BODY BOUND

Are you eating enough beauty food?

2010-07-23T21:56:00.000-07:00

Interesting article...

Are You Eating Enough Beauty Foods

Eating certain foods can dramatically improve the appearance of our skin, hair, nails, and eyes.

A diet rich in "phyto-compounds" can stimulate DNA repair, increased collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow. This not only keeps you healthy but it keeps you looking younger longer.

Creams and lotions can do wonders for your skin, but your diet is by far the most crucial when it comes to having healthy skin.

Beauty is dependent on the overall health of your body. In order for your skin to look attractive and vibrant you need to make healthy lifestyle choices, and a great place to start is with the foods you eat.

So if you want your skin to feel soft and look firm here are a few foods that you can eat starting today.

Blueberries: These blue little balls are one of natures most potent anti-aging foods. They help keep the skins elasticity, strengthen the gums, and contribute to the health of our eyes.

Brazil nuts: Help protect our skin from UV rays and they help reduce dryness.

Strawberries: Help protect our skins collagen structures. Collagen is what keeps our skin firm. Wrinkles form when our collagen levels start depleting.

Salmon: Promotes soft smooth skin, free from dry itchy patches.

Avocados: These contain folate which helps blood formation. This is essential for cell regeneration.

Acai: This is the king of all berries. It has 50% more antioxidants than pomegranates, and twice as much as blueberries. They also contain omega 6,9 fatty acids, fiber, calcium, and vitamins.

Apricots: Very rich in fiber and phytochemicals like beta-carotene and lycopene. They also have vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, folate, iron and potassium, making them very beneficial to our skin.

Broccoli: Also very high in fiber, vitamin C, and folate. There's a compound in broccoli called sulforaphane that protects our bodies cells from injury.

Beans: Jammed packed with phytochemicals, fiber, folic acid, protein, calcium, and magnesium. These guys can stabilize blood sugar as well as lower cholesterol.

Black currant: Has a high source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Also contains a high amount of calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

Carotenoids: This isn't a food, but it's found in fruits and vegetables. It's a fat soluble pigment which helps fight against cancer and cardiovascular disorders.

Carrots: Have lots of beta-carotene which is a powerful antioxidant.

Cruciferous vegetables: A.K.A.- cabbage, broccoli, kale, collard greens, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts. These guys release a compound called glucosinolates and an enzyme called myrosinase when chewed, which are known for their anti-cancer properties.

Cranberries: High in vitamin C, B vitamins, vitamin E, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, and citric acid.

Cucumber: A great source of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for increasing collagen production.

Camu-Camu: Very rich in vitamin C.

Dark leafy greens: A.K.A - Spinach, kale, and dark lettuce are loaded with vitamins and minerals like beta-carotene, vitamin C, folate, iron, magnesium, phytochemicals, and antioxidants.

Fish: Has lots of vitamin A, B1, B12, and B6. It also has omega 3 fatty acids which are very beneficial to the skin, as well as the heart and brain.

Flax, grapeseed, walnut, seaweed, spirulina, watercress: These are very high in zinc which is vital for the health of our skin. Plus they have been known to help clear up acne, and help keep us regular.

Grape seed oil: Has trace elements of selenium, zinc, copper, and iron. It's also a unique source for oligomeric procyanidine, which is known to improve our skins elasticity.

Honey: A nutrient rich alternative to refined sugar. Refined sugar is believed to contribute to aging.

Myrtle: Is known to slow down our skin aging process. Has been used in folk remedies for centuries.

Millet: A nutritious seed, high in silica, which is good for our skin, hair, and nails.

Oats: Very high in soluble fiber, and complex carbohydrates. High in iron, manganese, phosphorous, calcium, vitamins B and E, and silicon. Silicon is crucial for healthy skin by maintaining collagen levels.

Papaya: When applied as a paste on the skin, it's enzymes help breakdown dead skin cells.

Pomegranate: Very good source of polyphenol antioxidants. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals that can damage the skin.

Water: Hydrated skin naturally looks younger.

If you are one of the millions of people worldwide that spend money on lotions and creams in an attempt to look better, then it only makes sense to incorporate these beauty foods into your diet.

It wont take very long to start seeing the major benefits these beauty foods will have on the health of your skin and the way it looks and feels.

About the Author:
Steve Billesberger lives in Edmonton Alberta with his wife and small dog. He's a owner/operator of a couple of sites one of which is a health and wellness site. He is a big believer in feeding the body what it needs to heal and maintain optimal health. Along with many other benefits a proper diet can accelerate weight loss as well as protect us from skin problems such as cold sores, etc.

