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Brand, Essentially Lili Products, Skincare Tips, Travels

What 21st Century Makeup Contains

Posted on by Lili Giglia
Makeup containing Parabens
02
Sep

What 21st Century
Makeup contains

Following on from Ancient times,
the ingredients contained
in products are a different kind of toxic.

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In the last blog, I wanted to share a bit about the history of Santorini, Crete and the Minoan civilization, and shared the kinds of ingredients used by the Ancient Greek, Egyptians, Romans and Queen Elizabeth I.I must say that it seems QEI had the worst result in the end as she suffered the most from lead poisoning combined with pox and rotting teeth.There’s one way to encourage our kids to brush their teeth! Picking up where we left of:

From 1800-1900s, toxic lead and copper which was used for facial powder is replaced with Zinc Oxide. Another ingredient Ceruse, which also comes from white lead, was later declared poisonous.Health issues like muscle paralysis, facial tremors and death were thought to be caused by this. Queen Victoria regards make-up as ‘improper’ for everyone except for those in the theatre!

During the Edwardian times, the pressure for hostesses to appear youthful increases, resulting in a rise of cosmetic purchases.Beauty salons become secretly more popular, as many of the customers enter through back doors to hide the fact they need help to maintain their ‘youthful appearance’.Imagine that, hiding your appointments to the beauty parlour, so that others wouldn’t know you were getting help with your ageing skin!

In a previous Blog, I wrote about the horrible ingredients contained in a lot of modern-day products.You can click here to see the full details of that Blog: Pick Your Ingredients.

So let’s fast forward to what 21st Century makeup & skincare products contain.

• Detergents called P-phenylenediamine, 4-MMPD Sulphate, Diaminobenzene, Ammoniated Mercury and Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS/SLES) & Foaming agents should be avoided. Found in soaps, detergents, shampoos, mouthwash, hand cream, cleansers, hair dyes (Permanent & Semi Permanent) as well as toothpaste.The mucous membranes of the mouth is the main source of absorption, storing the detergents in the liver, heart, lungs and brain. The skin can become irritated, can cause hair loss, whilst prolonged exposure can cause skin damage.
• Solvents derived from Petroleum found in brake & hydraulic fluid like anti-freeze. Includes Propylene, Butylene & Glycol, Mineral oils & petrolatum. Used as a humectant, they penetrate the outer layers of the skin, leaving a film on the skin, trapping moisture, toxins & waste that would otherwise be eliminated through the skin.These ingredients are found in deodorant, shaving gel, conditioner, shampoo, toothpaste, baby wipes, lotions, cosmetics such as foundation creams, mascara, lipsticks & suntan lotion.These ingredients are odourless and colourless, are cheap and allow the ingredients to combine well.Side-effects include:
* Solvents can irritate the skin and may cause dermatitis & conjunctivitis. Ingestion may cause pulmonary oedema, brain damage, hypoglycaemia, intravascular haemolysis.
* respiratory & throat irritations, central nervous system depression, blood & kidney disorders.

• Bleaching Agents: Hydroquinone and Kojic Acid are whitening agents used to bleach the skin.
• Proyply-Alcohol is an antiseptic used in cosmetics, shampoos, shaving products, waterless hand cleansers, mouthwash (25-30%) and in the preparation of bottled water, carbonated drinks and decaffeinated coffee.In the mouthwash, it has been linked to mouth and throat cancers.
• Preservatives, Q15, Antiseptic, includes Parabens Includes Parabens (methyl-, propyl-, butyl- ethyl-) Proyply-Alcohol. These have also been found in carbonated drinks. Parabens are added to stop microbial growth and extend the shelf life of the products.Many Skincare Products contain Parabens, those with citrus seed may have been sprayed with parabens.They can be harmful if inhaled or swallowed, they can cause irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract.It can cause allergic reactions on the skin, of which symptoms include itching, redness and pain.And it can affect hormones and have been found in Breast tumours.

• Body Acidity regulators like Ethanloamines used with preservatives like Diazolidinyl Urea. These are found in soaps, shampoos, bubble bath, lotions, cosmetics, laundry detergents.It can severely irritate body tissues, can cause dermatitis and may be corrosive to the eyes.It prevents bacterial growth, though it’s not effective against fungi.These are acidity regulators and used normally with other Ingredients like DEA Cocamide. Amines react with nitrosating agents to form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.

• Nanoparticles: include titanium dioxide & zinc oxide for sunscreen products. They are ultra-fine particles which possess certain properties due to their tiny size.This allows them to accumulated in the body, possibly by topical use.May trigger potentially harmful chemical reactions.

