Mari. M

Beauty starts within: The benefits of dandelion tea

2014-07-14T11:40:00.000-04:00

I've been on the quest for a healthier lifestyle lately since I've been struggling with weight gain and acne quiet a bit. Let me give you some background....

In 2010, the year I got married, I started to develop acne. Not regular acne but large, cystic, under the skin kind of acne that lasts for a long time. That same year, my dermatologist decided it would be wise to go ahead and try Accutane. Accutane is an oral medication which has caused some controversy in the past so I was hesitant to try it. The dermatologist managed to talk me into it and I went ahead and did one round of it. It dried me up significantly to the point that I was carrying around a huge tub of Vaseline everywhere to moisturize my lips and eyelids!!! Anyway, it did clear up my acne but caused a whole other set of problems. My liver had become damaged and that combined with a few other medications I was taking caused my hormones to go way out of whack! Then I started to get stressed out because of the fact that the acne came back, which caused me to start gaining a lot of weight, especially around my mid section and continuing to throw my hormones out of whack. Finally, I decided to go on a cleanse that was provided to me by my naturopath to get all of the toxins out of my body and start with a clean canvas for my new healthier lifestyle. The cleanse was simple and made me feel so much better! I even lost a few pounds doing it (comment below if you'd like details on the detox).

I then started to do my research on how to balance my hormones as I knew that was a large part of my problem. I came upon dandelion and the health benefits so decided to give the tea a try since it was organic and natural so it couldn't hurt. I've been drinking it for a month and a half and my acne has cleared up, I've lost quite a bit of weight and am no longer bloated. I feel 100% better than I have in a long time! Below is a list of benefits of dandelion (root and leaf).

Benefits
Folk medicine claims the dandelion plant is a powerful healer, used to purify the blood, settle digestion and prevent piles and gall stones, among other maladies. The fact is the greens of the humble dandelion provide 535 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin K, which may be the most important source of any other plant-based food to strengthen bones, but may also play a role in fighting Alzheimer's disease by limiting neuron damage in the brain.
Dandelion greens also give the body 112 percent of the daily minimum requirement of vitamin A as an antioxidant carotenoid, which is particularly good for the skin, mucus membranes and vision. A flavonoid called zeaxanthin protects the retina from UV rays, while others, primarily carotene, lutein, and cryptoxanthin, protect the body from lung and mouth cancers.
Need more benefits? Dandelion greens are high in fiber, which helps your body shed waste. These greens also contain vitamins C and B6, thiamin, riboflavin, calcium, iron (crucial for generating red blood cells), potassium (to help regulate heart rate and blood pressure), and manganese. Other nutrients present in dandelion greens include folate, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper.

As if that weren't enough, here are more benefits of dandelion.

Digestive Aid – Dandelion acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion, stimulates appetite, and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines.

Kidney – This weed-like super food is a diuretic that helps the kidneys clear out waste, salt, and excess water. This inhibits microbial growth in the urinary system too.

Liver – Dandelion has been shown to improve liver function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance.

Antioxidants – Every part of the dandelion plant is rich in antioxidants that prevent free-radical damage to cells and DNA, slowing down the aging process in our cells.

Cancer – Dandelion acts against cancer to slow its growth and prevent its spread. The leaves are especially rich in the antioxidants and phytonutrients that combat cancer.

Diabetes – Recent animal studies show promise that dandelion helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels.

High Blood Pressure – As a diuretic dandelion increases urination which then lowers blood pressure. The fiber and potassium in dandelion also regulate blood pressure.

Cholesterol – Animal studies have shown that dandelion lowers and control cholesterol levels.

Gallbladder – Dandelion increases bile production and reduces inflammation to help with gallbladder problems and blockages.

Inflammation – Dandelion contains essential fatty acids and phytonutrients that reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can relieve pain and swelling.

Immune System – Animal studies also show that dandelion boosts immune function and fights off microbes and fungi.

Stay tuned for more posts on beneficial herbs and teas.

