Dear Pimples, It's Time to Say Goodbye!

It may not be a matter of life or death, but ridding your skin of acne is, indeed, life-changing!  With acne, comes embarrassment, pain (both physical and emotional).  It's tough on your self-esteem.  I can attest to this personally, as a girl who tried to cover her cystic acne with makeup in high school.  It didn't work.  I knew it.  And, it limited which activities I chose to participate in.  If only I'd had something like Unblemish back then! What a difference it would have made.

Thankfully, Shililah does have Unblemish and this is her before & after, followed by her testimonial.  

"It's been a journey of pain and desperate times in search of result oriented skin care regimen for my severe acne. From using antibiotics to buying all sorts of creams and ointments that over promised results and under delivered, my bathroom cabinet was cluttered with products. Then I was introduced to Rodan and Fields by my sister Wangare Marshall. At first I was skeptical because I felt I had tried it all, but 6 months later I became a believer. My story changed, I used R+F Unblemish and Soothe Regimen, now my skin is clear and radiant. I am confident to put my best face forward!"

So happy for you, Shillalah!

Here is what she used:

1. Unblemish Regimen: A complete Multi-Med® Therapy solution, the UNBLEMISH Regimen is clinically tested to help stop blackheads and pesky pimples before they become visible on your skin’s surface. Found to combat the entire acne cycle, this Regimen helps unclog pores, calm your complexion and keep acne from making unwelcome appearances. UNBLEMISH Regimen combines cosmetic and active over-the-counter ingredients to penetrate pores and eliminate most acne blemishes.

2. Soothe Regimen (to minimize redness and inflammation until acne is under better control)


Who do you know that could benefit from this simple daily regimen?  Please share this post with them and let them know they can try it risk-free because of R+F's 100% money back guarantee.  It's time to say adios, pimples!

Love The Skin You're In! 

NEGATIVE REACTIONS TO SKINCARE

At some point, most of us have tried a new skincare product that didn't result in the outcome we'd hoped for. Initially, the results from new skincare can be great, but then, a few days or weeks later, you may see little white bumps, red patches or itchy areas that look dry and scaly. Worse yet, you may see pimples reminiscent of your teen years. What is going on? As it turns out, these reactions have a broad range of causes … and solutions!


What Can Cause Your Skin to React?

There are four primary reasons for why skin reacts negatively to a new product, a new skincare routine, or even to products you've used for months or years:

1. The product was poorly formulated with ingredients that can irritate your skin, such as alcohol, fragrance, or fragrant plant extracts. The reaction can happen immediately or it can develop over time; sometimes, when several fragranced products are used, the skin reaches a critical tipping point and reacts strongly.

2. Often, an allergy to a specific ingredient or combination of ingredients in the formula is to blame. This has nothing to do with the quality of a cosmetic, but rather is a personal reaction to an ingredient or a mix of ingredients. It's like being allergic to cats, a fact of life for some, but not the fault of the cat.

3. Using the wrong products for your skin type; for example, using oil-absorbing products when dry, flaky skin is the problem or using overly emollient products when oily skin and breakouts are the problem.

4. Using too many "active" products at one time. With anti-aging or anti-acne products, some people think that if a little is good, then more must be better. So, they use three types of exfoliants at the same time, followed by a Vitamin C product, a prescription retinoid, and maybe even a skin-lightening product. For some, this combination may work at first, but it can quickly backfire, causing skin to become overly sensitive or reactive when it was 'normal' before. (This reaction can be even worse if you're also getting professional peels or aggressive facials.)

Some people have skin that's just more reactive and sensitive to cosmetics, no matter what the ingredients. For them, the more products they use, the greater the risk of a reaction, especially if the products contain fragrance or fragrant plants.

What Kind of Reaction Are You Having?

Unfortunately, it isn't easy to tell what kind of reaction is taking place because there are many reasons skin can react negatively, and often the different types of reactions can have similar symptoms. For example, an irritant reaction, allergic reaction, and a reaction from using the wrong product or having ultra-sensitive skin can all look and feel the same.

Regardless of what is causing the negative reaction, it's important to figure out what is causing the problem, stop doing it, and then start doing something else that benefits skin as it gets back to normal. When skin reacts negatively to skincare products, the first step is to become a skincare detective. 

Note: If you have a severe reaction that results in welts, hives, intense redness, pain, or a burning sensation that lingers, consult your physician immediately.

Be a Skincare Detective

First, be certain the products you used don't have problematic ingredients that are known to cause irritation. Using well-formulated products doesn't mean a reaction won't occur, but it definitely reduces the risk!

(You can scroll down to the bottom to see a list of ingredients you should avoid.) 

Next, be certain the products are a good match for your skin type. Oil-absorbing ingredients will be problematic on dry skin, while emollient, thick moisturizers may be a problem for someone with oily skin or combination skin with oily areas.  (Your skincare provider should have an assessment available to you to determine what your skin's specific needs are.  Here is an example.)

In situations where highly reactive skin is a primary concern, be cautious about products with active ingredients; don't use too many of them or use all of them at the same time.  You may need to ease into using the products in combination.

After investigating the ingredients and the types of products being used, consider the combination and frequency of the products you're applying. Although sunscreen, skin lighteners with hydroquinone, AHA or BHA exfoliants, anti-acne treatments, and anti-aging products with ingredients like retinol can all have remarkable benefits, they can also cause reactions for some, especially when used together in a single skin-care routine.

