Add back the glow to your Skin

The real trick to a youthful skin is exfoliation. “As you age, cell turnover slows, and removing the top layer of dead skin cells reveals the younger-looking skin beneath,” explains Jeannette Graf, MD, assis­tant clinical professor of dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. http://www.health.com/

Our body scrubs are fantastic as a full body smoother!--they gently exfoliate dry skin, and help lock moisture which is essential in keeping skin young and healthy looking. After just one use your skin will feel soft, silky smooth, and visibly radiant. You will wonder how you lived without them!

Click here, to check out all out all our delicious scents!

At-home manicures must have...

Many of you know who live in the Raleigh NC vecinity have probably seen us take my show on the road and demonstrate our products to customers interested in testing them before buying...our most popular demonstration is our body scrub which we demonstrate on the hands, followed with body lotion. Our customers love it, not only because they get to try our product before buying it, but also the way their hands feel when they are done with the treatment. It is not unusual to hear OOOOHHH WOOOOWWW...my hands have never felt his great! -- which is our greatets satisfaction. Although our scrub is wonderful for the entire body many customers that work with their hands or wash their hands often buy it to use solely as a hand treatment.

Today going through my usual morning ritual of seeing what's new in the natural beauty world, I found a "Real Simple" article that reccomended some products as the home manicure must haves... We have copied thier list and incoporated our products, we are certain that thsi combination will keep your hands beautiful throught the cold winter days... enjoy! (please be sure FREESHIP), when you order a scrub and a lotion from White Pear (expires 10-31-09)

For Clean Nails
Use a cotton pad to take off remnants of old polish with Naturally Clean by Essie Purifying Nail Polish Remover. It contains eucalyptus oil and glycerin to condition. To buy: $16, essieshop.com.

For Smooth Skin
Massage a dollop of the rice bran and olive-oil-based White Pear Scrub onto dry skin (your choice scent). The formula’s sugar crystals smooth away dry patches, while the oil gives potent moisture, remember to take care of your cuticles, push them back lightly and moisturize for step, with the sugar you can push them back lightly to . Rinse hands with warm water to remove. To buy: $16.95 http://tinyurl.com/rbhx6r

For Moisturized Skin
After drying hands, apply a small coat of matching scrub scent of White Pear body lotion. The lightweight lotion sinks immediately into skin and nails (not a drop of stickiness) and is deliciously scented. To buy: $12.95 http://tinyurl.com/yelc7pg

For Shaped Nails

The fine-grit surface of the Tweezerman FileMate smoothes rough edges and snags but won’t shred or tear nails. Plus, the plastic case keeps it clean (and prevents the file from scratching other items in your manicure kit or handbag). To buy: $4, tweezerman.com.

For Strong Nails
The does-everything Sally Hansen Complete Care 4-in-1 Treatment eliminates the need for multiple products. Apply alone as a nail strengthener and growth treatment, or use as a base and top coat when you’re wearing color. Soy protein, silk amino acids, and panthenol keep nails healthy. To buy: $13.50, cvs.com.

For Beautiful Color
Ease into fall’s deeper nail shades with Jessica Custom Nail Colour in Sexy Siren. This purple-tinged berry looks modern on short nails. Health bonus: It’s free of formaldehyde, toluene, and BDP, all harsh chemicals that can also cause irritation. To buy: $7.50, jessicacosmetics.com.

Our IMPROVED Shea Souffle

We are excited to introduce our IMPROVED “Shea Soufflé”

For additional skin nourishment we have added Coconut Oil and Cocoa butter, and the results, are just AMAZING!!!

Ingredients:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract and Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter. (fragrance or essential oils will be added to scented products)

Scented with essential oils 100% natural
Scented with fragrance 98% natural

Benefits of the ingredients:

Shea Butter - Shea Butter tones, evens out and repairs skin naturally with vitamins A &E.

Coconut oil – rich in vitamin E, and antioxidant properties which are essential for healthy skin growth, repair of wear & tear keeping skin smooth and protection against cracking and above all, it is said that prevents ageing and wrinkling of skin.

