We are pleased to announce that our fabulous La Vie Celeste Day and Night Restorative Face Cream with R-Lipoic Acid will be included in the celebrity gift bags at the Golden Globes this coming Janauary…very exciting!
La Vie Celeste Now Has a Registered Trademark Name
May 6th, 2010We are pleased to announce that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has just officially approved our company name, “La Vie Celeste” with a registered trademark. Our company, formally known as “Lumiere Celeste,” applied for the trademark application one year ago. So, this has been a long time in the making! The English translation of “La Vie Celeste” in the Mark is “The Heavenly Life,” something we are truly inspired by.
The Signs of Menopause
May 4th, 2010This article is brought to you by our guest author at www.hormones-beauty-health.com. A great read for all of you women in permimenopause and menopause. Visit their site for the latest and greatest information on hormones and your health. Check out their newest e-book on this very subject…Thanks, Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
Medical standards describe the technical start of menopause as the point in time when a woman has missed menstrual periods continuously for one full year. On average, this occurs around the age of 51; however, many women suffer from menopausal symptoms long before this age. This can lead to much confusion and stress in women experiencing pre-menopause. So how do we determine what the signs of menopause are? What are the classic menopause symptoms and when should you be concerned.
Irregular Periods: The clinical definition of an irregular period is a menstrual cycle that is irregular for you based on your history. We all at one point in time experience irregular menstrual cycles due to stress and other external factors. Therefore, one irregular menstrual cycle in context, is usually just an anomaly. Common irregularities to look for in terms of the onset of menopause include; having a period only one to four times in a 12-month period, having periods two to three times in one month and extremely heavy bleeding occurring every two to three months.
Decreased Fertility: A slightly harder sign to self diagnose. One of the more well known signs of menopause is a decrease in fertility.
Vaginal Dryness: For women in long term, committed relationships, this is an easier sign to identify. Although this affliction can occur at any age, it is also a common sign of menopause. Caused by hormonal changes, symptoms include itching and stinging around the vaginal opening and lower third of the vagina which can make intercourse uncomfortable.
Hot Flashes: Hot flashes, or night sweats if they occur at night, are also caused by the hormonal changes that occur during menopause. Hot flashes are feelings of intense heat or sweating that come on rapidly and last for two to thirty minutes. Reddening of the facial skin is often present with the skin at times even being hot to the touch. These episodes can happen several times a day or a few times a week. They will occur more frequently and may increase in intensity the closer you are to the official start of menopause.
Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia is the most common compliant occurring in over 50% of surveyed menopausal women. Others may develop sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome and snoring.
Mood Swings: Women of all ages at one time or another have suffered from heighten moods and even unpredictable mood changes. However, the menopausal woman will often suffer from mood swings that even she cannot explain. The underlying hormonal changes heighten and intensify normal mood patterns causing intense extremes or mood swings.
Increased Abdominal Fat: As if menopausal women don’t have enough to worry about or cope with, as your body takes this journey it also changes how it stores fat. As you enter menopause you may notice changes in your physique that include an increase in abdominal fat.
Thinning Hair: Hair loss that occurs during menopause is quite common. It will vary from slight hair loss to dramatic hair loss that causes bald spots. Hair loss caused by change of life is different from that caused by aging and genetics. Serious cases are usually treatable and possibly reversible.
So, once you understand the signs of menopause, what do you do with this information and when should you seek medical help? It is important to see your doctor annually for your yearly check-up. As you approach that magic number one associates with menopause, pay attention to your body and document when you see any of the above changes. Discuss them with your doctor as well as the options you may choose to manage these and other symptoms brought about by the hormonal changes that cause menopause.
This article is brought to you by www.hormones-beauty-health.com, bringing you health, anti-aging, and skin care products from around the world. Shop online at www.ihd.myarbonne.com or contact us: sales@hormones-beauty-health.com.
Carcinogen Found in Many “Natural” Skin Care Products, One Specialist Fight Back
May 2nd, 2010For Further Information Contact:
Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
La Vie Celeste Skin Care, Inc.