In such a scenario, a starting point would be to change the sunscreen to one that contains only mineral active ingredients, which are are very gentle.

Another test would be to reduce the frequency of use. So, rather than using every product in your routine twice per day, alternate them, apply one in the morning and the other in the evening.

It can also be helpful to alternate days. For example, instead of using a retinol-based product or an anti-acne treatment every day, try applying it every other day and see how your skin reacts. If reducing the frequency doesn't improve matters, then stop using the most suspect product(s) and see how your skin reacts.  Keep a notebook handy so you can record how your skin progresses. Note the pros and cons, and what you did differently. 

While active ingredients or problematic ingredients are typical causes of skin reactions, even basic skincare products like cleansers, toners, or moisturizers can trigger negative skin reactions. 

In such cases, it usually starts when you introduce a new product into an existing skincare routine or when you begin using a new group of products. If the reaction is mild, it might be helpful to stop using one of the products and see what happens. If that doesn't help, stop using another one of the new products and see what happens after a day or two. If that doesn't resolve the problem, you may need to consult your doctor and/or go back to the previous routine that didn't cause your skin to react. 

What Isn't Causing the Problem

Some people think silicone ingredients (examples would be cyclopentasiloxane or dimethicone) in skin-care products can cause allergic reactions or breakouts, but that's a misperception. Silicones are a group of uniquely soothing, gentle ingredients that reduce inflammation and have exceptional moisturizing properties.

Silicones are actually used in burn units around the world because of their unique benefits and their non-sensitizing properties. It's true that people can be sensitive to silicone ingredients just like many other benign cosmetic ingredients, but a true silicone allergy is rare and they are not pore-clogging ingredients.

Many people think their skin is going through an adjustment or "purging" period when a negative skin reaction occurs after using a new product—especially when the reaction is breakouts. Although skin can break out for a short period of time after using a new product, this response isn't typical. What is more typical is that the breakouts would have occurred anyway—especially if a new product was started at the same time as a woman's menstrual cycle or stressful time.

If the breakouts persist for more than a week or two, stop using the new product or products and see if the situation improves. 

So, What Should You Do?

Having a negative reaction to a new skincare product doesn't mean the product is badly formulated. Of course, there are badly formulated skincare products that can cause all sorts of reactions, but frequently the bumps, redness, and other symptoms are due to a personal reaction to an ingredient or a combination of ingredients.

What you need to remember is to think like a detective so you can—as quickly as possible—determine what is causing the reaction. This is tricky because it's not always as easy as pointing the finger at the new product you just started using. It may be the product, or it may be how that new product interacts with other products you're using. Think of how adding one ingredient to a recipe can completely change its taste, and it's easy to understand how adding a new product to an existing skincare routine may cause trouble (or be very helpful) for your skin.

Above all, even though these reactions can be distressing, don't panic or stop using everything. Armed with the information above, you have everything you need to take control of these reactions and quickly get your skin back on track!

Things to Avoid (as mentioned earlier) …

- Overly abrasive scrubs (such as those that contain aluminum oxide crystals, walnut shells, or pumice)
- Astringents containing irritating ingredients (alcohol and menthol being the prime offenders)
- Toners containing irritating ingredients (alcohol and menthol being the prime offenders)
- Scrub mitts
- Cold or hot water
- Steaming or icing the skin
- Facial masks containing irritating ingredients (watch out for fragrant essential oils and polyvinyl alcohol)
- Loofahs
- Bar soaps and bar cleansers

Keep The Faith ...

If you are one of those people for whom a new skincare routine has been problematic, I truly hope you have found this information helpful.  Remember that it may not be necessary to completely discontinue the use of your skincare products, but finding the right balance for YOUR skin can take a little time and patience.  It will be worth it, so don't give up hope!

My wish is that you will soon …

Love The Skin You're In!

~ Jen

Much of the information in this post was gathered from Paula's Choice blog.  Paula Begoun is the best-selling author of 20 books on skin care and makeup. She is known worldwide as the Cosmetics Cop and creator of Paula's Choice (http://www.paulaschoice.com). Paula's expertise has led to hundreds of appearances on national and international television.

The Truth About Retinol

You've probably heard of Retin-A…and if you've tried it, you've likely had a love-hate relationship with it.  It's great for acne and plumping up sagging skin, but it can be SO drying that the cons outweigh the pros.

Did you know there is a non-prescpription option?  It's called Retinol.  Consistently using the right dosage in the right order will result in Retinol quickly becoming one of your favorite skin care products!  If Retinol isn't on your holiday wish list, it should be! 

Before you head out to make a purchase, here are some important things to note:

Retinol...

• Speeds up cell turnover, sweeps away the dead cells that cause dullness, and boosts collagen and elastin by stimulating cellular repair at the deepest level of the skin. 

• Is degraded by light and air, so proper packaging is critical.

• Pumps up circulation by increasing blood-vessel formation, so skin looks healthier. 

• Is the vampire of the skin-care world, as it works best in the dark.

• Is best applied after washing your face with warm water and thoroughly drying. Then, blood vessels and pores are dilated, making more space between cells for absorption. 

• Can be dabbed around the eye area every third night. It's great for undereye crepiness.

• Is best followed by a layer of moisturizer, which helps skin tolerate the Retinol better by strengthening the skin barrier, making it less prone to irritation.

