Skincare Benefits of Lime Fruit

  1. Lime fruit contains more Vitamin C than mandarin oranges or golgi berries. The Vitamin C helps to gently exfoliate or remove dead skin.
  2. Lime fruit facilitates the absorption of vital ingredients into the skin and improves skin hydration.
  3. Helps to heal acne, minimizes premature aging of the skin.
  4. Finger lime breaks up the glue-like substance that holds dead skin together. This interruption of keratinization helps to reduce oil build up, acne, wrinkles and uneven skin tone.
  5. Finger Lime supports the production of a protein, namely collagen, that promotes glowing, vibrant, healthy and youthful looking skin.. Collagen provides elasticity to the skin. As you get older collagen production declines and this results the appearance of fine lines, loose skin and dryness.

Younique’s oil control mask contains lime fruit. Shop here>>> https://tinyurl.com/y44dcyh6

RED SNAPPER

Ingredients:

  • 2lbs of Red Snapper (split down the middle)
  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • Sea Salt
  • Roasted Garlic
  • Smoked Paprika
  • Chipotle Powder (optional)
  • Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary)
  • Pesto (Green Bell Peppers, Red Bell Peppers, Yellow Onions, Ginger)
Marinate the red snapper with sea salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon and/or lime juice
Press garlic butter into the flesh of the red snapper.
Gently massage the garlic butter into the flesh. Season both the inside and outside of the fish with smoked paprika, chipotle powder and olive oil.
Season the fish with pesto (1/4 green bell peppers, 1/4 red bell peppers, 1/4 onion, ginger), sliced onions (yellow, red), fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary). Close red snapper then cover the pan with cover the pan with aluminum foil. Bake 375F for 30 minutes.
Inspired by Cooking Light 300-calorie main dishes, June 2013.

Gaucamole

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium to large avocados
  • 1/2 to 1 fresh lemon, juiced
  • garlic powder (optional)
  • Bragg’s Amino Acids to taste
  • 1/4 – 1/2 bunch of cilantro (finely chopped, optional)
  • 1-2 vine ripened tomatoes (cubed, optional)

Directions:

  1. Smash the avocados with a fork.
  2. Add the first four ingredients, then blend with a hand mixer for a smooth texture.
  3. For variation, add fresh cilantro and tomatoes

Very Berry Triffle

Ingredients:

  • 32 oz strawberries (cut of the caps)
  • 2 pints of black berries
  • 2 pints of blue berries
  • 2 pints of raspberries
  • 2 large boxes of Jello instant vanilla
  • 16 oz cool whip
  • 2 cups Land O Lakes fat free half and half
  • 1 box of Duncan Hines Classic Golden Butter Cake Mix – cook as directed, then cut half of the cake into small cubes

Directions:

  1. Prepare the pudding using 4 cups of cold Land O Lakes fat free half and half. Make sure you blend the pudding using a hand mixer for exactly 2 minutes. Refrigerate.
  2. Bake the Duncan Hines Cake as directed. A store bought yellow cake or pound cake will suffice, if you do not want to bake.
  3. Rinse each type of berry separately. Remove any bad berries. Do not mix the berries.
  4. Remove the caps from the strawberries. Cut the strawberries in half, length wise (optional).
  5. Allow the berries to dry.
  6. Place a single layer of 1 square inch cubes of cakes on the bottom of a clear glass bowl
  7. Add a 1 inch layer of pudding onto of the cake
  8. Add a 1 inch layer of whip cream onto of the pudding
  9. Add each of your berries on top of the pudding.
  10. Repeat steps 6-10 until you have filled up your bowl.

6 Magic makeup tricks for longer-lasting eyeshadow

Photos by Bud Dorsey

If you’re sick of your beautiful eyeshadow smudging and fading halfway through lunch, these tips will help you make it last longer, look better and feel smoother.

