#77 Face/Body Mapping Part 2

Second up on the face map/body theory is taken from Dr Gillian McKeiths book called “You are what you eat”.

Now this is a book that was given to me a few years ago by a friend but somehow I have always found it hard to read. I think I was put off by her obsession with peoples toilet activities as seen on the TV show, and every time I look at the list of foods to eat, it always sends me running to the ice cream section at Waitrose! Definitely counterproductive!!

Anyway all in the name of research I picked up the book and discovered the section on pimples. According to Dr Gillian, pimples refer to congestion or imbalances and by looking at the part of the body that is affected you can tell which organ needs some TLC.

Here are the lists of body parts and the organs that are affected

Forehead – Intestinal Area
Cheeks – Lung & Breast Area
Nose – Heart Area
Jaw – Kidney Area
Shoulder – Digestive Area
Chest – Lung & Heart Area
Upper Back – Lung Area
Around the Mouth – Reproductive Area

So according to her list, the breakouts on my jaw area are caused by my kidneys. She then provides a solution to each body part that is affected. For the jaw area she suggests eating quinoa, drinking dandelion tea and taking a magnesium and B complex.

Now while her mapping theories might be spot on, the problem I have with this list is that she doesn’t really provide an explanation of how or why this organ in your body is affected and this leaves me feeling like they could have been plucked out of thin air.
On browsing through the book and looking at the index, I don’t find that much to expand on the theories so I still feel none the wiser. Does anyone else have the book? Have you read it or tried anything from it? How did it work for you? Please feel free to share

I have one more section to look at and after that I will be looking at how to resolve my breakouts.

#76 Face Mapping & Breakouts

I am so sorry about my lack of posts recently!! I was trying to catch up on everything post being ill and have also been swamped with life things in general…. But im back now…so moving on to todays post

I don’t know if this happens to anyone else but over the last few months I have noticed that I have been breaking out along my chin area, and they don’t seem to be your average typical spots but are larger and quite painful.

So having decided I have had enough especially as my skin is quite prone to scarring, I have started doing some research into it. I will be trying to find out what is causing it and what I can do about it.

My first point of research has led me to look at face mapping. Face mapping is based on the belief that the body provides an outside view of the body’s internal health. So the location of breakouts on the face or body will provide an indication of the underlying cause, and by treating this cause, you can supposedly stop the breakouts.

First up is the Dermalogica face map, and I am inclined to agree with what my cause is. I have noticed that the breakouts always seem to occur a few days before my time of the month which definitely indicates that my hormones are at work. Check out the map below and the explanations of the different zones and see if you notice anything that might relate to you.

There are a few other face map theories out there so I will also be comparing them to see how they match up and following that I will looking at what I can do to treat the breakouts and stop them from reoccurring.

(Image and information below is taken from Dermalogica and www.jerseybeautycompany.co.uk/skin_mapping.php

The Zones

zones 1 & 3Traditionally, this zone is regarded as the "sister" to the bladder and digestive system. If you breakout frequently in this area, it might mean that you need to improve your elimination by drinking more water and eating more "whole" foods.

zone 2The middle of the forehead, between the eyebrows, is related to the liver. Congestion in this zone can indicate over consumption of alcohol, rich foods, and possibly a food allergy (such as lactose intolerance).

zones 4 & 10The ears are a highly sensitive area related to the kidneys. If you notice that your ears are very hot, you might be stressing them out – drink plenty of plain water and cut down on caffeine and alcohol.

zones 5 & 9The cheeks often give an accurate glimpse into any respiratory distress. Smokers or people suffering from allergies generally experience fine, broken capillaries or congestion in this area.

zones 6 & 8The eyes are truly a window to the body's health because they're related to the kidneys. Dark circles , while often hereditary, are made worse by dehydration and poor elimination.

zone 7A reddened nose can indicate heightened blood pressure, or the early stages of rosacea. Congestion around the upper lip can occur if you use comedogenic lipsticks or liners.

zones 11 & 13If you've had extensive dental surgery done, you might notice a breakout along the jaw line, near the ears.

zone 12Breakouts or unusual hair growth can indicate hormonal imbalance, possibly caused by extreme stress. Premenstrual breakouts are also very common on the chin.

zone 14Don't forget to include your neck in your treatment regimen - its skin is just as fragile as that on your face, so it definitely needs the benefits of moisturisation and sun protection

#75 I finally feel much better!

