the importance of exfoliating, even dry skin

Skin never rests. It is constantly changing, growing, sloughing. One skin cells' life cycle is about 28 days from birth to shedding. As a skin cell makes it's way from the inner layers of skin to the outside of your body, it goes through a process of hardening. Once the skin cell is completely hardened, it has died, and serves it's role of protection for your body. Skin replaces the outer layers of dead cells with new cells to keep that safety barrier intact.

It is a constant process of regeneration. The rate at which the skin cells are moves to the surface and sloughed off is dependent on many factors, such as age, sun exposure, amount of exfoliation, treatments, skin conditions and others. Age causes cell turnover and metabolism to slow down. This lead to a decrease in lipids and moisture within the skin. This results in dead skin cells remaining on the surface longer. If the dead skin cells don't slough off, the new cells won't grow as fast, either.

To speed up the process of new cell generation, we can help our skin by exfoliating. There are chemical and mechanical means of exfoliation. Which you choose is up to you, but make sure you know what is happening to determine if you are satisfied with the ingredients that are being used.
Mechanical means of exfoliation is achieved by using a mildly abrasive substance, such as sugar, salt, pumice, oatmeal, etc, to gently scrub the dead skin cells off. This generally means that fewer or no chemicals are involved, so you don't need to worry about ingredients being absorbed into your body. You do have to use caution so that you choose an appropriate exfoliant so that you don't use something too harsh for your skin. Sugar and oatmeal are very gentle, if a small sized particle is used. These are usually in a base of lotion or oil to soothe and soften the skin during the process.

Chemical means of exfoliation is just that, a chemical that literally digests the dead skin cells. Substances such as alpha hydroxy acids, enzymes and other ingredients can be natural or artificial, but they all do the same thing. There are many different strengths available, and many treatments, like chemical peels, require you to slowly work up to using them. These chemical exfoliants generally leave skin feeling softer, though you may not really notice the difference between a chemical and a mechanical exfoliant's results.

In either case, exfoliation is vital to healthy skin. It not only softens and increases your skin's protection of your body, but it also enhances nerve stimulation and skin respiration. Exfoliation is important to your skin and overall health.

Book a facial with Pam K in Appleton at The Salon Professional Academy for a thorough skin evaluation, facial, exfoliating treatment, and a complementary service. Mention this blog DURING YOUR FACIAL consultation, and you will get a coupon for $5 off your first service making the basic facial cost only $17! Call Pam today at 920-420-2450 to book an appointment. Don't wait, call today to reserve your spot since space is limited and this offer only lasts for a few months. You won't believe the difference in your skin, and you will learn secrets to better skin health.

Why you should moisturize

People with oily skin tend to think that they don't need a moisturizer since his or her skin is already 'greasy.' In actuality, once you wash your face, you should apply a moisturizer of some kind no matter what your skin type.
Normal skin can sense when it is low on moisture. Once the face has been washed, there is no oil left. The skin senses this and starts to produce excess oil to recover from this oil loss. If you moisturize your face after washing it, the skin doesn't overproduce oil since it is already well hydrated. Overproduction of oil can result in more breakouts and shine.
You don't have to apply a heavy moisturizer if you tend to get oily later in the day, but some light cream should do the trick. If you tend to be dry all day, lean toward a richer cream that contains more oils. In any case, make sure you use a moisturizer after you wash your face to keep a healthy balance.
Know your skin type to best choose products that suit you best. Seek the advice of a qualified esthetician or dermatologist.

Esthetician in the making

Hello everyone. This is a happy post for me since I am embarking on a new endeavor that will help me make better products, serve my clients better, and expand my skin care knowledge.
I have enrolled in a six month Esthetician's training course from a certified cosmetology school in Appleton. The school is The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) located in the College Center Plaze just off Hwy 41.
While I am a student there, I am learning about skin care, waxing, and makeup. Once I complete the course and pass the state board examination, I will be certified to do facials, waxing, and makeup application.
Thankfully, I have a fair amount of knowledge on the subjects already, given my Bachelor's Degree in Microbiology/Chemistry, but I am learning a lot about more specific conditions and treatments that are available. It is very exciting for me and I am enjoying it thoroughly.
Starting in mid-May, I will be taking clients at the TSPA at greatly reduced prices.
I have coupons at the store that entitle you to $5 off your first service with me. If you refer more clients to me, you receive $5 off for each referral. Simply fill out the back of a coupon (get more from me at the store) and send your friend in for a service. Once the friend books a service and redeems her coupon, you will have credit at the Academy toward future services. There is no limit to the number of friends you can refer and get discounts for.

