StormSister Spatique®

Salt Lake City

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Sun, 19 May 2013 20:04:00 +0000

We're in beautiful Salt Lake City, Utah for the next few days at Phytoceane's US office, for some intensive skincare training.
Phytoceane's parent company is Phytomer Group.

Follow us on Twitter or keep an eye on our FB page for the latest and greatest on what is happening with this state-of-the-art French skincare brand. Updates will begin on Monday, May 20th.

About Phytoceane:

Born on the Emerald Coast, Antoine Gédouin has always been fascinated by the ocean. A seasoned traveler, he has explored the four corners of the earth and is continually inspired by and attracted to faraway seas.

Full of passion for these depths rich in diverse corals, he decided to bring his dream to life in 1995: to create a natural marine brand with marine ingredients that come from the most beautiful seas in the world.

A marriage of tradition and escape, PHYTOCÉANE invites you to dive deep into the turquoise ocean around the globe…

PHYTOCÉANE has maintained strong values since the brand was created:

A marine brand: marine ingredients from the sea or seashore, with vegetal coral as the emblem
A pure brand with a natural identity: natural ingredients at the heart of every products, development of algae farming in the laboratory
Products whose primary aim is effectiveness: products are tested by specialized laboratories
A professional brand with an exclusive and specific method the Océathermie Method
An holistic approach dedicated to well-being and relaxation.

WORLD SEAS

Already rich in local maritime heritage, the brand takes its inspiration from the treasures of the most beautiful seas in the world.

An infinite scientific research field

The marine depths represent immense potential:

There are over 35,000 types of algae in the world and only 1% is used.
Locally, there are 800 species of algae living on the coasts of Brittany, France, yet only a few dozen are used in cosmetology.
This vast and unchartered research field offers the possibility of new and wondrous discoveries. It promises a beautiful future for marine cosmetology.

Biosimililarities of behavior

Their researchers have demonstrated that the skin’s epidermis and the envelope structure of algae have similar behaviors. Algae undergo the same environmental stress as the skin (pollution, changes in temperature, wind, sun, etc.) and have developed specific defense systems in order to adapt.
Their scientists have observed and analyzed algae structure and behavior to best use them in PHYTOCÉANE marine skin care products.

Luxe Shimmer + Body Balm

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Sun, 19 May 2013 00:01:00 +0000

Two new products from Pre de Provence of France:

Wild Sunflowers Luxe Shimmer Wash - Delight your senses in a fragrant, sparkling body wash. A luxurious lather of shea oil and golden moisturizing beads not only gently cleanses but energizes your spirit in a fragrant wonderland of Wild Sunflowers. A subtle gleam is left to enhance hydrated skin.

Free of sulfates, mineral oils, parabens, propylene glycol, and artificial colors. Not Tested on Animals.

Argan Balm - This pocket-sized Balm is in a very cute container and packs a wallop for its small size. Mightily filled with the moisturizing benefits of argan oil infused with shea butter and vitamin E, this multi-tasker also has a soothing vanilla fragrance. It's perfect for your face, lips, knees, hands, and everywhere you need dry skin relief. Great for travel, too.

Twitterview

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:40:00 +0000

I recently had the opportunity to be "Twitterviewed" by Joel Carlson for MNMO Twitterview #MNMOtv.

For those of you who missed it, here it is.

Cocobear

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Sun, 12 May 2013 02:38:00 +0000

Our 3waybeauty dog grooming bar, doggystyle, is now featured at a new pet boutique in Saint Paul, Cocobear Pet Boutique.

CocoBear is a trendy little pet boutique that offers professional pet grooming, dog walking, and pet sitting in your home. They sell products that you can feel confident using for your pet. They emphasize locally sourced, american made, and natural and organic products.

Your Mommy Nature

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Mon, 06 May 2013 19:15:00 +0000

Featured products:

CERTIFIED ORGANIC TOTAL BODY ELIXIR: NURTURE—TAKE COMFORT

RELAX, CLEANSE, HYDRATE, FEED CELLS, SCENT, CONNECT- THIS POWER PRODUCT DOES EVERYTHING BUT APPLY ITSELF.

HARMONICALLY MADE 100% PURE -- SAMBAC JASMINE ABSOLUTE

WORKING ONLY WITH JASMINE'S PURE, EXQUISITE AROMA, THIS USES A ROLLERBALL TO APPLY DIRECTLY TO THE SKIN.

HARMONICALLY MADE JASMINE 100% PURE SAMBAC SPIRIT ESSENCE™ -- WORKING ONLY WITH JASMINE'S PURE, EXQUISITE AROMA, JASMINE SPIRIT ESSENCE™ IS TRULY A UNIQUE SCENT IN SPRAY FORM.

CERTIFIED ORGANIC LIP DELIVERY ANTIOXIDANT GLOSS -- CRAZY, HEALTHY, SEXY!

Phytoceane GWP

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Sat, 04 May 2013 23:22:00 +0000

Phytoceane has a fantastic Gift with Purchase going on right now:

Purchase $150 in StormSister Spatique or 3waybeauty products and receive this Phytoceane Travel Kit with a mini Toning Shower Gel, Complete Makeup Remover, and Moisture Defense Cream. A $52 value. While supplies last. Will automatically be shipped with all qualifying orders until May 12th.

