Carmine, the non Vegan yet Natural Colorant used in Cosmetics & Food

Hello everyone,

First I want to apologize for being absent in a very long time. It's a long story. So, how are doing ya'll?

I'd like to talk about carmine today. What is it? and why?

Let 's get started!

Carmine (noun), according to dictionary.com is
1. a crimson or purplish-red color.
2. a crimson pigment obtained from cochineal.

From these two explanations, we get the idea that carmine is crimson or purplish-red color which obtained from cochineal. Wait...what??!

Cochineal? Also known as Dactylopius coccus is "a scale insect that manufactures a deep maroon pigment and stores this pigment in body fluids and tissues. The pigmentation is a bitter, astringent chemical called carminic acid (10% total dry weight), which is extremely effective in repelling potential predators, such as ants; ants find this anthraquinone to be unpalatable."*

These are some pictures I got when I type "cochineal" using search engine.

Honestly, at first when I found out about this colorant, I felt uncomfortable almost disturbed. I bought a lipstick by "TheBalm" a long time ago and this brand claims to use natural ingredients. By all means, I didn't expect the products have to use carmine as their colorant. So, I started to do some research about that out of my curiosity. Not surprisingly, this type of dye has been used since hundreds of years ago even in the fifteenth century. Europeans, Australians, Native Americans had used them for textile industry to gain many recpectable red colors. And ever since, they've also used carminic acid as food and cosmetic colorant.

Interestingly, I found out that carminic acid is used by Starbucks co., one of my favorite coffee shop. I did check FDA regulations about this type of colorant and they approve the usage of cochineal as long as it is mentioned in the list of ingredients as carmine or cochineal extract. Hm, we might never knew we have been "eating some bugs" while drinking our beverage. Many foods are using cochineal extract, ice cream, yogurt, drinks, etc.

Compared to other cosmetic colorant which probably contains lead/minion, cadmium, manganese, chromium, carmine is more safe. It's been proven for many years that people have been using it over centuries for food and cosmetics. On the other hand, lead could become toxin when ingested. We (our body) can't even be exposed to lead AT ALL. Imagine putting on as your lipstick/lipgloss? Hell no!

Now these facts lead me to a different perpective. I am not worried too much about having carmine in my lipstick anymore. It's natural, indeed. If I have to choose between any kind of colorant (for example and I made these up: #23 pink petal or #213 red brick) and carmine or carminic acid or cochineal extract, I rather to go with carmine than those nasty unknown colorants. I think bugs are more edible than metals.

So, if you are against this non-Vegan colorant, you should carefully read all the ingredients on the product label information, where usually carmine also written as crimson lake, natural red 4, cochineal extract. FDA requires to put 'carmine' or 'cochineal extract' on the list.

Some of Qi Qi Naturals products use carmine as their colorant: Rose Lipbalm and Shimmer Peach Lipstick. However, owner Ki Ki offers to replace carmine to other ingredient as consideration for vegan customers. Again, I myself don't mind with cochineal extract in my products. It's natural after all which supposedly much less harms than chemical or synthetic colorants.

Keep our natural beauty!

-dora-

source: *http://www.botgard.ucla.edu/html/botanytextbooks/economicbotany/Cochineal/

NEW !!! Natural Bar Soaps on Qi Qi Naturals' Etsy Store

Hi All,


I hope all of you are doing well ! It's Columbus Day, so some of you are perhaps having an extra day off ! How great!!! Happy Shopping for those who are getting discount stuff!!
First, I apologize for being absent for a while. Really really sorry from the bottom of my heart.
Now it's time to reveal the good news: Qi Qi Naturals now has bar soaps !!!
OMG! Yes, This is so exciting ! There are 4 kinds of them that gotten the names from its scents.

1. Peppermint and Mocha
2. Grapefruit and Calendula
3. Green tea and Silk
4. All-in-One (Body, Hair, Shaving)


Here some pictures I copied from Qi Qi Naturals' Etsy page:
and the link is https://www.etsy.com/listing/204025127/all-natural-handmade-body-soap-4?ref=shop_home_active_7

This the packaging. It is a nice vintage looking packaging, simple yet elegant and informative.

Can't wait to try? If you guys are interested in getting those and if you don't have an Etsy account yet, Kiki provides you a link that gives you a $5 gift card for FIRST ORDER ON ETSY ONLY.
https://www.etsy.com/invites/buy/?iid=ITFL5wA8XJmalFmb66b-xasrxVde2Upnp885u4sxU0w.

Have any of you tried this or does any of you want to try this or have some comments? We'd like to know what your opinions are. Thank you!

Enjoy your day !!! Adios !!!


-dora-

Today's Pick: All Natural Mascara

- with Australian Black Clay

Hi All!

Today's Pick by Qi Qi Naturals is All Natural Mascara. Derived its color from Australian Black Clay and Australian Red Reef Clay, this mascara provides a nice dark brown color on your lashes. It doesn't clump and cause irritation while giving a bold look for your eyes. If you have sensitive eyes (especially from chemical ingredients) then this mascara would be a must-have item for your vanity. Why not? It is made of natural ingredients and the color looks very natural. It's a win-win solution!


Here's the link from the Qi Qi Naturals' Etsy store:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/199989337/all-natural-mascara-with-australian?ref=shop_home_active_6


All Natural Mascara

Because your lashes makes your eyes more beautiful; makes your eyes look more bright and lively; therefore, you need to be as close as All Natural Mascara by Qi Qi Naturals. Currently, featured in Dark Brown which darker on lashes than showed on pictures. It is dark so your lashes will look bold and longer, only with NO clumps. The color is derived from natural clays as I never use chemical colorants. This mascara is not waterproof but it stays on all day and doesn't flake off.
--------------------------------

Key Ingredients:

***Vegetable Glycerin***
It is believed to be skin-identical meaning that easily absorbed and prevents dryness. As for lashes, it softens but prevents them from breakage. It is also known as natural hair growth treatment.

***Australian Red Reef Clay***
It’s high iron content and essential minerals help to replenish and regenerate the epidermis of the skin to create soft and healthy glowing skin. The rich color from the Australian Reef Red Clay can also be used in organic hair coloring, giving a natural red color that is impermanent.

***Australian Black Clay***
It contains great iron and oxygen properties. It is a non-toxic mineral with cleansing and conditioning agents, which make it particularly for nourishing the skin.
---------------------------------

In a 8ml Mascara tube.

To use: Apply 1 coat for a natural look or use eye lash curler and 2 coats for dramatic eyes! This mascara can be taken off by warm water or any face cleanser.

Ingredients: Purified Oregon Rainwater, Australian Black Clay, Red Reef Clay, Guar Gum, Vegetable Glycerin & Optiphen Plus (Paraben-Free preservative)

For International customers, please contact me for the shipping fee!

Shelf life is 6-9 months
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Today's Pick: Cleansing Grains

- 100% Natural Soap Free Face Wash

Hi All!

Today's Pick by Qi Qi Naturals is Cleansing Grains, an all natural soap-free facial cleanser which contains organic herbs, oats, almond meal, clays. It cleans thoroughly the pores, removes toxins, dead skin cells like any other scrubs but BETTER because it has Bentonite clay and Green French clay which known to deep cleanse and fight skin problems (eczema, acne) while rejuvenating skin, Almond meal that refreshes skin, Oats which moisturizes and softens the skin, Lavender powder which known for its soothing formula, Rose and Kelp powder. A 100% natural works best!

A lady that has tried a sample says "it's so great, and I even used it as facial mask because it has clay and lavender powder, I LOVE IT. My skin feels smooth. Thank you for letting me know about this brand!"


