DECLEOR - Experience De L'age Triple Action Gel Cream Mask

Need to re-energize your skin in a hurry? This mask may be exactly what you are looking for. Decleor formulated this 10 minute energizing mask to give your skin a healthy glow with an intensive anti-age treatment at the same time. The “triple action” addresses firmness, radiance and wrinkle refinement. Perfect!

The creamy gel-like texture offers great plant extracts, like Iris and Maca root, to help the skin deal with hormonal changes while triggering collagen synthesis and cell regeneration. The sweet almond oil has such great affinity with the skin and offers emolliency and many essential fatty acids to reinforce skin hydration and activity, as does the hazel seed extract. If there is a special occasion coming up that you want to look great for try using this mask a few days in a row and your skin will look incredible.

Note: Do not let this mask dry on your skin. It will be counterproductive and cause you to lose moisture because it contains titanium dioxide (used for consistency), which has profound absorption properties.

THALGO Absolute Rehydrating Serum

Thalgo's quick penetrating serum is a fresh gel that awakens dull tired skin with a burst of moisture and vitality. It is applied and followed by your moisturizing cream twice a day for best results.

This serum will offer a cumulative effect over a few weeks of application, however, you will feel and see an improvement even after a few days, just in time to bring in the New Year. It grants the deep hydrating properties of a few different types of algae to help rebalance the moisture levels in the skin by enhancing the natural mechanisms to prevent moisture loss and improve cellular cohesion. Remember, the more moisture you can keep in your skin the more you protect the collagen fibers, and consequently, the less free radical damage your skin will suffer, . . . not to mention a more even skin tone and fewer lines.

There are other plant extracts included in this treasure. Prunus persica, peach fruit extract, offers anti-oxidant properties due to the high vitamin C content and potassium to reinforce hydration. Imperata Cylindrica, a member of the grass family, also makes potassium available to boost moisture absorption and trigger collagen synthesis.

This product is simple to add to your routine and such an easy way to give your skin a boost and finish off 2008 glowing. Look for it in the 2008 Thalgo Gift Set. Your skin will thank you.

ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask

What a great time of year! All of the gatherings with friends and family, the extra goodies to make and try, the shopping to do . . . a true joy of the holiday season. Along with the celebrations, we tend to sleep less and rack up a mountain of stress trying to accomplish all of the extra things on the season's to-do lists. There is no question that stress leaves its nasty little signature on the skin. Look in the mirror and you may notice a little less lustre, more dehydration and perhaps a few more lines. Sigh. A stress-busting facial at your favorite spa would be great, but there is simply not a moment to spare.

This little gem from Elemis, the Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask, is your quick fix wonder. It is a creamy mask that will quickly relieve the crepiness of dehydration, smooth out fine lines and give a lifting effect to your face. It contains Padina Pavonica, a brown algae that promotes calcium availability to the skin cells that diminish with dehydration and age. The skin utilizes calcium to reinforce the natural barriers to hold moisture (prevent moisture loss) and boost healthy cellular function and communication. The Noni fruit extract offers anti-oxidant properties nurturing regeneration and rejuvenation. The Argan Oil will improve circulation and re-establish that healthy, radiant glow.

The Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask will do wonders for your skin in a matter of a few minutes. If you really want to look great by New Years, try applying this lovely mask daily for ten to fifteen minutes. Look for it in one of the limited edition Gift Sets being offered this holiday season.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Wishing everyone peace, love and joy for today . . . and the rest of your tomorrows.

With love and gratitude for a wonderful year!
Editorial Staff,
Beauty Editor Post
beautyeditorpost@gmail.com

2008 GIFT SETS - JURLIQUE BODY CARE COLLECTION

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . . JURLIQUE Rose Body Care Collection is an integral part of this biodynamic, organic skin care line. Beautiful.

Set includes:
Rose Care Lotion (10 fl.oz)
Rose Shower Gel (10 fl. oz)
Rose Hand Cream (.5 oz)

Approx. $55.00

2008 GIFT SETS - JURLIQUE BODY CARE COLLECTION

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . . Julique's products are formulated using pure and natural plant based ingredients created from organically grown herbs.

