Hey guys,
here I am again posting for you.
This is my newest tutorial. I hope you enjoy!
Please, rate, comment & subscribe.

-Much Love,
Phoennix ♥

Hi everyone!
I hope all of you are doing wonderfully. I have been super busy and unable to post other stuff on my LJ, but I wanted to let you know I am still alive and well...
I have continued to post stuff on YouTube as far as make-up tutorials. If you wanna check them out, just go here ---> IHEARTOFFBEAT!
If you have any requests or any questions, please feel free to contact me via LJ or YT. I will be more than happy to answer anything :)
Take care of yourselves and each other and I'll post something else soon enough ;)
-Much Love,
E
♥

This is Test # 3.
Still using the trial version of video editor.
The software still watermarks the video every 4 minutes for 60 seconds.
Input is greatly appreciated!
Hope you enjoy this tutorial!! ^_^*
♥

Before you guys start the videos, BEWARE!
I made this tutorial wanting to be very thorough. I wanted to show how I do my WHOLE evening make-up routine. This video is a test, so it will probably be removed in the long run and substituted eventually with another one. There are a LOT of steps to this look, so it's a 5-video tutorial. I apologize about the length in advance; however, please keep in mind I am still playing with ideas, editing, techniques, etc.
I continue to use the trial version for this video editing software, so the watermarks are still appearing every 4 minutes for 60 seconds. I am still trying to figure out if this is the program I want or not...
Any feedback is appreciated. Thanks for watching!! I hope you enjoy ;)
♥

Please, take a look @ it and give me your input.
The watermark is still there as I still have not purchased the full version of the video editor; however, that is coming up this coming week.
This is the last video for the look. Your comments, questions, and suggestions are much appreciated!!
XOXOXO
♥

I am a bit better @ working the video editor; however, I am still figuring out the program so I can make the most of it. The 2nd trial test is here for your entertainment! Please, let me know your thoughts and ideas for the future YouTube channel that will accompany this LiveJournal.
What can be improved? What would you like to see? What would you like to learn? What kind of background would be more appropriate or would you like to see? Let me know!!
Also, because I am still utilizing the trial version of this video editor, there are 2 watermarks - the first one is right @ the start of the video & the second one @ minute 4. Both of these watermarks last 60 seconds each. Please, ignore them as I will purchase the full version so they do not appear in later videos.
Like I said, this is just a test trial. Your input is much appreciated and I hope you enjoy watching this small video as much I enjoyed making it :)
See ya guys soon!!
♥

So, I have been working on figuring out the video editor I obtained...
I am still trying to figure out settings and whatnot, but I wanted to show you guys a quick clip of what will be coming up in my YouTube channel.
This channel is meant to be used alongside my livejournal as I will continue to post things contantly here.
Please, let me know what you think about it, what can be improved, what you would like to see, what background I should use, etc.
Also, because I am still utilizing the trial version of this video editor, there are 2 watermarks - the first one is right @ the start of the video & the second one @ minute 4. Both of these watermarks last 60 seconds each. Please, ignore them as I will purchase the full version so they do not appear in later videos.
Like I said, this is just a test trial. Your input is much appreciated and I hope you enjoy watching this small video as much I enjoyed making it :)
See ya guys soon!!
♥

I am off to Best Buy to check out their camcorders.
I am planning on buying the JVC Everio HDD so I can transfer some of my make-up tutorials on there...It'll be easier + you get to see me in action...
Any thoughts, ideas, concerns? Hit me up! You know I'll respond :)
Also, wish me luck finding something semi-inexpensive and good quality!
-Much Love,
E ♥

A lot of times, we buy quads because there was one color we simply loved, had to have, and completely disregard the rest of the colors that were included in the purchase. I am guilty of that. Many, many times I have purchased a quad, an eyeshadow palette with 4 colors, and not used 2 or 3 of them because I simply couldn't think of what to do with them. The simplest thing you can do is USE THEM ALL! You will be surprised at how amazing you can look :)

The quad I am using is Avon's True Color Eye Shadow Quad in Smoky Eyes. It features Snow Pearl (white with lavender shimmers), Privately Pink (matte baby pink), Moonlight (light slate gray with lavender undertone), and Steel (steel gray with silver undertone).

SILVER & GRAY LOOK
(Using only a Quad)


( Pink + Gray = C♥te! )

So, I was planning on posting a retro/glam look, but HATED IT!
I will re-do it and post new pictures of it...It was not satisfactory at all...
Also, I am working on getting a brand new camera, so I can have a YouTube Channel attached to this LJ and be able to do this properly and quicker.
Let me know if there is anything you would like to see or if you have any ideas you would like me to develop ;)
Toodles & love,
♥

Follow me on Twitter!!

HERE! ---> http://www.twitter.com/iheartoffbeat

All my daily updates among with random pictures will be there.

