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Tue Oct 04, 2005 9:44 pm |
Firstly I am SO GLAD that I found this forum. I have always wanted clear and soft skin and I think this is a good place to start getting to that goal. I have mild acne on my forehead and generally all over my face. My nose really makes me mad because I have A LOT of blackheads and the skin there is like rough and dry =(. I am planning to get the Dermalogica daily microfoliant and the multi-active toner, Dr. H's cleansing cream and rejuvenating mask. What do you guys think? Any advice? Thanks in advance for the help |
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Tue Oct 04, 2005 9:52 pm |
Welcome, SpicyHOt. You will also want to do the OCM for that clogged nose pores. Try it - super effective! |
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Tue Oct 04, 2005 9:55 pm |
thx for the tip, but what does ocm mean? haha sorry I never really had any experience using skin products so I don't know anything. I am trying to construct a good solid routine with the help of everyone here |
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Tue Oct 04, 2005 11:05 pm |
OMG (that's Oh my God )! Sorry I assumed everyone knew haha). OCM is oil cleansing method - the rationale is that only oil dissolves oil, and to quote a poster, it is the only thing that can break up and remove the sebum plugs that clog the pores. It works well on all skin types; it reduces oil in oily skins, and moiturises dryer ones.
lets see. Give me a minute and I'll post again. |
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Tue Oct 04, 2005 11:41 pm |
lol i see!! OCM ill remember that one, sounds very complicated but ill learn |
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Tue Oct 04, 2005 11:52 pm |
SpicyHot wrote: |
... I have mild acne on my forehead and generally all over my face. My nose really makes me mad because I have A LOT of blackheads and the skin there is like rough and dry =(. I am planning to get the Dermalogica daily microfoliant and the multi-active toner, Dr. H's cleansing cream and rejuvenating mask. What do you guys think? Any advice? Thanks in advance for the help |
Alright. I don't know what your skin type is exactly, but this basic routine I'm about to describe should work with most any type. Add into the routine any serum or eye cream according to your needs. So if I were you, I'd get the Dermalogica Microfoliant -one of my staples- and make my own DHCC, and NOT buy the other two items you mentioned, unless, of course, I have more money than I know what to do with.
1. AM & PM Remove makeup and cleanse face with your cleansing oil. Massage the oil until all the gunk comes out. Make your own oil for cleansing using a mix of castor oil and extra virgin olive oil, jojoba oil, grapeseed oil etc and a few drops of your favourite essential oil (ylang-ylang is good for oily skin - you will also find lots of posts and tips on the OCM if you do a search here).
2. PM Press and roll your homemade Dr H Cleansing Cream (better than the pricey original, IMHO). Go to Dr Hauschka's UK website to learn how to do this exactly, there's a video clip there you can watch).
3. PM 'Microfoliate' with Dermalogica Microfoliant.
4. AM &/ PMUse the ACV super toner. This is great especially on pimples, believe me! Check out the sticky skincare recipe thread, it's on the first page).
5. AM Moisturise using your favourite moisturiser on top of a vitamin C serum (you can make this also!).
PM I prefer oil to moisturise. I know some hot favourites here are ones by Decleor. I use (and prefer, since it's cheaper and works well) Eve Taylor Face Oil #3.
6. AM Apply sunblock.
This routine, in so far as my experience tells me, is an excellent pore refiner, oil and shine reducer, and spots preventer. It also has evened out my skin tone considerably and has made my skin so smooth to touch and dewey.
Let us know how you progress. I know others will have plenty of great tips for you. Enjoy the boards! |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 12:01 am |
OMG you planned everything out for me!! thats exactly what I needed!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!! ahhh I LOVE YOU!! |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 1:49 am |
Ok after doing some reading and gathering...I got loads of questions.
Found the ACV super toner recipe
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What youll need:
Apple Cider Vinegar Clean, empty 8 ounce glass or plastic bottle
Green Tea Distilled water (tap water is okay, but distilled is better!)
