Author: Jennifer Mathews

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Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Kiss Your Dry, Chapped Lips Goodbye With These Simple Remedies

Chapped lips happen. They’re annoying at best, painful at worst. And sure, a heavy-duty lip balm helps, but that soothing is just temporary. You need to address the cause of the problem. Here’s how to do it with ingredients that may already be sitting in your kitchen.

Reasons for Cracked and Dry Lips

First off, you should understand why chapped lips happen. And some of these reasons may surprise you.
Dehydration
Our lips don’t contain oil glands like the rest of our skin, so one of the most common reasons we will experience dry or cracked skin on our lips is dehydration. You don’t have to be dying of thirst to be dehydrated, either. Dehydration can occur if you don’t drink enough water (remember–you may not be thirsty, but water is still very important). Drinking lattes or sodas won’t do much good when it comes to your skin since caffeine is a major culprit in dehydration. The general rule is 8×8 (eight 8-ounce glasses per day).
Licking Your Lips
Trying to alleviate the problem naturally may actually be making it worse. Lips that are already dry can become worse with frequent licking, as the saliva evaporates and takes the moisture in our lips along with it. Biting and chewing your lips can also have the same effect, so try and kick that habit to the curb if it applies to you.
Winter Weather and Indoor Heating
Winter can be cold and windy, which can zap moisture from your skin, including your lips. When you’re outside, be sure to use a thick lip balm to keep the moisture in your lips. Avoid ingredients like salicylic acid that can dry skin out even more (often found in “medicated lip balm”). Look for nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, jojoba oil, sunflower oil, cocoa butter, Vitamin E, olive oil, honey, beeswax, or lanolin. Your indoor heating may also be keeping the air in your home dry. If you’re using the heater often, try using a humidifier to keep moisture in the air.
Toothpaste
Many toothpaste brands contain sodium lauryl sulfate, an ingredient that is known to cause excessive dryness and chapping of the lips. If your toothpaste has this ingredient or other synthetic ingredients, switch to a new brand. You should check any other products you apply near your mouth while you’re at it, as many contain dehydrating alcohols, which also contribute to chapped skin.
Medications or Vitamin Deficiencies
Some medications can cause dry lips. Prescription drugs for acne, high blood pressure, and nausea may cause dryness. A vitamin deficiency could also be the culprit. A lack of zinc, B vitamins, vitamin A, or iron could increase dryness of the lips. If you think your dry lips are caused by a medication or vitamin deficiency, talk to your doctor.

Home Remedies for Chapped and Dry Lips

Honey
An easy, one-ingredient home remedy that tastes sweet and leaves your lips soft is honey! Apply a small amount of pure honey on your lips a few times a day, and it should begin to soften the skin and make it less brittle. Manuka honey from New Zealand is pricey but can be even more effective because of its increased antibacterial properties (which is helpful when your lips are cracked and bleeding).
Coconut Oil
Everyone loves coconut oil! It’s a multipurpose home and beauty product that you can use for lips, skin, hair, and cuticles. Aside from being a killer makeup remover, it’s a natural moisturizer that can help heal dry and chapped lips, especially those caused by cold weather. Olive oil, sunflower oil, or jojoba oil can also be used, but many people prefer the flavor of coconut oil. Remember to use just a fingertip’s worth.
Sugar Scrub
If your lips are covered with dry, dead skin (but not bleeding), try a simple sugar scrub to make them soft and supple again. Simply mix a small amount of sugar with a teaspoon of olive, jojoba, or coconut oil. Apply directly to your lips, leave it on for a few minutes, and then gently scrub. You can also purchase a lip scrub from the store, but make sure to choose one without fragrances, citrus essential oils, or anything that will irritate your sensitive skin.
Chapped, Red, Dry, or Scaly Lips
If none of these home remedies work for you, you’re staying hydrated, and you aren’t using any products that could contribute to the problem, consider consulting your primary care physician. They may be able to find an underlying cause of your excessively dry or chapped lips and offer additional remedies to restore your lips to their soft and natural glory.

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Keep Your Eyes Looking Sharp With A Little TLC

I took a selfie recently (come on–you know you do it too!) and noticed something different. My eyes looked tired, red, and puffy, and wrinkles were popping up where they didn’t exist before. I don’t know when it happened, but the dry, irritated feeling should have been a dead giveaway that my eyes needed some major TLC.

I felt like I was way too young to have dark circles and wrinkles around my eyes. I was tired of puffy bags when I woke up, and I knew there had to be a solution.

As it turns out, all I had to do was change how I treated my eyes and the skin around them. Now my eyes actually help me look younger. The following eye care tips are ways I’ve found to improve their appearance that I’ve put into practice whenever I can; hopefully, it helps you too!

Reduce screen time.

I’m often at my computer or on my phone–working, chatting with friends, or spending way too much time on Instagram. All of that screen time was drying my eyes out. Not only that, I noticed an increase in migraines too.

My solution was to treat my eyes with eye drops twice a day and change my screen viewing habits. I try to look away from my screen for a few seconds every five minutes. I also set a timer when I’m at my computer to get up every hour and let my eyes rest for five minutes.

The redness, dryness, and irritation are long gone. Thanks to that, I’ve also reduced how often I rub my eyes, which had been contributing to pulling and tugging on the delicate skin around my eyes.

