tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75910968528072575892024-03-14T07:15:37.687-07:00Coconuts and Mascara Natural beauty and lifestyle blog featuring multi-use products, simple ingredients and tips for a healthy and balanced lifestyle.Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-18660042360235603982013-12-03T13:01:00.000-08:002013-12-03T13:01:01.639-08:00Vitacost and Fresh Faced Haul<div style="text-align: center;">
A few things I've ordered online recently, I think a couple have the potential to become holy grail!</div>
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From Vitacost I ordered the Hugo Balancing Conditioner, Kiss My Face hold up styling mousse, George's Aloe Spray Mister, and Honey Girl Organics Face and Eye Creme Extra Sensitive. So far I am loving them all.</div>
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From Fresh Faced I ordered 10 samples, I really wanted to try the Vapour Beauty Illusionist Concealor and ended up selected the maximum amount of samples to help justify the shipping. </div>
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<a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54491/333/A10B62821238B016C5155C32EA66B16B.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-91591800284753642192013-11-23T09:00:00.000-08:002013-11-23T09:00:01.016-08:00What's in my Shower?<div style="text-align: center;">
I'll start by saying I am almost completely satisfied with my shower routine. I adore all the products except the shampoo I'm using. I'll get back to that, first, here is what I keep in the shower. </div>
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1. <b>Giovanni Root 66 Max Volume Shampoo</b> - This has a few ingredients I'm not thrilled with but the true reason I'm not happy with it is I find it leaves a residue in my hair and my hair gets oilier quicker then with other shampoos. I don't use conditioner as I have very fine and oily hair, after the shower I do put a drop of argan oil in my ends. I am still looking for the right shampoo/conditioner combo to balance my hair.</div>
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2. <b>Rocky Mountain Soap Company Foaming Wash in Vanilla Coconut</b> - This is heavenly! The foaming pump provides plenty of lather that cleanses without being at all drying. The scent cannot be beat, a sweet vanilla coconut cupcake!</div>
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3.<b> Rocky Mountain Soap Company Peppermint Shave Bar </b>- Don't be mistaken, this is nothing like shaving with soap! It lathers into this rich cream and provides a close shave, doesn't clog your razor and smells super refreshing. It is so moisturizing that if you are in a time crunch you can even get away without applying lotion after you shave. A new favourite of mine!</div>
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4.<b> Schick Quattro for Women Trim Style</b> - For years I used a Venus razor thinking it was the best one, but recently switched to Schick Quattro and not only are the blades cheaper they provide a way smoother shave.</div>
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5. <b>Honey Sugar Olive Oil Face Scrub</b> - I use my homemade scrub whenever my face is feeling a little bumpy or dry. The olive oil and sugar combo really smooth things out and the honey soothes.</div>
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6. <b>Vals Veggie Soap</b> - I use this to wash my face, especially after I use the scrub, I like to let the oil soak into my face during my shower then wash off the excess at the end. </div>
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7. <b>Sephora Precision Pore Cleansing Pad</b> - This soft rubbery pad is great for massaging cleanser into the skin.</div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-11534913583105251482013-11-20T09:00:00.000-08:002013-11-20T09:00:00.530-08:00Wishlist Wednesday<br />
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A few of the items I've been lusting after online this week.</div>
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<b>Pure Anada Mascara</b>. <a href="http://www.pureanada.ca/" target="_blank">Pure Anada</a> is a Canadian brand dedicated to creating safe and effective products. I've been eying up the brand for a while and am hoping to find some in store but if not I'll be ordering online soon. </div>
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<a href="http://www.vapourbeauty.com/face/Vapour-Organic-Beauty-Illusionist-Concealer.asp" target="_blank">Vapour Organic Beauty</a> Illusionist Concealer. I love my powder mineral foundation but with the dry winter I'm looking to switch to just a creamy concealer where I need it. </div>
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<img align="right" alt="Face and Eye Cream, Extra Sensitive" height="265" src="http://www.honeygirlorganics.ca/images/products/Face-And-Eye-Cream-Organic-Sensitive.gif" width="320" /> </div>
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<a href="http://honeygirlorganics.ca/products/face_eye_sensitive.html" target="_blank">Honey Girl Organics Face and Eye Creme Extra Sensitive</a>. I've been looking for an eye cream with simple ingredients, this may be the one!</div>
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What products have you had your eye on lately?</div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-73780254495921088452013-10-30T09:00:00.000-07:002013-10-31T15:43:40.878-07:00Natural At Home Pedicure<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iMXPw_qng651r6wjAzY5eo5Ewp4zCabzeqzigivSYUGa4-763FR5o1eyDovCL4kRUHyrG9MNVK2ieGcdyWeQ-IgwwJAFSbk79iaXharsn3NB7gwuXFOMVyIbTRwbk2peivlNQGv8nPM/s1600/pedicure.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4iMXPw_qng651r6wjAzY5eo5Ewp4zCabzeqzigivSYUGa4-763FR5o1eyDovCL4kRUHyrG9MNVK2ieGcdyWeQ-IgwwJAFSbk79iaXharsn3NB7gwuXFOMVyIbTRwbk2peivlNQGv8nPM/s640/pedicure.JPG" width="640" /></a>I like to keep my toes presentable all year long and I prefer to do it at home. If we are being honest, nail salons kinda gross me out! This is the routine that gets me the results I like without too many products and without being too time consuming. I do the full routine about every two weeks with a few touch-ups in-between. </div>
