated Skin
While dry skin and dehydrated skin share some similarities, they are different conditions that require different approaches to treatment. Understanding the difference between the two can help you identify which skincare products and habits are best for your skin type and condition.
We are all going to age, that’s just a fact of life, there’s nothing we can do about it, but HOW we age . . . well, there’s a lot we can do about that.
Skincare is an important part of our daily routine. It's not just about looking good, but also about feeling good. The way we take care of our skin when we're young can have a huge impact on how it looks and feels as we age. Many people tend to start taking care of their skin when problems arise or when they notice the early signs of aging. We call this reactive skincare. We say don’t be reactive but rather be proactive! We are a big proponent of proactive skincare; practicing good, clean skincare from a young age. Proactive skincare involves taking steps to prevent damage to your skin, rather than just reacting to it when it becomes a problem. Its great to start at a young age so the habits form early, but it's never too late to begin taking care of your skin in a proactive way!
Proactive skincare involves a combination of a healthy lifestyle, a clean skincare routine, and protection from harmful external factors. Taking care of the skin from an early age helps the skin be the healthiest it can be, so as we age our skin ages in the best way that it possibly can. It's much easier to maintain healthy skin than to try to fix damaged skin.
So what are some of the things you can do to practice proactive skincare? Here are a few tips to consider:
By taking preventive measures from a young age, you can avoid problems and maintain your skin's health and beauty for years to come. So, if you haven't already, start taking care of your skin proactively today!
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Gardening is not only a great way to grow your own food and enjoy the outdoors, but it also has a surprising benefit for our microbiome. Getting your hands dirty in the garden can be incredibly beneficial for the health of your skin and your overall well-being.
It's important to understand what the microbiome is. The microbiome is the collection of microorganisms that live on and in our bodies. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining our health by aiding in digestion, fighting off harmful bacteria, and even influencing our mood.
When we come into contact with dirt while gardening, we're exposing ourselves to a diverse array of microorganisms that we wouldn't encounter otherwise. Studies have shown that exposure to these microbes can have a positive impact on our immune system, reducing our risk of allergies and autoimmune diseases. In fact, it’s been found that children who grow up on farms have a lower risk of asthma and allergies than those who don't.
But what about the benefits for our skin? Our skin is the largest organ in our body, and it's also home to a diverse community of microorganisms. These microorganisms play a key role in protecting our skin. When we come into contact with dirt and soil, we're exposing our skin to a brand new set of microorganisms. This exposure can help to diversify the microbiome of our skin, which has been linked to a number of skin benefits, including improved hydration, reduced inflammation, and a stronger skin barrier. Studies have shown that people who spend time gardening have a more diverse microbiome on their skin than those who don't. This increased diversity can have a number of benefits for our skin health, including reducing the risk of skin infections and improving overall skin health and appearance.
If you're looking for a way to improve your overall health and the health of your skin, consider taking up gardening! Not only is it a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, but it can also have a positive impact on your microbiome and overall well-being. So go ahead, get your hands dirty, and reap the benefits of gardening for your skin and health.
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Hemp Seed Oil is definitely up there on my list of favorite ingredients, I use it in many of my formulations. Hemp Seed Oil is derived from the seeds of the hemp plant, which is a variety of the Cannabis Sativa plant species. It has become increasingly popular as an ingredient in skincare due to its amazing benefits for the skin. It is a natural, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly ingredient that is packed with nutrients essential for healthy skin.
It has so many benefits, one of the most significant being its ability to moisturize without clogging pores. It is a light oil that is very easily absorbed by the skin, making it an excellent choice for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It is actually beneficial for use any skin type.
What makes Hemp Seed Oil so unique is its amino acid composition. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for growth, repair, and maintenance of the skin. Hemp Seed Oil is one of the few raw ingredients that is rich in all 20 amino acids, including the 9 essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. This makes Hemp Seed Oil a complete protein source that can provide the skin with the essential nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
This amino acid composition makes Hemp Seed Oil an excellent source of antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which are molecules that can damage skin cells and cause premature aging. Amino acids also play a role in helping balance the skin's moisture levels. They are able to penetrate the skin and help regulate the production of sebum, the oil that is naturally produced by the skin. This can be particularly beneficial for people who’s skin produces too much sebum causing skin to become oily or acne-prone. By regulating the production of sebum and allowing the skin to maintain a proper balance, Amino acids can help prevent breakouts and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
In addition to its amino acid composition, Hemp Seed Oil is also rich in other nutrients beneficial for the skin. It is high in vitamins A and E. Vitamin A helps promote cell turnover, while vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from environmental stressors such as pollution and UV rays.
Hemp Seed Oil is an excellent source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids help strengthen the skin's barrier function, prevent water loss keeping skin hydrated, improve the skin’s texture, tone, and reduce inflammation. Inflammation being a common cause of issues like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
You can find Hemp Seed Oil in our Whipped Body Butter and Whipped Face Butter as well as our Whipped Body Scrub and Whipped Facial Scrub.
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Much more than you may think . . .
The gut microbiome, also known as gut flora, refers to the trillions of microorganisms that reside in our gastrointestinal tract. These microorganisms play a critical role in maintaining our overall health and wellbeing. However, recent research has also shown that the gut microbiome can have a significant impact on the health and appearance of our skin.