Hey Lovelies,

I’m finally back….OMG I feel like I have been sooo out of it and now I have so much to do and to catch up on – my blog included!! I really hate being ill!!!! I was terrible for about a week and then last week was a mix of feeling better for one day, at which point I would go into work overdrive because I had so much to catch up on. This would then result in me feeling quite bad the day after

Anyhu I now feel a million times better and wanted to share one of the products that I thought really made a difference in boosting back my immune system…. I personally hate taking drugs although in this case I had to simply because I felt so bad,…..I don’t really like them because I’m always a bit conscious of what goes into my body and I hate looking at the label and seeing a number of ingredients that I don’t have a clue about or understand. As soon as I could, I came off them and was looking for ways to naturally nurse myself back to heath

I gorged out on a lot of fruit and vegetables but the one product that I thought really helped is called the Immune Support Tincture from The Organic Pharmacy.

It contains Echinacea, Goldenseal and Cats claw. I know, I know interesting name -Cats claw!!!! Initially i was like what!!! a cats claw??? but thankfully no cats are harmed in the production of this tincture - its actually a plant...phew.... Here is a bit of information about what each ingredient does:

Echinacea is popularly believed to be an immunostimulator, stimulating the body's non-specific immune system and warding off infections.

Goldenseal has gained a reputation as a herbal antibiotic and immune system enhancer. Its numerous uses are attributed to its antibiotic, anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. It soothes irritated mucus membranes aiding the eyes, ears, nose and throat. Taken at the first signs of respiratory problems, colds or flu, Goldenseal helps can help to prevent further symptoms from developing.

Cat’s claw is a proven anti-inflammatory. Numerous studies have shown that cat’s claw stimulates white blood cells to fight infection

It comes in a tincture form and you have to put a few drops into water or juice. I have to be honest and say that it doesn’t exactly taste nice but it helps.

If like me you are looking for a natural way to boost your immune system then you should look into this. Like any form of medication, herbal or otherwise, I would recommend that you go into the Organic Pharmacy and get some advice from one of the advisors rather than just buy it partly just to ensure that the ingredients with work for you and not interact negatively with anything else that you are taking. Additionally they have so many different tinctures available and there might be something else that is more suitable for you.

Xoxo

#74 Inlight Organic Skin Care Review

I was recently sent some skincare products from Inlight Organic Skincare which I have been using for the last month or so to see how they work. The skincare line was developed by Dr Mariano Spiezia a medical doctor, homeopath and herbalist with over 30 years of scientific research to his name. The brand is certified by the Soil Association and is 100% organic and wholly plant based.

First up is the Inlight Organic Face Cleanser which they describe as a deep skin cleanser with a mild exfoliant action which removes the outer layer of dirt and dead cells.
I was quite keen to try it as I have discovered I have a new love for oil based cleansers especially at night time when I feel like I have some spare time and really want to remove all my makeup and give my based a good massage. It looks like a cross between a balm/oil and is packed full of highly nourishing oils such as Coconut, Jojoba, Evening Primrose, Shea Butter and Olive oil as well as a particular blend of essentially oils such as lemon, green tea, ginger and lavender. I found that it deeply cleansed my face but unlike some other deep cleansers I have used in the past it didn’t leave it feeling dry or irritated. A good thing to note with this cleanser is that unlike a lot of other oil cleansers it doesn’t emulsify with water so after you have massaged it into your skin you need to remove it either using a muslin cloth or damp cotton wool. I initially wasn’t too pleased that it didn’t emulsify but after a few days I found that my skin seemed to prefer this method, It might just be that it loves the extra layer of nourishment that it leaves behind. Another thing I found is that because of some of the essential oils that it contains, I think it’s slightly more astringent than other oil cleansers I have used in the past, but I really liked this about it, as it worked perfectly for my combination skin leaving it feeling moisturised but clean. It retails at £24

