eating for health and beauty



iphone photo taken by alex and run through the photo shop aquatic app 

I'm wondering if my fresh new diet will have any impact on my skin. Plagued with skin cancers and pre-cancers I'll take all the help I can get.  Once I saw the tremendous results that Melinda was getting by eliminating all the processed foods from her diet, I began to think about the skin cancers that I have had in the past and the overall condition of my skin.  I already believe that what we eat affects our skin so I take this very seriously and this may be what my skin needs.  It is too soon to tell if it has helped any but I can't help but think that it will.  I mean all the nutrients I'm now getting throughout the day, minus the empty foods should help right?  Gosh I hope so.

So along with a diet that is finally getting cleaned up, I'm still using extra virgin olive oil as my moisturizer. Still washing my face with Dermalogica Ultra Calming Cleanser.   I use Sephora's Eye Contour Pencil in chocolate to line my lower lids to fill in where I lost my lashes from the surgery they did to remove the cancer.  I love this pencil because it is super soft and stays put.  In addition to wearing a hat when I'm outside, I have taken to wearing a daytime BB cream that has a good spf.  I've chosen Physicians Formula BB Cream based on its Skin Deep excellent rating. I apply it with a little olive oil in the morning and it makes for a nice, dewy foundation. I finish off with Aveda's Nourishmint Lipstick in Poppy.  I only wear blush and mascara when I'm going out, not so much when I'm hanging around the house.

As an esthetician I get locked into the products that I use day in and day out.  I often wonder if there are great products I'm missing out on.  I've recently begun venturing outside the Aveda line.  Would you mind sharing anything you think I should know about? Products that have given you tremendous results? Fill me in please. x













101 comments

  1. Hello Janet,

    Well, what we can see immediately from this photograph is that you are a tremendously kind and generous hearted person. It shines out through those bewitching eyes of yours. So, whatever products may be good or even work wonders for you, you are possessed of an inner grace that is so very special. No amount of mascara can compensate for this in our view!

    You would, we know, be horrified at our 'beauty routines' if indeed that is what washing with soap and water and slapping on Nivea cream at night can be called. We do, however, lavish attention on our hair and visit our delightful hairdresser frequently. She transforms us.

    As with any health scare (and we completely empathise with this) one's awareness and sensitivity becomes heightened. It is only prudent for you to take every precaution with your skin and we certainly believe that pale is interesting where skin is concerned. A hat is, in our view, probably the most underrated of beauty care products!

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    1. oh my Lance and Jane! what a beautiful compliment.

      i agree with you in that hats are underrated as beauty products.

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  2. Dear Janet, You look radiant. I think the best skincare is full spectrum sunblock and a hat. I have my teen daughter put sunblock on the part in her hair when she's outside for very long - she's gotten a terrible sunburn before on her part where it actually scabbed up a little. It never occurred to me previously that even the skin where the hair is parted will burn too. So sunscreen AND a hat for good measure! Oh, also on the tops of the ears. I hear this is a common area for melanoma/skin cancer to occur because of sun exposure.

    As far as skin cleansing and moisturizing: I use what my dermatologist recommended, which is Cetaphil or Cerave' cleansers and moisturizers. I used to use Dermalogica but when I decided to go frugal I discovered that the above mentioned lower cost products work just as well if not better. Win - Win!

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    1. yes, anon those products are a really good value. if i didn't get my dermalogica deeply discounted i would use your suggestion.

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    2. Anonymous, just yesterday I read an article on the importance of checking your scalp for possible melanomas and basil cell carcinomas. I'm great with sunscreen, but I had never thought about my scalp!

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    3. himmiefan, You're so right. One would think since the scalp is covered with hair that it is protected already, but not so! Now I just need to find a good sunscreen that doesn't make the scalp look greasy/dirty!

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  3. As I move towards minimalism in all areas of my life, I am now focusing on ONE great foundation ( when needed), one blush, one lip tint, one good mascara-no more multiples!
    I have ALL my makeup in one little acrylic holder that fits in my medicine cabinet.
    When I travel it can all be packed in five seconds flat. Love that!

    I've moved from PF BB to Cover FX CC-

    http://www.sephora.com/product/productDetail.jsp?skuId=1533215&productId=P382075&_requestid=597

    Spendy- but vegan; great ingredients, SPF30.

    Now that I live in San Diego, I HAVE to wear sunscreen/etc with my blond/blue eyed coloring!

    I also use Sugar tinted lip treatment too-SPF 15 and fab ingredients, too -no parabeens/petroleum, etc

    http://www.sephora.com/sugar-lip-treatment-spf-15-P57002

    I also use that as a "blush," but I have found that I don't need it much as long as I am active.

    I used Maybelline vibrating mascara forever-and then they discontinued it. GRRR.
    Still on the hunt for one that works as well as that one did for me.

    Please let me know if you have/find a great one!