Wear sunglasses.

The sun doesn’t just harm your skin; it also damages your eyes and the sensitive skin around them. I wear sunglasses whenever I’m outside or in a car. I do this on sunny and cloudy days since UV rays don’t care what the weather is like!

Sunglasses also help prevent squinting so that you aren’t giving those fine lines and wrinkles any extra help! You do need some sunlight, though, so every now and then let your eyes go without sunglasses. Just don’t overdo it.

Treat with eye cream.

In your late twenties, collagen production around your eyes starts to drop off. This is where those pesky fine lines and sagging skin come from. Concealer can only do so much, and it’s better to prevent the problem in the first place than to simply treat it after the fact.

Eye creams are better than standard facial moisturizers because they often contain peptides and retinol to fight the signs of aging and boost collagen production. I use an eye cream with SPF daily to help combat the UV rays that age skin.

After several weeks of using an anti-aging eye cream at night and one with SPF during the day, I saw a difference. It also meant I was using less makeup to cover up flaws. In my eyes (pun intended), it was a win-win.

Leave your eyes alone.

I spent a few days paying close attention to how often I rubbed my eyes. No wonder I had dark circles! All that rubbing damages the blood vessels under the eye, leaving them looking dark and puffy.

Now, I make a conscious effort to leave them alone. If my eyes are itchy, I use extra drops. If my allergies are flaring up, I take an antihistamine.

I also go easy when taking off eye makeup. In the past, I tended to scrub it off with a makeup remover wipe. Now, I do a few gentle swipes with a cotton pad and cleansing water instead. It’s a lot gentler.

Block out the light.

You probably already know that getting a good night’s rest is crucial to helping your eyes rest and recover. What I didn’t realize was that sleeping with my face in the pillow was actually making my eyes look worse.

I invested in some light-blocking curtains and used some light-blocking electronic tape over all those LED lights in my bedroom. As a result, I didn’t toss and turn trying to avoid light in my eyes.

Avoid salty foods.

A big contributor to undereye bags is most likely lurking in the foods you eat. Salt causes water retention, not just in your body, but also in your face! Avoiding salty foods can help to reduce puffy eyes.

I also began sleeping on my back with my head elevated. This is crucial as it allows for better drainage of fluids from around my eyes so that they aren’t pooling and creating bags under my eyes. Just a week later my eyes already looked better.

Eyes aren’t just a window to your soul. They’re also a giant sign advertising your age. Take care of them and give them the TLC they deserve.

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Argan Oil And Its Miraculous Beauty Benefits

It seems like every other week there’s a new oil being talked about that will give you the glowing skin and healthy hair you want. While some of these oils fade into the background once their claims fall flat, argan oil has maintained its popularity. There’s a reason for that: It actually works!

I decided to give it a try by first using it on my hair, and I was blown away by how effective it was. It’s lightweight, so it’s great for a variety of beauty needs without leaving you looking oily or weighing your hairstyle down.

I’ve used it from head and toe and always have a bottle on hand. I’ve also discovered that it’s an ingredient in many of the beauty products I already use.

What Is Argan Oil?

Argan oil comes from argan trees in the Souss region of southern Morocco. The nut inside the fruit of these trees contains the oil that’s been used for generations to heal and moisturize hair and skin.

It’s full of vitamin A, vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants. This means it’s an all-natural, multipurpose oil that’s great for anti-aging, healing skin, and keeping hair and skin hydrated.

Exfoliate And Moisturize

Here’s a great, inexpensive DIY recipe that I use to get smooth skin in the shower:

Add a few drops of argan oil to a tablespoon of brown sugar to exfoliate and moisturize dry skin. You can even use it on your face (if you have sensitive skin, do a patch test first). Rub it on dry, flaky spots for 20-30 seconds to exfoliate, then use a washcloth to rinse it off your skin. You’ll immediately notice that your skin is smoother, softer, and well-hydrated.

Moisturize All Night

It only takes a few drops of the oil to serve as your nightly moisturizer. I’ve found it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave any greasy residue on my skin or pillowcase. Sometimes I add a single drop of argan oil to my favorite nighttime moisturizer. Either method works well.

Heal And Treat Acne

Argan oil is not just for dry skin!

Many acne products on the market contain skin-drying ingredients. I realized that while I was tackling blemishes, I was creating another problem by causing dry, red skin. I wasn’t sure how an oil would help, but I was willing to try almost anything.

Now I rub a single drop over all my trouble areas at night. By morning, the redness is greatly reduced, and I’ve found that my pimples heal twice as fast. Argan oil doesn’t clog pores, so it won’t contribute to more blemishes.

I also use an argan oil toner before moisturizing. You can do this by boiling a bag of green tea in one cup of water and steeping for 10 minutes. Remove the bag and add two drops of tea tree oil and two drops of argan oil. It’s a great acne fighter and light moisturizer.

Smooth Stretch Marks

I hate stretch marks, but they seem to love me! Stretch marks become more pronounced with dry skin. By moisturizing them daily with argan oil, I’ve noticed that they appear lighter and less noticeable. There’s no lotion or potion that will remove stretch marks once they show up, but you can prevent them by keeping your skin hydrated. If you’re pregnant, start doing this early in your pregnancy to lessen the likelihood of the marks on your skin. It’s safe to use and improves skin elasticity.

