{How To} 3 Very Good Body Scrubs for Mature Skin | Smell Good Spa™

The removal of dead skin and hydration is essential to the health of mature skin.  For a body scrub/polish to be effective, it should deliver both. A scrub should have enough oil to replenish and soothe the skin after exfoliating.  A body scrub with an insufficient amount of oil can scratch the skin,  and cause severe dryness.  Thus, doing more harm than good.   

Below are three body scrubs that contain an ample amount of conditioning oils for mature skin.  Not only are they effective, but they're fun and sexy too - which is what every whole woman can appreciate. They're best when used in the tub: after exfoliating the skin, soak in the tub to allow the oils to nurture the skin.  Now that's a spa-at-home moment. 

A woman with mature skin, needs a grown-up exfoliant.

So, here you go…

• Alaea Sea Salt Polish

Can wholesomeness really come in a jar?  Let's see....

Alaea Sea Salt Polish brings therapeutic grade salts - harvested from the ocean and volcanos and extracted from the Dead Sea - for banishng dead skin; cold-press, virgin, and organic plant & fruit oils effective for mature skin; and rich humectant for protecting the skin, all in perfect harmony.  All that wholesomeness… just for you

• Sweet Raw Sugar Honey Polish

When you read the name, did your feet feel happy?  Your feet sensed that this is the best sugar scrub to smooth them out.  Your feet are so smart…. reward them, then watch them high step. 

Sweet Raw Sugar Honey Polish is a skin delicious blend of golden crystals, for banishing dead skin; pure plant oils effective for mature skin; rich humectants for protecting the skin; and honey to boot. 

• Mojito Sugar Smoother

How do you get a radiant glow?  You have to remove those dead skin cells.

Mojito Sugar Smoother brings together organic sugar cane crystals, for banishing dead skin; fruit oil that is effective for mature skin; rich humectant for protecting the skin; marine ingredients high in minerals; and clay, all topped off with mint leaves (of course). So succulent... Close your mouth, you're drooling.

Our wholesome body polishes come in a pretty package - just like you.  You can find these exfoliants and more great products for me-time here. 

• Be sure to check out {How To} The Deets on Our 5 Fab Moisturizers

Be Whole,

{How To} The Deets on Our 5 Fab Moisturizers | Smell Good Spa™

Most women with mature skin (25+ Yes, skin begins maturing that early.) have discovered that not all moisturizers are formulated equally.  However, many are not sure which moisturizers to use throughout the seasons nor on a daily basis, to achieve optimal skin hydration.  I am listing five of our fab moisturizers, and giving you the deets on the when, why and how.  Ready?

When: Nurturing Tea Body Lotion should be used to hydrate the skin throughout the day. It can be used all year round.

Why:  Prevents epidermal water loss.  Formulated with wholesome ingredients you want, and none of the harsh ingredients you don't; for mature skin and all skin types.

How: Apply to skin between bathing times.

Do you apply lotion after bathing? Why?  Besides getting cleaned skin, bathing adds moisture (water) to the skin, and opens up the pores.  That is the best to time to seal the moisture into the skin.  Use an emollient (no water content).

When: Body Spreads can be used all year round. 

Why: These nurturing body butters are excellent for caring for hyper-pigmented skin, while maintaining hydrated skin.  

How: Apply to moist skin after bathing. Or apply to hyper-pigmented areas between bathing times.

When: Pure Body Balm is effective during autumn and winter. 

Why: Formulated to hug the skin; locks in the moisture all day long.  Rejuvenates dehydrated skin.  Soothes itchy skin.  Additionally, PBB is a protective barrier for your skin, against cold air. 

How: Apply to moist or dry skin.  Can even be applied to clean, damp hair.  

When: Marinade is a great summer-time moisturizer. 

Why: Light-weight moisturizer that penetrates the skin effectively.  No oily skin in the summer - just a healthy, bronzy glow.  Formulated to give some protection to hyper-pigmented areas exposed to the sun.

How: Spritz on after bathing. 

When: Lush is best for the spring and summer seasons, however, it can be applied year round. 

Why: Conditions the skin to maintain a youthful appearance: keeps the skin supple, smooth, and retains moisture in the skin.  Light-weight moisturizer; Formulated to give some protection to hyper-pigmented areas exposed to the sun.