References:
http://www.sunwarrior.com/news/11-health-benefits-of-dandelion-and-dandelion-root/#sthash.pTOzdp1Y.dpuf

http://foodfacts.mercola.com/dandelion-greens.html

Disclaimer
I am not a medical professional and the opinions expressed are those of my own experiences as well as research that I've done. Before taking any herbal supplements, always contact a medical professional.

How I use Hydrocolloid dressing to heal pimples

2014-05-05T09:15:00.000-04:00

So after my last post about Hydrocolloid dressing to heal pimples overnight, I've had a lot of questions on how to actually use it. Here's my method...

1. At the end of your day, shower or wash your face and dry it thoroughly.
2. Cut Hydrocolloid dressing to size to cover the entire pimple with a little overlap onto your skin.
3. Apply the dressing and place your finger over top of it to warm it up for 30 seconds.
4. Leave it on and go to sleep.
5. In the morning, remove the dressing and shower/wash your face as normal.

*Note* If you're acne prone, after the shower, dry your face and rub half a lime all over your face, leave on for 1 minute, wash off, dry your face and apply your dressing. You can do this in the morning and night.

Get rid of a pimple OVERNIGHT!

2014-05-02T13:38:00.000-04:00

So I've been suffering from acne for about 4 years now. I've tried topical creams and pills...including Accutane! While the Accutane did get rid of my breakouts, it also cause a lot of stress on my liver which is now causing me to break out again. I've gotten to the point where I don't fight with my skin, I just kind of let it do it's thing......until now!

So I'm just going to get right to it, Hydrocolloid bandages! That's it. That's the miracle cure. I was online researching skin products and came across these Nexcare acne patches. These patches were getting rave reviews from everyone. I didn't read a single negative review. Because it's not sold in Canada, I started to research the technology and why these patches work. Basically, these patches are just Hydrocolloid bandages cut into circles. Hydrocolloid bandages are actually used for blisters, burns, cuts and bruises to suck all of the nasty stuff out of the wound. I got to my closest drug store and picked some up to test out this little miracle. All I have to say is that THEY WORK!

I cut the bandage to size and applied it to one of my cystic breakouts. After one night, it shrunk the spot about 20%, after the second night it shrunk about 90% in size!

Needless to say, these bandages are going to be a staple in my medicine cabinet!

Try it out and see how you like it.

Undressed Photoshoot

2014-04-23T15:14:00.003-04:00

I recently did the makeup for a photoshoot for Stylist Jennifer Anselmo.

Here is a peek of some of the photos:

Stylist: Jennifer Anselmo
Model: Natasha Perricciolo
Photography: Irem Harnak Photography
Makeup by me

Benefits of Rose Water

2014-02-26T15:27:00.002-05:00

Roses have been added to cosmetics, medicines and therapeutic treatments for centuries for it's amazing beauty properties.

Rose essential oil has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, making it ideal to topically treat a host of ailments including abrasions, burns and skin conditions.

Vitamin A, B3, C, D, and E. In addition, falvonoid (antioxidant), tannins, and zinc are also often found in rose water.

works well on dry skin and aging, as well as the oily skin and acne prone.

Rose water has a nutritious astringent tonic which helps reduce redness caused by enlarged capillaries.

Rose water increases blood flow to the scalp to nourish and strengthen hair follicles and prevent hair loss.

Rose water helps maintain the skin's natural pH balance so they can against various skin diseases and eczema.

Sebum production can be balanced by using rose water. This applies to people with oily skin or dry skin.

Rose water can help in reducing the redness from irritated or over-heated skin.

It is a great cleanser and aids in removing oil and dirt accumulated in clogged pores. Thus preventing acne and pimples

Its astringent like properties are great if used after facials and help to close open pores. Applying rose water after steaming tightens capillaries, reduces redness and blotchiness.