Set includes:
Lavender Body Care Lotion (10 fl.oz)
Lavender Shower Gel (10 fl.oz)
Lavender Hand Cream (.5 oz)

Approx. $55.00

2008 GIFT SETS FOR MEN - PHYTOMER

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Men . . .
PHYTOMER's Homme Restoration Coffret Cift Set the perfect way to spoil your favorite man - decisively fresh with a pleasant marine fragrance.

Set includes:
Facial Protect Smoothing Eye Care (1 oz)
Facial Protect Active Care for Wrinkles and Fine Lines (1.7 oz)
Lift Performance Firming Contouring Concentrate (1.7 oz)

Approx. $100.00

2008 GIFT SETS FOR MEN - PETER THOMAS ROTH

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Men . . . Peter Thomas Roth's Ideal Shave Kit includes eight different products packaged in a deluxe charcoal flannel shaving bag perfect for travel.

Kit includes:
Anti-Aging Cleansing Gel (2 fl.oz)
Botanical Buffing Beads (2 fl. oz)
21st Century Shave Cream (7 oz)
Conditioning Multi-Tasking After Shave Tonic (8 fl.oz)
Ultra-Lite Multi-Tasking After Shave Balm (3.4 fl. oz)
Max Anti-Shine Mattifying Gel (.25 oz.)
Matte Lip Balm (.25 oz)
Cucumber Gel Masque (.5 oz)

Approx. $55.00

2008 GIFT SETS FOR MEN - DECLEOR

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Men . . .
Decleor Active Nature Gift Set for Men utilizes the power of plants to enhance the very best in nature for a unique skin care experience.

Set includes:
Shaving Foam (6.8 fl.oz)
Anti-Wrinkle Cream (.5 fl.oz)
Men's Aromessence (.003 fl.oz)
Cleansing and Exfoliating Get (.85 fl.oz)
Alguarmones (2.5 fl.oz)

Approx. $55.00

2008 GIFT SETS FOR MEN - BABOR

Last Minute Gift Ideas for Men . . .
Babor for Men Travel Set
Kit includes :
Refreshing Facial Wash (1 fl.oz)
Calming After Shave Cream (.5 fl.oz)
Anti Jetlag Cream (1 fl.oz)
Vitalizing Hair and Body Shampoo (1.7 fl.oz)

Approx. $45.00

2008 GIFT SETS - ELEMIS

The best way to try a complete line of products is to purchase gift sets, boxes and kits, particularly if you are on a budget.
ELEMIS Divine Beauty Gift Set is a perfect introduction to an award-winning Pro-Collagen anti-aging skin care.

Set includes:
• Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask (.5oz)
• Pro-Collagen Hand and Nail Cream (.7 oz)
• Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (1 oz)
• Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream (.5 oz)
• Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules (14)

Approx. $95 ($180 value)

2008 GIFT SETS - THALGO

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . .
THALGO Waterfall Island Hydrating Gift Set includes four (4) products formulated for dehydrated skin in desperate need of moisture and relaxation.
Set includes:
• Collagen Cream (1.7 fl.oz)
• Relaxing Cream (1 fl. oz)
• Moisture Quenching Mask (.5 fl. oz.)
• Absolute Hydrating Serum (.5 fl. oz.)

Approx. $100.00

2008 GIFT SETS - THALGO

THALGO Arctic Island Oxygenating Gift Set restores and regenerates skin for a soft and supple, glowing and radiant complexion.
Set includes:
• Oxygen Cream (1.7 fl.oz)
• Oxygen Serum (.5 fl.oz)
• Oxygen Mask (.5 fl.oz)
• Freshness Exfoliator (1 fl.oz)

Approx. $85.00

2008 GIFT SETS - THALGO

THALGO Island of Eternity Anti-Aging Gift Set is formulated to smooth and invigorate skin for a visibly soft, fresh, glowing and radiant complexion.
Set includes:
• Wrinkle Control Smoothing Care (1.7 fl.oz)
• Smoothing Concentrate (.5 fl.oz)
• Wrinkle Control Fundamental Mask (2 sachets)
• Revitalizing Eye Contour Cream (.5 fl.oz)

Approx. $ 85.00

2008 GIFT SETS - DERMALOGICA

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . . DERMALOGICA Holiday Skin Rescue Gift Set is described as a "lifeboat for the skin containing a powerful regimen of products to get the skin back on track."

