Today most women sport hairless armpits and legs and generally, a whole lot more!  Men often choose to shave their beards, but now a days some remove back hair, leg hair, and, um, hair elsewhere too. But what’s the best way to get rid of that body hair?  While there isn’t any “best” hair removal method many men and women prefer waxing.

That said, given how waxing and sugaring (a similar hair removal method that uses a sugar syrup instead of wax.) is done, can it really be OK for your skin?  Tugging so hard at your skin that your hairs are actually pulled out by the follicles has to cause damage right?  Well…..this isn’t an easy “Yes or No” question.

If done properly the skin is pulled taught and this protects it from bruising and chafing.  However, you’re pulling hair out by the root after all and, as such, you can expect inflammation, redness and swelling, and for some even bruising; especially in delicate places, like your upper lip, and bikini area for example.  Luckily, this is all temporary and can be minimized by a qualified practitioner, but it’s certainly not ideal.

It’s not just the process that can be harsh though either, the products used after waxing to dissolve the remaining wax residue can contain icky irritants and toxic ingredients.  In addition, some waxes themselves actually contain questionable ingredients.   Considering the delicate places where you’re putting these products it may make you think twice about waxing; or at least it should!

So what to do?  Well, you can be sure the products you (or your aesthitician) are using are all natural and as gentle as possible.  You could also switch to sugaring, which is much more natural and requires no toxic clean up solution.  Then, there’s shaving of course, or, you might try lasers.

Lasers work to completely damage the hair follicle and fully remove the hair in up approximately 6 treatments.  However, this hair removal method isn’t perfect either.   It’s not recommended for the eyebrows as they tend to become sparse with age and we want to make sure we have plenty there. Lasers are not for all skin types and can cause injury to the skin, darkening and other side effects if not done properly.    Also, as with any beauty procedure, if you select this option seek a qualified technician.

Overall, if you choose waxing as the hair removal method for you, it may be a great option, and, it may not.  For many, waxing keeps the hair away for up to 2 months, with some treatments, even longer than that; and for this alone, the negatives are worth it for some people.  Just be sure you know what the risks are or, waxing may truly become a sticky situation.

Overall, the message is that thought it has problems, waxing can be a pretty great hair removal solution – after all, the hair is gone for up to several months with just one treatment!  But, you’ve got to be careful, or you could end up in a sticky situation – literally!

The post Waxing – What A Sticky Situation! appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

We think this is some serious BS – and here’s why.

Firstly, GMO plants are already a large enough issue fraught with consequences that are only now being fully realized.  Why move on to animals?

The companies that make GMO foods always like to spin it that these new modified plants are some panacea and that they’ll “help stop hunger” and “help farmers grow more successful crops”.  The lines they’re spewing are no different with these GM fish.  AquaBounty Technologies is telling folks essentially that genetically modified salmon is amazing and totally justified because these altered fish will grow bigger and faster than natural fish, and, as a result, will help meet the world’s ever increasing demand for fish, and food in general.

But, even if these foods grow bigger, faster, etc. it doesn’t mean the quality of the food is still there.  This franken fish is the combination of the DNA of the Chinook Salmon, the Atlantic Salmon, and another fish called a Pout.  Basically parts of each of these animal’s DNA have been combined in order to grow a big fish fast, yet, they’re trying to say it won’t be different nutritionally than other salmon.

The nutritional information on this fish will have to be different as a result all of this dicing and splicing since it’s not really a salmon after all; not as they’re known in nature anyway.  In fact, it’s already been found that several different chemicals and hormones present in traditional salmon are being seen at different levels in the GM salmon.  For example the omega fatty acids in the GM salmon are at least 12% less than that in natural salmon.  Plus, in addition to nutritional differences, there are also new allergens that could pose a threat as well given this essentially new animal.

These are just small concerns though given the potential environmental impact the genetically modified salmon could have.  While these GM salmon would be “farmed” or raised in an enclosed area, some could easily get out when the water is changed,  when enclosures become loose or damaged, in a natural disaster situation, or in a myriad of other ways.  It’s happened at other types of fish farms, why wouldn’t it happen with genetically modified salmon?

