Green Options

We know that what we eat (or don’t eat), whether or not we are getting an adequate amount of sleep, how much water we are drinking and stress all contribute to the health and good looks of our skin. 

But what about temperament?  Each of us has a personality that has grown and developed over the course of our lives, but temperament is something we are born with.  It just goes to figure that it would have a pretty big influence on our lives.

Which temperament are you?

Aging is a controversial topic.  On the one hand, we hate the thought of wrinkles and age spots, not to mention disease and decline.  But, let’s face it, we all want to get older because the alternative stinks.

Since hitting 40 I have tried to embrace aging.  In general, I have always been of the “You are as old as you think you are” adage, but have noticed a few, albeit subtle, changes.  My once normal skin is getting drier (as is my hair) and there is a little more sagging and a few extra fine lines. 

But really, do we want to look 25 (or 30) when we are 40 and up, or do we want to look healthy for our own age?

Remember when eye shadow was fun?  It’s usually the first item girls grab when they start to play with make up.  The unabashed brightness swathed across their lids. 

But as we mature this teenage beauty staple often falls by the wayside.  Desire for a more “natural” look, a two- (or three-) in-one product or (usually) less time for primping all contribute to our displacement of this lid adornment. 

After not using eye shadow in years, a set came across my desk recently.  Even back when I did use shadow it was usually a light tannish, brown color not that far off from the natural color of lids.  This duo from Lavera came with a white shade and (here’s the fun part) a dark charcoal color.  The deep, sultriness of it was so super tempting that I could not wait to test it out.  Envisioning Angelina Jolie in Wanted I rounded up my brushes, sponges and assortment of applicators and plunged in.  My first attempt (done, thankfully, preshower) ended up a bit addict-y.  Not what I’m trying to represent.

After more experimentation I ended up with some cool results.  Here they are:

Some of us wear eyeshadow, others not so much.  Most of us wouldn’t think of leaving the house without mascara.  And we all wear foundation.  Right?

Actually, there are a (smallish) group of us who have somehow, to this point in our lives, gotten away without wearing foundation.  I am one of them.  My skin is has always been fair and even toned and I really never paid much attention to covering it up. 

For some of us, the season is a constant battle against dry, irritated skin.  Sure there are lots of heavy moisturizers out there, but it can be difficult to find the one that does the trick.  Some leave you too slippery, while others cast a strange chalky effect.  Certainly not what we are looking for during the most festive (and social) time of the year.

Now, I have written many an article here on Feelgood about dry skin and the many wonderful products on the market to help with this particular condition.  But (for those of you prone to plenty of natural oils) please bear with me, I think I am on to something here.

This latest concoction was something I stumbled upon over lack of time and forethought.  After exfoliating my body with a mixture of sugar and milk in the shower I went to apply my usual body lotion.  Realizing it would not be enough hydration for my freshly sloughed skin, I added a squirt of body oil.  Later that night I realized that my skin was still super silky and soft and well nourished.

Most get dry skin as winter approaches.  But for those with more sensitive skin – redness, irritation and even breakouts come with it.  I fall into this category and just stocked up on my winter skin care essentials.

The first thing we tend to pick up when combating dryness is a thicker moisturizer.  While this is the obvious choice, and a vital part of cold weather skin care, we need to take a look at our overall routine.  What type of product are you using to cleanse your face?  When skin is dry and irritated go with a cleanser that is mild and soothing, like Weleda Almond Cleansing Lotion.  And, unless you really need to, skip cleansing in the morning and either use warm water or a mild toner instead.

Who doesn’t love the spicy scents of the season, right?  But you have to admit, summery scents are always welcome.  Enter the newest creations from Jurlique:  Body Wash and Lotion in the gorgeous scents of Rose, Lavender, Citrus and (here it is!) Jasmine.

I have been lucky enough to sample the latter and, let me tell you, it is delicious.  The Shower Gel is thick and rich and foamy.  And the Body Lotion – which on first impression seems a little thin – is actually very hydrating and leaves skin incredible smooth.  Really!  But my favorite part of the whole experience is the luscious scent.  Subtly, fresh Jasmine that actually smells like the real deal and not a plastic imitation because it is made from natural essential oils rather than synthetic fragrance.  Leaves you smelling yummy all day.

Summer may be gone for now, but certain bits of it last on:  memories, vacation photos……new sun spots. 

Several visitors have written to me asking for help reducing the appearance of sun spots and freckles.  Though nothing short of completely avoiding the sun will totally keep spots at bay, being liberal with the sunscreen and choosing a few targeted products will definitely help.

It seems the moment cooler weather arrives our skin and hair feel the affects; dry, rough hands, tight skin and fly-aways.  Not to worry, there are remedies for these problems.  By adding a few products or ingredients to your existing regimen, you will be flake and fly-away free in no time.

In celebration of their newly obtained organic certification, Bubble & Bee Organic is giving away a of couple fabulous (and brand new) products.  Get a free Rude Raspberry Lip Balm with any purchase.  Purchase over $35 worth of goodies and get a Lotion Stick as well.  Buy over $65 and they will even throw in free shipping.