Basically, to make any product last longer on your face you’ve got to moisturize. In other words, create a smooth base without any creases so that the makeup can stay put instead of slipping and sliding. There’s lots of ways to do this so listen up!Save on Your Family TripFree hot and fresh breakfast? Sweet. Saving on your next family trip? Even Sweeter.Ad By Holiday Inn Express 

Tip 1: Primer

Start with a primer. It’s the same concept of applying primer on your face before foundation, but for eyelids. You may think it’s not worth it to spend money on a primer, but trust me. It really works! Primer will smooth your eyelids and help the eyeshadow to adhere to it without creasing.

Tip 2: Concealer

If primer doesn’t do the trick, try applying a concealer base. Reason #1 to do this is because it’s a lighter shade than your eyelid and will make the eyeshadow pop. Reason #2 is that it will force the eyeshadow powder to stay put until you decide to take it off.

It works best if you top off the concealer with loose powder so that it sets properly.

Tip 3: Cream eyeshadow

OK, don’t panic. I’m not saying replace all your beloved eyeshadow palettes with cream pots. But since we need a smooth, even-colored base to start with, investing in a pale cream eyeshadow is a good idea. You can use it as an eyelid base for all your powder eyeshadows. It will definitely help your eye makeup last longer and look prettier.

Tip 4: Water

Water solves a lot of problems when it comes to skin and eyeshadow is no exception. Before applying any eyeshadow, spray your makeup brush with some water. Don’t overdo it. You want just enough to help the eyeshadow spread smoothly. As an added bonus the eyeshadow color will look even better because the water makes it more vivid. Translation: Your eyes will look more gorgeous!

Tip 5: The right brush

Obviously, you can’t use a giant powder brush on your eyelid. The eyes are a tricky area because of the small corners and delicate eyelids. You have to have the right brushes to apply the eyeshadows correctly. Even though there are tons of eye brushes out there, there are two basic ones you need for eyeshadow: A brush to apply and spread, and a brush to smudge.

An eyeshadow “C” brush is the one used for applying because it’s fluffy but eyelid sized. A small, stiffer brush is used for smudging to create looks like the smoky eye.

Tip 6: Setting mist

Setting spray is for when you really want your makeup to stay put, and it works for all facial makeup. With one spray of stuff like Younique’s Touch Behold Setting Spray, your makeup is sealed in place, the colors look brighter and your face feels refreshed. It’s a really easy way to keep your eyeshadow and other makeup on all day long.

If your eyes don’t look gorgeous all day by following these tips, you can hold me personally responsible! (But I’m 99 percent sure you’ll see the difference.) These were the tips I gathered from some trials and many errors, but do you have any more to add to the list?

Source: https://www.sheknows.com/beauty-and-style/articles/1089353/how-to-make-eyeshadow-last-longer/

Tell Tale Signs of Child & Adolescent Sexual Abuse

Child Sexual Abuse

Para leer en español, haga clic aquí.

When a perpetrator intentionally harms a minor physically, psychologically, sexually, or by acts of neglect, the crime is known as child abuse. This page focuses specifically on child sexual abuse and the warning signs that this crime may be occurring.

What is child sexual abuse?

Child sexual abuse is a form of child abuse that includes sexual activity with a minor. A child cannot consent to any form of sexual activity, period. When a perpetrator engages with a child this way, they are committing a crime that can have lasting effects on the victim for years. Child sexual abuse does not need to include physical contact between a perpetrator and a child. Some forms of child sexual abuse include:

  • Exhibitionism, or exposing oneself to a minor
  • Fondling
  • Intercourse
  • Masturbation in the presence of a minor or forcing the minor to masturbate
  • Obscene phone calls, text messages, or digital interaction
  • Producing, owning, or sharing pornographic images or movies of children
  • Sex of any kind with a minor, including vaginal, oral, or anal
  • Sex trafficking
  • Any other sexual conduct that is harmful to a child’s mental, emotional, or physical welfare

What do perpetrators of child sexual abuse look like?

The majority of perpetrators are someone the child or family knows. As many as 93 percent of victims under the age of 18 know the abuser. A perpetrator does not have to be an adult to harm a child. They can have any relationship to the child including an older sibling or playmate, family member, a teacher, a coach or instructor, a caretaker, or the parent of another child. According to 1 in 6, “[Child] sexual abuse is the result of abusive behavior that takes advantage of a child’s vulnerability and is in no way related to the sexual orientation of the abusive person.”

