Bella Forte

Bombs, Lotions, Soaps and Scrubs for Sale!

2011-12-14T14:47:00.000-08:00

Bella Forté Products are all hand-made with TLC and 90% organic, natural ingredients. Only the safest, least harmful preservatives are used in water-based products (like lotions). Because of their natural contents, everything is made in small batches and the shelf life is shorter than store-bought products. Please note the expiration dates, use liberally and enjoy!

Aromatherapy Bath Bombs

8 oz $6 (2 for $10) / 5.5 oz $4.50 (2 for $8) / Buddha Bomb / Skully / 3.5 oz $3.50 (2 for $6)

(Made with baking soda, citric acid, goats milk powder, olive oil, essential oils)

- Lemongrass-Basil (Detoxifying-Hangover Bomb)

- Peppermint-Lime (Wake-Up Call)

- Amber-Tangerine-Sandalwood (Sensual)

- Eucalyptus-Lemon (I Gotta Cold!)

Sugar Body Scrubs 8 oz $12 (2 for $20) / 4 oz $6 (2 for $10)

(Made with coconut oil, olive oil, pumpkin seed oil, coconut-based liquid soap & essential/fragrance oils)

- Vanilla-Cinnamon (Sugar Tits)

- Pumpkin Pie (Limited edition)

- Cherry Lemonade

- Amber-Tangerine

Light Hydrating Shea Butter Lotions 4 oz $6 (2 for $10)

(Made with shea butter, olive oil, jojoba oil and essential/fragrance oils)

- Vanilla-Cinnamon

- Cherry-Lemonade

- Amber-Tangerine-Sandalwood

Goats Milk Soaps w/ Shea Butter $3.50 (2 for $6) / Mini-Soaps .25 each (5 for $1.00)

(Hydrating, gentle, silky soap made with goats milk and shea butter. Excellent for shaving. Keep it out of the water when you’re done to make it last longer.)

- Peppermint-Lime

- Amber-Tangerine-Sandalwood

- Lavender-Ylang-Ylang

- Cherry-Lemonade

Peels! Not So Scary: Fruit Enzymes vs Chemical Peels

2011-09-24T21:29:00.000-07:00

Does the word "PEEL" make your skin crawl?

People often recall images of red, swollen, burnt faces seen on their friends, coworkers or on Samantha in Sex in the City.

NO! I WON'T DO THIS TO YOU!!

Those are powerful chemical peels performed in a doctor's office. These powerful peels can result in burning, peeling, scabbing and even scarring. The client must stay out of the sun completely. Celebrities will hide at a retreat covered in gauze while their skin repairs...and sometimes the results are not as expected. These procedures are for people who want immediate results, are under constant care, and have a lot of money.

Personally, I don't believe in assaulting skin like that, but if it works for them, they can spend the thousands of dollars to do it.

I perform peels that are gentle and create beautiful effects on the skin over a few sessions. Clients have a choice of how strong they want their treatment, but I will always perform a regular facial prior to deciding on a peel. This way, I can see how the skin reacts to ingredients, learn about the client's skin care routine, and prepare their skin for the next step.

Gentle peels create a variety of noticeable results

- Smooth skin by exfoliating dead skin cells
- Plump skin by stimulating collagen, elastin and new cell growth
- Improvement of fine lines
- Clear skin by unclogging blackheads and closed comedones (clogged pores under the skin)

ENZYMES

Enzymes occur naturally in fruits. They are nutrients and proteins that instigate metabolic processes and speed up biological reactions in all cells of all living things. Just as enzymes are necessary us to digest food, they aid in digesting dead skin cells and stimulating active new ones.

They are like Pac-Man, gobbling away dead skin, allowing new skin cells to grow and nutrients to penetrate the skin:

Enzyme peels use fruit enzymes, combined with Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Glycolic and Lactic Acids). The enzymes destroy dead skin cells and gently release new skin, while the AHAs loosen and detach the dead skin cells.

Why get rid of dead skin cells? Well, they can increase the appearance of wrinkles, and clog pores, creating blackheads and pimples. Acne is a result of an overproduction of skin cells. The skin doesn't have a chance to shed them fast enough, the pore clogs with cells, bacteria gets blocked in, and a pimple grows.

Enzymes penetrate the top layers of skin, stimulate new cells, detox the pores, and increase the natural exoliation process, resulting in immediately better tone and texture.

Enzyme peels are usually recommended for dark skin, active acneic skin, and sensitive skin, as there are no extreme chemicals, friction or temperatures involved.

I have two great fruit enzyme peels:

The Pomegranate Enzyme Peel is good for all skin types, as deeply cleans pores while adding hydration and brightening qualities. Lactic Acid can be added to the peel for additional brightening.

The Pumpkin-Yam peel is best for oily and break-out prone skin.

CHEMICAL PEELS

Chemexfoliation is one of the least invasive ways to improve your skin's appearance. Chemical solutions are carefully applied to skin by a certified practitioner to improve break-outs, texture, fine lines and pigmentation, resulting in a healthier glow. A combination of alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids are used (such as glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid and maleic acid).

I have been certified by PCA Skin, the provider of my chemical peels. They are the lightest and gentlest and come with a Post-Procedure Kit to ensure the best results.

PCA chemical peels can be very effective at treating facial blemishes and acne, uneven skin pigmentation, fine wrinkles, and damage caused by the sun, aging, and other sources of skin imperfections.

It is normal for clients to experience some temporary redness, flaking, scaling, and/or dryness which usually resolves as the skin adjusts to PCA chemical peels. In order to achieve the desired results, a client will often need a series of PCA chemical peels.

Here's a really good article about the Myths and Truths about chemical peels:

Top 5 Myths and Truths about Chemical Peels

If you're interested in learning more about peels, or would like to schedule one, please feel free to contact me any time!

--Stephene

New Toys, New Peels, Better Facials!!

2011-09-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

Hi friends!
I went to the Face and Body Expo in San Jose this weekend and bought a bunch of new serums and masks from one of my favorite skin care lines, Skin Script. I'm excited about their new Pomegranate Enzyme peel, a mild but effective enzyme peel that has lots of antioxidants, hydrates and brightens all skin types.

I bought a new gadget called the bt-Micro.

The bt-Micro tool uses ultrasonic sound waves to "shimmy" off dead skin cells, plus microcurrent (safe, low level positive electrical impulses) to stimulate collagen and elastin, retrain the facial muscles, and when combined with serums, creams and masks, increase product penetration. It has another desincrustation function that uses negative electrical impulses, which open pores and release sebum for easier extractions and deep pore cleansing.

It's so rad.

Finally, I got these crazy magnifying glasses that make me look like a mad scientist in a cave. But they replace the use of a mag light, which I always felt is cumbersome and expensive for what it does. These things work pretty well, if you don't get scared.

The show was a fun and educational, but a little overwhelming with all of the products and machines being pushed. I attended a few lectures about ingredients and new therapies, and even had a telangiectasias spot (small, dilated blood vessels) removed on my jawline by a machine called a Lamprobe. The spot was immediately 50% lighter, but I can't tell if it's completely disappeared yet because now the blood is coagulated and scabbed (as expected), so when that falls off, I will let you know if it works. The machine is used to remove blood vessels around the nose, red spots and small moles. Unfortunately, it costs around $6,000, so I won't be buying one any time soon, but I will share what I know about it if you are looking in to getting a treatment. It's usually $150 per treatment at a high end spa or medi-spa, and can take a few visits to completely remove the spot.

Well, I came home broke so please come in for a treatment so that I can make some money back! I'm still offering facials for only $25 and that includes LED light therapy, light facial waxing, and with the bt-Micro to deep clean your pores, and make the most of the serums to plump your skin.

I need the practice and it's the end of summer, so you might need a facial. It's a win-win!

xoxo,
Stephene

My Website is Finally LIVE!!

2011-07-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends!!

After being in a creative coma for the past several months, I'm finally back in the game and have launched the Bella Forte Skin Care website. The website still needs a lot of work, but it's a start.

I am currently working on the shopping cart to sell my bath & body products.

Check it out!

http://www.bellaforteskin.com/

xoxo,
Stephene

DIY Brightening Facial with Sake Rice Wine

2011-07-12T18:06:00.000-07:00

I was pretty excited to find an article in Skin Deep magazine today about the benefits of drinking sake, as well as applying it to your face.
A brewery in Japan conducted an experiment on it's employees after noticing how soft their skin felt. They had the employees drink 10 ounces of sake a day and found the moisture content of their skin was 30% higher than the employees who drank regular booze. This was not surprising, as it's been heard that Geishas used to bathe in it.

