I am only three days into my experiment on eating comme les Francais (see post below) and I've already learned a lot. I went into it kicking and screaming and although I am doing it with much more ease now, I still feel some resistance. It's not like I need the Eiffel tower outside my window in order to savor my food! (Or that's what I keep telling myself anyway). Eiffel tower aside, here are my notes for the past few days:
Saturday
Breakfast: Woke up late and skipped breakfast… oops!
Lunch: Roast chicken and potato gratin (leftovers). Started out by sitting down (yellow cloth napkin in lap). Ate alone and enjoyed it. Then cell phone rang, long distance call from NY, had to take it. Gobbled up rest and vowed to do better at dinner.
Dinner: Ordered sushi (by delivery) with B. Enjoyed this meal immensely! Sat and savored.
Observation: When I sit down to eat my meals I snack less throughout the day… hmmm.
Sunday
Breakfast: Temptation to eat at the computer was ridiculous. Pulled back the curtains, sat down and noticed the first pink blossom on the hibiscus tree outside my window. Oatmeal and Green tea.
Lunch: Ate with B. Turkey Panini with chips. Panini was dreadful but was grateful to have the presence of mind to realize it was dreadful and not eat the entire thing mindlessly.
Dinner: The meals are getting more rapturous and romantic (maybe because I was drinking wine). Not as tedious as this morning to sit down and focus on the ambiance and food. Spaghetti Bolognese.
Monday
Breakfast: Two pieces of toast and green tea. Today I looked forward to eating while looking at the view from my window. It was much more calming than eating in front of the computer…
Voila my notes so far. Are doing this experiment along with me? If so, I would love to hear your observations...
Monday, August 31, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Eating- Comme les Français
One of the biggest and most important aspects of French culture is food. The French revere food. They love it, savor it and treat it with the respect it rightfully deserves. I love food too. I like cooking it and eating it. But lately I have found that I don't have as much respect for it, comme les Francais. Allow me to explain.
While living in France, I quickly learned that with each meal came a ritual- a sacred right. The table would be set, napkins out (cloth, bien sûr), wine or still water poured and either music or conversation (or both) were the only background distractions. The scene would be set and food would be the star. I relished in these meals. The food was simple, yet glorious and it made even the most insignificant of meals (a quick breakfast before heading off to class) feel glamorous.
Cut to a few years later back in America, chez moi. Breakfast might be eaten in front of the computer while checking email or reading blogs. Lunch is consumed in a quick trip home after taking out my dog, often times standing up or watching television. Dinner would find me and my husband (who is very hard to get to sit still for long periods of time, btw) eating quickly with Fox Football Phone In in the background, each one of us almost in a race to finish, place the dishes in the dishwasher and be done with it all. Oh how sad indeed.
I have noticed that I have let things go in the eating department and I can't think for the life of me why. I spend a lot of time preparing meals (tonight I made roast chicken, potato gratin and sweet corn) you'd think that I would want to honor the food I've prepared by actually paying attention to it! So, I have decided to devote this entire week to savoring my meals. Eating each one sitting down- focusing fully on the taste of the food, allowing eating to become a sensual experience. Yes I am talking breakfast, lunch and dinner. I'm very excited to report back to you on how it all goes and what- if anything- I gain from the experience.
Won't you stay tuned?
Liz Skelly watercolor image courtesy of: http://www.cexii.com/liz_skelly.htm
More Video Tutorials Are Now Posted!
Hey Everyone,
Well more videos are up and running. I have added 3 more since Wednesday.
One is Mineral Blush Application with some tips and tricks and Mineral Veils, the quick easy way plus how they benefit the skin along with sharing the holistic properties of the ingredients used.
Then today, I loaded up a tutorial for applying our Mineral Bronzer with an explanation of best application especially for mature ladies.
I also have some fun plans in the works to incorporate customer and viewer participation when viewing the videos. Details will still need to be worked out and then I will announce them here. So stay tuned!
For the latest videos go to Sterling Minerals Media Zone.
Have a great weekend!
Well more videos are up and running. I have added 3 more since Wednesday.
One is Mineral Blush Application with some tips and tricks and Mineral Veils, the quick easy way plus how they benefit the skin along with sharing the holistic properties of the ingredients used.
Then today, I loaded up a tutorial for applying our Mineral Bronzer with an explanation of best application especially for mature ladies.
I also have some fun plans in the works to incorporate customer and viewer participation when viewing the videos. Details will still need to be worked out and then I will announce them here. So stay tuned!
For the latest videos go to Sterling Minerals Media Zone.
Have a great weekend!
Living... Comme les Français
This is the introduction to my new series of blogs on how to live like the French, or Commes les Francais. It's a topic that I have been exploring for a long time and after doing years of research- living in Paris and reading about the French philosophy on living- I am ready to apply those observations and what I've learned to my own life!
When I studied abroad in Paris as a college student I had the good fortune to live with a real French family- true Parisians in the heart of the 16th arrondissement. My French family was very old school, very traditional. They lived in a lovely apartment- high ceilings, gilded portraits of aristocratic looking family members from the 1800's, beautiful antiques everywhere- the works! It struck me from the very moment I walked through their threshold that the French live very differently than we do in America and other parts of the world.
So to kick off the fall 2009 season of The Daily Connoisseur, I am going to explore what it means for me to live comme les Francais, and see if I can apply these principles to my own life, living in Santa Monica and London (articles forthcoming).
Won't you join me?
Image courtesy of www.essentialarchitecture.com
Thursday, August 27, 2009
my wee tour guide
consulting the guide book to find out what this bright stuff with no rain is called
Psoriasis And Mineral Makeup Testimonial
Those with psoriasis have wondered if they can actually wear mineral makeup due to it being a powder. The reason behind their thinking is due to the dry scaly patches they get and they fear it will make these tiny patches on their skin only look worse.
In some cases powdered mineral cosmetics or even standard face powders possessing Talc will and can emphasize dryness on the skin, however a lot of makeup brands will also do this including liquid formulas.
What Is Psoriasis?
It is a noncontagious and very common skin condition that causes rapid skin cell growth which will typically result in thickened red, dry patchy areas. It can be as mild as a case of looking like tiny dry skin areas or get so severe it can cover the entire body in thick red patches. It is considered non-curable and can be long term and chronic. In some cases it can go into remission for years only returning later for no known reason.
In many cases the condition worsens in dry winter months so a very good moisturizer is imperative and many report it improves in the warmer summer months when typically our humidity is higher. Sunlight exposure is also noted to improve this skin condition.
1%-3% of the population have psoriasis in one form or another and depending on the severity it can be improved with a gentle moisturizer or it may require topical medications prescribed by your dermatologist. In the worse cases it may require different types of injections to help control the severity of the psoriasis.
For those that suffer from it, they deal with embarrassment and in some cases some discomfort. Medical treatment can sometimes abate the condition but it may also contribute to some of the itchiness and inflammation. It is a daily struggle for some just to try and figure out how to deal with the next outbreak. One can only imagine!
The most common type is chronic plaque psoriasis and in most cases the face is spared. Guttate psoriasis is the second most common and the face can and will be effected mainly in children and young adults and is equated with following a bout of strep throat apparently.
I located an article, Psoriasis, A Comprehensive Guide which shows how to take care and manage outbreaks. Again, sunshine is recommended in moderate doses and is known for helping the lesions to get better. Winter time, it is particularly important to keep the skin well moisturized as I stated earlier. Also through Google one can find many supportive blogs, treatment and holistic remedies and a large compilation of articles to assist anyone who may have this malady. Proper nutrition is also linked to aiding with reducing outbreaks.
Sterling Minerals Can Improve Your Skins' Texture!
I knew our products would do a good job in covering psoriasis patches and reduce redness from inflammation, and I also knew due to our formulations it would not exacerbate the dryness like other mineral makeup brands do.
But...I am also very careful about making claims as to how far results will go or as to the level of helping a condition they can provide. I tested our products through Estheticians who had several clients suffering from it or even the Esthetician herself was a chronic sufferer. The results were nothing short of amazing. The test cases were mild to moderate psoriasis outbreaks and I witnessed firsthand the improved apearance of their skin.
But was I just lucky?
Do I actually want to make a bold statement that our mineral powders will help clear up psoriasis?
Dare to dream.... and I definitely wanted to proceed with caution. Maybe it was merely coincidence and something else that person was doing or using by the doctor that cleared it up. I decided to play the wait and see game.
It wasn't until I actually received a testimonial from an unsolicited user or test subject of our products however, that I finally felt comfortable sharing with my readers these results through this latest good news. As we all know many companies do case studies or have their own product trials to test them mainly for safety and conclude results from use. Though these testings are great, they are still a controlled trial. It is the real customer giving their own test to the products in my opinion, that is the real test of validity.
A letter I received just a couple of weeks ago from a new customer exactly as I received it. Needless to say it had quite the impact on my emotions. I fell over sideways out of my chair!
