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! 

What You Should Know About Parabens

In a world where FEAR seems to be a big motivator, too many companies are taking your fear to the bank. The list of 'natural' companies keeps growing, which sounds like a good thing. But are they truly looking out for you? Or are they just taking your hard earned money and hoping you won't do your due diligence?

You’d think that, since more and more brands have sworn off parabens, products have become safer, right? You would hear about 'natural' product recalls if they existed, right? Brands wouldn't mislead you into thinking their products are safer for you or the environment, right? Wrong, wrong, and you guessed it, wrong.

Beauty brands, in particular, used a single study as a clever way to increase their sales. The 2004 study, which showed that parabens were present in the tissues of patients with breast cancer, got enough press to create a lot of hysteria (and create a whole new niche market ~ cha-ching!). The idea that Parabens lead to Cancer has stuck. There's only one problem. It hasn't been proven true. In fact, no study has shown a direct correlation.

You see, parabens are naturally occurring in foods like blueberries, carrots and olives. And they've been used for decades in our skincare and cosmetics. Why? Because they're a SAFE and EFFECTIVE method of controlling bacterial and fungal growth. Without parabens, we'd all need to prepare fresh skincare and cosmetic products on a weekly basis, if not more often, to avoid dangerous levels of bacteria that could make us VERY ill.

So, while these 'natural' companies are enjoying their profits, they could actually be putting your health at risk. (Isn't that what they said they were trying to avoid??) If their products aren't using parabens to control fungus and bacteria....WHAT are they using? You might be surprised to learn that paraben substitutes can actually do more harm than good. If your skincare or cosmetic reps tell you a product is 'natural' and 'paraben-free', I encourage you to ask them WHAT ingredient is controlling the fungus and bacteria in the products they're trying to sell to you. (Wait for the stunned silence.)

Below is a list of ingredients used by companies who pride themselves on being 'paraben-free' -

Formaldehyde-Releasing (irritating to skin): 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1, 3-diol , Diazolidinyl urea , DMDM hydantoin , Hydroxymethylglycinate , Imidazolidinyl urea , Quaternium-15 , Trishydroxymethylnitromethane

Organic Acids (ONLY kill fungi, not bacteria): Salicylic acid, Benzoic acid, Sorbic acid

Sodium Benzoate (Effective against fungi and yeast, but not so effective against bacteria): Warning - When used together with low concentrations of vitamin C, it forms benzene, a known carcinigen

Potassium Sorbate: Synthetically altered before being added to cosmetics, it's very effective at killing fungi, but struggles with bacteria

Essential Oils (must be used in very high concentrations to be effective, which is irritating to the skin; ineffective in skincare and cosmetics): Clove, Thyme, Tea Tree

Effective at killing bacteria, but cause Allergies and Irritations: Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI) and Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)

Anti-Oxidants (these are mistaken as preservatives but, will not kill dangerous microorganisms): Vitamin E, grape fruit seed extract, rosemary,

To Sum it Up --

1. Reputable science says that the minute amounts of parabens used in cosmetics and OTC products are safe!

2. Paraben alternatives are either more harsh or less effective.

3. Bonus: parabens are broken down naturally in the environment, so they don’t add to pollution.

   It's always best to be a bit skeptical and do your research. If your preferred skincare's representative doesn't know how to answer that one simple question about what's protecting you from dangerous bacteria, I'd suggest running the other way and finding a new brand.

If The Fear of Failure Stops You, You Lose

{This post is excerpted from www.thedailylove.com. Check it out for great tips!}

Fear of financial insecurity can stop us dead in our tracks! It can become much more powerful than our Hope.  

Have you ever Hoped to start a business but the Fear of being broke held you back? This is a common fear all of us have when we first start out. And most of us have it even when we become “successful”.


A reader asked “How did you get over your fear of economic insecurity when chasing your dreams?”  For some reason, I’m terrified of being broke. I totally resonate with this question because guess what— I still feel this way.

Human beings are wired to survive; which means we seek to avoid pain instead of choosing to feel good. It’s this hard wiring that keeps us alive but it also holds us back from living our dreams.

When it comes to starting a business, any business, there will always be risks. Why? Because that is the nature of the game. The question becomes “How much risk can you comfortably live with?”

When I started [my business], I took a massive risk. I remember deciding that I would rather live on the beach in Venice California, BROKE, with my laptop than go back to my corporate job in the music business. I went all in and ended up couch surfing for almost two years. But I also took a calculated risk. I knew that the world always has and always will need inspiration so it was a safe bet that this could be successful.

So I went all in; knowing I could fail; but not going back. Not giving in to the more certain plan B back in the music business. Since making that decision almost six years ago, there hasn’t been one day that’s gone by where I haven’t been afraid of going broke, running out of money, or just failing.

I remember one time in the early days, I needed $500 for groceries but nothing was happening money wise. I checked the mail a couple of days later and I got a check for $500 from a reader when I needed it most.

KEEP THIS IN MIND: The universe is always here to support you.  

Here are some tips when handling money fears when it comes to your dreams:

1. Remember when you were most down and out and when you hit rock bottom.

At rock bottom, what happened? Did you make it through? Make a list of all the fears you had when you were at that lowest point. Now think about it. Did any of them come true? And if they did, did you get through it to where you are today? There is amazing power in remembering how strong you’ve been in the past and knowing, no matter what may come, that you have what it takes to make it through.

2. Know the consequences of not living your dream.
Imagine your life in 10, 20 or 30 years from now. If you don’t go all in on your dreams, what is your life like in the future? Are you happy or depressed? Are you living your dreams or a life of regret? I know it totally sucks to think about this but imagine yourself living with regret. The pain of not getting what you want can be a powerful force that will give you the hunger you need to make your dreams come true.