Flower Power - Geranium

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Wed, 01 May 2013 13:58:00 +0000

via American Spa Magazine.

Embrace springtime with the fresh, floral benefits of geranium.

Known for its healing properties, geranium was once associated with Venus, the ancient Roman goddess of love, sensuality, and victory. One whiff of its floral and feminine scent, and you’ll understand why geranium has a reputation for being at once soothing and completely invigorating. In fact, Roman soldiers used its essential oil to instill courage and self-confidence before battle, and during medieval times, people planted geranium around their cottages as a means of protection from evil spirits.

In Britain in the 1800s, geranium was a widely accepted treatment for tuberculosis. Today, geranium oil—extracted from the flower’s stem and leaves via distillation—is still sought after for medicinal purposes. Because of its antibacterial qualities, it’s often applied to wounds in order to ward off infection. Geranium’s classification as an astringent means it has the ability to contract blood vessels. In spas, geranium oil can be incorporated in a variety of ways—from aromatherapy to mas- sage and skincare treatments.

“Geranium has a host of very positive properties,” says Geraldine Howard, founder of Aromatherapy Associates. “It is wonderfully uplifting to the spirits and has a harmonizing and balancing effect.” As a result, its essential oil is utilized in aromatherapy to help calm mood swings and ease irritability—symptoms of anxiety and depression.

But the benefits associated with the multi- tasking floral don’t end there. This all-around health toner aids in the functioning of the body’s respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. “Geranium encourages blood and lymph circulation and is recommended for equalizing hormones and stimulating the adrenal cortex,” says Howard. “It is a hugely powerful essential oil with a complex chemical structure.” Taking into consideration all of geranium’s advantages, it’s little wonder that Aromatherapy Associates has more than 25 products containing the ingredient.

Championed for its power to tone skin, geranium is also a natural stress buster and is therefore, regularly employed in massage and bodywork. At THE Pearl Modern Spa and Boutique (Fulton, MD), Red Flower’s Berry White Peat Bioactive Exfoliant is used in the Arctic Solstice ($180, 75 minutes) treatment for a polish that enhances skin elasticity and draws out toxins with a surge of vitamin C and omega fatty acids.

After a scrub of super fine organic sea salt, geranium essential oil is applied as the final step to soothe dry skin and equalize oily complex- ions. It’s a treatment that produces results but is still relaxing, according to spa manager Lindsay Houghton. “The ingredients protect skin from harsh environmental factors while also relieving muscular tension and pain,” she says. “Clients leave feeling completely rejuvenated.”

Geranium also facilitates blood circulation just below the skin’s surface and helps clear up acne as well as fade scars and discoloration. The cleansing botanical is used widely in skincare, because it promotes healthy cells and kickstarts the regeneration process. Not only is geranium good for sluggish and congested skin but it also speeds up the healing of wounds, cuts, and even surgical incisions.

“Geranium provides an antibacterial cleanse, but it doesn’t strip or dry facial tissue,” says Amanda Sousa, marketing specialist for Farm- aesthetics. “Our Fine Herbal Cleanser combines it with lavender, and we’ve found that the two oils together are very purifying.” Farmaesthetics’s cleanser takes center stage in the Lavender Harvest Facial ($145, 60 minutes; $200, 90 minutes) at OH! Spa at Ocean House (Watch Hill, RI). The calming and hydrating treatment is healing for all skin types and includes a reparative exfoliant with sweet milk and lavender. “The overall result is a bright, dewy look with nourished skin that’s free of impurities,” says spa director Jana Powers.

One of only a handful of oils that can work in almost any blend, geranium mixes especially well with other plants or flowers like basil, jasmine, and rosemary. For a more energizing experience, it can be combined with citrus essential oils, such as grapefruit, lime, and neroli.

Because geranium may have an effect on hormonal secretions, it’s not recommended for use on pregnant women. But Kyra Johnson, spa director at Aviara Spa at Park Hyatt Aviara Resort (Carlsbad, CA), does suggest geranium treatments to female clients who are in need of a mood boost. “It is especially good for hormonal changes attributed to PMS or menopause,” she says. “We use it to treat postnatal depression and even seasonal affective disorder.”

As winter fades and finally blossoms into spring, fragrant geranium is a revitalizing addition to spa menus and just what you need to welcome a fresh start to the season.—Katarina Kovacevic

Renewing Eye Gel

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:31:00 +0000

IN is on fire! This is the second new product from INtelligent Nutrients in recent weeks - PLANT STEM CELL SCIENCE Renewal Complex Eye Gel

UNBAG. UNLINE. UNCIRCLE. UNBELIEVABLE.
CLINICALLY PROVEN TO REDUCE LINES IN 20 DAYS

Organic Sanitizer

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:48:00 +0000

Our favorite, non-drying, Triclosan-free, hand sanitizer now comes in a liter size, INtelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Hand Sanitizer .

DESTROY 99.9% OF THE BAD WITHOUT DOING YOU ANY HARM.

