Skin Care by Jennifer header image 5

A Word on Parabens

The small amount of parabens used in Naturally Lindy products are natural parabens and are not harmful, however, with all the buzz and negative press about parabens, the formula in Naturally Lindy products will be changing.

During the next few months Naturally Lindy products will gradually be changing to paraben free. Again, the current formula is perfectly safe and the integrity of the products will not change with the new preservative.

If you have any questions please feel free to call me.

 

Thank you and many blessings,

 

Jennifer

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Did You Know?

*Onions & cilantro are good for fading freckles
*Papaya & tomatoes are good for oily skin
*Radishes & Honey are good for dark circles and puffiness

Aromatherapy Essential Oils
are used in facial treatments to treat
a wide variety of skin conditions.

For easing aching muscles or to enhance circulation:

Bayberry, bay laurel, bergamot, birch, clary sage, clove, eucalyptus,
everlasting, fir, galbanum, grapefruit, immortelle, juniper, lemon, niaouli,
palmarosa, peppermint, rosemary, sandalwood, sweet orange, thyme, vetiver,
violet, ylang ylang.

For dry or irritated skin:

Borage, carrot seed, evening primrose, jasmine, Melissa (lemon balm), myrrh,
rosewood, sandalwood.

For acneic skin:

Benzoin, bergamot, calendula, grapefruit, hyssop, labdanum, linden, lemon,
lemongrass, lovage, myrrh, neroli, palmarosa, sage, sandalwood, tea tree.

Lavender….. the most versatile essential oil
(Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavender can be used in a wide range of skin care, hair
care, and body care preparations.

Lavender use dates back to the times of the ancient Greeks,
though the Romans were responsible for the widespread use
of Lavender throughout Europe. They took it with them
everywhere to use in their bath water and soap. It was
widely used in potpourri and sachets for its aroma.

As a sedative and disinfectant, the medicinal uses of
Lavender are well known, and with modern trends toward
herbal remedies, it is more popular than ever.

Lavender can be used to calm nervous heart complaints and
troubled sleep. It is antiseptic; antimicrobial, soothing,
stimulating, and healing. Lavender can be used in any facial,
body or hair treatment.

For a soothing, yummy bath try this
recipe:

Rosemary
Sage
Mint
Chamomile
Walnuts
Almonds
Sesame Seeds
Flax Seeds
Clove
Cinnamon stick

Put ingredients in cheesecloth and add
to a pot of boiling water. Add sea salt
and enjoy a nice soak!

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Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid is the most exciting skin care discovery in recent years. A natural fruit acid derived from sugar cane, glycolic belongs to the alpha-hydroxy acid family. Glycolic acid naturally increases skin’s exfoliation process, helping remove dull, dead cells to reveal fresh, noticeable smoother, younger-looking skin. Having a peel with a facial enhances the healthy effects of the facial by first clearing old, dull skin cells. With a fresh surface, skin benefits more easily and deeply from a Skin Care by Jennifer facial.

What is glycolic acid?

Glycolic acid is a natural substance derived from sugar cane, making it a member of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family. Some of the more well-known are AHA’s are citric acid (derived from citrus fruits), lactic acid (milk), tartaric acid (wine) and malic acid (apples). Hundreds of years before dermatology had become a scientific pursuit, women were using a variety of AHA’s to smooth and soften their skin. Cleopatra’s legendary beauty often makes mention of her exquisite skin. It is possible that her complexion was so remarkable, in part, by lactic acid and AHA found in the milk baths she had a penchant for . Perhaps camel’s milk baths?

Is glycolic acid safe?

Yes, glycolic acid is 100% non-toxic. The Food and Drug Administration approved the use of glycolic acid by the general public in milder concentrations than what is permitted for use by professional; both are completely safe. It is not considered a drug and does not enter the blood stream. Glycolic products can safely be used before and after exposure to the sun, although a sun screen is recommended to prevent photo aging. When used as directed, glycolic acid has no undesirable effects.