Abusers can manipulate victims to stay quiet about the sexual abuse using a number of different tactics. Often an abuser will use their position of power over the victim to coerce or intimidate the child. They might tell the child that the activity is normal or that they enjoyed it. An abuser may make threats if the child refuses to participate or plans to tell another adult. Child sexual abuse is not only a physical violation; it is a violation of trust and/or authority.

How can I protect my child from sexual abuse?

A big part of protecting your child is about creating a dialogue. Read more to learn about creating this dialogue and keeping your child safe.

What are the warning signs?

Child sexual abuse isn’t always easy to spot. The perpetrator could be someone you’ve known a long time or trust, which may make it even harder to notice. Consider the following warning signs:

Physical signs:

  • Bleeding, bruises, or swelling in genital area
  • Bloody, torn, or stained underclothes
  • Difficulty walking or sitting
  • Frequent urinary or yeast infections
  • Pain, itching, or burning in genital area

Behavioral signs:

  • Changes in hygiene, such as refusing to bathe or bathing excessively
  • Develops phobias
  • Exhibits signs of depression or post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Expresses suicidal thoughts, especially in adolescents
  • Has trouble in school, such as absences or drops in grades
  • Inappropriate sexual knowledge or behaviors
  • Nightmares or bed-wetting
  • Overly protective and concerned for siblings, or assumes a caretaker role
  • Returns to regressive behaviors, such as thumb sucking
  • Runs away from home or school
  • Self-harms
  • Shrinks away or seems threatened by physical contact

Where can I get help?

To learn how to start a conversation with your child about sexual abuse or resources for adult survivors of childhood/sexual abuse go to the youniquefoundation.org

Source: https://goo.gl/zqD886

What the health: 33 Uses of Coconut Oil for Skin & Hair Care

Coconut Oil Beauty & Skin Uses by Dr. Axe

1. Natural Skin Moisturizer — Using coconut oil for skin health works well as a moisturizer for your face. It absorbs quickly, and is non-greasy. At room temperature, coconut is a solid, but it quickly melts when it comes into contact with hands. Before bed, wash your face and pat dry. Warm a dollop the size of a pea in your hands and rub in a circular motion into your face. Let sit for 5 minutes, and then wipe off what is still on the surface for the best moisturizing effect.

2. Wrinkle Reducer — For areas of concern around eyes, dab just a touch around and under the eyes to help fight pre-maturing aging (including to help remove those dark circles!). Leave the oil on overnight to soak in, and wake up looking refreshed. Combine with frankincense oil for additional anti-aging benefits.

3. Natural Makeup Remover — Just a small dab of coconut oil will quickly liquefy eye makeup, making it easy to wipe off. Rub coconut oil gently onto the upper lids and lower lids in a circular motion. Wipe off with a warm cloth. The benefit over commercial eye makeup removers is that coconut oil will not sting or irritate eyes and, as a bonus, will help to hydrate around the eyes.

4. Lock in Moisture After Showers — After your shower, apply coconut oil liberally all over your body. Coconut oil will hydrate dry skin and helps to soothe skin after shaving. As a bonus, coconut oil has a natural SPF and is great for protecting your skin from sun damage. If you are applying to the bottom of your feet, do so outside of the tub so as not to slip.

5. Healing Bath with Epsom Salt — Regardless of the season, our skin takes a beating. Add ¼ cup Epsom salts and ¼ cup coconut oil to a warm bath, and relax. Add a drop or two of your favorite essential oils to add aromatherapy benefits. The Epsom salts will help to draw out toxins while the coconut oil will help to soothe dry skin.

6. Homemade Toothpaste — Mix equal parts of coconut oil with baking soda then add a few drops of peppermint essential oil for homemade toothpaste. Try my recipe for homemade probiotic toothpaste with coconut oil, bentonite clay, probiotics and peppermint essential oil.

