96 Hour Black Friday Sale!!

It's a Black Friday 96 Hour Sale!! Save 30% on all items at the SkIndulgence store with the coupon code SSCSPL30PER Friday through Monday! Happy shopping!

Apple Cider Wash for Oily Skin

If you don't have much time on your hands, this wash is very effective for removing dirt and residue from face.

Recipe:

--

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons distilled water

Mix water and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl and apply to face with a cotton ball. Avoid eye area. rinse with tepid water, and pat dry.

About Our Shipping Materials

Landfill Flooded with Consumer Waste

According to the Clean Air Council, about 31% of municipal solid waste generated in the US in 2008 was containers and packaging, or 76,760 thousand tons. In our ongoing commitment to Mother Nature and reducing consumer packaging, SkIndulgence makes every effort to cut down on excess packaging, both in our product packaging and our shipments.

While we understand the desire of many companies to package every shipment like a gift for the customer to open, we are unable to reconcile this fleeting moment with the thousands and thousands of tons of unnecessary waste produced from packaging every year.

In addition to our minimal packaging and refill policy, we make every effort to minimize waste with our shipments as well.  Every package sent to you from SkIndulgence is sent in reused boxes and with reused filling/padding*.  Rest assured that while this is reused, your package is still shipped with sufficient padding and protection to ensure your products arrive safe and sound to your door.

It might not look as fancy as other, more commercial brands, but it IS saving a tree or two for future generations!

*primarily from our suppliers' shipments to us.

Tips for Oily Skin

Just because skin is oily doesn't mean you should skip moisturizing.  When your skin is dehydrated, it's water, not oil that's lacking.  Oil is a sealant barrier, but not moisture itself.  When you skip moisturizer completely, skin produces more oil to try to hydrate itself - leaving you with even slicker skin than before.

The SkIndulgence Night Cream for Oily Skin is oily based, which makes a lot of people nervous at first.  However, this cream is designed to penetrate through the dermis to nourish and soothe the epidermis, and that initial oily feeling is gone within moments.  The cream is also formulated with herbs that represent astringent qualities and will definitely regulate that wayward oil!

SkIndulgence Has a New Look!

The New Look of SkIndulgence Skin Care

I am so excited to announce that SkIndulgence products have gotten a make-over!  When we first launched the line this past summer we were a little too anxious to get pics up on the Etsy store and rushed the packaging design.  After about, oh, a millisecond after the photo shoot was completed and the pics were up, I realized that this:

Ew! What is THIS?

was so totally NOT a product I would like up on my shelf...and it probably wasn't what our customers wanted either!  I immediately set to work designing something that better reflected our products: clean, simple and classy.

I absolutely love the new design, and I am thrilled to death with the way the new photos look.  Thank you so much to JD Nielsen, photographer extraordinaire, for taking such beautiful shots!

While we were at it, we added a couple of new products to the line including the Peppermint Salty and Sweet Body Scrub formulated to stimulate your senses and relieve sore muscles. We'll talk more about this, and the other new "stimulate" products later this week!

See the whole line's new look on the Etsy store!

Oatmeal, Almond & Avocado Body Scrub

Oatmeal, rich in vitamin E, is well-known for its anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, skin-soothing properties. Almonds are a natural emollient and, when ground, an effective exfoliant. Combined with avocado pulp, which contains vitamins A, D and E, and which possesses collagen-rebuilding properties, the oatmeal-almond mixture is ideal for irritated, tired and dry skin.  In order to avoid clogging your drain, it is best to make a small pouch or bag out of muslin cloth and fill it with dry oatmeal and the grated almonds.  Ideally, you should make the bag large enough so that you can fit your hand into it and use it as a mitt to rub the avocado on your body.  I use an old nylon, myself!

Recipe:

--

1/2 cup almonds

1 cup dry oatmeal

1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and mashed

Place almonds in a blender or coffee grinder and grind until coarse and not too fine. Mix almonds and oatmeal and place in glove or muslin mitt. Scoop up avocado and rub on body with mitt. Rinse off with warm water, pat dry and moisturize.

Refill Policy & Discount

SkIndulgence would like to announce a new refill discount offer!

In staying true to our commitment to Mother Nature and reducing consumer packaging customers can now return the empty bottles to us and receive 50%-off on a refill of that same product!

All you have to do is ship back your empty container, along with your email address to:

SkIndulgence Skin Care
PO Box 39691
Los Angeles, CA 91204

Once we receive your package we will email you a coupon code for 50%-off.  When you place your refill order through the Etsy store, order the product as usual. While in your shopping cart, click "Apply Shop Coupon Code" to redeem your discount.

Happy shopping!

Lovely Life of Leah: SkIndulgence Giveaway

Leah totally designed this button!

Hey all ya'll!  You should click on over to Lovely Life of Leah today as she has so awesomely reviewed SkIndulgence products and you can ENTER TO WIN two different SkIndulgence gift sets!

