Rosemary and Mint Salt Scrub (---yes!!)

I don't  know about you, but January, February and March are my favorite months. What I really like is that each month seems to last forever!  These are the months I find the time to clean drawers and deal with all those projects that are so irritating at other times of the year.  Who wants to clean a drawer in July?  Evenings are longer and taking a nice bath warms me up (I live in New England), and I can do it every night if I want because the world has slowed down! I have a new product that seems to call my name and makes me ditch whatever I am doing to go jump in a hot tub. It's called Rosemary and Mint Salt Scrub.  It feels like a light exfoliator on my skin and smells faintly like the best part of my herb garden.   I let it sit on my skin while I try to keep from dozing and going under.  It's just so nice.  When you get out of the tub, your mind is refreshed and your whole body feels silky and coated with a light oil.  What a surprise!   I love it.  Try it!

Botanical Acne Treatment: Soft Papaya and Pumpkin Masque

 Do you have delicate skin with broken capillaries and/or Rosacea?   You may not be able to tolerate strong chemical peels. For this type of condition, a deep enzyme exfoliation is ideal. Our Soft Papaya & Pumpkin Masque is a safe and effective alternative to salicylic or glycolic peels. Most papaya enzyme masks on the market have the ingredient salicylic acid to do all the work but the Soft Papaya & Pumpkin Masque's activity comes from the papain (papaya). Enzymes are beneficial to people with acne, also.  By cleaning out clogged pores, this masque will help prevent acne from appearing. For acne that has already emerged, the papaya's strong decomposition enzyme, papain, works to eradicate it by breaking down harmful elements while leaving the healthy cells to thrive.

 After using  the Soft Papaya & Pumpkin Masque, your skin may look less wrinkled. Pores may be smaller and tighter. Your skin tone and texture may appear less blotchy and more even.  Your complexion may be noticeably brighter. You will look more refreshed!  It is soft and creamy with the special fruit enzyme, papain, used for exfoliation, and beeswax and avocado oil used to moisturize, and hydrate. Tapioca starch and Kaolin clay tighten the surface of the skin to clarify and condition. Extracts of pumpkin seed and comfrey also have clarifying and healing properties. Japanese Green Tea acts as an anti-oxidant to reduce redness and irritation.  This formula is gentle enough to be used two or three times a week, and is suitable for all skin types.If you have sensitive skin, add Limu Facial Cleanser to your routine.  For combination to oily skin, try Borage Leaf Foaming Cleanser or Dermaclenz Liquid Cleanser.  Remember, all of my products are free of harsh chemicals or dyes and only natural fragrances are used.

PRICE:  Soft Papaya & Pumpkin Masque - 2 oz.  $19.00


Check out all the products for your skin type on the right side of this blog page.

Sun Damage Update

Looked closely lately?  Summer takes it's toll on the skin of even the most diligent!  After writing about the amount of sun damage I saw on people in Florida in April, I turned a new leaf and never went out in the sun this summer without paying due diligence to SPF application.  Actually, after writing about the ladies who lost the ends of their noses to skin cancer,  I put a double dose of SPF on my nose, for sure! Now that I am in the habit of using our Advanced Protection SPF 30 as a foundation base, I'm  happy. I've done all I can  to protect myself even in the winter.  I only wish I hadn't been so lazy for so many years. No, I don't live in Florida. I live in cold Massachusetts, but the sun shines here, too! As the old saying goes, "too soon old, too late smart."

My Sun Damaged Vacation!

(Don't forget to look at the specials that are posted for May.  They are listed to the right of this blog under their own category - Monthly Specials.)

