Acai Smoothie

My smoothies have gotten exotic lately, with the addition of Acai!

Acai has gotten a lot of hype and some criticism especially when packaged as a multi-level marketing juice. Always a purist, I use pure, unsweetened frozen acai that comes in individual "smoothie" packets.

Acai is bursting with antioxidants, omegas, fiber and protein. Acai had me at the antioxidants, the other stuff is a major bonus!

With a hat that size, you will have no trouble

Here is a great smoothie recipe to try using Sambazon Organic Acai Berry Puree packets:

In a blender combine:

1 cup - Unsweetened vanilla almond milk
1/2 cup water
1/2 tsp vanilla
1 packet Stevia in the Raw
1 scoop Vanilla or plain flavored protein with no added sugar: I use Egg White Protein or Hemp Protein
1/2 frozen banana
1 packet - Sambazon Acai
1 - 2 cups spinach or a scoop of green food powder

Blend and enjoy!

Learn more and purchase Sambazon Acai here: http://sambazon.com

(image from: sambazon.com)

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence

Sk-II Facial Treatment Essence is the product that made me miss writing "Look Damn Good." I couldn't wait to share my experience using this product with you!

Completely lured by the SK-II ads featuring the luminous Cate Blanchett, I buckled and purchased a bottle of the "Holy Water" that so many rave about.

Keep in mind as you read this, that I started using SK-II while I was in the Midwest, "enjoying" the effects of one of the harshest winters I've ever experienced.

The very first evening I used this liquid, as instructed - by placing a small amount directly into the hands and pressing onto the face - I noticed an immediate effect. My skin felt instantly tighter, but not in a "Sea Breeze" way, almost in muscular way. It looked and felt as if my skin had actually been made snugger.

The next morning, my skin looked more clear and pores less noticeable.

After a week - others started noticing. When you start hearing unsolicited "You've got great skin" comments, you know something must be working.

A month, my visage, is dare I say ... more radiant and even toned? I am confident enough to go out without make up now - not saying that I ever would - I love a full beat down too much. Plus, make up looks even better on my new, smoother canvas! This product is an aesthetician/make up artist's dream.

The bottom line is that SK-II Facial Treatment Essence totally works for me.

It is the only new product I have added into my skincare regiment and the results are stunning enough to make me a believer.

The secret? Pitera, an ingredient discovered in Japan in a Sake Factory. According to the SK-II website, "Pitera, the seemingly magical ingredient found in all SK-II products, helps restore vital balance by promoting the skin's natural 28-day surface renewal process. This single blend of vitamins, amino acids, minerals and organic acids produces a seemingly miraculous rebirth of appearance."

Be sure to hydrate your skin while using this product, as it does exfoliate quite aggressively.

Learn more and purchase SK-II here: http://www.sk-ii.com

(image from: sk-ii.com)

Hempz Touch of Summer

Finally!

A self tanner with no parabens and a delightful aroma!

Hempz has added to their line of exceptional body care products with Touch of Summer, a gradual self tanner that imparts a beautiful glow with no nasty ingredients or chemically smell!

Enriched with pure organic Hemp Seed oil, the lotion comes in two shades (fair and medium) and achieves maximum darkness after one week.

I was pleased after just one application!

My skin was soft, hydrated and subtly golden!

Learn more and purchase here: http://www.hempzbodycare.com/Products.aspx?id=61&no=True

Oldie Sunday - Nutrasonic

Summer solstice is coming up ...

Great time to do start a new skin care regime.

Add in the Nutrasonic for exfoliation and better product absorption.

http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2010/01/nutra-sonic.html

Peace Soap

Kiss My Face has added to their line of fabulous natural products with their version of castille soap, called Peace Soap.

Peace Soap is touted to have 101 uses such as: make up brush cleanser, toothpaste alternative, laundry detergent and plant insecticide.

Awesome - love a multi-use product.

I especially love a multi-tasker that 10% of the profits go to a good cause. In this case, Kiss My Face donates to The Seeds of Peace Organization which helps "young people from regions of conflict develop the leadership skills necessary to advance reconciliation and coexistence.”

That is some powerful cleanser.

Learn more and purchase Peace Soap here: http://peacesoap.kissmyface.com/site/organization/

(image from www.kissmyface.com)

FAB First Aid Beauty

I realized I'd better post about FAB - First Aid Beauty, after I have now told a million people that they must try this line exclusive to Sephora.