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    1. Not vibrating, but the Maybelline 'Full and Soft' (waterproof) mascara is brilliant. Needs an eye makeup remover for waterproof makeup (I have used the Clinique 'Take the Day Off' for years) - but holds a curl, stays put and looks natural, yet defined - and it's dirt cheap! Audrey B

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  4. You look gorgeous Janet!
    I had no idea that you have had skin cancer and can concur that sunscreen is very important, sunglasses and a hat always when outdoors in the sun..
    I have been using a lovely BB cream made by a gal whose friend was undergoing chemotherapy and could not use regular products so she designed a natural line called Lei Lani...it is made in Langley BC and all her products are safe to use.
    I think healthy eating is reflected on the skin...yours looks great by the way!
    Think I might try that Sephora pencil as my eye lashes are thinning as I get older and I could use a little bit of definition around the eye area.
    Take care and I think Alex did a great job capturing your lovliness...

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  5. There you are....beautiful Janet - inside and out. ♥

    I am really no help on this matter. I use Aveda also to clean but rarely wear makeup. anymore, I just can't stand the feel of it. I use plain ivory soap to wash and that's my boring routine.

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  6. I use a tried and true family staple that my grandma and mom still use- Pond's Original Cold Cream. It is not fashionable or cool but it has worked consistently at keeping my skin hydrated and blemish free (i am 32). I gently massage it on my skin in the morning and at night and then take it off/ exfoliate with a warm washcloth. SPF and spot concealer in the morning. Spray of rosewater at night. I drink about 2 liters of water a day too.

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    1. Same here Anon! I used to use Estee Lauder ($$$$!) and now use Pond's, absolutely love it. I also use plain old Vaseline around my eyes at night. I'm almost 46 and still wrinkle free, aside from a few very faint lines under my eyes. Cheap and cheerful:)

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    2. Victoria, Vaseline ie Petroleum jelly is a byproduct of oil drilling! You really do not want to be using it, especially around your eyes. More info-> http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/price-beauty?page=2

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    3. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    4. I use Aquafor around my eyes and on my neck and hands. It does wonders!
      Betty

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    5. Yes, petroleum jelly is a byproduct of petroleum, but it seems to be the only thing that works on bad cases of eczema (where the itching is unbearable and the skin is cracked and scabbed). A friend of mine says she tried everything her dermatologist recommends but nothing has worked except petroleum jelly. If there is another alternative she would try it.

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    6. On my blog, there is a recipe for a restorative hand cream. I use it religiously but I also make it for my father and a good friend who each battle eczema. They've been shocked at how well it works for them. I can't say it has cured either of them, but they each feel it has made a tremendous improvement. That said, who knows if it would work for anyone else.

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  7. Beauty you have in spades:). California does have a lot of sun, no question, and we have to take it in carefully. I use Apriori Beauty products, still love them, but they are certainly pricey.

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  8. I have rosacea and sensitive skin, so I have to use gentle products on my face. My dermatologist recommended CeraVe hydrating cleanser and facial moisturizing lotion PM. To remove makeup, I use DHC's deep cleansing oil, which I love. Cosmetics-wise, I've been gradually switching over to Bobbi Brown. I started with the eye shadows (the colors are amazing and go on so easily), then tried the loose powder, mascara and foundation stick. The latter is not the best solution for my entire face, but it works for areas that need more coverage. The saleslady gave me a sample of their mineral makeup and really like it. One of the best things for our skin is to drink lots of purified water, which I do daily.
    Claudia

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  9. You are beautiful, Janet. Love this picture. I'm an own brand girl all the way. x

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    1. Vix: Someone in comments stated you use Boots products: Do you use #7? Have you used the eye serum? What's your opinion of the products? I purchased Boots but have yet to start using it. Thanks

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  10. I always love seeing photos of you! i don't want to sound weird but you feel like a friend :) and you are very beautiful too! so anyway...i have always had very sensitive skin due to trying too many different products/perfumes as a young teenager. if anything irritated my skin i'd end up with burn-like effects that left me with sore, itchy and flaky skin. dreadful. then i tried Dr Hauschka products and my skin has never been better. it takes a HUGE chunk out of my budget, so i have tried several times to switch to something similar but cheaper, even to olive oil/soap water/jojoba etc etc, nothing is as good as Dr H!. they did make a wonderful sunscreen but the EU rules changed and they could no longer produce it, so i now wear hats hats hats and stay out of the sun. (which isn't difficult in England). Dr H's toned day cream, a bit of brown eyeliner and some lip balm, and i'm good to go! ( your recipes are fantastic by the way...i'm a big Janet fan xxx)
    Love and hugs, Suzie xxx

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    1. Ooh creepy! It sounds like you've got a stalker!

      One good way to get lots of comments and praise (you're so beeooootiful Janet, you're soooo gorgeous Janet,love you sooooo much Janet) is to post a photo of yourself!

