French women see their skin care as an investment in themselves and will buy more skin care products than makeup. Their philosophy is that skin care lasts a lifetime, while makeup lasts a day.
Being Grateful Can Make You Happy!
This time of year can be hard emotionally, with high expectations. Not everyone feels that their life is like a Hallmark movie. Actually very few people feel this way, but there is always gratefulness. Being grateful can not only help you to count your blessings, but gratitude can actually help you to become a happier person!
Quick Skin Care Tips!
Why You Need To Use a Face Serum and Moisturizer - Day and Night!
First, something that has been on my mind..
One more thing I would like to address before I dive into the main topic on this short missive...
Over the counter products or OTC's are convenient and will usually cost you a lot less, but not always. The problem with OTC products is they are usually made with chemicals in a big factory, or the natural ones are rancid with all their "plant base powers" oxidized and gone by the time they get to you. Plus, they have a very low percentage (pixie dusted) of active ingredients in them to actually help and protect your skin.
*Quality, natural skin care products like Dr. Lucy's not only work better to make those changes in your skin, but they are also more concentrated, so a little will go a long way!
Protect Your Skin Barrier!
The need to protect the skin's barrier (outer most layer) is so important in keeping your skin healthy and happy. I am proud to say that Dr. Lucy is at the forefront of the natural skin care field.
Let’s look at the needs and benefits of using a fresh, natural, potent, skin changing serum and moisturizer.
Do I really need a natural face serum?
Yes, from age 30+. Look, don’t you want the best skin you can possibly have as you get older? Then, use a natural (only) serum, preferably a gel, to not only boost our other products into working better, but to really ramp up those antioxidants, natural retinols, Vit. C, etc. for deeper penetration.
-Listen to Dr. Lawrence Samuels, Chief Dermatologist at St. Luke’s Hospital on the benefits of a face serum...
A serum is your go to product to improve the overall look of your complexion. Serums are formulated to keep the skin hydrated by putting a protective barrier between it and the outside. Serums have a lipid-soluble base that allows the active ingredients to actually penetrate into the epidermis. The active ingredients can bring antioxidants to the skin, restore cell growth and help decrease pore size. They are formulated to penetrate deep into the skin to deliver key ingredients by way of smaller molecules. Serums are used after your crème cleanser and toner, but before your moisturizers.
Can I use a face serum instead of a moisturizer?
The quick answer is No. Sorry, didn't mean to sound harsh.
Here’s why…
Serums are the "work horses" in skin care. They have very little humectants (emollients) in them, are lighter in texture and have smaller molecules to provide deeper penetration of concentrated nutrients and antioxidants into the skin layers. A serum also enhances the effects of the moisturizer.
A moisturizer has humectants (emollients) that a serum just doesn't have. Its main job is to hydrate, protect and seal in moisture for a more softer, supple, youthful looking skin.
P.S.
Food for thought. When you don't use a moisturizer, your skin's Ph becomes disrupted. This in-turn will cause dry, red, rashy, ashy, wrinkled, sagging skin, with more skin tags and lesions. Plus, your skin will not age well and you could possibly end up looking 5-10 years older than you are. I'm sure you feel the same, but you will never catch me not wearing a moisturizer...ever. :)
P.P.S.
I want to leave this on a positive note. I truly think you are beautiful inside and out. Have a good weekend and take care of you!
French Friday Product Spotlight!
Ultra Moisturizer, PLUS Cult Favorite 2-in-1 Hydrating Serum Duo and Benefit!
Ultra Moisturizer
This Ultra Moisturizer has the power to hydrate, protect and heal the skins barrier while producing youthful, glowing skin. Naturally potent ingredients aid in cell renewal leaving your skin with a luminous finish.
With special ingredients like, DMAE, MSM and Botanical Hyaluronic Acid unite with Aloe (Vitamins A-betacarotene, C, E, plus 20 minerals), Shea (Vitamins A, E, K and F) and Jojoba to provide your skin with the ultimate hydration while encouraging collagen stimulation and production. The Green and White Tea also work to support a youthful, radiant appearance. Rounding out its benefits, this moisturizer has Vitamin C activity that contributes to a healthy skin tone, brightness, balance, and structure by supporting the formation of new collagen. Formulated for dry, normal, oily, combination and aging skin types.
2-in-1 Hydrating Serum
Discover a potent, gel serum that aids in the overall health of your skin. With antioxidant powers for more stable, calm, renewed skin.
This silky, gel formulation is made for both face and eye area to nourish, hydrate, soothe and plump fine lines and wrinkles, brighten and even-out skin tone.