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<img border="0" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH4PadtcYkyEtoAuCfnIGugVH7Jo4ep84ODIiN-QojWfnZGwBOur2izYGDHEBLzhPla796Ns5ymF3NO0iI-N9u1jOmnmk8X7QWeCPUwK4S_TqE7HTKcniydzRb7JkA7UbL-GXQ6q47bTI/s640/revlon+pedegg.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Step One: With dry feet use the Revlon Pedi Expert to remove calluses and rough skin. This thing looks a little intimidating but I have had fantastic results with it. Just make sure to go gently, applying very little pressure. Remove calluses with the larger grit file going both directions, then refine with the smoother file going in only one direction for the smoothest result.</div>
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<img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPOeeiPQMDwPD3-9Dszaz7mQvJBlHOmEozdVjMyjNLz6sTJhMTfF4LGTU-Vyh7jzxN2239LSXc2yF8VlFzd6_3k1X3A73MvDTCuCCNYgGkSbcQin6tLtkM_FEeBm0kAijAhtHEwUvXKg/s640/coconut+scrub.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Step Two: Soak feet in warm water, you can add epsom salts or essential oils if you like. Then once everything has softened up scrub your feet with a mixture of coconut oil and sugar. Rinse and dry.</div>
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<img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGMByewoEuGUad-GUhFpXXECW0hyphenhyphenveDnsTcuROwXxmdw_SbLtej5yPbXTifuus5tKLvGqSJGS-YQalBAidsUmNlzeIhx-LstUKUx4vslGJqxcu4M6mFVh2GXiRzqsBE8xV9XkyuaSYco/s400/cuticle+care.JPG" width="323" /></div>
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Step Three: Immediately after you dry off, use a manicure stone to gentle rub away any excess cuticle around your nails. This thing is amazing! No need to push back or clip your cuticles, just run the tip of the stone along the edges of your nails and just the right amount of cuticle will painlessly come off.</div>
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Step Four: Clip and file nails into the shape you prefer. Then use a nail buffer to smooth ridges and give a slight shine to the nails. This is especially nice if you don't plan to paint your nails. </div>
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<img border="0" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYdjG5Pku5hhVO-fCseXPAmzmn7gobgtmQxm4pAkwjZqAXYuJKerkn-wjSr59UHnl2Wc_ZTY9ZN3AXKP0raFP6nqCv4KrgIUL7BEpzT5UMAOU5SMQYmMxC9ZgOdc7N1Fy_umBlfCMD-9Y/s640/hand+salve.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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Step Five: Slather on a softening and moisturizing balm and you're good to go.I find this one from Burt's Bees to be extra softening, especially if I apply heavily then slip on socks and let it sink in overnight. </div>
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So that's what I do about every two weeks depending on my spare time and what my feet need. In the summer I almost always paint my nails, but once winter rolls around I rarely do, I like to let my nails breathe. Some quick maintenance during the week will help extend your pedicure. Once or twice a week use the finer side of the Pedi Expert to prevent calluses and dead skin from building up, using the manicure stone three to four times a week after your shower will help keep cuticles in check. </div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-43074753456189179562013-10-26T09:00:00.000-07:002013-10-26T22:26:45.412-07:00Super Food Smoothie<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXTg-iEstoqS2n11LqkUjUwe8LIpBVmA-seQZv4HNn2sTJW5CfULtAaLBMgVZtZRFeSmNXg_suDW0x4gzNkTnMXnXg240T1m-RYUijxwkvpkOXsYyQJ73bLZq-aQ4ZrnTPk5rld_4Z0k/s1600/2-photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgXTg-iEstoqS2n11LqkUjUwe8LIpBVmA-seQZv4HNn2sTJW5CfULtAaLBMgVZtZRFeSmNXg_suDW0x4gzNkTnMXnXg240T1m-RYUijxwkvpkOXsYyQJ73bLZq-aQ4ZrnTPk5rld_4Z0k/s640/2-photo+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nothing feels better to me then starting out the day with a nutritious fresh smoothie. (Although I will admit I am slightly partial to a good diner breakfast also, but only on occasion!) This is a low-sugar, high nutrient blend that also happens to be delicious. A good first step if you are hesitant about green smoothies or juice.<br />
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The Recipe:</h3>
1/4 cup natural plain yogurt (mine lists only skim milk, cream and active bactira cultures as ingredients)<br />
1/2 cup blueberries<br />
1/2 cup raspberries<br />
1-2 handfuls spinach<br />
coconut water to achieve the consistency you prefer<br />
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The Breakdown:</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqarm3afqctQvYIOmIJUkCP1-sU18vaNocow1NmRyj-YSaJKdQUcE98X_BiHYFToty9W0VQlcHcxQ0MCSrlkasGJyCHaDTi-8YCmwyYwiDZ4HUuLz4obsUhTEjeWpXyZKHdt1WI1HRhqY/s1600/nutrition+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqarm3afqctQvYIOmIJUkCP1-sU18vaNocow1NmRyj-YSaJKdQUcE98X_BiHYFToty9W0VQlcHcxQ0MCSrlkasGJyCHaDTi-8YCmwyYwiDZ4HUuLz4obsUhTEjeWpXyZKHdt1WI1HRhqY/s640/nutrition+1.JPG" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-calculator.asp" target="_blank">Sparkpeople Recipe Calculator</a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3m0dRm9J-cYqq7PD0jGyANsH-Mi2mEcIPe7Zy9evczuiRGoPoxy_X8nH2y8E-6pCMBp72PDfpZ4TTSk7M_SFAW6CXZXhHv9JGuxlHMnT6b1Lx_aHhXPaC8jidZ-Yq6WhzVjbFDXqAVI/s1600/nutrition+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx3m0dRm9J-cYqq7PD0jGyANsH-Mi2mEcIPe7Zy9evczuiRGoPoxy_X8nH2y8E-6pCMBp72PDfpZ4TTSk7M_SFAW6CXZXhHv9JGuxlHMnT6b1Lx_aHhXPaC8jidZ-Yq6WhzVjbFDXqAVI/s640/nutrition+2.JPG" width="264" /></a></div>
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<h3>
The Why: </h3>
