FitSugar

Home Spa Treatment: Aloe and Olive Oil Shampoo

FitSugar — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 03:00:00 -0800

One of the ways I like to chill out on the weekends is to give myself a little home spa treatment. I like to find the ingredients for my masque or bubble bath in the cupboards of my kitchen. My aesthetician has said if you wouldn’t want to eat it you shouldn’t put it on your face, or your hair for that matter. Plus, when you make you own beauty treatments you know that there are no funky ingredients or environmentally-unsound chemicals in them.

I found this recipe using the spa treatment finder over at iVillage. I think it is a great mild shampoo and I can pronounce the names of all the ingredients.

What you need:
1/2 oz. dried flowers: chamomile for blondes, hibiscus for redheads, and rosemary for brunettes
1/2 cup liquid castile soap
1 tsp. olive oil
2 tbsp. aloe vera juice

What you do:

Steep dried flowers in 1 cup boiling water (I used my Pyrex measuring cup). Cover and steep until cool.
Place castile soap, olive oil, and aloe vera juice into a bottle or jar.
Strain your herbal infusion and add 1/3 cup remaining liquid to olive oil mixture. Shake well.
Shampoo your hair with your new homemade shampoo and rinse thoroughly.

Why I like it: Natural castile soap is a plant based soap. Herbs and aloe vera make this a gentle cleansing shampoo with a fragrant, mild lather.

You should also check out Bella’s DIY home spa treatments too!

Source

10 Toxic Cosmetic Ingredients to Avoid

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 03:00:00 -0700

What you put on your body is just as important as what you put in it. Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it absorbs everything including toxins. If you are concerned about not eating unhealthy foods like trans fat, then you'll definitely want to know which synthetic ingredients you should watch out for in the products you use.

Methyl, Propyl, Butyl and Ethyl Parabens: Used as a preservative to inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life. Unfortunately, it can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes. Preliminary research found parabens in human breast cancer tumors.
Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA): These are used as foaming agents, but can cause allergic reactions, eye irritation, and dryness of the hair and skin. DEA and TEA are toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time, and are associated with cancer in lab animals.
Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea: Often used as preservatives, the American Academy of Dermatology has found these chemicals to be a primary cause of contact dermatitis (irritation caused by foreign substance). Both these chemicals release formaldehyde, which can be toxic.
Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate: This is a cheap, harsh detergent used in many shampoos for its ability to cleanse and foam. Often derived from petroleum, it causes eye irritation, dry scalp, skin rashes and other allergic reactions. Be on the lookout for pseudo-natural products that list this ingredient with the phrase "comes from coconuts" - it's still bad for you.
Petrolatum: Also known as petroleum jelly, this is a mineral oil derivative that can clog your pores. This in turn disrupts your body's natural ability to moisturize its own skin, leading to dryness and chapping. Manufacturers use it because it's really inexpensive.

Want to know what else you should avoid? Then read more

Propylene Glycol: Ideally this is a vegetable glycerin mixed with grain alcohol, both of which are natural, but it's usually made from synthetic chemicals. It has been known to cause hives and eczema. Beware of related chemicals labeled PEG and PPG.
PVP/VA Copolymer: A petroleum-derived chemical that's used in hair styling products and some cosmetics. Considered toxic since if inhaled, it can damage the lungs.
Stearalkonium Chloride: This toxic chemical was designed by the fabric industry for use as a fabric softener. Companies use it in hair conditioners and lotions because it's much cheaper than natural conditioning ingredients such as proteins.
Synthetic Colors: Labeled as FD&C or D&C and followed by a number, these make products look pretty but can be carcinogenic.
Synthetic Fragrances: Labeled simply as "fragrance," there's no way to tell what chemicals are actually in the product. People can get headaches, dizziness, rashes, and respiratory problems from them. People may also experience hyper-pigmentation, which means this chemical may cause brown spots to form on your skin.

Fit's Tips: Before buying beauty products, check the ingredients list. These ingredients can be found in make-up, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, perfumes, baby care products, sunscreens, toothpastes, nail products, and deodorants. If you're looking for a good brand that doesn't contain these nasty ingredients, check out Aubrey Organics.

Aubrey Organics is 100% Natural

FitSugar — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 14:30:00 -0700

I'm sure when you're in your favorite health food store, you've perused through the beauty section once or twice. Have you seen products made by Aubrey Organics? Chances are high you have since they have been making hair, skin and body care products for over 40 years.

Aubrey Organics products are 100% natural, and were the first certified organic processor. I love that these body care products are environmentally friendly, completely biodegradable, and their bottles are recyclable.

All Aubrey Organics products are completely natural, made with herbs, essential oils, and natural vitamins. No synthetic chemicals of any kind are ever used in any of their formulas.