The molecular structure of Kojic Acid

The results of this experiment inspired more research and they found that the fermentation process breaks down the rice acids and enzymes to a low molecular weight. This is crucial, as it allows beneficial ingredients such as B complex vitamins, minerals and kojic acid to penetrate the skin down to the keratin layer.

I always knew that kojic acid is a natural skin brightener available in many over the counter products, but I thought that it was only derived from mushrooms. Rice enzymes are used in my favorite professional exfoliator for facials, Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant. As a skin exfoliant, enzymes gently digest dead skin cells (without physical exfoliation, or "scrubbing").

I am a fan of kojic acid and other brighteners, since my face has stopped getting "tan" and during the summer, ends up with a lot of spots and blotches. As an esthetician, I know that hyperpigmentation is a major concern for a lot of people, so any home treatment that we can create in our kitchens is always exciting.

Internally, rice increases the production of ceramides, which are natural fats that help hold the cells together and lock in moisture, slowing the aging process.

So I just high-tailed it to the Korean market and bought a huge bottle of sake (I bought Yaegaki Sake, created by Reiko Kushibiki, the first female sake master in the U.S.).

With a little more research, I created a really EASY Do-it-Yourself face mask. This mask left my skin super smooth and soft and it does look a little more even. I have sensitive skin and it did tingle a little, but was not uncomfortable or red. Other articles suggested that we use the mask a couple of times a week until skin reaches your desired goal.

Sake Skin Brightening Mask
1 tsp sake (flitered)
1 tsp plain yogurt (contains lactic acid, another brightener)
1 tsp organic honey (anti-bacterial and hydrator)
1 tsp white kaolin clay (or green if you skin is oily)
1 - 2 drops rose and/or geranium essential oils (for dry / mature skin)
1 - 2 drops lavender and/or rosemary essential oils (for oily / combination skin)

Spread evenly with a brush over cleansed, dry skin, leave on for 15 - 20 minutes.

Kanpai!

I'm Celebrating my New Home w/ $25 Facials!

2011-06-25T17:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer Time!

It's been a while since I've posted, and a lot has happened. I moved to a new apartment and love my new space! I'm finally living alone and my kitchen is my very own little laboratory. I've been working on new recipes for lotions, scrubs and masks, all formulated for summertime skin issues.
In celebration of my new life and finally coming out from under my rock, I'm offering a special on services that you're not going to find anywhere else:

European Facials and Back Treatments at the new Bella Forte headquarters for $25 through the end of summer!

That's basically the cost of the products. Also, major discounts on waxing services.

Did you know that the ingredients in sunscreen will clog your pores more than regular moisturizers? It is very difficult to completely remove with regular cleansing.

It's extra important to exfoliate more during the summer. If you are overexposed to the sun, you'll want to slough off that dry, dehydrated skin and pamper it with a nourishing mask loaded with antioxidants.

If you're prone to summer breakouts, you'll want to clear up your skin with a detoxifying mask and high frequency for stubborn zits.

My facials and back treatments are customized with nourishing, natural, healing products, a double cleanse, light therapy, aromatherapy and finished with a relaxing massage that will bring your skin back to life immediately.

Friends, I need your help to get back in the swing of things. I've been out-of-service for a while and need to get my hands on your pretty faces! Come over for a mimosa, we'll catch up, and you'll be glowing for the next party.

And Pistol misses you, too.

XOXO,
Stephene

Spring Time Specials - Facials and Peels

2011-03-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

Winter is over and it's time to slough off the old, dry skin and get glowing for Spring! I'm doing customized European facials for only $30. See major improvements with a mild peel for only $50, including a take-home product kit that is worth $20 retail. If you have dry, aging skin, brown spots or acne, you'll see glowing improvement with one PCA peel and major improvement with a series of 4 - 5 monthly peels. Treat yourself or buy a gift certificate. This will cost your over $100 at a salon.

Here's a link to before and after photos: PCA PEELS BEFORE AND AFTER

I use PCA products. This is the most popular line for chemical peels and used by most doctors. I also have two very gentle enzyme peels. I've done lots of peels on clients, students, and myself. I am Certified by PCA in Skin Biology and Chemical Peels and have taken several classes with them.

Contact me if you need a boost and want a glow!

Stephene

Natural Products, Science, Preservatives and My Products

2011-02-18T16:11:00.000-08:00

I've been making scrubs, balms, facial masks and more for over ten years. I'm a self-proclaimed Bitchen Kitchen Beautician. Almost one year ago, I decided to leave my full-time corporate job to pursue my passion for skin care. I educated myself by getting my esthetician's license and attending product seminars to get a deeper insight on the anatomy of skin and a broader understanding of ingredients.

As a student, I've learned a lot about scientific breakthroughs and trends, as well as old-school ingredients and facial methods that still work. I believe that nature's ingredients are great on their own, but science and safe chemicals boost the effects of those natural ingredients. I use 99% natural ingredients in my bath and body products. I depend on the safest chemicals to preserve my lotions and scrubs. Without preservatives, products containing water will last a few days, at most, then rapidly grow bacteria, mold and fungus. I'd rather have a tiny amount of tested, safe preservative on my skin than bacteria or mold! So I use only .05% of preservative in my lotion recipe. The rest is all luscious, natural, organic oils, butters and herbs.

My products have a shelf life of one year. The products that you buy at the drugstore or pricey department store counter will last four or five years. Why? They are often so full of water and fillers that they need a lot of chemicals and preservatives to keep them "safe" from bacteria, fungus and mold. But the trade-off is paying for a product containing very low-quality, inexpensive ingredients and fancy marketing. Read the ingredients list: There's usually a lot more water and chemicals in the product than the trendy new magic ingredient highlighted on the label.

That being said, there are amazing ingredients being produced in science labs that are also safe and extremely helpful in skin care, so don't be intimidated by every long Latin ingredient name. Many natural ingredients provide excellent benefits, but their molecules are too small to penetrate the skin in the most effective way. Scientists can break down those molecules so that we will receive the most value from a plant.

Regarding the controversy over PARABENS: well, I believe that parabens have a slightly bad rap. As a product creator, I've done a lot of research on safe preservatives and parabens. I've found that there is no concrete evidence that they cause breast cancer in humans. A test was done on mice, injecting ridiculous amounts of pure paraben in to the little lab mouse, and they found an accumulation of parabens in their breast tumors. We'll never ingest that amount in our entire lifetime.

WE HAVE PARABENS!

Parabens exist naturally in food. I've read that we consume ten times the amount of parabens from food than skin care products. Natural foods such as strawberries, mangoes, alfalfa sprouts, royal bee jelly or split peas contain parabens. Almost all processed foods contain them, such as bacon, cereals, cake mixes and frosting. But I see people very happily ingesting strawberries, bacon and cupcakes and terrified of a tiny amount of paraben in their lotion.

In regards to anything in life, use everything in moderation. That being said, I'm still not 100% convinced that parabens are 100% safe, and I figure most consumers would rather be safe than sorry. This month, I'm switching to a new paraben-free preservative with my next batch of lotion and will send that to a lab for microbial testing. The catch? A lot of scientists are coming up with new preservatives, but their ingredients have not been tested as thoroughly as paraben-based preservatives. The long-term effects are not well known at this point.

My choice is to avoid loading my products with anything very controversial or untested. Therefore, I deal with costly manufacturing challenges by making products in small batches that can't sit on a shelf for five years. I use the minimal amount of preservative so that the product is pure, clean, bacteria-free and safe.

The link below is a little nerdy article about parabens in our food and our cosmetics:
Parabens in Food and Cosmetics - Futurederm article

New Toys! High Frequency Machine for Acne & Wrinkles and a Wood's Lamp for Deep Skin Analysis

2011-01-21T18:30:00.000-08:00

High frequency machine in use

Santa brought me a high frequency machine and a Wood's lamp for Christmas. I must have been really good last year!

A high frequency machine is a super-cool esthetician's tool that helps with a wide variety of skin issues. It's pretty magical. I've witnessed, first hand, big, cyst-like pimples reduce in size by up to 50% after one visit. In a nutshell, the tool is a wand that holds electrodes. The electrodes help heal blemishes by creating ozone on the skin, killing bacteria, promoting healing & circulation, and removing toxins. It also helps aging and wrinkled skin by oxygenating the skin and allowing for better product penetration. It stimulates circulation which helps produce collagen and elastin. It can also be used on the scalp to stimulate hair growth.

