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Hell Notes for Beauty

Spirituality • Health • Lifestyle

How to Make and Use Crystal + Moon Infused Water

Have you ever come across someone who always seems to “glow” from within?

Be it a mysterious radiance in their skin, sparkle in their eyes or effortless sense of being, you can feel the good vibes gleaming from such people. Some may assume that perhaps a clean diet, exercise, skin care regimen will give you that glow from within, but its also due to a balanced spiritual regimen that helps you achieve your natural luminosity.

Mind like water.

One of my favorite tools for magical rituals is water.  Water is the universal conduit to many realms and quickly balances and neutralizes any ritual. You can add any ingredient imaginable and can be used for any purpose. I first became fascinated with using water in my rituals when I saw the documentary “The Hidden Messages in Water”, by Japanese researcher Masaru Emoto.  This documentary describes how the mind can have an effect on changing the basic chemistry of water.

You can achieve any life outcome with any tool, be it water, a element of nature or inanimate object by simply using your mind.

The purpose of any ritual is to either attract health, peace of mind, wealth, abundance and happiness or to push away illness, misfortunes, depression and negativity. All this is done with your mind.

Your thoughts attracts things. Push and Pull.

So how can we use our minds to get that glow from within and attract light to you?

Crystal Infused Water

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Small Shops Big Things: My Current Favorite Bath Products

Bath products are my favorite because they’re products I can indulge in daily especially after long stressful days at work. I have recently been into black owned shops, especially those geared to skincare and beauty because of the intimate customer service I receive and the quality of the products overall.

A lot of handmade, small shop owners also indulge in their products so they know what you expect from their products, making it even more personal to the buyer.  I definitely prefer small shops due to the novelty and the exclusive feel to most of the ingredients that you honestly can’t find anywhere else.  Below I share with you my current favorite baths products I’ve been using these past few months.

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Clinique Beyond Perfecting Foundation + Concealer Review

Since my recent skin issues I mentioned in my last skin care update post, especially throughout 2016, I haven’t been wearing much makeup and at one point spent 3 months without wearing any makeup at all, nothing, not even mascara.  Since getting my skin under control these past few weeks, I began wearing makeup on occasion, (mostly for work) and trying out new things little by little making sure I don’t irritate my skin.

I started using a sample of Clinique’s Beyond Perfecting foundation and was so impressed with it that I went to my local department store and purchased the full bottle ($27.00).

I really liked how it covered some of the redness/irritation around my nose area and balanced out my skin tone providing full coverage without being heavy or drying as some foundations (especially full coverage) tend to be.

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Wading in Soft Waters

AHHH, to be woman. Such a novelty and refreshing, yet complex perspective.

So, as you can see, a few changes here at the blog. A new layout, new format and new content coming your way.

I initially was going to keep all my old blog posts archived, but decided to just start fresh with this post. It’s funny because 7 years ago around this time is when I first started this blog and in a eerie feeling feel like I’m making full circle.

I’ve been blogging and somewhat documenting my life since 2010. I first started blogging to document my “Hair Growth Journey” as well as find a platform for spiritual self expression. My mind is constantly on the go, I have a lot of ideas and forms of expression and find writing to be my greatest escape and true love.

I’m many things to the outside world. I’m a “witch”, I’m a healer, a writer, a lover, combatant, and so many darkness and light in between. To define me is a joke and a waste,  as I’m many things at once and for all.

 A lot of things have changed, but some also remained constant in my life since my first blog post. I was 24 years old then and now I’m in my early 30’s. I was always apprehensive about sharing my spiritual and soul experiences but now,  I feel a lot more comfortable sharing my spiritual progression.

 It is a time for rituals, mythology, metaphysics and occult knowledge.

I’ve never really cared about people’s opinions about my spirituality, but it seems to be so taboo to talk about death, spirits and even the devil and find my blog to be a space free of judgement in addressing those topics. If you’ve been following me for sometime, you know that I’ve touched base on those topics with no filter.  No filter about the blackness and darkness that surrounds who I am. Who I’ve become.

God, its been so beautiful.

Dedicated to shedding light on hidden knowledge with basis, information and a lot of research and personal experience.

