CONTEST - Need new name for Sun*Brella.

Our bestseller Sun*Brella Triple Action Moisturizer SPF 30 needs a new name. We know how much you love it and we need your help and creativity. We have been notified that name Sunbrella is already used by another company, that has been in business longer then us. Who knew? Looks like we are not the only geniuses, who came up with this name. So to keep everyone happy this Holiday season we've decided to do a small "face-lift" on Sun*Brella and give it a new name, even better one. Something that would represent the beauty and multiple functionality of this product. Since, it's not only a sunscreen, but also a moisturizer that keeps your skin hydrated and also repairs existing sun damage. It is a product of total beauty. Let's make it catchy, in any language, any word combination and fusion. One condition only - it can not look or sound like Sunbrella.

We are quite excited about it and announcing a contest for the best new name for ex-Sun*Brella.
What is the prize? The prize is a Jumbo size of 5oz, of new named Sun*Brella priced at $67, which will be available as special order only, in a few weeks.


There are already a few names we have in mind. Please vote which one you like the best, or suggest yours.

Options:

Solar*Bella
Solarella - already in use by someone else
Sans Soleil*Bella - similar in use
Soleil*Bella - already in use by someone else
L'or du Soleil

This contest is open till January 8th, 2010.

Thanks for your support and creativity.

Looking for a perfect personalized gift for your children? A keepsake?

Well, you've found it. As a mom, I always look for unusual and unique products for my baby and this is one that I have found recently that to my opinion is the most unique from many alternatives that are offered today.



I would like to introduce you to LIttle Wonder Company. It is a brand new company that creates a unique kind of customized children's books. What is different is that the child is actually illustrated into his or her own book based on choices that the customer makes online. The end product is a personalized storybook adventure where the child is the star in both name and illustration. The best part is when the child sees him or herself in the book! They are drawn right into reading and enjoying the adventure. It makes him/her feel like a Super Hero they always wanted to be. Each book has a hard cover, is full color and high quality and makes a memorable and meaningful gift. A keepsake forever.




Check it out at http://www.littlewondercompany.com.

From the various options you can create a character that resembles your child the most accurately. I had a little fun with it myself, even though I am far from being a child. Well, appearance-wise, at least.



Here you can see the result. Prety close, isn't it?

It would make a perfect gift for any child, yours or friend's. Very impressive indeed. So, keep Little Wonder Company in mind when you need to surprise a little Super Hero wannabe. And visit their site to play with the characters and create your very own book. http://www.littlewondercompany.com

Last Giveaway this year - The Ultimate Luxury.

Thank you everyone who participated in our giveaways this month. We tried our best to make it exciting. And this last Giveaway is for moms-to be again. In fact this one is for everyone. We often receive questions whether non pregnant women can use our products. And the answer is - YES, OF COURSE. This week up for grabs is Ellasti*Belly Stretch Mark miracle caviar. Jumbo size a whopping 16oz, worth $76.00

This product is designed to condition and prepare your skin for stretching. Infused with 30 elasticity boosting oils and extracts it helps to prevent appearance of stretch marks. Rich in Vitamins and Proteins it increases circulation, cell hydration, repairs and tones the skin. What you may not know is that this product works wonders on aging skin. too We do lose elasticity when we age and this product rebuilds elasticity back and makes your skin fresh and plump too. So if you still have some of the product left after your pregnancy you can continue using it on your face. And you will love it.

This is what you have to do to win:

1. Pretend that you give yourself the entire day of Spa treatments, at home. What treatment would you enjoy the most and why? This one is mandatory.
2. Follow our Blog, to know about all the latest and greatest. Optional for extra entries.
3. Become our fan of Facebook. Optional for extra entries.
4. Become our fan on our new page of Facebook, for our new skin care line SkinQR, that we are launching soon. Optional for extra entries. This line will be also Organic but Luxury Spa type of skin care with incorporation of fine perfumery for those celebrity type of babes. It's still in development.
5. Sign up for our news letter on the main page of our site. Optional.
6. Follow us on Twitter.
7.

Make a purchase. Every purchase would qualify you for extra 5 entries. Please post each of extra 5 entries with the words "EWP" which stands for "Entry with Purchase" and state what you've purchased. This one is optional too.

That's all. Please make a separate entry for each.

Winner will be chosen randomly on December 31th, 2009, 11, 59pm, just before the Ball drops, and notified by email as well as through our news letter and this blog.

Let's celebrate Holidays the Giving Way!!!

This Giveaway is open for everyone, no matter where you live.

We have a winner!

Congratulations to Angie. She is the winner of our giveaway this week.

But not everything is lost yet, everybody. We have one more Giveaway to go this year. So please stay tuned, it will be posted later on tonight. As well as a little contest for the best name for one of our products, that needs to be re-named. See you in a couple of hours.

GIVEAWAY - Pamper me Everyday...

Yes, as we promised we will have a giveaway every week till New Year. This week is for a baby again.
This collection contains a combination of Citrus and Chocolate treats and contains Organic Choco*Smooch Baby Lip and Face balm, 0.75oz, Bubbles'n'Bubbles Organic Foaming Shampoo and Body wash, 7oz and Bottoms*Up Organic After Bath Baby Soft Massage Oil, 4oz. Total Value is $46.50. And it can be yours with no strings attached.

This is what you have to do:

1. Visit www.sweetsationtherapy.com and tell us what product have you purchased from our line before, that you totally swear by. And what product you still would like to try. This one is mandatory.
2. Follow our Blog, to know about all the latest and greatest. Optional for extra entries.
3. Become our fan of Facebook. Optional for extra entries.
4. Become our fan on our new page of Facebook, for our new skin care line SkinQR, that we are launching soon. Optional for extra entries. This line will be also Organic but Luxury Spa type of skin care with incorporation of fine perfumery for those celebrity type of babes. It's still in development.
5. Sign up for our news letter on the main page of our site. Optional.
6. Follow us on Twitter.
7.