My nighttime routine (below) includes Retinol and I have seen a significant improvement in the texture and firmness (as well as minimized pore appearance)! ---

1. Daily Cleansing Mask

2. Pore Minimizing Toner

3. Amp MD roller system (including Retinol)

4. Overnight Restorative Cream

Love The Skin You're In!

Jen

Turning Your Dreams Into Reality IS Possible!

Ladies and Gentlemen...just imagine...you are sitting on a park bench with two billionaires, one sitting on each side of you. They offer you a business partnership where you can leverage their name, their warehouse, and their distribution process. You won't ever have to stock inventory or worry about finding time to deliver it.

They tell you that your personal products will be purchased at wholesale AND each of your purchases will be a tax write-off, saving you even more. They offer to provide you with the technology, training and resources to become a successful business owner. They will show you how to condense a 30 year conventional career into 3-5 years.

Then, they tell you that YOU can be your own boss and in charge of your life. Better yet, you will be the one to decide how much income you want to make…because the sky is the limit. All of this, they tell you, comes with ZERO financial risk because of a money-back guarantee.

Just when you think it can't get any more intriguing, they continue…

…and tell you to imagine, for a few moments, living your life on YOUR own terms. Freedom to come and go as you please. Traveling. Supporting the causes you care about in a significant way. Buying that dream home.  Add to your retirement or college fund.  And never missing an important moment with your family.

Before you say "no" to them, please listen anonymously to hear more about an opportunity that is exactly what I've described above.

Dial in for a replay 805-399-1099 enter code: 403618# (recorded info call 24 hours a day). Two of Rodan+Fields' Million Dollar Earners, Tracie Bonds and Gabriel Sedlak, will inspire you!

The worst thing that could happen is that you'll spend 15 minutes listening to a call. The best thing is...well...start reading again from the top!

Message me for more information @ TheSkinUareIn@gmail.com.

Live The Life You've Always Wanted

Know exactly what you're looking for in a MLM business

When you start a journey of finding the best MLM to join, you need to make a list of what you really want from a company. And when you find a brand that meets your needs, JUMP IN with enthusiasm!

Here are the things I was looking for, and was pleased to find in Rodan + Fields:

1. The company needs to be stable, but not past the momentum stage.  Debt-free is a plus!
2. I want to love the brand and be very comfortable telling people about it.
3. It needs to allow me to build my business without home parties.

4. It will not require stocking of inventory.
5. It needs to have a pay plan that will allow me to build my business to a point that, in 5 years' time, can pay me for life.

6. It has to be a business model that allows me to transfer ownership to my children, ensuring a future stream of residual income for them. 

7. The company must have fewer than 100,000 independent business owners.
8. The company should have some competitive advantage.

There are many MLM reps who never even use their own product(s) and almost every network marketing company focuses on doing home parties. Too many companies suffer from big debt and never even make it to the momentum stage. Too many compensation plans are set up for the business to profit – not you and me.

On the contrary:

• Rodan + Fields' pay plan is exceptionally generous.  
• Our ~50,000 independent consultants are rewarded both for team building & customer retention.  
• Rodan + Fields is debt-free and is managing its growth brilliantly.  
• The Executive Team is beyond impressive.  
• Rodan + Fields is the FIRST brand to leave retail and enter the direct selling channel.
• Rodan + Fields' has the ability to leverage the incomparable reputation of the doctors who created the brand, as well as their success with Proactiv® Solution.
• Rodan + Fields has won MORE AWARDS than all other businesses in the history of the Direct Selling Association combined.
• Consultant Training is free, readily accessible, and amazingly helpful.  
• Consultants in the business less than 5 years can (and do) earn 6-figures monthly.
• International expansion will begin Summer 2014, allowing me to build a team in each country.  Canada, you're first!!
• Perhaps most important, the products DO what they claim.  

Simply put, it is a beautiful balance.

Are you ready to explore an opportunity that will change your life?   I want to help you create your ideal financial future.  With a minimal investment, dedication and a plan of action, you CAN live the life you've always dreamed of.  Message me at TheSkinUareIn@gmail.com today.  You could be the first in your area!  Don't wait!

Check out some informative videos here!

Love The Skin You're In!

~ Jen

www.aneededchange.com

Is Sugar Bad For Your Skin?

In a word, YES.

Let's start with the basics. When you ingest sugar or high-glycemic foods that rapidly convert to sugar -- whether it's in the form of a pear or a piece of candy -- your body breaks down these carbohydrates into glucose, which raises your insulin levels. Simple carbohydrates, like refined sugar, white bread and soda, cause your insulin levels to spike, which leads to inflammation throughout the body.

Inflammation produces enzymes that break down collagen and elastin, resulting in sagging skin and wrinkles. Digested sugar permanently attaches to the collagen in your skin through a process known as glycation. Aside from increasing the effects of aging, glycation can also exacerbate skin conditions like acne and rosacea. Plus, the more sugar you eat, the more likely it is you'll develop insulin resistance, which can manifest as excess hair growth (hirsutism) and dark patches on the neck and in body creases.

The Bad

Simple carbohydrates are your skin's enemy, since they rapidly break down into glucose and result in insulin spikes. Avoid foods that are proinflammatory, high-glycemic or high in saturated fats like: white bread, candy, fried food, ice cream, fruit juice, pasta, ketchup, cream cheese, jam, pizza, sugar (white and brown), packaged snacks and sodas.

