Unusual Beauty Tips

An excerpt from Unusual Tips for Beauty by Marquette Heaven.

Who doesn't like to find out a new way to use something that they probably already have on hand in their home?

"Take a soft or medium hardness toothbrush, glob on a bit of toothpaste (preferably the pasty white kind with baking soda,) and start brushing your nails. Scrubbing with toothpaste will help remove yellowing, restore shine, and get rid of stains."
J.
"Avocados can be used as a mask that can be put on your face for 25 minutes. Using avocados as a face mask will make your skin softer. They can also be used as a hair mask to make hair shiny and more manageable."
Rachel

"I've been using maple syrup (the real stuff, not the artificially flavored kind) as a lip moisturizer for over a year now and the results are GREAT, my lips have never been softer and I barely need to reapply."
Jessica

"If blackheads are giving you trouble, try switching from harsh cleansers to a honey wash. Honey contains natural antibiotics to clear up pores and isn't as harsh as other cleansers."
Rebecca

"When one first thinks of zinc oxide you may immediately think of diaper rash cream. Zinc Oxide, because of its powerful noninflammatory agents, is effective for the treatment of acne. Not only will it reduce inflammation but also when applied to the affected area it will slow down the production of oils, draw out the infection, and speedy up the healing process."
Erin
"Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a variety of beauty purposes. Dust lightly on your nose and cheeks for a natural, great-smelling bronzer. Apply it to brunette hair roots as a dry shampoo. Mix it with water to form a paste and use it as a gentle facial scrub."
Susan

"Take a teaspoon of baking soda and mix it with a few drops of water. Add enough water to create a paste. Place the paste onto the blemish and let it dry. After it is dry wash your face and check out the result. Your blemish will not be as swollen."
Tanjrina

"To reduce the swelling around the eyes or just as a refreshing pick me up, brew a cup of chamomile tea and let the tea bags cool a bit. Next close your eyes and place the WARM tea bags over your eyelids as a compress. Remove after a few minutes, once it has cooled down and your eyes will feel and look more refreshed in time to enjoy your tea."
Joyce

"Egg yolk can be used to clear up acne. You simply separate the yolk from the egg white, and apply generously over your face once a day (I usually do so before bed.) Leave the egg yolk on for approximately 5-10 minutes, then rinse away with warm water. After about 2 weeks of doing this on a daily basis, you will notice an obvious difference. The egg yolk moisturizes and nourishes the skin, leaving it looking clear and healthy. I've been using this method for the last 10 years, and it really works!"
Stacey

"An old, soft-bristle toothbrush can make a great exfoliator for your lips and t-zone. Clean an old brush well, and dip in or rub on your favorite lotion, cleanser, or lip balm (depending on the area to be exfoliated), and use just like you would an expensive facial brush!"
Jecca

"New products for dark circles under your eyes include caffeine. Use green tea. It won't stain your skin like coffee or dark teas may after continual use, and gives a little burst of caffeine to that area creating blood circulation."
Erin

"Pumpkins contain nutrition such as skin-repairing vitamin A and antioxidant C. Zinc is also present in pumpkins for wound healing and acne banishing characteristics. You can make a quick pumpkin mask for your face with 3 tablespoons of canned pumpkin (without sugar or spices) puree mixed with a ½ teaspoon of honey and ¼ tsp. milk. Omit the last ingredient and substitute water if you have dairy allergies. Combine the ingredients in a small bowl. Clean your face with warm water to open your pores and apply the mask with your fingers. Leave this on for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse off the mask with warm water. Put a moisturizing lotion on your skin immediately instead of drying your face."
Anne

"Are you looking for an inexpensive and easy way to exfoliate? Simply combine used coffee grounds and a small amount of sea salt with a binder, either an egg or olive oil to form a thick paste. Apply liberally, rinse with water, and finish with a moisturizing lotion of your choice."
Paul

"Use distilled white vinegar as a final rinse to set hair colors. After coloring hair as directed rinse with vinegar in order to keep dark colors from bleeding out during following hair washes. Works wonderfully for deep red and robust black hair colors."
Bobbie

"For quick gray root touch-ups, I use eye shadow that matches my hair color and brush it on the gray hairs. My roots get a quick boost and it gets me through another week without having to pay for a salon."
Roey