The link between the gut microbiome and skin health is a relatively new area of research, but findings so far have been very significant. Studies have shown that when the gut microbiome is not in proper balance, it can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, which can lead to skin inflammation, in turn leading to a range of skin conditions. By contrast, a healthy gut microbiome can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can lead to clearer, healthier skin.
Another way that the gut microbiome affects the skin is through the production of certain chemicals and hormones. For example, the gut microbiome is responsible for producing short-chain fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help to promote healthy skin. The gut microbiome is also involved in the production of certain hormones, such as serotonin, which can affect mood and stress levels, both of which can impact skin health.
So, how can we improve the health of our gut microbiome to improve our skin health? One of the most effective ways is through diet. Eating a diet that is rich in fiber, prebiotics, and probiotics can help to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Foods that are rich in probiotics include fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, while prebiotic foods include vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
In addition to diet, other lifestyle factors such as getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and managing stress through techniques such as meditation and yoga can all help to support a healthy gut microbiome and improve skin health.
The gut microbiome, is similar to the beneficial skin microbiome (flora) that populate our skin and protect us. Our body is like a magnificent ecosystem, where one part depends on, is affected by, and takes care of the other parts. It is so important to keep this ecosystem in proper balance so that all parts may work together in harmony for the benefit of our health and wellbeing.
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I’ve got dry skin. Few people’s skin is as dry as mine. I’ve struggled with it pretty much all my adult life, so believe me when I say that I’ve tried just about everything with no luck. Until, completely by accident, I stumbled upon the fix to my dry skin, and I couldn’t believe how simple it was.
One morning after my shower, in an effort to save time, I didn’t fully dry off like I usually do. Instead I applied my Whipped Body Butter to damp skin and Face Butter to a damp face. That act alone of applying to damp skin made all the difference in the world! My skin just soaked up that butter like I’ve never seen it do. If you think about it, it makes complete sense. Think of the skin like a sponge. A bone dry sponge just won’t absorb anything, but when it is dampened it will quickly absorb! So, next time you apply moisturizer, try dampening your skin first. You’ll be surprised at the difference it makes!
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At Sans Skincare our primary focus is your health.
We want to create products that are effective but also healthy. Our products are phthalate-free, paraben-free, we don’t use mineral oils, we won’t use fragrances, our products don’t contain harmful chemicals of any kind and they are all made from plant butters and oils.
But we don’t stop there.
No. We go much further.
We are the ONLY company talking about flora (bacteria) and their importance to our skin. Our tag line is “Pro-Flora for Healthy Skin”. Our products do not destroy, but work with the flora that exist on our skin. Other skincare products, contain ingredients that destroy these incredibly important and protective flora. This is an area that is gaining more and more attention by the medical field. The medical field is now realizing how important these protective flora are to our health and well-being. They are discovering that flora may even protect us from cancer.
Click through to an article published in UC San Diego Health that illustrates how important these flora are. More and more research like this is coming to light as scientists and doctors understand how vitally important these bacteria are to our health.
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Bacteria. Yuck . . . kill it, get rid of it, get it out of my environment, right? It’s a mindset, something we have all been taught.
But, what if I told you that not all bacteria is bad for you? There is actually a plethora of bacteria that populate your skin that is good for you, so much so that without it, your immune system would not be able to properly protect you from infection and disease and your skin would be susceptible to a variety of skin ailments including acne, psoriasis, and eczema just to name a few.
Skin isn’t supposed to be a sterile surface. We all have bacteria in our bodies and on our skin, it’s there from birth. And its there to protect us. The bacteria on our skin change from day to day. Bacteria is different for different people and can be determined by factors such as how we are born, our environment, the people with whom we come into contact, and the products we use on our skin. Scientists know now that it is crucially important that we protect this good bacteria on our skin for our overall health and wellbeing.
It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain this much needed good bacteria on our skin, these good bacteria are sensitive and can easily be destroyed leaving an abundance of the “bad” bacteria. But it should be noted that the bad bacteria are actually not bad until they no longer have the good bacteria to keep them in check. Exactly like an ecosystem in nature, our skin requires a balance of both good and bad bacteria for it to function properly. We have long been disrupting this finely balanced ecosystem that lives on our skin with the use of antibacterial products, our constant compulsion to always be clean and sanitized, and an overuse of products with preservatives in them.
How do we protect our good bacteria?
It’s no secret, we ARE obsessed with clean. We disinfect our homes, we disinfect our hands, we are clean, clean, clean. It’s time to throw all of our preconceived notions of clean = healthy right out the window. Stay away from anything called “anti-bacterial”. Triclosan, the active ingredient found in many hand sanitizers and other personal care products, is now under safety review by the Food and Drug Administration. Introduced as a pesticide in 1969, triclosan has been implicated in hormonal disruption, skin irritation, and antibiotic resistance. Also skin products that contain any amounts of water, aloe vera, apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, honey, goat’s milk, just to name a few ingredients (there are many more) need preserving. A preservative works by killing bacteria in the product, but when the product is applied to the skin, it also kills the bacteria on the skin.