Blueberries are extremely high in disease fighting, cell protecting antioxidants. Check out this <a href="http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/healthy-eating/blueberries-the-antioxidant-super-fruit.html" target="_blank">link</a> to read more about why they are so fantastic for you. Raspberries also are packed with antioxidants but also have very high fiber content. Check out <a href="http://www.fitday.com/fitness-articles/nutrition/healthy-eating/the-nutrition-of-red-raspberries.html" target="_blank">here</a> to see more about these tasty berries. Of course everyone knows spinach is good for you,it is loaded with vitamins A and C, iron and plenty of other important nutrients. In this smoothie you can't even taste it I promise!<br />
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Let me know if you try this or what your favourite smoothie recipe is.Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-77137932270216471872013-10-23T08:30:00.000-07:002013-10-23T08:30:00.293-07:00Korres Wild Rose Mineral Foundation ReviewI have been a fan of mineral foundations for years. I started, like I'm sure many did, with Bare Minerals. I used their Matte formula for about three years and really liked it. When it came time to repurchase I was considering switching to the orginal formula as I was finding the matte to be a little too matte and dull for me. During my research I noticed that the Bismuth Oxychloride was irritating some peoples skin so I wasn't thrilled with either the orginal or matte options. At Sephora I noticed the Korres Mineral Foundation ($36.50), liked the ingredients and the finish and decided to take a chance.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-S5j73XDitpAAJiiw8rOBpmcbJ6gza7zUV90KFdOO2BHWrRSGzFNO54em5R0CohQOX4L8k4twmJZFRaGsXhmPQnQGUR3N-tbwg3GQsLZFzynlseVPKPgOZ1r9fM1GHmCQua_igaLEpE/s1600/1-photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-S5j73XDitpAAJiiw8rOBpmcbJ6gza7zUV90KFdOO2BHWrRSGzFNO54em5R0CohQOX4L8k4twmJZFRaGsXhmPQnQGUR3N-tbwg3GQsLZFzynlseVPKPgOZ1r9fM1GHmCQua_igaLEpE/s640/1-photo+1.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6uIbOPO805leP3L82i_9Kb19Br5hCtW8yJtZ2fMTKSYlPi6_vE7gsbY_25SXvRA6GXv27u8z4O7in8kCiPsOJOhyASmnDsOnDHc33iLTqtwElTP89PkTsh3dXsJ7kfnr1XZxE5JbOBc/s1600/2-photo+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz6uIbOPO805leP3L82i_9Kb19Br5hCtW8yJtZ2fMTKSYlPi6_vE7gsbY_25SXvRA6GXv27u8z4O7in8kCiPsOJOhyASmnDsOnDHc33iLTqtwElTP89PkTsh3dXsJ7kfnr1XZxE5JbOBc/s640/2-photo+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Ingredients: Boron Nitride, Zinc Oxide, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil. May Contain: Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides<br />
<i>*This list is off of my package purchased about six months ago, Sephora now lists slightly different ingredients.</i><br />
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EWG Skin Deep Rating: 1 (on a 0-10 scale, 0 being lowest hazard) <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTduWe1eIFz6MwG-J-ZbpIq0mI4wZ-i5QhAWiWl5tVZ_AArCrmdNUwyfSWkP4aFsV-rrY9SyTijNXF8__b4gBz2_uHclrCx9TmLgb8LUh638255qudut33sexGDxWWZ48KSSYgbbk9Fw/s1600/3-photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeTduWe1eIFz6MwG-J-ZbpIq0mI4wZ-i5QhAWiWl5tVZ_AArCrmdNUwyfSWkP4aFsV-rrY9SyTijNXF8__b4gBz2_uHclrCx9TmLgb8LUh638255qudut33sexGDxWWZ48KSSYgbbk9Fw/s640/3-photo+3.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Korres Wild Rose Mineral Foundation in Porcelain </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB5Ci2dDsWobfgKRZFiqIMtEX_6oy83OuodUNewxv8QGXo4K8cjZvSNwgI1BA1y7lG5w_5fgbVhaH3CUdbfIEN38tbR-ZU71nJdDpinEU1eVw4eP2ixp00yymf93OErSrBonBQ0MfUuE/s1600/1-photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfB5Ci2dDsWobfgKRZFiqIMtEX_6oy83OuodUNewxv8QGXo4K8cjZvSNwgI1BA1y7lG5w_5fgbVhaH3CUdbfIEN38tbR-ZU71nJdDpinEU1eVw4eP2ixp00yymf93OErSrBonBQ0MfUuE/s640/1-photo+5.JPG" width="474" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1. Porcelain applied heavily, no blending. 2. Applied lightly and blended with finger. </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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What I like:<br />
<ul>
<li>I LOVE the finish of this product. Not shimmery, not matte. Not quite dewy, just a subtle glow.</li>
<li>I can use it as concealer, even under my eyes. </li>
<li>It blends so well I don't need to apply it everywhere if I don't want to. </li>
<li>Very short and non-toxic ingredient list </li>
<li>Doesn't break me out </li>
<li>Natural/light coverage - just enough to even and brighten my skin</li>
</ul>
What I don't:<br />
<ul>
<li>The sifter does not close....I recommend you keep the sponge that comes with product, certainly not for applying the product but it really helps keep the product from coming out of the sifter and into the lid if you toss it in your makeup bag.</li>
<li>Can get a little heavy feeling if applied too liberally (as would most things I assume..) </li>
<li>I'm not sure if the ingredients are nano-particle size.</li>
<li>Colour range is not huge. Sephora carries 8 colours, I am the lightest. </li>
</ul>
Application Tips:<br />
<ul>
<li>Moisturize well and let it sink in for at least five minutes before you apply foundation. </li>
<li>Start with far less than you think you will need.</li>
<li>Use a kabuki brush and gently buff in circles to blend. </li>
</ul>
Final Thoughts:<br />
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While I thoroughly enjoy this foundation it is not a guaranteed repurchase for me yet. I am interested in finding a Canadian, indie brand whose philosophy matches mine more closely. You may have noticed the Johnson and Johnson company listed on the back, something I didn't notice until I photographing the product for this review. Overall this is a great product with very few flaws.Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-30663671750462448312013-10-19T18:46:00.000-07:002013-10-31T15:43:59.632-07:00All Natural Skin Care Routine - AM and PM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1weVCROni74pfqDxjVnIPA7U-XzYTcoKjKCUMOq90qdHaQHl1-L-b0iSBpbRkHj6MM7WDE-VJJybpnJs6fPWglAtAVSlQZyIQ_w1NMXMQXNXo3G2Nw7ftRZKi4Ru8S51VdqWbbNDHug4/s1600/Natural+Skincare.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1weVCROni74pfqDxjVnIPA7U-XzYTcoKjKCUMOq90qdHaQHl1-L-b0iSBpbRkHj6MM7WDE-VJJybpnJs6fPWglAtAVSlQZyIQ_w1NMXMQXNXo3G2Nw7ftRZKi4Ru8S51VdqWbbNDHug4/s640/Natural+Skincare.