tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63779561743286432452024-03-13T14:22:50.491-07:00Fresh-Picked BeautyBlend, Create, Glow: Your Recipe for Homemade Clean BeautyShannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comBlogger345125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-14843511097457610592024-03-13T12:35:00.000-07:002024-03-13T12:35:20.093-07:00Why You Don’t Need a Separate Eye Cream (If Your Face Cream Plays Nice)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAA34o0qm6R8Zlv22M5NCmrjF_D0eB5P0UO-0Reztvwc6IUUcn3BmMNxCRvdymFw98AR5dneKHK7N8aCCRF6W7q_v_5IGnammY3Bdz4n94Selem_NlQuJPPBTkYn51G-ubo1FLrxyYmtDOjk-TZ0kR1LczcOOS-mmZtwJ6dK8uEW3_RDKwp08jC_eGE8/s8256/AdobeStock_256183995.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5504" data-original-width="8256" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAA34o0qm6R8Zlv22M5NCmrjF_D0eB5P0UO-0Reztvwc6IUUcn3BmMNxCRvdymFw98AR5dneKHK7N8aCCRF6W7q_v_5IGnammY3Bdz4n94Selem_NlQuJPPBTkYn51G-ubo1FLrxyYmtDOjk-TZ0kR1LczcOOS-mmZtwJ6dK8uEW3_RDKwp08jC_eGE8/w640-h426/AdobeStock_256183995.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">There's a secret lurking in the beauty aisles, whispered between the bottles of outrageously priced eye creams and their equally extravagant face moisturizer cousins. It's a tale as old as time, or at least as old as the modern skincare routine: you, my friend, might not need that tiny jar of eye cream after all. Shocking, right? Let’s dive into the why, the how, and the "but seriously?" of it all.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Great Eye Cream Conspiracy</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">First off, let's address the elephant in the room. Eye creams are often touted as essential for combating fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. They're like the special forces of skincare, designed to target the oh-so-delicate area that apparently only they can handle. But here's the kicker: if your face cream is gentle and effective enough, it might just be the skincare equivalent of a Swiss Army knife.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Ingredient Check: Face Cream vs. Eye Cream</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Take a look at the ingredient list on both your face and eye creams. If your face cream is packed with gentle, hydrating, and non-irritating ingredients and is free from common irritants (we're looking at you, fragrance and alcohol), it's probably gentle enough for your under-eye area too. The truth is, a lot of the active ingredients beneficial for your face, like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide, are just as beneficial for your under-eye area.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> The Texture Tell</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The main argument for eye creams is their texture, designed to be lighter and less likely to cause milia—those tiny, hard white bumps that can appear when heavy products clog the skin. However, many face creams now come in light, fast-absorbing formulations that are just as milia-proof as their eye cream counterparts.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> The Wallet-Friendly Wisdom</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Let's talk economics. Eye creams often come in minuscule packages with price tags that make your wallet weep. By choosing a high-quality, gentle face cream, you get more bang for your buck and simplify your skincare routine. Plus, you'll have more room on your bathroom shelf for, you know, actual essentials like toothpaste and floss.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Application Technique</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The real secret sauce? It's all in the application. Use your ring finger (it's the weakest, and therefore the gentlest) to lightly tap the product around your eyes. This method is as delicate as butterfly wings and ensures you're not tugging or pulling at the skin.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> The Bottom Line</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Before you rush to add that luxurious eye cream to your cart, consider whether your humble face cream can rise to the challenge. A gentle, effective face moisturizer can keep your skin hydrated, plump, and happy—yes, even the skin around your peepers. So, next time you're navigating the skincare aisle, remember that sometimes, the best solution isn't the most specialized one—it's the one that works for you, from forehead to chin and every bit in between.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Remember, skincare is personal, and what works for one might not work for all. But if your face cream is gentle, effective, and makes your skin feel like a million bucks, chances are your under-eyes will love it too. Now go forth, simplify your skincare routine, and maybe save some money while you're at it. Your face (and your bank account) will thank you.</span></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-30539550056208451142024-03-11T19:20:00.000-07:002024-03-11T19:20:00.130-07:00Carmine: The Bug Juice Beauty Secret You Never Knew You Loved<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCRn8a4GjAFus58Ij2w3h7TBjoEpZzo5o6YhzrAX7xGnJ-JatSgJeDwUO7ivOkf8LDlCeZuTPro1S2PtULtSo2sPRRj3GM29e9tdqz_PV3O5sepyJBrlJ2D6dR1Xn3Sl-wr1-AlF5B6aW9AucnkWal7BTBFWpzCHmWwroJuJ6lyEK-2FofmLsxd6QMks/s4800/AdobeStock_389444191.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3200" data-original-width="4800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCRn8a4GjAFus58Ij2w3h7TBjoEpZzo5o6YhzrAX7xGnJ-JatSgJeDwUO7ivOkf8LDlCeZuTPro1S2PtULtSo2sPRRj3GM29e9tdqz_PV3O5sepyJBrlJ2D6dR1Xn3Sl-wr1-AlF5B6aW9AucnkWal7BTBFWpzCHmWwroJuJ6lyEK-2FofmLsxd6QMks/w640-h426/AdobeStock_389444191.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Ever gazed at your vibrant red lipstick and thought, "Wow, this color really bugs me"? Well, if you're wearing a shade tinted with carmine, you might be more right than you realize. Yes, dear beauty aficionados, it's time to talk about the little secret behind one of the most sought-after red pigments in cosmetics: carmine, also known in less glamorous circles as... bug juice.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">A Bug's Life: From Beetle to Blush</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Carmine, my friends, is derived from none other than the crushed bodies of female cochineal insects. These tiny critters, native to Latin America, spend their days sunbathing on cactus plants, unknowingly preparing to become part of your makeup collection. The process of creating carmine involves drying these insects, crushing them, and then extracting the vibrant red pigment. It's enough to make you think twice the next time you pucker up or swipe that blush brush, isn't it?</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOU_x-5ov9n6YbUDnvvd7asETA9oIGg8nufGCc8WGcqw2QumgFWumgRLMSu5nI0IOyAjPXGNrnydsBX96aD7DSzSlJIeD-qmVpMbOUr8fZ12CQK0d684UoLWwE31Bp2ZEFSyVWyJVRW5_PkEa7qqZdUInXqhG8saT9Ip8fVUExRarbFfDMaGo5H6wJHeI/s6000/AdobeStock_646966165.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2242" data-original-width="6000" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOU_x-5ov9n6YbUDnvvd7asETA9oIGg8nufGCc8WGcqw2QumgFWumgRLMSu5nI0IOyAjPXGNrnydsBX96aD7DSzSlJIeD-qmVpMbOUr8fZ12CQK0d684UoLWwE31Bp2ZEFSyVWyJVRW5_PkEa7qqZdUInXqhG8saT9Ip8fVUExRarbFfDMaGo5H6wJHeI/w400-h150/AdobeStock_646966165.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Why Bugs, Though?</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Now, you might be wondering, "Why on earth did someone decide to crush bugs for makeup?" Well, it turns out that these insects produce a pigment that's not only stunning but also incredibly durable and resistant to fading. Before synthetic dyes were a thing, carmine was the go-to source for that perfect red hue, used in everything from 15th-century paintings to the royal garments of yesteryear. So, in a way, wearing carmine is like wearing a piece of history on your face.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Pros and... Ew, Cons</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Let's talk benefits and drawbacks, shall we? On the plus side, carmine offers a richness of color that's hard to replicate with synthetic dyes. It's also more natural than many alternatives, which appeals to those of us trying to keep our beauty routines a little closer to Mother Earth (despite the bug squishing).</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">However, there are a few... let's call them "quirks" to using carmine. First, there's the "ick" factor. Not everyone's keen on applying insect extract to their lips and eyelids. Then there's the issue for vegans and those with allergies—carmine is neither vegan nor hypoallergenic. And, of course, there's the cost. Extracting bug juice is labor-intensive, making carmine-based products a bit pricier than their synthetic counterparts.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Choosing Your Shade (and Your Bugs) Wisely</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">If after all this, you're still intrigued (or perhaps now morbidly fascinated) by carmine cosmetics, here's a tip: always check the labels. Carmine can be listed under different names, like CI 75470, Natural Red 4, C.I. 75470, or E120. Knowledge is power—and in this case, it might also prevent you from accidentally going vegan in your makeup routine.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-NCf-lVP_hbgeGFX2kMkGCm0U0OH5zl0qe4HVIIVyv4OA5Adg34dsznPiPD8aAArqZELh4e99RkWpA7bMVbmCW3nFx9I25Vj7VyFkwMEDfIb2yE2c-ujT7BnTJE7UEyg_e8-FsRKBnOS4CwrD2Ic6m2QUQR5trix0Hz3xC4wx2Kn9vbIxKi-Sfy3klY/s4200/AdobeStock_568220554.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2970" data-original-width="4200" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-NCf-lVP_hbgeGFX2kMkGCm0U0OH5zl0qe4HVIIVyv4OA5Adg34dsznPiPD8aAArqZELh4e99RkWpA7bMVbmCW3nFx9I25Vj7VyFkwMEDfIb2yE2c-ujT7BnTJE7UEyg_e8-FsRKBnOS4CwrD2Ic6m2QUQR5trix0Hz3xC4wx2Kn9vbIxKi-Sfy3klY/w640-h452/AdobeStock_568220554.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In Conclusion: To Bug or Not to Bug</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Carmine proves that beauty truly comes from within—within a tiny insect, that is. Whether you're enchanted or a bit grossed out, it's hard not to admire the ingenuity behind this natural dye. So, the next time you admire a particularly vibrant red in your makeup palette, spare a thought for the little cochineal insects. They've been working overtime to bring that perfect shade of red from a cactus in Latin America to the cosmetic bag in your bathroom.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">And there you have it, a dive into the buggy beauty of carmine. Whether you embrace the bug or opt for alternatives, remember: in the world of beauty, sometimes the most fascinating secrets are hidden in the smallest of creatures.</span></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-23810741929653909732024-03-08T15:03:00.000-08:002024-03-08T15:03:00.133-08:00The No-Poo Method: A Hairy Tale of Trial and Error<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAaE_qdxgQNbnQe9H8ZnQ-bVOzouzQ_ouLeNRBhAhBN8jL5Z1mK-tC72eUvWyBGQ1FHRo0M3SUSO47WZFWA0FwJ83F6K7zUPeKn_jlTqXFRaC_NdoScBH5Ev4GYFNAuPi2OJ6RcA7oPbpD0wZ5bA57TzAFMX5zzFLr02EC1ljldJXNbOePqb5uVn7fz4/s3771/AdobeStock_259292037.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2121" data-original-width="3771" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAaE_qdxgQNbnQe9H8ZnQ-bVOzouzQ_ouLeNRBhAhBN8jL5Z1mK-tC72eUvWyBGQ1FHRo0M3SUSO47WZFWA0FwJ83F6K7zUPeKn_jlTqXFRaC_NdoScBH5Ev4GYFNAuPi2OJ6RcA7oPbpD0wZ5bA57TzAFMX5zzFLr02EC1ljldJXNbOePqb5uVn7fz4/w400-h225/AdobeStock_259292037.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Ah, the No-Poo Method. The siren call of shampoo-free living lured me in with promises of luscious locks and a happier scalp. Visions of frolicking through meadows with my hair glistening in the sun danced in my head. Spoiler alert: the reality involved less frolicking and more frantic Googling of "how to wear a hat with every outfit." Here's the lowdown on my tumultuous affair with going no-poo and why my shower caddy eventually welcomed back shampoo with open arms.</span><p></p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> The Good: My Shower Turned into a Zen Retreat</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Let's start with the positives because, like my hair during this experiment, they were few and far between. Ditching shampoo slashed my shower time in half. My bathroom became a Zen retreat where I could meditate under the water without the pressure of performing a three-act play of lather, rinse, repeat. My water bill wept with joy, and I had more time to ponder life's big questions, like why we don't see more squirrels at theme parks.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Bad: Becoming an Oil Rig</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Now, onto the greasier side of things. My hair became an oil production powerhouse, capable of solving global energy crises. I reassured myself that this was just the transition period, where my scalp was throwing a temper tantrum for being denied its bubbly, fragrant friend. "It'll regulate itself," they said. Weeks passed, and my hair's motto remained, "Grease is the word." Styling my hair became an exercise in futility, akin to taming a wild badger with a toothbrush.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> The Ugly: The Scent-sation</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Nobody warned me about the... aroma. Without shampoo, my hair developed a scent that can only be described as "Eau de Leftover Takeout." It was subtle at first, then increasingly bold, like a reality TV star vying for more screen time. Friends leaned in for hugs and recoiled in horror. My dog, who usually loves a good stink, gave me judgmental looks. I considered bottling the scent as a deterrent for door-to-door salespeople.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Experiment: Social Interaction</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The most significant test, however, was social interaction. Conversations with friends became a game of "How long before they mention my hair?" I became adept at changing the subject whenever I caught someone's gaze drifting upwards. "Yes, the weather is indeed unusual for this time of year, Susan, but let's not look for signs of the apocalypse on my scalp, shall we?"</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Conclusion: A Return to Suds</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">After giving it the old college try, I admitted defeat. The no-poo method, while noble in its intentions, was not for me. My shower welcomed back shampoo with a ceremony usually reserved for returning war heroes. As I lathered up for the first time in weeks, I swear I heard a choir of angels (or maybe it was just my relieved scalp singing).