The aroma of roses is said to be a powerful mood enhancer. It rids you of feelings of anxiety and promotes emotional wellbeing, thereby making you look relaxed. Since it is de-stressing, it helps you sleep better which means you will wake up feeling fresh.

For those with mature skin, try using rose hip oil or serums as an anti aging treatment.

Try using rose water with glycerine as a facial spray in the morning and evening. Simply spritz on dry skin and allow to obsorb.

Skin care routine!

2014-02-20T11:00:00.001-05:00

I've had quite the journey when it comes to my skin. I've suffered from large cystic breakouts to small tiny bumps all over my face. After trying just about every product, I've finally come to find that the most simple regimen is working for me. Below is my new routine that has transformed my skin! I hope this can help others if not inspire others to look towards simplicity when it comes to your body and skin.

Morning routine
I wash my face, in the shower, with Aveeno Creamy Cleanser. This one works best for me but I know everyone's skin is different. It has tiny beads that exfoliate your skin gently.

Once I get out of the shower, I use a separate towel to PAT my face dry.

I then spritz my face lightly with rosewater and allow it to dry on its own.

Lastly, I moisturize. I've been using probably one of the worse things possible on my face, Jergens body lotion! BUT because I've been using it for so long, it just works for my skin now. I've tried tons of different face creams and they all break me out. If you have the same problem, I would suggest going to your closest health store to see what types of natural moisturizers they can recommend.

Night time routine
My night time routine is exactly the same as my morning routine however, before I wash my face with my Aveeno cleanser, I do a pre-cleanse with a stronger cleanser. I like Clean and Clear because I can literally see all my makeup wash right off. I then follow with my above routine.

Stay tuned to my next blog post about why I use rosewater and what the benefits are.

Double duty makeup!

2014-01-22T09:16:00.000-05:00

Makeup can be very expensive and most people forget that it does have an expiry date! That's why when it comes to my personal makeup and the makeup in my professional kit, I like to find ways to make my products work for me. Here are some of my products that do double duty for me.

Kat Von D Lock It Tattoo Foundation

This foundation is either a love it or hate it product. I personally LOVE it! I started using this foundation all over my face for a full coverage look but I started to notice that I was getting a lot of breakouts from it. Having an entire bottle left, I needed to find a way to use it up. I now use this foundation as a concealer! I use it to conceal any blemishes on my face. The best part is that you only need a tiny bit of product. I take the tiniest amount of product on my finger (best makeup tool ever!) and dab, not rub, it on the spot. Viola, completely concealed!!

MAC Studio Fix Fluid

If you're a girl who likes to hit the gym or just have to run out for a quick errand but don't want to pack on all the cake, mix a dab of MAC Studio Fix Fluid (or any foundation for that matter) with a bit of facial moisturizer for a sheer makeup look! You have yourself a tinted moisturizer!

MAC Blush in Blunt

This is my favorite one! If I'm away on vacation or some sort of travel, this is a staple in my bag because it does so much!
I use this product as an eyeshadow, contour colour and to fill in my brows!! That's tripple duty!!

Benecos Natural Mascara

I know a lot of girls love their mascara. I also know a lot of girls tend to not follow the expiration date of mascara which is 3 months after opening. To make sure you use up this bad boy, why not use it as a mascara and an eyeliner! Simply take your angled eyeliner brush and rub it onto the mascara wand to pick up some product and line your eyes! Simple!

Lipstick as blush

This is an oldie but goodie and it really works! Did you forget to put some blush on before work? Or maybe you need a touch up before after work drinks. Reach for your favorite pink, coral or berry blush and dab it lightly on your fingers. Blend it in by patting it on your cheeks for a pretty kiss of colour.

Nivea Lip Blam

So this one is a little weird but I promise it works! I use my lip balm not only to moisturize my lips but you can also use this stuff to soften your cuticles. I also use my lip balm to tame my brows!! Mind you, I don't just go rubbing my lip balm all over my hands and brows, remember to always use clean fingers when you're reaching into your lipbalm. Bacteria can fester in this little tubes.