Her main formula was in Dewy Rose Petal with one or two in Velvet Rose Petal.
Amy D. of Slidell, LA writes:
I just had to write to say....
I love Sterling Minerals!!!
I used up the last of my samples Friday and can't wait until the budget allows for me to order the full sizes. I have psoriasis covering my forehead into my eyebrows and another spot by one side of my nose.
Not only do your minerals provide great coverage of the redness, they actually reduced the redness and flaking quite a bit. Before using Sterling Minerals I usually didn't bother with makeup because the skin under it just peeled off once I got it all on so what was the point. Amazingly that peeling was almost completely eliminated when wearing your products.
Of course now that my samples are used up the redness and flaking are getting worse again. Come on payday!
Thanks,
Amy
Thank you so much Amy for this incredible testimonial. Your letter astonished me and brought out emotions which made me feel great and relieved that another woman had been helped with our products.
What Could It Be That Makes Our Mineral Makeup Work?
It is the ingredients I have chosen and the ratios by which they are blended into the overall formula. Most mineral makeup wearers are already familiar with the benefits of zinc oxide, but it is the rice powder known for emollient properties blended with jojoba oil for reducing dryness and for creating a healing environment on the skin including pH balancing, and our use of Allantoin which helps to produce rapid cell turnover.
Allantoin: Our Allantoin is a botanical extract from the Comfrey plant and the FDA has classified this ingredient as a safe and effective skin protectant against rosacea flare-ups, chapped, chafed, cracked, acne prone and sunburned skin. It is used for its soothing anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties. It is known to produce rapid cell turnover (skin cell proliferation) by removal of necrotic tissue, speeding up the overall healing of the skin. Allantoin is used especially for its natural healing abilities for acne and rosacea.
Since psoriasis causes a rapid buildup of cells, Allantoin is known to produce its own counter effect by removal of necrotic tissue. Even the FDA notates what its uses are for and the testing that was done long before Sterling Minerals was around proving its benefits for the user. This is why also those with acne and rosacea have had similar results in quick improvement to their skin whether they use anything else on their face or without changing their regimen other than the addition of our products.
Psoriasis sufferers has been more rare of a condition for me to really get a pulse on how their skin will do. It is my sincere hope that others will have similar results once they give our mineral powders a try.
My minerals and skincare line were painstakingly created with much forethought with the emphasis on producing result driven formulas. They simply had to do more than just look good and sit on top of the skin. And my mild skin issues along with my own sun damage treatments were the catalysts for the final formulas that so many have come to love.
Thanks again to all of my loyal customers and please keep those emails coming....they are the best part of my day.
Hugs and Kisses!
In some cases powdered mineral cosmetics or even standard face powders possessing Talc will and can emphasize dryness on the skin, however a lot of makeup brands will also do this including liquid formulas.
What Is Psoriasis?
It is a noncontagious and very common skin condition that causes rapid skin cell growth which will typically result in thickened red, dry patchy areas. It can be as mild as a case of looking like tiny dry skin areas or get so severe it can cover the entire body in thick red patches. It is considered non-curable and can be long term and chronic. In some cases it can go into remission for years only returning later for no known reason.In many cases the condition worsens in dry winter months so a very good moisturizer is imperative and many report it improves in the warmer summer months when typically our humidity is higher. Sunlight exposure is also noted to improve this skin condition.
1%-3% of the population have psoriasis in one form or another and depending on the severity it can be improved with a gentle moisturizer or it may require topical medications prescribed by your dermatologist. In the worse cases it may require different types of injections to help control the severity of the psoriasis.
For those that suffer from it, they deal with embarrassment and in some cases some discomfort. Medical treatment can sometimes abate the condition but it may also contribute to some of the itchiness and inflammation. It is a daily struggle for some just to try and figure out how to deal with the next outbreak. One can only imagine!
The most common type is chronic plaque psoriasis and in most cases the face is spared. Guttate psoriasis is the second most common and the face can and will be effected mainly in children and young adults and is equated with following a bout of strep throat apparently.
I located an article, Psoriasis, A Comprehensive Guide which shows how to take care and manage outbreaks. Again, sunshine is recommended in moderate doses and is known for helping the lesions to get better. Winter time, it is particularly important to keep the skin well moisturized as I stated earlier. Also through Google one can find many supportive blogs, treatment and holistic remedies and a large compilation of articles to assist anyone who may have this malady. Proper nutrition is also linked to aiding with reducing outbreaks.
Sterling Minerals Can Improve Your Skins' Texture!
I knew our products would do a good job in covering psoriasis patches and reduce redness from inflammation, and I also knew due to our formulations it would not exacerbate the dryness like other mineral makeup brands do.
But...I am also very careful about making claims as to how far results will go or as to the level of helping a condition they can provide. I tested our products through Estheticians who had several clients suffering from it or even the Esthetician herself was a chronic sufferer. The results were nothing short of amazing. The test cases were mild to moderate psoriasis outbreaks and I witnessed firsthand the improved apearance of their skin.
But was I just lucky?
Do I actually want to make a bold statement that our mineral powders will help clear up psoriasis?
Dare to dream.... and I definitely wanted to proceed with caution. Maybe it was merely coincidence and something else that person was doing or using by the doctor that cleared it up. I decided to play the wait and see game.
It wasn't until I actually received a testimonial from an unsolicited user or test subject of our products however, that I finally felt comfortable sharing with my readers these results through this latest good news. As we all know many companies do case studies or have their own product trials to test them mainly for safety and conclude results from use. Though these testings are great, they are still a controlled trial. It is the real customer giving their own test to the products in my opinion, that is the real test of validity.
A letter I received just a couple of weeks ago from a new customer exactly as I received it. Needless to say it had quite the impact on my emotions. I fell over sideways out of my chair!
Her main formula was in Dewy Rose Petal with one or two in Velvet Rose Petal.
Amy D. of Slidell, LA writes:
I just had to write to say....
I love Sterling Minerals!!!
I used up the last of my samples Friday and can't wait until the budget allows for me to order the full sizes. I have psoriasis covering my forehead into my eyebrows and another spot by one side of my nose.
Not only do your minerals provide great coverage of the redness, they actually reduced the redness and flaking quite a bit. Before using Sterling Minerals I usually didn't bother with makeup because the skin under it just peeled off once I got it all on so what was the point. Amazingly that peeling was almost completely eliminated when wearing your products.
Of course now that my samples are used up the redness and flaking are getting worse again. Come on payday!
Thanks,
Amy
Thank you so much Amy for this incredible testimonial. Your letter astonished me and brought out emotions which made me feel great and relieved that another woman had been helped with our products.
What Could It Be That Makes Our Mineral Makeup Work?
It is the ingredients I have chosen and the ratios by which they are blended into the overall formula. Most mineral makeup wearers are already familiar with the benefits of zinc oxide, but it is the rice powder known for emollient properties blended with jojoba oil for reducing dryness and for creating a healing environment on the skin including pH balancing, and our use of Allantoin which helps to produce rapid cell turnover.
Allantoin: Our Allantoin is a botanical extract from the Comfrey plant and the FDA has classified this ingredient as a safe and effective skin protectant against rosacea flare-ups, chapped, chafed, cracked, acne prone and sunburned skin. It is used for its soothing anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties. It is known to produce rapid cell turnover (skin cell proliferation) by removal of necrotic tissue, speeding up the overall healing of the skin. Allantoin is used especially for its natural healing abilities for acne and rosacea.Since psoriasis causes a rapid buildup of cells, Allantoin is known to produce its own counter effect by removal of necrotic tissue. Even the FDA notates what its uses are for and the testing that was done long before Sterling Minerals was around proving its benefits for the user. This is why also those with acne and rosacea have had similar results in quick improvement to their skin whether they use anything else on their face or without changing their regimen other than the addition of our products.
Psoriasis sufferers has been more rare of a condition for me to really get a pulse on how their skin will do. It is my sincere hope that others will have similar results once they give our mineral powders a try.
My minerals and skincare line were painstakingly created with much forethought with the emphasis on producing result driven formulas. They simply had to do more than just look good and sit on top of the skin. And my mild skin issues along with my own sun damage treatments were the catalysts for the final formulas that so many have come to love.
Thanks again to all of my loyal customers and please keep those emails coming....they are the best part of my day.
Hugs and Kisses!
all aboard
It's an amazing holiday!
On Sunday Wee Guy and I were guests of lil sis on board the Forth Circle steam special from SPRS, steam-hauled by A4 class 60009 Union of South Africa. What a great time - I'll let the slideshow and movies do the talking .... er, make that the whistling.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society- A Review
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows is one of the most moving, heartwarming books I have read in a long time. Written as a series of letters, this novel takes place in post World War II England.
