Organic and Gluten Free Beauty Products

Article by Bee Lindquist

Photo Courtesy of http://gladysspeaks.blogspot.com/

What is the meaning of Organic and Gluten Free beauty products? Often times we can get confused by labels. It seems as if everything today is labeled Organic or Natural. The other confusing name is “Gluten Free”? What do these labels mean and do I need to worry about them in my beauty products?
Let’s take these items one at a time.

OrganicAccording to the Organic Trade Association “Organic’ is a labeling term that denotes products produced under the authority of the Organic Foods Production Act. The principal guidelines for organic production are to use materials and practices that enhance the ecological balance of natural systems and that integrate the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole.”Organic hair products are composed without any kind of integration. All these products are made without pesticides, chemical compounds, fertilizers, synthetic preservatives, fungicides, colors and things consisting of irradiated products. So there is no chance of any side effects from use of such products

Organic products can do wonders to your hair because they provide the necessary nutrients to the hair. As these products are free from any kind of superficial preservatives these are valuable for your hair and they also do not have any kind of side effects. Many conventional hair dye formulas contain chemicals like ammonia, which irritates the skin and lungs, and p-Phenylenediamine (PPD).

There are a number of high quality products on the market that you can find at your organic hair salon. Many of these brands aren’t only organic, but they are vegan friendly as well. This means no animals were tested or used in any way when it comes to the products themselves. The Beauty Studio carries several organic brands including Onesta, which is a part of the “sustainable manufacturing” movement. We also carry the Davines line of hair products which uses “green” containers, meaning they are fully recyclable.
Another item you might want to consider is whether the salon you are patronizing provides gluten free products. There seems to be an ever increasing population with gluten sensitivities. Your skin and hair absorb the products introduced to them which could be a problem for those with sensitivities.









Gluten FreeThe FDA does not have a clear definition of Gluten Free yet but the FDA proposes to define the term "gluten-free" to mean that a product bearing this claim in its labeling does not contain any one of the following:
An ingredient that is a prohibited grain
An ingredient that is derived from a prohibited grain and that has not been processed to remove gluten
An ingredient that is derived from a prohibited grain and that has been processed to remove gluten, if the use of that ingredient results in the presence of 20 parts per million (ppm) or more gluten in the food or
20 ppm or more gluten According to Dr. Kenneth Fine, M.D. of EnteroLab.com, Gluten sensitivity is a systemic immune reaction to gluten anywhere in the body, not just that entering the body via the gut. Therefore, topically applied lotions, creams, shampoos, etc. containing gluten would indeed provide a source of gluten to the body, and we therefore recommend all such products be discontinued for optimal health
Since the cosmetic industry is self-regulated, it is more important than ever to carefully read labels, and use natural or organic products whenever possible. If you find yourself reacting to a cosmetic, it is possible that you may have an increased sensitivity to gluten, an allergy, or even Dermatitis Herpetiformis
The Beauty Studio carries Glo-Minerals which is not only organic but Gluten Free as well as the Eminence product line which is from Hungary.
The Beauty Studio is concerned about what is applied to your skin and hair as well as what goes into the environment. So if you have chemical or gluten sensitivities or if you just want to do your part to help the environment we can assist you in finding a product and a treatment. There really is no need for you to have to sacrifice quality and service just because you want to be able to do your part in helping the world and to the things that live within it.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes!

By Bee Lindquist:

Photo courtesy of http://farm4.static.flickr.com/

We love our shoes and as such we want them to look fantastic forever. Years ago there was a saying if you want to know a man’s status look at the condition of his shoes. I believe that still holds true today. Your hair maybe perfectly coifed and your outfit may look like a million dollars but if your shoes are beat-up and dirty you will too.