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    2. it is very sad to me that you have to inject such a mean comment into what are friendly discussions.
      janet is a kind and caring person.
      yes.
      she is beautiful.
      inside and out.
      why do you come to this blog and read it if you find it so creepy? you don't have to read any of it you know.
      we are friends here.
      there is something called good manners. maybe you should research it. it's an area in which you're lacking.

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    3. Wow! You don't deserve any negative comments, Janet. The rest of us love your blog and ALL of your photos.
      Betty

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    4. To Anonymous @ 1:28 AM: You give us other Anonymous commenters a bad reputation. Please stop trolling and fix whatever issues you have that make you so bitter.

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    5. Janet, You share so much healthy information in such a humble and open style, truly exposing yourself for our benefit, as most people would never take the time to do. As another women in her 50's, I love to see facial skin and hear the skin care routine. I imagine that "Anonymous May 6, 2014 at 1:28 AM" may very well be a friendly commenter as well, who reverts to an unfriendly "Anon" when your kindness and openness are more honest and sincere than they can bear. Healthy people don't need to be a jerk in an easy-to-avoid situation like another person's blog. I'd keep an eye on those IP numbers that identify the "creepy stalker". I hope that you have "extreme tracker" on your blog. there is a free version. I am posting as Anon because I don't want to lure this creep to my blog with my comment. AnApreciativeAnon : )

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    6. Jealousy is an ugly thing. I realize I'm a bit late to the party (trying to catch up on my favorite blogs after a few distracting life issues), but had to add my two cents. Obviously, this person thinks you are beautiful, etc. or she/he wouldn't post such a thing. And don't they realize that their negative comments simply invite MORE positive comments??!! Ha! So nice when that happens... :-)

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    7. jackie and appreciative anon - thank you both. i'm getting better and better at letting these things not affect me. i don't really spend too much time tracking my numbers in general, i take a peek now and again so using the extreme tracker prob would be of no use to me. altho i do like the sound of it! anyway, thanks again for your support. x

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  11. You are lovely and a wonderful inspiration!

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  12. Your skin is beautiful Janet :)

    about 6 month ago i completly changed my skincare routine. Carolin Hirons blog helped and i refined it reading reviews for organic skincare. learnt what chemicals to avoid, and what my skind is telling me.
    Products i'm loving are:
    Weleda almond cleansing cream, wiped off with a fluffy white flannel, Ren clarifying toner. Nourish lavender serum. Pai chamomile and roeship moisturiser and organic garpeseed oil. I formely used cliniqe, chanel estee lauder, none of which suited my sensitive oily skin. My skin is glowing.
    Sharron x
    I

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  13. So pretty Janet.
    Thank you for all you share.
    I discovered CeraVe mostly by accident, used the cream for eczema on my palms - now all gone so I have adopted the face wash and other lotions too. Used to be a lancome girl. What savings to switch to CeraVe. FYI Sunday's paper coupon insert had a $3 off CeraVe products. RiteAid sometimes discounts them, watch their flyer. DO NOT however download the coupon from the CeraVe site, it loads a permanent coupon software that I cannot delete and am concerned it is a computer malware/sniffer!
    Best to you, Kitty USA

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  14. I searched a long time to find the perfect soap for my extreme-combination skin. One soap would be too drying ... another gave me breakouts. Then, on a whim, I tried Whole Foods 365 Glycerin soap and never went back. It's very inexpensive ($1.99 per bar) and it has very few ingredients. I normally use unscented, but sometimes I buy Vitamin E when my skin is feeling dry. I like to keep things simple and inexpensive. I also like to use things that are chemical free and animal friendly. This 365 Soap and Hemp Oil (as a moisturizer) works great on my 52 year old combination skin.

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  15. This is a lovely photo Janet! Am sorry to hear about the cancer removal hope you are ok. I am addicted to a rose hip cleanser called Kosmea but I think it might just be an Aussie thing?

    x

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  16. Lovely photo of you Janet--thanks for sharing your food tips as well!

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  17. Janet, get Dr Hauschka - there is NO competition out there. Dr Hauschka is truly natural, organic (very high standards in Europe), biodynamic, healing, beautiful and gentle ingredients that exclude all synthetics. I could go on... I'm not part of the company BTW! I love the company and the range. Aveda comes nowhere near.

    Obviously as a German company, you are going to pay more for the range in the US (I know as I was nearly crying paying for it while staying in Toronto!). But it will be worth it. You don't need to use much of it. I've used the range for years and I am relieved that I don't have to consider any other cosmetics: that takes another distraction from my life.
    PS. I don't tend to use their hair products as I feel they are too expensive. I love the idea of washing my hair (as well as my body) in Dr Bronners but it does dry my hair out.

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  18. You look gorgeous! Your lifestyle is definitely working and the results are wonderful!

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  19. Hi Janet,
    You might want to add an antioxidant to your face in the Am before you put on your sunscreen. No sunscreen is 100% effective, so it's a good idea to add something to help mop up those free radicals that damage your skin. I use Skinceuticals c e ferulic acid. It's really worth it. I always shop for the cheapest price, so I get it different places. If you can find the small travel size, it's the best deal.