These services are great for your skin, and will help you learn how to better care for and maintain your skin at home. Once licensed, I plan to perform these services in Oshkosh, but the prices will be higher. Now is your chance to get in on the good deals (only until October 1, 2009)!

From the experience of the instructors at the school, space is limited and will fill up fast, so call me(420-2450) or the Academy(968-0433) right away to schedule your service (Facials are a relaxing 1½ to 2 hours).

Services starting at:

Corrective Facial $22

Spa Package- 4 Facials $66

Corrective Facial Add-on's $5 each:
- Detoxifying Mask - Eye Mask - Lip Buff - Acne
- Clarifying Mask - Glycolic - Light Plex

Back Facial $20

Lip wax $8

Brow wax $8

Chin wax $8

Arm wax $12

Underarm $12

Bikini $16

Full leg $25

Half leg $15

Full Back $20

Partial Back $12

Makeup Application $10

Available times & dates for full facials: (subject to change)

Saturdays 9AM 10:30 AM 12:30PM 2PM

May 23 June 13, 27 July 11, 25 Aug 8, 22 Sept 5, 19

Thursdays 5PM 7PM

May 21, 28 June 4, 11, 18, 25 July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 Sept 3, 10, 17, 24 Oct 1

Tuesdays 5PM 7PM

Aug 4, 18 Sept 1, 15, 29

Panthenol for skin and hair

Panthenol is also known as vitamin B5 since panthenol is converted into pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) a major constituent in coenzyme A, when it is oxidized. Coenzyme A is needed by every living cell to help it grow and survive.

Panthenol is an important part of skin and hair care. Providing revitalizing and conditioning effects, panthenol possesses humectant-like properties that aid in skin absorption and hydration. As an active ingredient for sophisticated cosmetic skin care and hair care products, it improves the appearance of skin, hair and nails.

In hair care products, panthenol fills in cracks in the hair shaft to strengthen the hair. This plumps and moisturizes the hair shaft to make it appear thicker, and reduces split ends. Panthenol is an excellent hair nutrient with penetrating abilities to support cellular growth and tissue repair.

In skin care, panthenol acts as a penetrating moisturizer. In the skin it aids moisture retention (ability to both hold and attract water) and increases elasticity. It helps heal skin problems such as acne, eczema, dermatitis, diaper rash and soothes burns. Panthenol has humectant-like properties that promote moisture absorption. It can effectively reduce irritation and reduce redness and add additional moisturisation. Also useful in after-sun care or tanning lotions.

www.thegoldengoatllc.com

Hyaluronic Acid in skin care products

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is natural substance found in the connective tissues of your body. The benefits of HA are many and include internal and topical applications. It is naturally occurring in our bodies, and less is produced as we age.

One benefit of HA is that it helps maintain the very shape of our skin. If you are a specimen of healthy skin, more than likely, you have a large amount of HA in your body. Of course, the opposite side of this is that, a reduced amount of this acid is associated with the appearance of wrinkles. Thankfully, topical treatments of skin care products with HA can reverse the signs of aging, with continued use.

Our skin has layers which need to be efficiently connected to each other. HA helps to maintain healthy collagen and to keep the skin moisturized and avoid wrinkles. It stands to reason then, that HA is a key ingredient used in many of the best anti-aging skin care creams and products.

HA retains water much like a sponge. It absorbs an astonishing thousand times its weight. It hydrates your skin and increases its volume and density. HA has the ability to be effectively absorbed by the skin as well as serves as an efficient "carrier" of other anti-aging ingredients to cells. That means that the active anti-aging ingredients are transported to the cells through the layers of skin.. It also provides the volume necessary in your skin's overall appearance.

The benefits of Hyaluronic Acid are many, with no known side effects that you need to be concerned about in HA products, except there have been reports of some side effects associated with knee and facial injections. HA is not only beneficial in lubricating our joints, heart valves and eyes, it is essential to having wrinkle-free skin.

Skin care products containing HA help to hydrate the skin, allowing it to appear smoother and more radiant. Clinical studies have shown that it also helps wounds heal more quickly, and can reduce the appearance of both old and new scars. Topically, the benefits of HA can be quite significant, though continued use is necessary to maintain the benefits.