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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To be honest, I have never been a multi-step, complicated skin care girl. I like minimal products with minimal ingredients. My skin has improved immensely since I switched to natural products. My skin type is normal to combination. I am prone to an oily T-zone in the summer, and dry patches around my mouth and eyes in the winter. I get occasional acne usually around my period or high stress times. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifObfYA-k5ncFNGhdtb78ah_VvS-Sow62JnNKocuOTZ0fHI-fhaLM8d_J74k65iA4cfxs6IHDS51nrI2H5pmUPEcZmggjkS10m1Yf4Jw8KD2gwy8RIM0_QHHoCurzlxgYEeS2JdMUqDhg/s1600/AM+Skincare.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifObfYA-k5ncFNGhdtb78ah_VvS-Sow62JnNKocuOTZ0fHI-fhaLM8d_J74k65iA4cfxs6IHDS51nrI2H5pmUPEcZmggjkS10m1Yf4Jw8KD2gwy8RIM0_QHHoCurzlxgYEeS2JdMUqDhg/s640/AM+Skincare.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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AM Routine:</h2>
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<li>Cleanse with raw honey.</li>
<li>Tone with my homemade toner. Half witch hazel, half water, a couple drops of tea tree oil.</li>
<li>Moisturize with organic argan oil.</li>
<li>Protect with Badger Damascus Rose Face Sunscreen.</li>
</ol>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMT_sp6yxCRy6Mrfm_Evz2JeV4iBwnSAtFUrhIQ2HbyYjOsUm5UNjd_jp7g1qUfgre242hEP_bGkQI5Dv6vSDVLeGp-cpVaroSyp66rh40nCROe0Z3mJOKaCTQ_3HnPyudyhyphenhyphenenZIuhM/s1600/PM+Skincare.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMT_sp6yxCRy6Mrfm_Evz2JeV4iBwnSAtFUrhIQ2HbyYjOsUm5UNjd_jp7g1qUfgre242hEP_bGkQI5Dv6vSDVLeGp-cpVaroSyp66rh40nCROe0Z3mJOKaCTQ_3HnPyudyhyphenhyphenenZIuhM/s640/PM+Skincare.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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PM Routine:</h2>
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<li>Remove eye makeup with coconut oil.</li>
<li>Cleanse face with a pure olive oil soap, massage with a gentle scrubber.</li>
<li>Tone with homemade toner. </li>
<li>Moisturize with argan oil.</li>
<li>Pat <a href="http://coconutsandmascara.blogspot.ca/2013/09/diy-eye-balm.html">eye balm</a> on.</li>
<li>Treat any blemishes with a q-tip soaked in water then dipped in tea tree oil and applied. </li>
</ol>
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What are your skin care must haves? Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-15362641802876762022013-10-16T08:30:00.000-07:002013-10-16T08:30:00.883-07:00What's In My Purse?<div style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9zSxwnV3HW73uteCsu20Ymr_tuKD-VP5Hqv8tiFx_WdI6e1kUvHhmDdpOFgaGIoDgWccAyCVBIi8vzoJPWolBiZg4PItToaSCwaJitMkz5OKht3UrhYUwfpFEPg7p6f_TM5FLdSVIX0/s1600/photo+2+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9zSxwnV3HW73uteCsu20Ymr_tuKD-VP5Hqv8tiFx_WdI6e1kUvHhmDdpOFgaGIoDgWccAyCVBIi8vzoJPWolBiZg4PItToaSCwaJitMkz5OKht3UrhYUwfpFEPg7p6f_TM5FLdSVIX0/s640/photo+2+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I love seeing what people carry in their purse so I thought I would share what's in mine. I consider myself to have a relatively minimal 'purse-load'. Missing from the photos are my house keys, transit pass and phone. <br />
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<img alt="" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5z0XWZZikfd_ZOBUrW6ykeOY7WYKpFnsZPDNLyGq-3GsbP5A8ZqQmbQil5IqLpzUzrrR_bIgfjE1GAAcNiA_4NiU47qoknRRZL4lUu7PZBnXIb_7Suihnj_0sUYSkTuAmUfw_2dWEjLU/s640/photo+3+%25282%2529.JPG" width="478" /> </div>
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I keep a few of my favourite on-the-go products.</div>
<ul style="text-align: center;">
<li> Rocky Mountain Soap Company's Vanilla Coconut SPF Lip Butter- smells fantastic, zinc provides a natural SPF that as long as you rub or blend in totally disappears.</li>
<li>Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm in Tiger Lily - a my lips but better colour</li>
<li>Alba Botanitcal Terra Gloss in Bloom - for when I want a touch of shimmer</li>
<li>Aveeno Baby Sensitive Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 - for days when I end up being out in the sun longer then anticipated. I burn like crazy if I'm not careful. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnZKn3nNl_XDM7akDEOSl4RKoWU8e69t-T1qaN3PTehEZR-qN3TGifg_nOkc1RtTNuuiQT69SzitNBSV2F3XcX8MkdiMiRDi5WFfLtZ70VWRKdwsZZSGR1wSdNlPtyPk4BkXj2MwU0IU/s1600/photo+1+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggnZKn3nNl_XDM7akDEOSl4RKoWU8e69t-T1qaN3PTehEZR-qN3TGifg_nOkc1RtTNuuiQT69SzitNBSV2F3XcX8MkdiMiRDi5WFfLtZ70VWRKdwsZZSGR1wSdNlPtyPk4BkXj2MwU0IU/s640/photo+1+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am very prone to getting 'hangry' (angry when I'm hungery....) so I always have some type of snack in my bag. I love these Larabars because of how few ingredients they have, this one has dates, peanut butter, chocolate chips and peanuts. Mints are a must because I am a chronic coffee drinker, gum hurts my jaw. Maybe this is a bit cliche Canadian of me to carry a maple syrup candy around but they are so good!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-xb7bl1p6hevztP7fWnAXeQhEwoduASX6L82-HsFrQ-ZPdODbfTm1ZStgEtbfZ3725HDT86OSncLvTY6SRiJW6TY0LORB5sNhqD1KTYrXT39qOg3K15YRbLrW3lWZzFxrTQW6X0so84/s1600/photo+2+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-xb7bl1p6hevztP7fWnAXeQhEwoduASX6L82-HsFrQ-ZPdODbfTm1ZStgEtbfZ3725HDT86OSncLvTY6SRiJW6TY0LORB5sNhqD1KTYrXT39qOg3K15YRbLrW3lWZzFxrTQW6X0so84/s640/photo+2+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A pen, pack of kleenex, a bandaid, earplugs and a hair elastic because you just never know! </div>
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<img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRd1W_nu2NI5TLVO4MkQgrk2BQ44gfdgDgLIVpSJjMOiHD01iVo91VCpwEZCXSGNU0qNsN4JaniR1WMFHW1hx62whyQrUo6JW1nXvvoKhG03h4DCv7aMSSnDnvP2_7xRrzfVi4-nkr1VI/s640/photo+3+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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Lastly, my wallet, Kobo Mini and headphones. I keep my headphones in my purse but rarely use them out, I just feel uncomfortable not hearing my surroundings. I guess that's weird.</div>