If you have any comments, questions, requests, or emotional outbursts, feel free to tweet me or post them as comments to this entry.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful 3-day weekend!! ;)
See ya Tuesday with a new look for all of you ^_^*
Toodles!
♥

Hey everyone,
So a few weeks ago, I got a request from salinn to do a little-things-you-can-do-when-you-have-no-time routine. I wasn't too sure how to do it...Finally, last night, I came back home from work and my boyfriend calls me to let me know we are going out with his family and I only have 15 minutes to get ready. I figured it was the perfect scenario and decided to make a tutorial about how to go from day to evening make-up without having to do a full face. Obviously, everything was re-touched.

If you are interested, just keep reading!

( Day to Evening Make-Over )

All of us desire beautiful, healthy skin...and some of us need some extra help achieving this because of several internal and external factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and environment.
Also, with the advancement of technology, we are always looking for the next best thing out in department or drug stores to cleanse and/or restore our skin. However, it is very important to realize that a lot of the products out in the market contain components we are simply able to get from our kitchens.
It is because of this knowledge, that I started researching natural and inexpensive ways to take care of my skin. Not only aging doesn't stop, but also recession hit us and I simply wanted to get good products for my skin that would make me feel clean and youthful and not make holes in my pockets.
So. What can I do to take care of my skin besides cleansing it with soap [which can strip the natural oils from the top layers of our skin] and using a moisturizer [which can place extra additives on our skin that speed up the aging process]? A mask! A cleansing, moisturizing, repairing, AND rejuvenating mask!! How is such a miracle possible, you ask? Just keep reading ;)


Honey

Honey is a sweet ailment produced by honey bees and derived from the nectar of flowers. It has IMPRESSIVE antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Bees add an enzyme that generates low levels of hydrogen peroxide. It is because of this that honey has the potential to kill bacteria and treat a variety of skin ailments, such as odor, swelling, and scarring; therefore, it can treat acne naturally & without chemical additives.


Grape Seed Oil

Grape Seed Oil is a vegetable oil pressed from the seeds of various varieties of grapes, an abundant by-product of winemaking. Grapeseed oil is a preferred cosmetic ingredient for damaged and stressed tissues. It possesses regenerative and restructuring qualities which allow better control of skin moisturization and reduce the look of fine lines around the eye area as well as stretch marks.


Aspirin

Aspirin, also known as Acetylsalicylic Acid, is an anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing analgesic that relieves minor aches. Aspirin is remarkable for your skin! Its anti-inflammatory properties that are capable of sloughing off dead skin thus preventing the clogging of pores. It's terrific in the treatment of acne and other skin inflammations!

WORD OF CAUTION!
* If you are allergic to aspirin and/or honey, DO NOT apply this mask, as it may cause a severe allergic reaction.
** Apply this mask in the evening before going to bed. Do not apply during the daytime and go out onto the sunlight! Direct application of aspirin with sunlight can cause dryness, patchy skin, and severe sun damage.


HONEY ASPIRIN CLEANSING MASK

Ingredients:
1 tbsp. Grape Seed Oil
2 Aspirin pills
1 tbsp. Honey
1 tbsp. Water

Utensils:
2 small bowls
A table spoon
A cheap foundation brush

Preparation:
1. Place water in a bowl and put the aspirin pills in. Allow them to sit for about 1 minute, then smash them with your spoon to make a paste.
2. On a separate bowl, place grape seed oil and honey. Place in microwave for about 15 seconds - just enough time to allow the honey to be a bit more liquidy, but not runny.
3. Allow the honey/oil mixture to cool a bit, then add the aspirin paste.
3. Mix everything together.

Application:
1. Wash your face with lukewarkm water.


2. Apply the mixture onto your face with the foundation brush in a uniform manner.


3. Apply a bit of grape seed oil on the eye area.

4. Let it sit for 30 minutes to allow your skin to absorb the mixture and oil.


5. Rinse your face with lukewarm water and pat the excess water. Do NOT pat your face dry.


6. Put on a moisturizer with an SPF [while your face is still damp] to protect your skin.

7. Enjoy your fresh, rejuvenated skin!! ^_^*

So, finally things are back into place after a crazy, crazy end of April/beginning of May.
Tutorials and posts are coming back TODAY!
I hope you guys enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them ;)
Toodles, everyone!
♥

More make-up tutorials coming soon.
I forgot Mother's Day is right around the corner.
Sadly, I work retail and things are NUTS at work right now.
More beauty/health posts will be up soon.
I haven't forgotten about you guys.
I wish there was more than 24 hours in one day.
Seriously!
Hope everyone is doing well :)
Any requests, please, leave a comment to this post ;)
Toodles!!
^_^♥

P.S.:
Follow me on Twitter! *iheartoffbeat*

Hey guys,
I know I have dissapeared from LJ for a while.
Two weeks ago, I was working like a mad woman and driving with my brother back & forth to our new place of residence (more about that later).
One week ago, I was getting everything together for our vacation (which was AMAZING! more on that later as well)
Last weekend, I was in one of the most amazing cities in the world. I ♥ San Francisco! I had the time of my life... (more on that later too)
I got back home on Monday evening & have been working for the past couple of days. Tomorrow I am off, so I get to clean the house, rearrange my life, clean up the storage & make new tutorials and posts!!
So, stay tuned. I took a break, but I am back in the game!!!
Toodles,
E.