How exactly does glycolic acid work?

Glycolic acid dissolves a glue-like substance in the skin’s upper layer, allowing dead skin cells to shed more quickly. The increase in cell turnover stimulates collagen production. The results include smoothing wrinkles and improvement to the overall suppleness and integrity of skin tissue.

As skin ages, the release of old skin cells slows dramatically and the most visible layer, the stratum corneum, thickens unevenly. This skin can appear dry, scaly and exhibit hyper-pigmentation (”age spots”). With the release of these older, dry cells, the skin begins to look and feel hydrated and soft. Pore size is reduced, and the overall color and health of the skin improves by the increased circulation.

The benefits of glycolic acid are extraordinary for acne sufferers. Glycolic acid reduces frequent cause of
troubled complexions, hyperkeratosis (the build-up of dead cells). Glycolic penetrates skin to effectively release new cells which heals blemishes and pimples. By keeping cell build-up to a minimum, the acne begins to noticeable diminish. Treatment with glycolic is equally successful on scars and pigmentation.

Age spots are lightened with the release of dark or pigmented surface cells. Glycolic acid together with
hydroquinone (a natural anti-pigmentation product derived from mushrooms), is the best way to naturally
lighten uneven skin pigment. Many age spots on the face, hands and arms are simple keratosis. Glycolic
products are very effective in reducing superficial lesions by penetrating skin’s thickened layer, preventing
trouble before it begins. Sun block is essential to prevent re-pigmentation.

What results can I expect when using glycolic acid?

The immediate effects are increased circulation and hydration, which improve skin’s texture and color.
Noticeable changes from prolonged use include refined pore size, diminishing fine lines and scars, more even skin tone and softening of deep lines. The benefits to acne-prone complexions are most dramatic, skin is visibly less blemished and irritated with a much healthier, even appearance.

Are there any side effects from using glycolic acid?

With initial treatment, some people experience a slight, momentary stinging, which is reduced by applying the product to dry skin. Occasionally light flaking is experienced and slightly increased sensitivity, which only lasts a few weeks. Both are minimal and can be eased by cleansing with a soft facial brush and applying moisturizer. Also, if skin is sensitive only use gentle cleansers and avoid harsh scrubs. As cell turnover accelerates, sensitivity diminishes. The most common side effect from glycolic acid? Healthier, clearer, younger-looking skin.

I do recommend you stop using glycolic products 72 hours before a professional salon peel.

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Lavender Oil

Lavender

1.   Rub Lavender oil on the feet for a calming effect on the body.

2.   Rub a drop of Lavender oil on your palms and smooth on your pillow to help you sleep.

3.   Put a drop of Lavender oil on a bee sting to stop itching and reduce swelling.

4.   Put 2-3 drops of Lavender oil on a minor burn to decrease pain.

5.   Drop Lavender oil on a cut to stop the bleeding.

6.   Mix several drops of Lavender oil with V-6 Vegetable Mixing Oil (or sweet almond oil) and use topically on eczema and dermatitis.

7.   To alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness, place a drop of Lavender oil on the end of the tongue or around the naval or behind the ears.

8.   To stop a nosebleed, put a drop of Lavender oil on a tissue and wrap it around a small chip of ice. Push the tissue covered ice chip up under the middle of the top lip to the base of the nose and hold as long as comfortable or until the bleeding stops (do not freeze the lip or gum).

9.   Rub a drop of Lavender oil over the bridge of the nose to unblock tear ducts.

  10.  Rub Lavender oil on dry or chapped skin.

  11.  Rub a drop of Lavender oil on chapped or sunburned lips.

  12.  To reduce or minimize the formation of scar tissue, massage Lavender oil on or around the affected area.

13.     Rub 2-4 drops of Lavender oil over the armpit area to act as a deodorant.

14.     Rub a drop of Lavender oil between your palms and inhale deeply to help alleviate the symptoms of hay fever.

15.     Rub several drops of Lavender oil into the scalp to help eliminate dandruff.

16.     Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a cotton ball and place in your linen closet to scent the      linens and repel moths and insects.