Set includes:
• Skin Hydrating Masque (.75 oz)
• Daily Microfoliant (.45 oz)
• Multi-Active Toner (1.7 fl.oz)
• Skin Hydrating Booster (.25 fl.oz)
• Total Eye Care SPF 15 (.1 fl.oz)

Approx. $35*
*Prices vary on this set.

2008 GIFT SETS - B. KAMINS

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . .
B. KAMINS Essentials for Healthy Skin helps restore vital moisture to the skin to provide a more radiant complexion.

Set includes:
• Vegetable Skin Cleanser (2 oz)
• Nutrient Replacement Cream (.5 oz)
• Day Cream SPF 15 (.5 oz)
• Lip Balm SPF 20 (.53 oz)

Approx. $60.00
Noteworthy Mention: All proceeds will be donated to support the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

2008 GIFT SETS - EMINENCE ORGANICS

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . .

EMINENCE ORGANICS Rose Collection Tube includes five (5) travel size products plus a full size serum;
• Sweet Red Rose Cleanser
• Rosehip & Maize Exfoliating Treatment
• Sweet Red Rose Whip Moisturizer
• Rosehip Whip Moisturizer
• Sweet Red Rose Treatment
• Couperose C-Serum

Approx. $60.00

2008 GIFT SETS - PEVONIA

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . .

PEVONIA's Tranformation Luxury Gift Set beautifully packaged in a luxurious and distinguished festive green box.

Includes three (3) high profile Pevonia products;
Pevonia Vitaminic Concentate (.5 oz)
Pevonia Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser (5 oz)
Pevonia Marin-Collage Cream (.7oz)

Approx. $75.00

2008 GIFT SETS - SKINMEDICA

SKINMEDICA's TNS Recovery Complex Gift Set generates rapid filling and smoothing action to visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and a LipPlump system to add fullness and volume.

Gift Set includes:
• TNS Line Refine (.12 oz)
• TNS LipPlump System
• Holiday Bag
• Keepsake Box

Approx. $95.00

2008 GIFT SETS - DECLEOR

Last Minute Gift Ideas . . .

DECLEOR's Timeless Nature Anti-Aging Gift Set is formulated to restore the skin's vitality and radiance.

Set includes:
• Experience de L'Age Rich Cream (1.7 fl.oz)
• Aromessence Iris (.17 fl.oz)
• Gel Prolangene (.5 fl.oz)
• Experience de L'Age Mask(.5 fl.oz)

Approx. $80.00

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

NapaStyle's Great Culinary Adventure to Napa Valley with Chef Michael Chiarello
Enter by December 31st
Grand Prize: One trip for two (2) to Napa Valley. Trip package includes roundtrip airfare for two to San Francisco, three days and two nights accommodations at the Villagio Inn and Spa, a rental car for three days, 50 minute Wellness Massage for the winner and guest, guided limousine tour of private wineries, dinner for two at Bottega, wine tasting with Michael Chiarello at Bottega, dinner for two at Bouchon Restaurant in Napa Valley. and a guided tour at the NapaStyle Flagship Store.
Approximate Retail Value: $4,500

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

Fairmont Hotels: What's Your Spa Style?
Enter by December 29th
Grand Prize: One trip for two (2) to winner's choice of one of the following Willow Stream and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts locations: Beijing, China; Cairo, Egypt; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Scottsdale, Arizona; or Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Trip package includes roundtrip, coach-class air transportation for two (2), six (6) nights accommodations, three (3) spa treatments per person; and daily access to spa amenities, and $3,500 USD worth of American Express® Travelers Cheques. Approximate Retail Value $12,000.