Perfect for your office, desk or counter top - great for refilling the 2 oz travel/purse size as well.

Get clean without the overkill. This leaves hands clean and feeling that way-not sticky or stripped but soft and hydrated with 99.9% of bacteria eradicated. Chemical-free. It is a safe, effective alternative to preventing the spread of germs and impurities.

Ingredients:
ALCOHOL DENAT (ACTIVE INGREDIENT), WATER, ETHYL PALMATE,1 CASTOR OIL,1 GLYCERIN,1 NIGELLA SATIVA (BLACK CUMIN) SEED OIL,1,2 CUCURBITA PEPO (PUMPKIN) SEED OIL,1,2 RUBUS IDAEUS (RED RASPBERRY) SEED OIL,1,2 VITIS VINIFERA (RED GRAPE) SEED OIL,1,2 VACCINIUM MARCOCARPON (CRANBERRY) SEED OIL,1,2 MENTHA PIPERITA (PEPPERMINT) OIL,1 VANILLA PLANIFOLIA FRUIT (NATURAL FLAVOR),1 VANILLA PLANTIFOLIA FRUIT OIL,1 MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) OIL,1 CITRUS AURANTIUM BERGAMIA (BERGAMOT) FRUIT OIL, 1 LIMONENE,1,3 TOCOPHEROL (VITAMIN E)

1 CERTIFIED ORGANIC
2 ANTIOXIDANT INTELLIMUNE ® SEED OIL COMPLEX
3 NATURALLY OCCURRING COMPONENT OF ORGANIC ESSENTIAL OIL BLEND

HAMMS Recap

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:37:00 +0000

via www.paintedstuf.com

Sairey and I want to thank all of those that supported our HAMMS Event. She and I set out to combine our favorite aspects of all the shows we have done, add a crowd funding twist, and we were thrilled with the outcome!

We were beyond excited when we realized that we would be able to give away the full $5K to one of our Minnesota Makers! We really hustled and are so proud we could do it. Yay!

Congratulations to Epitome Skincare for winning the Booth Refund prize. Her friends, family and clients really came out to support her, and our HAMMS Event in general.

The big winner of the day was Lynn of Painted Stuf. Yay, Lynn!
Sairey and I had never met Lynn before she signed up to participate in the HAMMS Event, but when she did, she was full-steam ahead! Lynn is a rockstar with social media, a major supporter of the small business community and hustles her business like few we have seen. Wow, wow, wow!
As a little aside, she almost won the Booth Refund prize as well!

Lynn also won some PR from our sponsor, Tiffany Silverberg.

Thank you to all the bloggers, food trucks, Twin Cities Live, MyTalk107 Shop Girls, Minnesota Monthly, Mpls. St. Paul Magazine, Sidewalk Dog and St. Paul Pioneer Press for giving us so much love. You're all swell!

Thanks again to all of our Sponsors, you're support means the world to us.

Thank you again to all of our Minnesota Makers, we truly appreciate you coming on board with us. YOU are the reason we did this event because Sairey and I know how hard it is out there. Connect, support and share with one another.

And on you go...

Protect Your Pout

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 01:50:00 +0000

A new shade of INtelligent Nutrients CERTIFIED ORGANIC LIP DELIVERY ANTIOXIDANT GLOSS— GLAZED PEONY

CRAZY, HEALTHY, SEXY!

Lip Delivery Antioxidant Gloss is a USDA certified organic gluten-free lip-gloss combining powerful colorful antioxidant chemistry and nutritious food ingredients with a high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (antioxidant) ORAC value. Every ingredient chosen to feed your lips with power-packed antioxidants and Intelligent Nutrients®’ signature Antioxidant Intellimune® Seed Oil Complex to help battle oxidative stress and aid in fighting pre-mature aging while delivering delicious moisture and shine. It not only tastes good, it’s good for you.

Coming Up Roses

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 20:16:00 +0000

excerpt from American Spa Magazine by Jessica Lyons Hardcastle

Experience this sweet-smelling flower by adding rose-inspired products to your beauty routine.

From the Bard to emily Brontë to the band Poison, roses have inspired poets and songwriters for millennia. Their delicate petals have also inspired beauty and therapeutic treatments—Cleopatra’s rose oil treatments and rose water baths, for example—and roses have become a symbol of love, romance, and femininity. But sometimes the flower’s skincare benefits get lost in the telling, overpowered by the intoxicating fragrance. This spring, as roses start to bloom, be reminded that a rose treat- ment would not by any other name smell as sweet.

“Besides the esthetic pleasure we get from roses, people have loved the rose aroma since ancient times,” says Szilvia Hickman, senior vice president of Szép Élet, exclusive distributor of Ilike Organic Skin Care. “The rose is one of the most cultivated flowers with approximately 150 species around the world. The petals have been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years.”

While most know roses have a soothing scent, the aroma of rose essential oil also relaxes spa-goers and can work as an antidepressant and anxiety reliever, which contributes to overall well being and adds to the spa experience. Plus, Hickman says, roses represent luxury, and rose treatments are considered decadent. “Royalty and different religious ceremonies have been linked with roses,” she says. This makes roses a perfect ingredient for the spa treatment, where you go to be pampered and to feel like royalty, even if only for a day or a 60-minute treatment.

