Druscilla nail tutorial

Inspire Halloween ideas.

Collawn – Carter Wedding | Amigram.com

Collawn – Carter Wedding | Amigram.com.

Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea can be best described as persistent inflammation and redness of the facial skin. It is not contagious but can be quite distressing to the sufferer. It can be mild such as broken blood vessels to quite severe. In its more severe forms it can be accompanied by flaking, dry skin or even acne.

Although it is more common in Caucasian people and may have a genetic component the severity of rosacea appears to be linked with diet and environmental factors. Alcohol and spicy foods are a no-no, and can make rosacea worse. Skin with rosacea also needs to be cared for in a particular way.

Never use any peels, scrubs or dermabrasion products and only ever clean the skin with gentle wash cloths or with your finger tips. Choose very gentle products that have soothing or cooling properties. Products containing aloe vera may be a good choice for calming the skin. La Roche-posay make a line of cleansers and creams called ‘Rosaliac’ , I’ve found their gel cleanser to be the best kind for calming my skin if it’s red but I’m sure there are lots of other good products to use. Gentle, natural cleansers are also recommended.

Causes: Although the causes of rosacea are not completely certain it appears to be influenced by both internal and external processes. Sunburn or extreme cold and persistent flushing of the skin can result in rosacea. It has also been linked to intestinal bacteria and certain foods that make your skin flushed like chili, caffeine and alcohol. In some cases rosacea can be caused by cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels. Because of this it is best to avoid these abrasive types of treatments all together. Instead, try to improve circulation to the skin with exercise and good diet.

Also, avoid the sun as sun exposure and damage will make any redness worse. A little bit of sun light at dawn is okay to reset your circadian clock for the day, but never more than a couple of minutes.

Skin care for rosacea should not contain anything that will irritate the skin. Gentle, natural and organic products without any irritating essential oils in them should be used. There are some exceptions to this, that might be good for rosacea. Never wash your face with hot water, only ever luke warm and never rub the skin. Pat dry with a clean towel rather than rub. Also if you use a wash cloth to remove cleanser do not rub but rather dab the product off in gentle swipes. Never ever have chemical peals or use any acid based products.

Make-up Some people may want to cover roasea with make up. If you do this at least make sure to choose a moisturizing type of foundation or a mineral make up with sun protection. Chemical sunscreens are not recommended for rosacea so opt for a mineral based one instead. The best kind of make up for rosacea by far is mineral make up so try it if you haven’t already. Not only will it mask red skin it may actually also help improve it. Always be sure to completely remove all makeup before going to bed.

I recommend a gentle wipe off cleanser like Bioderma H20 Crealine but there are others that should be suitable too. Also, last but not least drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.

Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema (often misspelled exzema)  is a form of dermatitis, also known as atopic dermatitis. It is one of the three atopic conditions; asthma and hay fever are the other two and there is a large hereditary component. If one or more of your primary relatives has an atopic condition you are more likely to have eczema. It is more common in children but can persist into adulthood.

Eczema is an inflamed, itchy rash that usually occurs on the inside of elbows and knees but can also appear on the face, neck, or any part of the body really. It is not a contagious rash. If the skin is broken secondary infections can be a real concern, so proper care of eczema flare ups is very important and can be lifesaving for small children.

Most rashes are caused by an overreaction of the immune system that causes inflammation in the skin. Eczema is no different, so looking after the health of your immune system is an important part of dealing with eczema. In fact eczema is assumed by some to be an auto-immune disorder where the bodies immune system erroneously attacks it’s own tissue, however there is still disagreement about this. There is no doubt that caring for you immune system through lifestyle factors is a good idea.

If you suspect you have eczema it is important to get a diagnosis from your doctor to rule out other skin conditions. Unfortunately eczema doesn’t have a medical cure, modern medicine only provides relief of symptoms. The good news is however that there are a number of things that you can do to prevent eczema and to reduce the severity of flare-ups.

What makes eczema worse?

Alcohol is one of the leading triggers of eczema flare-ups. Most people with eczema report that alcohol worsens or precedes eczema. If you suffer eczema keep an eye on your alcohol intake and carefully monitor any relationship between your alcohol intake and your eczema symptoms. Try preservative-free alcohol too, you may be more sensitive to certain ingredients in alcohol such as preservatives like sulfur. Personally I cannot drink red wine for this reason. I tolerate preservative free beer (such as Belgian beer) better than any other type however you may find that any alcohol worsens your symptoms. If you are unsure don’t drink anything for a while to see how your eczema responds.

