Journal « Beauty Ateliers

The Law of Attraction

October 24th, 2011

A few weeks ago at our Ruby Room spa meeting, James Martin, massage therapist presented the Law of Attraction. It was very fascinating and I thought I would share it with you…

THE LAW OF ATTRACTION AND YOU

The concept dubbed “The Law of Attraction “has recently become somewhat of a buzz word in our modern culture. On Amazon alone, there are more than 6500 books with these words in their titles. Is this a fluke…? Or, as they proclaim in “The Secret” is this actually some profound ancient wisdom which is being revealed to the masses? Recently, I took it upon myself to analyze this material to see if there was anything of merit which could actually help us to achieve the things that we want.

I studied most of the work of Jerry and Ether Hicks such as “The Teachings of Abraham” proclaiming to be the source of the law of attraction itself, they literally wrote the book. I have seen the films “The Secret” and “What the bleep do we know” but I have also studied alternative viewpoints on the law of attraction principles which included more elaborate description of the mechanism by which the law of attraction actually works. Subject such as quantum physics, psychology, metaphysics, spiritualism and religion have help me to understand it.

Bringing all of these sources together was no easy task, but I ultimately came to realize that there are some quite practical points which can be drawn from the Law of Attraction material. These points maybe applied to help us lead more successful personal and professional lives. Here is the gist of the Law as it is described:

1- You are a conscious protector and attractor, and like a fridge, you are always running

2- What you project and attract result directly from your thoughts and convictions

What these two points basically reveal to us is that we are creators of ourselves and our lives. Through our thoughts we take part in the process of creation. The law of attraction tells that our convictions are strongly affirmed thoughts, influence reality and what we focus on, we become…This is the Law.

According to this doctrine, how we think and what we think about are the most important factors determining how and what we attract. If we think of ourselves as beautiful and prosperous and really see ourselves that way, full gratitude, we will attract this reality to us; people will see us as beautiful and opportunities will open to us. On the other hand, if we believe and assert that we are worthless and ugly…you get the picture…Therefore it is critically important to have a clear understanding of our assets as individuals and as professional.

According to the law of attraction

1- It is vitally important that you have a clear understanding of your value and the value of the products or services that you offering

2- It is absolutely critical to be aware of your intention about what you are wanting from certain segments of your life experience.

When you know or strongly believe that you and your products or service are a value, you will attract clients or people who see it the same way, put it out there and you will meet with sure success. If you believe that your products or service will enrich others lives and that the price is appropriate and affordable then people will magically begin to appear who agree with you, the same is true for the converse. Expectation leads to manifestation. It is important therefore to consciously think about how you, your products, your services are valuable so you can be as effective as possible in attracting what you truly want.

Take a few minute and think on all the value you have and can offer. Day dream about how awesome you are everyday and how you really deserve the things that you want, because you all really great. Good things are in their way to you, just wait and see

You can learn more about James Martin and Ruby Room by visiting www.rubyroom.com

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Le Printemps…

March 21st, 2011

Spring is here and it is time for a new scent…In the winter we use fragrence that maybe more on the warm notes, so well now it is time to change. Here are some great fun but still classic scent with L’artisan Parfumer

L’artisan Parfumer is one the most unique and iconoclastic fragrance house in the world. It was founder in Paris in 1976 by perfurmer-chemist Jean Laporte. The iconic Mure & Musc fragrance was created in 1978 which help to propel the house to world recognition. A beautiful blend of blackberry and musk, it remains a best seller and set the benchmark for L’artisan parfumer.

L’artisan believes that fragrance is an art form. Poetry, art humor and stylish ingenuity are woven together to create fragrance that dazzle, intrigue and shock.

The fragrance is created from blends of rare and quality materials and the latest technologies. The structure of a fragrance is made of three elements:

The head notes, which are volatile, light, usually citrus, aromatic and green; lasting about half an hour. The heart notes, often the defining personality of the fragrance are generally floral, fruity and spicy and can last for up to five hours. The deeper base notes are usually woody, amber and animalic and can last on skin for up to twelve hours and linger in clothing for days.

What is the difference between a parfum, eau de parfum and eau de toilette?

A parfum is very intense and last for days, it is the essence of the fragrance. You only need a couple drops. A Eau de parfum is a lighter version of the parfum, it only last the day of the aplication but still have a strong hold. You only need a couple spray. A eau de toilette is the lightest version of the parfum and can applied inlarge quantity and must be reaplied a couple time daily for it to last.

Here are some of my faves..