Hope you guys enjoyed those little tips! This will help you get the most out of your beauty products!

Style Flash! Giorgio Armani Rouge d'Armani Sheer #614

2013-12-27T13:43:00.001-05:00

Giorgio Armani is well known for his chic clean lines and is known to be one of the worlds most influential fashion designers. But clothing is not the only thing he excels in, he also does cosmetics very well!

One of Giorgio's latest 2014 cosmetic collection is called Effetto Nudo, which is described as both feminine and captivating, reinvented in modern romanticism.

This collection boasts beautiful tones of nude and sheer luminous color! Sounds amazing right?!

One of the more captivating colours that caught my eye is #614: Plum nude. This is a deep nude mauvy plum tone that will compliment any skin tone!

Keep your eyes open for this in January 2014!!

Pantone 2014 Color of the year!

2013-12-05T10:01:00.001-05:00

So exciting! Pantone has announced their 2014 color of the year and it is......Radiant Orchid!!

Radiant orchid is described as “An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.”

This colour could only mean a bright and beautiful 2014!

Pantone talks about these colors and what they mean for beauty and fashion:

Radiant Orchid for Fashion
Radiant Orchid’s rosy undertones radiate on the skin, producing a healthy glow when worn by both men and women. A dazzling attention-getter, Radiant Orchid permeated the runways during the spring 2014 fashion shows and is already making its way onto the red carpet. Fashion designers featured in the PANTONE Fashion Color Report Spring 2014, including Emerson by Jackie Fraser-Swan, Juicy Couture and Yoana Baraschi, are incorporating Radiant Orchid into their spring collections and variations of this hue will carry into men’s and women’s clothing and accessories throughout next year.

Radiant Orchid for Beauty
A modern and surprisingly versatile shade, Radiant Orchid enlivens the skin, making all who wear it feel more healthy and energetic. Blending both cool and warm undertones, purple is an appealing hue for distinctive combinations and flattering to many hair, eye and skin tones.

These colors have already been seen on the runways from Salvatore Ferragamo, Max Mara, Missoni and even Gucci has an orchid colored bag out.

This is a win for beauty lovers everywhere as this color is flattering for most skin tones.

Have fun with the orchid lipsticks, blush and eye shadows everyone!!

Cream Foundation. Good for all skin types!

2013-11-20T09:45:00.004-05:00

When thinking about what type of foundation you want to buy, most people tend to go towards liquid or powder formulas. But what about the cream foundations? They provide great coverage but people tend to be afraid to go in this direction.

Why is it good and how can I use it? It's good because it provides you with a full coverage finish. Believe it or not, mixing a cream foundation with a primer is a sure fire way to ensure the application is flawless! Just mix a bit of primer with a bit of foundation and apply. It will be light, full coverage and stay on all day!

If you're oily, use a damp sponge or Beauty Blender. This ensures that you are picking up only the pigment and not the oils from the product. Stipple it on for an airbrushed finish. Finish it off with a lose or pressed finishing powder.

If you're dry, simply use a foundation brush (synthetic fiber brushes work well for this. My favorite is the MAC 193) and buff it into your skin using circular movements.

Gluten Free, Natural makeup products

2013-10-15T14:40:00.001-04:00

If you're one of those people who react to everything and anything you put on your skin, you might want to try switching to natural products. One of the best I've tried to date is by a brand called True Natural. True Natural carries a high end line called Lavera as well as a more affordable line called Benecos. Both lines carry a wide variety of makeup and skin care products. You can find these products at The Big Carrot as well as Natures Emporium. Check out their website for full ingredient listings.

Stay tuned for more posts about these products!