The rose oil extracted from the petals contains large amounts of vitamin C, which helps protect skin cells from the sun and other environmental damage, and pectins, tannins, and malic and citric acids, which help tone and tighten skin, slough off dead skin cells, and produce a rejuvenating effect. “French rose extract helps to increase circulation, neutralize free radicals from UV rays, and has a tightening effect on the skin, giving it a healthy glow,” says Anthony Vargas, CEO of Tilth Beauty.

In other words, the sweet-smelling flower packs a powerful, good-for-your-skin punch. Because of its harmonizing properties, certified Dr. Hauschka esthetician and Dr. Hauschka USA esthetics trainer Jaime Olander suggests rose in relaxing- yet-effective facial and body treatments for dry, sensitive, and mature skin. Rose plays a starring role in the Dr. Hauschka Classic Treatment ($270, 2 hours) offered at Great Jones Spa (New York City). “Rose blossoms contain essential oil, tannins, lipids, wax, and resins that Dr. Hauschka Skin Care values for the hydrating, soothing, and protective properties they offer the skin,” says Olander. “Rose ingredients help dry skin feel softer and smoother, helping protect, calm, and fortify skin that is irritated, stressed, and sensitive.” The Spa at Stoweflake at Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa (Stowe, VT) uses Ilike rose products in its Organic Rose Facial ($140, 50 minutes) to nourish dehydrated skin, while the Spa at Sanderling at Sanderling Resort (Duck, NC) uses them in its Showers to Flowers ($170, 80 minutes) body treatment to improve the skin’s elasticity. “Rose oil extracted from the petals is very hydrating, softening, and soothing,” says Hick- man. “It also has a toning effect that contracts the capillaries and reduces redness of sensitive skin, including rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema. The antiseptic effect of the rose oil decreases inflammation and cleanses the skin.”

Rose is also an especially great ingredient for dry, sensitive, or mature skin types, says Stephanie Baresh, director of marketing at Éminence Organic Skin Care. “Rose acts as an anti-inflammatory and a rich source of antioxidants, which can help strengthen skin cells and regenerate skin tissue.”

Every rose extract has different properties, depending on the origin of the rose, says Fabienne Lindholm, executive director of education at Babor. Rock rose extract has a stimulating effect, “increasing regeneration of the skin as well as cell turnover, which, in turn will have an anti- aging affect,” says Lindholm.

These diverse qualities make rose ideal for facials, because its attributes run the gamut from its astringent effect on oily skin to soothing sensitive skin and its regenerating benefits for mature skin. But, Hickman says, using quality ingredients is key to achieving rosy results. “It is interesting to know that the synthetic mimic of rose oil has absolutely no therapeutic effect, so it is very important that skincare products use real rose oil,” she says, adding that there are two methods of oil extraction from rose petals: the steam distilled Rose Otto and the solvent extracted Rose Absolute. “Ilike Organic Skin Care opts to create and use the more costly Rose Otto oils in its products, because this method is the purest, uses no solvent, and hence the oil has no traces of solvent left. Knowing that approximately 60,000 rose petals are needed to extract just an ounce of rose oil by the Rose Otto method, one should not be surprised about the price of quality rose oil.”

Most spa-goers will find the expense to be worth it. “The ‘queen of flowers’ has the ability to gracefully balance between strong yet tender and soft, thorny yet velvety, upright yet quite alluring,” Olander says. “We try to reinforce the feeling of the rose as a precious gift of relaxation and renewal. For example, a gift of a bouquet of roses is quite common throughout the year for holidays like Mother’s Day.”

Instead of fresh-cut flowers, encourage spa- goers to gift a rose facial or body treatment to the “queen” of the house, aka mom, or to celebrate an anniversary or bride-to-be. 2110 Salon & Spa (Oroville, CA) offers gift certificates treating special someones to Chocolate & Roses ($70, 60 minutes), a facial featuring Éminence organic sweet red rose products made from Bulgarian roses partnered with the Éminence Chocolate Mousse Hydration Masque, which is made with organic raw 85 percent cocoa. Olander suggests pairing rose with other soothing ingredients and high- quality butters, oils, and waxes like shea butter, sweet almond oil, and apricot oil to make the most of its hydrating benefits.

Hickman says Ilike often combines its rose petal products with rosehip products. Rosehips are the ripened berries of the rose flower; hence these herbs complement each other well, while the pulps and seed oil of rosehip berries add an extra vitamin dose, bioflavonoids, and antioxidants, she says.

Brighten Up

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 19:13:00 +0000

UNEVEN, DULL COMPLEXIONS AND DARK SPOTS

Brightening is the new skincare range from Phytoceane that is now available.

Lumiere Oceane has had some tweaks and is being rebranded. As the Lumiere stock depletes, the Brightening line will replace it.

