Health and Beauty Articles

Organic beauty products

Much like organic food, organic beauty products should be made with ingredients that are certified organic, cosmetics and skin care products can be certified through the same processes used for food and the best way to know that you are getting an organic skin care product is to look for the USDA organic seal which means that the product has met the standards of the National Organic Program, the seal can legally be used on products labeled "100% organic" which means what it says or "organic" at least 95% organic products. Products labeled "made with organic ingredients" cannot carry the seal, but they must have at least 70% organic ingredients.

Organic is defined as follows: Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides, fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bioengineering, or ionizing radiation so before a product can be labeled 'organic,' a government-approved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet USDA organic standards. What this means for organic skin products is that the farms that make a product's raw ingredients must use organic farming practices, in addition, the product itself must be produced in a way that keeps the ingredients organic, generally, this means that no chemicals are added during the manufacturing process.

Here are some popular organic beauty products you could lay your hand on:

Jason red elements - Jason products are well known in the organic sector, their new line "Red Elements" is infused with not green, but red tea and both the cleanser and toner have shown promise. Nature's gate organics forget your line wrinkles diffuser - Helps relax facial muscles to decrease the appearance of fine lines.

Zia oat milk detoxifying mask - Best for soothing sensitive or irritated skin, perfect for anyone with problem or sensitive skin and ideal for those with rosacea or eczema as well. Avalons organic renewal and vitality facial cleansing gel - Fine for normal to dry skin, but it also helps soothe sensitive skin too, the mild formula is fine for daily use.

Silky underwear - An innovative product by LUSH made with cocoa butter, jasmine, and cornstarch, it is a perfect body powder for the hot summer months when moisturizer is too much.

Burt's Bees head to toe starter kit - Experience a tidbit of everything Burt's Bees has to offer with this kit full of sampler size products, it works well as a gift or as a travel kit for yourself.

L'Occitane shea butter - This is one of the most famous products by L'Occitane, nonetheless, they offer a wide range of quality products for your skin including a new Grape Body Care line.

Kiss my face moisture shave in lavender and shea butter - Moisturizer for dry skin and great for warding of razor burn or infections from razor cuts.

Kiss my face shampoo - Kiss my face is not only organic, but also affordable, lots of types to choose from, all kinds of conditioners and different hair needs addressed.

Burt's Bees shampoo - Both the shampoo and Burt's Bees conditioners combat different issues from dull hair to color treated hair, they work and smell great and aren't too expensive.

Smooth skin

Smooth skin is achieved when proper care is taken of the skin, for the face, normal skin - A mild facial scrub helps keep skin soft and smooth; try Aveeno Skin Brightening Daily Scrub with moisture-rich soy. Acne-prone skin, wash your face with a beta-hydroxy-acid cleanser that penetrates pores, removing dirt and oil like Biore Blemish Fighting Cleanser. Skin with fine lines - Alpha-hydroxy acids digest the cement that keeps dead skin cells attached to one another and makes lines more visible; try Peter Thomas Roth AHA/BHA Face & Body Polish.

Sensitive skin Products containing lactic acid are gentle exfoliators; opt for Chanel Maximum Radiance Delicate Exfoliator. For your body, normal skin - because body skin is thicker than facial skin, rough exfoliant like salt scrubs and crushed natural ingredients like nuts are most effective; try Bath & Body Works True Blue Spa There is the Rub Salt Scrub or Les Elixirs Sweet Orange Exfoliating Cream. Rough skin - Use AHA body products on rough areas like elbows, knees and feet; use Estee Lauder Body Smoother Exfoliating Crème. Sensitive skin - Body exfoliators with jojoba beads are gentle; Murad Exfoliating Body Cleansing Gel also includes chamomile and calendula, both anti-irritants. If you have flesh-colored bumps, up to 40 percent of adults suffer from keratosis pilaris, tiny bumps on the upper outer arms and thighs, the condition is genetically inherited and caused when the skin's top layers don't slough off normally, the hair follicles are elevated above the surrounding skin, resulting in a dead-skin-cell backlog.

Over-the-counter remedy Dermatologist Bruce Katz, M.D., director of the JUVA Skin & Laser Center in New York City, recommends using moisturizers with skin-exfoliating AHAs, try BeneFit Wonderbod, it will help make the surface less rough. For ingrown hairs, that is, people with dark wiry body hair are more prone to these often-painful bumps that frequently appear after waxing or shaving, when growing hair is blocked by dead skin cells or curls at the skin's surface so the tip re-enters the follicle, the follicle and surrounding skin can become infected, causing the bump. Over-the-counter remedy Aida Thibiant, owner of Thibiant Beverly Hills Day Spa in California advises clients to use an exfoliating product and loofah on the area, it takes longer on the arms and butt, she says, but it will make ingrown hairs disappear.

Also apply products with pore-de-clogging salicylic acid to the area daily; try Neutrogena Men Skin Clearing Astringent After Shave. And if you have warts - warts are caused by a viral infection that gives rise to a growth, it is a common problem and they are easy to contract, particularly in places you walk barefoot, like a yoga center or locker room, warts can be contagious both to other people and to you, they can spread to other areas of your body. Over-the-counter remedy "Covering a wart with a bandage stops the possibility of it spreading, Drugstore treatments like DuoFilm are good options for warts on hands and feet, but for more sensitive areas like the face, visit a dermatologist.

Clear skin tips

Maintaining a clear skin is not as difficult and expensive as people make it to look and sound, there are some little tips to make your skin appear clear and beautiful in no time, first of all, if your skin is not clean it can never be clear, wash your face in the morning when you wake up, and again before bedtime, always use an antibacterial facial soap, there are many good products on the market these days, priced to suit any income, do not wash your face more than two times every day, over-cleansing can dry out your skin, which can cause your pores to produce more oil.