Aloe - has long been considered to be one of the best natural sources for moisturizing and healing the skin while it maintains its natural balance.

Cocoa Butter - A natural antioxidant. It is believed to reduce skin dryness and improve its elasticity, as it clears and smoothes the skin. It is frequently used for treating dry skin and stretch marks.

All combined are pure luxury!

Indulge, you are worth it!!

Strawberries & Apple cider vinegar..great for your face!

I Just love finding natural beauty secrets... here are two wonderful ones for your face...I hope you enjoy them, and let me know how they turned out!

Strawberry juice has gentle astringent and bleaching properties and is best used as a light cleanser for those who do not wear makeup. It can also serve as a tooth cleanser and whitener -
its very refreshing and helps eliminate onion and garlic breath.Ingredients:
4 very ripe, medium-sized strawberries, sliced and green stems removed
1 drop peppermint or lavender essential oil (optional)

In a small bowl, thoroughly mash the strawberries with a fork (or use a mortar and pestle). Press the resulting pulp through a mesh strainer or squeeze through cheesecloth or nylon stocking and catch the juice in a small condiment bowl. Add the essential oil (if desired) and stir to blend.Apply juice to face, neck, and decollete with a saturated cotton square (avoiding eye area), and massage with fingertips for about 1 minute. Rinse with cool water.

Follow with astringent or toner.

Did you know that apple cider vinegar is a wonderful astringent that will help combat the alkaline residue that soap or other cleansers can leave behind?

When your skin maintains the correct pH balance, it has a much better chance of fighting off dryness and infections.
Astringent Ingredients:
2 cups distilled water
1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar
10 drops favorite essential oil (not fragrance oil): try lemon, lavender or geranium
Mix water & vinegar & essential oils, shake well to blend.
Using a cotton cleansing pad or cotton ball, apply approximately 1 teaspoon to the face.
No refrigeration is required, but for maximum freshness and potency, use within 1 year.

beauty secrets written by Shannon Thompson

ARE YOUR TOILETRIES TOXIC?

If you are into Natural products you have probably heard about the controversy of parabens in our personal care items, but more and more we keep hearing that they are not good for us. Following find a brand new article that explains a little bit more about it...this is why we at White Pear do not take any chances, and do not use Parabens to preserve any of our Natural Bath and body products. (please read our list of ingredients under each of the products we sell)
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From soap to shampoo - could your daily shower actually be bad for you?
By Alice SmellieLast updated at 10:42 PM on 05th July

Ever read the label of a shampoo, conditioner or shower gel? Then you'll probably have come across the word methylparaben, or perhaps ethylparaben, or propylparaben.
But have you ever stopped to think about what these ingredients are?
Parabens are the most widely used chemical preservatives throughout the world. They're found in children's shampoos, styling gels, body lotions, shaving gels and make-up, and are used to improve the shelf-life of cosmetics.
However, increasing evidence is emerging that use of parabens might come at a high price to our health. Some parabens - namely butylparaben and propylparaben - are under investigation by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP) because of concerns about links with breast cancer and problems with the male reproductive system.
Research from Japanese scientist Osuma Handa at Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine suggests that even parabens that were previously presumed to be safe, such as methylparaben, might mutate and produce free radicals when exposed to UV rays, causing skin ageing and potentially skin cancer.
Alcohol, which is often added to cosmetics, can stimulate the penetration of parabens into the skin and also the conversion of methylparaben to butylparaben, which, with propylparaben, has the greatest hormone disrupting properties in men and women.
The Environmental Working Group in America is so concerned that it has set up a non-profit website (http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/) where consumers can find out more information about their toiletries.
On the site, methylparaben is listed as being found in more than 16,000 products, including moisturisers, sunscreen and toothpaste.
Traditional argument is that our skin doesn't absorb parabens. Not so says Dr Barbara Olioso, a professional chemist who acts as an independent adviser for brands formulating cosmetics without chemicals. 'Research shows that between 20 and 60 per cent of parabens in cosmetics may be absorbed by the body,' she says. 'They have been found in urine, which proves parabens travel through our systems.'
Dr Olioso's concerns are shared by Tony Tillbrook, who invented the wetsuit in 1957. Tillbrook has launched a paraben and sulphate-free range of bath and body products.
'If you need to look at any ingredient's potential link with cancer, then isn't it obvious that you simply don't use it in a product or smear it over your body?' he asks.
He was inspired to create his range, amaZeneÆ, from his investigations into the components of adhesives used in his wetsuits, which caused dermatitis in some.