</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Wrapping It Up: To Poo or Not to Poo</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The no-poo method is like pineapple on pizza—some swear by it, while others can't get past the concept. My journey taught me that sometimes, the grass isn't greener on the other side; it's just greasier. For those brave souls considering going no-poo, I salute you. May your transition be smoother than mine, and may your hats be stylish. As for me, I'll stick to my shampoo, with its promise of frothy, fragrant cleanliness, even if it means my Zen shower retreats are a little shorter.</span>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-41893907594023673642024-03-05T09:21:00.000-08:002024-03-05T09:21:00.133-08:00The Great Beeswax Grate: A Tale of DIY Beauty Hacks<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-k1CX-6vUyN03dZxAQ_UsiE9RkqPmjk-r3O8GOvahjImUJ0anD-6q2QexaYPxUGRVcm4l_ftqF-YTc62hUkDVrIT7To27unVr4UblxPuAsmDslZpF1glVHQGddy4Ap0UhdJYiTiQBqp7S9y9wmRBMsl9Hfq2P0z3vt5ya9s9yHkSxqCXWdZTnjfCeXQ/s9216/AdobeStock_567431142.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6144" data-original-width="9216" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH-k1CX-6vUyN03dZxAQ_UsiE9RkqPmjk-r3O8GOvahjImUJ0anD-6q2QexaYPxUGRVcm4l_ftqF-YTc62hUkDVrIT7To27unVr4UblxPuAsmDslZpF1glVHQGddy4Ap0UhdJYiTiQBqp7S9y9wmRBMsl9Hfq2P0z3vt5ya9s9yHkSxqCXWdZTnjfCeXQ/w640-h426/AdobeStock_567431142.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Once upon a time, in the magical world of DIY beauty, a dilemma as old as the ancient bees themselves buzzed into existence. The quest for beeswax pastilles turned as fruitless as a nectarless flower, leaving many a natural beauty enthusiast in a sticky situation. But fear not, for I bring you a tale of ingenuity, resourcefulness, and a touch of elbow grease. Enter the unsung hero of our story: the pure, unadulterated beeswax candle.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjiWT5gsp2krzwhTVbATTQspIHxJDELtAXOB7tFpFdPxOkZec3-Aj95m0vRL5LGPxENRMApq4b_8NQkMvNyiTywHy0K7bVm35Jk7ku6dNoDnOen6UMcVlNO1Ad1dpJYYP1Q6eQH0IQZBvRKyxlT1eC-YhMSuwDko2IOkHmfEF6tGC-ymfy2eRwnoZWiu8/s5184/AdobeStock_660510994.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjiWT5gsp2krzwhTVbATTQspIHxJDELtAXOB7tFpFdPxOkZec3-Aj95m0vRL5LGPxENRMApq4b_8NQkMvNyiTywHy0K7bVm35Jk7ku6dNoDnOen6UMcVlNO1Ad1dpJYYP1Q6eQH0IQZBvRKyxlT1eC-YhMSuwDko2IOkHmfEF6tGC-ymfy2eRwnoZWiu8/w640-h480/AdobeStock_660510994.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><br /></span><p></p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Candle That Could</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Imagine, if you will, a pure beeswax candle, standing tall and proud, untouched by the siren call of scents and dyes. This humble candle, often relegated to setting the mood or softly lighting a cozy nook, hides a secret power. With a simple kitchen grater, this beacon of light transforms into the MVP of your DIY beauty lineup.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Grate Expectations: Unlocking the Magic</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The journey from candle to cosmetic is a tale of transformation. The first step is to arm yourself with a grater, preferably one that hasn't been cozying up to garlic or cheese (unless you're into that sort of thing in your lip balm). With the grater in hand and the beeswax candle at the ready, it's time to unleash the magic.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Grating the beeswax candle is akin to shredding the finest Parmigiano-Reggiano, except, you know, you won't be sprinkling this on your pasta—unless you're crafting a particularly avant-garde dish. The goal here is to turn your solid candle into fine, easy-to-melt flakes, perfect for your natural beauty concoctions.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Waxing Poetic: The Beauty of Beeswax</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Why go through the trouble, you ask? Because beeswax is the bees' knees! It's a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the skin, and creates a protective barrier that locks in hydration without clogging pores. It's the perfect foundation for lip balms that kiss chapped lips goodbye and salves that soothe the skin like a lullaby.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> The DIY Alchemy</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">With your freshly grated beeswax, the world (or at least your kitchen) is your oyster. Melt it down using a double boiler (or a makeshift one with a bowl over a pot of simmering water) and mix it with carrier oils like coconut or almond oil. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for a scent-sational experience, and voilà—you've got yourself a homemade beauty masterpiece.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Moral of the Story</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">So, next time the shelves are bare of beeswax pastilles, or you're feeling a bit MacGyver-esque, look no further than the pure beeswax candle and your trusty grater. Not only will you end up with a bevy of natural beauty products, but you'll also have a tale of resourcefulness and creativity to share at your next candle-lit dinner. Just remember to keep one candle un-grated, for ambiance's sake.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In the end, our great grate adventure teaches us that sometimes, the best beauty hacks are just a kitchen utensil away. And who knows? With your newfound love of grating beeswax, you might just stumble upon your next great DIY discovery. Happy crafting!</span>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-65341217152405921462024-03-03T20:01:00.000-08:002024-03-03T20:01:00.291-08:00The Dilution Solution: Mixing Essential Oils<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5im5z2Ui0prIxU97mSaV-XCQA1sZKCuEuT1TDvSeZV7viAmTtXYQE6cuF9w1JCyV9qshK66KLk2N1LbgvjIm6DRG6L2BXVTkuCP_KT6kCOE4JlZVu4uvycfOeey1NFjQn_hPmdPDPWUhW66CHxlnXA0m7WAdFnzk2qrYK6Jl-Y-fB0_o48j5ekrLwgc/s5754/AdobeStock_430878812.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3836" data-original-width="5754" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ5im5z2Ui0prIxU97mSaV-XCQA1sZKCuEuT1TDvSeZV7viAmTtXYQE6cuF9w1JCyV9qshK66KLk2N1LbgvjIm6DRG6L2BXVTkuCP_KT6kCOE4JlZVu4uvycfOeey1NFjQn_hPmdPDPWUhW66CHxlnXA0m7WAdFnzk2qrYK6Jl-Y-fB0_o48j5ekrLwgc/w640-h426/AdobeStock_430878812.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Welcome, to the wild world of essential oils, where the only thing stronger than the scent is the potential for a skin reaction if you use them undiluted. Yes, we're looking at you, Mr. "I Thought It Was Body Lotion." Fear not! I have concocted a quick guide to diluting your potent potions with a mix of simple ingredients, so you can keep smelling like a dream without living a nightmare.</span><p></p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 1. Carrier Oil Express: All Aboard!</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">First stop, Carrier Oil Central. These oils are the unsung heroes of the essential oil world, ready to carry your potent drops of joy safely to your skin. They're like the best wingmen: always making sure you don't come on too strong.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Olive Oil: Great for salads and skin alike, olive oil is the Godfather of carrier oils. It'll make you an offer your skin can't refuse: deep hydration and a slightly salad-y scent.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Coconut Oil: The tropical transformer. Solid at room temperature but melts on contact with skin, giving you a mini-holiday with every use. Plus, who doesn't want to smell like a walking coconut cream pie?</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Jojoba Oil: It's technically a wax, but let's not split hairs (it's great for those, too). Jojoba is so similar to your skin's natural oil, it's like the long-lost twin your epidermis has been searching for.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 2. Water: The Universal Solvent (Kind of)</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Before you get any wild ideas, let's clear something up: oil and water still don't mix. However, for applications like sprays, adding a few drops of oil to distilled water can create a lovely mist. Just shake it like a polaroid picture before each use.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 3. Aloe Vera Gel: The Cool Kid</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Want to soothe your skin and smell good doing it? Aloe vera gel is your friend. It's like that cool, refreshing friend who always knows how to calm things down. Mix it with your favorite essential oil for a skin-loving treat that also prevents you from turning into a human torch.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 4. Unscented Lotion: The Stealthy Mixer</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Got a favorite unscented lotion? It's about to become your essential oil's best buddy. This is perfect for those who want to moisturize and get their aroma fix without the oiliness. It's like undercover aromatherapy.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 5. Vinegar: Not Just for Chips</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Surprise! White vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used in cleaning sprays with essential oils. Your counter tops will be so clean and fresh-smelling, you'll almost want to eat off them. But please, don't.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 6. Rubbing Alcohol: The Quick Evaporator</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Perfect for making your own hand sanitizers or cleaners, rubbing alcohol can carry your essential oils into the mix without leaving a greasy residue. It's like the fast and furious of diluters—here for a good time, not a long time.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><br /></span><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Conclusion</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Remember, folks, diluting your essential oils isn't just about safety; it's about stretching your dollar and making those precious drops last longer. So, whether you're rolling with the carrier oils, misting with water, soothing with aloe, moisturizing with lotion, cleaning with vinegar, or sanitizing with alcohol, there's a dilution solution for everyone. Now, go forth and blend responsibly, and may your essential oil adventures be both fragrant and fruitful!</span></div>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-68705256434153809192024-02-29T14:56:00.000-08:002024-02-29T14:56:00.130-08:00Lotion, Cream, Salve, Serum, Body Butter: Decoding the Difference<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqATIeDYlrtzjvaiz2GAvZDkisPFkvdaiUUTXO8pUOsGScRL7_5GgyGnEyF6wIGYEtd0gdb7Dd1X4vEnzaxS41-Y9iptV_jq-SZHL4HphukEwt4RiwWC2pGRwLOYBrHfNwDYNhpP3FN13Oz3m8e27LWhZwvRBkbBE2giGfkDH9nEElfG-LxcsCdbQSslk/s3500/AdobeStock_517158583.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2325" data-original-width="3500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqATIeDYlrtzjvaiz2GAvZDkisPFkvdaiUUTXO8pUOsGScRL7_5GgyGnEyF6wIGYEtd0gdb7Dd1X4vEnzaxS41-Y9iptV_jq-SZHL4HphukEwt4RiwWC2pGRwLOYBrHfNwDYNhpP3FN13Oz3m8e27LWhZwvRBkbBE2giGfkDH9nEElfG-LxcsCdbQSslk/w400-h266/AdobeStock_517158583.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In the realm of skincare, the variety of moisturizing products available can sometimes feel like a vast and confusing buffet. With terms like lotion, cream, salve, serum, and body butter floating around, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Fear not, dear reader, for we are about to embark on a delightful journey to decode these differences. Let's dive into the world of skincare with the enthusiasm of a kid in a candy store—or, more aptly, a beauty enthusiast in a skincare aisle.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Lotion: The Lightweight Champion</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Think of lotion as the featherweight fighter of the moisturizing world. Lotions are primarily water-based, with a small amount of oil, making them light and easily absorbable. Perfect for everyday use, lotions are your go-to for a quick hydration fix without the greasy aftermath. They're like that friend who's always easygoing and never overstays their welcome. Lotions are ideal for normal to slightly dry skin types and work wonders in humid climates where you don't want to feel like you're wearing a moisturizer sweater.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Cream: The Middleweight Moisturizer</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Creams are the middleweight contenders in the moisturizing bout. They pack a more balanced mix of water and oil, making them thicker and more hydrating than lotions. Creams are your skin's BFF during the dryer months, or when your skin screams for a little extra TLC. They're like a comforting hug for your skin, providing a protective barrier that locks in moisture. Ideal for dry to combination skin types, creams are versatile players in your skincare lineup.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Salve: The Heavyweight Healer</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Salves are the heavyweights, with a dense, thick texture that's primarily oil-based, often infused with medicinal herbs. Think of salves as the bouncers of the skincare world, offering a protective barrier that also heals. They're fantastic for targeting specific issues like dry patches, eczema, or minor cuts and burns. Salves don't mess around; they're all about getting down to business, healing and protecting with the determination of a mother bear guarding her cubs.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Serum: The Featherlight Fixer</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Serums are the ninjas of skincare—lightweight, powerful, and stealthy in their effectiveness. They're packed with potent ingredients aimed at targeting specific skin concerns like aging, dark spots, or dehydration. Think of serums as your specialized task force, working undercover to fight your skin battles. Their high concentration of active ingredients means a little goes a long way, making them the secret weapon in your skincare arsenal.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Body Butter: The Luxurious Lock-In</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Body butter is the indulgent cousin of creams and lotions, boasting a rich, decadent texture that's perfect for locking in moisture. Made from nut butters (like shea or cocoa) and oils, body butters are your go-to for combating severe dryness and achieving that pampered, luxurious skin feel. They're like the comfort food of the skincare world—rich, satisfying, and a little goes a long way. Best used on damp skin, body butters create an occlusive layer that seals in moisture, making them ideal for dry skin types and harsh winter weather.