My beauty secret weapon--Probiotics!

For years I've been a fan of balancing out my body with Probiotics. Naturally found in some foods, but also found in a supplement form, probiotics are good bacteria. They are basically living microorganisms that have been shown to benefit our overall health in some way, such as improving digestive functions, or helping us resist common infectious diseases. Sound icky???

Don't worry---the composition of the bacteria (there are hundreds of different species) is not the least bit harmful to the body. As a matter of fact, probiotic bacteria is very similar to the bacteria naturally found within the intestines. The two most common types of bacteria in probiotics are milk-derived Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium..

I am not a practicing health practicioner, but I have done my research for you! Any questions beyond this post, should always followed up with your doctor! As someone who lost 72 pounds of weight, and I've been told I look about ten years younger than my age (humbly speaking) Probiotics is definitely something everyone should look into. :D


Benefits:
Probiotics can alleviate internal problems, like digestive issues, and external skin issues, such as acne. When taken orally, probiotics have an AMAZING effect on both the skin, and the body. The natural inflammatory properties of probiotics make them a must-have in skin-care products. When used topically, probiotics are thought to eliminate bacteria that cause acne, rosacea, millia, dermatitis, and psoriasis. They also reduce redness, and inflammation, and have a long term effect against premature wrinkles.
Short-term benefits
Reduced infection and inflammation by suppressing bacteria production
Long-term benefits
Possible slower formation of wrinkles

Timeline:
With topical skin-care products, anywhere from a few days to a few weeks; with internal supplements, and foods taken daily, four to six weeks to see some difference; six months to one year for a noticeable difference...
Bacteria 101:
Two types of bacteria live in the intestines: good bacteria, and bad bacteria both of which are essential. When diet, stress, aging, pH shifts, and even antiobitcs upset the equilibrium, bad bacteria take charge, resulting in conditions like digestion problems, acne, and eczema. Probiotics help to shift the balance in favor of good bacteria, thereby eliminating any threat from the bad bacteria present.

Top Probiotic products:

www.usana.com
Power Packets---This is awesome because it allows you to turn normal water, and other beverages into a probiotic-packed drink. The individually packaged powders have virtually no taste, and promote healthy digestion.


www.sonyadakarskinclinic.com

Sonya Dakar is a Beverly Hills based esthetician who has long believed in the benefits of probiotics. Her Acidophillus Flora Probiotic Supllement contains 15 billion love bacteria, works to improve intestinal health, and supports a strong immune system. The effects of her supplements, are equivalent to the amount of probiotics found in 37 containers of yogurt.


www.blissworld.com
This three-piece Bliss 'Zit' Sherlock Complete Acne System relies upon two different anti-breakout ingredients: salicylic acid to break up dead skin and oil and probiotic-packed yogurt to fight bacteria.


www.store.sk1nprobiotics.com

Developed by Dr. Hynes, this pH-balanced SK1N Cleanser works to deeply cleanse the skin without disrupting the water, and oil balance that's needed to maintain proper skin health, in turn reducing the effects of eczema, and protecting the skin's barrier.


www.bioelements.com
Using Bioelements Probiotic Anti-Aging Serum with Bifidus cultures immersed in milk proteins helps deter the formation of lines and wrinkles by firming and strengthening collagen and elastin, which creates a stronger barrier layer.







www.metagenics.com
Metagenics Ultra Flora IB combines equal parts of the two main strains of probiotic bacteria to reduce the pain, and discomfort associated with digestive problems by creating a healthy bacterial balance in the intestines.

Well, I hope you have found this posting very helpful.. While it was a little more, "technical" than what I normally post, hopefully you will consider introducing this amazing supplement into your life!

You can find them in most health, and vitamin stores, as well as some supermarkets. Remember to take two supplements before you eat in the morning, and two before dinner... Your body will be so thankful to you!

On my next post, I will share with you tips on how to get the lashes of your dreams---naturally! Hooray!!!!!!! Xoxoxo

EAT CLEAN DIET--CHANGED MY LIFE.

Hello Love Lambs...

In my last post I mentioned that I would highlight a book that changed my life...... That book is none other than Tosca Reno's:



About 3 years ago I was seventy five (yes, really) pounds heavier, I had irregular cycles, was moody, and could barely get up a flight of stairs without huffing, and puffing.  I would say things like, "when I lose weight, such, and such will be". I avoided being seen in public, and fell into a state of sadness surrounding my weight not coming off.