Writing allows me to express my free will. I know that in these years I’ve touched many lives, received a lot of love from you and above all appreciation for reawakening your inner occult.
I am my ancestors wildest dreams.
This blog is dedicated to the ancestors. Known & unknown. Dedicated to your darkness, your hidden self (Occult).
So welcome.
Welcome to my wild dream and imagination. An indelible mark in this one existence.

5 D.I.Y Aura Spritzers for Balance, Protection + Prosperity

As an empath, a person who can intuitively feel other’s emotions (extensively!), I’m always finding ways to balance, protect & purify (reset) my aura.  The aura is an invisible energy field that surrounds people & objects. Thoughts and emotions we carry and pick up from people and places can affect the balance of our energy field.

The state of your energy field can be determined by colors according to those who can read auras, but you don’t need to be an expert aura reader to know when someone or something is “just off” or “not right”.  Constantly feeling drained, tired or out of focus can be indicators that your Aura may need a quick pick me up.

One way to really reset your energy field is to take an aura bath with flowers, perfumes and many other magic ingredients (check out some here & here).  However, we can find ourselves in situations where we can’t always do a ritual on the spot so a quick aura spray can help you do that on the go. Aura sprays are not only for your person, but also for objects and places.  Every place or thing has an aura or ambiance. Some places may feel stuffy or heavy making it difficult to find it comfortable. Aura sprays are great for those types of spaces.

Depending on the energy of the place & situation and mood you’re in, an aura spray can be just what you need to enliven your senses.  Below I will show you 5 of my favorite aura spray recipes for any situation.

Basic tools you’ll need:

  • Spray Bottle (Any glass or amber glass is best)
  • Water (distilled, rose water or tap water will do)
  • High Proof Vodka (to preserve)
  • White Wine or White Vinegar
  • Essential Oils

The Recipes

1. The Scholar: Study, Concentration, Intelligence

  • Cinnamon Oil
  • Grapefruit Oil
  • Vanilla Oil

2. The Neat Freak: Tense, Anxious, Hyper

  • Chamomile
  • Cedarwood
  • Ylang-Ylang

3. The Drama Tamer: Angry; Hostile, Argumentative

  • Gardenia Oil
  • Patchouli
  • Basil Oil

4. The Gym Bunny: Energy; Stamina; Recovery

  • Peppermint Oil
  • Grapefruit Oil
  • Lemon Oil
  • Eucalyptus Oil

5. The Great Goddess: Cleanse, Purify, Banish

  • Frankincense + Myrrh Oil
  • Ginger Oil
  • Jasmine Oil
  • Rose Oil

Books I love for Essential Oil Recipes

The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood

The Complete Book of of Incense, Oils & Brews by Scott Cunningham

Helping Yourself With Magical Oils by Maria Solomon

The vodka, wine or vinegar scent does not affect the oil mixture at all and it becomes odorless once mixed with the oils. I prefer to add & mix the oils first followed by the vodka & water poured last. Shake a little and your aura spritzers are ready to use.

**Essential oils are highly concentrated and should only be used on skin diluted as indicated in this post or with carrier oils.

Beauty Note: Caudalie Foaming Cleanser Review

Born from the potent ingredients found in grapes, Caudalie may seem new to us at Sephora, but in the ultra fine French skin care world, they’ve made a name for themselves for over 20 years. Caudalie Instant Foaming Cleanser ($28) was an impulse buy at Sephora. I hate to admit it, but I’m a sucker for those bins at the check out lines where they always seem to get me with one sample/mini product of some kind or the other.

Happens all the time!

At the time I had been dealing with a lot of irritation & inflammation on my face and although I had switched my moisturizer, I was still experiencing some irritation and suspected my face cleanser.

I had been meaning to purchase a cleanser at my holistic skin care store, but never got around to it, I impulsively picked this up in hopes that it would work. At fist I was skeptical about this cleanser’s claims because I wasn’t too familiar with the brand or reviews but what had me sold was that the bottle indicated it was free of parabens & does not include irritating ingredients like sulfates and others.


Caudalie’s skin-care line is based on the polyphenols in red wine, distinctively the compound resveratrol which has been proven to help beat the effects of aging, such as dry & dull skin, wrinkles and premature aging due to sun damage and it’s also a powerful antioxidant.