Quick Joker make-up

2010-07-22T02:33:00.001-07:00

That was a great party and I had a great time doing that make-up. Just a shame, not enough time as we were all running late. The Joker make up is good fun to do tho.
White is hard to work with and you can't be messy especially if you ad black powder on the eyes.
Don't forget to powder the whole face in between the layers of white to fix the creme.
If you start to do some special effects and make scars and scabs with the 3rd degree, do it before applying anything on the skin as it has to be clean... otherwise it does not stay on!! Apply the red (mix of red and blue) on the mouth using creme... can be fixed with red powders too...

This is so much fun!

Work...

2010-05-13T18:42:00.001-07:00

Introducing our new M2B range!!!

2010-03-31T16:25:00.000-07:00

It is that time in life when all the girlfriends, sisters and cousins are pregnant. That must be in the water?!?!?

Anyway, to look after all the Mums to be, I am introducing a new range of products especially formulated for pregnant women.

Why?
When pregnant, the woman's body goes thru different changes : the skin is stretching, breasts are changing, legs are carrying more weight.
During pregnancy the body's levels (EFA*) are at their lowest which has a direct effect on the skin elasticity. This can accelerate the ageing process and often lead to stretch marks. To combat these effects our products contain ingredients to supplement the level of EFA's directly where they are needed.

Our M2B treatments include
- a full body scrub that works on several levels to dissolve lack lustre cells and polish the skin to perfection.
- a massage with our Baby touch massage oil... it is a luxurious moisturizer enriched with nine naturally humectants. It is extremely moisturising and help improve the skin elasticity, promote the skin's barrier function and resplenish dry skin.
- a foot ritual including a soak and a foot massage with our revitalizing lotion for tired feet who carry more weight than usual.

Our treatments are tailored to the Mums to B need and one of them is specialized for the 4th trimester and onward when the body needs recovering and prepares to bounce back.

*Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids that are necessary for normal cellular function.

Show those legs...

2010-03-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

You don't need a real reason to expose your legs...here are a few advices to follow to go from long skirt to short shorts...

- Exfoliate : Twice a week, using a gentle body exfoliant or a dry brush. Remember the benefits of dry brushing,it is perfect for cell renewal and blood circulation!
- Moisturise : Like the face, the rest of the body needs attention. Grab a good body lotion that won't leave any greasy residue and will keep your legs nice and smooth.
- Throw away your razors and start waxing... It lasts longer, exfoliate the skin, makes the hair root wicker and your skin softer.

- Exercise : Power walking is a receipe that works pretty well, swimming, cardio, anything that makes them move!!
- Look after your feet : REMEMBER, they carry you all day long, everywhere, anytime... So time to aknowledge them and give them a bit of pampering. Get a Spa pedicure and even add a bit of luxury and get a paraffin mask... Polish with a sexy RED and they will thank you for it!

Still time to leave the skirt behind until the cold season arrives!

Another receipe from the kitchen...

2010-03-04T20:24:00.000-08:00

Get ready to hibernate...
Give your skin a bit of pampering with this delicious honey salt scrub....

In a preserving container, mix :
- 1 cup of medium coarse sea salt
- 20 drops of essential oils*
- 1/2 cup of sweet almond oil
- 2 teaspoons of honey

Seal the lid and shake well.
In your shower, rub the salt on your body insisting on the elbows, buttocks and knees.

Be carreful, the shower can become slippery because of the oil!!!
If possible use some water dispersible oil.

* Depending on your mood, use the blends of essential oils below:
- anticellulite : 10 drops of grapefruit, 5 drops of lemon, 5 drops of basil
- relaxation : 5 drops of chamomille, 5 drops of geranium, 5 drops of sandalwood, 5 drops of lemon
- energising : 10 drops of grapefruit, 5 drops of bergamot, 5 drops of perppermint.

Avoid using essential oils if you are pregnant or on sensitive skin....

After your shower and on a damp skin, apply your moisturiser.

Enjoy! your skin will feel supple and smooth :)

Time to get some sleep...

2009-12-03T04:11:00.000-08:00

Exams are over, it is now time to have back my 8 hours sleep / night.
The last month has been tough, but I've been tougher and finally got there.

I spent last Tuesday, painting a full body... it took me exactly 5.45hours... the hardest thing was to work with blues, body paints and powders included.

Little advice for blues lovers, add some texture to your work... that's what i did and i think it saved me. Some might have another opinion, please feel free to share :0)

Sun, sun, sun

2009-11-14T12:03:00.000-08:00

I finally took a break yesterday and went to the beach.
The water was beautiful and the temperature just right!
But, in less than 15 min I had a bikini line.
The sun is the first cause of ageing... it doesn't only cause skin cancer but it damages the skin so much that you end up with wrinkles earlier than planned!!
The skin damaged by sun looks tired, dull, gets age spots... even if you don't have it now, it will unfortunately catch up with you :(

We will never say it enough, protect the skin from the sun exposure or use a very good sunscreen.
There are great brands out there, and it has to be a SPF20+ on face. Reapply as often as necessary, you won't burn but will end up with a nice glowing skin.
I suggest that you get a face sunscreen fom your favorite beauty salon, as they usually also moisturise. Choose something light and not too thick to apply under your make up.

