Taking Toxins...time to get serious.

Hello Beautiful, 

I want to start a discussion on something that’s important to all of us - leaving no one behind.

The topic may seem scary, overwhelming, and confusing, but it’s critical to understand.

 

We need to talk about toxins.

All women need to know that having health concerns does not make you a hypochondriac, hysterical, or worthy of being dismissed of your concerns at your annual doctor's visit. 

It seems kinda silly to put all that effort in to upgrading our diets,  self-care rituals, and fitness habits, but fall short on addressing toxins. 

Watch for my next email as I let you in and get personal about my own recent struggle and experience with toxins.   For now, let’s learn a little bit more about toxins and how they affect all of us.
____________

On Status Quo
Change requires awareness and too many women are used to feeling unwell and living with the painful effects of a toxic system while remaining unbalanced in their thinking, emotions, hormones and physical health. 

It's in the numbers
You see, we are exposed to an unprecedented number – and crazy combinations – of environmental toxins every single day. The EWG has found that newbornsalready have nearly 300 environmental toxins in their blood at birth! 

Combine that with the approximately 515 chemicals you come in contact with during the day, you can imagine by the time you hit your 20s and beyond, our bodies have been steeped in environmental chemicals! 

Outer Stressors
These chemicals come from herbicides, pesticides, antibiotics, hormones, and artificial ingredients in our foods. Invisible to the eye, toxins exist as pollutants in our air, water, cosmetics, medications, vaccinations, household cleaners, and furnishings, and cars.


Inner Stressors
Did you know that our bodies create toxins when they break down the hormones and stress chemicals they produce?


GOOD NEWS.
Your inner biology is equipped with natural detoxification systems. 

What goes in must come out....but does it?
To understand how to best manage exposure, a lesson in metabolism teaches us that the  toxins are known to be metabolized via several pathways that include the kidney/urine and the liver. We also know that toxins have a high affinity for fat, and are stored in the adipose/fat tissue. 

Your liver does most of the work, but detoxification also requires that your bowels are moving well each day to get rid of the “garbage” the liver has processed.  

 

Here's the issue….
Even though your body is equipped to keep you detoxed, we’re exposed to so many chemicals at once that our bodies can get overwhelmed by toxic loads and need some extra daily detox help.

As a Functional Medicine health coach based on natural methods, I see women weekly in my salon/spa who are suffering from health conditions associated with environmental chemical overload and impaired detox pathways.

Evidence based testing
I test my clients for chemicals and other whole-health baselines, and I often find a common thread: many people are deficient in a optimal inner-biology ecosystem needed to effectively protect and detoxify from the overloaded harmful buildup of toxins leading to a myriad of symptoms. *Ask me about our Beauty Imprint Test.

I’m sure you’ve felt it.  


Do any of these warning signs sound familiar?

In closing...


The landscape of information about toxins are changing, fast.  

The last thing I want you to feel is confused, overwhelmed, or paralyzed. 

Not on my watch, ! 
So "HELL YAH" and "Good bye Debbie Downer!"

Let's ban together, kick chemicals to the curb and do away with the myths, buzzwords, and straight up misconceptions.

Watch for my upcoming email as I get a bit personal.  

The 5 Most Strategic Vitamins Taken Daily for Healthy Aging

Hey Tribe!  Check out this great quick read from Steven Hotze, MD over at Charlott'es Book.   Optomize your health, and quality of life with these 5  simple nutritional additions.  

The 5 Must-Have Supplements And Proper Dosage — 

A Professional Opinion

Walk down the vitamin and supplement aisle of a grocery store or pharmacy and you may find yourself overwhelmed at all the options. There are literally hundreds. All different brands, supplement names, claims, and concentrations—but how do you know which ones you really need, and which ones you can easily live without?

Each person has their own health concerns and may benefit greatly from other  not listed here. However, I believe that everyone would benefit from the following five supplements in order to achieve and maintain good health and vitality: vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, vitamin D, magnesium, and fish oil. Let me explain why I recommend these five must-have vitamins and supplements, out of so many choices.      