Many many thanks to Leah for reviewing myproducts and hosting a giveaway; this is so SO exciting for me :-)

30%-Off Special!

Hello Friends!  I apologize for the lack of posting recently, I have been all-consumed with planning my non-profit's Launch Party which is happening in LA this Saturday, October 27th.  Hang tight, and I promise to return next week with all kinds of useful skin care information and DIY facial recipes!

To make up for my disappearing act, I am offering 30%-off of all products at the SkIndulgence Store now through Sunday, October 28th at midnight!  To redeem this discount, simply enter the code SSCSPL30PER at checkout.  Happy shopping!

My Non-Profit's Launch Party!

Hey guys, guess what?  My non-profit, Build.Create.Kenya is hosting a Launch Party on October 27th!  It is going to be so much fun, so you all have to be there!  Here are the deets:
----

Join us on October 27th to celebrate the official launch of the arts and music based non profit, BCK!

 

We are going to have amazing musical acts, great Kenyan artists doing live art and will be raising money for the arts/music programs of East Africa.

 

The event is FREE to attend, and all ages are welcome! For more info and to RSVP click here. See you there!

Four Years Ago Today...

Four years ago today I met my [now] fiance walking down the street in Hollywood.  Our relationship has truly taught me the meaning of the word "partner"; and I am so happy he's mine in all that we do: not only our relationship, but in our work in Kenya.  Read all of the mushy details on our non-profit's blog, Build.Create.Kenya.  To celebrate the anniversary of the most important day of my life, I thought I'd get all publicly mushy with a slideshow:

Slideshow personalized with Smilebox

Thank you for four amazing years, mpenzi wangu, and here's to many, many more together!

Honey-Onion Cold Cure

Cold season is officially upon us...at least in my house!  To celebrate, here is a very simple and natural syrup from Rosemary Gladstar to chase those cold bugs away.

To make the syrup: Slice two to four large onions into think half moons and place the slices in a deep pan. Just barely cover the onion slices with honey. Warm the onions and honey over very low heat, until the onions become soft and somewhat mushy and the honey tastes strongly of onions. You can add chopped garlic, if you want, for an even stronger syrup: stronger medicinally and stronger tasting!  Strain and store in a jar.

To use: It's actually quite tasty. To help fight off a cold, at the first onset of symptoms, take 1/2 to 1 teaspoon every hour or two.  If you already are suffering from a cold, take 1 teaspoon three or four times daily to speed your recovery.

Basic Bath Tips

Perfection =  huge bathtub and trees!

Herbal baths are detoxifying and aromatic and intensely relaxing, both spiritually and physically.  The ceremony of bathing in herbs has become a daily rite in many cultures, a return to the source for the body and spirit.

The herb or combination of herbs used in the bath depends on the effect that is sought: to soothe the skin, promote sleep, stimulate circulation, relieve muscle aches and pains, or merely to enjoy the aromatic experience.  The concept, however, remains the same: imagine that you're relaxing in a giant cup of herb tea.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your herbal bath:

• The best time to bathe is when the stomach is empty.
• Salt added to bath water will help alleviate some of the light-headedness that some experience as a result of bathing in hot water.
• Morning baths should be tonic.  Their primary purpose is to relieve physical fatigue, stimulate the body and eliminate toxins. An ideal temperature for a morning bath is around 96.8 degrees F (36 degrees C).
• Evening baths are meant to be relaxing, to relieve stress and to prepare the body for sleep. An ideal temperature for an evening bath ranges between 98.6 degrees F (37 degrees C) and 102 degrees F (39 degrees C).
• A muscle- or joint-soothing bath after an intense physical exertion or a very stressful day generally ranges between 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) and 107 degrees F (42 degrees C).
• Remember always to replenish body fluids by drinking plenty of water or herbal tea after a bath.
• After bathing, apply moisturizer while the skin is still warm and moist.

First Aid Balm

Recently my friend Kenny was in a bad bike accident; he walked away with minor injuries but some pretty serious road rash across his face.  As soon as I heard the news, I put together an herbal remedy "get well soon" basket including SkIndulgence First Aid Balm.  A few days later Kenny called me up to say that the balm had worked wonders for his facial cuts: after using it, the swelling and redness had gone down considerably, the cuts were healing quickly, and the pain had greatly subsided.

This first aid balm is an all natural, thick, spreadable balm that can be applied to cuts, scrapes and bruises for quick healing with minimal scaring. It contains calming herbs so the healing effect is not just skin deep. The key ingredients that make this balm work so effectively include:

• Candelelia wax that locks in moisture and keeps out dirt and impurities;
• Calendula flowers to promote healing and protects against scarring;
• Lavender & Chamomile flowers to soothe and calm the skin; and
• Comfrey leaf to heal and provide pain relief.