Make a purchase. Every purchase would qualify you for extra 5 entries. Please post each of extra 5 entries with the words "EWP" which stands for "Entry with Parchase" and state what you've purchased. This one is optional too.

That's all. Please make a separate entry for each.

Winner will be chosen randomly on December 21th, 2009, 11pm and notified by email as well as through our news letter and this blog.

Let's celebrate Holidays the Giving Way!!!

This Giveaway is open for everyone, no matter where you live.

We have a Giveaway Winner!

Congratulations to Jaime for winning this wonderful Organic skin care set.

As for everyone else, you still have a chance. As mentioned before we will celebrate this Holiday season with a lot of giving. New giveaway will be posted later tonight. So stay tuned.

How To Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy.

For many women? especially for those who favor bikinis? pregnancy stretch marks are probably even more to be dreaded than flabby thighs. Nevertheless, 90% of all women will develop pink or reddish, slightly indented, sometimes itchy streaks on their abdomen, hips and/or breasts, sometime during pregnancy. Pregnancy Stretch marks, also called striae distensae, occur most frequently on the abdomen, but some women also get them on the breasts, buttocks or even thighs.

Stretch marks usually occur in the dermis, or elastic mid-layer of the skin. Repeated or sudden stretching of this layer causes a breakdown of the tissue, leaving behind bad looking scar tissue. Stretch marks usually occur during mid- to late pregnancy. As their name implies, Scar tissue that forms when the normal elasticity of the skin can't really keep up with the stretching required during pregnancy is called stretch marks. Stretch marks are generally due to a large and/or rapid increase in weight.

Mothers-to-be whose skin tone is good and elastic either because of heredity or because they have maintained years of healthy nutrition and positive exercise habits may go through one or more pregnancies without any striations. Others, by keeping weight gain gradual, moderate and steady may be able to minimize and possibly prevent stretch marks .

Prevention goes a long way. Things to try.

Be sure that your diet contains adequate sources of the nutrients needed for healthy skin. Remember, stretch marks can result from nutritional internal deficiency as well as external. Be sure to consume foods that promote skin health. Eat plenty of zinc-rich foods such as fish and nuts. Foods like carrots, milk and citrus fruits are high in vitamins C, D, and A. Choose 2-3 servings daily of protein-rich foods such as eggs. Sufficient protein is essential.

Promoting the elasticity of your skin by nourishing it with good diet and nutritional choices may help. Do you remember mother telling you to drink lots of water? It's important for the health of your baby and can help keep your skin supple and more unlikely to develop stretch marks. Caffeine will increase your risk of developing stretch marks, it's diuretic. If you must drink caffeine drinks, tea or coffee, make sure your water intake matches or exceed your caffeinated drink intake.

How To Prevent Stretch Marks During Pregnancy

Some pregnancy stretch mark creams are definitely better than others. But no cream, lotion, or oil, no matter how expensive, will guarantee to prevent or remove stretch marks.

Keeping your skin soft, supple and hydrated may prevent appearance of stretch marks in the first place and it might help to minimize them, if you already have them. Some women find that cocoa butter helps keep the skin soft. But for the purpose of prevention it may not be enough. There are a large selection of lotions and potions on the market that promise to prevent stretch marks but if you look on the ingredient label, you often see that the product doesn't posses the ingredients that would actually improve skin's elasticity and strength.

If you do develop stretch marks during pregnancy, you can console yourself with the knowledge that they will gradually fade to a silvery sheen lines a few months after delivery. Just look upon this marks not as a disfigurement but the badge of honor for mothers..

After the pregnancy, when the stretch marks have faded, some women choose to visit a cosmetic or laser surgeon who may select micro-dermabrasion or chemical peels to reduce the unsightly scars. Recent developments in laser techniques have offered hope for those who choose to have the scars permanently removed. It can be costly, so putting your best efforts into prevention might be your best shot that you will not regret about. Choose your pregnancy stretch mark products carefully for the best results. Look for ingredients like: Shea, Avocado, Carrot, Macadamia, Rosehip, Wheat Germ, Borage, Reishi and Tamanu, they all work wonders in "feeding" your skin with all the nutrients it needs to be in best condition to win the battle against stretch marks. Sweetsation Therapy's Ellasti*Belly Organic Stretch Mark Miracle oil (pictured here) contains all of the ingredients listed above and more. It's toxin-free, chemical-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free.

Why do we get cellulite? And what can we do about it?

Whether to sugar coat it or not - it's not going to help. So let's face it, we all have cellulite here or there, at some point of our lives. And as we get older, it gets worse. We are cursed.

Our mother nature made us "women" and our bodies are serving as temporary home for a baby and that home has to be insulated to provide protection to the growing baby. And then, baby is born, but we retain extra deposits of fat, lumpy hips and tights. Hormonal changes kick start the process.

Cellulite affects 90 percent of women and 10 percent of men, mostly in industrial nations. As women start approaching menopause, estrogen starts decreasing. From 25 to 35 is when we start seeing the appearance of cellulite. Estrogen has an impact on the blood vessels. When estrogen starts to decrease, we lose receptors in blood vessels and thighs, so we have decreased circulation. With decreased circulation we get less oxygen and nutrition to that area, and with that we see a decrease in collagen production…. At that time fat cells start becoming larger, they begin protruding through the collagen and cellulite starts showing it's ugly head (or heads). Also as we get older we tend to get less active and consume more of the "comfort foods" that usually is full of trans fats and sugars.

Each fat cell is surrounded by delicate net-like fibers. In the angular spaces between the cells are capillaries and nerve supplies that form a loose combination of interlaced blood vessels throughout the tissue.

Fatty tissue is subdivided into small lobes by connective tissue. This is visible with the naked eye, and is more obvious in regions where the fat is subjected to pressure and has a cushioning or shock-absorbing effect. In other regions the connective tissue are thinner and the lobular organization of the tissue is less apparent.