Available in 2oz and 4oz.

Here's the link for sample size:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/187634978/cleansing-grains-100-natural-soap-free?ref=shop_home_active_18

The product's description as from Etsy:

Cleansing Grains

This cleanser is formulated with 100% natural ingredients. Cleansing Grains’ combination of Clay, Oats, Almond Meal and organic herbs clean thoroughly, removes dead cells while also tightens the skin and unclogs pores, leaving the skin feel fresh, clean and soft.

Instruction: Combine 1-2 tsp. of cleansing grains with water and make into a paste. Massage onto the face and rinse off with warm water. If using as a face mask, leave on 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
---------------------------------

Key Ingredients:
(*Organic)

Green French Clay
It draws toxins and impurities out of the skin. It is a miraculous product for oily problem skin because it has a purifying, deep cleansing and drying action.

Bentonite Clay
It is well-known for fighting acne, eczema, psoriasis, wound and rejuvenating skin.

*Oats
Oatmeal Powder provides natural remedies for skin, works as moisturizers, protects the skin from impurities and makes the skin feel soft, smooth, healthy and radiant.

*Almond Meal
Almond Meal removes dead cells and fights acne and dryness, makes face look younger, fresh, radiant and supple.

*Lavender Powder
It is believed to be able to soothe irritated skin, often used in facial mask formulas to provide fragrant relaxation and soothing of skin.

*Rose Powder
It could cure skin infections, inflammation, swelling and prickly heat because it rejuvenates and tones the skin and leaves the skin soft, smooth and glowing.

*Kelp Powder
It rejuvenates, nourishes, moisturizes, revitalizes and firms the skin while removes surface impurities and toxins.
------------------------------------

Store in a cool, dark and dry place.

In a 2 oz amber glass bottle or in a 4 oz reusable Tin. Please choose what size you need!

Ingredients: Green French Clay, Bentonite Clay, *Oats, *Almond meal, *Lavender Powder, *Rose Powder & *Kelp Powder
(*Organic)

Today's Pick: Rose Face Cream

- Handcrafted Organic face moisturizer with pure Rose Essential Oil

Hi All!

Today's Pick by Qi Qi Naturals is Rose Face Cream, a face moisturizer that has pure Rose Essential oil as key ingredient.
The moisturizer is a hit and one of the best sellers because of its soft texture and lovely rose scent which comes from natural source, Rose E.O. This face moisturizer will spoil your facial skin, help reducing fine lines and wrinkles, even skin tone and leave the skin youthful.
Available in sample size (5 gram) and full size (1 oz).
Here's the link for sample size:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/186985681/rose-face-cream-handcrafted-organic-face?ref=sr_gallery_22&ga_ref=search_shop_redirect&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery

The product's description as from Etsy:

Rose Face Cream

It instantly goes to work with potent Rose Hydrosol, Rosehip seed oil, Olive squalane and Rose essential oil repairing cellular damage and helping diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, fade hyper-pigmentation for even skin tone, and improve overall texture for a visibly lifted, firmer, more youthful complexion.

It smells so wonderful and my customers come back for this cream!
----------------------

Direction: Daily. Apply to clean face and neck.

Store in a cool, dark, dry place.

in a 1 oz frosted glass cream jar. It will last for at least 5-6 months.
-----------------------

Key Ingredients:
(*Organic)

*Rose Hydrosol
has been used for millennium for skin care, emotional & spiritual healing, even religious ceremonies. Historically, it was also offered as a courtesy for guests due to its multi-useful nature. It is great for all types of skin including acne prone, dry, oily and sensitive because rose controls and balances sebum production. It also has anti-bacterial, astringent, purifying, and cicatrisant properties, making it helpful for healing a wide variety of skin conditions.

Olive Squalane:
is so fine that absorbs deep into the skin-leaving no oily film-with amazing quickness. This smooth, deep penetration assists in the acceleration of new cell growth. It also helps to discourage the growth of bacteria that can block normal cell development.

Rose essential oil:
Containing a complex array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, rose essential oil has excellent emollient properties for moisturizing dry skin; it also offers antiseptic and astringent properties to treat acneic skin, as well as anti-inflammatory properties that help treat redness and inflammation.

Ingredients: *Purified Water *Rose hydrosol, Vegetable glycerin, Emulsifying Wax, *Kukui nut oil, *Rosehip seed oil, Meadowfoam seed oil, Olive squalane, Vitamin E, Bulgarian Rose essential oil and Leucidal SF (a natural preservative) (*Organic)

NEW! Qi Qi Naturals' Acne Spot Treatment "Clear Me Up"

- with Organic Jojoba Oil and therapeutic grade essential oils

Hi there!!

I have a good news for you with acne problems! Qi Qi Naturals just launched a new product! It's a treatment for acne and blemishes called "Clear Me Up". It comes in a rollerball bottle which make it easy to apply. Moreover, it's made with all natural ingredients to keep your natural beauty.

Here's the link:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/189216807/acne-spot-treatment-clear-me-up-with?ref=shop_home_active_1

Some information I copied from Etsy page:

Acne Spot Treatment "Clear Me Up" from Qi Qi Naturals - $6 (USD)

If you're anything like me, the initial reaction to a pimple is to lob as many harsh chemicals at it as possible, hoping it will disappear instantly—or at least overnight. This spot treatment serum will battle it out with your blemishes. Formulated with Tea tree, Lemongrass and Lavender essential oils. "Clear Me Up" helps calm and reduce redness while Organic Jojoba Oil promotes healthy skin. Each roll-on bottle is 5 ml. 

I use therapeutic grade essential oils and I am not stingy about my essential oils. I put enough amount of essential oils in order to get the best benefits from the essential oils. 

Direction: Apply to face in the morning and evening after cleansing. Or as needed. 
---------------------------------

Key Ingredients:
(*Organic)

*Jojoba Oil
nutrient-rich oil moisturizes for soft, supple skin.

Lavender Oil
acts as an antiseptic and cleanser, while balancing, soothes and heals.

Tea Tree Oil
It has been found to cut deep into the skin oils thus unblocking the pores on the skin. This ensures that any other acne causing-bacteria which are still deeper in the skin are eradicated to prevent any other future infections. This means that tea tree oil for acne is a very powerful natural remedy for acne in that it removes all the bacteria that may cause future infections! 

Lemongrass
It contains antibacterial and antimicrobial components. This combination of astringent and antibacterial qualities makes it an excellent choice for acne prone skin.
--------------------------------

Store in a cool, dry, dark place.

In a 5 ml roll-on glass bottle. It is good for traveling and putting in your purse. 

Larger size is available on request.

Ingredients: *Jojoba Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Essential oils of Tea Tree, Lemongrass & Lavender
---------------------------------

This product contains no preservatives, no parabens, no dyes, no animal products or testing (we test everything personally), no added water. Our ingredients are all certified organic, vegan and are locally sourced or fair trade certified.

Qi Qi Naturals' Grand Opening at Etsy: 10% OFF !!

Hi everyone!

Yay!! I'm so excited to let you know that Qi Qi Naturals is now available at Etsy.com.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/QiQiNaturals

From Kiki's Instagram:

"I am so thrilled and honored today to announce the official launch of my new All-Natural handcrafted skincare brand, Qi Qi Naturals!  It is available on Etsy.com and at local herb store. The past year has been full of challenges and trials. I couldn't be happier than to have my own skincare brand (I have worked in the beauty industry for about 12 years). And it is like a dream comes true!"