This first aid balm is a must for every household, and for the next week you can save 20% on a 2-oz tin through the SkIndulgence store.

WINNER! Ultimate Relaxation Giveaway

Ultimate Relaxation Bath Set

We are so excited to announce that Chrystal is the winner of our first giveaway!  Congratulations, Chrystal, you've won the Relaxation Bath Set!  Please email us at dori.jennings@gmail.com telling us where to ship your prize, and we'll get it right out to you.  Enjoy!

Thank you to everyone who entered!  If you haven't done so already, be sure to follow us on Facebook, where we just love to do random, quick giveaways and discounts!

Nighttime Almond & Honey Hand & Foot Paste

Earlier this week we were asked what the best remedy for dry, cracked hands and feet.  This remedy is ideal for soothing hard-working hands and feet by gently exfoliating old, dead skin and nourishing the new cells.  It will leave your hands and feet incredibly smooth.  Best of all, all of these ingredients are available at your nearest grocery store.

Recipe:

--

1/4 cup almonds

1/4 cup dry oatmeal

3 tablespoons coconut oil

2 tablespoons honey

Process nuts in a blender until coarsely ground.  In a bowl, combine oatmeal, coconut oil, honey and ground nuts.  Rub into hands and feet and cover with cotton gloves and socks.  Leave overnight.  The next morning, remove gloves and socks and rinse hands and feet in cool water.

Faeries in the Garden

Snapped this while on one of my walks; spiders are my heroes!

In one of the 40-million herbal books I have on my shelf, I read:

How do you know when you've encountered the fairies? Well, you'll have to tune into your senses and see what they tell you.  There are always signs. A few examples would be: a nearby plant quivers for no reason while you work in the herb garden; you can't shake the sensation that something is walking through your hair, but there really isn't anything there at all; you feel yourself walk through spiderwebs in an open area; and most importantly, you are absolutely convinced that you are not alone while working with your herbs and flowers.

It is my nightly ritual to go on a walk through my Los Angeles neighborhood.  Despite the energy from a dense population all around me, I find I am able to focus and brainstorm like nowhere else.  Without fail, every night, even in the most open of streets, I will feel no less than a handful of spiderwebs fall across my face. Ever since reading this passage several years ago in Lewellyn's 2006 Herbal Almanac I can't help but playfully wonder if those webs aren't webs at all but faeries saying "hello"...but they are probably just Black Widows :-)

Vitalizing Rosemary & Apple Cider Rinse

This after-shampoo rinse will remove all soapy residue from hair and leave it exceptionally shiny.  Rosemary is often used in hair tonics and rinses as it stimulates the scalp and promotes hair growth.

Recipe:
--
2 springs fresh rosemary
1 cup apple cider vinegar
3 cups warm water

Chop rosemary and place it in a jar.  Fill jar with apple cider vinegar and store in a cool dark place for 1 week, shaking jar vigorously once a day to disperse the rosemary. After 1 week, strain liquid, compost rosemary and return liquid to jar. When ready to use, dilute 1/3 cup of liquid in 3 cups of warm water and rub into freshly shampooed, damp hair and scalp. Avoid getting any mixture into your eyes. Rinse thoroughly and dry hair as usual.

Facial Steams

SkIndulgence Facial Steam for Normal to Dry Skin

A few weeks ago I shared with you my daily skin care "regime".  The facial steam is something I throw into the mix every other week or so.  It only takes 10 minutes and is an oh-so-necessity for your skin!

A facial steam is the best possible way for deep pore cleansing, and each of the herbs used is rich in nutrients that nourish and tone the skin. The aromatic oils of the plants are released by the heat and are absorbed by the skin. And best of all, it feels so good!

To perform a facial steam, bring a quart of water to a boil in a pot. Toss in one of our facial steam tea bags, cover, and let simmer for a couple of minutes. Then remove the pot from the heat and place it on a heatproof surface at a level that will enable you to comfortably sit and place your face over the pot. Leaning over the pot, drape a large, thick towel over your head and the pot, capturing the steaming herb water. It will get very hot under the towel. To regulate the heat, raise or lower your head or lift a corner of the towel to let in a little cool air. Steam for 5 to 8 minutes.

Immediately after you complete your facial steam, rinse your face with cold water and gently pat with toner. Your face will feel smooth and will glow with radiance.

SkIndulgence offers two different facial steam combinations: one for normal to dry skin and one for normal to oily and acne prone skin.  The difference between the two combinations is that one is designed with herbs that are primarily soothing and moisturizing while the other contains more astringent properties.  Find these steams at the SkIndulgence store by clicking here.

Not sure what type of skin you have?  Leave a comment below telling us a bit about your skin and we'll help you out!

Product Giveaway: Ultimate Relaxation!

SkIndulgence Relaxation Bath Tea and Body Scrub

YAY!  We're having our first giveaway!  To follow up on yesterday's blog post about the importance of relaxation, we are offering our Relaxation Set to one lucky winner!