La chasse aux papillons: The delicate scent of sun-kissed skin and intoxicating florals…Tuberose, orange blossom and spices

Timbuktu: A vibrant woody floral inspired by ancient Malian rituals…Pink pepper, karo-kariounde, vetiver

L’eau de l’artisan: Ascent for lazy summer days, refreshing and green…verbena, mint and basil

Nuit de tubereuse: A glorious exploration of floral sensuality…Spices, tuberose and woods

Verte Violette: A haunting still life of violet leaves, flowers and stems….Violet leaves, violet and Iris

Premier Figuier: Ripe figs drenched in Mediterranean sunlight….Fig leaves, almond milk, and sandalwood

You can find them at www.artisanparfumer.com or visit Ruby Room on Division St. in Chicago www.rubyroom.com

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The low down about Chia seeds and Mila

January 17th, 2011

We all remember the chia pet commercial with the grass growing so quickly. Well, chia and chia seeds are making a comeback but not in the form of a pet or grass but as the best super food on earth.

Chia, whose scientific name is Salvia Hispanica L. is a species of flowering plant in the mint family that is native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala. It was cultivated by the Aztec in pre-Columbian times and was so valued that it was given as an annual tribute by the people to the rulers. This tiny little seed was known as the running food and was used as a high energy endurance food.

Like everything else, there are many types of chia, but Mila-“The Miracle Seed”-is named as such for several reasons:

The seeds used in the proprietary blend are grown in different regions of the world specifically selected for their soil and climate as these will affect the seed quality.

Mature seeds are specifically chosen as they have a higher Omega-3 content. These seeds undergo a cold fracture process to mechanically open the seed, selecting only the best seed blend.

Unlike the typical grinding process used in most seeds, the cold fracture process preserves the nutritional value of the seed and increases bioavailability, meaning our bodies will get more out of the seed, supplying:

- 6x more calcium than milk

- 3x more Iron than spinach

- 2 x more potassium than bananas

- 15x more magnesium than broccoli

- 2x more fiber than flakes

- 6 x more protein than kidney beans

- 4x more selenium then flax seed

- 9x more phosphorus than whole milk

- More antioxidant then blueberries

In 2006 Dr. Andrew Weil mentioned in his blog that he was expecting to hear much more about Chia and its health benefits because it only had a positive effect on our body function. He was right…

I discovered the whole raw food Mila in March of 2010 and I have been hooked ever since. It gives me all the nutrients I need and provides me with tremendous energy and clarity. In addition to what I mentioned above it is loaded with minerals such as magnesium, zinc and niacin which can have a positive impact on slowing down the aging process of the skin and body.

Mila is so dense that the equivalent nutrients can be acquired by consuming an amount of food that represents approximately 6 times the calories of Mila. Experts at the AMA, WebMD, JAMA and other respected medical schools agree that Mila can offer you better heath. Mila wellness advisor, Dr. Bob Arnot shares that the consumption of Mila may help with Heart Disease, anti-aging, weight loss, blood pressure, Menopause, Osteoporosis, Alzheimers and many other issues facing people today. Mila is also a hydrophilic colloid; this important property aids in the digestion of food and helps control excess acids associated with indigestion, heart burn.

For all of the above benefits, Mila is the super food for me and my family and I strongly recommend that everyone try it. Read more about Mila and if you would like to, order a bag at:

http://lifemax.net/flindholm/mila

The New Year is the perfect time to take control of your health….Naturally!

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Sublative Rejuvenation of the skin.

November 19th, 2010

So, this week I had Sublative Rejuvenation done to my face and I really loved it…

Laser skin resurfacing has always been kind of scary for me. I remember years ago when people would get a laser treatment it could take up to 6 months in recovery. The skin was red, irritated for weeks and the down time was anywhere between 3 to 7 days.

With this new technology I was in and out the office in about 20 minutes and no one looked at me like I was weird. Not even my husband in the evening…I was red for a couple hours, my skin felt warm and tingling for most of the day but by dinner time my skin was back to normal, actually it started to look better, most especially around the eye area. That night I cleansed with Decleor Cleansing Water, which is specially design for sensitive skin and follow it up with and application of the High Repair Balm also from Decleor to sooth, nurture and nourish my skin. When I woke up the next day, my skin was plump, soft and I could really see the difference in the texture and the depth of the wrinkles…

So how does that work?

The eMatrix system provides a unique sublative rejuvenation treatment that goes beyond fractional methods for skin resurfacing. Sublative rejuvenation is a non-laser and non light based treatment that utilizes RF sublation- Fractionated bipolar radio frequency technology- to place heat energy effectively into the dermis where it can produce significant dermal impact with minimal epidermal disruption.