The right formula before heading to the beach would be:

Cleansing - toning - eye cream - moisturising - sunscreen - make up if necessary!

A Fleur de Peau, Forest Lodge

2009-11-14T11:46:00.000-08:00

A Fleur de Peau, Forest Lodge

Treatments with ingredients from the kitchen...

2009-10-21T03:24:00.000-07:00

For all skin types except sensitive

2 teaspoons of mashed avocado
2 teaspoons of tomato pulp
1/2 teaspoon of fine oatmeal
1 teaspoon of green or pink clay

Mix well and keep on face for about 10-15min and rinse with warm but not hot water.

Express exfoliant
If you run out of exfoliant or looking for a cheap alternative this is the receipe for your skin
Mix one teaspoon of bicarbonate soda with your milky cleanser. Apply on face with circular movements and rinse with warm water...Your skin will feel regenerated straight away!

To get shiny silky hair...
Mix one tablespoon of white vinegar in a bottle of 1.5l of water, and use for the last rinse of your hair.

To whiten teeth...
sprinkle some bicarbonate soda on the toohpaste and brush teeth as usual. Use only once a day :0)

Know your ingredients...

2009-09-28T04:42:00.000-07:00

3 Active ingredients found in the products I use during the treatments.

AHA – Glycolic Acid

SCIENTIFIC NAME
Glycolic acid, hydroxyacetic acid.
ORIGIN
Sugar cane, sugar beet. However, 99% of AHAs used in cosmetic products come from laboratory synthesis.
ACTION MODE
In lower concentrations (4% and -), AHAs act as hydration “magnets” (enhance hydration at the superficial layers of the skin). At concentrations greater than 4% and with a proper acid pH (3-4), AHAs can have an exfoliating action by degrading the links that tie cells together.
The most efficient and scientifically proven AHAs are glycolic and lactic acids.
INTERESTING FACT
AHAs may irritate the mucous membranes and skin. It is preferable to gradually build tolerance for AHAs.

ALLANTOIN

SCIENTIFIC NAME
(2,5-Dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl) urea, 5-ureidohydantoine.
ORIGIN
Of natural origin, allantoin is derived from the camphor plant. It can be synthesized in a laboratory.
ACTION MODE
Allantoin is famous for its hydrating, soothing and anti-irritating properties. It is a potent ingredient, even at lower concentrations (over 0.1%).
INTERESTING FACT
Allantoin is used for wound healing, burns and cutaneous ulcers. It aids in cell regeneration and granulation (skin repair step) of the skin.

Ingredient found in the cleansers…

SWEET ALMOND OIL

SCIENTIFIC NAME
Prunus dulcis.
ORIGIN
Derived from plant origin, sweet almond oil is extracted from the fruit of the almond tree, found in drier regions of Europe and California.
ACTION MODE
Sweet almond oil is used as a moisturizing ingredient in cosmetic formulations and as a vehicle in aromatherapy products. It does not leave greasy residues when topically applied. Rich in vitamin A, sweet almond oil is recommended for dry, mature skin.
INTERESTING FACT
People allergic to nuts should avoid the topical use of sweet almond oil.

Used as carrier oil for the Aromatherapy or Swedish massages…

SOME VITAMINS ARE ANTI-OXYDANTS

VITAMIN E

SCIENTIFIC NAME
Tocopherol, a-tocopherol, tocopheryl acetate.
ORIGIN
Vitamin, vegetable oil.
ACTION MODE
Recognized antioxidant properties, fights the signs of photoaging.
INTERESTING FACT
Liposoluble vitamin (soluble in oil). There are 8 forms of vitamin E. Alpha-tocopherol and tocotrienols have been shown to be the best against free radicals.

VITAMIN A

SCIENTIFIC NAME
Retinoid, retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinaldehyde.
ORIGIN
Vitamin.
ACTION MODE
Improves skin’s structure, effective against the sign of aging (wrinkles, fine lines, texture, hyperpigmentation, etc), and in the treatment of acne.
INTERESTING FACT
Unstable, photosensitizing (enhances sensitivity to sun light), may cause irritation. Use a sun protection on a daily basis when on a vitamin A treatment.

VITAMIN C

SCIENTIFIC NAME
L-ascorbic acid
ORIGIN
Vitamin.
ACTION MODE
Powerful antioxidant, decreases the signs of cutaneous aging.
INTERESTING FACT
Products containing L-ascorbic acid may be unstable but this forme of vitamin C is the most potent on the market.