We meet Juliet Ashton, a successful novelist who is looking for the subject of her next book. She finds this subject in the most unlikely of places- in a letter from a total stranger, a man that comes from Guernsey- an island off the English shore. Juliet begins a correspondence with the residents of this island who formed a book club called the Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. The society's purpose was two fold- it was formed as a way to protect the members from arrest by the occupying Nazis and a forum where the members could discuss and explore the beauty of literature.
The book is incredibly engaging. The characters feel alive. Their anecdotes about their life during the war are at once moving and disturbing. Juliet's own journey into their lives is compelling and romantic. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society is a novel about hope and love- a celebration of art and the important role it plays in transcending tragedy. If you haven't already, you must read this book.
Image courtesy of www.amazon.com
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Lost Art of Letter Writing
I am in the process of reading The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society- a wonderful book by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows. My review for this book is forthcoming as I haven't finished it yet but it has already inspired me so much I had to post a blog on the novel's most unique key aspect- it is written entirely in the form of letters (I will not go into the contents of these letter now- that will be in my review). But these letters- so cleverly and warmly written had me putting my book down and wanting to write a letter of my own.
It has been ages since I've written a letter. You know, a proper letter- not a card- but a simple letter with no agenda other than to say hello to the recipient and to let them know what is going on in my life. So I brought out my stationery- a heavyweight lavender colored paper from Papyrus- and began to write. It felt good to write this letter. I've been blogging, facebooking and tweeting so much that I almost forgot what it was like to allow my hand float across paper- to allow my thoughts to be transcribed by a pen. I did notice (with dismay) that my handwriting has taken a significant beating. In my college days I had beautiful handwriting and was often complimented on it. Now it is has turned from a beautiful flowing script to a rather pained looking form of chicken scratch. Oh dear- this is something I need to work on!
Handwriting aside, I completed my old fashioned letter which is to be sent to a relative of mine in England. It is sitting next to my lap top right now as I speedily type this at 69 wpm- staring at me and enjoying the simplicity and slowness of its nature...
Image courtesy of: leonofnewyork.com
garden fresh
It was a lovely day yesterday, sunny so we spent the morning on the beach and then lurked around the garden. As you can see, it's an excellent place to lurk around.
.... and if anyone wonders where I get myinspiration from just check out the slideshow - this is where I grew up.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Project Runway Red Carpet Premiere
This past Thursday I had the good fortune to attend the West Coast Red Carpet premiere of Project Runway- one of my favorite reality TV shows. I love this show in particular because it is not just mindless "reality" fodder- but a brilliant way to showcase unknown designers. And based on some of my past posts- we all know how much I adore Tim Gunn- who acts as mentor to the designers on Project Runway. My good friend "R" (a young Hollywood starlet) was invited to walk the red carpet and I was thrilled to be her plus one.
The night was a hit- champagne, fashion and fabulous people go very well together and soon I was meeting a bevy of interesting sorts: up and coming designers, portrait photographers, writers and socialites. Of course the most important aspect of the evening was what (or more appropriately who) every one was wearing. R wore an adorable confection by English Clientele- a modern day party dress fit for Marie Antoinette- with a tight bodice and poofed tulle mini skirt attached. There were a lot of independent designers being showcased as well. I noticed a lot of floral print dresses and purple seemed the color du soir. I wore a fabulous dress by one of my favorite designers, Alexander McQueen. Black, with beige detail- my dress was Gothic, flapper and art deco all rolled in to one. It was the perfect dress for the occasion- a fashion-forward moment in my book- and I was grateful to have it!
Now as for the show itself? I will have to catch it on my DVR- the party was too loud and hopping to watch the premiere!
Project Runway airs on the Lifetime network Thursdays at 9 / 8 central.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Mineral Makeup Tutorials Are Up!
Hello Everyone,
Just wanted to let you know that I have uploaded the first two tutorials in dealing with concealing and applying mineral makeup foundation with the moist method technique. These were the most requested by my customers so they were my priority for beginning what is going to be a long list of many fun things I have planned for video. So have fun and enjoy!
I have done an extensive tips and tricks in each video as I continue to repeatedly show the technique. Also in the Foundation tutorial listen closely and you'll hear my interpretation of Porky Pig.... badee badee badee that's all folks! Got a little tongue tied! At least it's good for a laugh as I get used to talking into a camera. And I am au naturale to be sure.
For those that are having trouble viewing this here or cannot view it perhaps in their email delivery please click on Sterling Minerals Media Zone Channel and you may watch them there and also subscribe if you like to receive updates as they are loaded into my media zone.
Feel free to leave me your comments here on the blog or suggestions and any feedback you wish directly with the video or on my youtube channel. I appreciate hearing from you very much.
Have a great weekend!
Place des Arts teachers and staff exhibition
What to do, what to do!
Well, there's the upcoming Teachers and Staff exhibition at Place des Arts in Coquitlam to go see. Unfortunately I'll miss the opening night reception on September 10th but I'll most certainly make a point of visiting.
Yes, I do have a couple of pieces on show (a 'moss' flotsam set) and yes, that is my wire cuff on the invite!!!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Why Is Mica Used In Mineral Makeup?
Today I would like to explain the different types of Mica found in mineral makeup and why it is used in most applications. Since some women can have a mica sensitivity I will also explain why we don't eliminate it completely from our formulations and why our products typically don't exacerbate this problem.
What Is Mica?
This is a naturally occurring mineral which has a natural composition of flat plate like structure possessing many earth tone shades providing the luminescent glow, sparkle, shimmer or a semi-matte appearance to products. All these variations are accomplished due to the finished product after the milling procedure. They create the reduced appearance of fine lines by reflecting light, giving a “soft focus” to the skin and were used centuries ago by the ancient Egyptians.
The mica is mined in sheets and then milled for density and structure depending on its planned use. It is extremely heat tolerant and helps to refract light keeping the skin cool. It comes in different micron sizes to be used dependent on if the formula is requiring semi-matte or a glittery finished look.
Improving Mica Quality
There are many in the mineral makeup kingdom that claim it is used for increasing adhesion in 
mineral powders. Well, the truth of the matter is its' adhesion quality is mediocre to poor in its simple raw milled form. It is great for adding bulk and texture to minerals, however unless surface treated, adhesion is somewhat lacking and is extremely flyaway.
Surface treatments for example are Carnauba Wax (thickener, binder), Magnesium Myristate (emulsifier, binder) or Perfluoroalkyl Phosphate (film former, binder). These are the most commonly used treatments. Others include Dimethicone (silicone oil) and Lauroyl Lysine (surfactant, binder). Micas coated with these treatments helps reduce dust, gives a certain finish to minerals and are capable of providing creamy texture, staying power, matte finish and oil absorption. In feeling these minerals between your fingers, you may notice a heavier, creamier texture yet the coatings used may not be listed on the label. And unfortunately these same coatings are what contribute to a caked look on the face if not careful with application.
Mineral Makeup Effect Created From The Use Of Mica
Mica is finely milled for most makeup application when it comes to a foundation. It is translucent by nature and can give shimmer or sheen to a product. Then once it is surface treated with that particular manufacturers' choice, then you get finishes that are anywhere from matte to a shimmery glow. Eye shadows are a prime example of different particle size of mica. A pearl to glittery finish can be achieved for that high glam look or a semi-matte with slight shimmer look can also be the end result.
No Mica....I Shudder To Think
Now this one is interesting....in doing research over the years with different formulations, I found it was impossible to achieve the desired effect that is signature to giving that healthy glow to skin without the use of mica. Mica is responsible for giving depth to the face and preventing that dried out, flat appearance that you get with typical face powders or liquid foundations. Bismuth Oxychloride is also used for this purpose, but enough has been written about what the end result is with this ingredient. Mica is the safer alternative when used in the correct proportion.
In fact, when mica is used as a main ingredient, the finish can still be pretty shiny and depending on if it is treated and with what surface treatment, the staying power is not all that great and melt out can occur. Particle size is also a factor as to how much shimmer you wish to give the complexion.
I tried many particle sizes and surface treated mica and came up with a perfect balance. As I have written before, Methicone is my surface treatment of choice. Adhesion is excellent and it encapsulates the mica reducing friction and irritation caused by the micro fine sharp edges which are inherent with this mineral. I also am able to reduce the ratio of this ingredient since the type of Methicone I use creates a lovely subtle sheen which gives the face the impression you just had a facial leaving that freshly polished look to skin. Not overly shiny or matte....but just right!
My Minerals Are A Bit Sparkly
Some women notice that when they apply some minerals to the back of their hand or arm to give it a test before applying it to their face, they notice either a subtle shimmer or sparkle to the minerals. This is common with many mineral products especially if you take them out in sunlight. Tiny micro particles with gleam in the sun.