And for the Grand Opening event, Qi Qi Naturals offers 10% off for everyone for a minimum purchase of $10 until Jun 30.
Use the code ENJOY10OFF when check out.

Let's stop by, shop, and spoil your skin with all natural skincare products from Qi Qi Naturals. They work wonderful on my skin because "Nature makes the best skincare".

See you in the next blog/event !
Keep our natural beauty!

-dora-

Sunscreen... for Dummies !

Hi Everyone !

How ya'll doin' ?

Summer is around the corner! Or at the place I live, I would call it is already Summer for it's been few days the temperature is around 80F (27C) in addition to humidity, making it feel like almost 90F ! Gosh, I'm not looking forward for being in 90s degree plus humidity. Imagine about 100F roughly. Yeah..
Anyway, let's talk about sunscreen because it will be our most necessary item in our bag! Well, to me IT CERTAINLY IS! Here we go....
(I collect the materials from many pages, mostly from FDA website).

Why do I need it?
First of all, to avoid sunburn. Sunburn could be really painful or annoying to some people. Secondly, to avoid other skin problems caused by ultraviolet radiation such as aging, wrinkles, dark spots. Lastly, to prevent skin cancer which also caused by UV radiation.

What is sunscreen? What is sunblock?
Shortly, sunscreen is non-colored chemical protection, meaning the ingredients absorb and penetrate the skin as work as a filter to reduce the radiation mostly only UVB although nowadays some have UVA protection. A sunblock is a white-colored physical protection meaning blocking the radiation against UVA and UVB.
Afterall, nowadays many sunscreen lotions offer protection against UVA and UVB, so basically the SPF number is more important. Let's move on!

What is SPF?
It stands for Sun Protection Factor. Usually the range is within 15 to 100.
What's the meaning of SPF number?
Yeah, roughly it's about the period of protection you will get: multiply the number with 'how long you are able to stay in the sunlight until you get sunburn.' If you get sunburn after 15minutes being exposed to the sun, then applying SPF 30 roughly will get you keep protected for 450minutes [30x15minutes].
Now, this could mislead anyone, please keep in mind that it doesn't always work that way! Some notes you need to know:
1. how much of the application. If you only apply sunscreen half of the instruction mentioned, you only have about 1/3 or 1/4 of protection. [using same example above, about 112-150minutes]
2. sunlight intensity. During the day, especially by noon [10am-2pm], the sunlight intensity is the highest while early morning and late afternoon are less intense. Therefore, you need to re-apply you sunscreen most likely during the day at noon.
3. water/sweat factor. If you swim, sunscreen will be washed off. And if you sweat a lot, the sunscreen will be washed off. Therefore, the protection is no longer reliable. For example if you sweat a lot and wash off the sunscreen in 60minutes, you will get sunburn shortly after, although you expect the SPF30 will protect you for 450minutes! Again, keep in  mind that you always have to keep re-applying every 2-hour to be safe.

Which should I get, a sunscreen with lower or higher SPF number?
Higher. Because you will get more protection. I recommend get the SPF 30 instead of SPF 15, even though the protection is not double, but kind of. Keep in mind the SPF 50 only slightly different with SPF 30 or SPF 15. For example the protection from SPF 15 is 93%, SPF 30 is 96-97% and SPF 50 is 98%.
The higher the better, especially if you happen to put only half amount of lotion as in the instruction. If you have SPF 30 and only apply half of the instruction, then you are most likely still having SPF 10 on you.


Why do I need to apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outside?
to give your skin some time to absorb the lotion into deeper skin layers thus it works longer and effectively.

Well, I think that's all I want to share with you. So, don't forget to put on your sunscreen lotion before going outside, and also put on some lipbalm with at least SPF 15 to protect your lips. It's okay to be tanned but it's not okay to get sunburn!
Keep your natural beauty! :)

xoxo,
-dora-

PS: makeup, lotion, body butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, our natural skin oil, and some ingredients offer a little amount of SPF sunscreen. So, in the case you ran out of sunscreen, grab a little bit of coconut oil and use it as your natural sunscreen!
I might going to write about it later, but it won't be my next blog.

NOTE: I bought all of the above items using my own money, I don't get any benefits from them and I just happen to have them at the moment. I don't intentionally try to promote any of those brands. Please understand, thank you!

Mineral Skincare and Cosmetics

Some people say mineral cosmetics are for oily skin.

Hi Gorgeus!!

Ever wonder what are these mineral skincare or cosmetics? Well, according to Merriam-Webster dictionary, mineral is:

1. a substance (such as quartz, coal, petroleum, salt, etc.) that is naturally formed under the ground
2. a chemical substance (such as iron or zinc) that occurs naturally in certain foods and that is important for good health

So, when we talk about mineral makeup or skincare, my thought refers to the first meaning, a natural substance from the ground. Hence, I would say that mineral cosmetics are made using some natural ingredients. 
I am sure you've already heard or even used mineral cosmetics before since this type of makeup or skincare has been around for a while ever and has become never ending trend. Some popular mineral cosmetics are mineral powder, mineral foundation, mineral eyeshadows, blush, etc. Some mineral skincare are clay mask, cleansers, moisturizers and many more.

I think the reason mineral cosmetics/skincare are good is that they are free of harsh chemicals (preservatives, fragrance, water, dyes) which would be overwhelming to some people with sensitive skins or acne prone. I myself am struggling with dry and flaky skin under my nose area. I used to wear regular foundation/powder and it emphasized the flakiness. Seriously, it looked terrible. Either the previous skincare I used had some chemical that my skin was prone of or not enough moisturizer agents, I don't know. But I suspect those were the most reasonable cause.

When Kiki introduced me to her skincare products, I was grateful. To be honest, I was skeptical at first, well, you know, natural versus regular brands. However, I'd love to try her products mainly because she says she has dry combination skin like me. Hey, I'd never seen she had flaky skin! So, I thought, this may work! Indeed it works. I started to get compliments of my skin. Ever since, I always look for mineral or natural skincare/makeup [if Qi Qi doesn't carry] or at least, I would read the ingredients of the products before buying. Something that takes some time.. but worth it! 


Now, let's dig deeper into these stuff.
Are mineral makeup or skincare only for oily skin? No. I have experienced that they shouldn't be only meant for oily skin. In fact, good mineral makeup could balance the oil level of the skin [make the skin less dry if you have dry skin and make the skin less oily if you have oily skin]. 

However, beware! Some brands may claim that their products are made using mineral ingredients or naming them after mineral skincare/cosmetics but they still use water and preservatives and perfume which mean chemical substance. Or they actually only use one or two natural ingredients [not all naturals]. Now perhaps these products don't have as much benefits from their natural ingredients. Keep in mind, the chemical substances/preservatives might reduce the mineral potentials.

Applying Mineral Powder Foundation or Finishing Powder
As I have dry skin, I apply powder relatively generous only on T-zone. Sometimes, I put on my cheeks and all over the face, but I think it's not necessary. For me, a thin layer should be enough. Liquid or cream foundation would work better for my skin. And when I use my liquid foundation, I use my moisturizer and sunscreen underneath. Lastly, I apply sheer mineral powder as finishing powder. Voila!


Mineral Skincare Ingredients
Let me write some ingredients that are usually part of mineral skincare/cosmetics.

Clay [Kaolin Clay, Rhassoul Clay, Australian Pink Clay, Bentonite Clay, etc]
Usually used in mask, cleanser, foundation, blush, any kind of dry cosmetic products.
Benefits: quick absorbent and some help with skin conditions (dry/flaky/oily).

