Beauty Secrets Mean Lead in Lipstick, Arsenic in Eyeliner

Tune in tomorrow morning to hear the Skin Guru discussing Skin Care with BBC Radio Scotland’s, McCauley & Co!

Out of Africa: Hot Hot Heat – Skin & Hair: “It’s boiling. So very hot and I’m being very careful with sun protection. Factor 50 is the order of the day! The sunshine and heat is play…”

Yesterday I decided to treat myself to an organic facial at a city centre salon. It was to say the least anything but an enjoyable experience! The therapist seemed nice enough and instructed me with the usual drill, clothes off, up on bed, face up, blah blah. Then she started to apply the first product, a cleanser, telling me all the while what was in it, how it was good for my skin etc. Off with that on with next product, a scrub, same again she talked me through ingredients, how it would benefit my skin and so forth. Next product, a mask, same again. In total she used 8 products on my face in 50 minutes! Now there is no way your skin has the ability to cope with such a barrage of products, not to mention the constant sales pitch that was being drilled into me during the entire process! There are far too many salons out there, completely focused on the selling of the products and not at all on the clients needs.

After cleansing the skin, blend the smooth pulp of half a ripe banana with 4 tablespoons of cold milk. Apply to the face and neck for 15-20 minutes. Rinse of with cold water, which tightens the pores and seals in the nourishment from the ingredients.

This article published by the FT newspaper reveals some gory and interesting facts about how your cosmetic and skincare products, are tested and produced, by some of the big players in the beauty industry! Make sure your not eating when you read it!

What a fantastic surprise! I have just found out that I am in the shortlist for Best Beautician/Therapist in the Scottish Health and Beauty Awards 2011. It is lovely to feel appreciated and I would like to thank everyone who voted for me.

I Hope you all had a wonderful stress free Easter weekend? Unfortunately for most of us stress is something we have accepted as part of living in the 21st century! Over time the affects of stress take a harsh toll on our bodies. According to a study conducted at the University of California, the aging process is accelerated when our cells are exposed to stress. When you put yourself under stress, your brain releases neuro peptides ( free radicals that damage your cell membranes). This in turn dehydrates your skin and puts your immune system under enormous strain, leading to amongst other things, wrinkles, eczema and acne…….the list goes on. The first step is to recognize you are suffering from stress and take positive steps to alleviate it’s symptoms. The first and most obvious one being regular exercise. Doing a form of exercise that increases your oxygen intake, walking, running, swimming or yoga are all great ways to de stress the body, and of course don’t forget one of the best ways to de-stress, get together with your friends and have a great laugh!