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  20. I'm 29 and I hope I look like you in the future! You look radiant and chic.

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  21. I use Dr. Bonners bar soap (am / pm) & olive oil. When I go out, a little blk - brown mascara, a dab of lip stick for blush and lip gloss. Best beauty secret - a joyful countenance. Keep smiling Janet : )

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  22. Janet,

    You look gorgeous! (I would never allow an up close photo like that haha)

    Did not know about your prior skin cancers...I try to avoid the sun as much as possible. I worked for a dermatologist in my early 20's and saw the damage the sun could do. This winter I suddenly developed an allergy to sunscreen, not good since I am fair w/ blue eyes. I have an appt. to see the dermatologist next month.

    Linda
    xo

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    1. Linda try loading up on antioxidants like blueberries this summer. I read an article a few years back stating that high doses of antioxidants worked like a natural sunscreen. I use this method on my fair skinned children because I worry about the chemicals in sunscreen and vit. D deficiencies. We've had amazing results.

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    2. Thank you Dorothy! I did read something awhile back that eating certain foods can give you some natural protection. I eat a lot of blueberries and other berries as well...glad to hear you have had positive results. I also wear a shirt and hat from Sun Precautions w/ UV protection when working outside. And when I walk in the morning, it's always early to avoid the sun!

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  23. Janet your skin is radiant! I really like Bare Minerals foundation and blush, and Red Apple Lipstick products (http://www.redapplelipstick.com/our-story/), because they hide my over 50 flaws, yet still look natural, and don't contain toxic ingredients.

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  24. I have Perioral Dermatitis, in addition to chemical, gluten, & fragrance sensitivities. I use Osmia Organics products, they are very gentle & simple, yet pretty sophisticated. The facial bar soap is like no other, it's gentle and works well. The purely simple face cream is fantastic! Very light weight, yet moisturizing for dry skin... it also has probiotics. I swear by this line. The face wash bars last a long time, so are quiet inexpensive in that sense. The face cream lasts me a little over a month with at least 2x a day applications and I feel the price is justified. The brand Acure is also lovely, as well as Evan Healy. All are vegan, gluten free, and fragrance free... yet smell lovely from the essential oils. I use Osmia's facial care, soaps, deodorant, and lip gloss. Truly though, I would guess removing sugar from your life and other processed grains & chemicals is likely to have a much larger impact than skin care products. I was formerly borderline vegan for many years and found myself very unwell on this diet. Lots of fruits & veggies, organics, and no grains has been amazing and getting me back on my feet.

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  25. You natural beauty. Nothing fancy at this end but I have worn sunblock on my face since I was 19 - even in this sun starved country! The skin on my face is about 20 years younger than on my body where I've tanned.

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  26. Whatever you are doing keep on doing it because you look beautiful - don't mess with a good thing!
    I have very blemished sun damaged skin and to make matters worse it is really sensitive too. :(

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  27. You look divine Janet! I use sunscreen faithfully and rose hip oil, along with other things too numerous to mention and am always trying things to make it all better! The big thing for me out in the garden now is a hat! Of course, I am only just now getting out into the garden. most of the snow finally melted this past weekend!

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  28. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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    1. John...please step away from your computer and leave your self promotion where it belongs...the trash receptacle.

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  29. Janet, you are one beauty inside and out. Thanks for sharing so much with us here. I have been using Rodan & Fields "Soothe" 4 step skin care line. 1-2-3-4 - and am noticing great results. A dear friend began selling it and I wanted to show support so I ordered it. I also try to eat clean, and stay well hydrated. I love sparkling mineral water with lemon or lime.
    pve

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  30. So sorry you have had a bout of skin cancer. My son has battled melanoma and it's no joke.

    Funny that you should bring this subject up. I was wandering Ulta today, a place that I previously could not visit without leaving with a treat. Flash forward a few years and I currently have enough makeup to open my own counter. Such waste! But, I digress. As I walked through the store, I admitted to myself that I am overwhelmed and confused by the plethora of product for skin care. I am neglecting my skin, I am sure, because I truly don't know what I need and where to start. Of course, I could stop by a cosmetics counter, but I am sure that the salesperson will simply try to sell me anything she can and not only what I need. Until I figure this out, I wash my face with a number of half-used products, put on a tinted moisturizer, some mascara and lip gloss and out I go. At night, I take it off. If any readers have suggestions for a 65 year-old with combination skin that won't break the bank, I'm listening.

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    1. I am 50, and I echo this - the part about being lost and overwhelmed with not knowing what to use. Combo skin that has many age spots and is prematurely wrinkling, quite quickly (pool baby/high school sun worshipper). Ive used a few expensive products, including Aveda, which have done nothing. My skin is very sensitive and prone to breakouts, so Im afraid olive oil is probably out of the question. Stumped!

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  31. Hi Janet, your regimen is obviously working beautifully!