They use liquid coconut oil in their soaps and shampoos, and coconut fatty acids and essential fatty acids in their creams and lotions, and a natural preservative of citrus seed and vitamins A, C and E. All of their formulas are still made by Aubrey Hampton (the creator), and hand-crafted in small batches in their Tampa, FL, manufacturing plant.

Aubrey Organics makes over 140 different all natural products for the hair and skin. From soaps, to hair color, to makeup, and even beauty products for your pets! Fab also clued me in to Aubrey's Organic perfumes. They're made from 100% essential oils.

Fit's Tips: You can order Aubrey Organics online, but if you're like me, you like to see and smell products before you buy them. In that case, you can look for a store near you that sells them.

Gym Bag Essential: Oscar Blandi 'Pronto' Dry Shampoo

FitSugar — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 11:00:00 -0700

Most of the time when I head to the gym during the day, I am rushing around when I get ready so I can come back and blog for you, my fabulous readers. Unfortunately I feel like my shampoo routine is a time killer and sometimes I just don't feel like shampooing because washing it once (and sometimes twice) a day can leave my hair so dry. So, DearSugar recently introduced me to 'Dry Shampoo' and I am loving it.

Basically dry shampoo solves the dilemma of dirty hair without a traditional cleansing process. With this dry shampoo you are able to refresh your hair and scalp without water. Oscar Blandi's Pronto Dry Shampoo ($19.00) is perfect for use after a workout at the gym when you don't have enough time to fully wash your hair. It would also be great if you don't belong to a gym, but still like to do the lunch break power run and need to freshen up somehow. Now, I still take a shower but am able to skip the hair washing session, which means I also get to skip the blow drying session and get back to work, well, pronto. Want to try it out? You can buy it from Nordstrom.com.

Coal tar (On the skin)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:13:19 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Coal Tar (kole tar)

Relieves drying, itching, flaking, scaling, or irritation of the skin caused by psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis.

Brand Name(s)

Neutrogena T/Gel, Neutrogena T/Gel Extra Strength, Fototar, DHS Tar, DHS Targel, Tera Gel, Doak Tar Shampoo, Reme-T, Ionil-T, MG 217 Medicated Tar, Duplex T, Betatar Gel, Ionil-T Plus, Polytar, Polytar Soap

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to coal tar.

How to Use This Medicine

Cream, Liquid, Shampoo, Soap

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
This medicine is for use on the skin only. Do not get it in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not use it on skin areas that have cuts or scrapes. If it does get on these areas, rinse it off right away.You should not use this medicine in or around the rectum (rear end) or in the genital or groin area.
This medicine is not for long-term use.
When bathing, you may pour 1 to 3 capfuls of Doak® Tar oil into warm bath water. You may apply Doak® Tar oil directly onto wet skin if used after taking a shower.
To use Doak® Tar shampoo, wet hair and scalp thoroughly with water. Work the Doak® Tar shampoo into a lather and gently massage it over your whole scalp for about 3 to 5 minutes before rinsing. Repeat this process one time and rinse thoroughly.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, apply it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to apply the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not apply extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of the used medicine container and any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Do not use cosmetics or other skin care products on the treated skin areas.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have a skin problem that involves a large area of your body. Tell your doctor if you are using other medicines or treatment for psoriasis, such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
The cream and soap forms of this medicine contain a chemical that may cause cancer.
Do not use this medicine for a skin problem that has not been checked by your doctor.
This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use a sunscreen when you are outdoors. Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Burning, itching, swelling, or redness in the treated skin area.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5570

Nature's Gate: Good For You AND the Environment

FitSugar — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 02:00:00 -0700

If you're like me, you can spend hours in a health food store, perusing through the aisles of natural snack foods, fresh produce, and organic dairy products.

Once I get to the beauty section - forget it. I love to look at all the brands of lotions, shampoos, conditioners, lip balms, make-up, and soaps. I read all the labels and smell everything.

The amazingly rich scent is what drew me to Nature's Gate products, and it's what had me going back to try more. My first "taste" was of the Shampoos and Conditioners. The Herbal scent for All Hair Types was a staple in my shower for many years. Then I switched to Chamomile for its unforgettable calming effects.

Since I loved their hair care products, I had to try their lotions too. I'm sorry to say that although the Herbal lotion made with aloe vera and organic jojoba oil smells wonderful, the moisturizing effects didn't last as long as I hoped. I think it might be my personal preference though, like when I buy all-natural crackers and I wish they had more flavor. Everyone's hair and skin have different needs and you may LOVE Nature's Gate lotions.

Nature's Gate also has a newer line of organic hair care, baby care, lotions, soaps, and deodorants. They make anti-aging products, whitening toothpaste, mouthwash, sunscreen, and self-tanners. If you're wondering, they also have a line for acne treatment.

