The 2 Types of Hair Loss [and how to reverse it]

Why is my hair thinning!?

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We've all been there. Speaking from experience and empathy - I went through a 50% hair loss experience (dreadful) this winter due to stress and incredibly low hemoglobin. As my gut was healed, and my body restored - I see the fruits in full return from applying meditation, our Evoq products (especially the root activator), CBD, and disciplined sleep habits.

Hair loss has always been specialty of mine at BE Salon. I’ve witnessed hundreds of women battle thinning hair - so I can validate that 1 in 4 women will experience hair loss.

I’ve also helped these women throw their locks in a role reversal (positive). By understanding the catalysts to hair loss, we can then learn and be proactive in combating it. Sitting and fretting ads to the issue. Girl, LET’S GROW!

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WHICH IS IT?
There are two general reasons for hair loss: hereditary and reactive.

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Hereditary hair loss refers to a genetic predisposition to hair thinning, which includes "male pattern balding" experienced by about 50% of men over the age of 50, though genes can also cause hair loss much earlier.

When it comes to hormones,women can experience this patterning.

Hormones play a huge role in regulating the hair growth cycle. Oestrogens (female hormones) are 'hair friendly' and help to keep hairs in their growth phase for the optimal length of time. Androgens (male hormones) are not very hair friendly, and can shorten the hair growth cycle.

An excess of androgens (which could be caused by an endocrine disorders) can cause hair loss. The extent of this is often down to genes - If you have a genetic predisposition to follicle sensitivity, a hormonal imbalance can affect your hair more than it would someone who does not have a predisposition.

I suggest seeing a Functional Medicine Practitioner to see what’s stressing your hormones and organs inside-out. Even if you're predisposed genetically, there are still plenty of lifestyle changes and natural remedies to explore.

Here’s a GREAT read on how to test your Thyroid - often a partnering culprit.

Reactive hair loss refers to a harsh internal jolt to your system and external stressors that affect hair loss and strength. These include diet, hormones, stressors, behaviors, environmental factors, sudden weight loss/gain and even skin conditions such as psoriasis and seborrheic dermatitis.

How does this happen? Androgen (male hormone) levels are yet again raised, which in turn can causes hair loss. Feeling like it’s out of your control?

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Here’s a few ways to TAKE CONTROL of your HAIR VITALITY TODAY

Take note.

1. Eat well and Smart Supplements. 
Deficiencies in iron, zinc, B vitamins, protein, and complex carbohydrates can all have a negative effect on hair growth. B12, commonly found in animal products, is often found to be low in vegans and vegetarians. Hair is made of protein, making adequate daily intake of protein rich foods essential. Include at least a palm sized portion of protein at breakfast and lunch.

Generally speaking, it's important to eat plenty of vegetables to help chelate excess xenoestrogens to keep your hair and scalp in optimum shape. Say not to SUGAR! It’s a direct release of cortisol and can feel the follicle popping as I think about it!

2. Stay on top of immunity and hormonal balance.
Undiagnosed thyroid problems, hormone imbalances, autoimmune diseases and other conditions can be found at the root of hair loss. Be sure to consult a Functional Medicine Practitioner if you're experiencing any symptoms related to these conditions. Skilled to get to the root!

3. Take it easy on the styling.
Heat styling as well as tight braids, buns, and ponytails can take a toll on the strands. As for styling products, pay attention to ingredients. Polyethylene glycol and alcohol can dry out strands and lead to weak, brittle hair that's more prone to breakage.

4. Gentle Ammonia Free Hair Color.
About 70% of women use hair color. I’ve witnessed it time and again - after our clients at Beauty Ecology. BE was one of the first salons to exclude professional-grade Ammonia, Resorcinol, and PPD from our services. We stay true to that commitment, making our color much gentler, safer, and kinder to the stylist, environment and most important -your healthier scalp!

5. Find healthy ways to cope with your stress.
Stress and anxiety can raise androgen levels, which increases the likelihood of hair loss. Therapy, meditation, and CBD, and natural supplements are effective ways to reduce stress in our day to day lives. I love adaptogenic herbs (CBD also acts like an adaptogen). Look for ashwagandha, rhodiola, and cordyceps - all shown to relieve stress.

6. Nourish your top crop and reactivate your scalp.

This is VITAL. Remember, your scalp and outer skin is the last chain of command to receive nourishment from the inside, so externally assistance for the scalp is a critical MUST from my experience. It’s why our Root Revival System has been a reviving blessing to many of our success - hair - full clients.

Experience our HAIR GROWTH ACTIVATOR that’s proven to be 2x’s MORE IMPACTFUL THAN MINOXIDIL (drug based).

When you purchase our Root Revival System YOU GET FREE SHIPPING!

Addiction + Collagen’s Worst Enemy [must read]

Hello there!
Q: Noticing wrinkles, some deep lines or sagging in your skin?

Sugar may be one of the culprits.