    I'm 57, with sensitive skin. I echo the remarks in another comment about Dr. Hauschka. I've been using their products for years, and I get a lot of compliments. (And this is a genuine endorsement, I am NOT connected with the company in any way!)

    I like their moisturizers in general. I use the Rose Light Day Cream, which I apply after a spritz of organic rosewater. What a treat, and it leaves your skin like velvet.

    LOVE your blog, girl!



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  32. Janet - You look wonderful and so young! Keep doing whatever it is you are doing. I wish I could peel off my mask and swap with you! :)

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  33. I had skin cancer surgery last year and now my husband has diagnosed with a basal cell skin cancer on his face and it has been suggested by the doc he have mohs surgery. The photos out there online are so scary, we are trying for the natural cure until his scheduled surgery in June to see if anything else will help. We found lots of good info about treating basal cell with coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, and baking soda, all natural and less harmful to him. The tumor has been shrinking.... we'll see.
    We have pretty healthy vegetarian diets already, but are eliminating sugar (poison) and stepping up the whole foods. I agree, what you put in your body gives it the tools it needs for curing and staying healthy. While searching for natural treatments I read with amazement the benefits of raw apple cider vinegar and have started drinking it daily. Using coconut oil on my face has really helped with moisture. My next step is making our own soaps. I have started buying natural made soaps at the farmers market, have you read the ingredients in soaps and shampoos!?!?
    Sorry for the long comment, your post was just so relevant to what I am going through right now! We live on cancer planet now, don't we?

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    1. hi tracey. sorry to hear about your cancers. i had mohs surgery twice on my bottom eyelid and it is not fun at all.
      i too have recently been reading about people curing their skin cancers with natural ingredients. so exciting to hear that your husbands cancer is shrinking. i'm also so encouraged by melinda's success. why wouldn't a clean diet help skin cancers too? it's my main motivator. please keep me posted as to the outcome. thanks for sharing and good luck. x

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  34. I don't wear makeup, except for blush, mascara and lipstick if I'm going out. My face gets washed in the shower every morning, but I never use soap. After the shower, I've always used Olay complete moisturizer with sunscreen on my face. I've used it for 30 years! I've now been using Jason Revitalizing Vitamin E cream at night. I'm 54 and have had many compliments on my skin. I don't know if that has anything to do with the creams or just good genes. But, Janet, I'm wondering about your diet. I always thought, based on what you showed that you ate in your posts, that you ate very healthy so what was it about that diet that was so bad?
    Barbara

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  35. Lovely photo! Gorgeous lips! I look for products at the drugstore that are paraben free & hopefully w/out sulfates as well. Currently I'm using Yes to Tomatoes daily clarifying cleanser & Sheaterra marula oil as my moisturizer & love both. I tried olive oil & it worked wonders on my heels but I still had dry flaky areas on my face. I use a little mineral powder on my face, some dark brown eyeshadow & Burt"s Bees lip shimmer & I'm good to go. At night I use Yes to cucumbers soothing towlettes to take off any makeup & they are the best. Have found them at Target. So simple. I feel & look best on a Mediterranean diet & drink a lot of water. I do receive a lot of compliments on my skin at 61 so this works for me.
    Kristi

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  36. I didn't know you had skin cancer! I'd never considered my diet could be affecting it...duh, I should have. I had melanoma removed from my leg 15 years ago so I'm at my dermatologist every six months now. Each visit usually involves the cutting or burning of a basil or squamous cell carcinoma! I'm never without sunscreen and prefer the physical ones to the chemical ones. Their face "wash" is essential oils based and so gentle! I'm loving it. I also like Evan Healy products that I find at whole foods. I do swear by Rose Seed Hip oil which is readily available in organic form.
    Jane Iredale cosmetics are really nice. I've been using them for years.
    When I look into your face, I see beauty, kindness, compassion and wisdom. Gorgeous, my friend.

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  37. hey ajj!
    i'm back.
    i'm sorry i ranted at your mean anonymous commenter above... it wasn't my place. then i was so mad i forgot to make my own comment on skin care! LOLOL.
    thanks to you... i am now using oil on my face... morning and night. very light. that's all it takes. it's simply wonderful!
    i was using boom silk by cindy joseph. it's truly great... but because of the bees i decided to stop. she uses a bee 'farm' in Hawaii ... but still. it seemed like it doesn't go along with my view on animals and creatures for our use.
    i'm loving the oil. would like to try coconut oil! but concerned that it would absorb into my skin as cholesterol? do you know if it would? i have a heart thing going and already have a high cholesterol count. this is a wonderful post.
    from a wonderful person. don't let the jerks get you down. EVER! xoxo

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  38. Just an FYI....
    Aveda is no longer cruelty free:(

    http://www.logicalharmony.net/aveda-is-no-longer-cruelty-free/#axzz30xa5Gesb

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  39. Great tips, I am approaching 50 and love seeing what other women my age do for their beauty regime!