About the Relaxation Set:
Relaxing in a hot bath is a must for relieving the stresses of daily life. Our bath packs combine bath tea and bath salts in one easy to use, single-use, large tea bag. Life is complicated, your bath shouldn't be!  This ultimate relaxation set includes one 4-ounce jar of Salty and Sweet Lavender Body Scrub, eight (8) single-use bath bags, 16 organic chamomile tea bags, and one vanilla-scented aromatherapuetic candle.  To use: begin by lighting a candle, putting on your favorite music and making a cup of tea (with two tea bags). Fill your bathtub to the desired temperature and toss in one of the Relaxation Bath Tea bags. While the tub is filling, rub your body with the Relaxation Salty and Sweet Body Scrub. Slowly immerse yourself into your herbal bathwater. Lay back and place one chamomile tea bag over each eyelid. Emerge from the water feeling thoroughly relaxed and at peace.

How to Win:
It's so easy; all you have to do is:

1. Follow the SkIndulgence page on Facebook (if you already do, skip to #2),
2. Write a FB status update telling your peeps about us,
3. Leave a comment below letting us know you've done 1 & 2.  You'll want to leave your name in the comments so we can let you know you've won.

The winner will be selected through a random drawing and announced in one week, so don't forget to check back and see if you're the winner of these awesome products!

Dori's Story

This is the (pretty long) story of the creation of the SkIndulgence line; or "How Dori Learned to Stop Being Afraid and Go For It".

Though I fell in love with herbs and the idea of creating my own skin care products at a very young age, I never felt it could be my livelihood.  Let me rephrase that.  I was always too afraid to try.  My entire adult life I have defined "security" as having a steady income via climbing the corporate ladder.  Never once in any of these positions did I feel actual passion, or even enjoyment.  To the contrary, I felt very out of place an unhappy.  For the past 15 years I would dread facing the office each day, and would come home each night discouraged and exhausted.  I tried convincing myself that everyone in business felt this way; that this was just part of life.  I know now that this is far from true.

Several months ago this internal conflict caught up with me.  At first I became increasingly withdrawn and depressed. I cried constantly and lashed out in anger at anyone and everyone. I stopped talking to nearly everyone I knew, and the relationships I maintained became incredibly strained, to put it lightly. Shortly after this depression started I began having debilitating panic attacks and night terrors.  It got to be that a day wouldn't go by that I would have several panic attacks or wake repeatedly throughout the night screaming and crying and filled with immobilizing terror.

The mental symptoms ended up being only a part of a much larger problem.  In early 2012, I fell very ill.  I got so weak that I could barely stand and was in so much pain it was difficult to walk.  I lost my appetite and then 20 pounds within weeks.  Several doctors and countless tests later, I was told that I had over 10 tumors throughout my body, one larger than a golf ball, and that these tumors, if not cancer, were at least the root of my illness and my mental state.  Eager to get those stupid things out and start feeling better, I scheduled the multiple surgeries it would take to remove them.

At the same time, my work situation had grown increasingly strained because of my illness.  I knew that taking time off to recover was not an option.  I say "knew", rather than "felt" because I was told as much very bluntly when I informed my bosses of my need to take time off to recover from multiple invasive surgeries.  The promotion I had just been granted was then revoked, as my illness now made me "untrustworthy".  Holding onto that need for "security", I put my work ahead of my health: I scheduled my surgeries nearly back to back starting on Thursday night with the final one Monday afternoon.  I then returned to work Wednesday morning.  I was severely bruised and my three incision points were bandaged and visibly bleeding through; I sobbed from pain the entire drive to the office and was unable to lift even a small stack of papers, but I feared getting fired and felt driven to show my bosses that I still deserved that promotion.

It was this return to work when I began to "see the light", so to speak.  Though they knew why I had been out of the office for three days (and could clearly see my bandages), not one of my three bosses asked how I was feeling or if I was ready to return, even those I hung out with outside the office.  I know this should not be expected in the corporate atmosphere, but, for me at least, it was the beacon that very clearly shed light on the fact that this environment was not meant for me: the dedication and commitment was not mutual.  I definitely don't need or want to be coddled, to the contrary I am a very independent and private person...but I knew I could no longer spend most of my waking life in a place that I now found incredibly cold and uncaring.  Instinctively I knew that this atmosphere was destroying me.  I feel that my getting sick was a message that there was a misalignment with the way I was living my life. Though it terrified me beyond belief, I gave my notice and left the company shortly after this.

Days after leaving my job, I boarded a flight for my annual trip to Kenya with Build.Create.Kenya.  Though I was recovered enough to get around at this point, my health issues were far from resolved: I was still 20 pounds down on my weight, incredibly weak, and experiencing the depression, panic attacks and night terrors.  My family and friends called me crazy for going to Kenya, but I knew in my heart I had to go.