When we think of 99¢, we think cheap. Generally speaking, we associate the word 'cheap' with either inexpensive and/or low-quality products. But...What if I told you, you can buy good quality products for less than $1? Well, you can. Allow me to explain...

Most of the well-known 99¢ Stores in the country have some of the best quality products in the market available for you. Places like "The Dollar Tree", "99¢ Only Stores", as well as some of the right-around-the-corner Asian 99¢ Stores carry brands in their aisles that are as good quality as the ones sold at chain stores and pharmacies like Target, WalMart, Rite Aid, CVS or Big Lots! You can even find products there that you would be able to find at websites like Cherry Culture. I am sure you are wondering why this is even possible and why won't they go to a bigger, better place like the chain stores we know and love. The answer is simple - money and field studies.

99¢ Stores are special stores. They offer general merchandise at a fixed rate of 99 cents. These stores are an exciting primary shopping destination for price-sensitive consumers. Inspite of the huge discount, the quality of the product is always maintained and allows customers to come in and shop regularly. Basically, what a 99¢ Store sells are liquidated products from stores that have closed down, overstock other companies did not purchase, discontinued items, and brand new lines that companies want to test with the public. This helps not only the consumer but also the companies releasing a brand new product by not investing in advertisement when they can simply allow people to spread the word if they are happy with the product. Once the company reaches the goal they set themselves with, they will release the product in a much bigger scale onto bigger, better-known stores.

So, now that we understand how the products end up at the 99¢ Store, we can see what products you are likely to find there and get an idea of what we can obtain for such an inexpensive price...


Left to Right: Jazz Bronzer in Capuccino; E.L.F. Lip Gloss Tin 3-Pack in Coconut Crazed, Frosting Fanatic & Cherry Bomb; NYX Eye/Eyebrow Pencils in Black & White; Ten Beauty Silky Eye Pencils in Midnight Blue & Sierra; Aziza Powder Foundation in Latte; Santee Nail Polish in Summer French and Nail Lacquer Plus in Pink Slippers & Sweet Pink; Princessa Nail File; L.A. Colors 5-Color Palettes in Tea Time, Wine & Roses, Tease, and Wildflowers; Santee Liquid Eyeliner & Eye Pencil Combo in Black; Ten Beauty Silky Eye Collection in Winter Magic; Princessa Blush Brush; Colormates International Eye Shadow in Fancy II.

Left to Right: Lip Smackers Travel Mini in Fraise Strawberry; Select Lash False Lashes in Black S42 & Black S99; Cala Studio Soft & Easy Cosmetic Sponge Assortment; Just For You Professional Cosmetic Sponges 8-Pack; Coralite 100% Pure Cotton Squares; Paji Wild Bunch False Eyelashes 2-Pack.

Every single item pictured above was less than $1. As you can see, there are plenty of things we can find without breaking our budget. It's just a matter of taking the time to look around and finding what we are looking for and then some. In total, I spent $26 for all the items shown here (the pencils were 50¢ each) over the course of 2 months and ended up with loads of cosmetics that are good quality and inexpensive in price.

So, go to your local 99¢ Stores and take a look @ what they have. You may just find a diamond in the rough :)

Have fun shopping, ladies!!! ^_^

A person's facial skin can vary at different times during our lives due to diet, lifestyle, habits, illnesses, and any other number of reasons. Skin Classifications (from pale to dark brown) can be ANY skin type. There are no rules when it comes down to Skin Classifications and Skin Types. There are five basic face Skin Types: Dry, Normal, Oily, Sensitive, and Combination.

It is recommended that each one of us knows what kind of skin type we have. This is necessary so we can work out how to take care of our skin and what products we should use. Remember, our skin is a living organ and not all skin types are the same or react the same to products out in the market. It is all about trial and error. What works for me may not work for you and viceversa. Also, if you become ill or even moving to a different area may affect the way products work. If you were using a product before and something in your life changes, that product may not work as well or at all anymore. Your skin adapts just like the rest of your body to any changes.

So, let's move on to describing each Skin Type and how to take care of it based on the type you are:

DRY SKIN

Dry Skin is caused by underactive or inactive oil glands that do not produce enough sebum to keep the skin naturally lubricated. It usually has a dull appearance with a thin and papery texture to it. It feels dry and itchy to the touch. Sometimes, because of the lack of sebum in the skin, it may be sensitive. The pores tend to be very fine and a patchy discoloration is not uncommon.

After a wash, the face skin feels tight. By midday, flaky patches appear on the skin. This type of skin is not prone to acne; therefore, it hardly ever breaks out.

How do I take care of my Dry Skin?

Dry skin must be hydrated regularly from the inside and the outside, which means drinking LOTS of water, misting your face throughout the day and using rich, hydrating moisturizers. A cream cleanser or make-up removers are best for this type of skin.