Stress is another big factor in eczema. Because eczema is an immune system disorder stress can make it worse. That is because stress puts a strain on the immune system. Try to minimize stress in your life and  include stress-reducing activities such as meditation and exercise into your routine.

Diet is another important factor. Too much sugar in your diet can encourage the inflammatory response. Sugar is a big no no when it comes to maintaining healthy skin. Other things like caffeine and food preservatives can also worsen eczema, but every one is different. Cutting out suspect food and drink for a while to see the effect it has on your eczema can help you to identify your eczema triggers.

A lack of essential fatty acids in your diet could also be a problem. Ezcema sufferes need to make sure that they get enough of the ‘good’ fats in their diet from natural sources such as olive oil, nuts and seeds and things like avocados. Saturated fats found in coconut oil might also be beneficial. If you are concerned that your diet could be a factor in your eczema make an appointment with a dietitian.

Irritants from the things in your home should also be considered. Use fragrance free laundry powder designed for sensitive skin. Don’t use soaps or any harsh chemicals on your skin and be careful with things like deodorants and hair dyes. The biggie for me is laundry powder; i need a hypoallergenic one and I avoid fabric softeners with scents.

Sweat from excessive exercise or heat can worsen eczema symptoms. During flare-ups do gentle exercises that don’t make you sweat too much. Caffeine and chili can also make you sweaty so watch your intake if this is the case. In hot weather a water spray can help keep the skin cool, hence reduce the amount of sweat you produce. Avene sells a thermal springs water spray that is very comforting in hot weather but any water spray will do. I buy a small spray bottle and fill it up with spring water with a few drops of aloe vera juice in it. this works just as well and is easier on the hip pocket.

What makes eczema better?

Avoid the things listed above, but there are also specific things that you can do to improve your eczema.

Borage Seed Oil (Borago Officinalis) : The blue, star-shaped flowers of the borage plant have been used in because of its healing properties. This natural oil is a rich source of gamma linolenic acid and has been known to be used in the treatment of eczema and rheumatoid arthritis and in herbal medicine. Borage oil, or “starflower”, as the botanical is known, contains up to 24% Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA). GLA is an Essential Fatty Acid which the body converts into prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance. Prostaglandin is reported to offer anti-inflammatory properties. In many studies it has been found that a deficiency in GLA attributes to poor skin condition, especially psoriasis and eczema.

Emu Oil: has been shown to help eczema and all kinds of skin conditions.  Emu oil contains Super omega 3 and 6. It is hypo-allergenic, giving it a low potential for irritating the skin. Emu oil doesn’t clog pores. Scent free and dye free, safe for all skin types.

Evening primrose oil has been shown to help eczema sufferers in clinical trials. Take one or two capsules a day. If you’re female it can also help with PMS symptoms.

Flaxseed oil is another good supplement to take especially if you are not getting enough good fats in your diet.

Aloe vera juice soothes the digestive system when drunk but can also be used topically added to a home made water spray to sooth skin and reduce inflammation.

Emollients (AKA moisturizers) are essential during an eczema flare up to protect the skin and help it retain moisture. Without them the skin is more susceptible to dangerous secondary skin infections. These should be applied liberally and often (every few hours or so) during an eczema flare-up because the skin has a compromised lipid barrier and cannot retain moisture itself during flare-ups.

Evening Primrose Oil (Oenothera Biennis) : Evening Primrose Oil is good as a natural source of the Essential Fatty Acid, Gamma Linolenic Acid, which is needed by the body. Essential Fatty Acids are critical in the production of prostaglandins. In the body prostaglandins help regulate fat metabolism, inflammatory response, hormones, as well as the cardiovascular, immune and central nervous systems. Modern diets and lifestyles may block the conversion of the Essential Fatty Acid LA into GLA. Evening Primrose Oil is especially helpful in treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstrual cycle irregularities, menopause, and endometriosis. It is used to promote Smooth Skin and to treat Eczema.

Prescription creams containing hydrocortisone can be helpful during eczema flare ups that are not responding to other measures. These are very effective at reducing inflammation but caution should be taken when using these as they can thin the skin and can have other side effects with long term use. Never use steroid creams near your eyes as this can enhance your risk of developing glaucoma. Never use a steroid cream for more than two weeks straight. Use sparingly and as directed. A fingertip length of cream (about 1-2 cm) is sufficient to cover a patch of skin the size of the palm of your hand. If your eczema persists after two weeks of using a steroid cream you should really see your doctor.