Vit-C (lysorbic acid) powder or crystals
Ylang Ylang essential oil (or any other essential oil of your choice)
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Found the homemade Dr H Cleansing Cream
Quote: |
What you'll need:
Fresh, whole almonds
Coffee grinder, blender or food processor (to make almond meal)
Small, airtight container
Oil of your choice (grapeseed, olive, jojoba, castor, sweet almond, etc)
Witch hazel (alcohol-free, if you can find it!)
Ylang Ylang essential oil (optional)
Lysorbic acid (aka: Vitamin C) powder or crystals
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Oh ya, I went to the uk website but couldn't find the video..maybe Im blind but I don't really need it right?
Found the Vitamin C serum
Quote: |
1/4 teaspoon of Lysorbic Acid (Vit-C) powder or crysals
5 ml distilled water
5 ml of propylene glycol (glycerin can be used instead, but I'd only recommend it for those with dry skin!)
small amber or dark blue glass bottle
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How does the above look so far? Good I hope
Now...I still don't really understand how to make the cleansing oil. I couldn't really find a recipe. How do you make yours?
I'll definitely take your advice and get the Dermalogica Microfoliant and Eve Taylor Face Oil #3. Too bad EDS doesn't carry Eve Taylor because I could just go downtown and get it. I live in Vancouver
A simple question about the sunblock. Should I apply it all year round even in winter? As well, what brand is good? or any kind of sunblock is good?
I was also wondering if the system is so easy to do and cheap, why do people bother with expensive facials and other products? Because I do believe in you get what you pay for...cause I really want to go get facials and do regular masking if it will help.
so ya...sorry if Im getting annoying for asking too much, Im eager to learn!! but thanks a bunch for helping me out, I appreciate it 100% |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 5:50 am |
Hi SpicyHot,
Here is an "article" detailing the Oil Cleansing Method that I saved when I first began using this.
Oil Cleansing Method, or OCM
When cleansing and moisturizing your skin, it is imperative that you keep in mind that oil disolves oil. Do not be afraid of applying oil to your face. Oil, alone, will not cause you blemishes. Pimples, cysts, zits, blackheads and whiteheads are a result of several different factors including hormones, bacteria, dead skin cells and the buildup of these factors. Your skin naturally produces oil because it needs it. It is not a malicious force to be reckoned with, it is there for the benefit of your skin. It is naturally occurring. Oil helps lubricate, heal, protect, and moisturize your skin so that it may function properly. Properly functioning skin is beautiful, clear, and glowing.
While I'm talking about the benefits of oil applied externally, I'd like to mention how important it is to moisturize from the inside as well. WATER! Drink no less than 8 glasses of water a day. If your skin has issues with blemishes, drink up! Water will help release and remove the toxins from within, leaving behind glowing, dewey, toned skin. Carry a bottle of water around with you throughout the day so water is always available.
Now, to the point of this article.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is used for moisture, while Castor Oil (CO) is used for cleansing. Castor Oil tends to be a bit on the thick side, so a mix of the two (EVOO/CO) is frequently used. This allows for the Castor Oil to really sink into the pores and draw out the dirt and grime to the surface. You can vary this ratio to match your skins needs. More EVOO for moisture or more CO for cleansing (25/75 EVOO/CO for Oily skin, or 75/25 EVOO/CO for dry skin). EVOO is incredibly high in antioxidants, while CO is excellent for drawing and healing. CO has been the focus of many books and medical discussion because of its seemingly "magical" healing properties. It only makes sense (after a bit of research) that one would use CO on their face to help treat blemishes and acne, or simply to make their skin look and feel better.
As quoted in The Oil That Heals by Dr. McGarey, a country doctor (unknown?) states, "Castor oil will leave the body in better condition than it found it."
The Routine:
Massage a substantial amount (the cup of your palm, while hand is held open) of EVOO/CO into your face and neck.
This is to be done over makeup or any visible dirt. Take this time to give yourself a facial massage. Really work the oil into your skin. Take your time, breathe deeply, and relax. Sit down to do this if it helps.