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  40. The best skin care product I have ever used is Noxema (been around since 1914). I've used it for 45 years and never, ever had to use foundation. I hope I never have to find any other skin cleanser. My skin does not feel dry after I wash with Noxema and I think my skin looks pretty darn good for my age. I use Eucerin Sensitive Skin Lotion after washing and it has a mild sunscreen, I use it in lotion and also cream form. I use the cream around my eyes because it does not irritate them. I think it never hurts to try to be the best you can be and every once in a great while we luck onto something that really does work.

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  41. Hi Janet, I am with you on the Dermalogica Ultra Calming Cleanser - it is truly wonderful and I have been using it for years.
    I also highly recommend the Dermalogica 'Dynamic Skin Recovery' moisturiser for day tim - it is fabulous. It has a broad spectrum spf of 30. I am extremely fair, red-haried and prone to freckles and sun spots and this has most certainly halted any further damage, but made my skin look far, far better. (I am 50) It goes on white, but after massaging into the skin, completely disappears. I would highly, highly recommend it. It makes my skin look instantly better on its own, but makes a great base for further makeup.
    I usually then apply the Bobbi Brown BB Cream lightly over the top which evens out my skin and adds further sun protection and gives a soft, velvety look. No powder, but I dust the Laura Mercier 'Matte Radiance Baked Powder' in 01 over my cheeks and forehead, with a pop of a BB pink blush on the apples of my cheeks. I love the Bobbi Brown lipstick in Pink Peony - it's a lovely warm pink, lasts for hours and instantly makes me look better! I have used the Maybelline 'Full and Soft' (waterproof) mascara for years. Although it is incredibly cheap, it is the best mascara I have used and the only one my sensitive, contact lens-wearing eyes tolerate. I buy it in multiples from the supermarket. If I want to add some colour/definition to my eyes, I use the By Terry "Colour Fix Cream Eyeshadow" in Ombre Blackstar (a dark, purplish-black.) It is a wind-up 'crayon' and works really well as a great, stay-put eyeliner, but smudges well as well.
    In addition to the cleansing - I exfoliate (or treat?) my skin twice a week with the REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask - it's brilliant! Massages in, stays moist and then removed after about 10 mins with a damp cloth. My skin looks softer, clearer and better instantly.
    Think that's it - other than I curl my lashes every day! I use the Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler, warming it up with my hairdryer (Just be careful to check it's not too hot by testing it on your fingers first!) It really makes the curl hold and makes my eyes look much better - more 'awake' and dare I say, younger! Love reading all these others! Take care, x Audrey B

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    1. Thanks for the mascara tip, my eyes are fine with eye make-up until I put mascara on, then they redden and get watery. I will try the Maybelline. I am also going to to try Sephora's eye pencil as suggested by Janet for the very same reason, my sensitive eyes.
      I have always avoided the sun, and living in Australia have always worn a hat outdoors. A blessing in disguise for me has been my dry skin. I have moisturized my face and neck daily, morning and evening since I was 19. I am now 63 and people are always amazed when they find out, they all think I am at least 10-12 years younger. My moisturizers up until last year have been very affordable products, Nivea and Ponds, I now buy more intense moisturizers from the supermarket, and the dearer ones are gifts from my daughters. Mother's day requests: Skin Care Products. I love and drink water. Have always gone to bed with a clean and make up free skin. My problem now is sensitive eyes. Thank you Janet. Linda C.

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    2. Hi Janet - I am living in Australia, too! (Adelaide) I think that as I am so fair it has worked to my advantage as I have worn sunscreen every day or kept out of the sun since I was a child. I used to not be so thrilled to be so pale, but now people comment on my skin (in a positive way!) and I have very few lines and wrinkles.
      As far as the mascara goes - it must be the "Full and Soft" by Maybelline. I have used other Maybelline mascaras without success (and many expensive brands that I just couldn't tolerate.) I also can only use the waterproof version - and even can't tolerate the non-waterproof one! Not sure why, maybe because it 'holds' and doesn't go in my eyes. The only problem is it needs to be removed with an eye make-up remover for waterproof products - and these can be awful for sensitive eyes. The only one I have found that works for me is the Clinique 'Take the day off' remover for lips and eyes. I hold cotton pads soaked in it on my closed eyes for a few seconds then wipe it all off. It leaves a slightly oily film, but I then cleanse with the Dermalogica cleanser (which is so gentle it doesn't matter if it gets in my eyes) but I have used the Cetaphil cleanser in the past and it is also good (just not as moisturising/calming). The only moisturiser I ever use is from Cetaphil - I use it to moisturise all over (body and face) - it is fabulous. And cheap! Hope this is a help. All the Best, AB

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  42. such an interesting discussion. I too am overwhelmed by the sheer number of products available today to care for our skin.
    it's good to hear from others what they find actually works. a few responders have mentioned the Dr Hauschka line of skin care. I did use a few of these products a number of years ago after having a facial at the Kripalu Center while I was studying yoga there. the main reason I stopped was that they are fairly expensive and not that easily available. probably easier to obtain now that Whole Foods carries them and recently opened in my area. right now i am keeping it pretty simple, mostly just using Argan oil, a moisturizer or foundation with sun protection in the day when I am outside. no serums or retinols. I have been using Cetaphil to wash my face but had recently heard that it may have some unwanted chemicals. sometimes I think I obsess on it all to much.
    thanks for sharing everyone!
    Darby

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  43. Has anyone tried Boots products that are from England......Target & Walgren are now carrying them. I hear their eye serums are fantastic. Thanks

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    1. Vix loves Boots. She's here in the comments and has a wonderful vintage themed beauty/fashion site.