Use your fingertips or a washcloth, avoid scrubbing your skin as this also can cause your pores to over-produce oil. Always use an SPF facial moisturizer after you wash your face even if your skin is very oily, you should use a moisturizer as it helps achieve balance and even out skin tone, but make sure your moisturizer is oil-free, or non-comedogenic so it will not clog your pores and make sure any make-up you use is non-comedogenic. Also avoid getting hair products like hairspray or gel on your skin; try not to touch your skin with your hands during the day because oil and germs from your fingers can cause pimples.

And the final tip and most important tip for clear skin is - DO NOT squeeze pimples! Yes, it is tempting but squeezing a pimple will only make it get worse and take longer to clear and it bruises the skin, causes scarring, and can spread bacteria, causing more pimples. These simple, easy to follow tips will help you see clear, beautiful skin, sooner than you ever thought was possible. Daily use of sunscreen will help prevent irregular pigmentation from occurring; also tretinon-applied daily for many months will treat irregular pigmentation. To keep facial lines from setting in around your mouth, over-exaggerate smiling, and then gnash your teeth together. Repeat each motion 24 times.

To prevent a wrinkled neck, sweep your hands up under your chin and down again. Repeat 12 times. Rosewater can also be used as a home treatment, rosewater is filled with vitamin B, E, and k, and it is a good cleansing astringent as it wipes away gently the dirt and oil while nourishing the skin. You can also try moisturizing with natural emollient coconut oil, this exfoliates the outer layer of a dead skin while protecting it and moisturizing it and making it firmer, smoother and stronger, lastly a mixture of milk and honey, milk has lactic acid which is a natural exfoliant filled with vitamins and softener which helps in peeling the top layer of the skin while honey is a natural antibacterial and antiseptic agent that can help cleanse and shrink the pores while clearing it. Do not use moisturizers that contain mineral oils and other natural ingredients that have oil in it, as this will clog your pores the more so the general rule is to make sure the product is oil free for people with oily skin and vice versa for people with dry skin.

Acne skin

Acne is a skin condition that causes spots; most people affected by acne are aged between 12 and 25, however, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer from acne, there are many treatments available to help deal with the condition. To maintain a clear acne skin, here are some tips to take note of: clean your skin gently - if you have acne, you should gently wash your face with a mild cleanser, once in the morning and once in the evening, as well as after heavy exercise, wash your face from under the jaw to the hairline and be sure to thoroughly rinse your skin, note that using strong soaps or rough scrub pads is not helpful and can actually make the problem worse, astringents are also not recommended unless the skin is very oily and then they should be used only on oily spots.

Avoid frequent handling of the skin - avoid rubbing and touching skin lesions, squeezing, pinching or picking blemishes can lead to the development of scars or dark blotches. Shave skin carefully - men who shave and who have acne should test both electric and safety razors to see which is more comfortable, when using a safety razor, make sure the blade is sharp and soften your beard thoroughly with soap and water before applying shaving cream, shave gently and only when necessary to reduce the risk of nicking blemishes. Avoid a sunburn or a suntan - many of the medicines used to cure a pimples can make you more prone to sunburn, a sunburn that reddens the skin or suntan that darkens the skin may make blemishes less visible and make the skin feel drier but these benefits are only temporary and there are known risks of excessive sun exposure, such as more rapid skin aging and a risk of developing skin cancer.

And lastly don't ever forget to choose your cosmetics carefully - while undergoing acne treatment you may need to change some of the cosmetics you use, all cosmetics, such as foundation, blush, eye shadow, moisturizers, and hair-care products should be oil free, choose products labeled non-comedogenic "meaning they do not promote the formation of closed pores", in some people, however, even these products may make acne worse. There are a vast variety of clear skin tips or ways to clear up acne, but not all are effective. Acne soaps and cleansers are the most important products but people ignore its importance. Although soaps and cleaners are common, they eliminate root causes of acne breakouts.

Smooth acne skin can be achieved when proper care is taken of the skin, for the face, a mild facial scrub helps keep skin soft and smooth; try Aveeno Skin Brightening Daily Scrub with moisture-rich soy and if your skin type is acne-prone, wash your face with a beta-hydroxy-acid cleanser that penetrates pores, removing dirt and oil like Biore Blemish Fighting Cleanser. When you follow all these steps including eating a healthy diet, you are well on your way to maintaining your acne skin and reducing blemishes.

Michael Brown

Nehmen toxische Beauty - die Chemikalien in Ihrem Kosmetik eine Maut auf Ihre Gesundheit?

If you look at the ingredients of every skin-care product you currently own or almost all supposed "healthy" and expensive skin-care products sold in any store, you will find a combination of the following dangerous, chemical and synthetic ingredients. Please keep in mind that when you use ANYTHING on your skin or hair, ALL of the ingredients absorb into your body. Skin absorption is so potent that an increasing number of medicines are in patch form.

Your family's trusted soap, shampoo & toothpaste; the bubble bath and lotion your baby uses every day; your favourite face cream, lipstick, perfume and cleanser; and for the men -

your shaving cream, aftershave lotion, hair gel and even face scrub may all be cancer causing or carcinogenic.

Greater exposure from skin absorption

Your skin is the largest living organ of your body and many cancer-causing chemicals can be absorbed through it into the bloodstream. Research at the University of Pittsburgh shows that twice as much toxic chemicals can enter our body through the skin as through the intestine. Cosmetic and personal care products are most certainly absorbed through the skin.