How: Apply to moist skin after bathing.  Can be applied to clean, damp hair. 

Click here for more beneficial information about each product.  Click on the Specification tab for each product's Key Ingredients. 

I use all of these products consistently, using the methods that I am sharing with you.  In my early thirties, people thought I was my children's big sister.  Now I am almost forty, and even with gray strands in my hair, more and more compliments come my way about being their sister. Although the compliments are nice, I am happy that I am making the right choices to grow older gracefully.

Hey beautiful, I create with your live good, feel good, smell good experience in mind.

Are you making the choice to grow older gracefully?


Be Whole,

Seven Ways to Sexy | Smell Good Spa™

You know I am all about women being whole in every aspect of their lives, and self-care is a part of that complete package.

The other day on G+, my social friend Dahila DeWinters shared one of her great blog posts. Immediately, I knew I had to share with my readers. So, I sent her a quick message on Facebook, to invite her to come and share this with you. This post fits right into the live good.feel good.smell good.™ experience.  Let me know if you do or will do any of these tips. Hopefully #3 is a tip you do already. ;o)


Seven Ways to Sexy
by Dehila DeWinters

I must admit the cooler days are a welcome relief after the sweltering days of summer that we just went through up here in NJ.  This is the time of year where the makeup colors change and it’s time for a fresh fall start.

Though I am a woman of a certain age, with three children and a rescue dog, I try to keep things hopping when it comes to feeling, well, feminine.  While driving a mini-van and making lunches may not seem like the optimal way to seem sexy, it’s not always about what’s on the outside.

Let me share my seven ways to sexy with you.

1) Wear a vibrant color.  I’m an Aries and my power color is red.  If you don’t believe in astrology, pick a bright fall color and wear the heck out of it.  It doesn’t have to be a shirt.  Try an bright orange scarf as an accent around your neck, red jeweled earrings or a hairband in a bright color.

2) Smile.  I’m not talking about a cheesy grin.  Smile like you’ve got a secret, like you’re on your way to a rendezvous with your favorite fantasy (whoever that might be).  Too many people walk around frowning.  Stand out with that little Mona Lisa smile on your face.

3) Wear a new scent.  No, don’t drench yourself in perfume.  Try a body oil, which gives a subtle smell that changes and warms with your body temperature.

4) Make a change.  If you don’t wear makeup, pick one item to try, such as a new lip gloss color, a different color eyeshadow or even a new tinted moisturizer.  If you’re a makeup maven, try a color that you’ve always wanted to try.

5) Invest in a good bra.  I know you’ve heard it a million times but a lot of women walk around wearing the wrong sized bra.  I’ll let you in on a secret.  A good fitting bra is the basics of feeling and looking good.  When you can throw your shoulders back and the gals are supported….nothing like it. Good posture is always sexy.

6) Splurge on expensive tights.  I love the cooler weather because I can stock up on tights.  I’m a huge fan of Spanx….and not just because of the name.

7) Listen to sexy music.  Whatever floats your boat here. Prince, Barry White, Hall and Oates, Fiona Apple….it’s wide open.  Pick a playlist that gives you that lovin’ feeling and enjoy!

What are some ways that you give yourself a pick me up?  Tell Dahila...  List ‘em in the comments!

Dahila DeWinters is an erotic and sensual multicultural romance author published with Liquid Silver Books, Evernight Publishing, Mocha Memoirs Press, Amira Press and Sugar and Spice Press. You can visit her at dahiladewinters.com


Be Whole,

{Video} Itiel McVay's Story | Smell Good Spa™

It was my pleasure to sit and have a conversation with Brooke Brimm, for the Sistir: Arts & Crafts Series.  Below is the conversation in three parts (they're edited like trailers - great job on her part).

Video 1 - Purpose



Video 2 - Family Business



Video 3 - Self Journey



You can read more details about Itiel's Story here.



Be Whole,

"Would you like plastic or glass?" | Smell Good Spa™

Hey there!  I need your input.  Can you help me? Today, the question I'm posing on social network is... Do you prefer bath products packaged in glass (eco-friendly) or plastic (safety)?

I asked King T., because bath goods for men are often packaged in plastic.  He said, "Plastic." Why? "It's safer. It's easier." Is it because that's what you are use to seeing? "No. But as I think about it, I can clearly see why plastic is used."