NORMAL SKIN

In Normal Skin, the oil glands produce sebum at a moderate rate, resulting in a balanced state - not too oily and not too dry. Normal skin looks consistently plump, moist, and vibrant. The pores on normal skin are visible (but not large or clogged), and by midday it still looks fresh and clean. It may or may not occasionally break out in spots.

How do I take care of my Normal Skin?

It is a blessing to have this type of skin, although it is uncommon. Regardless, it still needs attention and care. It benefits from regular cleansing, toning, and moisturizing.

To cleanse your skin, start by using a gentle foaming facial wash and massage it into your face. Rinse with cool water and apply toner. Dot moisturizer onto your skin and massage it in with your fingers. Voilá!

OILY SKIN

Oily Skin is caused by glands that produce too much sebum resulting in skin that has a greasy, slippery texture. It appears shiny and has large, clogged pores. Oily skin is prone to develop acne. Despite many drawbacks, oily skin generally remains looking younger and more supple over time than other skin types.

How do I take care of my Oily Skin?

Make sure to use a foaming facial wash twice. The first wash you will remove dirt and oil and will bring up oil from the underlayers to the surface. The second wash will remove the additional oil that was brought up to the surface without stripping away moisture. This prevents skin from further break-outs. Soak cotton wool in a gentle, natural astringent (such as Witch Hazel) and sweep it over your skin to refresh and cool it. Never dry your skin with a towel, you want that extra moisture to stay on the surface. Do NOT skip using moisturizer! Skipping on moisturizer will allow your skin to replenish any oils it feels it's missing aggravating the problem. Instead, with a wet face, apply your moisturizer and rub onto your skin until it sinks into it. You will notice the difference within 2 weeks :)

SENSITIVE SKIN

Sensitive Skin can be dry, normal, or combination. It is characterized by its delicacy, which is why a lot of dermatologists believe this is a condition more than a skin type. This skin type frequently reacts adversely to environmental conditions and cosmetics containing alcohol, synthetically manufactured oil-type ingredients, and artificial colors. It often requires special treatments in order to remain in good condition.

How do I take care of my Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin benefits greatly from natural, gentle, or mineral skin care products and treatments, including light steaming and some essential oils.

Also, do not use facial washes or soap, instead use a light, hypoallergenic cleansing lotion. Use a moisturizer to strengthen your skin and provide a barrier against irritants. Make sure to use unperfumed moisturizer so you don't irritate your skin.

COMBINATION SKIN

Most people have at least two different types at any given time. It is the most common skin type in the world. Combination skin is usually characterized by an oily "T-Zone" area (forehead, nose, and chin) while the skin around the cheeks, eyes, and mouth is normal or dry.

How do I take care of my Combination Skin?

The different types of skin call for different treatments, so people with combination skin should assess their skin regularly and use different products on different areas of the face.

In the mornings, used a foaming facial wash to cleanse your skin. In the evenings, use a cream cleanser to soothe the dry areas. This will keep a balance between excess dryness and excess oiliness. Use a strong astringent for your oily areas and a mild skin freshener for the dry areas. Use moisturizer on your whole face, but make sure to concentrate on the drier areas.

The first step towards beautiful skin is nutrition. The second one (just as important) is knowing what your skin type is. This is necessary so you can work out how to take care of your skin and what products you should use. Since not all skin types are the same, not all products will work in the same manner, plus they can aggravate a recurring problem if the right products are not used.

Before we get into skin types and how to take care of them, I would like to describe what skin is, what it is composed of and what its functions are.

The Skin is the outer covering of the body. The skin is composed of three primary layers: the epidermis (top layer) provides waterproofing and serves as a barrier to infections, the dermis (middle layer) serves as a location for the appendages of skin (such as sebaceous glands and hair follicles), and the hypodermis (lowermost layer) consists of loose connective tissue and lobules of fat. The skin is the largest organ of the Integumentary System, which is the organ that protects the body from damage. The Ingumentary System is comprised of skin, hair, scales, and nails.

There are six skin classifications. Skin is classified based on its reaction to ultraviolet radiation (UVA/UVB).

TYPE	DEFINITION	DESCRIPTION	ETHNICITY
I	Always burns but never tans	Pale, Fair, Freckles*	Northern European Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, Norway, Sweden, UK
II	Usually burns, sometimes tans	Fair*	Central European Austria, Croatia, Germany, parts of Northern Italy, Serbia, Switzerland
III	May burn, usually tans	Light brown*	Eastern European Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Ukraine
IV	Rarely burns, always tans	Olive Brown	Southern European Bosnia and Herzegovina, France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain
V	Rarely burns, always tans	Brown	Latin American, Middle Eastern Mexico, most of Central and South America, Caribbean Islands; Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kwait, Saudi Arabia, Turkey
VI	Never burns, always tans	Dark Brown	African African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, Afro-Latin American, Black-British, Black Canadians, Continental Africans

*Asians may fall under any of these 3 categories.