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Wrapping It Up: A Moisturizer for Every Occasion</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Navigating the world of moisturizers doesn't have to be a daunting task. Whether you need the light touch of a lotion, the balanced hydration of a cream, the targeted healing of a salve, the powerful punch of a serum, or the rich embrace of body butter, there's a product out there for your skin's specific needs. Remember, the best moisturizer is the one that fits your skin type, concerns, and personal preferences. So go ahead, experiment, and find your perfect skincare match!</span><p></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-55743877874212498042024-02-28T19:09:00.000-08:002024-02-28T19:09:00.128-08:0015 Years of Astaxanthin: A Love Story Between Me and My Youthful Skin<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya_ednJ4RU8c_DQN9vzFRwaCN2iut28qJkkw9jj0mj9R2qHvaTO8Rvrob_Yvo9xKplOwovGXtq2xl0SGSpECvOzqJ0eq2zb2bbM6Ylpk23mKjYAc-sMh1cBKBPgMagV-ESt0NApvYCBrkTye84ilgL3KT5TebqlCgHHP0VvAUtLMvhMkd1A75RWIsM68/s7600/AdobeStock_421122177.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5069" data-original-width="7600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhya_ednJ4RU8c_DQN9vzFRwaCN2iut28qJkkw9jj0mj9R2qHvaTO8Rvrob_Yvo9xKplOwovGXtq2xl0SGSpECvOzqJ0eq2zb2bbM6Ylpk23mKjYAc-sMh1cBKBPgMagV-ESt0NApvYCBrkTye84ilgL3KT5TebqlCgHHP0VvAUtLMvhMkd1A75RWIsM68/w640-h426/AdobeStock_421122177.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Once upon a time, in the kingdom of Wellness and Health, there lived a humble yet forward-thinking individual (yours truly) who embarked on a lifelong quest for the elixir of youth. Little did I know, my quest would end not in a mystical spring or a hidden fountain, but in the embrace of a tiny yet mighty antioxidant known as astaxanthin. This is the tale of how a pinkish-red pigment found in algae became my skin's best friend, confidante, and fairy godmother, all rolled into one.</span><p></p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Discovery of My Microscopic Ally</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Fifteen years ago, astaxanthin and I crossed paths. Not in a dramatic, slow-motion movie scene, but in the less glamorous aisle of a health food store. Astaxanthin, for those who haven't had the pleasure, is a carotenoid that gives salmon, shrimp, and flamingos their lovely pink hue. But don't let its pretty color fool you; this antioxidant is a powerhouse, known for its incredible benefits, especially for the skin.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Why Astaxanthin and I Are a Match Made in Antioxidant Heaven</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Since introducing astaxanthin into my daily routine, my skin has embarked on a transformation so profound, even my mirror does a double-take each morning. But what changes, you ask?</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">1. Wrinkle Reduction: My face now laughs in the face of wrinkles. Astaxanthin has helped reduce the appearance of fine lines, making my skin look smoother than a jazz musician's best riff.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">2. Moisture Mastery: Dry skin used to be my constant companion until astaxanthin showed it the door. Now, my skin retains moisture like a cactus in the desert, staying hydrated and plump.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">3. Sun Protection: Although it's no substitute for sunscreen, astaxanthin has boosted my skin’s resilience against UV rays. I like to think of it as my skin's internal sun hat.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">4. Improved Elasticity: My skin now has the bounce-back quality of a top-notch trampoline, thanks to the improved elasticity astaxanthin has promoted.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Selecting the Supreme Astaxanthin Supplement</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Choosing the right astaxanthin supplement is akin to picking the perfect avocado—there's an art to it. Here are some tips to ensure you're getting the best:</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Source Matters: Look for a supplement derived from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis, the best natural source of astaxanthin.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Dosage Dos and Don'ts: While dosages can vary, starting with a dose recommended by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional is wise.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Certification Is Key: Opt for supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency. It’s like getting a recommendation from a friend you trust...if your friend was a lab technician.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Reviews Are Your Friend: Dive into reviews to see how others have fared. While personal experiences vary, a pattern of positive outcomes can be enlightening.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">A 15-Year Journey of Skincare Enlightenment</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Looking back on 15 years of astaxanthin devotion, I can confidently say it's been one of the best decisions for my skin. While I might not have discovered the fountain of youth, I've found something pretty close in this powerful antioxidant.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In closing, if you're seeking a skincare hero that fights aging, cherishes your skin's moisture, and protects like a knight in algae armor, astaxanthin might just be your happily ever after. Here's to many more years of astaxanthin and awe-inspiring skin!</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">And so, with a heart full of gratitude and a face glowing with health, I continue my journey alongside astaxanthin, my microscopic but mighty ally, in the quest for eternal youth. Or, at the very least, the next best thing.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" />Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-41415598103435936312024-02-26T15:47:00.000-08:002024-02-26T15:47:00.127-08:00Embracing the Wacky, Wonderful You: A Guide to Celebrating Every Quirk<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4KIwD2kr8St6sd0dUumA80M58IteTvttF8VKDDjYwnoGaccM6n8I4gK3Rcks-lcJGeQFdkK-watPOvQ87TJsri8H7ofNzW4dm885ThNbn0VaZ5WUr2IYsTE49hLQDboAoQ9cscyOcQTHS9atqoacpk6X85cFiFCz2kWyL9U0bZv6SDoWunocuHFwICA/s6257/AdobeStock_340508342.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2563" data-original-width="6257" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4KIwD2kr8St6sd0dUumA80M58IteTvttF8VKDDjYwnoGaccM6n8I4gK3Rcks-lcJGeQFdkK-watPOvQ87TJsri8H7ofNzW4dm885ThNbn0VaZ5WUr2IYsTE49hLQDboAoQ9cscyOcQTHS9atqoacpk6X85cFiFCz2kWyL9U0bZv6SDoWunocuHFwICA/w640-h262/AdobeStock_340508342.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p>In a world where every second advertisement seems to whisper, "You'd be perfect if only you were a little more this and a little less that," it's time we gather round for a cozy, heart-to-heart chat. Yes, you, sipping your third cup of coffee, and you, who thought wearing socks with sandals was a fashion statement (because, let's face it, comfort is king). Today, we're tossing the beauty manuals out of the window to declare a universal truth: Every single one of us is a bewildering, stunning masterpiece of quirks, flaws, and all.</p><p> The Unfiltered Beauty of Being You</p><p>Imagine if we were all cut from the same cloth. Monday mornings at the office would feel like staring into a hall of mirrors. The horror, right? Your unique blend of traits, talents, and toe-tapping idiosyncrasies is what makes you, well, you. And that's spectacular. Ever noticed how a "flaw" in one context is a superpower in another? Like how your so-called stubbornness is actually a steadfast resilience that sees you through life's rollercoaster? That's not a bug; it's a feature.</p><p>Acceptance: The Inside Job</p><p>Self-acceptance is a bit like learning to bake bread from scratch. It's a process, it takes patience, and sometimes it flops. But oh, when it rises, it’s the most glorious thing. Here are a few yeast packets and cups of flour to get your self-acceptance dough rising:</p><p>- Embrace Your Inner Weirdo: That thing you do, where you narrate your pet’s thoughts in a dramatic voiceover? Gold. Your penchant for collecting rare, vintage spoons? Fascinating! These quirks are the chapters of your story.</p><p>- Mirror Pep Talks: Face that mirror every morning and offer a compliment to the champion staring back. "Hey, good-looking, your resilience is more striking than a sunrise!" Feel silly? Good. Laughter is the best icebreaker, even with yourself.</p><p>- The Comparison Game: Spoiler alert – it's rigged. Compete only with who you were yesterday. Everyone else is too busy untangling their own headphone wires of life to truly judge.</p><p><br /></p><p> Fostering a World of Acceptance</p><p>Now, how do we extend this embrace of uniqueness beyond our reflection? It starts with recognizing that just as you are a dazzling mosaic of traits, so is everyone else.</p><p>- Listen and Learn: Everyone has a story that could fill volumes. Listen not to reply, but to understand. You’ll find that the more you learn about others, the more you see the beauty in diversity.</p><p>- Celebrate Differences: Imagine if every book in the library was the same. Why bother with a library at all? Celebrate the vast genres of human experience around you. It makes for a much richer read.</p><p>- Kindness is King (and Queen): A little kindness goes a long way. It’s the universal language that says, "I see you, I appreciate you, and hey, you're pretty awesome."</p><p><br /></p><p>At the end of the day, the world is a tapestry woven from the threads of our individualities. So wear your quirks like badges of honor. After all, in a sea of sameness, it's the pops of color that catch the eye. Remember, whether you're a majestic peacock or a cozy, book-loving owl, there's beauty in your feathers. Let's make the world a runway where everyone gets to strut their stuff, mismatched socks and all.</p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-44486751276309195672024-02-24T14:50:00.000-08:002024-02-24T14:50:00.258-08:00Powdered Wigs and Lead Paint: The Quirky Quest for 18th Century Natural Beauty<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwh3-l5d3TwyWLUnmEl5_BgpIRqlK95_c7733taa29WyNme9vLLsZmSvmtL46Jaq5W4Jjd1lgIMzWAoyPJmt4uNyIcT7ZkLPYR6ThuFNpToA89U2VNn1Kx3hW7dC4VUzFFpoVp4UGlIORbENdr3shZXXuBshjR0nMJn7Gw7hNJXI1viuQuGVAXqgeTFCk/s2048/AdobeStock_580892634.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwh3-l5d3TwyWLUnmEl5_BgpIRqlK95_c7733taa29WyNme9vLLsZmSvmtL46Jaq5W4Jjd1lgIMzWAoyPJmt4uNyIcT7ZkLPYR6ThuFNpToA89U2VNn1Kx3hW7dC4VUzFFpoVp4UGlIORbENdr3shZXXuBshjR0nMJn7Gw7hNJXI1viuQuGVAXqgeTFCk/w400-h400/AdobeStock_580892634.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Ah, the 18th century, a time when "natural beauty" was as straightforward as a three-hour game of charades and about as easy to decode. If you've ever yearned to return to the days of powdered wigs, porcelain skin, and an alarming disregard for toxic substances in the pursuit of beauty, then buckle up. We're diving into the delightfully quirky (and slightly hazardous) world of 18th-century natural beauty.</span><p></p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div> The Foundation of Beauty: Literally</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Let's start with the foundation, and no, I'm not talking about the type you buy from Sephora. In the 18th century, achieving that coveted, luminous, I-definitely-don't-have-scurvy glow meant slathering your face with a concoction of white lead and vinegar. Yes, you read that correctly: lead, as in the element you avoid in your water pipes. This paste, known as ceruse, was the go-to for anyone wishing to look like they'd never seen sunlight in their life. On the bright side, it did wonders for covering smallpox scars. On the not-so-bright side, lead poisoning. But hey, beauty is pain, right?</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Eyebrows on Fleek: Mouse Fur Edition</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">If you think the eyebrow trends of today are wild, let me introduce you to the 18th-century solution to thin brows: mouse fur. That's right, the height of eyebrow fashion was attaching tiny strips of mouse fur to your forehead. It was the perfect solution for those who'd over-plucked or lost their brows to disease or, more likely, to their lead-based makeup. Plus, it added a whole new level of danger to the phrase "a mouse in the house."</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Hair to the Heavens: The Higher the Wig, the Closer to God</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The 18th century took the term "big hair, don't care" to new heights—literally. The powdered wig, or peruke, was all the rage, with the most fashionable wigs reaching dizzying heights and widths. These towering hairpieces were often powdered white and could be adorned with everything from ribbons to miniature ships (because nothing says "sophisticated" like a naval battle atop your head). Not only were these wigs a status symbol, but they also conveniently hid hair loss and a variety of scalp ailments, proving that sometimes the best solution is just to cover it up and call it fashion.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> The Scent of Sophistication: Eau de Not Bathing</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In an era when bathing was considered borderline scandalous and a surefire way to invite illness, perfume was the 18th-century solution to personal hygiene. The most fashionable scents were often heavy and musky, designed to mask the, ahem, "natural musk" of not bathing. This led to the creation of scents like "Eau de King Louis XIV's Court," which historians suspect was just code for "Eau de We Haven't Seen Water in Weeks."</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Pearly Whites: Blackened Teeth for a Dazzling Smile</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">And let's not forget about dental beauty standards. While today we strive for pearly white teeth, the 18th century had a different take. Sugar was becoming more accessible, and nothing said "I'm rich and can afford sugar" like a set of decaying teeth. For those not lucky enough to have their teeth naturally rot, blackening one's teeth was a popular alternative. Because nothing complements a lead-white face like a mouthful of blackened teeth, right?</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Wrapping It Up: Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder (Who is Probably Wearing Blinders)</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">So, there you have it: a glimpse into the wild world of 18th-century natural beauty, where the quest for the aesthetic ideal involved a mix of creativity, bravery, and a healthy dose of denial about the health effects of lead. It's a gentle reminder that beauty standards are always changing, often absurd, and sometimes downright dangerous. But fear not, dear reader. As long as you steer clear of lead-based products and mouse fur eyebrows, you're probably doing okay by 18th-century standards.