Any Herbs Powder [Arrowroot, Kelp, Rose, Lavender, Lemon Peel]
Benefits: based on their natural contents such as vitamins, antioxidant and anti-inflammation, anti-bacterial agents.

Mica and Sericite Mica
Benefits: firstly, they are from natural source which are better than dyes or any coloring ingredients. They can be really good to your skin, however, if you have sensitive skin, you might want to test this first as they can be tricky to some sensitive skin.
I have no problems with them.

Titanium Dioxide
Benefits: Suncreen

Magnesium Stearate
[stearic acid salt] It is commonly used as thickening agent in many skincare and makeup; helps to get the desired texture of a product. It is also used to reduce the clear/transparent appearance of finished products.
FDA says it is safe to be consumed.

Zinc Oxide
A natural source of coloring agent, sunscreen, and skin protection.
Is it safe? FDA says it is safe as cosmetics ingredients.

All in all, Mineral Products seem to have more benefit than regular products. The choice is yours. Like I always said, believe your skin, if your products caused you breakouts or any uncomfortable sensations, stop using them! Mineral or not, your skin knows what works best!
Keep your natural beauty :)

-dora-

In Love with Coconut

Lengkuas Island, Belitung Indonesia

Tropical Fruit
Coconut is very common in tropical countries. Growing up in Indonesia, I get used to coconut. Some traditional Indonesian soup use coconut milk as one of the ingredients. Coconut water/juice is common for traditional desserts along with coconut meat. At some restaurants, we can order young coconut for our drinks (with or without extra sugar/ice). It comes with the whole fruit so we can eat its meat as well. I loooove it! The water always feels refreshing especially for hot and tropical weather. One coconut can be used for food/drink/oil, and its fiber (aka cocofiber) can be used at home as door mat/roof, its shell can be used as charcoal and many more.
I think it's amazing that somehow the world is balanced. Tropical and hot weather places are blessed by the existence of this fruit!

The Water
It is believed that drinking coconut water is equal to drinking milk. It has protein, amino acids, antioxidants and anti-toxic agents. Its Vitamin C contents is known for creating bright and clean look on baby's skin when drank during pregnancy. It provides a powerful energy source as if drinking an energy/isotonic drink and of course this also means that coconut water is really good in preventing and treating dehydration. I always look for coconut water whenever I feel tired and weak and when I don't feel good. Its anti-inflammatory property helps me feel better. The sugar content in coconut water is enough to make us feel full for a while which is good for those who are trying to lose weight.
Remember what antioxidant agents do? Yes, they protect us from free radicals. This means that coconut water is good for our body and skin as anti aging source. Yay!

The Meat
Young coconut meat is good for desserts while riped (or "old") coconut is good for grated coconut, coconut milk and coconut oil. Basically what the coconut water offers, the meat will also provide. For example, its fatty acids, antioxidant and anti-toxic agents.

Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil is derived from coconut milk by warming and separating the oil from the water used for pressing. So, it is not hard to make coconut oil from a riped whole coconut. Many people use coconut oil for cooking, baking, and skincare. Even I do too.
I use it for baking and cooking. For baking, I substitute some of the vegetable oil or butter with coconut oil. It makes the baked goods smell good.
I use it on my skin when I have itchy dry skin and to soothe my skin from burn.
I use it on my scalp as natural hair treatment. You can find the simple recipe for hair treatment below.
I use it as make up remover.
I use lotion, face oil, and body butter* that has coconut oil as ingredients.

Coconut Oil works impressively. Not only it costs relatively cheap (as skincare) but it provides more benefits than other skincare products. Moreover, it is natural. The worrisome of putting on harsh chemical ingredients could be eliminated.

I hope you enjoy reading this blog. Please leave any comments if you have any experience with coconut in any forms. Keep our natural beauty!

-dora-
*the products mentioned are handmade by Kiki the founder of Qi Qi Naturals.


DIY Hair Treatment
(Great for breakage, frizzy, conditioner, dandruff, hair growth)

1 tbsp Extra Virgin Coconut Oil (in liquid form, you can always warm it up by putting the closed jar into warm water)
Juice from 1 lemon.
2 drops of Rosemary or Lavender E.O. (optional)
Mix all ingredients. Start putting on the scalp by giving massage. Work on giving 1-inch space in between. Always massage 2-3mins when applying. If you have extra, cover the hair til hair ends. Leave it on hair for at least 30 mins. You may use cap to avoid dripping. After 30 mins, wash your hair with your shampoo. (Note: try to avoid hair dryer as it dries hair and makes hair dull and frizzy).

If you don't have lemon but you have (raw) honey, you can substitute the lemon juice. Use 1 tbsp honey instead.

If you have sweet almond oil, you can mix both in equal parts and they work well together as hair mask.

If you don't have any of the ingredients except the coconut oil. That's fine. You may need at least 2 tbsp of Coconut Oil. You can simply follow the directions above when applying.

Oil as Anti Aging

What are the oils that can be used as Anti Aging ?

Aging is Inevitable
As I have written in the previous blog called "Oil and Our Skin," I believe that some oils do give more benefits to our skin as natural skincare compared to manufactured skincare. We all know that dryness could cause aging, wrinkles, itch, flakiness. We are aware that sunlight could cause aging with its free radicals and leave us dark spots or skin discoloration, not to mention having sunburn after being exposed in the sun for a long time. We also notice that being old may cause having sagging skin because of losing collagen and elastin. Yes, we all know that all those could happen to anyone of us. Sunlight is something inevitable if we like to go outside for a walk, hiking, tanning, playing at the beach, etc. Age is unavoidable as I am writing this blog, I'm aging by seconds, minutes, or maybe an hour or two!

What to do now? We always count on some skincare. But, the only question is are they really dependable to prevent me from aging? I mean, I understand they have dermatologist's approval; they also have some people to try and test their products before launching which is great. The thing is that sometimes some skincare contain harsh chemical ingredients. Every time I looked at the ingredient list on an item, I would frowned and stunned because I'm like "I don't understand what in the world is this, this, this..."
This situation has led me to be more aware of choosing a skincare product. Honestly, I would love to make my own skincare. But, sometimes when I read the recipes, it takes at least ten to twenty ingredients to get a well-balanced and effective skincare. For that reason, I give up. The best thing is that Qi Qi Naturals is owned by my best friend, Kiki. With her passion, she makes wonderful skincare from natural ingredients. Even better that most of them are organics. So, thanks to her, I don't have to make my own skincare, yay!

Oil Checklist
As we know that choosing the right skincare is crucial because we want to have the maximum benefits of each product we use. We want to make sure that we prevent ourselves from sign of aging prematurely. Yes, we, ladies, want to look youthful and radiant no matter how old we are.
A good natural skincare product will always include at least one of the oils below.

I believe many many more can be added to the list. However, for example, knowing that your product contains Jojoba Oil and Almond Oil at the same time might be such a relief. I hope this helps you to find out which products are good for you. So, really. Oil does work as anti aging and it gives you more benefits than a manufactured skincare could give at some point.

Keep our natural beauty! Ciao!
-dora-

Here's the list:

Vitamin E Oil
It helps treating skin from sunburn, scars, acne, and wrinkles by speeding up skin cells regeneration. Vitamin E is also known for its antioxidant properties.

Coconut Oil
If you like to have simple skincare and your skin is not so sensitive, you may consider to use Extra Virgin Coconut Oil as your face oil. In fact, according to my research, a lot of people have been using EVCO alone as night moisturizer. Coconut Oil contains antioxidant agents that help prevent aging and fight free radicals. It's believed to help with wrinkles and flakiness.