• Chemical blocks: may be absorbed by the skin and work by absorbing the UV light.This causes a chemical reaction in the molecule of the block, which may release free radicals. The skin damage can cause photosensitivity and blockers known to do this include: octocrylene, octyl-methoxycinnamate (octinoxate), benzophenone-3, (oxybenzone) and benzophenone-4 (sulisobenzone). If these penetrate the skin before it absorbs the UV photon, then these free radicals are released into the skin.It can increase the risk of cancer and contributes to skin ageing.

• Synthetics like fragrances & colours, Talc & Toluene. Phthalates listed as Perfumes / Fragrances preserves synthetic scents. These are often not listed on the ingredients but are contained in health & beauty products like Nail polish, lacquers and soft plastics such as pet and infant chew toys. Toluene acts as an endocrine disruptor, potential carcinogen, may cause birth defects.Whilst Talc Is chemically similar to Asbestos. It is found in many baby products, including feminine powders, condom lubricants and cosmetics.As a feminine powder or spray, it can cause ovarian cancer. There are Over 200 Synthetic Fragrances used in Cosmetics. The label only has to state ‘Fragrance’ so you have no way of knowing which of the 200 are in your product.The fragrance can mask the product going off, provide no benefits, so best avoided.Adversely affects male sperm, increases testosterone and oestrogen, has been found in Breast Cancer.

• Preservative: Parabens, Benzoyl Peroxide, many of which are toxic and come from questionable sources. to see what kind of other products are included.
• UV Filters and Sunscreen Agents: Refer to a previous blog about the shocking ingredients contained in sunscreens: The Shocking News About Sunscreens.Ingredients include Avobenzone, Mexoryl, Oxybenzone (a hormone), Benzophenone, which are UV Filters that are meant to block or absorb UVA rays.Titanium Dioxide helps block both UVA and UVB. This is enough to make you feel sick just reading to this point.

But wait, there are some fabulous ingredients derived from plants, herbs, and the ground which are amazing too!

Images: Edwardian Make-up in 1908; & Chemical Lab, Coloured Beads to represent unnatural ingredients, vs green beads for natural.

Always check that the source is plant-based.
• Essential Oils, including Lavender, Frankincense, Cypress, Sweet Orange, Myrrh, Rose, Palmarosa, Tea Tree, Sandalwood & Jasmine

• Butters like Cocoa & Shea Butter, with Vegetable Oils like Avocado, Jojoba, Castor & Wheatgerm Oils. These are known as Emollients which help calm, soothe and heal the skin.

* Castor Oil: is a thicker vegetable oil, which acts as a barrier, emollient and lubricant, found mainly in lipsticks and moisturisers.
* Jojoba Oil: is also very similar to skin pH and human sebum, being able to effectively penetrate the skin.It moisturises and naturally renews cells.
* Avocado Oil: is rich in vitamins, is a great skin conditioner, moisturiser and is absorbed easily by the skin.

• Soothing Agents: that help calm, soothe and heal the skin. These can include a variety of ingredients.
* Aloe Vera has the same pH as skin, is extremely protective and soothing as well as being a natural oxygenator, allowing oxygen to be drawn and held to the skin.It is also a natural astringent, and its best form is directly from the plant.
* Allantoin: also has soothing healing agents and calming properties.
* Camphor: alleviates itching, irritation, redness and acts as a cooling agent.
* Olive Oil: contains antioxidants called secoiridoids and these activate gene signatures that assist anti-aging and reduced cellular stress, as mentioned in the previous newsletter.

• Other Emollients, Emulsifiers & Surfactants: include:
* Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth 20, Cetearyl Alcohol these emollient or lubricants allow for the emulsifying process of mixing oil and water phases of skincare making, which are also known as a binding Agent.
* Isopropyl Isostearate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Isopropyl Myristate form a film on the skin when applied, allowing for easily absorption.They are contained in pre-shaving, after-shaving, shampoos, bath oils, deodorants, antiperspirants, creams and lotions.
* Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride: works as a barrier agent, lubricant and solvent found in foundations.
* Emulsifier & Surfactants include: Glyceryl Oleate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Cocoate (surfactant), Glyceryl Stearate SE (pearlizing/opacifier), otherwise known as a binding Agent. These ingredients allow for the emulsifying process of mixing oil and water phases of skincare making, whilst the surfactant gives the foaming and cleansing aspect. Pearlizing allows products like shampoo to be a pearl type colour instead of transparent, whilst opacifiers are added to transparent cosmetics to make them more impervious to visible light.

• Waxes: sourced from a variety of natural sources, these act as a barrier agent or binder.These include:
* Beeswax: can be used to blend oil with water components, and is a great barrier to protect the skin, found in skincare and make-up.
* Candellila & Carnauba Wax: found in lipsticks, creams, deodorant sticks and hair removal products, and used as a binder as well as barrier agent.
* Kaolin Wax: is found in masks for oily / combination skin types, and is an oil absorbing powder that gives not only colour, but slip.