</span>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-19810558467833727322024-02-21T18:50:00.000-08:002024-02-21T18:50:00.241-08:00Glowing Up with Red Light Therapy: An Enlightening Journey for My Skin<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1w32MLzwkNNrpuP-Br_d1tbAcJHSKtefIOE-_dKwbE1Q7Mso97UkXhG-HqGumLGnRyp4sdK6us9mOX_FLnn66cZdUwcJhQ7xvvF_bMFX9DNvw89k4ZM3dYz-gpjSxUCioxe1rRHFKE4Z-tkANP-qR2S-2KpZaNL0wXV60ncLRqgkMw03hj5v0trZMkAk/s2025/IMG_1476.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2025" data-original-width="1290" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1w32MLzwkNNrpuP-Br_d1tbAcJHSKtefIOE-_dKwbE1Q7Mso97UkXhG-HqGumLGnRyp4sdK6us9mOX_FLnn66cZdUwcJhQ7xvvF_bMFX9DNvw89k4ZM3dYz-gpjSxUCioxe1rRHFKE4Z-tkANP-qR2S-2KpZaNL0wXV60ncLRqgkMw03hj5v0trZMkAk/w408-h640/IMG_1476.jpeg" width="408" /></a></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In the quiet hours of each evening, I've developed a unique routine that's become an essential part of my skincare regimen. This involves not just any ordinary skincare products, but the embrace of red light therapy through the use of two innovative devices: wearable and flexible silicone masks designed for my face, and a slightly larger version for my neck and chest. This nightly ritual has not only become a cornerstone of my self-care practice but has also introduced me to the profound benefits of red light therapy.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Why I Chose Red Light Therapy</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The decision to incorporate red light therapy into my daily routine stemmed from my ongoing quest for non-invasive methods to rejuvenate my skin. After researching various options, I was drawn to red light therapy's promise of promoting collagen production, reducing inflammation, and enhancing skin's overall appearance without the harshness of chemicals or the invasiveness of needles.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The Magic of Wearable Silicone Masks</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">The devices I use are nothing short of revolutionary. These wearable silicone masks are designed to fit snugly over my face and neck/chest, ensuring maximum exposure to the therapeutic red light. Their flexibility and comfort make the experience not just bearable but genuinely enjoyable. Every night, as I settle in for my session, these masks work silently, bathing my skin in wavelengths that promise rejuvenation and healing.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Observing the Benefits</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Since incorporating red light therapy into my nightly routine, the changes in my skin have been both visible and tangible. The fine lines that once etched their stories across my face are gradually fading into a smoother canvas. My skin's texture has improved, feeling more pliable and resilient. But perhaps most notably, the overall tone and health of my skin have seen significant enhancement. Areas of redness and uneven pigmentation have begun to give way to a more uniform complexion, reflecting the therapy's healing properties.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Navigating the Experience</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Adapting to this new routine was an adventure in itself. Initially, managing the correct frequency of sessions required some trial and error, balancing between efficacy and ensuring I didn't overdo it. Learning to integrate this practice into my evening routine also took some adjustment, but the masks' ease of use and the relaxing nature of the therapy itself made the transition smoother than I anticipated.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Conclusion: A Commitment to Skin Health</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Looking back on my journey with red light therapy, I'm deeply encouraged by the positive changes in my skin. These wearable silicone masks, with their innovative design and therapeutic light, have not only enhanced my skin's appearance but have also instilled in me a greater appreciation for non-invasive methods of skin care. For those curious about exploring red light therapy, I can wholeheartedly recommend it as a worthwhile addition to your skincare arsenal. It's a commitment, certainly, but one that your skin will thank you for in the years to come.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In embracing red light therapy, I've found a powerful ally in the quest for healthier, more vibrant skin. The journey has been one of discovery, learning, and visible results, guided by the gentle glow of red light each night.</span><p></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-90578358048653796782024-02-20T18:25:00.000-08:002024-02-20T18:25:24.180-08:00Aromatherapy on a Shoestring: Sniffing Out Budget-Friendly Essential Oils<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8ZRM5bpyrPNnbXo-bfldO5NvbiBGbMxPsl7YS8jF_bdRM0nX4KbCEkcbEvjyMS7j7oWTfSH8nmjxC_XBXD6JF-d6blxq1lk44fmBRheOVczcus39IbL3G5zI1jDNC6AF0EUWt-F-PObiFhjlAlgkO0upy0qoAnvMJw-hqKOBde4Y1mPBiWGQSO_-pu8/s5624/AdobeStock_486215051.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3754" data-original-width="5624" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx8ZRM5bpyrPNnbXo-bfldO5NvbiBGbMxPsl7YS8jF_bdRM0nX4KbCEkcbEvjyMS7j7oWTfSH8nmjxC_XBXD6JF-d6blxq1lk44fmBRheOVczcus39IbL3G5zI1jDNC6AF0EUWt-F-PObiFhjlAlgkO0upy0qoAnvMJw-hqKOBde4Y1mPBiWGQSO_-pu8/w640-h428/AdobeStock_486215051.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Welcome to the world of essential oils, where the scents are strong and the prices...well, they don’t always have to be! Yes, you heard that right. Embarking on your aromatic adventure doesn’t mean you have to sell a kidney. There’s a whole universe of essential oils that won’t make your wallet weep. Let’s take a whiff of the most budget-friendly essential oils that promise to keep both your spirits and your bank account high.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 1. Lavender Oil - The Chill Pill</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Lavender oil is the yoga instructor of essential oils—always there to calm you down when the going gets tough, minus the yoga pants. Perfect for those nights when your brain decides to run a marathon, lavender will have you snoozing faster than you can say "Namaste." And the best part? It’s as affordable as those yoga classes you never went to.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 2. Peppermint Oil - The Cool Kid on the Block</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Ever wished for a mint that could freshen up your room and your sinuses? Meet peppermint oil, the multitasker that cools you down and wakes you up, all without breaking the bank. It’s like having your own personal air conditioner and espresso machine in a tiny, magical bottle.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 3. Lemon Oil- The Zesty Sidekick</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">If life gives you lemons, make lemon oil! Or better yet, buy it—it’s cheaper. Lemon oil is sunshine in a bottle, ready to brighten your day and cleanse everything it touches. It’s great for sticky situations, like removing gum from your shoe or adding a pep to your step, and all for the price of a fancy coffee.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 4. Tea Tree Oil - The Blemish Bouncer</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Got spots? Tea tree oil is your skin’s new best friend. This oil is like the bouncer at the club of your face, keeping those unwanted pimple guests at bay. Plus, it’s as economical as it is effective, meaning you can fight off acne without having to take up a side hustle.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 5. Eucalyptus Oil - The Breath of Fresh Air</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Congested? Eucalyptus oil is here to clear things up. It’s like a spa day for your sinuses, and who doesn’t love a bargain spa day? Inhale a bit of this, and you’ll feel like you’re breathing for the first time—perfect for those who love dramatic relief without the dramatic spend.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">#6. Sweet Orange Oil - The Mood Booster</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Feeling down? A sniff of sweet orange oil is like a dose of liquid happiness, minus the weird side effects. It’s like capturing the essence of every sunny day you've ever enjoyed and bottling it up for those not-so-sunny days. And it’s cheaper than therapy!</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"> Conclusion</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Who says you need to splash out to enjoy the finer scents in life? With these wallet-friendly wonders, you can dive nose-first into aromatherapy and still afford your other hobbies—like collecting rare, expensive essential oils (just kidding!). Remember, it’s not about how much you spend, but how wisely you sniff. So go ahead, indulge in these budget-friendly beauties and let your senses (and savings) thank you later!</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-20312576365257399782024-02-17T14:44:00.000-08:002024-02-17T14:44:58.932-08:00Sniffing Out the Real Deal: The Saga of Genuine Essential Oils<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7c5K99OR13NJYRBKNdoUbgyXbctk4zKlebbzrT9JYpWb1H524xjYE2ybI2LCy9HZIOW-Wn2Ua3dnJN1eN_OiOCTF8nZnDfTS13qOMUVAXsHQ5UUk-UluH4q74nxivNixy5gt51a3vVqtyFNDsqrnSJN8i_zVtm8M1qZsfSix0xiIiV13ht2npzkdK6ic/s4415/AdobeStock_298494060%202.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3398" data-original-width="4415" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7c5K99OR13NJYRBKNdoUbgyXbctk4zKlebbzrT9JYpWb1H524xjYE2ybI2LCy9HZIOW-Wn2Ua3dnJN1eN_OiOCTF8nZnDfTS13qOMUVAXsHQ5UUk-UluH4q74nxivNixy5gt51a3vVqtyFNDsqrnSJN8i_zVtm8M1qZsfSix0xiIiV13ht2npzkdK6ic/w400-h308/AdobeStock_298494060%202.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">In the wild jungle of wellness trends, essential oils are the cool cats everyone wants to befriend. They promise to soothe your soul, pep up your pep talks, and maybe even make your yoga pants fit better (okay, maybe not that). But as their fame skyrockets, so does the number of imposters in their ranks. It turns out, ensuring your essential oils are as genuine as your excuses for skipping the gym is pretty darn important. Let’s dive into the whimsical world of why authenticity in your essential stash is more crucial than choosing the right Instagram filter.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 1. Purely Potent or Just a Poser</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">First up, let’s talk potency. Genuine essential oils are like the superheroes of the plant world, capturing their essence, powers, and all. But when they're mixed with the kryptonite of synthetics or diluted with other oils, their superpowers wane. Only the real deal guarantees you the full Monty of benefits they boast, from turning your frown upside down to making your skin glow like you swallowed a lightbulb.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 2. Safety First, Shenanigans Later</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Dabbling in the dubious world of fake oils is like going on a blind date with someone who still lives with their ex. It’s risky. Counterfeit concoctions could leave you with a rash, an allergic reaction, or a mysterious urge to howl at the moon. Genuine oils, when used as wisely as choosing your Netflix binge, are usually as safe as a nap in a hammock.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 3. Eco-Warrior or Eco-Worrier</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Choosing authentic essential oils makes you an eco-warrior by default. These oils come from plants that were loved, hugged, and sung to sleep (okay, maybe not sung to). They’re harvested with Mother Earth in mind, unlike their fake counterparts, which are about as eco-friendly as a plastic bag at a dolphin party. By going genuine, you’re voting for a happier planet.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 4. Fair Play in the Field</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Opting for the real McCoy supports the unsung heroes behind the bottle – the farmers and producers. It's like choosing fair trade coffee; you ensure that the people doing the hard work get their fair share of the pie (or in this case, the oil). Counterfeits, on the other hand, are often the product of the dark arts of exploitation and corner-cutting.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># 5. Quality Quirks</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Lastly, authenticity is the secret sauce to quality. Genuine oils are the Chanel of the essential oil world – they bring the je ne sais quoi to your olfactory experience. They don’t just smell good; they transport you to lavender fields in France or a peppermint patty wonderland. That’s something no knock-off can replicate.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"># Sniffing Out the Authentic</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">To keep your oil game on point:</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Shop Smart: Stick to brands that have more credentials than a beauty queen has sashes.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Demand the Tests: Look for oils that have passed more tests than a nerd in finals week.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Transparency is Key: Go for brands that are more open than your grandma on Facebook.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">- Red Flags: If the price is too good to be true, it’s probably as fake as a politician’s promise.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;"></span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;">Wrapping up, hunting for genuine essential oils is a bit like dating – it pays to know what you’re getting into. By choosing authenticity, you’re not just doing yourself a favor; you’re giving a nod to the planet, supporting fair play, and ensuring your sensory experience is top-notch. So next time, sniff wisely, choose wisely, and let the genuine essence of the earth tickle your senses.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleTallBody; font-size: 17px;" /><p></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-66008877961198017482023-10-24T07:30:00.003-07:002023-10-24T17:10:34.663-07:00Balm's Away! A DIY Guide to Whipping Up a Sandalwood Beard Balm<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifL_JfXxin1E4hO_VZFPxnIwLrY0ssVUCQLDf1-polvbRuRMKpUGLH8Zr1k_LrQI2DnNitL4uvhz0LurvT3ydARYrOLjnXIvQUj_z1HmvF8o9p5UOIT7PaOGzk7Nle4XdjQdws23pxmm19vfpOuT1o80SX5WYVyF-1MgDSMC5KGWPx_YXqa9ezl8FET80/s8495/AdobeStock_201685285.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5663" data-original-width="8495" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifL_JfXxin1E4hO_VZFPxnIwLrY0ssVUCQLDf1-polvbRuRMKpUGLH8Zr1k_LrQI2DnNitL4uvhz0LurvT3ydARYrOLjnXIvQUj_z1HmvF8o9p5UOIT7PaOGzk7Nle4XdjQdws23pxmm19vfpOuT1o80SX5WYVyF-1MgDSMC5KGWPx_YXqa9ezl8FET80/w640-h426/AdobeStock_201685285.