17.     Place a drop of Lavender oil in your water fountain to scent the air, kill bacteria and prolong the time between cleanings.

18.     Place a few drops of Lavender oil on a wet cloth and throw into the dryer, which will deodorize and freshen your laundry.

19.     Put a drop of Lavender oil on a cold sore.

20.     Diffuse Lavender oil to alleviate the symptoms of allergies.

21.     Spritz several drops of Lavender oil mixed with distilled water on a sunburn to decrease pain.

22.     Drop Lavender oil on a cut to clean the wound and kill bacteria.

23.     Apply 2-3 drops of Lavender oil to a rash to stop the itching and heal the skin.                 

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Nutrition

THE #1 REASON PEOPLE GET OLD AND SICK IS THE CHOICES WE
MAKE— NOT OUR GENES. WE ALL HAVE THE ABILITY TO CONTROL
OUR OWN DESTINY.

*To fight against aging we need 25 grams of fiber per day and 64oz of water.

Good sources of fiber:

Vegetables- Artichoke, lima beans, & soybeans

Fruits- raspberries, blackberries, & grapefruit

Whole Grains- steel cut oatmeal (or Scottish oatmeal), buckwheat, whole
grain breads & cereals.

Spelt, bulgur and quinoa
Help flush fat and cholesterol through body and drags other (not so good
foods) along. They are also a good antioxidant, reduce cholesterol, lower
blood pressure, helps prevent heart disease, cancer and diabetes.

You should have 3 servings per day.

*To fight against cancer we need magnesium. Good sources are beets,
raisins, dates, & soybeans. You can also use a supplement (400mg)
WE ARE CONTINUALLY PREVENTING AND KILLING CANCER CELLS ALL
THE TIME.

Two of the most important vitamins you can take are folate and vitamin D
To reduce cancer by about 50% take folate (or folic acid).
Good food sources for folate include orange juice, spinach, and other dark
leafy greens. You can use a supplement (800mcg) daily.

If you are under 60 years of age you need 400 IU (International units) of
Vitamin D daily, if your over 60 you need 600 IU. Good food sources of
vitamin D include non-fat milk or milk substitute and orange juice.

Good food sources for fighting cancer: Tomato sauce, tomato paste,
tomatoes (although cooked tomatoes are better), broccoli, cauliflower,
cabbage, and brussel sprouts. (Cooked tomatoes and tomato sauces should
be eaten with olive oil or another healthy fat for better absorption.

· The number one most important thing for good health is your blood
pressure. It should be 115 over 75.

High blood pressure can cause wrinkling of the skin, stroke, heart disease
and sexual dysfunction.

Foods that can help lower blood pressure are: bananas, avocados (they are
high in potassium), peaches, baked potatoes with the skins, and watermelon.

There are many, many health benefits in aspirin, although you should check
with your doctor because of potential risks. It can reduce cancer, it’s good for
the heart, and it’s good for the skin. Two baby aspirin a day is what he
recommends as long as it isn’t hurting your stomach.

Another food source that fights against cancer (reduces risk of liver cancer),
Alzheimer’s, & Parkinson’s is COFFEE! Dr. Oz says it’s reasonable to drink
up to 24oz of coffee a day as long as you aren’t experiencing side effects.

*Foods that are good for the heart: red wine, onions, garlic, walnuts, &
salmon.

To stay young and healthy each day eat foods like:
*a handful of nuts (keep in fridge)
*broccoli/cauliflower
*carrots
*kiwi
*pear/apple
*corn on the cob
*whole grain breads & whole grain cereal
*grapes
*raisins

The best fish to eat are salmon, tilapia, flounder or cod, and mahi mahi
because there are no TCB’s (trichlorobenzenes), no toxins, and are low in
mercury. You should eat fish three times a week.