This is precisely the purpose of using mica. They act like tiny little mirrors reflecting light back away from the face giving that beautiful radiance we had when we were younger. Soft focus is the primary effect we want when we wear mineral makeup. We can get flat looking skin with any other kind of makeup if that is what we are going for so removing mica completely from mineral makeup defeats the purpose of using it.
Understanding Mica Shimmer
When applying minerals to the back of the hand or arm it is all going to depend on whether or not you just applied lotion or not. In most cases these parts of the body tend to be drier due to washing of hands and removal of creams or body oils. The powders will not only show a bit of shimmer but they will also appear more chalky.
This is why skin must be moisturized before applying mineral makeup. Since Mica is a flat platelet it will lay flat against any moisturized skin and do its' job at achieving soft focus. This is why for some women who are nervous about moisturizing skin that are prone to acne they will have a less desirable effect and be disappointed at the end result.
You can test it for yourself....apply it without moisture to the skin on your arm and then apply it after you moisturize or apply a makeup primer, the two different results will be quite dramatic. The mica on the moisturized or primer area will literally disappear against the skin....hence no more sparkle or shimmer yet beautiful depth of shade is the result. Or apply it to dry skin and then spritz over the top and the result will be the same. Color intensifies and the mica particles become part of the skins' surface.
You can achieve the same result with eye shadows. By spritzing distilled water over the color or applying with a moistened brush, the shimmer or sparkle will be reduced, however the color will be much more intense. This is why spritzing the face after applying your powders will intensify the shade and meld it with your natural skin tone immediately instead of waiting for nature to take its course with your own body oils. This method also works really well with Bronzer that may have a bit of a shimmer to it.
Other Brands Claim Of Using No Mica
Now this is an interesting claim and once again, either they don't know anything about product ingredients or they are not involved in the manufacturing process of their own product line.
When I read ingredient lists and the first ingredient is "Sericite" or "Serecite" yet this company claims "No Mica", you have to wonder if we are in the same industry or not, since they are one in the same.
Sericite is a super fine grained mica and its primary function is to achieve the more flat to matte finish in products. It's particle size can be reduced to 1-3 microns. Although this "may" help with mica sensitivity (no guarantee in high ratios) due to the refined nature of this ingredient, it gives me pause due to lung irritation and those suffering from asthma as in my case. Its adhesion unless treated is still the same as regular Mica....poor!
Micron size is very important to me and something I paid very close attention to when bringing my products to the market. As a person who suffers from allergies with bouts of mild asthma, I maintain a micron size of 5-8 on all ingredient fillers. Also the larger the micron size the better the coverage. This is why brands that use micronized minerals will not provide the coverage women want or need since this type of formulation goes on much more sheer. And smaller particle sizes also increase the risk of penetrating deep into the lung tissue.
For gaining a better understanding of micronized ingredients read the article Micronized Minerals vs Nonmicronized Minerals.
How Do They Get Colored Mica?
Mica by nature appears in many different colors and are typically greenish yellow, reddish bronze and golden brown when removed in its non-milled sheets. Once milled it takes on a grayish color to off white. It is then coated with one or more of these colorants of iron oxides, carmine, chromium oxide green, ultra marines, tin oxides combined with titanium dioxide to create adhesion to the mineral. The finished product is one of magnificence and luster.
Nothing is more involved with using this ingredient than eye shadows. So many different looks can be achieved with Mica formulated eye colors. In fact, Mica is my favorite ingredient to formulate with when creating my eye colors since I ogle all the beautiful luscious shades with different textures from low sheen to super sparkly. Usually by the time I am done playing with them, my arms and hands resemble that of a patchwork quilt of amazing color. Shower Time!
Also Mica is used to give lipstick and lip glaze their shimmer or shine which enhances a plumper fullness to the mouth. Recommended for women with thin lips rather than a matte shade. This is why I use Mica in all of my lip colors since lip color with a subtle shimmer will give a face a more youthful appearance and there is no better result.
Mica....Final Results
This is not an ingredient to be feared or shunned. Depending on its use and micron structure it is a very necessary ingredient for achieving optimum results. Many women who have been worried due to their reactions in the past have come to learn the differences through us and have now had exceptional results including the use of our eye colors. What they once thought was mica creating their irritation problems actually was linked to an all 
mica formulation or if they dug deeper it was artificial colors or Bismuth Oxchloride. Dyes, lakes and in some cases Carmine (crushed Cochineal Beetle) will cause high sensitivity or reaction to the eye area and should be avoided at all costs.
Colored and surface treated Micas are the definitive answer for the ultimate in a flawless complexion with superior results.
Cheers!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
confusion
is it just me or does everyone lose track of the days while on vacation?
since i last blogged we've visited a maize maze, a safari park in the rain, had movie night and taken a train trip to edinburgh.
whee!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Sterling Minerals Goes To Video
Hi Everyone,
Well I finally did it! I produced my first video on YouTube as an introduction to me and sort of getting my feet wet in this latest technology for my business. It is through the urging and coaxing of my customers I summoned the courage to take this next step.
After 50 retakes and 4 days, I ended up with a 1.4 minute blurb. Getting relaxed and staying relaxed in front of a camera is not a simple task. My husband couldn't even be in the same room with me because he would make me get all tongue tied....but I still did anyway.
Even with my notes staring at me just off camera, getting stuck somewhere seems to be inevitable. The day before yesterday, I ended up with 3 that I thought were keepers but after an entire day and feeling exhausted, I deleted them all.
Things I dealt with, lipstick was crooked, hair was out of place, because I rolled it up to look so nice for the camera, eyeshadow looked weird, lighting was bad, telephone rang, dryer clanked in the background and on and on...if it wasn't one thing it was another. I turned the camera off, set it to recharge because I drained that battery twice in a day and basically decided I'll give it the old college try tomorrow.
So yesterday I woke up, ate, showered, left my hair wild, (too tired to curl it) put my mineral makeup on and put on my producers' hat and went to town. For some reason I was able to get it in two takes....figures... not perfect....but hey none of us are. Now if I can only figure out a way to get a still frame that doesn't make me look weird. Ah well C'est la vie....such is life.
So enjoy and come visit me on YouTube.
For those that are having trouble viewing this here or cannot view it perhaps in their email delivery please click on Sterling Minerals Media Zone Channel and you may watch it there and also subscribe if you like to receive updates as they are loaded into my media zone.
Feel free to leave me your comments, suggestions, critiques (be nice now) and any feedback you wish. I appreciate hearing from you very much.
Well that's it! Wow...I am at a loss for words because the video has replaced them....this could be a good thing and a real timesaver....only time will tell.
Take Care and have a great weekend!
Cheers ;~)
Well I finally did it! I produced my first video on YouTube as an introduction to me and sort of getting my feet wet in this latest technology for my business. It is through the urging and coaxing of my customers I summoned the courage to take this next step.
After 50 retakes and 4 days, I ended up with a 1.4 minute blurb. Getting relaxed and staying relaxed in front of a camera is not a simple task. My husband couldn't even be in the same room with me because he would make me get all tongue tied....but I still did anyway.
Even with my notes staring at me just off camera, getting stuck somewhere seems to be inevitable. The day before yesterday, I ended up with 3 that I thought were keepers but after an entire day and feeling exhausted, I deleted them all.
Things I dealt with, lipstick was crooked, hair was out of place, because I rolled it up to look so nice for the camera, eyeshadow looked weird, lighting was bad, telephone rang, dryer clanked in the background and on and on...if it wasn't one thing it was another. I turned the camera off, set it to recharge because I drained that battery twice in a day and basically decided I'll give it the old college try tomorrow.
So yesterday I woke up, ate, showered, left my hair wild, (too tired to curl it) put my mineral makeup on and put on my producers' hat and went to town. For some reason I was able to get it in two takes....figures... not perfect....but hey none of us are. Now if I can only figure out a way to get a still frame that doesn't make me look weird. Ah well C'est la vie....such is life.
So enjoy and come visit me on YouTube.
For those that are having trouble viewing this here or cannot view it perhaps in their email delivery please click on Sterling Minerals Media Zone Channel and you may watch it there and also subscribe if you like to receive updates as they are loaded into my media zone.
Feel free to leave me your comments, suggestions, critiques (be nice now) and any feedback you wish. I appreciate hearing from you very much.
Well that's it! Wow...I am at a loss for words because the video has replaced them....this could be a good thing and a real timesaver....only time will tell.
Take Care and have a great weekend!
Cheers ;~)
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
vertical and horizontal
Yesterday we climbed all 146 steps to the top of the Wallace Monument.
Today we kept things a little more horizontal and went for a stroll around the boardwalk on Flanders Moss.
Flanders Moss is the largest raised bog in the UK, a remnant of the great Forth Valley bog which existed from the last Ice Age and still contains evidence of the last tsunami to hit Scotland!
It was chucking it down with rain on the morning we visited this damp bit of Scotland's natural history - how fitting (and not that typical weather-wise recently).