Elidel and other immunomodulating creams are alternatives to steroid creams for use on the face. They are preferred  because the thin skin on the face is more likely to be damaged by steroid creams. These creams work by suppressing the immune response responsible for eczema. Great care should be taken when using these creams however as there is the possibility that they can cause immune system suppression or other problems. Never, ever expose your skin to the sun with these creams on, or even for two weeks after stopping them. If you must be in the sun wear a good sunscreen and hat. Like steroid creams, never use for more than two weeks straight and see your doctor if your eczema doesn’t improve after two weeks of use.

Salt baths are good for both eczema and other types of dermatitis. The salt naturally acts as an anti-microbial agent causing the bacteria and other cells on your skin to implode (look up osmosis for more info). Try a dead sea salt bath, clinical trials have shown that they improve psoriasis. The salt not only works as mentioned but it also contains plenty of minerals which help condition the skin. If you can’t get your hands on dead sea salt any salt will do just make sure that is is pure salt (preferably natural sea salt) and doesn’t have anything else added to it. Don’t use this when you have broken skin though – obviously it will sting! Swimming in the sea is another good option, in fact this may be preferable. Just be sure to swim in pollution free beaches (not an easy ask for a city dweller). I’ve heard many tales (including my own experience) of people going on beach holidays and having their eczema clear up from swimming in clean ocean water, it really works.

Skin care routines for eczema

There are a number of products out there designed for eczema sufferers and I review a lot of them here. The key with skin care is to keep the skin clean and hydrated without stripping the skin of it’s natural oils. This is best achieved by using a water-free cleansing product and a good moisturizer. A wipe off cleanser is ideal for this. Never wash your face more than twice a day, and only once if possible. I usually use a water-wash-off cleanser in the morning and a wipe-off water-free one at night. Using heavy duty moisturizers (emollient creams) is also essential. During an eczema flare-up you may need to carry a cream around with you and reapply to affected areas every few hours during the day.

Avoid scrubbing the skin. Don’t use exfoliants during an eczema flare-up but be sure to use a very gentle one when your skin is normal to keep it healthy and prevent future eczema. Sloughing away dead skin cells helps to prevent itchiness too.

Lush’s ‘Angles on Bare Skin’ is the best exfoliant I’ve ever tried and is ideal for eczema prone skin as it contains ground up almonds which condition the skin and provide a hit of the ‘good’ oils leaving your skin feeling soft and nourished.  For more information on specific products search ‘eczema’ in the search bar at the top of this page to read reviews of the eczema products I’ve tried over the years.

Sodium Laurel Sulfate in Skin care

I’ve been doing a bit of research on the use of sodium laurel sulfate in skin care recently as it is an ingredient that can potentially irritate the skin, especially with large quantities and prolonged use. For this reason I would not use a SLS containing product on my face for a prolonged period of time, such as a mask or a deep cleanser which I massage into the skin for a few minutes. I would happily use it for quick cleansing however. It is quite a common ingredient in skin care, but at low levels is relatively harmless. However trials of prolonged use with large amounts do produce skin irritation, so if you are currently experiencing eczema, psoriasis or any other type of dermatitis it may be an idea to cut back on SLS containing products to see how your skin responds. I have been looking into SLS free cleansers and skin care, but also SLF free shampoo’s as it is quite a common ingredient in hair care products as well. One of the ’staples’ I recommend for sensitive eczema prone skin actualy does have SLS in it and that’s Cetaphil. I would still use Cetaphil on my body however I’ve stopped using it on the sensitive skin on my face for this reason, although I still think it is an acceptable inexpensive cleanser for most people. Also, I like to leave my cleanser on my skin for extended periods of time, to let them do their thing, and that is exactly the type of use where sodium lauryl sulfate can actually cause irritation. Why is it used you might ask? Well, it is an effective cleanser and since things like shampoos and face cleansers are usually only used for short periods of time, a few minutes a day at most. The studies found that much longer periods of exposure are needed before SLS starts to irritate the skin. People with overly sensitive skin, or skin that is already irritated should probably avoid it though, just in case. I don’t believe there have been any studies on if it increases irritation when it’s already present, but I can’t imagine anyone wanting to do that study so that’s probably reason enough to avoid it when your skin is troubled. By the way, I’m still on a search for a great sodium lauryl sulfate free cleanser and shampoo, if you’ve found a great one please let me know by leaving a comment.

ThatGirlsBathandBody.com Fan Roundup

ThatGirlsBathandBody.com Fan Roundup with Drawing for Bath and Body or Skin Care Goodies.