Picture Courtesy of http://www.lifein2suitcases.com/

Here are some simple tips to keeping even that $9.99 flip flops looking fantastic

• Neaten up the frayed ends of shoelaces (and make it easier to lace them) by dipping them in clear nail polish.
• Store shoes that aren’t worn often by stuffing the toe box with tissue paper and place in a pillow case as a shoe cover.
• Remove scuff marks on shoes by rubbing with a baking-soda paste.
• Use petroleum jelly to shine leather shoes. Apply with a soft cloth, wipe off the excess, and buff with a clean cloth.
• You should keep waterproofing solution on hand for your new shoes, to be applied before exposing them to the elements.
• Use a light coating of spray starch or Scotch Guard on new fabric tennis shoes before wearing them -- dirt can't become embedded in the canvas, and the shoes will always be easy to clean.
• Clean the rubber on athletic shoes with baking soda sprinkled on a sponge or washcloth.
• Use lemon juice to clean and shine black or tan leathers. Apply with a soft cloth. 
• Clean the salt residue common on winter boots with a cloth dipped in a solution of 1 cup water and 1 tablespoon vinegar. This will work on leather and vinyl.
• Use a soft cloth dipped in vinegar to shine a pair of patent-leather shoes or any patent-leather item.
• Shoes that are starting to smell can be helped by sprinkling with a little salt. Let sit overnight. The salt will help control moisture, which contributes to odors.
• Put shoes in freezer to kill the odor causing bacteria.
• Keep odor at bay by sprinkling baking soda into shoes to control odor and moisture.
• Cobblers may strenghten the soles of more delicate dress shoes with a specially cut half-sole of leather or thin plastic. These extra layers for the bottom of the shoe provide extra traction and extend the life of the shoe. You can also have the Cobbler replace zippers, buttons, clasps and straps on pumps, along with replacing or shortening the heels and replacing the heel tips.

Remember­ Bill Connelly said “Before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes. After that who cares?... He's a mile away and you've got his shoes.”

Vitamin Sun



Picture Courtesy of pictureshunt.com

 By Bee Lindquist

Lately there has been a lot of hub-bub in the news regarding Vitamin D. Remember in elementary school when you learned the major food groups and what their benefits were? We learned that Vitamin D was key to absorbing calcium and therefore was added to to the milk we buy at the local supermarket. But what is it really and what are the benefits but more importantly are we getting enough?

 It is crucial for the absorption and metabolism of calcium and phosphorous, which have various functions, especially the maintenance of healthy bones. It is an immune system regulator.

It may be an important way to boost the immune system against disorders like the common cold, say scientists from the University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Children's Hospital Boston.

It may reduce the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Multiple sclerosis is much less common the nearer you get to the tropics, where there is much more sunlight, according to Dennis Bourdette, chairman of the Department of Neurology and director of the Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Center at Oregon Health and Science University, USA.
Vitamin D may have a key role in helping the brain to keep working well in later life, according to a study of 3000 European men between the ages of 40 and 79.
Vitamin D is probably linked to maintaining a healthy body weight, according to research carried out at the Medical College of Georgia, USA.
It can reduce the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms, and also the likelihood of hospitalizations due to asthma, researchers from Harvard Medical School found after monitoring 616 children in Costa Rica.
It has been shown to reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis in women.

Various studies have shown that people with adequate levels of vitamin D have a significantly lower risk of developing cancer, compared to people with lower levels. Vitamin D deficiency was found to be prevalent in cancer patients regardless of nutritional status, in a study carried out by Cancer Treatment Centers of America.
In adults, vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteomalacia, which results in muscular weakness in addition to weak bones. Populations who may be at a high risk for vitamin D deficiencies include the elderly, obese individuals, exclusively breastfed infants, and those who have limited sun exposure. Also, individuals who have fat malabsorption syndromes (e.g., cystic fibrosis) or inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease) are at risk.

It is easy to determine if you are getting enough Vitamin D. Next time you have your regular check up ask if they can include it on your Complete Blood Count Test. They will determine if you are lacking in Vitamin D. Talk to your physician about adding a Vitamin D supplement to your routine. While Multi-Vitamins are good they often do not contain enough of the recommended daily dosage to make a difference in your Vitamin D absorption. Make sure when purchasing any supplement that you read the label to make sure it does not interact with medications already prescribed and only buy tested products.