Sunday, August 9, 2009
on the move
As with all holidays 'back home' the wee guy and I are on the move again, back to stay with the amazing Aunty B after almost a week of impressive summer weather at the beach.
But before we left Aberdour, the two of us (B and I) managed a night out 'on the town'. We went out to see a band, The Gillyflowers play in the institute where over 30 years ago we had taken ballet lessons! It was a great evening. Grandpa and Nana put the wee guy to bed while we shed a few years listening to music that was a little bit Siouxsie, a little bit country, a little bit The Skids and had a great time out.
I don't often play my iPod - being deaf in one ear cuts down the times I can safely immerse myself in solo listening pleasure - so imagine my surprise when random track nmber one was this one.
It's a great track, one of my favourites but not my absolute.
This is the one. Enjoy!
Saturday, August 8, 2009
waiting
Today was sandcastle competition day in Aberdour. We took part, built a beautiful sandcastle and decorated it in sea coal.
Sadly we did not win but, as we reminded a tearful wee guy, it's the taking part and enjoying yourself which matters.
Cheered ourselves up greatly with millionaire shortbread and smoked salmon burgers from the caterers at the festival.
Regatta and raft race this afternoon so we might be back down at the beach again soon!
More of our scottish summer holiday pics here http://www.flickr.com/photos/pomomama/sets/72157621761536631/
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Ongoing Mineral Makeup Irritation
Color Me Confused!
Following my last article about filler ingredients, I wanted to elaborate on specifics as they pertain to some other ingredients. I also receive emails and phone calls from women still suffering from some form of mineral makeup irritation even after they have switched to minerals that did not contain the known irritant Bismuth Oxychloride.
Their frustration is understandable since they feel they have done everything possible in choosing mineral powders that have very little in the way of ingredients included in the formulas. Some of these women as I described in my last article are ready to give up on mineral makeup altogether. They describe some of the problem not only as itching, but an ongoing stinging or burning sensation when they apply other brands.
The reason, though not always simple, can usually be ascertained with a bit of investigating as to what they are doing in their skincare regimen or by providing me with a list of ingredients found on the label of their current and past mineral makeup products.
I wrote an article about Mica sensitivity which will provide some answers with a followup with my Dermatologist for the latest updates on what we learned with some of these women.
Potential Irritants In Minerals! And The Winners Are....
Bismuth Oxychloride ~ this ingredient pretty much has the reputation as to being the culprit in
causing intense skin irritation for most women. It is usually described as itching, burning or stinging. Once removed, the problem usually resolves itself, however for some, the sensitivity remains due to the damage it caused their skin. It also can leave the skin appearing quite shiny, almost oily looking and enhances pore size by pooling and accentuates fine lines in mature women, and creates severe bouts of cystic acne. Some women have reported aging of their skin after using products which contained this ingredient.
Some of the more familiar products are as follows :
Following my last article about filler ingredients, I wanted to elaborate on specifics as they pertain to some other ingredients. I also receive emails and phone calls from women still suffering from some form of mineral makeup irritation even after they have switched to minerals that did not contain the known irritant Bismuth Oxychloride.Their frustration is understandable since they feel they have done everything possible in choosing mineral powders that have very little in the way of ingredients included in the formulas. Some of these women as I described in my last article are ready to give up on mineral makeup altogether. They describe some of the problem not only as itching, but an ongoing stinging or burning sensation when they apply other brands.
The reason, though not always simple, can usually be ascertained with a bit of investigating as to what they are doing in their skincare regimen or by providing me with a list of ingredients found on the label of their current and past mineral makeup products.
I wrote an article about Mica sensitivity which will provide some answers with a followup with my Dermatologist for the latest updates on what we learned with some of these women.
Potential Irritants In Minerals! And The Winners Are....
Bismuth Oxychloride ~ this ingredient pretty much has the reputation as to being the culprit in
causing intense skin irritation for most women. It is usually described as itching, burning or stinging. Once removed, the problem usually resolves itself, however for some, the sensitivity remains due to the damage it caused their skin. It also can leave the skin appearing quite shiny, almost oily looking and enhances pore size by pooling and accentuates fine lines in mature women, and creates severe bouts of cystic acne. Some women have reported aging of their skin after using products which contained this ingredient.Some of the more familiar products are as follows :
- Bare Minerals ~ Cornstarch (Mineral Veil) ~ Parabens (Mineral Wear, Multi-Tasking Face)
- RAW Minerals
- Sheer Cover
- Jane Iredale (Original Formula)
- Colorescience
- Arbonne Minerals ~ Parabens
- Avon Ideal Shade Smooth Minerals ~Parabens
- e.l.f. Minerals
- GLO Minerals ~ Parabens
- Laura Mercier Mineral Powder
- Youngblood ~ Parabens (Pressed Foundation)
- Pur Minerals
- Revlon Colorstay Minerals ~ Talc (lead Ingredient)
- Loreal Bare Naturale ~Talc ~ Parabens
- Neutrogena Mineral Sheers ~ Parabens
....and this list goes on. Also quite a few of these on the list also include Dimethicone in their formulas.
Talc ~ as a general rule can be quite gentle to skin, however for some it is very drying, causes itching, (some try to equate this as a carcinogen) again inconclusive evidence, but that is another story for another time. It can give the complexion a chalky appearance, poor coverage, enlarge pore size and be occlusive giving some users acne. You will typically find this ingredient in some commercial preparations located at your local drugstore and are outlined above or in M.A.C. mineral makeup and Mary Kay mineral makeup (leading ingredient followed by cornstarch). It is a mineral to be sure, just one with some questionable results.
Cornstarch ~ although it is found in some mineral makeup foundations and Physicians Formula, this ingredient is usually reserved for mineral veils due to its silky texture, whereby it is easy to keep it out of a mineral makeup regimen. It is an occlusive ingredient especially once you perspire. It shifts and clumps on the skin enhancing pores and fine lines. Adhesion is terrible and it can create extreme itchiness on the face once it gets wet.
Parabens ~ can sensitize skin for some and they are found in mineral makeup whether it be loose or pressed powders. I never understood the necessity of Parabens in loose powder since no moisture is used to create it and a single dose is shaken out. Pressed powder is different with ongoing touching of brush to face and back to powder. Constantly introducing contaminants and bacteria from the face.
Mica (sericite) ~ in high concentrations this ingredient can be an irritant for sensitive skin types. This usually occurs when it is one of the leading ingredients in the mineral makeup. Typically 1st thru 3rd on the ingredient list. It is found in just about every mineral makeup for sale. Ratios and different surface treatments of this mineral will be the deciding factor on which product will work for your skin.
Titanium Dioxide ~ yes, believe it or not, this ingredient can cause the ongoing stinging on the skin when found in high levels of mineral makeup. It is not generally a concern when used in a product that has a multitude of filler ingredients to provide slip and to allow the minerals to float across the skin. It is also not subject to its' location on the list such as 1st position since a combination of filler ingredients are used to cut the intensity and it may actually be in a ratio of 7-15% of the overall product as is the case with our products. When this ingredient is typically a problem for some mineral makeup wearers is when it is one of 3-4 total ingredients on the jar. In high ratios it is also extremely drying to the skin, can give a chalky or ashen appearance, and is best suited for those with an oily skin type when used in high proportion.
Example: Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Zinc Oxide, Iron Oxides or Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides or Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Iron Oxides.
When used in this proportion or without other filler ingredients, not only does it require quite a bit of buffing, the minerals tend to stick to the skin and don't disperse easily creating excessive irritation whereby the wearer feels as though their skin is on fire or stinging. Also it tends to clump in pores.
You know the old saying, "too much of a good thing".... not always good! When it comes to this ingredient, ratio to proportion of other ingredients is the key to having it work well and do its job for which it is intended. Colorant, sunblock, light refraction, anti-inflammatory!
My Pet Peeves
What disturbs me the most about the vast majority of makeup companies is trying to locate an ingredient list. Some provide it in an easy to find location and others either make it a chore until you give up, or it is nowhere to be found at all. It is as though the company is aware that some of their ingredients raise eyebrows so they conceal them or make them nearly impossible to find. Unless you are holding the products in your hand for review, you pretty much end up purchasing them and only learn what you have actually purchased in the way of poor quality ingredients after it arrives at your doorstep. Drugstore.com typically provides the ingredient list for some of the commercial brands.... but manufacturers websites.... forget about it!
Their sales hype along with only providing what is known as the "key ingredient" list to the consumer is how they get their otherwise substandard products out to market and into your hands.
The other thing that also bothers me are the brands sold through network marketing. Their ingredient lists are concealed and in most cases the reps for these products have little to no actual knowledge as to what is in the products.
My Biggest Gripe....Arbonne.
I visited a trade show recently where Arbonne was being represented by the local sales rep and she had zero knowledge as to the ingredients. Every bottle, jar and package sampler I picked up had no ingredient list attached. Sales material was devoid also of this important information.
