I'm obsessed with DEXTER!!!

So, the Dexter Season 5 just wrapped up but I'm just getting into it!!!  I watch like 3 episodes a day!  It gives me anxiety... in a good way (HA! is that possible?  Good anxiety???)

The show airs on Showtime and OnDemand, but since I have neither of these so I am forced to watch it on the internet... like a nerd... awesome...

LOVE

I've Left the Older Posts...

Because I do love those articles.  Can't wait to start sharing new things with you!

The benefits of Pink Himalayan Crystal Salt

You've probably seen it on the spice shelf at your favorite place to shop, observed it, then moved on because you were probably thinking "cool, pink salt, I don't really need that."

Well, if you knew the health benefits of this cool, pink salt, you'd definitely want to purchase and use daily!!!

A few weeks ago a friend of mine had told me that her nutritionist had recommended she use the Pink Himalayan Crystal Salt instead of her regular sea salt.  Here began my research to find the benefits of this "miracle" salt.

Super Brief History

This salt has been around for millions of years and for millions of years it has been untouched by toxins and pollutants that invade certain forms of ocean salt.  It is small in cellular structure so our cells easily absorb it.

The benefits of this salt may include:

• Controlling the water levels within the body, regulating them for proper functioning
• Promoting stable pH balance in the cells, including the brain.
• Encouraging excellent blood sugar health
• Aiding in reducing the common signs of aging
• Promoting cellular hydroelectric energy creation
• Promoting the increased absorption capacities of food elements within the intestinal tract
• Aiding vascular health
• Supporting healthy respiratory function
• Lowering incidence of sinus problems, and promoting over-all sinus health
• Reducing muscle cramps
• Increasing bone strength
• Naturally promoting healthy sleep patterns
• Creating a healthy libido
• In combination with water, it is necessary for blood pressure regulation
• Prevents cellulite, when compared to table salt
• Reduces chances of developing rheumatism, arthritis and gout, when compared to common chemically-treated salt
• Reduces chances of developing kidney and gall bladder stones when compared to common chemically-treated salt

Source:  Global Healing Center

So if you're going to use salt, use these healthy, little crystals!

Trader Joe's has it for only $1.99!!!

                                                       

The Ingredient Challenge

I am challenging myself, and YOU, to really take a look at the ingredients in the products that you use at home.  It's simple!

Step 1
Go to: http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/ (Skin Deep)
Step 2
In the SEARCH box, type in one of the ingredients and hit search
Step 3
Let yourself be educated about what is in your products!!!

For my Ingredient Challenge, I looked up the ingredients in my sunscreen and my deodorant and I was super surprised considering that the brands of these products seem to be the "alternative" to products that are not so "natural".

Sunscreen: 
Brand: Fenix
These are the active ingredients meaning, that there are more of these ingredients in this product than any other ingredient.
Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate
http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/ingredient/704203/OCTINOXATE/
Ethylhexyl Salicylate
 http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/ingredient/704372/OXYBENZONE/ 
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane  http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/ingredient/700596/AVOBENZONE/
Homosalate
http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/ingredient/702867/HOMOSALATE/

EVERY INGREDIENT IS TOXIC!!!

Ok, now for my Deodorant:
Brand: J/A/S/O/N. (slogan is Pure, Natural & Organic)
I searched this product by name, on the website, and they have it in their database:
http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/product/332027/Jason_Natural_Cosmetics_TEA_TREE_Deodorant_Stick/

Don't let the words NATURAL and ORGANIC fool you into thinking the product is the best thing for you.  In the case of the J/A/S/O/N. deodorant, if you have sensitivity in your underarm area, the fragrance in the product can really irritate your skin.

I would love to hear your comments/questions on this subject.  

I think it would be interesting to see what products everyone is using and the toxicity that is found in them.   Maybe we can get our own little database going!

Now for your part!

If you decide to take The Ingredient Challenge, I would love to have you post links to the ingredients found on the Skin Deep database with the name of the product.  Just post it on the wall to the

 IN THE LOVE Facebook page.