You, of course, do not have to sit and relax, but keep in mind that stress isn't good for your skin and you should take any moment you can to destress and let tension float away.
Take a washcloth, terry cloth or flannel preferred, and soak it in steamy hot water. Wring it out and drape it over your face.
What we are doing is steaming your face as an esthetician would, but without the steam machine. You want to open your pores. This helps release any impurities from deep within your pores.
As the washcloth begins to cool, gently wipe the oil and dirt away. This will also help remove any dead skin cells that are stubbornly clinging on.
Rinse the washcloth out in hot water and wipe away any remaining impurities. You may have to do this two or three times more to remove any remaining dirt and oil residue, but it will come off leaving your skin with a beautiful, healthy glow. No additional cleansing is necessary.
After you have rinsed well, you can either splash your face with cool water to help tone and close your pores, or if your face feels tight, you can moisturize.
If your skin feels tight, take a tiny drop of your EVOO/CO, rub it between your clean, damp palms and pat it into your damp skin. Massage any oil residue into your skin so there is no film of oil left sitting on the surface. Being prone to breakouts, myself, I've found that this is perhaps the most important step.
This is the best cleansing method I've ever used ... and it began clearing up my blackhead problem almost immediately.
Indeed I find the entire "routine" very relaxing ... and while it sounds "time consuming" it really doesn't take very long once you get the hang of it.
Hope this helps.
Mary
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 6:11 am |
I still would recommend the Dr H Rejevenating Mask, even if you are going to make the other stuff yourself. It's a fabulous mask, helps soothe the skin, refine pores and just gives my face a lovely glow. I havent used it when I've had a breakout so I dont know if it helps with that too but it definately helps to soften old scars. There are a few reviews for this in the product reviews forum.
I use it as an overnight treatment once a week (just put a thin layer on almost like a moisturiser and go to sleep) and then every month or two I do that for a whole week. This is one product that I would never go without!
Personally I wouldnt bother with the Derm Multi-Active - I didnt find it did anything special and it's quite expensive. The ACV toner seems to be very popular, though I havent tried it myself.
Good luck! |
_________________ Combo-Sensitive-Slightly oily tzone-Hormonal Pimples-Fair-Freckles-Early 20's |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 6:15 am |
Oh and by the way, I forgot to mention - I also Derm Daily Microfoliant! This is another product that I would never be without. Before I started using it, I used to get these little bits of flakey skin on my nose, which made my makeup look terrible. It keeps my skin so smooth and no flakies! It hasnt really helped clear out my pores though - that's where the DR H Cleansing Cream (or home made version) comes in handy - it's great at removing the gunk out of my nose pores and therefore making the pores look smaller. I use Microfoliant on my whole face once a day, and the DR H Cleansing Cream on my nose only once a day. |
_________________ Combo-Sensitive-Slightly oily tzone-Hormonal Pimples-Fair-Freckles-Early 20's |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 6:22 am |
hpjrt, can you use toner after using this? Also, pumpingmummy do you know if using almond meal from the supermarket is okay for making your own DrH cleansing cream,I found that cream made my skin seem worse!Didnt get rid of blackheads like it has for others |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 6:58 am |
Hi Carolb69
Yes I use Carekate's ACV toner after cleansing with OCM.
I also don't use a towel to dry my face. I just let it "air dry" ... apply the toner and let it air dry ... then apply my homemade Vitamin C serum [thanks again to Carekate] and then a drop [literally of jojoba oil on my cheeks, smoothing it over my face and neck.
In the mornings, I then apply my mineral makeup!
Hope this helps.