A Wood's lamp is an ultra-violet light that sees beneath the skin's surface. It can detect all skin issues, including clogged pores, blemishes, dehydration and sun damage spots that are working their way to the surface. By using the lamp, the esthetician can start working on these areas long before the issues reveal themselves.

Skin under the ultra-violet Wood's Lamp light shows a variety of conditions beneath the surface

I'm adding these treatments FOR FREE ($15 - $30 value) to all of my facials for a limited time.

A DIY DETOX FACIAL - Be a Bitchen Kitchen Beautician

2011-01-20T20:39:00.000-08:00

So the holidays are over, you pushed the limits and now you’re tired, broke and feeling ugly? You spent all of your money on gifts and partying and you don’t have enough for new skin care products, let alone a pampering facial?

I’ve been in that situation almost every Monday of my adult life. I started experimenting with at-home facials a long time ago, and I’ve learned a few things since beauty school that I wish I knew back then. I love expensive products, but it’s not realistic to expect people to spend crazy money on skin care right now. That’s how I became a bitchen Kitchen Beautician over the years.

I have a simple Detox Facial that uses cheap ingredients from your cupboards and fridge. You won’t even need to go to the store. No excuses.

One of the first symptoms that you might notice after the holidays is sallow, blemished, irritated or dehydrated skin, red, puffy eyes and lackluster lips.

Lots of parties often means more make-up, falling in to bed without washing your face and waking up with a big ol’ zit or blotchy break-out along with your hangover. Then your lips are dry and flaky and your eyes are dark and puffy. It sucks.

A lot of skin is dehydrated. There’s a difference between “Dry Skin” and “Dehydrated Skin”. Dry skin is a genetic condition and refers to skin that is lacking oil production. Even skin with pimples and clogged pores can be dehydrated, so you need to do something about it. FEED IT. Dehydrated skin refers to a lack of water. Indoor heat, air conditioners, wind, smoking, and drinking causes the skin to lose water content, making it tight, sensitive and irritated.

First, don’t feel bad. Everyone around you is going through the same thing and is feeling the same way when they look in the mirror. I get up-close-and-personal with a lot of faces and believe me, every single person has something going on that they aren’t happy about. So get over it and go to your kitchen.

Here’s my FIVE STEP AT-HOME DETOX FACIAL

Prep: Gather the following:

- A pot of water

- A towel

- A washcloth

- 4 Chamomile, green or black tea bags

- Jojoba, Grape seed or Olive oil

- A gentle face cleanser

- White or brown sugar

- Exfoliating mask ingredients (see below)

- Blemish spot treatment (if needed)

- Moisturizer

- Aloe Vera gel (optional)

1) Put pot of water on stove and bring to a boil.

2) Moisten two teabags and place in refrigerator.

3) It's best to do this facial at night, before bed. You skin warms up as you sleep, which helps the nutrients penetrate deeply as you sleep and repair.

STEP 1

Start with a Cleansing Oil Massage. Pour 1 – 2 tablespoons of jojoba, grape seed or olive oil in your palms. Massage in to face and neck and around eyes for 2 – 3 minutes. Rinse by adding warm water, little by little, until you can feel the normal texture of your skin again.

I know this sounds crazy, but a lot of oils are really good for all skin types, including oily skin. Jojoba is the best, but if you don’t have that, grape seed oil or olive oil are also very good. Here’s how it works: Oil attracts oil. So, when you massage oil in to your skin for several minutes, you increase blood circulation to the surface of your skin, opening the pores and loosening the dirt, make-up and sebum. As you continue through the cleansing process, that loose sebum will eventually get washed away. The antioxidants and other nutrients in the oils help to heal and feed your hungry skin and blemishes.

STEP 2

Now you need to cleanse with a very mild soap or creamy cleanser. Even if you’re having a breakout, start gentle and your skin will thank you. Please don’t use any harsh soaps, especially something like Irish Spring, Ivory, anti-bacterial soaps, little hotel soap bars or any other random soap on your face! These types of soaps strip the natural oils. All skin types need those natural oils to keep skin pH in balance. You’re better off rinsing your face really well with water than using harsh soaps with fragrances and chemicals. Don’t forget, you’re DETOXING.

STEP 3

Steam. Sometimes I just take a nice hot bath or shower, or you can boil a pot of water and drape a towel over your head for 10 minutes. Add some tea bags or other herbs like rosemary, sage, chamomile or calendula, if you have them. Do not steam if your skin is extremely sensitive or dry, you are experiencing Rosacea or a major acne breakout.

STEP 4

Exfoliating Mask. This is important! Exfoliation will help shed dead skin cells, bring circulation to the surface for nourishment, and further loosen clogged pores. It also allows for deeper penetration of the nutrients.

You might not have a favorite exfoliating product or mask, but you can still easily exfoliate at home and should do this at least a couple of times a week.

Make an exfoliating paste with fine grain sugar (white or brown is fine) and some of the following ingredients, depending on skin condition:

   - Oatmeal (for soothing irritated skin). Grind the oatmeal in a coffee grinder until fine.
-       Plain yogurt, milk or cream (for soothing, hydrating and lactic acid exfoliation)
-       Honey (pulls moisture toward the skin and acts as an anti-bacterial agent for blemishes)
-       Egg white (tightens skin and pores, good for oily skin)
-       Tomato, blended (Good for blemishes and toning)
-       Lemon juice (brightening and toning - not for sensitive or acneic skin)
-       Pineapple pulp, blended (for brightening and toning)
-       Canned pumpkin (for extra exfoliating acids for blemished skin)

Please note: If your skin is extremely sensitive or acneic, gently massage your face with a washcloth and gentle cleanser at the end of the second cleanse. Make a mask with the appropriate products above and do not add the sugar, as it can be too irritating.

Massage in to skin, including lips (but avoid eyes) for 2 minutes.

Apply cooled chamomile, black or green tea bags to your eyes while you relax and the mask does its thing for 10 – 15 minutes and rinse with warm water.

STEP 5

Hydrate. This is also important for all skin types. It’s crucial to keep the moisture and oil content of your skin in balance. Overly stripped skin will cause an over production of oils, leading to more pimples down the line. Use your favorite moisturizer, or spot-treat blemishes, and then follow with aloe vera for oily or blemished skin. For dehydrated or sensitive lips and face, apply a light layer of jojoba, grape seed or olive oil mixed with aloe vera and let it soak in overnight.

You will wake up glowing, dewy and gorgeous.

Check Out My Products at Eli's Rock & Shop this Saturday!

2010-12-14T17:04:00.000-08:00

Hi!
I'm in a frenzy making holiday gifts and products! I'll be selling my stuff at the Rock & Shop at Eli's Mile High Club this Saturday: Fizzy bath bombs, body scrubs, lip balms, lotions, Check out my stuff so far:

DeToX Bath Bombs - Big fizzy skulls that smell like lemongrass, basil and clary sage

Sugar Tits Sugar Scrub and DeTox Sea-Salt Scrub

Sugar Lips and Cool Mint Lip Balms

Sugar Tits Sugar Scrub and DeTox Lotions

Super hydrading, but light and non-greasy, made with aloe vera oil, shea butter, jojoba and lots of other good stuff for your skin!

WE'RE GETTIN' BOMBED

2010-11-17T14:38:00.000-08:00

I'm having my first DIY Beauty Night on Thursday, November 17th. Our first project will be BATH BOMBS. It's going to be fun! I experimented the other night and my first bath bomb turned out great! Will update after the event with recipes and tips. Next event: Lip Balm.

HEY!! NEW!!! CHECK OUT MY SKIN CARE SERVICES

2010-10-29T16:57:00.001-07:00

FACIALS

Custom European Facial 60 minutes $45

Includes a deep double-cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, face & shoulders massage, nourishing customized mask and moisturizer. Complimentary face waxing included.

Lemon-Enzyme Facial 40 minutes $45

A gentle enzyme peel for dehydrated skin that needs some tightening and brightening, followed by a Pomegranate Hydrating Mask to nourish and hydrate. Boost with 30% lactic acid for extra brightening and smoothing effects for $10.