VITAMIN C

This vitamin is most likely to be on every “must-have” list, and for good reason. It’s impossible to understate the effect that vitamin C has on immunity and good health. As an antioxidant, it fights free radicals that can damage DNA and lead to cancer. Two things you may not know about what vitamin C does in the body: first, it fights free radicals in the lungs, and acts as a natural antihistamine, which means it should be at the top of any allergy sufferer’s list. Second, it is crucial to the proper functioning of the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing the “stress hormone” cortisol in appropriate amounts. It’s not a coincidence that immunity is often impaired in people with insufficient adrenal activity. They could benefit from more vitamin C.

How much should I take?  1,000 mg per 25 pounds of body weight daily.    

COENZYME Q10

Another antioxidant, Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is most important in helping the mitochondria function well. Mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of the cell, creating the form of energy the body needs to function. The organs in particular, including the heart, liver, and pancreas, need CoQ10 to function properly. It’s important to note that the cholesterol-lowering class of drugs called statins (such as Zocor, Lipitor, and Crestor) deplete CoQ10 levels significantly.

How much should I take?  100-200 mg per day.    

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D’s main job is to bolster the immune system. It also helps the bones absorb calcium, keeping them strong. In the past, severe vitamin D deficiency frequently led to the childhood disease called rickets, where the bones “softened.” Rickets is rare now, thankfully, but a lesser deficiency of this vital nutrient can lead to a variety of ill consequences, including lowered immune function, mood disorders, and an increased risk of a variety of cancers. You may know that the body can make its own vitamin D when exposed to enough sunlight, but it’s difficult for most Americans to get the daily sunlight they need year-round, making the sun an unreliable source of the vitamin. Deficiency is also common in the elderly, people who avoid dairy because of lactose intolerance, and people with hypothyroidism.

How much should I take? 

To my patients, I recommend 5,000-10,000 iu daily, depending on the patient’s level of 25-hydroxy vitamin D in their blood test.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium works along with vitamin D to help calcium be absorbed, making it critical for bone health and in preventing osteoporosis. Many people are deficient in this overlooked mineral, especially the elderly and women in the days leading up to menstruation. Those on drugs that interfere with magnesium, including oral contraceptives and diuretics, may be deficient, too. Magnesium is truly a miracle mineral. In addition to helping with bone health, magnesium also relaxes the bronchial smooth muscles, helping respiratory function, so it’s no surprise that magnesium has been shown to reduce asthma attacks. Magnesium helps the heart, too, by fixing irregular rhythms, lowering blood pressure, and helping the heart heal after a heart attack.

How much should I take?  600-800 mg daily.    

FISH OIL

Fish oil is such an effective supplement because of the omega-3 fatty acids it contains. These powerful fatty acids lead to an anti-inflammatory response in the body. That matters because inflammation is what causes a wide variety of diseases and disorders, from acne to arthritis. Promoting an anti-inflammatory response in the body protects against these conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids also support cardiovascular health, respiratory function, flexibility, and mobility.

How much should I take?  1,000-2,000 mg of omega 3 fats daily.

ONE DAILY HABIT FOR LONG-LASTING HEALTH BENEFITS

These five—vitamin C, CoQ10, vitamin D, magnesium, and fish oil—are the true must-have supplements for everyone. Each one works in the body in a variety of ways, enhancing the immune system, fighting off cancer, keeping the heart healthy, helping hormones functioning properly, and more. To get the benefit of these chemical powerhouses, all you have to do is develop the habit of taking your supplements daily. It’s amazing what a big effect such a small habit can have. Get into the habit, and experience the benefits on your quality of life, health, and happiness.

Posted Originally @charlottesbook  

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5 Ingredients + 5 Minutes to Radiant, Glowing Skin

For skin that glows -  a good nights sleep and pro-active skin care rituals are absolutely essential.  

What's just as (and more) important?  
The QUALITY of our nutritional choices on a daily basis.

psst.  (I know you know this)

I add the most dense, colorful produce to my Instacart Grocery delivery on a weekly basis.    Amongst this list are rich leafy greens that make it into my vitamix daily.   

For energy, assisted daily detoxification and for more glow to your complexion - it is just as much about what you put in your body, than what you put on it.  Get the deets below.  