Moisturize All Over

This works best if you’re using an all-natural body lotion with coconut, almond, or olive oil already in it. Just add a few drops of argan oil to your lotion and apply as usual. I couldn’t believe the difference and the light scent smelled wonderful.

I also rub a little extra on my heels. When I do a manicure, I rub a drop around my cuticles for healthier nails.

Deep Hair Conditioner

I’ve yet to find a conditioning treatment as simple as argan oil. I use a few drops after drying my hair to smooth frizz and make my hair super shiny.

Start with one drop and add more as needed until you discover how much your hair type requires. Thin hair will need less, and thicker hair may require more.

For extremely dry hair, try argan oil as an overnight treatment. Use a small amount and massage throughout your hair. Secure the hair under a shower cap and wash it the next morning.

Endless Uses

What I love most about argan oil is that its uses are seemingly endless. I’ve used it on my face, body, nails and hair and have seen the benefits. I’ll admit that a bottle isn’t as cheap as some other oils, but it lasts for several months, which makes it completely worthwhile for me. It’s a beauty treatment that only requires a drop or two at a time and it’s all-natural and cruelty-free!

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Ice, Ice, Beauty: Glowing Skin At The Touch Of A Cube?

I didn’t realize the power of a simple ice cube until I discovered [linkbuilder id=”6632″ text=”skin icing”]. I knew ice cubes were great for keeping drinks cold and reducing swelling, but I was skeptical about rubbing one on my face.
A few years ago, I took an icy plunge and tried skin icing for myself. Yes, it is very cold and a little messy. It also gave my skin that natural glow I usually only get when it’s freezing outside. I have now made skin icing part of my regular beauty routine, and I can’t believe how much my complexion has changed.

Complexion-Changing Benefits

I honestly didn’t believe ice could change my skin, but I was wrong.
One of the first things I noticed was my new rosy glow, thanks to improved circulation. It took me a few weeks to realize just how much my skin’s health had improved. My tone was more even, and my combination skin started to become more normal. I had a healthy glow all day instead of my usual pale face that I tried to cover with bronzer.
Some of my other favorite results include:
– Reduced puffiness around the eyes
– Reduced redness and swelling of pimples
– Diminished appearance of wrinkles
– Tighter pores

Learning The Basics

Now that you know the benefits of skin icing, let me tell you how to do it.
I love this beauty technique for two main reasons. First, it’s free, and ice is simple to make. Second, it’s insanely easy.
I recommend starting with five minutes a day to get used to the cold on your skin. Have an extra towel on hand to catch any dripping water from the melting ice. As I said, it can be a bit messy, but it’s well worth it.
Ordinarily I use a thin towel or worn-out washcloth to hold my ice cube, but some people prefer to apply the ice directly to their skin. If you go this route you’ll still need something to protect your fingers.
(As a quick warning, I don’t recommend applying ice straight from the freezer to bare skin because it can break your capillaries. Let the ice start to melt first. If you already have capillary issues, skin icing might not be a good idea. If you do try it, always cover the cube and don’t do it for more than five minutes at a time.)
I like to wrap my cube completely, and once it starts to melt slightly I rub it in a circular motion all over my face for up to 15 minutes at a time. I’m typically in a hurry, though, so it’s usually more like five minutes.
If I have time, I spritz my cloth or my face with organic green tea or rosewater first. Feel free to use whatever herb you prefer.
That’s all there is to it. See, I told you it was easy!

Best Times To Ice

There’s really not a bad time to ice your skin. I prefer mornings because the ice tightens my pores and primes my skin for makeup. My foundation has never gone on so smoothly. But it’s just as beneficial to do it in the evenings.
I also like to ice pimples as they appear. I hold a cube against the pimple for up to 15 seconds, which reduces swelling and helps keep the pimple from getting any worse.
Skin icing is best if you just do it once a day. I only do it twice a day if I’m having a breakout; then I do a quick session on my pimples in the evening.

Simple, Free, And Effective

Skin icing is the simplest DIY beauty hack I’ve ever tried. You only need one ingredient, and it works wonders. Go ahead and cleanse your face and give icing a try. A little cold skin could be just what your complexion needs.

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Lifestyle

Heat Up Your Beauty Routine With These Charcoal Health Hacks

I always thought of charcoal as those little briquettes you use when cooking out during the summer. It wasn’t until the past few years that I began noticing the charcoal beauty trend.

I know what you’re thinking: How could charcoal ever relate to health or beauty? I can attest that I’ve tried quite a few charcoal-infused products and they do make a difference in my skin.

I’ve even had charcoal juices and smoothies, which I must say look extremely weird. Once you get past the black color, you might discover what I did, that charcoal is a must-use health and beauty hack.

Mask Impurities

I hate random blackhead breakouts, and those blackhead strips always leave my face red for hours. I decided to try an activated charcoal mask to see if it worked as well as I’d heard.

I broke open two activated charcoal capsules and mixed that with two teaspoons of aloe vera. I highly recommend doing this at a sink so you don’t get charcoal powder everywhere. Apply it to clean skin and leave on for about 30 minutes. I started with 10 minutes the first time to make sure my skin reacted well.