The 2-in1 Hydrating Serum also aids in cellular renewal and regeneration of collagen and elastin by way of smaller molecules with naturally potent ingredients like aloe (Vitamins A-betacarotene, C, E, plus 20 minerals), rooibos (Vitamins D and Zinc), DMAE, antioxidants, MSM and Botanical Hyaluronic Acid. Formulated for dry, normal, oily, combination, aging and chaotic skin.
Is Sugar and Alcohol Aging Your Skin?!
Let's take this challenge together and see what your skin says!
First and foremost I need to say, "don't shoot the messenger!" In reality, I'm not a big sugar or wine drinker, but I enjoy sugar in a cookie, etc. or a glass of good wine just like the rest of you. BUT I have decided to eliminate all sugar and wine until Thanksgiving, because there is no way I am going to stay away from the pumpkin pie!
After Thanksgiving, I will take the same challenge for the month of December until Christmas! So if you want, let's do this together!
Why am I doing this?
To be quite honest with you, the winter months in the Pacific NW can really be hard on me mentally. You see I'm a California girl that transplanted to Oregon many years ago, but the "No Sun" thing can really affect my moods. When a little sun and blue sky peeks out for a minute I feel myself again.
Let's jump right in!
Did you know that sugar depletes your Vitamins A & B?!
Keeping my body away from sugar (which is also in wine), helps me feel happier and healthier!
"Eating a diet of vitamin B-rich foods, as well as taking daily supplements could improve mental health, may help improve mood, and reduce depression and anxiety in many individuals. Foods like fish, lean pork or beef, poultry, eggs, whole-grains, nuts, and milk are high in B vitamins." -Sage Clinic Neuroscience Center
Alcohol and sugar equals lower collagen levels...
Studies have shown that alcohol lowers the levels of vitamin A, B and Calcium in the body, which are essential nutrients responsible for cell turnover. Both Alcohol and sugar lower the skin’s collagen production. Less collagen means less elasticity and firmness and more sagginess and wrinkles. Yikes!
"Alcohol dehydrates your skin and depletes it of vital skin nutrients, such as vitamin A. Without vitamin A, you lose the anti-oxidant boost given to collagen production and skin cell turnover. Dehydration can also cause the skin to appear dull and make wrinkles appear more prominent." -ToplineMD Alliance
Inflammation caused by alcohol and sugar...
Inflammation produces enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, resulting in sagging skin and wrinkles. So in a nutshell, sugar breaks down your collagen and proteins. You know, the substance that plumps, lifts and makes your skin look more youthful!
Alcohol and sugar can also make it harder to build muscle, can cause body aches and hinder muscle recovery just to name a few.
Dr. Harold Lancer, dermatologist to the stars says, “Sugar can weaken the immune system, and a suppressed immune system is bad at fighting off bacteria.”
Ok, so I'll give up alcohol and sugar! How long before I see positive changes in my skin?
Dr. Lancer says people see changes within 72 to 96 hours. They’ll feel better, their color will look better, their skin won’t be so oily and they won’t be so dry. Their circles will be reduced, and they will have an overall perkier appearance.
French Friday Product Spotlight!
Gentle Crème Cleanser
This luxurious facial crème cleanser is a hydrating and replenishing cleanser for sensitive, dry, normal, combination and aging skin types.
Your skin will reap the benefits of the overwhelming concentration of super anti-oxidants, with a crème texture which leaves your skin soft, smooth, clean and nourished.
Ingredients like Organic Aloe Leaf Juice, Organic Olive Fruit Oil and Atlantic Sea Kelp are key benefactors for your skin.
Organic Aloe Leaf Juice contains antioxidant properties such as Vitamin A-beta-carotene, C, E, plus 20 minerals and beta carotene which work to promote healthy cell regeneration with anti-inflammatory and anti-allergen properties.
Organic Olive Fruit Oil with its gentle natural oil deep cleans impurities, makeup and unclogs pores.
Atlantic Sea Kelp (Ascophyllum Nodosum) that contains 14 Vitamins, 16 Amino Acids and Minerals, soothes irritation, boosts circulation, eliminates impurities and aids in cell renewal and repair.
Not to mention lavender, calendula, white tea and rooibos tea that have a soothing and healing effect on the skin.
All of these power players come together as a team to gently, but thoroughly, cleanse, soothe, balance, stimulate collagen production and start you on your way to beautiful skin!
4 Ways To Help Wake-up Your Tired Face!
Did you know the first and most common reason for tired skin is lack of sleep?...
Don't forget your 8!
Repeat after me, "sleep is my friend!" Getting at least 8 hours of sleep a night and going to bed consistently at the same time every night will help to keep you and your skin healthy, happy and balanced!
“Overnight, skin goes into repair and restore mode, meaning it removes toxins, repairs cell and DNA damage caused by the environment, replaces aging cells, and creates new ones. That’s why after good-quality sleep, skin looks fresher, younger, and more radiant.” According to the National Sleep Foundation
Moisturizing your damp skin!
