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Natural Skin Care Articles from Annmarie

Beautiful Voices : Gina LaVerde

Friday, May 18th, 2012

Beautiful Voices is our ongoing blog series that highlights inspiring, empowering women. Our most recent Beautiful Voice is Gina LaVerde. See what she says when Annmarie asks her some questions about her own personal beauty…

Gina’s passion is to help others connect to their truest selves.

Gina LaVerde is a Reiki Master Teacher, Certified Body Ecology Coach, Intuitive Healer and Reader, and Autism Activist with a mission to Bliss the World one bite, one buck, one leap at a time. She travels with her husband and son, offering workshops and events to show you that EVERYONE can live a BLISSED LIFE. Visit her at BlissedLife.com and contact her at Gina@BlissedLife.com.

Who do you feel you are today? What event has defined your life?

The only thing I can be sure of is that I am Love. My heart feels like its going to explode sometimes in pure gratitude for the amazingness within and around me. The details, though — are forever changing. I’m a mom, a wife, a perpetual student of Life. I’m a healer, an intuitive, a writer — someone who loves cooking for people and hugging dogs.
I’ve had so many twists and turns that led me to more understanding of where I am supposed to be. One of them was giving birth to my son. From the moment I met him, he began teaching me and opening my perspective. If not for him, I may not have found the path to natural healing. Another was when I experienced brain seizures, and fell unconscious. This was both a spiritual awakening, and one that helped me get on the right track for my health.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My husband and son are truly my motivating forces. My son for his individuality and complete comfort in his own being, and my husband for his endurance and extreme patience and groundedness. They are my best friends. Each day they energize me even more.

What was your biggest challenge and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge has been connecting my own body with my spirit. I’ve gone through lots of physical pain and illness that didn’t always require the same treatment. But, my spirit wants my body to go to every party, hug every person, taste every bit of chocolate cake — and of course finish a set of novels, save the world and all that. It’s been very hard to sometimes just rest and allow my body to heal when I need to.
I’m continuously practicing letting go of the details and just allowing myself to do what I need. It’s part of my journey.

If money was no object what would you be doing (or, would it be exactly what you are already doing?)

I think about this daily; I really love where I am right now. I’m living in a little cottage in the Mexican Jungle. Our family really wants another RV to travel the world in. When the money comes for that, well get one. But, if it came today, I’d still spend a little more time in this amazing place.
I also know that as more money comes in, I will be able to more openly offer my services. And, I know that now is a time for my body to rest. So, that’s a really interesting thought for me.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

About 6 years ago I called a very good friend to cry about some problems. She told me to send love to the problems. I had no idea what she meant. Send love? How could I? I was pretty maxed out on love. “Send Love to Yourself then,” she said. And we were both quiet. It was the first time I ever heard that sending love to myself was even an option, but it sure felt possible. And, I’ve followed her words since that day. Best advice ever!

Where and when do you feel most at peace?

I feel most peaceful at night under the moon. No matter what happens during the day, I can let go at night and sink into a quiet space inside of myself.
I love being in nature. So, the ocean, the forests, the animals — all bring me so much peace.

What does beauty mean to you?

Quite simply, beauty is when you smile with your whole being. When what’s true for you inside comes through to the surface.

What makes you feel beautiful?

One of the coolest things I have discovered is Chinese Face Reading. This teaches that there is a purpose for every feature. It makes me so comfortable with my looks.
Also, eating right makes me feel really beautiful inside and out.

What’s your favorite beauty secret or tip?

Coconut oil! It’s all I use on my face. Occasionally, I make a soap from Coconut oil and good sea salt. Wow! It seems to be all I need to stay soft and even-toned. I love it.

What do you do when you want to pamper yourself?

I love candle light, essential oils, warm baths, and home-made face masks. I’ll paint my nails, listen to music and really cherish those alone moments that moms don’t get much of. ;)

How does Annmarie’s mission fit into your lifestyle?

I’m all about empowering women to let their beauty and truth shine. We each have something essential to add to the mix, so I love that Annmarie is doing this series.

What are your words of wisdom to other beauties out there?

Enjoy the ride. Turn up your favorite tunes and find a reason to laugh ’til it hurts. Keep letting your beautiful heart shine through you. You are a gift to the world, and we all want more!

