Botanical Beauties

Benefits of Aloe Vera

2011-07-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

Chances are, you're familiar with using aloe vera on skin that's been left out in the sun too long. However, Aloe Vera's nutritional and healing properties are beneficial to the skin on a daily basis as well.

Why we use organic aloe vera juice as a base:

Research has shown aloe vera has the unique ability to regenerate cellular membranes and produce fibroblast cells (responsible for collagen production) up to eight times faster than normal cell reproduction.

It has been proven that aloe vera can soak into the skin almost four times faster than water. This allows other nutrients and botanical actives to penetrate far deeper into the underlying layers of the skin for optimal results.

Contained in Aloe Vera are almost 20 amino acids, calcium, magnesium, enzymes, vitamins, polysaccharides, nitrogen and other components that work together to heal and nourish your skin.

Aloe Vera increases the circulation of blood, which in turn facilitates an easier oxygen exchange between the cells. Aloe vera even has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects!

Products that use Organic Aloe Vera:

Niacin Complex Balancing Mist

($12, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Aloe Leaf Body Lotion

($18, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Day Light Organic Moisturizer

($24, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Health Tips & Beauty Tricks: Stay Hydrated

2011-07-06T09:00:00.000-07:00

Summer's heating up! Beat the heat by staying hydrated!

Research has shown that we begin to feel thirsty after we have lost 28% (the equivalent of two quarts) of the average 7 quarts of water in our bodies. At this point, it's important to rehydrate yourself or risk damage to your circulatory system.

But why wait until you begin to feel the effects of dehydration?

Sipping water through out the day will keep you hydrated and enable your body to flush out all of the toxins that are accumulating in your blood. The proper amount of water to drink a day varies per person, but the bottom line is this- Drink enough water so that you can urinate two quarts a day.

The Anti-Aging Collection

2010-08-12T10:38:00.000-07:00

Customers love our Anti-Aging Collection.

{and so do we!}

Check it out for yourself here.

Experience the new generation of healthy skin care!

Be Natural Organics On c.marchuska!

2010-08-10T11:05:00.001-07:00

Read Joanne's full interview with c.marchuska here!

c.marchuska makes chic and sustainable clothing for the style and eco-savvy, and shares our passion for staying green.

CMar: What are your views on sustainability?

Joanne: I have a strong commitment to buying sustainable ingredients. Every sustainable ingredient used in a personal care product ensures safer products that reduce the damage to our water, soil and air.

CMar: What are your favorite items from your line?

Joanne: My Anti-aging Collection is my all time favorite because these were the first products I formulated with pure, organic aloe vera juice as a base (instead of commonly used water). I use pure aspen bark extract as a preservation system in these products. It is outrageously expensive but well worth it, due to its ability to stimulate cellular activity and enhance anti-aging results. These products are truly state of the art and you really see a difference within weeks. Repeat sales have been amazing.

The Story of Stuff - Cosmetics

2010-07-29T12:28:00.000-07:00

It's no joke.
The stuff used in cosmetics and in so many other products are harmful. Just because you don't understand what Cocoyl Sarcosine is doesn't mean you should ignore it or assume it's safe.
Watch the video to get a better sense of what we're talking about.
You can check out a list of toxic ingredients to avoid here.

How To Zap A Zit

2010-07-08T10:45:00.000-07:00

Zits and pimples. We all had them at one point in our lives. They may even still be popping up when you're past your prime. Either way, it's time you learned how to get rid of them the right way so that you're not left with scars or spots, which are worse than acne itself. Even if you've finally cleared the field, pass along these tips and tricks to those who may still need it!

1. Take a needle that's been disinfected with rubbing alcohol and gently prick the pimple.
2. Take some tissue and wrap your index fingers around them.
3. Confidently but carefully push down and in. The zit will pop on its own if it's ready. Make sure to stop when or if blood or clear liquid comes out.
4. Walk away from the mirror!

Always wash your hands before you go in for the kill, figuratively speaking. Afterward, wipe the area with antiseptic solution. Exfoliating twice a week will help with getting rid of excess oils and dirt that clog your pores.

Try this:

AHA Facial Wash
($20, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Makeup Removal

2010-06-14T18:09:00.000-07:00

Whether it's been a long day or a fun night the one thing you must always remember to do for radiant skin is wash your face before hitting the sack! Our Rose Hip Seed Facial Cleanser and Eye Makeup Removal is made up of seaweed and rose hip seed, a foaming cleanser that is gentle yet powerful.

Changing your sheets and pillowcase about once a week will also provide an added bonus. Think of all the oil, dirt, and bacteria that accumulates and manifests on your skin for 8 hours at a time! Don't let your clean face go to waste each time you go to sleep.

If you're a snoozer and a bit too tired to bother with washing your face every day there are plenty of quick tricks you can use instead. Try keeping a pack of makeup removing sheets by your bed which you can use even if you're half asleep. Just wetting a small towel and moving it in gentle, small circles will help, as well as moisturizing your face and just tissuing it off.