So get outside! It’s time to take walks in nature, swim in a lake, play with a dog, walk barefoot, and stay away from products that kill bacteria on the skin. Just as nature’s ecosystem must maintain a fine balance with a variety of species that keep each other in check and help the whole thrive, the same is true when it comes to our skin. We must protect all of our natural bacteria in order for our overall health to thrive.
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Recently, I attended an all-day symposium for the spa industry. Being a yearly event, each year a different theme is chosen. This year health and wellness was the topic since that is an area that is really trending.
Many of the names associated with high-end luxury in the spa industry were in attendance; Four Seasons, Canyon Ranch, and other well recognized names. The discussions revolved around the public's desire to achieve health and wellness and how the spa industry is changing to accommodate those desires. The public is increasingly concerned in not just exterior wellness and beauty but the wellness and beauty that lies within; having a spiritual mind and a healthy body. The spas are changing to cater to what the public wants. Many larger "destination" spas are bringing exterior and interior health and beauty together. These larger destination spas have amazing facilities that boast staff well-trained in the areas of nutrition, exercise, yoga, meditation, as well as treatments on their menus that would knock your socks off! Their grounds are well-maintained, creating serene, lush spaces that incorporate nature into every aspect of the experience.
"This is all consumer driven", says one of the speakers, "Our clients are asking for it". Yes, it is consumer driven indeed, and the spas are delivering. One by one the speakers talked about the wonderful changes that are occurring in their facilities so as to create a more 'natural' environment. One by one they spoke about the dramatic shift in philosophy within the entire spa industry. Slides were flashed onto a screen of beautiful grounds with incredible pools, amazing structures with equally impressive treatment rooms. It was all so beautiful, so one with nature … or was it?
As the day wrapped up and we said our good byes, the topics discussed throughout the day filled my mind. I continued to think about the topic of health and wellness, the speakers, the push to incorporate nature into the entire spa experience, the desire to make it a more natural experience because this is what the consumers want. But something just didn’t feel right, something was off, something was missing. The more I thought, the more it bothered me until it suddenly occurred to me what it was. All of the presentations that were so informatively and thoughtfully delivered, all of the beautiful slides that showed amazing facilities costing large dollars to build with the goal being to give the consumer an experience that incorporates health and wellness, every aspect of the spa experience was addressed to achieve that end, except one.
Perhaps the one most important component of the entire spa experience was missing. This one component, no one talked about. What about the actual products that are being used on the client’s skin during the treatments? No one had even mentioned the products that come directly in contact with their clients. Most of these products that they are massaging into the skin of their clients are far from natural and do not promote health and wellness. Today, 75 percent of people are more conscious of the products that they use than five years ago. Consumers are educated, they are checking labels. They want products, in all areas of their lives, that are pure and natural. Just what are they putting onto your skin at some of these spas?
This idea of health and wellness is truly consumer driven and nothing changes until the consumer demands that it change. In this case water flows up in that I have noticed this change happening in the smaller spas because their clients are asking for it and the smaller spas are listening. Perhaps it is because the smaller spas form close relationships with their clients because of repeat business. These smaller boutique spas are concerned about what they are using on their client’s skin, because they feel a personal responsibility to care for their clients. I am hoping, as the consumers ask, that the larger spas and resorts will listen and the idea of full health and wellness in all areas of the spa experience will be commonplace.
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So, ok, I know this post is going to make a few of you say "what???" And I have to admit, when I first heard of this I said the same thing, but let me tell you sister, I AM a believer. I'm talking about Oil Cleansing your skin instead of using soap.
The Oil Cleansing method is not new. People have been doing it for a very long time with very, very good results, but it just sounds wrong, right? Actually no. The premise behind the Oil Cleansing method is one of the best known rules of chemistry that states, "like dissolves like", in this case, oil dissolves oil. Let me explain it this way: Our skin produces sebum (oil), well, actually our sebaceous glands, which are found in our skin and mucus membranes, produces the sebum. The function of sebum is to moisturize, lubricate, and protect skin and hair. Healthy sebum production is essential for the integrity and normal function of the skin as a protective organ. But sometimes what happens is the sebum gets clogged in our pores, this is what causes blackheads and other skin problems. By Oil Cleansing, you help dissolve the oils that have built up in the pores, because the oil you use to clean, will penetrate and actually dissolve the oil clogged in your pores. Sounds crazy right? It actually works, and it works well!
Here's how you do it:
Take a cotton ball and saturate it with some of the oil cleanser, now gently wipe your makeup off and wipe the rest of your face. Repeat this until you get a dirt-free cotton ball. Now wet a washcloth with warm water and press onto your face and leave it there until the washcloth turns cold. Then wipe your skin with the washcloth. Dry your face and you're done! And your face IS clean. You now may or may not need a moisturizer, let your skin tell you what it needs. I usually follow up with the Nourish Face Serum for night. The next morning, Best. Skin. Ever!
The other day I was watching Dr. Phil and I was really shocked at the product he was promoting. A product called Boots No. 7 Serum that claims to reduce wrinkles. There was even a skin expert on with Dr. Phil also promoting the product for skin health and wrinkle reduction.