Dr. Mercola says "putting chemicals on your skin is actually far worse than ingesting them, because when you eat something the enzymes in your saliva and stomach help break down and flush it out of your body. When you put these chemicals on your skin, however, it is absorbed straight into your blood stream without filtering of any kind".

The average woman absorbs over 5Lbs of ingredients from face and body-care products (excluding cosmetics) into her bloodstream over 60 years. Parabens have been shown to mimic oestrogen and may lead to an increased risk of developing cancer. British researchers have found traces of these chemicals in tissue taken from women with breast cancer. While there is no evidence that the parabens cause the cancers, tests suggest that chemicals do seep into the tissue after being applied to the skin.

According to a study quoted in The Safe Shopper's Bible, 13% of the cosmetic preservative, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) & 49% of the carcinogenic pesticide DDT (which is found in some cosmetics containing lanolin, is absorbed through the skin. Some chemicals like saccharin and fluoride in toothpaste can be ingested during use.

Applying creams and oils is NO DIFFERENT from eating them, because they enter the blood-stream regardless if they are ingested in the mouth or absorbed through the skin! If you want to experience how quickly your skin absorbs everything just rub garlic on the sole of your foot and wait 20 minutes to taste it in your mouth. So why don't you rub something good into your skin? There are hundreds of chemicals in skin and body care products, which are harmful. The 10 most common ones are listed below:

A list of the most common chemical ingredients found in beauty products

Parabens (Methyl-, Propyl-, Butyl-, Ethyl-): Some combination of these synthetic ingredients are in almost EVERY skin and hair product made today. Widely known to be highly toxic and cause allergic/skin reactions. Companies use this dangerous ingredient, because it is extremely cheap and extends the shelf life of the product by inhibiting microbial growth. It has shown to be teratogenic in mouse studies and may contain 1,4-dioxane, which is a carcinogen.

Propylene glycol (1,2-Propanediol): is used as avent, humectant and skin-conditioning agent found in most shampoos, conditioners and lotions. It is a petroleum

derivative, the major ingredient in industrial anti-freeze, brake & hydraulic fluids. A carcinogen, teratogen and suspected neuron-toxic hazard. Linked to skin irritation,

provokes acne, gastro-intestinal disturbances, nausea, headaches & vomiting. Over exposure can cause liver abnormalities and kidney damage.

DMDM Hydrantoin A Petro-chemical used as an anti-freeze in cars.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): and the alcohol form of SLS. Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS). A detergent and emulsifier which strips the skin of its natural

oils, interfering with the skin's barrier function and making it easier for other chemicals to get through. Japanese studies have found SLS to be a mutagen. According to toxicologists,

any chemical capable of causing mutations (that is it can alter DNA) is likely to increase the risk of cancer. The real danger with this chemical is that it can react with other chemicals

used in cosmetics to form nitrates. Nitrates are known cancer-causing agents. According to experts, once nitrates have formed, they can enter the bloodstream in large numbers from

shampooing, and from using bubble bath, shower gels and facial cleansers. SLS & SLES are reportedly the only known cleansing agent to enter the blood system.

Sodium Laureth Sulfate is considered milder than Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate but contains 1,4 dioxane, a carcinogen. A foaming agent and one of the most commonly used chemicals

found in cosmetics. Also used in car washes, engine degreasers, garage floor cleaners and other products, which need foaming. It is absorbed by the skin and can cause damage

to skin, liver, brain, lung, heart and eyes. Can also damage the immune system and cause hair loss.

Health Hazards have been known about SLS & SLES for many years as stated in the journal of American College of Toxicology (1983), they include tissue damage that could result

in brain, liver, heart and lung damage in the long term, eye damage, degradation of the immune system, sever skin irritation, hair loss and eczema. When absorbed thru the skin

SLS maintains residual body levels in the heart, liver, lungs and brain. Further reference see Dangerous Beauty Cosmetic & Personal care: Peter Dingi & Toni Brown 1999.

Fragrance: today's perfumes are not made from flowers but from chemicals, 95% of which are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. Just one perfume can contain more than

500 chemicals and can cause dizziness, skin irritation and hyper-pigmentation. The words fragrance free aren't a safeguard either, as smell-masking chemicals may have been

added instead. Benzene, aldehyde, toluene, methylene chloride, limonene, benzyl acetate, aniline-D5, safrole, dimethyl sulfate all found by the US EPA, NTP & House of

Representatives Committee on Science & Technology to be carcinogenic. Butanol (group 1-, 2-, and Tert-), fragrances are highly neuron-toxic. Irritating to the eyes, nose

and throat. Can trigger an asthmatic reaction in previously healthy people.

Artificial Colours: Labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by colour numbers such as FDC Red 4, FDC Red 1, or Food Red 1. These are band in all foods as they are known causes of

urinary bladder polyps and wasting of the adrenal glands. But they can still be used in cosmetics! FD&C Blue No.1 is a known carcinogen. FD&C Yellow No.5 (CI 19140) & 6

(CI 15985) & D&C No.33 (CI 17200, impurities found in commercial batches of these colours have been shown to cause cancer not only when ingested, but also when applied to

the skin. Some artificial coal tar colours also contain heavy metal impurities, including arsenic and lead, which are carcinogenic.

Petrolatum: petroleum based chemicals exude synthetic estrogen which are called Xeno Estrogens. These bad estrogens are absorbed thru the skin and accumulate in our organs.

They also affect our respiratory system and can play havoc with the hormone balance. Petrochemicals are used in artificial colours, plastic, polyester, foam rubber, cosmetics,

perfumes, formaldehyde, toothpastes, mouthwashes, hair sprays, shampoos, lotions and preservatives (that go in cosmetics as well as food).