LOVE

My favorite Cleanser... iS Clinical Cleansing Complex

This is honestly the first cleanser that I've used, in a long time, that I absolutely LOVE!  There is nothing that I don't like about it... I like the consistency and the ingredients.  It's' effective and it even acts as a makeup remover!  My skin type is Oily/Combo and the iS Clinical Cleansing Complex helps control my oily shine and breakouts!  I haven't had one breakout since I started using this product about a month ago!

Key Ingredients:


Salix Alba (white willow bark) extract- A source of Salicylic Acid

I know that most of you have seen Salicylic Acid in one product or another and probably have no idea what it is and why it's beneficial for your skin.  So here ya go:

Salicylic Acid (sal-a-cil-ick)-  A natural ingredient that helps to slow down the shedding of the cells inside the follicles (pores) preventing clogging from dirt, oil, debris, and other environmental factors.  Also, helps in the breaking down of blackheads and whiteheads.  It is gentle enough for sensitive skin types as well as effective for almost every skin type.  So, it's a great ingredient!!!

Saccharum Officiharum (Sugar Cane) extract- A source of Glycolic Acid

Another ingredient you've seen but don't know about...

Glycolic Acid (Gly-call-ick)- Another natural ingredient, it is excellent in penetrating the skin to help slough off the dead skin cells (exfoliation) allowing new,  live skin cells to come up to the surface of the skin and speeding up the cell renewal process. (I will soon write a full article on Glycolic Acid).

Chamomila Recutita (matricaria) extract- Chamomile oil

Chamomile is a natural soothing ingredient

Vitamins A, C, and E (more info to follow, shortly, about these oh-so-good ingredients)

iS Clinical Cleansing Complex Benefits:

• Deep cleans without drying
• Gently remove dead skin cells (see Exfoliation 101)
• Helps control and prevent acne
• Preps skin for treatment products

A little bit goes a long way with this cleanser, meaning only a dime size is needed to cleanse your face and neck.  It's got a great consistency and the scent is pretty pleasant as well!

Retail price is around $30 and is offered at Genesis Medical Aesthetics in Tustin, CA.  You can also checks their website for other retailers.

iS Clinical is a great line and I am currently reviewing more of their products, so be on the lookout for more about them cuz I am truly a fan!

LOVE

Exfoliation 101

Working as a Skin Therapist, I am kind of shocked when I ask my clients if they exfoliate and they say, "what's exfoliate?"

So here it is: EXFOLIATION 101 the simple version

What is Exfoliation?

Sloughing off dead skin cells, dirt, oil, and debris from the surface of the skin

Why Exfoliate?

In order to promote new skin cell growth, we need to eliminate the "crap" that's preventing the new skin cells from doing their magic... which is:

• improving resistance against the environment
• helping build up Collagen and Elastin
• and overall, helping to improve a brighter more youthful appearance of the skin

As we age, our skin renewal cycle slows, along with everything else... Exfoliating helps speed up our cell renewal process.

Other benefits of exfoliation:

• helps with acne by eliminating the "crap" that's holding in the bacteria on the skin that causes breakouts
• helps with scarring from acne and sun damage
• promotes a smooth, even complexion

Now, this the most important part...

What to exfoliate with

There are two types of exfoliants: chemical and physical

Chemical exfoliants:

Include: Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), and Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA)

Physical exfoliants:

Include: grainy scrubs that feel sandy or rough, or cleansers that have "micro-scrubbers" or "micro-beads"

Chemical vs Physical

Chemical

Positive

• penetrate the skin better because of it's small molecular size.
• promotes a higher state of Collagen and Elastin

Negative

• can be irritating to sensitive skin
• a few amount of people can have allergic reactions
• can take a few days to show it's effectiveness

Expect to feel a slight tingle with chemical exfoliants and redness may occour for longer than using a physical exfoliant

Physical

Positive

• No chemicals are involved so there's less risk of burning sensation or slight irritation
• Super natural ingredients (most of the time)
• Immediate results of smooth, even skin

Negative

• can irritate the Epidermis (outer layer of the skin) due to larger molecular size
• often have uneven shaped particles, or rough edges, (ie: a certain brands Apricot Scrub) that can lead to outer layer skin scratches and micro-tears

My opinion

I love chemical exfoliants! Including chemical peels. They do take a little bit longer to show full results but it's worth the wait. Slight flaking or peeling may occur with chemical exfoliants but that just lets me know that it's doing it's job!