What I love most about Nature's Gate products is that they are ecologically safe, environmentally friendly, and cruelty-free. All their products are packaged in recyclable containers and/or are made out of recycled materials. I know that buying these products supports a company that supports the Earth and all its inhabitants.

Fit's Tips: If you can't find Nature's Gate products at your local health food store, you can order from the Nature's Gate website.

Locker Room Time Savers

FitSugar — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 08:45:00 -0700

For those of us who sneak out of the office to get in a quick workout at lunch, anything that can cut time down in the locker room is helpful.

Forget layering sports bra and shirt, instead slip into an all-in-one sports top with built in bra.
Only pack the necessities in your bag so you're not left fumbling around to find your gear. I like to put my socks inside my shoes the night before so they're already together.
Avoid spending time unraveling iPod cords by investing in a cord keeper. I like the SmarterWrap cord manager ($4.99).
Instead of using a headband, put hair in a loose ponytail. This will preserve volume and eliminate time at the blow dryer post workout.
Take a "body shower" and use dry shampoo to freshen up hair.

There are a few more time saving tips for the locker room, so read more

Forget about fidgeting with bottles in the shower, wash your face and bod with the cleansing cloths. I like the ones by Dove.
Keep makeup in a see through case (or even ziplock bag) so you can see what you're grabbing for and aren't left searching frantically for your eyeliner.
If possible, avoid the prime lunch rush and head to the gym a little earlier or later to avoid waiting in lines for the showers, hair dryers, etc.

Source

Shampoo - swallowing

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 18:59:45 -0700

Overview

Definition
Where Found
Symptoms
Home Treatment
Before Calling Emergency
Poison Control, or a local emergency number
What to expect at the emergency room
Expectations (prognosis)

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Shampoo is a liquid used to clean the scalp and hair. This article describes the effects of swallowing a liquid shampoo.

Where Found

Various liquid shampoos

Symptoms

Home Treatment

Shampoo is considered relatively nontoxic (nonpoisonous). If an allergic reaction occurs, seek immediate medical help.

Call poison control for further information.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

The patient's age, weight, and condition
The name of the product (ingredients and strengths, if known)
The time it was swallowed
The amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can be called from anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the United States use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Take the container with you to the hospital, if possible.

See: Poison control center - emergency number

What to expect at the emergency room

An emergency room visit may not be necessary.

If a visit takes place, the health care provider will measure and monitor the patient's vital signs, including temperature, pulse, breathing rate, and blood pressure. The patient may receive medicines to treat symptoms.

Expectations (prognosis)

Swallowing shampoo is usually not poisonous. Patients usually make a full recovery.

Review Date: 10/24/2007

Reviewed By: Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_002737

Gym Bag Essential: Cinnamon Buns to Go

FitSugar — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 15:30:00 -0800

I know most of you read the title of this post and are now thinking I must have gone off the deep end, but bear with me here . . .

Cinnamon Buns To Go ($6) from Philosophy is actually a great product that is a space-saving addition to any gym bag because it is actually three shower essentials in one: shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Not only does it smell fab, but it's great for a quick clean up at the gym. Santa left me a bottle in my stocking this past Christmas and I actually am more of a fan for using it just as a body wash/shampoo (my thick hair needs more conditioner than this little bottle can provide), but it's still great knowing that I can wash from head to toe with it if need be. I love the smell and also love that people always ask me where I got it in the locker room. Buy it online here.

Locker Room Time-Savers

FitSugar — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:00:13 -0700

If you use your lunch hour to work fitness into your work day, saving time in the locker room is a must. Here are some tips to try.

If you can get away with it, wear a slip into an all-in-one sports top with built in bra so you don't have to hassle with layering. If you need the support, find a sports bra that opens with a hook and eye contraption because they are easier to get on and off. I like this one by Danskin.
Clear your gym bag of inessential items so you don't have dig around extra gear. I put my socks inside my shoes the night before so they're already together.
Avoid spending time unraveling iPod cords by investing in a cord keeper. I like the SmarterWrap cord manager ($4.99).
Instead of using a headband, put hair in a loose ponytail. This will preserve volume and eliminate time at the blow dryer post workout.

There are a few more time-saving tips for the locker room, so read more

Simplify your shower time and just soap up your body and use dry shampoo to freshen up hair.
Keep makeup in a see through case (or even Ziploc bag) so you can see what you're grabbing for and aren't left searching frantically for your eyeliner.
If possible, avoid the prime lunch rush and head to the gym a little earlier or later to avoid waiting in lines for the showers, hair dryers, etc.

Have any time saving tips ~~up your sleeve~~ in your gym bag? Please share them in the comments section below.