Less than a week into my month-long expedition, I realized that I had not felt any of my illness' symptoms since my arrival.  I kept this to myself not wanting to "jinx" anything.  But as I continued to live the "hakuna matata" (no worries) and "pole pole" (slow/relaxed) life of the Kenyans, my symptoms fell away entirely.  I felt energized and exhilarated; I had an appetite and gained weight.  I laughed and I danced and I SLEPT!

Dori: Falling asleep while eating Twizzlers during a late night meeting :-)

The long flight back to Los Angeles gave me plenty of time to reflect on the experience.  I sent this information out into the universe, and I received an answer:  I was not living my life following the path that my heart and my passions were leading; I had exhausted my spirit and my body by living with a conflicted soul for 15 years.  To save myself, I had to strip away the previous definition of "security" and redefine it by listening to my heart.  It is a common saying that the skills you are granted are a gift to you from the world, but what you do with those skills is your gift to the world.

Experiencing a cancer scare was pretty effective at stripping away my fears.  A new fearless me, has set out to offer my skills to the world and see if I can't find a new "security" in doing what I love.  SkIndulgence Skin Care was born as a result.  Through SkIndulgence, I can share all of that amazing magic hidden within plants, flowers, and other gifts of nature.  At the basis of each of our products is a message:

• Relax! Our body scrubs and bath tea are designed to help you relax; a gift I give each of you with a vengeance since it is what saved me!
• Love the planet and its creatures! We believe you don't need to sacrifice nature with harmful ingredients and cruel animal testing practices for the sake of beauty; our ingredients and packaging are designed with the well being of Mother Earth and her children at the top of our priorities.  And most importantly,
• Live simply! The best things in life can (and usually do) come from those that are the most simple!  Our ingredients are naturally simple by design.

This was my story...just the beginning though, follow along and let's see what happens!

Cruelty Free and Vegan Products

International logo indicating the product is "cruelty free"

Though SkIndulgence is a stickler for creating products that are as pure and natural as possible, of even more concern to us is the barbaric use of animals to test cosmetics and other products in the name of beauty.  Though we are assured by the cosmetic industry that this testing is necessary and humane, visits to animal testing labs will convince you otherwise.  There is nothing humane about placing shampoo in a rabbit's eyes - the gentlest of the procedures practiced - or testing for allergic reactions on their shaved skin, often creating huge, ulcerated sores on these gentle creatures.

The truth is that there are easier, less expensive, and more humane ways for testing these products than abusing other life forms.  While many large cosmetic companies have changed their animal testing policies in recent years both because of pressure from caring citizens and animal rights advocates and the lack of necessity for animal testing, there are many still that refuse to end the abuse.

SkIndulgence is committed to offering products that are not only safe for your skin, but are safe all the animals, too! Our products are completely vegan, and the only animals we test on are ourselves and the luckiest of our friends.

Pamper Your Hands

11th Commandment: Pamper Thy Hands

Hands are generally prone to age at a much faster rate than the other parts of the body.  They are often the first to express signs of everyday wear and tear, in part because of the relentless exposure to soaps, detergents, cold, heat, wind and water.  In order to minimize the harsh effects of these elements it is crucial to keep replenishing the skin's surface with moisture and nutrients, both from inside and outside.

The recipe below is a quick and simple way to show your hands some love and care.  The recipe uses olive oil, which will promote nail strength and flexibility.  Mixed with vitamin E, the oil nourishes cuticles and nails.

Recipe

--

1/4 cup olive oil

oil from 1 vitamin E capsule

Heat oil in saucepan and let cool until just warm enough to the touch.  Add vitamin E oil and rub into cuticles and nails, massaging any excess oil into hands.

Because we rely so heavily on the use of our palms, fingers and nails during the course of the day, an optimal time for a hand treatment is at night.  I recommend doing this just before sleep, then wearing 100% cotton gloves during the night.  When you wake up, you'll have the hands of a baby, I guarantee it!

Cosmeos, the Goddess of Harmony & Balance

From my teacher and my inspiration, Rosemary Gladstar:

There is a story we herbalists have conjured up that I like to think of. A mythical Greek goddess whose name meant harmony and balance, Cosmeos gave to mortals the gifts of herbs, flowers and other simple pleasures to nourish the body and soul. She personified radiant health that flowed from a core of harmony and balance. Cosmeos never sought to mask what she was or how she looked; rather, she fed her inner fire with the eternal gifts of the Earth.  Her beauty was as unique as the flowers growing wild on the hillside and as powerful as the granite bones of the mountain.

The modern word cosmetic stems from the Greek word Kosmeticos, meaning "skilled at adornment". This is precisely what Cosmeos is all about; it was never her intent to cover up; she used her creations to reveal in who she was.

