I am such a huge fan of just about any citrus scent, but sweet orange is definitely among my favorites, and I’ll find myself inhaling deeply and smiling whenever I’m adding it to any of our products.

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Latin Name: Citrus sinensis

Family: Rutaceae

Description: Sweet orange oil is extracted from the peel of the orange fruit, which grows from an evergreen tree in tropical and subtropical climates. The trees generally grow between nine and ten feet tall, have rounded crowns, slender branches and small white flowers that sit atop clusters of leaves and of course, oranges. The oil makes up approximately one percent of the volume of the rind and is cold pressed for extraction and used in a variety of retail products.

To extract the essential oil, the peel is cold pressed by piercing the tiny pouches in the rind where the oil sits. The oil is removed when the orange is pressed to squeeze out all juices and oil from the fruit.

Countries of Origin: America, Brazil, Italy, Australia and Israel

Scent: Sweet orange oil has an extremely distinct and strong citrusy smell with sweet, sugary undertones. Sweet orange oil blends especially well with many natural spices and oils, including black pepper, cinnamon, ginger, frankincense, bergamot, neroli, sandalwood and lavender.

Properties: The distinct smell and taste of oranges comes from the colorless liquid hydrocarbon, d-limonene, which makes up more than 90 percent of the oil. Limonene is a common ingredient in many commercial household cleansers. Because sweet orange oil has such a strong and pleasant scent along with its high levels of limonene, it is often used as an eco-friendly substitute for cleaning solvents.

Sweet orange oil is used in a variety of products, including household air fresheners, cleaning supplies and perfumes to massage oils, bath treatments, skin creams and even some food and drinks. Its uplifting aroma has been used to help relieve depression and upset stomachs.

When used in vapor therapy or added to massage oils and bath products, sweet orange oil assists in eliminating body toxins, reducing stress, boosting the immune system and relieving symptoms of cold and flu. As an ingredient in skin creams, it improves skin conditions such as acne and dermatitis; moisturizes and relieves dryness and irritation; keeps skin youthful by aiding in the formation of collagen; and detoxifies congested skin.

Precautions: Sweet orange oil is non-toxic, non-sensitizing, non-irritating and non-phototoxic. However, as with any new product, always test a small amount for skin sensitivity or allergic reaction.

Remember, the FDA has not evaluated the above statements. No claims are made regarding any medicinal value of sweet orange oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

Latin Name: Citrus aurantium

Family: Rutaceae

Description: Neroli oil comes from the small white flowers of the bitter orange tree. The bitter orange tree is an evergreen tree with a smooth, gray trunk and dark green leaves that produces small fruit and extremely fragrant flowers. Neroli is also known as orange blossom or orange flower blossom. The flowers are handpicked in mid spring and steam-distilled for production of the essential oil. It takes approximately 100 pounds of blossoms to produce 1 pound of neroli essential oil.

The distillation process yields a pale yellow colored oil with a fresh, floral scent that blends well with most essential oils, but particularly rose, lavender, bergamot, geranium, sandalwood and frankincense.

Countries of Origin: Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, Italy, France, Tunisia and USA

Scent: Neroli has an exotic scent with floral top notes and warm undertones.

Properties: Neroli is very popular in perfumery, as it has calming, anxiety-reducing effects. Neroli flowers are often used in wedding bouquets, as the scent can calm and soothe the nerves before the big event. Neroli is also used to combat depression, panic attacks and insomnia. The antispasmodic properties of Neroli have been hailed as a treatment option for digestive upset and diarrhea. It is also used as a subtle aphrodisiac.

In skin care, this expensive oil is good for all skin types, but particularly aging, dry or sensitive skin. Neroli essential oil helps to generate new, healthy skin cells and rejuvenates mature skin. Some creams include neroli to combat stretch marks and uneven skin tone.

Precautions: Neroli oil is non-toxic, non-sensitizing, non-irritating and non-phototoxic. However, as with any new product, always test a small amount for skin sensitivity or allergic reaction.

Remember, the FDA has not evaluated the above statements. No claims are made regarding any medicinal value of neroli oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

Lauren is an integral part of the Vintage Body Spa team. She started off as an intern and I knew right away that I’d be hiring her as soon as her internship ended. She exudes such peace and joy, (which is so evident in her picture below!) and brings such positivity and creative ideas to the table. I love being able to tell her just the basics of a concept I have and she instantly ‘gets’ it and brings it to life, 1000 times better than I could have ever imagined. She has a great eye for design and has been a true blessing to work with. I’m happy to share a brief interview with Lauren below so you can get to know her as well!