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  44. I love this pic of you! Beautiful!! There are so many great recommendations here in the comments that I'll have to try. I've heard that wearing a 'primer' is a wonderful skin enhancer. I just bought some today and we'll see how well it works to even the skin tone without foundation. I wear very little makeup but I love mascara to enhance the eye...:) I should say eyes since I have 2 of them. Thanks, Janet.

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  45. So beautiful! Thank you for continuing to blog, I know its not easy because I used to do it and gave it up. I really look forward to your posts and have been reading you for a long time. You have influenced me in so many ways but especially with my diet and living more simply.

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    1. so good to hear from you katie. i remember your blog well. i'm hanging in there but you are right, it isn't easy. :)

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  46. Dear Janet,
    you might want to add green tea to your diet. There is research showing that drinking several cups of green tea reduces the risk of skin cancer (e.g. Bouzari et al. (2009), Christian et al. (2008), Mantena et al. (2005) etc.). Given all the other benefits of green tea, and the fact that it is has zero calories and low caffeine, it probably wouldn't hurt to replace some of the water you drink with green tea.
    Of higher concern is your choice of skin care, a BB cream diluted with olive oil will probably not be enough to provide adequate sun protection. To get the SPF on the label you have to apply 2 mg product onto every square cm of skin. That accounts to roughly 1 g of product on your face alone, i.e. you should use at least 1 oz of product a product on your face alone (not counting reapplication). That much colored BB cream would look like a thick orange paste on your face, so I am assuming you apply less and don't get enough SPF. I would say, forget about the Skin Deep rating and forget about natural being good for skin, get yourself a good, sheer, high SPF formula (TiO2 and ZnO is good) and apply it generously on face, necck, hands etc etc (EltaMD, SkinCeuticals have some good options, there are many others too).
    Re: natural being good for your skin, I am sorry but this is such a fallacy. I know it FEELS good, but it is NOT GOOD FOR YOUR SKIN. When I read the claims of Dermalogica products, for example, it feels so soothing, plants taking care of your skin vs "chemicals" from tubes in a laboratory. But you know, those plants are chock-full of chemicals, too. Most of the time hundreds of chemicals, and most of them are not good for skin. Many of them (all citrus extracts and more) are phototoxic, too. That is: a nice scent with orange oil + sun exposure = many toxic chemicals that wreak havoc on your skin, increased inflammation which can add up to your chances of skin cancer. I can refer you to dozens upon dozens scientific papers on this.
    So I would urge you to think about your skincare, lavender, citrus, rosemary, all those supposedly good things in your skincare are really not good for your skin. There are wonderful natural ingredients, green tea is great topically too, but most of those nice smelling things are not. I know I have next to no change to change your (mis)conception that nature is good, but I try because I care. Please rethink your stance on natural.

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  47. Skincare is soo not in my wheelhouse these days. Considering my sordid solar past, I have no recommendations. But, as always, I'm finding many of these comments very interesting. I better enjoy this blog while I can, since apparently my habits of oil and citrus and herbs are going to kill me! At least I'll smell good going down.

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    1. Dear Stephen, I adore you! You are too funny, I love your sense of humor. I understand your "sordid solar past" :) because I've been there too. As a young 20-something I used to slather myself with BABY OIL and lay out in the sun to tan (fry), and then in my 30's (I am in my 40's now) I would go camping in Mojave DESERT and DEATH Valley… Key words: Desert and Death. Not a good combo for the skin … enough said.

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    2. Someone took his/her time and left a comment with food for thought. The differing opinion was expressed in a kind way. Why make fun of him/her?

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    3. paula i don't think stephen is making fun of anyone, except maybe himself. :)

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    4. I liked Stephen's comment, too funny!!

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    5. Quite the opposite, Paula. I find so many of these comments interesting. The only person I make fun of online is Sarah Palin.

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    6. we need to hear some of those jokes!

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  48. You have gorgeous sking
    gail

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  49. I forgot to add, living in Australia with its very hot summers and my fair, red-toned skin I have always avoided the sun as I burn very quickly. I did a little experiment 2 years ago and was delighted with the results.
    Our weather starts to warm up around November, so I ate 1 or 2 small Dutch carrots about 5 days a week ( a work snack), no more than that, starting mid September. With my gardening, walking and swimming I actually got a light golden tan...my family all commented on it as they have never seen me looking remotely tanned and I didn't get the slightest bit of sunburn. It's the carotene in the carrots which gives you the protection and promotes the tan..Warning, eat only in moderation as I did or you will get sick! Linda C.