Pumpkin-Yam Facial 40 minutes $45

A gentle enzyme peel for normal-to-oily skin with occasional breakouts. Followed my a hydrating and calming Seaweed Mask. Nourishing, purifying and glowing results.

All treatments are customized with serums and antioxidants.

WAXING

Brow $10

Lip $5

Chin $7

Underarm $10

Half Arm $10

Full Arm $20

Lower Leg $15

Upper Leg $20

Full Legs $35

Tummy $7

Nostrils $5

Ears $5

I'm now a LICENSED ESTHETICIAN!

2010-10-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

Wow, that was hard! I haven't been keeping up with the blog, as I really had to focus on finishing school and passing the State Board Exam. Now I am back in the swing of things and happy to have time to focus on moving forward with my own dreams.

I have to admit that I have a hard time finishing projects, as I get bored in the middle and want to do something new. However, alas, I finished two major accomplishments in the past month: Graduating from school and passing the State Board Exam.

My nerves got the best of me during the Practical Exam, but thanks for the support of my best friend and model for the day, Martina, I left Fairfield, CA exhausted and so relieved.

I have so many ideas on where to go next. I still need to learn a lot and eventually have my own business - that same little skin care boutique with local products and items, along with hosting DIY skin care workshops.

I have a lot of catching up to do with this blog and will definitely make more time for it now that I am FREEEEEEEE!!!!!

xoxo,
Stephene

Summertime! Does SPF Matter? What's the Dif between UVA and UVB?

2010-04-21T15:33:00.000-07:00

The sunburned days of my SoCal youth have caught up with me via a serious skin cancer scare, so I can't get a tan any more. Unless it's a sunless tan.

Last year, a suspicious discoloration was discovered during a routine physical. A spot on my back that I can't reach with sunscreen...that I've never seen. I was sent to the dermatologist the next day, and the black, weirdly-shaped spot, that I never knew existed, was immediately sliced out of my back in the doctor's office. I walked out a bit shocked. I thought that I've been pretty good about using sunscreen as an adult. Thankfully, the tissue was benign, but I need to get the scar, and other funny colored markings on my body, checked yearly for the rest of my life. It's not cancer right now, but it can turn in to cancer later. This was another brutal reminder of how the past can creep up on you.

BeingTan: it makes us look skinnier, more alive, healthy, outdoorsy, like we actually run around in the sun...yeah, those are good things! But what is a tan, really? A tan is your skin is freaking out, creating extra melanin to fight against the damaging (and cancer-causing) UVA and UVB rays that are assaulting it. It's your body defending itself. The darker skin is basically, a scar.

Most sunscreens protect against UVB rays, but the UVA rays are like super-villains: They force themselves through windows, sunscreens, and the epidermis, straight to the deep layers (dermis) of our skin. Layers that even the craziest skin creams can't penetrate. Layers that only a knife, needle or laser can reach. UVA rays jumble up and confuse skin cell DNA. Your skin overreacts and creates mutated cells, that stimulate melanin, and your skin gets dark. And cancer grows. It's intense.

Now that I am older, I always wear sunscreen, even on rainy days. I don't want the wrinkles and hyperpigmentation that result in sunbathing. These are a few more unwelcome signs of sun damage that have haunted me in the past ten years.

Since the minor surgery to remove my weird skin cells, I'm a fanatic about all-over sunscreen. Especially the tips of your ears! I'm going to do some serious research about self-tanners. There are some speculations that the chemicals in self-tanners can be dangerous, too. I'll post my research results soon.

I've re-posted an article below, all about the best sunscreen ingredients, UVA (evil) and UVB rays, chemical vs physical sunblocks, and a really cool diagram of how the skin soaks in rays, and how the sunscreens work:

High-SPF Sunscreens: Are They Better?

WebMD discusses the pros and cons of high-SPF sunscreens.
By Salynn Boyles (WebMD Feature) / Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
If you’ve shopped for sunscreen lately, you have probably noticed the proliferation of products with ever-higher sun protection factor (SPF) ratings.
Just a few years ago, it was hard to find a sunscreen claiming an SPF higher than 45. These days, the shelves are lined with products from companies such as Banana Boat, Coppertone, and Aveeno touting SPF ratings of 70+, 80, and 90+.
Neutrogena recently introduced Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 100+. But is a 100+ or a 90+ sunscreen really that much better than one with an SPF of 15? SPF 100: Twice as Good As SPF 50?
SPF refers to the ability of a sunscreen to block ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which cause sunburns, but not UVA rays, which are more closely linked to deeper skin damage. Both UVA and UVB contribute to the risk of skin cancer.

It is a measure of the time it would take an individual to burn in the sun if they were not wearing sunscreen vs. the time it would take with sunscreen on.
“SPF is not a consumer-friendly number,” says Florida dermatologist and American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) spokesman James M. Spencer, MD. “It is logical for someone to think that an SPF of 30 is twice as good as an SPF of 15, and so on, but that is not how it works.” According to Spencer, an SPF 15 product blocks about 94% of UVB rays, an SPF 30 product blocks 97% of UVB rays, and an SPF 45 product blocks about 98% of rays. “After that, it just gets silly,” he says.
Sunscreens with higher SPF ratings block slightly more UVB rays, but none offers 100% protection. Spencer says SPF 15 sunscreens are fine if used correctly, but he recommends SPF 30 products to his patients because few people apply sunscreens as heavily or as often as they should.
Farah Ahmed, who is general council for the cosmetics industry group Personal Care Products Council, concedes that the difference in sunburn protection between the medium- and high-SPF sunscreens is not great. But she says the high SPF products may better protect against long-term skin damage and exposure-related skin cancers.
In a written statement, Neutrogena notes that because most people use far less sunscreen than is recommended, high SPF sunscreens can offer better protection. “Higher SPFs used over a lifetime may translate to healthier skin in later life,” the statement reads. “While the difference in the percentage of ultraviolet radiation blocked between an SPF 55 and SPF 100+ may be slightly less than 1%, applying an SPF 100 may lead to much less cumulative sun damage over a lifetime.”

What about UVA Rays?
Many of the high SPF sunscreens use chemical filters to block UVA rays, which may offer only marginal protection. That’s because avobenzone or Parsol 1789 and Mexoryl, two UVA filters, break down quickly and lose effectiveness in the sun unless stabilized. The stabilization process is difficult and few companies have been able to prove that they can do it, Spencer says.
San Francisco-area dermatologist Sonia Badreshia-Bansal, MD, recommends two chemical-based sunscreens to her patients -- Neutrogena sunscreens with Helioplex and Loreal’s LoRoche Posay with avobenzone. She says helioplex is a stabilizer that has been proven to keep avobenzone from breaking down. Spencer also recommends Loreal’s sunscreens that have Mexoryl as the active UVA-blocking ingredient.
Badreshia-Bansal says she prefers barrier-type sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium to chemical ones, but she concedes that her patients don’t usually like the over-the-counter versions because they tend to be thick, pasty, and opaque. She frequently prescribes medical-grade sunscreens with micronized zinc formulations that are less heavy and chalky. She recommends SkinCeuticals sunblocks with SPF 30, which contain high concentrations of micronized zinc oxide and/or titanium oxide, and Obagi sunscreens with SPF 30 and micronized zinc for all skin types. “I’m darker-skinned and I can put them on my skin without it showing,” she says.
Both agreed that even the best sunscreens need to be used properly to work. “The best way make sure you are protected is to reapply sunscreen often,” Spencer says. “You just can’t put it on in the morning and forget about it. I don’t care if it’s SPF 800 or the best UVA protection, after a few hours it’s gone.”

Consumer Groups Rate Sunscreens
How well do sunscreens really work? Until the FDA comes out with its rating system, Spencer and Badreshia-Bansal say it is difficult to know. Whatever product you choose, experts recommend using a water-resistant sunscreen applied liberally, a half hour before going outdoors. Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every two hours or after swimming, drying off, or sweating.

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Changes are Coming...

2010-04-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

WOW.
A lot has been going on. I've thrown myself in to a whirlwind of brainstorming, contemplating, confusion, making major life decisions, and finally coming to some major conclusions.
Two huge decisions have been made in the past few weeks:

• I will be leaving my full-time job at PRN in the next few weeks. This will give me the very necessary opportunity to focus on finishing my hours at Zenzi's, acquiring a great apprenticeship for my last 150 hours, and finally studying for (and passing) the State Board Exam. I can't believe that, after six years in a cubicle hammering away at the computer for The Man, I'm finally taking the leap and starting a new career that will hopefully lead to happy self-employment.