We at SkIndulgence keep this passage in mind when creating each of our products.  We believe that each person has their own unique beauty and love the idea that SkIndulgence can use all the gifts of the Earth to help let that beauty shine by illuminating the glory rather than masking the [perceived] flaws.

Cleansing Grains

Cleansing Grains' Naturally Simple Ingredients

A perfect soap replacement, cleansing grains are mild, nourishing, suitable for all skin types, and can be used daily.  Many of the commercial facial scrubs are far too harsh; they feel like sandpaper on the skin.  People with acne or "troubled" skin often use these rough cleansers suposedly thinking they can scrub the acne away.  However, blemished skin must be treated gently.  Harsh cleansers will only further irritate the already inflamed condition.  By contrast, our cleansing grains are perfect for blemished skin. They gently cleanse, distribute excess oil, remove dead cells, and improve circulation.

The cleansing grains available from SkIndulgence are naturally simple, containing:

• White Kaolin Clay: Stimulates circulation, is a mild exfoliant and will draw impurities from the pores with regular use. Skin is noticeably healthier looking with continued use. White Kaolin is mildly drying so it clears up blemishes and works to prevent future breakouts but it also serves a calming purpose for dry, irritated skin.
• Lavender & Rose flowers (powdered): At once healing and soothing, these flowers are useful in treating skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
• Oatmeal (Ground): Oatmeal lends an unbelievably soft feel to the skin, soothes irritation and redness and very gently exfoliates.
• Almond (Ground): Almonds gently exfoliate the skin.

These cleansing grains are simple to use, as well:

• For those who prefer to go soap-less, use as a facial cleanser by mixing with liquid (we recommend a ratio of 1:3 grains : liquid), rubbing on the skin in circular motion and rinsing clean.
• We personally use them as a facial scrub, post cleansing, every 2-3 days.
• They can also be used as a mask by mixing as indicated above, then leaving on the face and neck for 3-15 minutes.
• Though the grains can be mixed with any liquid, including water, we also recommend trying facial toner, milk (of any kind), or apple cider vinegar.

We find it convenient to mix up a batch of "moist grains" ahead of time; once mixed with liquid, the grains will store for up to a week.  This is provided you don't use tap water, as it contains bacteria that can lead to spoilage; try distilled water as a safe alternative.  They're so much easier to use when made up already, plus then you have the opportunity to add a few more yummy ingredients such as honey, which serves as a natural preservative for the grains and adds a wonderfully natural moisturizing quality.  Though honey sounds like it would make the grains very sticky, it doesn't.  Try a ratio of 1:2:1, grains : liquid : honey for best results.

The cleansing grains described above are available through the SkIndulgence store by clicking here.  Save 20% on all items in the store for just one more day with the code SSCGO20PER.

Calling Bloggers: Beauty & Otherwise

SkIndulgence would be more than ecstatic to offer products from our store to bloggers in exchange for reviews and/or blog giveaways to help us get the word out about our all natural, herbal skincare line.

Below is a gallery of some of the items offered in our shop.  Click here to see the full line.

If you are interested in taking part in this offer, please send an email of interest with the information listed below to dori.jennings@gmail.com

• Shop items you wish to review (don't be shy!)
• Blog web address
• Blog's average monthly views

Happy shopping!

Remineralizing Seaweed Wrap

Seaweed wraps are exceptionally beneficial as a quick way to remineralize the body and replenish it with nutrients and elements lost on a daily basis -- such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, iodine, protein, phosphorous, copper, vitamins and amino acids.  The molecular formation of the human blood cell and that of seawater is similar, thereby enabling nutrients from the seawater to easily filter through the pores of the skin and directly into the bloodstream.  The most popular type of seaweed used for cosmetic and healing purposes is kelp -- the common name for the large leafy brown algae that grows along colder coastlines.  Although using fresh seaweed is certainly optimal, a seaweed powder mixed with enough water to create a mayonnaise-like paste will render equally satisfying results.

Recipe

--

8 ounces dried or powdered seaweed and

enough water to make a paste,

or approximately 3 ounces of fresh seaweed

Mylar or plastic sheet (a clean shower curtain liner is perfect)

1 blanket

Space heater (optional)

Place a blanket at the bottom of a bathrub and set the plastic sheet on top.  Set the space heater nearby and turn it on. While sitting on the sheet, cover yourself with the seaweed paste or the fresh seaweed and then wrap yourself with the plastic sheet and blanket.  Relax for 20 minutes. Slowly unwrap yourself and remove blanket and sheet from the tub. Fill the tub with warm water and relax for 10 minutes. After the treatment, pat skin dry and moisturize.