Tell us about yourself:
I graduated from Western Kentucky University in May 2011 with a Bachelor of Arts in Print Advertising and a minor in Graphic Design. I worked in retail for almost six years, with advertising and graphic design jobs on the side. I am currently employed full-time at Assumption High School as the Campus Store Coordinator/Graphic Designer. I also work for Vintage Body Spa and do freelance graphic design on the side. I never imagined that I would be working full-time, and doing what I love less than a year after graduation. I am extremely blessed.

What are some of the projects you’re working on/have worked on with Vintage Body Spa?
As an intern, I designed a lot of website banners, kept up with blogs, edited product copy, and designed some labels. I currently design many of the labels for each line.

She’s so modest! She has created all of the logos/banners/headers/ebook covers/marketing pieces for all of my business ventures, not just the labels for Vintage Body Spa. She also creates labels and marketing pieces for some of our private label partners. She is uber-talented, and as I mentioned in a recent testimonial for her, she is our designer and the only one I’ll work with whenever I launch new products, programs or businesses. – Alyssa

What are your future career goals?
I am going through a phase where I think I’d like to start my own graphic design business. However, a month ago I wanted to design product packaging for Yum! I’m sure I’ll change my mind again fairly soon.

What is your favorite way to relax?
Either taking a bath with my Eucalyptus Spearmint Salt Soak, or lying on the couch in my pajamas watching TV or reading a good book.

Favorite Vintage Body Spa product?
I absolutely love the Salt Soak. I have neck and back problems, so it helps relieve some of the pain.

Favorite vacation spot? If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I have two favorite vacation spots–One of them is anywhere out West. I went on a two week road trip with my family to all of the national parks out West, and it was a trip I’ll never forget.

My other favorite vacation spot is Siesta Key Beach in Sarasota, Florida.

I am not really sure where I would travel–again, I change my mind often! But currently I want to travel all over Europe.

Favorite quote?
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6

Do you use the same products on your face that you do on the rest of your body? If so, you are probably not aware of the problems it might be causing. Different areas of your skin should be treated differently, as each area has unique characteristics that require special attention.

Most parts of our skin are made up of three layers: the epidermis (the outer-most layer), the dermis (the middle layer) and sebaceous glands (where sebum, or the production of oils, occur). The two exceptions – soles of feet and palms of hands – lack sebaceous glands and should therefore be treated differently than all other areas of our body. And just as our hands and feet require a special regimen, our facial skin must be cared for differently than our body skin.

Several factors contribute to the differences each area of skin requires:

The Environment:
What area of our skin is constantly being exposed to sunlight, air pollutants, and let’s not forget…our hands? If you answered, “Face,” you’re right! Lucky for our arms, legs, feet, stomachs and backs, they get protection most days out of the year. Our face on the other hand, does not have this luxury and is therefore, the first to succumb to these harmful environmental effects. Other environmental factors such as smoking, excessive drinking and those that hasten fatigue and stress, can also contribute heavily to skin conditions such as premature aging and acne.

Epidermal Thickness:
The thicker the epidermis, the heavier and harsher a treatment it can endure. Our palms and soles are the thickest area of our skin, followed by our body and finally, our face. Our facial epidermis is approximately 0.48 mm thinner than our body epidermis. In comparison to our body skin regimen, our facial cleansers and moisturizers should be much lighter and gentler products.

Sebaceous Activity:
I’m willing to bet that most everyone has probably heard of (and likely detests), the “T-zone.” Why is this such a problem area for so many? Sebaceous glands sit just below the dermis and produce oil through our pores. Our sebaceous glands play an important role in keeping the skin hydrated, but when overactive, an excess amount of sebum may clog pores and contribute to acne. Our face, especially our T-zone, is crowded with sebaceous glands, making it susceptible to excessive oil production. This is why it is important to use facial products that are light and do not clog pores.

While it is relatively normal to have drier body skin (especially during the winter months), each person’s face is different — some are more oily, others more dry; some are sensitive and others, a little bit of it all. The point is that each part of the body’s skin is different and should be cared for with products made specifically for that area.

Don’t let the name fool you – the Eco Baby Botanicals Herbal Shampoo and Body Wash isn’t just for babies! This gentle, sulfate-free cleanser is great for sensitive skin of all ages.

Herbal shampoo + body wash

The base of this cleanser is organic aloe vera juice, which is renowned for its skin-soothing properties. Gentle sulfate-free cleansers are added to provide a light lather that removes dirt and oils without stripping skin and hair of moisture.