I just got back from a visit to North Carolina and Florida and I was rather taken back by the horror stories I heard and saw about skin cancer.  Two of the women I had dinner with had cancers removed from their noses and one lady had to have the end of her nose rebuilt. It was very traumatic.  Where ever I went in Florida I saw people running around with fresh bandages or bandaids  covering newly removed growths from their faces, and many from their legs.  I'm sure there were many spots removed from backs as well. I just couldn't see those.  There seemed to be a dermatology clinic on every corner.  It struck me hard because out here in the East, we're aware of the problem but it doesn't seem as obvious. I don't think I will ever go without sunscreen again, even on cloudy days. You shouldn't either. I was in Florida for ten days covered from head to toe with our Advanced Protection SPF 30 and never got a speck of red.  It's not greasy and has no scent, and the protection level is very high. A full description of this product is listed under " Sensitive to Normal  Products" on the right side of this blog. Please take the time to read about it.

Update on Rapid Response Line Filler and Nutra Peptide Hair System

 If you bought Rapid Response Line Filler in the container with the roll-on applicator and had a hard time getting the top off, I can help.  First, the cap covering the roller ball just pulls off. It doesn't screw off.  Then, to get the flow of product going, give the bottom of the container a hard push up. You'll feel or hear it open. Then turn the bottom control to get the flow moving.    Use small circular motions to apply the filler to the areas on your face where you have lines.(Sometimes I use my finger to spread it, too).   This tube packaging is handy to throw in your purse or suitcase.   Our Refreshing Anti-Puff Eye Gel applies the same way. You can find these products listed on the right side of this page. These products are also available in a regular one ounce container.

I've had some surprising comments from customers using the Nutra Peptide Shampoo System, especially about new hair growth.  Sara in Wisconsin and Leslie in Connecticut are enjoying new hair along their receding temple areas.  Both are using all three products. They both commented about the overall health of their hair.  Marie in Texas has new hair growth all over her head (so says her hairdresser).  It is very clear to see and her hair has grown in length surprisingly and has had to be cut more frequently.  She is thrilled!  For people who don't want to use harsh chemicals,  this is a very effective, mild botanical hair system that nourishes your scalp and hair, and stimulates growth.   A list of ingredients is available. Please let me know how you are doing with these products so I can pass the information along.

Glycolic Moisture Creme - botanical

We hear so much about AHA's (alpha-hydroxy acids) encouraging collagen production (which we all need more of, right)? What if a botanical product could do that for you without the use of any harsh chemicals? Take heart! It's here and it's very effective and can be used by all skin types.

 Our Glycolic Moisture Creme is a daily reconditioning and firming treatment containing glycolic acid and  natural fruit acids (alpha hydroxy acids) derived from  grape, lemon, passionflower and pineapple.  All of these natural fruits gently encourage the skin to shed its surface coating of dead cells. A blend of Sodium Hyaluronate and hydrolyzed glycosamino-glycans are added as lubricating moisturizers.   Used on a daily basis this high quality creme will help diminish fine lines, scarring and skin discolorations. Vitamin A, E and C protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals and help improve elasticity.  Another ingredient,  Salicylic Acid,   is  a naturally derived beta-hydroxy acid  found in Willow Bark Extract. It encourages surface renewal for a smoother texture. It is also know for it's antiseptic properties.

Note:  This product is light weight and oil-free.  When using any glycolic product always avoid the eye area. You might want to use an eye creme in that area.  If you use any glycolic or retinol product in the daytime, it is  recommended that you use a sunscreen such as our Advanced Protection SPF 30. You can use Glycolic Moisturizer  once or twice daily after thorough cleansing and toning of the skin.  Follow with a special treatment like SPF or moisturizer, or use at night when you go to bed. A true glycolic product will be recognized by glycolic lovers by its distinctive glycolic scent.

1.7 oz.  Special Price:   $33.00                     ( Reg. Price  $45-$60)

Key Ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Tartaric Acid are Alpha Hydroxy Acids- derived from Grape, Lemon, Passionflower and Pineapple. Studies show AHA exfoliates skin encouraging collagen production and cell turnover. Salicylic Acid– naturally derived Beta-Hydroxy Acid encourages surface renewal and has antiseptic properties. Glycoproteins– strengthens skin’s ability to protect itself against damaging environmental influences. Vitamin E– Anti-oxidant which protects skin from environmental damage (UV radiation, chemical pollutants) or lifestyle damage (smoking, drinking). Vitamin A– Increases elasticity, and normalizes dry skin. Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate– Vitamin C ester effective in increasing hydration levels, even skin tone, stimulation of collagen production.

