Hello Dollface, a natural + cruelty free beauty blog

Nail Polish, can it be non toxic? A quick lesson

Cindy — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 14:39:05 +0000

There are a couple of products I wonder about such as nail polish and hair spray- will they or can they ever be non- toxic? There are many nail polish brands announcing that they are “3-free” which means they do not contain the toxic ingredients of Dibutyl Phthalate, formaldehyde and toluene. Nearly all nail polishes are 3-free but of course you need to read your label. You don’t want to be in touch with these three. Why? Let’s take a closer look:

Dibutyl Phthalate is used in shower curtains, raincoats, food wraps, bowls, car interiors, vinyl fabrics, floor tiles and can irritate the nose and throat. Yikes! It also is a reproductive and developmental toxicant.

Toluene is used in paint thinners, paints and various household products. The central nervous system (CNS) is the primary target organ for toluene toxicity in both humans and animals for acute (short-term) and chronic (long-term) exposures. CNS dysfunction and narcosis have been frequently observed in humans acutely exposed to elevated airborne levels of toluene; symptoms include fatigue, sleepiness, headaches, and nausea. (epa.gov)

Formaldehyde is used as a bonding agent, solvent, it becomes a gas at room tempature (these are called volatile organic compounds or VOC) and small amounts can be found in shampoo and personal care products. Short term exposure causes nausea, coughing, dizziness, and eye irritation. Long term, its been linked to cancer.

I started researching nail polishes and here I will simplify the ingredients. Normal, 3 free nail polish is made up of the following:

solvents, liquids used to mix other ingredients to form a cohesive product * film formers, chemicals that form a smooth surface * resins, make the polish adhere to the nail * plasticizers, gives the nails shine * pigments, add the color to the polish

Various chemical compounds make up what I listed, but that’s a little more complicated than what I can easily break down. By its very nature, nail polish cannot be completely natural like say, an apple. You need the above ingredients to create the nail polish. You can however, look for a water based nail polish or one that’s 5-free, not containing the three mentioned above plus Formaldehyde Resin and Camphor. You will probably find the endorcine disruptor, Benzophenone in most nail polishes, this chemical prevents ultraviolet light from damaging scents and colors in cosmetietcs.

Don’t dispair if you love to paint your nails as I do! There are some paints that are less toxic than others. A few I know about are:

Kure Bazaar, Piggy Paints, Priti, Spa Ritual Vapour, and Scotch Naturals. I recently tried Scotch Naturals which is, besides Piggy Paints, as non-toxic as you can get.

Here’s the 411:

Scotch Naturals is a water based, non-toxic, polish that is 100% free of all phthalates, parabens, solvents (ethyl acetate and butyl acetate), nitrocellulose, acetone, and heavy metals. I recently tried this nail polish and am a convert! The colors were bright and pretty with a nice shine. There are tons of shades to choose from. Paint your nails with the Base Coat to prep nails then coast with polish and finish with the On the Rocks topcoat for shine.

The polish didn’t crack or chip even after cooking, cleaning, and doing my daily mom chores! I will point you in the direction of this brand for an alternative to your toxic polish. You can find Scotch Naturals here. I didn’t notice an overwhelming nail polish odor which is a plus for those of you who are sensitive to scents.

If you are on the fence about using the non-toxic polishes, at least find ones that are 3-free or even better, 5-free. For a good comprehensive list of polishes from least to most toxic, you can go to Skin Deep here.

In heavy rotation: rms ‘un’coverup, ‘un’powder and lip2cheek

Cindy — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 15:43:37 +0000

For the longest time, all I heard from other green beauty girls was rave reviews for rms beauty. Created by makeup artist Rose-Marie Swift, the products are super natural, pure and designed to illuminate and enhance the skin of those who wear it.. rms beauty is the answer to the question, “What’s your favorite natural beauty line?”