The Brand & its ingredients

According to Sephora:

             A 99 percent natural, soap-free liquid cleanser that turns into a generous, airy foam for gentle, effective cleansing.

This natural blend of grape extracts, sage, and chamomile effectively cleanses and removes makeup and impurities while soothing skin. The improved formula is now more natural, more effective, and gentler on the skin. From the first use, skin is cleansed, radiant, and refreshed. Instant Foaming Cleanser is suitable for all skin types and ideal for combination or sensitive skin.


Formulation & Ingredients

-Red Grape Extract: Provides protective antioxidants for added radiance.

-Sage Extract: Renews, tones, and acts as an antibacterial to fight blemishes.

-Chamomile Extract: Acts as an anti-inflammatory to combat redness.

-Plant Glycerin: Moisturizes and softens.

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance, Coco-Betaine, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Sodium Phytate, Matricaria Flower Extract, Sage Leaf Extract, Grape Fruit Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Citronellol.

Formulated without:

  • Sulfates
  • Synthetic Dyes
  • Petrochemicals
  • Pthalates
  • GMOs
  • Triclosan
  • Parabens
  • Phenoxyethanol
  • Mineral oils
  • Paraffin
  • Synthetic artificial colorings
  • Sodium laureth sulfate
  • Animal-derived raw materials
  • Not tested on Animals

My Review + Thoughts

I got the small sample bottle (1.69 oz) for $14.  I found it to be pricey for a sample, but interestingly enough the sample lasted about a month and 2 weeks.  So a little goes a long way with this product and cleanses makeup right away with just 2-3 pumps with every use.

I don’t wear waterproof makeup of any kind so I can’t tell you how potent it is with waterproof mascara. It does a decent job with removing my current mascara, but sometimes I find I have to go back with some oil just to remove what the cleanser did not get around my eye area.

I normally remove my makeup with oil, then follow up with a soap cleanser, but on those days I don’t use oil, I just wash my face with this and it does the trick.

                                           

This cleanser is very light and for a foaming cleanser, it was not stripping or drying to my sensitive skin which is a plus since most foaming cleansers tend to be drying and geared toward oily skin.

When I ran out of the sample, I went to the drug store and got a soap based cleanser to hold me over until I got to a Sephora and my skin went crazy.  I started to get irritated so I decided to just purchase the full size.

My face is still healing, but I notice a lot less inflammation and redness since switching back. So now I definitely know my skin can’t tolerate soap based and chemical based skin care products.

Caudalie is a very French brand and from what I’ve known French women value natural beauty as a woman’s greatest asset and accessory. Flawless skin is what seems as a birthright for French women but in reality it requires dedication and work. Mathilde, the creator, (along with her husband) wrote an amazing book “The French Beauty Solution” where she shares her French beauty secrets along with lifestyle advice that truly defines the state of a woman’s skin as well as aging process.

Caudalie also has a number of Skin Care Spas throughout the world from Asia, Europe (of course), and The Americas where they use their products for a luxurious experience.  I hope to visit someday and treat my self to a spa date.

In the meantime, here are some other products on my wish list.

Sources & Links


Caudalie Discussing French beauty in Vanity Fair



French Beauty Solutions Book



Toxic Chemicals in Cosmetics Database

D.I.Y Grapefruit + Cocoa+ Vanilla Sea Salt Body Scrub

D.I.Y body treatments with Salt doesn’t get much notice considering its use in skincare dates back to thousands of years where even Cleopatra indulged in Salt beautifying treatments due to its healing properties.

Salt has detoxifying, cleansing and purifying properties which rejuvenate and stimulate the skin and vibes.  It is full of minerals that helps reduce inflammation such as tired feet, flush out toxins by improving circulation and helps relax muscles.

Although I still like to dry brush before I shower to stimulate my senses, I like to go with with a sugar or salt scrub to get a deep cleanse which leaves my skin soft and glowing. I’ve had a recent obsession with Salt, like pink himalayan salt and my recent purchase of a rock salt lamp and tea light holder (yes! the salt obsession is real).