• Himalayan Salts, course sugar, Herbs, clay, mud, flowers, leaves, roots, nuts, seeds, beeswax, milk, honey, yoghurt & natural fats.

• Water: Found in many products as the basis of the formulations.It should be distilled, deionized or purified water.

• Vitamins: A (Retinol, or Retinyl Palmitate), C (Ascorbic Acid, an antioxidant and preservative), E (Tocopherol, an antioxidant which can prevent UV damage) & B (Pathenol, a humectant – is what helps retain moisture).

• Antioxidants: Butylated Hydroxy Toluene (BHT) and Resveratrol, which is found in seeds, stems and leaves of grape vines.This protective antibiotic is produced when the plant is under stress, whether caused by drought, ultraviolet irradiation, inflammation or fungal attack.Other antioxidants are Vitamin C and E.

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids: citric, glycolic and lactic acid assist with exfoliating the layers of the skin, improving the texture and allowing the absorption of active ingredients, reducing wrinkles and restoring moisture.These are typically found in anti-aging skincare.

• Salicylic Acid: (beta hydroxy acid) helps reduce oiliness, acne and the appearance of fine lines, found in chemical peels.

• Glycerine: is also a humectant, which helps keep moisture and hydrate the skin, providing a barrier.

• Hyaluronic Acid: can hold water in the skin and is commonly used for deep hydration in anti-aging products.

• Lecithin: is a water attracting agent that allows for easy spreading, hydration and improves the texture of the skin.

• Silicones: Cyclomethicone & Dimethicone are molecules which gives the smooth texture, slip & glide factor to cosmetic products without blocking pores. These are adding widely in hair styling, skincare and make-up products.

• Lanolin Derivatives: from dewaxed lanolin is used in skin moisturisers, minimising the stickiness of creams and lotions.The Lanolin alcohol however, is used to thicken shampoos and bath gels, giving the cosmetic products a high gloss and creamy texture. Some are reacting to lanolin in products.

• Caffeine: believe it or not, alleviates puffiness under the eyes.

Images: Different Ingredients include Niaouli Plant, Flowers of Helichrysum italicum, otherwise known as Immortelle Essential Oil, Coloured Clays, Chamomile Flowers.

We have definitely come a long way from Ancient times, in both good and bad ways.Whilst the makeup cosmetics of the past included minerals and plants which enhanced their beauty but gave the impression of nobility, purity, wealth and stature, they were unknowingly poisoning themselves with items like lead. Despite the evolution of the ages from ancient times, we have been applying cosmetic products and treatments to maintain our youthful appearance.The difference is that today’s cosmetics contain far more harmful ingredients in their mass production, allowing products to be stored for years, to be kept in direct sunlight in the shop-front windows and have a uniform consistency when applied to the skin. These toxins are absorbed by our cells and distributed throughout our body causing more harm which is extremely scary.

Cosmetics is a multi-billion-dollar industry that appeals to creating an illusion of perfection, of being better than what we already are, of changing what we don’t like about ourselves, covering it up or using applications to enhance our overall look.Then we add modern technology and social media which helps to constantly push us to manipulate our real image.Whether it’s through photo-shop, airbrushing, beauty apps, image enhancers or other gadgets, some of us are using these to create or enhance our moods, change our colour, improve our shape and size to perfect this unrealistic image that we want the others to see, hiding what’s real and true.

But everyone is doing it, from movie stars, singers and influencers, those that are revealing too much, wearing heaps of make-up and portraying this almost exaggerated vision of what they regard as ‘beautiful’.Will we ever are comfortable enough in our own skin to embrace our beauty from within? Will we constantly make changes to improve or finding alternative solutions instead. How do we encourage each other, especially our youth to ‘Love Their Own Skin?

What I love is helping you find your inner beauty & confidence with simple self-love which starts by taking care of yourself first. Whether it’s watching what & how much you eat, what you’re applying to your skin, being aware of the ingredients contained in the products that you’re using, and making lifestyle changes to improve your overall health. This is the beginning of a beautiful journey with yourself, loving who you are and Being Your Own Kind of Beautiful

Products Hamock Episkopi Heraklion

BLOG PARTICIPATION:

    • What 21st Century makeup contains
    • Have you tried the Essentially Lili range, and if so, what’s your favourite products?
    • Feel free to comment and share your personal stories below.

My Health Studies include from 2016-2019 Diplomas in Aromatherapy, Holistic Skincare Products, Clinical Nutrition, Stress Management, Reflexology, Holistic Pain Management. I’m a Member of International College of Holistic Medicine.I’m currently studying Clinical Nutrition for Over 50s.

My aim is to help you get the results you want as I have already been on that hard journey to overcome the autoimmune disorder. If you wish to know more about Clinical Nutrition and how to kick start your health, book a private Consultation. Please send an email to info@essentiallylili.com should you need further assistance.  At Essentially Lili, the products made are all using 100% Natural Ingredients.  See the wide variety of Products available on the webpage.