NUTRA PEPTIDE HAIR CARE PRODUCTS

This post is being recirculated with new information:

We are releasing some new products that we have been using for awhile and now can report some interesting  information about them.  Our new products are:

Nutra Peptide Shampoo:    Clear, scent of citrus blend. Very concentrated.

Nutra Peptide Conditioner:    Opaque, creamy, wonderful scent of citrus blend. Use daily. Massage deeply into scalp. Rinse thoroughly.

Nutra Peptide Sensory Serum:  Use after conditioner daily.  Apply 2-3 drops to scalp. Massage deeply into the scalp. Concentrate on damaged areas and areas of thinning hair. Dry air. Use regular styling products.

I can tell you from personal use and examples from my friends that if your hair needs volume, is thinning,  and seems to lack luster and life, the health of your hair  and scalp would benefit from this mild, botanical system. And,  if you have tried hair growth products that were strong with no results or had reactions to those products, try this line of products. Stick with it for a few months to give your hair time to go through a complete growth cycle. 

 My friend, Leslie, has gone through chemo three times, lost all of her hair, had it grow back in and then, after five years, started losing it by the handfuls when she washed it.   As soon as she started using the shampoo and conditioner, all of that stopped.  Her hair had more body and looked healthier, so she started using the Nutra Peptide Sensory Serum also.  It has been approximately three months and she has new growth about an inch and a half long filling in at the  temples, plus healthier, thicker hair on the rest of her head. Her hair dresser, who has been with her through all of the chemo says that she never has seen her hair so healthy.  (I remember a balding male friend of mine sadly say, "You know, Carol,  I miss my hair."  Maybe I should send a package to him!)  It's funny, until you experience something, you don't always believe it. That's why we try the products and don't just read the literature.

On the other hand,  several friends, relatives, and myself, don't have as severe problems as Leslie.   We're just normal people who mostly color our hair, some do perms, and most notice their hair texture isn't what it was 20 years ago. We just use the shampoo and conditioner.   What I noticed besides more body is that my color lasts forever.  When I use a curling iron, my style lasts longer and it seems to grow faster.   Who would think! People with long hair tell me their hair is instantly  comb-able and not flyaway. "More bounce" seems to be mentioned frequently, but especially they notice a difference in texture. 

Sara grabbed the products off my shelves when visiting here, took them back to Wisconsin and raves about her color being a better shade, her perm looking better, and  her thin hair looking much thicker (she just started with the system in November and only had been using the shampoo and conditioner) but decided she should try the serum as well.. She was so happy with how she looked that had me send a package of products to her daughter in Florida. Her daughter already reordered.  So, if you have any hair problems, before you try expensive chemicals, try my botanical hair products.  It's certainly worth a shot.   I think everyone's outcome will be different depending on their personal problem. .I'm not saying you will definitely show new hair growth, but what you have will look better. 

 Look under "Monthly Specials" for pricing of these products.  Contact me if you have any questions.

 For a clearer understanding of hair anatomy and why these products are successful you can read more here:

HOW TO PICK A TONER

There are those of us who are devoted to using toners, and then there are others who think of it as just one more step they can do without.  You just have to try one to see the difference in your own face. A bottle of toner lasts for months and months and is a treatment in itself.

I can tell you personally why I like my toner:   I know it removes any residue left over from cleanser, and although my face feels clean and clear after washing, my toner makes it feel cool and calm, ultra smooth and the smell is refreshing and soothing to me personally.   (I use our Vital Hydrant, which is a light gel and has a nice moisturizing effect.  Being a gel, I don't waste any).