Antioxydants

Definition
The antioxydants indicate chemical substances contained in our food such as the vitamins and trace elements.
Description
While reacting with the free radicals (Free radicals come from smoking, pollution, poisons, fried foods, and as a by-product of normal metabolism) responsible for the deterioration of the cells of the organization when they are in excess, the antioxydants are a means of fighting effectively against the ageing and the appearance of certain diseases. The antioxydants are in the vitamins C, E and A, like in trace elements (zinc, Sélénium) or in the Polyphenols (flavonoïdes and tannins in particular). Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, drink tea, coffee or wines to fill the tank in antioxydants.

Reflexology treatment

2009-09-28T04:19:00.000-07:00

This whole body treatment was first introduced in the West by Dr. William Fitzgerald in 1913.
At this time Dr. Fitzgerald was a medical professional, working as an ear, nose and throat specialist and surgeon. However, when working with patients’ feet, the doctor noted that when he applied pressure to specific parts, it sometimes affected another portion of the body in a positive way. Working from this newfound theory, Dr. Fitzgerald created his first reflexology chart. He divided the body into ten vertical zones. The zones traced reflexes on the hands and feet, and noted that when pressure was applied to these “zones” other areas and organs of the body responded.

Today, a reflexology therapist will still apply acupressure and massage to the ears, hands and feet within these same zones. The client is said to benefit from improved circulation, detoxification, reduced tension and the body’s ability to heal itself. The Association of Reflexologists claims that this treatment method can be effective for back pain, migraines, infertility, arthritis and many other problems.

During a reflexology appointment, the therapist will ask you questions to determine your present condition. She or he will then apply pressure to the hands and feet - according to a reflexology foot map. Different spots will, theoretically, have an effect on different internal organs. So, you press on spot X on the sole of the foot, and healing takes place in, say, internal organ Y.

Reflexology tools are based on this same map that traces the reflexes in the human body. You can buy several popular tools to use at home, including:
Reflexology gloves - to massage the palms
Reflexology mats - for use in meditation and yoga
Reflexology socks - a reflexology foot chart printed on a sock
Reflexology kits - that often include a mix of foot and hand therapies

According to some reflexologists, stimulating nerve endings in these extremities has an effect on the whole body’s nervous system, which promotes healing. Others take a more mystical approach, believing that “life energy” can be blocked or put into imbalance, and reflexology corrects this.
We all know that having our feet massaged feels good - especially after a hard day of work. A good feeling can lead to endorphin release and decreased stress.

--> from "massagetherapies101.com"

Glycolic peel treatments.

2009-09-21T04:47:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago a client came to me to get some advices to a better skin. She tried many products but it seemed that none of them worked the way she wanted.

Symptoms : She had small scars and small "bumps" on the lower jaw caused by squeezing pimples. Her "T-zone" was oily with enlarged pores and she didn't have that brightness that healthy skins have.
I advised her to try a package of glycolic treatments and see if it helped.
The skin already improved after the first treatment and got more brightness... we just finished the package of 6 treatments and almost all the scars and "bumps" have disappeared; the colour of the skin is much healthier, and there is definitely an improvement on the T-zone area.

So how glycolic peels work??

The Glycolic Peel is a safe and painless exfoliation process that removes a micro-thin top layer of skin. This form of skin rejuvenation uses glycolic acid to remove damaged cells on the top layer of skin. Removal of damaged cells stimulates cell division that results in plumper, healthier young cells.

Glycolic acid removes old, damaged cells on the top layer of skin and as a result it smoothes and softens the skin, diminishes fine lines, decreases acne outbreaks, evens out skin tone coloration and lightens hyper pigmented areas.

How does it feel?

The solution is applied to the skin and we usually note a burning sensation similar to a sunburn after the procedure. As with any exfoliation or resurfacing, it is important to use sunscreens, because the skin is more susceptible to injury by the sun.

How long does it last?

Mild Glycolic Acid-based peels take about 10 minutes. Most people notice a change in the skin right away. For optimal effect it is recommended that Glycolic Peels are performed weekly for six weeks.

AHA peels (glycolic peels) are used to:

reduce fine wrinkling
treat areas of dryness
reduce uneven pigmentation
aid in the control of acne
smooth rough dry skin
improve the texture of sun-damaged skin

AHA peels may:

cause stinging
cause skin redness
cause mild skin irritation
cause dryness
take multiple treatments for desired results

Summer's right around the corner

2009-09-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I hope you are all enjoying the nice and warm weather as much as I am. Summer is just a couple of months away so it's about time to get back into shape, bringing back the good old habits and smile as much as we can.
This is the first words of my blog, I will share with you anything and everything I can about beauty treatments, exercises, nutrition, make-up...I am also happy to receive any comment or question that could be the next subject.