• I decided on a logo for my products and services. Obviously, you know which one I chose, as it's all over my blog now.

It's all really exciting, and, I have to admit, pretty intimidating.

I'm also in the midst of packaging and marketing my latest and favorite body polish: Sugar Tits. It smells like a Snickerdoodle and leaves your skin super soft and sweet-smelling. I'm going to partner that with a goat's milk soap and maybe a body lotion. Haven't decided on the lotion yet, as it's a costly endeavor when using all natural products and very little chemical preservatives.

I'm going to a three day Skin Care Conference in Vegas the weekend of April 24th. I can't wait to get away for a few days and totally immerse myself in the skin care world. There will be TONS of classes, vendors, sunshine and sleeping. I'm going alone, so I won't get in to too much trouble. I hope.

I have a million rules, regulations, terms, body parts, etc. to learn. Lots of frustrating forms to complete, fees to pay, financial decisions to make...and not much money.
Time to get really, really creative!
Will update soon with a low-down on what I learned in Vegas, and my recipe for Sugar Tits!
xoxo

Stephene

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Bella Forte Logo Contest!

2010-03-24T11:31:00.000-07:00

3/25/10 - UPDATE - I have some really good contenders so far. If you have a moment, please let me know what you think!

This one is "cool" and pretty - is it too dark and gloomy?

This one is "fresh" and pretty - is it not reflecting me?

_________________________________________
I need to get this party started! I've created a logo contest on HatchWise. The winner gets $150. I created the contest last night, and already have some pretty good submissions, so this is exciting!

One of the biggest obstacles for me right now is getting my packaging in line. I like the products that I've been creating, but I don't have interesting packaging or branding. Yeah, it's an excuse to procrastinate and I'm tired of hearing myself say this over and over again.

If you're interested in helping me find a logo, please check out the link and let me know what you think of the submissions so far. I need input on this!! Also, if you are an artist, submit!
Bella Forte Logo Contest on HatchWise

My face rash is better, by the way. Still stings a little with sunscreen, and only one or two small irritated bumps. I think I'm gonna live...

I'm a Product Junkie and I Need Rehab

2010-03-12T12:27:00.000-08:00

I have a skin problem and it's freaking me out.

For the past couple of months, I've had an off-and-on rash around my nose, mouth and eyes. It's bumpy and itchy and ugly. At school, Instructors and students looked at it mysteriously and claimed it was a variety of things: A rash, acne, allergies, etc. Then, last Sunday, I saw the light. I was in a Skin Biology & Chemical Peels class, and up there on the huge overhead screen was a photo of exactly what I have: Perioral Dermatitis. Good Times! I have a pretty mild version, but it's very difficult to treat. I got a mild peel that day, and poof, it was totally gone the next day. I was so happy. I thought I'd found my miracle cure! PEELS! I used the Peel After Care products and was back to normal. Unfortunately, the rash has returned two weeks later.

(This isn't a picture of me...) For more info on Perioral Dermatitis

Apparently, it's very common, especially among esty students (two other students have the condition right now) but it's a mysterious skin condition, because nobody knows exactly how it's caused. Some of the theories are: it's a rare form of Rosacea, a reaction to fluoride in toothpaste, over use of products, especially moisturizers, over exfoliating, stress, hormones, using steroidal creams. Ok, I use toothpaste, and there's fluoride, chlorine and who knows what else in our tap water. I am stressed and hormonal all the time. One of the After Care products has hydrocortisone in it so that probably didn't help. But, I've been in denial about this one: I am a Product Junkie. I love to scrub and slather and experiment on my poor face and it's been especially intense since I started esthetician school. My face is seriously pissed-off at me.

I've heard that the only permenant cure is antibiotics. I have a doctor's appointment in a couple of weeks. In the meantime, I am going on a serious skin product detox: stopping the exfoliating and super moisturizing and steaming and masks (I thought I was giving my skin a treat??). I'm just washing with Ultra Calming Cleanser and using Barrier Repair by Dermalogica, for super sensitive skin. Nothing else. Not even sunscreen. It's been two days and it's extremely difficult. I have abruptly stopped a routine of six or more products every day and night. I have the DTs.

Dammit. I love products. I love to make them and test them and buy them and smell them and sometimes even taste them. I'm jonesing and I need my crack!

I didn't always have reactive skin. I now have sensitized skin, from abuse. And there's no guarantee that it will ever be the same. Be kind and careful!

Even if you don't have sensitive skin, you might want to read this article from SmartSkinCare.com: "The Cardinal Rule of Skin Care: Do No Harm".

The Cardinal Rule of Skin Care: Do No Harm

Deliciously Ageless! Yummy Recipes for Pretty Skin

2010-02-04T11:28:00.000-08:00

Deliciously Ageless!
Eat for beautiful skin, amazing energy, and great health for life.

4 Rules and 5 Recipes get you started

Glowing Skin, silky hair, and taut, toned muscles over age 40? Absolutely! Cheryl Forberg, RD, is redefining what aging looks (and feels) like in her new book, Positively Ageless. Here, she shares how to harness the stay-young power of food, plus offers select recipes based on the latest anti-aging research.

1. Eat Colorful Produce
Every 4 to 5 Hours As you age, Forberg says, your skin's natural antioxidant protection drops; eating a diet rich in colorful fruits and veggies can help protect against wrinkles. There are hundreds of antioxidant nutrients, but the most important include vitamins C (found in tomatoes, citrus fruits, and bell peppers) and E (nuts and avocado), polyphenols (natural cocoa powder and berries), quercetin (onions and broccoli), and carotenoids (leafy greens, sweet potatoes, and other bright orange vegetables). One good option to boost your intake: Sweet Potatoes with Onion Confit.

2. Drink More Fluids
As you get older, your sense of thirst naturally becomes less acute, making you more vulnerable to dehydration. One of the first side effects is a loss of skin elasticity, a major contributor to fine lines. Eight glasses of water a day is a good goal. If you're not a fan of water, sip green tea, fat-free or low-fat milk, and the occasional cup of coffee, and look beyond the glass. Fruits and vegetables are naturally packed with fluid--it's what gives them crispness. Boost their anti-aging potential by serving broth-based soups, such as Italian Vegetable Soup, at lunch or dinner. At breakfast, whip up a fruity smoothie, made with almond or soy milk or low-fat dairy milk and unsweetened fruit juice.

3. Get 30% of Calories from Protein
After age 30, your muscle mass dwindles by approximately 3 to 8% per decade, causing you to lose strength, not to mention calorie-burning power. The antidote is a regular strength-training regimen--and dietary protein. Higher intakes of animal protein in particular help preserve muscle in women over 50, suggest several studies. Protein is also key to warding off fatigue, maintaining a steady blood sugar level, and promoting cellular repair and growth. Forberg recommends getting 30% of your daily calories from healthy protein sources such as lean meats, poultry, seafood, legumes, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, and traditional soy foods. A serving of Forberg's Roast Pork Tenderloin has 24 g.

4. Make Every Grain Count
Stock your pantry with a variety of antioxidant-packed whole grains, she advises. Wild and brown rices, bulgur, farro, millet, quinoa, and oats are all good options. Whether you're serving a simple side dish or preparing a meat loaf or meatballs (like the Lebanese Kebabs), don't automatically reach for white rice or plain bread crumbs. Think whole grain, and you'll be rewarded with better flavor, additional fiber, and more anti-aging nutrients.

Youth Boosters: Antioxidants // Fluid

Italian Vegetable Soup

Soup is a great way to boost your intake of fluid and antioxidants in one fell swoop--especially if it's low in sodium and loaded with vegetables, as this one is.

TIME: 1 hour 15 minutes

SERVINGS: 12
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 med onions, finely chopped (about 1 c)
2 med carrots, finely chopped (about 1 c)
1 rib celery, thinly sliced (about 1/2 c)
6 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 Tbsp)
3 med tomatoes (about 1 lb), finely chopped, or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cartons (32 oz each) fat-free chicken or vegetable broth
1 Tbsp chopped fresh oregano or 1 tsp dried
1 Tbsp chopped fresh basil or 1 tsp dried
1 Tbsp chopped fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried
1/2 sm head cabbage, finely shredded (about 2 c)
1 c bulgur
1 can (16 oz) no-salt-added white beans, such as cannellini or great Northern, rinsed and drained
1 can (16 oz) no-salt-added red or black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 c chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

1. Heat oil in a stockpot over medium-high heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and cook 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook 1 minute or until golden. Do not brown.