Olive Oil 
It is rich in vitamins and antioxidants and highly effective in neutralizing damaging free radicals. It also helps balance your skin's moisture without clogging pores.

Castor Oil
As antioxidant, it nourishes our skin and fights aging signs. In addition, it also has antiviral properties.

Camelina Oil
Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, it improves skin elasticity. It also has Vitamin E that works as an antioxidant to protect our skin from free radicals.

(Sweet) Almond Oil
This oil helps nourish the skin making it smooth, delay aging, lighten dark complexion, eradicate irritation, inflammation and skin rashes, soothing itchiness and moisturizing. It makes skin supple to touch, glow and look healthy.

Jojoba Oil 
It absorbs easily to our skin without feeling greasy, clogging pores or blackheads or promoting acne. It rejuvenates cell growth and helps dry and damaged skin by improving skin elasticity and suppleness because of its vitamin E content.

Rosehip Seed Oil
Full of vitamins, antioxidants and essential fatty acids to correct dark spots and hydrate dry, itchy skin, reduce scars and fine lines. It rejuvenates the skin and leaves the skin glowing.

Kukui Nut Oil
It could penetrate the skin easily and leaves the skin feeling silky and smooth without greasy feeling in addition to its antioxidant agent that protects the skin from free radicals.

Avocado Oil
It contains vitamin A and antioxidant, nourishes, moisturizes, cleans skin, eliminates wrinkles, condition hair and protect against harsh environment.

Grapeseed Oil 
It helps regulate our natural oil production, assists with skin repair while it has mildly astringent, antioxidant and antiseptic properties packed with skin-brightening vitamin C.

Butter
Kokum Butter
It contains of fatty acids and antioxidant agents which reduce degeneration of the skin cells and restore elasticity of the skin.

Cocoa Butter
It also has antioxidant agents to slow the signs of aging.

Horsetail Butter
It's believed to treat cutaneous dryness, rebuild and regenerate damaged skin cells from rashes, wrinkles, acne, burns because of its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant actions.

Raw Shea Butter
It's believed to help improve skin, hair, beauty and health because it renews, repairs and protects the skin against aging/wrinkles and harsh climate.

Essential Oils
Rose stimulates the skin and helps from dry and aging skin.

Sweet Orange (aka Orange Oil) slows down aging process and leaves the skin look radiant and glowing.

Vanilla works as antioxidant and anti-inflammation. It also promotes repairing damaged skin.

Immortelle (Helichrysum) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits to help skin with acne, allergies, sunburn, ezcema and aging signs.

Sandalwood relieves rashes and itches, eczema and psoriasis, soothes acne and slows skin aging.



Note:
All those ingredients above are used by Qi Qi Naturals.
I didn't write about them in details. The list are genuinely by me, but the contents are from the internet, collected bits and pieces when I did some research. I may have rephrased it with my own words. Thanks.

Loving Our Feet

Hey Lovelies !!

Have you ever think of spoiling your feet at home? Like relaxing on a chair and having your feet soaking in warm water? Oh, to top that off, you put on facial mask. I know, right! That feeling of enjoying the very moment!
Well, I think our feet are important so we need to spoil them every time we have the chance. Especially, now that we are entering spring. During summer time, we want to have our feet looking good in our flip-flops, sandals, gladiator and flat shoes and all those sexy looking shoes!

I don't have perfect feet. Either I have to deal with cracking heels or hard skin and ingrown toenails. I know, as a woman I am expected to have beautiful feet. Therefore, I feel the need to pay more attention in caring my feet. I want healthy feet, happy feet. For that reason, I do pedicure for my own feet every 2 weeks at home, an alternate way of going and spending money at a salon.

Here's what I do:
1. use foot file to get rid of cracking heels.
2. clean dirt/fabric that usually are hidden between toenail and skin/nail-bed.
3. soak in warm water with additional of some ACV (optional). This takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Then dry them completely with towel.
4. trim toenails when necessary. Usually after shower/soaking, toenails are softer and easier to be trimmed.
5. use nail buffer to smooth and make toenails shiny.
6. massage some cuticle oil that has Vitamin E on toenails and spoil toes by massaging them. (alter cuticle oil with tea tree oil for toenail problems).
7. put some foot gel/cream or body butter for smoothing and soothing. I like peppermint because it feels refreshing.
8. for treating cracking heels and hard skin, I put on socks for extra moisture. Otherwise, I leave them open.

Toenail Problems
For those who have toenail problems (ie. my husband and my friend, some part of toenails are not sticking to their nail-beds; I think this works for foot fungus as well) : put some tea tree oil onto the toenails with problem before going to bed every night and leave it overnight. Since toenails are growing so slowly, the treatment should continue until at least 6 months. A complete toenails could take one whole year to fully regrow.

Picture source: www.feetfirstcardiff.co.uk/commonfootprob.html

Additional Tips :
1. toenail treatment work better if we always let feet dry, so try not to wear socks/slippers while at home.
2. additional foot spray is recommended to soothe our feet, especially if we only wear shoes that don't require socks. Spray will help freshen feet and reduce odor. Choose natural tea tree spray if possible.
3. If you like to put on nail polish on to your toenails, it's fine. As long as you remember to clean it off completely after one or two weeks and leave it breathe for at least 48 hours before applying another color.

Our feet will be healthy happy feet once we do this in regular basis. No more feeling ashamed of having ugly feet, instead, we welcome pretty flip-flops and sexy sandals!
Have fun caring your feet! And always keep our natural beauty!


-dora-

Being in Mid 30s

Hi All,

I promise, this won't be long. Just a quick share, though this year I am 35 years old, I'm always being asked to show my ID card every time I enter a casino even though I don't go for gambling, I just want to eat there. Well, I take that as a compliment in addition that people always thought that I'm still in my early 20s. I wish!

How do I maintain the look? Honestly, I don't really know. However, I'd like to share what I think could be the reasons:
1. being born as Asian. People always say that Asians tend to age really well. I think I'm lucky because I'm from Indonesia where it's super hot and humid all year long so my skin won't easily get dry. (Dryness causes aging). If this could be a reason, then I put as #1 because you can't choose to be born here or there. However, I think it's more likely gene factor. My mom is 60 but looks like she's 45.
2. trying to live in balance. I like to eat protein and carbohydrate (any meat and rice/pasta); therefore, I also eat veggies/fruits to balance it. I eat broccoli everyday. I do some housework and most of times sitting on the sofa writing blog or reading articles, therefore I balance it with a bit physical activities like walking/jogging/playing tennis once or twice a week minimum. (This doesn't  mean I can't eat junk food once a while. I call it a break from my routine and I think that's nice to have such a treat).
3. trying to have enough sleep (at least seven hours a day).
4. trying to ditch harsh chemical products. I opt for natural products. I wear some cosmetics of course, but I try to check ingredients before buying.
5. every now and then I take a teaspoon of ACV or gummy vitamins; every other day I take 2 tablespoons of honey.
6. drink water regularly. I also drink a cup of coffee latte every morning (I admit this is not a good habit, someday I will switch into tea).
7. always maintain cleanliness. I brush teeth at least twice a day and take shower at least once a day. During summer time, I could take shower up to three times a day. Our family do laundry every week; bed cover and pillow cases are important to be kept clean as to avoid dirt/allergies/any skin problems.
8. never forget to put face moisturizer/oil for day time (and sunscreen!) and night time. I have dry combination skin and that could be a problem if I neglect my skin.
9. say yes to body oil/butter/lotion.  Don't let the cold of winter makes your skin dry.
10.last but not least, always trying to let go stress by smiling. I know, it's easy to say, hard to be done. Everyone has his/her own problems. Today has its own problem. Once you start to smile, it will lift up your mood a little bit and reduce your worries. Remember wrinkle is stress' best friend! Smile and good laugh will help you through another day.