Hope you’re doing well!
Would you mind helping me ( That Girl’s Bath and Body) be number one? Trying to reach 5,000 “likes” on That Girl’s Bath & Body company’s facebook page. Suggest the That Girl’s Bath & Body page to 25+ friends + be entered into a drawing for a mystery box of bath and body goodies worth $75+. Thanks!! Must be a fan (aka Like the That Girl’s Bath & Body page to enter the contest giveaway.
CHEERS,

– That Girl’s Team

Christmas in July Bath and Body Sale

Christmas In July Sale: All July long – Ends July 31, 11:59 pm EST! Free shipping on orders $40 (within the US) and over for a limited time! Free Priority Mail shipping within the 48 US States. Go to That Girl’s Bath & Body http://thatgirlsbathandbody.com/ and shop now!!…

Fashion Summer Beach Essentials

Apr 15, 2010

Summer Beach Essentials

Summer Beach Essentials – clothes, makeup, etc. Causal sporty wear.

1st remember your sunscreen, you want to protect your skin all over. Apply at least 15 minutes before going out in the sun. Well how do you go into the sun. Maybe I should say before you go outside and into the reflective water. I like to apply my sunscreen before I apply my makeup, but after I have put on my bathing suit. Make sure you use enough and you apply regularly while outdoors.

Minimal look, you should wear a minimum amount of makeup so use a tinted face moisturizer or baked mineral powder. Perhaps a self bronzer or self tanner, Mark by Avon has good ones as does Jergens. Powder Bronzer or mineral powder can be applied to face and body to give a sun kissed look. Jergen’s is build able and long wearing, but if you are in a rush go with a bronzer. You can buy one for face and body.

I would suggest applying your self tanners enough days in advance to achieve the color you want. Don’t apply too much bronzer under your eyes or on your eye lid. It will make you appear older by accentuating fine lines. Don’t keep it too light (white concealer) or you will have a weird look. How to remedy? Keep it simple. Just apply most bronzer to your face and at last apply around eyes lightly. Apply a light amount to forehead near hairline for a realistic natural look.

Mascara: Waterproof mascara is a must. Mark by Avon has many good brands as does LA Colors and LA Colors Mascara is less expensive. We carry LA Colors Mascara in Waterproof and Water Resistant. Waterproof formula thickens, lengthens & separates lashes with intense color & definition. Special applicator brush separates each lash without clumping

Eyeshadow: If you must wear eyeshadow use a cream or wet to dry powder. I would wear my bronzer or warmth mineral powder as eyeshadow. One to two sweeps of cream colored shadow ( in a warm or cool tone depending on your skin type) under brown bone as a highlighter and bronzer below that. Highlighter may seem old fashion but if your3o & older it helps you appear more youthful. Apply a small amount of shimmer off white eyeshadow to the apple of your cheeks.

Not all over the apples just the part closes to your nose. Practice makes perfect. Keep it natural looking and minimal. You could just use a bronzer alone as eyeshadow. Finally apply off white near your tear ducts or white eye liner. To bring out your eyes.

Blush keep it simple and fresh. I don’t usually wear blush, but if I did at the beach it would be a cream, gel. If powder the blush would be a peach color over top of my warmth bronzer. I think blush is old fashion unless applied correctly. Look under how to apply blush of this blog.

Bathing suite: string bikini never does out of style, but if you want the latest trend you can wear a floral print. Two piece tube top bathing suits or one piece halter style with deep neck lines and cut-away sides are also seen on the runway. Monokini is sexy but provides more coverage.

Now unless you have money to flatten yourself at a resort as if your on the runway with your favorite cocktail at hand your cover ups may have be more limited. Some women like myself may not want to get wet because the cover up is not meant to get wet. Instead you are sunbathing and socializing.

I want to give every day women on a budget ideas that they probably already have on had and functional.
Spring Cover ups – I bought this navy blue and white strip sun dress – a classic nautical look that is in style this spring (Image coming soon I’m taking a picture of it right this minute and will post it soon). I thought this cover ups or/and dress -is so cute that I just had to share this with my readers & subscribers.

Summer Cover ups: You could wear a maxi dress, white or light denim shorts, light colored skirt and tank top, or a long shirt. Possibilities are endless and make sure not to rely just on the fashion magazines latest trends. Remember to wear the outfit and accessories not the other way around or regrettably you will play the part of a fashion victim.

The best way to spend little money, besides good sales, and update your wardrobe is modern accessories. Such as bracelets, shoes, hair accessories, scarf and hand bags. The way you wear them can also change the whole look of your outfit. Don’t be afraid to play around.

As the warm weather approaches your summer beach -wear will Not be complete without accessorizing. Think sun glasses, bracelet, bag, sandals, etc. The one major key trend piece? The sheer trend. I see a lot of floral, metal and light colors. I think this is both sophisticated, glamorous and effortless way to add a little bit of splash to your beachwear. Grab a pair of over sized sunglasses and a big hat – live stylishly.