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 28px; font-weight: bold;">Sandalwood Beard Balm</span><p></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="s2"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Step right up, stubble-studded gents! Time to whip up a DIY Sandalwood Beard Balm in your very own kitchen - no culinary degree required. This magic potion is packed with glycerine, guaranteed to hydrate your face like a tropical rainstorm. Poof! Your stubble turns from prickly cacti to soft cashmere. The piece de resistance? Pure sandalwood essential oil. It smells so darn good, your nose will think it's at a woodland spa. Making natural skincare never smelled so manly!</span></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="s2"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Start with 80 grams of distilled water and 4 grams of vegetable glycerine. Add both of these into a glass beaker. Place the glass beaker into a pot of simmering water. </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><span class="s1"></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">You will need 5 grams of </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;">CreamMaker® BLEND</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"> from Making Cosmetics at <a href="http://www.makingcosmetics.com">www.makingcosmetics.com</a>. This ingredient is what allows your water phase and your oil phase to stay emulsified.</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"> Add it into your glass beaker with your water and glycerine. </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You need 10 grams of Jojoba oil and 5 grams of shea butter. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Add them into a separate glass beaker and place into the simmering water bath. Bring both phases up to 160 degrees. </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You absolutely need to have a good preservative to add into your beard balm. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>For this amount, you will need 1.5 grams of phenoxyethanol-SA and 3 grams of AMTicide Coconut. You can find both of these at <a href="http://www.lotioncrafter.com">www.lotioncrafter.com</a></span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You also need 20 drops of pure Sandalwood essential oil. </span> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qzd-yC_iEUrcs9GwNgvbScotm9uzeCzpGOkL8ssuYq2a9EbqlDtDa8IJeiT4VflxcDzfNOJvXVOOpYZCu4BNcyPKVQcd8qeY7NdDA_k_H4xaDk4UMvv94RJmQe537OsSZcctsalcd6O6SJqhXnT-MX3GcpUGkQVIwoeswRp5Rq_fGI94w9G8G5q2f_g/s640/36DA7CED-3C9B-4D8D-B112-D0030FA32F98.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qzd-yC_iEUrcs9GwNgvbScotm9uzeCzpGOkL8ssuYq2a9EbqlDtDa8IJeiT4VflxcDzfNOJvXVOOpYZCu4BNcyPKVQcd8qeY7NdDA_k_H4xaDk4UMvv94RJmQe537OsSZcctsalcd6O6SJqhXnT-MX3GcpUGkQVIwoeswRp5Rq_fGI94w9G8G5q2f_g/w300-h400/36DA7CED-3C9B-4D8D-B112-D0030FA32F98.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Once both phases reach 160 degrees, carefully bring the glass beakers out of the water bath. You will need a thermometer and a sanitized blending stick. </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Add the oil phase into the water phase. </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLP2RLdct38DYr75bPLthviRMM1rNsaQG4XauUP0lokbchyFrPeUPbEwL0dIpTHv_hxgKKegbXBgFS12RowLAuvmDM2qLxmUUBXqP73o3q-zzoOZsq8WvDIr4k8NuC-68Qu-770kVXUxswuCKym1tBo4m8GRZtSYNtoI8cuWd7uquLHrUAJ4qzhcyPVDY/s640/05BCA062-026A-4E57-9D72-D5AADFC827C0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLP2RLdct38DYr75bPLthviRMM1rNsaQG4XauUP0lokbchyFrPeUPbEwL0dIpTHv_hxgKKegbXBgFS12RowLAuvmDM2qLxmUUBXqP73o3q-zzoOZsq8WvDIr4k8NuC-68Qu-770kVXUxswuCKym1tBo4m8GRZtSYNtoI8cuWd7uquLHrUAJ4qzhcyPVDY/w300-h400/05BCA062-026A-4E57-9D72-D5AADFC827C0.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Blend with eht mixer to cool and thicken up the beard balm. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>You want to bring it down to 100 degrees F and then add in both the preservatives and essential oil. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM5Ct_TIcBRbJmTI2YvdEdQGm4NOrv5mdeE5WklrYZ9wo2X5R7lffTTLyVdCq4LA0UZnrV2R93v0DGsuc6c9SbXyCQQypy1xo_C60anwig6wTEuwsV00lG0WFrv_8C90qN_3EyNPUqSA2kYbNsx6oc_gUJo_zHgCK8Hy43D1nWou4SaYyitwSWFyzElMs/s640/72F51588-78E4-405C-A1D0-E2746732E3CA.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM5Ct_TIcBRbJmTI2YvdEdQGm4NOrv5mdeE5WklrYZ9wo2X5R7lffTTLyVdCq4LA0UZnrV2R93v0DGsuc6c9SbXyCQQypy1xo_C60anwig6wTEuwsV00lG0WFrv_8C90qN_3EyNPUqSA2kYbNsx6oc_gUJo_zHgCK8Hy43D1nWou4SaYyitwSWFyzElMs/w300-h400/72F51588-78E4-405C-A1D0-E2746732E3CA.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><p></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p3" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s2"></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Once the balm cools to about 100 degrees F it will be thicker. Add it into a lotion container or any sanitized container you like. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Use within two months for best results. </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2gXy8COkjfnTO5o8hUNPmuKR5p_FX46MzL0V424IXU1bB_o90Y3NtHaWRkMPB_JKdyhJ-Nbm93AM3ZxFRYXJvTwRvFWTHAGIKcnzFH2tVdgWVAlfTAgmUQrAVxo3_YwIF8chwW4uuvQKvShPSXTCHukBkhe9xZwVFiU6T5CywRLE4rJwriWIBzKuoRA/s640/8B4129DB-9F9D-445C-9069-2905F482ABED.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2gXy8COkjfnTO5o8hUNPmuKR5p_FX46MzL0V424IXU1bB_o90Y3NtHaWRkMPB_JKdyhJ-Nbm93AM3ZxFRYXJvTwRvFWTHAGIKcnzFH2tVdgWVAlfTAgmUQrAVxo3_YwIF8chwW4uuvQKvShPSXTCHukBkhe9xZwVFiU6T5CywRLE4rJwriWIBzKuoRA/w300-h400/8B4129DB-9F9D-445C-9069-2905F482ABED.jpeg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-58636838322800528062023-10-23T23:44:00.000-07:002023-10-23T23:44:37.477-07:00Black Honey Lip Balm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJ_NQ2VWqvlw1T7O2tm7S1zQNBA4Nm5YLzY9O4YXY44CRoe3H8InyyVXXURkQxAaxb7mKI_LyT6_n7w9T-Ay2mm-FHlJd2yf1WkcUSRvUEVjBB-8wCAA8cffr0YJUvE8qBnGqGFr65kM/s1600/IMG_2174%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJ_NQ2VWqvlw1T7O2tm7S1zQNBA4Nm5YLzY9O4YXY44CRoe3H8InyyVXXURkQxAaxb7mKI_LyT6_n7w9T-Ay2mm-FHlJd2yf1WkcUSRvUEVjBB-8wCAA8cffr0YJUvE8qBnGqGFr65kM/s640/IMG_2174%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br /></div><div><div>Clinique Black Honey and I have been through more drama than a soap opera. It's been my go-to lip savior since high school, a mystical tube of magic that flatters every hair shade and skin tone, making lips look as naturally blushed as a blackberry in a sunbeam.</div><div><br /></div><div>Recently, I decided to play makeup mixologist and stir up my own knock-off cocktail. And guess what? It was a cinch! My DIY recipe is as see-through and silky as a jellyfish in a ballet tutu, gliding on like a champion ice-skater, cheekily mimicking my beloved Clinique original.</div></div><div><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhBkEX3UKMVB1t4eunyoom7-relfd4YQAB4H8Z3EO1iD6L5ARYqPq678LSitH5PG0wjv8FXKzS-5UTnU0iJj9iIa1BrGsFaizfb8DJc5EciRm9qtligDuraqQHAIs8UpwByTaDb0vMs4/s1600/IMG_2166%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlhBkEX3UKMVB1t4eunyoom7-relfd4YQAB4H8Z3EO1iD6L5ARYqPq678LSitH5PG0wjv8FXKzS-5UTnU0iJj9iIa1BrGsFaizfb8DJc5EciRm9qtligDuraqQHAIs8UpwByTaDb0vMs4/s640/IMG_2166%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div>I found myself sitting on a mountain of Essential Wholesale Vegan Lip Balm, weighing roughly the same as a newborn baby. So, I figured why wrestle with my beeswax and carrier oils when I've got this goldmine at hand? This lip balm base is the bread and butter for those of us who fancy ourselves lip color alchemists, cooking up all sorts of lipstick shades.</div><div><br /></div>And if you're itching to make a truckload of your own lipstick base, hold onto your hats! I've got a tutorial brewing that's hotter than a jalapeno in a sauna. Stay tuned!.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoM1aKGILeoA-YY9H-eIfPWAX6JU7GGiGVog4vEGoB3C86Hnor7TAGujZziBxseNu62SMa2WErFkHPMVldMVQ3AXly0SAb1RDoZfCfTUOT5sNrerEiKbOEIbnXNwXtRQCoE-XPgDuZ4Dk/s1600/IMG_2167%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoM1aKGILeoA-YY9H-eIfPWAX6JU7GGiGVog4vEGoB3C86Hnor7TAGujZziBxseNu62SMa2WErFkHPMVldMVQ3AXly0SAb1RDoZfCfTUOT5sNrerEiKbOEIbnXNwXtRQCoE-XPgDuZ4Dk/s640/IMG_2167%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
I ordered this from Essential Wholesale.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNstrsVStHFf1luBz12-lz-Aa86eXjdZs9uSswDK_mtm7l0flXm-Q1jLVQIVgrnEyQzkb3m8naroYqyjexn3RCt-ykZiomn7m7SqKzlNmCYHvy9aoCuuBrxmUvjx32a8rs-RUJ_nwOyb0/s1600/IMG_2168%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNstrsVStHFf1luBz12-lz-Aa86eXjdZs9uSswDK_mtm7l0flXm-Q1jLVQIVgrnEyQzkb3m8naroYqyjexn3RCt-ykZiomn7m7SqKzlNmCYHvy9aoCuuBrxmUvjx32a8rs-RUJ_nwOyb0/s640/IMG_2168%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Measure out 11 grams of the lip balm base into a glass beaker or measuring cup.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9wdqJPkClDlOnIyV2tr481-9ZDaByHM48Zrr24qdUD02i8gR1tVuVM9ehwc-xxXUGVjavIt7q1lyJOeRXGZOOTggNKz4Gu50C31J936emM9XP3oURALOUqspa8RqS-qhIW0J5oVKar4/s1600/IMG_2171%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9wdqJPkClDlOnIyV2tr481-9ZDaByHM48Zrr24qdUD02i8gR1tVuVM9ehwc-xxXUGVjavIt7q1lyJOeRXGZOOTggNKz4Gu50C31J936emM9XP3oURALOUqspa8RqS-qhIW0J5oVKar4/s640/IMG_2171%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Place the glass beaker into a few inches of simmering water. Stir to melt (which happens pretty quickly).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKw8clRZL_i3YYzjAPPIcCa8q9Mldam1Ez2Qnp0sq8_2fV4WjeaZwqrLeHm1veDuCx27WPvtPel_kzKh5kzeibWGASPnLManBH_wvvW-BJg1eRqjJllM1CluZOmt0BOo8SxHNxD9ltI0k/s1600/IMG_2170%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKw8clRZL_i3YYzjAPPIcCa8q9Mldam1Ez2Qnp0sq8_2fV4WjeaZwqrLeHm1veDuCx27WPvtPel_kzKh5kzeibWGASPnLManBH_wvvW-BJg1eRqjJllM1CluZOmt0BOo8SxHNxD9ltI0k/s640/IMG_2170%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
For the colorants, I chose to use 1/4 teaspoon of Titanium Dioxide, 1/8 teaspoon of Red Oxide (blue shade) and 1/8 teaspoon of Red Basics Mica. You can order these from TKB Trading.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxsbo3zQCIlGyr4FO0Urz16Bn5HxiIaCnodADgRZgEHUtBFkm9ChDZ6ZtlRi7UgLesjQM-RII3GWRMwhsWn0bBXbc-RgnYMjC75QNk3g7lD1lWj4q9lL85TSKmIcLmX_4A-bwj-0X0e0E/s1600/IMG_2172%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxsbo3zQCIlGyr4FO0Urz16Bn5HxiIaCnodADgRZgEHUtBFkm9ChDZ6ZtlRi7UgLesjQM-RII3GWRMwhsWn0bBXbc-RgnYMjC75QNk3g7lD1lWj4q9lL85TSKmIcLmX_4A-bwj-0X0e0E/s640/IMG_2172%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div>Pour the colorants into the melted base. Keep the glass beaker in warm water so the base does not harden up while you work the colors into it. You will spend about 4 to 5 minutes stirring to ensure that all the colors are smoothly distributed in the base and that there are no small gritty chunks of the minerals.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once you get the beautiful color mixed up, carefully pour the hot liquid into lip balm containers. I filled two traditional 4.5 ml lip balm tubes and one 7 ml glass lip balm pot with the product.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6FbekrXEF2y3P9IK7S2olftf6j_GWEuj9sOt4IDEaXTmsHUiavwYrkMJolJp5uqZaVXbiSOUGxrN-tow9a7aRy6vnza4m3hbNPTJ8DIf21piaOfhznpzjSmpiTW9Onj7-cvPwKn_hAk/s1600/IMG_2176%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6FbekrXEF2y3P9IK7S2olftf6j_GWEuj9sOt4IDEaXTmsHUiavwYrkMJolJp5uqZaVXbiSOUGxrN-tow9a7aRy6vnza4m3hbNPTJ8DIf21piaOfhznpzjSmpiTW9Onj7-cvPwKn_hAk/s640/IMG_2176%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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So gorgeous! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJ_NQ2VWqvlw1T7O2tm7S1zQNBA4Nm5YLzY9O4YXY44CRoe3H8InyyVXXURkQxAaxb7mKI_LyT6_n7w9T-Ay2mm-FHlJd2yf1WkcUSRvUEVjBB-8wCAA8cffr0YJUvE8qBnGqGFr65kM/s1600/IMG_2174%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJ_NQ2VWqvlw1T7O2tm7S1zQNBA4Nm5YLzY9O4YXY44CRoe3H8InyyVXXURkQxAaxb7mKI_LyT6_n7w9T-Ay2mm-FHlJd2yf1WkcUSRvUEVjBB-8wCAA8cffr0YJUvE8qBnGqGFr65kM/s640/IMG_2174%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Here is the swatch of the finished lip balm. Pretty darn close to Black Honey!<br />
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Enjoy!!<br />
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-Shannon Buck<br />
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<br />Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-48752366286146939172023-10-23T18:06:00.001-07:002023-10-23T18:06:20.627-07:00Squalane Oil: Your Skin's BFF and Your Wallet's Secret Weapon!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmx2pv5MmArbfrm3dxogn7Y_0Q36TWhI4ln76e2d80KVkHpWVh0aGScMS0QnYapQzKbQH2f8nUHsCuv_Zhn8J7qQ36aXq4Am0uP54oaPvKesvQIi0jLvzhNH4TnOilOh_nOf4kSnqZIkP6AryQ8IfRqbFtw0FZ0V17Ns6oxh8HNzc13PZDLZ9SQpNcWY/s4058/AdobeStock_418182676.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2705" data-original-width="4058" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMmx2pv5MmArbfrm3dxogn7Y_0Q36TWhI4ln76e2d80KVkHpWVh0aGScMS0QnYapQzKbQH2f8nUHsCuv_Zhn8J7qQ36aXq4Am0uP54oaPvKesvQIi0jLvzhNH4TnOilOh_nOf4kSnqZIkP6AryQ8IfRqbFtw0FZ0V17Ns6oxh8HNzc13PZDLZ9SQpNcWY/w640-h426/AdobeStock_418182676.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div> <span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What if I told you that there's a magic elixir that can make your face smoother than a baby's bottom, and won't have your wallet crying for mercy? Meet Squalane oil, the unsung hero of skincare!</span></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Squalane oil is like the fairy godmother of your face – it moisturizes, balances oil production, and even fights off skin-damaging free radicals. It's like a multi-talented superstar that decided to take up residence in a tiny bottle!</span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 27.2px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now, some companies are hawking these petite one-ounce bottles of 100% pure Squalane oil for a whopping $40 an ounce. I mean, sure, it's fantastic stuff, but we're not filling up a Ferrari here!</span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 27.2px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"But how do I get my hands on this skin-loving nectar without selling a kidney?" I hear you ask. Easy peasy! We're going to play a little game called 'Buy in Bulk.' It's not just for toilet paper, folks!</span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 27.2px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span><br /></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You see, you can get your hands on a larger quantity of this liquid gold for a fraction of the price – and then, you just need to channel your inner mixologist. All you need is a small dropper bottle, and voila! You've got your very own skincare concoction.</span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 27.2px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, not only will you be bathing your face in the luxurious indulgence of Squalane oil, but you'll also be laughing all the way to the bank. It's a win-win, darlings!</span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 27.2px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="s1"></span><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Let's make it clear, my friends, skincare doesn't have to break the bank. It's time to embrace the bulk, enjoy the savings, and let your skin bask in the glory of Squalane oil! Who said you can't have your cake and eat it too?