I have three products from this line and can’t wait to add more. Here’s what I use nearly every day:

‘un’cover up is housed in a little glass jar, this versatile concealer can be used as a light foundation or spot concealer. Its creamy texture allows me to skip an eye cream. I dab this around my eye area where I need help (and that would be everyday) and it sinks right into my skin like magic. Its pretty amazing. If you read other beauty girls boasting about this product- believe them. It’s that good.

The ‘un’powder is white powder, so finely milled that it disappears on your face and gives you an airbrushed look. Who doesn’t want that? If I dab on the ‘un’coverup on my face and follow up with some of this powder, the result is a natural but improved version of myself.

I would love it so much if Rose-Marie would pop this formula into a tube and offer it up as lipstick, I’m talking about the lip2cheek. This hydrating mineral color comes in the same glass pot as the ‘un’coverup and has a smooth, soft consistency. I put it on my cheeks for color (I use the shade Promise which is a warm coral shade) then apply to lips. You don’t need a lot which is good because I dig into this every single day and I want it to last.

I need a mirror to apply it properly to my mouth- thats the reason I’m begging Rose-Marie to put it in a tube as a lipstick! Its so perfect with a little gloss over it.

You can find these products on the website rmsbeauty here or order it from one of my favorite places, Spirit Beauty Lounge where my shopping cart is always overflowing with natural goodness!

cindyreads: The Time Between by Karen White

Cindy — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 21:26:02 +0000

The best part of my day is when everything is done and I get into bed with a good book. I can finally relax and get swept up into a fantastic story. I feel very fortunate to have enjoyed every book I’ve picked up lately. Sometimes I can’t get into a book or I start several before the tone resonates with me but lately each novel is gripping.

I’ve been a fan for Karen White’s for some time now. I am surprised that I hadn’t heard of her sooner than a year ago. I’ve read On Folly Beach, The Beach Trees, Falling Home and Sea Change and can highly recommed all of them.

Her latest book, The Time Between, held my interest until the last page- I loved it. Eleanor Murray lives with the guilt that she is responsible for her sister’s accident which has landed her in a wheel chair for her life. To add to the guilt is the fact she had fallen in love with her sister’s boyfriend, now husband. Eleanor lives at home caring for her sister and mother, who has terrible arthritis. Her boss offers her some work caring for his elderly aunt, a grouchy woman with some secrets and guilt of her own. Eleanor and Helena both have a love of the piano and bond over music.

Eleanor becomes a friend to the older woman and learns about Helena’s life in Hungary during World War II. Her’s is a story of secrets, guilt and heartache, much like Eleanors.

“There is how we were before, and how we are now, and the time between is spent choosing which doors to open, and which to close.”

What are Petrochemicals anyway?

Cindy — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 17:09:23 +0000

photo source

You’ve used them before, I know I definitely have. I’m talking about petroleum products coming to us from fossil fuel. Petroleum derivitives are found in things like gasoline, styrofoam, brake fluid, antifreeze and used to de-ice planes. Do you want this in your skincare? I don’t. The prefix “petro-” is a shortened version of the word “petroleum”; and ”petro-” is Ancient Greek for “rock” and “oleum” means “oil”. Don’t you love to learn?

Not all petrochemicals cause cancer directly but they have the potential to cause allergies and irritations plus respiratory issues not to mention inflammation which can lead to dry skin, wrinkles, rashes, pimples, yes- the very problems we are trying to remedy! I’ve also read that petrochemicals have been linked to Alzheimers… I think I’ll pass.

There is quite a controversy regarding the use of petrochemicals in personal care products. Some people believe that tiny amounts of these ingredients in our products are nothing to worry about. How do you feel about this? I want my products as natural as possible especially when I have a very strong family history of cancer. My goal is prevention by abstaining from potentially harmful chemicals.