FAB or First Aid Beauty (totally clever and cute, no?) was created to remedy even the most challenging skin. Issues like dermatitis, eczema and rosacea are tricky to find products that don't irritate and don't contain chemicals and common allergens. Even dermatologists seem to recommend products for these conditions that contain SLS, Parabens and Petroleum.

Enter FAB!!

FAB products are allergy tested, fragrance free and contain no Parabens, SLS, Petroleum or other icky stuff!! Plus - the price point is FAB too!!

The superstar standout of the line is their Face Cleanser. Gentle, creamy, yet foamy - this cleanser is suitable for all skin types and will please even the most finicky gel cleanser devotee without stripping the skin. LOVES it!

FAB products are available exclusively at Sephora.

Learn more here: http://firstaidbeauty.com

(image from: firstaidbeauty.com)

Benedetta

Certified Organic Botanicals?
Check.
Holistic Skin Care Philosophy?
Check.
Amazing aroma?
Check.
Multi use product?
Check.
Formulated without the use of Parabens, Sodium Lauryl Sulfates, Propylene Glycol or synthetic fragrances?
Check.
Results?
Check.

I discovered Benedetta "Fresh" Aromatherapeutics on a recent jaunt to San Francisco, CA.

Crafted in small batches in Sonoma County, CA, Benedetta has been around since 1996. Benedetta uses "recyclable glass packaging, recycled shipping materials, non-toxic natural cleaners in production and our minimalist business practices, have insured the ethical and practical support of the environment. Our products never have been and never will be tested on animals." (benedetta.com)

Benedetta generously sent me a sampling of their products that included the Facial Sampler, The Deoderant Spray, Sacred Soap, Vibrant Body Lotion, Seaweed Mask and Seaweed Bath.

The most revolutionary and unique product I sampled was their Rosemary and Geranium Creme Cleanser. This creamy product is applied to dry skin and massaged into the skin using the Benedetta technique explained in the accompanying instructions. The cleanser is a triple whammy cleanser, exfoliant and toner all in one step. The cleanser can be left on the skin for an extended period of time for more intense results and used overnight as a spot treatment.
I used the cleanser as detailed for everyday use, massaging it into my skin for 1 - 2minutes and then rinsing with a warm washcloth.
My extremely sensitive skin was left hydrated and much softer and smoother than usual.
I followed the cleanser with the rest of the regimen included in the Facial Sampler and was extremely impressed by the unique, effective products that left a delicious aroma that lingered throughout the day.

Benedetta offers trial sizes of all their products on their website. I highly suggest the extremely well price facial sampler along with a seaweed mask to give the line a try.

Purchase and learn more about Benedetta here: http://benedetta.com

(image from: benedetta.com)

From Nature With Love

From Nature With Love (fromnaturewithlove.com) is a website, web store, informational powerhouse and resource so vast and valuable, I almost considered keeping it my little secret.

But, alas I cannot keep my mouth shut or my fingers quiet enough NOT to share this wonderful site with you!

From Nature with Love is a web store that retails all natural ingredients for skin care, aromatherapy, spa and craft industries.

The beautiful site is incredibly user friendly and inspires the creation of an all natural skin care regimen after browsing the site.

After all, the skin is the largest organ of the body and absorbs whatever products we place externally on it. From Nature with Love is about chemical free, "green," all natural ingredients that are safe, therapeutic and non-toxic.

In addition to retail, the site offers a resource center that includes a recipe database, an information library, a soap making calculator and more!

My favorite feature is their blog, "The Natural Beauty Workshop."
http://www.naturalbeautyworkshop.com/

Here you can find almost daily, detailed recipes for natural skin care.

I would love to get my hands on their warehouse and learn from the author of the blog Emmy Gabriel.

Click here to be inspired, learn and shop From Nature with Love:
http://fromnaturewithlove.com
And read the daily blog here: http://naturalbeautyworkshop.com

(image from: fromnaturewithlove.com)

Egyptian Magic

I love me an all purpose balm.

I especially adore one made from all natural ingredients: olive oil, beeswax, honey, bee pollen, royal jelly, bee propolis and divine love.

That's it. That is all that makes up Egyptian Magic.

Endorsed by celebrities ranging from Madonna to Brooke Shields to Rachel Zoe, I gave in and finally bought a jar of the "magical cream." By the way, they had me at Madonna; I'll try anything she does!

According to the website (http://egyptianmagic.com) the cream can be used as a, "natural anti-wrinkle skin cream, and for treatment of rashes, scars, burns, eczema, abrasions and other problems." One testimonial on the website even touts it's use for frizzy hair!