3. Make a fear list.

I love fear lists. Make a list of all the things you are most afraid of happening. Maybe it’s economic ruin. Maybe it’s total abandonment. Maybe it’s that you will be cursed by God and you will spontaneously combust to nothingness. Whatever it is, jot down 5 to 10 things that you are really scared might happen if you decide to follow your dreams or start your business. Getting your fears out can be very therapeutic.

4. Create an action plan.
Now that you know what your fears are you can start taking action to make sure they never come true. And if they do, you’ll have a plan to get yourself out of it. Generally speaking, we have fear because we are trying to protect ourselves. When we take action to revert our fears it’s like being the captain of a ship that sees a storm ahead and can change course. Fear gives you discernment and is an opportunity to take action

Everyone has fear of not having enough. The question becomes “What are you going to do with this fear?”

Remember, the universe has your back and you have the power to get through whatever may come. You’ve already gotten through rock bottom and come out the other end a survivor.

Don’t let the fear of not having enough money hold you back. You are more supported than you know.

If you have overcome your fears in order to realize your dreams, we'd love to hear from you.  Comment below!  

(No spammers or business invitations, please!  These will be deleted.)

Love The Skin You're In!
Jen

Joining The Best Business Model Ever Just Got Easier

Yes, indeed.  Easy peasy.

As Rodan + Fields, the fastest growing premium skincare brand in the US two years running, celebrates its 7th anniversary as a Direct Selling brand, it is also launching some amazing incentives for its independent consultants.  Read on…

Yes, that's what I'm telling you.  In two months' time, You can earn your business kit to receive a 100% reimbursement.  Additionally, you can earn some fabulous bonuses.  Right now, Rodan+Fields consultants can grow our paychecks faster than ever!

From Kate Spade to travel money and shopping sprees, Rodan+Fields is rolling out some fantastic ways to reward their marketing team (that's their independent consultants).  I am so thrilled to be one of them!

If you're as excited as I am about all of this…send me an email and let's chat about how you can work this business into your life.  I promise you won't regret it!

Love The Skin You're In!
Jen

Commute … or Work From Home?

I choose WORK FROM HOME any day of the week!  Not being tied to a specific location means that you can work from the coffee shop, the car, vacation…anywhere!  What will it take for you to consider your other options?

Go Get It!

Don't wait for someone else to do it for you.  You have all the tools to make it happen.  Are you using them?

Why Are More Women Than Ever Joining Network Marketing?

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.

Parabens: Are They Safe?

As a female cancer survivor, I tend to become hyper aware when I hear conversations that include "cancer." Lately, I've heard the words "Parabens" and "Breast Cancer" in the same sentence…a LOT. So, I decided to do some investigating. You might be surprised by what I found.

By definition, a paraben is any of a group of compounds used as preservatives in pharmaceutical and cosmetic products and in the food industry.  Parabens have been widely used in products to prevent bacteria growth since the 1950s. About 85 percent of cosmetics include them. The Expert Panel of the U.S. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has reviewed the use of parabens in personal care products and concluded they are safe at levels up to 1 percent. 

A 2004 research study detected parabens in 18 of 20 samples of tissue from breast tumor biopsies. This study did not prove parabens cause cancer, only that they were easily detected among cancerous cells. The study was widely criticized for not comparing paraben levels in normal tissue, but nevertheless, the results brought out the scaremongers.

Here's what might surprise you. Parabens are found in greater concentrations than cosmetics in a myriad of consumables, including fruits, vegetables and drinks. Some everyday items full of parabens and endocrine disruptors include soybeans, carrots, peanuts, corn, mangos, strawberries, blueberries, honey, black tea and green tea, to list just a few. Many of the parabens found naturally in foods do have an estrogenic effect when tested. Yet, parabens found in cosmetics are 100,000 times weaker than estradiol, the estrogen naturally produced by the body.

In the decade since the aforementioned study, no other study has proven a link between parabens and breast cancer.  And, I'm left to wonder how sick some of us might be if parabens were not used to prevent dangerous bacteria growth.  Or how much less healthy we'd be if we didn't eat some of the "superfoods" that contain parabens.

I'm not an expert on parabens.  I'm just a consumer who likes to do her research.  After all of the information I've reviewed, I feel comfortable using products and eating foods that include parabens. Below, you can read opinions from others you might find more credible ...

The American Cancer Society (ACS) has concluded, based on its research findings, that there is not good science to support a claim that the use of parabens in cosmetics can increase an individual’s risk of developing breast cancer.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began studying the effects of parabens in response to the outcry of their potential estrogenic effect and link to breast cancer. The FDA states that parabens are safe for use in cosmetics, and it also says that, based on the weight of all the current scientific evidence, there is no reason for consumers to be concerned about the use of products containing parabens.

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), an organization that reviews and assesses the safety of ingredients used in cosmetics in an open, unbiased and expert manner, consolidated more than 265 studies in The Journal of Toxicology that noted a women’s daily cosmetic regimen using products that contain parabens caused no adverse reproductive effects and confirmed the safety of parabens.

A study in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology claimed that, in order to obtain an estrogenic effect from parabens, which could be potentially harmful, the dosage would have to be 25,000 times higher than that used to preserve products. The same research claims that estrogenic effects caused by doses of parabens received from consumer products are insignificant compared to natural estrogens and other xenoestrogens, meaning that people are exposed to more estrogens from a myriad of other sources and in larger doses than from cosmetics.

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog.  If you choose to comment, please be polite and helpful.

Love The Skin You're In!

Jen

Source for much of this information: http://www.skininc.com/skinscience/ingredients/97476464.html?

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