The Good

Opt for complex carbohydrates, like brown rice and vegetables, which are broken down into glucose at a slower rate. Low-glycemic options, like beans, nuts and whole grains, as well as fibrous foods, which delay sugar absorption, also help control blood sugar levels. Do your best to follow an anti-inflammatory diet of healthy fats (like olive oil and avocados), lean protein (like salmon), fiber (like broccoli and cauliflower) and antioxidants (like berries).

Other Tricks To Counteract Sugar's Effects On Skin

•Get plenty of sleep. When you don't get enough shut-eye, your body releases the stress hormone, cortisol, which mobilizes sugar stores and causes your insulin to spike.

•Keep stress to a minimum. Stress can spike insulin levels just like eating sugar can. The effects of stress are particularly correlated with acne breakouts.

•Eat frequent, balanced meals. Don't think lowering your sugar intake means lowering your food intake, necessarily. If your goal is to keep your blood sugar levels consistent, make sure to fuel up with low-glycemic, high protein food every three hours to avoid insulin spikes.

•Be mindful about how you prepare your food. When cooking starches, like potatoes and foods with wheat, keep in mind that the heat involved in cooking causes a process known as gelatinization, which can lead to upping the glycemic index of a food item. The takeaway? Avoid starches fried in high heat or that are commercially processed.

•Order counts. Eat your proteins first when sitting down for a meal, since they don't stimulate insulin spikes and therefore keep your body from triggering the inflammatory effects caused when you ingest insulin-spiking foods.

•Healthy fats are your friend. Fats like Omega-3s keep your skin looking more soft, supple and radiant.

Love The Skin You're In!
~ Jen


Source: Huffington Post

Harvard Says Rodan + Fields is a Good Investment!

Rodan + Fields: The Subject of a 2012 Harvard Business School Study

Check out what Harvard had to say about the Rodan + Fields business opportunity!

Harvard Business School Network Marketing Criteria


A high percentage of work from home opportunities are in network marketing. Most home based businesses fail for a variety of reasons, none more critical than getting in at the wrong time in the company's life cycle. I've done a lot of research into network marketing and wanted to share my findings with you. Here are some important things to know before you venture into this type of home business.


Network Marketing or Multi Level Marketing (MLM) is being taught at more than 200 colleges including Harvard Business School. After extensive research into the network marketing industry, Harvard Business School developed 3 criteria that a network marketing company must have in order to make it a desirable opportunity. They are:



1. The company must be at least 18 months old. 90% of all network marketing companies that fail do so in the first 18 months of operations. Lack of adequate financing and inexperienced senior management are two of the more common pitfalls of start up companies so be sure to find out what you can about the MLM's funding and management.



2. The company must have a product that is both unique and highly consumable. Meaning it must be an exclusive product that can be purchased only from your distributors with repeated sales thereby guaranteeing customer loyalty versus a one-time sale and having to locate new customers.



3. It needs to be a "ground floor" opportunity. Harvard Business School suggests that in order for the opportunity to qualify as a ground floor type, the number of existing distributorships should be less than ½ of 1% in the country where this network company exists. In the U.S., this figure is equal to 1.5 million people. Harvard Business School also stated that if there were less than 500, 000 people involved, you would be on the cutting edge of a great opportunity. If the company has less than 100, 000 distributors, Harvard Business School considers it to be a once in a lifetime opportunity.



The Harvard Business School study also stated that there are 4 distinct stages of growth in a network marketing company - Foundation, Concentration, Momentum, and Stability. The Momentum Phase is when the company experiences phenomenal growth. Both retail and distributorships explode in terms of expanding growth. It is during this period that the company virtually sweeps the nation. When a company's sales reach about 50 million annually (4.2 million a month), they reach what is called "critical mass" (sales go vertical right off the graph). Let's assume you have an organization which is producing an override bonus check to you of $1, 000 per month. When the company reached critical mass, distributors almost automatically experience a ten-fold increase in their earnings. In other words, $1, 000 per month becomes $10, 000 per month. This is the reason for getting involved on the ground floor, so you will experience the benefits of explosive growth


Rodan + Fields is hitting momentum!  We are expanding into Canada THIS YEAR! We have been in the network marketing channel for 5 years!  Our products are unique and consumable!  And this is a GROUND FLOOR opportunity.  

Any questions???  Message me at jennifer@throughjenslens.com to start a conversation.  Then, we can connect by phone to talk about the details of what this business can offer YOU!

Love The Skin You're In!

Jen

Stop Waiting for the "Perfect Time"!

Over the past three days, new Rodan + Fields® Consultant enrollments have increased over 60%!! To keep momentum building, we will be hosting not one, but three virtual Business Presentations this evening for those of you considering a new opportunity!

Join Scott Halverson, Director of Operations - Field Development and Regional Director Meredith Tieszen, along with a few of our top Field Leaders for these first-of-their-kind tele-events. Here are the details:

Date: Thursday, January 30, 2014
Call 1: 4:00 p.m. PST / 7:00 p.m. EST
Call 2: 5:00 p.m. PST / 8:00 p.m. EST
Call 3: 6:00 p.m. PST / 9:00 p.m. EST 

Dial-in: 712-432-0075
Access Code: 516530#

Call or message me after you listen so that I can share my story and answer your questions! (937.272.1771)


Space is limited! Dial in early! For everyone who jumps on one of the teleconferences and decides to join the business: 

All new Consultants who enroll at the $395, $695, or $995 levels on Thursday, January 30 or Friday, January 31, 2014, will receive the new and improved REVERSE Regimen for free (Value $179). This is a great way to get off to a strong start with a robust product assortment. And the savings is AMAZING!