Even after I stated I was a mineral makeup formulator and gave her the name of my company, she still insisted I try some of their facial makeup primer on my hand. As she ooed and ahhed over trying to convince me what a nice product it was, I remained unimpressed. It felt extremely slippery and I suspected it was laden with silicone oils. When asked about my conclusion of ingredient feel, she referred me to the head rep for the area and she denied there were any silicone derivatives in the products or preservatives in their mineral powders and what I was feeling was all natural organic oils. Silicone versus botanicals are worlds apart on feel and organics was not what I was feeling on my hand. Silicone feels ultra slick and then turns into a satin feel as it dries.
After my inquisition into their product ingredients, which they could not provide to me by the way, I was offered an incredible opportunity and was handed documents to sign up for becoming an Arbonne rep....uh....hmm....staring at the rep with disdain by this point, I remarked, "I think I mentioned I owned a cosmetic company".... obviously this fact eluded her or it fell on deaf ears, or she was more interested in aggressively signing me up to make the company lots of money. I pressed her for an ingredient profile on their line of cosmetics and told me they were available at the Arbonne website.
Feeling a tad incensed, upon returning home, I got on the internet and searched every site I could find related to this company including Arbonnes' main site and found nothing in the way of ingredients. Trust me this was a major task and they were nowhere to be found. All they are willing to provide the consumer is a "key ingredient" list. What I also found was a ton of shills trying to create a fervor of excitement over what I considered an average product. I was determined to find out if my suspicions were right because now I was on a mission to seek out the truth on their formulas. Deception and ambiguity makes me only dig deeper! My hubby thought I should have been a private investigator.... he's so supportive.
I then contacted Arbonne headquarters and they referred me to a rep in my area and would not tell me the ingredients of their so-called natural products until I was willing to become a sales rep, whereby allowing me access to the member portion of the site which shows the ingredients, or if I was to make a purchase, whereby at that time my local rep would provide me with the ingredient list....I am thinking, "this company is unbelievable, what are they trying to hide?" It became obvious to me that the arduous process of tracking down ingredients is to gain a sale and to avoid having the consumer learn they may not be as natural as they try to seem. The average consumer not wishing to rep these products....good luck trying to locate anything about their ingredients.
However, I contacted a local sales rep and played the game...talk about high pressure tactics.
Sometimes playing detective is very revealing and fun. But it also can be exhausting! Finally I found out the truth as to their ingredients and getting this information was like extracting a bad tooth....painful....and I was correct...the Virtual Illusion Makeup Primer I had sampled at the trade show definitely had some sweet sounding botanicals infused, but it was also loaded with silicone oils and preservatives. Parabens primarily! I also inquired about some of their other products and they were loaded with some natural stuff and some junk, (SLS) Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in their cleansers. I asked her if she could send me an ingredient list for their mineral makeup and liquid foundations since she was reluctant to offer much more information without setting an appointment. I felt lucky to get this bit of information. Once I received it, I very graciously told the rep I would think about it and let her know which of course did not occur.
I would consider this company a pseudo natural one. And as I pointed out in the list above Arbonne clearly uses Bismuth Oxychloride, Parabens and Dimethicone in their mineral makeup. Example of their ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 12.8%, Zinc Oxide 17.0% Inactive Ingredients: Mica, Boron Nitrate, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Alumina, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Methylparaben, Propylparaben May Contain: Bismuth Oxychloride (Cl 77163), Mica (Cl 77019), Titanium Dioxide Cl 77891), Iron Oxides (Cl 77491, Cl77492, Cl 77499).
Another example is their liquid foundation a product clearly loaded with silicone oils and the ingredient profile is similar to their makeup primer with a few more botanical oils and minus the colorants and Parabens. This list is exhausting just reading it, much less typing it:
Ingredients for Arbonne’s Line Defiance Liquid Foundation SPF15: Water, Octinoxate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isododecane, Butylene Glycol, Peg/ppg-18/18 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Polysilicone-11, Hexyl Laurate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Dimethylacrylamide/acrylic Acid, Polystyrene Ethyl Methacrylate Copolymer Disteardimonium Hectorite, Cetyl Peg/ppg-10/1 Dimethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Lecithin, Coco-caprylate/caprate, Dimethicone/divinyldimethicone, Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Stearoxymethicone/dimethicone Copolymer, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Propylene Carbonate, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Propylene Glycol Laurate, Ethoxydiglycol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Polysorbate 20, Sorbitan Laurate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Oligopeptide-10, Aminobutyric Acid, Barium Sulfate, Glycerin, Steareth-20, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Chrysin, N-hydroxysuccinimide, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-14, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Sodium Chloride, Stearic Acid, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Phenoxyethanol, Alumina, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Mica (77019), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499).
I apologize for not giving you the actual names of the other products I looked into since I gave little importance to this and ingredients were read to me over the phone. I was way more curious as to overall ingredients throughout the line and to determine an overall consensus to their marketing practices by which they make sales. My main focus was on their makeup since this is my primary industry. But there is a clear indicator this company reveals little and hides much.
On Amazon.com they are also selling some of their products and they provide the infamous "key ingredient" list for the hook, line and sinker.
Transparency is not in their vocabulary and truth in labeling is only available at time of purchase. I don't understand how anyone can be lured into this type of marketing practice. If I had a rep approach me in my home in this fashion, I would quickly show them the door once I determined their agenda, which seems to be lack of disclosure and to sign you up at all costs. I truly dislike hype and high pressure sales. For more about this company check out Google Scams category for more info. Apparently there are many complaints from individuals who have also had a personal bad experience with them.
Don't Be Hatin'
Now for those that love and sell their products....more power to you. I am sure there are many that love, love, love their stuff and aren't worried in the least about the ingredient list. They may also be having great results with them and love the way they leave their skin....Fantastic! I also know this company is gaining in popularity and is breathing down the necks of Mary Kay and Avon. However it is reported by ABC Chicago News Affiliate that most Arbonne consultants which are in the range of 1.3 million, only 3.5% actually make money in this business.
Truth in labeling and marketing practices is what I am addressing here. I am not reviewing the product for quality, but only explaining my personal experience with this company and the lack of transparency they provide. If Arbonne wants to be a true leader in healthy formulations, my first suggestion would be for full disclosure at the source and a little less subterfuge and overblown claims. Furthermore, it was conveyed to me by Arbonne they are in the process of reformulations to exclude the parabens. I guess they are having some issues with the consumer demanding natural just like they claim. It will be interesting to see how it plays out.
Paula Bagoun, consumer advocate, has a stance as to this company and she too seems to be receiving lots of emails from concerned consumers. Her response letter and reviews! Tres Bizarre to say the least on some of Arbonnes' claims....Bat excrement in mascara formulations and road kill in lipsticks is off the charts even for this company, yet they make this claim about other cosmetic manufacturers according to Paula.
The End
Again, I cannot express enough the importance of being our own advocates for what goes into or on our bodies. Ingredient lists are designed for one purpose, to provide the consumer with protection to a degree to determine potential efficacy, safety, allergens, irritants and for some the product being kosher.
And in my opinion, don't walk....run from those companies that do not provide full disclosure, use strong sales tactics and / or do not have a working knowledge of how the products they are selling are manufactured with certain ingredients, let alone the safety of said ingredients. As consumers we have the right to know and should demand to know what is in each and every product that is on the free market as regulated by the FDA. Those that don't willingly comply, we should not give them a single one of our dollars and this would certainly send the message loud and clear. Also, as consumers we thank those more unscrupulous marketers to not use scare tactics and stop lying to us about product claims.
Feel free to share your experiences with us and others. We love to hear from you or see your comments as they pertain to this article. No Flamers Please! ;~)
Talc ~ as a general rule can be quite gentle to skin, however for some it is very drying, causes itching, (some try to equate this as a carcinogen) again inconclusive evidence, but that is another story for another time. It can give the complexion a chalky appearance, poor coverage, enlarge pore size and be occlusive giving some users acne. You will typically find this ingredient in some commercial preparations located at your local drugstore and are outlined above or in M.A.C. mineral makeup and Mary Kay mineral makeup (leading ingredient followed by cornstarch). It is a mineral to be sure, just one with some questionable results.
Cornstarch ~ although it is found in some mineral makeup foundations and Physicians Formula, this ingredient is usually reserved for mineral veils due to its silky texture, whereby it is easy to keep it out of a mineral makeup regimen. It is an occlusive ingredient especially once you perspire. It shifts and clumps on the skin enhancing pores and fine lines. Adhesion is terrible and it can create extreme itchiness on the face once it gets wet.
Parabens ~ can sensitize skin for some and they are found in mineral makeup whether it be loose or pressed powders. I never understood the necessity of Parabens in loose powder since no moisture is used to create it and a single dose is shaken out. Pressed powder is different with ongoing touching of brush to face and back to powder. Constantly introducing contaminants and bacteria from the face.