Then my thoughts traveled to my mother.  She has a scar directly above her ankle, from a cut that happened over 50 years ago.  Years ago milk was delivered in glass bottles.  One morning she picked up the bottle, it slipped out of her hand, and yup, blood was mixing into the milk.  A large piece of glass was sticking in her leg.

So what say you? Plastic? Glass?

Thanks for your help.

 

{Digital Publication} 3 Simple Solutions for that Disappearing Youthful Glow | Smell Good Spa™

Ladies, you have to read our 3 Simple Solutions for that Disappearing Youthful Glow article in the New Fashion Series!  We're always on a mission to help you live good, feel good & smell good. xo

Be Whole,

{Tip} "I really don't like that vacuum cleaner bag smell." | Smell Good Spa™

My longtime social bud, Dahlia DeWinters, tagged me on Facebook the other day. So of course I want to share this tip with you.

Woman of the house, do you sometimes find yourself hating to vacuum, because of that yucky smell that blows out from the vacuum bag? Shep over at Lifehacker gives an easy peasy tip on how to have an aromatherapy experience while vacuuming.

If you have our Signature Fragrance Oil (ahem, if not, why don't you?), you can also use it for that method. And as one commenter suggested, a few drops of our fragrance blends can be added to the bag, too.

Hope you find this tip useful.


Aromatically,

Wife to Wife, Have You Buffed Your Booty Today? | Smell Good Spa™

Stop! If you are a woman entrepreneur working from home, and your husband works outside of the home; a wife and husband dynamic duo working from home together; or a stay-at-home mom, whatever you do....don't stop looking inviting.

Wait. I have a business to operate, children to tend to. You mean to tell me that I need to look good for this man too?! Actually, you need to look good for yourself; Give your man something to appreciate.

It's very easy to lose interest in your appearance when you work from home. Don't go there.  A good man (not to be confused with an adult male) will almost never bring up the change in the effort his woman puts into her appearance.  But, when she embraces that sexiness again, he can't help but notice.  Here are ways to keep your sexy, and to continue being THE eye candy for your husband.

• Change Up Your Gear - Sweatpants can be sexy, but, if you're wearing that same black pair, that's borderlining gray.... Um, yeah.  Pair knit leggings with a racerback tank, and take notice of the gleam in his eyes when he walks through the door, or, his boy-like glances throughout the day. Not only are knit leggings comfortable for you, they also accentuate those curves he admires; Racerback tanks showoff the entire area of your kissable shoulders. Add knit skirts and knit dresses into the change-up mix too.
• Length Doesn't Matter - Long hair, short hair, dreadlocks, afro, straight hair, low cut.... It doesn't matter how you wear your hair. But, what does matter is how nice it looks to him. For ease and style, accessories are excellent for adorning the hair.  There's no need to try out a new hairstyle everyday. Besides, would you have the time?  Decorative hair clips, barrettes, bandanas, and stunning headbands are simple ways to showoff your womanly beauty.
• Buff The Booty! - Come on wives - you know that love taps on the butt are a daily show of affection. Why not keep it smooth for that wind down time?  *Wink*  Create a husband-only zone by using a sugar scrub to keep the skin on the booty and thighs buffed, and smooth to the touch. 

Wives, do you ever find yourself taking care of everything and everyone else, forgetting that you're a woman oozing with femininity, fun, flirt, and sensuality?  What do you do to keep your sexiness, and to continue being THE eye candy for your husband?



Be whole,

Happy National Fragrance Week! | Smell Good Spa™

Get your olfactory senses ready. It's party time!

National Fragrance Week is about celebrating cologne, perfume and all things good-smelling. That includes scented candles, potpourri, soaps and lotions, flowers, and even food.

Relish In A Spa-At-Home Moment - A perfect spa moment begins with the sense of smell; Sweet smoke from incense sticks, fragrance oil simmering in an oil burner, or scented soy wax in a fragrance lamp. 
Sweet Dreams - Let your olfactory senses lull you to sleep. Spray your sheets with a wholesome linen spray and sleep like a baby.
#360Love - Welcome aromatic bliss into your family's life.  A family that smells good together, stays together. *Big Smile*

Come along with us as we celebrate all week!

• Google+ - Scent related news and articles
• Twitter - A daily tip for the olfactory senses; #olfactorytip
• Facebook- The place for all the sweet-smelling daily specials

See you at the party!