Timing is very important when applying your moisturizer. Right after you wash your face or jump out of the shower, lightly blot your skin with a clean towel and then apply your toner, serum and the moisturizer. This way your skin will absorb all those nutrients and stay plump, hydrated and glowy all day!
"Dryness is the most common cause of dull face skin. It creates cracks in skin's surface and causes dead skin cells to build up, making the complexion look uneven and lackluster", says Kenneth Howe, M.D., a dermatologist at Wexler Dermatology in NYC.
Cold blast your face and body!
A cold shower, steamy suds-up and icy rinse finish will perk-up tired looking skin and refresh your mind!
Blush, don't bronze!
When your skin is looking tired you automatically think sun-kissed skin right? Actually you want to restore a beautiful glow, so grab a creamy pink or peach blush instead!
French Friday Product Spotlight!
Ultra Moisturizer and Hydrating 2-in-1 Serum Duo!
Ultra Moisturizer, PLUS Cult Favorite 2-in-1 Hydrating Serum Duo: Nourish, Continuous Hydration, Aids In Cell Renewal.
Ultra Moisturizer
This Ultra Moisturizer has the power to renew and heal the skins barrier while producing youthful, glowing skin. Naturally potent ingredients that are properly formulated to soothe, nourish, hydrate, aid in cell renewal leaving your skin with a luminous finish.
2-in-1 Hydrating Serum
Discover a potent barrier serum that aids in the overall health of your skin. With antioxidant powers for more stabile, calm, renewed skin.
This silky, gel formulation is made for both face and eye area to nourish, hydrate, soothe and plump fine lines and wrinkles, brighten and even-out skin tone.
Is your face mask dirtier than you think?
Just think of your face mask as your own personal exhaust filter.
Tip!
If you’re wondering how often your cloth mask or face covers need to be washed, the answer is simple, they should be laundered after every use.
“If you can’t wash them right away, store them in a plastic bag or laundry basket,” Dr. Hamilton says. “Hand wash or wash on a gentle cycle using hot, soapy water. Then, dry them on high heat.” If you notice damage, or if the mask is heavily soiled, it’s best to throw it away. -Cleveland Clinic
How often should you change your disposable mask? After every use.
P.S. Cotton and disposable masks are better for preventing acne because they are lighter and more breathable, while polyester and rayon masks trap humidity.
French Friday Product of the Week!
Original, Proprietary Blend Face Oil With Wheat Germ Oil!
Don't Miss! 15% Off Special!
Original, Proprietary Blend Face Oil! Expires: October 27th, Promo: FALL27
If you are looking to have healthier, younger looking skin without harsh chemicals, then add this luxurious, nutrient and antioxidant rich, proprietary blend face oil to your skin care routine. Transform your skin to a balanced, dewy, glowing, younger looking you!
This face oil is designed for dry, normal, oily, combination and aging skin.
Aids in cell renewal and repair, protects, moisturize, brighten, stimulate collagen production, with antioxidants and vitamins A-betacarotene, C, D and Wheat Germ Oil-E, just to name a few.
7 Tips and Tricks To Help Keep Your Skin Beautiful and Dewy Through The Cold Seasons!
Essential Basics “Trinity” Trio!
Days are getting shorter and the chill is in the air! This also means your skin is probably getting a bit more dry, flakey and dehydrated.
1. Exfoliating with an enzyme peel (no drying peels) frequently during the colder, drier months is essential for healthy, plump, renewed skin! I use a natural enzyme peel at least twice a week…
P.S.! Sign-up for the Dr. Lucy “Bonjour French Friday!” and receive 5 more important cold weather skin care tips and tricks today!
P.P.S.! Sign-up today by clicking the “SIGN ME UP!” pink button below and join our NEW, once a week “Bonjour French Friday” email club and receive tips, tricks, and all things French!
Bonjour French Friday! 7 Easy Ways To Boost Your Metabolism and Feel Much Better! It's Easier Than You Think!...
Good news! You don’t have to be genetically gifted to boost your metabolism. Here are 7 easy things that any woman can do:
Eat these delicious fat-burning foods.
My favorites include fresh and colorful produce, and foods high in healthy fats, like avocados, salmon, and walnuts.
**“You won’t want to miss the other 6 ways!” Sign-up for the Dr. Lucy “Bonjour French Friday!” email today!
Just “click” on the “Sign Me Up!” tab at the top of the page, and receive tips, tricks, and all things French!
Welcome to French Friday!
Friday’s Product of the week!
Dr. Lucy’s Proprietary Blend, Original Face Oil!
Come visit our store today!
Jeanne Damas How To Apply French Girl Makeup!