Shou ldyou need help in deciding, start by reading the Reviews & Testimonials about other Customers who have enjoyed using the products.  We have had some amazing Before & After results from Clients using the All-Natural Skincare products.  Please don’t forget to write your comments and reviews on our pages to share the love with others.

See the Blog Library for previous writings about Alopecia Areata, Face Mapping, Dry Skin in Winter, Raiding Your Fridge, Keratosis Pilaris Tips, Anguish of Acne/Rosacea, How to deal with Cystic Acne & Understanding Your Body. Your feedback allows us to improve the content and information provided and products made.

We look forward to hearing from you, With Love Essentially Lili x

Check out the Gallery of Pictures – Ingredients contained in 21st Century Essentially LIli Magic Bundle of products, Essential Oils, Lavender batches from Ticino, and Cool Eyes.

Brand, Essentially Lili Products, Skincare Tips, Travels

Getting Ready for Summer

Posted on by Lili Giglia
Sunblocks All-Good & Babo
30
Apr

Getting Ready for Summer

The weather is changing
& the sun will be coming out.
Are you ready?

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What happened to the beginning of the year? One minute we’re putting our winter woollies on and watching the snowfall, the next, the blossoms have come and gone and April is almost finished.It’s taken me awhile to get organised with ordering my next batch of Sunblocks for the summer.But finding the right ones for me came from trial and error as far back as I can remember.

Growing up in Australia, I spent a lot of my days outside or at the beach jet-skiing with my siblings and friends.I remember the first time we went jet-skiing, we ached so much from doing it all wrong that we couldn’t move at the end of the day. We laughed so much and had such a great time.

In Australia, the sun is so strong that it’s recommended to ‘Slip Slop and Slap’ protection all the time. Applying sunscreen to my face was always a risk for me.I tried using cricketers’ zinc but found it so harsh on my face.It became so hard that I could only remove it by scrubbing my already sensitive skin. If I used creamy sunscreens, my face would become clogged and prone to breaking out in Acne.
Urgh, the dread for me trying to protect my skin without causing other problems.

For quite some time, I found sunblock that is thicker in size than a regular lip balm which is easy to apply and suits my skin just right. Look for those with SPF Factor 30+. I apply mine before going out in the sunshine. Gently massage the sunblock it your skin, particularly around the eyes, nose and face. To slow down the aging process, avoid roasting your face directly under the sun.

If you’re sharing sunblock with your immediate family, wipe the top off beforehand. This will prevent anything from one’s face being passed to yours. I don’t usually allow anyone else to use my sunblock.

Wear a hat to shade your face, or a shirt/ T-shirt whilst walking around to prevent unnecessary burning and sun damage. When the clouds are out but the weather is muggy, be aware that you can still get burnt from the UV Rays of the sun. We don’t even realise how hot the sun until after our skin is stinging, red or covered in discoloured sunspots. Of course, you could style it up like Audrey Hepburn and Sophie Loren with a classy headscarf and huge sunglasses too!

Keep yourself hydrated, preferably with water. Whilst we’re out in the sunshine swimming in the beach, lake, pool or river, we are refreshed and cooled down. When we get out to dry off, the sun draws not only the water from the surface of our skin, but that which is within. It’s important to remain hydrated, with water, fruits and other refreshing options available during the summer.

Gallery: Riaci Beach Calabria Italy & Essentially Lili all-natural skincare products that you can use for after-sun care.

After sun care is extremely important too. We often forget about taking care of our skin should be part of our daily life, as it’s the only one we’re going to get. Once we’re returned from enjoying the summer weather, beach and scenery, we start the whole age appropriate after care routine. This will ensure the skin is replenished from being outside. It will also keep that glowing tan healthy looking too.
Re-hydrating the skin is just as important as drinking water.

What we use on holidays or during the summer:
• For the Kids, we use the Natural Baby Moisturising Oil which is easy to apply and gentle enough from their faces to their feet.
• Dad uses the Hydrating Face Balm as it smells of Sandalwood and keeps his skin feeling wonderful soft.
• For me, it’s a combination of products starting with my cleansing to ensure that the sunblock has been removed. Choose from either the Cypress Cleansing Balm which is made with Beeswax, Butters and Essential Oils or the Oil based Sunflower Cleanser
• Then I use the Frankincense Face Serum with the Nourishing Face Balm to hydrate and protect my skin.
• Depending on what we bring with us, we apply either the Jazz Body Butter , the Geranium Hands & Body or the Mint Body Butter on our shoulders, arms, tummy and legs.Either one is gorgeous with its natural scent and feels lush as it melts into the skin and keeps it hydrated for such a long time.
• And don’t forget your feet especially if you’re planning to wear open shoes or sling-backs!!Peppermint Feet keeps those heels soft and helps prevent fungal infections and smelly feet. But if you’re expecting or nursing, use the Tango Twinkle Toes or the Lime Foot Repair instead.