2753 Broadway/Suite 362
New York, NY 10025
1-866-921-9599
sales@laviecelesteskincare.com
Carcinogen Found in Many “Natural” Skin Care Products, One Skin Care Specialist Fights Back
April 15, 2010 – Dr. Teri Dourmashkin was shocked when she found the results of a recent study: a number of skin care products that claim to be “natural” or “organic” have cancer-causing ingredients.
The Organic Consumers Association (OCA) revealed that ethoxylation – a process that provides mildness to harsher ingredients – produces 1, 4-Dioxane, which, according to the state of California, is a chemical that causes cancer. Because it is considered a by-product, companies are not required to list 1, 4-Dioxane on their labels. While this has been already revealed to be present in a number of conventional skin care products, this is the first time the toxin is shown to be in many self-proclaimed, but not certified, “natural” and “organic” products.
“People purchase ‘natural’ and ‘organic’ products because they feel these products will be better for their health,” says Dr. Dourmashkin, who holds a Doctoral Degree in Health Education from Columbia University. “These ‘natural’ labels may mislead consumers into rubbing toxins on their skin.”
For this reason, Dr. Dourmashkin founded La Vie Celeste Skin Care, Inc., and is releasing a new line of anti-aging skin care products designed to take advantage of powerful antioxidants and other natural ingredients – without opening you up to the risk of overexposure to many harmful ingredients.
In particular, Dr. Dourmashkin uses only R-Lipoic Acid in both her face and eye creams. Research indicates that R-Lipoic Acid may have far superior anti-aging properties when compared to the more commonly used Alpha Lipoic Acid.
“By only using non-toxic ingredients, we make La Vie Celeste products safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Our products can help bring back a healthy, youthful appearance that can help boost a woman’s confidence, with no harm done to her skin or her health.”
La Vie Celeste’s complete line of anti-aging products is available for immediate purchase at http://www.laviecelesteskincare.com, or you may call 1-866-921-9599. The products will soon be available at the New York City Fifth Avenue office of Dr. Raphael Kellman, M.D., who specializes in internal and holistic medicine.
“La Vie Celeste Day and Night Restorative face cream truly represents the next phase in cosmetics. I highly recommend it to my patients,” Dr. Kellman Stated.”
More Great Inexpensive Make-Up Finds
April 16th, 2010By Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
These days, I just love it when I find beautiful and affordable make-up. I cannot even wrap my brain around the thought of spending $50.00 on a powder compact foundation or an eye shadow quad which I use to do on a regular basis.
Here is another great inexpensive find I would love to share with you by the cosmetic company, Jane. Their newest entry is called, Jane BE PURE Aqua Ceuticals and is made with certified organic ingredients (how many will vary from product to product). The eye shadow quads are fabulous and come in both matte and shimmer. The color choices are beautiful and they do not seem to fade or crease. And they cost a whopping $6.50 each. How much better does it get than that?
The shades are Dusk, Sandstorm, Reef, and Bamboo. An equivalent product in a department store would cost $32.00 and up. The compact comes with a handy built in mirror and is made from 100% recyclable packaging.
Sometimes we really need to pick and choose when it comes to spending our hard earned money. Other items such as high quality skincare is often difficult to find at bargain basement prices simply because the ingredients used are often costly to produce. So, it is nice to know that we can skimp in other areas and still look beautiful!
Enjoy!
Tricoslan: US Committee Chairman Calls For Ban On This Widely Used Chemical
April 13th, 2010By Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
Representative Edward J. Markey of Washington D.C., has called for a ban on Tricoslan, a widely used chemical which can be found in many consumer products. Tricoslan is a synthetic broad spectrum antimicrobial agent commonly used in anti-bacterial soaps. However, it can also be found in cosmetics, deodorants, toothpaste, dish washing liquid, and even children’s toys.