After rinsing with cool water and moisturizing, I noticed significantly fewer blackheads, and many of the rest went away a few days later.

The charcoal draws away dirt from your skin, so it works well as both a mask and a cleanser. If you’re not the DIY type, most beauty stores sell charcoal masks and facial cleansers.

Whiten Your Teeth

I can’t believe this works, but charcoal is surprisingly effective at whitening teeth. The best part is looking in the mirror to see your teeth temporarily turned black.

This hack is abrasive, so use it sparingly. I save it for important occasions when I need a little boost to my smile. All you need is an activated charcoal tablet.

Apply the powder to a wet toothbrush and lightly brush it over your teeth for at least a minute. Rinse well and enjoy a whiter smile. I had to rinse several times to get all the gritty pieces out of my teeth.

Skip your regular brushing and just use mouthwash after this. It’ll be gentler on your teeth and gums.

Detox With A Smoothie

Doesn’t a nice charcoal smoothie sound wonderful? Ha! I remember making my first one and debating whether I really wanted to drink it. It looked more like dirty oil or tar than something healthy.

I gave it a shot, and I’m glad I did. I recommend playing around with different fruits to figure out which flavor masks the charcoal best for you. I personally prefer pineapple or banana as you don’t taste any charcoal at all after blending well.

The original recipe I used called for:

– Three activated charcoal capsules (find them at any health food store)

– One cup coconut juice

– One cup frozen pineapple

– Small piece of turmeric root or one teaspoon turmeric powder

The final mixture smelled great, but it was very black! It was one of the best detox smoothies I’d ever tried. I actually felt better, and the results lasted for a few days. I only drink one every few weeks at most.

Very important: Don’t drink activated charcoal smoothies or take activated charcoal capsules right before or after taking medications, supplements, or meals. The charcoal expands in your body, absorbing toxins with it. But, it can also absorb nutrients and medications. Best to take it away from anything your body needs to absorb to let it remove the things you don’t want it to absorb!

If you’ve had a little too much fun over the weekend, you might want to try this smoothie, because it’s great for hangovers too. It’s also good for soothing your stomach if you have food poisoning or stomach troubles/gas.

Rinse Away Hair Buildup

Clarifying shampoos are essential if you use any leave-in or styling products. Charcoal-infused shampoos are the new clarifying must-have. I opted to make my own, of course, but you can buy charcoal shampoos in many stores.

For this one, I just added a teaspoon of activated charcoal powder to my regular shampoo. It’s best to use a natural shampoo for optimal results. Shake the shampoo well before each use.

Is It Worth Trying?

In my opinion, charcoal is definitely worth adding to your beauty and health routine. I don’t use it every day, but as a weekly or even monthly addition, I can honestly say my skin, hair, and insides are better than ever!

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Why Should Coconuts Have All the Fun? I Love Avocado Oil For My Beauty Needs!

I’ve used coconut oil for a while for softer skin and shinier hair. Who hasn’t? I’m not saying goodbye to coconuts completely, but avocado oil has taken center stage for many of my beauty needs.

Don’t worry, it’s not just that little green fruit you use for guacamole. It does make a great dip, though. Avocado oil is a powerfully potent anti-aging and hydration ingredient to take your skin care to the next level. Did I mention it also smells great?

Absorbs Much Faster

The worst part of coconut oil for me was waiting for it to soak in. Apply a light layer of avocado oil and it absorbs in no time. This means I’m able to apply and get on with my day quicker.

Part of the reason is that the oil is thinner. You’ll notice when you buy it that it’s still in oil form unlike the solid you get when you buy coconut oil. That’s yet another benefit. No more heating hunks of oil when you’re ready to use it.

Full of Nutrients Your Skin Craves

Avocados are full of antioxidants, especially Vitamin E. Keep in mind that the fruit itself is used to treat a variety of ailments. Now imagine what it could do for your skin.

Outside of the hydrating and healing Vitamin E, avocado oil contains phytosterols, fatty acids, and sterolin. If you don’t know what two of those things are, you’re not alone. I had to look those up myself!

Phytosterols aid in repairing damaged skin while sterolin is known for reducing the appearance of age spots. I honestly didn’t need any convincing to try avocado oil after that.

It also includes Vitamins A, D, and B6 along with proteins, amino acids, folic acid, magnesium, iron, and copper. I’m serious when I say this is one powerful oil.

The Many Uses of Avocado Oil

The real test came when I started using it for a wide variety of beauty needs. The first was as a moisturizing makeup remover. Coconut oil worked but left my skin feeling a little overly moist.

I switched the avocado oil and the results were amazing. The makeup was gone, including stubborn waterproof mascara. I lightly rinsed my face to remove any excess. I can’t even begin to tell you how soft and clean my skin feels.

Now for my favorite part! I have adult acne prone skin. The antibacterial properties help clean my pores and fight acne-causing bacteria. The hydrating and healing properties reduce redness and heal my blemishes fast. I’m also thrilled to see my older acne scars fading a little at a time.

For your skin, applying a light layer of avocado oil aids in hydration, reducing wrinkles, evening skin tone, reducing age spots and discoloration, smoothing the skin, and offering protection against harsh environmental factors.

I do highly recommend wearing sunscreen when you go out. It’s not an SPF.