Wynn Las Vegas Hotel Getaway to Luxury Sweepstakes
Enter by December 31st
Grand Prize: One trip for two (2) to the Wynn Las Vegas hotel. The prize includes three consecutive nights lodging for two in a Salon Suite at the Wynn Las Vegas, a $400 dinner credit redeemable toward a dinner for two at the SW Steakhouse at the Wynn, a $400 credit redeemable toward Wynn Spa services or shopping, two tickets for the Le Rêve show at the Wynn Las Vegas during the stay, and Limousine transportation to and from McCarran Airport in Las Vegas. Note: No transportation to or from Las Vegas is included within the Grand Prize and is the sole responsibility of the Grand Prize winner and winner’s guest. Approximate Retail Value $3,148.

Spa Week Gift Card Specials

Our Editors have received more emails about saving money than any other topic this year. The downturn in the economy has taken a painful bite out of everyone's wallet in one way or another. Spa lovers want to know if there are any real deals out there. Previous posts outline several money saving tips, but there are other great resources.

SpaWeek.org was launched in 2003 by founder and entrepreneur extraordinaire, Cheryl Reid, in a sincere effort to make sure a trip to the spa is an affordable luxury for everyone. The Spa Week Gift Card is an example of a great deal offering a 20% savings. Until December 22nd a $100 Spa Week Gift Card costs only $80.00. Bookmark their site because they have a variety of spa treats throughout the year.

Spa Week also offers a plethora of savings in spas across the US on their steals and deals page, a healthy selection of product giveaways, . . . and a beautiful 2.22 carat diamond eternity band. So, what are you waiting for? Go have a look for yourself. Enjoy!

Top Five Trends in Spas - Stress Busters & Brain Power Boosters

Spas are developing new stress reduction programs to promote an unimpaired state of relaxation. Meditation, guided visual imagery and sleep therapy are showing up on spa menus across the nation. Mind, body and soul programs offer immediate nourishment. Brain power boosters are becoming popular treatments that cater to a vast aging population, as well as those suffering from stress related cognitive impairment.

Stress is responsible for the majority of illnesses and heart attacks. It also increases irritability, destroys concentration, threatens cognitive abilities, disrupts coping skills and ruins emotional wellness. The amount of mental activity generated throughout the day is staggering, all of which, is accentuated with imagery and colored by emotions. Balance is key to maintaining your cool. It requires healthy thoughts, rebooting thinking power and running interference on all of the negatives we are hit with every day.

Don't allow yourself to become unhinged. Relaxation is the key to unwinding frazzled nerves. Healthy brain power kick starts healthy emotions. Healthy emotions are good for the heart. A happy heart creates a sense of fulfillment that spills over onto others. The 'power of one' can change the world, . . . one person at a time.

Top Five Trends in Spas - Alternative Therapy

Spas are taking their cues from a stressed out society by digging deep to offer alternative and spiritually based therapies. These ancient, 'blast from the past' practices have proven track records in stress reduction and in rekindling a positive energy shift.

This sacred comeback includes carefully chosen music and enticing aromas to set the stage for treatments such as, acupuncture, polarity massage, chakra balancing massages, reiki, healing touch, crystal healing, shiatsu, breathing rooms, energy healing, hot stone therapy, etc. Total health and wellness is the focus of this new and very hot trend with relaxation and rejuvenation as the ultimate goal.

Top Five Trends in Spas - Fully Clothed Mini Massages

There are two very good reasons that fully clothed massages are a rising trend.
• We live in a fast paced world where stress fills the tanks of those living an 'on-the-go' lifestyle. Express spas, airport spas, massage bars, and in-chair massage hubs are popping up everywhere. These 15 to 20 minute mini massages are an oil-free, 'better than nothing' approach at targeting the knots in our shoulders, neck, back and hands without the hassle of undressing, which can sometimes be, . . . well, a pain in the neck.
• A recent report disclosed that 70% of spa visitors have never had a massage. Almost 3/4 of all spa visitors have not taken the plunge, so to speak, and dropped their clothing for the sake of stress. The reason? The personal discomfort of having to undress creates an anxiety and an awkwardness that quickly cancels out the desire to take part. These 15 minute wonders increase circulation, rejuvenate tired limbs, and relieve stress. At the average rate of $1.00 to $2.00 per minute, these minis won't break the bank.