But don’t despair if you have damaged your skin already.I made the Sun Kissed Balm to assist with sunspots and discolouration caused by the sun.This product can only be used at night time to prevent your skin becoming more sensitive to the sun.

This month I have bought extra Sunblocks. Should you wish to get some let me know so that I can do another bulk order for you.It will include a portion of the delivery cost to save you money ordering yourself.

BLOG PARTICIPATION:

  • What’s your favourite sunblock product?</li/>
  • Have you ever considered using Sunblock versus Sunscreen on your face?
  • Have you had any sunshine mishaps?
  • Feel free to comment and share your personal stories below.

    About Lili & Essentially Lili

    My Health Studies include from 2016-2019 Diplomas in Aromatherapy, Holistic Skincare Products, Clinical Nutrition, Stress Management, Reflexology, Holistic Pain Management. I’m a Member of International College of Holistic Medicine. I’m currently studying Clinical Nutrition for Over 50s.

    My aim is to help you get the results you want as I have already been on that hard journey to overcome the autoimmune disorder. If you wish to know more about Clinical Nutrition and how to kick start your health, book a private Consultation. Please send an email to info@essentiallylili.com should you need further assistance.  At Essentially Lili, the products made are all using 100% Natural Ingredients.  See the wide variety of Products available on the webpage.

    Shou ldyou need help in deciding, start by reading the Reviews & Testimonials about other Customers who have enjoyed using the products.  We have had some amazing Before & After results from Clients using the All-Natural Skincare products.  Please don’t forget to write your comments and reviews on our pages to share the love with others.

    See the Blog Library for previous writings about Alopecia Areata, Face Mapping, Dry Skin in Winter, Raiding Your Fridge, Keratosis Pilaris Tips, Anguish of Acne/Rosacea, How to deal with Cystic Acne & Understanding Your Body. Your feedback allows us to improve the content and information provided and products made.

    We look forward to hearing from you, With Love Essentially Lili x

Brand, Essentially Lili Products, Skincare Tips

Treat Cystic Acne in your 30’s

Posted on by Lili Giglia
Au Zurich
30
Jan

Treat Cystic Acne
in your 30’s

To get your skin feeling fabulous
with that all-natural glow.

QR BLOGJAN18

You can remember your teens like it was yesterday – going through your body’s changes, hormones, studying, having that crush on that cutest boy/girl at school. Some of us had those awkward braces to wear for straightening our teeth. Does that ring a bell? Probably the worst part about our teens is the acne breakouts. Just when you think it’s all sorted, another one rears its ugly head and screams at you when you get up … ‘ GOOD MORNING I AM A NEW ZIT & I AM HERE RIGHT ON YOUR FOREHEAD, NOSE, AND CHIN FOR EVERYONE TO SEE’ … Oh-M-Gee, Totally Cringeworthy.

How did you feel during those times? Embarrassed, self-conscious, frustrated, worried about what people were going to think of you? What was the first thing you would do? Ok, 3rd thing, because the first thing was probably want to crawl back into bed and hide, the 2nd thing you wanted to do was POP IT and so the 3rd thing you wanted to do was cover it up.

But what if you’re a boy or as we say in Australia, a young fella, bloke? You can’t put on foundation or cover-up without being laughed at… or can you? Some kids were ‘lucky’ when the didn’t get so many on their faces, but they had them on their shoulders and back. During the wintertime when no-one sees them, it’s no big deal, but when the summer arrives, that hidden factor suddenly comes to the surface for everyone to see.

My parents grew up in Sicily, Italy, and were eating a lot of whole foods from the land, which was not processed or spoilt by Commercial pesticides. When we were teenagers, the association with the foods we were eating with allergies and skin problems were not linked.It’s ironic because our parents had such great skin with a natural, healthy glow about them, whilst the generation after us were showing a different story. Many were overweight and their skin was showing more spots, acne or other problems.

Whilst I write this, I want you to understand that I was one of those teens – overweight, spots, eating secretly when no-one was watching and trying to overcome not only issues like Acne but Eczema as well.

Today I have noticed that this ‘teen cycle’ is happening again for those in their ’20s, ’30s and often in the ’40s. I’m sure if you hated it then, you will be feeling even more frustrated and self-conscious as an adult with kids looking like a teenager, right?
But why is it happening? There are a number of reasons why:

• The foods we eat – Sometimes what we are eating no longer agrees with our internal gut system. It’s become sluggish and is working like an old car that needs to have its oil changed.
• Our bodies are changing – There’s no date for when this should start to happen to us, but it will at some stage begin.
• Stress – This can be the biggest killer. Stress can mess up our minds, our relationships, our work environment and ultimately our bodies.
• Skincare routine – Often we use products that are too harsh as they strip the necessary natural oils from our skin’s reserves. In doing so, the skin’s oils are taken away, causing the body to reproduce more oil to replenish what’s missing.This tends to create a vicious cycle: the body replenishes the oils – we are told to remove the excess – the body reproduces the oils – we remove them again – etc.
• Hydration – Are you drinking 2 litres of water a day to keep your body replenished?
• Time – Do you have unrealistic expectations and are you wanting everything to go away quickly?