Try this:

Foaming Rose Hip Seed Facial Cleanser
($18, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Deep Cleansing Oil Treatment and Eye Makeup Remover
($18, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Anti-Aging Tips

2010-06-14T18:01:00.000-07:00

Looking old but feeling young?

You may not be able to get your skin looking like it used to when you were in your 20s, but with a little work you can make a lot of change.

Of course it is important to eat well and exercise, so make sure to squeeze in at least 30 minutes of activity three times a week. Eating whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are a sure way to get the ever-important antioxidants.

Taking an anti-aging supplement will also boost your antioxidant intake.

Green tea has numerous health benefits, even when it comes to your skin. Green tea has been shown to protect against all types of cancer as well as dementia and heart disease. Start your day right or relax in the evening with a nice hot cup of this anti-aging miracle.

Protecting yourself from the sun may be one of the most important factors contributing to healthy, wrinkle-free skin. Kill two birds with one stone by using a moisturizer with SPF added in. Be Natural Organics' Anti-aging Collection is an aged skin's best friend. It includes all of our favorite age-defying products like the Daily Botanical Enzyme Peel, Sea Kelp Moisturizer, Mother of Pearl Facial Scrub, and much more. You can give it a try or even take our 4 step anti-aging challenge!

One of the easiest ways to improve your skin is to hydrate - both in and out! Drink plenty of water so your body can flush out toxins.

Our CoQ10 Balancing Mist contains the perfect mix of antioxidants and vitamins that will nourish and replenish your thirsty skin and give it a nutritional boost. All you need to do is spray this light mist on clean skin, rub on a moisturizer or serum and you're set. It can be used throughout the day whenever your skin needs a little pick me up.

Try this:

CoQ10 Balancing Mist
($12, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Sea Kelp Daily Moisturizer
($24, www.benaturalorganics.com)

Daily Botanical Enzyme Peel
($15, www.benaturalorganics.com)

When Life Gives You Lemons

2010-06-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

Lemons are packed with tons of nutrients, including Vitamin C. As an antioxidant, your skin's natural defense against free radicals, Vitamin C fights off unstable molecules (which come from environment pollutants, smoking, and sun exposure) that can age your skin. This little guy also helps with collagen production - the stuff that helps keep your skin from sagging and looking dull.

But don't just stop at lemons and lemonade! Here's a list of other fruits and veggies that will boost the appearance and feel of your skin:

Apples: Loaded with antioxidants, can control acne, and improve complexion.
Avocados: Work well as face masks.
Blueberries: Contain lots and lots of antioxidants. Produce collagen and keep skin supple and smooth. Same with many of the other berries. If you only eat one fruit, make it this one.
Carrots: Anti-acne and anti-aging.
Cucumbers: Can prevent pimples, blackheads, dryness, and wrinkles.
Peaches: Tighten skin, unclog pores, reduce wrinkles, lighten age spots.
Red Onion: Age spot remover.
Watermelon: Reduces blemishes.

Oxygen Facials: A lot of Hot Air?

2010-01-12T17:35:00.000-08:00

Oxygen Facials: A Lot of Hot Air?
Oxygen facials and products touting oxygen as a skin enhancer are hot right now. But are they just blowing hot air?
There are two ways to deliver oxygen (O2) to your face which are advertised as ways to make you look younger. The first is an oxygen facial, which, for about $500 a treatment, blasts oxygen at your face. This is a favorite of Madonna, who loves it so much that she dropped $7,000 to have her own unit at home.
Oxygen-peddling websites report that “pollutants” in modern cities have led to decreased oxygenation of your skin. This is bunk. The amount of oxygen in your skin depends markedly on your age and health. There is no evidence that pollutants decrease your skin’s oxygen levels.
You can dramatically increase the oxygenation of your skin right now — for free!
Ready?
Take a few deep, fast breaths (careful, don’t pass out). You have just significantly increased your skin’s oxygen level. Easy, huh?The amount of oxygen in your skin also depends on where you live. Your skin needs a certain amount of oxygen to remain healthy. Having lots more oxygen than what is needed does not make your skin younger or healthier. Your skin is not designed to take oxygen in from the outside (unless you’re a frog). It is somewhat analogous to getting into a bath tub to soak because you are very thirsty. When you get out of the tub, you will be wet and still very thirsty. It simply doesn’t work.
The second way that oxygen is touted to make you look younger is through facial products. Products that claim to deliver oxygen to your skin have never been shown in studies to increase O2 levels. Even if creams did provide some extra oxygen to the skin, the effects would last only minutes at best.
So why do so many people claim that it helps? It is likely that blasting air and water droplets on your face act like microdermabrasion, exfoliating and moisturizing your skin, giving you a soft glow afterward. That alone might be worth $500 to you, but I doubt it.
Post written by Jeffrey Benabio, MD.

