Barrier Function, Hydrolipid Film, Acid Mantle

These are all names for the very important protective layer of keratinized cells that protects the skin. Think of it like bricks and mortar. If there is a weakness in the layers or mortar then bacteria can thrive or substances that should otherwise stay out, penetrate and cause sensitivities or worse, ance.

Our skin is acidic around a 5 on the Ph scale. This is to fight off unfriendly bacteria like Propionibacterium acnes. This is where acne got it's namesake. If you wash your face with soap which is very alkaline, ususally a 10 ph, then you are setting yourself up for a breakout. If your cleanser is too acidic you will usually have dry, red, sensitive skin. The solution is to always use products that say on the bottle that they are ph balanced. Otherwise the only way to find out is to do a little research on your own. Call the 800 phone number off of the packaging (usually only found on the box) and ask them what their ph is of that particular product. It needs to be a 4.5-5.5 range or don't get it.

Also, it takes 24 hrs for your skin to get back to a normal acidic ph 5 after you use a bad product. If it is used morning and night your skin doesn't have a chance. I have seen many many women who are having troubles with their skin that have corrected it simply by switching a cleanser or cream. I really believe ph is extremely important to perfect looking, beautiful skin. If you do have a product with a bad ph and move over to a ph balanced product make sure to give it a fair shot. It takes typically 2 months for skin to completely come around, but it is so worth it. If this helps even one person out there I am happy. Tell me how it goes. All the best.

Smarty Dish

One evening I was running the dishwasher and I needed a spoon. It happens, there isn't a spoon to be found so you reach in while the wash is running. I was hit by a toxic plume of steam.  You shouldn't have to hold your breath or run out of the kitchen coughing just to get a load of dishes sparkling clean.

Then I found Smarty Dish by Method. Oh yes, we did try other brands but none brought us such pure squeaky joy as the no phosphate, no bleach perfect oval diskettes.  We have no more fear when reaching in for that illusive deep cleaned dish. I love you Smarty Dish thank you, my lungs and skin thank you too.

Authentic Beauty

Being true to yourself in this day and age is sometimes hard to do.  We are constantly bombarded with the media telling us how to look, act, what careers to have.  Listening to your own needs sometimes calls for a moment of stillness.  Be your own wonderful person.  Do you go fresh faced or do you really like makeup?  Are you a girl y girl or do you love dressing in boy clothes.  Be true to yourself and find you inner muse.  I am sure you will be happier for it.