Yes, sugar is classified as America’s top addiction, but you may not realize you have MORE POWER THAN YOU THINK when it' comes to taking control of advanced aging skin.

What Happens When You Eat Sugar?

Regular cellular hits of all kinds of sugar can trigger a cascade of physiological events that may ultimately cause inflammation, AGE factors from glycation and flare up issues.

Collagen’s Natural Enemy | AGE

Wrinkles and sagging skin are a partial byproduct of the process known as glycation, in which excess sugar molecules attach themselves to collagen fibers and ultimately cause them to lose their strength and flexibility (we call these bondings AGEs, or advanced glycosylation end products).

The result? Skin becomes less elastic and more vulnerable to sun damage, fine lines and sagging.

Sneaky Sugars are found in high-glycemic carbohydrates such as breads, starches, potatoes, baked goods, pastas, desserts and soda, are rapidly converted to glucose in your bloodstream.

The Effects Are More Than Just Skin Deep

While wrinkled skin is one of the visible signs of AGEs, most degenerative diseases are affected one way or another by disease-producing glycation reactions.

In fact, AGEs lie at the very heart of the aging process—from the skin to the brain—and can be responsible for wrinkles, heart disease, cancer, diabetes and more, including age-related memory loss and even Alzheimer’s disease.

Simply put, the formation of AGEs is responsible for both internal and external damage to the body…and sugar is the primary culprit.

With a few nutrition changes, you can get beautiful skin in no time!

INFLAMMATION

Sugar ruins your skin by causing inflammation in the body. Sugar causes blood sugar levels to surge and plummet, which leads to inflammation. All sugars such as white and brown sugar, agave syrup, molasses, maple syrup, and honey, are to be looked for.

Opt in for fresh fruit or the natural sweetener Stevia instead.

WRINKLES

Sugar’s inflammatory properties also lead to wrinkles. Collagen is what keeps your skin looking young and wrinkle-free but sugar attacks collagen, eating it on a cellular level. This dehydrates your skin and makes it look dull. And, of course, dehydration also leads to premature wrinkles.

BLOOD SUGAR IMBALANCE

Whenever you eat foods with a high sugar content, your blood sugar rises rapidly and falls rapidly. When you experience this sugar crash, you often feel hungry, shaky, and moody. Every time this happens, your body experiences internal stress, which often leads to breakouts.

Stabilize your blood sugar levels, eat meals that contain plenty of fiber, protein, and healthy fats.

FREE RADICALS

Free radicals cause inflammation and disease in the body. Studies have linked high-sugar foods and high-sugar diets with creating free radicals in the body. Antioxidants are important fighters in the war against free radicals, and foods with natural sugars, such as fruits and vegetables, are excellent sources.

Avoiding foods with added sweeteners, to boost your antioxidant levels and help your body win its fight against free radicals. H2 water is incredible to squash free radicals.

REDNESS AND RASHES

The inflammatory properties of sugar also cause red, irritated skin. Many people who suffer from rashes or are prone to yeast imbalances can blame their issues on a diet loaded with sugar.

Clear it up by removing refined and added sugars and focus on cruciferous green veggies and fiber-rich foods.

DEHYDRATION

Sugar sucks the water from your body’s cells, leading to dry, puffy skin and those terrible under-eye circles that we all hate.

Invest in H2 rich water to instantly oxygenate your skin.

DIGESTION PROBLEMS

Sugar is very hard on your digestive tract and creates inflammation and flora imbalances in the gut, and any time food doesn’t digest well, it shows in your skin.

Reducing sugar leads to a better functioning digestive tract, fewer food cravings, and better skin.

So there ya go! If you have any questions about how to set up your skin for success, contact us - and our SKIN PRO’s will help you align a inflammation free skin care regime + matched with your new awareness on sugar and it’s impact on our skin! Email: Hello@beautyecology.com

What it all comes down to? A Healthy Scalp [bonus inside]

Natural Ingredients Are Only Beneficial [ IF ] They Are Bioavailable!
I'm pretty sure you agree there's countless hair and scalp products on the market today that state they contain natural ingredients. But far too often, the individual botanical may not convey any noticeable effect.

When I develop or revise any Evoq product, the delivery system and the preservations of it's natural ingredients (yes), but even more so, it's critical the bioactivity is preserved for short and long term results.  

For example:

This is why we invest in Vitamin C Esther (lipid encapsulated) versus ascorbic acid, (vitamin c form that goes rancid upon oxygenation).

So.... how's YOUR scalp? 
​​When it comes to your scalp and the extension thereof [ HAIR ] .....

At Beauty Ecology we help you resolve everything from dandruff, psoriasis, over oily scalp, and hair loss - we know how to recognize when your scalp needs that extra attention.   