Heat protection hair products

2013-09-26T14:03:00.001-04:00

As a self proclaimed "Curly Girl", I'm always on a mission to find good products for my over processed, over worked hair. Since I straighten my hair regularly, I've always been good about using a heat protector spray. For years I've used Chi Iron Guard and have LOVED it!! It's helped maintain the health of my hair as well as protected it against the humidity which is a nightmare to any curly or wavy girls.
Since moving, Chi has been harder to get a hold of since it's not sold everywhere so I started to try different products that are easier to get my hands on. The first one I tried was TRESemme vitamin enriched heat tamer spray. I was NOT a fan of this one. I didn't like how it made my hair feel dry after blowdrying and I didn't feel like it protected against the elements of nature.
The second one I tried was L'Oreal Elnett Satin. I loved the scent of this one as well as the creaminess of the formula. When put to the test, it truly didn't hold up. I didn't like the texture of my hair after blowdrying it and it didn't prevent my hair from getting frizzy.

So the conclusion of this post is that I will be going back to my Chi Iron Guard no matter how far I have to drive to get it.

2013-09-20T14:50:00.004-04:00

I had the opportunity to collaborate with Graeme at Enchanted Forrest Productions on a makeup tutorial video. Have a look at how I created a dramatic smokey eye.

Fall beauty must-have's

2013-09-20T10:22:00.000-04:00

For most of us beauty obsessed girls, a new season means another reason to stock up on more makeup!
Let's talk fall/winter 2013 2014 beauty. If there's one thing fashion week teaches us, it's what's going to be hot for the upcoming seasons. This years New York fashion week has taught us the following:

Brows - It's all about the brows for the season. Bushy/groomed/ thick/ thin, doesn't matter! More emphasis will be on the brows. This was very evident at Versace and Victoria Beckham's runway shows.

Wine coloured lips- It looked like wine stained lips were the trend on the runways. Lanvin and Vera Wang featured these amazing bold looks that brought a richness and bold feminity to their shows.

Purple shadow- Let's be careful with this ladies! Purple shadow seems to be all the rage for fall and when done right, can really make any outfit pop! Jason Wu showed us how to do it right!

Smokey eye- Seems like the smokey eye is always in style but you can definintely expect it to stick around for another few seasons! Cavalli and Marc Jacobs were definitley spotlighting the smokey eye for their shows.

Toners - Necessary or not?

2013-09-18T09:53:00.002-04:00

There's really no yes or no answer to this one. Toners can be beneficial if used correctly. When you wash your face, there's bound to be a little residue left over. Toners can help remove that residue and dead skin cells. The best way to use a toner and ensure it's benefitting your skin is to apply it on moist skin. When you apply a product on moist skin, it helps the product penetrate your skin more rapidly. Same goes for moisturizers etc.
The moral of this story is that if you plan on using a toner, use one with good ingredients. Avoid toners with alcohol, even if you have oily skin. Pictured are some great toners if you plan on trying one as part of your skin care regimen.

Diva nails!!

2013-02-09T19:33:00.002-05:00

So OPI has teamed up with none other than the amazing Mariah Carey to create 8 diva-licious colors, 4 of which are liquid sand polishes. So what is liquid sand? It's a super textured polish infused with glitter that dries matte.
The colors are amazing. My faves are Anti-Bleak, a super rich purple and A Butterfly Moment, which is a pretty soft pink shade with a touch of gold shimmer.

Spring trend alert!

2013-01-25T13:51:00.001-05:00

So being that it’s exceptionally cold out, it’s only right that we talk spring! Here are some trends to look out for and even start shopping for this spring.
Black and white: As seen on the runways of Marc Jacobs and Celine fashion shows, it looks like we’re going to go back to basics with black and white contrast pieces.
On the flip side, it looks like pattern and texture mixing will be all the rage.
Frills!! According to such designers as Balenciaga and Gucci, ruffles will be big...literally. From ruffled necklines to hemlines, stock up on some feminine frills!
Lightweight fabrics: Materials such as chiffon and organza are going to continue to be a big trend. Don’t put those chiffon tops away too quickly, you can still rock them throughout the spring at least!!