The fish’s eggs are also an issue.  In FDA testing the eggs, although supposed to be sterile, were “fertile up to 5% of the time”!  We all know it just takes one.  Just One!  Then this franken fish DNA is released into the natural salmon population and – well – and what?  No one really knows.

Worse, since Atlantic Salmon DNA is included as part of this genetic concoction, these franken salmon, if released accidentally, could intrude on the endangered Atlantic Salmon’s habitat, compete for mates, etc.  This could have devastating effects on this natural salmon species and may even end up wiping it out completely.

Not only that, let’s say a franken fish gets out of the “farm”, into the stream, and is eaten by a bear, or other wild animal.  Of course they say the GMO salmon is “safe” to eat, but, is it?  And could it have different effects on different animals?

The reality of it all is there are just too many questions to make any of this even reasonably safe for anyone.  And, in fact, it’s highly likely these franken salmon, like other GMO foods, will actually have profound negative effects for those who eat them and the entire planet.

When you think about it that way it’s easy to see that the fact that anyone could promote this type of creation as “food” let alone get FDA approval for it is total BS!

If you feel the same way and want to avoid GMOs including franken fish there are a few things you can do; know your store, read your labels, and talk to your fish providers.  Then, boycott GMOs!  Only support companies you know don’t use GMO ingredients and who also support mandatory labeling of all GMO products.  In addition, be sure to get involved with your state’s Right to Know GMO Legislation campaigns if you have one, and speak out regarding the need for federal regulation and enforcement of mandatory labeling of all GMOs.

Countries around the world are banning GMOs, yet the US continues to produce over 60 % of GMO crops and foods and is now trying to patent this “fish”.  There’s something wrong here and it’s up to us to put a stop to it before it spirals completely out of control and has irreparable consequences!

The post Freaky Franken Fish | Is GMO Salmon a Panacea or BS? appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

After all, like Dr. Seusses’ Lorax said…”Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better it’s not.”

So, the planet needs you – this much is obvious, however, what you can do to help may not be.  One of the most powerful ways you can help heal the planet today is to spend your money with a conscience.

Hate Monsanto and GMOs? – in addition to donating money to your state’s anti GMO legislative initiatives, boycott companies that use Monsanto seed, are owned by Monsanto, or use GMO ingredients.  There are plenty of great, natural brands trying to do the right thing.  It just takes some research to support the right ones and still get the types of items you need.

Same with personal care products.  If you want to avoid products that test on animals, you can look for various types of certifications.  While products being Leaping Bunny or PETA certified as cruelty free aren’t the only ones that don’t test on animals since these types of certification processes can often be pricy, for the most part, companies that don’t engage in animal testing are proud to talk about it on their packaging, website, or at least will tell you if you contact them.  Basically, you can’t clearly figure out their policy, don’t spend your money on their product, and move on to a different company that’s willing to be more transparent.

Which brings us to another point.  Shopping with small businesses is more eco friendly and will help you be certain you know who and what you’re choosing to support with your hard earned dollars.  You can discuss policies, practices, and get a feel for those benefiting from your purchase.  This is impossible with many large companies today, and, worse, most try to avoid honest discussions about their products and practices like they’re the plague.  If you don’t spend your money with them though, and choose small, local businesses that see the value in you as a customer and supporter of their work, that’s what will thrive, instead of that corporate ick.

So, take heart, while you may not be able to cure the world of all its ills, you can still effect positive change for the planet in a great many ways; especially by how you spend your money!  Boycott companies that aren’t doing what you think is right, buy from those that are, and get others to do the same.  You’ll be amazed at how quickly a group of informed consumers can change practices and policies!  And, when it all gets a bit overwhelming, remember if you don’t speak up, who will?

The post How to Speak Out With Your Wallet to Help Protect the Planet appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

Hemp seeds, when pressed, make a highly nutritive oil.  This resulting hemp seed oil can be used topically as well as incorporated into your diet for a variety of amazing natural beauty benefits – Here are just a few of them.

Rich in Essential Fatty Acids

A Natural Anti Oxidant

Great Source of Amino Acids

Full of Vitamin E

Anti Inflammatory Properties

Offers a Light Texture that Won’t Clog Pores

To enjoy all these and more natural beauty benefits of hemp internally add some hemp seed oil to a smoothie, make a salad dressing with hemp seed oil as your base, or enjoy it by the spoonful.