2. Add tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, and thyme and bring to a boil. Add cabbage and bulgur and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook 20 to 30 minutes or until bulgur is tender. Stir in beans and simmer 5 minutes longer. Season with parsley.

Nutritional info per serving 142 cal, 6 g pro, 23 g carb, 6 g fiber, 3.5 g fat, 0.5 g sat fat, 0 mg chol, 362 mg sodium

Oregano, used to flavor this soup, contains up to 20 times more antioxidant power than other herbs, according to recent studies

Youth Boosters: Whole Grains // Antioxidants // Protein

Lebanese Kebabs

Instead of bread crumbs, Forberg uses bulgur to help bind the meatballs--for an unexpected dose of antioxidants. Serve these with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, reduced-fat Greek-style yogurt, and pita points for an authentic meal.

TIME: 52 minutes
SERVINGS: 6
1/2 c bulgur
11/4 lb lean ground turkey (7% fat)
1 med onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 c)
3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 Tbsp)
1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh mint
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1/2 tsp ground mustard seed
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, mint, or flat-leaf parsley

1. Bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil in small saucepan. Add bulgur, remove from heat, and soak 30 minutes.

2. Combine remaining ingredients except cilantro in large mixing bowl while bulgur soaks.

3. Drain bulgur in a sieve to remove excess liquid. Add to turkey mixture and mix well.

4. Preheat oven to 400°F. Form turkey mixture into 36 meatballs, about 1 1/2" across, using 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of mixture per meatball. Slide 3 meatballs onto each of 12 metal skewers (6" long), leaving about 1/2" between each meatball. Place skewers on nonstick baking sheet, evenly spaced and not touching. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until no longer pink. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.

Nutritional info per serving 183 cal, 20 g pro, 11 g carb, 3 g fiber, 6.5 g fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 54 mg chol, 266 mg sodium

Youth Boosters: Whole Grains // Antioxidants

Wild Rice with Radicchio and Dried Cherries
Although wild rice is technically a species of grass, not a grain, it counts as a high-fiber, antioxidant-loaded alternative to white rice. Its deliciously nutty flavor pairs perfectly with sweet plumped-up dried cherries and slightly bitter radicchio.

TIME: 1 hour 15 minutes + soaking time
SERVINGS: 10
1/2 c dried cherries or cranberries
1/2 c dry red wine or sparkling red grape juice
2 c water 2/3 c wild rice
1 head radicchio (12 oz), cored and coarsely chopped
3 scallions, chopped
3/4 c chopped fresh parsley
1/4 c olive oil
3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp slivered almonds, lightly toasted

1. Cover cherries with wine in small bowl. Chill and let soak overnight.

2. Bring salted water to a boil in medium saucepan. Add rice. Return to a boil, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook 50 to 60 minutes. Drain any water that is not absorbed.

3. Drain cherries, discarding wine. In large bowl, toss together radicchio, scallions, parsley, rice, and cherries. Whisk together next five ingredients. Pour over radicchio mixture and toss gently. Sprinkle with almonds.

Nutritional info per serving 133 cal, 2 g pro, 16 g carb, 3 g fiber, 6.5 g fat, 1 g sat fat, 0 mg chol, 166 mg sodium

Each kebab serving fulfills more than 10% of your daily fiber requirement

Youth Boosters: Antioxidants // Protein

Roast Pork Tenderloin with Citrus, Green Tea, and Spices

Green tea makes an excellent marinade for pork, chicken, and seafood; the flavor is slightly sweet and somewhat smoky. Brew a strong cup--two bags instead of one--but remove the bags after 5 minutes to prevent the tea from getting too bitter.

TIME: 45 minutes + marinating time
SERVINGS: 8
1/2 c brewed green tea
1/2 c red wine or sparkling red grape juice
1/4 c orange juice
Freshly squeezed juice of 3 limes (about 1/4 c)
1/4 c chopped fresh cilantro
1 Tbsp freshly grated orange zest
1 Tbsp freshly grated lime zest 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 Tbsp)
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 lean pork tenderloins (2 lb)

1. Combine all ingredients except pork in large plastic ziplock bag. Add pork, seal, and turn to coat. Chill at least 2 hours

2. Preheat oven to 400°F.

3. Remove pork from bag, reserving excess marinade, and boil excess marinade 1 minute. Place pork on rack set in roasting pan. Roast about 25 minutes, basting with marinade, until a thermometer registers 160°F.

Nutritional info per serving 164 cal, 24 g pro, 3 g carb, 0.5 g fiber, 4 g fat, 1.5 g sat fat, 74 mg chol, 106 mg sodium

The combination of green tea, citrus juices, and a variety of spices maximizes the antioxidant content of this ultralean pork tenderloin

Youth Boosters: Antioxidants

Sweet Potatoes with Onion Confit

Sweet potatoes are especially rich in beta-carotene, an anti-aging carotenoid that your body converts into vitamin A. This recipe uses agave nectar to bring out the sweetness of the potato; look for it in health food stores. In a pinch, substitute honey.

TIME: 1 hour 5 minutes
SERVINGS: 8
1/2 c pomegranate juice
2 Tbsp agave nectar
2 sweet potatoes (about 2 lb), peeled and cut into 1" cubes
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 med yellow onions, chopped
1/4 c white wine or low-sodium chicken broth
1 c 1% milk
1/2 tsp salt

1. Bring pomegranate juice and agave nectar to a boil in small saucepan over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer 5 minutes or until reduced by almost half. Cool completely.

2. Preheat oven to 350°F.

3. Cook potatoes in enough boiling salted water to cover until tender, about 15 minutes.

4. Heat oil in 8" sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Transfer to food processor. Add wine to pan and cook 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits. Add liquid to food processor and puree onions until smooth. Add a little water, if necessary.

5. Drain potatoes and return to saucepan. Add milk and heat until hot, but do not boil. Using a fork or masher, smash potatoes. Stir in onion puree, 1 tablespoon of the pomegranate syrup, and salt.

6. Transfer mixture to 1 1/2-quart baking dish and bake 20 minutes.

Nutritional info per serving 147 cal, 3 g pro, 28 g carb, 4 g fiber, 2 g fat, 0.5 g sat fat, 2 mg chol, 223 mg sodium

Adapted from Cheryl Forberg's Positively Ageless. Copyright 2008 by Cheryl Forberg, RD. Permission granted by Rodale Inc., Emmaus, PA 18098. Available wherever books are sold or at prevention.com/shop.

What's Your Season?

2010-01-27T11:18:00.000-08:00

What’s Your Season?

Haiti - I'm Overwhelmed!!

2010-01-26T12:08:00.000-08:00

Hi friends,

I want to do something for the victims of the Haiti earthquake, and I am reaching out to you for a few reasons:
1) I'm overwhelmed by the choices of which organization to donate to - any suggestions?
2) My company is matching all employees' donations, so that got me thinking:

If we can pool together a bunch of money for one organization, my company will match it and we'll double our impact.

Anyone interested in working on this with me?

I need to turn in my receipts to Human Resources by FRIDAY! So please respond if you have any feedback.

Some organizations that I'm considering (It needs to be an organization that will spend the money only on Haiti victims):

Partners in Health
Doctors without Borders
Unicef

Red Cross

Save the Children

Habitat for Humanity

any other ideas?

xoxo,

Steph

A Woman Should Have...

2010-01-09T10:49:00.000-08:00

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE …
enough money within her control to move out
and rent a place of her own, even if she never wants to or needs to…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .
something perfect to wear if the employer, or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE
a youth she’s content to leave behind….

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .
a past juicy enough that she’s looking forward to
retelling it in her old age….

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ….
a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE
one friend who always makes her laugh… and one who lets her cry…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..
a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .
eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems, and a recipe for a meal, that will make her guests feel honored…

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .
a feeling of control over her destiny.

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
how to fall in love without losing herself.

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
how to quit a job, break up with a lover, and confront a friend without; ruining the friendship…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
when to try harder… and WHEN TO WALK AWAY…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
that she can’t change the length of her calves,
the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
that her childhood may not have been perfect…but its over…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
what she would and wouldn’t do for love or more…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
how to live alone… even if she doesn’t like it…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW..
whom she can trust,
whom she can’t,
and why she shouldn’t take it personally…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
where to go…
be it to her best friend’s kitchen table…
or a charming inn in the woods…
when her soul needs soothing…

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW…
what she can and can’t accomplish in a day…
a month…and a year…

This has been credited to Maya Angelou for years, but it's actually written by Pamela Redmond Satran.