"Might sound crazy, but using soda cans as rollers works to give big, loose curls. Add some setting gel and hairspray on shoulder length hair. Leave in no less than an hour. I tried it just for fun after watching Lady Gaga wear it in her video with Beyonce, Telephone."
Classy

"Use coffee grounds to reduce that pesky cellulite plaguing your thighs. After the grounds cool, rub them on your problem areas and cover with plastic wrap. Allow the grinds to work their magic for 30 minutes. The diuretic properties of the caffeine will draw water from the cells, reducing the appearance of cellulite."
Lydia

"Baking Soda is readily available and inexpensive. I keep a small box in my bathroom to use as a gentle skin scrub. Just take a small amount in your palm and make a paste with water. Then spread it evenly on your face, avoiding the eye area. Gently scrub for about 1 minute, and rinse with water. Your skin will feel smooth and refreshed!"
Kathy

"Table salt is one of my favorite everyday household items that does wonders in the beauty department. At least once a week I add it to my body wash to create a gentle exfoliant for my entire body. It especially does wonders on rough spots like elbows and heels and leaves my body feeling clean and looking radiant."
Wendy

"Sugar can help slough off dry, scaly patches on various parts of the body, from your head to your toes. Use a little on your lips to make them kissable, mix it with your favorite body wash to make a great body scrub, or add a touch of olive oil to it for a salon inspired foot massage. Sugar washes away easily and costs pennies compared to some high end scrubs."
Amara

"If you mix corn starch and baking soda together you could use them under your arms as a deodorant they will keep your under arms dry and it will not harm you."
Dana

"One of my favorite products is Coconut Oil. With its antiviral and antibacterial properties, it can be used to moisturize skin and hair, as a makeup remover, for sunburn relief, and as a massage oil."
Vicki

Bubble Bubble, Toil and Trouble

Yeah, yeah, I know it's "Double Double...." but this isn't Shakespeare's Macbeth, people.

This is the StormSister Spatique blog and our product went into production this week. Yippee!

.......Fillet of a fenny snake, In the caldron boil and bake; Eye of newt, and toe of frog, Wool of bat, and tongue of dog, Adder's fork, and blind-worm's sting......

Make Love an INtelligent Nutrient

Tell the world you care while showing the planet that it matters, too. Surround children and pets, home and friends, and every loved one or significant other with nurturing Intelligent Nutrients®. Antioxidant powered anti-aging skin care. Adoring and exotic aromas to cool, calm, purify and refresh. And of course, the daily loving care of their certified organic shampoos, conditioners and styling products. All made with healthy nutrient rich ingredients, free of synthetics, petrochemicals, toxins and artificial fragrances.
Make love an intelligent nutrient. Give and get your daily dose today.

StormSister in HD

Having spent so many years behind the chair (you're always looking for models for hair, skin, nail and body care classes) - It was nice to be on the receiving end of a class for a change.
My hairdresser, Miranda of Mirabella Studio, is taking some makeup classes at Faces Etc. of MN and asked me to be a model for her HD (high definition) makeup class.

Miranda has been in the beauty biz for over 10 years - 4 of them being my stylist ;o)  What she does is truly her passion.  Giving her clients a new cut or color and sharing in their lives over the years is what she loves.
She has mastered the art of color, smoothing treatments and hair extensions and now with makeup artistry, she has discovered makeup is not just makeup any lonfwe.  With the introduction of HD comes the need for new technique as well as better products. 

She once again has been introduced to a "whole new world" in our fabulous industry and is thrilled to be training to work on film sets, runway shows, print work and to complete the look for her own clients who need hair styling and makeup for their wedding day.

Que the model search.
And, I love being a guinea pig. Really. I don't care how great or how silly I'm going to look when finished, it just feels good and I appreciate the importance of people practicing and improving their craft, so I'm always a willing participant.

Faces is a Career School teaching multi-media makeup for the production community.
Their students and alumni are certified in every aspect of production from: film, print, HDTV, editorial, bridal, fashion, runway, corporate, music video, and new media.