Identifying the True Cause of Cellulite will bring you much closer to Getting Rid of Cellulite

The actual cause of cellulite is weak skin cells and connective tissues in the area where women collect fat in small box-like cell structures, called adipocytes, beneath the dermis (an evolutionary response in females for the needs of pregnancy). Such weakeness impairs the ability of the tissues of the vertical walls that separate the adypocytes or fat chambers to withhold them and thus can not avoid distention, protruding, buckling & folding of fat deposits.

In normal areas the adipocytes are hidden under the skin, but in cellulite they get squished upwards for a mixture of reasons (including excess weight, fluid retention, weakness of skin structures and damage to the walls of the boxes) and they press against the skin, creating that domed and dimply look.

Again, cellulite occurs when fat cells stretch underlying tissue in the affected areas and protrude from around the connective tissue that attaches skin to muscle -and tends to develop in almost 90% of women at some point.

As the skin sustains damage from a myriad of sources such as aging and insults from the environment, it loses its essential water holding capacity and weakens. Cellulite is caused by skin that has deteriorated and dehydrated to the point where buoyant fat cells trapped just below the skin are able to push into the dermis, the middle layer of skin, and show through the surface.

A combination of heredity, female hormones and poor circulation also cause connective tissue fibers under the skin to lose elasticity and harden. The result: skin tightens and can no longer stretch or expand normally. This squeezes fat cells through the fibers unevenly, causing a "honey comb" of small lumps and bumps.

A healthy diet is a key in your battle against cellulite. Eat foods that are natural and have a low amount of processed fats and other harmful chemicals. If you choose a diet high in fruits and vegetables, you’ll be able to give your body a chance to break down the fat cells and reduce the production of new fat cells that will continue to cause cellulite. Drink a lot of water. Water is an excellent way to clear your system of toxins, another main cause of cellulite in the most problematic areas.

Exercise is one of the most important parts of fighting cellulite. Choose an exercise routine that you enjoy. You don’t need to go to the gym. If you enjoy a sport, find a way to practice it on a regular basis. Playing tennis, going for a walk, or even riding a bike can all be very effective in breaking down those toxins and fat cells that cause cellulite.

Do we wish we could vastly improve the lumpy appearance of our skin by smoothing away the ugly dimpling of cellulite? And fast? Raise your hand...

Reclaim Sexier Slimmer Toned Beautiful Skin with NEW Slender*Essence Supercharged Anti-Cellulite Firming Treatment

A new break through Organic solution for cellulite based on a synergistic combination of Organic and natural ingredients that acts beneath the bumpy topography of the skin in your hips, thighs and buttocks.

Triple action solution for the proper shaping of skin functions.

Slender*Essence Supercharged Anti-Cellulite Firming Treatment

* Regenerates Skin cells and Strengthens tissue improving tightness, suppleness and elasticity.
* Improves blood circulation therefore inhibiting fat storage that causes cellulite.
* Reduces water retention and improves elimination of excess fluid and toxins.

GIVEAWAY - Put yourself in the Holiday mood...

Yes, that's right. With all the doon'n'gloom in our economy we still need to feel special and pampered. Only then we can stand up to all the stresses of life. So this giveaway is for moms, moms-to be and hot babes who love natural and Organic skin care.

Listen up, this collection contains Organic Ellasti*Body Hydrating Caviar Butter, 16oz, our super seller Organic Sun*Brella Triple Action Moisturizer with SPF 30+ and Antioxidants, 3.5oz (the winner can chose to have scented or unscented version) and Organic Aqua*Tica Botanical Night Cream, 2oz Total Value is whopping $123. And it can be yours with no strings attached.

This is what you have to do:

1. Visit www.sweetsationtherapy.com and tell us what type of product, that you can't live without, we still don't have in our line and you would like us to develop. This one is mandatory.
2. Follow our Blog, to know about all the latest and greatest. Optional for extra entries.
3. Become our fan of Facebook. Optional for extra entries.
4. Become our fan on our new page of Facebook, for our new skin care line SkinQR, that we are launching soon. Optional for extra entries. This line will be also Organic but Luxury Spa type of skin care with incorporation of fine perfumery for those celebrity type of babes. It's still in development.
5. Sign up for our news letter on the main page of our site. Optional.
6. Follow us on Twitter.


That's all. Please make a separate entry for each.

Winner will be chosen randomly on December 14th, 2009, 11pm and notified by email.
Announcement: We will conduct a Giveaway every week of the December.

Let's celebrate Holidays the Giving Way!!!

This Giveaway is open for everyone, no matter where you live.:

We have a winner for our delicious Choco*Treat skin care.

Congratulations to Jeccica.

She is the winner of our Organic Choco*Treat little baby skin care collection. Little luxuries for the baby.

Thanks to everyone else who participated but didn't win. There is always next time. And the next time will be.....NOW.

A little later tonight to be exact. I will be posting next giveaway. As I've mentioned before we will celebrate this Holiday season with love and a lot of giving. Our economy is still in doom'n'gloom, so we will brighten it up a bit. Why not. So stay tuned... and be Sweetsation.

Ultimate Organic Treat for baby skin - GIVEAWAY!

