VitaBlog The Vitacost Blog: Views and News on Vitamins, Supplements and Herbs

Kiss My Face isn't your Average Bar

Don't underestimate the damaging effects of everyday soap. Many contain harsh detergents and phthalates which are absorbed by skin and pollute the bloodstream. I'm certain most of us would rather not have Irish Spring running through our veins.

Until you try Kiss My Face Olive Oil and Chamomile bar soap, you don't know gentle bar soap. Instead of dry and irritated after a shower, you feel clean, refreshed and invigorated. Five-star-rated Kiss My Face nourishes skin with all natural ingredients, so no worries over heavy metals and harsh chemicals damaging blood.

Kiss My Face is a good value. The brand is carried by e-tailers across the Web and the cost per bar is typically under $2. A small price to pay for healthy skin and blood.

Avalon Organics Defy Aging

Avalon Organics Coq10 Wrinkle Defense and Avalon Organics Vitamin C Renewal Facial Cream are my top two anti-aging picks for the year. They contain powerful antioxidants to protect skin from the elements and organic botanicals to boost the production of collagen and elastin, components of skin that decline with age.

Avalon Organics is not tested on animals and is free of parabens, harsh preservatives, synthetic fragrance and artificial colors. Everything I look for in a face cream. After using Avalon Organics for more than a year now, I can safely say no other product has resulted in such skin clarity, tone and texture.

The ounce cost for Avalon Organics restoratives is a good value, especially since most Coq10 face creams are exorbitantly expensive. They contain a barrage of nourishing plant derivatives and when compared to other face creams; few do as good a job smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles.

Aubrey Organics Shampoo is Free of Phthalates

Many brand name shampoos contain phthalates, a chemical stabilizer commonly found in body care products, particularly those with fragrance. There's no law restricting the use of phthalates in the U.S., nor do any laws require their disclosure on ingredient labels. Studies show that phthalates may cause fertility problems and lead to reproductive birth defects. Something most of us don't think about when washing our hair.

The good news is Aubrey Organics shampoos and conditioners are free of phthalates. Aubrey Organics is naturally fragranced with honeysuckle and chamomile and are safe for pregnant and nursing women and their babies. In fact, Aubrey Organics botanicals benefit healthy hair and scalp and are known to mend split ends and leave hair silky smooth.

The FDA has offered no compelling evidence that phthalates pose a safety risk when used in cosmetics, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say the health effects of phthalates in humans are uncertain. Why take the chance when phthalate-free Aubrey Organics is just a click away?

Apple Fragrance Curlaway by Xenna Straightens Curls

Finally, a semi-permanent relaxer that doesn't contain harsh chemicals and can be applied to any type of curly hair, whether previously dyed, straightened or other. Apple Fragrance Curlaway by Xenna doesn't discriminate, and is rated by consumers as being one of the most effective anti-curl solutions in the marketplace.

For those of you unaware, Apple Fragrance Curlaway is a natural straightening solution that works gradually and over time. It's the perfect alternative to burning your hair straight or using damaging, highly toxic chemicals to achieve a relaxed, beautiful head of hair. Apple Fragrance Curlaway gently removes curl and frizz, and, after three to four weeks of continued use, will yield head-turning results. 

Among ingredients in Apple Fragrance Curlaway is grapeseed oil, a natural, nutritious restorative that adds body and shine to hair while deterring split ends common to other hair straightening solutions.

Treat Your Skin to Natural Shaving Products

All-natural shaving products are good for you and the environment. These shaving products are never tested on animals, and they are free from animal ingredients and artificial colors. But that doesn't mean these shaving products won't treat you to a wonderfully smooth and comfortable shave! Packed with skin-enriching ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba beads, vitamin E and coconut oil, these shaving products pamper your skin while delivering a close, friction-free shave.

Shaving products like Jason 6-in-1 All Natural Shaving Lotion and Jason 6-in-1 Beard and Skin After Shave are renowned for their soothing properties. These shaving products are pH-balanced, soap-free, propellant-free and fully biodegradable. Jojoba beads and certified organic aloe vera gel cushion the skin for a close, comfortable shave. Naturally refreshing and alcohol free, the after shave sooths, refreshes and moisturizes skin while vitamin E and sunscreen provide UV protection.

Other all-natural shaving products, like Cool Mint Kiss My Face Moisture Shave, use antiseptic peppermint to cool and stimulate the skin while moisturizing with olive and coconut oils, aloe vera, goldenseal and Vitamins A and E. Alba Shave Moisturizing Cream Mango Vanilla is an all-natural, hypo-allergenic shaving product that's perfect for all skin types. Or treat yourself to a gentle shave with Weleda Shaving Cream with extract of Viola tricolor, Goat's Milk, and Almond Milk.