They work as freelance artists and have done work on numerous Hollywood films, celebrities, Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, Newsweek Magazine, People Magazine, Metro Magazine, Minnesota Monthly (they have an alumni that worked on the current cover (Ingrid Kent) for the Jan 2011 edition)..Bridal Fairs, Runways Show (recently at the Twin City Bridal fair doing all the runway shows hair and makeup) reality shows, ESPN, Travel Channel and much more.

During my makeup application I realized that talk show host or newscaster, in today's HD environment, would just not be an option for me. The makeup just feels heavy and I just wouldn't want to feel like that day after day. The application is divine, but my skin just felt like it wasn't breathing properly.

Baby Lip & Cheek Balm

With winter weather still lingering around us, whether it may be snow, rain or sunshine- this can be an unkind test on baby’s delicate skin. Chilly breezes of mother nature and dry, warm air can leave behind dry-chapped lips, cheeks and hands.

Erbaviva Baby Lip and Cheek balm - Made with an all natural blend of organic shea butter, lavender, chamomile and organic oils of jojoba, safflower and calendula; has become a popular staple among many of our Erbaviva babies and friends. Its calming scents of lavender and chamomile provide soothing and comforting protection; while it's base of organic shea butter acts as a moisturizing barrier and natural healing agent.

 

Packaged in a special wide stick for easy application to baby's lips and cheeks, and easy for little hands to hold.
Great for adults as well.

 

Petroleum Free!

 

Nearly 100% organic - Organic products are made with ingredients that were grown or produced without the use of pesticides, artificial fertilizers or sewer sludge.  By eliminating these components, organic products not only have a low impact on our environment, but also are much healthier for our bodies. The skin is the largest organ we have, it is important to remember that it is a living part of our body.

USDA Certified Organic:

Certified Organic products have gone through a third party verification to ensure that they comply with organic standards. Because there is no organic standard for skin care products, they must meet the same organic requirements that food products go through.  Erbaviva is proud to be one of the few skin care producers to carry the USDA certified organic seal. This means, our ingredients, the facility, and the process our products go through meet the stringent National Organic Program standards.  Products carrying the USDA seal contain 95% or more USDA certified organic ingredients.

Keep in mind that there are MANY products that claim to be organic. In the United States. The only true organic seal is the USDA organic  seal. 

All others are self-regulated and are not inspected by the USDA.

Go Bare

John Masters Organics has come out with a new haircare and bodycare range, Bare Unscented, for those who are sensitive to fragrance, even 100% plant-based fragrances such as essential oils.

The range contains four fragrance free versions of their best selling products, developed without the scents of essential oils, for the most sensitive of skin.

Bare Unscented Shampoo For All Hair Types
This fragrance free daily shampoo combines organic extracts of Chamomile and White Tea with Jojoba Oil to gently cleanse and keep hair in optimal condition. Ideal for colour treated hair.

Bare Unscented Detangler For All Hair Types
This fragrance-free conditioner has a unique blend of Arnica and Calendula extracts combined with Hyaluronic Acid to protect, hydrate and detangle hair. Great for colour treated hair.

Bare Unscented Body Wash For All Skin Types
All the luxurious lather and cleansing properties of an all-natural body Wash, without the fragrance. A mixture of Milk Thistle and Vanilla extract with Sunflower Oil lathers into a rich, hydrating foam to gently wash away dirt and oil.

Bare Unscented Body Lotion For All Skin Types
This 100% fragrance free body lotion is ideal for everyday use. The unique fusion of Coconut Oil, Sea Kelp, Milk Thistle and White Tea extract moisturises, protects and softens the skin.

Part basement alchemist, part organic innovator, John began mixing organic essential oils and herbs in his kitchen sink. Today, John Masters Organics features more than 30 luxury organic products sold throughout the world.

Alicia Silverstone, Minnie Driver, Kristin Davis, David Schwimmer, Jake Gyllenhall and Freddie Prinze Jr are all fans of the brand.

Paybox.me

I have been a PayPal fan for years, but their fees are getting out of control.
I just found out about this new and up-and-coming service, Paybox.me and I wonder if it will be better than PP.

Let's hope!

A Remedy for all Seasons

Excerpt from the January 2011 edition of American Spa Magazine by: Heather Mikesell 

Help your clients breathe easier this winter with eucalyptus-infused products and treatments.