7. Lip Balm  Dry chapped lips can happen during any season. Commercial lip balms are packed with unhealthy (and potentially toxic) ingredients, which is particularly concerning since we put them on our lips. The healing properties of coconut oil helps to nourish the lips, provides a touch of sun protection and, most importantly, is safe to consume. Combine 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax, and 1 tablespoon of shea butter in a nonstick saucepan. Warm slowly until melted. Use a small funnel to refill used lip balm containers. Allow to set up for 6 hours.

8. Naturally Tinted Lip Gloss or Lipstick — You can naturally tint the lip balm recipe above with beetroot powder, cocoa powder, turmeric and cinnamon. You only need a small amount of spices and a little bit goes a long way.

9. Personal Lubricant — Coconut oil is an effective and safe personal lubricant. Unlike commercial preparations, its antifungal, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties help keep the vaginal flora healthy. (One note: avoid using coconut oil or any oil with any latex contraceptives, as it can corrode the latex.)

10. Natural Mouthwash — Mix equal parts of coconut oil and baking soda, and then add a few drops of peppermint essential oils.  Use daily to help whiten teeth, improve gum health and freshen your breath. According to researchers at the Athlone Institute of Technology, the antibiotic properties of coconut oil destroy the bacteria that causes tooth decay. (1)

11. Coconut Oil Pulling  To improve the health of your teeth and gums, oil pulling with coconut oil, is the way to go. In Ayurvedic medicine practice, oil pulling is used to detoxify the mouth, remove plaque and bad breath, fight bacteria, reduce tooth decay and gum disease (gingivitis), and boost the immune system. Swish 1 tablespoon of coconut oil immediately after rising in the morning. Spend 10–20 minutes swishing; do not swallow the oil. Spit the oil into the trash can (not into the sink as it will clog it after a while!) and rinse with sea salt water.

12. Natural Deodorant — Coconut oil’s natural antibacterial properties help to keep body odor at bay. It is an excellent deodorant on its own, or when combined into a paste with baking soda and essential oils.

13. Gentle Face Wash  Coconut oil can be used in natural face wash recipe to cleanse an moisturize. Mix with lavender oil, tea tree oil and raw honey for best results.

14. Wound Salve  Coconut oil has been used for thousands of years to speed healing of rashes, burns and open wounds. To make a homemade wound salve, mix coconut oil, frankincense, lavender and melaleuca oil. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of coconut oil help to keep the area free of infection, and the lauric acid in coconut oil helps to speed healing.

15. Cellulite Solution  To fight stubborn and unsightly cellulite, mix 1 tablespoon of coconut oil with 10 drops of grapefruit essential oil and massage in a firm circular motion into affected areas. Follow with dry brushing to help stimulate circulation and encourage cellular detox and my cellulite slim down juice recipe for best results.

16. Soothing Shaving Cream  If razor burn, ingrown hairs or other skin irritation is a problem after shaving, start using pure coconut oil as your shaving “cream.” Warm a dab in the palm of your hands and rub on your face, under arms, on the legs or the bikini area and then shave. Rinse well and pat dry.

17. Sunscreen/Sunburn Remedy  Coconut oil is an all natural sunscreen and sunburn remedy, all in one. In fact, it is SPF 4, just enough to protect against sun damage, and the best of the nonvolatile herbal oils. Reapply as necessary, throughout the day. If you get too much sun, gently rub coconut oil into affected areas, and it will promote healing and soothe the pain.

18. Massage Oil  Coconut oil is a soothing and conditioning massage oil. Add a couple of drops of lavender oil and peppermint oil to help heal sore muscles and stimulate mindful relaxation.

19. Insect Repellent  Mix a tablespoon of coconut oil with a couple of drops of peppermint, rosemary and tea tree oil to repel flies, mosquitos, gnats and bees. This is a safe alternative to DEET and can be applied safely on all areas of the body.

20. Anti-Fungal Cream  Due to its antibiotic capabilities, coconut oil can be used topically to treat athletes foot and skin fungus. Apply some to the affected area and either leave it on or wipe off with a paper towel after it has time to set in.

21. Cold Sore Treatment — If you experience cold sores in or around your mouth, trying dabbing them with coconut oil several times per day to reduce healing time and pain. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which if effective at entering the virus that lives within cold sores and shutting off their ability to reproduce. This means you experience relief faster and are less likely to have scars or discoloration left in the area of the sore, too.