Our gentle Chelation System in our Scalp Clarifying + Remedy Treatment is definitely my favorite (and client go to) when it comes to treating the hair and scalp.   Here's what to expect if you put it to work:

- Removing excess and trapped oils
- Product build up 
- Hard water and chlorine
- Prep for hair color for longer lasting and more vibrancy

The KEY here is to remember, the health of your scalp displays many cause and effects, but it is the very place HEALTHY HAIR STARTS.  This means the rate of growth and vitality of your cuticle strength also starts here. 

SURPRISE! LIMITED TIME OFFER

Grab 10% OFF our top selling Scalp Health & Regrowth products!

DISCOUNT CODE:  * BESTSCALPEVER *

Hair Regrowth Tonic

- Up to 200% Better OutcomeCompared to Minoxidil (drug based growth product)

- 78.9% noticed visible increase in Hair Diameter & Thickness

- 71% of satisfaction and desired continual use

- Outperforms Minoxidil by 90% in medical based clinical trial

Clarifying Pre-Wash

AHA + Willow Bark: ­Helps clear the follicles of excessive dead cell build up, allowing room for thicker hair growth.

Zinc Complex:  Reduce scalp irritation and employ scalp balance with this natural UV protectant infusion for the most advanced scalp ailments.

Seed Oil Concentrate:  Nourish and support the scalp with an infusion of free radical quenching and anti­-inflammatory benefits.

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HAIR GROWTH ACTIVATION

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FREE UP OF PRODUCT BUILD UP + HARD WATER  

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Thanks for being the INFORMED BEAUTY you are! If you’d like more information on our scalp treatments, products or to make an appointment - please email me at hello@beautyecology.com.

Leaky Face? Setting Healthy Skin Boundaries.

At some point in time, as women and natural care givers, we’ve struggled with knowing the extent of our own boundaries - right? Many times we don’t even know we’re venturing outside of our boundaries, later we find ourselves tired, agitated and often times just plain ANGRY.

With this same unconscious when it comes to protecting our soul - it’s the same when it comes to our SKIN. That’s right, the boundaries of your skin - that create the ultimate protective barrier - for happy, healthy and joyous skin.

* Don’t forget to scroll all the way to the bottom for my #1 Suggestion! *

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Addressing Boundaries + Barriers - in our skin.

The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, consisting of dead cells (corneocytes). This layer is composed of 15–20 layers of flattened cells and skin sebum. Shingles on a house - in which protects and keeps damage out of its interior is a great visual as it pertains to the stratum corneum and dermal relationship.

“Sebum, skin cells and lipids represent the food source that makes up our natural healthy bacteria, which gives the skin it’s homeostasis. ”

The Skin’s Microbiome + Leaky Gut and [FACE]

Think of bacteria as your daily “professional skin aesthetician.”

The microbes micromanage our skin’s fundamental health by which stimulate secretion and cell turnover which stimulates our pores to keep our skin supple. Just like watching a “leaky face,” we cannot look past the possibility of a leaky gut which are commonly the cause blackheads, psoriasis and can be further damaged by rancid oils that are clogging oils, increase acne prone skin. 

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LISTEN UP

Here’s a quick explainer video and detailed context below to further understand how to keep the biome and skin barrier optimized, plump and luminous.

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The Skin’s Natural ECOSYSTEM knows how to tend for itself. 

Again, our outer barrier protects the body from the external environment and is designed to hold water in and keep bacteria, microbes, and other external invaders out.

The strength and integrity of this barrier not only keeps our skin looking healthy and moisturized, it also plays a role in its clarity.

The Structure of The Stratum Corneum

The dead skin cells “bricks” and the intercellular matrix (the lipids and fatty acids – aka sebum) make up the mortar. These waterproofing lipids are what keep skin hydrated, soft, and firm in appearance by preventing the evaporation of the water it absorbs from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin. It holds the water in and keeps bacteria (including acne bacteria!) and other impurities out.

What if holes and cracks occur?
Obviously water evaporates and escapes. This is when the skin becomes compromised and barrier repair is needed in order to prevent dehydration and bacteria from getting into the cracks.

Your Re-birthing Process
Using its own natural exfoliation process known as desquamation, fresh skin cells migrate from the bottom layer of the epidermis to the outer most layer of the skin. This process is wholly dependent on adequate hydration, so when this process gets disrupted, the skin becomes rough, scaly, and dry in appearance.

Unclogging Pores
If the outer most barrier isn’t repaired, the skin becomes dehydrated (even if you have oily skin), tightens and holds onto dead skin cells. Say “hello to clogged pores!” Bacteria is added to the concoction and makes a perfect soup for your body to react and attack those bacteria in which cascades quickly into inflammation.

** Therefore, even if you’ve cleaned up your lifestyle and still have acne, chances are you have a damaged outer most skin barrier.

The Outward Signs and Symptoms of a Barrier Damage

Many skin conditions can be exacerbated by a damaged stratum corneum. These include:

• Acne
• Dermatitis
• Dry skin
• Eczema
• Flaky skin
• Inflammation
• Itchiness
• Premature aging
• Psoriasis
• Redness
• Rosacea
• Scaly skin
• Sensitive skin
• Tightness

It is thought that over 70% of people who suffer from acne have some degree of damage to their outer most barrier.