It’s no secret that koalas love eucalyptus trees, and there are plenty of reasons you should, too. Throughout history, the fast-growing tree—most species of which are native to Australia—has been put to good use. Its oil was often a key ingredient of topical ointments used to heal wounds, and its leaves were commonly used in teas to reduce fevers. Today, its clean and refreshing scent makes it popular in a host of products and treatments.

Clearing the Air
With cold and flu season upon us, many of us are likely to be experiencing sinus congestion. Fortunately, inhaling eucalyptus oil can help remedy that. “It is a fantastic decongestant and generally helps aid healthy breathing,” says Geraldine Howard, president and co-founder of Aromatherapy Associates. “It also has antiviral properties, so it helps ward off bugs and germs.” Tom Havran, aromatherapy product developer for Aura Cacia, attributes its effectiveness to cineol, a concentrated extract of eucalyptus essential oil, which possesses a fresh camphor-like aroma found in many over-the-counter cold and flu treatments, such as chest rubs and salves.
At Sage Spa, eucalyptus plays a key role in the Ah Sinus Massage, which relieves sinus pressure, headaches, and neck pain due to seasonal allergies. The treatment relies on hot steam packs for the sinuses and respiratory muscles, decongesting and anti-inflammatory oils, and pressure-point massage for sinus relief. “We put one drop of eucalyptus essential oil on a tissue and place the tissue on the client’s chest,” says owner Susan Stratton. “We then use hot, moist towels on the face, as well as a steamer to provide extra moisture for the nasal tissues. Clients report to us that it relieves their congestion and sinus pain.”
Allison Hegedus, president of Vida Wellness Spa at The Fairmont Chateau Whistler (British Columbia) and other hotels in Seattle and Vancouver, attributes the health benefits of eucalyptus oil to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, decongestant, and stimulating properties. According to her, eucalyptus is incorporated into the Aromatherapy Massage when a guest is feeling under the weather or experiencing any respiratory problems. It’s also commonly used with Ayurvedic Massage for those with a kapha dosha. “Kapha personalities tend to have problems with congestion and respiratory issues,” says Hegedus.
People have relied on eucalyptus for years to help with such conditions. “It was traditionally used by Australian Aborigines and many people around the world for treating colds and respiratory complaints,” says Pat Peterson Were, vice president of Aveda R&D, product development. “In massage, it is also known to be uplifting and refreshing, especially with vigorous massage.” At Aveda Concept Spas, eucalyptus can be incorporated into any treatment based on the needs of the guest. “We allow our guests to experience a sensory journey prior to their treatment, so they may select their preferred aroma to be used throughout the treatment,” says Were. “Eucalyptus is always an option.” Aveda also offers traditionally taught Neti Massage, which incorporates eucalyptus.

Stimulating the Senses
According to Charlene Florian-Barker, vice president of corporate creative development at Kerstin Florian, eucalyptus can often be found in products designed to address muscle aches and pains. “Psychologically, eucalyptus oil is stimulating, balancing, and refreshing,” says Florian-Barker. “It helps to increase concentration.” Taking advantage of its numerous benefits, Kerstin Florian offers the Aromatherapy Turkish Body Scrub With Eucalyptus, which aids in the removal of dull surface cells while stimulating the senses. According to Howard, eucalyptus also has other positive benefits, such as being an energizing pick-me-up and promoting healthy circulation.

Another selling point for this potent ingredient is the fact that its universal scent appeals to both men and women. The Kohala Spa at the Hilton Waikoloa Village (HI) offers a range of signature Eucalyptus products. “These Eucalyptus products have been a huge hit, especially for our male guests who prefer a more specific and fresh scent as opposed to floral and sweet-smelling aromas,” says spa director Bridget Phillips. “Our guests’ overwhelming response is that the scent is not only invigorating but also brings back wonderful thoughts and memories of being in the outdoors.” The spa also infuses the steam rooms with eucalyptus oil, which captures Kohala Spa’s signature scent.