Mild physical exfoliants are perfect for the "in-between" treatments between chemical peels because it will eliminate that slight flaking or peeling

Ultimate Opinion:

They compliment each other

The Rules of Exfoliation

• Base your exfoliant on the thickness of the skin. The thicker the skin, the more it can take!
• Do NOT over do it! Once a week is cool for either type of exfoliant
• Limit Chemical peels to once every 4-6 weeks to avoid thinning of the skin and possible cell damage
• Natural is ALWAYS the best!!!

My fave is a physical exfoliant:

Wei Pomegranate Buffing Beads

This product is awesome because you can mix it with your favorite cleanser or use it by itself...

... And my ultimate fave is something for your entire body

Dermalogica's The Ultimate Buffing Cloth

Use with your favorite body wash (sulfate-free, of course) and lather up starting from your feet moving upward toward the heart.  The cloth is extra long so you don't have to miss an inch!  ... it's easy to store and it's machine washable!

The Dirty Dozen & The Clean Fifteen... a Shoppers Guide to Pesticides

The Dirty Dozen is a list of the 12 most pesticide contaminated fruits and veggies we consume. From nectarines and apples to celery and lettuce, this list provides percentages of pesticides, found on these fruits and veggies, from what they sampled in research. Read this list and you will now know why we need to EAT ORGANIC and pass the word along...

The Clean Fifteen is a list of the veggies least likely to have pesticides. This list excites me! My favorite stuff is on this one, from broccoli, carrots, and tomatoes to sweet corn and onions.

These lists were put together, after thorough research, by the Environmental Working Group, EWG. Check out their website and you can learn a thing or two!

Through the EWG's Shoppers Guide to Pesticides, you can also learn how to reduce exposure to pesticides, health effects of pesticides, and government regulations concerning pesticides. This site is super useful and informative so share this info with the one's you LOVE!

Another cool thing about this site is that they have a downloadable guide and an iPhone app!!! For the iPhone app, search for Dirty Produce in the App Store...

LOVE

The Benefits Of Coconut Oil

I've recently read about the benefits of Coconut Oil for cooking and that led me to discover the benefits of Coconut Oil on the skin!

Coconut Oil is a highly saturated tropical oil derived from coconuts... and is considered a "good fat" (think Avocados)

For Cooking

• Use instead of butter or oil to saute veggies (or anything that you would use butter or oil for in cooking)

Benefits for Cooking

• Protects against:
• heart disease
• cancer
• diabetes
• may protect against parasites found in certain water
• Other benefits
• acts as an antioxidant protecting against free radicals
• strengthens the immune system
• can relieve, reduce, or prevent infectious diseases

As if that wasn't good enough...check out the benefits on the skin

• can build up a resistance to UV sunlight
• protects the skin from invading germs dealt with on a daily basis
• can soothe and heal injuries
• has anti-aging properties and can actually reduce and prevent wrinkles
• Bonus: Can be used as a conditioner for hair!

My experiences

I've used it as a hair conditioner and as an oil for my body and I'm def In the Love!

To use as a hair conditioner:

Note: Don't plan on having any evening plans when doing this

• liquefy coconut oil and apply to dry hair
• let it sit for about 1 hour
• rinse (it will not rinse all the way out)
• go to bed
• wake up and SHAMPOO ONLY
• style as usual

Yes, it will feel kinda oily after the first rinse, before you got to bed, so put a towel on your pillow.

To use as a body oil:

• liquefy and apply to damp skin
• apply all over (even your face as a super moisturizer before bed)

This is especially beneficial if you exfoliate before you apply... you'll be super soft!

To liquefy:

I just take the whole jar into the shower with me and let the running water heat it up and it's ready when I'm done showering Or you can fill a large cup or pot with hot water and put the entire jar into it. No need to liquefy the entire jar, just enough for the amount needed (which is not that much).