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So there we go, a glimpse into my perhaps odd collection of items I like to keep with me.</div>
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What's the weirdest thing in your purse? </div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-58885656250335633792013-10-12T18:39:00.000-07:002013-10-12T18:52:27.741-07:00Bad, Better, Best - Facial Scrubs<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is the start of a new series I am planning. Comparing a 'traditional' product, a seemingly natural product and a very pure product. Today the focus is on face scrubs. I will admit I am sporadic scrubber. I dry brush my body almost daily but go in phases with how often I exfoliate my face.</div>
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The ingredients in bold either rate a 5 or above according to <a href="http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/" target="_blank">Environment Working Group Skin Deep Database</a>, or are listed by <a href="http://www.davidsuzuki.org/issues/health/science/toxics/dirty-dozen-cosmetic-chemicals/" target="_blank">The David Suzuki Foundation</a> as dirty.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JdEezYGdzr4JgnFKclbEFG3I_5UweyRTbOcWGzKcMKr8xegJpTyJcOq6vt2Hxu_TI2YebYE3mSDxA7Ht3wrVY7zdOwb7B68mYTg7Jh0w_KZUr25YI470qDvxEFfUNeVcsQLpZnCxYPM/s1600/apricot+scrub.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JdEezYGdzr4JgnFKclbEFG3I_5UweyRTbOcWGzKcMKr8xegJpTyJcOq6vt2Hxu_TI2YebYE3mSDxA7Ht3wrVY7zdOwb7B68mYTg7Jh0w_KZUr25YI470qDvxEFfUNeVcsQLpZnCxYPM/s400/apricot+scrub.jpg" width="182" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo From Bellasugar.com</td></tr>
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The Bad: St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub (about $5 at drugstores)</h2>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Ingredients</span>: Water, Walnut Shell Powder, Glyceryl Stearate SE, <span style="color: #ea9999;"><span style="color: black;">Propylene Glycol</span></span>,
<b>Sodium Lauryl Sulfate</b>, Corn Meal, Cetyl Alcohol, <b>Linoleamide</b> <b>DEA</b>,
Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, <b>PEG-100 Stearate</b>, Lanolin Oil,
Emulsifying Wax NF, Apricot Kernel Oil, Sambucus Nigra Extract, Primula
Veris Extract, Sunflower Extract, Matricaria Extract, Ceteareth-20,
<b>Triethanolamine</b>, Carbomer, <b>Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben</b>,
Phenoxyethanol, <b>Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone</b>,<b>
Fragrance</b>, Titanium Dioxide.</div>
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<u><b><span style="font-size: small;">Quick Take: </span></b></u>EWG Product Hazard Rating 6 our of 10. Skip it, there are far too many concerning ingredients! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtUgG3sLulRp8GxM9WlQb8EnSSLUsPeXOtu1TUaVWVPCPNYnimlkREYF-VKh7h4aWwctf3phuXATIdBPT8a1q0l2CbMlhNo4-PRxiAo6v4DSvhfpv7TOe29c9Z3gdnAEEmldsN8WjAZ8/s1600/0900ec67d839ada6_Avalon-Organics-Exfoliating-Enzyme-Scrub.xxxlarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtUgG3sLulRp8GxM9WlQb8EnSSLUsPeXOtu1TUaVWVPCPNYnimlkREYF-VKh7h4aWwctf3phuXATIdBPT8a1q0l2CbMlhNo4-PRxiAo6v4DSvhfpv7TOe29c9Z3gdnAEEmldsN8WjAZ8/s640/0900ec67d839ada6_Avalon-Organics-Exfoliating-Enzyme-Scrub.xxxlarge.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Bellasugar.com</td></tr>
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The Better: Avalon Organics Lavender Luminosity Exfoliating Enzyme Scrub (about $15 at drugstores)</h2>
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Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice(1), Water (Aqua), Caprylic/Capric
Triglyceride, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Shell Powder(1), Cetyl Alcohol,
Glyceryl Stearate SE, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil(1), Helianthus Annuus
(Sunflower) Seed Oil(1), Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Oil, Stearyl Alcohol,
Borago Officinalis Seed Oil(1), Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Citrus
Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Linum
Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil(1), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed
Oil(1), Arnica Montana Flower Extract(1), Camellia Sinensis Leaf
Extract(1), Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract(1),
Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Extract(1), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice)
Rhizome/Root(1), Lavandula Intermedia Leaf /Flower/Stem Extract(1),
Saccharomyces/Xylinum Black Tea Ferment(1,2), Citric Acid, Bromelain,
Maltodextrin, Potassium Hydroxide, Pumice, Stearic Acid, Tocopherol,
Xanthan Gum, Alcohol(1), <b>Benzyl Alcohol</b>, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium
Benzoate,<b> Limonene, Linalool</b>, <b>Coumarin</b> <br />
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(1)Certified Organic Ingredient <br />
(2)From Kombucha</div>
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<u><b>Quick Take:</b></u> EWG Product Hazard Rating 4 out of 10. This product skips a lot of the hazardous ingredients of the St Ives scrub making it a better choice. If you are really trying to keep squeaky clean I would skip this product due to it's overly lengthy ingredient list and because coumarin (a masking fragrance) can be hazardous.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTSmqz_BiyIwx8-E6SDOZATdF5k8pktTIu4oUcjxn2rmDjQvhcDIL5wkIVKX_yu28hg1LPBbIP0ACbAVOMFe9myFJWA-ZdDWyMTWwNQ3jxxkWGiHvcZG_ePClQ5KBWWCciMHKkwruID8/s1600/1-photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTSmqz_BiyIwx8-E6SDOZATdF5k8pktTIu4oUcjxn2rmDjQvhcDIL5wkIVKX_yu28hg1LPBbIP0ACbAVOMFe9myFJWA-ZdDWyMTWwNQ3jxxkWGiHvcZG_ePClQ5KBWWCciMHKkwruID8/s640/1-photo+1.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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The Best: DIY Honey and Sugar Scrub (pennies per use)</h2>
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Ingredient: Honey, sugar<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: black;">, olive oil or water</span></span></div>