Here are some additional tips to get the most out of your body wrap experience:

• Make sure to replenish the body's fluids after the treatment by drinking plenty of water or herbal tea.
• Before the treatment, remove all lotions, perfumes and dirt from the skin with a quick shower.
• Heat retention is important, so remember to warm tools, towels, and sheets as well as the wrap ingredients before the treatment.
• You can intensify the effects of the treatment and raise your body's temperature by sipping hot herbal tea before the wrap.
• After the wrap, put on a warm bathrobe and relax for 20 minutes. Do not attempt to do any physical activity immediately after the treatment.
• Remember this anonymous quote: 

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched.  They must be felt.

Our Creed, Borrowed from Sandy Maine

In her book "Creating an Herbal Bodycare Business" (which is at my fingertips at all times), Sandy Maine says:

Natural bodycare businesses and practitioners...hold great promise for the world. Their products put people in touch with the healing spirit of self and nature. Their services help strengthen, balance, and enhance the functioning of clients. Energized and renewed by these conscious connections with nature, bodycare producers and recipients alike gain strength, integrity, and perspective, and move out into the world on a mission of hope and healing.

This quote perfectly states the creed and mission of SkIndulgence Skin Care, of course worded much better than we could say ourselves!

Updates from the Shop: 9-18-2012

This is just a little update of what we've been up to here in the shop for the past few days.  It's been an exciting week with a few big orders and new logo merch coming in!

The bags make me smile :-)

This definitely topped the week for SkIndulgence excitement for me!  We got canvas tote bags screen printed by Level Press for an unbelievable rate (check them out when you need screen printing for sure!).  The bags are pretty simply, exactly how I like it, but foiled for a little fanci-ness :-)  If you are wondering, that thing on the left of the pic is a couch up-cycled from a pallet found in an alley :-)

The full line; in miniature

We sold the first "discount membership" package.  This lucky recipient gets one of our fancy new bags, a trial size of all items currently on sale (and any future items for one year), and 15% off any purchases for one year.  It was pretty exciting to see all of our pretty products lined up in a row like that, and the smell was HEAVENLY!

Almost ready; just need to dress those bottles!

Today we are getting a special gift package ready for someone very special; more info to follow on this!  We still need to slap some labels on there, and then they will be ready to ship!

Now through Sept 25th you can save 20% on the products shown above at the SkIndulgence store with the coupon code SSCGO20PER

My Daily 3-Step Skin Care Regime

Do you guys remember that movie from the 90s with Uma Thurman and Janeane Garofalo, The Truth About Cats and Dogs...?  There is that scene when the skin care sales lady asks Janeane what her"Skin Care Regime" is and Janeane responds with smart-allecky remarks about her use of the word "regime".  No?  Just me? Well, anyway, that scene is pretty much the sole reason I choose to use that word :-)

I qualify my skin as normal to combination/oily skin.  For the most part the oil is under control, but during that "special" week each month I tend to be blemish-prone.  Since I make skin care products, my face essentially has to be a walking advertisement for my products, so I am a stickler for making sure my skin stays as blemish-free and fresh-looking as possible.  This goal is made remarkably easy with the three SkIndulgence products below (I am definitely my own best customer, let me tell you!). My personal bedtime "regime" consists of:

Facial Cleanser for Normal to Oily & Acne Skin

Facial Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin - This gentle daily cleanser is made with tea tree oil to control breakouts.  Tea Tree oil is a natural and safe alternative to commercial "acne control" products like benzoyl peroxide; however, it doesn't leave behind all of those icky side effects like a dry and peeling face, because who wants that nastiness on display?!  Also, because this product is all natural, it doesn't contain any horrid sulphates.  This means that the cleanser has a thinner consistency than what you are probably used to experiencing with commercial brands.  However, I package my cleanser with a foaming tip, so it is super easy to use and won't spill all over the place.  Lastly, this cleanser contains oat extract, an all natural emollient and one of the most sought after ingredients in skin care for it's ability to soften, soothe and calm irritation.

Queen of Hungary Herbal Facial Toner

Queen of Hungary Herbal Facial Toner - This is one of my personal favorites and ultimate beauty secret! Queen of Hungary Facial Toner is the oldest commercially marketed cosmetic in the world. This facial toner is recommended for all skin types and is safe to use daily. Even the most natural of facial cleansers leave behind a residue; remove that layer and balance your pH levels with an all natural toner.  After cleansing I spray about 10 sprays on my face (close those eyes!), then use a cotton ball to wipe clean.  After moisturizing, I give my face a light spritz again and allow to air-dry.

Night Cream for Normal to Oily & Acne Skin

 
Night Cream for Normal to Oily Skin - This blend was crafted using organic botanicals that are nourishing for acne prone and oily skin types. Many commercial creams contain too many synthetic, drying ingredients and using them strips the skin of it's natural sebum forcing the skin to work overtime to replace lost oils. The result is skin that is in worse condition than before. The answer? All things in balance and moderation. Use the right oils in the right amounts to keep skin balanced and calm. This night cream uses only the best oils and humectants and was created to penetrate through the dermis to hydrate and nourish the epidermis. A little goes a long way with this cream! Gently massage a pea-size amount to face and throat after cleansing and toning the skin each night.