Would you like to read more? - press here

How to Use Honey for Beauty

By eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor

For centuries, honey has been used in cooking and for medicinal purposes. As a natural humectant, it draws and retains moisture. As an antioxidant it's gentle to sensitive skin, making honey an ideal component of any beauty regimen. Add to that the fact that it costs pennies compared to high end beauty treatments and you'll find no matter what you use it for, you can't go wrong with honey.

Step 1
Mix a pinch of finely ground almonds into a tablespoon of honey. Add a few drops of lemon juice and use as a daily facial scrub. The honey will help sooth and moisturize as the almonds work to exfoliate your skin.

Step 2
Add a quarter cup of honey to your bath for a sweet smelling soak. It will leave skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated.

Step 3
Dab honey mixed with a little cinnamon directly on pimples and blackheads to help reduce redness and swelling. Do this at night before going to bed and rinse off in the morning. Honey is natural acne medicine that's much gentler to skin than over the counter beauty products containing alcohol.

Step 4
Use honey as a deep conditioning treatment for your hair. Mix a half cup of honey with two tablespoons of olive oil. Work it through your hair and cover with a shower cap for 20 minutes. Then shampoo and rinse as usual.

Step 5
Keep your breath fresh by gargling daily with a teaspoon of honey and some cinnamon powder mixed in warm water.

Preparation for Tanning

Summer is almost here!! Therefore we need to take precautions to face the sun, and also learn about different ways to approach that healthy glow...so following find some pointers. To buy green tanning lotions click here
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The basic necessity of getting a glowing brown tan without having to expose oneself to harmful UV rays for hours has resulted in the development of a host of products. Sunless tanning is gradually becoming very popular among people of every age. It has become a safe alternative to sun tanning, which has been linked to premature ageing and skin cancer. However, to obtain the most of sunless tanning techniques, some preparation of the skin surface is essential.

Many professionals recommend that the skin be cleaned thoroughly and exfoliated before application of tanning solutions. Exfoliation involves the removal of the outside skin layer. Removal of the external dead skin cells make the tan last longer as the new cells will not be shed for some time. The skin naturally sheds off dead cells about every seven days. With the removal of these cells, the tan also fades away. If the tanned cells are conserved for a longer period then the tan will automatically last longer. Moreover, exfoliation means that the whole body is following the same cycle of shedding old cells and renewal with new cells. This implies that a consistent tan will be obtained.


The following are some tips to allow for good exfoliation:• Shave before applying tanning solution or exfoliator. A shaved skin surface leads to more uniform tan. However, if you have sensitive skin, shave a few hours before tanning. This will prevent some painful consequences.
• Remove all traces of make-up and other impurities that will make the tanning process ineffective. Lotions and perfumes should also be avoided as they may interfere with the absorption of the dihydroxyacetone contained in tanning solutions.
• Exfoliate using soft cotton cloths. Nylon scrubbers and loofahs give a streaky effect when applying the tanning solution.
• Exfoliation should be performed the night before application of the sunless tanning solution or at least a few hours before.

Some exfoliators contain additional ingredients that stimulate the tired skin cells, for example essential oils from peppermint or orange.

Application of exfoliators is made as follows: rub large amounts of the exfoliator liquid on the whole body (where tanning solution will be applied). Pay particular attention to areas with thick skin (elbows, knees…etc.). Do not forget areas that are not easily accessible (the back or buttocks). Use help from someone else if necessary. Professionals recommend that exfoliators be applied onto wet skin, preferably in the shower. Moist skin is more receptive to solutions than a dry one. To find more tanning advice click here

To buy delicious body scrubs click here

Summer Green tips!