Winter Honey Mask

2010-01-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

3 Tbsp of honey 3 Tbsp of milk
2 Tbsp of oatmeal 1 vitamin E capsule
Directions: Open vitamin E liquid capsule and mix together with remaining ingredients until well combined. Smooth onto clean face and neck. Allow nutrients to soak in 10-15 minutes. Exfoliate by gently massaging mask into skin for several minutes (add water if needed). Wipe off with warm damp cloth.
Honey - Provides mild antiseptic abilities, antioxidants and is a natural moisturizer having the ability to retain moisture.
Milk - Contains lactic acid, to help rid the dead skin cells on our skin’s surface. Milk also contains proteins, enzymes, amino acids, and antioxidants, which all benefit the skin.
Oatmeal - Excellent for calming skin. Relieves irritations and brings skin into balance.
Vitamin E - Due to its antioxidant activity, vitamin e is vital in protecting skin cells from ultra violet light, pollution, and other elements that produce cell damaging free radicals.
Your skin will be left soft, nourished, and balanced.

Charity Event

2009-09-27T12:25:00.000-07:00

Beaumont Hospital held their 11th Annual Sharing and Caring Symposium for breast cancer survivors this week. It was held at the Birmingham Community House in Birmingham, Mchigan. The event focused on the importance of healthy choices from toxin free paint, cleaning products and personal care products.

Be Natural Organics Skin Care products were recommended by Dr. Jennifer Green who spoke on the importance of chemical free skin care.

The owner of Be Natural Organics (Joanne O'Donnell) responded "I was thrilled by Dr. Green's endorsement and recommendation of Be Natural Organics". We are excited by the fact that consumers are now being educated to the harmful effects of synthetic chemicals in personal care products.

Jessica Bandyk

Why chemical free skin care?

2009-07-30T07:16:00.000-07:00

Research has shown the damage done to our bodies by excessive amounts of harmful toxins. The average consumer absorbs over 4.6 pounds of toxins into their bodies through personal care products alone. Many of these toxins are harmful to our bodies, accumulate in our organs and lower our resistance to fight disease.

The reason major companies use parabens, ureas, and a multitude of other harmful toxins to preserve products is due to the extended shelf life they provide. These products can sit in a hot warehouse for years without worrying about bacterial growth.

Diazolidinyl Urea and Imidazolidinyl Urea are commonly used to preserve skin care products. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has rated these chemicals in their highest toxic class and labeled them “known human carcinogens”, yet the FDA allows skin care manufactures to continue to use these chemicals as well as many other toxins. Europe has banned these urea’s from being used in skin care products.

Many European manufacturers actually have two different skin care formulations – one filled with harmful synthetic toxins for the US and the other with more expensive healthier alternatives for the European consumers.

The American Medical Academy (AMA) is now recognizing the term "Chemical Body Burden" which describes an individual’s chemical oad in their system. A major contributing factor in a person’s chemical build up is from personal care products.

Documentation show babies already having a chemical body burden at birth. Harmful toxins are accumulating in our organs and causing damage. Recently, parabens (an extremely common toxin used to preserve skin care products) have been found in breast tumors. The most dangerous of all parabens in skin care is methyl paraben.

There have been tremendous advancements in the organic and natural skin care industry. Chemists today have the ability to harness the actives in plant extracts, essential oils and other natural materials to preserve products without having to rely on dangerous synthetic toxins.

Be Natural Organics collaborates with chemists who share a passion for healthy skin care and the commitment to be a driving force in the removal of harmful toxins commonly used in skin care products.

There is so much deception in the skin care industry. Companies will tout organic ingredients while they continue to use harmful toxins to preserve them.

The only downside to buying fresh organic skin care is the 12 to 18 month shelf life along with keeping the products away from extreme heat and direct sunlight. That's a small price to pay to protecting ones body.

The natural and organic skin care industry is growing at a rapid clip of over 20% while the rest of the personal growth industry is lagging at only 3%. This reflects the desire consumers have in making healthier choices for their bodies.

Don’t be influenced by the hype of advertising, learn how to read the labels and know what to look for. It really is the responsibility of each individual to be an informed consumer. Many of the major skin care manufacturers with the largest advertising campaigns, use the smallest amount of beneficial actives and the highest amounts of toxic preservatives.

Research has shown that many of the toxins commonly used to preserve a product actually do damage to the cellular structure of the skin. In other words, you may be spending a lot of money on anti-aging products, only to be causing more damage than good to your skin.

To help consumers make educated choices, Be Natural Organics provides a free wallet size guide with a list of the most common harmful toxins to avoid when shopping for personal care items.

Go to: www.benaturalorganics.com, click on "First Time Customer Special" to receive your free "Protect Yourself" shopping card, and to obtain more information on the importance of healthy skin care.

Joanne