When morning comes I simply rinse my face with water, apply a light sunscreen and go!

Now through Sept 25th you can save 20% on the products listed above at the SkIndulgence store with the coupon code SSCGO20PER

Banana and Chickpea Protein Mask

Chickpea flour has many advantages: it's an effective skin-softening exfoliator, it stimulates circulation and it rejuvenates tissues.  Bananas, rich in potassium and vitamin A, are natural emollients and help reduce redness and puffiness.  The egg in this mask will tighten pores and leave your skin feeling revitalized.

Recipe

--

4 tablespoons chickpea flour

1 ripe banana, peeled and mashed

1 egg, beaten

In a bowl, blend chickpea flour and ripe banana into a paste. Add beaten egg and apply mixture to face and neck. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse well with warm water. Pat Dry.

Each time you do a mask, always follow it up with a toner (to tighten the pores and restore pH) and a moisturizer (to hydrate and nourish the skin).  I recommend the Queen of Hungary Herbal Facial Toner and either Night Cream from the SkIndulgence Store.  For a limited time get these and other products for 20% of with code SSCGO20PER.

30 Minutes to a More Relaxed You!

Life is stressful.  It is crucial for your mental and physical health to relieve stress and r-e-l-a-x!  Nothing helps me relax faster and deeper than a hot bath. Here are the steps you should take for the best effect:

Get Ready
Begin by lighting a candle, putting on your favorite music and making a cup of tea.  I recommend chamomile tea as you can then put the tea bags over your eyes for added relaxation in the tub.

Fill the Tub
Fill your bathtub to the desired temperature and toss in one of my Relaxation Bath Tea bags.  Your bathwater will be richly scented and permeated with the healing essences of the herbs.

Scrub Away Stress
While the tub is filling, rub your body with the Relaxation Salty and Sweet Body Scrub to renew and refresh your skin.  The exfoliation is great for your body not only because it is removing all that dead skin that dulls you up, but it is improving circulation and getting blood to rise to the surface of your skin.  At the same time the botanical oils, aloe vera and seaweed in the scrub are nourishing your skin and replenishing your body.  The relaxation factor is enhanced with the lavender flowers and essential oils that work aromatherapeutically to melt your stress away.

Immerse your Body
Slowly immerse yourself into your herbal bathwater.  Let the candlelight lure your dreams, the soft music entice you.  While soaking use the bath tea bag as a gentle scrub; massage it soothingly over your body.  Lay back and place one chamomile tea bag over each eyelid. The bath tea works by taking advantage of the fact that skin is the body's largest organ of absorption and elimination. What this means is that taking a bath can be a medicinal act, not just an enjoyable one.  Each tea bag is comprised of three parts: bath salts, herbs, and oatmeal.  The bath salts draw out impurities while simultaneously replenishing vital nutrients and minerals.  The combination of herbs work aromatherapeutically to aid in relaxation, and the oatmeal adds emollients to soften and nourish your skin.

Now through Sept 25th you can save 20% on the Relaxation Bath Tea and the Relaxation Salty and Sweet Body Scrub at the SkIndulgence store with the coupon code SSCGO20PER

Each Its Unique Beauty

This quote from the ever-amazing Rosemary Gladstar is making my day today:

No where in the garden or in nature do you find an ugly flower.  There are odd ones, unusual ones, crazy and outrageous ones, bright ones, dull ones, loud ones, and shy ones. But never have I seen a collection of flowers and proclaimed a single flower in it less than beautiful.  Each is so unique and perfectly divine that it has its own beauty.  Why can’t we see this same unique beauty in one another?

About the Shop

Did you know that everything you put on your skin goes directly into your bloodstream? It's true! Skin is the body's largest organ of absorption and elimination. That means that what we put on our skin is just as importation as what we put in our bodies.  This is the primary motivation behind the creation of SkIndulgence Skin Care.  We aim to create a product that not only allows people to feel their most beautiful, but one that is all natural and healthy, too.

Not only are our products safe for your skin, they are safe for the planet and all it's little creatures, too!  Our products are completely vegan and made with certified organic and ethically-cultivated ingredients and packaging.  You won't find a single phosphate, sulfate, dye or perfume in the bunch, and the only animals we test on are ourselves and the luckiest of our friends!

I am pleased to announce that 20% from each sale benefits my other passion, Build.Create.Kenya, an NGO servicing the education sector in underserved regions of East Africa.  For more information on this organization, please visit www.buildcreatekenya.org.

The SkIndulgence shop is truly my labor of love. It is the ultimate dream to be able to do what you enjoy. I'm thankful to be in a position in life to pursue my dreams and have this little shop. Here's to hoping you find just what you're looking for! Don't see what you're looking for? Let me know what you need and I'll work on it for you!  Welcome!