Hyaluronic acid helps to store water in the skin, providing essential moisture to body processes. HA helps control cell migration, which protect cells and also activates white cells in the blood. The benefits of using hyaluronic acid include: softer skin, faster wound healing, dry skin relief, reduced fine lines, tissue reconstruction, and more.


www.thegoldengoatllc.com

Aloe Barbadensis

Aloe is an age old plant that has been around since the time of the Bible. It is even spoken of in scripture, though it may have been a different variant of what we know today. Aloe has long been known as a skin rejuvenator, healer and soother. It has even been known to have internal benefits for diabetes and more.

Aloe is easily grown and many have one growing in their kitchen to use for minor cuts and burns. Once the thick leaves have grown big enough to produce a thick gel, you can simply snip or break a small piece off one of the tips, and apply to your abrasion. It soothes burns, heals cuts, and vanishes bug bites.

Chemical analysis has shown that Aloe contains minerals, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes and proteins which all contribute to its beneficial nature.

Benefits of Aloe:

• Relieves itching from insect bites and allergies
• Promotes suppleness of the skin
• Helps control acne, burns, cuts and scratches
• Relieves symptoms of psoriasis

Aloe can be purchased in many forms, but for cosmetic use it is mainly in powder or gel form. Aloe juice or gel is prone to spoilage, so the powdered form is much more easily stored and can be hydrated quickly for use. Aloe can be added to lotions, creams, toners and more to get the full benefits for skin care.

www.thegoldengoatllc.com

New Products, at home Spa treatments

Winter isn't over yet - indulge in lovely scented soy candles. Light these delightful candles and enjoy the light scent wafting through your home. We have a lot of scents in stock like Mango Papaya, Blackberry Tea, Sweet Pea, Vanilla Cream and many more.

Our newest arrivals are scented diffusers. We are carrying two of Aromalands great pad diffusers. The car diffuser operates off of the "cigarette lighter" of your auto. The room diffuser plugs into any regular outlet and gently warms the scented pad inside. With either one, you chose the scent you want and place a few drops onto a pad that is inserted into the unit. Get a few bottles of scent and change pads as often as you like to vary scents.


Beat the economic blues! Enjoy spa-like indulgences at stay-at-home prices. With our exotic products similar to those used at spas and salons around the world, you can treat yourself to a 5 star spa experience without leaving your own bathroom. We have great mineral peels and mud masks that work wonders and can be done in the comfort of your home.

Mud Mask - simply paint onto your face and let dry. Once your entire mask is dried, wash off in circular motions with warm water and pat dry. The mud detoxifies and tightens skin. Used daily or even once a week will show visible improvement of your skin.

Mineral Peel - a little trickier, but well worth the effort. Apply salt mixture to skin in a nice layer. This product works deep and generates heat as it works. If you can stand the heat for twenty minutes, you will see the best results. When you are ready to remove the peel, wash with warm water in small circles. This super intense treatment is comparable to a microderm abrasion treatment, only no chemicals are used and it is totally natural. It is a healthy alternative to chemical treatments that burn away the outer layers of skin.

So treat yourself to something spa-like without the spa prices. These products are natural and contain many additives for your skin to benefit from. If you have any questions, let us know and we can give you more information. Stop in soon to choose your favorite.


www.thegoldengoatllc.com

Allantoin: what is it and why is it good for your skin?

Allantoin is the primary ingredient of the comfrey plant. Chemically synthesized allantoin is natural-identical, safe, non-toxic, compatible with cosmetic raw materials, and meets CTFA and JSCI requirements. It is a common ingredient in many high end skin care products.

Manufacturers of allantoin promote many beneficial effects when used as an active ingredient in over-the-counter cosmetics:

• stimulates new tissue growth
• soothing effect
• moisturizing effect
• softening effect
  
• gently sheds outer layer of skin
• increases the water content of the outer layers of skin
• promotes cell proliferation and wound healing
• has a soothing, anti-irritant, and skin protectant effect by forming complexes with irritant and sensitizing agents, preventing them from causing grief with your skin

Allantoin is even be found in toothpaste, mouthwash, other oral hygiene products, shampoos, lipsticks, anti-acne products, sun care products, lotions, creams, and more.

It is important to note that allantoin has not been proven scientifically to reduce the appearance of aging, but the evidence doesn't lie. Use of products containing a sufficient amount of allantoin has shown to be effective in reducing wrinkles and rejuvenating skin by womens' testimonies all over the world. When used in conjunction with other ingredients, allantoin can show signifiant improvement in your skin. It is not an overnight solution, but rather a great ingredient to add to your skin care regime.


www.thegoldengoatllc.com

Should you use an oil free facial moisturizer?