The shampoo/body wash is packed full of other ingredients to provide great benefits for skin and hair:

• Pro Vitamin B-5 strengthens and conditions hair
• Lavender and Chamomile essential oils provide calming aromatherapy and skin-soothing benefits
• Organic Rooibos extract has strong antioxidant properties and has been shown to improve hair quality and thickness
• Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein not only moisturizes and strengthens hair, it also nourishes and moisturizes the skin.

Add these to the other botanical ingredients including Jojoba oil, Rosehip seed oil and Lavender and Chamomile distillates, you have a gentle, nourishing cleanser that is perfect to use from head to toe! The essential oils provide a light, calming scent, light enough that you can apply your favorite Vintage Body Spa lotion after showering and not worry about scents clashing.

Just a small amount is needed, making the 8 oz bottle a good supply for the entire family. Using a bath pouf will increase the amount of lather if you’re used to a high-sudsing body wash. Remember if you do use this on your little ones that this is NOT a ‘tear-free’ formula, so please take care to keep it out of your kiddos’ eyes.

Let us know – do you use a single product to cleanse both your skin and hair?

Image by Wikipedia

Latin Name: Citrus reticulata

Description: Mandarin comes from small evergreen trees with glossy leaves, fragrant flowers and orange fruit. The essential oil is a yellow-orange oil that is expressed from the peel of the almost ripe fruit.

Largest Producing Countries: Italy, Spain, Algeria, Cyprus, Greece, Brazil, USA

Scent: Tangy, delicate, sweet, floral citrus top notes with deep, warm undertones. Blends well with other citrus and spicy oils, as well as neroli, lavender, ylang ylang, geranium and cypress.

Properties: Mandarin essential oil is one of the safest essential oils and is particularly recommended for use on children and during pregnancy. It is an uplifting, cheering and soothing oil. Mandarin essential oil is commonly used in skin healing and rejuvenation formulas to fight infections and help tone the skin. Its properties increase circulation to the skin, reduce fluid retention and thus, can help prevent the onset of stretch marks. Psychologically, mandarin is strengthening and helps to relieve stress, calm an overactive mind and promote restful sleep. It is also used to help aid digestion.

Precautions: Grapefruit oil is non-toxic and non-sensitizing. However, as with any new product, always test a small amount for skin sensitivity or allergic reaction.

Phototoxicity: Mandarin oil is not considered to be phototoxic.

Remember, the FDA has not evaluated the above statements. No claims are made regarding any medicinal value of mandarin oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

A quick promotion you can take advantage of in time for Valentine’s Day!
* All Sassimi robes, wraps and loungewear is 20% off, PLUS
* with each Sassimi order, you get TWO (2) FREE Suga’ Lips Lip Balms! – Give both to your valentine, or keep one (or both!) for yourself. Free products worth $12.

We’ve just added capri pants and a new cotton spa lounger and yes, both of these products are on sale as well!

It’s very easy to take advantage of this offer – the discounts have already been applied to the products on our website. Then, in the ‘notes’ box at checkout, simply list the two flavors of Suga’ Lips Lip Balm you’d like and that’s it!

Act now – this offer is only good for the next 3 days – it expires on Thursday, 2/9/2012 so you’ll be sure to have your order just in time to surprise your Valentine. Let the romance begin!

Ok, I’ll just go ahead and admit it: I am a chronic nail biter and hangnail-picker. But let’s be honest, plenty of us have nails that could use a little work, and going around with unflattering nails is just not fun!

So, since I am dealing with this annoying little habit that hasn’t seemed to outgrow itself, I decided to do what I do, and experiment a bit. After a few sessions of trial and error, I discovered this amazing cuticle and nail treatment. It’s a do-it-yourself, easy-to-use, treatment that worked wonders in softening my cuticles and improving the appearance of my nails.

Try it for yourself!

Ingredients:
• 2 Tablespoons avocado oil
• 1 teaspoon evening primrose oil
• 10 drops lemon essential oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil
• 2 drops tea tree oil

Steps:
1. Add ingredients to a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid. Close bottle and shake well to mix ingredients.

To Use:
1. Put one drop of mixture on each nail and massage into cuticle, nail bed and surrounding skin.

Ingredient Benefits:
Avocado oil is one of the most recommended oils for cracked, dry and brittle nails. Evening primrose oil is a luxury oil, high in essential fatty acids and often used to prevent nail splitting and cracking. Lemon essential oil strengthens and brightens nails, and both lavender and tea tree oils have strong antibacterial properties.

If you try this treatment, please let me know what you think!

What are your suggestions for healthy cuticle and nail upkeep?

Welcome to a new series here at Vintage Body Spa, Facial Friday! Each Friday we’ll post on different aspects of facial care.