</span></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gO-WyeltebpCHTeGexHNge19Z9WaZgYBb7Z67Q-Qjs07AYdh_2BrqC-CNoPpxBcqSfK2xtC3QQBeujQIe7FM04lJN2sCO9ffr-FJbRLdSl-81FRTlvUCGe8Fj1dHp9MHelerapc8EAHj_ocWMEZLNiyUhezPZgijZgGyEEBkU7SKZwj08OIj8cgARbA/s2062/13CEA2AF-0D23-46FD-9442-301D7D686B18.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2062" height="636" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3gO-WyeltebpCHTeGexHNge19Z9WaZgYBb7Z67Q-Qjs07AYdh_2BrqC-CNoPpxBcqSfK2xtC3QQBeujQIe7FM04lJN2sCO9ffr-FJbRLdSl-81FRTlvUCGe8Fj1dHp9MHelerapc8EAHj_ocWMEZLNiyUhezPZgijZgGyEEBkU7SKZwj08OIj8cgARbA/w640-h636/13CEA2AF-0D23-46FD-9442-301D7D686B18.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>I like to buy my Olive Squalane from Lotioncrafter.com. You can get 1 ounce for just $8.25 or you can choose larger sizes too. <br /><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span><p></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-27648825678599764912022-12-01T09:30:00.010-08:002023-10-23T17:43:36.780-07:00Functional Fragrances<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo0GIK_56-DiiE9VC1_acTC2PAf6b2HpP-gWf8s2QzrLDmt9JGKUN5ctJHo7SvUq-woVPKpzbogxeU8qSPJFP2PLX9a4lA1i81gEZk9ybkgDfA3BBH2fex5h-Xocd8Iz0TeiY9VrN0d0LzZSx5JZA9HU5dwXjGSZvia6z-T-8kCZ7BBKkkkUamzhmZ/s940/Modern%20Bright%20Food%20Blogger%20Recipes%20Promo%20Facebook%20Post.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo0GIK_56-DiiE9VC1_acTC2PAf6b2HpP-gWf8s2QzrLDmt9JGKUN5ctJHo7SvUq-woVPKpzbogxeU8qSPJFP2PLX9a4lA1i81gEZk9ybkgDfA3BBH2fex5h-Xocd8Iz0TeiY9VrN0d0LzZSx5JZA9HU5dwXjGSZvia6z-T-8kCZ7BBKkkkUamzhmZ/w640-h536/Modern%20Bright%20Food%20Blogger%20Recipes%20Promo%20Facebook%20Post.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Alright, who's ready to play mad scientist and whip up some functional fragrances? You've got three original scents to create. You can use Jojoba or fractionated coconut oil for the base; think of it as choosing between a chocolate or vanilla cake. If you're feeling a bit rebellious, you can even use Perfumer's alcohol or Everclear. </p><p><br /></p><p>Your perfume vessel could be a roller ball container, pick any size that tickles your fancy. These formulas will conjure up 15 ml of perfume, just enough to keep you smelling divine. </p><p><br /></p><p>Here's my method: I like to plop the essential oils into the container first and then use a pipette to add the base (kind of like adding milk to your tea). Give it a good shake, like you're mixing a cocktail. Apply to pulse points and voila, you're a walking bouquet!</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Calming Functional Fragrance</b></p><p>13.5 ml of either oil or alcohol</p><p>15 drops of lavender essential oil</p><p>15 drops of sweet orange essential oil</p><p>5 drops patchouli essential oil</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Energizing </b><b>Functional Fragrance</b></p><p>13.5 ml of either alcohol or oil</p><p>10 drops of lemon essential oil</p><p>5 drops of sweet orange essential oil</p><p>5 drops of rosemary essential oil</p><p>2 drops peppermint essential oil</p><p>2 drops of spearmint essential oil</p><p><br /></p><p><b>Aphrodisiac </b><b>Functional Fragrance</b></p><p>13.5 ml of either alcohol or oil</p><p>5 drops of sweet orange essential oil</p><p>5 drops of cardamom essential oil</p><p>3 drops of ylang-ylang essential oil</p><p>2 drops of patchouli essential oil</p><p>2 drops of vetiver essential oil</p><p>2 drops of jasmine absolute</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHNl2f1zw4vM52VwOncD0iDVavKcm-GMFjFfxgptq_FPCR0saLKycvnOHQ9TCRgdiSAseWb0r3fKTSZFc2rCZUbIGgeUdFS74-XryATOCAMA0hNp8KmhhaYgRSRs_gyVaiLsTIRqQoyzOeQmVi-quuQOb_TbY6YI51JeSchbt4wDiFIQ7hjPCrA3E/s5760/AdobeStock_279437555.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3840" data-original-width="5760" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoHNl2f1zw4vM52VwOncD0iDVavKcm-GMFjFfxgptq_FPCR0saLKycvnOHQ9TCRgdiSAseWb0r3fKTSZFc2rCZUbIGgeUdFS74-XryATOCAMA0hNp8KmhhaYgRSRs_gyVaiLsTIRqQoyzOeQmVi-quuQOb_TbY6YI51JeSchbt4wDiFIQ7hjPCrA3E/w640-h426/AdobeStock_279437555.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p>You can find essential oils from Mountain Rose Herbs and Jojoba oil. You can find the roll-on containers from Amazon, and most well-stocked liquor stores will have Everclear or 150-proof vodka. </p><p><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Never use essential oils undiluted in eyes or mucus membranes. Only take internally if working with a qualified and expert practitioner. Keep away from children. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Before using topically, perform a small patch test on your inner forearm or back by applying a small quantity of diluted essential oil and a bandage. Wash the area if you experience any irritation. If no irritation occurs after 48 hours, it may be safe to use on your skin.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; font-family: Lora, serif; font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated this information. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and is for educational purposes only.</span></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-25666212560583740812022-12-01T09:25:00.001-08:002023-10-16T22:46:48.326-07:00Berry Rose Pressed Blush<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdpmvpqdnWZjk4HQsb4LmKmOLmSHL3uyjzNvWGyUUIQnxnMU1mKKTDoonxOVEiBBaxiclvNMXIAisOHQbpj_LqIwpxZw533nOxeFJjVKtscTxrSh2eMeUEqAYOpAHSOKz8oWQE0LgRH8/s1600/to+try+for+an+over+the+hill+birthday.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="945" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXdpmvpqdnWZjk4HQsb4LmKmOLmSHL3uyjzNvWGyUUIQnxnMU1mKKTDoonxOVEiBBaxiclvNMXIAisOHQbpj_LqIwpxZw533nOxeFJjVKtscTxrSh2eMeUEqAYOpAHSOKz8oWQE0LgRH8/s640/to+try+for+an+over+the+hill+birthday.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love this gorgeous berry-ish/rose-ish shade of pressed blush. It is going to look amazing on all skin tones! It will brighten up your cheeks and give you a healthy glow. Not glittery or shiny at all. This is a soft matte with just a bit of shimmering rose color.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnCn5BsoLkKymXK_f5tbDBumfrUe3l8PVby43Lx19vPNIgPjtERRQql0fosxQg3VbIgoUmoUAXyI1WE2vX7i7Yl_7mwXkm4b3zkSZpX3d-wNkQeeKwd49NXV5vhhkcuhLZU8BTyJtUyw/s1600/IMG_2752%257Ephoto-full.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfnCn5BsoLkKymXK_f5tbDBumfrUe3l8PVby43Lx19vPNIgPjtERRQql0fosxQg3VbIgoUmoUAXyI1WE2vX7i7Yl_7mwXkm4b3zkSZpX3d-wNkQeeKwd49NXV5vhhkcuhLZU8BTyJtUyw/s640/IMG_2752%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Start with 0.40 grams of my Ultimate Pressed Eye Shadow Base (you can find the recipe and tutorial <a href="http://www.freshpickedbeauty.com/2018/10/ultimate-pressed-eyeshadow-powder-base.html">HERE</a>). If you don't have my formula, there is a great pre-made pressing base sold by TKB Trading that you can find <a href="https://tkbtrading.com/products/mymix-press-base">HERE</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzq3Xr9S2ZL3mJM7eHo0kt_AE4vJZqzOs9Oc_pcIf2kyg_FB5GFMJRNsdGpp1vZCT1sLS8qGwvIqhGiLxl6FBe64AlgsuS8H7B68Iolsmmsd4y9F-wRZBYl6LNzSGL1yF3EfhGT2NOy4/s1600/IMG_2753%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMzq3Xr9S2ZL3mJM7eHo0kt_AE4vJZqzOs9Oc_pcIf2kyg_FB5GFMJRNsdGpp1vZCT1sLS8qGwvIqhGiLxl6FBe64AlgsuS8H7B68Iolsmmsd4y9F-wRZBYl6LNzSGL1yF3EfhGT2NOy4/s640/IMG_2753%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div>I use this small grinder for mixing small amounts of powders and pigments. Iron oxides are somewhat challenging to blend by hand. Sometimes I use a coffee bean grinder for more significant amounts, but today I used this small grinder. You can purchase this on Amazon. Add the Ultimate Pressed Eye Shadow Base to the grinder cup. </div><div><br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTHJHWBfTIby_vgXTtpU7DEKLZjXRiBlj7Dy6EtH8M0N-zXzGszw6qIRmX7cU_UZQz3aHFzcRgtUR4FuiphOHdxpWxLH0QConmQ8_t_FQXBseyEC29XCZkJYPdorjc5Tgjp1Ez5_x6hI/s1600/IMG_2754%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTHJHWBfTIby_vgXTtpU7DEKLZjXRiBlj7Dy6EtH8M0N-zXzGszw6qIRmX7cU_UZQz3aHFzcRgtUR4FuiphOHdxpWxLH0QConmQ8_t_FQXBseyEC29XCZkJYPdorjc5Tgjp1Ez5_x6hI/s640/IMG_2754%257Ephoto.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Add 0.15 grams of rice powder to the grinder cup.<br />
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Add in 1.0 gram of Extender White (a mixture of mica and titanium dioxide) to the grinder cup.<br />
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Add in 0.50 grams of red oxide (blue shade) to the grinder cup. Start the grinder and mix for a few minutes to fully mix the powders together.<br />
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Wear a dust mask to be on the safe side and not breath in any of the dust.<br />
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After you have mixed the powders together, transfer them to a small plastic bag.<br />
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Add 0.50 grams of TKB Trading Shimmer Raspberry Pop pigment to the baggie with the powder.<br />
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You can't grind the mica with the other powders because it is so fragile. You need to be gentle with mica powders.<br />
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Spend about 2 minutes massaging the bag to fully incorporate the powders with each other.<br />
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You will need 0.06 grams of Leucidal Liquid PT (made for powdered formulas) or another preservative of your choice. If you use a different preservative, follow that product's suggested usage rate. You don't want mold and fungus to grow in your powder. The company suggests that you spray the liquid over the powders and pigments. I use this tiny little spray bottle to mist the preservative over the powders and gently blend. <br />
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You will need 40 drops of Squalane or jojoba oil. Drop-by-drop, add it over the powder.<br />
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Drop-by-drop, add in 40 drops of 190 proof vodka (or 90% rubbing alcohol). Stir the powder until it resembles moist sand.<br />
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Spread out about 2/3rds of the mixture into a 38 mm square pan and gently even out.<br />
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You can place a piece of paper towel or ribbon over the powder, add the pressing tile over the ribbon and then press with the tamping gadget. You can find pans and pressing tiles/gadgets at TKB Trading. Shop <a href="http://www.tkbtrading.com/">HERE</a>.<br />
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You will have a layer of pressed shadow in your pan. Evenly distribute the remaining amount of loose blush powder into the pan and press again.<br />
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Pay attention to make sure you get the powder into the corners.<br />
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Pressed for the second time.<br />
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Here the blush is swatched on my hand in natural sunlight.<br />
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Here is the blush blended out a bit in natural light.<br />
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I am wearing this gorgeous blush in the photo above. It is smooth and easy to blend.<br />
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Hope you enjoy this formula.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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Shannon Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-68754098172784045212022-11-30T21:12:00.001-08:002023-10-21T16:48:26.684-07:00Hot and Icy Foot Salve<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Often, my treadmill treks leave my feet weary and aching. So, I've concocted a swift, simple foot salve with both warming and cooling effects. Massage it into tired soles and experience an invigorating resurgence in your stride.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXer5JS8B4otrOf83ABDal6gfTqIHlBxGrm4iF9kSNAc-wYxs8xVjBNmAr-RQJNsYlMpeJAdH0E6lpkuvMCE1ZZJlEiumt1dN4uy4SPGw-l9wNMBsSkeLVCjMaKnYafrAt07sM10_qTrI/s1600/arnica+oil.PNG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="366" data-original-width="220" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXer5JS8B4otrOf83ABDal6gfTqIHlBxGrm4iF9kSNAc-wYxs8xVjBNmAr-RQJNsYlMpeJAdH0E6lpkuvMCE1ZZJlEiumt1dN4uy4SPGw-l9wNMBsSkeLVCjMaKnYafrAt07sM10_qTrI/s400/arnica+oil.PNG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit <a href="https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/arnica-herbal-oil/profile">HERE</a>. </td></tr></tbody></table>
I like to use Mountain Rose Herbs Certified Organic Arnica Herbal Oil in my formula. According to the Mountain Rose Herbs website, "Our small-batch Arnica Herbal Oil is solar infused in a window on site using certified organic <i>Arnica montana</i>
flowers, organic Olive oil and a touch of Vitamin E oil. This oil is
well-suited for those who physically exert themselves and push their
bodies. Absorbs quickly into the skin and fast-acting." <br />
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I also like to use three specific essential oils in my blend. I use peppermint, ginger and wintergreen. You can purchase these at <a href="https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/catalog/aromatherapy/essential-oils">Mountain Rose Herbs</a>. For this recipe, I used 30 drops of peppermint, 15 drops of wintergreen and 15 drops of ginger oil. Of course, if you have any medical problems such as diabetes, on blood thinning medications, are pregnant or nursing, you will want to speak to your health care provider before using essential oils. <br />
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You will also need some beewax in order to thicken your oil and turn it into a salve. You can purchase beeswax at <a href="https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/products/beeswax-pastilles/profile">Mountain Rose Herbs</a>.<br />
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I like to use about 15% beeswax in my formula for salve. To thicken the 2 ounces of Arnica Herbal Oil, you will use about 9 grams of shaved beeswax. I like the salve for my feet to be a very soft consistency so that I can massage it in easily. You can also adjust the amount of beeswax in your blend to make it a bit harder if you like.<br />