Well, I think that's all. I hope you enjoy your life no matter where you are, what you do and how old you are. Simply love yourself. Keep natural !


-dora-

Ba-Ba-Ba...Ba-Banana....

why Minions like banana?

Hi Beauties !

Being pretty doesn't always mean taking care of our look from the outside. It also depends on our routine, our habit, which are related to our intake. Hm. To think of it, if a pretty woman constantly eats junk food, drinks alcohol and smokes, in the next few years, she might have any health issues. Health problems could cause her stressful. Not only that stress could fasten the aging process, if she had to take medicine, she could get some side effects. She started to have more wrinkles, panda eyes, any side effects from the treatment (could be allergies, rashes, losing appetite, gaining weight or else). She would put more makeup to cover it up meaning more harsh chemical gets into her body and so forth. Would she still be looking gorgeous? Maybe. But most likely, she will probably be looking much older. And I won't let this happen to me. So, IMO being pretty also means being healthy.(I'm sorry if it sounds depressing, I just mean to encourage us (including me) to live better by being healthy and to leave those bad habits).

BANANA
This suddenly came across my mind 'why do the Minions like banana so much?.' I would say because of its super power nutrients. Before I write some facts about banana according USDA, I have a story to tell y'all. When I was little, my mom used to urge me to eat banana once a day. She would say banana is a really powerful fruit because it's rich in Vitamin. As a good child, I ate those bananas, 'nothing to lose' I thought.

As I grew up, I learned that when my relative had upset stomach, he would only eat banana, nothing else. Of course he also drank water. Apparently, to him, bananas help detoxify his stomach and fix his health. At that moment, I was amazed as I was a bit underestimating this yellow fellow!

A year ago, my husband (he was my fiance back then and I was still in California) had a real bad food poisoning. He couldn't eat anything at all and he would throw up. I recalled the story of my relative and told him to eat only bananas and not to drink soda. He only followed eating bananas but still drinking soda. Again, he kept throwing up. His stomach wouldn't accept anything at all except banana. I suspected the culprit was soda. After struggling for 3 days throwing up and nothing could be eaten, his condition got worse and he had fever. He was really bad, indescribable: pale, weak, non-stop coughing, vomiting, sometimes headache. I wasn't a doctor, but I did research online for his symptoms. The result was daring: he got dehydration. In addition to food poisoning! However, knowing he'd gotten worse, he gave up soda and drank juice instead and sometimes water. He took one day off to bed rest. He slowly getting a bit better. After that, it was just banana and juice for the following two weeks; nothing else. He took cough syrup before sleep. Two weeks later, he got much better and was able to eat other food without throwing up. I am so glad that he survived both food poisoning and dehydration without going to hospital, especially since I found out the fact dehydration could cause death. So, ladies, don't underestimate bananas! Because it contains a lot of nutrients that you need for your health.

USDA
Using USDA interactive tool, a medium banana (7"-7.5") may contain 105g calories but Zero Fat. It also has Protein, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Calcium, Potassium, Magnesium, Zinc, Vitamins: A, B6, B12, D, E, K, Folate, and more. I think it's pretty complete for a fruit, plus you don't need to worry of gaining fat from eating bananas,Yay ! Well, that explains why banana has a super power effects to our body! Or that maybe explains why minions like banana despite its taste that's just 'hm-okay' to me. But, hey! I wouldn't ignore if anybody made me banana-strawberry smoothie! Yummm!

INTAKE
Eating banana is an easy habit we can do to start our healthy program. Let's say once a day. I'm a type of person who eats everything as long as in good portion, meaning not too much. I maintain my diet and my weight because I understand that my future is relying on my habit. I am not a big fan of bananas but I don't mind to add them onto my diet list. Why not? They make good smoothies (mix with any berries, little milk and honey) and I love to make my own Banana Cake that I can eat as my coffee cake. Cut a banana into pieces then eat with your cereal and you have a wonderful breakfast! Most of my friends who have babies started to feed bananas to their 6 month-old babies because banana is also good for brain health.

Here's the deal: anytime you want to smoke, eat banana instead. Why do you smoke? Because you're not happy. Well, banana is believed to be able to boost up your mood because of its tryptophan content. Its potassium can help fighting anxiety and good for our blood pressure while its fiber content help your digest system. So, ever wonder why minions are always happy?


-dora-

DO and DON'Ts Part 4: Eye Makeup

Hi Lovelies!

Eye Makeup 

It's almost Spring! Sure thing we want to look fresh in Spring time when it's no longer so cold but not hot like Summer time. So, what colors are wonderful in Spring time? Any colors like flowers (nice bright color) such as pink, violet, light blue, mint, orange, gold and white will give us fresh look especially to be put on eye area. Yay!

Is Eye Makeup that important? Personally, I do believe 'eyes express one's beauty' because eyes can show people who the person is. So, yes, eye makeup is important as to emphasize a woman's beauty by giving a straight and bright look through her eyes. It sure does make a difference. Hence, let's talk about DO and DON'Ts for Eye Makeup!
(Please note that I'm not a Makeup Artist nor an expert, everything I do I learn by own experience or any tutorials/articles, so you might have a better way)

Eyebrow Filler (It could be eyebrow pencil/cake/powder)
Do
1. Choose natural color that looks like your eye brows'.
2. I usually use the cake type filler or powder on light brown/grey/taupe. Grey match with my skin since my skin is medium n yellowy.
3. I like powder that comes with brushes and wax. Usually one brush is for sort of combing my brow to make it neat in one direction and organized shape while the other one is for applying the wax and powder. The reason I don't like pencil is because my brows are wide but thin; it's hard to fill and shape my brows using pencil.
4. I haven't tried the eyebrow shaping kit and look forward to try it; however, in shaping my eyebrows, I only work on slightly giving extra color on where the hair is. I like to keep their natural shape. I don't work over or expand my eyebrows.
5. Check and choose products that are using natural ingredients if possible.
6. Eyebrow brush/comb is really recommended to fix eyebrow hair and stimulate growth.
Don't
1. Work over on your eyebrows, eyebrows that are too thick look ridiculous and people end up looking at your eyebrows, not to your eyes! Eyebrows that are too big/oversize (for example almost touching each other at the nose) make you look angry or scary. Err... yeah, really.
2. Forget to clean your brushes. When I'm lazy, acne will happily show up on my eyebrows!
3. Forget to clean your makeup when you're home.
4. Use if you have any skin problems.

Eyeliner (pencil/liquid/gel)
Do
1. Choose the form of eyeliner you're comfortable with. So far, I like the liquid eyeliner the most because it gives a bold look and it's easier to make cat eye. (I don't like smudgy look from pencil.)
2. Choose Waterproof type if you like to line your waterline.
3. When it comes to choosing color, I definitely like dark color such as black, dark brown, purple and dark jade. Since I'm Asian, I have single eyelid therefore dark eyeliner really helps to bigger my eyes.
4. I usually apply from inner corner to outer corner on my top lash line. As for bottom lash line, I apply by mood how do I want to look like on that day (sometimes I put all the way sometimes outer half while I use shimmery cream color eyeshadow for inner half or sometimes I use the shimmery cream color eyeshadow only. It depends).
5. Some products use natural ingredients to get their color from cocoa powder or charcoal. 
6. Clean your eye makeup with makeup cleaner once you're home. This is the most important to avoid red eye. 
Don't
1. Don't touch your eyes area too much while wearing eye makeup, either you mess up the makeup or you may get red eye.
2. Forget to clean especially if you're using waterproof eye makeup.
3. Don't use liquid eyeliner over three months to avoid irritation from the brush. (But honestly, I break this rule since I don't wear makeup everyday).