Author: Victoria S. Pedersen is a long time user and passionate advocate of natural skin care products.

On the surface, it would seem to make sense to buy an oil free anti-aging facial moisturizer but the truth of the matter is these are not ideal for your face.

Let me explain.

When we think of oil based moisturizers we think we will necessarily be using products that will clog our pores up or give our skin a heavy, greasy feeling. And sometimes this is true. However, there are some natural oils that do not clog the pores whatsoever and absorb into your skin leaving no heaviness or oily feeling.

And some of these are absolutely crucial for the skin's health, not only fighting wrinkles but moisturizing the epidermis.

Let's also not forget your skin naturally contains oils in it and this oil balance is stripped out during the course of the day from stress, and environmental pollutants.

So why do people look for an oil free anti-aging facial moisturizer? My suspicion is because the most commonly used oil in moisturizing skin creams is mineral oil, which is absolutely terrible for the skin. Mineral oil does indeed clog the pores, and can lead to a lot of problems, like acne flare-ups (even if you're in your forties), it prevents the skin from eliminating toxins effectively, and can lead to other skin disorders.

Mineral oil is used for one reason only: it's cheap! {It is also petroleum based}

Now, if an oil free anti-aging facial moisturizer isn't ideal, what kinds of oils are actually good for the skin.

Here are a couple:

Babassu - is a light, natural wax, which softens and soothes your skin. It also creates an invisible barrier to retain moisture and keep out dirt and grime. It is made from Babassu oil, from the kernel of the fruit of the Babassu palm, which grows in the Amazon. Babassu oil is beneficial for both dry and oily complexions.

Grapeseed Oil - is a potent antioxidant and also creates an invisible film on your skin, which locks moisture in. It is especially effective for repairing the sensitive skin around the eyes; it's rich in linoleic acid and several other essential oils which are necessary for skin health.

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Here at the Golden Goat, we use only non pore clogging (non-comedogenic) oils. We use grapeseed oil as the primary oil in our moisturizers. We also add shea butter and cocoa butter for the richness and nutrients they provide your skin.

Tips to Prepare Your Skin for Winter

1. Switch from lotions to creams. As the weather gets colder, our skin requires added moisture in the form of balms and creams which are longer lasting and create a barrier on the skin to keep moisture in instead of evaporating into the dry winter air.

2. Moisturize your hands with every washing. There's a reason they say that our hands show our age first! Constant contact with harsh detergents, hand-washing, hot water, cold and wind can dry out and chap hands. Wash with our enriched goat milk soap to keep skin soft and healthy. To ensure that you are keeping the moisture in, place a bottle of lightweight lotion next to the sinks in your bathroom and kitchen, in your desk drawer and car so you have no excuse to skimp on moisture. Place a bottle or tub of cream next to the bed for heavier application at night. Apply the moisturizer, then put cotton gloves on the let the moisturizer work wonders on your hands over night.

3. Start a lip care regimen now. Nip dry lips in the bud by starting a lip regimen now. Our Shea Butter Lip Balm is great to keep the moisture in and soften. Drink plenty of fluids to keep your body and skin healthy.

4. Be kind to your nails and cuticles. Nails are made of keratin which becomes brittle and can crack under harsh, cold conditions. Not to mention what the havoc of holiday cleaning and dish washing can do to your cuticles! You won't believe the difference our cuticle cream will make on your hands. Make it a habit to massage the cuticle cream into your cuticles morning and night to keep your cuticles healthy and soft.

5. Exfoliate to restore your natural glow. Dead skin cells from UV exposure, swimming in chlorine and collections of sebum and other debris clogging your pores can make anyone's skin look dull and lifeless. Using a scrub product to exfoliate is a great way to loosen and remove dead skin cells, giving you a new canvas of fresh skin to pamper. Golden Goat has numerous products that will fit the bill. Dead Sea Peels can invigorate your face and deep clean while detoxifying your skin. Dead Sea Salt scrubs work wonders for the rest of the body to soften, exfoliate and nourish skin.

Chemical versus Natural

I got myself ready early one morning, and decided to sit down and read emails while flipping through the three fuzzy channels that I get with no cable and no antenna. The Today Show was on, but they were just acting silly and had nothing of interest going on. Then there was a Catholic mass on the Christian channel. I am not Catholic. Finally, I stopped on a local spa infomercial.