Water is important because it helps move your bowels; it also hydrates your
body so you’ll have less wrinkling of the skin.

It’s also important to know that our bodies can process only 600 mg of
calcium at a time. Women need a total of 1200mg per day. You should take
600mg six hours apart.

Dr. Roizen also brought up AHA’s (Alpha hydroxy acids). They increase your
cell turnover rate making new skin faster. Glycolic’s rejuvenate your skin
making it look younger.

You can get more information from the book: “YOU THE OWNER’S
MANUAL: An Insider’s Guide to the Body That Will Make You Healthier and
Younger” by Michael F. Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet C. Oz, M.D.

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Seaweed

USE OF SELECTIVE, HIGHLY PURIFIED SEAWEEDS IN COSMETIC AND PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS

Several varieties of red and brown whole, fresh seaweed have proven highly beneficial to human skin when incorporated in a wide variety of beauty and health products. As with any other nature-based ingredient, it is critical that the refined seaweed extracts retain their biological activity and are completely pure.

The use of pure, fresh seaweed extracts brings the benefits of these ingredients into contact with the skin and hair of the user. Refined seaweeds contain a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, all the trace elements, amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins and other biologically active compounds.

Seaweeds are rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, cobalt, manganese, copper, boron, iodine, etc., which are all essential trace elements.  Other cosmetically relevant compounds include uronic acid derivative (a skin protectant) and fucose polymers (which are highly hygroscopic and hydrating).

Direct and visible effects to the human skin from use of red and brown seaweed include: increased hydration, invigorated tissues, improved firmness, fewer fine lines and wrinkles, elimination of irritation, etc. Seaweeds are completely non-greasy and will not clog pores.  Hair with damage from processing and general dryness has shown significant improvement due to seaweed’s protein-reactive, sulphated galactans.

All seaweeds used are so safe that they can be eaten as a food supplement and are pure and sterile.

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Spring Skin Care

I came across this interesting article from The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians. I wanted to share:

When you start shedding layers of your winter clothing upon spring’s arrival, you may notice that your skin and scalp are shedding too. While the winter was drying your skin, spring wants to detoxify it. The way to bring your skin back in shape is through cleansing your body internally and exfoliating your skin.

Toxins can accumulate in your body in other seasons but in the spring, these toxins want to come out. The warmth of spring starts to melt these accumulated toxins (ama), which then clog the channels of your body and create a variety of symptoms. You may feel dull, heavy and congested, or your skin may lose its glow and can be itchy and sensitive. When ama becomes charged with Pitta, and your body tries to expel this toxicama through your skin, you get breakouts. Ama also lowers your immunity, which can give rise to skin allergies and infections. If you suffer from many symptoms, see an ayurvedic expert who can devise a personalized detoxification program. You can also benefit from the following advice from The Council of Maharishi Ayurveda Physicians.

To help reduce ama, you should increase the consumption of foods that support the detoxification process. Eat lots of leafy green vegetables, Brussels sprouts and white daikon radish. Also increase whole grains like wheat, barley and quinoa and alternate them in your diet. These vegetables and grains contain plenty of water-soluble fibers that aid detoxification. Use the following spice mix to flavor your meals and detox your body:

Make sure you drink lots of pure water. Sip warm water during the day, or if you are Pitta, drink it at room temperature. To help purify your skin, add the following spices to two quarts of boiled water: 2 pinches of Manjistha, 2 pinches of Indian Sarsaparilla and 1/4 teaspoon Fennel seeds. Drink this water during the day, either warm or at room temperature according to your body type.

Since springtime is Kapha by nature, you also need to balance this dosha by avoiding heavy, cold and oily foods and by reducing the sweet, sour and salty tastes. Following a light, warm and nourishing Kapha pacifying diet also helps reduce ama and support the detoxification process.