A while back, I heard the rumor that a very high end, costly moisturizer was made up mostly of mineral oil. You will find mineral oil in foundations, lotions, cleansers, and moisturizers. Here’s the deal: mineral oil provides a coating and traps bacteria plus it doesn’t allow oxygen to reach the skin. This can cause irritation and pimples, rashes and in extreme cases, skin lesions! Think about it this way- its like plastic wrap, not allowing oxygen to reach your skin, this can cause abnormal cell development, resulting in premature aging, unhealthy sensitive skin that dries out quickly. {source}

Petroleum products can generate 1,4-dioxane which I talked about here. This is a substance that is known to cause cancer, it’s also a kidney toxicant, neurotoxicant, and a respiratory toxicant. The Environmental Working Group has found that 22% of all products contain unsafe levels of 1,4-dioxane. Another little fact to think about, 95% of chemicals used in fragrance are from petroleum!

Look for these on your labels, all petroleum:

Methanol and any word with ‘methyl’ - methyl alcohol, methylparaben, methylcellulose / Coal tar, commonly used in hair color and scalp treatment shampoos / Paraffin Wax / Mineral Oil / Toluene, a toxic ingredient in solvents, paints, and other household products- used in nail polish/ Ethylhexylglycerin, a synthetic petrochemical preservative / Cocamidopropyl Betaine, derived from coconut using petrochemicals {source}

PEG (polyethylene glycol) has been linked to dermatitis, kidney, lung and nervous damage. You will find this in many shampoos, conditioners, foundations, moisturizers and lipsticks. You will also find it in brake fluid, laundry detergent and paint. {source} Its very harmful if swallowed, also harmful seeping into your skin! Deodorants contain a chemical called dioxane which has been linked to cancer. And parabens, which by now you know are toxic, are actually a form of preservatives derived from petroleum! {source} Its hard to get away from petroleum products in personal care items, especially when the name is changed and the average consumer doesn’t know the many dertivitives.

Who came up with the bright idea to use petroleum in makeup anyway? You will want to check all labels and be a wise consumer. When I went back and re-read labels on various items in my bathroom cabinets, I found several of these ingredients listed!

Review: Juice Beauty

Cindy — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 16:25:19 +0000

If you are looking for a range of clean, green skincare and makeup, check out Juice Beauty: The Organic Solution. Juice Beauty ‘searches the West Coast for the purest, most effective organic ingredients, including organic juices, aloe vera, honey, botanicals, plant oils, and raw cane sugar from farms that specialize in sustainable and organic farming.’ I’m on board with all of that!

I read through their website to be sure the Organic label is backed up properly. I was happy to see this:

“Organic” goes way beyond “Natural”. If a product is labeled Organic on the front of the package and sold in the State of California (and soon Colorado) which has extremely rigorous organic regulations…then generally, the products contain USDA certified organic ingredients from farms that use a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers.

That’s the kind of thing you want to see on your natural products!

I tried The Oil Free Moisturizer which adds a bit of moisture and color but never feels heavy. I love that it offers an SPF to protect skin from the sun plus antioxidants give skin nourishment. Its made from a blend of certified organic grape and pomegranate, soothing aloe vera, vitamin antioxidants and nutrient-rich sea algae and is ideal for acne prone skin. Not only did I use it on my face but my hands, neck and chest too, blending carefully as it does have a tint to it.

The Glowing Cheek color looked a bit dark (Itried Fig) but when I applied a little, it was the perfect shade for my pale skin giving it subtle color that lasted for hours. It contains a variety of natural and organic ingredients. Its a bit different than my usual pink color but I loved it.

I also loved the Conditioning Lip Color, its very soft and feels so nice on my lips thanks to jojoba oil plus a blend of various other organic fruit oils. When I applied the Reflecting Gloss on my lips, the word that came to mind was buttery! This super soft gloss is blended from organic berry oils plus sesame seed oil. These products used together give lovely color plus the high shine that I need!

I’m always happen when I find a great brand with lots of natural products to pick from. Juice Beauty offers many skincare items and hair care too. You can go here to find out more information!