Mary |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 1:08 pm |
Quote: |
Because I do believe in you get what you pay for... |
IMHO, not necessarily. Consider that a formulator who spends a lot of money on advertising passes on that cost to us. If that same formulator skimps on R&D, ingredients and the manufacturing process we might be buying a poor to mediocre product that has a lot of hype but little ability to actually deliver on its promised results. Beauty is BIG business, and its a good idea for us to become educated consumers. Just my 2 cents. |
_________________ 40's; combo to oily skin recently sensitive; hormonal breakouts; rethinking skin care routine |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 1:32 pm |
Thanks hpjrt for the article, it helped clear up a lot of things. However, Im still just a little confused about the recipe. Pretty much OCM is extra virgin olive oil and castor oil. What Im wondering is should I put some jojoba oil or ylang ylang oil in for the extra little boost. If so how many drops or mL of each?
Princesita: Ya I also would like to try the Dr H Rejevenating Mask after I learn how to do a proper masking technique LOL
Now I want to get the order in which Im suppose to wash right.
After I get everything down straight, Im going to Superstore to buy my ingredients!! and finally get something started.
AM
1. OCM
2. ACV toner
3. use some kind of moisturiser
4. vitamin C serum
5. sunblock
PM
1. OCM
2. homemade Dr H CC
3. Dermalogica Microfoliant
4. ACV toner
5. use some kind of moisturiser |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 3:30 pm |
Hi again SpicyHot,
You're talking "apples and oranges" ... Ylang Ylang is an essential oil ... and jojoba is a carrier oil.
Adding essential oils to the OCM mixture is optional ... and generally one adds essential oils for a specific purpose. Lavender and Ylang Ylang are both good oils for acne or troubled skin. Tea tree is a good antibacterial which, in turn, is good for acne.
I do add an essential oil ... sweet orange oil ... which, while it's good for "congested" skin, it also smells really nice!
Jojoba oil is a great moisturizer ... and I reserve that for moisturizing my skin ... the last step.
Oh, and I found that Extra Virgin Olive Oil was "too heavy" for me ... so I use grapeseed oil with the castor oil for my routine. That's the beauty of OCM ... it's completely customizable.
Now, on a completely personal note ... I'm curious as to why you would first cleanse your face with OCM and then cleanse it again with Dr. H's CC.
After a lifetime of problem skin, I've found that the more simple the "routine" the better.
If I wanted the benefits of both OCM and Dr. H's CC ... I would do one in the evening ... and the other in the morning. Because OCM is so relaxing to do, I'd probably do that in the evening ... and because Dr. H's CC is such a good "pore cleaner" and exfoliant, I'd reserve that for my morning routine.
Also ... if you begin a routine that is too complex and/or too time consuming, there is a good chance that it will be all too easy to "skip" it should you be pressed for time ... and you don't want to do that!
Besides ... too much of a good thing can end up being "bad".
That said ... once you get the basics of your routine in hand, adding a tweak or two is a cinch.
About once a week, generally in the AM, I add baking soda to the OCM. I start with my massaging and steaming ... then I add baking soda and massage very gently, then rinse thoroughly, then tone. This gives a mild exfoliation ... and makes a great base for makeup.
Several times a week, in the PM, I'll use the Aspirin Mask ... but I never do the baking soda the morning after I've done the aspirin mask.
I'm just cautioning you against starting too many "new" things all at once. If you are doing 6 new things and your skin objects, how will you know which of those 6 caused the problem?
Just my two cents.
Mary |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 3:43 pm |
I totally appreciate everything you said. Im not purposely trying to cleanse twice, it's just that I have no idea what Im doing.
Thanks for telling me though Ill use the Dr. H's CC in the morning and OCM at night just as you said.
As well I think I'll add some of the Ylang Ylang oil to the OCM mixtrue since I do have acne.
Also I do agree with you about starting so many new things at once. It might be hard to figure out whats good and whats not. That being said I need specific instructions on exactly what to do and what not. It's so hard just figuring out what to do!! but Im glad that I have you ladies to back me up
But are you trying to say that I should use one product at a time to start? |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 4:52 pm |
hpjrt wrote: |
Hi again SpicyHot,
... I'm curious as to why you would first cleanse your face with OCM and then cleanse it again with Dr. H's CC.
Mary |
I do that! I've never thought of it being 'bad' mainly because nothing bad has so far happened as a result of my doing both OCM and DHCC in the evenings. But I think I'll take your advice and not do both every night.