Even those with oily skin can have dehydrated skin, so don’t be fooled by oily skin and hydration levels! ANY skin type can become dehydrated because the outer most barrier has been altered causing it to lose its ability to retain moisture.

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So, What Causes a Damaged Barrier to Begin With?

There are several reasons why your outer most barrier may begin to deteriorate:

1. Constantly stripping away sebum
2. Cumulative damage that has affected the skin cell renewal cycle
3. Environmental conditions like dry, cold or hot weather, and wind
4. Not enough physical exercise
5. Not enough sleep
6. Nutritional deficiencies
7. Over-exfoliation
8. Over-washing your face
9. Poor diet high in processed foods and sugar
10. Stress
11. Sun damage
12. Unprotected winter skin
13. Using harsh products on your skin
14. Using hot water when washing and rinsing your1 face
15. Using too many chemicals on your skin

Experiencing any of the above for too long can start to alter the structures within the skin that are responsible for moisture retention and balance.

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THE RECIPE FOR RE-HYDRATION

All this information tells us that we need to achieve balanced hydration within our skin cells in order to repair the outer most skin barrier.

The first steps you want to take are things like lowering stress, getting quality sleep, exercising regularly, drinking enough water daily, and eating a clean healthy diet.

Cleansing:
While improving those aspects of your life, you should begin taking steps towards improving your skincare routine like using cooler water to wash and rinse, switching to a gentle cleanser, avoiding harsh exfoliants or over exfoliating, and allowing your skin to recover its hydration levels.

Water Content + Temperature
The worst thing you can do is use hot water or steam on your face, washing too often, stripping your skin’s oils, or scrubbing your skin too often. All this will do is dry out, strip, and damage the outer most barrier making it harder for your skin to hold onto water.

100% Non-toxic
Harsh chemicals in your face/beauty products can weaken and strip the skin and cause irritation and deterioration of the lipid layer.

Tearing Down Your Protective Barrier
”Even if your skin pro says it’s A-OK,” beware of the motives. Using harsh exfoliants and over-doing micro-needling and peels can actually scratch open the skin (microscopically) and allow water to evaporate.

UV Protect!
Wear your daily sunscreen if you plan on being out in the sun. 20 Minutes of raw sun is fab for natural Vitamin D needs, but anything over this is detrimental short and long term.

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Up-level Your Skin Hydration

Aside from the above, here are a few tips to quickly repair your barrier:

1. Barrier restoring ingredients
Lipids are excellent ingredients to use as they tend to mimic those found in the stratum corneum. The best ones to use are those that contain ceramides and are rich in linoleic acid such as baobab, evening primrose, rose hip seed oil, safflower oil (high linoleic acid), shea butter, and sunflower oil (high linoleic acid). Most, if not all Evoq Skin products contain ceramide rich nutrients.

2. Humectants
Humectants are essential for repairing the outer most barrier as they attract water from deep below the epidermis as well as from humidity in our environment. This moisture is drawn into the stratum corneum where it holds in moisture and repairs the skin.

Some of the best humectants include glycerin and hyaluronic acid. These are found in all of our Booster Serums.

Avoid synthetic humectants like:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEGs) – a petroleum byproduct that dries out the skin over time
• Propylene glycol – the synthetic version of glycerin, also a petroleum byproduct known to irritate the skin
• Urea – a preservative that releases formaldehyde; a known carcinogen that can cause dermatitis (there is naturally occurring urea in the skin which is part of the natural moisturizing factor of the skin or NMF)

3. Skin identical ingredients
Using ingredients like peptides, sea algae and omegas will help restore the acid mantle and balance the skin’s natural moisturizing factor.

4. Skin protectants – aka “occlusives.”
Ingredients like shea butter, avocado oil, sunflower oil, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, squalene, evening primrose oil, and baobab oil are all wonderful emollients and are rich in phytosterols that heal and buffer the skin against dehydration.

Learn more about our TOP ceramide-rich skin protectant will help keep your skin soft, supple, and firm in appearance.

-SOLUTION-

Our Youth Renew Oil is superior for repairing your lipid barrier - not allowing hydration to leak and keeping your skin bright, plump and luminous. 

** Cold­pressed, organic fruit seed oils rank high in omegas and naturally derived antioxidants that create the “power of 10” anti­-aging benefits. Infuses your skin with omega fatty acids that protect and improve your skin from sensitivities, skin allergies, and environmental aging while enhancing cellular metabolic functions.

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XO
Thanks for joining me on yet another skin lesson! Let me know if you have any questions on setting healthy barriers in your skin + life! E: Kassandra@beautyecology.com XO MUCH LOVE!