Top Five Trends in Spas - It's All About The Green . . . Environment and Finances

It is all about the green. Organic products, water conservation, active recycling programs, low energy lighting, etc. Yes, we are delighted to report the green movement is one of the top trends in the spa industry, but that is not the kind of green we are talking about in Trend #2.

We are actually addressing the other green, . . . money. It is no surprise that many consumers are cutting back on spending. In perfect harmony, spas are getting creative to find ways to honor customers looking for refuge in a very stressful economy. This is an opportunity for spa-goers to shop around for some stress-busting deals.

Here are a few tips to help. Booking midweek is generally cheaper than weekend treatments at many destination/resort spas, and if it is not, ask for it. Don't be shy, everyone understands this is a time where cutting costs is the diligent thing to do. Many spas are offering menu samplers, family discounts, girlfriend getaway deals, etc., but don't be surprised if you don't find them listed on the spa menu. Again, take a deep breath and ask for their under-the-table specials. Look into booking smaller treatments with bite-size price tags, such as mini massages, manicures, hand massage, pedicures, neck and shoulder massages. Take care of yourself during this very stressful time. Your good health is counting on you.

Top Five Trends in Spas - Homestay Vacations & Fertility Treatments

Spas are reporting an increase in couples booking spa getaways together. Instead of taking a trip abroad, which has become financially prohibitive in this type of economy, couples are booking their vacations at resorts that cater to spa lovers. Side-by-side massages, facials, manicures and pedicures are popular treatments for anniversaries, birthdays and Valentines Day celebrations.

There is another reason why this couple trend is growing. Holisitic fertility treatments. Acupuncture, fertility yoga, fertility reflexology, three hour daily massages, heat treatments and other ancient fertility treatments are just some of the spa services offered to couples having difficulty conceiving a child. This trend is certain to continue since one in six couples struggle with infertility. Learning to relax with one another in an environment where both individuals are being cared for seems to be a winning formula. Couples book spa treatments together to become part of a philosophy that rests upon a very sturdy fact that relaxation is the answer to health, healing, happiness, . . . and conception.

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

The Starter Wife Mollywood Getaway Sweepstakes
Enter by December 18th, 2008
Grand Prize: "Winner and three (3) friends will step into Mollly's shoes and follow her fun-filled daily planner taking them to the hottest locations, from A-list boutiques, to the most exclusive spas and hippest dining locations."

Grand Prize includes round-trip airfare to Los Angeles, CA; three (3) nights hotel accommodations at Beverly Hills Hotel, ground transportation to and from airport and hotel, daily chauffeured transportation in a hybrid SUV, $2,000 Chase Freedom pre-paid cards (per person), and luxurious Signature Bliss Spa Treatments.

Winner and guests will also receive:
• Breakfast for four (4) days at the hotel;
• Lunch for three (3) days;
• Dinner and beverages for three (3) nights;
• Trips to Rodeo Drive/Robertson for shopping;
• Tickets to Los Angeles County Museum of Art;
• Tickets to a show at the Music Center;
• Four (4) Starter Wife Weekend Deluxe Getaway Totes

The Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) of the Trip is $33,886.

Vanity is Timeless - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

During the 17th century, one of the primary ingredients used in anti-aging creams, was . . . wait for it . . . drum roll . . . dog's urine. Honest. You knew that, right? Women were advised to get up each morning and wash their faces in 'puppy water' or 'night water', more commonly known as urine.

Another popular home beauty treatment was a personal collection of urine, mixed with rosewater and lemon peels, for a special daily face wash. Further research finds Ukrainian women from the old country wiped their faces with wet, warm, baby's diapers for younger looking skin. Arabic women were known to wash their hair in camel's urine. The reason? Urine has a lot of uric acid and urea in it, both excellent hydrators. Urine is also a large source of vital nutrients and contains antibodies that cannot be duplicated or derived from any other source. As a powerful wound healer, there is no surprise it was used to control acne. Oh, and the puppy thing? Puppies only drink milk and don't eat meat. The uric concentration (and odor) increases when a more mature dog begins to eat solid food. This beauty ritual gives a whole new meaning to aroma therapy. Pee-you.