22. Nail Cuticle Oil — Apply coconut oil to your finger beds to reduce the risk of developing fungal infections and to make it easier to push back cuticles so your nails can naturally grow more quickly. If you go to manicure salons to get your nails done, you may be at risk for coming into contact with serious viruses and bacteria that often live on salon equipment, so coconut oil offers another layer or defense.

23. Soothing Foot Rub for Cracked Heels — Find relief foryour dry, cracked heals naturally by rubbing them with coconut oil and allowing the oil to penetrate your skin. Try using 2 tablespoons of oil for both heels, and feel free to add other essential oils — like lavender oil — which can help to further reduce dryness and bacteria, plus give your feet a nice, relaxing scent.

24. Ingrown Hair Treatment and Preventer — Rub areas where you frequently shave or are prone to bumps and infection with coconut oil. The oil helps to soften skin so hair can easily grow through the follicle properly without becoming ingrown, plus it kills bacteria at the same time.

25. Sulfate-Free Shampoo  Coconut can cleanse hair if used with apple cider vinegar, and because it doesn’t have any harsh chemicals in it. This method leaves your color intact for longer, prevents dullness and orange or yellow discoloration, and makes your hair soft and shiny.

26. Natural Hair Conditioner — Using coconut oil for hair conditioning has been used for thousands of years to strengthen and style hair. As a moisturizer, coconut oil can help de-frizz and strengthen hair while helping hair to retain moisture. Depending on the length and texture of your hair, you may need anywhere from 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil as a conditioner. Warm in the palms of your hands, and starting at the ends, work the oil into the hair.

27. Prevent and Treat Dandruff — This can help to encourage new hair growth and will help you get rid of dandruff. Rinse well (and then rinse again) and then style as usual. Your hair should be healthy, shiny and full of body. If the coconut oil weighs your hair down, use less the next time and rinse well.

28. Hair De-tangler for Children — Use a small amount of coconut oil on your children’s hair when its tangled and needs a natural, smooth solution for getting it brushed easily. Rub oil between your palms and then onto wet hair before combining through.

29. Cheek Bone Highlighter  Try using coconut in place of makeup to add shine to your cheek bones and eyelids. This gives you a natural youthful glow and requires no makeup, makeup removal or extra expensive products to purchase.

30. Makeup Brush Cleaner — Make up brushes are notorious for carrying loads of built-up harmful bacteria.Rub coconut oil on your makeup brushes and leave them for 1–2 hours in order to disinfect them. Then wash thoroughly, although there is no need to worry about any oil remaining on your brush since it won’t harm your makeup for skin.

31. Hairbrush Cleaner — Use coconut oil in the same way as on your makeup brushes to remove unwanted hair and bacteria from your hair brushes. The oil even works well on delicate bore bristle brushes and helps the hair to easily slide on. Any oil that remains on your brush will only condition the brush bristles and your hair more afterwards.

32. Hair Texturizer and Gel Replacement — Many commercial brands of hair gel and mousse contain alcohol, which dries out your hair, not to mention many other toxic chemicals and fragrances. Try using a bit of coconut oil rubbed into the ends of your hair to hold its style and condition it at the same time. The oil prevents fly aways and adds extra shine too.

33. Stretch Mark Reducer  Try rubbing coconut oil all over the stomach during and after pregnancy to reduce unsightly stretch marks that occur when skin’s elasticity is compromised. The oil helps to fade dark marks, discoloration and redness, plus it hydrates the skin and allows it heal more quickly.

12 chemicals to avoid in skincare and makeup products

1. Sodium lauryl sulfate

Found in: shampoo, body wash, foundation, face wash, mouthwash and toothpaste

SLS has been shown to cause or contribute to: skin irritation, canker sores, disruptions of skin’s natural oil balance and eye damage. It is also widely believed to be a major contributor to acne (especially cystic acne) around the mouth and chin.