Visibly brighten skin for more transparency
Fade the appearance of dark spots
Even-out the complexion
Illuminate and revive skin radiance

EXCLUSIVE INGREDIENTS
DICTYOPTERIS EXTRACT (brown algae): complete brightening effect, helps to limit the skin's natural pigmentation by:
- inhibiting the synthesis of melanin, a natural pigment responsible for skin tone
- controlling the amount of melanin exported into the epidermis
SEA LILY EXTRACT (seaside plant): helps prevent the appearance of dark spots by reducing melanin synthesis induced by cellular stress(e.g. UV), corrects spots by reducing their size and pigmentation
FRAGRANCE-FREE FORMULA for optimum tolerance

Radiance Cleansing Milk:

PROPERTIES:
Silky texture
Perfectly cleanses face and neck
Reveals pure,supple and soft skin
Helps to even-out the complexion
Improves natural skin brightness and complexion radiance

INGREDIENTS:
JANIA RUBENS EXTRACT: ultra-moisturizing, remineralizing
DICTYOPTERIS EXTRACT: overall brightening effect, helps to limit the skin's natural pigmentation and reveal the transparency of the complexion
SEALILY EXTRACT: helps prevent the appearance of dark spots and corrects their appearance by reducing their size and pigmentation
PHYLLOSPADIX EXTRACT (Seabed plant): inhibits the synthesis of melanin, protects against oxidative stress from UVA and UVB
GORSEWATER: known for its calming and relaxing effect by stimulating the synthesis of B-endorphin

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Work up a lather on the face and neck with fingertips.Rinse with water.

REVEALING RADIANCE LOTION with AHA

PROPERTIES:
Removes last traces of makeup
Gently exfoliates the skin’s surface
Reveals a soft, comfortable, refined skin texture
Improves skin's natural clarity and the transparency of the complexion
Brightens and helps even-out skin tone

INGREDIENTS:

DICTYOPTERIS EXTRACT: participates in an overall brightening effect, helps to limit the skin's natural pigmentation and reveal the transparency of the complexion
SEA LILY EXTRACT: known for preventing the appearance of dark spots and reducing their appearance
LACTIC ACID: recognized for its exfoliating and smoothing action, helps refine skin texture
VITAMIN C DERIVATIVE: helps boost skin radiance, helps to limit the formation of dark spots

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Apply with a cotton pad to your face and neck,avoiding the eye contour.
Sunburn Alert:: this product contains an AHA that may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun and particularly the possibility of a sunburn.Use a sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.

BRIGHTENING RADIANCE SERUM

PROPERTIES:
Light, fluid texture with a matte finish
Brightens skin tone and helps even-out the complexion
Visibly lightens dark spots
Improves skin's natural clarity
Gives a radiance boost for a glowing complexion

INGREDIENTS:
DICTYOPTERIS EXTRACT: overall brightening effect, helps to limit the skin's natural pigmentation and reveal the transparency of the complexion
SEA LILY EXTRACT: known for preventing the appearance of dark spots and reducing their appearance
VITAMIN E: antioxidant helps to prevent skin aging
VITAMIN C DERIVATIVE: helps boost skin radiance, helps to limit the formation of dark spots
SEAWATER CONCENTRATE: rich in trace-elements and minerals for skin energy

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Apply morning and evening before usual cream.Apply a small amount of serum to the face and neck,paying special attention to areas with uneven pigmentation or lacking in radiance.

HYDRA-BRIGHT RADIANCE CREAM

PROPERTIES:
Melt-away texture with a velvety finish
Intensely moisturizes and leaves skin feeling comfortable
Helps even-out and reveal the transparency of the complexion
Helps diminish the appearance of dark spots
Gives a radiance boost for a glowing complexion

INGREDIENTS:
DICTYOPTERIS EXTRACT: overall brightening effect, helps to limit the skin's natural pigmentation and reveal the transparency of the complexion
SEA LILY EXTRACT: known for preventing the appearance of dark spots and reducing their appearance
VITAMIN C DERIVATIVE: helps boost skin radiance, helps to limit the formation of dark spots
SUN FILTERS: UVA and UVB protection

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Apply morning and evening to the face and neck after cleansing thoroughly.Use on its own or after the serum of your choice.

BRIGHTENING RADIANCE MASK

PROPERTIES:
Creamy texture that reveals soft and supple skin
Revives skin radiance
Improves skin's natural clarity
Promotes an even complexion
Helps diminish the appearance of dark spots

INGREDIENTS:
DICTYOPTERIS EXTRACT: overall brightening effect, helps to limit the skin's natural pigmentation and reveal the transparency of the complexion
SEA LILY EXTRACT: known for preventing the appearance of dark spots and reducing their appearance
VITAMIN C DERIVATIVE: helps boost skin radiance, helps to limit the formation of dark spots
SEAWATER CONCENTRATE: rich in trace-elements and minerals for skin energy

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:
Apply a medium layer to entire face and neck once or twice a week. Leave on for 10 minutes.
Remove excess product with a cotton pad moistened with water. Rinse thoroughly with running water. Dry, then tone.

Why Organic?

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 04:01:00 +0000

via Badger Balm newsletter.

Badger uses 10,000 gallons of USDA Certified Organic Olive Oil each year from the Soler Romero olive groves in Southern Spain.