The eMatrix system’s ergonomic applicator delivers bipolar radio frequency via a matrix of 64 electrodes in the disposable applicator tip. The RF energy generates fractional deep dermal heating in the region of the electrode matrix to induce skin injury, thus eliciting a wound response. Less affected tissue surrounding the matrix points may be stimulated by heat which helps accelerate the healing process, leading to tighter, rejuvenated appearance of the skin.

The skin improvement after Sublative Rejuvenation treatment maybe the following:

- Wrinkles, the journal of Drugs & Dermatology showed a possible reduction of 90% of the wrinkle

- Skin laxity

- Scars and acne scars

- Textural irregularities

I cannot say that I saw a reduction of my wrinkles by 90% in one treatment but I can say that my wrinkles around the eyes have very much improved; I also noticed a reduction of the nasal labial fold and a bit of retraction. I am hoping the retraction will continue in the next few weeks to provide me with a skin lift. I believe that one treatment is not enough, the company website recommend 3, but I would let the professional decide…

For more information contact Diane Andrysiak at dianeand@att.net or 630-627 3311

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Gluten Troubles

October 27th, 2010

In the last few years more and more people are sensitive to gluten. Gluten is present in our most popular grains, it is being linked not only to celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting one out of 100 Americans, but also to non-celiac gluten intolerance, which affects many millions more.

I came across the following article in my favorite magazine, Experience life, which has very useful information for everyone that may think they may have an intolerence or for all of us that deal with the public on a daily basis. Enjoy the article and let me know what you think….

http://www.experiencelifemag.com/issues/november-2010/healthy-eating/gluten-the-whole-story.php

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What is to do in the fall and winter? Change or not change my skin care regiment?

October 4th, 2010

Many people ask me what they should do in the fall and winter especially if they live in cooler climate. My answer is simple:

“What do you do with your wardrobe in the fall?”

Well, if you change your wardrobe in the fall by adding warmer clothe to protect your body from the cold then you should also revise your skin care regiment.

One of a raison our skin on the face age fast is because it is always expose to the light, the sun, wind and the difference of temperature etc…Like the hands it rarely gets to hide under a layer of fabric, although it is arguable that hands are better off because of gloves. Using additional protection for your skin is a must during the winter, UV protection is still important but the more important is finding a protection against the cold, the wind and the dramatic change of temperature between the outside and the inside.

If you are using a hydrating program in the summer with a light emulsion you must look for something creamy with a bit more oil in it. This will help you skin compensate with the lack of moisture in the air. Here are a few of my favorites:

- Nutridivine from Decleor

- Kenzo Belle de jour

Now, if you already using a treatment crème in the summer that is a little richer you will need to up the richness a bit more with products and ingredients that stimulate the oil secretion and nourishes the skin. I recommend the following:

- Crème de riz from Carita

- Cassis ultra replenishing cream from Naturopathica

In the winter consider using a night balm that really replenish and rejuvenate the skin. These nights balm will help slow down the aging process and keep your skin youthful as well as providing a soft and plump look in the morning.

- Carita Rice balm

- Decleor Angelique nourishing balm

- Nighttime nourishing oil from Sandari

- Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream

The last but not least, when you skin is sensitive and has tendency to have redness and irritation you must use a treatment cream that will avoid damage to the blood capillaries and compensate the change of temperature…

- Harmonie cream from Decleor

- La crème tranquille from RM Gattefosse

If you are interested in any of these products contact us by clicking here we will direct you toward the right source

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Little swimming tips for your skin

August 16th, 2010

I know that summer is coming to an end but some of us who have taken on swimming this season will probably continue in the fall and winter.

This summer I rediscovered the pleasure of swimming. When I was a teenager I was in a swimming team and really loved the way I felt. So this year with the weather being so hot I got to do more water fitness then before.