Mid-May...unbelievable how time flies...this is why this year I started planning my summer a little earlier. Today I was looking for new fun and refreshing recipes, and since I'm always on the look out for "new" green ways of living in my searches I came across "The Daily Green" website, that gives you green tips and advice, it has a section on green homes, new green cuisine, etc. Looking thorough the site I came across this fabulous White Gaspacho Recipe, that sounds delicious...I will try making it next weekend, but if you try it before I do let me know how it turned out...meanwhile don't forget that May is "National Bike Month", and it is a great time to get out and enjoy the trails around where you live...have a great New Week!!!

White Gazpacho

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Fire-Roasted Gazpacho
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White Chocolate Cherry Scones

A twist on its traditional tomato-laden twin, white gazpacho offers a cool take on this summertime favorite.

SERVINGS
4 - 6

INGREDIENTS
2 cups slightly stale country bread, without crust, cubed
1 cup whole blanched and peeled almonds
2 large garlic cloves, peeled
1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
6 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons Sherry vinegar
2 cups ice cold water

For the garnish:
Green grapes, halved
Toasted almonds, coarsely chopped

PREPARATION
1. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with just enough water to cover and set aside.

2. In a food processor, combine the almonds, garlic and salt. Mix until smooth.

3. Squeeze the excess water out of the bread cubes and add the bread to the food processor. Mix well until it forms a paste. While the food processor is on, add the oil in a thin, steady stream.

4. Add the vinegar and the water. Pulse until the preparation is smooth. Chill before serving.

5. For the garnish, quickly dry toast almonds in a saute pan.

6. Ladle the soup into decorative bowls and garnish with the grapes and almonds.

Scrub a Dub Dub...

Spring is here sooner than we thought, flowers are starting to peak through, squirrels, birds and cute little creatures are showing us signs that spring is here and we are fortunate to be able to share and enjoy each day!

I am a scrub aficionado, my sister was a big part of me getting addicted to them, and for us adding them to our Natural Bath and Body line, and now it seems that they have been a part of me forever...I personally love them because they make me feel good and special every time I use them, even on off days...there's nothing better jumping in the shower, and scrubbing off dead rough skin(or a bad day), and replacing it with new soft skin (a bright new day!)

In my web travels I came across Kim DeLeary, a writer that loves to write about Natural Bath and Body products for Suite101.com and in 2007 she wrote the following article on how to use body scrubs, and I thought it was perfect, because it gives you options on how to use the body scrub depending on your preference!

So I decided it to share with you all...specially now that we all need to get out "new bright skin" ready for Spring!
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Using Body Scrubs Effectively
Wet and Dry Application by Kim DeLeary

You can use a body scrub on dry or wet skin. Either way leaves your skin soft and smooth. Learn about both methods of using a body scrub to decide which is best for you.

Body Scrubs For Cleansing And Massage Action

Body scrubs can give you a Spa experience right in your own home. Scrub mixtures can soften, exfoliate, revitalize, tone and moisturize your skin. There are two main ways to use a scrub. You can either use the scrub dry before you get into the shower or you can use the scrub after you have already cleansed yourself and shampooed at usual and are still in the shower. The residue is rinsed off as the product is used. The skin is patted dry afterwards to allow any protective’s oils remaining to seal in the moisture.
Some people prefer to use the body scrub then use a cleanser and shampoo to remove any body scrub residue. The idea is that the massaging action works the oil into the skin and how you prefer to treat the skin before or after doing the body scrub is up to you.

Leave Your Face And Neck Out Of It

It is not necessary to use a scrub on your face and neck area, as these areas are too tender and usually do not need an abrasive or exfoliating product. Scrubs are very effective as a mini home spa for hands, feet, elbows, ankles and knees, particularly in the winter. You will be pleased at the appearance of the freshly revealed skin.

Self Tanners And Special Events

If you use a self-tanner, the product will go on more evenly if you use a scrub before putting it on. If you are using a scrub to smooth dry patches before applying a self-tanner, use the scrub all over your body including your hands. A gentle facial or neck exfoliation could be done before using a self tanner. Body scrubs will revitalize your skin's appearance before any special event.

