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 THROUGH FAITH, FITNESS, & FOOD

I love vacationing in Martha's Vineyard; it is the one place that I can relax and where every day feels easy like Sunday Morning. The only downside is the five pounds that I bring back with me from too many lobsters, libations & back door donuts. So when I returned home on Sunday, I had a bad case of the vacation blues, I felt bloated, tired, and out of sorts. So I decided to do a quick detox! At first, it was about only losing five-plus pounds, but I quickly realized that I needed to get my whole life back on track through Faith, Fitness, and Food! So my goal is to become my BEST SELF, by my next Birthday OCTOBER 23RD!  

Dear Black People, 

Your Melanin is beautiful, but it will not protect you from Melanoma Cancer, #FACTS!

Melanin enriched skin is beautiful beyond measure and as powerful as our skin is, we must take precautionary measures to protect it at all costs. 
Yes, we can get skin cancer too! Contrary to popular belief, people of color should use an SPF every day! Our minds tend to automatically associate it with caucasian skin who spend their days at the beach in the sun or frequent tanning salons. We fail to remember that people of color can be susceptible to the harsh UV rays. BLACK PEOPLE  are 1.5 times more likely to die from melanoma than Caucasians. 

How to protect yourself? SUNCARE = SELF CARE

USE CODE: SPF50 For 50% OFF

1. The first step is to use SUNSCREEN daily! Yes, even on cloudy days! Clouds filter out sunlight but not UV rays; the bad ones that cause aging and cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation says that clouds block as little as 20% of UV rays — so on a cloudy day you're still getting up to 80% of the sun's harsh effects..
2. Step 2, Choose the right Sunscreen. Use sunscreens that provide “broad-spectrum protection.” Board spectrum protection is something that will be advertised on the product label, and this means that the sunscreen will protect against both UVA and UVB rays – which are linked to skin cancer and sunburn, respectively.
3. Step 3, Use SPF 30 or Higher. No sunscreen can block all UV rays, but what we do know is: SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays and SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB rays. 
4. Step 4, Apply, and Reapply! Keep in mind that you need to use an adequate amount, and you may also need to reapply depending on how long you’re outdoors. The basic rule of thumb: You should reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, and if you go swimming or get in the water, you should also reapply more sunscreen after exiting the water. 
5. Step 5, Know your skin, and visit your dermatologist! Understanding and knowing your skin is vital! 90% of Melanoma cases could be prevented if people took better care of their skin and recognized the signs and be aware of the ABCDEs melanoma detection.Make sure that you are checking for new spots and marks for Asymmetry, Borders, Excess Diameter, and Changes. As people of color, it is important to be diligent in examining our skin for any abnormalities.
6. BONUS TIP: Did you know the sun isn’t the only dangerous light in your life? Our cell phones, laptops, and other gadgets emit blue light that can be damaging for our skin. In our fast-paced society, we spend a great deal of our time locked in with our devices, whether in work settings or our leisure. Blue light can weaken the skin's surface, which makes signs of aging more apparent as it leaves room for wrinkles and fine lines. Check to see if your devices offer a setting to reduce the amount of blue light your screen emits and protect your skin with Vita C Moisturizer with Broad Spectrum 50. 

Hydrate to Glow 

Did you know that your water intake can make or break your overall health? There are so many bodily functions that rely on strong water intake according to blackdoctor.org to function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need a minimum of 8 glasses of water a day. Given our skin is our largest organ drinking water helps retain moisture and is helpful in reducing signs of aging. I drink 3-liters of water every day; I am always running to the bathroom but believe me it is worth it!

Here are a few tips:

1. Start your morning off with an 8 oz glass of water with lemons before you have breakfast or that morning cup of coffee. 
2. Whenever you feel hungry 1st drink water before you grab a snack. Often hungry can be mistaken for thirst. 

Protect to Glow

Sunscreen is for BLACK WOMEN, too. Although there is power in melanin (both literally and physically), it needs to be protected at all costs. Yes, we all know the saying #GOODBLACKDONTCRACK, but we are not exempt from the damage that the sun can cause which means that sunscreen is a MUST. You should use sunscreen every day, even when the sun isn’t shining. Try our invisible daily VITA C moisturizer with broad-spectrum 50 protection. It hydrates and protects against sun damage and premature aging. While helping to prevent discoloration and dark spots. 