First, I'm always, always skeptical whenever I hear of a product that reduces wrinkles, red flags everywhere. My thought is that if there actually was a product that really, truly does reduce wrinkles, wouldn't we know about it? Why would women all over the world be spending thousands trying every product under the sun if there was that one product that actually did get rid of those wrinkles? Hmm, good question, right? I used to be that woman trying everything, wrinkles are still here :/ (I've learned to embrace them).
So, in my usual manner, whenever I hear of a product that sounds too good to be true, I always resort to research. So research I did and here's what I found.
There was one study done on the efficacy of this product. This study was carried out by scientists at the University of Manchester. The conclusion was that this Boots serum was just as effective at stimulating collagen production as tretinoin (a drug that is related to Retiol). That sounds great until you learn that Boots paid for the research, which means they had a vested interest in making sure the study made their product look great. Also, because the study was done "blind" instead of double-blind, the researchers knew who was getting which treatment. This type of study isn't as reliable as double-blind studies because, especially when money is at stake, there is a natural bias toward making sure the product in question comes out in the best possible light. A study paid for by the company selling the product is ALWAYS circumspect. It's not that the study may not be valid, but the bias is present from the beginning and that must always be taken into consideration.
But the most alarming thing I found was the list of ingredients. In reading through the list of ingredients it was filled with every kind of paraben. Wait, isn't it common knowledge by now that parabens are infinitely dangerous? Aren't companies trying to get the paraben OUT of their products? And why would a doctor like Dr. Phil, who because of his high visibility, does have a moral responsibility to to direct and advise people thoughtfully, why would he promote such a product? I suppose what upset me even more is that this skin expert who is a person who should be concerned with the health of the skin, was promoting this product so enthusiastically. Isn't it incumbent upon her to know what she is promoting?
All questions that made me go hmmm...
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I knew when I launched my natural skincare line that it wasn’t going to be easy. After my own experience in trying to find natural creams and lotions for my mother when she was sick, I knew well that this skincare line I was about to launch would most definitely have to be coupled with a good bit of information and just plain education. You see, most people don’t actually know what natural skincare is, they think they do, but they don’t.
When I first searched for natural skincare for my mother I carefully read every label. At first blush the labels seemed harmless enough, actually quite responsible. Many manufacturers have taken parabens out and are no longer using phthalates. Well that’s good, right? Let’s see, this product is unscented, so there aren’t any of the chemicals in the product that would be related to the scents, all good I thought. Every buzzword that the cunning marketing people wanted the unsuspecting consumer to see was proudly displayed on the labels. Every buzzword that would make this product look like the most responsible, the purest choice. I was quick to find out what great marketing all of this actually was. I quickly found out that for every one harmful ingredient that is taken out of a product, there were still many more in there to take its place. I was so interested in how our bodies accept what we put onto our skin and how those ingredients travel throughout our bodies. Then I began researching different natural ingredients. They are not all the same, each one has its own properties, each offers a different benefit to our bodies.
What an education! With this knowledge I can appreciate the skincare I create on such a different level. I know what these natural products can do for our bodies. I try very hard to educate others so that they may understand and appreciate the treasure of natural skincare. On a very basic level, I think it’s important for the consumer to understand and to know, beyond a shadow of a doubt that not all “natural” skincare is created equal.
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If you haven’t well then listen up, I know you’ll want to hear about this. French Rose Clay also known as Pink Kaolin is one of the mildest of all facial clays. It helps stimulate circulation while gently exfoliating and cleansing the skin. It is a pure, fine clay and because of its beautifully unique rosy color, which is derived from naturally occurring iron oxides in the clay, you can even use it as a facial powder or blush, I do! As a masque it is safe for all skin types, even dry. For a quick easy mask just add a bit of water to about a teaspoon of the clay, mix until you get a wet clay-like consistency and apply to face. Wait about 20 minutes and when the clay is fully dry rinse and pat dry. But, if you want a real in-home spa experience try this:
Bring a pot of water to a boil. After the pot has stopped boiling and is taken off the stove massage a few drops of Sans Nourish Face Serum all over your face. Bring your face to a safe and comfortable distance to the steaming water and steam your face over the pot for a few minutes. The steam will open your pores and will penetrate the serum into the pores loosening and drawing out any impurities.
Mix about a teaspoon of clay together with water until a creamy consistency is achieved. Apply to face avoiding eye area. Allow the mask to dry completely. The mask will change to a lighter color and become tight when fully dry. Rinse well with cool water until face is completely clean. Pat dry. Follow with another few drops of Sans Nourish Face Serum all over face to restore moisture.
And for something really special instead of water mix the clay with pure honey, or greek yogurt, or try adding milk instead of water!
I just LOVE French Rose Clay! I promise your skin will feel amazing!
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Joy. What is joy? It’s clearly different for everyone. For some joy is lots of stuff, for others it’s being on vacation, yet others find joy in being with the ones they love. It’s ok. Whatever joy is to you, it’s ok. Find that joy in your everydays, and enjoy it, and let others do the same without judgment.
Joy can come in so many different forms. When I was much younger I was always joyful. Why shouldn’t I be, young, no responsibilities, dinner on the table prepared by mom every night, a cozy bed to sleep in. But as we get older and life happens, maybe we aren’t joyful 24/7. “Are we supposed to be?” we begin asking ourselves. I think it’s at this point we begin to overthink things, mostly because we don’t know any better. Why aren’t I joyful 24/7? So we begin looking for answers. “Maybe if I had this, or maybe that”.