According to some experts, Tricoslan belongs to a class of chemicals which is suspected of causing cancer in humans. It is registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a pesticide. Some potential dangers include abnormalities to the endocrine system (most notably the thyroid), as well as contributing to antibiotic resistance. Other health concerns include allergies, contact dermatitis and skin irritation. There are also environmental concerns since waste water plants do not remove Tricoslan from the water (it is very stable over time).
Representative Markey stated, “Despite the fact that this chemical is found in everything from soaps to socks, there are many troubling questions about tricoslan’s effectiveness and potentially harmful effects, especially for children” (Source: Cosmetics design.com. 4/2010).
While the FDA has been investigating the safety of Tricoslan, Markey’s statement will likely add more pressure to their review. The FDA issued the following statement in response to Markey’s warning, “In 1997, the FDA reviewed extensive effectiveness data on tricoslan in Colgate Total toothpaste. The evidence showed that tricoslan in this product was effective in preventing gingivitis.” However, they also stated that while they do not have sufficient safety data to change their recommendations regarding consumer use of tricoslan, they also do not have evidence that it is any more effective than using soap and water.
Tricoslan has come under recent fire on both sides of the Atlantic. In 2008, the company, International NGO ChemSec, listed Tricoslan among 267 chemicals which were categorized as “high concern,” urging manufacturing companies to find safer alternatives in the cosmetics industry. At least one European company has found a safer alternative for use in anti-bacterial deodorant.
Tricoslan can be found in the following products (note: this is only a sampling of products and not a complete list)
Dial Liquid Soap, Dawn Dish Washing Detergent, Soft Soap Antibacterial Hand Soap, Tea Tree Therapy Liquid Soap, CVS Antibacterial Soap, Phisoderm Antibacterial Cleanser, Reach Antibacterial Toothbrush, Colgate Total Breeze Tricoslan Mouthwash, Jason Natural Cosmetics, Garden Botanica Powder Foundation, Mavala Lip Base, Revlon Color Stay Lip Shine Lip Color Plus Gloss, Right Guard Sport Deodorant, Old Spice High Endurance Deodorant Stick.
What do you think?
Sensitive Skin: Great Tips For Calming And Treating Your Delicate Skin
April 8th, 2010By Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
Many people report having sensitive skin. Sensitive skin can encompass many things and may mean different things to different people. Sensitive skin types can experience irritation, redness and or burning sensations, particularly when trying a new product (s).
Rosacea is a very common skin condition and is often experienced by those with sensitive skin. Rosacea is characterized by inflammation and often looks like red splotches or broken bloods vessels, and can also be characterized by small pimples or breakouts. Some experts theorize that rosacea may be the result of bacterial of fungal infection.
Those with rosacea must make sure they use super gentle products that will not exacerbate this condition. There are medications that physicians can prescribe for rosacea. Additionally, there are all natural substances which can also help. Look for ingredients such as R-Lipoic Acid, Green Tea and Chamomile. These contain anti-inflammatory properties and are also very gentle and provide great anti-aging benefits.
The La Vie Celeste skin care collection offers several products which may help those with rosacea. Both our Day and Night Restorative Face Cream and our Rose Hydrosol Eye Cream contains both R-Lipoic acid and Green Tea. We also use Chamomile in several of our products, including our Illuminating Restorative Toner.
GO AS NATURAL AS POSSIBLE
When shopping, always look for brands that contain all natural skin care ingredients. While it is true that any number of natural ingredients can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some, most natural skin care products steer clear of potentially toxic ingredients which may be detrimental to your health. Also, many toxic ingredients can be harsh, irritating and drying. For example, many synthetic detergent cleansers undergo a process known as “ethoxylation,” in order to make harsh ingredients milder. This in turn produces 1, 4-Dioxane, which may cause cancer.
Our La Vie Celeste Mother of Pearl Exfoliating Cleanser is a super gentle, truly unique cleanser which is completely free of detergent, fragrance, oils and toxic preservatives. It works wonderfully for all skin types, particularly sensitive. It does not foam or create suds, which is actually desirable, since many ingredients used to produce foam are potentially toxic.