Vitamin D is a group of fat-soluble secosteroids (A secosteroid is a molecule similar to a steroid but with a "broken" ring). In humans Vitamin D is unique both because it functions as a prohormone and because when sun exposure is adequate the body can synthesize it (as Vitamin D₃). While we are all very conscious about the amount of sun we are exposed to because of cancer risk, it is important to get at least 15 minutes of sun light per day in order to synthesize Vitamin D.

The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Recently, research also suggests vitamin D may provide protection from osteoporosis, hypertension (high blood pressure), cancer, and several autoimmune diseases.

Data collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), USA found that 9% (7.6 million) of children across the USA, was vitamin D deficient (defined as less than 15 ng/mL of blood), while another 61 percent, or 50.8 million, was vitamin D insufficient (15 to 29 ng/mL).
The other benefits of Vitamin D according to the Mayo Clinic are:

Vino-Therapy

Sipping a glass of wine is one of life's most relaxing rituals. Associated with leisure and pleasure, vino-therapy now claims a wide range of proven health and beauty benefits.

Vino-Therapy, the use of wine and grapes in ritual skin and healthcare, dates back to the ancient civilizations of Greece, Rome and the Middle East. Early healers and philosophers recognized that drinking wine was not only pleasurable but also healthful in moderation. They explored its topical uses as well. Hippocrates prescribed wine to disinfect wounds and purge fevers and folk healers of Europe were credited with having cured epidermal diseases with an ointment made from grapevine sap. Today's wellness-oriented guests turn to spas for vino-therapeutic treatments to improve their skin and for the sensation of relaxation and escape.

Photo Courtesy of http://www.dphclub.com/

Joseph Vercauteren, Ph.D., a professor at the School of Pharmacy at the University of Bordeaux, discovered that the grape seeds are rich in polyphenols, which have positive effects on human skin. Polyphenols are stronger and more effective than Vitamin E. They reduce exposure to environment stressors that are responsible for wrinkles and skin aging. They can improve circulation by strengthening blood vessels. They also have anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties. This polyphenols found in red wine acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory.

Eminence Organic Skin Care recently began utilizing Tokay, a sweet Hungarian wine, rich in antioxidants and nutrients in its products. Its components are effective in contracting hyper-pigmentation and improving skin texture. When applied topically and given ample time to settle into the skin, as afforded by a mask, compounds in wine will reduce signs of aging and refine the dermis, restoring vitality. Key ingredients include antioxidant-rich grape seed, polyphenols, anti-aging and firming resveratrol from the stalks, brightening viniferine from the sap, hydrating vinolevure from the walls of wine yeast, and a naturally exfoliating grape acid.

Temecula Wine Country attracts visitors from all over the world and The Beauty Studio welcomes guests who wish to relax after a day of vineyard touring and tasting. Agnes Freeman, our Skin Care Professional, has created a 60 minute treatment. It begins with a tasting, your choice of white or red wine. For the skin, she mixes raw honey, cinnamon and grape seeds, and soaks the client in red wine to dissolve unwanted skin cells. A Tokay Hungarian wine mask, with essential oils, is freshly prepared for each client's skin and warmed before application. This is thoroughly massaged into the skin, creating a feast for the senses. Her creation is anti-aging magic that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation.

You Say Tomato

Tomatoes: Not Just for Bloody Marys!!

By Bee Lindquist

Tomatoes are they fruit or vegetable? This argument has been around for ages. The truth is they are a fruit. Mostly the tomato is a super-food. Not that it wears a cape and is able to leap buildings in a single bound, but in a “makes you healthy” way.

Photo courtesy of http://www.vegac.com/

One of the most well known tomato eating benefit is its Lycopene content. Lycopene is a vital anti-oxidant that has been known to fight cancerous cell formation.