Thank you, Holistic Health Herbalist

Look Younger While Living Longer (a plastic surgeon's perspective)

As a beauty and health professional, I get all types of questions form our guests about what I think about botox, lasers and potential natural alternatives.  While I am not here to position my opinion (every case is personal and individual), I thought this podcast would help add to the conversation on botox, skin health and "aging" tactics. 

The Episode

This episode explores the question of how we can maintain a naturally youthful look as we get older. Brett — a New York City oculofacial plastic surgeon who specializes in both non-surgical and surgical cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the eyes and face — shares some remarkably practical advice on everything from the most extensive procedural options, down to the simple steps one can do themselves, starting today, that can make a tremendous impact.  

Check out this podcast hosted by Peter Attia showcasing Brett Kotlus, MD.  I've also left the show notes to skim through the chit chat. 

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The Discussion Outlined

• History of medical training that led to Brett’s current interests [5:00];
• What changes occur that make skin look older over time? [8:00];
• How to avoid the “unnatural” look associated with cosmetic surgery [17:00];
• Facial augmentation, fixing eye-bags, and picking the right provider [22:15];
• Common botox mistakes, and how to do it right [37:30];
• Protect and rejuvenate your skin with these 3 main tools [46:30];
• Latest trends in cosmetic industry, botox, cryolipolysis, the various forms of facials, and PRP [1:05:00];
• Importance of picking a provider you trust, rather than a device you want [1:31:30];
• Future of the cosmetic field [1:33:00]; and
• More.

Dont miss our awesome discount below to get started NOW on healthy, long term aging to cover all the fundamental levels of the dermis and its critical regenerative abilities.  

You can find all show notes and the PODCAST HERE. 

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My Final Comments

On a professional level in the skin industry, it's a delight to see Brett commenting on UV protection, the power of the RIGHT kind of vitamin C (although I much prefer C-Ester due to it being enveloped in fatty acids to travel deep and deliver), and more education on the great tactics of Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP).

Really, the critical piece to capture on healthy aging come down to drinking plenty of water, quality nutrition, fresh air with doses of healthy sun, moving our body for detoxification and ridding old negative thought patterns.  

In closing, here are my top HIGH POWERED skin solutions with levels of actives need for true skin transformation - when used consistently.  

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I'm OFFERING a limited time discount to get you started. 

ENTER ' GREATSKIN ' and you'll receive 15% off your order!

 

SEA PEARL EXTRACT­ 

Works to slough away dull epidermal cells and reveal a brighter, more luminous complexion.

ISOTONIC SEA WATER­ 

Infuses skin with essential minerals and trace elements needed for healthy skin.

SHEA BUTTER + SUNFLOWER

Protects skin from everyday toxins and promotes cell renewal, while soothing dryness, dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis with Vitamins A and E.

View fullsize

 

BOTANICAL STEM CELLS OF NARCISSUS AND MADONNA LILY­ 

educes skin discoloration by inhibiting the transfer of melanosomes, which can create dark spots. 

VITAMIN C ESTERS

Gently brighten skin to reduce dark spots and scars, and regulates oil production.

LIQUID OXYGEN ­ 

Decreases the look of fine lines and wrinkles by increasing skin’s volume

 

HIBISCUS SYRIACUS, RUTIN, & IRIS PALLIDA STEM CELL EXTRACTS­ 

Plant­ based stem cell extracts stimulate cellular turnover, giving skin a younger, fresher look and feel.

SODIUM HYALURONATE­ 

Locks in moisture to plump up wrinkles, leaving skin looking firmer, and helping to diminish the appearance of fine lines.

NANNOCHLOROPSIS ALGAE EXTRACT (OMEGA­ 7 FATTY ACIDS)­ 

An anti­-inflammatory extract of algae that reduces redness and calms irritated skin.

 

HIBISCUS MALIC ACID

Natural acids increase cell turnover to support fresher, younger, smoother looking skin.

MARINE CRISTE EXTRACT OR “SEA RETINOL” 

Patented Sea Retinol visibly smoothes wrinkles and creates a radiant complexion.

LIQUID OXYGEN (PERFLUORODECALIN) 

Decreases the look of fine lines and wrinkles by increasing skin’s volume and improves the look of dark circles over time.

 

25% NON­-NANO ZINC OXIDE 35 SPF­ 

Reduces visibility of skin damage by eliminating free radicals that increase the risk of skin cancer. Safe for the whole family. 

VITAMIN D3 (CHOLECALCIFEROL)­ 

Traditional sunscreens block natural intake of vitamin D but our Primer is infused with it to offset what your skin doesn’t take in on its own.

SUNFLOWER SEED (VITAMIN E)

­Naturally a UV absorbent, it reduces the appearance of wrinkles and lightens dark, under­eye circles and scars.

Hair Bondage. Why frizz happens, and how to fix it.

| 2 Min Read |

Hey there - let's explore a little hair bondage, shall we?

There’s one hot topic that NEVER escapes my chair - and your hair!   