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    1. that's so cool! i remember when my first born was a baby and i fed him too many carrots and he turned orange!

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    2. I love this idea! I have never been tan with my Irish heritage. And eating carrots is good for you. I spend my summers at a pool under the umbrella, only coming out to hop in and swim. Baking in the sun will do nothing to change my complexion, so I gave up. Going to try this and need to get going because the pool opens in June.

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    3. That's weird but I think you are on to something, I eat a raw orange pepper and 4 carrots every day and I have become golden!

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    4. ok, that's it. my afternoon snack will be carrots and orange peppers and lets see if i can get some color on this bod.

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  50. “The difference between people who state that veganism is easy, and those who say veganism is hard, is those who say it’s easy are focused on the victims, while those who say it’s hard are focusing on themselves.."

    see:
    Catherine -Her Brain Fog & Headaches Are Gone + She's Lost Weight!

    http://happyherbivore.com/blog/

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  51. Janet-Thank you for such a lovely post. I keep coming back to the comments section because there's just so much great information. I really appreciated you sharing about your cancer. It really gives me hope because in a couple weeks I'm scheduled to get some "suspicious" moles removed. The last time I had moles removed they came back precancerous and it from my stomach area which hasn't seen the light of day in a double digit amount of years! It gives me peace to see someone has dealt with something similar and is doing fine! Thanks again your blog is always so inspiring!

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    1. i know dorothy, there are so many comments and so much to say about each one! good luck with your moles, i know just how scary it is when they start cutting on your skin. thanks for sharing!

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  52. I would urge you to read the reviews at Paula Begoun's website. She and her team are pretty scathing about Dermalogica's products. I always check the review there before trying something new. I like her products...not all of them of course. Olay has some great products-epople disiss them thinking they are a low drug store brand but they have the ingredients and effectiveness of most high priced products. As I am in my mid 50's skin care has become a huge interest of mine-in my 20's and 30's I was so busy with my kids..it was ivory soap, no or very little sun protection...I know better now!

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  53. I have been following Lisa Eldridge for a while now. I don't wear much make-up, but she does a lot with skin care, too. I basically love what she recommends. I also love that she recommends lower priced stuff as well as expensive stuff, and she seems to be able to determine which products are 'worth' a higher price and which are not. I have been using Liz Earle's stuff now for a few months. I love it, and having spent a few years on Creme de la Mer, I appreciate the price point. The cleanser is amazing, and yes, I use the cloth. :) I just started with the night cream and love it as well. You need so little. Anyhow, Lisa has a youtube channel and blog/site. You might check it out. Finally, I use Kiss My Face sunscreen, and having tried MANY, it's the best at the best price point, IMO. I used Creme de la Mer for a while. It's amazing. But I can't justify spending $70 on sunscreen; though if I really think about it, there isn't anything more 'worth it' in my skincare arsenal.

    PS - I think you and your skin look tabby.

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  54. Hi Janet, I have used Rainwater Botanicals facial products for 5 years. I won't put anything on my face that is not 100% natural; if I don't know what an ingredient is, forget it ;) We are the same age and I believe you will fall in love with Rainwater Botanicals. I use their NOURISHING Facial Soap and NOURISHING Facial Cream and Serum which can be found in their Skin Care section.

    http://www.rainwaterbotanicals.com/

    Best wishes!

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  55. I learn so much from this blog, Janet. I'm so lousy with my skincare right now. I took my youngest son to a walk today and I forgot to put my sunscreen so I grabbed his baby sunscreen and quickly spread it on my face. I know I'll be regretting my poor choices in 10 years. I love Jill's idea of putting an antioxidant to our face before sunscreen. So many great & useful ideas.

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  56. Just thought I should share this link as I can't find the link for the show but there was a significant increase against sun protection and skin health after eating tomato paste and foods rich in lycopene.

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/sn/humanbody/truthaboutfood/young/tomatoes.shtml

    Carrots as mentioned in a comment above is also a skin strengthener. But have you tried weleda? it seems to actually work which some natural brands don't tend do. Have you also tried skin rolling? It helps the ointments sit on the skin better and really works for me when I feel like my skin isn't really absorbing products. I also stay away from mineral oil in any form. Having lived in Australia and knowing so many with skin issues I know this is a lot more than just about wrinkles and the like! Wishing you skin health.

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    1. thank you so much for the links. i know about skin rolling b/c of the massage therapists i work with have told me all about it. i actually have not tried it on myself so i will now. thanks for that tip!

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  57. Do you have a recommendation for a sunscreen...over 50 and living in Florida where the sun is intense. Thanks! Nancy

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kindness is never out of style.

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