Within the six classifications, there are also 5 skin types: Oily, Normal, Dry, Sensitive, and Combination.

In the next episode about Skin, we will talk about the different Skin Types and how to take care of them. I hope you are enjoying my blog! :)

A vitamin is an organic compound required as a nutrient in small amounts by any living organism. Compound means "something composed of two or more parts". A vitamin is a compound because our bodies cannot create or generate sufficient quantities; therefore, it must be combined with the sufficient amounts we obtain from diet to, not only survive but, be healthy.

The term vitamin does not include any other essential nutrients such as dietary minerals, essential fatty acids or animoacids, or any other large number of other nutrients that promote health.

Vitamins are classified by their biological and chemical activity and not by their structure. A vitamin refers to a set of chemicals which all show the same biological reactions in the body and are grouped together under an alphabetized name. For example, Vitamin A is composed of Retinal, Retinol, and Carotenoids - these compounds are inter-converted in the body. All vitamin components are inter-convertors, which means they use each other to convert into other necessary elements for our health.

All vitamins have a diverse biochemical function in the body. For example, Vitamin D is used to create hormones, Vitamin E is used to create antioxidants, and Vitamin A is used to create cell mediators.

Now that we understant what vitamins are and how they work, let's break down the most important vitamins we need to promote a healthy skin and body:

VITAMIN A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin composed of Retinol, Retinoids, and Carotenoids. It was discovered in 1909 in the form of Retinol in Cod Liver Oil. Vitamin A promotes healthy skin because it helps strengthen skin and repair tissues. It can be taken in foods, as a supplement, or as a topical cream (a cream that you can apply directly to the skin surface). Vitamin A can help prevent dry skin and acne, as well as a treatment to prevent wrinkles.

Its deficiency can cause night-blindness (a condition which makes it impossible to see in low light) and Keratomalacia (an eye disorder that leads to a dry cornea). Overdosing on Vitamin A can cause Hypervitaminosis A, which can cause birth defects, liver problems, osteoporosis, skin discoloration, hair loss, among other things. The recommended daily intake is 3000 IU (International Units). Vitamin A can be found in the following foods: Eggs, whole milk, liver, carrots, mango, spinach, breakfast cereal, etc.

VITAMIN B

Vitamin B is the largest water-soluble complex of vitamins. Many vitamins before (corresponding from F to J) were reclassified over time because of their relationship to Vitamin B; therefore, Vitamin B instead of being only one vitamin became a complex of vitamins. The Vitamin B complex helps keep your skin tone healthy. It is also a great vitamin complex for relieving stress, as well as a preventer for some skin problems (such as eczema) that can be caused by stress. Because of the different properties of each part of the complex, they are classified into different categories:

Vitamin B1 was discovered in 1912 in the form of Thiamine in Rice Bran. Vitamin B1 is an antioxidant that helps rid the body of toxins. It can also assist circulation. Its deficiency can cause Beriberi (a nervous system ailment that causes fatigue) and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (vision changes, ataxia, and impaired memory). Overdosing on Vitamin B1 can cause hypersensitive reactions resembling anaphylactic shock and drowsiness. The recommended daily intake is 1.2 mg (miligrams).

Vitamin B2 was discovered in 1920 in the form of Riboflavin in Eggs. Vitamin B2 helps keep the skin healthy. It can also prevent acne. Its deficiency can cause Ariboflavinosis (redness and swelling of the mouth and throat mucosa). In humans, there is no evidence for Riboflavin toxicity produced by excessive intake. The recommended daily intake is 1.3 mg.

Vitamin B3 was discovered in 1936 in the form of Niacin in Liver. Vitamin B3 improves circulation. Its deficiency can cause Pellagra (diarrhea, dermatitis, dementia, death). Overdosing on Vitamin B3 can cause permanent liver damage. The recommended daily intake is 16.0 mg.

Vitamin B5 was discovered in 1931 in the form of Pantothenic Acid in Liver. Vitamin B5 helps reduce stress. Its deficiency can cause Paresthesia (sensation of tingling, pricking, or numbness of a person's skin). In humans, large doses of Pantothenic Acid have no reported side effects, but may yield mild intestinal distress and diarrhea at worst. The recommended daily intake is 5.0 mg.

Vitamin B6 was discovered in 1934 in the form of Pyridoxine in Liver. Vitamin B6 keeps the immune system healthy. Its deficiency can cause Anemia (deficiency of hemoglobin found in red blood cells). Overdosing on Vitamin B6 can cause Proprioception (the sense of relative position of internal parts of the body in relation to each other and the sense whether the body is moving with required effort) and Nerve Damage. The recommended daily intake is 1.3 to 1.7 mg.

Vitamin B7 was discovered in 1931 in the form of Biotin in Liver. Vitamin B7 is a cofactor in the metabolism of fatty acids and leucine, which slows the degradation of muscle tissue. Its deficiency can cause Dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) and Enteris (inflammation of the small intestine). There are no reported cases of adverse effects from receiving high doses of Biotin. The recommended daily intake is 30.0 µg (micrograms).