Grapefruit & Cocoa Vanilla Scrub

I find that the best salt that works for me are more granular & coarse like Kosher salt. Depending on your skin type, especially if you have sensitive skin, you may be better off with less abrasive salts like pink salt or Epsom Salt to avoid scratches or irritation.

To make this body scrub, you will need the following:

  • Mason Jar
  • Salt of choice
  • Essential Oils
  • Cocoa Butter

I have a makeshift double boiler where I add about 2-3 table spoons of cocoa butter and let it melt down to pour and mix easily into 2 cups of salt. Mix lightly and add essential oils of choice.  Here I was going for a soothing yet invigorating scent with vanilla & grapefruit oil and the cocoa butter’s natural chocolate scent balances it all out.

Benefits of Essential Oils + Cocoa Butter


Grapefruit Essential Oil: Antioxidant, Astringent and exfoliating properties and ideal for oily or acne prone types (think backne!) Grapefruit essential oil helps boost energy and invigorate the senses.

Vanilla Essential Oil: Vanilla’s scent is very calming & soothing relieving anxiety and boost sexual libido. Vanilla oil also relieves inflammation and muscle cramps.


Cocoa Butter: A super moisturizer for my skin, cocoa butter is a little more heavier and luxurious than coconut oil.  It’s very creamy when melted on to your skin while scrubbing. Cocoa Butter soothes dry skin, helps with scars and smells amazing.

There are plenty of D.I.Y body scrub treatments you can make yourself with the oils that best suits your needs and skin type.  Since I have somewhat sensitive skin at times, especially with scents,  I prefer simple ingredients. I recently purchased an essential oil kit from Plant Therapy and love how beautiful they all look together and the versatility of these oils for all types of D.I.Y.

Make sure to research essential oils as they can be concentrated and irritate sensitive skin types. Before trying out any ingredient for your skin make sure to do a patch test to be sure.

I normally don’t add preservatives to my body scrubs because they’re in my shower no more than 3 day at most and I make sure to avoid any water or moisture creeping in by sealing it tightly. If I do add any preservative I aim for tea tree oil or Vitamin E.

Beauty Note | Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Illuminating Primer

Foundation primers are a recent discovery for me and a makeup favorite of the moment. As you all know, I’m on a mission to discover new, natural, organic & toxic free beauty & personal care items. Luckily, Juice Beauty has become a very reliable brand when it comes to those qualities.

For the longest time I steered away from foundation primers because I always felt like it was an unnecessary step, too many questionable ingredients and might make my skin look too “cakey“. After receiving a sample primer & trying it out for some time, I realized the purpose of having a good primer under your makeup wasn’t so unnecessary after all.

Primers smooths out your skin, improves texture and helps my makeup last longer with little to no touch ups. Although its not a step I do everyday, it is something I make sure I incorporate during those special events where I may wear more makeup than usual.

What is it?                      Juice Beauty Phyto-Pigments Illuminating Primer $36.00 for 1 fl oz./30 mL

Ingredient of Note PHYTO-PIGMENTS

Antioxidant-rich vegan makeup powered by an organic base of botanical juices, waxes & powders infused with natural whole PHYTO-PIGMENTS™, age-defying serum and cold-pressed oils to deliver vibrant color, illuminate skin, smooth lines & wrinkles and blur imperfections for a flawless complexion and naturally beautiful radiance. 

Organic • Vegan + Cruelty Free • Silicone Free •  Paraben Free •  Fragrance Free • Free of Artificial Dyes

What it do?                                     Smoothing & Perfecting primer with illuminating qualities.

Code word: Illuminating. Perfect for my moody &  dry skin.  I’d always steer away from products that claim to be “illuminating” but looks like my skin has been on the perpetual dry side, so instead of leaving me greasy, this gives me just the right amount of “glow” or moisture without appearing too shiny or greasy by the end of the day.

I apply this primer after I moisturize and before foundation or CC Cream.  Considering I did purchase this during the winter, I’m curious about its performance during the summer months.  We did experience some heat briefly recently and it seemed to have held up nicely.  Since my skin is more on the dry side, any potential oiliness will be kept at bay for sure.

Where to Find?                                 

I purchased mine at Ulta and also heard that Whole Foods also carries the Juice Beauty Line.