Your Hair’s Inner Workings

Your hair is made up of keratin.  These proteins are present in the middle layer of the cuticle and are susceptible to changing shape on a humid day.

Outside of Keratin, your hairs made up of 50% carbon, 21% oxygen, 17% nitrogen, 6% hydrogen, and 5% sulfur.   

Hair Bondage

Keratin proteins chemically bond together in two different ways.

Disulfide Bond:
Molecules on neighboring keratin strands can form a disulfide bond, in which two sulfur atoms are bonded together. These bonds are permanent and determine the hair’s strength.  They are NOT affected by the level of humidity in the air.

Hydrogen Bond:
The other type of bond represents the link between adjacent keratin proteins and is much weaker and temporary.  The are the bonds that shift by creating shape whether curly or blown out straight - as new ones are forming each time your hair gets wet and dries again.

Hair is porous and it cannot help but to absorb moisture when there is humidity in the air. So if humid air has much higher numbers of water molecules than dry air, a strand of hair can form much higher numbers of hydrogen bonds on a humid day.

This interaction is what causes the hair to fold back on itself at the molecular level at a greater rate.

Keeping Frizz at Bay

Hair that is dry and fragile from hard water, heating agents, or chemically based hair treatments, leave it particularly susceptible.

Keeping your hair well moisturized with the right amount of protein is key to helping avoid frizz. With that said, hair is extremely susceptible to hydrogen bonds and will occur to some level no matter how well you narrow in on this issue at hand.     

No matter what your frizz scale is, I’ll share 3 simple ways to improve your hair health and shine.

Get on the Keratin Express

This is a easy and quick fix.  At BE, we offer a keratin express treatment that takes no time at all and can be conveniently added to the end of a hair color.  We simply wash your locks of love and layer by layer add keratin - blow dry and flat iron to seal the deal (bonds). What you take out, but be put back in - it’s the root of healthy hair.  

Protect & Smooth Home Care

As a 20 year stylist, I swear by this key step. Anti-frizz products help the hair to withstand humid environments, retain keratin and moisture, while protecting it from UV and heat-activated styling tools.  Our Treat & Protect Spray prevents your locks from expanding and frizzing up in high humidity.

Seal the Deal for Everyday Shine

Ending your hair care routine with a quality serum is a key step in banishing frizz for the rest of the day.  BEWARE of excess silicones! Silicone is known to hover the top of the cuticle to prevent the outer lift of the hair scales (frizz), but it simultaneously pulls out your hair’s NMF (natural moisturizing factor) over time.  Quite the opposite of what you want to do.

Grant your mane a sleek glossy finish with our weightless argan oil and keratin infused glossing serum free of heavy silicones to prevent your hair from looking flat and oleaginous (oil) like.

So there you are - now GO MASTER THAT FRIZZ!   Here if you need us - email hello@beautyecology.com for any additional questions or to book an appointment!  

SHOP ALL EVOQ HAIR ESSENTIALS

Skin Burnout? How to Address Mitochondria Burnout & Aging

Ground Zero | Energy and your Skin

While wrinkles and a sagging skin are an initial outward signs of aging, it actually begins deep within your cells. The same can go for your hair growth - and it’s vitality.

In this informed beauty lesson, I’m covering how Mitochondria are the power plants within your cells which create ground zero for energy production allowing you to feel full of energy while imparting better skin. 

 I'll also share two key players proven to transform you into a energizing bunny.   

Iconic beauty, right? 

Mighty - Mito - Production

A HUGE GAME CHANGER at All Levels  

Let’s dive in!  

Starting off, there are many theories when approaching aging skin. Most products seek to just improve the visible appearance of aging skin, but Evoq Beauty is different.  

The fundamental formulating principles within our Evoq “beyond organic” skincare system focuses on targeting the very underlying causes of skin degeneration  – better known as mitochondrial decay – to help rejuve and improve your skin’s health now and over time.

“ - I call it the 80 / 20 rule -”

Look around you … 
Glowing skin is in influenced by both our genetics and environmental factors.  Epigenetic medicine points out this critical component referenced as your “exposome.” 

Simply put - 80% of aging is the environment controlling your cell to cell messaging and only 20% is genetically encoded.

So if our body's 20% of the natural aging process is not within our control (referred to as intrinsic aging), it’s clear that we play a huge hand in controlling the other 80% which are the lifestyle decisions and environmental factors such as the sun, pollution, smoking and poor nutrition (referred to as extrinsic).

Taking Back Control
Let's swing back and layout the ONE MAJOR CAUSE of accelerated aging called “mitochondrial decay."

Over time, depletion at the cellular level breaks down and collapses collagen at deeper layers, manifesting lines, lost volume, lost radiance, uneven pigmentation, and dryness.

Capturing 2 key players to help you take back control.

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The Role of Mitochondria
in Aging Skin

Mitochondria are small structures inside a cell that generate energy.