Full of Bull - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

Do you have dry and unmanageable hair? Tried every product on the market only to find that your hair just does not have lustre anymore? Ah, . . . not to worry. There is a new organic beauty treatment on the horizon that holds promise for your glorious mane.

What is it? Bull semen. That's right. Aberdeen Angus bull semen mixed with Katera, an Iranian plant. This odorless 30 minute treatment is a protein packed masque that guarantees to give your hair the strength and shine of yesteryear. Oh, and the manufacturer promises no animals are hurt in the process. Think about it, . . . on second thought, . . . never mind.

The Dish on Fish - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

Sardines as a beauty treatment? Of course, why didn't we think of this. Sardines contain a substance called DMAE that produces dramatic results when applied topically to the skin. What results, you may be wondering? Ah, the two biggies . . . tightening and a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles under the eyes. The instructions are simple. Take two sardines, place one under each eye for 10-15 minutes. The results are said to be evident immediately after the first treatment and increase with repetition. Hey, you'll look great, but you won't win a popularity contest with this one. Don't be surprised when everywhere you go you hear everyone whisper, . . . ."what's that smell?" You may look 10 years younger, but your social life will sink like the Titanic with this treatment.

The Scoop on Poop - "The Lighter Side" of Beauty Secrets

News wires always have a good time reporting the lengths women will go for the sake of vanity. Earlier this year reporters focused on a relatively new exotic skin care masque that has caught on like a house on fire, compliments of an ancient and traditional Japanese society. Um, . . . just one thing. The main ingredient of this magical facial treatment is hummingbird (or nightingale) droppings. Yes, their poop. Apparently the poop contains an enzyme called guanine, which is an amino acid that promotes healing while bleaching the skin. The treatment is a generational custom for geishas, kabuki actors, and monks who polish their bald heads with it. This 60 - 90 minute facial has a price ticket of $200 - $400 per treatment. The information sheet says it is totally organic. Well, duh! It's poop!

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

How Will You Rock Sweepstakes
Enter by November 30th
Grand Prize: One (1) winner. Two (2) coach airfare tickets from the major commercial airport nearest winner's primary residence in the US to San Diego, one round-trip auto transportation between San Diego International Airport and Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, one (1) Rock Star Suite (double occupancy) for three (3) nights at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, Daily Breakfast for two at Maryjane’s Coffee Shop at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego (4 days), two 50-minute spa treatments at the Rock Spa at the Hard Rock Hotel San Diego, and $500 shopping spree in the Rock Shop® (valid only at Hard Rock Hotel San Diego location). Also VIP Check-in at the front desk “Green Room”, one dinner for two at Nobu San Diego featuring the signature Omakase menu (alcohol not included), VIP front-of-the-line access into Sweetwater Saloon and Moonstone Lounge (bottle service, food, alcohol are not included) and one daytime use of poolside cabana (bottle service, food, alcohol not included.) The approximate retail value of the prize is $5,500

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

Michael Kors Holiday '08 Shopping Trip Sweepstakes
Enter by November 30th
Hear Ye, Hear Ye, Project Runway Fans! This week's Spa Sweepstakes delivers a winner straight to the golden doorway of one of the celebrity judges on Project Runway. Seize the moment and gift yourself with a chance to select and take home a few stylish pieces of Michael Kor's beautifully designed clothing. The winner of this contest will be in seventh heaven while going on a shopping trip to New York and spending $1,000 in Michael's store in Soho.

The grand prize also includes airfare, hotel accommodations for a two day, two night trip for two to New York City, pampering at a day spa, . . . and as if that wasn't enough, dinner at one of New York's hottest restaurants. Sign me up! The approximate retail value of the prize is $5,000.

Yoga - The Yin and Yang of Beauty

Yoga offers so many benefits it is no wonder it is sweeping the globe. It balances the body's system, improves vitality, relieves stress and tension, brings more oxygen to the body, controls hormone levels, increases sluggish digestion, flushes out toxins, offers a new level of mental alertness, and improves circulation leading to the reduction in wrinkle formation and producing a natural face lift. Long story short . . . yoga offers a healthy, more youthful way of living.