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Pour the 2 ounces of Arnica Oil into a glass measuring cup and place in a pan with a few inches of gently simmering water. Add the beeswax into the oil and stir until melted. Remove from the heat. Add in the essential oils and stir. Carefully pour the hot liquid into a class jar or metal tin. Allow to cool and harden. Massage into clean and dry feet and wear a pair of socks for extra softening action. Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-39510165458854403932022-11-30T16:48:00.001-08:002022-11-30T20:55:03.030-08:00Nourishing Body Lotion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrTXXgzBomJCw4fpYv59A06wxllzjMUeCTcjf94GqFMhimVq0Gn8JJk6NOeZQCUtgI-ZO63oy_-j9f6zq4wbim5hrD5DBJSSqUe45n0lp3TsMHc8mTLm0zXnJ6ebgTjGr39Q_85dFeEc/s1600/Nourishing.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrTXXgzBomJCw4fpYv59A06wxllzjMUeCTcjf94GqFMhimVq0Gn8JJk6NOeZQCUtgI-ZO63oy_-j9f6zq4wbim5hrD5DBJSSqUe45n0lp3TsMHc8mTLm0zXnJ6ebgTjGr39Q_85dFeEc/s640/Nourishing.png" width="640" /></a></div><div>Here is an easy recipe for a rich, hydrating, and extra-nourishing body lotion. It will soothe and protect dry skin. It is non-sticky and loaded with hydrating rose water, glycerine, moisturizing coconut oil, and extra-rich kokum butter.</div><div><br /></div>
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Start with 78 grams of rosewater and 3.5 grams of vegetable glycerine. Add both of these into a glass beaker. Place the glass beaker into a pot of simmering water.<br />
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You will also need 5 grams of CreamMaker Mix from Making Cosmetics. This ingredient is what allows your water phase and your oil phase to stay emulsified.<br />
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You need 7 grams of coconut oil and 6 grams of kokum butter. You can easily substitute the kokum butter for shea butter or mango butter.<br />
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Add these ingredients into a glass beaker and place the beaker into the simmering water bath.<br />
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Bring both phases up to 160 degrees.<br />
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You absolutely NEED to have a good preservative to add into your lotion. For 100 grams of lotion, you will need 1 grams of phenoxyethanol-SA and 2 grams of AMTicide Coconut. You can learn about both of these <a href="https://www.makingcosmetics.com/Phenoxyethanol-SA_p_243.html">HERE </a>and <a href="https://lotioncrafter.com/products/amticide-coconut">HERE</a>.<br />
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I also LOVE this beautiful essential oil blend by AuraCacia. You can add up to 20 drops to your lotion. You could also choose to add in 20 drops of lavender essential oil or sweet orange essential oil or even sandalwood essential oil. <br />
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Once both phases reach 160 degrees, bring the beakers out of the water bath. You will need a thermometer and a blending stick.<br />
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Add the oil phase into the water phase.<br />
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Blend with the mixer to cool and thicken. You want to bring it down to 100 degrees F and then add in the two preservatives and essential oil drops.<br />
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Once the cream cools to about 100 degrees F, it will be thick.<br />
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20 drops of essential oil is just enough to lightly scent the lotion.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtI3f0M_47Ef3Zb0Dpmw5ObG0TLdVYNQYYhmHGGEHj6qoWseaKeDbhstwEQuPwIEitagJ2-nHZIT8Mp1aB5c5mJnhupUUoeM4qsbm8mKO1dXW-UZj4AfLnWsLRDIbuBTqvQGmquRG0Sjw/s1600/IMG_8250%257Ephoto.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtI3f0M_47Ef3Zb0Dpmw5ObG0TLdVYNQYYhmHGGEHj6qoWseaKeDbhstwEQuPwIEitagJ2-nHZIT8Mp1aB5c5mJnhupUUoeM4qsbm8mKO1dXW-UZj4AfLnWsLRDIbuBTqvQGmquRG0Sjw/s640/IMG_8250%257Ephoto.HEIC" width="480" /></a></div><div>I like using dark amber bottles with a squeeze top for the lotion. I'm not particularly eager to use jars or pots because the cream gets exposed to air and germs when you open the lid and use your fingers to get the product out.</div><div><br /></div>
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See how creamy and thick the lotion turned out! You will love this lotion so much! Use within 2 months for best results.<br />
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Cheers!Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-90244859851121497262020-10-13T19:22:00.001-07:002022-11-30T20:49:10.669-08:00Cloth Face Mask Refresher Spray Blends<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhER9TgoqYZR8iCowpw4ss_Uwj_KL8iDEzFgBfycLyY37Kcc2Tob7UcYwNLHeZkqSGLx27LDoofTEfQQLJBPJ_5hvpTOzOxP06jgZYlDEBzScNX0czvGAOw2RTiZnJ1bpExIYC_3k8fvPo/s2048/AdobeStock_357387487.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhER9TgoqYZR8iCowpw4ss_Uwj_KL8iDEzFgBfycLyY37Kcc2Tob7UcYwNLHeZkqSGLx27LDoofTEfQQLJBPJ_5hvpTOzOxP06jgZYlDEBzScNX0czvGAOw2RTiZnJ1bpExIYC_3k8fvPo/w640-h426/AdobeStock_357387487.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>Here are a few recipes for DIY alcohol and essential oil-based cloth mask refresher sprays. These sprays will freshen up your mask with the aromas of pure essential oils. Changing your mask daily is necessary; these sprays do not sanitize your mask. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujwW1VnWFOMFWyGE8lRRXvAdzdjz0QGu7gfdT2wEGfe6dzWVeXqJUZNgwEQklU9uG7STpMIPKjAwGLkqNJcT-u4cBXNm7Bg_x8MIfPXws4_4IiTH4xbVTG9oJPqeTDlsqHHY2ehfEkDU/s2048/AdobeStock_364596094.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgujwW1VnWFOMFWyGE8lRRXvAdzdjz0QGu7gfdT2wEGfe6dzWVeXqJUZNgwEQklU9uG7STpMIPKjAwGLkqNJcT-u4cBXNm7Bg_x8MIfPXws4_4IiTH4xbVTG9oJPqeTDlsqHHY2ehfEkDU/w640-h426/AdobeStock_364596094.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>I have tried these sprays on disposable masks, and I don't recommend them because it just drips off the mask. It is best to lightly spray the outside of your cloth mask and wait about 3 minutes for the alcohol to evaporate so that just the subtle scent of the essential oils remains. I used 175-proof Vodka because it evaporates and dries the fastest. If you need to use a lower-proof vodka, it may take a few minutes longer to disappear off the mask. I also used a very low essential oil ratio to alcohol. This is not a perfume but a subtle aromatic pick-me-up for your mask. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVQ0kf5RqgofHi99CHtLj1DZ0wrjTkAt6GwHja7tyhKKOYK4uyZPDPxB05jleybNabHEDS8lqFTzJSUuGByH4_9akMS_sGqG7hDbaJMMeUOkJxmdku9MhudaD386EIb5hunB4SMYOujc/s2048/AdobeStock_243219255.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2039" data-original-width="2048" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeVQ0kf5RqgofHi99CHtLj1DZ0wrjTkAt6GwHja7tyhKKOYK4uyZPDPxB05jleybNabHEDS8lqFTzJSUuGByH4_9akMS_sGqG7hDbaJMMeUOkJxmdku9MhudaD386EIb5hunB4SMYOujc/w640-h638/AdobeStock_243219255.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><p><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Lavender Cloth Mask Refresher Spray</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Makes about 4 ounces </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 ounces of 175 proof vodka </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">20 drops Lavender Essential Oil</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add ingredients into a small spray bottle. Shake well and apply several sprays to the outside of your cloth face mask. Allow the alcohol to evaporate before wearing your mask. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Fresh Mint Cloth Mask Refresher Spray</span></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Makes about 4 ounces </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 ounces of 175 proof vodka </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">5 drops Peppermint Essential oil</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">5 drops Spearmint Essential Oil<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add
ingredients into a small spray bottle. Shake well and apply several
sprays to the outside of your cloth face mask. Allow the alcohol to
evaporate before wearing your mask. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Rose Scented Cloth Mask Refresher Spray</span></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Makes about 4 ounces </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 ounces of 175 proof vodka </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">10 drops Geranium Essential Oil<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 drops Rose Essential Oil<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add
ingredients into a small spray bottle. Shake well and apply several
sprays to the outside of your cloth face mask. Allow the alcohol to
evaporate before wearing your mask. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Citrus Scented Cloth Mask Refresher Spray</span></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Makes about 4 ounces </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 ounces of 175 proof vodka </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">10 drops Lemon Essential Oil<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">10 drops Orange Essential Oil<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add
ingredients into a small spray bottle. Shake well and apply several
sprays to the outside of your cloth face mask. Allow the alcohol to
evaporate before wearing your mask. ***the orange essential oil may stain very light fabric masks</span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Eucalyptus & Tea Tree Cloth Mask Refresher Spray<br /></span></b></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Makes about 4 ounces </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">4 ounces of 175 proof vodka </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">5 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">10 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add
ingredients into a small spray bottle. Shake well and apply several
sprays to the outside of your cloth face mask. Allow the alcohol to
evaporate before wearing your mask. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Never use essential oils undiluted in eyes or mucus membranes. Only take internally if working with a qualified and expert practitioner. Keep away from children. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">Before using topically, perform a small patch test on your inner forearm or back by applying a small quantity of diluted essential oil and a bandage. Wash the area if you experience any irritation. If no irritation occurs after 48 hours, it may be safe to use on your skin.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated this information. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and is for educational purposes only.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><b> <br /></b></span></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-73613986960346812652020-03-24T16:31:00.001-07:002023-10-16T22:53:57.862-07:00Licorice Root Cautions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtGrIaZzfsDEmNsZphxFybLOKv3AMcgdXNVolb49-XTbKa7n7BHNJ9uNA6NAbpkQnA1tBjhAIq7jsAliIGIYzSWt_0cO0nvwVVV2jFyFHPZ-a470lHnm8hgaFrzezcDhwfYsR_d3tzag/s1600/Glycyrrhiza+glabra.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="789" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTtGrIaZzfsDEmNsZphxFybLOKv3AMcgdXNVolb49-XTbKa7n7BHNJ9uNA6NAbpkQnA1tBjhAIq7jsAliIGIYzSWt_0cO0nvwVVV2jFyFHPZ-a470lHnm8hgaFrzezcDhwfYsR_d3tzag/s640/Glycyrrhiza+glabra.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /><div>Licorice Root, an immune-supporting antiviral powerhouse, is my go-to herbal remedy. Its soothing qualities can relieve coughs and clear phlegm, while also treating stomach issues. I prefer it in a potent tincture form, complemented by other herbs. </div><div><br /></div><div>However, with great potency comes a need for caution. Licorice Root's effects can linger in your blood for up to 72 hours. Consequently, a careful regimen is essential: five days on, then two days off, for no more than four weeks. Subsequently, a two-week break is mandatory.</div><div><br /></div><div>Prolonged use could lead to potassium loss, bloating, muscle weakness, and high blood pressure, with potentially severe implications for those with pre-existing high blood pressure or congestive heart disease. </div><div><br /></div><div>Remember, the 'natural' label doesn't imply limitless use. Some herbs require careful handling to ensure safety and health. Be aware, be smart, and enjoy the benefits of these powerful natural remedies.</div>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-81445749400461723672019-11-26T12:31:00.004-08:002023-10-16T22:55:51.299-07:00Coconut Milk Bath Soak<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPAg0woG8bhc1U4djkUfdHbu9AUZiuNd58TEnydn5THAOewGiLoWkOdruai4-GMRYwJOr_EFEq7H3eMbMaK2gPMDK4cJxMf749WsYa_o7_jVr3nWiXGr4IWkLjyQRsTkgGANcQALnTQw/s1600/IMG_8977%257Ephoto.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPAg0woG8bhc1U4djkUfdHbu9AUZiuNd58TEnydn5THAOewGiLoWkOdruai4-GMRYwJOr_EFEq7H3eMbMaK2gPMDK4cJxMf749WsYa_o7_jVr3nWiXGr4IWkLjyQRsTkgGANcQALnTQw/s640/IMG_8977%257Ephoto.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1687342360"></span><span id="goog_1687342361"></span><br />Experience the bliss of a tropical spa at home with just three simple ingredients! My handcrafted Coconut Milk Bath Soak not only deeply moisturizes your skin, but also indulges your senses with its divine scent. Crafted from purifying baking soda, nourishing coconut milk powder, and intoxicating vanilla absolute, it's a sensory delight. Multiply the recipe to create luxurious holiday gifts for your loved ones!<br />
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Start with a cup of pure baking soda.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeoo-Lb_mN7C8l_byQ6mUx87uLEDDLVBEOSRoK0sf3lS2v1qs_xzCVsm7oOVpBnffMxPtIDF6IN_cWl48_Ba1-NMsHo_0Yp9sl8R0UoMavqSKdKlmOcruo_xNtMfw0IcYt5xHmoZrgvpM/s1600/IMG_8987%257Ephoto.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeoo-Lb_mN7C8l_byQ6mUx87uLEDDLVBEOSRoK0sf3lS2v1qs_xzCVsm7oOVpBnffMxPtIDF6IN_cWl48_Ba1-NMsHo_0Yp9sl8R0UoMavqSKdKlmOcruo_xNtMfw0IcYt5xHmoZrgvpM/s640/IMG_8987%257Ephoto.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1687342360">Measure out a 1/2 cup of coconut milk powder. You can find this at most well-stocked grocery stores near the baking supplies and powdered milk. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-juDSMbsGG0uY6WCnjpXiseWeI7cw9o_GkSpjNIap_3UjMb4tAzfPJaq3lhiW2qFvwbQSYKMQT_zVHZlS9a8GcwxFwOqiFZBFvN-6l9KCieyRD2bRoQGq7HrCPVpp9CvPFiYDtHgDXxs/s1600/IMG_8985%257Ephoto.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-juDSMbsGG0uY6WCnjpXiseWeI7cw9o_GkSpjNIap_3UjMb4tAzfPJaq3lhiW2qFvwbQSYKMQT_zVHZlS9a8GcwxFwOqiFZBFvN-6l9KCieyRD2bRoQGq7HrCPVpp9CvPFiYDtHgDXxs/s640/IMG_8985%257Ephoto.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span id="goog_1687342360">Ten drops of Vanilla Absolute will make this recipe smell incredibly delicious. You CAN NOT substitute vanilla extract that you bake with since it contains water and will cause your product to mold. This is an optional ingredient; if you choose to skip it, your bath soak will still smell like delicious coconut from powdered coconut milk. </span><br />
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<span id="goog_1687342360">Add both the coconut milk and the baking soda into a food processor and drop in the vanilla absolute. Pulse about 12 times to break up any lumps and combine the ingredients. </span><br />