One think I did noticed was how dry, hydrated and uncomfortable my skin felt after being in the water for so long that I started putting different products to protect it and avoid more aging damage…

Here are a few tips you can use anytime you swim or are in the water a long extent period of time:

1- Apply a very thick layer of Aquaphor from Eucerin. You can find this product at any drugstore

2- If you are swimming outside apply a layer of sunscreen. Badger SPF 30 is great because it is water resistant and is an instant protection with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. You can find this at Whole Food

3- Once you are done, remove all excess product left, you should not have much left. A dry towel will do it

4- If you are planning to stay out on the sun, reapply sunscreen

5- If you are done with outdoor activities apply one of the replenishing Decleor balms. They are amazing and create a beautiful soft and moist skin. Their essential oil will provide your skin what it needs to heal itself

If you skin is very dry use Angelique Nourishing night balm
You skin is normal to dry use Neroli Essential night balm
If you skin is more mature use Excellence night balm
For all skin type with some sensitivity use Sun Expert high repair after sun balm

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Waterfitness

August 6th, 2010

Every time I take a water class I always wonder why only mature people participate, as I believe it is beneficial for everyone. It makes me feel amazing after just one class; even the water retention in my legs is gone and some of the skin dimples are reduced. Why has the American consumer not caught on to it? Being a native of France, water fitness classes are so abundant and attended that is it as common as drinking a glass of wine at meal, but here in the States I most often end up being the youngest one in attendance.

Aqua aerobics classes are available in most gyms and they utilize the law of water resistance. These classes can be a great add on to a traditional workout, or an alternative form of cardio. We all know that Aqua classes are great for people with joint problems or injuries because the water helps to reduce the pressure onto the articulation. In addition, classes help increase the lymphatic drainage and blood circulation to help the body eliminate toxins. Classes are often recommended to people who may have weight issue, as it helps to get started on a fitness program as well as weight loss. Doing a water class is like exercising and getting a massage at the same time…

The next phase and more challenging water class is Hydro Tone. Hydro Tone utilizes hydro boots and hydro bells to increase the water resistance and provide a more specific work out. Hydro Tone increases flexibility, cardiovascular and respiratory condition, while incorporating strength training, toning, body sculpting and muscle endurance.

It is much easier to work the full range of motion in the water due to the lack of gravity compared to land based exercise devices. The Hydro boots and bells maximize the water resistance in all dimensions of the movement. Water workouts place an additional load on the respiratory system because of water pressure on the diaphragm and the chest; this will lead to expanded lung capacity and improve respiration. The resistance of the hydro tone equipment can build muscle strength and tone and help developing body symmetry. It can increase the muscle definition in the arms and shoulder while reducing hips, thighs. All of these elements will lead to muscle endurance, which results in an increase of energy.

I have taken a series of Hydro Tone classes in the past and I find that series of 10 to 12 classes, twice a week is the best way to see a result pretty fast. It is a great way to get in shape or stay in shape during the bikini season or right after a pregnancy.

I have always taken my classes with John Clark who had been in the health and fitness industry for many years and is a very well rounded professional. You can contact him directly at www.johnclark.com for more info on classes schedule and locations.

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The Power of Essential Oils

July 12th, 2010

Almost everyone has heard of essential oils, as they have been used for thousands of years for medicinal and therapeutic uses. A more recent modern-day example would be in the simple form of air freshener or scented candle. There are hundreds of different kinds of essential oils. The natural varieties are found in skin care products and are more expensive, while the synthetic oils are usually used in candles, perfumes and skin care on occasion. While the oils each have their own characteristics, they all have a common action: purifying.

The Name:

First of all, I feel that the name essential oil, which was given by Mr. Rene Gattefosse in the 1930, is not really appropriate. I think they should be called aromatic essence because they are more volatile than oil, which means they evaporate in the atmosphere. An aromatic essence is heart and soul of a plant or flower that is extracted by a process called distillation, which pulls out all the benefits of a plant or flower extract by conserving all the molecules and making them very powerful.

Uses:

Essential oils are part of the natural science of aromatherapy, another name that was coined by Dr. Gattefosse. How can we use them everyday? In my childhood my mom used to give me a couple drops of essential oil of orange blossom in a glass of water to help me to sleep, but I have never seen this kind of essence in the USA. The most common way is in skin care products; how do they work?

The Science:

Essential oils are the heart and soul of the plant and they have a capability to be absorbed by the skin into the deepest part of the epidermis and it has been said that they can even be found in the blood stream within 24 hours. They get into the inter-cellular fluid and work within the skin cell metabolism. All essential oils are purifying, which means they will clean the cell environment and help the cell regenerate better. Imagine that you were living in a polluted area, where you could not get any food or receive any of the essential elements necessary for survival. The area would need to be cleared in order for the food to arrive to the destination. Well, in our skin it is the same. You can apply all sorts of skin treatments, but if the environment of the skin cell is not clean, the ingredient that you are sending will not go into action. Using an essential oil daily before a treatment cream will do just that, while boosting the effect of your treatment products.