One day, I told my story to one of my clients Shelley Johnson founder of www.losingcoach.com. I knew she lost over 100 pounds (really) and she told me about this book that she was featured in......the rest was history.



About one year later after changing my MIND, then my LIFE, I lost weight, and to this date, I have kept it off.. My weight was comprised of un-forgiveness, worry, doubt, fear, anxiety, hopelessness, bad eating, lack of movement, etc...

Let me say this: The Eat Clean Diet isn't a diet, it is a way of life.  You eat wholesome, oxygenating foods, five times a day, FOREVER. I cut sugar, dairy, fried foods, processed foods, and bad energy.....

Here is my before, and after:

YOU CAN DO THIS. I felt led to put this post out there.... I hope it reaches who it was intended for.  Go grab the book, and give yourself a chance to live the HEALTHIEST LIFE POSSIBLE. If you need help by chance, contact Shelley at her website I referenced above.  Remember, you can't win until you begin. START NOW.

Love, and light to you all. I will be back soon.....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MELISSAROSHAN!

Hi everyone!

Just in time for my birthday, I decided to do a blog post specifically about what I have learned in 32 years. I haven't really ever sat down, and done something like this, so here we go!

1. Never make a promise when happy, or a decision when angry
2. Your happiness is your own responsibility
3. A sound mind will make sound decisions
4. Less is more
5. Never chase a man, chase your dreams
6. When arguing with an idiot, make sure the other person isn't doing the same!
7. Humble pie should be part of one's daily diet.
8. Be authentic in all you do, as counterfeit living is whack
9. Make goals, and inhabit the required discipline to achieve them
10. Personal branding is key
11. Be a woman of my word
12. Give unto others, without expecting anything in return
13. Be slow to judge
14. Never harbor un-forgiveness
15. Wear sun block
16. Do what you love, and you'll never work a day in your life
17. Identify your value, and purpose early on
18. Mentor someone, Be a mentee
19. A selfless spirit is key
20. A good pair of heels will brighten your day
21. Keep it 100 with yourself, and others
22. Listen to what is not verbally said
23. Treat others exactly how you'd like to be treated
24. Pretty is, as pretty does
25. Inhabit an entrepreneurial spirit
26. Reading does a mind good
27. Make lemonade out of lemons
28. Hurt people, hurt people
29. Meet others where they are
30. Be the woman you want your daughter to be, and the woman you want your son to marry
31. Treat your body how you want it to treat you in years to come
32. An insult is only hurtful if it has a kernel of truth.

Hope you all were blessed by this! XOXO

Scarlet Lips!!!!!!

Hi Cutie Patooties! Have you all been well? I sure hope so! So excited to be back to share with you another one of Fall's Hottest Trends...RED LIPS!!!!!!!!!!!

First off, EVERYONE can wear a red lip, it's just about choosing the right red for you. Your best bet is to visit the make-up store Sephora, or MAC Cosmetics. Both are leading/trusted brands in the business, and there should be an artist available to assist you!

I will list a few technical items to remember about this VERY important subject matter, (smile) so that you are better equipped when you go to shop!

Fair skin should look for blue-based red lipsticks. This means the color is a true classic red, with no hint of orange or pink. A blue-based red is similar to what burlesque artist Dita Von Teese wears on a regular basis. This color looks fabulous with fair skin like Dita's. Red is a color that bleeds, so be sure to line lips with either a matching or nude lip liner to prevent color transfer.

Medium skin looks great with a larger range of red lipstick. Think of pop star Christina Aguilera, who adopted red lipstick for quite some time. The red lipstick that looks best with a medium skin tone like Christina's is anything with an orange cast to it. Blue-based red shades work well, but an orange-red pops against a medium skin tone, especially when worn with bronzer.


Dark skin tones should opt for a purple-based red. Kelly Knowles sometimes wears red lipstick on the red carpet and looks stunning with a red lip that has a bit of plum. The darker red shade is flattering with Kelly's dark skin and the plum undertones make the lip look regal and sexy.