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<span id="goog_1687342360"> You will have a smooth powder. </span><br />
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<span id="goog_1687342360">One trick I learned when making bath powders is to add one of these humidity adsorbent packs in bottles of supplements and vitamins. I always save them after I finish my vitamins to use in my handcrafted skincare. If you have an extra one, toss it into the bath soak container. This will help prevent moisture build-up in your jar and product. </span><br />
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<span id="goog_1687342360"> If you don't have an extra adsorbent pack, just make sure you choose a container with a tight fitting lid. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdiHs-kqD43f18DrBpNhUCDyx2xB36MgUYkrTLTBSjlNUYRTyCXHK2y5Sfzq9WPj-gYAgliLb6cTaFsqPHuDbx0pCDMGV3SlbqVx3tgSSTRK5vn1baOMJaS9XG0eaXSq-LMD24psFmN8/s1600/IMG_8982%257Ephoto.PNG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKdiHs-kqD43f18DrBpNhUCDyx2xB36MgUYkrTLTBSjlNUYRTyCXHK2y5Sfzq9WPj-gYAgliLb6cTaFsqPHuDbx0pCDMGV3SlbqVx3tgSSTRK5vn1baOMJaS9XG0eaXSq-LMD24psFmN8/s640/IMG_8982%257Ephoto.PNG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>I like to use a glass canning jar. Add a generous scoop to your warm bath water and swirl the water with your hand to incorporate. </div><div><br /></div><div>Be careful when getting out of the bath, as the moisturizing oils from the coconut milk can make the bath surface a bit slippery. </div><div><br /></div><div>Enjoy! </div>Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-76400261503254599402019-10-30T11:38:00.003-07:002023-10-16T22:57:54.844-07:00Glossy and Sheer Lipstick Base<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbSUBIoMr3NLnmNkm_5bnGMbZPH8uhpzQOaXTc_kQ4UXDOLJVdbvZ2i0Q-hJsJU6G85Zs82sRslFijoPf44TGPpj8qdiYWku9Uvu-8rvNdYHM2ij8Y-022oJyXg8TJlcw1s3fcvjtgSk/s1600/IMG_8620%257Ephoto-full.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNbSUBIoMr3NLnmNkm_5bnGMbZPH8uhpzQOaXTc_kQ4UXDOLJVdbvZ2i0Q-hJsJU6G85Zs82sRslFijoPf44TGPpj8qdiYWku9Uvu-8rvNdYHM2ij8Y-022oJyXg8TJlcw1s3fcvjtgSk/s640/IMG_8620%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Through meticulous trial and error, I've crafted the ultimate formula for creating sheer, glossy lipsticks. By adding pigments and dyes to this lustrous base, you can create a kaleidoscope of hues that are subtly transparent, silky smooth, and brilliantly glossy. This luxurious blend delivers unparalleled comfort for your lips.<br />
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60% Triglyceride<br />
2% Silica Microspheres<br />
6% Ceresine Wax<br />
12% Cera Bellina<br />
2% Laural Laurate<br />
1% Sunflower Wax<br />
6% Carnauba Wax<br />
5% Vitamin E Oil<br />
6% Castor Oil<br />
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Heat all ingredients in a glass beaker until all waxes are melted. Add in your pigments and colorants. Pour into your lipstick molds or lip balm containers. Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-29765536546239059432019-10-30T11:29:00.000-07:002019-10-30T11:29:20.763-07:00Holiday Lipstick Trio<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_arvvvsoGhYfabxjAsvzad_ruUOFa9A2ITcGxJERY9Vt9ZwkWdvuFGGAeur5rf-aIBSsIHSiunHQzqqqDYeJ0980jscE-Ff7eEQkAdTnLGPUNwvBpsbQFZClq-Oa9hU6IrNuF3c8cnGE/s1600/IMG_8637%257Ephoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_arvvvsoGhYfabxjAsvzad_ruUOFa9A2ITcGxJERY9Vt9ZwkWdvuFGGAeur5rf-aIBSsIHSiunHQzqqqDYeJ0980jscE-Ff7eEQkAdTnLGPUNwvBpsbQFZClq-Oa9hU6IrNuF3c8cnGE/s640/IMG_8637%257Ephoto.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Get ready for the holidays with three gorgeous and extra creamy lipstick shades. Makes three 0.15 ounce tubes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtG8CadZXXjwIgodeLEqQyPRkC20OyDgPOpBU39-25B2YXnvOw3cwIKZ2JGOwmwCfPCAOO7Rg5bh2tXmHeL9lJW3TuBMBrIOKpg4bqc85yQ0p5n94BWRPRwz_iik5ADDBKG6RDBy41WbA/s1600/IMG_8631%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtG8CadZXXjwIgodeLEqQyPRkC20OyDgPOpBU39-25B2YXnvOw3cwIKZ2JGOwmwCfPCAOO7Rg5bh2tXmHeL9lJW3TuBMBrIOKpg4bqc85yQ0p5n94BWRPRwz_iik5ADDBKG6RDBy41WbA/s640/IMG_8631%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
They are glossy and shear and super moisturizing. All three will look great on all skin tones.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjRL_X5lfy04IkNtnVku91PCQZgdfczWpoBcxDgR-ZQHnvn4oNmspXLQs3oodf5BN2EcalTG7ZgBVWUjKiIURXZtP31p06RoCPQKP64yaPpcPTan2PPePZsON_rKpZGv77g_vEjM8D54/s1600/IMG_8620%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIjRL_X5lfy04IkNtnVku91PCQZgdfczWpoBcxDgR-ZQHnvn4oNmspXLQs3oodf5BN2EcalTG7ZgBVWUjKiIURXZtP31p06RoCPQKP64yaPpcPTan2PPePZsON_rKpZGv77g_vEjM8D54/s640/IMG_8620%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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For the base, you will need the following ingredients:<br />
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10 grams of Triglyceride (or fractionated coconut oil)<br />
0.3 grams Silica Microspheres<br />
1 gram Ceresine Wax<br />
2 grams Cera Bellina (or beeswax)<br />
0.3 grams Laural Laurate<br />
0.2 grams Sunflower Wax<br />
1 gram Carnauba Wax<br />
1 gram Vitamin E Oil<br />
1 gram Castor Oil<br />
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Add the ingredients into a glass beaker and place in a few inches of simmering water to fully melt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTv2G2v4zgkt2jw-IZ715qxX6Oev_Guej6sUBroolOwGfnmlntZ6QQuG9QTVCjK7R9FU6Gty1fqp07rnlLfkDfDHzxhtC1pO0vzo0Iq3A8T9OkbBJT2zfkG-2dbHdbQNmOHzrioBf2IhA/s1600/IMG_8622%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTv2G2v4zgkt2jw-IZ715qxX6Oev_Guej6sUBroolOwGfnmlntZ6QQuG9QTVCjK7R9FU6Gty1fqp07rnlLfkDfDHzxhtC1pO0vzo0Iq3A8T9OkbBJT2zfkG-2dbHdbQNmOHzrioBf2IhA/s640/IMG_8622%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
While the base is melting, start working on the pigment blends.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwL1sC2Vln2zHqg4wCOUloDKTdVQLWm6EC9g-eF1zemx_S847JWNE2tsJGcZ9X1grXvdbib6ftwBfsPehA5zPFxHDtNQ_5P5Tx2Aj3Hn-he2JGxTMdz4CNPAKkPzygRAAMaHSB3uWwSc/s1600/IMG_8623%257Ephoto.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcwL1sC2Vln2zHqg4wCOUloDKTdVQLWm6EC9g-eF1zemx_S847JWNE2tsJGcZ9X1grXvdbib6ftwBfsPehA5zPFxHDtNQ_5P5Tx2Aj3Hn-he2JGxTMdz4CNPAKkPzygRAAMaHSB3uWwSc/s640/IMG_8623%257Ephoto.HEIC" width="640" /></a></div>
You can find the best selection of cosmetic pigments from TKB Trading Company. I am not affiliated with this company, but I order most of my pigments from them and I highly recommend them.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YmDbeeRXfXII-_8ds714ECN3-tneHtFmvvDA3x7865w1zJ4GZRsB7PBwmwooumBllML4EwXuSvFZ4oMmpiMkoR8QkVXnSl5AgimcmEQ9PXjYnDTKhqRlyfRoc_hyDEt8gBe3Jbdb7lk/s1600/IMG_8624%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2YmDbeeRXfXII-_8ds714ECN3-tneHtFmvvDA3x7865w1zJ4GZRsB7PBwmwooumBllML4EwXuSvFZ4oMmpiMkoR8QkVXnSl5AgimcmEQ9PXjYnDTKhqRlyfRoc_hyDEt8gBe3Jbdb7lk/s640/IMG_8624%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
For the Candied Yams shade, I used 0.3 grams of Sericite Mica, 0.2 grams of Dusty Rose Mica and 0.12 grams of Orange #5 Lake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mRruesVIJ7y_s9pdhWHG9ZZ3EAII2MkNl64uj3upfPRI2v9BS5ToL6dAEgYo52utCOvvbUQNzUH7G5FxKwvRzE-F0_dLp5wNcD82_Q4zVJV_Jy5fUWrnOzHO1UnK6GvGlIA0LO_LVLo/s1600/IMG_8626%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5mRruesVIJ7y_s9pdhWHG9ZZ3EAII2MkNl64uj3upfPRI2v9BS5ToL6dAEgYo52utCOvvbUQNzUH7G5FxKwvRzE-F0_dLp5wNcD82_Q4zVJV_Jy5fUWrnOzHO1UnK6GvGlIA0LO_LVLo/s640/IMG_8626%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
For the Dragon Fruit shade, I used 0.5 grams of White Sericite Mica and 0.06 grams of Red #27 Lake.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm51GdcR8c3xhF9G-ghiwxArWGwbjNM_xG0P4kGFd0klmJGyKicWFGDZC_vCmWizumIOMTYRGuO_1-Nk5VbPPAzMplQtW3yMb-_xJPlCETRd-6w4OP3doGOu6cxjuQllZdFWuHw_IPLw/s1600/IMG_8625%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm51GdcR8c3xhF9G-ghiwxArWGwbjNM_xG0P4kGFd0klmJGyKicWFGDZC_vCmWizumIOMTYRGuO_1-Nk5VbPPAzMplQtW3yMb-_xJPlCETRd-6w4OP3doGOu6cxjuQllZdFWuHw_IPLw/s640/IMG_8625%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
For the Rum Cake shade, I used 0.3 grams Sericite Mica, 0.24 grams of Antique Copper and 0.02 grams of Red #7.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhja_TWvXVBVFMJnjaRZnkD-rUVnlO33xJasH0MbL7mdeBDEcneDZ5y1LhQbEh72cR95H1a4GygtuqRtx5uVkGClB43u1_072JdPs9D54QLiUDSvEjrJscJHxydw3QBTOVEoBfRpn1e2fk/s1600/IMG_8627%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhja_TWvXVBVFMJnjaRZnkD-rUVnlO33xJasH0MbL7mdeBDEcneDZ5y1LhQbEh72cR95H1a4GygtuqRtx5uVkGClB43u1_072JdPs9D54QLiUDSvEjrJscJHxydw3QBTOVEoBfRpn1e2fk/s640/IMG_8627%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
Working with one shade at a time, pour 1/3 of the melted base (7 grams) into a small silicone mixing bowl and add in the pigments. Keep the mixing bowl in the hot water and fully blend the pigments into the base. Quickly and carefully pour the blended mix into a standard lip balm container.<br />
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Completely wipe out the mixing bowl and clean the spatula of all colors and repeat the process with the remaining shades.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK1TRbScodpuvAd4Mo_cGfAZoe8qjcgLDQAuSrOahfKRW5SxyhiVD6NxCkkaNS19n7wuUTFh3MsXj4jig3Zfeyg78G2EQKl2Co2TlxvCpViwWZAGc8B5t_tiNtJUagQP_LhjnEda_bbo/s1600/IMG_8629%257Ephoto-full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK1TRbScodpuvAd4Mo_cGfAZoe8qjcgLDQAuSrOahfKRW5SxyhiVD6NxCkkaNS19n7wuUTFh3MsXj4jig3Zfeyg78G2EQKl2Co2TlxvCpViwWZAGc8B5t_tiNtJUagQP_LhjnEda_bbo/s640/IMG_8629%257Ephoto-full.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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All finished and hardened. Ready to wear!<br />
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Here they are swatched on my arm. They are slightly transparent and super glossy.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9pHAc7vg0aExG852AKPIIN8kd772xU05ex_lXBcyNmS4W2Q1XPESytXOGFiv_PWWKA3vrouPjy9Iev9Cg7fZXa3vRIewNqb1kWnL9hifz5DUyBYcoDL6desNL1Xrr2WE3FJX_XfK_rQ/s1600/IMG_8634%257Ephoto.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV9pHAc7vg0aExG852AKPIIN8kd772xU05ex_lXBcyNmS4W2Q1XPESytXOGFiv_PWWKA3vrouPjy9Iev9Cg7fZXa3vRIewNqb1kWnL9hifz5DUyBYcoDL6desNL1Xrr2WE3FJX_XfK_rQ/s640/IMG_8634%257Ephoto.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6377956174328643245.post-80799911126726703392019-10-23T09:03:00.001-07:002024-02-17T15:30:12.310-08:00Damascus Rose Beauty Balm<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBY-P26BCTH1Ff23Myi6m0GMJy6VE-0VYzYMCh59Ry_El8KbUyJhk7RCEJO40cfH1esb86buIACFlV1f9W079XwDP8dKJbFFodulcZULF8Eqvkas_Jwj4rB27RaWSmcidY1LizbJSPzU/s1600/IMG_7529.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFBY-P26BCTH1Ff23Myi6m0GMJy6VE-0VYzYMCh59Ry_El8KbUyJhk7RCEJO40cfH1esb86buIACFlV1f9W079XwDP8dKJbFFodulcZULF8Eqvkas_Jwj4rB27RaWSmcidY1LizbJSPzU/s640/IMG_7529.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh-Picked Beauty's Damascus Rose Beauty Balm</td></tr>
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<br />A chance encounter with a product sample at Whole Foods sparked my journey to create this sumptuously nourishing balm. This versatile potion, ideal for the face, neck, and delicate under-eye area, can also transform your cuticles and heels with a simple massage. I've meticulously selected antioxidant-rich oils and a potent aromatic blend of lavender, rose, and Roman Chamomile essential oils for this recipe. A small dab of this water-free concoction is all it takes to experience its rejuvenating magic, making every jar a long-lasting treasure.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRnPLuEvDLkIDoV_rrIUJTYLZflPgoDYtW-I9GRwvAGo8WQXo-7iELACBOoE8id5slpK9kdkcxbEWLFj4IzG2lqWXpxCFC1H2UIcreJRZt4idLBxVA0RadV1Z7LhZ2xwfFxGoUc9dHkg/s1600/IMG_0699.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyRnPLuEvDLkIDoV_rrIUJTYLZflPgoDYtW-I9GRwvAGo8WQXo-7iELACBOoE8id5slpK9kdkcxbEWLFj4IzG2lqWXpxCFC1H2UIcreJRZt4idLBxVA0RadV1Z7LhZ2xwfFxGoUc9dHkg/s640/IMG_0699.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo of the "other guy's" product I sampled in Whole Foods. </td></tr>
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For my recipe you will need the following ingredients. Most can be purchased from Mountain Rose Herbs.<br />
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1 tablespoon Calendula Infused Olive Oil<br />
2 teaspoons Castor Oil <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">(buy here)</a><br />
1 teaspoon Beeswax <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">(buy here)</a><br />
1/4 teaspoon Seabuckthorn Oil <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">(buy here)</a><br />
1/4 teaspoon Rosehip Seed Oil <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">(buy here)</a><br />
10 drops Lavender Essential Oil <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">(buy here)</a><br />
5 drops Roman Chamomile Essential Oil <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">(buy here)</a><br />
3 drops Rose Essential Oil <a href="http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">(buy here)</a><br />
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I make my own Calendula Infused Olive Oil. You can learn how to make your own <a href="http://www.freshpickedbeauty.com/2011/10/calendula-infused-oil.html">HERE</a> or purchase it from <a href="https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">Mountain Rose Herbs HERE</a>.<br />
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You can buy the Roman Chamomile and Bulgarian Rose Essential Oils from <a href="https://www.mountainroseherbs.com/">Mountain Rose Herbs HERE</a>.<br />
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My friend grows and distills a really wonderful lavender essential oil and has been pouring her love of lavender into her business since 2005. <br />
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Place the calendula infused olive oil, castor oil, beeswax, seabuckthorn oil, and rosehip seed oil into a small glass measuring cup and sit it in a pan with a few inches of simmering water. Stir the ingredients until the oils and beeswax have melted. Remove from the heat.<br />
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Add in the essential oils and stir to combine.<br />
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Pour the liquid into a small container and allow to cool to room temperature. Place a lid on the container.<br />
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After the balm cools down, it will have a very soft texture and is easily massaged into the skin. I like to use this as a night time treatment. Literally a small pea-sized amount is all it takes for my entire face and neck. I use another small amount on my hands too. This stuff is amazing!!! It has the intoxicating aroma of Bulgarian Rose....need I say more??? Cheers!!<br />
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<br />Shannon Buckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09065520176730044627noreply@blogger.com