Egyptian Magic retails for around $30, so it's not an el-cheapola drugstore product.

I have been using it for everything from dry cuticles and cracked hands to a rich under eye cream and let me tell ya - it's worth every penny. Plus, you just feel great putting something so natural and simple on your body.

You can find out more, search retailers and buy Egyptian Magic here: http://egyptianmagic.com The website even offers a money back guarantee!

(image from: egyptianmagic.com)

Juice Beauty Organic Blemish Clearing Serum

At the risk of TMI ... I must share this story with you, as I know the product I've found will affect millions of women every month.

I woke up four days ago with a monstrosity growing on my cheek, signaling me that my monthly visitor was about to arrive. This was no ordinary blemish. No ... this was a bright red, mountainous creature ready to burst forth from the very center of my face.

I panicked as I realized I was out of the prescription gel my dermatologist had given me samples of. While effective, this prescription also dried my face and left the area I spot treated with it flaky and delicate.

I rumbled through my drawer of samples and found a lone packet of Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Serum. I tore it open and applied it directly to the offending spot. I did the same the next morning, and by that evening, the blemish had come to a head. One more application before going to bed ... and I awoke the next morning to see the blemish had not only deflated, but had retreated into a tiny, more flesh colored bump. I continued to spot treat with The Blemish Clearing Serum and VOILA ... gone. No scarring, no memory of the puss filled beast that threatened to ruin the landscape of my visage.

Finally, a product that actually works!! I am now a convert and can't wait to try more Juice Beauty Products. Especially because on top of efficacy, Juice Beauty products are ORGANIC!! Whattttt?? Good for my skin and the environment??
LOVES it!!

You can see the entire line and purchase products here: http://juicebeauty.com

Be sure to click on "web specials" for a code to get 15% off any treatment product through the end of January!

Nutra Sonic

Curious about the sonic skin cleansing trend, I began investigating the available products for this method. Sonic cleansing is touted to cleanse skin deeper, allow for deeper penetration of serums and overall better skin health.

I actually purchased the Clarisonic and returned it unimpressed. I just didn't feel like it cleansed my skin any differently than without it.

Further probing led me to discover Nutraluxe MD, the creator of the Nutra Sonic Skin Cleansing System.

Nutraluxe very generously sent me a Nutra Sonic system to try. It included the brush, two facial cleansing heads, a body brush head, botanical skin cleanser and toner.

Upon my first use, I immediately noticed that the Nutra Sonic acutally felt more powerful than the Clarisonic. It operates at four separate speeds up to 400 times per second and also has a "jitter" mode. I also enjoy that it lacks a timer, allowing me to cleanse my skin for as long or brief a time as I see fit.

Whereas I felt the Clarisonic wasn't really doing anything, the Nutra Sonic makes my skin feel instantly cleaner, tighter and exfoliated. I also really enjoy the cleanser and toner that came with the kit. Gentle, pleasantly scented and packaged in sleek, sanitary pump dispensers - the products are botanical and Paraben Free.
The body brush head is a great addition for total body exfoliation; fabulous to use on the chest and back for acne prone skin and all over prior to using self tanner.

The Nutra Sonic Face Brush system is also a little easier on the wallet. Priced at $150 for the unit, two face brushes and body brush versus $195 - $225 for the Clarisonic Pro.

Dermatologists are shouting the praises of sonic cleansing all over the place, so why not give it a try? It actually adds a fun, new element to a boring cleansing routine.

The Nutra Sonic System can be purchased here:
http://nutraluxemd.com

(picture from: nutraluxemd.com)

Christina Cosmetics Aromatherapy Mineral Mist

We're almost into January, which inevitably brings even colder weather and with it even dryer, flakier skin.

Besides drinking more water, taking Omega 3's and adhering to a good skin care program, you can hydrate your face, neck and decollete throughout the day by spritzing on a topical mist like Christina Cosmetics Aromatherapy Mineral Mist.

Christina Cosmetics was kind enough to send me a bottle of the Mist to try and I am a convert. As you know from my previous post about their Perfect Pigment Mineral Make Up (http://damn-ilookgood.blogspot.com/2009/11/perfect-pigment-by-christina-cosmetics.html), I am bananans about their four color palette foundation that replaces an entire case of make up.

The Aromatherapy Mineral Mist comes in a 4oz spray bottle and contains comforting herbs like lavender, comfrey, calendula and sage in a light moisturizing base of aloe and water.