A Certified Organic product is made from ingredients grown and processed without chemical fertilizers, growth hormones, GMOs, or synthetic pesticides.

In their opinion, organic agriculture results in ingredients that are better for people and better for our planet.They believe that compassionate, sustainable organic agriculture is both the legacy of the past and hope for the future.

The USDA certification is a food-grade standard so you will see it used most often on vegetables, fruits and other food products. However, if a body care product meets these stringent requirements it can also be certified by the USDA, and most of Badger's products bear this seal.

Their goal at Badger is to take the organic certification as a first step on a road toward cultivating a higher standard for ingredients; from the farm fields to your home. The next step is working towards sourcing even more Fair Trade™ and biodynamically grown ingredients. Their aim is to create products with the highest quality of ingredients that are processed with thoughtful intention.

The National Organic Program

Scope: Food, Cotton, Flowers, Cosmetics, and Personal care.

Introduction: The USDA Organic Seal, founded by the National Organic Program (NOP) is by far the most well-recognized and established organic certification in the United States. The NOP was created in 1990 after congress passed the Organic Foods Production Act (OFPA) to ensure that agricultural products marketed as Organic would meet consistent and uniform standards. The main focus of the NOP is to regulate and certify agricultural products for food. However, the NOP also covers a wider range of products including textiles and personal care.

Principles: According to the National Organic Standards Board, "The principal guidelines for organic production are to use materials and practices that enhance the ecological balance of natural systems and that integrate the parts of the farming system into an ecological whole." The word “organic”, in this context, is a labeling term used for products that are produced under the authority of the OFPA (Organic Foods Production Act)

Basics: The NOP’s organic standard regulates the production and handling of farm raised crops, wild harvested crops, and livestock management. Organically produced crops are grown without most conventional pesticides, petroleum-based fertilizers, or sewage sludge-based fertilizers. Organically raised animals cannot be given hormones or antibiotics, and they must be fed organic feed and be given access to the outdoors. A certified organic product composed of a percentage of organically grown and processed ingredients. All products that are certified by the NOP must comply with a minimum criterion for production, handling, processing, labeling, and certification standards. The NOP has four categories of certification.

100% Organic: A product must contain 100% organically produced ingredients (excluding water and salt) and may prominently display the USDA organic seal and the percentage.
Organic: A product must contain at least 95% organically produced ingredients (excluding water and salt), the remaining percent must be organically grown if commercially available or consist of a non-agricultural substance that is on the USDA Organic approved ingredient list. The product may prominently display the USDA organic seal.
Made with Organic Ingredients: A product must contain at least 70% organically produced ingredients (excluding water and salt), and the products may not display the USDA Organic seal but may highlight up to three organic ingredients.
Less than 70% Organic Ingredients: A product that contains organically grown ingredients but does not meet any of the first three standards may not use the term “Organic” unless specifically listing USDA certified organic ingredients on the back panel. The USDA organic seal may not be displayed.

The USDA accredits numerous independent organic certifiers across the country. A product that is USDA certified organic may be certified by any USDA accredited organic certifying program. All USDA certified organic products must display the name and address of the certifying agency in addition to the USDA organic seal. For more information on specific USDA accredited certifying programs see: http://www.greenerchoices.org/eco-labels

For more information: www.ams.usda.gov/nop/

BADGER AND THE USDA ORGANIC STANDARD

Badger's Organic Background:

Since their humble beginnings in 1996, Badger has focused on making healing products from simple natural ingredients. At Badger, they believe that the most natural ingredients are those grown without pesticides, plant hormones, or chemical fertilizers. Following their beliefs, they have consistently found and used the most high quality organic ingredients available. Their products have always been 100% natural, mostly organic, and totally good, but now they have set out to prove their commitment to organic by certifying almost all of their products with the highest and most trusted standard available, the USDA Organic Certification.

Badger and the USDA Organic Certification:

Badger believes that the USDA organic certification is the gold standard for quality and purity in personal care. The USDA Organic certification was created for simple unprocessed agricultural ingredients; however, personal care products are eligible to be certified by the USDA Organic program if the product meets the same stringent food grade standards. As of August 1st 2008, over 90% of Badger's products became USDA Certified Organic. They believe that by adhering to the USDA organic standard they bring transparency and consistency to their customers. They are strongly in support of the USDA organic standard, but they are not stopping there. They believe that true organic agriculture goes beyond the elimination of synthetic chemicals to a harmonization and sustainability of farmers, producers, consumers, and the land that we all share. Their goal at Badger is to take the organic certification as a first step on a road toward cultivating a higher standard for ingredients form the farm to the factory. They are working towards sourcing ingredients that are grown biodynamically, traded fairly, processed with thoughtful intention and to create products for all those in need of organic healing body care that works.

For more information about the standard visit the National Organic Program's website: www.ams.usda.gov/nop

Just Breathe

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 18:18:00 +0000

Erbaviva has a new body wash called, Breathe.

A completely natural cleanser combined with a stimulating blend of eucalyptus, cedar, and spruce make this a perfect way to start the day. Ingredients include Chilean soap bark, organic spruce oil, organic hyssop flower oil, organic eucalyptus leaf oil, organic tea tree oil, organic thyme oil, and organic lemon peel oil.