Triethanolamine (TEA)/Diethanolamine (DEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA): are the most commonly used chemicals in cosmetics. Used as a lathering agent and to adjust the pH in

cleansers, soaps, moisturising lotions and creams, shampoos and conditioners. Readily absorbed through the skin and accumulated in organs. One study found that the topical

application of DEA in rodents resulted in anemia, kidney degeneration, and nerve damage to the brain and spinal cord. (Melnick et al., 1994) Even more disturbing was that

several animals died before the study ended. High concentrations of DEA-based detergents are commonly used in a wide range of cosmetics and personal care products, including

shampoos, hair dyes & conditioners, lotions, creams and bubble baths. Lifelong use of these products clearly poses avoidable cancer risks to consumers, particularly babies

and young children. DEA related ingredients such as Stearamide DEA, Lauramide DEA, Cocamide DEA are widely used in a variety of cosmetic products. These ingredients function

as emulsifiers or foaming agents.

Imidazolidinyl Urea and Diazolidinyl Urea: Used as a preservative, but a primary cause of contact dermatitis. You might see these toxic chemicals under the names

Germall II and Germall 115, which release formaldehyde at just over 10°.

Formaldehyde: A preservative used in many cosmetics especially nail hardeners and nail polish, which causes negative skin reactions. If it isn't listed as formaldehyde

then look for formaldehyde derived imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, 2-bromo-2-nitropane-1, 3-diol, DMDM hydantoin, and quarternium 15.

A carcinogen and irritant to the respiratory system and skin, causes dizziness, headaches, chest pain and weakens the immune system. The chemical name is Formalin (usually

the name used on nail polish labels in preference to formaldehyde. Used as a preservative in shampoos, baby washes, mascara, creams, bubble baths, anti-dandruff shampoos and

some deodorants.

Behentrimonium Chloride: Toxic ammonia compound. Ingestion can be fatal. Concentrations as low as 0.1% can be irritating to the eyes and cause necrosis (tissue death)

of mucus membranes.

Titanium, Zirconium, Benzalkonium, Bismuth, Antimony (*1), Barium (*2), Aluminum, Tin, Chromium, Benzene & PCBs: According to Dr. Hulda Reghi Clark, all of these

ingredients are extremely dangerous. *1 - Breast cancer cases show Titanium, Zirconium, Benzalkonium, Bismuth, Antimony, and Aluminum accumulation in the breast. *2 -Barium

is described in the Merck Index as a "caution". ALL water or acid soluble Barium is POISONOUS! 10ed. P.139, 1983. Aluminium, found in the majority of deodorants and

anti-perspirants. Results of WHO studies link regular use of aluminum based deodorants to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Mineral oil: This is a mixture of refined liquid hydrocarbons derived from petroleum. It coats the skin like plastic wrap, which interferes with the skin's natural immune

barrier and limits the skin's ability to breathe and release toxins. It also slows down skin function and cell development, resulting in premature ageing. Also known as

paraffin, paraffin oil, paraffinum liquidum. Found in baby lotions, face creams, eyeshadows, eye brow pencils, sorbolene products and hair products.

Saccharin: used as a flavouring agent-this is a synthetic compound derived from coal tar. It has been shown to cause bladder cancer in animal studies. Research has shown

that this chemical promotes the cancer-causing effects of other carcinogens.

Talc: Cosmetic talc is reportedly carcinogenic as it can be contaminated with asbestos fibres, which can be inhaled when applying makeup. (There is no safe level of

asbestos exposure). Clear evidence exists that inhaling talc and using it in the genital area causes ovarian cancer and urinary tract disorders as well as respiratory

distress in infants.

Coal tar: Often shows on labels as FD&C, or D&C colours, it is derived from petroleum and linked to asthma attacks, headaches, nausea, fatigue, nervousness and lack of

concentration. Coal Tar contains petrochemicals such as benzene, xylene, toluene, and also heavy metal salts. Coal Tar is a known carcinogen increasing risks of skin lung,

scrotum and skin cancer. Often found in Lipsticks, eyeshadows, face creams and perfumes.

BNPD: also known as 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1, 3-diol or Bronopol, Onyxide 500. An anti-microbial agent that releases formaldehyde and nitrates. Probably carcinogenic

and mutagenic and can cause contact dermatitis. This chemical poses similar hazards for nitrosamine formation when combined with TEA or DEA, according to the SAFE Shopper's Bible.

"PEG": ingredients, "-eth" ingredients, "-oxynol-" ingredients, Polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene, Polysorbate 60 & 80: According to the FDA

cosmetics containing detergents, foaming agents, emulsifiers and certain solvents with all these names may be contaminated with 1,4 dioxane, which has been shown

to produce cancer of the liver and nasal tumors in animal tests, as well as systemic cancer in skin painting tests. According to the US Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA), 1,4-dioxane can be absorbed through the skin.

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA): one of the 10 most commonly used preservatives in cosmetics. Is listed as a carcinogen in U.S.A. and interferes with estrogen levels

(a xenoestrogen) by blocking the estrogen receptors. It is also absorbed through the skin and stored in the body.

Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT): a preservative derived from Coal tar dye and petroleum. Banned in Sweden. Much more toxic than BHA. Is carcinogenic and teratogenic.

Can cause dermatitis or rashes, asthma attacks and breathing problems, fatigue, liver stress and much more. It is absorbed through the skin.