Thanks! |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 5:54 pm |
Hi SpiceyHot,
No ... I'm not saying that ... exactly. What I'm trying to say is that if you have sensitive skin ... and acne ... you have to be careful.
Now ... the OCM is very good for acne ... and the Apple Cider Vinegar is very good for acne ... but you do have to start out with a more diluted version to start out ... until your skin gets used to the ACV. Start with a 25% vinegar, 75% water ratio to start ... and in a couple of weeks, up the vinegar content ... and a couple of weeks after that up it again ... until you reach a 50/50 ratio ... or whatever strength your skin can take.
Dr. H's CC is also very good for acne ... but be aware that with all of these things your skin may well go through a detoxification period ... a period of adjustment.
Some people have very finicky skin ... and can only add one new product at a time. Other people whose skin isn't quite so fussy can add a whole new routine without a problem.
You have to become aware of your own skin type ... how it reacts ... and especially with acne ... don't overdo.
I know that when there's an acne breakout one's first instinct is to attack it with everything in your arnsenal ... but from many many years of experience, I also know that too much of an attack can backfire on your face.
So ... don't scrub too much ... don't use too rough a wash cloth ... don't exfoliate too often ... etc etc.
You'll get to "know" your skin ... and what its individual tolerance level is.
I also know, at least in terms of my skin, the fewer ingredients the better.
I think that if you do OCM in the evening ... and Dr. H's CC in the morning ... with the ACV toner both morning and evening, you should be able to discern whether or not one or the other is bothering your skin.
Since both are very simple recipes ... very few ingredients really ... you shouldn't have a problem.
Just be sure to take your time and do each one according to the instructions ... and with OCM be sure that you gently remove all the cleansing oil from your face.
Oh ... and one other thing ... keep your hands and fingers away from your face. That's a hard one ... and I still have to remind myself not to rest my face in my hands ... or prop my head up with my hands. That can help enormously in reducing acne!
Another tip ... I keep a small cleaned rollon bottle [like the little rollon bottles that lip gloss comes in sometimes] full of straight apple cider vinegar ... no dilution. If a blemish "threatens", I dab a bit of this 100% ACV on it ... and often it goes away without ever actually breaking the surface.
Good luck!
Mary |
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Wed Oct 05, 2005 9:40 pm |
SpicyHot wrote: |
Thanks hpjrt for the article, it helped clear up a lot of things. However, Im still just a little confused about the recipe. Pretty much OCM is extra virgin olive oil and castor oil. What Im wondering is should I put some jojoba oil or ylang ylang oil in for the extra little boost. If so how many drops or mL of each?
Princesita: Ya I also would like to try the Dr H Rejevenating Mask after I learn how to do a proper masking technique LOL
Now I want to get the order in which Im suppose to wash right.
After I get everything down straight, Im going to Superstore to buy my ingredients!! and finally get something started.
AM
1. OCM
2. ACV toner
3. use some kind of moisturiser
4. vitamin C serum
5. sunblock
PM
1. OCM
2. homemade Dr H CC
3. Dermalogica Microfoliant
4. ACV toner
5. use some kind of moisturiser |
Hi Spicy Hot
For your AM routine, you will want to use your Vit C right after you tone. If you want/need a moisturizer it should be used after the Vit C, but before the sunscreen. What sunscreen are you planning on using, BTW?