Free radicals in the body can be flushed out with high levels of Lycopene, and the tomato is amply loaded with this vital anti-oxidant. The rich redness in color of the tomato actually comes from the nutrient.

Our bodies do not naturally produce Lycopene yet the human body requires this anti-oxidant. Lycopene While other fruits and vegetables do contain this necessary health ingredient, no other fruit or vegetable has the high concentration of Lycopene.

Tomatoes are chock full of anti-oxidants which combat the signs of aging. They help reduce the amount of free radicals in your body which helps maintain the support system necessary for your skin and hair. They also help your body retain moisture, especially during times of the year when artificial climate control like heaters and air conditioners are running.

These machines can dry out your body and skin, but eating a tomato daily can help you keep your water level stable. That doesn’t mean you should pass on the regular water, though; it’s still important to drink about 8 glasses a day.

You don’t have to eat a bowl full of tomatoes, one a day will do. You can also have a refreshing glass of tomato juice with a little sprinkle of cayenne to keep you refreshed.


Remember daily consumption of a tomato will give you a rosy complexion and help keep you healthy, so don’t pass them up!

A Spa Retreat At Home

How to Create Your Own Home Spa Retreat
by Patricia Eggers

Relaxation techniques are unique and specific for each person. Purchase items that will be used by you for your pampering needs only. Buy in limited amounts so that you can test what works into your needs. Many times, you can obtain from a skin care professional, facial masques and trial sizes for little or no cost and are available for you to try out before you buy in larger quantities.

Using your senses will help create your space so that you can relax and enjoy the time you have put aside. Aromatherapy, though, is not for everyone. Some people have allergies to the scent of certain aromas. This is your body’s way of telling you that a certain scent is not for you! Test each scent and you will find the one that achieves your goal. People with kidney issues, pregnant women, or any other major health issue should first consult their doctor and/or an Aromatherapist. Lavender is a great all around scent that is relaxing and is generally safe for all to use. This is very relaxing to use in the evening before bed. Chamomile is another scent that is great before bed. Enjoy a cup of Chamomile tea while relaxing in a lavender bath! Use Chamomile tea bags as a compress on your skin to calm irritated skin.

Picture courtesy of heavyonhealth.com

Light and sounds can add to your session and stimulate or calm you down. In the morning, make sure you have a lot of fresh air and natural lighting, listening to happy tunes. In the evening, use dim candlelight and soft lighting and listen to soft music or a cd specifically playing spa music. Music should be relaxing and in the background, not overly stimulating. Set the stage for your ultimate spa treatment.

Giving yourself a steam facial with essential oils is fantastic and takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to do, resulting in hours of enjoyment. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser while the water is safely heating up. Boil the water and pour into a large bowl. Add essential oils to the water. Some suggestions: for dry skin, try geranium, rose or sandalwood. For sensitive skin, try jasmine, lavender or roman chamomile. For the mature skin care, try sage, geranium or lavender. Fresh lemon and cinnamon is refreshing and can be used for both evening or morning. Squeeze the lemon and drop the entire fruit into the bowl and add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon into the bowl. Place the bowl of water with your choice of oil and place the heavy towel over your head and the bowl to make a nice tent. Take nice, deep breathes for 5-10 minutes. Complete your session with your moisturizer or try a small amount of olive or avocado oil and massage in.

Using ingredients you already have can be a low cost way of feeling like you stepped into a spa retreat. Listen to your body when it comes to the frequency of different techniques, like body scrubs for example, and how to incorporate them into your weekly routine.

An example of a ‘spa treatment’ that you can do on a weekly basis starts with a nice warm bath and relaxing music. Prepare the area by collecting all the things necessary for your session so that it will be uninterrupted bliss!