They produce 98% of the energy for the body.

For this reason, they are often called the ENERGY POWERHOUSE OF THE CELL.  

Down to a science. ...  The energy molecules are called ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is essential to life – it supplies energy for all reactions in the body. Without it, life cannot exist.

Functions of Failure
Organs cannot borrow energy from one another, so the efficiency of each organ's mitochondria is essential to its repair processes and functions on it’s own. If an organ's mitochondria fail, then so does that organ. The skin is the largest organ in the body, so the enhancement and protection of actual mitochondrial function is instrumental in preventing and slowing skin aging.

Lost Mojo
When ATP is unable to be produced due to mitochondrial dysfunction, the resulting buildup of toxins leads to significantly lowered nutrient absorption. This is similar to what happens when an electrical circuit is obstructed and the energy flow is impeded.

The Free Radical Exchange
As ATP is produced by the mitochondria, a secondary waste by-product is naturally produced. These waste by-products are known as free radicals.   Free radicals are highly charged molecules lacking a paired electron making them very likely to bind to other atoms or molecules, which in turn gives rise to a process called oxidative stress. Not so great, because oxidative stress damages cells and is linked with various diseases as well as the commons signs of aging, including wrinkles in the skin.

The After Party Cleanup
When free radical parties are a little too loud, the clean up crew has to work harder than normal. As free radicals continue to rise, toxins accumulate until the cell is destroyed. Evoq’s skin nutrients provide antioxidants and oxygenation directly to the cells to alleviate the oxidative stress response and maintain energy production to allow the cells to detoxify and maintain integrity.

Evoq skin care naturally targets mitochondrial decay with our “Forces of Nature” approach which slows deterioration and simultaneously helping to sustain an optimize mitochondrial's functional ability in skin cells for long term skin health.

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 Skin Care Solutions + 2 Key Game Changers

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How Oxygen and Marine Plant Life brings
a New Force to your Skin's Vitality

A key component in almost every Evoq skin product encompasses components of the sea, and one specifically being phytoplankton.   This single-celled organisms lives amongst the various marine plant life species responsible for:

• approximately 70% of the earth’s oxygen supply
• a plethora of amino acids
• fatty acids
• antioxidants
• micronutrients and macronutrients
• minerals

Marine Biomimetic Super Power
By permeating the dermal membranes, marine plants deliver concentrated phytonutrients that directly benefit our cells rather than being held up in the digestive tract or decomposed and cleansed via the liver.

Cellular function, detoxification and overall immune support through   antioxidant content (which includes superoxide dismutase, Co2, astaxanthin, vitamin C and vitamin E) allows your body to more easily protect itself against free radicals.

Grab your oxygen mask and get a JUMP START!

Cellular Respiration with Oxygen
Our mind and bodies are bombarded by consistent variable levels of stress - slowing our reproduction capabilities. Validated research now offers the scientific proof of ways to “hack” and increase our health.

Get this, as we age, our skin’s ability to capture oxygen from blood circulation diminishes (50% by the age of 40).  

• Capillaries failure limits circulation of oxygen-loaded hemoglobin which is vital skin nutrients.
• Sluggish circulation interferes with the evacuation of toxins leading to skin aging symptoms including wrinkles, age spots and loss of tone and moisture.

The skin’s thirst for oxygen is vital in the production of collagen.  Evoq infuses liquid oxygen in our skin line to give an instant head start in promoting the dermal metabolic processes to enhance collagen formation resulting in the strengthening of the connective tissue matrix and firm, more youthful looking skin.

Like Meets “Like” and Inside Out
The electrolytes and micro-nutrients in marine life supports optimal cellular metabolism due to the composition of human plasma is said to be very similar to that of sea water. If this is the case, it would make sense to expand one’s regimen both externally and also internally with a diet beyond a land-based diet to also include the micro-nutrients, electrolytes and unique phytoproteins only afforded by ocean plant life.

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The Future of Your Skin + Care

Pretty dang powerful right?  Who wouldn’t want to infuse and resurrect their skin with oxygen and the most nutrient-dense food on Earth?

Evoq is a pioneer and leading research development company with authority on blending the most effective, high-potency phytonutrients with unparalleled botanical oils and terpenes in harmony with organic full spectrum hemp cannabinoids for rejuvenated skin.

We avoid fillers, harsh chemicals, estrogen mimickers, and artificial fragrances. We believe your skin, and the environment, deserve only pure, proven, non-toxic ingredients to nourish and support optimum cellular health.

 Xo . Kassandra

CBD and Breast Cancer [and what research says]

There’s a lot of research out there and it can be overwhelming!   I'm devoted to providing validated research that crystalizes clarity for you to get the information you need to help you and your family live healthier lives.

As you read through, I encourage you to frame this information with gratitude of the present knowledge we have available and the options from both the natural realms - and western medicine opportunities at hand when it comes to addressing cancer.   There is certainly no cure all - but as self advocates, knowledge is king ( ok...queen)!