Happy Holidays to everyone! What do we want for Holidays? Happiness, love, understanding, support, well, money too. But what does make a baby happy - love, kisses, toys and of course Chocolate. So here, we are happy to announce a great giveaway for babies. The Ultimate Organic Choco Skin care set. It contains Yummi*Tummi Organic Baby Choco Butter, with Calendula, 3.5oz and Choco*Smooch Organic Baby Lip & Face Balm, with Argan, Calendula and Sea Buckthorn o.75oz jumbo. Both products are Organic and contain only natural ingredients. And both of them smell like yummy chocolate - achieved with again, only natural butters and oils. Both rich with Cocoa Butter, Shea Butter and Essential Oils of Jojoba, Coconut, Argan, Kukui Nut, Tamanu, Macademia and Sea Buckthorn to care, nourish and repair dry, cracked and irritated skin. Detailed descriptions of the products can be found by clicking the links. Do you want it? This is what you have to do to enter this giveaway:

1. Visit www.sweetsationtherapy.com and tell us what product, you think, is our best achievement and why? This is mandatory.
2. Follow our Blog, to know about all the latest and greatest. Optional for extra entries.
3. Become our fan of Facebook. Optional for extra entries.
4. Become our fan on our new page of Facebook, for new skin care line SkinQR, that we are launching soon. Optional for extra entries.
5. Sign up for our news letter on the main page of our site. Optional.
6. Follow us on Twitter.
7. Answer the question, "what perfume scent do you like the best? Choices: fruity, light floral, heavier oriental and seductive, masculine or none. Or comment if it's not listed. Unexpected question, but we need your opinion for research.

That's all. Please make a separate entry for each.

Winner will be chosen randomly on December 6th, 2009, 11pm and notified by email.
Announcement: We will conduct a Giveaway every week of the December.

Let's celebrate Holidays the Giving Way!!!

This Giveaway is open for everyone, no matter where you live.

Perfect Christmas Stocking Stuffer. Choco*Smooch Organic Baby Lip & Face Balm, with Argan, Calendula and Sea Buckthorn has finally arrived.

This luxury Choco*Smooch baby lip and face balm comes in a jumbo size of 0.75oz, which is 5 times bigger then a regular lip balm. Keep it handy for those dry baby lips and cheeks, especially during the cold time of the year. Infused with nourishing ingredients like Argan, Calendula, Macadamia and Sea Buckthorn, rich in Palmitoleic acid, Omega 6, Omega 9 and Vitamin E, it will help to regenerate and revitalize dry, chapped skin and bring softness to where it belongs. Addition of Pomegranate, Cranberry and Raspberry seed oils, high in antioxidants and lipids including pucinic and ellagic acid also can be effective in treating dry skin, eczema, psoriasis and sunburned skin.This balm smells like true chocolate and kids (and mom) will love to have it in every pocket. And it's only $12.

Ingredients: Organic Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa Butter), Organic Beeswax, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil), Organic High Oleic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower Oil), Organic Persea Gratissima (Avocado Oil), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Vanilla Absolute, Mel (Honey), Theobroma Cacao (Cacao Seed Oil), Organic Argan Oil, Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) fruit extract, Organic Calendula Officinalis (Calendula), Hippophae Rhamnoides (Sea Buckthorn Oil), Prunus armeniaca (Apricot) fruit extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed (Macadamia Nut Oil), Organic Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry), Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry Seed Oil), Punica Granatum Linn (Pomegranate Oil). Treat someone special NOW.

The 515 Chemicals Women Wear

Women and beauty products - it's a love affair that's been going on for centuries. And no wonder. There's nothing like a new lipstick or favorite perfume to make us look and feel good. Or so we thought...
In fact, according to a new report, most of our favorite cosmetics are cocktails of industrially produced and potentially dangerous chemicals that could damage our health and, in some cases, rather than delivering on their potent 'anti-aging' promise, are causing us to age faster.

We think it's a treat for our body when we exfoliate, moisturize and polish, but are we actually making ourselves sick? It's been estimated that the average woman wears 515 chemicals a day -- from eye shadow ingredients linked to cancer to perfume ingredients linked to kidney damage.

In September, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration found extremely high levels of lead in lipstick. In addition, recent research from the Washington, D.C.-based Environmental Working Group (EWG) showed that teenage girls are exposing themselves to potentially hormone-altering substances by engaging in that seemingly-innocent coming-of-age tradition of applying makeup. Yet, despite the dangers, women need to bathe and groom -- and most of us like a little extra color on our faces. So what can we do to stay healthy and still look good?

The quick answer is: Use fewer products and educate yourself. The average American uses 10 products every day, and chances are, she doesn’t know what’s in them. “It’s simple: Read the labels and be a smart shopper,” says Leann Brown of EWG. “Buy from companies that disclose their formulations.” Since producers aren’t required to make their ingredients public, many choose not to. “A company that discloses all ingredients and keeps out ingredients of concern will probably have lower risk products than cosmetics with mystery ingredients,” says Brown. These transparent products are likely to be equally effective -- your hair will be just as smooth, your cheeks just as bright -- but without the lurking health hazards.

When shopping, there are a few key ingredients to be avoid. However, due to lax regulation, you may find them in products marked “organic” and “all-natural,” so be on the lookout. Choose from the many nail polishes that have been reformulated to remove a common “toxic trio:” Dibutyl phthalate, a reproductive toxin; toluene, which affects the nervous system and may cause headaches; and formaldehyde, which can cause allergies and irritation. Stay away from sodium lauryl and laureth sulfate, which are so popular in cleaning products, such as body washes, as they can cause skin irritation.

Triclosan and triclocarban, which pop up in antibacterial hand soap, can damage both the thyroid and the environment. Instead, use plain soap. If you wash for 20 seconds, you’ll be just as germ-free.

Parabens, for example, which are designed to preserve the shelf-life of your cosmetics, are one of the most widely used preservatives in the world, and are found in shampoos, hair gels, shaving gels and body lotions. But their use is becoming increasingly controversial - a range of different studies has linked them to serious health problems including breast cancer, as well as fertility issues in men. These preservatives have been so widely and publicly exposed as toxic contaminants that it is now relatively easy to find clearly-marked paraben-free products. It also would be a good idea by cutting out fragrance completely, since the term “fragrance” is poorly defined and could contain any number of mysterious and unhealthy synthetic compounds.

If the ingredients sound too long to remember, the Cosmetics Database offers a free pocket-size ingredients guide, where you can also find out more about over 50,000 products. If improving your health and helping the environment isn’t enough, think about this hidden benefit: Eliminating every mascara with toxic ingredients will make choosing from the overwhelming array of drugstore brands (Thickening! Lengthening! Double-thickening and lengthening!) much quicker and easier.