Here's the link to JOIN ME on this exciting once-in-a-lifetime journey that will change your life!

Please forward this to anyone you know that is looking for a different INCOME EARNING opportunity!

MOMENTUM only occurs ONCE! There is no better time to become part of Rodan + Fields history than NOW! Once the Momentum Phase is complete, the earning potential for new consultants will never again be the same. If you are looking for a BIG change in your life, this is it!

Rodan + Fields is a debt-free, legacy brand that has enjoyed great success because of its skin-changing products and the reputation built by its two founders, Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields...who have over 50 years combined medical experience.

Those dial-in numbers again are:

Call 1: 4:00 p.m. PST / 7:00 p.m. EST
Call 2: 5:00 p.m. PST / 8:00 p.m. EST
Call 3: 6:00 p.m. PST / 9:00 p.m. EST 

Dial-in: 712-432-0075
Access Code: 516530#




Love The Skin You're In!

Jen
937.272.1771

Check out our products here .

Direct Selling Myths and Facts

MYTH #1: Most direct selling companies are pyramid schemes 

FACT: There’s a big difference between legitimate direct selling companies and pyramid schemes. Pyramid schemes seek to make money from you (and quickly). Legitimate direct selling companies seek to make money with you as you build your business (and theirs) by selling real products and services.  In fact, legitimate direct selling companies work hard to protect consumers from pyramid schemes. 

Before you sign up with a company, investigate carefully. A good way to begin is to ask yourself these three questions: 

(1) How much are you required to pay to become an independent consultant? If the startup cost is substantial, be careful! The start-up fee in direct selling companies should generally be low and cover the cost of your start-up kit (usually sold at or below company cost) which can include training materials, sample products and other items to get your business going. These companies want to make it easy and inexpensive for you to start selling. Pyramid schemes, on the other hand, make nearly all of their profit on signing up new recruits. Therefore, the cost to become a distributor is usually high.

(2) Will the company buy back unsold inventory? If not, beware! Legitimate companies that require inventory purchases will usually “buy back” unsold products if you decide to quit the business. Some state laws and the DSA Code of Ethics require buy-backs for at least 90% of your original cost.

(3)  Are the company’s products sold to consumers? If the answer is no (or not many), stay away! This is a key element. Direct selling (like other methods of retailing) depends on selling to consumers and establishing a market. This requires quality products, competitively priced. Pyramid schemes, on the other hand, are not concerned with sales to end users of the product. Inventory purchases should never be more than you can realistically expect to sell or use yourself.

MYTH #2: 99.9% of direct sellers lose money

FACT: More than half of direct sellers report that their net income from direct selling, after taxes and expenses, is positive. In addition, a positive net income is reported by nearly half of new direct sellers — those representing their current company for less than a year — and by nearly half of direct sellers who say that they are not very likely or not at all likely to continue in direct selling in the future.

In addition, research shows the following:

-82% of direct sellers have been with their current direct selling company for one year or more, and 47% for five years or more.
-89% of direct sellers rate their personal experience in direct selling as excellent, very good, or good.
-84% of direct sellers say that direct selling meets or exceeds their expectations as a good way to supplement their income or as a way to make extra money for themselves.
-91% of direct sellers say that direct selling meets or exceeds their expectations as a business where the harder they work, the more money they can make. 

(Source: 2002 National Salesforce Survey, Research International, Inc.)

Simply put, most people do not lose money in direct selling. Neither the facts nor common sense supports that theory. 

MYTH #3: Recruiting is the key to success in direct selling

FACT: There’s no doubt – recruiting is an important element of direct selling – just as expansion is important to any business that wants to grow. For direct sellers looking to build a business, recruiting others and mentoring them so they, too, can achieve their goals is important. But, recruiting is not a requirement for individual success in direct selling, and compensation must always be based on the sale of products and services – whether your own sales or the sales made by your recruits.

Consider the following: Thirty-four percent of direct sellers do not earn money from the sales of others, but just from their own personal sales. (Source: 1999 National Salesforce Survey, MORPACE International, Inc.)  And what about those customers? It is true that most direct sellers are also consumers of the products and services they sell – for many, they got involved after having already used the products, and some get involved just to buy those products at a discount.  But, half (50%) of U.S. adults purchase products or services using the direct-selling retail channel during any given year. That’s roughly equivalent to 150 million people in the US alone who make at least one purchase from a direct selling company in a 12-month period. When you consider there are 15.6 million direct sellers in the US, that leaves a lot of customers who aren’t also direct sellers. (Source: 2004 General Public Attitudes Toward Direct Selling, Burke, Inc.) 

MYTH #4: Direct selling products are overpriced  

FACT: The consumer market won’t sustain products that are overpriced for long. Competition is a powerful force and products that aren’t competitively priced won’t sell and can’t last.  But for direct selling, there’s a bit more to the price equation than might immediately meet the eye.  The decision to sell a product through direct selling is often based on very specific factors. 

For example, products that require demonstration to convey the finer points of their operation are ideal for direct selling because a knowledgeable salesperson can personally conduct that demonstration for every customer. In a traditional retail setting, consumers might not understand the product’s unique qualities based on appearance or packaging.  It’s true that some direct selling products are priced at the upper end of the retail market’s acceptance level, but there is higher acceptance based on the value-added incentive of the demonstration and personal service. 