You can find coconut oil in most health food stores. I get mine from Trader Joe's (it's cheaper than most other stores) and I use Spectrum Naturals Refined Coconut Oil for about 9 bucks.

LOVE

The Benefits of Green Tea

Decaf Green Tea that is!!!

I'm sure you've all heard that Green Tea is good for you. But do you know why???

Green Tea has been used in China since ancient times and these days, it seems they know best considering the Chinese follow a healthier lifestyle. Really they do! Google it!

Most Green Tea's contain caffeine and caffeine is no bueno, so get decaf!

Green Tea contains Catechin Polyphenols which is a powerful antioxidant which:

• inhibits the growth of cancer cells
• kills cancer without harming healthy tissue
• prevents tooth decay & plaque
• helps prevent food poisoning
• helps with cardiovascular disease
• helps with rheumatoid arthritis
• helps with high cholesterol levels
• prevents infection

Sounds good to me!

For a good book on Green Tea read:

Green Tea: The Natural Secret for a Healthier Life by: Nadine Taylor

And for Green Tea brand recommendations visit www.greenteasecrets.org

Diet Soda Is NOT Better For You!

Whether you are on a diet or not, Diet soda is not the way to go! People drink diet soda for less sugar and calories but in reality, there are a whole heap of things that you're getting more of!

Besides the fact that Diet Soda has NO NUTRITIONAL VALUE, it also contains a chemical called Aspartame (Aspartame is also in most sugar-free foods)

Here are some facts about Aspartame:

• Through animal research, (which I do not condone, but this is still a fact) scientists found that large amounts of aspartame, when given to rodents, led to brain tumors and lymphoma

According to the book Skinny Bitch, Aspartame "has been blamed for a slew of maladies like:

• Arthritis
• birth defects
• fibromyalgia
• Alzheimer's
• Lupus
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Diabetes

Methyl Alcohol is a component of Aspartame and when it enters your body, it turns into Formaldehyde, which is a carcinogen and is used in science as a disinfectant or preservative.

CARBS AND ASPARTAME

When combined, causes your brain to slow down production of serotonin, and we need serotonin to feel happy and balanced.

Also according to the Skinny Bitches, Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin, The FDA has received more complaints about Aspartame than any other ingredient to date!!!

For more information on Aspartame and the FDA click the following link:

http://www.mercola.com/article/aspartame/fda.htm

Product Label Reading 101

Checking your product labels can be super confusing because most people have no idea what they're even looking at! You'll see long words that you cannot pronounce and words that are written in Latin, then in English, numbers, colors, and the list goes on! So, you give up on trying to figure out what you're putting on your skin and in your body.

Why it's important to check your product labels:

• To see possible irritants and ingredients that you may be allergic to
• Ingredients attached to potential health concerns
• If you know the ingredients then you can compare the ingredients with that products "claim to fame" to see if that product really delivers what it promises

If you don't know what an ingredient is, then GOOGLE it!

Simple!

The ingredients listed at the top of the list have the highest concentration and as the list goes on, the concentration of the listed ingredient decreases.

Always keep an eye out for the active ingredient because they are not always listed with the other ingredients.

Also, pay attention to special storage intsructions!

If it says "Keep in a cool, dry place", then keep it in a cool, dry place. Everyone wants their products to perform to the full potential, so listen to the manufacturer's instructions!

...and don't forget to look at the directions!

You don't want to be "rubbing" when your supposed to be "dabbing", or using a dollop of product when all you need is a pea size.

Products can be expensive these days! By checking the labels you can actually save yourself some money!

• By noticing and educating yourself about ingredients, you can look for ingredients that suit your skins specific needs instead of playing the product guessing game and wondering "will this one work"?
• You'll save money because you'll know what your purchasing instead of buying a product and not liking it, then having to go buy a different product.

Sodium Laurel Sulfate in Your Hair and Skin Care Products

Sodium Laurel Sulfates (SLS) are in a good amount of hair products and body products as well as certain foods!

This ingredient has no purpose in these products except for it's foaming effect...that's it!!! Just foam!!!