Aromatically,

It's the "Little" Things_See Body. Love Self. | Smell Good Spa™

 Guest Blogger - Ivy Cooper

Anything we desire to flourish must be nurtured.  A relationship with oneself is no different. Building a loving relationship with our body and ourselves is just like any other relationship.  It must be committed to and nourished daily.  The strength of the relationship becomes stronger with each decision we make to choose a healthier, happier life.  

If you are an enterprising woman, like me.  Then you are probably eager to achieve goals and celebrate accomplishments in your life. Sometimes we can be so busy looking at the “big” things we are working towards, that we forget to acknowledge the small steps along the way.  I am learning the art of reverencing the “little things” that I do to love my body and myself.  Just like any external relationship, positive reinforcement helps to build trust, intimacy, and a lasting bond. When we choose self love, it positively reinforces our commitment to our relationship with ourselves. So I started noticing the “little” things that I do to love on me.  Here are a few:

• Taking the time to sit down and eat a meal, acknowledging the blessings of the nutrients, flavors, and nourishment
• Pausing to give thanks, meditate, and pray before jumping out of bed in the morning
• Taking a short walk for 10-15 minutes in the middle of a busy day.
• Using my favorite body product during a relaxed, meditative bathe
• Painting my toenails a color that makes me feel happy
• Deep conditioning my crown
• Enjoying my favorite fruit during a short moment outside in the fresh air
• Pausing during any moment in the day to inhale and exhale deeply, giving thanks for life
• Looking in the mirror and noticing the things I LOVE about what I see
• Saying those things out loud

The best thing about choosing to love you is that you can start now! It is a choice, followed by small steps everyday to make your relationship with yourself a priority.  It doesn’t take a spending frenzy or a two week vacation.  You can begin doing the “little things” within your day to love on you.

Questions for Discussion:

Can you relate to any of the little things that I shared?

What are some of the things you do to love you, that you didn’t acknowledge in the past?

What are some new things you can do to build a loving relationship with yourself? 

As an agent for social change Ivy founded See Body. Love Self.™ a body positive movement. Through this movement she encourages women to “Embrace your body today. Love yourself always.™” Using the lessons learned in her own body journey, she educates others about how to live a body positive lifestyle. See Body. Love Self.™ advocates releasing judgment of self and others to, embrace a healthy love relationship with ones self. Learn more about Ivy and her positive platform at www.seebodyloveself.org
 

My 3 Fun-in-the-Sun Products | Smell Good Spa™

With all the talk and questions about brown skin people needing sunblock or not,  I want to share my three favorite sun-protection products with you.  Although these products are not a substitute for sunblock/sunscreen, they are excellent as a protective barrier between the sun and healthy skin. Those who suffer from inflamed skin (eczema) can also find comfort using these products. As I mentioned earlier, I don't use sunblock on a daily basis.  These products are my go-to for outings, and my pre-sun care before applying sunblock when at the beach.

For the remainder of the month, grab my favorites at a 20% discount.  Brown skin lady (in my Mos Def Yasiin Bay voice), these products are formulated with you in mind. Plus, you can make them smell as good as you like, customizing with any Signature Fragrance Oil.

• 1st Fav: Marinade - A liquid shea formula that can prevent hyper-pigmentation and aids in the fading away of hyper-pigmented spots.  It's silky smooth and non-greasy. Grab It Here

• 2nd Fav: Tantouchthis Spread - The name alone speaks for itself.  Think of it as a browning oil in butter form.  A product high in vitamin C, delivering sun kisses for bronzy skin, while preventing hyper-pigmentation.  Oh, yeeeeah.  Grab It Here

• 3rd Fav: Whip Cream Body Lotion - Abundant in aloe vera and shea butter for epidermal comfort. Making it a perfect after-sun product. Grab It Here

Remember, this special offer ends 5/31/2013, 11:59p EST.


A Whole Woman Deserves Wholesome Products

Be Whole,

"Shoot, my people are from Africa. I don't need sunblock!" | Smell Good Spa™

Growing up I lived under the assumption that I, nor anyone with brown skin would need sunblock for  protection from the sun.  And, why would we? We are descendants of tribes that lived, toiled, and enjoyed life under the brightest star; Then brought to an unfamiliar place, our ancestors toiled under harsh conditions under that same sun.  Sitting around listening to the elders, not once did they mention anyone that they knew getting sunburned or a skin disease.  I remember playing outside for hours under the sun, never seeing my skin, nor my friends' skin (light to dark brown) change in anyway.  Overtime, "My people are from Africa", became something that was just said (always a chuckle afterwards, as if someone told a joke), really not giving any thought to, "Hmm, is it possible that my skin could benefit from using sunblock?"