Essential Oils for Healthy Skin:

Each essential oil has a secondary action that is determined by the molecular structure of the plant. Each oil has a specific action to assist with the nutrition of the skin, whether you’re oily, mature, lackluster and much more. With that being said, it is very important to choose the right essential oil for each skin type or skin need. Skin needs vary each season, so be sure to have your skin assessed regularly to re-evaluate your essential oil.

Here are some of the skin care brands I believe put a lot of research and time into their essential oil formulations.

- Decleor Aromessence: My all time favorites probably because they offer a triple guaranty to their essential oils and also because I have visited their lab in Paris and seen the way they make their blend

- Sundari: They are one of the most authentic Ayurvedic skin care line and their essential oil blend are lovely

- Naturopathica, Yonka, Jurlique and Thalgo are also very good

This information explains a localized way to purify your skin, but it is very important to purify or detox our body by eating the elements that will help bind toxins and flush them out…Read our post from July 6^th 2010.

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How important are fibers in our diet?

July 6th, 2010

I have always known that fibers were important to our wellbeing but never knew that they played a critical role in our health until I read the article in Experience Life magazine.

Fibers affect every organ in our body from our digestive system and liver to the way our skin looks. They are the element that bind the fat and waste in our digestive system and flush them out. Without fibers toxins are being recycle in our system over and over again which in turn over load liver and gallbladder as well as many other vital organs.

Basically we need anywhere from 20 to 40 gr. of fibers a day and according to the article the average American intake between 8 to 12 gr. daily. In the last few weeks I have recorded my family fiber intake and unless you make it special focus it is very easy to go a full day with almost no fibers.

It is crucial to eat fibers during every meal to regulate the blood sugar and to facilitate the digestion of fats, keep in mind that fibers do not wait for the next meal they are used right then.

They are 3 kinds of fibers essential to our body; soluble fiber, insoluble fiber and prebiotic fiber so make sure you eat all three.

I have included the article I mentioned earlier and strongly recommend that you take a few minute to read it, it was a great eye opener for me…Enjoy and have a cup of lentils today

http://www.experiencelifemag.com/issues/april-2010/health-wellness/fiber-why-it-matters-more-than-you-think.html

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How to Correctly Prepare Your Skin for Sun Exposure

June 29th, 2010

We all know that protecting the skin while on the sun is a must no matter how quickly we burn or tan (refer to our last post on sunscreen.) While sunscreens block or filter the UVA and UVB rays, what should we do to keep our skin healthy?

Let’s start with the most common one, water lost or dehydration:

While we’ve been told to consume the good old eight glasses a day, we need to increase our intake in the summer because we sweat quite a bit. Aim for at least 1.5 liter of spring water a day. Spring water is better than purified water because it contains more minerals, which are essential for the function of our skin and to balance our electrolytes.

Try using a skin care product that increases water movement between the water channels of the skin cell such as wild pansy extract. Ingredients such as sodium PCA have the capability to retain the water in the skin by capturing the moisture in the atmosphere. Some others such as codium extract or hazelnut oil are also great to reduce water lost. Look for formulations that deliver the ingredients by slowly releasing them throughout the day via a system of liposomes, thus providing hydration all day.

Protecting the natural skin defenses:

Argan oil is very rich in Oleic acid, omega 9 fatty acid and lioneliec acid, omega 6 essential for our body and skin function. It is rich in Vitamin E and is a powerful antioxidant and also serves as a great nutritional component.

Antioxidants are vital to our skin as they neutralized free radicals which damage our natural defense mechanism. There are many on the market: vitamins C and E, polyphenols, beta carotenes, green tea and white teas and bioflavonoid, to name a few. Using these ingredients is very important, as well as taking an oral form of antioxidant supplements.

How about sensitivity, redness and irritation of the skin?

It is important to calm and cool our skin from an overheated environment and boost our immune system. Essential oils of rose, Roman chamomile and neroli all sooth the skin, while ingredients such as kudzu extract help to block inflammation of the immune system. Masking weekly with such ingredients will keep the skin calm.

As for hyper-pigmentation, it’s not secret that sunscreens are the best to avoid it, but do not underestimate our natural melanin. When our melanocytes produce melanin, it creates a natural protection on the surface and our skin becomes trained to produce and deliver evenly. Keep in mind that it takes over 72 hours for the melanin to reach the surface of the skin and provide natural protection and a tan. It is true that after the age of forty, the delivery of melanin is going to be a bit chaotic, so hyper-pigmentation will be more present.