My Review + Thoughts                    

After I moisturize my skin I prep with this primer.  A little goes a long way as just one pump is able to cover my entire face. Since it is an Illuminating primer, If I use more than that I risk looking a bit greasy.  My skin has been stuck on the dry side so this helps balance out any dryness.

It goes under my It Cosmetic CC cream (shade Tan) and My L’oreal True Match foundation very nicely.  The illuminating factor gives me a very subtle glow which I love especially when I notice I have any dry patches.

It also does wonders for those no makeup days!  If I’m having a lazy day or heading out to the Gym, but have errands afterwards, I just apply my moisturizer and this primer over it and out I go.  It helps improve my skin’s texture, minimize redness and gives it a very nice glow.  Now it doesn’t cover spots or darkness, but does help even out my skin tone and help it not look so dull without foundation.

Pros                                       Light weight, blends & applies easily. Moisturizing.

I was a bit skeptical to be honest about this purchase.  I had the Smashbox primer full size version on hand after loving the sample I got, but I was also concerned about the silicones and nasty ingredients. It was as if the sales girl who recommended it to me was reading my mind because she so confidently pointed out all the nasty ingredients the other primer had vs. this one.

I was skeptical at first because most “organic” “natural” based makeup products have been really bad. No pigment, watery, lacking consistency has been my issue with natural based cosmetics.  Juice Beauty however seems to be a step ahead as this primer delivers very well.

Cons:                                     I have no cons to point out abut this product honestly!  It has no scent, the pump is efficient and I don’t waste any product. There’s a lot to love about this primer!

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The Truth About Toxic Chemicals In Feminine Hygiene Products

                                                               

A few weeks ago I came across this article where Johnson & Johnson awarded a woman’s family $72 Million dollars due to the many years of using the company’s baby powder which contributed to her ovarian cancer and death.  Turns out Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder (among many powders) contains Talc, a known carcinogen.

And that stuff is for babies?


I’ve also read a few articles where hundreds of lipsticks that were tested for heavy metals were found to contain high levels of lead, a neuro toxin and aluminum among other questionable chemicals.


So…all these toxins.…who’s regulating and who’s benefiting?

Beauty is a billion dollar industry with sophisticated marketing techniques, big budgets and appealing influencers pitching their products via every social medium platform imaginable, targeting a wide range of age groups and demographics virtually every second.

The FDA, which regulates the cosmetics industry in the United States, has very ineffective laws to make companies responsible & ethical for the health concerns the products they produce raise. The laws are too lax where companies do not have to fully disclose ingredients with the FDA, leaving it up to the general public to really find out what’s in the products we use.

“To date, the EU has banned 1,100 chemicals in cosmetics; the Food and Drug Administration in America has banned only ten.”-Divine Caroline


Potential Health Hazards Associated

with Feminine Care Products

According to ChemFatale, a study done by Women’s Voice’s of the Earth, their research found an alarming number of chemicals and toxins in our everyday Vaginal Care products.

  • Tampons: Hazardous ingredients may include dioxins and furans (from the chlorine bleaching process), pesticide residues and unknown fragrance chemicals. Exposure concerns include cancer, reproductive harm, endocrine disruption, and allergic rash.
  • Pads: Like Tampons contain GMO cotton in addition to chlorine which gives it it’s clean and white look of pads and tampons, pesticides, artificial fragrances.
  • Feminine Wipes: These contain a number of toxins especially parabens which are essential to preserve the moist wipes to avoid fungus. Parabens have been heavily suspected with cancer, especially breast cancer where paraben traces have been found.  These wipes also contain many chemically based “Fragrances” which causes, allergic rash, endocrine disruption & cancer.
  • Feminine Wash: Hazardous ingredients typically include stripping soaps that disrupts the vaginal PH balance essential for good bacterial growth. These also contain parabens, synthetic colorants that contributes to vaginal dryness, rashes among many infections.
  • Douche: Hazardous ingredients may include unknown fragrance chemicals and the spermicide Octoxynol-9. Studies link douche use to bacterial vaginosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, cervical cancer, low-birth weight, preterm birth, HIV transmission, sexually transmitted diseases, ectopic pregnancy, chronic yeast infections, and infertility.
  • Feminine deodorant (sprays , powders and suppositories): Hazardous ingredients may include unknown fragrance chemicals, parabens, and Benzethonium Chloride. Exposure concerns include reproductive harm, endocrine disruption and allergic rash.
  • Feminine anti-itch creams: Hazardous ingredients may include unknown fragrance chemicals, parabens, Methylisothiazolinone and an active ingredient, benzocaine, a mild anesthetic. Exposure concerns include endocrine disruption, allergic rash, and unresolved.