Mica (sericite) ~ in high concentrations this ingredient can be an irritant for sensitive skin types. This usually occurs when it is one of the leading ingredients in the mineral makeup. Typically 1st thru 3rd on the ingredient list. It is found in just about every mineral makeup for sale. Ratios and different surface treatments of this mineral will be the deciding factor on which product will work for your skin.
Titanium Dioxide ~ yes, believe it or not, this ingredient can cause the ongoing stinging on the skin when found in high levels of mineral makeup. It is not generally a concern when used in a product that has a multitude of filler ingredients to provide slip and to allow the minerals to float across the skin. It is also not subject to its' location on the list such as 1st position since a combination of filler ingredients are used to cut the intensity and it may actually be in a ratio of 7-15% of the overall product as is the case with our products. When this ingredient is typically a problem for some mineral makeup wearers is when it is one of 3-4 total ingredients on the jar. In high ratios it is also extremely drying to the skin, can give a chalky or ashen appearance, and is best suited for those with an oily skin type when used in high proportion.
Example: Titanium Dioxide, Mica, Zinc Oxide, Iron Oxides or Mica, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides or Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Iron Oxides.
When used in this proportion or without other filler ingredients, not only does it require quite a bit of buffing, the minerals tend to stick to the skin and don't disperse easily creating excessive irritation whereby the wearer feels as though their skin is on fire or stinging. Also it tends to clump in pores.
You know the old saying, "too much of a good thing".... not always good! When it comes to this ingredient, ratio to proportion of other ingredients is the key to having it work well and do its job for which it is intended. Colorant, sunblock, light refraction, anti-inflammatory!
My Pet Peeves
What disturbs me the most about the vast majority of makeup companies is trying to locate an ingredient list. Some provide it in an easy to find location and others either make it a chore until you give up, or it is nowhere to be found at all. It is as though the company is aware that some of their ingredients raise eyebrows so they conceal them or make them nearly impossible to find. Unless you are holding the products in your hand for review, you pretty much end up purchasing them and only learn what you have actually purchased in the way of poor quality ingredients after it arrives at your doorstep. Drugstore.com typically provides the ingredient list for some of the commercial brands.... but manufacturers websites.... forget about it!
Their sales hype along with only providing what is known as the "key ingredient" list to the consumer is how they get their otherwise substandard products out to market and into your hands.
The other thing that also bothers me are the brands sold through network marketing. Their ingredient lists are concealed and in most cases the reps for these products have little to no actual knowledge as to what is in the products.
My Biggest Gripe....Arbonne.
I visited a trade show recently where Arbonne was being represented by the local sales rep and she had zero knowledge as to the ingredients. Every bottle, jar and package sampler I picked up had no ingredient list attached. Sales material was devoid also of this important information.
Even after I stated I was a mineral makeup formulator and gave her the name of my company, she still insisted I try some of their facial makeup primer on my hand. As she ooed and ahhed over trying to convince me what a nice product it was, I remained unimpressed. It felt extremely slippery and I suspected it was laden with silicone oils. When asked about my conclusion of ingredient feel, she referred me to the head rep for the area and she denied there were any silicone derivatives in the products or preservatives in their mineral powders and what I was feeling was all natural organic oils. Silicone versus botanicals are worlds apart on feel and organics was not what I was feeling on my hand. Silicone feels ultra slick and then turns into a satin feel as it dries.
After my inquisition into their product ingredients, which they could not provide to me by the way, I was offered an incredible opportunity and was handed documents to sign up for becoming an Arbonne rep....uh....hmm....staring at the rep with disdain by this point, I remarked, "I think I mentioned I owned a cosmetic company".... obviously this fact eluded her or it fell on deaf ears, or she was more interested in aggressively signing me up to make the company lots of money. I pressed her for an ingredient profile on their line of cosmetics and told me they were available at the Arbonne website.Feeling a tad incensed, upon returning home, I got on the internet and searched every site I could find related to this company including Arbonnes' main site and found nothing in the way of ingredients. Trust me this was a major task and they were nowhere to be found. All they are willing to provide the consumer is a "key ingredient" list. What I also found was a ton of shills trying to create a fervor of excitement over what I considered an average product. I was determined to find out if my suspicions were right because now I was on a mission to seek out the truth on their formulas. Deception and ambiguity makes me only dig deeper! My hubby thought I should have been a private investigator.... he's so supportive.
I then contacted Arbonne headquarters and they referred me to a rep in my area and would not tell me the ingredients of their so-called natural products until I was willing to become a sales rep, whereby allowing me access to the member portion of the site which shows the ingredients, or if I was to make a purchase, whereby at that time my local rep would provide me with the ingredient list....I am thinking, "this company is unbelievable, what are they trying to hide?" It became obvious to me that the arduous process of tracking down ingredients is to gain a sale and to avoid having the consumer learn they may not be as natural as they try to seem. The average consumer not wishing to rep these products....good luck trying to locate anything about their ingredients.
However, I contacted a local sales rep and played the game...talk about high pressure tactics.
Sometimes playing detective is very revealing and fun. But it also can be exhausting! Finally I found out the truth as to their ingredients and getting this information was like extracting a bad tooth....painful....and I was correct...the Virtual Illusion Makeup Primer I had sampled at the trade show definitely had some sweet sounding botanicals infused, but it was also loaded with silicone oils and preservatives. Parabens primarily! I also inquired about some of their other products and they were loaded with some natural stuff and some junk, (SLS) Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in their cleansers. I asked her if she could send me an ingredient list for their mineral makeup and liquid foundations since she was reluctant to offer much more information without setting an appointment. I felt lucky to get this bit of information. Once I received it, I very graciously told the rep I would think about it and let her know which of course did not occur.I would consider this company a pseudo natural one. And as I pointed out in the list above Arbonne clearly uses Bismuth Oxychloride, Parabens and Dimethicone in their mineral makeup. Example of their ingredients:
Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 12.8%, Zinc Oxide 17.0% Inactive Ingredients: Mica, Boron Nitrate, Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Alumina, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Methylparaben, Propylparaben May Contain: Bismuth Oxychloride (Cl 77163), Mica (Cl 77019), Titanium Dioxide Cl 77891), Iron Oxides (Cl 77491, Cl77492, Cl 77499).
Another example is their liquid foundation a product clearly loaded with silicone oils and the ingredient profile is similar to their makeup primer with a few more botanical oils and minus the colorants and Parabens. This list is exhausting just reading it, much less typing it:
Ingredients for Arbonne’s Line Defiance Liquid Foundation SPF15: Water, Octinoxate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Isododecane, Butylene Glycol, Peg/ppg-18/18 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Polysilicone-11, Hexyl Laurate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Dimethylacrylamide/acrylic Acid, Polystyrene Ethyl Methacrylate Copolymer Disteardimonium Hectorite, Cetyl Peg/ppg-10/1 Dimethicone, Caprylyl Glycol, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Lecithin, Coco-caprylate/caprate, Dimethicone/divinyldimethicone, Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Stearoxymethicone/dimethicone Copolymer, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Propylene Carbonate, Propylene Glycol Stearate, Propylene Glycol Laurate, Ethoxydiglycol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Polysorbate 20, Sorbitan Laurate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Oligopeptide-10, Aminobutyric Acid, Barium Sulfate, Glycerin, Steareth-20, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Chrysin, N-hydroxysuccinimide, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-14, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Sodium Chloride, Stearic Acid, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Phenoxyethanol, Alumina, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Mica (77019), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499).
I apologize for not giving you the actual names of the other products I looked into since I gave little importance to this and ingredients were read to me over the phone. I was way more curious as to overall ingredients throughout the line and to determine an overall consensus to their marketing practices by which they make sales. My main focus was on their makeup since this is my primary industry. But there is a clear indicator this company reveals little and hides much.
On Amazon.com they are also selling some of their products and they provide the infamous "key ingredient" list for the hook, line and sinker.
Transparency is not in their vocabulary and truth in labeling is only available at time of purchase. I don't understand how anyone can be lured into this type of marketing practice. If I had a rep approach me in my home in this fashion, I would quickly show them the door once I determined their agenda, which seems to be lack of disclosure and to sign you up at all costs. I truly dislike hype and high pressure sales. For more about this company check out Google Scams category for more info. Apparently there are many complaints from individuals who have also had a personal bad experience with them.
Don't Be Hatin'
Now for those that love and sell their products....more power to you. I am sure there are many that love, love, love their stuff and aren't worried in the least about the ingredient list. They may also be having great results with them and love the way they leave their skin....Fantastic! I also know this company is gaining in popularity and is breathing down the necks of Mary Kay and Avon. However it is reported by ABC Chicago News Affiliate that most Arbonne consultants which are in the range of 1.3 million, only 3.5% actually make money in this business.