When your skin is prepared for the sun it will stay youthful longer. Here are some formulations I recommend:

Aromessence Solaire from Decleor:

I am completely addicted to this product…It reinforces the sun protection by boosting the effectiveness of sunscreen, thus slowing down sun damage. It also promotes an event toned complexion and most of all; it has Argan oil and heliocarrot to save us from water lost and free radicals. Just a few drops daily before a treatment cream and we have boosted our skin natural defense by 33%, not bad! Available in a face or body formulation

Apricot and Shea Hydrasoothing from Sundari:

Doing a mask on a weekly basis in a must during the summer; they are like a giant glass of water for your skin and they usually replenish, sooth, calm and soften the skin like no other skin care products. This mask contains shea butter and really helps heal and nourish the skin.

Coffeeberry Natureceuticals supplement from Priori:

100% natural, this fruit of coffee plant has developed powerful antioxidant. These super rich defense compounds are very rich in polyphenols. It has 3 time more antioxidant then green tea… a couple tablets a day and you are all good to go.

Mega Antioxidant form Usana:

This product offers a range of antioxidant nutrients for protection against oxidative stress and cell damaging process. It contains the vitamins E and C, the carotenoids, the bioflavonoid, the alpha lipoic acid and many more.

http://shop.usana.com/shop/cart/ProductDetails?ProductID=103.010102

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Sunscreens

June 13th, 2010

The summer season is in full swing and you’re probably looking back at your old sunscreen tube from last year and wondering if you can still use it. You’re also probably wondering if what you are using is effective and truly protects you. With all the talk in the media about sunscreen these days, it is hard to know what to do or not do to.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, according to a review published by the American Cancer Society. Among all the forms of skin cancer, 80 percent are basal cell carcinoma, 16 percent are squamous cell carcinoma and 4 percent are malignant melanomas, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Today many experts believe that both UVA and UVB exposure may contribute to the melanoma risk. Sunscreens on the market have blocked UVB, but may not have protected the skin against UVA. Not only do we need a product that protects against the rays that burn, but also the ones responsible for the long-term outlook of our complexion. It is those rays that may actually cause more damage to the skin in long term. So what is the best solution?

The best sunscreen is a hat and a shirt—I know that is not what you want to hear. When exposed to the sun, use a sunscreen that provides broad-spectrum protection, avoiding the formulas with hazardous chemicals like Octyl Methoxycinnamate, PABA and Benzophenone-8 which penetrate the skin. The EWG, Environmental working group, is a non-for-profit organization that studies and tests cosmetic ingredients. The organization just released a guide to the sunscreen based on their results after testing 500 sunscreens on the market. The result? They only recommended 39 of them.

My recommendation is to stay away from a chemical sunscreen and look for a physical sunscreen that contains Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. These moderate-to-low risk ingredients are probably the safest on the market at this moment. The FDA is in the process of approving new ingredients, while working on a different system to rate sunscreen, which would rate both UVB and UVA protection.

Keep in mind that mineral sunscreens can leave a whitish film on the surface of the skin and may not look so appealing. Avoid formulations that contain Oxybenzone or benzophenone 3, as it has been shown that those ingredients can trigger an allergic reaction, is a potential hormone disruptor and can penetrate the skin in relatively large amounts.

On the other hand, Mexoryl SX is a relatively low risk and effective ingredient that provides UVA protection, but it is sold in very few formulations. Tinosorb S and M also appear to be both safe and effective but are not yet available in the US. The best option for now is sunscreen containing avobenzone.

Though no ingredient is without hazard or perfectly effective, I tend to prefer the mineral sunscreen because of their low probability to penetrate the skin and a better UVA protection.

Here are some of my recommendations:

Badger SPF 30: I like the lightly scented version and it feels very moisturizing. It is also water-resistant, so it is great for kids or vacation.

Skin2 skin: What is great about this brand is that the sunscreen is tinted so you won’t look like a ghost. They formula is a bit tightening, so it’s best suited for an oily skin.

Priori Mineral powder: This product is great for casual sun, such as in and out of the car or office. Although they are causing a bit of controversy because of their powder form and the possibility of inhaling them, I still find them very appealing — especially for people who are working indoors. This should never be used in place of a sunscreen at the beach

And NO you should not use the sunscreen you had last year, it is less effective and probably was contaminated by bacteria from the sand or other outside elements. It’s time to toss and get a new tube.

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Self tanner and other tan enhancers for brides and everyone else…

June 3rd, 2010

It has been said that looking tan makes you look healthier—not always. In fact, it really depends on what you are using, as well as your activity level. A little sun will not hurt anyone and yes, it will create a an attractive healthy glow while aiding with vitamin D absorption, but being tan is truly not healthy for your skin.