As well, the OCM and DR H CC are very different. The DR H is not really a cleanser. Pumpingmummy, you were doing it right. It is recommended that you cleanse before you use the Cleansing Cream. The Cleansing Cream is more like a gentle exfoliant. It is so gentle though, that it can be used twice a day, which is what many do. The DR H CC, on its own, will not clean your skin; it a pore treatment. Now, that said, you might find the the DR H CC and then the Microfoliant is overkill, as both of them are exfoliants. I know some people do use them both (DR H CC twice a day, and Microfoliant in the PM) but it really depends on your skin. With the Cleansing Cream, I think it is impostnat at first to use as directed (twice a day) with the proper application technique. After a few weeks, you could drop down to once a day, and use the Microfoliant as well. As with starting any new skincare routine, I would recommend introducing the products slowly, over a few weeks. DR H also may purge your skin a bit, so just be prepared for that. One more thing...the ylang ylang oil will balance your skin's oil production. I have never had *problem skin* in my life, but started using it in my ACV toner. My skin is actually balanced after cleansing now, and I don't have to race to the moisturizer. |
_________________ ~normal but prone to dryness~slightly sensitive~usually clear~totm breakouts~mid 20s~ |
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Thu Oct 06, 2005 12:09 am |
Thanks for the replies everyone!
Ok ok, I think I got this straight.
Hpjrt: I will definitely listen to you and start with 25% vinegar and 75% water until I work my way up. Guess time will tell what happen, but I can't wait!! Oh and good idea on keeping the 100% ACV bottom. However I don't usually notice that there is a blemish. I only see it when it's like full blown pimple And I will definitely follow the instructions of everything I use. As you can see Im not afraid to ask questions or for help Hehe I love you guys.
Faith: Thanks for the tip on my AM routine I'll hold back on the Microfoliant until now like you sugguested. I am ready and prepared for my skin to get worse before it gets better. As long as I know it's normal And I have no idea what kind of sunblock to use. Know any good ones?
New Revised Routine
AM
1. OCM
2. Dr H CC
3. ACV toner
4. vitamin C serum
5. use some kind of moisturiser
6. sunblock
PM
1. OCM
2. homemade Dr H CC
3. ACV toner
4. use some kind of moisturiser
Hows that ladies? Need more improvement? JUST YELL AT ME |
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Thu Oct 06, 2005 12:41 am |
Looks good!! I would just have a spot treatment on hand for any pimples that do come up. Tea Tree oil dabbed on with a q-tip is a cheap and simple spot treatment.
As for sunscreen, my preference in La Roche Posay. I use the FE 60, but you may find it a bit heavy. One of my friends has oily skin and is very prone to acne...she use the La Roche Posay SPF 40 Gel. Not actually a gel, but much lighter than the creams and lotions. LPR is photostable and gives the best UVA protection, IMO. Just an idea...
I also don't think you will need a moisturizer in the AM after the C serum. The DIY Vit C serum is pretty moisturizing, as are many sunscreens. |
_________________ ~normal but prone to dryness~slightly sensitive~usually clear~totm breakouts~mid 20s~ |
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Thu Oct 06, 2005 2:43 am |
Ok! yay I'm finally ready to start!! Im going to buy all the stuff tmr and try it out! Im going to keep you guys updated. Thanks for everything!! CAN'T WAIT |
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Thu Oct 06, 2005 2:51 pm |
Hey guys!
I found an awesome site that has like all the oils and things I need. http://www.e-ssentialoils.com/
I was wondering what kind of Ylang Ylang oil am I suppose to get? The site offers Ylang Ylang oil-Dark, Ylang Ylang oil III, and Ylang Ylang oil extra. Which is the right one?
As well, they have the propylene glycol which I need for the Vit C Serum, but on the site it says it's Di Propylene Glycol. Is it the same stuff?
They got the witch hazel for the Dr H CC too but not sure if it's alcohol free =(
BTW, if anyone knows a better or cheaper place to get the oils in the Vancouver area, please do tell The site's prices seem kinda expensive but maybe those are the normal prices...I don' t know. THANKS! |
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Thu Oct 06, 2005 3:53 pm |
Hi again SpicyHot
I'm sure that you've got Health Food stores out in Vancouver ... they usually sell essential oils.
The beauty of picking them up in person is that you can actually smell them ... I was never fond of the Ylang Ylang ... it was too sweet. I like lavender ... loved blue chamomile ... adore sweet orange.
You should also be able to pick up a booklet or something that explains what each oil is good for. There are several that are good for acne prone skin.
Mary |
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