Isn’t she beautiful? If you want to keep up with Gina’s amazing life, follow her blog at BlissedLife.com!

Much Love,

Annmarie Gianni
“Teaching People About Beauty From the Inside Out”

*****

(If you’re interested in being featured as one of our Beautiful Voices, please email us at info [at] annmariegianni.com)

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Beauty Secrets and Skin Care Sneakiness Revealed (Video)

Wednesday, May 16th, 2012

A few months back I got the chance chat with Marcus Freudenmann director of the film “Cancer is Curable Now.”  If you haven’t seen it, it’s must-see.

He recently uploaded the video which includes a bunch of great information about healthy skin, toxins and why I started this line — so today, I want to share it with you.

Marcus is an advocate of a healthy clean lifestyle, just like I am, so I hope you enjoy this educational interview!

You can watch here now to learn some things happening behind the scenes at Annmarie Gianni Skin Care and be sure to hang in there because I share some of my beauty secrets!

Here’s where to watch this video now:

We will be in Costa Mesa, CA this weekend at Longevity Now!

Come join us this weekend for a great event in Costa Mesa, CA.  We will have a booth where you can sample our new Body Lotion, purchase samples, full sizes and kits.

We also will be announcing the name of the new lotion at this event!

Here is where you can learn more about it and — if you want — sign up last minute:

Click Here to Visit the Longevity Now Website

Our giveaway is halfway though!

Just a reminder of our great giveaway… a year’s supply of Annmarie Gianni Skin Care products to a lucky winner!

We’ll also be giving away 5 full sized products to 5 lucky runner-ups.  This way it’s more fun and more than one person can win!

Here are the prizes in case you’ve missed them…

The Runner Up Prize — to be awarded to 5 people — is 1 Free Annmarie Gianni Skin Care product of your choice. (Up to $49.95 value, excluding full sized kits.)

The Grand Prize — to be awarded to one lucky winner — is free Annmarie Gianni Skin Care products for 1 YEAR (worth over $575.00), products to be determined depending on your skin type.

All you need to do to enter is follow the link below, like us on Facebook, and fill out the form.  Don’t worry if you have already liked us, filling out the form will still enter you for a chance to win.

This sweepstakes starts now and ends on May 30th @ 5pm PST so be sure to sign up now and tell your friends about it too!

Here’s where you can sign up now:

Click here to Enter the Annmarie Gianni Skin Care Sweepstakes

On to what’s new on the blog…

Discover These Skin-Saving Herbs Weekly

Read our Herb of The Week column where you’ll discover why we use some of the herbs we do to make your skin care products.

This week, learn about Siliceous Earth, pure minerals that support skin elasticity and strength:

Click Here to Read about Our New Herbs of the Week

Beware: Your Weekly Guide to Nasty Skin Care Chemicals

We’re also now continuing our Ingredient Watch List — where we callout product ingredients you don’t want to have in your products (that we don’t!)

Learn why you would want to stay away from Phenylenediamine and Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA):

Click Here to Read our New Watch List Ingredients

Get Inspired and Motivated By These Amazing Stories

And, most fun and my personal favorite, our Beautiful Voices column.  These are stories from some amazing ladies who use the Annmarie line and and their personal tips and tricks to live fulfilled beautiful lives…

These are inspiring and heartwarming, so if you haven’t read one yet, please be sure to do so now…

Here is our latest post from Rachel Pachivas…

Click Here to Read the Rachel Pachivas Beautiful Voices

Remember don’t forget about our giveaway…

And if you like us on Facebook you will always know about our weekly deals!

Click here to Enter the Annmarie Gianni Skin Care Sweepstakes

Much Love,
Annmarie Gianni

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Ingredient Watch List: Para-Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA), the Sunscreen That May Alter DNA

Wednesday, May 16th, 2012

With the warmer weather upon us, many of us are getting outdoors to enjoy the sun. Of course, that means stocking up on sunscreen. What kind is best?

I recently posted about one chemical sunscreen called oxybenzone, and advised you of the dangers. A close cousin to oxybenzone is “para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA),” another type of sunscreen you’d be best to avoid for the health of your family.