In my quest to look glowing and radiant, self tanners, tan enhancers and bronzers have crossed my life many times, so here is the low down:

Self Tanner:

- Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Salon Airbrush self-tanning mist by L’OREAL

This spray-on tan is very practical, easy to use and does not require getting your hands dirty. Exfoliating prior is always a good idea but not necessary with this product. I recommend spraying twice—leaving a day in-between applications. After the first application you may notice that you have some areas that were missed, so go back and spray a bit more in that area. The down side? This is not a moisturizing formula, so be sure and hydrate with a body lotion to keep your skin moist and your “tan” looking fresh.

- Aroma sun self tanning milk SPF 8 by DECLEOR

This product has been on the market for ages and still does very well. Decleor was one of the first self-tanners that actually looked natural. It is definitely recommended to do an exfoliating body scrub (my favorite the Priori Invigorating face and body scrub) prior to the use of the tanner. This application is something you have to plan, as it is preferable not to get dressed after. With that being said, do it one evening when you don’t have anything else planned. The application is more of a massage-like application, so it takes a bit longer. The Decleor self-tanner is extremely moisturizing and has an SFP8.

- Gradual Everyday Self-Tan Lotion by ST TROPEZ

Love this one…You just apply everyday as a body lotion and the color will start developing and gradually darken. Stop using when you have achieved the color you want. Exfoliating is also recommended, before and during application to keep the glow natural and even.

Bronzer:

- CARITA Fluide de Beaute 14 gold

This is the perfect glow enhancer for the bride. It gives a beautiful radiance and a very elegant and classy shimmer to the skin. Fluide de Beaute is best used on the body and due to its dry oil texture, it is very easy to apply and will leave the skin lightly hydrated—not greasy.

- Priori Mineral powder

For the face, mineral powders are perfect, as they provide a healthy tan with a sun protection— isn’t that great? All mineral powders will give anywhere from a SPF15 to SPF30 without the use of chemicals. My advice? Every women should use them.

Tan Enhancers:

There are numerous brands that offer tan enhancers. These products boost the melanocyte activity and start producing pigment prior to sun exposure. Although it is not a product I recommend, they do have their purpose. If you are a tanoholic and love to be dark fast, I would prefer for you to prep your skin with a great tan enhancer versus going into the sun without protection or baby oil—yes we still see that…

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The Endless Quest for Long Lashes

May 25th, 2010

Every woman wants long lashes—but at what price? With millions of mascara tubes sold every year across the world, the quest for long lashes has become the talk of the town more than ever.

If you search the Internet, you will find a flow of overwhelming information about the subject; Lilash, Latisse, Lumigan, Marini lash, Talika and Revitalash. To complicate matters even more, everyone talks about how their product is superior to competitors.

There are over the counter products available almost everywhere and I must say, they do a pretty good job at lengthening and thickening the lashes. They usually take a bit longer (8 to 10 weeks) to see a difference then their counterpart—the prescription drugs (4 to 6 weeks). The price is also much different. The over the counter products usually offer a 3 to 6 month supply and the prescription a 1 to 2 month supply.

I understand that having to get a prescription given to you monthly can be time consuming and expensive, which is why everyone wants the prescription drug without having to make all the steps. Purchasing prescription drugs in other countries is not new. I remember in the 90’s when everyone was purchasing Retin A in Mexico —now it is easier because of the Internet, a mass market place to buy everything and anything.

One thing we have to remember is when the FDA approved the drugs, they must have had a reason why they believed they should be recommended by a doctor. Of course, most people think they know better or are smarter, but before you buy a prescription drug without a prescription, you might want to think twice because it can be very risky —who wants to risk their vision for gorgeous lashes?

I recently I ran into this article from the New York time and would like to share it with you:

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/02/health/02latisse.html?scp=1&sq=long%20lashes%20without%20prescription&st=cse

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Dailey Dose

May 10th, 2010

I have been working out for many years and have tried it all. While there are many exercises I like, there are many I dislike as well. I am a type A person and I love cardio. I used to run a lot until my knees started to tell me I needed to take a break. So I got into indoor cycling and while I love it, I feel like I’m not strengthening my core. A couple of weeks back I walked by a new studio in town called The Dailey Method and decided to check it out.

The Dailey Method® is a unique combination of ballet barre work, core conditioning, stretching, and orthopedic exercises. Jill Dailey created it in 2000 as the result of her extensive experience creating the most efficient mix of muscle strengthening and flexibility exercises. It was the first barre class on the West Coast.