Exposure to nano titanium dioxide could up cancer risk, says study

There may be a potential risk of cancer and genetic disorders for individuals working with high concentrations of titanium dioxide nanoparticles, according to US scientists.

The researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, arrived at this conclusion following a mouse study that suggested ingestion of the nanoparticles led to genetic damage. In addition to warning against occupational exposure, the study, published in the journal of Cancer Research, warns against the ingestion of food colours, vitamins and non essential drug additives that contain titanium dioxide nanoparticles. One of the study’s authors Dr Robert Schiestl also advised against using spray-on sunscreens as these could lead to the inhalation of titanium dioxide nanoparticles that are often used to improve the UV protection provided by the products. Sticking to sun protection products in cream or lotion form is preferable as the nanoparticles don’t cross the skin barrier, according to Schiestl. The UCLA study looked at the effects of feeding mice titanium dioxide nanoparticles in their daily water supply for a period of five days for adult males, and ten days for pregnant females from day 8.5 to day 18.5 post coitum. Effects on the DNA and genetic material of the mice were observed to investigate whether ingesting the nanoparticles was genotoxic, led to DNA damage and brought on an inflammatory response within the organism. According to the study, exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles leads to double strand DNA breaks in the mice, in a dose dependent manner - the higher the dose of titanium dioxide the higher the number of double strand breaks. The double strand DNA breaks are particularly important in a health context as they are more damaging than single strand breaks or oxidative damage, which are transient, according to the authors.
In pregnant females, exposure to the nanoparticles induced significantly more DNA deletions in their offspring than those not exposed. Inflammatory mechanism The team also found higher concentrations of markers of inflammation and oxidative stress in the mice that had been exposed to the titanium dioxide nanoparticles, which led the researchers to suggest the toxicity of the particles could be due to their ability to elicit an inflammatory response. Explaining the potential mechanism, Schiestl said in a statement: “The novel principle is that titanium by itself is chemically inert. However, when the particles become progressively smaller, their surface, in turn, becomes progressively bigger and in the interaction of this surface with the environment, oxidative stress is induced.” Further human studies are needed in order to truly understand the health effects of titanium dioxide nanoparticles, but the researchers feel the data suggests we should be ‘concerned’ about cancer or genetic disorders for those working with the material and that it would be ‘prudent’ to limit the ingestion of the materials. “It could be that a certain portion of spontaneous cancers are due to this exposure. And some people could be more sensitive to nanoparticles exposure than others. I believe the toxicity of these nanoparticles has not been studied enough,” added Schiestl. Source: Journal of Cancer Research
2009, volume 69, issue 22
Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Induce DNA Damage and Genetic Instability in vivo in Mice
Benedicte Trouiller, Ramune Reliene, Aya Westbrook, Parrisa Solaimani, Robert H. Schiestl

Easy Re-Treat that you can make yourself. Ginger Crush Salt Scrub

I've come across this awesome recipe and just couldn't not to share it with you. On those cold nights when you need just a little pick-me-up treatment, this scrub would be just perfect and it's very easy to make. If you don't have those particular oils recommended here, you can replace them with the ones you have or purchase them by clicking the links of each ingredient.

The bright orange color of this salt scrub comes from Carrot Oil. We've used this boldly colored oil in a small proportion due to its potency. The majority of the Oil in this recipe is Rice Bran Oil, a moisturizing Oil with a pleasant, light texture. (If you don't have it in your cabinets, you can substitute it with Olive or Sunflower) The scrub is scented with Ginger and Tangerine Essential Oils, giving it a sunny, energizing aroma to match its bright, cheerful appearance.

Ginger Crush Salt Scrub
Makes about 4 ounces

Ingredients
1/2 cup Sea Salt, Fine
1 ounce Rice Bran Oil
1 teaspoon Carrot Oil
10 drops Ginger Essential Oil
20 drops Tangerine Essential Oil

Directions
In a small mixing bowl, combine the Sea Salt, Carrot Oil, and Rice Bran Oil. Stir the mixture well to ensure an even color in the scrub. Next, add the Tangerine and Ginger Essential Oils, and mix again. Carefully spoon the mixture into jars when finished.

Usage & Packaging
Citrus Essential Oils, such as Tangerine Essential Oil, can cause photo sensitivity. Keep this in mind when using this scrub. The Scrub should either be followed with a body wash, or used at night to reduce sensitivity caused by the Essential Oil.

Treat yourself and have fun.

The best way to get rid of the stretch marks is not to get them in the first place...

Pregnancy is an amazing experience. Feeling a new life growing inside, kicking at you and responding to your actions is a truly unique experience. You really gain a new appreciation for the abilities of the human body as your stomach stretches beyond anything you had ever imagined to accommodate a new baby. However, there are definite downsides to being pregnant and one of them is the side effect of all that stretching . . . stretch marks.

What Causes Stretch Marks

Stretch Marks occur when the skin is stretched beyond its elasticity. The upper layer stretches and the lower layer of skin tends to tear, causing small rips in the tissue. This results in some rather ugly red marks that feel different from the regular texture of your skin. These will fade to white after your pregnancy, but this can take time and they never really do go away..

Whether or not you will get stretch marks really depends on genetics, the elasticity of your skin and how big you get during the pregnancy. Some women don't grow much at all and have more than sufficient elasticity in their skin to withstand the stretching and remain completely unmarked.

Preventing Stretch Marks

The best way to get rid of Stretch marks is not to get them at all. While 90% of women have the genetic predisposition to stretch marks in pregnancy, that doesn't mean you have to just sit back and let them happen. Prevention is truly the best medicine when it comes to these nasty lines. They may be a banner of your ability to carry a child, but really, most women would prefer to avoid them all together. The best time to start prevention is as soon as you know you're pregnant, long before the skin needs to expand.