I have a bright floral print sheer top that I wear over my bikini. You can use a belt or buy one with a belt tie. My sheer top was bought years ago and is a kimono sleeve tunic or modern caftan.

Your outfit is a great way to express yourself by showing your personality, so experiment. Like a found a cool 60’s inspired long top that if it was in a light color would be perfect as a pullover for my bathing suit.

I found this sheer beach cover up at: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26955092

Sunglasses are a must have accessory at the beach! If your on a budget inexpensive sunglasses is the way to go. So if your shades are losted you will not be upset. Your at the beach to have fun!

Bag – A small clutch of makeup essentials and small tote bag to use as a purse to throw in your sunscreen and makeup bag. A daytime look in light solid colors or cool patterns is preferred.   If I plan on getting dirty swimming and playing at the beach like something easy to clean to brush the sand or soda off if I’m just going to the local beach. So a synthetic material (nylon) or Cotton canvas. If cotton best if it has a clean protectant that repels water and most stains. I call my totes a beach tote bag or overnight bag.

You don’t have to send a lot of money and can find them most anywhere. Lands End, Kmart, online, department store, etc. My fav is a Dooney & Bourke cute cotton over night bag that would be perfect for the beach. It is a bit nautical with color choices of yellow, red or blue stripes and a second of white. Some have small print of a an animal like a duck.
Shoes: Depends on whether you are going for just the sun or fun. Sandals or flip flops are common in the style of the season. For comfort, if a new shoe, break them in first or wear your older part. (What about being seen in last season’s sandals? Yes if classic your will not die of embarrassment).

Going green? I have never bought anything but you may want to check out. Looking for Hippie Beach Bags? Check a selection of Hippie Beach Bags at hongkongwillie’s Shop on Etsy. Look below for link to a recycle green bag on ArtFire.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/hongkongwillie?section_id=5610619
http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_query=beach+bags&search_type=handmade link to many handmade bags on etsy.
or check this video out.

Tank Top Beach Bag: Supplies. Part of the series: Recycled Crafts: Beach Bag, Puzzle & Hat. Making an old tank top into a beach bag is a nice way …www.ehow.com/video_4935737_tank-top-beach-bag-supplies.html
This list is to a small business owner who makes these Kewl and lovely looking recycle bags: Out of button and plastic, etc. You should take a look, very creative and earth friendly. I have never purchased any items from the Artfire shop called Berk1948 .

To purchase: http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=1202510

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=1048737
Have fun, drink responsibly and remember skin is in.

——————————————————————————-

If you have any request for blog post or videos (coming soon) please leave a nice comment below. Thanks to all my subscribers and viewers. Written by Brooke.

* Disclaimer: Images used are owned and copy write protected by the owner and creator of the wears. I am only using them for illustration purposes of beach wear I have found online. Opinions expressed are solely my own and are not necessary the view or opinion of the blog, blogger, health tip beauty blog thatgirlsbathandbody, owner, founder, that girls bath and body, other editors/writers. I am not endorsing or affiliated in anyway with the companies, businesses or website. I have NEVER purchased anything nor ever given anything (including but not limited to money, clothes, samples) from the sites/company or business mentioned in this blog post. My opinion are mine only expressed for the purpose of purely entertainment. Post written March 2 2010 @ 3:28 pm. 

Posted by That Girls Beaty Blog at 4/15/2010   Images temporarily unavailabe – images coming soon!

Bath and Body Giveaway

That Girl’s Bath & Body – FREE Citrus Soap GIVEAWAY !!  Also a product review on our body butter cream, heart lip butter (comes in a tube as well) and Citrus Goat Milks Soap. Hurry up offer ENDS April 20 2010.

To enter to win visit the site  http://girlygirlgiveaways.blogspot.com/2010/04/giveaway-that-girls-bath-and-body.html 

Review Samples

I was contacted about possibly sending out some sample size products for review. I have been asked to send out samples for review but this one was different. I would also be  participating in a New Spring Giveaway!!!  Here is a quote from the blog.

“I have had this crazy dry patch of skin on my arm that I’ve been desperately trying to get rid of and out of all the products I’ve been fortunate to try THIS was the one that finally got my skin back to its silky softness. 

Citrus Soap Bar

Citrus Sunrise Soap– This smells SO delicious! It is not a greasy, sticky soap either.  It’s very hydrating and my kids love the fun colors”…

Youtube Review of That Girls Bath and Body

Youtube Review  : I hope you enjoy our last review.  This review is an independent review of That Girls Bath and Body on a vlog (video blog). Comments regarding this post subject is welcome thanks. As always skin is in.