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<u><b>Quick Take:</b></u> My fav! Honey provides moisture and healing as the sugar scrubs away the dead layer of cells. To make this use equal parts honey and sugar, then slowly add a few drops of olive oil or water until it makes a thin paste. Very gently massage on to damp skin, then rinse. </div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-8060052248762737842013-10-09T09:00:00.000-07:002013-10-09T09:00:00.984-07:00Ode to Coconut Oil<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eqBZk18xCCJ7mze5jFy1WnfhhUAjUYwxhPUPYeXMmULeHjRP2H9qZc8gVwef9zNI2HXGPkg_ZIaThzPyXh8tzscwxI6Sabm0yAsARe9-BblOv-Up-dqjmnNKU-gvH9WQIbx9FpB62zc/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8eqBZk18xCCJ7mze5jFy1WnfhhUAjUYwxhPUPYeXMmULeHjRP2H9qZc8gVwef9zNI2HXGPkg_ZIaThzPyXh8tzscwxI6Sabm0yAsARe9-BblOv-Up-dqjmnNKU-gvH9WQIbx9FpB62zc/s640/Image.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Besides apparently being the 'World's Best Cooking Oil' coconut oil has so many uses it's hard not to love. It smells like a exotic beach and melts into a silky oil on the skin. Depending on your room temperature it may be a solid or liquid, it works equally well in either state. Here is my ever growing list of things you can do with this fragrant oil.<br />
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<li><b>Make-up remover</b>. Rub a little between your fingers and gently massage over eye makeup, once you feel like it has broken down all the mascara use a very warm baby washcloth to remove the oil and makeup. </li>
<li><b>Moisturizing Hair Mask</b>. Saturate dry hair with coconut oil, wrap up into a bun and leave for 30 minutes up to overnight. You can either do just your ends or if you have really dry hair all the way to the scalp. Then shampoo once or twice and enjoy the silky smooth results.</li>
<li><b>Body Moisturizer</b>. I like to apply this right after a shower when my skin is still damp, it spreads easier this way. Leaves skin super soft. </li>
<li><b>Cuticle and Nail Conditioner</b>. Massage a tiny amount onto nails and cuticles everyday to keep them healthy and strong. </li>
<li><b>Hair Serum - Anti Frizz. </b>Rub a tiny amount between your hands until almost absorbed then run hands over ends of hair to smooth and condition. </li>
<li><b>Body, Foot and Lip Scrub. </b>Mix sugar and coconut oil and massage pretty much anywhere!</li>
<li><b>Toothpaste. </b>Add a pea sized amount and one drop of peppermint essential oil to your toothbrush for a gum healing and breath freshening concoction. </li>
<li><b>Oil Pulling. </b>Take one tablespoon and swish for 20 minutes, then spit. Helps detoxify.</li>
<li><b>Pina Coloda. </b>Add to a smoothie or cocktail for a tropical twist.</li>
<li><b>Popcorn. </b>Makes a great replacement for butter on popcorn.</li>
<li><b>Eye Balm. <a href="http://coconutsandmascara.blogspot.ca/2013/09/diy-eye-balm.html" target="_blank">Check out my recipe here.</a></b></li>
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What do you use coconut oil for? Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-76750945435832951602013-10-05T15:56:00.001-07:002013-10-31T15:32:09.072-07:00How to Smell Lovely - Naturally (Lavanilla Love!)<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was years after I started to go natural that I even attempted changing my antiperspirant to a natural version. Even then I went through several that I felt made me smell even worse then if I wore nothing at all! So discouraging because antiperspirant is loaded with chemicals I really try to avoid and I really wanted to be rid of it but not at the expense of being too smelly. So, about a year ago I discovered <a href="http://www.lavanila.com/" target="_blank">La Vanilla</a> products.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99gSeqFxPmlasttkXBr3KfaDTmkKLYlhDV4BtFWfxUVD2E1fS3sQHohd2Qbuhp7eiumqKrilFkuXjul3nWZPuzeaLkxW4fYBqIovU5x-keTWGn0xCnNDIqyR9UuwoAX4wB7RwEGtHzz4/s1600/1-photo+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99gSeqFxPmlasttkXBr3KfaDTmkKLYlhDV4BtFWfxUVD2E1fS3sQHohd2Qbuhp7eiumqKrilFkuXjul3nWZPuzeaLkxW4fYBqIovU5x-keTWGn0xCnNDIqyR9UuwoAX4wB7RwEGtHzz4/s640/1-photo+1.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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The Healthy Deodorant in Pure Vanilla is a fantastic find! It glides on beautifully and doesn't leave any white residue (unless you apply it too heavy). The scent is a wonderful grown-up vanilla that is noticeable when you apply but not so strong you keep noticing it during the day.It keeps me smelling and feeling fresh all day as long it is a typical day (work, yoga, errands misc.). The only time I wear a more traditional antiperspirant is if I am going to a very long social event, it's 35 degrees outside, or if I know it's going to be a particularly stressful day. I wear this 90% of the time which greatly reduces my exposure to the aluminum, fragrance and petroleum products. I buy mine at Sephora at it is $23 Canadian, which I admit is really steep for a deodorant but one will last me 6-8 months with application 6-7 days a week. It is much cheaper on the Lavanilla website but shipping to Canada is a small fortune. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOim2jTu0TVas2XrHByE9DirC7GnUH8CWoqIQ1UTfkMtFAI6RX9d7ByAKl73nEKBuuJiKiIch0k-ZIkjN6oZmcbIohUFZQZumNjeRKKkmv4-ooN8ox2phx7LJ0fZqB6Jkmz6ns9El6Q8/s1600/2-photo+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOim2jTu0TVas2XrHByE9DirC7GnUH8CWoqIQ1UTfkMtFAI6RX9d7ByAKl73nEKBuuJiKiIch0k-ZIkjN6oZmcbIohUFZQZumNjeRKKkmv4-ooN8ox2phx7LJ0fZqB6Jkmz6ns9El6Q8/s640/2-photo+3.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>