Eyeshadow
Do
1. It's nothing to worry about wearing eyeshadow. If you're a beginner like me, you are looking for natural colors, enough to make your eyes look brighter. Natural/nude/neutral colors are good for everyday look. 
2. Get a palette that has at least 3 colors. 3 is good number because we need bright color for inner corner and brow bone, medium for crease and lid and dark for lash line or as eyeliner. However, I'd rather to get a palette that has more colors in it. More is better! Why? Because you can mix and match to get a different look and create new colors. 
3. Read the ingredients. Since we are aware of makeup products may contain chemical ingredients that are harsh for our skin, go natural!
4. Learn and practice for application. It's fun, really! You can find a lot of tutorials over internet, on youtube, magazines. So, I don't need to teach you anything. Just spend some time at home to try! Experiment.. Experiment...!!
5. Use eyeshadow primer/eye balm before applying to make the color pop and optimizing the eyeshadow by avoiding using too much or wasting it. 
Don't
1. Overwork or use the whole colors in your palette if your palette has 6 colors or more.
2. Forget to clean your brushes. 
3. Forget to clean your makeup when you're home.
4. Use if you have any skin problems.

Eyeshadow Primer
Do
1. A good eyeshadow base usually have transparent/nude like color. Choose nude color or similar with your skin color or foundation that you use. If you like a hint of shimmer, some brands have those in shimmer.
2. Apply from inner corner, eyelids, all the way to brow bone (under eyebrows) and outer corner. I usually only need a tiny dot on each eye.

Don't
Generally it's same as Foundation and other eye makeups.

Mascara
(I'm not a mascara type girl and I don't like mascara because it makes my eyes feel heavy, but... here we go!)
Do
1. Choose the color like. Black and Dark Brown are my favorites.
2. You want to use just a little bit and get the excess tint out first before applying to avoid clumps or stickiness and moreover ruining your makeup!
3. Well, if it's too late and it ruined a bit of your makeup, grab a Q-tip and clean it. Put concealer when needed. Use face/powder brush to smear it. Blend it.
4. Choose the waterproof kind because eyes are sensitive and without you know it, tears come out!
5. You may use the eyelash curler first. When applying, try to push it to the top a little bit, it will help curling your eye lashes.
6. You may use paper to avoid ruining your eyeshadow. It saves time than ruining the makeup and dealing with it.

Don't
- refer to other eye makeups


Tips for All Makeup
# If it's hard to find natural ones, try to find some products that claim to not using certain chemical ingredients (for example: paraben free, sulfates free, phthalates free, GMOs free, fragrance free, etc). 
# The application should be 1. eyeshadow primer. 2. eyeshadow. 3. eyeliner. 4. mascara.
# If you like to use pencil eyeliner/eyebrow, use the good sharp eye pencil sharpener to sharpen it a little bit but not too sharp. As long as it's evenly sharpened. 

Personally, I don't wear makeup when I'm home. I don't have to. When I'm being lazy or don't feel like it, I would only put on my moisturizer/face oil, suncreen, BB cream, eyebrow filler (ergh, my weakness, super thin eyebrows) and sometimes just eyeliner. I try to avoid using too much chemical ingredients when possible and to choose natural skincare and makeup.


Have fun !! See ya'll on my next blog!!
Keep your natural beauty, love your body !! :-) 


-dora- 
 

DIY Natural Gel Eyeliner in Brown
Mix well: 1 part Aloe Vera Gel (upto 2 parts, optional), 1 part Coconut Oil, 1/4 upto 1/2 part Cocoa powder. 
As simple as that! Remember to use clean brush when applying and store in cool dark place.  

DO and DON'Ts Part 3: Face Makeup

Hi Everyone!!

I hope you enjoyed reading my last Do and Don't Lists and it's always great if you like to write me comments and share some additional tips I might not know. You can also suggest me something you'd like me to write about! That would be my pleasure!
Alright, next I want to list more Do and Don't by me about Face Makeup. Here we go:

Blush or Cheek Stain
Do
1. I like to put this after my makeup powder.
2. Usually I apply slightly on cheek bone (or apple on cheek) using blush brush.
3. Choose the color that matches with your makeup and skin color. For example I want to apply coral lipstick, a bit orangey/peachy color blush/stain would be better than pink to make my face look brighter.
4. Make sure you clean your brush on regular basis. Since I don't wear makeup on daily basis, I clean my brushes every 2 months. If you wear makeup everyday, maybe it's better to clean your brushes once every week or two weeks.
5. If possible, get natural ones that using natural coloring such fruit powder.
6. If you put a bit too much, you can apply more makeup powder to smear and hide it or simply just use your brush to blend more.
Don't
1. Put if you find any skin problems. It's either the product is not good for you or you need to clean your brush.
2. Forget to clean your makeup after you're home. Use makeup remover or DIY makeup remover (cotton, distilled water enough to damp the cotton, and Extra Virgin Coconut Oil).

Bronzer
Do
1. Basically almost same like blush, the only difference is that I apply bronzer under my cheek stain. At the deeper area when I suck-in my cheek. Sometimes I apply at chin, a bit on both sides of the forehead and also both sides of my nose to give an elevated look. I'm still learning to contour my face in a better way :)
2. I use the same brush to apply my blush.
3. Using natural ingredients are preferable. The coloring could be from cocoa.
Don't
1. Get bronzer that's too dark. We just want the bronzer to emphasize our blush on the cheek not to looked like bony.
2. Use if you get skin problems.

Highlighter
Do
1. It is also basically like blush, the only difference is that I apply highlighter under eyes or upper my cheek stain to make the blush more pop, my nose, and slightly between nose and upper lip every now and then.
2. I can use either the same brush for the blush/bronzer or maybe a smaller one, fluffy blending brush could be an ideal one.
3. Choose a slightly brighter color than your powder/foundation to give a natural look. Matte color is always good even though sometimes giving a little bit of shimmer makes a more glamour look. (I like it!)
4. Always clean the makeup after you're home. Your face need to breathe too.

Don't
Choose a color that's too bright or same like powder that doesn't emphasize or give any effect. And don't use if you experience any skin problems.

Anyway, I hope this is really helping. I'm still working on Eye Makeup for my next blog. I hope to post it tomorrow or the day after tomorrow.
See you later! Always keep our natural beauty :)

To Be Continued....

-dora-

DO and DON'Ts Part 2: Cosmetics

Hi Beauties !!

Have you read my recent blog? What do you think? I hope it could be somewhat useful to encourage you living better and healthier! I think it's important to take care of our skin, not only caring of our diet or doing some physical activities.

Now that I listed Do and Don't for Skincare products, how about for cosmetics products or I would like to call it makeup. Again, all of these work for me, hopefully they work for you.

Any of AA, BB, CC, DD Cream Makeup
What are they?
Briefly, they mostly stand for: Anti Aging, Beauty Balm, Color Correction, Dynamic Do-All tinted moisturizers depend on the brands and each has different purposes from tinted moisturizer with sunscreen, brighten skin and even out complexion and so forth. However, they are less heavy than any makeup foundation (some of them may opaque-like). I think it's sort of all-in-one solution for everyday or fast makeup. The alphabet goes to meaning an improved formula from the previous ones. So, CC cream should be better than BB cream. BUT, keep in mind, due to all ingredients are combined in one product, the sunscreen may also be lighter and thus we need to put real sunblock to protect our skin.