Use A Natural Scrub In Wet Or Dry Conditions

A body scrub provides great effects from the ingredients and massaging action. Use circular motions with your hand surface to effect a massaging action. Use a consistent pressure as you cover each area evenly. Do not press so that the scrubbing action is uncomfortable as you could irritate the skin. You must be gentle because the scrub ingredients will provide the scrubbing action and your efforts must be concentrated on doing a thorough job so all areas are done in a consistent way. This prevents you from finding a dry patch later on that was missed.
The scrub material cleanses the skin, the oil soothes, softens and provides nutrients to the skin. The massage action will revitalize the skin by stimulating circulation and the toning the skin. These benefits result from either the dry or wet scrub.

Newspapers For The Dry Scrub

There are a couple of favored methods for using scrubs, the dry scrub and the wet scrub. They are not listed here in order of preference. The first method, the dry scrub, can be messy so lay newspaper down in a wide area on the bathroom floor before starting. You will begin from below your neck down, arms first, working your way down your trunk and limbs.
Do not use the scrub on the bottom of your feet, as your feet will then be slippery when you get into the shower. Give the product a few minutes to sink in before showering. Get into the shower, wash, and shampoo as usual.

Scrub A Dub Dub In The Shower

The second method of using a body scrub is to shower and shower as usual before using the scrub afterwards while still in the shower. If you need to, hairpin your hair out of the way securely. Cover if necessary (any kind of turban, towel or otherwise. will do). Use it until the scrub is dissolved. Rinse off and pat yourself dry. Both the dry and wet scrub methods leave the skin glowing, moisturized and incredibly soft.

Read more: "Using Body Scrubs Effectively: Wet and Dry Application" - http://body-care.suite101.com/article.cfm/using_body_scrubs_effectively#ixzz0AWtt20It
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Wheter you chose Dry or Wet application for your sugar scrubs, rest assured that with either method you will end up with beautiful soft skin ready for SPRING!

Happy Spring - Enjoy each day!

Good advice worth sharing...

A Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2009 to all!

It is unbelievable to think that 2009 has reached it's 19th day...it seems like yesterday that Bruce and I were running around trying to set up our Christmas tree with the help of my sister, my two handsome nephews and my brother in law, just to make sure we had it up right before Christmas eve!---2008 was a blurr , and as much as we enjoy what we do sometime life just takes over ...

Today while going through my routine of checking e-mails and seeing what's out there, I ran into this wonderful blog live passionately (from a life coach) it is filled with great advice well worth checking out. The author recently posted "Self-Coaching Tips", and lists 10 that are just phenomenal!

1.Find some 'you' time. Everyone needs time alone to meditate and recharge. You may think you don't have extra time in your day. Start with 10-20 minutes to use for meditation or silent reflection. I have been doing this on and off from the beginning of the year, and it feels wonderful after! A clear mind.

2. Ask yourself what you truly want in life. Are you living your life according to your true dreams and desires? You may be unaware of your desires that lie hidden beneath your surface needs and wants, so take the time to find out.

3. Write everything down. Even if your thought seems silly, write it down! You may be surprised by the inspiration and ideas you can come up with.

4. Journal daily, but with a twist. Instead of just writing about today, try writing about yesterday.

5. Keep track of the "happy moments." Each day has potential for many small moments that bring joy and happiness. If you don't make a special note of them, you may not even recognize the small joys in your day.

6. Choose one task each night to complete the next day. This way, you have focus, and you accomplish at least one task. Tasking and taxing yourself with effort is important in reaching goals.

7. Smile when you wake up. Smiling is contagious. By smiling you improve your mood and can potentially improve someone else's day as well.

8. Give thanks each night. Gratitude will improve your outlook on life and help you see all the good and wonderful moments of your day.

9. Try something new. A new experience fuels creativity and your enjoyment of the day.

10. Create at least one memorable moment each day. Make each day unforgettable, even if in a small way!