ALWAYS GO FRAGRANCE FREE
Without question, sensitive skin should always opt for fragrance free products. My recommendation is to also avoid essential oils (provides a natural fragrance) which are used in many, if not most all natural skin care lines. This is not to say that essential oils are bad; in addition to aromatherapy benefits, many also have proven benefits for the skin. Some essential oils which may irritate sensitive skin include, but are not limited to, peppermint, menthol, and eucalyptus.
USE A LIMITED NUMBER OF INGREDIENTS AND PRODUCTS
Please remember, that the more ingredients a product contains, the more you increase your risk for an allergic reaction, irritation and or breakouts. This will make it almost impossible to determine what the offending substance (s) might be. So, make sure that you purchase products which do not contain an excessive amount of ingredients. Our philosophy at La Vie Celeste is always, “less is more.” We only use the necessary ingredients which enhance the overall health and beauty of your skin.
NO DYES OR COLORS
These are usually listed as FD&C colors, followed by a number on the ingredient panel. These often contain coal tars which are derived from petroleum and may be toxic.
INCLUDE SOOTHING INGREDIENTS
Use soothing natural oils (preferably unrefined) such as apricot kernel oil, sweet almond oil, sesame seed oil, and avocado oil. Those with allergies may want to avoid using nut oils. High quality, unrefined Shea butter is also beneficial for most skin types, particularly sensitive. It may help to control conditions such as dry skin, eczema and rashes. It also penetrates almost instantly. The highest quality Shea butter can be found in our La Vie Celeste face and eye creams. Always seek the advice of your physician for any condition which becomes very painful or uncomfortable.
Treating sensitive skin can be tricky, but if you follow a “less is more strategy,” with fragrance free natural ingredients, you may see your skin reacting a lot less.
L’Oreal Named One of The World’s Most Ethical Companies
March 24th, 2010By Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
Mega cosmetics company, L’Oreal was named one of the world’s most ethical companies by the Ethisphere Institute, an international research based think tank. Applications were submitted by companies in 36 industries in 100 countries.
Criteria for the “list” was based on 7 categories including: Corporate Citizenship and Responsibility, Corporate Governance, Innovation that contributes to the Public Well Being, and Industry Leadership. L’Oreal claims it was one of the first companies in France to establish a code of business ethics in 2000. They later appointed a director of ethics in 2007 to reinforce their commitment to ethical practices.
“At L’Oreal, we consider that ethics continues where rules end and that we should always ask ourselves not ‘can we do it’ but ’should we do it,’” Emmanuel Lulin, Group Director of Ethics at L’Oreal stated. He went on to say, “Our values are present in all aspects of our activities“ (source: Cosmetics design-europe.com, 3/23/10).
In light of being added to this prestigious list, I find it interesting that L’Oreal continues to test on animals, which is completely unnecessary in this day and age, particularly for cosmetics and skin care. So, I would argue that when Mr. Lulin states, ”our values are present in all aspects of our activities,” I would agree that this is undoubtedly true. L’Oreal and the multitude of companies it owns apparently has no quams about the inhumane way in which animals are treated for the purpose of testing their products. Some of these practices include forcing large amounts of substances into animals’ stomachs, dripping chemicals into their eyes, and doing much worse. To me, this is a clear statement of their values.
I am sure L’Oreal deserves to be added to this “prestigious list,” for some of its good deeds and contributions, but certainly not for its inhumane treatment of animals. According to Peta, many companies have not updated their product testing methods since the 1920’s.
If you are unaware, L’Oreal continues to use animal testing on the following companies that it owns: Biotherm, Cacharel, Giorgio Armani, Helena Rubenstein, Lancome, Matrix Essentials, Maybelline, Redken, Softsheen and Vichy.
What do you think?