Fluoride: Sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluoride. an ingredient commonly found in toothpaste, it is a poison to humans when ingested over a long period, as it accumulates

in body tissues. "Fluoride a known carcinogen & teratogen, decreases fertility in women and is not approved by the FDA in the US. Fluoride has been removed from various animal

feeds because it was causing birth defects in the offspring. The growing scientific consensus is that fluoride provides no benefit to the teeth but does cause damage to the

bones and organs of the body." P. Dingle. Cosmetic & Personal Care, Dangerous Beauty. 1999. pp17.

Triclosan: Widely used in toothpaste and mouthwash-is linked to the increase in antibiotic-resistant 'superbugs'. Drinking mouthwash containing alcohol and fluoride is a major

source of poisoning among children.

Carageenan: is considered a possible human carcinogen by the WHO. Most toothpastes contain this chemical and it is better to err on the side of caution and avoid using it.

What you DO want in your beauty products......

Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps the skin fight sun and pollution damage. May be labeled as d-alpha tocopherol (the natural form of vitamin E). A natural preservative.

Vitamin C: (ascorbic acid). A natural preservative and antioxidant that stimulates collagen and promotes elastin tissue growth.

Oatmeal: Soothes skin; relieves itching and inflammation.

Lecithin: An extract from soya beans (organic suppliers reject the GM variety) used to moisturize the skin; a natural humectant (attracts moisture to the skin).

Calendula: Assists skin regeneration and healing. Anti-inflammatory; eases skin irritations.

Chamomile: A calming, gentle herb that is good for healing sensitive skin.

Witch Hazel: A herb with good astringent and toning properties.

Cucumber: The extract has a cooling and softening effect on hard, roughened skin.

Ginseng: Skin rejuvenator.

Aloe Vera: A gentle healing and anti-inflammatory herb.

Rosehip: A natural emollient that restores the skin's acid balance.

Horsetail: This herb is used for acne and eczema. It is also a good hair strengthener.

Lavender: A good healing agent for psoriasis and eczema.

Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5): A natural emollient which keeps skin moist.

Peppermint: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and good for regulating oily skin.

Lemongrass: Good for mild forms of acne and minor skin infections.

Vitamin A: Palmitate A natural preservative.

Xanthan Gum: A natural emulsifier.

Rosewater: A natural perfume.

Last words-It is best to be cautious!

The best way to ensure a product will do more good than harm is to know how to read the label. A good rule of thumb is to divide the ingredients into thirds: the top

third makes up 90-95% of the product, the middle about 5-8%, and the bottom about 1-3%. And know what the ingredients are. A great source is, The Chemical Maze by Bill Statham.

Mae Zaydan, daughter of 2, mother of 1, sister of 5, friends of many and founder of http://www.organicbeautyworld.com Committed to nourishing the whole person inside and out with mother nature's ingredients. And empowering people through jargon free practical tools and techniques to BE creator's of their own lives.

Epsom Salt For Healthy Living

Epsom salt is a chemical compound that has proven itself for having many uses. One such use that people have discovered for this salt is for promoting good health. Why has it come to be associated with healthy living? That is because it has magnesium, and magnesium is a very important element in making sure that our bodies are functioning as they should.

By what ways can we use this salt to help keep our bodies in tiptop shape? Here is a list of a few things we can do with Epsom salt for our health. As bath salts. It was first used as bath salts. A good soak in a tub filled with warm water and mixed with two cups is great for detoxifying the body and relieving stress.

Stress often reduces the level of magnesium in the body, and soaking in water mixed with Epsom salt restores the lost magnesium. It can also help in flushing out the toxins from the body and relieve muscle pain.

As a facial scrub. It can be an effective agent in cleaning and exfoliating the face. Exfoliating the face is necessary because it sloughs away the layers of dead skin cells from the face and allows newer, healthier cells to emerge. This is easy to do; all that needs to be done is to mix a pinch of Epsom salt with the facial scrub and massage it onto the face. Afterwards, rinse it off.

As a body scrub. Just like the skin on the face, the skin on the body also needs to be exfoliated. But other than that, massaging with it all over the body can also promote better blood circulation, soften the rough parts and help in making the skin tone look more even. Just rub this salt on your skin and rinse.

As a hair cleanser. The shampoo, conditioner and styling products that we use on our hair often leave remnants on each strand, leading to product buildup. When product buildup happens on the hair, it can be hard for the nutrients supposedly supplied by shampoo and conditioner to be absorbed by the hair.

As a constipation relief. Constipation is not just uncomfortable but painful. It is proven that drinking water mixed with a teaspoonful or two of Epsom salt can relieve a person of constipation.

These are just some of the uses Epsom salt has that can help promote bodily health. Having some this salt at home is always handy.

This Article is written by John C. Arkin from PrintCountry.com, the contributor of Ink & Printer Reviews. More information on the subject is at printerinkcartridges.printcountry.com, and related resources can be found at Epson Ink Cartridges.

Natural skin and hair care

Why Natural?

What would you think if upon driving up to your neighborhood gas station you saw individuals running gasoline through their hair and buying miniature take home bottles to use for hand and foot moisturization? Imagine if upon visiting a chemical plant you witnessed the employees jump into a huge Jacuzzi whose froth and bubbles were generated by leftovers from whatever they had manufactured that day. Regardless of how much or how little you know about natural personal care products, you would probably be reluctant to believe the hype about such products regardless of how it was presented to you.

Unfortunately, many such ingredients are being sneaked into your shampoo, lipstick and lotion. To add insult to injury, these synthetic culprits are being marketed to you in bottles that say “all natural,” “botanical” and “organic.” Unless you take the time to read and research the ingredients contained in your personal care products, you may unwittingly be feeding the largest, permeable organ on your body minute but regular doses of carcinogenic and damaging meals.