SLS is highly irritating to the skin and may cause the layers of the skin to seperate and inflame. It has also been linked to toxicity of the Cardiovascular System, Digestive Tract, and Respiratory System

Some products that may contain SLS:

• Body washes (including childrens products)
• Soaps
• Shampoo
• Facial creams
• toothpaste
• eye products

Don't let the manufacturer's fool you! Here are some "alias's" for SLS:

• Sodium Laryl Sulfate
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate Solution
• Sodium Layryl Sulfate
• Sodium Lauroyl Sulfate
• Anhydrous Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
• Irium
• Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
• ALS

CHECK YOUR LABELS PEOPLE!!!

I am currently doing research on Sulfate free hair and skin products but for now,

Check out:

http://killerstrands.blogspot.com/2008/01/sulfate-free-shampoo-list.html to see a hairstylists perspective about SLS.

Natural Skin Care Authority (NSA)

Skin Care Authority

Oil of Oregano

Oil of Oregano

Origanum Vulgare

A natural substance that is extracted from wild oregano plants, and two key compounds found in it are Carvacrol and Thymol, which studies have shown, have significant effects on harmful microorganisms that cause many illnesses in humans.

Oil of Oregano is known to be:

• antiviral
• antibacterial
• anti fungal
• anti parasitic

Benefits:

• pain reducer
• inflammation reducer
• can effectively fight off infections
• destroys organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems
• strengthens the immune system
• increases joint and muscle flexibility
• improves respiratory health

Uses:

• skin infections
• digestive problems
• sinus congestion
• colds
• sore throats

You can find Oil of Oregano at most health food stores such as Sprouts and Mothers Market

Source: http://www.homeremediesweb.com/oil_of_oregano_health_benefits.php

Hydroquinone...Not So Safe

Many of us have pigmentation concerns. Whether it be from acne scars or sun damage, we all still yearn for an even skin tone. There are plenty of skin lighteners and skin brighteners, and creams and serums but do you really know what you're putting on your skin?

Hydroquinone

is used as a topical application for skin whitening to reduce the color of the skin

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydroquinone

"Hydroquinone works by decreasing the production of melanin pigments in the skin. Because the chemical lightens skin by reducing melanin, it simultaneously increases exposure to UVA and UVB rays deep in the skin (iv). This increases skin cancer risks due to UV exposure, in addition to the carcinogenic effects of the chemical itself. The chemical is allowed in personal care products in the United States in concentrations up to 2 percent... Although banned in the European Union".

The U.S. Cosmetics Ingredient Review Panel indicates that "Hydroquinone is unsafe for use in products that are left on the skin".

Hydroquinone is identified as a:

• Carcinogen
  
• Immunotoxicant
• Developmental and Reproductive Toxicant

Hydroquinone also identifies concerns regarding the ingredient's risks for various organ

systems, the Endocrine System and neurotoxicity

It is also linked to the skin condition Ochronosis.

Source: The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

Cancer! Carcinogen! Neurotoxicity!!!

Why would anyone put this ingredient on their skin?

Got Balls?

Painful, achy knots in your back, neck, or shoulders? Sore, tired feet? ANSWER: TENNIS BALLS.

Take an ordinary tennis ball and use it to ease the pain by leaning against it or laying on it. Put the ball on the sore spot and apply pressure. Move your body around to make the ball roll, "pushing out" the knot, and alleviate pain.

Kick off your shoes and RELAX your feet by placing a TENNIS BALL on the ground and rolling the tennis ball with the heels and balls of your feet.

For firmer, tighter areas of the body that have pain you can use a GOLF BALL because it is a harder, smaller ball and can pin point the area better for relief.

For the LOWER BACK, you can use a semi-deflated VOLLEYBALL, SOCCER BALL, or BASKETBALL as a lumbar support while sitting up or laying down.

The best thing ever is to fill a pillow case with TENNIS BALLS and use them to relax your entire back.

On a budget? You can go to your local public tennis court and find dozens of abandoned tennis balls that people were too lazy to retrieve. Just wash 'em with antibacterial soap and warm water, and let them dry in the sun before you use them!

Just a note

Dogs LOVE tennis balls and they will steal them from you when you're trying to do these exercises if they see that you have one!!!