 

Leafy greens, Vitamin C rich fruits, nuts and seeds can all help contribute to a radiant glow, and smoothies are just one way to consume all the goodness from these nutrient-rich foods in one sitting. Consider adding these top ingredients to your next smoothie to help you achieve healthy skin from the inside out.

KALE

Kale is a great source of lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients that absorb and buffer the free radicals created by UV light. Plus, one cup a day gives you 134% of your daily value for skin-firming vitamin-C.

KIWIFRUIT

Although not quite as high as kale, kiwifruit contains nearly 120% of your daily vitamin C needs in one medium sized fruit. Vitamin C stimulates collagen, which keeps skin firm and helps to smooth fine lines. It also adds a delicious burst of flavour to any smoothie.

SUNFLOWER SEEDS

In one serving, sunflower seeds provide 37% of your daily vitamin E requirement, which helps to keep skin free from acne. Vitamin E is also thought to enhance your immune system; helping your body to fight off inflammation that could lead to acne.

COCONUT WATER

Water is essential for organs to function properly, and as skin is our largest organ, hydration is crucial. Standard water is the preferred option, but coconut water can be just as hydrating and can give your smoothie a flavour boost.

GREEK YOGHURT

Greek yogurt contains lactobacillus acidophilus, a bacteria that helps reduce inflammation in skin, kills bacteria, lessens the severity of acne breakouts, and nourishes skin cells from the inside out. In addition, greek yoghurt also contains lactic acid which helps boost collagen and elastin production within the deeper layers of skin.

Grab your blender, some fresh produce and take 5 for some self nourishment and self care. 

xo -Kassandra

 

3 Makeup Trends To Inspire Your Everyday Look (or to glam your holiday parties)

The change of seasons call for your makeup to be applied with a heavier hand. Your lusting makeup bag is calling for a update to level-up your inner and outer bold confidence (we know its in you)!

Stop by BE anytime or grab a RSVP with our makeup artist and we’ll make these simple and glam looks -personalized and easy!  

Making a Statement

Jager & Bianca Studio 54

Jager & Bianca Studio 54

Hello beautiful!   We're bringing a little makeup inspiration as we officially move out of a long-standing trend of nudes, golds and makeup-LESS face. 

We all know that makeup can warp us back to a time in history. I had to laugh when putting this archive together with our incredible skin expert, TAYLOR. Taylor was teenage-ing in the 90's and loves these looks as it reminds her of the 90's grunge look.  While I squirm a bit when I think of Kirt Cobain, my reaction is lifted as I attribute these rich makeup tones back to the 70's when the disco ball was well and running at Studio 54.   Want to really get into it? I found two tutorials to re-create the 90's grunge or a night at the 70's disco. 

Ok - back to 2016.  Stay on trend with these winter makeup statements of bolder hues that pop out any lip, cheek and eye shape.    

Step outside the box (more like your makeup bag) and gather a few spellbinding and glam makeup effects with these enchanting palettes in tones to suit every mood.



QUICK TIPS - LET'S GET MADE UP

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Deep dark lips

Think deep ruby reds, sinfully dark violets, dare I say the darkest of sapphire blue? The color of your lips can change an entire look.

If you haven’t tried a dark lip, get sassy or classy with a standard berry base and opting to apply a darker shade over top – this will blur the darkness to a medium shade. Ease into it - you may learn to love it.

The Blush Taxonomy

We’ve come a long way from the toxic mercury, synthetics-based formulas of the past century and methods of grandma’s time. Between stains, creams, and powder - choosing the best color can be in and of itself confusing.  Get the quick rundown.

Where to put it!
To perfect your rouge, gently sweep color above the apple of your cheekbone and brush outwards towards your temple (over extending blush past the cheek bone can result in a baby doll look).

Perfecting your hugh:  For winter tones, enhance your skin hughs of a warmer blushed cheek. Think orange, brown undertones or a subtle mauves.  

Peach can be especially flattering for complexions with yellow undertones, while pink works best for those with pink undertones.

Smudgy Liner

Love up on some drama with your day or night look with black liner on your lower lash line. Apply black eye pencil to the thickness and darkness of your liking. Use a q tip or smudge brush in a back and forth motion to pull apart the sharp line for a faded look.