The Vagina is Self Cleaning

The vagina does not have to be complex when you break it down into 2 parts. Although it may be more detailed than what I describe below, for the sake of understanding how to clean your vagina and learn of its self sufficient functions and how to properly maintain a healthy balance read below.

  1. Vulva: The external opening (inner and outer “lips”), pubic hairs, also includes the clitoris and opening into the vagina.
  2. Vagina: The inner part of the birth canal where good bacteria & bad bacteria breeds, we experience menstruation, sex, & childbirth.

The vagina is at its healthiest when the appropriate PH balance is maintained.  This prevents bad bacteria & yeast from growing which is what breeds common infections & irritations many women experience. Proper balance of the vagina also factors in diet & lifestyle such as frequent sexual intercourse, wearing tight pants (which constricts blood flow & desensitizes nerve endings), excess moisture and many other factors such as hormonal etc.

The reason why its very important to understand the type of chemicals we expose our vagina to is because the vaginal walls (like our skin) is highly absorbent, allowing toxins direct access into your bloodstream — be it pesticide residue or a GMO protein.

Basic maintenance however does not require you be a Gynecologist. Using natural and non- stripping soaps can prevent imbalances & recurring infections.

Brand Loyalty & Marketing

Growing up in predominately mixed neighborhoods in NYC, especially if you’re black and/or Latina then you know what Lemisol is.  Using Lemisol sort of became a rite of passage into womanhood, right after your quincianera, or 15th birthday. Every woman in my family uses it and if you’re from the “hood” you’ve come across Lemisol at some point.

What is it about this cheesy logo (a green bottle with a woman happily laying on a waterfall) that is used generation after generation of women? And why every time I go into a bodega or local pharmacy for “feminine care” it seems I have no other options but this green bottle?

Brand loyalty is a marketing term a lot of companies bank on and the principle in which many thrive from generation after generation.  If your grandmother and mother and many women around you have used a particular product without question you’re more than likely to follow suit without question as well.

Basically big companies can practically change formulations, raise prices on their products and not worry for any financial repercussion because 1. people won’t question the loyalty 2. People simple don’t research.

A Safer Alternative: The Honey Pot


My Review

What is it: All natural, organic, vegan plant based foaming vaginal wash for sensitive skin.

• Organic • Vegan • All Natural •  Plant Based • 


Ingredients

  • Water
  • Organic Lavender Water
  • Organic Non-GMO Coconut Oil
  • Grape fruit seed Extract
  • Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
  • Marshmallow Root
  • Organic Lavender Essential Oil
  • Organic Sandalwood Essential Oil
  • Organic Rose Essential Oil
  • 3% Hydrogen Peroxide

Who has it: You can visit their website here and also check your local Whole Foods stores that may carry the Honey Pot.  I paid $13.99 + shipping and they also have a cool subscription service where you can get an additional 15% off if you subscribe to have it delivered every 30 days.


When/Why: I purchased this a few weeks ago & have been really liking this wash because it’s very light & refreshing.  I use 3 pumps every morning and every night while I shower.  I picked the sensitive skin formula to be sure I did not have any reactions with the change and thankfully have not had any issues.

The scent is very light and the foam produces a lot of lather.  Despite the listed oils in the ingredients, this is in no way greasy.  In fact, I notice how silky smooth it feels between my legs after showering, indicating its moisturizing abilities.

I also purchased their no bleach, toxic free pantyliner which you can hear about on the channel below.