Hemp seed oil alone can be used topically by simply massaging it gently into your skin or hair.  But, it can also be used as a carrier oil for your favorite aromatherapy scents.  Then use as a massage oil, make a preparation for bug repellant, or simply enjoy as a natural perfume.

As soon as you begin including hemp seed oil in your diet and beauty regimen, you’ll quickly begin to see why there’s no bull at ALL about the natural beauty benefits of hemp!

Hemp Hemp Hooray!

The post Hemp Hemp Hooray | The Natural Beauty Benefits of Hemp Seed Oil! appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

Also known as Alpha Hydroxy Acids, or “AHA’s”, these naturally occurring acids from plants and fruits like lemons, oranges (Citric Acid), sugar maple, and sugar cane (Glycolic Acid) are truly amazing for the skin!  Natural glycolic acid for example is highly effective for supporting collagen production; which helps your skin stay strong and wrinkle free. Citric acids on the other hand are wonderful exfoliators and ideal for evening the skin’s pigment and reducing the appearance of age spots and acne.

Unfortunately, just because you see the term Alpha Hydroxy Acids or AHAs on a product label doesn’t mean you’ll find naturally occurring fruit acids inside.  Many products use synthetically derived AHAs which can irritate sensitive skin and will often even cause problems for any skin type.

Natural Alpha Hydroxy Acids from essential oils and extracts on the other hand can offer your skin amazing benefits like -

Reducing Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Renewing Skin Cells More Rapidly

Lightening Age Spots and Evening Skin Tone

Reducing Acne by Cleaning Pores and Exfoliating Skin

Increasing Collagen Production for Firmer, Younger Looking Skin

Enjoy fruit in your diet, and on your skin and you’ll see all these results and then some; naturally!  Be sure to look for these natural sources of AHAs though and avoid those made in the lab for the best, most effective Alpha Hydroxy Acids possible for all skin types.

The post The Scoop on Natural Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

Use a Sharp Razor

First and foremost, no matter what else we share here, if you have a dull, or sometimes even low end razor, you’re face is not going to be happy.  Dull, poor quality razors slice through hairs unevenly causing both ingrown hairs (the hair is cut below the skin allowing the skin to grow over the hair follicle) and a “5 O’clock Shadow” (by not shaving other hairs closely enough).

Purchasing at least a double edged razor is recommended for the closest shave.  And, whatever type of razor you choose, be sure to sharpen it or change the blades regularly.  You can make your razor eco friendly too by being sure it’s not a disposable type of razor and by choosing a metal razor or one made of recycled plastic like those made by Preserve.

Steam Skin First

Never ever ever shave dry.  Instead, the best time to shave is actually directly after a shower.   This is because your skin and pores are relaxed as well as the fact that wet hair is easier to shave than dry hair.  Your facial hair actually absorbs water (over 25% of it’s volume!) and, when your hair is swollen with water, it’s easier to cut.

If you can’t shower before shaving, thoroughly wet your face.  Then steam your beard area by wetting a wash cloth with warm water and applying to your face for about 5 minutes.

Choose Natural Oils Instead of “Shaving Cream”

While many people have come to think that thick, sudsy lather is what cleans and cares for their skin and hair when they wash, they couldn’t be farther from the truth.  The sulfates (ie. crappy chemicals) that are used as part of the product formulation to create that lather are actually known for drying out skin and can be particularly irritating to those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Not only that, when sulfates are used they create a chemical called 1,4 Dioxane; a known carcinogen.  NO one should be using 1,4 Dioxane at all, let alone rubbing into their skin; the largest organ on your body!  Avoid all this toxic crap and keep your face free of redness, razor burn, and irritation by using natural oils to shave.  Choosing a natural oil based shaving serum not only helps you avoid these craptastic chemicals though, it also soothes and protects skin, nourishing it form the inside out and supporting happy, healthy skin, naturally.

The process is still the same if you use a shaving serum.  You still need to use a sharp razor and steam your face.  Then, apply the oils, and shave with the grain of your hair – not against it; something you should do no matter what shaving aid you use to help reduce irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burn.