Avocado Oil Beyond Your Skin

I know I’ve focused mainly on the skin so far. I’m also using it for my hair care. Don’t freak out over the color of the oil. It’s not going to turn your hair a weird shade of green.

I like to use the oil as a deep conditioner a few times each week. I instantly noticed softer, shinier hair than I’d ever gotten with coconut oil. I also didn’t have oily hair by the next day.

The nutrients in the oil help remove excess residue, lock in moisture, and repair damaged hair. It’s also great to use year round, unlike coconut oil which doesn’t react so well to cooler temperatures.

I’m also using the oil as a leave-in treatment. It’s lightweight despite being an oil. Only use a little and you’ll be fine.

Embrace the Avocado

It only takes a little avocado oil to take care of many of your beauty needs. I’m in love with it and always have a bottle on hand. I’m also eating more avocados so I get benefits inside and out.

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Spice Up Your Life: 5 Ways I Added Common Kitchen Spices to My Beauty Routine

Have you noticed the trend of more and more beauty bloggers, celebrity makeup artists, and even hairdressers raving about their beauty secret – kitchen spices? The trend towards more natural beauty products was bound to change how we all use everyday spices.

If you look beyond the trends, you’ll find the same thing I have. Using spices for beauty has been around for centuries. For example, long before chemical ingredients to plump lips, cinnamon was used for fuller looking lips.

From face masks to hair treatments, everyone and their sister are using spices. I’m one of the many working to spice up my life. It wasn’t nearly as hard as I thought it would be. Now I just wonder why I waited so long!

Becoming a Kitchen Beautician

Sunnie Brook, who is a well-known makeup artist and celebrity hairdresser, said it’s important to your beauty regimen to be a kitchen beautician. The term’s stuck with me. It’s nice to know that beauty can go beyond your bathroom mirror and makeup bag.

She shows off her knowledge on Today Style as she dishes on some of her favorite spices such as thyme for oily skin, basil for blemishes, turmeric for brighter smiles, cinnamon as a hair lightener, and cayenne pepper for plump lips.

Now that I have a name for my kitchen beauty expertise, I’m able to tell my friends how to get more beautiful skin and hair with authority. When they ask what kind of expert I am, I proudly say, “I’m a kitchen beautician!”

I’ve discovered this is a growing trend. Becoming one yourself isn’t difficult. All you need is a well-stocked kitchen pantry.

Start From The Inside

I’m a firm believer that beauty starts from the inside. Dr. Joseph Mercola and herbalist Christina Suarez share that sentiment.

The first way I added kitchen spices to my regular beauty routine was to cook with them more often. Simply adding some anti-aging spices to my meals has made a difference in the look of my skin.

I often use basil, though Dr. Mercola recommends a general Italian spice blend that includes basil. The antioxidant rich spice helps protect against free radicals.

It’s easy to add basil to a variety of dishes. It’s not overpowering, so adding a few fresh leaves isn’t going to hurt. I recommend fresh for better results, but dried works well too.

Besides obvious beauty benefits, I’ve noticed spices such as thyme, coriander, and celery seeds helps boost my immune system, reduce annoying bloating from water retention, and eases seasonal allergies.

Feeling better makes you look better. Plus, the more strain on your immune system, the less healthy your skin and hair look. Start from the inside and you’re on your way to looking more beautiful.

For faster results, try taking these spices in capsule form. Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

Spicing Up Face Masks

Sometimes it’s good to stop using chemical-laden face masks and turn to your kitchen instead. Mixing things up with common spices I typically cook with has made a difference in my skin. My favorite mask by far uses cayenne pepper. Don’t worry, I have sensitive skin and it doesn’t bother me at all.

The mask’s recipe calls for half of a ripened avocado, one teaspoon of cayenne pepper (reduce by as much as half for sensitive skin), and one teaspoon of raw cocoa powder.

Mix the cayenne pepper and cocoa powder together before blending in the avocado. Using this mask weekly gives my skin a brighter, cleaner feel. I’ve noticed fewer acne marks and more supple skin even on days where I’ve had little sleep.

I was surprised to discover cayenne pepper boosts circulation, making my usually pale skin seem more alive.

If you’re looking for other facial masks, I’ve also used paprika and turmeric in masks. Rianna Loving provides three amazing masks, including my cayenne pepper favorite.

Beautiful Hair from the Kitchen

I love the smell of cinnamon, and when I discovered it’s great for stimulating hair growth and circulation in the scalp. I had to try it! I’ll admit, it does tingle a little, but my scalp feels better than it has in years.

It’s best to use the oil version of cinnamon or you could mix a small amount of finely ground cinnamon in with your shampoo. Francesca Fusco, a dermatologist, said she couldn’t prove the claims of hair growth, but she did say the antioxidants in the spice were great for handling inflammation and reducing any UV damage.

Cayenne pepper is also a good scalp stimulator, but I don’t recommend it for anyone with a sensitive scalp. For me, it caused redness, but for my friend, it worked as well as cinnamon.

One quick warning – cinnamon is a natural hair lightener, so use it sparingly. To double the benefits, I always mix it with honey to moisturize and stimulate the scalp.

No More Dry, Dull Skin

Face and body scrubs are expensive. I did a little research and started making my own using spices I already had in my cabinets. I’ve fallen in love with one particular body scrub.