                                             


Sources


Chem Fatale Report


Women’s Voices


Toxic Shock Syndrome


Your Toxic Feminine Care May be Trying To Kill You

Beauty Note: CV Skinlabs Calming Moisture Review


Eczema & psoriasis occurs when patches of the skin become inflamed, itchy and irritated.  This happens as a result of the over production of skin cells related to an immune system disorder that affects the skin, and occasionally the eyes, nails, and joints.  These skin breakouts are also linked to common food allergies, environmental allergens and genetics.

The disorder that causes these skin issues is known as an auto-immune disease, where your immune system attacks itself and is manifested in numerous ways in the form of many ailments such as chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus, thyroid issues, rheumatoid arthritis, skin rashes, among many other common dis-eases.

Currently, I’m dealing with an auto immune disorder and although I’m working on taking care of what’s going on internally, I could not help but also find a remedy for my skin which has recently succumbed to my auto-immune disease.

I’ve always been a lover of beauty and skin care and when I came across these red, itchy and inflamed patches on my face I was desperate to find a product that would not continuously irritate my skin.  After so much searching I came across this amazing product by CV+ Skin labs.

The Philosophy

CV+ Skin Labs has an interesting background and was relieved to read how relateable the creator of this product is, as she herself dealt with a major health issue as well as her father.  After the passing of her father, the experience left her with a need to find truly non-toxic ingredients for people dealing with problematic skin due to certain health conditions.

–About This Formulation–

Natural Content:  99.4%

Organic Ingredients:  57%

100% free of:

Synthetic fragrances & dyes, parabens, formaldehyde, 1,4-dioxiane, hydroquinone, phthalates, mineral oil/petrolatum, silicones, propylene glycol, SLS/SLES, PEG/PPG, triclosan, disodium EDTA, hydroquinone, talc, MEA-DEA-TEA or chemical sunscreens.


My Review

We all know that what you put in your body is a lot more significant than what you apply to your skin. 90% of my auto-immune issue is stress related & unfortunately my skin has taken the worst hit.

Lack of sleep, not eating well, stressing over everything, chronic deficiency in key nutrients has led me to where I’m at today.

The effects of self neglect

Its truly is a bitter sweet experience because I’ve never been a sickly person (going up to 4 years w/o a cold at one point), to suddenly dealing with impactful changes to my entire idea and belief system regarding health.  I hope to share with you all what I’m going through at some point when I feel educated enough on discussing autoimmune diseases and how I’ve managed to get on the road to recovery.

This moisturizer has literally given me hope as I was very desperate to find a moisturizer that would not sting my face.  A lot of drugstore products that touted to be made for sensitive skin were in no way made with ingredients suitable for my sensitive skin.  I dealt with a lot of stinging, irritation and just plain dryness.

After trying out several moisturizers at the same time while shopping one day, this moisturizer stood out to me.  It was not watery (like most organic/natural moisturizers can be) and it felt like my skin.

I honestly can not explain it, but it truly felt like my skin, no oily residue and my skin soaked it up nicely.  My irritation literally felt like it was being cooled and soothed instantly.

I’ve never experienced something like it and was really moved as I was feeling really depressed and self conscious about my skin. As you can see in the photo above I have a few red patches around & along the sides of my nose.  Those are so annoying but the more I use CV+ calming moisture, the more improvements I see.

To find something that works in the midst of my frustrations is a miracle!

This moisturizer is priced at $50.  Yes, a bit pricey, but worth every penny.

2 ounces lasted me 2 months while applying quite liberally, but conscious of not wasting the product. This stuff is so potent it can also be used to soothe itchy scalps too which can also be affected by eczema, psoriasis and extreme dryness.

CV+ Skin Labs specializes in treating burn victims, skin burned by chemotherapy and many other mild to serious skin conditions.

If there is anything that I learned from this product is that I don’t actually have “sensitive” skin, but rather reactive skin.  That truly makes a lot of sense since the skin is usually the first place to show signs of some sort of internal imbalance.

I also noticed when I eat certain foods or stress out my skin reacts.  So definitely can relate to the statement mentioned that I’m dealing with reactive skin and must pay attention.

I hope that if you’re dealing with any skin issues that you consider this moisturizer.  A true gem among many natural products on the market.

*This is not a sponsored post.  All opinions, reviews and recommendations are solely mine.  This product was purchased with my personal funds.

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