This is the perfect time of year to incorporate 20 minutes of yoga into each day. Why now? November and December are the busiest times of the year when we have the least amount of energy to burn. Unfortunately, the physical math does not work. Winter is considered the 'yin' season, one that is cool, wet, slow, feminine, and quiet. Summer, on the other hand, is the 'yang' season and is the exact opposite with warm, dry, fast, masculine, and 'anything but quiet' energy.

Winter should be dedicated to storing energy. The winter solstice, three or four days before Christmas, are supposed to be the quietest days of the year, but instead we burn the candle at both ends while taking part in 'yang' activities. We are clearly at odds with our nature adding a great deal of stress to our lives. Stress turns itself outward by accelerating the aging process and causing illnesses.

Yoga has the ability to correct the problem, and in doing so, create a more youthful and harmonious balance. It is said, "if you want to change your appearance, you must first change your thoughts, emotions, and habits where stress and aging originate." A stressed out body and mind will project the same in our appearances. Conversely, if we nourish ourselves by adopting a healthy lifestyle, we will age ever so gracefully. So, what are you waiting for? O-m-m-m-m-m . . .

Terry Face Cloths vs Exfoliators

I am from the old school of thinking when it comes to skin care. Why can't I just use a plain, old terry face cloth to exfoliate my skin and save the money I would otherwise spend on exfoliators?


Using a face cloth to clean the skin is fine as long as it is used in gentle upward circular motions. Having said that, there are many beneficial ingredients incorporated into exfoliators that would be missed by just simply using a terry cloth. More importantly, terry face cloths cannot minimize pores, help hydrate the skin, soothe and calm the skin, draw out impurities and do not have antibacterial capabilities. We highly recommend a consistent exfoliation skin care routine using a product chosen for your particular skin type. Most exfoliators are not very expensive, and in our opinion, the results are definitely worth the money spent.

Oh, and don't forget to exfoliate your entire body. Love the skin you are in!

Lip Schtick Tips

Why is it that the more I lick my lips, the drier my lips get? It is driving me crazy.

Stop licking your lips! Saliva contains digestive enzymes which will wreak havoc on the natural protective coating of your lips. The more you lick, the drier and more uncomfortable your lips will become. The skin on your lips is very thin and has no oil glands to help protect them from the environment.

Drink lots of water, use a humidifier at home, apply a waterproof lip balm that contains natural beeswax, shea butter, vitamin E (break open a capsule and apply to your lips), almond, jojoba, or coconut oils. Petroleum jelly works well, but it is a bit messy. Chapped lips, or those nasty little sores at the corners of your mouth, may indicate a deficiency in B-complex and/or iron.

Take care of your lips, . . . after all, they frame each and every word you say.

Exfoliation Feels Grate, Not Great!

I understand the importance of exfoliating and have tried to incorporate it into my skin care routine but my skin feels tight and red afterward. What am I doing wrong?


Exfoliation should leave your skin with a pink flush and leave a light tingling sensation, . . . the opposite of what is happening to you. Perhaps you need to reconsider how often you exfoliate and/or change the product you are currently using and select one that is not so aggressive. Don't forget to rinse, rinse and rinse again.Exfoliation is an important step in a skin care routine, but it is equally important to choose an appropriate product.

*For reference look at our posts on exfoliators on June 2nd, 4th, and 5th - a few helpful recommendations are listed there.

Antioxidants: The Leader of the Pack

I have been reading your post for sometime now and have learned so much. Thank you! I would like to see a list of antioxidants that I should be eating to begin the beautification process from the inside out.