2. BHA

Found in: exfoliants, perfume

The National Toxicology Program classifies butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” It can cause skin depigmentation. In animal studies, BHA produces liver damage and causes stomach cancers such as papillomas and carcinomas and interferes with normal reproductive system development and thyroid hormone levels. The European Union considers it unsafe in fragrance.Report this ad

3. Triclosan and triclocarban

Found in: toothpaste, deodorant, antibacterial soap

Triclosan was all the rage as antibacterial products became ubiquitous in the 1990s. Even the FDA agrees that there is no health benefit to humans who use triclosan, and in 2013 ruled that manufacturers using it had to demonstrate that there were no long-term detrimental effects. Triclosan (in liquid products) and triclocarban (in bar soaps) have been linked to hormonal disruptions, bacterial resistance, impaired muscle function, impaired immune function and increased allergies. Instead, use naturally antibacterial and antiseptic agents like tea tree oil.

4. Aminophenol, Diaminobenzene, Phenylenediamine (Coal Tar)

Found in: hair dye, shampoo

Coal tar, a byproduct of coal processing, is a known human carcinogen, according to the National Toxicology Program and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Hair stylists and other professionals are exposed to these chemicals in hair dye almost daily. Europe has banned many of these ingredients in hair dyes. While FDA sanctions coal tar in specialty products such as dandruff and psoriasis shampoos, the long-term safety of these products has not been demonstrated.

5. Parabens

Found in: makeup, moisturizer, shaving gel, shampoo, personal lubricant and spray tan productsReport this ad

The FDA acknowledges several studies linking parabens, which mimic estrogen, to breast cancer, skin cancer and decreased sperm count, but has not ruled that it is harmful. According to the European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Products, longer chain parabens like propyl and butyl paraben and their branched counterparts, isopropyl and isobutylparabens, may disrupt the endocrine system and cause reproductive and developmental disorders. Look for ingredients with the suffix “-paraben” as well—paraben-free products will be labeled as such.

6. Polyethylene/PEGs

Found in: scrubs, body wash, makeup, toothpaste

Those tiny plastic beads in face or lip scrubs and exfoliating washes are made from polyethylene (used because they’re gentler on the skin than natural exfoliators like walnut shells). These synthetic chemicals are frequently contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, which the U.S. government considers a probable human carcinogen and which readily penetrates the skin. Polyethylene has been noted as a skin irritant and should never be used on broken skin. Polyethylene beads in scrubs and body washes also are not filtered by our sewage systems, meaning they can collect pollutants and travel into waterways, where they’re consumed by fish and marine animals.

7. Retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, retinoic acid and retinol

Found in: moisturizer, lip products, sunscreen, anti-aging products

Retinol products (often found in anti-aging products) have the opposite intended effect and become carcinogenic in sunlight, making it extra important to only use them at night and to avoid any sunscreens containing retinol-derived ingredients.

8. Petroleum distillates

Found in: mascara

Petroleum-extracted cosmetics ingredients may cause contact dermatitis and are often contaminated with cancer-causing impurities. They are produced in oil refineries at the same time as automobile fuel, heating oil and chemical feedstocks.

9. “Fragrance”

Found in: moisturizers, deodorant, lotion, face cream, shampoo, conditioner

Federal law doesn’t require companies to list on product labels any of the chemicals in their fragrance mixture. Recent research from Environmental Working Group and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found an average of 14 chemicals in 17 name-brand fragrance products, none of them listed on the label. Fragrances can contain hormone disruptors and are among the top 5 allergens in the world. Our advice? Buy fragrance-free wherever possible.

10. Oxybenzone

Found in: sunscreen

Oxybenzone is one of the highest-risk chemicals found in sunscreen. It acts like estrogen in the body, alters sperm production in animals and is associated with endometriosis in women. Studies on cells and laboratory animals indicate that oxybenzone and its metabolites may disrupt the hormone system. Opt for sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium oxide or avobenzene instead.