Gentle enough for sensitive skin and light enough for oily complexions, applying it immediately after getting out of the shower BEFORE your moisturizer adds an extra shot of moisture into your skin. Then, spritz over your make up after application and throughout the day to maintain gorgeous, hydrated, glowing skin.

This product is a MUST HAVE for those who wear powder based mineral make up formulations. The mist infuses the powder and "sets" it, transforming any brand from cakey and dull to luminous, natural-looking and "glowy."

I also love to spritz it on first thing in the morning, to remove any "pillow creases" from my face and refresh my skin before my workout without a heavy, greasy moisturizer.

You can purchase Christina Cosmetic products here: http://www.christinacosmetics.com/index.php

Caudelie Premier Cru La Creme

After two weeks of traveling, including a final 48 hours of four flights ... my skin was dehydrated and looking way less than fabulous.

I stopped into the Scottsdale Fashion Square Sephora and was introduced to Caudelie Premier Cru La Creme.

I had been curious about Caudelie after reading an article about the brand.
Founded by a young couple and a Professor of Pharmacy, the line is based on the properties of grape seeds ... which, if you read this blog - you know I am obsessed with!

The line contains:
- no parabens
- a maximum of natural active ingredients
- NO animal testing or ingredients
- no mineral oils or colorings
- no sodium laureth sulfates

Check out their website for more info on their products:
http://caudalie-usa.com

I received a sample of their newest product, The Premier Cru La Creme from Sephora.
The gorgeous creme was explained to me as a fusion of their best products into one concentrated formula. The creme contains, "Caudalie's three signature patents: titrated Resveratrol and Viniferine from Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte grapevines, and grape-seed polyphenols." It claims, "It regenerates and redensifies skin, filling wrinkles, firming and lifting, and minimizing dark spots for an evenly luminous look." (Info from Sephora.com)

After one application, I can attest to the power of this product. My skin immediately felt smoother and softer and I awoke this morning to a clearer, firmer, more radiant complexion.

You can purchase Premier Cru La Creme from Sephora or the Caudelie website:
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P246528&categoryId=C10479

Sephora and the Caudelie site also offer a limited edition cosmetic bag filled with must haves from the line, including a full size eye creme and lip conditioner:
http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml;jsessionid=3LWVDHPYYWDVECV0KQLQX0Q?id=P249307&categoryId=C10479

(picture from: sephora.com)

Cod Liver Oil

My European adventure has me contemplating the health habits of the folks over here.
There is such a different climate with food and exercise here.
Tonight I am in Kerkrade, Netherlands.
Salmon and sardines are protein centerpieces here.
If you aren't consuming enough fresh fish in your diet or want to supplement and reap the benefits of Essential Fatty Acids, try adding Cod Liver Oil into your diet.

Cod Liver Oil is exactly what is sounds like - oil derrived from the liver of cod fish.
It is high in Essential Fatty Acids EPA and DHA and vitamins A and D.

I prefer Cod Liver Oil to regular fish oil because of the vitamins A and D in it. There has been a lot of chatter on Vitamin D deficiency lately and taking Cod Liver Oil is a great way to ensure you get your "sunshine vitamin."

Cod Liver Oil, according to Wikipedia, "is widely taken to ease the pain and joint stiffness associated with arthritis, but has also been clinically proven to have a positive effect on heart,bone, and brain,as well as helping to nourish skin, hair, and nails."

I can vouch for for the effects on joint pain and the positive influence on skin, hair and nails.

I am also a huge fan of mega doses of DHA for mood stabilization and elevation. Get your DHA and feel happy!

I love Carlson Brand Cod Liver Oil Lemon Flavored Liquid.
All you need is one teaspoon and it has no "burpy" or "fishy" aftertaste.

I add it to my yogurt or morning smoothie and it adds a nice lemony essence.

You can purchase Carlson Cod Liver Oil here: http://www.carlsonlabs.com/p-107-cod-liver-oil-lemon-flavor.aspx

(picture from: carlsonlabs.com)

Better Botanicals

There are several beauty lines out there based on the ancient science of Ayurveda. I'm sure we can all think of the giant company that spawned eponymous salons and continues to grow.
Flying under the radar is a smaller line called Better Botanicals.
http://betterbotanicals.com

Better Botanicals is an HERBAL line and most products are manufactured under an "ayurvedic license." "Herbal" has become a beauty buzz word, but Better Botanicals actually IS. There products contain 15% - 100% herbal content for the highest efficacy possible. No smoke and mirrors here. These are all natural products that use the power of herbs to change your skin and hair.