Lexus brand cars are also at the upper end of the retail market acceptance level, but superior performance and service after the sale make that higher price reasonable.  Each customer needs to weigh the price, quality and desirability of a given product and make a purchasing decision accordingly.

MYTH #5: Direct selling is an outdated method of buying and selling

FACT: More and more people are getting involved in direct selling because they enjoy the personal service that accompanies shopping this way. With hundreds of direct selling products and services to choose from, both those looking for supplemental income and those looking for a fun way to shop and socialize with friends find direct selling appealing. Parties and Events offer great opportunities to chat with friends in a relaxed atmosphere and browse through great products at the same time. And, you might even learn a new tip, trick or skill, or even pick up a new hobby. Many direct selling companies today emphasize education about a particular topic, taking the focus off the sale and onto having fun.  Similarly, person-to-person demonstrations of products provide an opportunity to try products, talk to a knowledgeable salesperson and get personal service that only comes with direct selling. 

Outdated? Not at all. Today’s consumers demand high levels of personal service that many retail establishments just can’t deliver. Couple that with fun and flexibility, and you’ve got a winning combination! Direct selling is based on people, so it easily changes with the times.

MYTH #6: Direct selling companies are unregulated 

FACT: Several governmental bodies, as well as the Direct Selling Association and organizations like the National Association of Consumer Agency Administrators, National Consumers League and Better Business Bureau, work to protect consumers against fraud. It is an unfortunate truth that some scam artists try to masquerade as legitimate direct selling companies, making these laws and regulations necessary. Here are a few of the protections on which consumers can rely:

-All 50 states and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have cooling-off laws that provide consumers with an unconditional 3-business-day right to cancel an order or contract. These laws are designed to counteract high-pressure sales and allow people who change their mind about a purchase to make a quick and easy return.
-In addition, all 50 states, the FTC, the Securities & Exchange Commission (SEC) and the U.S. Postal Service have anti-pyramid scheme laws or regulations that they can use to prosecute and shut down such frauds. (See citations for examples of State anti-pyramid scheme laws.)
-On the federal tax side, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulates direct sellers through a special form, 1099-MISC, to insure income tax compliance by direct sellers. Direct sellers are independent contractors by virtue of section 3508 of the U.S. tax code. A 1099-MISC form must be filed for all direct sellers who have received $600 or more from the company with which they are affiliated. In addition, a 1099-MISC form must be filed for those purchasing on an annual basis $5,000 or more of consumer products from the parent company. Direct sellers also must file a Schedule C with the IRS in order to claim business expense deductions.
-The Direct Selling Association’s Code of Ethics is also a powerful self-regulatory document by which all DSA member companies must abide. The Code includes important provisions including a buy-back requirement (for both inventory and sales aids), a cooling-off period and other provisions enforced by an Independent Code Administrator. Consumers who feel a Code violation has occurred should file a complaint with the DSA Code Administrator.

MYTH #7: Everyone who gets involved in direct selling wants an easy way to make moneyFACT: People choose to get involved in direct selling for a lot of reasons. Some hope to make it a full-time career, but most sign up to either earn a little extra money or to receive a discount on their own purchases.  Legitimate direct selling companies are very careful to represent earning potential accurately. 

The DSA Code of Ethics requires companies and their salesforce members to provide potential independent sellers with accurate information about the company’s pay structure, products and sales methods.  And no one should be fooled into thinking direct selling is a way to make money with little or no effort. 

Don’t be fooled by ads or people who tell you you’ll instantly make thousands of dollars just by signing up or recruiting a few people. As with any business, it takes time to establish a customer base and build a business.  While direct selling is not an opportunity to get rich quick, you can be successful if you establish your goals and a plan to reach them. Legitimate direct selling opportunities offer the flexibility to set your own goals and achieve them on your own terms.

LOOKING FOR A CAREER CHANGE, SOME EXTRA SPENDING MONEY, OR A WAY TO SUPPORT A CAUSE IMPORTANT TO YOU? 

CONSIDER JOINING OUR FAST-GROWING RODAN + FIELDS TEAM.  I would love to answer your questions and help you take an important step toward creating your own financial security.

Get information about Network Marketing Statistics in the US here: http://theskinuarein.blogspot.com/2013/09/official-network-marketing-statistics.html

Find information about Residual Income here: http://theskinuarein.blogspot.com/2013/11/residual-income-should-be-part-of-your.html

Primary Source: DirectSelling411.com

RESIDUAL INCOME SHOULD BE PART OF YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN!

If you've read my blog post on Network Marketing Statistics, you know what your financial future is up against, at least in the U.S. But, don't give up! You can still overcome your obstacles by making smart decisions about your time and financial investments.

WANT TO OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS? 

If you don’t have an extra $40,000 to $1.2M to risk taking the plunge into the world of Franchise Opportunities, then perhaps the Multi Level Marketing Model is just what you’ve been looking for!

Consider the importance of Residual income, also known as passive or recurring income. Residual income is different from a regular wage that's based on the number of hours invested in a particular job. Residual income continues to generate itself even after the work has been completed. Such income helps you earn more while working less as it continues to pay recurrently for work done once. Sounds great, right?

If you are working on a job and earning a salary, there is a 1:1 ratio (sometimes less) between the hours of work put in by you and the dollars you earn. You would stop generating an income when you stopped working. You would only be able to earn significantly more money by getting a promotion or working longer hours.

