Sunblock vs. Sunscreen

There has been a huge shift in the awareness of our need for sun protection, which has impacted its use in our society. A result, there is a mass quantity of products that are manufactured with a multitude of interesting ingredients.

As a Makeup Artist and Skincare Coach, I tout the advantages of using sun protection to prevent unnecessary signs of aging, yet I understand that the mass variety and contradictory research on different types of sun protection can be confusing. When you do choose, make sure the product suits your skin and lifestyle - this makes it more likely that you will apply it regularly, not haphazardly.

Sun protection is either a chemical SUNSCREEN (see list below) or a physical SUNBLOCK (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) that blocks the sun's rays. The difference between sunscreens and sunblocks are the active sun protection ingredients.

Sunblocks use mineral active ingredients Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide to block and reflect dangerous UVA and UVB ray. Sunblocks are effective immediately upon application. If a sunblock is what you are seeking, sarimotley cosmetics offers COOLA Natural Mineral Sunblock Collection.

Sunscreens used FDA approved chemicals to absorb and reflect UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens should be applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Chemical sunscreens often offer a light, easy-to-use application, yet may irritate the skin. While ease-of-use, variety of price points and clever packaging supports the demand for chemical sunscreen, emerging research is offering information that will allow you to make educated decisions.

Chemical Sunscreens Include: Benzophenones (dixoybenzone, oxybenzone) PABA and PABA esters (ethyl dihydroxy propyl PAB, glyceryl PABA, p-aminobenzoic acid, padimate- O or octyl dimethyl PABA) Cinnamates (cinoxate, ethylhexyl p-methoxycinnamate, octocrylene, octyl methoxycinnamate) Salicylates (ethylhexyl salicylate, homosalate, octyl salicylate) Digalloyl trioleate Menthyl anthranilate Avobenzone [butyl-methyoxydibenzoylmethane; Parsol 1789]

For more information on suncare for your skin send an email to sari@sarimotley.com or visit the contact page.

Testimony & Two-Cents

I received an insightful email today from a client, which gave me the perfect opportunity to share some great information on brush care and product longevity. Here it goes:

"Hi Sari,

I really like the pencils. I think the eyeliner will be more convenient as a pencil. And the color (dawn) is nice with my green eyes.

I hate to admit it, but I think the reason I have not been happy with my foundation application is because my brush was DIRTY. I cleaned my brush and WHAT A DIFFERENCE! I was seriously shocked by the effect from cleaning my brush. I wouldn't eat with the same fork for a month, but I would apply powder to my face... Yikes!

Also, I am happy to report that I have disposed of all my old makeup, except three things: bronzer, illuminating stick and sparkle finishing powder. It feels really good to get rid of the products that were not being used."

Reply:

Cleaning Makeup Brushes

I clean my brushes frequently because I use them a lot and I sanitize them between clients… I keep a spray bottle with isopropyl alcohol at my work station. I mist a paper towel or tissue with the alcohol and swipe the brush back and forth - this takes the makeup off and sanitizes at the same time; plus it dries pretty quickly. Every two weeks or after a big makeup event, I will wash my brushes with gentle shampoo or soap. Then I remove the excess water and lay them flat to dry.

Cleaning your brushes is uber-important! This must-do task is so crucial for brush longevity, being sanitary and getting a great application.

Cosmetic Freshness Guidelines

If you've ever opened a lipstick and noticed an odd odor, that's a sign it's past its prime. If the last time you bought a new blush was when you were a blushing bride, set it aside. The following "best used by" guidelines offer helpful insight into the life of your color. They are informational and not intended to prevent, cure or treat any disease.

Powder Products (eye shadow, foundation, blush, bronzer, etc.): 24 months

Liquid/Creme Products (foundation, liners, shadow, etc.): 12 - 18 months

Lip Products (lip stick, liner, gloss, balm): 12 - 24 months

Mascara: 3 months

For more information on how to care for your products or to schedule a private makeup tutorial, send an email to sari@sarimotley.com or visit the contact page.

Suncare!

I could not wait to tell you about this great find! I have searched for natural, chemical free suncare for years, and I have something special coming really soon.

Meet COOLA. COOLA meet my friend who has been longing for natural suncare products sans the harsh chemicals…

The COOLA Natural Mineral Sunblock Collection merges the perfect blend of natural and organic ingredients with Zinc and Titanium Dioxide. This new collection has a little something for everyone (face, body, sport and baby), and they are easily integrated into your daily skincare practices. In addition to COOLA's natural sunblock features, find moisture-rich products that are chock-full of anti-agers, organic extracts and anti-oxidants. Every product is free of PABA, Parabens, Petroleum and Phthalates; and it's made right here in the USA.

COOLA is bringing a multi-functional collection of natural, organic suncare to sarimotley cosmetics, and I am very excited about that! I have testers available for you to touch and try, and I am taking pre-orders now (sari@sarimotley.com). Product will be here June 23, 2010.

Essential Meets Pink

I've searched for the right cosmetics carry-with-all bag for a while, and finally I found super-cute and super-fuctional co-exist.

It's small (eight inches) so it fits in most handbags, the color is a must-have magenta with a contrasting tangerine satin lining and it's patent! Woo hoo... get yours today: sari@sarimotley.com.

The Right Makeup For Your Hair Color

Check out the great article at endlessbeauty.com.

Coming Soon: Tea Time

The month of May has been a lot of fun. As I wait, patiently, for my new digs...

I can't wait to have you all over for a tea party. Here are a few neat items that I will have available for you in the new space.

HOUSTON, May 2010

Have you seen the article in the May 2010 issue of HOUSTON magazine? Check out page 58, "Natural Women", which talks about three Houston gals (to include yours truly) and the ever-increasing popularity of the green beauty scene.

The digital magazine can be viewed here.