Eat to Glow

Sleep to Glow

Did you know how much your sleep can impact your skin health? In a society that is built around constant productivity, we tend to underestimate the importance of getting enough sleep. Sleeping is a time for the body to restore and repair. When asleep your body has time to rehydrate and recover moisture. Getting an adequate amount of sleep increases your collagen production which means your chances of wrinkling is reduced. Sleeping the proper amount also prevents puffy, tired eyes. Your bed should be your sleep sanctuary! Make sure your sheets and pillowcases are always laundered. Dirty bedding can lead to breakouts and other skin issues. Also, make sure you are washing your scarf as it is easy for dirt and product to build on them.

Exfoliating to Glow

Exfoliating is not just for your face. Exfoliating dead skin is a must for the entire body. Try making a sugar scrub with three simple ingredients and your skin will begin to GlOW! 

1. All Natural Coconut Oil
2. Essential Sweet Orange Essential Oil
3. All Natural Raw Sugar  

(BLEND AND KEEP IN A COOL PLACE) 

Skincare in Your Twenty's- Confessions From a College Student! 

“Girl, it doesn’t matter. My skin always bounces back. And even if it did matter, black don’t crack so I’m good.” The words of a twenty-something when asked about how she felt about skincare.  As much as we’d like to think the decisions we make while we’re young don’t matter, the reality of it is that they do. Although most of us are far from being completely independent, we’ve taken baby steps into adulthood. Adulthood to us right now means that we can do whatever we want, even the things we know we shouldn’t. We make silly decisions with the idea that they won’t impact us solely because we’re young. Choosing not to take care of our skin is one of those decisions. 

• Drinking is almost a staple of any university setting. Whether done casually or in a party setting the consumption of alcohol is almost inevitable. In addition to alcohol, most drinks are full of syrups and sugars that wreak havoc on skin. Excess alcohol can lead to dehydration, breakouts, hormone mix-ups and so on. Next time you drink,  try to consume with your skin and overall health in mind. As a rule of thumb try to counter every drink with a glass of water to stay hydrated and know your limits. Moderation is key!

• You’ve got one body, act like it. A common misconception is that in our young age is that we don’t have to maintain our bodies. Having an exercise routine, healthy diet and water intake is vital to making sure your black doesn’t crack. Nourishing your body from the inside out is essential to having flawless skin for the rest of your life.

• Go to the doctor. Your parents are no longer there to make your appointments and it’s easy to neglect that aspect of your life. Good skin is reflective of good health. It is important to regularly visit the physician. If you are struggling with skin issues there may be an underlying health concern that can be diagnosed by a physician or dermatologist. Don’t wait until symptoms arise or become unbearable to pay your doctor a visit.

• Minimize stress. We get it. Asking you to minimize stress at this point in your life would be like asking you to stop breathing. Life right now is full of long days and even longer nights, but excess stress is known to age skin and cause breakouts at the very minimum.

• Beat faces need breaks too. There’s nothing like your makeup being on point. It highlights your natural beauty and leaves you looking even more flawless already than you already are, but your skin needs a break from time to time. Going bare a few times a week won’t hurt. In addition to going bare, cleaning makeup brushes is vital. Our tools accumulate germs and product build up over time which will result in preventable breakouts.

• Nighttime routines are a must. Establishing a skincare routine is a must. Repeating a regimen or even having a nighttime routine is skin care must. Wild nights out or busy long days result in wanting to hit the sheets as soon as you make it back home. Falling asleep with makeup on is a major NO in terms of skincare. Make sure you cleanse the day off your skin every night. To reduce breakouts and skin problems even further, always make sure you are sleeping with clean pillowcases and headscarves.

Being young is full of limitless possibilities and new experiences. While it is a time full of discovery, it’s also a time for establishing good habits. Creating skincare now routine will keep you looking forever young.

International Women's Day is celebrated annually on March 8th, focusing on the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This day is all about unity, celebration, reflection, advocacy and action. The hashtag #balanceforbetter is all about building a gender-based world.

GOOD BEAUTÉ CELEBRATES 5 AMAZING WOMEN that are breaking barriers, and shaping our world today! 