Truth in labeling and marketing practices is what I am addressing here. I am not reviewing the product for quality, but only explaining my personal experience with this company and the lack of transparency they provide. If Arbonne wants to be a true leader in healthy formulations, my first suggestion would be for full disclosure at the source and a little less subterfuge and overblown claims. Furthermore, it was conveyed to me by Arbonne they are in the process of reformulations to exclude the parabens. I guess they are having some issues with the consumer demanding natural just like they claim. It will be interesting to see how it plays out.
Paula Bagoun, consumer advocate, has a stance as to this company and she too seems to be receiving lots of emails from concerned consumers. Her response letter and reviews! Tres Bizarre to say the least on some of Arbonnes' claims....Bat excrement in mascara formulations and road kill in lipsticks is off the charts even for this company, yet they make this claim about other cosmetic manufacturers according to Paula.
The End
Again, I cannot express enough the importance of being our own advocates for what goes into or on our bodies. Ingredient lists are designed for one purpose, to provide the consumer with protection to a degree to determine potential efficacy, safety, allergens, irritants and for some the product being kosher.And in my opinion, don't walk....run from those companies that do not provide full disclosure, use strong sales tactics and / or do not have a working knowledge of how the products they are selling are manufactured with certain ingredients, let alone the safety of said ingredients. As consumers we have the right to know and should demand to know what is in each and every product that is on the free market as regulated by the FDA. Those that don't willingly comply, we should not give them a single one of our dollars and this would certainly send the message loud and clear. Also, as consumers we thank those more unscrupulous marketers to not use scare tactics and stop lying to us about product claims.
Feel free to share your experiences with us and others. We love to hear from you or see your comments as they pertain to this article. No Flamers Please! ;~)
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
The Pefect Fall Lip Colors
I love lipstick. Lipstick is the easiest and fastest way (I believe) to add intrigue to your face. When the seasons change, I love changing my lip color and finding different looks. So here are my favorite new fall lip colors- each one different, unique and glamorous unto themselves...
Dior Addict Ultra Gloss Reflect in Beige Velvet: This lip gloss is ultra chic. It has light reflecting particles that give your lips an "airbrushed" look. Perfect for when you are feeling pristine and powerful.
Plant Love Botanical Lipstick in Sam: This shade is a sheer red currant- a fun twist on the classic red lip. Can be applied in one layer for a sheer look or two coats for a darker Femme Fatale look.
NARS Lip Gloss in All Night Long (plum berry): This shade is perfect for when you are feeling romantic. Best worn with loose curls, subtle shimmery copper eyeshadow and rosy cheeks.
NARS Lip Gloss in Supervixen (shimmering nude beige): The name says it all. This shimmering lip gloss adds an alluring, slightly iridescent shade to your natural lip color. A sexy twist on an every day neutral lip.
MAC Lipstick in Patisserie: This is a limited edition lipstick from MAC's Euristocrat collection. It is the perfect nude color, with a slight pinky hue. Patisserie would be perfect for running through the streets of Paris with a lover or perhaps in search of one...
There you have them... my current favorites for fall. I would love to know what your favorite lipsticks/ glosses are...
Dior image courtesy of: www.sephora.com
Plant Love image courtesy of: www.apotheca.com
NARS in All Night Long couresy of: http://blog.newsok.com/fashionmatters
NARS in Supervixen image couresy of: makeupandbeautyblog.com
MAC in Patisserie image courtesy of: thebeautyoflifeblog.com
Dior Addict Ultra Gloss Reflect in Beige Velvet: This lip gloss is ultra chic. It has light reflecting particles that give your lips an "airbrushed" look. Perfect for when you are feeling pristine and powerful.
Plant Love Botanical Lipstick in Sam: This shade is a sheer red currant- a fun twist on the classic red lip. Can be applied in one layer for a sheer look or two coats for a darker Femme Fatale look.
NARS Lip Gloss in All Night Long (plum berry): This shade is perfect for when you are feeling romantic. Best worn with loose curls, subtle shimmery copper eyeshadow and rosy cheeks.
NARS Lip Gloss in Supervixen (shimmering nude beige): The name says it all. This shimmering lip gloss adds an alluring, slightly iridescent shade to your natural lip color. A sexy twist on an every day neutral lip.
MAC Lipstick in Patisserie: This is a limited edition lipstick from MAC's Euristocrat collection. It is the perfect nude color, with a slight pinky hue. Patisserie would be perfect for running through the streets of Paris with a lover or perhaps in search of one...
There you have them... my current favorites for fall. I would love to know what your favorite lipsticks/ glosses are...
Dior image courtesy of: www.sephora.com
Plant Love image courtesy of: www.apotheca.com
NARS in All Night Long couresy of: http://blog.newsok.com/fashionmatters
NARS in Supervixen image couresy of: makeupandbeautyblog.com
MAC in Patisserie image courtesy of: thebeautyoflifeblog.com
Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15
I have been a devoted fan of Bare Minerals foundation (and still am) for the past four years. However, there are certain summer days when I feel like just wearing a tinted moisturizer, cream blush, mascara, lip gloss and calling it a day. When researching at my local Sephora for the best tinted moisturizer on the market, I came across two very enthusiastic women who told me I had to try Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturizer. And when I say enthusiastic I am being understated. These women were verging on hysteria with their love for this brand. So I secured a five day sample (I love Sephora) and decided to try it for myself.
My complaint with tinted moisturizers in the past have been that they: a) do not perfectly match the color of my skin and therefore look strange, and b) make my face look greasy about an hour after wear. Yuck. So I skeptically tried this moisturizer by Hourglass which boasts instalift- a property that firms and brightens the skin. It also claims to be oil free, spf 15 and a luminzer all rolled in to one. For me it sounded too good to be true.
I was, happily, proved wrong. This tinted moisturizer (I use the shade "beige") goes on like a liquid foundation and matches my skin perfectly. It literally lasts all day, providing coverage until you wash your face at night. It made my pores feel and look smaller and made my skin glow and (!) it doesn't cause breakouts!
In short. I am in love with this new product and share the enthusiasm of those very helpful ladies at Sephora.
Hourglass Illusion Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15 is $55 (a little goes a long way and this will supposedly last about 8 months) and can be found at: www.sephora.com
summer in scotland
We're thru in Aberdour now in time for the last few days of the festival. Not sure how the exposure meter has cooked this pic of the beach - it looks v atmospheric but the weather was actually warm enough to paddle in the sea.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Victoria's Secret Angel Sleep Tee
I have just discovered my new favorite nightie: the Angel Sleep Tee by Victoria's Secret. Living in California, I tend to wear slips to bed (my favorite are by Calvin Klein and Intimissimi) but I have been looking for something a little more modest that I could wear- say when I am at my family's home or visiting over night with friends.
I came across the angel sleep tee and had to have it in sugar plum (lavender). It is really well constructed- is of the softest cotton, cuffs at the sleeves and has a cute little pocket with the initials VS for Victoria's secret. It is the perfect little night shirt for every day (or should I say every night?)
I would love to know what you like to sleep in...
The Angel Sleep Tee comes in coal, sugar plum, celadon, black, heather birch, clear blue and peony and retails for $26.
The sleep tee can be purchased at www.victoriassecret.com
The Daily Connoisseur Tackles the Linen Closet
Last night I re-read one of my favorite books on lifestyle and living: Colin Cowie Chic, by Colin Cowie- the renowned lifestyle and party planning guru. I read this book whenever I suspect that my home is sinking into disarray. I run a pretty tight ship but every now and then I start to let things go and then it becomes easier to let them go even further and as soon as I know it I am having nightmares about Mr. Cowie opening up one of my kitchen drawers and fainting from the complete chaos and lack of organization.
Colin Cowie boasts that he does not have a single kitchen drawer or cupboard that is unorganized. I envy this way of living. Honestly, I do. Some people might think to live like that would be an incredible bore. I think it would be marvellous. So today when I was doing my weekly washing I opened up my linen closet and realized with a sinking stomach that I have let it go. Big time. Table clothes were folded next to pillow cases. The sheets were folded such that I couldn't tell which were for the king sized bed and which were for the queen. Cloth napkins were mixed with bathroom hand towels. Just looking at it gave me the chills. How had I let it get this bad? So I rolled up my sleeves and got stuck in. Only one hour later everything is beautiful again and orderly- all of the bath linens are together, bedroom linens are together and organized by bed size, kitchen linens are all stacked neatly in a row. For me, it is linen closet heaven.
I think the key to maintaining this domestic bliss is to not be in such a hurry when I am putting things away. Putting things in their proper place should only take mere seconds more than not putting them that way and it saves a hell of a lot of agro down the road. Now Colin Cowie can stop by any time he pleases and open my linen closets (not that he would) but it's nice to know that he could...
Colin Cowie Chic can be purchased at: www.amazon.com
Images courtesy of: www.countryliving.com and www.colincowie.com