New E-Book On Women’s Hormones Is Now Available
March 12th, 2010By Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
We are pleased to announce that the E-book, “What Every Woman Must Know About Hormones,” is now available at www.hormones-beauty-health.com/ebook.htm. Definitely a great read for women of all ages!
All Natural Non-Toxic Skin Care: How You Can Sift Out The Real Deal From The Hype
March 4th, 2010By Dr. Teri Dourmashkin
With the explosion of “green” products entering the skin care market in the last year or so, it is now commonplace to find both department store and drug store shelves lined with products featuring “green packaging.” And when I say, “green,” I am not necessarily referring to those companies who are using environmentally friendly packaging. I am referring to something much more visual which entails the package design or artwork.
If you walk through any large chain drug store these days you will see a myriad of skin and body products lining the shelves with “nature inspired” design motifs which are meant to convey the image of an “all natural” product. In fact, just about every major commercial company has developed packaging within the last year or so promoting their new line of products which are made with natural botanical extracts. They run the gamut from skin creams to shampoos and conditioners.
However, if you look at the ingredient listings, you will see that not much has changed. Typically what you will find is a handful of botanical extracts thrown in for good effect. Most if not all of these companies continue to use potentially toxic synthetic ingredients. For example, many use ingredients derived from petrochemicals and PEG compounds (PEG compounds may be contaminated with 1-4 Dioxane).
So, why do these companies use this type of marketing strategy? Quite simply, it is to increase their bottom line. If market research tells them that consumers want natural products, then that is what they will attempt to give you. However, it does not mean that their product packaging or message isn’t misleading.
Going “natural” is certainly a wonderful idea provided the ingredients used are also safe and non-toxic. The reason why many prefer “all natural” is because many natural ingredients have better safety records than their synthetic counterparts. However, not all natural ingredients are safe and not all synthetic ingredients are toxic. In my opinion, the most important question is “are the products I am considering buying safe and non-toxic? For me, that is the most important criteria.
Educating yourself about certain ingredients can be very helpful and empowering. Organizations such as Skin Deep which is part of the Environmental Working Group (EWG) can help you decide which ingredients might be safer than others. They can be found at http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.org. Another wonderful organization is the Compact for Safe Cosmetics. La Vie Celeste is a proud signer (see their logo on “Our Philosophy” page of this website). They can be located at www.safecosmetics.org.
And remember, that there are no enforceable regulations that companies must comply with when it comes to labeling their products as “all natural.” Even the FDA does not regulate what goes into skin and body products.
That is why it is important to become an educated consumer. Here are some tips which can help:
1) Look for products which are made from natural oils such as jojoba, sesame seed, almond oil, etc., (unrefined is best). Avoid petrochemicals such as mineral oil and petroleum. They tend to sit on the surface of the skin, and there may be some toxicity issues as well. Natural plant botanicals such as green and white tea are also powerful antioxidants which are great for your skin.
2) Look for preservatives that are non-toxic. Products that are made with water must have an effective enough preservative (s) to ward off bacteria and mold. While some natural skin care companies rely on essential oils as a standalone preservative, the research indicates that they would need to be used at unsafe levels to adequately protect a product. At La Vie Celeste, we use Cosmocil CQ in all of our products. It is an extremely gentle, non-toxic preservative. Avoid preservatives that release formaldehyde such as imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, and sodium hydroxymethyl glycinate. And because more research needs to be done to determine the safety of parabens, it is best to avoid products that use this form of preservative.
3) Avoid very long ingredient listings–not only will this increase your risk for allergic reaction, breakouts and irritation, but chances are that a long ingredient panel will likely include several potentially toxic synthetic ingredients.
Also, remember that according to some organizations such as The Natural Ingredient Resource Center, a manufacturer can ethically state that their products are “all natural,” if at least 95% of the ingredients come from natural sources which meet their criteria. The other 5% may come from ingredients that do not meet their criteria, but do not contain synthetic fragrance, artificial colors, or petrochemicals. The toxicity of each ingredient must also be minimal.