Gallery: My daughter’s Art with Evanesce Balm & Magic Serum, Happy Customers Andrea & Helen, Andrea’s Products, Cool Eyes.

How to help and manage these:

• Maintaining a well-balanced diet where there is a lot of healthy varieties & colours is a great way to keep your body functioning at all levels. This is particularly important if you are suffering from other ailments like Allergies and Intolerances, Hashimotos, Diabetes & even more serious conditions like Cancer. Whilst some of you can still have your indulgent ‘cheat days’, try to ensure it’s not every day.

• Being aware of our body changes and what is happening from the beginning will help with the next phase of life. Whether our changes are monthly related, hormonal or the commencement of the pre-menopausal stage, our bodies will begin to adjust.
Seeking out others who have already been on that route is also a great idea – why suffer when learning from someone else’s journey can save you the hassle?

• Try to de-stress and unwind to allow our minds to calm down, giving our bodies a chance to rebalance. Some love to do Yoga, Pilates, spa treatments, massage, running, hiking or just getting some rest. Whatever activity you choose to do, keep a journal nearby where you can write what’s bothering you as part of the de-stress process. </p/>

• The right skincare routine is also necessary, and when you find what works for you, stick to it. Unless your body and skin tell you it’s time for a change. Start with a gentle cleansing routine, removing your makeup, washing your face and neck. Then apply a concentrated serum if you have one, or a gentle face balm to help replenish your skin. Your skin should feel soft, especially the next morning when you run the ‘back of your hand’ over your face. I still love doing this today!!!

Please keep in mind that if you have had skin problems for a longer period of time, the overnight factor will need a longer period of time to see the results.

• Water is the source of life – The reality is that water is a daily necessity, as it helps our bodies get rid of toxins, helps replenish our cells, as well as keep us hydrated from within.
Remember, whilst your skincare keeps your skin moisturised, the water intake from within keeps it hydrated.

• Turn back time – We all want the fairy godmother to wave her wand and make all our problems go away overnight. I know what that feels like first hand, waking up every morning to inspect how good or bad my skin looked. The reality is that if you have had a long-term skin condition, it will need time to repair, recover, and to give you that glow back.

Some of you are still shocked when I explain what my skin used to look like as a teenager, covered from face to thighs in weeping and bleeding Eczema. I have no photos of that time in my life, where I saw myself as hideous, so I kept myself indoors for 2 months, away from life.To get well, I had to do things the hard way, seeking help to get my life back on track.

I had to eliminate so many foods and drinks from my diet, to clear my body of years of toxins, caused by medicine, antibiotics, and foods.
All I wanted to be a whole lot of ‘normal’. It didn’t happen overnight, but with persistence, patience, encouragement, goodwill, strength, a positive attitude together with love and support, I got through to the other side. This is what I always try to reassure you with – it will happen, though be kind to yourself with diligence and managing your expectations.

Should you want help to get the long term results you want, Book a Consult Therapist and also check out the variety of Help Skin Assistance products we offer.

What I have loved the most about sharing on the blogs and helping others with their skincare routines is the ‘Feedback, Reviews & Testimonials.These are Your words expressing how you feel about Your skin and the products you have been using. These Testimonials are helping others feel encouraged as they read about your experiences and giving them the hope they need to try it out too. For that I can only say ‘Thank you for sharing’. Some of you have been featured at the beginning of the Testimonials page, which is awesome. If you wish to be included, please send me a picture of yourself, preferably without makeup, and a blurb about your version of happiness.

I have also been going to various locations to meet you in person. This has been a wonderful way of connecting and talking about how to find solutions. I recently went to Thalwil (Canton Zurich), Basel, and this week I will be in Zug. You can order your products beforehand, and I will personally deliver them to you at Meetup Location. Try to come along even if it’s for a short stop to say hello.

We have also commenced a Photo Gallery of where Essentially Lili Products have been. As a family, we took a few road trips with my display jars to take pictures around Switzerland.
I have finally set up the Photo Gallery for fun on the webpage. I would love for you to take pics of yourself with an iconic feature where you live with your products and send these to me so that these can be added to the Photo Gallery. We’d love to add other global locations to the gallery too. Thank you in advance for being part of this journey.