CBD & Breast Cancer

Besides skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the United States. The great news is that many researchers have found evidence that CBD may be able to slow the progression of invasive breast cancer, which will affect approximately 1 in 8 U.S. women at some point in their lives.

CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the stalks, seeds, and flowers of cannabis plants like hemp. 

After breast cancer is identified and diagnosed, the efforts move towards inhibiting the  spread of the cancerous tumor. When reaching beyond the breast and nearby lymph nodes, it’s considered advanced, or metastatic.  

The great news is that studies over the recent years suggest that CBD may help inhibit metastasis in breast cancer cells. In 2014, researchers from the California Pacific Medical Research Center found that CBD appears to inhibit the Id-1 and Akt genes, which have been known to play a role in tumor growth.  Study: CBD Kills Breast Cancer Cells 

Here’s an excerpt from this study conducted by the  American Association for Cancer Research 

“It suggests that cannabinoid-based medicines may be useful for the treatment of most breast tumor subtypes, stating that “these compounds exert anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic [cell-killing], anti-migratory and anti-invasive actions in a wide spectrum of cancer cells in culture.” 

With a 1 in 8 stat, we all know a family who has been affected by breast cancer.   My hope is that whether we have a chronic or threatening disease, we shift to preventative care by using CBD as part of our self-care routines on a daily basis. 

The United States government has been resistant to recognizing the therapeutic properties of cannabinoids, but has now recently declared in agreement that it has medicinal benefits by creating a pharmaceutical synthetic form of CBD.  Cannabinoids vs. Cancer  

From the TOP - DOWN.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI), under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, updated its website to acknowledge the benefits of cannabinoids as a “treatment for people with cancer-related symptoms caused by the disease itself or its treatment.”

In short, the NCI describes CBD as potentially benefiting those with breast cancer in two separate capacities:

• CBD has demonstrated anti-cancer properties
• CBD can help patients manage symptoms related to cancer treatments

In Depth: The Findings of CBD’s Anti-Breast Cancer Properties

In its overview on cannabinoid research, the NCI highlights the findings of studies suggesting CBD is potentially beneficial for fighting and inhibiting the spread of breast cancer.

These anti-cancer effects may be related to CBD’s influence over the endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2receptors, as one study confirmed that CB1 and CB2 receptors are potential targets in breast cancer. However, an in vitro study looking at the effect of CBD on breast cancer found that the compound effectively “induced programmed cell death, independent of the CB1, CB2, or vanilloid receptors.”

In that in vivo study, CBD was able to inhibit the survival of breast cancer cells by inducing apoptosis, a process of programmed cell death. The higher concentration of CBD administered, the greater the anti-breast cancer effects were. At the same time, CBD had little effect on normal breast cells.

The NCI points out that other preclinical studies have found evidence of CBD’s anti-tumor effects in breast cancer. CBD has also shown to increase the uptake of traditional anti-cancer drugs to improve their efficacy for inducing apoptosis of cancer cells, according to the findings.

 “The potential benefits of medicinal [cannabinoids] for people living with cancer include antiemetic effects, appetite stimulation, pain relief, and improved sleep,” according to the NCI page.

Studies have found CBD to reduce nausea and vomiting caused by common cancer treatments like chemotherapy. In several animal models, the compound has also shown to have anxiolytic properties to reduce anxiety and regulate mood.

“CBD, in particular, is thought to have significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic activity without the psychoactive effect (high) of delta-9-THC,” reads the NCI page.

Other Groundbreaking Findings About Cannabinoids

The benefits from daily use of CBD are without bounds.  Attitudes toward cannabis are shifting as credible medical research efforts continue to reveal the plant’s exciting therapeutic potential.

Ample studies over the past decade, medical research has made intriguing discoveries about cannabis and its therapeutic effects. Studies have shown that medical cannabis:

• can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases
• reduces the debilitating seizures caused by epilepsy 
• reduces spasms experienced by those with multiple sclerosis 
• minimizes the neurological damage caused by spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries
• can boost bone density and assist in healing.

 OVERCOME FEAR WITH KNOWLEDGE

In conclusion, OVERCOME FEAR WITH KNOWLEDGE and share with friends and family.  Remain updated on the available resources to help you make an informed decision.

We've listened to the many questions people have raised, and have worked diligently to supply a comprehensive cannabinoid education and purchasable phyto-cannabinoids natural and organic medicinal tincture options for you to explore and experience.

Learn how cannabinoids naturally interacts with the body’s systems, and become clear on the quality versus confusion of the array of products available. If you decide cannabinoids are right for you, feel free to reach out with any questions you may have - I'm happy to help!  

This loving plant is here to stay, and while its not the "cure all," it's synergistic value it brings to the formulated components that surround it, bring extreme bioavailability and benefits to those that believe in it.  

All my love -  Kassandra 

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