 Picking the right toner for your skin type or problems is important because the ingredients can add to the healing process if you are prone to breakouts, and they add to the moisturization process if you have dry skin.  I do feel you can see the difference in your skin when you wash, tone and moisturize instead of just slapping on moisturizer. It just seems to make any product you use next, work better.   You  have to experience it yourself. On hot humid days in the summer, I sometimes switch and  spray my face with Ginseng Mineral Toner for the cooling effect. A bottle of toner is inexpensive, lasts for months and months. and is a treatment in itself.  Since my products are botanical without harsh chemicals, only fatty-acid alcohols are used, which are very mild and  moisturizing.

I buy a toner for normal or mature skin, on the dry side:             Vital Hydrant Toner - $22.00

If you  have combination skin with breakouts, or oily skin, use:  Herbal Astringent - $14.00

A toner that's good for all skin types  is the  Ginseng Mineral Toner -$14.00

Look  to the right side of this blog for TONERS AND ASTRINGENTS. You'll find prices and explanations of all products.

VITAMIN C - HOME FACIAL

 

 VITAMIN C

Home Facial

 

Sensitive Skin

 Now that you're using some of these products, wouldn't it be fun to do a home facial

on yourself?  Don't have all the products?  Look under "Monthly Specials" for sales.   (You can do this facial standing in front of the mirror).

Products used:  Limu Facial Cleanser with Orange Oil (vitamin C)

                               Vital Hydrant Toner with Lemon Peel Oil  (vitamin C)

                               AHA Mint Masque with Kiwi and Grape Extract (vitamin C)

                               Complex C Serum (vitamin C)

                               Complex C Moisturizer (vitamin C)

                               Advanced Protection SPF 30

                               Retinol Night Creme (vitamin C) for anti-aging, occasional blemish, sun  

                              spots, discoloration prevention.

Retinol Night Creme was not used in this facial but is a great addition to the vitamin C formulas for added benefits.  For prevention of too much sun and too much free radical exposure, use the Vitamin C Serum and Advanced Protection SPF 30 religiously every morning! 

HERE'S HOW TO DO YOUR FACIAL:

1.  Cleanse:  Remove eye make-up with Gentle Eye Make-Up Remover.  Soak flat cotton pad and gently move across the eye, letting the liquid soak into the lash.

2.  Second Cleanse:  Apply a nickel-sized amount of Limu Facial Cleanser.  This cleanser is good to massage with a circular motion over forehead, temples, cheeks, chin, and neck area.  Completely remove with damp, warm cloth.

3.  To soothe the skin, use Vital Hydrant Toner all over the face and neck.  Remove any excess with cool cloth or cotton pad.  Let dry.

4.  Apply the Complex C Serum all over the face and the neck area. This will hydrate, calm and condition the surface of the skin.  When masque is applied, this will be the perfect layer of antioxidant vitamin C boost! Give it a chance to soak in.

5.  Apply the AHA Mint Masque all over the face and neck area and let set for 5 to 10 minutes.

     For extra hydration:  Adding a thick layer (dime in consistency) of this masque will give you more hydration. Remove with damp cloth.

     To tone and tighten:  For a tight and toned feel, apply a thin (brushed) layer. Remove with a wet sponge first to loosen the clay base, and then remove with a damp cloth.

6.  Spritz face to refresh and hydrate with Ginseng Mineral Toner.

7.  After the skin is mostly dry, apply the Complex C Serum for oily to combination skin, or Vitamin C Moisturizer for normal to dry skin types.

8.  As a last step, apply Advanced Protection SPF 30 for protection if going outside.

Remember:  Facial procedures don't replace daily skin care prevention!