Vitamin B9, better known as Folic Acid, was discovered in 1941 in Liver. Vitamin B9 is essential to produce healthy red blood cells and prevent anemia. Folic Acid is especially important during periods of rapid cell division and growth. Its deficiency during pregnancy is associated with birth defects. In normal conditions, its deficiency causes loss of apetite, weight loss, weakness, and behavioral disorders. Overdose of Folic Acid can cause a decrease in seizure threshold. The recommended daily intake is 400 µg.

Vitamin B12 was found in the form of Cyanocobalamin in Liver. It is composed of Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxycobalamin, and Methylcobalamin. Vitamin B12 assists in the normal function of the brain and nervous system, as well as formation of blood. Its deficiency can cause Megaloblastic Anemia (large, immature red blood cells in the bone marrow and inhibition of DNA replication). Overdose of Vitamin B12 and Pyridoxine together can cause rosacea; overdose of vitamin B12 by itself can cause diarrhea; overdose of vitamin B12 in the form of Cyanocobalamin can cause Leber's Disease (optic nerve atrophy, which is hereditary). The recommended daily dose intake is 2.4 µg.

Vitamin B can be found in the following foods: Wheat germ, oatmeal, whole wheat, bran, whole brown rice, dairy products, milk, liver, kidney, fish, eggs, etc.

VITAMIN C

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin discovered in 1912 in the form of Ascorbic Acid in Lemons. Vitamin C helps with healing of wounds and other damage to the skin. There is some evidence to suggest it may even rejuvenate skin. Vitamine C also helps the immune system fight off illnesses.

Its deficiency can cause Scurvy (spots on the skin, spongy gums, and bleeding from the mucous membranes). Although Vitamin C can be well tolerated at doses well above recommendation, Vitamin C Megadosage may cause stomach upset and laxative effects. The recommended daily dose is 90 mg. Vitamin C can be found in the following foods: Oranges, grapefruit, mandarins, lettuce, spinach, green peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, cabbage, etc.

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin composed of Ergocalciferol and Cholecarciferol. It was discovered in 1918 as Calciferol in Cod Liver Oil. Vitamin D is an antioxidant that plays a role in skin pigmentation as well as well as a calcium and phosphorus regulator in our blood.

Its deficiency can cause Rickets (softening of the bones) and Osteomalacia (bone demineralization). Overdosing on Vitamin D can cause Hypervitaminosis D, which causes dehydration, vomiting, anorexia, irritability, constipation, and fatigue. The recommended daily dose is 5.0 - 10.0 µg. Vitamin D can be found in the following foods: Milk, fortified rice, fortified margarine, salmon, tuna, liver, cheese, etc. Surprisingly, our bodies can also produce it naturally with the help of sunlight (Open your windows people!!).

VITAMIN E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin composed of Tocopherol and Tocotrienols. It was discovered in the form of Tocopherol in Wheat Germ Oil. Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant that prevents free radicals from damaging the skin. Vitamin E is good to take when your skin is suffering from damage from the sun or other factors.

Its deficiency is very rare; however, it can cause Hemolytic Anemia in newborns (abnormal breakdown of red blood cells). Overdosing of Vitamin E can cause Increased Congetive Heart Failure in adults and Congenital Heart Defects in unborned babies. The recommended daily dose is 15.0 mg. Vitamin E can be found in the following foods: Almonds, sunflower seeds, peanut butter, hazelnuts, safflower oil, spinach, broccoli, mango, etc.

VITAMIN K

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin composed of Phylloquinone and Menaquinones. It was discovered in 1929 in the form of Phylloquinone in Alfalfa. Vitamin K helps the modification of certain proteins but is mostly required for blood coagulation.

Its deficiency can cause Bleeding Diathesis (unusual susceptibility to hemorrhaging). There is no known toxicity associated with high doses of the Phylloquinone or Menaquinone forms of vitamin K and therefore no tolerable intake level has been set; however, vitamin K3 (Menadione, Vitamin K in synthetic form) has been shown to be toxic. In fact, the FDA has banned this synthetic form of the vitamin from over-the-counter supplements as large doses have been shown to cause allergic reactions, Hemolytic Anemia, and cytotoxicity to liver cells. The recommended daily dosage is 120 µg. Vitamin K can be found in the following foods: Spinach, swiss chard, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, avocado, kiwi, etc.

Hopefully, now that we understand how vitamins work, we'll be able to create a diet richer in them and be more consciencious about the vitamin supplements we take on a constant basis so we can help our skin and bodies look and feel a million times better ^_^!

So, I have continued further research about websites that carry inexpensive cosmetics, so we are all able to afford make-up without having to make holes into our pockets. And, the way the economical situation is in the world, we all should take all the help we can get ;)
So, here's another small grain of sand from my wisdom to yours. Enjoy!!