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Another tricky product to switch to natural is perfume! The Lavanilla Forever Fragrance Oil in Vanilla Coconut smells like paradise to me! It is a sophisticated version of coconut, less sunscreen more subtle tropical vacation blended beautifully with a musky vanilla. It lasts for several hours on my skin and I don't hesitate to put a hint of it all over because it is just sweet almond oil with a blend of essentials oils.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeG3rTwYIJmWkNyBqhGEg1eR5x94I76Op_BC-__jr-Co6OrzBnWoqH9rocYPi_G1-kwKONj_N7xx7OaCMP1RZqM85JHc5ngB9zYdPCWFrAOjvd8p-2LArIOwAZLpUhbojBph7qccxj-k/s1600/3-photo+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUeG3rTwYIJmWkNyBqhGEg1eR5x94I76Op_BC-__jr-Co6OrzBnWoqH9rocYPi_G1-kwKONj_N7xx7OaCMP1RZqM85JHc5ngB9zYdPCWFrAOjvd8p-2LArIOwAZLpUhbojBph7qccxj-k/s640/3-photo+5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhPSh9iTld1VhtTeZaF1B255Vh_AyFGJ8PEfr6V6bhUUkXOAEf5gyo_1znus41qpMfs8OxFv_eCGKT5HHJ8V2yN8AKtta1Dn4JkCQEx57XcVA7wqOa5dxwzx9jTBKp80IWmLsnQFrJX4/s1600/4-photo+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhPSh9iTld1VhtTeZaF1B255Vh_AyFGJ8PEfr6V6bhUUkXOAEf5gyo_1znus41qpMfs8OxFv_eCGKT5HHJ8V2yN8AKtta1Dn4JkCQEx57XcVA7wqOa5dxwzx9jTBKp80IWmLsnQFrJX4/s640/4-photo+4.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A 0.27 oz roller-ball is $31 at Sephora.</div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-16510430178313327522013-09-28T18:32:00.000-07:002013-09-28T18:38:54.317-07:00What's on my Nightstand?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRSx3Vz07r90e_34dg-0isCu1ThvijI3l7CFuUPLmg0rttmrvKAUNTCnA6squxakekcEMvkVrTUde8MGqVXVkrAwPGiuozAPVYCf2UUrjqbynusqEwbJW5fDOYEUFp8tBFWzmFODMBz8/s1600/Nightstand+Tin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRSx3Vz07r90e_34dg-0isCu1ThvijI3l7CFuUPLmg0rttmrvKAUNTCnA6squxakekcEMvkVrTUde8MGqVXVkrAwPGiuozAPVYCf2UUrjqbynusqEwbJW5fDOYEUFp8tBFWzmFODMBz8/s640/Nightstand+Tin.JPG" width="478" /> </a></div>
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I like to keep things simple and contained yet easily accessible. This Fossil tin that my watch came in works perfectly to rangle all of my nighttime essentials. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMXO99gyUphsDO0DrpkwTC_9-23Ppv-2UZ5vskHU6uClDC1Ll-HUoi4vp-M-RpCpCHOWD29xN9ZhL9dfDpuKJPHkcgtI8ccqe7OVEbSLzMHg2cDiLIYQv-l7THFkxZdlauaZWhLyiWW8/s1600/Burt%2527s+Bees.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqMXO99gyUphsDO0DrpkwTC_9-23Ppv-2UZ5vskHU6uClDC1Ll-HUoi4vp-M-RpCpCHOWD29xN9ZhL9dfDpuKJPHkcgtI8ccqe7OVEbSLzMHg2cDiLIYQv-l7THFkxZdlauaZWhLyiWW8/s640/Burt%2527s+Bees.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Every night I slather on my favourite Burt's Bees Honey lipbalm and most nights I also rub the hand salve onto my hands and feet. The salve smells lovely and is extra softening, I have the full size but transfer it into this smaller travel size tin so it doesn't overtake the nightstand.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkcGycXuMzlmKjXcRuzKNBrAZJlwvJ99Whjt6YBaj3pXsXK0dtGvr6KxELmn2nyTZMhg2-gGVxf-clzo49D9HiIcihMBbAIjyKrFoNJBLzEjkGOb3i-2e5gbfoOsXJ3S4JGJX-aimSZE/s1600/Kobo+%252B.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkcGycXuMzlmKjXcRuzKNBrAZJlwvJ99Whjt6YBaj3pXsXK0dtGvr6KxELmn2nyTZMhg2-gGVxf-clzo49D9HiIcihMBbAIjyKrFoNJBLzEjkGOb3i-2e5gbfoOsXJ3S4JGJX-aimSZE/s640/Kobo+%252B.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I also keep a small folding stand for my iphone in case I want to watch Netflix or Youtube. A glass nail file, hair claw and a bobby pin. I don't purposely keep the bobby pin bedside but they inevitably end up all over my house. I also keep a mini notebook where I write the things I am grateful for in. Of course, my kobo mini is never too far from my reach. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeCjxoMS7j-42AVgI3NEv43eMvevEq0YFNUAsY2wdvmEu-PSoN3bokUGlrUJ9Y1WonizWm7xUn5sflEZjS1fj2B6HsSaNbmvso6t3G_gk5W69FLjZTJvz-maSnDVcLcU1VYl4W2R3N_A/s1600/Sleep+Aid.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTeCjxoMS7j-42AVgI3NEv43eMvevEq0YFNUAsY2wdvmEu-PSoN3bokUGlrUJ9Y1WonizWm7xUn5sflEZjS1fj2B6HsSaNbmvso6t3G_gk5W69FLjZTJvz-maSnDVcLcU1VYl4W2R3N_A/s640/Sleep+Aid.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
Lastly I have silicone earplugs, an eye-mask and my homemade lavender pillow and sheet spray. I don't use these every night but if I'm having trouble sleeping they help. Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-14868596862034361662013-09-28T15:41:00.002-07:002013-09-28T18:38:43.103-07:00Natural Headache Remedy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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As someone who is prone to sinus and tension headaches but also has an aversion to taking pills (for minor aliments anyway) I was thrilled to discover the <a href="http://www.neilmed.com/usa/netipot.php" target="_blank">Neti Pot</a>! I have been using it for several years now, I bought it out of desperation when my indoor allergies were threatening to ruin my vacation. You can find them at most drugstores, I've seen them in plastic and ceramic. I have the plastic one because I like to take it with me when I travel.</div>
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It comes with tiny packets of a sodium chloride and sodium bicarbonate that you dissolve with distilled water (DO NOT use tap water!). Once dissolved you tip your head to one side, place the tip of the neti pot up to one nostril and gently tip the pot to start the flow of water. It may take a moment before it starts to flow out of your other nostril, you can slowly move your head slightly up, down or forward to get the ideal position. Pour about half one way, then gently blow your nose and repeat on the other side. Blow again very gently and you are done. Now, for those of you having horrible memories of pool water going up your nose and the burning pain for a few moments afterwards you have nothing to worry about this doesn't feel anything like that. All you may feel is a slight temperature difference, I use room temperature water which tends to be cooler then body temp so it feels a little cool going through my sinuses but no pain. It is personal preference how often you choose to do a sinus rinse, I like to do it a max of twice a day if I am really suffering, but usually once is enough for a sinus headache. Colds and allergies take longer. Some do it on a daily basis but I generally prefer to leave my body to do it's own thing and try not to interfere unless I really feel it's needed.</div>