Its important to only use organic skin products while pregnant. Most chemicals are not proven safe for your unborn baby and its best to just avoid them. Going organic will give you peace of mind and you'll be able to treat your skin without fear of affecting the child inside.

Organic skin products are just as effective against stretch marks, if not more so, than commercial, chemical laden ones, like Palmers. You'll find that natural ingredients work naturally with your skin to soothe it and soften it. Not only will you be preventing stretch marks, you'll also be promoting softer, more hydrated skin.

What to Look for in Stretch Mark Prevention Treatments

Certain organic products work better than others against stretch marks. Basically, you want to moisturize your skin and enhance the elasticity. A good prevention cream will also provide some healing power to help any existing tears in the skin heal faster, without getting worse. This is particularly helpful if you are starting treatment later in the pregnancy.

Organic stretch mark creams usually use one or more of the following ingredients:

Shea Butter: By far the most common ingredient used in stretch mark prevention since is one of the best natural moisturizers on the market. It also has healing properties to help with any existing stretch marks. Coconut Oil: A very good moisturizing oil that also enhances elasticity and hastens healing of existing problems.

Olive Oil: Another good moisturizer that helps boost elasticity and soften skin, making it more supple and resistant to tearing.

Any organic skin product designed to treat and prevent stretch marks should include one of the above ingredients for maximum benefit. Often they will have other natural ingredients, as well , to promote healing and enhance the moisturizing effect. Sweetsation Therapy's Organic products contain over 30 elasticity boosting ingredients and offers a great choice of products for moms-to be.

Does an SPF30 Sunscreen Mean Twice the Sun Protection as SPF15

The weather is beginning to cool down but the sunrise happens every morning anyway. Sadly, many of us think that sun protection is not important during the winter time. Skin cancer occurs more frequently than all other cancers combined. In the U.S. alone, there will be about 1,000,000 new cases of skin cancer this year. Importantly, the rate of skin cancer is increasing rapidly for reasons that are not entirely clear but surely have something to do with sun exposure. And as a result USA has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world. It’s frightening to see that more and more Americans are treated for skin cancers every year.

We all need to be extra vigilant with protecting our skin from the sun when participating in outdoor activities. This includes wearing protective clothing, slapping on a hat and applying the right sunscreen. When shopping for a sunscreen, we are normally faced with selecting between:

1. SPF15 sunscreen

2. SPF30 sunscreen

3. SPF50 sunscreen

But what exactly does the sun protection factor (SPF) mean???

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is a rating system for sun protection. The SPF of a product can be low or high – anywhere from SPF 2 to SPF 60. The number is a measure of how much longer you can stay in the sun without burning, as compared to how long you can stay in the sun without burning while wearing no protection. Example: Start with the amount of time in the sun that it takes to cause a burn. Say that your skin normally begins to turn red after 10 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. If you use a product rated SPF 2, your skin would not begin to turn red for twice that time: 20 minutes. If you use a sun product rated SPF 25, you could stay in the sun for 250 minutes, a little over 4 hours (25 x 10 minutes) before your skin would start to turn red.

The most popular levels are SPF 15 and SPF 30. But does an SPF30 sunscreen mean twice the protection as an SPF15 sunscreen?

The answer is NO.

In a controlled laboratory, SPF30 sunscreen allows transmission of 3.4% of UV radiation. In other words, it blocks 96.6 percent of the UV radiation. On the other hand, an SPF15 sunscreen will block out approximately 93% of the UV radiation. These percentages are just a guide and in reality away from a controlled laboratory test, these figures will vary according to your skin type, the weather and the time of day.

As a general guideline, if you have fair skin, it is best to go for a sunscreen with SPF30 or higher broad spectrum water resistant sun protection. Make sure to use a broad spectrum sunscreen to block out both the harmful UVA and UVB rays. If participating in vigorous outdoor activities, Reapply every 2 hours.

What else should I keep in mind when using sun protection?

Sun protection is especially important when the sun’s rays are more direct – during peak UV hours, or when you are closer to the equator. In addition, you can avoid sun exposure when the rays are strongest (generally between 10AM – 3PM), and wear hats and clothing to filter out UV rays. It’s also important to remember to apply sun protection products 15 to 30 minutes BEFORE sun exposure – and to reapply them frequently, especially after swimming or perspiring, or toweling off. Usually one ounce of sunscreen, enough to fill a shot glass, is enough to cover most exposed skin.

Sun protection isn’t just for days at the beach, though. Your face and hands especially are exposed to UV rays when you’re outside, even on cloudy days. The window glass of your car blocks UVB rays, the rays that burn your skin – but glass doesn’t block UVA rays, the ones that do the deepest tissue damage. So wearing a little sun protection when you’re driving is a good idea.

What’s the best product for me?

Environmental Working Group or Skin Deep conducted a research and put in place a list of the safest SPF products they recommend. It can be found here. There are a few of wonderful products, but making your choice insure that you use product with both UVA and UVB protection that's achieved with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide together. That's what makes it Broad Spectrum Sunscreen.

Turn leftovers of your soap into a liquid soap

You know all those little left over soap bars in the shower or on the bath room sink that are too small to use. They either get flushed down the sink, or gets combined with a new bigger soap bar, or it just disappears into thin air.

But what if you can turn all these little bits and pieces into one big bottle of liquid soap. Wouldn’t that be economical. Well, you can and in this article, I’ll show you exact how you can achieve this.

First you need to boil about 500ml / 16.5oz of distilled water. When the water is boiled, you cut the soap into chunks and add it with the hot water. Alternatively, you can grate the little soap bars into the water. The soaps should dissolve with the boiling water and a thicker consistency should be achieved.