BLOG PARTICIPATION:

  • What kinds of issues are you looking to resolve?
  • What have you found worked the best for you?
  • What is your favourite combination of products?
  • I look forward to hearing your stories so that we can add it to the list for improving.  Should you wish to contact us for more information about our All-Natural Products, please send me an email info@essentiallylili.com

    You can read more About Lili here, see the range of Products on offer at Shop Categories or refer to our Blog Library for more topics covered.

    Kind Regards Lili @ Essentially Lili

Brand, Essentially Lili Products, Skincare Tips

Pick Your Ingredients

Posted on by Lili Giglia
Pick Ingredients Sample Pots
13
Mar

Pick Your Ingredients

We attended the Health & Safety information event
at Volkhaus in Weidikon, Zurich,
on Saturday 11th March 2017.

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For Essentially Lili, the Event was about being present, away from home and the comfort of helping others from my computer. I loved meeting people, engaging with them and hearing their personal stories whilst sharing my own in return.

There is comfort shared in having compassion and understanding for each other’s journey, the frustrations and resolutions whilst being able to give reassurance that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

At our table, we had a ‘Pick Your Ingredients’ exercise which allowed visitors to look at our jars filled with coloured beads and think about what is included in the everyday products bought.

Did you know that the Cosmetics Industry only has to include between 15 and 18% of Natural and Organic ingredients in order to state on the label that their product is ‘All Natural and Organic’?That means the rest of the 82-85% of ingredients can be whatever they want it to be.

Whilst there are many that claim to be making all Natural products, they can actually include alcohols, parfums, artificial fragrances, synthetic and petroleum-based ingredients to complete the process of making their products.

So a product with pictures of Lavender, Olive Oil, Rosehip Seeds or Geranium flowers doesn’t necessarily mean it will be filled with those ingredients.It could merely be the parfum or fragrance of these ingredients, which is misleading to say the least.

Whilst I was studying for my Diploma in Holistic Skincare Products, one of the lessons was about the ingredients contained in mass-produced products.These ingredients are in baby products,shampoos, conditioners, makeup, talc, sunscreens, hand and body lotions.

I felt quite ill after doing this subject and it only reinforced my promise not to make products that will compromise on the integrity of All Natural Ingredients contained in the Essentially Lili Range.

The Industry has been catering for people who can put all sorts of products on their skin without really worrying about what the ingredients do to their skin.But for those of us who have super sensitive skin, this is not the case.The reactions to these ingredients are often so sudden, causing redness, itching, burning sensations and nothing can seem to calm this down.

The Pick Your Ingredients Activity became an eye-opener for those that came to check out and try the challenge.What did the Coloured Beads Represent?

Blue – Represents Water/ Aqua.This can cause your skin to dry out as moisture is drawn from your skin by the environment, heat, sun and cold weather.

Red – Represents Detergents called P-phenylenediamine, 4-MMPD Sulphate, Diaminobenzene, Ammoniated Mercury and Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS/SLES) & foaming agents which should be avoided. The main source of absorption is via the mucous membranes of the mouth. Found in soaps, detergents, shampoos, mouthwash, hand cream, cleansers, hair dyes (Permanent & Semi-Permanent) as well as toothpaste. It can be stored in the liver, heart, lungs and brain.It can damage the eyes, particularly of children. It can cause skin irritations, mutagenic effects, may cause hair loss, prolonged exposure can cause skin damage, moderately toxic by ingestion.

Pink – Represents Binding Agents like gum, waxes and fats.

Purple – Represents Nanoparticles are ultra-fine particles which possess certain properties due to their tiny size.This allows them to accumulated in the body, possibly by topical use. They may trigger potentially harmful chemical reactions. Nanoparticles include titanium dioxide & zinc oxide for sunscreen products.

Chemical blocks may be absorbed by the skin and work by absorbing the UV light. This causes a chemical reaction in the molecule of block, which may release free radicals. The skin damage can cause photosensitivity and blockers known to do this include: octocrylene, octyl-methoxycinnamate (octinoxate), benzophenone-3, (oxybenzone) and benzophenone-4 (sulisobenzone).If these penetrate the skin before it absorbs the UV photon, then these free radicals are released into the skin. It can increase the risk of cancer and contributes to skin ageing.

White – Represents Synthetics like fragrances & colours, Talc & Toluene.Phthalates listed as Perfumes/Fragrances preserves synthetic scents. There are Over 200 Synthetic Fragrances used in Cosmetics.The label only has to state ‘Fragrance’ so you have no way of knowing which of the 200 are in your product. The fragrance can mask the product going off, provide no benefits, so best avoided.These are often not listed on the ingredients but are contained in health & beauty products. These can be found in Nail polish, lacquers and soft plastics such as pet and infant chew toys. These can adversely affect male sperm, increases testosterone and oestrogen, has been found in Breast Cancer.

Talcum powder – Is chemically similar to Asbestos. It is found in many baby products, including powders, feminine powders, condom lubricants and cosmetics. As a feminine powder or spray it can cause ovarian cancer.