 

                                           

NEW SIZE FOR LIMU CLEANSER

If you are one of those who love Limu Cleanser, you will be happy to hear that it now comes in an eight ounce size.  Limu is located under  "Cleansers" on this blog   (for pricing).  It is a very popular item containing two natural ingredients, marine algae and the inner gel of aloe vera. This creates a gentle, effective cleanser with no oils or harsh ingredients.  It has a wonderful smell from essential oils that just makes you want to get up and wash you face!  (I'm not kidding. Customers have actually told me that!).   This is a non-foaming cleanser that is excellent for sensitive skin, and makes a wonderful shaving creme for a close shave on the legs of women and on the face of men. It will leave the face properly balanced with no razor burn.  Men love that! And, even though it is very mild, it removes eye makeup wonderfully.

NEW RESEARCH - less wrinkles for SPF users!

Did you see the news release last week in The Wall Street Journal about  the study published in the  Annals of Internal Medicine showing that  people instructed to apply sunscreen every day for four years showed 24% less skin aging, as measured by lines and coarseness of the skin, than those told to use the cream as they usually do?

Dermatologists have told us this for years and now there is research to back it up.  So, with regular use you get a "two-fer", less skin cancer and less wrinkles! I truly think the threat of wrinkles is a more powerful behavior-changer than the threat of cancer. (This is especially true for young people whose sunburns may put them at risk for skin cancer decades later, but wrinkles start now!)  What a no-brainer SPF is.  We all love a bargain.  I can't think of a better one! 
    

FLUSHING - with serums, etc.

Just a word of warning to those of you trying a serum,  a masque, or a treatment product for the first time  -YOU MAY NOTICE SOME FLUSHING the first time or two.   We always can provide  samples to try, and,  a list of ingredients is available for all products.  This gives you a chance to try before you buy.  I would suggest putting the product on your neck or some inconspicuous area  to see how you react to it.

 Here's a funny story: My husband and I were on vacation, rained in, and looking for something to do. I suggested I would give him a facial since he never had had one, and he warily agreed.  When we were done he looked in the mirror and shouted, "I'm pink!"  I tried to talk him down, saying his face wasn't conditioned and it was natural and it would go away, blah, blah, blah.  The next morning he got up and was still a pretty shade of pink, and I was sweating it,  but it disappeared fairly quickly.  Although he wasn't too keen on the "pink flush", he was thrilled at how smooth and clear his skin looked, so there was some compensation for him.  Of course, a flush is one thing, an itchy rash is another. Obviously, you would discontinue use with a rash.

USE PROTECTION! (No, no - the other kind!)

What are you using on your face for sunscreen?  Most of the women I talk to say "nothing", but they are" thinking " about it or it's in their make-up. The problem is, there isn't enough in their make-up!  Take it from my ladies in Florida and try my ADVANCED PROTECTION SPF 30   which is used by dermatologists and plastic surgeons for their patients.  The Florida ladies love it because, as one of them emphatically said, "Nothing gets through that sucker!" ( I probably would have said, "It provides light moisturization, and normalizes dry parched skin while providing superior protection.")   Now is the time - try it!

My first customer for this product was a mother buying it for her 13 year old daughter who had had skin cancer removed from her arm two times!  

Sunscreens with broad spectrum protection (against UVA and UVB rays) and with sun protection factor (SPF) values of 30 are recommended.  My product , which was designed for the dermatologic market,  has you covered with the Advanced Protection SPF 30 .  (Many of my customers use it as a make-up base.) Light enough for oily skin. No fragrance. A microfine transparent zinc oxide is used that blocks both UVA and UVB radiation. Designed for face and body.  Excellent for sensitive skin. Recommended for anyone using alpha hydroxy acids or retinol products on their faces,  which makes you more sensitive to the sun!

  When using an SPF 30 sunscreen and applying it thickly on your body, you get the equivalent of 1 minute of UVB rays for each 30 minutes you spend in the sun. So, 1 hour in the sun wearing SPF 30 sunscreen is the same as spending 2 minutes totally

NEW PRODUCT INTRODUCTION: MATRIX OIL

Here is a new product that will benefit  those of you that live in a very dry climate,  spend your working days outside, or for some other reason have skin that feels very parched like one of my customers who just got back from a military stay in Afghanistan. This is a treatment to bring your hydration levels back to normal.Oil is the latest product in the line up of skin care products.