I also tried out the Floral Face Tonic which is a blend of fragrant floral waters such as rose, lavender, grapefruit and chamomile. It has a very interesting smell and to me it smells more herbal than floral but I love that it is alcohol free and it helped to freshen and tone my skin without drying it out. It retails at £18

For further information or to purchase any products check out their website at www.inlight-online.co.uk

Pride comes before the flu! Cough, Sniff, Croak

Hey lovelies

I am so so sorry about going awol last week, but I have a good reason…. I have been ill and still am. You see, first up I got a stomach bug and now I have the flu! sob, sniff and cough! I tried pushing through it for a couple of days and that only made it worse – which is why I am now under strict bed and rest orders…..

The reason for the title is that only a couple of weeks ago I was happily boasting that I had missed out on the whole flu bug this winter and then what happens – I get it!!! Seriously pride comes before the flu…..

Positives from not feeling too great are

1) I get to lounge around in my favouritest (yes I know its not a word but my head is fuzzy so I think I'm allowed) Gap jumper that is like 5 years old and watch TV all day, without feeling guilty and thinking “hmmm, I should really be doing something more productive shouldn’t I?”
2) I sound like a bullfrog on crack when I speak – but Mr Lotions & Potions has convinced me that my voice actually sounds quite sexy – so I’m attempting to use my new found husky voice to convince him that ice cream would actually be quite beneficial right now
3) Everyone is being so sympathetic and making a fuss…yay!!

On a completely different topic – do you remember my styling post a little while ago? Check it out here meet me the stylist Well an online magazine has only gone and featured it! and one of the images is on the front cover! I feel so chuffed!!!! Check it out at remedymag and see pages 42-47 under the title Cirque de Minuit, also check out pages 48-49, it’s a feature on Mr Lotions & Potions himself and his photography….I feel so proud.

I promise to write again as soon as I feel much better.

Xoxo

#72 Bag Spy: What's in your bag? Zara from Kiss And Makeup

Today’s bag spy comes courtesy of the lovely Zara from KissandMakeup.tv kissandmakeuptv , I met her at the NARS press event and we just clicked and immediately got chatting about beauty products et al. After Zara had suggested a number of fantastic tips and products for me to try out, I just knew I had to get her to share a bag spy…


Bag Spy: Zara Rabinowicz from Kiss And Makeup

Hi, I’m Zara from KissandMakeup.tv and I’m excited to be sharing the contents of my makeup bag with you. I’ve been involved in beauty ever since I was a little girl, smearing pieces of paper with kisses from 17 lippies to pinpoint my favourite shades. I’ve worked on various magazines, websites and papers in all sorts of fields, but beauty has been my one recurring love. Whether it has been finding the perfect lip balm to combat chapped lips, or the latest facial that plumps and refines lines, I’m at the forefront of testing and trialling and enjoying every minute. I love working online as feedback is so immediate and I find that having people respond to your work is the best way to refine and improve it, as well as sharing details and getting tips on news products. It’s hard to narrow down what are the most essential products in my makeup bag as I try so many things on a daily basis, but the below ten are the most recent staples that I couldn’t live without.

1. Givenchy Phenomen’eyes

This mascara has been a total godsend to me, as it separates and defines my lashes like nothing I've ever seen. Once you overcome your initial distrust of the oddly shaped brush, you'll find it a product you never leave the house without. They’ve just released details of a plum waterproof version for summer, and that’s next on my must-have list!

2. MAC Tinted Lip Conditioner in Petting Pink

I get really dry chapped lips, and though I love using lip balm, sometimes I want something with little bit more colour. This lip conditioner from MAC is the loveliest shades of baby pink and gives you a really rosy looking glow. The texture sinks onto the lips, giving them soft sheer coverage and it really softens your wind battered pout. My Hello Kitty version never fails to get admiring looks either- they should bring this colour back permanently!