Tone AND Moisturize After

Many are aware of aftershave.  Aftershaves are designed to soothe the skin after the intense exfoliating process of shaving on your tender facial skin.  Most report that aftershave burns though; and that’s due to alcohol.  Alcohol dries the skin and causes a variety of problems including increased acne. Instead, you can use a natural botanical based toner and moisturizer that will truly soothe and moisturize this delicate area while keeping it balanced and blemish free.

If you’re reading this and are thinking of the man in your life and his shaving woes, why not help him out and check his Valentine’s gift, Christmas present, Birthday present, or Holiday gift off your list too.  Simply gather together a new, eco-friendly razor, washcloth, and a bottle of No Bull Super Natural Serum, along with an oil based cleanser and a nice moisturizer (or he can use the No Bull Serum again) put it in a cool black, navy blue, or other “manly” color/designed box, or display it in another way that would be meaningful to you two.  Then, give it to him to show your love for his health, and his handsome face!

Of course, you could avoid all this and grow a beard; after all, hairy men are the shiznit too!  But, if the man in your life (or you) would like to stay hair free, be sure to ditch that shaving cream and aftershave and choose all natural oil based shaving products instead.  Your face, and the whole rest of your body, will thank you for it!

The post Calling All Men and Those Who Love Them | Get the FULL Skinny on How to Shave Successfully appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

When selecting your D supplements you need be informed that there are 2 options.  Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) and Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol).  Vitamin D3 is sourced from animals and not vegetarian or vegan. Vitamin D2 is synthetic (vegan) yet only 69% as biovailable as Vitamin D3.  Therefore your daily requirement may simply be greater if you select D2. This is important to know when selecting your supplement. You may also select a liquid or sub-lingual version for enhanced potency.

When it all comes down to it, the most appropriate yet controversial way for the body to have healthy levels of Vitamin D is through sun exposure. Just 15 minutes daily is often enough depending on your geographical location.  The natural oils produced by our skin offer some protection so it is best not to wash the skin right before a short exposure. Contrary to the common belief, a bit of sun exposure is not always to blame for skin cancer. Sunburns are actually the bigger culprits! Prolonged exposure can lead to burns which is why balance is the key if you’re after Vitamin D. Being said, it is ideal to use sun-protective products for any prolonged time outdoors and be sure the product is chemical free. This way, you need not suffer the consequences of overexposure.

If you do not want the hassle of examining whether a supplement is dependable or not, simply consider Vitamin D-enriched foods.  Fortified cereals, fortified soy milk and even fortified orange juice are wonderful options.  Additional foods rich in Vitamin D include salmon, mackerel and milk, however, hormone treated cattle and farm raised fish certainly have their contraindications for both health and skincare. In addition, they are not options for vegetarians and vegans. Mushrooms and some yeasts offer Vitamin D but often not enough to meet daily requirements.

The right dosage of Vitamin D varies for each person. Several aspects including a person’s weight and blood serum levels have to be examined to determine how much Vitamin D is needed. The best way to find out about your recommended intake is to have your levels tested. Vitamin D Hydroxy 25 is the test you should consider for your true serum levels. Keep in mind that low levels of Vitamin D can contribute to a weak immune system, later leading to other health challenges or diseases so it’s better to be safe then sorry.  It is also thought that low levels contribute to the auto-immune skin condition psoriasis which is partially why the treatment for decades has been light therapy.  Aha!  Vitamin D supplementation may also assist with rosacea relief.

Taking Vitamin D supplements is something you should seek medical advice for.  While some reports suggest high doses can be harmful, recent research shows that those doses are extremely high and very unlikely.  Super neat D is also curiously forgiving in that you can make up for a missed dose by doubling up “or” even take a weeks worth at once.  Make sure that you seek the guidance of experts so that you can decide whether to D or not to D!

The post To D or Not to D? What Makes Vitamin D So Essential appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

Take the case of jojoba oil, a liquid wax extracted from jojoba seeds. It was in the forties when people started to realize the wonders of jojoba oil. Since its oxidation property is excellent (meaning it won’t go rancid), it can be kept for a lengthy period of time without having the need to add artificial preservatives. That’s as natural as you can get! Here are the reasons why you should consider including jojoba oil in your beauty regimen NOW:

Jojoba oil offers natural moisture to the skin.