You will need:
Two wash cloths
A rolled towel for your neck
A large towel or robe to wrap yourself in when you are finished
Exfoliating Body Scrub (recipes below or a recommendation from your skin care professional)
Relax for 5-10 minutes in your tub. Start exfoliating by lifting each part of your body out of the water and gently using circular motions with the product of choice until your body, from the neck to your toes, has been exfoliated. Rinse well. Pat dry and apply a heavy moisturizer or oil over your entire body. Wrap yourself in a warm towel or a robe. This has such great health benefits for skin.
Some recipes to try!
Exfoliating Body Scrub
Mix 1 tablespoon of coarse salt
2 tablespoons of either oil (olive, walnut, avocado, vegetable) or yogurt
1 tablespoon of honey
A squeeze of lemon or 2-3 drops of sweet marjoram, rose, sweet fennel or juniper oils or chopped rose petals. Essential oils can be found at reputable health food stores.
Exfoliating Oatmeal SockFill a clean old sock/stocking with 1 cup oatmeal
Let it soak in the tub with you until it softens, then scrub your body with it
Gentle ExfoliateAdd ¼-½ cup of Apple Cider Vinegar to your bath
Pampering is meant to be a special, out of the ordinary way of rejuvenating your mind, body and inner self. Set aside a time each week. Trying different times of day can help you decide how to make the most of your pampering time! Your skin is the largest organ in your body and needs attention. Give your brain a rest and soothe your body regularly!
Enjoy!:

Spring into Summer!



Your beauty routine needs to refocus on one thing this spring: MOISTURE! After months of cold and windy weather, the time to switch gears is now.

First of all, skip the HOT shower in the morning or evening! You can cover your body in cream but if you have stripped your body of that protective barrier, it’s going to take a lot to get it back to that natural balance. Switch your soap to a creamier body wash that can add moisture while you cleanse. Dermalogica has a hydrating body wash and hydrating body lotion that are a great combination to hydrate while cleansing.



Nails can benefit from oils not lotions. Use this tip: rub some oil into your cuticles before pulling on your garden gloves. It works similar to wearing socks over your moisturizer at night to give your moisturizer time to heal.

Every line of hair products has developed a moisturizing and hydrating shampoo. Try one as your daily shampoo or as the alternate shampoo that you switch to when you feel sun and wind damage has changed the texture or look of your hair. Schwarzkopf makes a Sun Guardian Trio that has a shampoo, treatment and a spray leave in conditioner that has a sunscreen in it. This protects your hair from sun damage, color fading and if you apply this to your hair before going into chlorinated water, it will help prevent the ‘green’ tint that comes with swimming in chlorinated pools. Hydrating conditioners and treatments can be a great addition to your summer routine as well.

A second place that you may see dryness is in your lips. You may have heard that you can be addicted to lip balm. This really is not true, but if you feel that way, you may have an underlying issue. There is a barrier layer on your skin and when it’s very dry outside, that barrier gets disrupted, the layer gets tears and holes, so any moisture you put on your lips, seeps right back out. The solution is finding a hydrating balm with lipids that will give the barrier layer time to heal. Stay away from long-lasting lip color formulas and balms with menthol.

Products used under your makeup can help keep moisture in all day. Dermalogica’s Barrier Repair melts gently into your skin to help shield against environmental and internal triggers that cause skin stress. GloMinerals GloFace Primer creates the ideal canvas while filling in fine lines for a smooth base application. It contains antioxidants and extends the wearability of your foundation and ensures a flawless looking complexion. Dermalogica’s Boosters and Eminence Serums are meant to wear under your moisturizer to seal in moisture as well. They are in a liposome base to ensure the deepest possible penetration of concentrated ingredients to create beautiful glowing skin from within.

Sunscreen is a must at this time of year! Dermalogica’s Multivitamin BodyBlock has skin-smoothing Shea Butter but also has Oil of Evening Primrose. Without a greasy film, this spray can fight off environmental assaults that contribute to the visible signs of aging. Spf sprays, creams and lotions are needed EVERY day, not just when you are heading for the beach. Dermalogica’s entire Solar Defense system of products is hydrating while being protective!