Singing its Praises
While there are many ways to introduce eucalyptus, the easiest way is to use it as an air freshener. Howard recommends placing an electric fragrancer with a few drops of eucalyptus to create a clean and calming atmosphere. “It is excellent for a gym locker room to both freshen the air as well as kill the airborne germs,” says Mary Leber, president of Kneipp U.S. Havran suggests using eucalyptus oil at the start of a treatment to clear the sinuses. He also finds when clients shift from lying face down to face up on the massage table an opportune time to deliver a quick whiff, as it may help to clear any congestion. While eucalyptus offers benefits year-round, winter is the perfect time to introduce it for health and well-being.

and.....I'm off!

Like a prom dress.

Today is a magical day. MAGICAL.

As you know, I have been working on a project for the last year - My very own product.
I have never worked so hard in my life or wanted something so badly.
I am not being melodramatic. Ok, maybe a bit.

Anyhoo, it has happened. My project is funded.

and.....I'll be in touch!

"When you have come to the edge of all the light you know, and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing that one of two things will happen: there will either be something solid to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly." Anonymous

2011 French Revolution

Happy Crazy New Year from Crazylibellule and the Poppies Parfums, Paris.

There are roll-on perfumes, and then there are solid perfumes with personality—like the Famous Crazysticks by Crazylibellule and the Poppies.

Regularly $16. Enjoy them for a short time for $10. Supply is limited. Discount will automatically tally upon checkout.

The cult Parisian perfumer is known for its deliciously addicting scent solids encased in pretty lipstick-like tubes. Easy to apply and layer, wear them in private or public, on your neck, around your navel, behind your knee, anywhere and anytime, again and again. Wear one or several,  create your own blend, or add one to your favorite perfume!

Create your own revolution in perfume!

With its wide range of addictive and accessible scents, the Crazysticks allow you to change fragrances as often as you change outfits.

Nailing Hollywood

Minnesota company, NONTOXIQUE, has nailed Hollywood and the cover of Women's Health!

NAILING OLIVIA WILDE:  Jenna Hipp, hired by Health Magazine to paint the nails of their January cover model, uses only earth friendly, paraben free and gluten free products. Because of this, “The magazines are very supportive of the products I use on set.  The beauty editors are always wondering what my new “green” favorites are!”, says Hipp.
Because the magazine wants a “fresh, neutral look”, Jenna decided to keep nails simple by painting one coat of super eco-friendly polish, “Shirley Temple Peony“ by PRITI. And don’t forget- good looking nails include more than just your nails!  ”Because of the weather, skin just doesn’t seem to get enough hydration” says Jenna.  ”I wanted to administer an intensive moisture treatment for Olivia that would keep her skin dewey for the entire day.  This included layering NONTOXIQUE  ”Age Reversal Serum” with “Daytime Restoration Creme” and finishing off the look with the “Cuticle and Nail Balm”, which Jenna applied with an eyeshadow brush.  Jenna’s advice for healthy looking hands?  ”Don’t forget your elbows!!”   - V.G. for N.H.

Here's more insight from Sheila at EndlessBeauty.com : Tips to Toes

Petro-free Hair Gel

Is it such a big deal to have a hair gel without petrochemicals? Yes.

Synthetics and petros are the easy way to add shine and the resins that help hair hold. IN's organic gums replace the ugly without sacrificing a shred of holding, molding, shining or texture. 

INtelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Styling Gel

Changes

The following PACKAGING CHANGES are coming in early February from NONTOXIQUE:

Daytime Restoration Creme.  --- Is being repackaged into 2 oz bottle w/pump for easy use and travel.
For a limited time, price is $15!

Herbal Scrub. --- A 4 oz jar is coming, as well as a tube!
Though this product range was designed for hands and feet, this scrub has found its way to being one of the best body exfoliants ever designed.
For a limited time, price is $16

Conditioning Hand & Nail Cleanser. --- 6 oz bottle with a foaming pump---finally!
--- A Travel size will also be be available in 58 ml (approx 2 oz) foamer.

Age Reversal Serum. --- size will stay the same, but a glass dropper will be swapped for the pump, for a more controlled use of product.

To celebrate these changes, we're blowing out the old packaging to make room for the new.

2011!

Happy New Year, everyone!

2011 is going to be a fantastic year for this Fire Horse, I just know it!