That’s how it was for me. So I got “this” and “that”, and come to find out it didn’t make me any more joyful. (I have to clarify here, I am a very joyful person just by nature). So I surmised it wasn’t “stuff” that would add to my joy. So soon I had kids, BINGO! That definitely added to my joy. With the birth of my first child it was joy like I’d never known before (after I got over the initial shock of being responsible for another being). I reveled in this amazing joy for 4 years. Then came my second child. Initially, not so much joy. Being born with so many issues we were unclear about what his future would hold. But out of his birth, and over the following years, I discovered a different kind of joy.
For years before I ever had children, I would see a mother and a little girl walk the mall in my neighborhood. It seemed EVERY time I went to that mall they were there. The mother talking to the little girl, but the little girl never answered back. The first few years they walked that mall, the little girl (who was about 15) could barley walk and this amazing mother would almost carry her through the mall, determined to get her walking in for the day. I remember thinking, every time I saw them, “How awful that this poor girl can’t walk well”. And I remember also thinking what determination this mother had. Fast forward 15 years, and I STILL would see this mother daughter walking that mall. The daughter still didn’t speak, but her walking had gotten a little bit better. Well, that little girl at the mall had grown up, her mother had gotten visibly older, but still they walked. And I still thought what a shame that after all these years, this is a good as this girl can walk.
Then my son was born. Life is very strange. My son walked very late. And so it is…we too go to that mall and walk. My son needs his exercise and he needs the practice walking. We practice and practice and practice and he works so very hard. His walking gets better every year. Life has a way of changing perspective. Now when I see someone who maybe cannot walk that well, instead of thinking “Poor thing that she cannot walk very well”, I think, “Wow, how hard she must have worked to walk so well.”
So, back to my original topic, joy. My personal joy is in the tiny little accomplishments that my son makes, accomplishments that for another child and to another parent may be just part of normal development. For me, these tiny accomplishments are as if he has moved mountains! For me this is joy.
OH WHAT JOY IT IS!
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So, we’re in the middle of our summer and before we know, it will be nearing an end, really? It always seems to fly by so quickly. So, with the end of summer comes the beginning of winter, we're having such an amazing summer I wonder if winter is going to be a pay-back…hmmm…
I hate to be thinking of winter now, but with winter come nasty colds…one of the worst of which is a sinus infection. The cure is almost always antibiotics, and I’ve really been trying to avoid antibiotics both for me and my family. So what do you do for a sinus infection, they can really totally ruin your day. Ok, so try this. I actually got the advice from a good friend of mine who gets sinus infections pretty often, she says nothing works better for her, and it helps avoid antibiotics:
1. Boil some water in a pot on the stove.
2. Add a couple of drops of Tea Tree Oil to the boiling water.
3. Breathe in the steam for a few minutes.
Tea Tree Oil is a very strong antibacterial, Antimicrobial, Antiviral, and Expectorant. In addition it offers a host of other wonderful health benefits. So next time when you get a dreaded sinus infection try this simple, natural cure!
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Using a good cleanser is a very important first step. Yes, a cleanser should do a good job at cleaning the face, but not at the expense of stripping the skin of its natural oils. Try to avoid facial cleansers with detergents and try to use the ones that contain natural soap. So what’s the difference you ask?
Well, facial cleansers can include detergents or soaps—ingredients that mix with dirt and oils, allowing them to be washed off the skin. The difference between a detergent and a soap largely depends on the ingredients: detergents are synthetic cleansers, and natural soaps are natural cleansers.
"Cosmetics Unmasked" lists sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and ammonium laureth sulfate, as just a few of the common detergents found in facial cleansers. You don’t want these ingredients or any other artificial ingredients in your facial cleanser.
Natural soaps may be made from vegetable oil or animal fats (I prefer vegetable oils). Coconut oil, olive oil, safflower oil, and jojoba oil are ingredients used in creating natural soap-based facial cleansers. These ingredients are mixed with an alkaline substance, usually sodium hydroxide, or lye, to create a salt. When mixed, in a process called saponification, two byproducts are created—glycerin, which is a moisturizer, and salt. The salt is what's known as soap.
Maybe a little bit more information than you wanted, but the long and short of it is, find a natural facial cleanser that doesn’t contain detergents and won’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Your skin needs its natural oils to remain beautiful and healthy!
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We’ve been reading a lot lately about the chemical 2-dimethyl-amino-ethanol, more commonly listed on the labels of many anti-aging cosmetics as DMAE. Some doctors and cosmetic companies claim that DMAE is beneficial in skincare products to help reduce wrinkles by preventing cell deterioration. I did a little research on DMAE myself and here’s what I found:
While it’s true that DMAE is found naturally in fish such as sardines and anchovies, and even in the human brain, when it is used in cosmetics, DMAE may cause a seriously negative reaction in skin cells. There are many doctors who do not agree with the claims that DMAE prevents cell deterioration and feel that there has not been enough conclusive scientific and medical research done.