Do
1. Read thoroughly all ingredients the product claims to have before buying. Make sure to get all benefits your skin really needs.
2. I recommend to get the one with sunscreen in the case you want all-in-one make up, otherwise, put a thin layer of sunscreen before you apply it for UV protection.
3. Choose the color that slightly darker than your skin color like one or two tone lighter because when you apply, it eventually will blend and look the same as your skin color.
4. Put a thin layer of your daily moisturizer after you clean your face. Leave it at least 5 minutes to absorb. (Apply thinly your sunscreen on sunny day, again allow 5-10mins to absorb). Apply evenly your BB/CC cream.
Don't
1. Apply when you have breakouts or any problems.
2. Get the color that is lighter than your skin tone, as you may end up looking like a ghost!
3. Forget to clean your make up once you're home from outside.

Makeup Foundation/Primer
- refer to Alphabetical Cream Makeup 
You can wear them separately, Face Primer usually opaque-like or nude color and use the Foundation that suits your skin color.

Makeup Powder (Foundation, Compact/Loose, Finishing, etc)
Do
1. Get mineral powder that is formulated for your skin type. They usually say whether good for oily/normal/dry skin.
2. Put a thin layer after your foundation/BB cream.
3. Use powder brush or sponge to apply evenly. Slightly dab/press the brush/sponge onto your skin to make the powder stay. If you swipe it back and forth you will end up wasting your powder.
4. If you want to skip foundation/BB cream, put sunscreen first before applying powder and also choose powder that contains SPF.
5. Choosing the color is almost the same as choosing foundation. Pick a slight darker color than your skin tone or the transparent one. They will blend perfectly with your natural skin color.
6. If you have dry-combination skin (like me), you can skip the whole face and only on T-zone or oily area only.
Don't
1. Use if the texture are not smooth or hard to apply. Texture is important when applying makeup powder to get a flawless look.
2. Apply the powder by swiping back and forth, you will waste your powder.
3. Use if you find any breakouts/pimples/dryness. Listen to whatever your skin says.

Lipstick
Do
1. Get the ones that claim have natural ingredients. Why? As we may accidentally eat some lipstick with our diet. Avoiding unwanted chemical ingredients into your body won't hurt, right?
2. Choose the colors that suit your skin. For example I'm Asian so Coral colors suit better while pink makes me look dull, if you're white, pink and red are good ones though mostly all colors fit you.
3. Put a thin layer of your lip balm before applying to avoid dryness.
4. To get a fully look lips, you can use lip liner before applying lipstick.
Don't
1. Use if it makes your lips dry and chapped.
2. Forget to remove make up when you're home. (I'd rather to put lip balm at home).

Important Note for Buying Healthy Lipstick:
Coloring ingredients. Usually regular brands use dyes or chemical coloring. We are trying to avoid that. So get the ones with coloring like beets powder, alkanet root powder, reef clay, or any fruits powder as they are natural ingredients.

Foundation/Powder and Lipstick are the most common must have items that every woman has in her purse. However, more items are also important for makeup junkies: eye shadows, blush, bronzer, mascara and more. I will continue to work on writing about them soon!

to be continued........

-dora-

DO and DON'Ts Part 1: Skincare

DOs and DON'Ts by me


Facial Cleanser
Do
1. I clean my face twice a day. Tips: in the morning if I stay home whole day, I rinsed my face with cold water only. I know friends who have been doing this since teenagers and their face never have any problems. In the morning, we have good face oil that is useful for our face, our natural oil.
2. Whenever I have make up on, I use DIY eye make up remover (recipe in the bottom of page) before I use my cleanser.
3. Use cleanser with scrubs/grains/beads as they clean pores thoroughly.
Don't
1. Don't be lazy to clean our face. In my own experience, when I was busy and skipped morning rinsing once, acne started to come out. Uh-oh.
2. I read somewhere, since I have dry skin, to avoid foam type cleanser.
3. Don't let your makeup stay for too long, especially when you plan to stay home.

Face Moisturizers
Do
1. Make sure to clean the face before applying.
2. Thin layer should be enough for the whole face. Applying too much will probably make your skin overwhelmed.
3. Make sure you're comfortable with the product; your skin should feel supple, smooth, better. I love my Face Oil since the ingredients are all natural. Thanks to Qi Qi Naturals, my face feels improved.
4. Choose the one with SPF/Suncreen for daytime (preferably SPF 30) and more antioxidant agents for night time.
Don't
1. Don't apply before cleaning your face! Why? because, we never know if the moisturizers will trap bacteria/dirt onto your skin and guess what? pimples start coming out. Oh no!
2. Don't use products that give you breakout, rashes or any problems. I tried ROC Retinol and hey, it's not cheap! $23 or so. Well, I had breakout, either I put too much or what, I don't understand. I tried to rotate with my other face cream, well, my face started to get used to, but, not too long after using it, dry skin. So, I stopped. Really, believe what your skin says.
3. Don't be lazy to apply moisturizers especially if you have dry skin. Moisturizer should help you from dryness and flakiness.

Additional Tips for Facial Skincare:
1. Toner. I believe it helps skin to adapt the application of moisturizer. I use Apple Cider Vinegar as toner after I clean my face. I leave it on for up to 2 hours before rinsing and putting on moisturizer.
2. Facial Brush. If you have Electric Facial Brush (Clarisonic/Olay/Conair), I encourage you to use it maybe at least every week. It helps cleaning and relaxing your face. I usually use my facial scrub while using my brush. Remember, pimples are scared of cleanliness.

Eye Cream/Gel/Serum
Do
1. Make sure you have removed all eye makeup before applying.
2. Apply every night before going to bed. Especially if you are lack of sleep or very tired. A little bit is enough to prevent dark circles, puffiness and hopefully from aging/wrinkles :)
Don't
1. Just like moisturizers, don't apply it if you're not comfortable or the product causes any skin reactions.

Body Lotion, Hand Cream, Foot Cream
- refer to Face Moisturizers

Shower Gel/Soap or Body Wash
- refer to Facial Cleanser

Lip Balm/Gloss
Do
1. Apply as often as possible when you have dry or chapped lips.
2. Find Natural products as lip balm may also be eaten involuntarily.  Nothing could be worse than having unclear chemical ingredients into your body.
3. Apply overnight each day for supple lips.
Don't
1. Don't use a product that's too greasy. My experience,  a good lip balm doesn't need to be greasy. They just don't work on me.
2. Don't be lazy to apply on your lips especially if you have dry lips like me.
3. Stop using the product when you don't see any improvement in few days to a week. I usually see the result within 4 days. But it depends on how often you apply it.

Additional Tips:
1. Butter/Oil. Use Body Butter/Oil for dry skin or during winter time. And most lotions use fragrance which sometimes could cause allergic reaction. Therefore, applying butter/oil is a better way for dry skin. Choose products that contain Vitamin E or Cocoa Butter/Coconut Oil/Olive Oil.
2. Sulfur. It's believed to fight acne. Get facial bar soap that has sulfur in it.
3. Natural. I recommend to use (if possible 100%) natural products. The reason is simply to not putting too much unnecessary chemical ingredients onto our skin. Our skin will always absorb anything we apply, so it's like feeding our skin with the skincare.

DIY My Makeup Remover
1. Cotton
2. Water
3. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Damp cotton with just enough water (not too wet), put a little bit of melted EVCO.
Tadaaaa. It's ready to go!!

See you in my next blog!
Keep healthy. Be natural :)


xoxo
-dora-