3. Clinique Dewy Smooth Anti-Aging foundation.

The idea of anti-aging foundation is something I was originally resistant too, as I feel that your skincare rather than your cosmetics should be the ones targeting lines. However the simply amazing, Photoshop like coverage speaks for itself as it smooth’s out the whole complexion, flattering you face from every angle and evening out any lines or blemishes. It makes you look absolutely amazing in photos and the dewy finish is flattering for everyone, regardless of their age

4. Stargazer Liquid Eyeliner

Stargazer is a brand I use to associate with goth-like wanders around Camden market, but though they retain their youthful associations with an array of ultra-bright and pigmented colours, they have moved onto slightly more impressive formulations. I’m currently loving their eyeliner as it provides a firm black line that can be fine-tuned or thickened as needed allowing me to create both feline flicks and Winehouse style eyes with ease. It dries extremely quickly and is really long lasting- a cult must have!



5. Collection 2000 Illuminating Concealer

Collection 2000 nowadays can be considered a premium brand with a surprisingly low price point. This creamy concealer works just as well as Touché Éclat, easily hiding circles and bags with a simple flick of the pen. The creamy consistency blends extremely easily and it’s magical on circles.

6. The Beauty Blender (get it at cult beauty)

This egg shaped pink tool has revolutionizes the way I apply my foundation as I’d generally choose this above both brushes and fingers. If you use a stippling effect when you apply this to the skin you get a really even finish with your makeup and the design means it’s extremely kind to your product, making sure you don’t use more than necessary.



7. Clarisonic

Whilst strictly not a cosmetic this skin cleaning brush device provides the skin with such a smooth texture and clean surface that it can almost be considered a makeup tool. Originally a sceptic about this product, once I’d used it for over a month I was converted as I never go a day without using this brush. Compatible with all cleansers and exfoliators the sonic powered device whizzes away grime and dirt and leaves your skin feeling squeaky clean- a great base for all products.

8. Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick

5 shimmering shades provide you with a great all over glow, and they can be used individual as eyeshadows as well. The palette is flattering on any skintone, and incredibly long lasting, as I’ve had mine for over three years (probably time for a new one). It’s a great way to create a subtle glow on the hairline and cheeks and the shimmery nature of the powders mean that you can really make your cheekbones pop. It has a nicely sized mirror as well, so it’s great for touching up on the go.

9. L’occitane hand cream

L’occitane hand creams are ultra-rich due to having 20% Shea butter in their formulation and they sink in really quickly. I love the fragrance of the limited edition honey and lemon version (out every Christmas and think the fact they’re handbag sized is a major plus point.

10. Urban Decay eyeshadows

I love the texture and pigmentation of Urban Decay shadows, as they can be used as sheer washes or built up for a stronger look. They’re extremely long lasting and they manage to combine glitter with shine without flaking all over your cheeks. My favourite colours would be Polyester Bride (a great white, fab as a brow bone highlighter) and Midnight Cowboy (a universally flattering brown shimmer). They feel really silky on the eyelids and make the eyes sparkle.

See, I told you she was fab didn't I? Drop by her blog for more tips and info ...I'm already eyeing the beauty blender and the clarisonic .....Thank you so much for taking part Zara.

#71 Sam Fine: The Basics of Beauty

Oh my goodness! I’m so excited I can barely write!!! A friend of mine just cane back from the States and brought back a makeup DVD for me and it’s not just any DVD…it’s, wait for it – Fine: The Basics of Beauty by celebrity makeup artist Sam Fine!!! Now for anyone who might not know who he is, I will try to contain my excitement and explain for a minute. Sam Fine is the legend that is behind the makeup of many major WOC e.g. Iman, Beyonce, Halle Berry, Tyra, Naomi Campbell, Mary J Blige, Jennifer Hudson…I could go on….. he began his career by working at cosmetics counters and then worked his way up into becoming one of the most famous and sought after makeup artists (especially as he specialises in makeup for WOC)

I am yet to see the DVD – I need to watch it all in one go with tea and cupcakes and then rewatch it with all my makeup in front of me…all I know, is if I can pick up a thing or two, then as they say I should be looking fierce!!…will keep you all posted on how it goes. In the meantime here is his site if you want to check him out http://www.samfine.com

Xoxo