Face Mapping: How Your Face Can Help Your Health

Cindy — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 19:02:03 +0000

Face Mapping is an ancient study from the Chinese. The theory is that what ever is wrong inside your body will reflect on your face. Ever wonder why those lines around your mouth are more pronounced or why you’re breaking out on your chin?

Consult the chart to trace the symptoms to the cause. Our skin is the body’s largest organ and when it begins acting up there’s usually a good reason. I find this completely fascinating! Now I will be silently diagnosing everyone I meet.

Let’s take a closer look:

Forehead: This area correlates to the bladder and small intestines. If you notice breakouts here,try cutting back on dairy in your diet. If you notice deep lines across the forehead this could indicate a blocked colon or gallbladder.

Remedy: Lots of raw foods, especially green leafy vegetables. Drink plenty of water. Skip the junk food.

Between the Eyes/Mid Brow: This relates to the liver. A breakout here might signal stressing your digestive system, not getting enough rest or you may have food allergies.

Remedy: Fresh air, calming exercises like yoga, brisk walking.

Ears/Temples: This area correlates to the kidneys. Too much alcohol, smoking, poor lymphatic circulation, high fat consumption, too much salt.

Remedy: Lots of water! Cut down on any junk foods, salt, spices, alcohol, caffeine, sugary drinks. Increase green leafy vegetables.

Around the Eyes: This also ties to your kidneys. You might notice dark circles or puffiness, which might just indicate that you need more sleep or have stomach issues, bad diet. Could be allergies.

Remedy: Eliminate processed foods, increase water.

Mouth & Chin: Corresponds to the large intestines and indicates a diet high in fat and sugar, too much caffeine, stress.

Remedy: A detox will cleanse your system. Hydrate with water and up consumption of leafy vegetables.

Nose & Upper Lip: This area is connected to the heart. Constipation, indigestion, gas, bloating and poor blood circulation- check your blood pressure.

Remedy: Try drinking green tea and lots of water to flush out toxins.

Mid-Cheeks: Corresponds to the heart/lungs and respiratory system. Pollution, second hand smoke are causes.

Remedy: Fresh air, increase oxygen intake.

Chin & Jaw: Breakouts here might be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.

Remedy: Exercise such as yoga and meditation to decrease stress. Omega 3-6-9 tablets to balance hormones.

COMMON SENSE TIPS:

Be sure to always drink lots of water, increase your consumption of green leafy vegetables by juicing or making smoothies.

Stay away from salt, sugar, caffeine, junk foods, processed foods.

Get proper rest, at least 7-8 hours a night.

Decrease dairy which is known to be repsonsible for various allergies and stomach issues.

Clean your makeup brushes, cell phone and pillowcases.

Avoid alcohol and smoking. Get exercise but not overly strenuous: try yoga and meditation to decrease stress.

Eat more fiber, increase fruits and vegetable consumption.

Read the ingredients on your skincare and makeup, remember the least amount of toxins and chemicals, the better! Plus less irritation and breakouts with cleaner, greener products.

Desiderata ~ Words for Life by Max Ehrmann

Cindy — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 01:52:46 +0000

You know how sometimes you’re feeling sad or lonely or anxious? Or a deep and dark combination of all three? Then you read a line or quote and it resonates with you? Somehow the poet has managed to put into words your exact feelings. Thats how I felt when I read a few lines from this poem. I hope you like it as much as I do!

Written by Max Ehrmann in 1927. How applicable it is for today’s world.

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.

Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.

If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.

But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.

Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.

Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.

With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Beauty in Nature, Alaska edition

Cindy — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 20:58:46 +0000

I love to travel and am so lucky to have had the opportunity to go to a variety of places. From Alaska to Hawaii to the Caribbean and through the Panama canal, plus I’ve lived on both the east and west coasts. I always have my trusty camera with me to capture beauty in all forms.

Take a look at the beauty of nature in my pics, all from Alaska.