Potentially harmful chemical agents that are frequently added to conventional cleansers and emulsions (e.g. lotions and creams) include; lauryl and laureth sulfates (surfactant and lathering agents that are drying to the skin and hair), and various parabens and PEG’s (preservatives which are petroleum derivatives and potential carcinogens). Glycerin, which is a beneficial by-product of the soap making process is often removed from bar soap, then sold separately for more profit, thus further enhancing the drying effects of the chemical agents in the soap. Conditioners are usually a chemical soup with a small percentage of nourishing ingredients whose effects are rendered useless by the damage done by the synthetics, and leave a residue that causes product build up, necessitating the switch to a different product every few months. The most effective healthy conditioning is offered by homemade hot oil and or pre-wash treatments that can be left in or shampooed out. One fragrance oil can contain as many as 200 individual synthetic components! Essential oils are the only ingredient suitable for scenting a product that is made to be used on human or animal skin. Safe preservatives are neem oil, and rosemary and grapeseed extracts.

The beauty industry is a multi-billion dollar industry in which the idea of using only pure and natural ingredients to nourish the hair and skin is slowly but surely gaining momentum. There are, however, many imposters and half-hearted attempts that are taking advantage of the all natural buzz. That is why the following information is designed to help those of you looking to make the transition navigate the waters regardless of what stage you are at in your quest for natural beauty.

Bar and liquid Soaps and Shampoos

Truly natural soap is made using fats and or oils, and a strong base such as sodium or potassium hydroxide. The end product is soap and water, with the lye being actually used up in the process. When this process happens at room temperature, the resulting product is called cold-process soap. Some natural soaps can also be made with heat. The natural glycerin is left in the soap, and many natural soapers add botanical clays, herbs and essential oils to further enhance the quality of the soap. This results in a superior bar of soap that is both cleansing and nourishing to the skin. Natural liquid soaps can be used interchangeably for both the skin and hair. We recommend liquid castile soap for both, and stick to brands that are free of preservatives and dyes. Some soapers do have special botanical blends that are especially good for the hair.

Conditioners and Hair Treatments

Most natural conditioners work best before you wash your hair. They can vary from a hot oil treatment of blended base and essential oils, a mixture of clay and powdered herbs to a fresh food mask that can include ingredients found in your refrigerator like yogurt, lemon, avocado and olive oil. The hair shaft and scalp are porous and if allowed to sit long enough, (heat opens the pores thus allowing the treatment to be absorbed faster), the nutritious elements of the treatment remain even after you shampoo. This way you gain all the advantages of the conditioning without worrying about product build up. Aloe Vera Gel is an excellent hair mouse/ gel, that works on everything from the straightest of hair to dreadlocks. It gives hold without leaving the hair hard, and can also give body, while enhancing both straight and curly styles. Be sure to use only the kind that you can drink, as this contains no oils and preservatives, (other than citric acid).

Toners, Exfoliators and Skin Treatments

Look for toners that are alcohol fee. Floral waters and hydrosols (by-products from the manufacture of essential oils) are the most gentle and nourishing for the skin. Witch hazel is great for oily skin, lavender for dry skin, rose for aging skin and chamomile for sensitive. Oil based sugar and salt scrubs are excellent Exfoliators and moisturizers for the body. Use apricot kernel meal and or fresh pureed papaya or pineapple to exfoliate the face (or masks that contain these enzymes as an alternative to alpha-hydroxy acids). There are numerous clays on the market that can be mixed to suit your skin type, or you can just buy pre-mixed clay facials. Clay is excellent for extracting toxins from the skin and cleansing the pores.

Body Moisturizers

Most lotions and creams are emulsions of water and oil components. Any emulsion requires a preservative to prevent or kill off the accumulation of potentially harmful bacteria at the interface of the oil and water molecule. A high quality natural emulsion will contain natural cold pressed and unrefined oils or butters, and the water component will also comprise of other nutritious ingredients such as aloe juice or gel, hydrosols, floral and herbal waters to name a few. It will also use only natural and safe preservatives e.g. grapeseed extract, therefore the shelf life of such a product may be 3 to 6 months. However the advantage of the product is its freshness, and the assurance that the production happens in small batches and your cream can be customized.

Ingredients should be easy to read and understand. Pay heed to scientific or botanical names following the common name for extracts and essential oils, so that you can recognize them easily in the future. The best time to apply a moisturizer is immediately after a warm bath or shower. At this point, the pores are still enlarged and the oils will be absorbed quicker by the skin. Another solution is to give your skin a hot oil treatment. Melt 2 tablespoons (3 or 4 if there is a little more of you to love or if you have a partner with whom to share this special treat) of your favorite unrefined butter(s) (shea, mango or cocoa) in a double boiler. Add 4-8 drops, depending on the strength desired, of essential oils if you wish. Do not overheat, as heat may destroy some of the benefits of the oils. Massage oils onto entire body. The oils absorb quickly, leaving your skin feeling soft and supple.

Perfumes

The ancient art and science of perfumery is experiencing a revival. After decades of using mass produced, overpriced, synthetic fragrances, many holistic consumers are returning to the idea of wearing natural personalized fragrances. Be sure that your perfume is scented only with essential oils or natural resins (e.g. Vanilla Oleoresin). Usually natural perfumes are available as spritzers, roll on’s, or wax cones, flooded with fragrance, that you rub onto the skin.

Make up

Natural makeup is now available that does not contain talc, dyes or chemicals. Minerals from the earth are used for color, while natural oils and botanicals are used for texture. The end product is flattering, and hypoallergenic.