Natural Deodorants Are Effective, Yet Gentle and Soothing

In this hectic, stressed out world, one of the last things you should have to worry about is whether or not you are offending those around you, especially when it comes to odor. That's why using a deodorant should be a part of your daily routine. Not just any deodorant, mind you, but one that can keep up with you throughout the day.

An ideal deodorant is not only effective against odor, but is also gentle and soothing to the delicate skin under your arms. This type of deodorant is usually made from natural ingredients and does not contain animal products, harmful dyes or preservatives, which may irritate the skin, clog pores and not work as well as you'd hoped. A deodorant with natural ingredients is a safe and non-irritating alternative to chemical deodorants.

To ensure that you are not allergic to any of the ingredients a particular deodorant may contain, always check the label before you buy and apply. By choosing a natural deodorant that appeals to both the skin and the senses, you will start the day feeling fresh, confident and comfortable?and ready to take on whatever the day may bring!

Fill your senses with fragrant, soothing body and bath oils

Meetings, appointments, deadlines, workouts and just plain running around – whew! You need to take time to relax, recoup and rejuvenate. Let the world temporarily float away while you pamper your body and mind with fragrant, therapeutic body and bath oils.

Imagine, body and bath oils infused with pure plant and botanical extracts, essential oils, and sumptuous fragrances such as French lavender, wild rose, sweet almond and jojoba…body and bath oils enriched with nutrients such as vitamin E, sunflower oil and wheat germ oil…helping to leave your body feeling clean, refreshed and nourished while you soak or shower…or helping you to unwind when massaged into the skin…ah, heaven!

In order to choose body and bath oils that offer the most pleasing benefits for your body and mind, select body and bath oils that contain only the finest, purest ingredients that naturally moisturize and nourish the skin, and are free of artificial preservatives, colors and fragrances.

So feel free to indulge in a truly sensuous experience with body and bath oils anytime you like – after all, with the crazy day you've had – your body, mind and senses are worth it!

Get all in a lather over Dr. Bronner's Soap!

Luxurious lather, sinfully sensuous scent and clean, silky skin – have it all at a very reasonable price, while supporting the environment as well! Sound too good to be true? Well then you must try Dr. Bronner's Soap!

Using certified, organic oils that meet rigorous quality and supply requirements, Dr. Bronner's Soap supports organic farming and a healthy environment.

Available in both bar and liquid form, Dr. Bronner's Soap uses olive, hemp and palm oils, and also use three to four times more coconut oils than their commercial counterparts. Olive, hemp and palm based soaps make mild, smooth, creamy lathers because these oils contain longer-chain unsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Dr. Bronner's Soap also retains glycerin for superb moisturizing qualities.

Dr. Bronner's Soap is super-concentrated, and therefore a superb value over less-concentrated detergent-based, commercial body washes. Infused with either lavender, peppermint, almond, rose, lemon, tea tree or eucalyptus, Dr. Bronner's Soap uses only 100% pure, high quality essential oils. Dr. Bronner's Soap is also biodegradable, and does not contain any chelating agents, dyes, whiteners or synthetic fragrances. Dr. Bronner's Soap also makes a mild, smooth soap that is gentle enough for newborn babies.

So feel free to indulge your body, mind and senses with Dr. Bronner's Soap – and relax, you are being kind to the environment too!

Herbal toothpaste helps maintain your natural charm – naturally!

Herbal toothpaste helps maintain your natural charm – naturally!

As the saying goes – take care of your teeth, and they'll take care of you! Herbal toothpaste, when used as part of your daily oral hygiene routine, is a natural way to help maintain good dental health.

Consisting of formulations that include natural barks, roots, plants, flowers, nutrients and gentle abrasives, an effective herbal toothpaste not only cleans, polishes and whitens your teeth, it also helps maintain healthy gums and fresh breath.

In addition to brushing your teeth after every meal with a gentle, effective herbal toothpaste, it is important to:

• use a toothbrush with soft bristles – and be sure to get a new one every three months
• take your time while brushing – brush for at least three minutes
• brush away from your gums for optimal cleansing
• floss at least once a day to help remove all plaque and debris
• visit your dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning and checkup
• eat a well-balanced diet that includes fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables that help clean and nourish teeth and surrounding tissues
• drink plenty of water instead of sugary sodas
• and finally…smile like you mean it!

When choosing an herbal toothpaste, make sure the herbal toothpaste contains safe and effective herbal extracts. It is also important that the herbal toothpaste you use is free of animal ingredients, artificial preservatives and sweeteners, as well as any unnatural ingredients that may harm tooth enamel and irritate gums.

So be sure to use a natural, gentle and great tasting herbal toothpaste to keep your smile healthy and dazzling for years to come!

Make Dry Skin Feel Smooth & Supple

Dry skin can feel sensitive, tight and uncomfortable. Dry skin can also look dull and lifeless – and show signs of premature aging.