New Product Introduction

Matrix Oil

with Retinol, Vitamin E and Argan Oil

This bottle of magic contains light oils that will leave your skin soft and supple without feeling greasy.

 

For an extra boost in hydration use this oil in conjunction with your recommended serum, moisturizer and/or special treatment.  Use serum first before applying this light facial oil, then apply your moisturizer or sunscreen as last step.

 

This light facial oil treatment will also benefit oily skin as it regulates oil production by controlling  “unwanted” oil and dry patches. 

    

 Directions for VERY dry skin: If you have extremely dry skin, use this oil with your moisturizer at night. In the morning add a drop or two before applying your daytime moisturizer or sunscreen. For extra hydration apply the Aloe @ Azulene Gel Masque or Soft Papaya @ Pumpkin Masque once a week.   

Directions for oily skin:  This light facial oil offers all of the benefits of regulating oil production. Apply to cleansed skin before moisturizer to control "unwanted" oil and dry patches.

 

MAY - we love it!

Spring is here and it's a great time to try something new.  If you haven't picked out a basic cleansing set for your type skin, why not now?

 Plus, let's all smell good this spring.  How about this description: "The fragrance opens with notes of mandarin, orange pomelo, tangerine and lime, and then slowly eases into White Tea Blossom, fresh melon, rose petals and night blooming jasmine."  Wow, I can almost smell it!
That would be our Citrus and White Tea Blossom Lotion and Body Polish.  Everyone loves it.  The nice thing is by the time you get to work or to where ever they don't allow you to wear fragrances, it will have mellowed to the point that it won't bother anyone.  Put some on before bed and you'll relax quickly.

It's a double-duty duo - science and nature!

Did you know, our line of products uses natural ingredients that are formulated using current trends in technology without using harsh chemicals?   Specially chosen natural herbal extracts, specialty ingredients and aromatherapy essential oils are blended with water-based emulsions to provide results.  No sensitizing fragrances are used. No dyes, no harsh chemicals, no parabens, no animal testing, etc. etc. etc. Natural herbal extracts and aromatherapy essential oils are blended with water-based emulsions to provide results. 
Isn't that what we want on our skin - a pure product that is effective?   

 Remember, if you have any sensitivities, you can request a complete list of ingredients for any of our products.  Just ask.

LUXURY BOTANICALS - ROSACEA

Somebody told me that this month is "Rosacea Awareness Month," so I'm going with it!
Half of the people I talk to have some form of Rosacea.  Sometimes it's a patch here or there and sometimes it's red cheeks or worse. I'm Irish and I don't have it, so I am lucky, because people from a Celtic background are more prone to develop Rosacea  than the rest of the population.  It's exasperating and sometimes hard to control the condition. Everyone's symptoms are different and everyone has a different type of skin, so take your time and pick the right products. Remember that my products are used by dermatologists who fight the battle of Rosacea with their clients every day. Below are some of their suggestions:

One of the most important things you can do for the condition is pick the right cleanser for you skin type. Here I can help you.  If you have Rosacea and sensitive skin, pick Borage Leaf Cleanser or Chamomile Cleansing Lotion.  You could also use Limu, which is good for everyone.    If you have Rosacea with oily skin and are prone to breakouts, pick AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser or Limu Cleanser.  Try the Herbal Astringent with it and then apply Glycolic Gel Renewal serum for protection and healing.  People with Rosacea are more affected by the sun's rays than others and it can increase their breakouts, so use our Advanced Protection SPF30, designed for the dermatology marketplace.  You'll love it.  It's considered non-oily so works for people with oily skin,  and it has no fragrance. Put it on in the morning. It could be used for a make-up base.  At times when you feel the need for a light moisturizer, try non-oily Sage and Citrus Moisturizer.