Ingredients:
De-ionized water, olivoil glutinate, decyl glucoside, cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine, soyamide DEA, quilaja saponaria extract, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate (preservative at 0.3%) Essential oils: wild spruce, organic hyssop, organic eucalyptus, organic cedar, organic lemon, organic thyme and organic tea tree.

6 fl. oz

BB Bombshell

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Our favorite BB Cream, Suntegrity 5 in 1 NATURAL MOISTURIZING FACE SUNSCREEN, goes up against some BIG Beauty on Twin Cities Live and kicks ass! Our favorite beauty, Bombshell Beauty Blogger, gives you the scoop:

Local Beauty

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 19:58:00 +0000

Thanks to MPLSzine and Kara Nesvig for the love!

Click the link above for the full article. We're in great company!

I suppose you could make the argument that buying a CoverGirl foundation at Target is indeed “shopping local,” beauty-wise. However, you don’t always have to turn to the Minnesota-based big box retailer for your skincare, haircare and cosmetic needs, because Minnesota (and Minneapolis especially) is a hotbed of local beauty lines from soaps to serums. (Not to mention we’re packed with spas and salons, but that’s another story entirely.) If you’d like to spend a few dollars supporting our fair economy, here’s where to shop.

StormSister Spatique
After many years in the industry, Becky Sturm opened StormSister Spatique, part salon/spa and part retail boutique. Sturm carries several lines, some local, but was inspired to create her own 3waybeauty brand during the recession, when she noticed clients were looking for something multifunctional. (Each product she creates must have more than one use.) “Having spent so many years around beauty products, developing my own was the next logical step for me.” My favorite? Her shhh. bar, chock-full of good-for-you essential oils; you can use it as shampoo, soap AND for shaving. (Hello, perfect gift for your brother or boyfriend.)

A Toast

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:21:00 +0000

Some lovely press about our HAMMS Event via Allison Checco of Fast Horse.

Violent Lips

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 15:54:00 +0000

Stop by and see us at the Mall of America this weekend!
We'll be in the rotunda, showcasing our HAMMS Event as part of Beadniks Bead Bash.

We'll be highlighting part of our StormSister Spatique Kissing Booth with Violent Lips - Sairey and I will have our St. Patty's Day versions on!

Stop by, purchase some Violent Lips and learn more about our upcoming HAMMS Event!

Saturday, March 16th 10:00am-6:00pm
Sunday, March 17th 11:00am-5:00pm

Center Sage

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:46:00 +0000

via American Spa magazine.

Sage-inspired treatments and products provide herbal healing.

Ancient Romans made a drink from sage, which they considered a sacred plant, and drank it as a tonic for their minds and bodies. Native Americans prized the plant for its cleansing and spiritual benefits, and even today it’s used to protect against evil and negativity. The Spa at Sundance at Sundance Resort (Utah), for example, uses the sweet-smelling smoke to purify and ward off malevolent energies in its Sage and Sweet Grass Ritual ($170, 80 minutes), a body wrap and smudging of white sage and sweet grass.

The University of Maryland Medical Center says sage essential oil may be used during massage to treat depression, and its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties make it a common homeopathic remedy for treating colds and sore throats. In fact, its botanical name, salvia, comes from the Latin word salvere, which means to feel well and healthy, a nod to the herb’s healing properties.

Sage’s power against colds and other illnesses may be the reason behind its energy-clearing reputation, says Marianne Griffeth, president of Prima Fleur. “When used for inhalation, sage is an antidepressant and is uplifting and cleansing for a stressed brain and tense body,” she says. “It stimulates mental clarity and stability, encouraging the mind to be focused and vigilant.”

The spa experience should soothe the mind as well as the body, which makes sage essential oil an excellent addition to massage oils and creams. As a post-treatment shampoo or shower gel, sage is refreshing and cleansing. Or, suggests Griffeth, use it in rooms as a diffuser between treatments for short durations to disinfect the air and eliminate stale energy. “In our busy world, we can all benefit from a little added mental clarity,” she says. “Treatments with sage can return you to a place that’s grounded and still but with the potential to move.”

Not only does the plant clear negative energy, but sage also works wonders when it comes to clearing skin ailments including acne, eczema, and signs of aging. While pregnant women should steer clear of sage in its pure essential oil form—sage contains the chemical thujone, which can be toxic during pregnancy—it’s a safe ingredient to use on sensitive skin and promotes skin strength and healing. “Sage is a very versatile ingredient for skincare,” says Stephanie Baresh, marketing director for Éminence Organic Skin Care. “It can be used to treat oily skin and hyperpigmentation and has great anti-aging benefits, as well.” Additionally, sage helps stimulate blood flow, is an antioxidant, restores elasticity, and tightens pores.

The powerful herb gets its skin-healing powers from two key acids. “Ursolic acid gives sage its wound-healing abilities, which is ideal for treating acne and eczema,” says Baresh. “Carnosic acid gives sage its antioxidant benefits to treat UVA and UVB damage and protect against future damage.”