11. dibutyl phthalate, toluene and formaldehyde

Found in: nail polish and other nail products

These chemicals, known as the “toxic trio,” have been linked to birth defects, endocrine disruption, headaches and respiratory problems—especially concerning for nail salon workersand those who frequently get manis or pedis. It’s advised that pregnant women avoid nail products altogether. Brands like OPI and Zoya have pledged to remove these chemicals from their products.Report this ad

12. Hydroquinone

Found in: skin lighteners

The FDA warns that this skin-bleaching chemical can cause a skin disease called ochronosis, with “disfiguring and irreversible” blue-black lesions on exposed skin. Illegally imported skin lighteners can contain mercury, which can poison adults and children and is especially toxic during pregnancy. Be wary of imported skin lighteners, don’t buy products without ingredients clearly labeled, and always avoid products with “mercury,” “calomel”, “mercurio” or “mercurio chloride.”

Learn how to make just about any DIY personal care product on our DIY Bath + Body and Skincare + Makeup pages. You might even become a total DIY beauty routine convert. (I know I couldn’t live without this homemade turmeric mask!)

5 ways home remedies to a smoother and more youthful face!

To achieve a smoother, more youthful, less dull and dry skin you will need to exfoliate your skin. You are probably thinking what does exfoliate mean? How often do you have to exfoliate? What factors influence dullness? How can you exfoliate your skin naturally? Let’s discuss the pink elephant in the room, namely exfoliation.

EXFOLIATION – is a process of shedding, peeling or removing the upper layer of dead skin. Exfoliation happens naturally for healthy skin. This However, as you age or rob your skin of vital nutrients this natural shedding process slows down.

CELL TURN OVER IN HEALTHY SKIN – On average skin cell turn over process occurs like this:

  • In your 20s: 14-25 days
  • In your 30s: 30 days
  • In your 40s: 40 days
  • It slows down even further by a few days every decade

BENEFITS OF EXFOLIATION AS WE AGE – As we age, we may need to help the shedding process along. Exfoliation will help to reveal smoother, youthful, radiant, vibrant and younger looking skin.

CAN YOU OVER EXFOLIATE – Given the glow exfoliation offers our skin, many people think exfoliating after is a good thing. However, too much of a good thing can be bad for us. Over exfoliating will remove your skin’s natural barrier that protects it from environmental toxins and ultra violet radiation from the sun. It’s important to use products that will encourage natural cell turnover and keep your skin hydrated!

NATURAL HOME REMEDIES TO EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN -there are 5 easy ways to exfoliate your skin using: honey, yogurt, raw cane sugar, lemon juice and papaya. This article will focus on 3 methods. But next week, we will update this article to include other strategies.

HONEY MASK – 100% pure honey is a natural humectant or hydration attractant. Honey will attract and lock in moisture. A honey mask makes a great hydrating facial scrub. After cleaning your hands, gently rub a dollop on honey onto your face, then rinse with warm water.

YOGURT – has lactic acid, a natural and mild source of alpha hydroxy acid found in skin care treatments. It soothes, smoothes and evens skin tone. Apply the yogurt on your face, let it sit for 20 minutes then rinse it with warm water.

Yogurt Mask

LEMON FACE MASK – Lemon juice is another natural alpha hydroxy acid that removes dead skin cells. I would caution against using lemon juice straight because the strong acidity may burn your face. Mix one-quarter-cup each of lemon juice, apple cider, pure grape juice and cane sugar until the sugar dissolves. Then apply the mixture to your face with a cotton pad, and leave it on for 10 minutes before rinsing off.

Lemon Face Mask

PAPAYA FACE MASK – Papaya has an enzyme called papin that naturally dissolved dead skin. Papain can also heal the skin, diminish fine lines and lighten dark spots on your face. The papain is highest among young papapy so make sure you select the green or unripened papaya. Mash the fruit into a smooth paste and apply to face, leaving on for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. Mash the fruit into a smooth paste and apply to face, leaving on for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

TONE & MOISTURIZE AFTER YOUR FACE MASK – Regardless of whatever face mask you use, make sure you follow-up with a face toner (rose water) and a moisturizer. For more information like this or updates to upcoming events, message me on social media and I will add you to my online community.

CONTACT INFORMATION: For more information like this or updates to upcoming events, message me on social media and I will add you to my online community. Email: wholisticallyimproveu@gmail.com, Facebook profile@LaCreis Kidd, Facebook group: Glam Amor Therapy