The release of toxins cannot happen without proper elimination. If you are prone to constipation, add cooked prunes and figs to your diet, and eat lots of sweet, juicy fruits. Deep breathing is also important,” says The Council, “as is regular exercise. A brisk walk can increase your metabolism, enhance the detoxification process and improve circulation to the skin. The fresh air and a little sunshine will also refresh your complexion and uplift your mood.

As you are purifying your body, you should put more emphasis on cleansing and exfoliating your skin as well. 

Support your body’s natural tendencies to detoxify itself, and this spring, you can enjoy a truly clean body and fresh, new skin.

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The Latest in Green Tea Research

According to a new study in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers from the University of Connecticut fed both obese and lean mice green tea extract for six weeks; a second group received a placebo. Obese mice that received the extract weighed 23-25 percent less than those in the placebo group. Additionally, lean mice that received the supplement weighed 11-20 percent less than their lean counterparts not given green tea extract.
Blood enzymes that measure liver damage were lower in all mice receiving the supplement. There were no significant food intake differences in the groups, which led researchers to conclude that the green tea extract decreased intestinal fat absorption and/or altered liver fat metabolism.
Fatty liver disease appears to be on the rise in the United States, which researchers attribute to American’s obesity epidemic. While human research is needed, drinking more green tea and/or using green tea-based supplements ay be a promising way to protect your liver from too much fat.

-better nutrition/April 2008

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What Does Glycolic Do?

Glycolic “unglues” the outer layer of dead skin cells, allowing healthier cells to come to the surface.  Removing this dead layer will improve the skin texture and color, unclog pores, and allow moisturizers to be better absorbed.  Glycolic also improves the appearance and feel of sun-damaged, dry and/or thick skin.  Sun damage in particular causes the top layer of skin to become thicker, creating a dull, rough appearance.

Glycolic Peels can be targeted to soften and smooth facial lines and wrinkles, or to lighten unsightly “age spots” and freckles while reducing the signs of aging.  Glycolic Peels also help improve texture and clear acne-prone skin.

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Why Does The Skin Age?

There are many causes of aging skin. Some are avoidable others are not. There are two factors to consider. Intrinsic and extrinsic.

Intrinsic factors include:

  • Heredity
  • Metabolic wear and tear
  • Diminishing hormone production & oil secretion

 

Extrinsic factors include:

·      Sun, pollution and other environmental damage

·      Free radicals

·      Smoking, alcohol, poor diet

·      Stress

·      Use of harsh products that weaken the skin’s natural barrier function over time 

Intrinsic aging accounts for about 10% of the aging process.  Collagen and elastic support the skin.  They give the skin tone and texture.  We lose about 65% of the collagen and elastin in our skin between the ages of 20-80. 6% of the texture is lost every ten years.

Our cell turnover rate decreases as we age. As a newborn our cell turnover rate is every seventeen days. At 40 years old it’s up to every twenty-eight days. At 60, it’s up to forty-five days.

 

Skin Aging and the Environment

While the sun may play the predominant role in how the skin ages, changes in our environment also greatly influences this aging process.  Pollutants in the air from factories, automobile exhaust, and even secondhand smoke can all influence the appearance and overall health of our skin.  While these pollutants affect the surface appearance of the skin, they can also change the health of the underlying cells and tissues, thereby speeding up the aging process. 

The best defense against these pollutants is the simplest one: follow a good daily skin care routine.  Routine washing and exfoliating helps to remove the buildup of pollutants that have settled on the skin’s surface throughout the day.  The application of daily moisturizers, protective lotions, and even foundation products all help to protect the skin from airborne pollutants.

What we choose to put into our bodies also has a significant effect on the overall aging process.  The impact of poor choices can be seen most visibly on the skin.  Smoking, drinking, taking drugs, and making poor dietary choices all greatly influence the again process.

Healthy skin begins with diet and water intake.  The adage “You are what you eat” still holds true!

 

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