COSMETICJUNKIELOVER.COM - Forget about buying NYX Cosmetics directly from their website. Forget about buying NYX Cosmetics from Cherry Culture. If you want NXY for great prices, this is the website to go to! They have cut the prices for ALL NXY products by 35%. You can't say that is not a deal...

STARSMAKEUPHAVEN.COM - The Stars Makeup Haven website is truly great. They carry all sorts of different name brands, including M.A.C, at discounted prices; however, my favorite feature is their M.A.C Pigment Sample section. If you want to try new products from M.A.C but don't want to pay full price for something that you may or may not like, it's time to check out this website. They carry pretty much everything you wanna try. The samples are pretty generous (1/4 teaspoon) and the prices are wonderful. Go check it out!

BESTBEAUTYONLINE.COM - The Best Beauty Online website has all Jordana products available online. All their products are of great quality and are super inexpesive. Every Jordana product featured in this website is less than $2. Who beats that!?

BEAUTYDEALS.NET - The Beauty Deals website has lots of wonderful products that range from make-up to hair to skin to tools and everything in between. Everything has a bit of a discount and they have a great selection. Not only that, but they also always have some sort of coupon for their customers with extra savings. Remember that coupons mean savings and, right now, we should save as much as we can.

HAIRRETAIL.COM - Hair Retail is a website that carries a large variety of hair products at 10-15% off retail prices. They always have some sort of discount on their Coupon section that is worth checking out.

Go shop and enjoy the savings these websites provide for their customers and take advantage of that extra money you'll have in your wallet ;)

Us women tend to create a collection of make-up because we either found THAT color we were looking for, because we are simply obsessed with make-up, because you just couldn't resist the one color you have never tried before, because that color would look PERFECT with the one you already own, because...no reason, just because. And it's this desire that sometimes makes us go broke T_T LOL.

Well...I have a small solution to a big problem. Over time, I have found this great selection of websites were one can shop for an amazing selection of products that are also priced at incredibly low prices. These websites are perfect for people who (like me) are on a budget or who simply love a good deal (which would be just about anyone in this world). Some of these websites you may already know. Some others are completely new...Regardless, make sure to check them out - you won't regret it one bit.
So, here goes...Hope you find some great deals from these great websites available to you!!

BEAUTYCRUNCH.COM - The Beauty Crunch website carries a few brand name cosmetics, such as Stila and Too Faced, among other not-so-well-known brands. The beauty of this website is that every single product you find in here is 40% OFF!! Go check it out and find some great-quality products for yourself or for someone you know!

CHERRYCULTURE.COM - The Cherry Culture website carries cosmetic brands that are fairly new in the industry, such as Santee, NYX, L.A. Colors, and SUGAR Cosmetics. They have TONS of products that are of amazing quality. Most of the time, the products in this website are at regular price; however, they always have a Clearance Section and Special Offers, such as Two (or three) products for the price of one. Their prices are super inexpensive. Inexpensive does not mean cheap, so go check it out!!

EYESLIPSFACE.COM - The EyesLipsFace website sells E.L.F. Cosmetics, which are a brand new line of cosmetics from the United States. They sell every single of their main line products for $1. They also have other lines, such as their Mineral line - that sells for $3 a piece - and their high end line, Studio, which sells for $3 a piece as well! The quality of the lower end line products is super affordable and, as you can see, absolutely super accessible to everyone!

HEARTBREAKERCOSMETICS.COM - The Heart Breaker Cosmetics website features an independent line of mineral cosmetics. They are incredibly easy to blend, really good for your skin, really pigmented with beautiful colors and, best of all, super affordable! My favorite thing about this website is that they allow you to sample their products for $1 for about 1/8 of a teaspoon and they do not have a limit on how many products you can sample at a time. It's a GREAT way to check out products that you may or may not like and not break the bank ;)

COASTALSCENTS.COM - The Coastal Scents website has been the talk of the town (or rather the country) for quite a while. Their products are very comparable to M.A.C Cosmetics (which obviously are top-notch) and at half the cost making them super affordable to every pocket. They have a HUGE line of cosmetics and are always expanding but, of course, the best deal of all, are their eyeshadow and blush palettes. If you want great quality, fantastic prices, and excellent color pay-off, this is the website for you!

ADORNEDWITHGRACE.COM - The Adorned With Grace website is an independent line of mineral cosmetics. They offer great products at really inexpensive prices. Also, they have a really cool permanent promotion where you can sample (1/8 teaspoon) their cosmetics for $1 each or 15 samples for $12. This is another website who cares about the pockets of their consumers and has great products to back them up.

I hope you find some great deals in these websites. Enjoy your cosmetic shopping!! ^_^*

Cosmetic Ingredients come from a wide variety of sources but, unlike food, we rarely stop to think what they are made of or what they are composed of.