We’re gearing up to launch our new facial care line in the next few weeks. The products provide a great and easy way to care for your delicate facial skin. The products use botanical extracts and luxurious oils to fight the signs of aging while protecting and moisturizing. Here’s a brief overview of the products that will soon be available:

CLEANSERS
Coconut Milk Cleanser – deep cleans to remove oil, dirt and makeup. Has a wonderful light, natural coconut scent.

Rejuvenating Facial Cleanser – gently cleans all skin types, but is especially beneficial for mature, aging skin.

TONER
Cucumber and Aloe Toner – gently removes residue while balancing skin’s pH level. Hydrates skin with cooling organic cucumber and soothing organic aloe.

MOISTURIZERS
Botanical Facial Lotion – light, natural daily moisturizer to hydrate and nourish skin.

Oil-Free Moisturizer – herbal, oil-free moisturizer that provides excellent hydration for oily skin. Non greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft and shine-free.

SERUM
Antioxidant Serum - oil free serum provides a boost of antioxidant (age-fighting) power to your skin care routine. Helps to improve skin texture, tone and radiance.

NIGHT CREME
Hydrating Night Creme – deeply nourishing nighttime moisturizer to hydrate and replenish skin.

Restorative Night Creme – power packed nighttime moisturizer evens out skin tone and helps restore skin’s youthful appearance while you sleep.

TREATMENTS
Microdermabrasion Creme – gently slough off dull, dry and damaged skin cells with the same tiny microdermabrasion crystals that the high-end spas use

MASQUES
Detoxifying Masque – deep clean pores and control excess oil production.

Moisturizing Masque – gently cleanse pores without stripping away precious moisture.

Refining Masque – removes impurities, evens out skin tone and revitalizes skin while fighting the signs of aging.

Many of you know that I fell into being an entrepreneur a number of years ago when searching for a natural remedy for my infant daughter’s eczema. Her then-pediatrician was insisting we use a prescription steroid cream, and we wanted to try a more natural approach to begin with. We were blessed to find a product line that gently soothed her red, inflamed skin and removed the ugly, scaly patches. I’m often asked what products we use(d) on her, so I thought it might be helpful to put together a post on how we found such great results and the exact products we use.

A few things to note: I am not a doctor, and this should not be mistaken for medical advice. I’m simply sharing what has worked for us. I cannot guarantee that everyone will have the same results. A number of our customers have shared with us that they’ve found incredible relief using our products on their eczema, psoriasis and rosacea, and we’re so thankful to make products that have helped them out. Also, I probably went way overboard in the beginning compared to most parents – using many different products to moisturize and soothe my baby’s skin but I was willing to do whatever it took to provide her some relief and avoid the harsh steroid creams. As you’ll read, our ‘regimen’ is much more relaxed now because her flare-ups are very few and far between, which I think has a lot to do with the fact that we were so hyper-vigilant about it in the beginning.

We started by bathing her in lukewarm water with a few Butter Beans, making sure she didn’t soak for too long. We’d take her out of the bath and just barely pat her dry, making sure her skin was still damp. Then the WHEREVER Body Cream was slathered on from head to toe. We’d finish off by using the Whipped Shea Butter on any scaly patches.

Her skin quickly started showing improvement, and soon we were only using the Butter Beans or Milk Bath every once in a while. We’d still moisturize from head to toe at least once a day, sometimes twice, and continued with the Whipped Shea Butter on any patches we saw or felt.

Fast forward a few years, and we now use our Eco Baby Botanicals Lullaby Lotion after her bath. I specially formulated this lotion with herbs and oils that nourish and soothe the skin, and this became our staple product we used on her long before we launched the Eco Baby Botanicals product line. She bathes with the 2 in 1 Shampoo/Body Wash because it is a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin of moisture. About once a month she’ll use the Massage / Bath Oil or Milk Bath, though that’s just because she likes to have ‘spa time like mom’. Any flare-ups tend to happen when the seasons change, and we’ve found the Whipped Shea Butter still works the best on deeply moisturizing any patches that pop up. We’re blessed that she very rarely needs anything extra and that our simple routine has helped her find such relief.

With colder weather on the way, many children and adults find their eczema gets worse. The two products I’d recommend for anyone with eczema would be:

1) Eco Baby Botanicals Lullaby Lotion (this is a favorite product of many customers of all ages, so don’t think it’s just for kids!)
2) Whipped Shea Butter

We’ve had some customers find such relief that they stock up on these items to have them on hand year round for the entire family. In these instances, we’re able to create bulk-size containers for you, and at a slight discount from regular retail prices. Please contact us if you are interested in this option.