This summer, be cautious in your choice of sunscreens to avoid exposing your family to potentially harmful chemicals.

What is PABA?

PABA is a natural chemical found in the vitamin folic acid and also in several foods, including grains, eggs, milk, and meat. In medicine, it’s used to treat some skin conditions, as well as in some cases of arthritis, infertility in women, anemia, rheumatic fever, systemic lupus erythematosus, and even headaches.

Since it is a natural ingredient with a broad range of uses, one would think PABA would be safe for use as a sunscreen. Unfortunately, some studies have raised concerns that it may not be safe to use topically.

What are the Concerns?

PABA was introduced into sunscreens in the 1970s because of its natural ability to absorb UV rays—the ones that cause sunburn. Most sunscreens today, however, don’t use PABA. Like oxybenzone, it was found to increase sensitivity to allergic reactions. Because so many consumers were experiencing allergic reactions to it, it gained a reputation as being a skin sensitizer. It also tended to stain clothing.

More concerning, however, were studies that showed PABA may damage DNA. In the later 1990s, University of Oxford researcher Dr. John Knowland reported on studies that showed when DNA was added a chemical sunscreen and exposed to sunlight, the sunscreen broke down, releasing free radicals that could damage the DNA. Results such as these raised the concern that PABA could actually encourage the formation of cancerous cells in the skin.

Along with this concern of DNA damage is the fact that the skin can and does absorb PABA, with the breakdown ingredients detected in urine samples. So far we have no evidence that such absorption is damaging, however.

Bottom Line

The good news is that most manufacturers have phased out the use of PABA because of its tendency to cause allergic reactions. Still, it’s best to read labels, and choose zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which according to the research we have today, are the safest options. The healthiest move, however, may be to stay out of the sun during peak times between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., and to make good use of hats and light clothing to protect your skin.

Do you have a favorite sunscreen that you feel is safe? Please share your tips.

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Photo courtesy MissFrankie828 via Flickr.com.

Sources:

PABA, Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database, http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredient/704390/PABA/#.

Shaw AA, et al., “Photoaddition of p-aminobenzoic acid to thymine and thymidine,” Photochem Photobiol, 1992 May;55(5):657-63. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1528978.

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Ingredient Showcase: Siliceous Earth, Pure Minerals that Support Skin Elasticity and Strength

Monday, May 14th, 2012

Siliceous earth is a purified form of “silica,” which naturally occurs in nature and rocks and is known to contribute to the health of skin, hair, and bones. Horsetail, which I posted about earlier, is also a good source of silica, but siliceous earth has additional benefits because of its unique form.


Siliceous earth + dead sea clay makes a soothing, nutritious facial massage.

A Little Bit About the Ingredient Itself

Siliceous earth is a general term including both diatomaceous earth (diatomite) and radiolarian earth (radiolarite)—natural soil or mineral products composed of fossils and other elements. In cosmetics, siliceous earth is a purified form of silica, obtained by diluting and filtering pure silica, which is a white powder that is present in 12 percent of rocks. Sand is also a silica.

Dietary supplements of siliceous earth are purported to help with hair loss, to strengthen connective tissues, and to contribute to healthy skin. In fact, a deficiency in silica is known to reduce skin elasticity and hinder the body’s ability to heal wounds. The mineral is also reported to help strengthen blood vessels, keep them flexible, and support healthy circulation; as well as to assist calcium in the maintenance of healthy bones and joints. Food sources of silica include green beans, apples, onions, raw cabbage, strawberries, celery, cucumber, peanuts, pumpkin, honey, unrefined grains, asparagus and rhubarb.

Benefits to the Skin

I included siliceous earth in my Dead Sea Facial scrub because it’s natural properties work so well in a mask-like application. Because of its abrasiveness, it immediately helps to exfoliate and polish your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and tingling. Silica is also known for being an absorbent, so while you sit back and relax, it helps absorb toxins and bacteria in your skin, leaving it deeply cleansed.

In addition, the more you use the scrub, the more the siliceous earth helps tone and strengthen your skin, increasing firmness and creating a lifted look. This ingredient also has a reputation for soothing and calming skin conditions like eczema, acne, and even insect bites, because of its cooling and anti-inflammatory properties.