Cosmetics, very often, have vibrant colors that come from rather unexpected sources, such as crushed insects and rust; however, many new technological advances have allowed cosmetics manufacturers to combine diverse elements to creat such colors; therefore, the use of animals (or their parts) has been declining for a number of years. Nowadays, the need to utilize animals for cosmetic creating has virtually been eliminated all thanks (in large part) to the efforts of groups against animal cruelty, such as PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and Beauty Without Cruelty among others.

Over the years, the ingredients the Ancients utilized have changed dramatically as we discover new ways to manufacture our own scents and cosmetic formulas. Also, the realization of danger in many of the most common cosmetic ingredients has impacted the growing cosmetic industry.

Cosmetics include a variety of ingredients that are actually things we commonly use in our kitchens. These kitchen products are very commonly used as food or things we utilize in the kitchen as meal ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables or oils and powders. Prime examples of this are olive oil, sugar, teas, honey, berries, eggs, etc. which are very commonly found at home.

Most of us don't even cosider what is in our make-up products because most of the colors and ingredients found in cosmetics are listed under numbers assigned by the Colour Index International or C.I. for its initials, which is a reference database jointly maintained by the Society of Dyers and Colorists and the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists. This database covers colors used in food, personal care products, cosmetics, household products, and fabric dyeing. So, you will never see colors or ingredients listed as 'avocado green' or 'strawberry red' on your cosmetics; instead, you will find the number assigned to a specific color based on its most basic components. For example, Tartrazine is a synthetically created lemon-yellow color, which is commonly listed as FD&C Yellow 5 or C.I. 19140. In the vegetable world, beta-carotene is what gives lemons their color; however, neither animals nor other chemicals are able to reproduce this color. Because of this, the C.I. has chemically produced Tartrazine so this color is commonly available for cosmetic creation and a number has been assigned to it from the same database.

Cosmetic colorants are highly regulated. Each country (or group of countries) has their own regulatory agency that controls what can go into cosmetics. In the United States, the regulatory body is the Food and Drug Administration, also known as FDA. The FDA can request a recall on a product from the market if the company refuses to remove any unsafe ingredient included in it. The FDA is also capable of doing work with the Department of Justice to remove contaminated or misbranded products, they can request a restraining order to prevent further shipments, and they can take action against a company violating the law. The FDA can and does perform constant inspections of cosmetic companies.

Strong red for eyeshadows have been produced over the years through the use of carmine. Carmine is made from carminic acid, which is extracted from the crushed bodies of the Cochineal Insect. Carmine was once the only bright red color permitted by the FDA to use around the eyes.

The red we now commonly find in lipstick actually comes from synthetically-derived pure Iron Oxide (one of the main components in rust). Generally, the pigment is crushed very finely and mixed with castor oil and a wax base to form a finished lipstick.

Titanium DiodePearlescence (sometimes listed as Pearl Essence) is a shine or gloss commonly used in cosmetic products. The most usual source of Pearl Essence is the natural mineral Mica mixed by a thin layer of Titanium Dioxide. This chemical combination causes 'goniochromism', more commonly known as iridescence, which is an optical phenomenon in which hue changes with the angle in which a surface is viewed, allowing an interference effect in the changes of color on cosmetics. Other alternatives to create this 'pearlescent' effect exist, such as combining a wax (such as Glycol Distearate) with a shimmery substance found on the scales of small, oily fish found in the North Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, called Herring. This combination was primarily used in nail polish; however, due to its high cost, it has been substitured with Bismuth Oxychloride Flakes.

As you can see, we have a lot of products available to us from home for cosmetic usage as well as well-regulated products we can purchase from the store shelves. It's all in the way we apply them, and how well-informed we are as consumers about the products we use on our faces and bodies.

Hey guys,
I just wanted to post some goodness I have up for sale. I have purchased these items over time and, most of them, have been used once or twice at the most by me (if they have been used more than once or twice, it will be notated just below the image).
If you are interested, please fill out the following information and place it with your comment:

Name:
Email:
Item # and Item Description:
Price:

For Example:

Name: Jane
Email: xxxjanexxx@emailaddress.com
Item #: 0001-00001111
Item Description: Funky Monkey Plush
Price: $10.00

If you have any questions in regards to any of the items listed, just leave me a comment and I will try to answer your questions within 24 hours. Thank you all for checking out my items. I hope you enjoy them!! :)

(This is only the SECOND part. There are more coming up!!)

( More luscious jewels HERE! )

Hey guys,
I just wanted to post some goodness I have up for sale. I have purchased these items over time and, most of them, have been used once or twice at the most by me (if they have been used more than once or twice, it will be notated just below the image).
If you are interested, please fill out the following information and place it with your comment:

Name:
Email:
Item # and Item Description:
Price:

For Example:

Name: Jane
Email: xxxjanexxx@emailaddress.com
Item #: 0001-00001111
Item Description: Funky Monkey Plush
Price: $10.00

If you have any questions in regards to any of the items listed, just leave me a comment and I will try to answer your questions within 24 hours. Thank you all for checking out my items. I hope you enjoy them!! :)

(This is only the FIRST part. There are more coming up!!)

( All the goodness is HERE! )