To earn a residual income, you do need to put in a fair amount of work over a period of time, but the rewards are for a longer duration and continue to come in even if you decide to cut your hours. You won’t find that in an 8 to 5 job!

Paths to Residual Income can include Insurance Sales, Authoring a Book, Owning a Rental Property, Running a Paid Parking Lot, Purchasing a Franchise, Earning Dividends on Investments, and Network Marketing (MLM). Of all of these, most MLM companies will require the least investment initially and over time.

BEFORE YOU MAKE A DECISION… 

If, like me, you’ve concluded that MLM is the best low-risk and high-reward opportunity, please do your research! Evaluate the whole of the company you’re considering: its creators and their reputation, the company’s financial health, the company’s future plans, and equally important, its training and compensation structures.

Only choose from those companies that are regulated by the Direct Selling Association Inc. (DSA), in place to ensure you’re investing with legitimate businesses.

WANT MY OPINION? 

Well, you may not. But you’ve stuck with me this far, so why not hear me out?

Alongside my traditional work-all-the-time-or-make-no-money photography business, I opted to partner with -- and leverage the reputation of -- two dermatologists known around the world (literally). Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields made their mark with Proactiv in 1993. Continuing to see patients in their respective offices, they watched Proactiv become a multi-billion dollar business! 

What is so fantastic about these doctors is that their R&D has never stopped. All along, they’ve been creating anti-aging products! In 2002, they unveiled some of these skin care products under the name “Rodan + Fields” in high-end retailers and quickly became the #1 clinical brand.

Knowing that they could reach and improve even more skin, they took their top-selling brand out of retail and opted for the direct sales route. That’s BIG news for those of us who partner with them! Remember those billions earned with a single Proactiv product line? Multiply that by 5 lines (and growing), and you’ve got Rodan + Fields’ future potential. 

This time, it won’t be a large firm or retailer working as the middleman and making the bulk of the profit. It will be the direct sales consultants who are benefitting from the clinically proven products and telling their friends and colleagues about them. Double bonus!! (New products will be introduced in 2014!)

One more important thing to note: Since 2008, the DSA has given more awards to Rodan + Fields than ANY other company in its 100 year history. They’re recognized for a variety of things, including consultant training tools.

So, my opinion is that you will do yourself a disservice by NOT considering a partnership (for less than $1000 & a 60-day money back guarantee) with a brand that has grown 1400% in less than 5 years, is going global in 2014, and expects to see exponential growth while addressing a $3B+ anti-age industry. Rodan + Fields is a once-every-30-years opportunity and it’s now knocking at your door! 

I can help you work through questions or concerns to determine if this is a good fit for you. If you are hungry and coachable, you’re perfect and I would be thrilled to have you join my team! (US residents only, until further notice.)

Message or call me soon so you can start earning residual income!  I am in the Midwest, but this business model can grow anywhere, so we don't need to be in the same area!  I can coach you by phone or Skype.  

~~ This NOT A PARTY PLAN. You DO NOT STOCK INVENTORY. Products are SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO YOUR CLIENTS. Both you and your clients have A 60-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE!~~

Love The Skin You're In!

Jen, 937-272-1771

Jennifer@throughjenslens.com             

https://jensherwood.myrandf.biz

Exfolation is Best for Radiant Skin

Clarisonic or Macro-Exfoliator?

Exfoliation can help maintain your skin’s healthy glow and prevent acne and other blemishes. The epidermis is composed of around 30 layers of cells stacked upon each other like bricks. Like a brick wall, an intercellular “cement” runs between them like glue, and between the cells are microscopic fibers that anchor them together. Daily epidermal cells are invisibly shed through the body’s natural means of exfoliation. But dead skin cells can build up, and our bodies need help freeing the skin’s surface of these cells and other clogging debris that can cause blemishes. Poor exfoliation practices and plugging beneath the skin’s surface can lead to acne, blackheads and even large-looking pores.

The most common form of exfoliation is physical exfoliation, or mechanically removing superficial layers of the skin. 

This can be done with with exfoliating cleansers containing sugar or salt crystals like R+F's Microdermabrasion Paste, or by using specific dermatologic grade tools.

In recent years, microdermabrasion has become a popular exfoliation method both in spa or dermatologist settings, or at home. This helps remove the more superficial skin cells, revealing the fresher, healthier skin below. In an office or spa setting these repeat treatments may become costly, though effective.

The Redefine Macro-Exfoliator* is a hand-held, personal, at-home exfoliation tool that sweeps away dead skin by removing the stratum corneum (the top layer of skin) leaving your skin smoother and healthier looking with a more luminous complexion. The diamond tip head sloughs off all the dead skin that accumulates itself on our face. Dead skin cells enlarge our pores, sneak themselves into wrinkles to make them appear larger, and just makes our face appear dull overall.

Just 5 minutes. Once a week. 5 MILLION dead skin cells = AMAZING results!

But, for a radiant glow, your skin needs BOTH physical exfoliation and chemical exfoliation.

Chemical exfoliation involves applying products containing a form of alpha hydroxy acids and/or beta hydroxy acid that dissolve the "glue" around the skin cells, hastening the shedding of several layers of the epidermis.  Step 1 of R+F's REDEFINE Regimen and REVERSE regimen are excellent chemical exfoliators.

The Clarisonic has a brush that cleans, softens and smooths skin. The brush is gentle, yet typically can remove makeup, oil and dirt better than manual cleansing alone. It does not exfoliate.