About 15 years ago my answer came.  I was laying on the beach enjoying the sun and sea air, and King T. was fishing.  I think he turned into a fish.  The brotha got sunburned!  We were both so shocked to see the scaly skin on his shoulders peeling and the damaged area turning red.  Later that day, we could still feel the heat coming from his skin, and the area was a little tender. We just never seen that happen to any brown skin person, regardless of how long they were out in the sun.  Needless to say, he didn't want that experience again.

Sunblock is not something that I use on a daily basis.  However, I do apply product that will give a protective barrier to my skin when I'm outside for a short period of time, or running errands (I'll share more about those products in a post later today).  When my family and I head to the beach, not only do we take our sun-protection products, SPF15 comes with us too.

Lately, this topic about brown skin people needing sunblock is popping up more than ever.  I see it in my Google Alerts just about everyday, and I see black mommies posing the question on social networks, no doubt, for the sake of their children.

Hey lady, do you have beautiful brown skin?  If so, what are your thoughts on applying sunblock?  I know you have your big fancy hat and umbrella for shade, but do you see a place for additional skin protection?

Do you agree, disagree, or really just don't care about Ava's statement (video), "People of color not needing sunblock is a myth"?

If you didn't know, May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month.  Here's an insightful article about brown skin people and skin cancer, "Blacks are Susceptible to Skin Cancer".  The adjective black being used as a proper noun makes me crack my neck from left to right, but the article is informative.


Related Post
Hyper-Pigmentaion_Bath & Body Care



Be whole,

I Am Itiel and I Set the Table | Smell Good Spa™

Over the weekend, I read a lengthy article in the Sudan Vision Daily.  The subject matter is incense, so, of course I took a necessary moment to read the article.  Incense is a remarkably impressive ingredient of the human heritage, culture and even psychological state and has been known to humanity ancient time. That opening sentence nudged me to continue to read.  The words, human heritage and ancient time brought a smile to my face, and the childhood memory of the first time I smelled sweet smoke.

Growing up in a bustling metropolis like Philadelphia, I always enjoyed my downtown trips.  Secretly, it was the knowing of without a doubt I would have the pleasure of walking pass a vendor burning incense.  It wasn't just any kind of street vendor.  It was the one always decked out in some type of regal garb, with a look of a true knowing of what they were offering, and that only the people who knew that there wasn't any mystery behind it, but just a pure enjoyment of what they wanted it to be, would buy that offering.  I always wondered: If I look like both the giver and the taker of the sweet offering, why didn't we visit the table.

Today, I am the one setting the table with those sweet offerings.  No longer encumbered by the stigma that many placed on the burning of incense.  I am actually proud to contribute to a part of my culture that has been present since ancient times; Having my daughters prepare incense beside me, as the tradition of the Sudanese women.

This is one of my favorite highlights in the article.  This is what the women do for the bride on her wedding day.  A whole day is devoted to this preparation.

On that day, the women sit down on the ground, each holding a small axe with which they break the sandalwood into equal pieces. Others put on fire a big baking iron sheet on which a reasonable quantity of sugar is cooked until it becomes golden in colour. Yet other women mix different kinds of perfume in a big vessel. The pieces of sandalwood are placed on the molten sugar and mixed together until they stick together and the mixture of perfumes is poured on the sheet and a powdered mixture of aromatic bark and musk is sprayed while the iron sheet is still on fire and, with the rising vapor, the scent diffuses throughout the neighbourhood announcing the wedding.

Yummy, right?  Talk about sweet savor. I would love to visit Sudan just for a wedding day. 

...the incense in the Sudan is of diverse types, purposes, rites and instruments...

The incense I create serve me well in my home, and for different purposes; Honey-me time, family game night, doing-absolutely-nothing moments, "me, myself, and I", and during times of thanksgiving.  

How do our incense serve you?

You can read the article, "Incense - Charm, Ritual, Brisk Trade", in its entirety here.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. 