Based on a study done in 1979, it was found that the skin firming effects of DMAE can be attributed to the vacuolization of the cells. In simple terms, this means that after the application of DMAE, thousands of large pools of water form within the cells. This swelling of the cells is what causes the skin to plump up and appear less wrinkled. But this is only temporary. If all you want is a temporary tightening of the skin, then DMAE will do the trick, but it is very important to note that vacuolization is a process that will speed up cellular death. Cells can literally drown to death if too much water builds up inside them. The cells are basically damaged from the inside out. This vacuolization may be why after DMAE was applied to cells they actually stopped dividing, they stopped secreting, and after 24 hours many of the cells die. These findings were the results of a study conducted on skin cells by The Faculty of Medicine at Canada’s University Laval.
I have always been very careful about not using ingredients that have not been thoroughly tested over a long period of time. DMAE is one that I will stay away from until there is more conclusive information available.
Bentonite Clay is a very interesting clay. Bentonite is a combination of volcanic ash and montmorillonite originally found in Fort Benton, Wyoming. It is highly absorbent and powerfully draws oils and toxins from the skin. Bentonite Clay is one of the most powerful healing clays. It is unique due to its ability to produce an “electrical charge” when hydrated. Upon contact with fluid, its electrical components change, giving it the ability to absorb toxins. Bentonite Clay carries a strong negative charge which bonds to the positive charge in many toxins. When it comes in contact with a toxin, chemical, or heavy metal, the clay will absorb the toxin and release its minerals for the body to use. Bentonite Clay also helps get oxygen to cells as it pulls out excess hydrogen and allows the cells to replace it with oxygen instead.
If you have excessively oily skin, clogged pores or acne, bentonite clay is the perfect solution. It is so absorbent that it will pull the oil and toxins right from the skin. Often dry skin will have clogged pores, Bentonite will take care of that too, but just make sure you have a good moisturizer handy after you wash away the clay.
With all these wonderful benefits of Bentonite Clay there is one small downside. Bentonite is hard to mix. It often stays clumpy, kind of like the consistency of oatmeal. It's very hard to get those clumps out. But one of our Estheticians has discovered a wonderful new way to use Bentonite Clay that makes it much easier to mix and makes an amazing facial mask for any skin, dry, oily, or combination!
Here is our tip, so worthy of a share and definitely worth trying:
For this application you will need 1 teaspoon of powdered Bentonite Clay and a few drops of Nourish Face Serum. Put the 1 teaspoon of Bentonite Clay into a small bowl. Now put a few drops of the serum into the bowl also. Start with about 4 drops and begin to stir. Continue to put drops of serum into the powder and stir until you achieve a creamy consistency. This consistency should be perfect for spreading onto the face without clumping or dripping off. Once you spread the clay-oil mixture over the entire face (avoid eye area), let the mixture sit on the face for about 20 minutes. This is why it is important that the consistency be just right so it doesn't drip off. After about 20 minutes (the mixture will not dry, but remain wet) wash off with warm water. Now pat dry. Follow with a light coating of the Nourish Face Serum.
Instantly, your skin is beautiful!
All natural plant oils feel beautiful on your skin. This feeling is hard to describe, but the closest I can come to an adequate description is to say that it feels light. Very light. Your skin feels like it can breathe. I always felt after applying synthetic creams and lotions that air couldn’t get past the coating on my skin, sometimes I even felt like I was sweating under that coating. It wasn’t a good feeling, kind of like wrapping yourself in plastic wrap. The reason for this is that the molecules of some of the synthetic ingredients in creams and lotions are large, too large to absorb into your pores so they just end up sitting on top of your pores … and blocking them. Now your skin can’t breathe, what’s worse, your skin can’t get rid of the toxins in your body, because your skin gets rid of the toxins through your pores when you sweat. That’s the whole concept behind antiperspirants; the synthetic chemicals in the products block your pores so that you CAN’T sweat. You NEED to sweat. And to add to this, molecules of the chemicals that ARE small enough to absorb through your pores get into your body and travel straight into your bloodstream where your bloodstream carries these horrible toxins throughout your body to all of your organs. So you’re essentially poisoning your body in two ways: by not letting your body get rid of toxins by not being able to sweat and by allowing the toxins to travel around your body to all of your organs.
Plant oils let your skin breathe. The plant oil molecules are so tiny that they are able to penetrate your pores very quickly and go into the deep layers of your skin, down to the very cellular level and nourish your cells. Plant oils come straight from nature’s plants. In many cases the essential oils of plants are the plant’s own immunity. These oils are what keep nature’s plants healthy. Think to when you break a plant stem and immediately a liquid appears, this is the plant's essential oil and this is the plant’s own immunity. The plant uses this essential oil to repair the break. This essential oil contains anti inflammatory properties in order to heal the plant and keep the plant healthy. When introduced into your system, natural essential oils and pure plant oils have the ability to nourish your skin at a deep cellular level.
When you use pure plant oils remember you are not only NOT doing bad for your body, you are actually doing it GOOD, and this feels really good!
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So, what exactly are Parabens? Parabens are the most widely used preservatives in personal care products; they stop fungus, bacteria and other microbes from growing in many of the creams, lotions, and makeup that you use every day. Some common parabens are methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben and isobutylparaben. You’ll find these listed on the labels of thousands of personal care products such as shampoos, mascara, foundations, and body lotions.