This challenging one-hour class effectively strengthens tones and lengthens the entire body. Light weights are utilized to define the upper body while mat and ballet barre work target the thighs, seat and abdominals. After each muscle group is worked through high repetition using a small range of motion, it is alternately stretched to lengthen the muscles.

Today was my 5^th class and I have found it to be the perfect combination of exercises to add to my cardio routine. I actually already see and feel a difference in my core and the strength of my upper body. I feel my abdominal area tightening from within, and on the surface. I have two children and have not felt tight in that area for a long time and I am really starting to like it! The classes are difficult but it is a good challenge. I never feel sore the next day and I can go everyday and never feel tired.

Each instructor has a slightly different style, but they kind of all look the same. Do not let their beautiful bodies intimate you; I have found all of them very down to earth and their intention is to help you —and they do. This is one class I have seen every instructor spend a large amount of time correcting pauses and guiding their students.

Each studio is owned individually. There are two in the western suburbs of Chicago and one in the city. I go to the one in La Grange. Stephanie and Sam are the owners and both teach classes regularly.

I am really enjoying this and strongly recommend that everyone try a class or two. Check their web site:

http://www.thedaileymethod.com/lagrange.html

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Fun and Interactive Gathering

May 10th, 2010

A Beauty Atelier workshop is the perfect gift for birthday, graduation, bridal and baby shower. It can be customized for any occasion…

Gift certificates are also available

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LED Beam

April 27th, 2010

A few months back, I came across the ANSR LED beam and became very intrigued about the technology. Having been in the industry for a long time, I had heard of the LED facial before, but never in a way that can be used at home. So, I went on a quest to research a bit more and here is what I found…

What is Phototherapy?

Phototherapy utilizes light energy to heal and rebalance skin tissue. This technique has been practiced in the medical field and in science. It has many names such as Light therapy, IPL and LED treatment.

Where did it all begin?

NASA was the first organization to harness the power of LED (Light Emitting Diode) to spur plant growth on the space station. The near infrared photo light emitted by the LED’s increased energy in the mitochondria (the cell’s power house) of each cell. NASA researchers then discover that these LED’s exerted similar physiological effects on the human cells, just as they did on plant cells.

What is Light Emitting Diode?

LED releases energy in the form of photons. In physics, a photon is am elementary particle and the basic unit of light. This effect is called electroluminescence. The color of the light is determined by the energy gap of the semiconductor corresponding to the energy of the photon.

The promise of LED prompted researchers to begin applying LED light technology to skin ulcers, burns and even cancer. Some clinical trials were done at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee on children undergoing bone marrow transplants to relieve oral mucisitis, a common side effect of chemotherapy and radiation treatments. The test showed that 53 percent of the treated children with LED developed mucosistis, which is considerably less than the usual rate of 70-90 percent.

The Beauty Connection

LED is now becoming widely available to the skin care, beauty and wellness industries. A penetrating red light regenerates skin tissue and increases collagen production, while the blue light treats acne. Here’s the breakdown:

Red Light

The regenerating red light shows that the skin cell absorbs the flow of photons and transforms their energy into ATP. ATP is the energy that our mitochondria, the power house of our skin cells, use for cell regeneration. ATP is used to create DNA, RNA, proteins, enzymes and other vital elements to repair cells and skin. To promote healing of the skin, the therapeutic value of red light suggests that low energy light increases and promotes fibroblast proliferation and the production of collagen I and III up to 200 percent.

Blue Light

The blue light treats acne by destroying the bacteria, called P-acne, which causes the inflammation associated with acne. P-acne releases an element called porphyrin, which is absorbed by the light energy and self-destructs. It safety kills bacteria without causing dryness and sensitivity. The blue light can also be used with the red light, which in turn will help repair tissue and skin that has been broken or damaged.

How to use:

It is so easy to use; simply glide the beam device light over the skin for 5 minutes a day. In the case of acne (blue light), use a small amount of purifying serum over your skin so the beam can glide easily. In the case of regeneration (red light) it can be used twice a day for 5 minutes each time with the use of an anti-aging or renewal serum. Some of my favorites are the DNA Enzyme Repair from Priori, or any Aromessence from Decleor. I have also found that any light oil really makes the gliding of the beam extremely comfortable.

I have been using the beam for a few weeks to regenerate my skin and love the result I am starting to see. With anti-aging, it takes longer to notice results; about 4 to 6 weeks, but with acne you can start seeing result within 2 weeks. I highly recommend it for all age groups and the great thing about this particular beam, you can get both light for the price of one!

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