The value of keeping the skin hydrated can never be underestimated. The dryness of the skin actually signals the body to produce more oil. Yikes! Jojoba oil penetrates the skin deeply and the best part is that this oil is not greasy at all. When paired with an oil-infused cleanser, skin is never dried out, doesn’t age quickly, and is guaranteed to feel soft and look refreshed.

Jojoba removes make-up well.

Leaving traces of make-up on your face as you sleep is one of the perpetrators of fast aging. Apart from washing your face with a gentle cleanser, you have to use a make-up remover to ensure that the pores will not be clogged. Fortunately, jojoba oil does its make-up-stripping job well.

Jojoba is a reliable acne buster.

Perhaps this is what jojoba oil is most famous for. It has acne-zapping capabilities because of its antibacterial properties. Even cuts, bruises, and some types of skin allergies can be treated by jojoba oil. This is because the oil greatly assists in the development of new cells which in turn accelerates the process of healing.

Jojoba soothes the skin.

If your skin is itchy, you can depend on jojoba for its calming properties. Undergoing facial hair removal regimens like waxing, shaving, and tweezing can be so painful but jojoba oil can ease the redness, irritation and discomfort!

Keep in mind that using jojoba oil offers even greater results when combined with other ingredients such as omega fatty acids, essential oils and non-toxic ingredients.  Give a jojoba oil beauty oil a few days to prove itself and you will certainly notice the difference!

The post Jojoba Oil and it’s Outstanding Beauty Benefits appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

So what is this stuff? Salicylic acid It is a beta hydroxy acid that acts an a mild exfoliating ingredient and anti-inflammatory agent on your skin. It gently sloughs away dead skill cells to reveal healthier new skin. This sloughing action helps to reduce acne and keep the bacteria that contributes to it at bay. It also reduces the appearance of dryness and wrinkling by revealing softer smoother skin underneath. Everyday Health reports people with rosacea also experience improvements using salicylic acid. We know it’s important to get rid of those dull skin cells to obtain the glowing skin we want.
In addition, when you couple this natural beauty ingredient with alpha hydroxy acids from fruits you increase the anti-aging benefits dramatically!  Add in some antioxidants and you have a powerhouse of a beauty product right there!

Not all salicylic acid is the same however.  Research reveals that this naturally occurring acid is best derived from the Willowbark Tree.  Utilizing naturally derived vs. synthesized ingredients are the better choice for non-toxic, more effective skincare ingredients.

The post Is Salicylic Acid Synthetic? Get the Scoop Here! appeared first on No Bull Beauty.

Neroli oil is a pure plant derived oil that comes from the blossom of the bitter orange tree. It has a sweet citrus yet floral aroma, making it a popular essence in many modern fragrances. It also has a rather dramatic history. Neroli oil was first used at the end of the 17th century by Anne Marie Orsini, duchess of Bracciano and princess of Nerola, Italy to add scent to her bath and gloves. The essential oil was named after the city in Italy and remains a favorite today. 

This sensational essential oil is nontoxic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating. It can also calm your the nerves rendering it a wonderful anti anxiety oil. Neroli oil is often used for massage and aromatherapy to soothe the nervous system and boost circulation. It is also an essential skincare ingredient to beautify your largest organ, the skin.

After a long summer at the beach and in strange waters, your feet take a beating. Neroli oil is an antifungal that the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine states can be used for conditions such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. Make your feet smooth to return to school wearing your prettiest sandals. 

Neroli oil is also used to combat acne, minimize signs of aging and reduce scarring. It stimulates skin cells to regenerate. While it seems unusual to use an oil to get rid of acne, it helps to balance your skin. Start by cleansing your skin then gently dry it using a soft cotton towel. Apply a skin product with neroli oil or a floral water to the affected areas using a clean cotton ball. This soothing oil calms your nerves and skin so you are ready to face that new job, school, or alleviate anxiety from hormonal changes, pms and menopause.
Neroli truly is an essential oil, one we can’t be without for sure!

The post Neroli for Mind. Body and Beauty Benefits appeared first on No Bull Beauty.