Written By Nicole Paul 

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 "After using the Good Face Vita C Collection, my dark spots began to fade within two weeks and I Love the way my skin looks and feels!" Maya Brown, The Beauty Strategist                                                                                    

I approach beauty holistically and realistically, having beautiful skin is more than just using the right skincare products. It also includes living a healthy life. I am not a raw vegan avaholic, I just do the best that I can every day.

For me, it is about balance. Now with winter approaching, this is the time of the year that wreaks havoc on my skin.  Below you will find my winter guide to help you avoid dry, itchy, and irritated skin during the Winter season.  

10 Tips to keep your skin glowing: 

Tip 1: Invest in a Humidifier or pop a bowl of just-boiled water in the room – the steam will add moisture to the air, and help keep your skin hydrated. 

Tip 2: Lower the Thermostat, this is my Husbands favorite.  It will not only lower your electric bill but also prevent your skin from becoming brittle.                                                     

Tip 3: Cleanse your face with Good Face Vita C Cleanser and ice cold water. The cold water takes some getting used to but trust me it will increase your oxygen intake and prevent clogged pores. 

 Tip 4: Use Good Face Vita C Serum at night, it will stimulate cellular repair while you sleep and you will be able to sing "I woke up like this" in the morning. 

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Tip 5: Apply Good Face Vita C Moisturizer SPF 50 even on gray winter days to prevent dry skin and wrinkles. Yes, "Good Black Will Crack and Get Wrinkles"! 

Tip 6: Increase your water intake, drink ten glasses of water a day and stay near the restroom.       

Tip 7: Meditate 5-15 minutes in the morning, this will boost your overall health. 

Tip 8: Invest in a silk pillowcase like the slip, these are significantly less absorbent than many other fibers and will help the Good Face Vita C Serum to stay on your face and not on the pillowcase. 

Tip 9: Put lavender oil and a pair of cozy socks on your feet at night,  your pedicurist will thank you. 

Tip 10: Refuel with healthy food. This is challenging especially during the holidays when sweet treats are everywhere. But stick to the 80/20 rule, eat 80% of your food for fuel and 20% for fun.

When I saw the episode of Insecure when Molly asked, "You got my sunscreen? I know I'm black, but cancer don't care". I knew I needed to write a post about the importance of sunscreen. As a black woman, you might question whether you should use an SPF on a daily basis. You may even believe that you can't get skin cancer. But you’d be surprised. "Anyone can get skin cancer," says, Jeanine B. Downie MD, director of Image Dermatology. While It is less common in people of color, it’s often more severe. That's because it's usually found later when it's harder to treat.

I admit until I was in my 30s, I like most black people were unaware of the damage caused by the sun. I used baby oil to sunbathe so I could get a deep chocolate tan. The first person to tell me how harmful that was, was Doctor Downie. She advised me to wear a sunscreen every day rain or shine, in winter and summer. Thankfully, the damage I caused to my skin did not have a fatal result. But let me be clear, our melanin will not protect us against sunburn or melasma.

Now, I know most of us still believe that "black don't crack," but it does age, and 70% of all aging is caused by the sun. Unlike hair, after it is damaged, you can't cut it all off and start again. So here are a few tips to take care of your skin and maybe save your life.

Sunscreen Fit Tips: (According to the Skin Cancer Foundation)
1. Use sunscreen daily, and throughout the year. Remember, sun exposure happens year round – whether summer or winter – so at the very least it’s wise to use a facial moisturizer with sunscreen when you’re going about your regular day to day.

2. Use sunscreens that provide “broad-spectrum protection.” Board spectrum protection is something that will be advertised on the product label, and this means that the sunscreen will protect against both UVA and UVB rays – which are linked to skin cancer and sunburn, respectively.

3. In cases of minimal sun exposure (i.e., sun exposure for just a few minutes at a time) it’s safe to stick with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15, which will filter out about 93 percent of UV radiation. In cases of more extended, intense sun exposure, you should go with SPF 30 or higher.

4. Last but not least, when applying sunscreen keep in mind that you need to use an adequate amount and you may also need to reapply depending on how long you’re outdoors. The basic rule of thumb: You should reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, and if you go swimming or get in the water, you should also reapply more sunscreen after exiting the water.