Finally, silica is an important ingredient in your anti-aging regimen. The mineral naturally enhances skin elasticity and helps to retain moisture, keeping skin looking supple and youthful. In fact, as we age, the body naturally becomes depleted of silica, which doctors suspect could be part of the reason we end up with wrinkles and hardened arteries.

Dead Sea Facial Scrub

In my Dead Sea Facial Scrub, I’ve combined siliceous earth with Dead Sea Clay, both mineral powerhouses that nourish and feed your skin while softening and polishing. After just one use I guarantee you’ll see the difference! Use either as a 1-2 minutes scrub, or as a mask you leave on for 15-30 minutes.

Have you tried siliceous earth in your skin care treatments? What did you think?

* * *

Photo courtesy o5com via Flickr.com.

Sources
Ruth Winter, A Consumer’s Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients, Random House Digital, Inc., p. 465. http://books.google.com/books?id=3hLmyma2-MsC&pg=PA465&lpg=PA465&dq=Siliceous+Earth+skin+benefits&source=bl&ots=DxEOS4C1wH&sig=J3cO64AVShbhJrhgTauqKZMEL7s&hl=en#v=onepage&q=Siliceous%20Earth%20skin%20benefits&f=false

Mike Adams, “The Top Five Nutrients for Healthy Skin,” Natural News, April 4, 2007, http://www.naturalnews.com/021773.html.

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Beautiful Voices : Julie Hurley

Friday, May 11th, 2012

Beautiful Voices is our ongoing blog series that highlights inspiring, empowering women. Our most recent Beautiful Voice is Julie Hurley. See what she says when Annmarie asks her some questions about her own personal beauty…

Julie is a married mom of two kids and the Director of Public Relations for Principia Media, a publishing house in Grand Rapids, MI. She loves her family, good food, wine and working out.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My husband and I are doing P90X2 together. We get up each morning at 6 a.m. before the kids wake up and “get it done.” Some days I I want to roll over back in bed and sleep that extra hour, but my husband faithfully encourages me to get up and get moving. I’m not always pleasant about that, but I’m so grateful 20 minutes later when I’m sweating, moving and burning calories. He never complains about getting up and this is an inspiration to me.

If money was no object what would you be doing (or, would it be exactly what you are already doing?)

After hiring a professional chef to prepare healthy meals for my family (and to teach me how to cook/grocery shop/organize my kitchen), I would
probably be doing something in the nutrition/fitness world. Though I was a college athlete, I didn’t take up serious exercise until I was in my 30s, after having two kids. I really love exercising and nutrition and I believe that a career in helping people reach their personal goals would be very rewarding and motivating.

What does beauty mean to you?

Confidence in who you are and loving yourself enough to take care of the one body you’re given on this earth. I’m quite inspired by people who eat very cleanly and exercise on a regular basis. In today’s SAD (Standard American Diet) way of eating, it requires a concentrated effort to do so.

What’s your favorite beauty secret or tip?

For the past three months, I’ve been using a combination of three oils to wash/cleanse my face. Jojoba, grapeseed and castor oils. I apply, massage into my skin and rinse with a washcloth and warm water, scrubbing gently. It takes my make up right off and doubles as a moisturizer as well.

What do you do when you want to pamper yourself?

I take a bubble bath nearly every night with a glass of wine and a book. Though I recognize that I lead a fairly stress-free life as a stay at home mom of two incredible kids, I do need my alone time every night. It works out perfectly during baseball season, because my husband watches his DVR’d Tigers and I relax. We meet up an hour later and catch up on all of our shows together.

What are your words of wisdom to other beauties out there?

As I’m nearing my mid-30s, I look back and realize how cripplingly self-conscious I was about my younger self. I would tell those younger beauties to be confident in yourself, take time for yourself to eat well and exercise and – this was and is the hardest part for me – try to not care about what other people think or say about you and the life you lead. There are things that I wish I had taken a chance on in the past, but didn’t because I was worried about what people would think of me. As you get older, you realize how very little other people’s opinions matter.

Isn’t she beautiful?

Much Love,

Annmarie Gianni
“Teaching People About Beauty From the Inside Out”

*****

(If you’re interested in being featured as one of our Beautiful Voices, please email us at info [at] annmariegianni.com)

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