This held my interest. I have never been to a spa so I thought I would watch and see what they offer. I make many great natural spa and skin care products, so I thought I would see how my stuff compares to theirs.

First off, they had a nice range of services from scar minimizing to acne reduction and facial peels. They also offered foot products, hair removal, and massage. Ok, I have the foot products, but I don't touch (massage) customers, tee hee, and neither do I have hair removal products. That is, I don't have hair removal products yet. I am working on a natural waxing, but have to test it more first.

Anyway, as I was watching, I noticed how none of their products were natural. They all work by chemical or physical means. Sure, it works, but I don't think it is good for your skin or the rest of your body. Scraping away the surface of your skin with chemicals or lasers doesn't sound very appealing to me. I make a wonderful peel that naturally removes dead surface skin cells while also nourishing the skin with vitamins and minerals.

The acne treatment that they use is a laser method. I admit that I don't know a lot about laser treatments, but the visuals in the ad seemed pretty harsh on the skin. By using the mud, toner, soap, peel or a combination of these, I have had numerous customers rid themselves of acne without aggressive treatments. The worst that happens is a little bit of heat generated from the peel.

The dead sea products that I carry have been shown to reduce scarring with continued use. I also have a good customer that has found scar healing simply through the use of my soaps and lotions. She had a stubborn scar that lasted for years, being inflamed and irritated, and couldn't even get a doctor to help settle it down. She started using my products, just because she is a friend, and she noticed complete relief and healing within weeks. She was amazed and tells everyone about it.

The mud mask can also be used to coat the feet for a soothing treatment, followed by a rub down with a moisturizing salt scrub. Some prefer a quicker treatment with my peppermint foot lotion, containing jojoba scrubbing spheres. Either way, your feet come out refreshingly smooth and soft.

So, as I turned the TV off and headed off to my store, I felt good that I could offer so many things that a spa has to offer, but without the high prices, and without the negative side effects of chemical or physical procedures. You can create your own spa experience in less time, with less cost, and just the way you like it. Or, have your significant other or a friend share your at home spa, and help each other paint on mud or massage feet.

Any way you look at it, I love what I do and being able to offer people a healthy choice. Let me know of your great experiences. I love to hear about it.

More Makeup Helpers

We have once again formulated a natural makeup remover, and a makeup setting spray. Both of these products work great and actually improve the condition of your skin.

Erase the Day makeup remover contains jojoba oil and vitamin E, both of which are fantastic for the skin. Even sensitive skin types love this product. Non-greasy, no preservatives.

Our makeup setting spritzer sets your makeup in place. After applying all of your makeup, spritz a couple of sprays onto your face. Then, for a completely finished look, brush a light layer of foundation over the top and you are ready to go.

Both products are in a small container, easy for traveling and storage. A little goes a long way, and smaller containers stay fresh.


Get yours today.

New Facial Creams to knock the age off...

Happy Mother's Day to all you Mom's out there. It may be a bit too late to suggest some Mother's Day ideas, but you don't have to wait for a special occasion to give Mom a treat.

I have created three new facial moisturizers for you to enjoy. They are in addition to the other two facial creams that I already carry.

24 Karat Gold Cream - you have asked for it, and now it is here. A wonderful anti aging cream for your face. Super moisturizing and full of nutrients for your skin. There is no magical cure in this jar, but it does work. As skin ages, it becomes damaged. This cream fills the skin with the nutrients it needs to heal and protect the skin from further damage, reversing those signs of aging in the process. It is not an overnight cure, but rather a gradual change with regular use.

Vanishing Cream - a creamy moisturizer that helps to eliminate discolorations like age spots, freckles, and uneven coloration. This cream contains a product that eliminates the production of melanin causing the discoloration. Because this product prevents melanin production, (melanin protects skin from the sun) you will need to make sure you are adequately protected with a sunscreen. HINT: our mineral makeup fits this bill for protection.

Amazing Cream - Do you suffer from under eye circles and unsightly bags? A lot of times this can be caused by allergies, as well. Researchers have found that "puffy eyes are due to fluid build-up caused by poor drainage, fragile capillaries, and loss of elasticity. Fluid leaks into surrounding tissues and produces "bags". [Amazing Cream] targets all three conditions by improving drainage, reducing capillary fragility, and reducing irritation and skin slackening while increasing skin firmness and elasticity." Regular use results in healthy, beautiful results.

Best of all, you can mix all three in the palm of your hand to apply together. Or, spot treat the areas you would like to use it on. At any rate, you will love the results.

Click Here to start shopping now.