We look forward to helping GLAM you UP as you mix and match the hottest trends and the best colors and tones personalized just for you.  xo

 

Call or Text or simply Email us to reserve a hair, skin or makeup appt today!  

 

You do this 221 times per day and it may be aging you.

FACT:  The average person checks their phone about 221 times a day.  

While modern technology increases efficiency, communication and ease, it’s also introduced a whole host of new dangers to our skin. You might be familiar with the “smartphone squint,” but have you heard of Tech - Turkey Neck?

When formulating our new line of organic Evoq Beauty hair and skin essentials, the most current revealings of the invisible stressors and symptoms from the inside-out were considered, and with good reason.

Modern Day Beauty Solutions to an New Era of Aging

Growing dermatol­ogical studies show that modern day exposure to pollution (from exhaust, smog, smoke, infrared technologies, and free radicals) causes dehydration, wrinkles, fine lines, premature aging, weakened skin, dullness, allergies and sensitivity.

So what the heck is tech/turkey neck?

Tech neck refers to the position of your neck when you look to check your phone and tablet.  

Coined by plastic surgeons, this condition is accompanied by sagging jowls and wrinkled necks.

The Beauty Biology Breakdown

In short, the skin on your neck is delicate and thin, so looking down constantly causes collagen and elastin to break down, leaving you with unsightly deep wrinkles and sagging skin.   Turkey Neck can be a precursor to other issues like bad posture, headaches, and negatively affected sleep.

 In More Detail

As we graciously age, collagen and elastin synthesis slows down, leading to skin laxity and wrinkles. Additionally, years of sun exposure catch up with visible effects of UV damage creating a crepe paper effect on your delicate neck.

Your neck is short on oil glands, which can cause dryness that speeds up the aging process. Neck skin already tends toward laxity so it’s a perfect environment for a rough and wrinkled texture.

By adjusting your smartphone usage and always using sun protection, you can do a lot to prevent and slow down signs of turkey neck and skin aging.  Amongst outside catalysts, there’s still the transitions of natural aging.

Solutions! 

To stay ahead of time and to optimize your skin health - read on about the pro-active steps to take to halt and reverse sallow skin and lost muscle tone.

 


Solution One: Topical Ingredients

Our Professional Organic Evoq skincare line carries a number of skin firming and tightening solutions that can help reverse the catalysts of Turkey Neck. With daily maintenance of our Vita C + Oxygen moisturizer and Vitamin D enhanced 30 SPF - Evoq essentials address skin dehydration and dermal barrier breakdown at the root to protect and prevent any further aging and visible damage.

 

Solution Two:  None Invasive Facial Technology

Topical ingredients are great for daily maintenance and long-term care, but if you’re looking for a quicker solution, you might be ready to invest in a natural non-invasive facelift. Fortunately, at Beauty Ecology, you can get the solutions that deliver quick results while avoiding the cost and any recovery time. 


Lifting & Firming Bio-Lift Technology

How it works. 

Every cell in your body has a molecule called ATP, and it powers everything you do throughout the day. It’s the energy source for cellular activity and collagen and elastin synthesis. Aging and lifestyle factors slows down ATP production, which can lead to an increase in common signs of aging.

Beauty Ecology uses micro-current technology in our Bio Lift Clinical Facial to help stimulate ATP production and train muscles for an uplifted and sculpted youthfulness.

* Collagen and elastin production are instantly enhanced, and cellular activities are improved to benefit the texture, health, and visual appearance of your skin.

* Nutrients and blood to specific areas to activate a sluggish lymph system, while reducing any swelling and gently lifting, toning, and strengthening the muscles in the neck.

Click here to read the FAQs about microcurrent facials.


Ready?  Book Your Bio Lift Facial Today

Reach out to our team for any questions or to book a Bio Lift Facial treatment today.

Call: 612.824.7611    Text: 612.386.4044

Email: hello@beautyecology.com

Book Online

Photos Via Adam Katz & NAJ JAMAÏ

A Powerful Thought on DUDS

Hello, Beautiful You.  

So I was thinking about my lovely mother the other day.  You know how, when you prepare a meal or a desert for your family (insert: friend, dog, hubby) and for the most part it turns out great but some part of it is a dud and you take the dud for yourself so they don't notice the part that went bad?