My Olympic Experience! Sign-up for the Dr. Lucy, "C'est La Vie" Newsletter today!
Friday!
Soap On Your Face Is Not Sexy!
Would I ever use a bar of soap? Yes! On my reading glasses!
Again, this is one product I will never, ever use on my skin!
I truly believe that cleansing your skin with a bar of soap (even if it's a "facial" bar) is not healthy and is harmful to your skin. I never, ever recommend anyone to use - and I certainly wouldn't use it on my own face.
Soap bars natural or not imbalance your skin's natural pH with all the binders and other chemical ingredients they have in them. These toxic ingredients cause your skin to go into an alkaline state which results in dryness, dehydration and instantly stripping your skin of moisture.
**If you want to keep your skin balanced, hydrated, plump, glowing and yes clean, then this Frenchie will always recommend using a gentle, nutrient dense, cream cleanser like the Dr. Lucy Gentle Crème Cleanser single or duo.
Sign-up today for the Dr. Lucy “C’est La Vie” Newsletter and ski care tips to read the full story!
When The Heat Is On!
The Dr. Lucy products are fresh and natural and are shipped exclusively in the US. During the warm months of May through September your 7 Piece Sample Kit, Ultra Moisturizer and Luscious Rose Equalizer Hydrating Masque will be shipped to you in a special, cool shield thermal envelope (as seen in the photo below) for added protection from the heat. This will change back to regular shipping starting in October!
Oh and P.S.! One more message! During the week we will be shipping all Dr. Lucy product orders Monday-Thursday during the hot months to help insure these fresh, natural products will not be "sitting" on a hot tarmac, in a hot USPS truck, train or airplane! Remember, fresh is always best! Merci beaucoup!
Mom always said!
Can I use just water to cleanse my face? I would say, "Yikes No!" to this question!
Can you wash your face using only water if you don’t use makeup?
Tip: You should always wash your face with a gentle crème cleansing product morning and evening like Dr. Lucy's Gentle Crème Cleanser, even if you haven't applied makeup.
Why?
Even if you haven't applied makeup, your skin still has bodily wastes and sebum caused by sweat and dirt remaining on your skin. Water alone can’t wash them off. So you’ll need to use cleansing products like oil cleansers or oil based crème cleansers to aid in the gentle, deep cleansing process.
For one of my personal stories about a full blown acne break-out and cure, sign up for the June Dr. Lucy “C’est la vie” Newsletter today!
I feel like honoring my Mom a few days earlier this year with a story about herself (Irish accent please), me and tea.
My Mom was a beautiful Irish woman. She was gentle, soft spoken and loved her family.
Whenever I was at home or came back home, we would sit at the table, in the living room or outside with a couple cups (two of three each) of tea and talk away about everything you can imagine.
Tea or coffee somehow magically brings people together, making each person feel more connected, giving, safe and loved.
I miss the Mom I grew up with, her beautiful light blue, almond shaped eyes, her dark brown hair, gorgeous smile and Irish look.
If tea or coffee is meant to unite all of us, then I think we should all walk around giving out tea and coffee with a kind smile every minute of everyday.
Miss you and love you Mom. One day we will sit around the table again together drinking tea in beautiful porcelain cups, laughing and talking and loving.
FYI! 20% OFF ALL Dr. Lucy Products Ends May 1st!
*I am a firm believer in the power of the beauty gift! We all want and need to feel better about ourselves inside and out, so we’ve put together ALL our very favorite presents to give and to get. All of them deliverable in time for Mother’s Day!**
Your Dr. Lucy's 20% OFF ALL PRODUCT Mother's Day Special Is Here!
We decided the Dr. Lucy's Mother's Day Special should be celebrated a little early this year so that your very special gift of fresh, natural, French style skin care gets to your loved ones on time!
Is Topical Sea Kelp Good For My Skin?
The short answer is yes! The long list of benefits is well worth reading! Oh and by the way, both Dr. Lucy’s Gentle Crème Cleanser and Luscious Rose Equalizer Hydrating Masque has brown seaweed (ascophyllum nodosum).
Some of the benefits for your skin!:
Seaweed improves the suppleness and the elasticity of your skin. It acts as an anti-aging and anti-cellulite agent. It detoxifies, tones and cleanses the skin. It can stimulate the renewal of damaged skin cells. It moisturizes and soothes the skin.
Sea kelp has been used as an effective treatment for conditions like Psoriasis, Eczema, Dermatitis and Acne.
Atlantic Sea Kelp (Ascophyllum Nodosum) contains 14 Vitamins, 16 Amino Acids and Minerals. Plus It soothes irritation, boosts circulation, eliminates impurities and aids cell renewal.
Rebecca Siegfried,
Owner and Founder Dr. Lucy Pure Natural Skin Care