And, adds Melissa Morris, corporate educator for Pevonia International, sage’s potent combination of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and superoxide dismutase (also known as SOD) combine to offer powerful antioxidant properties—magic words if you're seeking anti-aging solutions. Morris suggests utilizing sage’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to calm and soothe sensitive skin. “Sage extract carries the power to heal the skin, making it an ideal extract to soothe skin lesions, inflammations, and redness associated with sensitive and acneic skins,” she says.

Sage can also help close the pores and inhibit the action of sweat glands, says Alice Pichery, national trainer at Sothys Paris.

Sage’s sweet, herbaceous scent also lends itself well to many other aromatherapy oils, including geranium, lemon, orange, and rosemary. Pair it with basil for a treatment that evokes summer gardens. Lavender’s earthy, floral notes complement sage, too. Spa Solage at Solage Calistoga, an Auberge Resort (CA), blends the two herbs in its Sage and Lavender Body Polish and Massage ($198, 80 minutes), which uses Prima Fleur essential oil. And Sage Springs Spa at Sunriver Resort (OR) incorporates its signature Oregon lavender and sage into many of its treatments, including the Lavender and Sage Sugar Scrub ($115, 45 minutes) and Sage Springs Manicure and Pedicure ($140, 1 hour 40 minutes).

“Our sage-inspired services are so appealing to our Sunriver Resort guests, because they are inspired by the central Oregon high desert experience,” says spa operations manager Tifany LeGuyonne. “Our resort sits in the middle of a gorgeous natural environment, surrounded by juniper trees, wild sage, rushing rivers, and picturesque mountains. Our services offer our guests the opportunity to sample the natural environment around them at a world-class spa.” So, as the days become longer and warmer, bring the outdoors in and clear the air with the energizing, healing power of sage.

Floral Softness

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 19:14:00 +0000

Two new skincare products from Fleur's of France:

Floral Softness Gentle Mask and Floral Softness Gentle Cream.

A new line dedicated to sensitive, reactive and blotchy skin.
It has floral soothing and calming ingredients and proven
anti-imflammatory properties.

"Style Event"

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 14:00:00 +0000

Not certain I'd call it a "style event" but that's ok.

Thanks to Nancy Ngo for mentioning the HAMMS Event in the Pioneer Press this past Sunday.

Beaute Report

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:57:00 +0000

My interview with Mary Winkenwerder of the Ultimate Skincare and Beaute Report.

Conditioner Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 22:30:00 +0000

Tell us your favorite hair conditioner and why, over on our FB page and you just may win a full-sized Phytoceane Conditioning Care.

Share The Love

noreply@blogger.com (Becky Sturm) — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 16:26:00 +0000

Planning to pucker up this Valentine's Day?

Ditch the petro-chemicals, and mined minerals (many contain lead!) and treat your Valentine to your luscious lips covered in INtelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Lip Delivery Anti-oxidant Gloss (that's a mouthful! pun intended).

Lip Delivery Antioxidant Gloss is a USDA certified organic gluten-free lip-gloss combining powerful colorful antioxidant chemistry and nutritious food ingredients with a high Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (antioxidant) ORAC value. Lip Delivery Antioxidant Gloss is free from toxic mined or mineral pigments, heavy metals, synthetic colorants. Every ingredient chosen to feed your lips with power-packed antioxidants and Intelligent Nutrients’ signature Antioxidant Intellimune® Seed Oil Complex to help battle oxidative stress and aid in fighting pre-mature aging while delivering delicious moisture and shine. The aroma/flavor is filled with certified organic Agave, Caramel, Coconut, Raspberry and Vanilla. It not only tastes good, it’s good for you. Such a refreshing balance of sweet and tart—simply delicious.

These glosses are full of fruit juices and fruit pigments (they taste yummy):
RICINUS COMMUNIS (CASTOR) SEED OIL,1 BEESWAX (CERA ALBA),1 COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL,1 AGAVE AMERICANA LEAF EXTRACT,1 ZEA MAYS (PURPLE CORN) KERNEL EXTRACT,1 SWEET RASPBERRY NATURAL FLAVOR,1 VANILLA BEAN NATURAL FLAVOR,1 CARAMEL CREAM NATURAL FLAVOR,1 BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA BUTTER),1 EUTERPE OLERACEA (ACAI)FRUIT OIL,1 THEOBROMA CACAO (COCOA) SEED BUTTER,1 COPERNICIA CERIFERA (CARNAUBA) WAX,1 COCONUT CREAM NATURAL FLAVOR,1 SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL,1 ROSA MOSCHATA (ROSEHIP) SEED OIL,1 NIGELLA SATIVA (BLACK CUMIN) SEED OIL,1,2 VACCINIUM MACROCARPON (CRANBERRY) SEED OIL,1,2 RUBUS IDAEUS (RED RASPBERRY) SEED OIL,1,2 VITIS VINIFERA (RED GRAPE) SEED OIL,1,2 CUCURBITA PEPO (PUMPKIN) SEED OIL,1,2 TOCOPHEROL (VITAMIN E)

1 CERTIFIED ORGANIC
2 ANTIOXIDANT INTELLIMUNE® SEED OIL COMPLEX