Remember, these are only suggestions! Wear what you feel comfortable in! Do make certain to exfoliate your lips first before your application however! You can do this by taking a clean wash cloth dampened, and scrub your lips. Your facial exfoliator would work just fine too or, your toothbrush. There is nothing more unattractive then flaking, peeling lips, with lipstick on top. #YUCK! #NOBUENO!




Matte lips are about precision. Line, and fill in your lips with a red pencil. Then, apply your lip color on top. I personally LOOOOOOOOOVE using Urban Decay Cosmetic's lip liner in, 'Gash' first, with Nars Cosmetics, 'Red Lizard', on top.



(Allure Magazine rated the Nars lip color is one that fits EVERYONE!)

Stains are also an easy way to go red. You can control how much color you get, and it's sheer. Apply the stain from the center of your pout outward, and just repeat. You can layer until you get the desired color.


Try Revlon Cosmetics, 'Just Bitten' lipstains in, "Balm in Gothic" color.

Satiny Lips add instant Glamour! For this fancy finish, line lips with a clear lip pencil to nix smudging.


I LOVE Sephora's Definer D'Liner. PERFECT anti-feathering lip pencil.

Yves St. Laurent has this DELICIOUS satin red lipstick in, "Sensual Radiant".. LOVE!

A glossy pout is EXTRA flirty! Make-up Forever carries a GORGEOUS gloss called Moulin Rouge.



Welp! Are you all ready to go from 0-60 within seconds?! I am! I've got my red lip stick ready to rock! Big hugs! XOXO

FALL'S HOT HUE

Go for the gold!!!!! This Fall the color that is a MUST-HAVE in your make-up collection, is gold! It's a bright yet subtle color that works on all skin tones because of it's natural warmth. If you want to intensify the colors, simply wet your make-up brush before dipping it into your eyeshadow.. For a subtler look, a pearlescent gold lip gloss, or glitter-flecked nail polish gives you an overall glow. Here are some DELISH products to try:


This is seriously one of my secret weapons... Gives you a gorgeous, refreshed glow (Not shimmer, like the name). Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Shimmer Brick. Sweep your brush over the entire palette, then apply to the cheeks, declotte, or shoulders.


www.napoleonperdis.com. (Gold and the Beautiful). This is beautiful on all skin tones, and can be worn alone, or over your favorite lip color. LOVE


This was a look hot off the Versace runways (not my make-up work), and the artists used the Christian Dior Palettes: Sunset Cafe



Nars Versailles Nail Polish--OMGGGGGG!

I love her gold tones! Not my work, but inspired for sure!




Send me pics of you rocking your warm, golden looks! Big hugs to you all!!!!!!

Grow Longer Lashes

Hi Beauties! So happy to be back! Hope you all are loving those Probiotics that I blogged about in my previous posting. Today, I would like to share with you innovative ways to get the lashes of your dreams.

Long, lush, dark lashes have always been en-vogue.. I'm going to show you some products that I LOVE to help you get there! Did you know, that the average life of an eyelash is about three months. Once it falls out, it can take up to two months to grow back! (EEEK!)

Years of abusing our lashes with mascara, make-up remover, and hair tugging lash curlers can impede healthy lash growth. The growth cycle of an eyelash is MUCH different than the hair on our heads. Over time, they don't grow as long, or as fast.. Aging can make them brittle, and weak.....

To grow, and thicken lashes, always look for peptide based stimulators. Peptide is a common ingredient in lash conditioners that stimulate hair so that it grows in healthy cycles.

For thickness, and volume:

Brittle lashes meet their match with this high-performance serum. With proven peptides, the daily-use Glymed Plus Age Management Skin Care System Eyelash Power Treatment also strengthens the root of each lash to prevent loss.

www.glymedplus.com

Natural Lash Grower:

Packed with the hair growth-promoting vitamin of biotin, LashFood Nano-Peptide, Natural Eyelash Conditioner uses peptides, natural plant extracts, and soy protein to help promote the growth of healthy lashes when applied once a day. Side note---you can also use this to grow over-plucked eyebrows back. I personally saw results in ten days.

www.lashfood.com

Supercharged Formula:


When applied twice a day, the effects of Beauty Society Enormous Lash--four times stronger than the original version--are quite evident. Goodbye short, sparse lashes! This will stimulate your lash follicle, and transform your lashes in two months. It is very gentle, and great for ultra sensitive eyes, or contact lense wearers.