We have another great product, KEEP IT CALM RELIEF SERUM. which delivers an instant calming effect to irritated skin conditions such as Rosacea....It immediately calms redness and irritation. This irritation can come from Rosacea or special treatments such as extractions, waxing, facial peels and environmental stresses such as pollution,smoking or alcohol consumption.   Apply it to clean skin.

COMBINATION SKIN -WHAT TO USE

We like to tell you how people we know are using the products. Cindy, down in Florida, has bouts of breaking out, some spots of rosacea, and, basically, problem skin.  Her skin is reacting extremely well to Borage Leaf Cleanser, Sage and Citrus Moisturizer (non-oily) and our Advanced SPF 30, which is also non-oily.  Let's face it, living in Florida is tough on anyone's skin.  (Borage Leaf Cleanser is highly effective for combination skin. Borage leaf extract cools and soothes the skin and minimizes external inflammation and swelling.  The blend of botanical extracts of chamomile, cucumber and aloe vera calm and soothe, also, while vitamin E and cocoa butter pamper dehydrated and irritated skin. It has the faint odor of ginger and lavender.) People with oily skin often need moisturizer and Sage and Citrus Moisturizer is very light and non-oily.

Courtney, on the other hand, lives in New York City proper, walking the streets and riding the  trains daily.  Her face takes a beating and she breaks out.   She finds Dermaclenz Liquid Cleanser works best for her right now  along with Papaya Creme Enzyme Polish (light exfoliator), which she uses three or four times a week. (Dermaclenz thoroughly cleanses and removes excessive oil, environmental impurities and makeup.)  It includes a blend of meadowsweet extract , lactic acid and honey which provide excellent moisturization while increasing skin surface renewal. Lemon and rosemary extracts stimulate and tone. You'll love the fragrance of orange, geranium and eucalyptus.

She said that this routine along with Restorative Marine Moisturizer is working well . You might remember from an earlier post, Courtney was thrilled with Restorative Moisturizer because her dorm room was so dry.  She just added Glycolic Gel Renewal to her routine, which will act as a barrier to  protect her skin from the dirty air and environmental stresses of big city living and help control breakouts even more.

You will find a description of each of these products under its specific category on the right side of my blog.

Sorry, mistake!

Just so you know, when I do a posting and it is sent out immediately to people who have signed up for updates, it arrives in your box  from Pro-Botanica Skin Care without my name on it.     I can't seem to change  this system so please enter the name Pro-Botanica Skin Care somewhere where you will remember it.

LUXURY BOTANICALS - Tired of cucumbers?

The other day I saw a doctor on TV talking about how wonderful it was to be able to go into your kitchen and use whatever was at hand for a wonderful home -made facial.  It's fun once, maybe twice.  Then you want to grab a bottle of something that requires no thinking, planning, shopping, etc. - something that works quickly without any fuss or mess, something
you can depend on and you can use it day after day.  Cucumbers are nice for puffy eyes,  but we like our Refreshing Anti-Puff Eye Gel. 

Puffy eyes result from excessive fluid in the soft tissues surrounding the eye. Common causes include smoke, dust, crying, alcohol,  lack of sleep, allergic reactions and medications. Using this product can relieve the impact of these triggers. The cold temperature from  the steel roller ball in our Refreshing Anti-Puff Eye Gel constricts blood vessels, preventing the flow of fluid to the tissues, which in turn diminishes puffiness.  In addition, peptides and essential oils also cool, reduce swelling and help reduce dark circles.  COQ10 and peptides increase firmness and elasticity of the skin surrounding the eye.  Essential oils used include mint, lemon peel oil, cucumber, lavender, and Japanese Green Tea, among others.  Apply it to your cheekbone area and puffy eyes as needed.   You can use it under your moisturizer or special serum before applying makeup.  Now you can throw those cucumbers back into the fridge.