Additional Resources

The following are organizations and books that will guide you to businesses, books and products that are ideal for your specific needs.

All Natural Beauty, http://www.allnaturalbeauty.us or

Botanical Elements, [http://www.botanicalelements.com] or

Handmade Beauty Network, [http://www.handmadebeaury.com] or

Jeanne Rose’s Kitchen Cosmetics, by Jeanne Rose

Making Aromatherapy Creams and Lotions, by Donna Maria

Natural Beauty at Home, by Janice Cox

Fadzo Chanakira is a freelance writer that divides her time between Arizona and California, where she both lives and works. In addition to having written holistic articles for print and the internet on a variety of topics, she has a holistic business specializing in nutritional supplementation and truly natural beauty products called Alchemy of Beauty. Her undergraduate studies were in Kinesiology at Occidental College in Los Angeles, California. Fadzo also authors a free bi-monthly e-newsletter called The Alchemical Beauty News. She is currently working towards her Masters in Spiritual and Live Food Nutrition with the College of Living Arts in Patagonia, AZ.

She can be reached through her website, http://www.alchemyofbeauty.com or through the Ezine author contact email.

The science of beauty in the bathtub - Scrubs and soaps

With specially designed body peeling and soaps, one way is to deal with multiple skin and body. Make sure you stay the beginners away from Scrubs - and soaps the harsh chemicals, acids, or mineral oil (called also paraffin) contain, how they can dry and be even harmful for the skin.

Your own scrubs - that is beginner and soaps another option not complicated or must be difficult. Here, I've included some great, simple recipes to try out. A little extra TLC and in the bathroom, time can not only improve the look and the health of your skin, it can also help relieve stress and improve your general health.

Body peeling and special soaps can be used for are:

1. Goosebumps

2. Blackhead

3. Skin, the revitalization

4. The problems such as dry skin and cellulite

The process is simple and decisions are available to improve the appearance of the skin of your body.

a. scouring with SOAP and water, with bath Mitt, Loofah, or brush.

b. rub you over and over with sea salt, stand in the bathtub.

c. with sugar, rub on and on with your SOAP foam.

d. a muslin bag ground oats/bran from a health food store fill with and scrub it.

Long secured the use of a Loofah, hemp glove, brush is beneficial at all times, but most importantly, the person is a fast on a strict diet or company. In these circumstances, the body quickly throws from poisons, and these need to be scrubbed from the skin.

The use of SOAP

Even dermatologists can no agreement about whether SOAP positive good or bad for the skin. The theory that it is bad, is that skin is naturally slightly acidic, while SOAP is particularly alkaline. Thus, the SOAP temporarily destroyed the skins acid mantle. However, as the balance is restored in one to three hours, the damage is not permanent.

The 'anti-soap' Brigade claims that dry SOAP has a cumulative effect; Year wash will their tribute in the form of skin that is dry prematurely or broken. Certainly, students feel the drying effect of SOAP on the skin; It is this very some women say feeling that makes you feel 'clean', but often this means that SOAP is left on the skin, not sufficiently rinsed and dried off.

Keep in mind that although today the most soaps included to minimize this is not to the drying effect changes moisturizers such as cold cream its alkalinity. Most people will cause little damage to their skin by using the SOAP. It is only those, especially dry or sensitive skin, which is to use the special sour components soaps, not necessarily on all soaps, they are more aptly called cleaner.

Natural body cleanser, scrub and SOAP recipes

Home-made sea salt nourishing

Mix salt 1/8 cup of olive oil and 1 frequent El

On the knees and elbows in the shower and rinse. Pat dry with a soft towel.

Honey peeling

To make a good scrub scrub, you mix a teaspoon warm current honey with 1 tablespoon milk. Sugar, until you get it to a granular consistency.

Use immediately.

Lavender liquid soap

6 TBSP grated Castile SOAP and water in a heatproof Bowl and place in a pot with boiling water. If the SOAP is melted, stir in 5 El Glycerin. Remove from heat and stir in 4 drops of lavender oil.

If desired, stir in a few drops of food coloring natural color the SOAP. When cool, pour in clean bottles and radial shaft seals with Cork.

Cool shower gel

Ingredients

1/2 Cup herbal shampoo (see one that is free from detergents; avoid labels, where deviations "Sodium Lauryl Sulfate" listed)
1/4 to 3/4 cup water
3 / 4 Teaspoon salt
8 Drops Peppermint essential oil
2 Tbsp Aloe Vera gel
Mix all ingredients thoroughly, to get the adjustment of the amount of water, the desired consistency.
Pour into a bottle or glass.
Place a DAB use this cooling gel in the hand, instead of SOAP.

Helpful tips:

Formula be doubled or tripled, to make extra for gifts.

And sure, pure essential peppermint oil, no smell be please to use oil.

Oatmeal bath gel

Make a creamy bath gel, to make 1/4 cup dry oatmeal and 1 teaspoon of honey with enough milk, mix a paste. Set in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up and then use.

Almond mayonnaise peeling

(for very dry skin)

1/4 Cup almonds
1 / 8 Teaspoon mayonnaise

Grind almonds in Blender until they make a meal. Vertebra in mayonnaise. Vinegar rinse your skin. In scrub, rub gently and thoroughly. Rely on the skin for about 10 minutes. Follow rinse off and rinse with vinegar.

Basic body butter lotion bar

Ingredients:

1 Part beeswax
1 Part cocoa OR Shea butter
1 Part carrier oil
1 Part skin safe fragrance or essential oil

Directions

* Use any cocoa butter and Shea. Bar are slightly heavier cocoa butter, Shea butter will make a slightly softer bar.