Ground cloves and ginger are full of nutrients and ginger is well known for its antibacterial properties. I mix three tablespoons of coffee, a tablespoon of ground ginger and a tablespoon of ground cloves.

If you want a little extra exfoliating power, add in a half cup of sea salt. If you’re using this for your face, skip the sea salt, especially if you have sensitive or acne prone skin.

I keep my mixture in a plastic storage bag, put a little in my hands, and mix with water when I’m showering. My skin looks and feels amazing when I’m done.

Combat Acne Naturally

Adult acne hit me hard in my twenties. I tried every over-the-counter treatment I could find. Basil, oregano and thyme are my new best friends.

I’ve used both as a toner and the results were better than any store bought toner so far. For the thyme, I mix a 1:3 ratio of dried thyme and witch hazel. Mix it well and let it set for a day before using.

For the basil and oregano, I boil three tablespoons of crushed basil in a cup of water. Let the water cool and then strain out the leaves. The basil infused water helps reduce inflammation and kills the bacteria in my pores.

I finish my acne routine with black pepper for blackheads and turmeric for general blemishes. I mix black pepper with plain yogurt and apply as a face mask twice weekly. Just 10 minutes later, I’m able to rinse away many of my blackheads.

Turmeric is my favorite. Curcumin, the antioxidant in the spice, and anti-inflammatory properties not only fight acne, but free radicals as well. It’s my anti-aging, anti-acne treatment. I add a pinch to my nightly moisturizer and it’s made a major difference in my skin.

Stocking Up Your Kitchen

The next time you go to the grocery store or a spice shop, stock up. Adding more spices to your meals helps you from the inside out. Using them on your hair and skin will greatly change your regular beauty routine.

I’ve replaced quite a few beauty products with DIY beauty treatments us

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Lifestyle

Do You Really Need Gluten-Free Beauty Products?

I have a few friends who suffer from celiac disease. They work hard to avoid gluten at all costs. I’ve changed my diet to cut out gluten because of auto-immune issues. One thing I hadn’t worried about was beauty products.

Take a look at your favorite foundation or lipstick. Does it mention anything about wheat or grain? Most beauty products aren’t clearly labeled, but many do contain small trace amounts of gluten. The question my friends worry about most is whether those beauty products are safe or not.

The Debate Rages On

So far, experts haven’t provided a clear yes or no answer on the effect of gluten in beauty products. I’m kind of shocked myself that no definitive proof has been found either way.

Some experts believe the amounts used in lotion, makeup and other beauty products are so minuscule that it doesn’t trigger the gluten allergy. Others claim the only way to experience a negative side effect is if the beauty product is digested.

Other medical professionals believe any gluten in any form is bad. They believe it’s possible to experience skin rashes. If the gluten levels are high enough, the gluten could be absorbed through the skin.

Avoid Digestible Products

I know it might seem disgusting to think of eating your beauty products, but think about it. You lick your lips with lipstick or lip balm on. You might swallow a tiny bit of toothpaste or mouthwash. You may even accidentally digest hand lotion after eating chicken wings.

My friends have converted to gluten free beauty products for all products they might digest. I don’t blame them. I wouldn’t take the risk either.

It’s the one area nearly all medical experts agree on. If you could swallow the product, those trace amounts of gluten could be dangerous. The less sensitive you are to gluten, the less likely you are to have a reaction.

Testing Your Own Reaction

I didn’t think a little bit of wheat in body lotion would be a problem. It wasn’t until my friend developed a rash on her legs that we discovered gluten free beauty products might not be a bad idea.

Before you rush out to buy gluten free everything, I’d also like to say another friend tested the same lotion with no negative side effects. The key is to test the products yourself.

Try any beauty product on a small area of skin for a few days to see how you react to it. If you develop a rash or any other side effects, stop using the product immediately.

I would also recommend testing any eye makeup when you don’t have to go out. Once again, the friend who had the reaction to the lotion had itchy, watery eyes after using mascara with gluten in it. You don’t want side effects popping up in the middle of an important first date or interview.

Diet Matters Most

The best thing to do for celiac disease or a gluten allergy is to change your diet. Even if you have dermatitis herpetiformis, a gluten free diet is still the most effective treatment.

I wish there was a clear answer about gluten free beauty products. For now, doctors believe most reactions to gluten only occur when gluten is digested. Placing small amounts on the skin shouldn’t affect you.

My friend found out certain products didn’t work so well with her. Other friends have no problem.

Even though I don’t have a gluten allergy, I’ve had skin rashes from using certain beauty products containing Vitamin C. This proves that a negative side effect can happen from other ingredients and not just gluten.

What Should You Do

Finding gluten free beauty products isn’t always easy. Eliminate any potential digestible beauty products and replace them with gluten free varieties. You may have to contact the company to find out if the product is truly gluten free. For everything else, test it first.

My friends haven’t gone completely gluten free for beauty and they’re doing fine. I recommend switching only when needed and keep using your favorite beauty products.

Categories
Sweat

What is Your Expired Makeup Really Doing to Your Face?

Makeup doesn’t expire, right? I wish my favorite shade of eyeshadow or lengthening mascara didn’t go bad, but sadly, makeup does have an expiration date.