Tolune – Found in most perfumes, nail polish and cosmetics. Acts as an endocrine disruptor, potential carcinogen, may cause birth defects.

Black – Represents Solvents derived from Petroleum found in brake & hydraulic fluid like anti-freeze. Includes Propylene, Butylene & Glycol, Mineral oils & petrolatum. These are without odour or colour, it’s cheap and works well at combining ingredients.The solvent derived from used in brake and hydraulic fluids like antifreeze.

It can penetrate the outer layers of the skin and used as a humectant.It leaves a film that traps the moisture along with toxins & waste that would normally be eliminated through the skin.It can be found in deodorant, shaving gel, conditioner, shampoo, toothpaste, face creams, baby wipes and cosmetic, baby lotions, foundation creams, mascara, deodorants, lipsticks & suntan lotion.

It may cause respiratory & throat irritations, central nervous system depression, blood & kidney disorders.It could cause nystagmus (involuntary movement of the eyes, usually side to side but can be up and down or circular, lymphocytosis; it can irritate the skin and may cause dermatitis & conjunctivitis. Ingestion may cause pulmonary oedema, brain damage, hypoglycaemia, intravascular haemolysis.In extreme cases, it may cause death. Possible carcinogen.

Brown – Represents Preservatives, Q15, Antiseptic, includes Parabens Includes Parabens (methyl-, propyl-, butyl- ethyl-) Proyply-Alcohol.Parabens are added to stop microbial growth and extend the shelf life of the products. Many Skincare Products contain Parabens, those with citrus seed may have been sprayed with parabens. They can be harmful if inhaled or swallowed, they can cause irritation of the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. It can cause allergic reactions on the skin, of which symptoms include itching, redness and pain.And it can affect hormones and have been found in Breast tumours . These have also been found in carbonated drinks.

Proyply-Alcohol – is an antiseptic used in cosmetics, shampoos, shaving products, waterless hand cleansers, mouthwash (25-30%) and in the preparation of bottled water, carbonated drinks and decaffeinated coffee. In the mouthwash, it has been linked to mouth and throat cancers.

Q15 – This is a preservative found in many cosmetics. It is a water-soluble anti-microbial agent that has proven active against bacteria, but less active against yeast. It was found to be responsible for over 12% of allergic reactions in an American study. Not known if Q-15 can be absorbed through the skin for the carcinogen producing action to occur. It can react in the body with other chemicals to produce nitrosamines (known carcinogens.) Known formaldehyde releaser, maybe a major cause of dermatitis , people who may be allergic to formaldehyde can potentially have problems with this ingredient.</p

Gallery: Our Jars full of Coloured beads, Essentially Lili Table & Products, Talking to my Visitors.

Orange – Add a little bit of body Acidity regulators like Ethanloamines used with preservatives like Diazolidinyl Urea. It prevents bacterial growth, though it’s not effective against fungi. These are acidity regulators and used normally with other Ingredients like DEA Cocamide. Amines react with nitrosating agents to form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic. These are found in soaps, shampoos, bubble bath, lotions, cosmetics, laundry detergents.It can severely irritate body tissues, can cause dermatitis and may be corrosive to the eyes.

Green – Essential Oils like Lavender, Frankincense, Cypress, Sweet Orange, Myrrh, Rose, Palmarosa, Tea Tree, Sandalwood & Jasmine are just a few of the many wonderful natural fragrances available.

Yellow – Butters & Vegetable Oils, like Cocoa & Shea Butter, Avocado, Jojoba, Wheatgerm, Baobab, Tamanu, Neem Oils. Also included are Herbs, clay, mud, flowers, leaves, roots, nuts, seeds, beeswax, milk, honey, yoghurt & fats.

If the Green and Yellow ingredients have been organically sourced, free from pesticides and haven’t been doctored during the bottling stages, they can have some amazing effects on the mind, body and spirit. Their natural scents are liberating, refreshing, calming, soothing, relaxing and uplifting.

The vegetable oils are rich in vitamins, often with natural UV protection, with antioxidants as they enrich your skin with goodness and benefits.

The butters are creamy and literally melt in your hands once in contact with your body’s temperature.
And making All Natural products that contain only these ingredients is definitely a more luxurious way to treat and rejuvenate your skin on a daily basis, without fear of what damage is happening to your body.

BLOG PARTICIPATION:

  • What were your reactions to the list of Ingredients?
  • Did you know what these were?
  • Can you send in pictures of your favourite product’s list of ingredients so we can have a look at what’s contained?

We look forward to hearing your feedback especially on this topic of Ingredients.

Should you wish to contact us for more information about our All-Natural Products, please send me an email info@essentiallylili.com

You can read more About Lili here, see the range of Products on offer at Shop Categories or refer to our Blog Library for more topics covered.

Kind Regards Lili @ Essentially Lili