Related Post
History of Incense

Related Product
Our Olfactory Offerings  

Aromatically,

The Why I Hate Perfume Article | Smell Good Spa™

When I learned that my children's 4H leader has seizures that trigger easily, I told her that I would not wear fragrance around her. She insisted that I did not stop: "For some reason your perfume does not bother me, in fact, it's very soothing." When she learned it was fragrance/scented oil: "I wish more women would wear that instead." Many women (and men) ditto those words.

I don't know about you, but I've noticed that over the past three decades something reeks with perfume. The feminine-form-like bottles are stunning as ever, but after being lured to the bottle and taking a sniff, I think wait, didn't I just smell this one. I am disappointed by the change, because perfume was something that really said, "Woman", to me when I was a little girl. The packaging then wasn't even as sleek - it was simple, and scent notes were distinguishable. Even a drugstore brand like Jean Nate (Revlon) gave me olfactory joy as a kid. That was the fragrance that made me fall in love with sandalwood. Sadly, even that formula is no longer the same. Then there was Bijan! Loved how that fragrance caressed my aunt's skin. No thank you to scented alcohol masquerading as perfume, give me aromatic, liquid gems that gift my olfactory senses with warmth, fun, joy & peace....give me fragrance oil.  

Michelle Persad, a writer over at Huffington Post, gives us her thoughts on perfume in her recent article Why I Hate Perfume. Check it out. 


Be Whole,

My Pink Fluffy Yumminess Finally Came - in Liquid Form | Smell Good Spa™

Have you ever eyed an edible delight, thinking, wow when I get that into my mouth it's going to be a party, yet, when you finally wrapped your mouth around it your taste buds were saddened, because they believed the hype?  Tell me about it. 

When I was a little girl, my young palate experienced such a betrayal.  Cotton Candy was the one confection that I desired when I was ten years old.  The object of my taste buds' desire was the pink one, not the blue.  There was no way the blue could taste as good as the pink.  Right?  The pink just  had to taste like strawberries and cherries with a hint of citrus.  I daydreamed about eating Cotton Candy.  I conveted any kid's pink cloud on a stick.  One day my mother did something glorious, she finally gave me the go-ahead to eat Cotton Candy.  You see, growing up my sweet treats were yummy fruits and Brach's® (those were yummy too).  So when my mother gave the nod I did not hesitate.  The moment I was waiting for... Mouth filled with saliva.  Purchased.  Still salivating. Here we go.... Pull off pink, fluffy yumminess.  Insert into mouth.  Wait, let me try it again. Pull off a larger piece of pink, fluffy yumminess. Insert into mouth. WHAT is going on?!  "Mommy, this taste like a bunch of sugar!" Mmhmm.  Obviously, I was a heart broken ten-year old girl, and never wanted pink Cotton Candy again.

Thankfully, time moves on. While preparing for the 2013 spring/summer fragrances one day, I opened a bottle of liquid bliss that redeemed my Cotton Candy fail (dramatic... LOL). My nose sniffed, and all the flavors that should've been in that candy were giving my olfactory senses a party - my tongue was so jealous (it still is).  Hellooo Pink Friday......

Pink Friday fragrance oil reflects the fun side of a whole woman.  Its candied, aromatic notes embody flirt, sensuality, lady-like laughter, and the inner girl.  Pink Friday fits in perfectly with the spring/summer fragrances of 2013!  If you're like me (and I believe we aren't that different), you're a woman with an edge, lady qualities and girlie silliness, and I'm positive that these fragrances will be a part of your live good, feel good, smell good experience.

• VanCoco - Your lunch-date scent.  Your guy will keep planning lunch dates, just to get a chance to hug you and sniff behind your ear.  
• Violet - Your girls' night-out scent. "Sis, you smell so good!"
• Honeysuckle - Your walks-in-the-park & fun-summer-nights scent. 
• Lilies- Your quiet-moment scent.  Being busy all the time is overrated. 
• Virgin Island Water - Your I am-woman-hear-me-roar scent.  Yeah, he's not going to want to let you go. Sorry. *Wink*

This Sunday, I'm sending out our newsletter, Mmmm News, with a coupon.  Our subscribers are so lucky, they'll save all spring and summer on all full-size products that are customized with the new fragrances. If that sounds like your kind of treatment subscribe to our newsletter today.  If you do not sign up before then - no worries, we'll forward the news to you!  Subscribe below.