My mom always put herself last.  It's born out of a big heart, right? 

STOP for a moment and think.  What if?  
What if you took the part of the BEST BOWL (insert your indulgence here) for yourself?  

Yep.  Selfish. Completely.   

And you know what?

Not a single person will complain. In fact, they will be happy for you.   

So my simple but powerful message is to STOP taking the last piece, the burnt piece, the DUDD.  Start to bring awareness to halting the thinking (and acting as if) you always deserve to be last.

Put yourself first sometimes, ok? A little self love. 
Yup, That’s it. 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your friends and family. 
TTY Soon. 
Love, Kassandra

meal

PS.  Remember this when you you're reaching for the burnt green bean on that traditional dishes this Thanksgiving.  Hopefully my voice will remind you!

 


My personal self love RITUAL to inspire.   What's yours?   

In light of 'self time,'  linking back to our last article about breast cancer and not putting yourself last - personal time doesn't always have to be not selfishly taking the biggest cookie chunk in the ice cream treat.  

I wanted to share my holistic indulgent that I partake in every Sunday. It's personal.

  
     I love to share - get it here. 

Detoxify + Re-mineralize Organic Bath Soak

A Clear Victory over Adult Acne (7 action tips on adult acne inside)

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Claim Clear Victory over Adult Acne!

First, don't freak out. Don't fret - flareups are not forever.  All acne production is hormonally based whether you are 15 or 52.   Often acne is a invitation to learn what your body wants and needs and to give it what it is needing.  We suggest looking at your beauty products, habits, and health.  Once you fix the root cause of acne—your diet and hormones to not washing your face after a workout—your skin will clear itself naturally.

Here are some steps to help you claim victory over those pesty - pimples....

1. Limit stress. And the unhealthy habits that come with it, like excessive drinking, not sleeping enough, smoking and eating unhealthy or overprocessed foods. Limit stress as much as possible by spending time with friends, cuddling, getting outdoors, sleeping, deep breathing, eating clean and drinking plenty of water or green tea. 

2. Eat smart. “When your diet is wrong for you, it will do two things,” says women’s hormone expert Alisa Vitti, director of Flo Living. “It causes the overgrowth of bad bacteria in the intestines, which reduces immune response on the skin and increases inflammation. And it disrupts endocrine function such that hormones become more unbalanced and increase hormonal acne. These villains are white flour, dairy, sugar, and animal and processed fats.

3. Limit dairy. Dermatologist Paul Jarrod Frank, MD, says, “A diet that has a lot of dairy in it is pro-inflammatory, meaning that it can exacerbate any condition, like acne, that involves inflammation.” Eat lean protein and brightly colored vegetables and fruits instead.

daily face wash
daily face wash

4. Wash your face every night and exfoliate. No matter how busy you are. If that seems like too much, your cleanser is over drying.  If needed, use agentle cleanser in the morning and a salicylic or glycolic one at night. Use an exfoliating mask a couple times a week: dry skin is dead skin, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. Slough it off.

5. Wash up after a workout. If you're dealing with acne, “it's best to just shower immediately after working out and use a cleanser all over. Sweating is good for the skin, but you don't want to let it linger.”

6. Choose products wisely. Wow -  80 percent of acne issues are resolved with the right regimen—a good cleanser, an exfoliant, a balancing treatment serum, for starters. Many facial oils are great for acne-prone skin, but not synthetic or heavy ones like lanolin or mineral oil. Avoid artificial fragrances, which can increase skin sensitivity.

7. Don’t over-treat. Women over-exfoliate or overuse drying and irritating products like benzyl peroxide products when they aren’t making the internal connection to their skin.  If you are on the pill, the affects your body's hormone levels and doesn't solve the issue.

Feeling stressed? Then it is no surprise you are battling blemishes. Stress releases the hormone cortisol, which can increase oil production and block pores, thus aggravating your acne.  According to experts, up to 50 percent of adult women in the US suffer from acne breakouts. Here are some causes and cures for those adult-onset blemishes.

Beat the battle with a consistent skin care ritual with our top skin acne fighting products!   

Reference: Well + Good

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