The worst part is many of us ignore those dates. If it looks alright, it must be fine. I’ve said that exact phrase to myself. It’s actually dangerous to use expired makeup on your skin.

I started paying more attention to general makeup expiration dates and while it made me feel like I was wasting unused product, I knew I was lessening my chances of getting Pink Eye or smearing bacteria all over my face. By the time you get done reading this, you’ll do the same thing I did – clean out your makeup bag.

Bacteria Grows Quickly

Most of the makeup you use probably has preservatives in it. These help them last longer and fight bacteria from air and applicators. Keep in mind all-natural makeup doesn’t use preservatives and might expire faster, but they’re also better for skin so it’s an even trade off.

I never thought much about bacteria in my makeup. I always washed my hands and face before applying anything. I cleaned my applicators weekly. What was there to worry about?

From the moment you expose your makeup to air, it’s exposed to bacteria. You’ve just set off a ticking time bomb. Now you rub or dab your applicator in the makeup and apply to your face. You repeat the process until you’re done. Just like that, you’ve spread bacteria from your face to your makeup.

Bacteria doesn’t just get bored and magically go away. It’s powerful stuff that keeps growing and reproducing until your makeup turns into a nasty Petri dish. Do you really want that on your face?

Liquid based makeup, such as liquid foundation or mascara, provide a better breeding ground for bacteria than powder based. What does that mean for you? It means you get to keep your powder eye shadow longer than your liquid eye liner.

Don’t worry. It doesn’t happen overnight. All types of makeup have a natural resistance to bacteria. Just like us, the resistance fades with age.

Now do you see what I mean about taking expiration dates seriously?

Bad Makeup Is Worse Than No Makeup

I’ve had those days where I thought bad makeup has got to be better than no makeup. I was wrong. All it took was one look in the mirror to realize something wasn’t right.

Think it doesn’t matter? Here are just a few of the problems I faced myself:

– Adult acne

– Redness

– Dry patches

– Excessive oiliness

– Eye infections

Of course, the more I tried to cover up those issues with more makeup, the worse the situation got. As it turns out, the culprit behind all of my problems was old makeup.

While these didn’t happen to me, you could also experience the following:

– Swelling

– Rashes

– Blisters

– Sun damage (SPF becomes less effective)

As the makeup itself breaks down, it doesn’t work as well. In some cases, it actually does the opposite of what it’s supposed to do. For instance, a foundation designed to even out your skin tone over time might cause redness or dry skin.

The excess bacteria seeps into your pores and takes you back to your high school days. I thought acne was over after puberty. Not only is adult acne an issue, but expired makeup is a common cause of flare ups.

The worse part for me were the eye infections. I couldn’t figure out what kept happening. A friend told me it could be my mascara. I used to be a big believer in using a product until it ran out or didn’t look like it should anymore.

Every time I stuffed the wand back in my mascara, I was forcing air into the tube. This just makes bacteria grow faster. The next day, I put that bacteria all over my lashes. After five to six months, the bacteria ended up giving me an eye infection. Mascara typically has a 3 month shelf-life, by the way.

Trust me when I tell you bad makeup is not good for you. You’d be better off wearing nothing at all.

Using Makeup Past Its Prime

Just like with food, you’re not going to have any real side effects if you use your makeup a little past its prime. Mascara is probably the only real exception, especially if you use it regularly.

If you notice any small changes in your skin that aren’t related to those annoying monthly hormone issues, consider checking the age of your makeup. Simply tossing out your old foundation and replacing it with fresh could eliminate your sudden skin problems in a week or less.

Most women ignore the general expiration rules and instead use common sense. I use a combination, especially when I’m using products past their prime.

Think about the following before using old makeup:

– Does it smell different?

– Has the color changed?

– Has the texture changed?

– Does it feel different on your skin?

– Is drier or more watery than it should be?

The moment your makeup changes, it’s time to toss it. I know the moment my lipstick starts to smell a little strange, it’s time to buy something new. Besides, do you really want to use makeup on your face that doesn’t look like the product you originally bought?

Be careful when you use any makeup past its expiration date. It’s not worth risking your skin’s health just to use up that last little bit of foundation or concealer.

Follow the Rules

Don’t want to wait until your makeup starts to smell or look funny? I’m not a huge fan of that myself. Luckily, there are some general guidelines to follow. Plus, many manufacturers place expiration dates on their products.

Before I go any further, I should point out that if you’ve used makeup while you’ve had a cold, the flu or any infection on your face, such as lips or eyes, toss out the makeup you used during this period. The last thing you want is to spread those germs back on your face.

Liquid and cream foundation lasts approximately six months. Liquid and cream concealers are usually good for up to eight months. The same goes for any liquid or cream based eye shadows and liners. Cream based products typically last a little longer than liquids.

I’ve started using more powder based products for any makeup that I don’t use often, such as that neon blue shadow I only use on 80s night at my favorite restaurant once a month. These products last around a year.

I’ve also switched to eye and lip pencils that I can sharpen. Since you’re constantly shaving off the old, these last over a year. Just remember to keep them sharp.

I was surprised to discover lipstick and lip gloss are good for at least a year. Try to limit yourself to three or four favorite shades so you don’t have so much excess going bad.