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{American Idol} Remember the Lyrics, ladies. | Smell Good Spa™

Flashback: I was sitting in my fifth grade, social studies class, when I turned to see my classmate scratching her leg with a pen.  As I stared at her leg, she looked towards me with annoyance in her eyes.  Finally, she looked down at her leg.... The ball point wasn't retracted!  This time... a  look of embarrassment in her eyes. She "drew" this massive ink spot on her thigh. My mind went to all the times I heard, "You'll get poisoned." I think her thoughts went there too, because she put spit on her hand and started rubbing her thigh like crazy.  Everytime she needed spit, she'd put that same ink-stained hand on her tongue.   Yuck!  The things we did.

Fast-Foward: On last night's episode of American Idol, the female contestants made lyric notes on their hands and arms, to prevent from bombing in front of the judges. "I don't think that's safe - to put ink on your skin", said Warrior Princess Z. Hmmm, I went to the "wizard" (Google)....

In general, occasionally writing on skin with water-based inks is considered non-hazardous. Concern arises when people write on their skin frequently with permanent ink, or with inks that have certain coloring agents. If one is writing on skin on purpose, then using skin paint or skin ink is a far better choice, although even water-based inks may cause some skin irritation for some people. Wisegeek.com

OK, but I like this comment on that post:

ACTUALLY, 164679, you are correct that we ingest through our mouths; however, our skin does have the capability to absorb. No, you do not absorb water from washing your hands because the exposure is too short. However, if you have ever sat in a bathtub and experienced "wrinkly skin" you know that our "barrier" skin can easily be bypassed. 

To use similar syntax: How do you think lotions work? They are absorbed through your skin through pores (tiny holes in your skin).  Or, why do you think one should not touch infected blood or other body fluids? Same answer. 

Writing on your hand occasionally is not a problem, but as a high school teacher, I can tell you the problem is much worse. I have students entering my class after lunch with "sleeves" in permanent marker because it lasts longer. And again, the longer it stays on the skin, the more likely it will be absorbed.

What! I've never heard of amateur tattooing (not like this):

People can cause damage to their skin however, by cutting the skin and then writing on skin with a permanent marker. This is a type of amateur tattooing that can be very difficult to get rid of and may cause skin irritation and infection. Usually, if this occurs, one must see a doctor in order to get rid of the marking and treat infections. Wisegeek.com



Are you an inker?  Do you find yourself using your skin like a Post-It®?

"Are you scared?" "Yes. Sh*tless." | Smell Good Spa™

Talk to yourself much?  Yes, I do - I like talking to insightful people.  Funny how it's yourself that can shine light (constantly) on exactly who you are and what you are made of.  The post title is a conversation between me and myself, last December....

Today I have the opportunity to walk through a door that has opened for me.  

Working with the assumption that a certain place in life is owed to you; that arrogant, prideful swell in the chest that says, "You deserve it more than ____", is an ungrateful manner of being.  Years ago, until I set out on my journey to get right (#2),  I operated in that ungrateful manner.  Until myself said, look at you - do you really believe that anything good can come from this state of being? You haven't put in the work.  You need to focus on personal evolvement, purposely and consciously put it into your business, allow it to flow out onto your family and others...see what happens.  Because what you believe you want will not happen until......

....my mind and heart focused on purpose.  Not money.  Not granduer.  And certainly not, "I don't care what people think about me", because in actuality (talking to you too, woman entrepreneur), when you operate from that place of insecurity you do care about what others are thinking, you are just fighting to stay in your comfort zone. 

I grew weary, but never took the option to quit.  The more fight than flight encourage me to put in the work.  

Today is the beginning of me doing several interviews for broadcast radio.  Yay!  I was completely focused on steadily building my personal and business foundation that I didn't see it coming.  Who would of thought?!  I did. What you want isn't always what you get when you think you're ready or deserve it.  What you need comes to you when you are ready.  I knew you could prove it to yourself, Itiel.  Besides, who knows you better than me. -Myself

Life happens when you come out of your comfort zone to heal, to grow, to evolve.

Am I scared?  Sh*tless.  And I am so ready for it.

                        

What comfort zones have you stepped out of lately?  Share.  Let's celebrate together.