Solve Skin Problems with These Dietary Changes

2010-01-04T14:35:00.000-08:00

I just found this interesting article:

Solve Skin Problems with These Dietary Changes

As the adage goes, you are what you eat. Our skin is a reflection of our overall health. The good news is that you can overcome or manage many common skin disorders like acne, eczema, sensitivity and blotchiness by paying close attention to your diet.

Acne, Large Pores and Oily Skin

Possible nutritional deficiency : Vitamin B6. This B vitamin helps regulate the skin’s sebaceous glands. Excellent sources include yellow fin tuna, salmon and bananas. Taking zinc supplements and eating foods rich in zinc (pumpkin seeds, red meat) can help calm the inflammation associated with severe acne.

Atopic Dermatitis
Possible nutritional deficiency : Vitamin B complex, especially Biotin. Food sources of Biotin include bananas, eggs, oatmeal and rice.

Blotchy skin

Possible nutritional deficiency : Zinc. Food sources of zinc are organic eggs, beef, pumpkin seeds. Try taking an additional 15-30mg. zinc supplement daily.

Broken Capillaries

Solution: Visible capillaries on the skin are more likely result of lifestyle and genetics than a nutritional deficiency. People prone to broken capillaries need adequate amounts of Vitamin C (from citrus fruits and supplements). When taken with Flavanoids, Vitamin C helps to strengthen the capillary walls. The flavanoid Pycnogenol supports the body’s vascular structure and keeps vaso-dilation in check.

Dry, Flaky Skin

Possible nutritional deficiency : Vitamin A. This antioxidant is necessary for maintaining and repairing the skin’s tissue. Most fruits and vegetables are good sources of Vitamin A.

Dull, Lifeless Hair
Possible nutritional deficiency : Selenium is found in foods like steel-cut oats, apples, honey, avocados, artichokes, sunflower seeds

Excessive Female Facial Hair

Possible problem : When women have more facial hair than normal, it’s usually due to a hormonal imbalance. Foods high on the Glycemic Index like white flour, bagels, muffins, pasta, bread and sugar can trigger hormonal problems and unwanted facial and body hair.

Solution : Follow a well-balanced, low carbohydrate diet.

Hives (Uticaria)
Hives are raised red blotches on the skin`s surface. They are usually the result of an allergy to food or medication and can cause itching and swelling. The most common food allergies are strawberries, citrus fruit, seafood, shellfish, nuts and peanuts.

Solution : Avoid foods that have caused hives or allergic reactions in the past.

Psoriasis

Possible nutritional deficiency : This unsightly skin rash is linked to low levels of Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs). Food sources of EFAs include salmon and flaxseed oil. Consider adding fish oil or evening primrose supplements to your diet.

Rosacea

Any number of foods can trigger a flushing episode in a Rosacea sufferer. At some point, flushing gives way to bumps, pimples and papules that resemble acne. To control flushing, learn to recognize your food triggers— and avoid them.

Problematic foods often include : sugar, spicy dishes and hot soups. Some experts also suggest avoiding acidic beverages like coffee, tea and soda. Keep skin cool by drinking lots of water though out the day.

Solution : Some studies show that washing or spraying your face with mineral water can help reduce irritation and encourage the skin cells absorb the moisture.

Natural Homemade Beauty Care Tips - Take control over your skin care (and improve your cooking skills) with easy DIY recipes you can make at home

2009-12-28T10:44:00.001-08:00

Natural Homemade Beauty Care Tips - Take control over your skin care (and improve your cooking skills) with easy DIY recipes you can make at home

Hey Ladies: Stop STRESSING OUT! Hints for Glowing Skin

2009-12-12T23:21:00.000-08:00

I'm already performing facials and let me tell you, looking at skin up close is teaching me a lot. I've always been my own guinnea pig. Now I see how different everyone is and it's fascinating. But there's one thing that we all have in common: STRESS.

Women's skin has changed over the decades. We now have full time careers (often the breadwinners), while taking care of kids and partners, trying to be healthy and pretty, on top of dealing with traffic, debt, processed office air, crazy people on the street, crime, office politics, housekeeping and pollution. I'm getting stressed just thinking of the numerous ways that our daily lives are assaulted by ugly situations. And most women put themselves last on their list of priorities. Who has time for pampering? The skin shows it.

Stress takes it's toll in a variety of ways. First, we stop doing the things that are good for us: drinking lots of water, working out, eating healthy, avoiding alcohol, smoking or caffeine. Some nights, we collapse in to bed and the last thing we want to do is wash our faces and floss our teeth. I totally get it.

Well, this causes break-outs (stress and hormones cause congestion specifically around the chin area). Stress also causes dehydration, blotches, allergies, puffy eyes and (shriek!) wrinkles. So, the fight for equality has some pitfalls. Whatever. We're smart enough to look amazing while taking over the world, right?

So I have a few tasks that should help ease you in to getting prettier skin while kicking the world's ass:
1) Drink a lot of water, especially if you like to party!
2) THIS IS ONE IS CRUCIAL: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser (no soap) for at least ONE FULL minute, every morning and night and follow with a good fragrance-free & dye-free moisturizer. Your face will get clean, and the massaging action stimulates circulation to get rid of a lifeless complexion. This also massages out those worry wrinkles - seriously. DO IT.
3) If you have acne or break-outs, BE GENTLE. People tend to attack their skin with harsh products to dry up the break-out quickly, over exfoliate and touch, pick and obsess over the pimples. Nobody's perfect, let the pimple run it's course or you will make it worse and possibly create a scar. Over-cleansing and scrubbing causes the skin to overreact and perpetuates the problem. A break-out is your skin saying "I need TLC, not punishment." Be patient, it has it's own schedule.
4) Take a multi-vitamin every day.
5) Take deep breaths when you feel overwhelmed.
6) Put yourself first every once in while. Scratch that. Put yourself first EVERY DAY, even if it's for only ten minutes while you wash your face and treat yourself with a little kindness. You deserve it.

WOW! Esthetician School is Awesome but I'm BUSY!!

2009-12-12T22:42:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! I've been having so much fun going to school that I haven't had time for the Viva Bella Forte Blog. I'm not having fun working full time during the day, but the schedule isn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Extra-curricular activities like blogging, partying, cooking, socializing, etc. are sacrificed, however.

The esthetician program is teaching me so much about skin care, I am pretty overwhelmed by all of the new information. It's humbling to realize how much I don't know. It's been really eye opening and exciting.

Taking a hobby to the next level is turning out to be a really good decision for me. The only regret is that I wish I would have done this a long time ago. Like, five to ten years ago. But, alas, I cannot live my life saying "I shoulda...". Now is the right time and I can't wait to get this party started!

I'm going to dedicate myself to one posting a week. Happy Holidays!

Bella Forte SPA KIT Survey!! I NEED YOUR HELP!

2009-10-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

I have a daydreaming addiction. I have a problem with wrangling my hypomanic brainstorms. I have a thousand gradiose ideas, and loads of enthusiasm, but I often lose steam mid-project because I am overwhelmed by the big amazing tasks I've set up for myself.

So, I need your help. I've created a survey of my latest and greatest ideas for holiday gifts. If you can spare a few minutes, PLEASE take my survey and help me narrow things down a bit, otherwise, I will lose my mind by Thanksgiving.

IF YOU COMPLETE THE SURVEY, YOU WILL RECEIVE A SPECIAL LITTLE THANK YOU GIFT!!

Bella Forte SPA KIT Survey:
Click Here to take survey

Thank you!
Love,
Steph

I Start Esthetician School on Wednesday!

2009-10-03T10:03:00.000-07:00

After about two years of pondering, researching, reconsidering, interviewing, visiting, and worrying, I finally sealed the deal yesterday. With the generous trust and financial support of my boyfriend, I handed over a check for $8,238.75 to Zenzi's Cosmetology Training Center for Hair, Skin and Nails.

I finally decided on this school for a few reasons: It's the least expensive of the "good" schools; the schedule is more flexible and fits with my still-full-time day job; it's in a nice neighborhood (Hayes Valley in SF) where I hope to meet a good range of clients; Zenzi seems to be a super-kind, motherly type who has been very encouraging (well, yeah, it's still a business); I know a couple of people who are either currently attending, or who have graduated from Zenzi's, and they seem satisfied with their education. Not jumping up and down full of praise, but I haven't encountered that type of alumni reaction for any of the schools.