There has been growing concern over the years that parabens may pose a cancer risk. Parabens are said to mimic estrogen in the body, and the question has even been asked if the rising occurrence of breast cancer might have something to do with the widespread use of parabens in cosmetics and bath and body products. It’s been known for 25 years that estrogen exposure is linked to breast cancer. A 2004 study done by Philippa Darbre, a senior lecturer in oncology and researcher in bimolecular sciences at the University of Reading in England, detected parabens in 18 of 20 samples of tissue from breast tumor biopsies. Furthermore, she concluded research has found that about 55% of all breast cancer tumors occur in the upper outside portion of the breast. The section closest to the underarm, where antiperspirant is applied. This is very concerning.
Because of the concern over parabens, many companies are taking them out of their formulations. You’ll find labels that say a product is “Paraben Free”. But it actually may not be. Not widely known by consumers, fragrances often do contain parabens. Unfortunately, manufacturers are not required to individually label the ingredients that make up a fragrance, since fragrance recipes are considered to be "trade secrets". Labels must contain the word "fragrance" but not the details as to what that fragrance contains.
So what can you do? My suggestion, avoid fragrances altogether. Look for products that contain essential oils; the natural oils and natural scents from plants. They are clean, fresh, wonderfully natural, and they don’t contain parabens!
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Yesterday I wrote my blog about a wonderful small business from which I purchased some candles. I talked about the heart that company has and the pride it took in its products. Now, I'd like to toot my own horn!
Today, since the rain overtook our 4th of July barbecue plans, my family and I decided to go to the Cheesecake Factory for dinner. I was initially seated at the table by myself waiting for my husband and son to come back from returning a few shirts in the mall. While I waited for them to join me, I noticed a young woman seated at the table across from where I sat. As I sat waiting, I could see from the corner of my eye, the young woman looking at me.
We enjoyed a nice dinner despite the pouring rain outside. As the evening wore on, she turned to look at me several more times. I didn't really think much of it until she got up to leave. When she got up she didn't walk toward the exit, but rather she walked toward our table.
She smiled and introduced herself and told me that she had just received an order of some of my products in the mail. I immediately ask If she was happy with her order. She said that she absolutely loved the products that she ordered. She told me that they were so special and she loved each and every one that she got. I was beyond thrilled that someone would actually take the time to walk over to tell me this. Then she thanked me and turned to walk away. She walked a few steps then turned back around. She came back to tell me that in opening the package, she loved and was amazed at the detail that I give to each product, and to my packaging. I was so happy that my products, my overall brand, had made enough of an impact on her that she felt compelled to say something to me.
I was beyond thrilled and as I think back on this wonderful chance meeting, it makes me so happy!
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It’s so nice to find a product that you really love, that makes you feel good, and that you just love using. It’s even nicer to know that you are supporting and helping a small business to grow.
I recently made a purchase from a small business owner. If I am looking to make a purchase, I always check first if the item for which I am searching can be purchased from a small business. While I think that it’s so important to support small businesses, I think there is a unique benefit to the consumer.
A small business is very unique, and especially a small business that creates something from nothing. So much of the owner’s own personality, and beliefs are a part of that product. That one product that you will hold in your hand tells such a story. It tells a story of passion and determination. It talks about failure, but it also lets you know that the owner of this company did not give up but pressed on. That one product tells the world that there have been long days and even longer nights, and that the passion for this company is so immensely engraved into the heart of the owner that she would let nothing keep her down. And that “heart” is in every product that is purchased from that company.
The day of large, impersonal companies is gone. What people want today it to be able to connect with and feel good about a brand. They want to know about the brand and the story behind it. They want to connect on a deeper level than ever before. When I found Shen & Sam I loved the owner’s story. I loved the reason she first started her company. A quote she used on her website: “Sometimes it takes the better part of a lifetime to find out what your passion is, but in my observation, if you do, it might be the best part of your life" really resonated with me. And mostly, I loved how she came up with the name for her company. I instantly knew this was a company that I wanted to support and it just so happened that I was in the market for some natural (of course) candles! So I ordered!
I was so excited today when my candles arrived. I opened the beautiful package, kind of like it was my birthday! Every detail was thought of. You could immediately tell that this was something special, not something someone in a factory had thrown into a box and shipped! I even got a hand-written note thanking me, and some very generous samples of other scents (all the scents I received were amazing!)
For this order, I ordered Lavender, and it was heavenly! I lit one right away, the other I will gift to one of my clients! Today I felt very special with this beautiful candle, and I felt very good knowing that I supported another small business!
So if you're one of those people who just tries every moisturizer on the market, hoping to find something that actually does what they claim it's going to do (I definitely was), then you must try pure plant-derived ingredients.
When a person applies lotions that contain lots of synthetics it smothers the skin not allowing the skin to breathe or get rid of toxins, it's kind of like wrapping yourself in plastic wrap. Many of these synthetic molecules will just sit on top of the skin, others, that are small enough, will penetrate through the pores and begin traveling throughout the bloodstream straight to the body's vital organs.