Finally, toss your mascara after about three to four months. It goes bad faster than anything else.

I know you don’t want to throw away all your makeup. I didn’t either, but I’m glad I got rid of the expired products. My skin looks better than ever.

In the future, I recommend limiting how many products you buy at once. You can only use so much at a time. Find a few favorites or shades of each product and use them up before buying more. You’ll save your skin and money.

Categories
Lifestyle

Gel Nail Polish: Strong and Stunning, But At What Cost?

Anyone else amazed at how a little UV light and some gel leads to gorgeous nails for weeks? I’ll be the first to raise my gel polished nails and say I love it. Not all good things are actually good for you though. Doctors are speaking up when it comes to gel nail polish. I see it as the same as junk food. It tastes great, but it’s not exactly something you should eat all the time. Gel polish works sort of the same way.
Don’t swear off the long lasting polish just yet. I have some good news to mix in with the bad.

How Gel Manicures Work

Most of us have probably dreamed of a manicure that lasts for two weeks or more. I thought I’d found a dream come true with my first gel manicure. For those who haven’t tried one yet, the polish portion of the manicure takes three steps. First, apply a special base coat that’s cured under a UV light. Next, two coats of gel polish are applied with each coat being cured under the UV light. Finally, a top coat is applied to protect the polish.
Notice anything different here? Most manicures don’t require a UV light. Here’s where part of the danger comes from and the one doctors are most concerned about.

Dangers of UV Light

I apply facial moisturizer with SPF on my face religiously every day. I don’t want to risk any skin problems from being exposed to the sun. If we protect our faces from harmful UV rays, why not our hands and nails?
The chemicals in gel polish require a curing process to harden and set on nails. Otherwise, it’d chip quickly and wear away just as quickly or faster as normal polish. You leave your hands under a UV light for at least five minutes or more with every gel manicure. It might not seem like much, but it doesn’t take that much UV radiation to damage the cells in your skin. In fact, the concentration of UV light used is up to five times more powerful than the average tanning bed. That bit of information alone has made me rethink my nails.

Doctors weigh in.

JAMA Dermatology, a journal of the American Medical Association, published a report concluding that ultraviolet light could be harmful to our health. The scariest part to me was the part saying damage could occur in just a few dozen manicures.
Many of us probably have that many or more per year. The study has only confirmed what many nail stylists already feared. Those gorgeous, long lasting manicures could boost our skin cancer risk.
The report has shed some light on the popular trend, but many doctors are saying to take the news with a grain of salt. They say more testing needs to be done to prove just how harmful these manicures really are. Some say there’s not enough UV light to warrant any worry at all.

Should you worry?

As with any potential health risk, it’s good to know about it upfront. I’m still on the fence myself. I have slacked off on how often I’ve gotten gel manicures though. I’ve even tried a few of those at home brands designed to work almost as well without a light. I wasn’t nearly as impressed with those polishes, but if they help reduce my risk of skin cancer, I don’t mind using them in between professional manicures.
Personally, I think if you’re worried about the risk, try to reduce your skin’s exposure during the curing process. Many women are already applying sunscreen to their hands before the manicure. Others place towels or gloves on their hands with just the tips of their fingers exposed. I’ve tried the sunscreen myself and it’s really easy to do. Texting gloves that leave all your fingertips exposed are great options too.

UV light isn’t the only concern.

I know I sound like a major party pooper here, but the UV light isn’t the only thing to worry about. I’ve had first-hand experience with the other issues that come with gel nail polish and those alone make me want to ease up on how often I get my nails done.
Leaving any nail polish on for more than a week could damage your nail. You’re basically cutting off all air to the nail itself.
With gel nail polish lasting two to three weeks, you’re leaving chemicals on your nails non-stop. These cause nasty yellowing along with weakening the nail itself. This is all just with the polish itself and doesn’t even begin to delve into how bad the removal process is.

Removal equals damage.

Acetone is a harsh solvent, but it does wonders at removing nail polish. It’s also the only type of nail polish remover strong enough to tackle a gel manicure. Unlike other polishes, you have to soak your nails in acetone to dissolve the polish. Some salons even sand away the layers. Do you really think your nails and fingers enjoy this process?
The removal process alone weakens the nails. Some women have even had damage to the skin around the nail. If we keep getting gel manicures back to back, the nails or the skin around your nails have no time to heal. I’m guilty of this myself. It took nearly a month for my nails to look and feel normal again.

Before Your Next Manicure

Remember I said I had good news too? Most doctors and nail stylists agree on one point. Gel manicures aren’t dangerous in moderation. Saving them for special occasions or during your busiest times might be best.
The salon you choose also makes a difference. The techniques some salons use are far less harmful. For instance, some salons now use gel brands that use an LED light versus UV. Other salons skip the acetone dip and opt for small acetone soaked pads just slightly larger than your nail. This means less acetone on your skin. I recommend asking a salon about their procedures before scheduling a manicure. If you know anyone who has used the salon, ask them about their experience. It’s okay to shop around for the safest salon.
Enjoy your gel nail polish, but wait two to three weeks after removing it before applying it again. Of course, you could always take my approach and use at home, no light brands. I know the next gel manicure I get, I’ll definitely try the new LED option if possible. Anything that makes me safer while helping me look better, I’m all for it.