* Add beeswax, carrier oil choice and butter choice to a microwave safe container. A measurement of Pyrex glass works best for cleanup purposes. Melting you calculated in 20 seconds, until all is melted. Stir well. Add scent of essential oils and mix well. Pour into the melt and pour soap mold, Push-Up stick, or deodorant container, and leave over night hardening.

* This recipe can be used also for lip balm with a skin-safe-aroma oil instead of scent of the essential oil.

Simple sugar scrubs

You need a small to medium-sized glass, white or brown sugar, fill it in the vicinity of the tip, and enough oil to add, so that the mixture is wet. You can olive, sweet almonds, or vegetable oil. At this point add a 1/2 tsp of essential oil or a mixture of oils. Lavender, Rose Geranium or rose mixed with Rosemary, lemon or orange is nice.

If you mix oils they should be approximately 1 / 2 tsp-No 1 / 2 tsp each. Mixing all with a spoon in the glass, with the lid, and at least over night sitting. The blend should look like "oily" and humid. If not, add more oil.

Use: Scoop a small amount of hand and rub your hands and fingers gently with the maquis, not too hard. Rinse with warm water and DAB dry. This can be your hands soft and great for gardening!

Dee is a single MOM 6 children, a certified aromatherapist, certified Dr. of reflexology and a natural health doctor. Visit them at NaturallyBeautiful.Me - http://www.naturallybeautiful.me/ - where helpful information about natural and effective skin care treatments you find fight the ravages of time, toxins and stress as well as address help many skin care problems.

* You can use / this article as long as the author information/bio emphasis and links in the article remain active and clock!

Treat Various Skin Ailments With Dead Sea Cosmetic Products

An interesting article

If you are suffering from any skin related problem and you are perplexed about which cosmetics to use, then do give a try to Dead Sea cosmetic products. It is a well-known fact that water of the Dead Sea is excessively rich in 26 essential minerals and has unique therapeutic power. Another astonishing fact is that, highest concentrations of health enriched minerals are present in the sea as compared to other water bodies of the world. It seems like Cleopatra, considered as the most beautiful woman in the world was aware of the healing properties of the Dead Sea as she had made great expenses for obtaining exclusive rights over the sea area. With Dead Sea cosmetic products, every skin ranging from dry, normal to oily can easily regain its natural glow. This piece of article will throw light on the cosmetic products available in the market, unique features about them and diseases that can be easily cured.

Cosmetic Products available in the market

Dead Sea beauty products are available in wide ranges varying from sunscreen, mud, skin, body care to facial care. Mineral mud soap, anti-aging body lotion, moisturizers and creams, anti-aging eye cream, etc are some of the facial products used by people in a growing number. Hair care products like shampoo and conditioner enriched with minerals are also in a great demand. Similarly, one can find sun protection lotion, acne treatment products, etc easily available in the market. Some other products containing Dead Sea minerals are assorted below:

Mud Hair mask Hair serum Salt scrubs Facial and mud mask Toners and Cleansers Eye make-up remover Face wash Bath and shower gel

Unique features about Dead Sea Cosmetics

Unlike other skin care products, Dead Sea cosmetics products have unique quality of not leaving the skin oily after their application. These cosmetics are made with natural ingredients and are enriched with essential minerals. Worth disclosing fact is, skin needs essential minerals in order to rejuvenate itself and regain its natural moisture level after certain period of time. These cosmetics aid in increasing skin's permeability as they get penetrated deep into the skin and allow it to hydrate itself. Needless to say, products like cream, moisturizers toners, etc give real boost to the skin and thus allow it to regain its youthfulness. Let's throw some light on the essential minerals that are present in various sea cosmetics and benefits provided by them:

Magnesium- Makes skin look younger as it activates enzyme and accelerates cell regeneration. Bromide- Soothes skin by relieving skin ailments. Boron- helps in reducing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. Zinc- facilitates cell renewal and stimulates collagen.

Basically, Dead Sea cosmetics are considered as preferred choice of innumerable patients suffering from various diseases like Psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Eczema, asthma, etc. It is not wrong to say that the demands of these cosmetics have risen significantly from the day they have been labeled as best natural treatments of various skin problems.

Therefore, it can be said that applying Dead Sea cosmetic products is one of the best ways of regaining lost glory of the face and treating innumerable skin ailments.

Shampoo for Dandruff

Click to view Original Post

Shampoos with essential oils are excellent in controlling and eradicating dandruff from your hair.

Dandruff is a scalp condition, where-in you tend to have white flakes on the scalp along with itching. It is caused by a fungus called malassezia, [pityrosporum].  When the population of Malassezia fungus grows out of proportion, it causes mild inflammation, which in turn produces a sizable population of dead skin cells. These dead skin cells fall as white flakes, which we know as dandruff.

Home Remedies

• Apple Cider Vinegar
• Biotin
• Baking Soda

Anti Dandruff Shampoos

• Zinc pyrithione shampoos
• Selenium sulfide shampoos
• Ketoconazole shampoos
• Tar-based shampoos

• A lot of companies are now making anti-dandruff shampoos, with natural ingredients that help to treat dandruff. Some of them contain

1. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita)- contains menthol, selenium, and zinc-
2. Juniper (Juniperus communis)
3. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra
4. (Calendula officinalis)
5. Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

References

How to control dandruff- on about.com

Dealing with dandruff- Essential Oils- on net places

Dandruff Control and treatment- About.com

 

For a searchable database on hair care products, shampoos etc- Visit our Hair care products store

For Anti Dandruff Shampoos

Visit this link

8FWUU5ZJQHEF - technorati

8FWUU5ZJQHEF