My worries: The schedule might make me crazy, as I'll be on-the-clock for 55 hours a week; I will surely be older than every other student; I am sometimes fiercely independent and the mothering-type might drive me nuts at times; I don't do Saturday mornings; my hands shake when I try to put eyeliner on other people; I am going to have to wax bikini lines; I have back problems; I'm often very tired after work; after I get my license...then what? Jobs don't seem to be very lucrative or abundant right now. Am I strong enough to overcome these things?

But I am passionate about learning more about skin care. I have twenty-five years of work experience. I am motivated. I miss helping people. I'm really excited about making good products; I'm forty years old and ready to change direction in my life.

One or two years down the line, I see myself as an entrepreneur. I want to own my own business (Bella Forte), whether it's a partnership or completely on my own. A day spa, a skin care line, a boutique...

Right now, I really love the idea of a neighborhood boutique that offers workshops and treatments, with a storefront selling products. Business ownership is a ridiculous amount of work. But if I am loving it, will I finally be content with my life? Will I regret not learning to edit video like a pro or pushing myself to upper management in the media field? Will I wish that I chased the dollar signs with more vigor?

I have absolutely no idea. But I'll never know if I don't try. So here goes...

Neem Oil - Amazing Oil that Stinks Like Sh*t!

2009-09-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

Neem Oil is amazing. It treats several of ailments and skin issues, from psoriasis to hair loss. It's a cure-all like Tea Tree Oil. But, again, I learned another thing from my last serum-making experiment. Neem Oil STINKS! I used a very tiny amount in my failed Anti-Wrinkle serum. I wish that I had known about the odor increasing with time. I was excited about the amazing stories and somehow never came across an article about the smell. So, not only did my big experiment clog my pores and give me a rash, it wreaks. I considered making lip balm or combining it with more aloe and essential oils, I don't know if anything will make this stuff smell better. I think I had better call it a loss and appreciate what I've learned. I might give it one last try as an anti-septic / anti-fungal ointment for bug bites or athlete's foot. But I don't want that crap near my face again. http://www.discoverneem.com/neem-oil-smell.html

DIY Beauty: Learning from my Mistakes at 2am - Face Serum and Body Scrub

2009-09-12T14:20:00.000-07:00

I stayed up until almost 2am on a product-making mission: Face Serum and Exfoliating Body Scrub.

First, the serum: It came out way too thick and oily. I wanted it to be super rich, but not too greasy or drippy. I combined two previously-made recipes, one a serum, and the other a face cream. Now I have 10 ounces of "balm" that will create an oil slick on most people. I have dry skin, but I don't imagine most people will tolerate it, even as a night treatment. I put it all over my face, especially around my eyes before bed, and woke up with really nice, dewy skin. I honestly believe that my crow's feet have vanished! But I have a stained pillow and a greasy hairline. Not good. Today's rainy day project is to keep a little bit of the balm for the eyes, then throw the rest back in to the double-boiler, melt it down, and whip in more aloe vera juice and fresh aloe vera gel from our giant aloe plant outside.

I could just toss it, but the ingredients are expensive and I had to special order them. You might recognize some of these from other expensive products: Meadowfoam seed oil, shea butter, plum kernel oil, carrot seed oil, avocado oil, neem oil, aloe oil and rosehip seed oil, plus essential oils of chamomile, lavender, geranium and lemon. Then, to give it emulsion: aloe vera juice, glycerin, distilled water infused with green tea and bees wax as a thickener. I created a balm, not a cream or a serum. So, back to the laboratory! Maybe aloe will come to the rescue. That's what aloe does, right?

For the body scrub: I found a bunch of cocoa butter and shea butter body balms that I made a while ago. It was just too rich to use on a daily basis, so it sat in my room feeling neglected. I melted it all down again, whipped it for a while with the stick blender to give it emulsion and body (like whipping oil to create mayonnaise), added a little liquid soap to cut down the greasiness (and slipping in the shower). Finally, I added a bunch of white and brown sugar and spearmint essential oil. It's a chocolate-mint treat! Now, I won't feel guilty about slathering it on in gobs, because the shelf life on the shea butter is winding down and it needs to get used in the next few months. It's a great excuse to be indulgent and scrub off my summer-weathered skin at the same time. My next recipe will use healthy carrier oils like olive, jojoba or avocado. Shea and mango butters are pretty expensive and better for lotion-making. I don't like to wash money down the drain. One of the many benefits of DIY beauty is saving money, especially when you're still in the learning stages. I promise to share my recipes when I get it right!

Update: 9/16/09 - My face "balm" made me breakout! I have more pimples that I did when I was a teen! Livin' and learnin' the hard way...

Follow Your Nose: Perfume and an Addiction to Lemon

2009-09-10T11:27:00.000-07:00

I took a great class at The Nova Studio in Point Richmond a few weeks ago called "Making Natural Perfumes" and I learned a lot about natural scents, how they make us feel, how long the top, middle and bottom notes last, etc. I had a headache from so much sniffing, but it was well worth it.

I realized later, after wearing all of my perfumes, that I used way too much lemon in all of them. And those light, citrus-y notes fade the fastest. Like, they hit you once and make you feel good, but the scent is gone in 20 minutes or less. The middle and bottom notes last longer, but are usually more woodsy or floral, like rose and cedarwood. I learned that, although I really like citrus, my perfumes smell like Pledge furniture polish.

Anyway, that's what learning is all about. It's important to not get in to a "smell rut": stuck on one scent or scent family. There are so many different beautiful, natural creations out there, and they smell a lot different once they've mixed with our own unique body chemistry. You can totally make perfume at home using items from the drug store. I'll publish another post after I've experimented a little more, and hopefully won't end up smelling like I've been polishing floors.

Here's a cool diagram of different notes:

The Italians are Bella Forte, too - Bring it on!

2009-08-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

My sister sent me this - I think it's pretty cool!

Looks like beauty runs in the family...and so does the joy of sharing beauty secrets with the less fortunate! haha

"Ciao!! - Welcome to the House of Bella Forte!

Born from the Italian Royal Family Tradition of True Craftsmanship, Quality and Detail. The Forte Family was the Fashion and Style Designers of their Day in Naples,Italy in the early 1800’s. They put their great Love of Fashion in everything they touched from Head to Toe on everyone in the land….Today that Legacy lives on and has been passed down to the generations that represent the Forte family’s impeccable Signature Designs. For the great History left in the hands of the Forte Woman Today, this new adventure into the Style and Creation of making Beautiful Hair Styling Tools, along with all the Fabulous Baubles that go with it…will turn You into the Modern Day Princess!"

only bad news...the "bella forte" name might already be taken :(
but i thought you still might enjoy this!

I'm a Blog Virgin! Introducing Bella Forté!

2009-08-26T11:42:00.000-07:00

Hi Friends,

If you know me well, you're probably surprised that it's taken me this long to have my own blog. I am a Gemini: a lover of communication, blabbing, expressing myself, etc. But I was really inspired to finally create a blog of my own because I want to document and share my newest and greatest adventure: I'M GOING TO BEAUTY SCHOOL and am starting a product line based on everything that I learn.

I'm going to use this blog space to share everything that I experience, worry about etc. I'm going to provide tips, DIY beauty recipes, product reviews, new ideas and random thoughts. I'm going to reach out for a lot of help and opinions about my product line.

I'll probably share a lot of photos of my dog, Pistol, for no good reason except that she's extremely cute and makes me happy.

I finally came up with my "brand" name: Bella Forté. I've been making bath and beauty products for several years now, and had a lot of name ideas, such as Bitchen Beautician (old logo above, stolen from my old cooking show, Bitchen' Kitchen); Spoiled Rotten; Pistol Whipped, to name a few.

Bella Forté translates to "Beautiful and Strong". I like it because it represents how I want to be. The "Forté" part is easy, because, well, I can be a loud, stubborn hard-ass, and Forté is my last name. The "Bella" part takes some work. It's not easy being beautiful! My new career goal is to help to make beauty an easy accomplishment: on the inside and out.

Bella Forté is what I aim to be, and I want to help others feel strong and beautiful, too.

Please join me on my new adventure!

XOXOXOXOXOXOX

Stephene

(Your Bitchen Beautician)