Just a few trends to look out for this spring!

green with envy

2013-01-17T10:01:00.001-05:00

So I'm a little late with this post but earlier this month Pantone announced their 2013 colour of the year. This year, the title went to Emerald green. Here's what Pantone had to say about Emrald:

Most often associated with brilliant, precious gemstones, the perception of Emerald is sophisticated and luxurious. Since antiquity, this luminous, magnificent hue has been the color of beauty and new life in many cultures and religions. Also the color of growth, renewal and prosperity, no other color conveys regeneration more than green. For centuries, many countries have chosen green to represent healing and unity.

Product review

2013-01-16T19:59:00.003-05:00

Kat Von D Lock-it Tattoo Foundation.

The promise: A high-pigment foundation for full coverage with a long-lasting, beautiful finish.

Review: so I've been wearing this foundation all week and I'm sold! If you have acne scars, discolouration or any other skin problems, this foundation will be your best friend! It's light, highly pigmented and very well priced at $41 a bottle.

2012's color of the year!

2012-02-17T08:05:00.002-05:00

2012's color of the year is....drumroll....Tangerine!! Anything from Tangerine colored blazers, sundresses even Tangerine colored walls. Try this exotic shade on your lips, cheeks or eyes. Orange is one of those colors that works with every skin tone.
Some designers who have incorporated this lovely hue into their spring collections include: Tommy Hilfiger, Nanette Lepore, Cynthia Steffe by Shaun Kearney, Elie Tahari and Adrienne Vittadini.
If you're afraid of this bring hue, try pairing it with neutrals. This goes for makeup and fashion.

Upcoming launch

2012-01-26T19:24:00.000-05:00

MAC's Viva Glam 2012 campaign featuring Nicki Minaj and Ricky Martin. I`ll sum up this color in one word, PINK! It`s an amazing shade of hot pink that would suit any skin tone with the help of some lip liner. For darker skin tones, try pairing it with MAC`s spice lip liner. For lighter skin, try pairing it with MAC`s Dervish lip liner.
This lipstick is expected to launch in early February.

Pearly whites : )

2011-12-30T12:59:00.000-05:00

With Christmas behind us and New Years approaching, you probably had one too many glasses of red wine. If you're anything like me, you're probably thinking of new years resolutions (to break) to make you look your best. One way to look great is to have a clean, white smile. Here's a very well known tip that really works!
Take 1 teaspoon of baking soda and put it in a small glass. Wet your toothbrush and dip it into the baking soda. Gently brush your teeth. I wouldn't use an electric toothbrush to do this...because the baking soda is a bit coarser, it's very rough on your gums. Try this twice a week and see your pearly whites sparkle!

If you can't stand the taste of baking soda, try rubbing a strawberry dipped in baking soda all over your teeth. The malic acid from the mixture is a natural bleaching agent.

OCC Lip Tar

2011-12-19T21:26:00.000-05:00

Product review: OCC lip tar ($13.00 USD)

This stuff is amazing! I recently put them to the test when I wore them shopping. They look like a gloss however they`re super pigmented and opaque. They last all day and are extremely light weight. These tar`s are great for mixing and can be applied not only on the lips but on the cheeks as blush or the eyes as a cream shadow. The key to this product is that a little goes a long way!

holiday nails

2011-12-09T09:46:00.000-05:00

With Christmas just around the corner, not only should your outfit be on point, but your nails should too!
My go to color for Christmas is OPI's DS Reflection. Flecks of sparkle and that holly berry red make these nails a must for the season!
To spice it up a little more, try adding one green nail for some extra flare!!

It's begining to look a lot like Christmas!

2011-12-02T08:25:00.000-05:00

So now that the holiday's are just around the corner, you're scrambling to buy that perfect gift for your makeup fanatic, whether that be your wife, daughter, girlfriend or just a friend. One of the products I really love right now is the Too Faced Sweet Dreams Makeup Collection (available at Sephora).

This beautifully packaged set includes 15 shadows, a full sized primer, 2 blushes, a bronzer and a highlighter. A full kit for the beauty guru in your life. The best part...it's only $52!