However, essential oils and other plant derived butters and oils, having a very small molecular structure, and containing lots of anti-oxidants, are able to quickly penetrate through the pores, and go deep down into the skin's layers. Plant oils and butters not only softens the skin, but protects it against damage, and gives skin a more youthful, healthy appearance. Because the oil is absorbed into the skin and into the cell structure of the connective tissues, pure plant-derived ingredients can even promote healing of damaged skin.
It just makes good sense.
Lately I have really been trying to keep my life in balance. Running a business is all encompassing, it can really be 24/7 if you let it. When I first began running my own business some 20 years ago, I wondered how I was ever going to have the discipline to actually get anything done. Who knew that the discipline comes in trying to stop work for the day, not start. I must say, I’m very lucky, I have always loved what I do. But I’ve found that no matter how much one loves their “job”, they should still have something outside of what they do for a living that they enjoy. For some this is sailing, others might love to hike, and yet others may prefer playing a musical instrument or playing in a band. For me it is photography. Photography is how I unwind and relax. It just makes me feel so good to be able to take photos of things that I see that are interesting to me. I’m the first to say that by no means am I a professional, far from it actually, I just love taking pictures and capturing moments.
I’ve always loved art, design, colors, shapes, and how they all work together. I also love the computer, in particular I love using Photoshop. Several years ago I took my love of the computer and my knowledge of Photoshop and decided to create my own kind of art! I’ve been so happy creating this kind of artwork. I even named my little hobby, I call it “Photographer’s Brush”. It has brought me so much joy and relaxation! If you are in search of some "me" time, I would recommend a hobby!
I have to tell you, we are all about chocolate around here. We love chocolate, any kind of chocolate. If it’s chocolate, it’s not bound to last very long. We always have it around and we munch all day long. It’s just how we are! So when I found this recipe I knew I had to make it and share! It’s very decadent and oh-so-rich so really, save it for a splurge. It’s not something you want to eat every day. Well, wait, let me rephrase that, it’s not something you should eat every day. But once in a blue moon it’s ok! Shhhh, I won’t tell anyone!
9 ounces high-quality (must be high-quality!) semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups heavy (this is where it gets rich) cream
6 large egg yolks
5 tablespoons granulated sugar (add an extra tablespoon if using bitter chocolate)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar
Place the chocolate in a blender. Whisk the milk, 1 cup cream, egg yolks, granulated sugar, and salt in a heavy-bottomed medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula, until the mixture is thick enough to coat the spatula and almost boiling, 5 to 6 minutes. (This is where I can’t resist)
Immediately pour the milk mixture over the chocolate in the blender. Cover and hold the lid with a thick kitchen towel; blend until combined and smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed. Divide the chocolate mixture among ramekins or small cups (really the cups should be small it’s so rich you can’t eat too much) and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
Whip (whip it good) the remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners' sugar with a mixer or in the blender until soft peaks form. Top the chilled pots de cream with whipped cream.
It’s so easy to make (a little too easy) and it’s soooo good. If you try it, I’d love to know what you think!
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Breathe. Yup, just take a minute and breathe. I tell myself that at least a dozen times a day. I've found that it's so important to nurture our state of being, just as frequently and as carefully as we do our bodies. If our state of being is off, it shows up in our bodies, it shows in the texture of our hair and shows clearly on our skin, it shows everywhere. So take care if it. Our state of being encompasses everything; our whole selves. There has to be a comfortable balance in the state of being, and that balance is different for everyone. But one thing that is consistent for everyone, without that balance, our days do not run smoothly, we are agitated and stressed, and we are not experiencing our best selves and we are definitely not presenting our best selves. I don't know about you, but it's taken me years to finally learn how to nurture my state of being. Here are a few things that I've learned along the way, that have worked for me:
Some of the most beautiful images of women that we admire today actually come from the ancients. Besides the beauty of the mystical pyramids and the majestic Sphinx, Ancient Egypt has to its credit one more beauty, Cleopatra, the beauty for whom wars were fought.
It probably comes as no surprise that Cleopatra had her own, special beauty routines and as history describes, she was quite the beauty enthusiast. Let's take a look at what kept this beauty beautiful over 5,000 years.
Cleopatra was known for her flawless skin. History tells us that she bathed frequently in a milk, honey, and olive oil mixture with rose petals floating all around her. All of these ingredients are still very commonly found in facial and body treatments done in some of the finest spas in the world.
Something Cleopatra did that is more than a bit out of the ordinary was a paste mixture of donkey's milk and crocodile dung that she applied to her face. She used this paste as a facial mask. This mask gave her that fresh, young, and glowing skin. I’m not sure that this is one I’ll be trying anytime soon!
Her beautiful blood red lips and rosy cheeks were due to the natural pigment Red Ochre. The ochre was ground finely and mixed with water then applied with a brush to the lips and face.
Cleopatra may have been the first to dawn those beautiful "cat eyes" that many of us struggle with today. The black used to achieve her dramatic effect was actually Kohl. Since Kohl does contain lead, Egyptians processed and filtered the Kohl for up to 30 days before using the product on the eyes. (How did they know back then that lead was bad?)
It’s really amazing to me how much of today’s image of beauty is derived from the beauty of women from so long ago.
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