For Added Shine:


Free of parabens, this renewing serum claims to promote thicker, longer lashes in just four weeks. Safe to use on brows too, Rapid Lash makes lashes supershiny thanks to a blend of panthenol, minerals, proteins, and vitamins. There is a fine tip on the applicator which makes it easy to apply the serum directly to the lashes.

For Serious Length:

Jan Marini's star lash accelerator Marini Lash Eyelash Conditioner makes lush lashes attainable for all. With its proprietary peptide complex, this lash enhancer claims to mimic the effects of prostaglandin (an ingredient that promotes darker lashes without the unwanted side effects.)

www.janmarini.com

The Lash Conditioner:

Just like hair conditioner for your lashes, the nightly use of Neulash, packs a triple threat by increasing lash length, elasticity, and strength so that the life of each lash is prolonged and the lash is better able to stay attached to the lid. When using this product, you will fine the life span of your lashes will be longer--even despite the wear of mascara everyday.

For More Curled Lashes:

With its double applicator, which boasts a sponge, and a mascara brush together, Talika Lipocils Expert gives more curl to your lashes and will make them darker, and thicker. It's also packed with baobab leaf, and sour orange extract to protect lashes from the sun, and peptides to reinforce the bond between the root and the skin.

www.talika.com

A Celebrity Favorite:

One of the original eyelash enhancers, Revitalash Eyelash Conditioner can transform even the shortest lashes. A favorite amongst celebrities, this doctor-developed formula--a gift to his wife while she was recovering from Cancer aims to make lashes appear longer, thicker, and darker without make-up.

www.revitalash.com

Prescription Based Formula:

As of late, Latisse is the only FDA-approved treatment for growing longer lashes. It was developed from Lumigan, which is prescribed to glaucoma patients, and produces incredible eyelashes as a side effect. Saturate the disposable applicators with bimatoprost, a pharmaceutical-grade ingredient that lengthens the growing phase, and increases how many lashes can mature.

www.latisse.com

Hope you all find this helpful! I will be back very soon! Xoxo

Six Steps to Pampered Pretty Feet

Hi amazing ones!!!!!!!!! I'm back, back, back! I will be posting at minimum twice a month now, and have sooo much amazing information to share with you all! I'm so grateful to all of my readers asking me to do more posts! Your encouragement means the world! Now then....

From day-to-day standing and walking to squeezing into uncomfortable shoes for hours on end, our feet take a beating--yet they are often one of the most neglected areas of the body. In fact, according to a recent study by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), 87 percent of women suffer from foot ailments, but an outstanding 72 percent spend less money on their feet than any other body part, including the face, skin, and hair.

Join me in loving on our tootsies!!!!

1. Reflexology.
Reflexology is a system of massage used to relieve tension and treat illness, based on the theory that there are reflex points on the feet, hands, and head linked to every part of the body. Over time, you will feel healthier, which leads to a life even more full of joy!

2. Invest in an amazing support system.
Wearing inserts, and supports does not make you old.. It means you love yourself enough to treat yourself kindly! I stand on my feet all day normally, and love the arch support insoles by Dr. Scholls..


3. Relax with a soothing foot soak...
If your budget, or time won't allow for a pedicure/spa treatment twice a month, finding an amazing foot soak can be so beneficial. I personally love the Akhassa Rituals foot soak---delightful! A salt-based foot soak can help soften skin, and cuticles and leave feet feeling invigorated. (www.akhassa.com) LOVE!


4. A Soothing Serum
Although it has an ingredient list that sounds more suited for the face, this glycolic acid-based serum tackles severe calluses and cracks and reduces dryness--especially in problem areas like the soles of your feet. Do try Skin Juice Tough Buff AHA Foot Serum (www.skinjuice.com.au)

5. An amazing hydrating balm..
I am in love with Butter London's Stiletto Stick. The solid, nongreasy formulation of this macadamia nut oil-rich soothing stick makes it shoe-friendly-so you can perk up parched patches on the go without worrying about greasiness.. (Butter London Stiletto Stick)


6. The Callus Eliminator
Think of this handy two-side tool as an instant pedicure with everything but the polish. The rough stone side removes dead skin and callused spots while the smoother side massages and gently exfoliates feet.


I had so much fun sharing this with you all! Next up, I'm going to share one of my beauty secret weapons.... Xoxoxoxo