Dry skin is a function of many factors including:

• Heredity – dry skin can be due to genetics
• Harsh environmental elements such as overexposure to wind, sun and extreme temperatures
• Drying, harsh soaps and cosmetics
• Poor diet and nutrition can also cause dry skin

To help combat dry skin and keep it soft, smooth and supple:

• Avoid hot baths and showers – use lukewarm water instead
• Use only mild face, hand and body cleansers that also moisturize
• Apply a gentle, good quality moisturizer on your face, hands and body – and do so daily!
• Avoid excessive use of cosmetics – let your skin breathe
• Eat a balanced diet and make sure you get your daily intake of vitamins and other nutrients

Your diet should include foods that are rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K, as well as selenium, chromium and zinc. Taking a daily nutritional supplement (check out Vitacost.com for all your supplement needs) is an excellent way to ensure that you receive the nutrients necessary to combat dry skin while promoting healthy, beautiful skin.

Smart Basics Lotion & Lip Balm: Soothing & Natural!

Long lists of ingredients—especially ones you can't pronounce—should make you re-consider body care product choices. Bigger bubbles and scrumptious scents may be fun, but the chemicals used to produce them can be harsh and damaging to your skin.

Smart Basics skin and lip care products feature natural ingredients such as buttermilk, honey, coconut oil and aloe vera. They're non-drying, non-irritating and nourish the skin with added herbal extracts and vitamins for antioxidant protection.

For sensitive skin, or for those looking for an "everyday" or after-shower lotion, Smart Basics Buttermilk Body Lotion is ideal. Its light, creamy texture rubs on smooth and leaves skin moisturized and soft to the touch. Smart Basics Milk & Honey lotion is deeper penetrating and helps soften normal to dry skin.

Natural beeswax, coconut and sunflower oils and herbal extracts make Smart Basics Beeswax Lip Balm perfect for soothing dry, chapped lips or providing everyday protection from the wind and sun.

November is National Healthy Skin Month

Bundling up for colder weather this month should be a good reminder that your skin needs attention too. November is National Healthy Skin Month, sponsored by the American Academy of Dermatology. The organization encourages individuals to schedule a checkup with a dermatologist, and to review current skin care practices for potential improvements.

Besides contributing to "good looks," healthy skin is important for other reasons, including protecting immune health. As your body's largest organ, skin helps shield your inner body from bacteria and viruses. Skin also provides protection from heat and light, regulates body temperature and stores water, fat and vitamin D.

Make improvements to your skin care regimen during Healthy Skin Month by regularly applying sunscreen (even in cloudy or cool weather), using natural moisturizers and protecting skin from the elements with gloves and scarves.

To view our entire selection of bath, beauty, and skin care products, click here.

Do Topical Anti-Wrinkle Formulas Really Work?

Wouldn't it be nice if there was a magic eraser you could rub over frown lines, crow's feet and forehead creases, and they'd just disappear? Unfortunately, elastin and collagen fibers in skin break down over time, and wrinkles result. While you can't stop the process, there are some things you can do to slow it down or make it less noticeable.

Topical anti-wrinkle formulas, including creams and gels, moisturize the skin, can help reduce and smooth fine lines and may even provide firming effects. Many formulas contain vitamins A (retinol), C and E as well as antioxidants alpha lipoic acid and coenzyme Q10. Antioxidants help fight free radical damage, which is believed to be a major factor in aging of the skin.

For best results, take time to research the ingredients in topical anti-wrinkle formulas before purchasing. The reality is, you're not going to find a "face lift in a bottle," but some products have shown positive results in improving skin's texture and look.

Love Your Face: Praventin™ Makes It Possible

Creams and gels for acne and blemishes can be messy, expensive and not always effective. For truly healthy skin, try addressing the problem from the inside with Praventin™, a clinically-tested supplement that helps you naturally achieve a better complexion.

Praventin™ contains a bioactive protein complex rich in lactoferrin, a milk-derivative that helps boost immune function. It works to control skin problems by:

• Enhancing the body's natural defenses to better fight bacteria that can lead to acne
• Reducing redness due to inflammation of the skin
• Helping to repair damaged cells caused by blemishes

One study demonstrated that Praventin™ produced a 71 percent decrease in blemishes in teenagers with poor complexions within a month, with a 95 percent decrease after two months. For best results, take Praventin™ continuously and eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains with limited sugar and caffeine.

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Use AHA As Your Beauty Fluid

Try an alpha hydroxy acid product the next time you cleanse your face. By exfoliating the skin, AHA helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines so you look younger and feel smoother.

Alpha hydroxy acids are gentle, safe, natural substances derived from fruits, sugar cane and milk. By using them, you unblock pores and wash away old skin cells so healthy new ones will appear. Lots of AHA products have popped up in recent years—although Cleopatra supposedly used a milk-based one to achieve her ageless beauty—but remember that the lower the pH and the higher the concentration of AHA, the stronger the product.

You'll see results within weeks. Just bear in mind that with the loss of old skin cells your new ones will be extra sensitive so be careful in the sun.