My Better Botanical obsession right now is their Dandelion Moisturizer. Formulated for normal to dry skin, I use this as a winter moisturizer on my face, but use it all year long on my hands. It has a light, fresh dandelion scent and is rich and hydrating without being greasy. Adore!


Better Botanicals is having a Cyberweek special - BOGO 50% on body products. Shop here: http://www.betterbotanicals.com/default.asp?mn=1.275.272.331&f=bp&pcat=1

Alpha Maximum - Maximum Strength Alpha Hydrox Intensely Hydrating Face Cream

I love me some Glycolic Acid. I've found the most incredible all- natural Glycolic creme that actually improves the condition and look of your skin:
Alpha-Maximum Maximum Strength Alpha Hydrox Intensely Hydrating Face Cream by MicroNaturals.

Alpha-Maximum was created by Wendy Avansino and is 100% natural. It contains NO parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, synthetic dye, petro-chemicals or phthalates. Ms. Avansino created the cream in conjunction with a cosmetic chemist out of her frustration of not being able to find anything that really worked well without having to go to a salon and paying their high prices.

It contains 10% AHA in the form of Glycolic acid. This is the maximum amount allowed in over the counter products; you can actually feel it tingle!

The unique and amazing thing Ms. Avansino has achieved with this formulation is that Alpha-Maximum is as strong as it is with out over drying the skin. How many times have you used an Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) product, only to be left with red, irritated flaking skin?
Not with Alpha-Maximum. It is intensely hydrating as well as being effective at exfoliating the skin.

I received a sample of Alpha-Maximum and have been using it as a night time moisturizer/treatment for a little over three months. Within the first four weeks, my super oily, acne prone skin cleared up. Then, I noticed a smoother, more even skin tone, diminished wrinkles and minimized pores - all without the common side effects of a chemical exfoliating product. Let me assure you, I've tried them all - over the counter and RX, nothing else I've tried has had the dual power of hydration and exfoliation. I especially recommend this product for those suffering with adult onset acne who have worn out every three step kit on the market.

If you are looking to simplify your night time regime with a truly effective, affordable product, I highly recommend giving Alpha-Maximum a go.
Just be sure to:
1. Cleanse only with a gentle, creme cleanser
2. Use NO other over the counter or RX chemical exfoliants.
3. Wear at least 30 spf during the day to protect your newly refreshed skin.
4. Give the product at least six and up to twelve weeks before you switch or commit - you need to let your skin go through an entire renewal cycle to REALLY see the fruits of the acid's labor.

You can also use the cream on any part of the body that has unwanted pigmenatation like freckles or age spots to help minimize their appearance. It's also a fabulous hand and foot cream that achieves the ultimate softness.

Alpha-Maximum is only distributed locally in Reno, NV right now, but you can order a 2oz. jar of Alpha-Maximum for $19.99 (includes shipping and handling) by emailing micronaturals@charter.net or click the link below:
Order by clicking here

Make Up Removal

If you are like me, you have a full face beat down to scrape off at the end of the day.
Make up removal is especially important for problematic skin and it is vital to use products that won't contribute to clogging pores, but are effective at emulsifying today's long wearing and water proof make up formulations.
I've tried every make up removal technique and I'd like to share my favorite method.

1. Use JoJoba Oil to emulsify eye make up. JoJoba Oil is very close to our skin's own natural sebum (oil), so it is non comedogenic - it won't clog your pores!! Squeeze a dime size amount onto fingertips and gently work onto eyelids. I like Desert Essence 100% pure JoJoba Oil. You can find this product at Vitacost.com for $4.26.
A 4 oz. bottle should last you three to six months. JoJoba Oil is also great as a moisturizer for extremely dry skin, as a deep conditioner for hair and as a cuticle hydrator.

2. Use a disposable baby wipe such as Target's Up and Up Brand for sensitive skin to wipe away emulsified eye make up and to clean off the rest of the face.

3. Follow with a gentle creme cleanser such as Cetaphil or a generic version (both Target and Walmart make great versions) no matter what your skin type. YES - that means YOU oily/acne prone people!! As a fellow greaseball I understand the urge to strip your skin squeaky clean with a gel cleanser, but washing away the skin's natural protective barrier can leave it even more vulnerable to bacteria that causes break outs.

4. Finish with your nightly moisturizing regime.

(photo from: desertessence.com)