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Another, and simpler, headache remedy I often use in conjunction with my neti pot is peppermint essential oil. I like to soak a washcloth with cool water, wring out, and place a couple of drops of peppermint essential oil on the cloth and lay it over my forehead or the back of my neck. Take some deep breaths, close your eyes and feel the cooling and soothing effect of the peppermint. </div>
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Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-90533557860997921602013-09-21T19:50:00.000-07:002013-09-28T18:38:24.662-07:00DIY Eye BalmThis eye balm was the product of an experiment gone very right. I have been using coconut oil as my night time eye cream for a while but had been looking for a product with more anti-aging benefits. Most of what I saw was full of hard to pronounce ingredients that I wasn't comfortable with, or was full of great ingredients but too expensive of too hard to get my hands on. I decided on a base of coconut oil then added vitamin E oil for it's antioxidant and anti-aging properties, and bit of aloe vera gel to lighten up the product and add a soothing effect.<br />
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<b>Eye Balm</b><br />
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<li>3 tablespoons coconut oil at room temperature</li>
<li>1 teaspoon vitamin E oil</li>
<li>1 teaspoon pure aloe vera gel </li>
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Stir to combine and store in an airtight jar. Coconut oil melts just above room temperature, it is still fine to use the balm if it melts and becomes a liquid consistency. <br />
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This product is a soft solid at room temperature and melts as you apply
it to your skin, it has a very light coconut scent. It also makes a
great lip balm!<br />
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As with all products please use your own judgement, if you are allergic or have had a reaction to a certain ingredient omit it. Always do a patch test prior to regular use. <img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoqWQCo2oAd6oFTcksITXL1uA6ghXuA1mK1e-N_WvCb4YN-ZE87ItyzlD6KpLdUhvrFLST2AxNYA1S5XzV3H_yA51_oayLKGbHkrTTw45kwSD5bWk5A6PZjbJ2g39hhTzVjYJRF8ZnV74/s640/3-photo+4+%25282%2529.JPG" width="476" /></div>
Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7591096852807257589.post-8647698887314598592013-09-21T14:17:00.000-07:002013-10-31T15:44:24.959-07:00Birthday Night - Natural Pampering RoutineFor my birthday this year I had the house to myself and I was in the mood to indulge in some budget friendly and natural spa treatments. So I gathered all the essentials; red wine, People: Style Watch, my kobo and some new products I wanted to try. I started off by turning on some Jack Johnson and filling the tub.<br />
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I have been doing Blogilates lately and I was <strike>dying </strike>sore, so I added some <a href="http://www.rockymountainsoap.com/productDetails/1002826/1029356/1000144" target="_blank">Rocky Mountain Soap Company Sport Bath Salts</a> ($5 for a single-use sachet) to the running water, the salts and essential oils are meant to be soothing for aching muscles. Grabbed my ice lemon water and magazine and hopped in. Oh my goodness this was the best bath I've taken in quite a while. The scent of the bath salts was perfect! Very light but still present, fresh and pure smelling, and best of all the scent is completely natural coming from only essential oils. I was surprised by the rosemary and lemongrass combo - really refreshing. <br />
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After about 30 minutes of soaking I dried off, put on my plush white bathrobe and moved on to my next step. This one is a new one for me, a facial steam. I've only done the 'my sinuses are killing me steam' before, and that's not very relaxing! I filled a bowl with very hot tap water popped in Lush's <a href="http://www.lush.ca/Dream-Steam/03588,en_CA,pd.html?start=5&cgid=toners-and-toner-tabs" target="_blank">Dream Steam</a> ($2.95) steam tab, put a towel over my head a steamed for about five minutes. The Dream Steam tab claims to be soothing to the skin, reduce redness and cleanse. I didn't notice much difference in my skin afterwards but it was very relaxing to breathe in the scented steam and it did prep my face for the mask I was about to do. One NOT relaxing thing about this tab and the reason I would not purchase it again is the third ingredient is perfume, a definite no-no in my books. I would like to experiment making something like this at home.<br />
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After the steam I used another Rocky Mountain Soap Company product. BC Seaweed Spa Mud 100% pure 100% natural ($7.95 for 4 applications). This intriguing product is not on their website but in my local store they had about five varieties. They come with 4 small bricks of dried mud per tube and all you do is add about a half teaspoon of water, let it sit for a moment, mix with your fingers, then apply. It says on the instructions that you can use on face, thighs and bottom, feet or put all four in your bath for a mud bath. I loved this! I chose to apply it on my face, it comes with the perfect amount of product - no waste but you don't have to skimp with your application either. I let it dry and harden while I watched a total guilty pleasure of mine, Drop Dead Diva. I removed with a warm wash cloth, applied some argan oil to moisturize and my face felt incredibly soft and smooth.<br />
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All in all this was an excellent night of pampering and indulging without too much guilt over using products filled with nasty toxins or spending an arm and leg. The total cost of the products I used came in under $10, much less then I spent on wine and Thai takeout!<br />
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What are your favourite products for pampering at home?Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11358754051354078299noreply@blogger.com0