Continue heating the mixture at a lower temperature and add more soap or water as needed keeping in mind that you are trying to create a liquid soap that can be pumped out of a dispenser. Also know that when the water is hot and boiling, the product will be thinner than when it is cooled. When you feel you’ve achieved the right consistency turn off the heat and stick an electric mixing wand in there to give it a final thorough mix. Wait for it to cool (normally a few hours) and come back to see if it is too thick for your liking. If so, then turn up the heat again and add more water and mix again until you’re satisfied.

If you want to spice up your liquid soap a little, you can play around with your mixture by adding other ingredients such as essential oils or herbs. If you do decide to add herbs that are green and leafy, I suggest you boil the herbs first - then filter the herbs out before adding the chunks of soap. This way, you get all the medicinal herbal goodies from the greens without having a big leaf floating in your soap.

When your liquid soap is cooled and the consistency is runny, you are then ready to pop it into your favorite soap dispenser and make your first squirt. Your first pump from your very own homemade liquid soap will be like washing your hands for the first time. A truly new and priceless experience!

Sweetsation Therapy Products Review by BlessedBarnharts

Most women nowadays are becoming more and more choosy about what they put on there bodies as well as their children's. When I was pregnant I wanted to only put the most natural products on my skin and that has carried on with me. I try to only use natural ingredients on my boys as well as me. I figure if my skin cells are going to be absorbing all sorts of ingredients why not make them be good for you?

Sweetsations has all the products a woman needs to help her feel safe about what she puts on her body. The products are also really great for women of any age. They aren't just all natural lotions. They have everything you need for an entire skin routine as well as anti- aging products. Night creams, baby products, and even organic baby carriers!

Sweetsation Therapy was born in 2008, with the collaboration of two of the USA based labs and a team of chemists, aromatherapists and dermatologists. Our products are Organic and natural treatments that look great, feel great and smell great, and therefore make you feel good. We've combined the best gifts of earth and ocean in our skin care. Aromatherapy elements nourish your body and soul. And most importantly our products are safe for mom and baby. Did you know that everything that is applied on our skin, the largest organ, ultimately ends up in your bloodstream? Consequently, we pass it on to our developing baby. .Each ingredient was thoroughly researched and checked against Cosmetic Safety Database and verified, that it's safe to use for pregnancy while delivering desirable results.

For review I received two amazing items. The first is the Organic Aqua*Tica Botanical Night Cream. I love it. This stuff has real caviar extract! How luxurious is that? I love all the moisture it gives my skin before bedtime. Especially since winter is here and my skin is all dried up.

The other item I tried is the Organic Ellasti*Body Hydrating Caviar Butter. This stuff really rocks! It has all the vitamins and minerals and essential Omega fatty acids that my body needs along with essential oils that smell so great! It has a really nice citrus scent to it and helps lock in the moisture after a warm bath.

Sweetsation Therapy has so many cool items you have to check them out for yourself. To view the entire line please visit SweetsationTherapy.com.

How much do you trust Johnson & Johnson advertising ?

I've seen Johnson's advertising on TV numerous times. Oh, and it looks so good, warm and cozy. So fluffy and safe......supposedly. Everyone would want to buy it, right? Wrong. Just do your homework and see what's really is in your baby products that advertised to be so safe and comforting. I don't know how about you, but after I did my research it made my blood boil.

The newest Johnson's product: Johnson's Baby Bubble Bath and Wash.

The ad begins with: JOHNSON'S^® Baby Bubble Bath & Wash is clinically proven to be gentle enough for baby girls and boys starting as young as 6 months.

Then goes the caution: Use only as directed. Excessive use or prolonged exposure may cause irritation to skin and urinary tract. Discontinue use if rash, redness or itching occurs. Consult your physician if irritation persists. Keep out of reach of children, except under adult supervision.

The ad contradicts itself. Moving further there is an ingredients deck. Running through the ingredients I see quite a few toxic ingredients that are known carcinogens. Let's see how they rate on Skin Deep. (posted next to the each ingredient)

Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine (5), PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate (6-9), Sodium Trideceth Sulfate (0), Acrylates Copolymer(3), Glycerin(2), Disodium Lauroamphodiacetate(0), Phenoxyethanol(4), Glycol Distearate(1), Fragrance(8), Tetrasodium EDTA(1-4), Laureth-4(3), Methylparaben(8), Propylparaben(4), Polyquaternium-7(2)
May also contain: Sodium Hydroxide(3) (???) Strange that they are not sure whether this ingredient present in the product or not.

It's infuriating that they represent this product (and a lot of others) as safe and gentle when in fact it's quite the opposite. It contains the ingredients (parabens, fragrance aka phthalates) that informed consumer knows are not safe at all, especially for a baby. Which brings me to the conclusion that Johnson & Johnson lies to it's customers presuming that they are stupid.

100 Things I would do for my baby.

Having a baby has changed my life entirely. I haven't been a selfish person, I think, but motherhood makes you totally selfless. I was thinking the other day about things I would do for my baby, things that are essential, things that would help him to grow strong, smart and independent, things that may be considered as a small sacrifice ... I hope I will try to come up with 100 things and pieces of wisdom. Right now he is 1 year old so my list will go as he grows.....

Feel free to add your own:

1. I would be OK with a lack of sleep to satisfy my baby's needs.
2. I would try to get the healthiest Organic food.
3. I would research all the skin care ingredients. Well, that's solved since I've created my own line for babies.
4. I would feed my baby first even if the whole family remains hungry, waiting.
5. I would buy him a new toy instead of something new for myself.
6. I would stay awake when my baby is sick and check on him every other minute.
7. I would watch him sleep and consider it time well spent.
8. I would watch his baby shows on TV endlessly even if I am bored to tears.
9. I would let him unroll the whole roll of toilet paper, just for fun.
10. I would lock-up all the cabinets and actually duck tape the ones that can not be locked, for safety.
11. I would drop everything I am doing and pick him up if he wants to be held.
12. I would wipe his little runny nose as often as needed.
13. And I would kiss that little nose to get better, even if I get his snots all over me.
14. I would put his socks back on him 100 times, after he takes them off again.
15. I would read him a book even when I rather do something else.
16. I would take time to prepare him a healthy meals instead of feeding him junk.
17. I would try to identify his talents and support them.
18. I would walk with him hand in hand, even if he walks very slow.
19. I would work harder to provide him better education.
20. I would teach him from the early age how to think like a business person.
21. I would teach him that nothing in life is for free.
22. I would teach him that trust has to be earned.
23. I would sit and teach him to draw even though I can not draw a stick figure myself.
24. I would teach him to swim.
25. I would teach him self-discipline and self-defense through martial arts.
26. I would teach him that women are to be respected at all times.
27. I would attend his football practice instead of going shopping.
28. I would be the biggest cheer-leader of everything he does.
29. I would encourage with praise instead of criticizing.
30. I would try not to get mad for minor screw-ups. Remembering that I was the same.
31. I would teach him that drugs are bad and only destroy lives.
32. I would teach him to be creative and inventive.
33. I would teach him that the world is not always a kind place.
34. I would play with him "hide and seek".
35. I would take time to answer his questions, no matter how silly they are.
36. I would teach him that keeping his room clean is important, and actually try to come up with the reason why.
37. I would teach him that cursing is not cool.
38. I would teach him that good grades in school pay off in the end.
39. I would teach him that good brains would take him further in life then good looks.
40. I would teach him that good brains and good looks would take him further, then in #39.
41. I would teach him that staying healthy and fit is important.
42. I would teach him that building confidence is 50% of success.
43. I would tech him that communication can resolve any issue.
44. I would teach him that it's OK to ask for help.
45. I would teach him that asking stupid questions is OK, because there is no such a thing as stupid question.
46. I would teach him that gossiping is a waste of time.
47. I would teach him that if he wants something he never had, he would have to do something he's never done. And that does not involve crime.
48. I would tech him that crime does not pay.
49. I would teach him that excessive drinking is not cool. And drinking and driving is off charts. And if I ever catch him doing it, there will be consequences.
50. I would tech him that live is not always an easy adventure. And that's just the way it is for everyone.
51. I would teach him that suicide is a permanent solution for temporary problem. And that's not an option, under no circumstances.
52. I would teach him that there are no situations that don't have a way out.
53. I would tech him that he has to love himself first before expecting someone else to love him.
54. I would teach him that in the moments of disagreements it's important not what you say but how you say it.
55. I would respect the choices he makes, even if I am not entirely on the same page.
56. I would try my best to get along with his girlfriends.
57. I would accept that his opinions may not match mine.
58. I would tell him that only white lies are OK and only to save someone from being hurt.
59. I would teach him that it's not cool to go after your friend's girlfriend. It never works.
60. I would teach him that you can not build happiness on someone else's unhappiness.
61. I would teach him that visualization and affirmations work.
62. I would teach him to dream big.
63. I would teach him not to be shy to ask for help.
64. I would teach him to help others even if he wouldn't get rewarded for that directly.
65. I would teach him that there will be dark days when everything seems like doom and gloom. But it always temporarily.
66. I would always make it clear that he can come to me with the most embarrassing/ scary/ difficult issue and I will always have his back.
67. I would assure him that I will always love him unconditionally. And sometimes it would be a tough love.
68. I would tell him that there will be times when it will seem like everyone is against him. But in reality it will be only in his own head.
69. I would always advice fairly when it comes to girls, but will let him make his own decisions.
70. I would not let him play computer games, it's a waste of time.
71. I would not let him eat fast food too much.
72. I would tell him that it's the best to learn from someone else's mistakes, but there will be times when to make your own mistakes is necessary.
73. I would tell him that in order to be happy there should be a balance between love, health and money. If one component is missing partially or entirely, it's harder to feel happy.
74. I would teach him that money is not everything. And not to sacrifice everything for the money.
75. I would teach him that happiness in marriage lays through diplomacy and respect.
76. I would teach him that cheating is not cool and hardly anyone gets away with it.
77. I would teach him to respect the elderly, as nobody escaped an old age yet.
78. I would teach him how to be a good father and a husband.
79. I would teach him how to help his wife arounf the house. In history there was no cases when a wife attacked her husband while washing dishes.
80. I would be a good grandma to his children. And will spoil them rotten.
81. I would teach him that it doesn't matter how important his job is, his family should always come first.
82. I would tell him that even if his marriage falls apart, it's OK. It happens often these days. It's better to give a love another shot, then live in a loveless marriage.
83. I would tell him that there is a soul-mate for all of us and sometimes it takes a few shots to find them.
84. I would teach him to appreciate his friends, as real friends can not be many.
85. I would teach him that as much as sometimes he might think that his parents are stupid, later in life he will realize that it was quite the opposite.
86. I would tell him that as time goes by he will love his parents more and more as they grow older.
87. I would tell him that one day he will lose his parents and that's when he will miss them the the most.
88. I would teach him to be the best man that he can be so he is not sorry when he is old.
89. I would teach him to think before acting, and not act on impulse.
90. I would teach him not to rely on someone else, but on himself.
91. I would teach him to be smart with money and save.
92. I would teach him how not to get in debt.
93. I would teach him to be protective of people he loves.
94. I would teach him that everything in life has to be earned.
95. I would teach him to be proactive and brave.
96. I would teach him to have goals and go after them.
97. I would teach him not to fear fear, as limitations are only in his own head.
98. I would encourage him to be himself and never pretend to be like someone else.
99. I would tell him that it doesn't matter how old he is, he will ALWAYS be my baby.
100. And last, but not least. I would sacrifice my life for my baby. Without hesitation.

Oh, I think I could go on, it feels like I just went through my life already.
But I am happy that my baby is just a little happy 1 year old, and I am yet to tell him all those things. Just hope not to miss a thing...

Win Baby Sweet Kisses Dream Set from Sweetsation Therapy

Head over to the Nurse Mommy Blog to participate.