So, there you have it.  I hope that cleared up any confusion about the differences between the Clarisonic brush and the Macro-Exfoliator.

Love The Skin You're In!

Jen

NOTE: It is not recommended that any make-up removing tools or brushes be used in conjunction with a Rodan + Fields skin care regimen.  Regimens are designed to be used with finger tips or soft cloths only.

* Our 3rd party, clinical results showed that 95% of participants experienced an improvement in their skin texture after ONE use!

Quality Over Quantity

Michelle Haught - Finding Quality Over Quantity

Posted by Rodan + Fields on Friday, September 27th, 2013



Michelle Haught was eight months along in her pregnancy and working full time in the spring of 2011. Her career as an industrial engineer was demanding of her mental energy, and her time, and she wasn’t looking for anything more to add to her busy life. She would be a mother of three when her baby arrived in a month’s time, and she was preparing for a full home while still keeping up with the pace of her job. She was a very unlikely candidate for a side venture into direct sales. Yet, that April she signed up to be an Independent Consultant for Rodan + Fields®.

The path that led Michelle to her Rodan +Fields business began with an event she and her husband attended to learn about the Company. She recalls thinking it sounded like a great business, but it wasn’t something for her because it was just too different from her line of work. She decided to join somewhat reluctantly after her husband urged her to give it a try. Her intuition and frank approach have rewarded her years later with a business she takes great joy in pursuing. She is grateful that she married someone who encouraged her to do something she was hesitant about at first, but which has rewarded her in the long run. “I’m thankful to have someone in my life who opens my eyes for me sometimes. My husband is my biggest supporter.”

A Family Adventure

Sometimes we all need someone to give us a little nudge in the right direction. Michelle is glad today that she took the challenge of trying something new even if she was timid early on. She laughs now about being nervous about telling her mother that she was doing with Rodan + Fields, because it was so unlike anything she or anyone in her family would pursue. She also admits to having felt shy and awkward in the beginning and to taking a very passive approach when she was starting out. What turned her confidence around was when one of her best engineering friends approached her and asked about becoming part of her Rodan + Fields team. This was someone she respected, and she relates, “It validated what I was doing to have someone I respect join, and it boosted my confidence.” She also got a boost of confidence from the skincare products themselves when she started using the REVERSE Regimen. Just for fun, she took a before picture of her face and an after picture eight weeks later. “The changes were gradual, but after eight weeks I was blown away by how much my skin had changed.”

Michelle still works full time as an engineer, and continues to grow her Rodan + Fields business in the hours she has to devote to it. Her advice for people who are considering their own Rodan + Fields business but don’t feel like they have time is to do as much as you can with what you have. “I focus on the quality of time that I devote to my business, not the quantity.” She finds that her quality time with Rodan + Fields is an enjoyable time, because it’s such a contrast to the stress of her day job. “I spend all day looking at a computer, so the fact that I get to chat with other women in the evenings is amazing.” She has been able to devote ten hours a week to her business, and over time, she says her perspective has changed along with her goals. While she loves her engineering job, she now has a deeper understanding of how the Rodan + Fields business opportunity impacts people’s lives in positive ways. Now that she has reached LEVEL V status, she is not as concerned about keeping her own business afloat and has time to focus on helping her team more. While she doesn’t have plans to quit her job as an engineer, she does plan on continuing to expand her Rodan + Fields business so that it will one day give her the chance to explore her options. For now, she is glad she has made it a part of her world. “I really see the bigger picture of what this does for so many people, and I am happy to be a part of it.”

Michelle and Family



Want your story to be featured here? Learn more about joining our team by calling 937.272.1771 or visiting https://jensherwood.myrandf.biz. God Bless!

Leap of Faith

Are you a risk taker? Do you regularly take leaps of faith? You're here, so I know you like to educate yourself. And, you feel like you recognize great opportunities when they appear, right?  But, do you...? Most of us view opportunities through the eyes of our own needs and areas of expertise. 

Maybe that's not such a good idea. For example, I don't drink coffee, but if someone offered me the chance to open a Starbucks for a minimal investment, I WOULD DO IT without hesitation.

I have no history in running a hotel, but if Donald Trump allowed me to invest in one of his at a reasonable price, I WOULD DO IT without thinking twice.

If a multi-decade veteran of an industry told me that investment in a specific company was a once-every-thirty-years kind of opportunity, I WOULD DO IT with enthusiasm.

And, I DID! I took that leap of faith and partnered with two of the most respected names in Dermatology--Dr. Katie Rodan and Dr. Kathy Fields (the creators of Proactiv). To do for aging what they've already done for acne is the aim of their newest business venture, Rodan + Fields Dermatologists. For less than $1,000 investment in consumable product, I began this successful business by fitting it into the nooks and crannies of my 'day job' as a photographer.

My skin looks younger, I get compliments everywhere I go, AND when I tell people what I'm using, they ask how they can get it. Rodan + Fields Dermatologists products are only sold through Independent Consultants like myself. (Read "residual income." ) There are no hostess-credit style home parties and no inventory to haul around or stock. This is MY business to run as I choose.

Sound like something you could do? Then, take this journey with me. You can only be first once and once R+F goes international in 2014, the sky is the limit for those of us who have been willing to take that leap of faith!

Connect with me by phone or email.

Best,

Jen Sherwood 

937.272.1771 | jennifer@throughjenslens.com | https://www.facebook.com/TheSkinUareIn