Great question. The highest level of antioxidant foods generally found in supermarkets are, in order of strength: undutched cocoa powder (twice that of red wine/three times that of green tea); bittersweet chocolate; white tea; green rooibos tea; green tea; red rooibos tea; oolong tea; and black tea. Some studies claim that the blueberry (especially wild blueberry, a.k.a. bilberry) contains more antioxidants than any other mainstream fruit or vegetable, when compared on the basis of equal calories. Others give the top award to Montmorency cherry juice—which does have more calories than blueberries, but is accessible year-round. Other fruits and berries that are high in antioxidants include the blackberry, raspberry, cranberry, cherry (especially the Montmorency, also known as the tart or sour cherry), dried plum (prune), dark grapes (including raisins, purple grape juice and red wine), crowberry (a North American berry that looks similar to a blueberry), kiwi, pomegranate, papaya (a source of vitamin E, lycopene and beta-carotene, three very powerful antioxidants), citrus fruit such as orange and grapefruit (the highest concentration of antioxidants are in the pulp, where the pectin is found); and leafy, dark green cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, daikon radish, kale, kohlrabi, mustard/chard greens, parsnip, rutabaga, turnip and watercress). The latest star of the antioxidant show is the Brazilian acai berry, a true superfruit.

FYI - One cup of green tea has antioxidant effects greater than a serving of broccoli, an antioxidant-rich food. A 2006 study showed that elderly Japanese people who drank more than 2 cups of green tea a day had a 50% lower chance of cognitive impairment than those who drank less green tea, or who consumed other tested beverages. The high amount of catechins in green tea are believed to be responsible.*

Mesoetetic Winter Promotional Pack

• Radiance Soft Pearls contains Retinol offering a secondary benefit of promoting exfoliation. Retinol promotes the formation of new cells in the lower layer of the epidermis, which in turn promotes the movement of older cells upward to shed. The cell regeneration triggered by Retinol leads to newer healthier skin, minimizing blemishes, lines and giving the skin the glow of vitality. The product is packaged in gelatine capsules (pearls) offering unit doses and easy application. As well as boosting cell regeneration the pearls contain ceremides to reinforce the hydrolipidic barrier of the skin, boosting the defence against moisture loss and environmental aggressions.

• The Radiance Intense Serum is the free radical 'scavenger' of the collection. It has powerful antioxidants (vitamin C, lipoic acid, soya isoflavons) to defend against aging and degradation of the skin, as well as ingredients to boost cellular oxygen promoting detoxification and giving the skin a smoother, more radiant appearance.

• Regenerating Gel is a light protective day cream/gel that hydrates, nourishes, and comforts the skin from the harsher environment of winter. It is so effective that it is often recommended for calming irritated skin after peeling treatments like microdermabrasion. Just think what it would do to soothe skin chapped by winter winds. It contains a powerful cocktail of peptides to boost collagen and elastin to minimize fine lines and help the skin to resist the formation of new tell tale signs of aging.

Mesoetetic designed their winter rescue skin care kit to ensure your skin stays protected and vibrant throughout the winter season . . . a season of radiance.

Sircuit Cosmeceuticals Dry Winter Skin Treatment Kit

A winter rescue skin care kit takes the guess work out of selecting the right products to help your skin take on winter's abuse. Sircuit Cosmeceuticals designed their kit with four products that include an easy to use exfoliating mask, a skin regenerating booster cream for day, a repair cream for night, and a lip treatment to keep the lips from chapping.

• Youth Accelerator is an exfoliating mask formulated with nutrition rich pumpkin enzymes. Perfect timing. Pumpkins are not only for Hallowe'en and great pies. They also have the incredible ability to refine skin texture and ward off too much cell build up.
• Sircuit Skin Secret Sauce is a powerful day cream to boost cell activity, hydrate and defend the skin from those 'age promoting' free radicals. There are several ingredient goodies you have been reading about, . . . peptides for anti-age activities, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and reliable vitamin E as the anti-oxidant.
• Dreamweaver is a night treatment cream was created to repair, heal and replenish the skin so that it will have the resistance and protection needed for the environmental exposure that follows during the day. The shea butter base with its high essential fatty acid (EFA) content ensures regeneration and healing, along with other natural growth factors. It also contains a powerful antioxidant.
•Suggah is more than balm for chapped lips, it is an anti-age lip plumping treatment that can be used as often as needed.
Shea butter and jojoba will provide relief for winter ravaged, dehydrated lips.

Give your skin a change this winter and "switch it up" from your normal routine.