If it was a perfect world than someone would have already found the Fountain of Youth. Wouldn’t it be lovely to age gracefully, without proof, like wrinkles and age marks? The woman behind Skin Free and Blue Ridge Gypsy Studio sent these Happy Hour Moms boxes of magic. We had the honor of testing out a handful of samples that all have a toxicity rating of “0″ from the Environmental Working Group. Hands down, my favorite was the Corrective Face Nectar, even though the smell reminded me of a strong tea tree oil. In days, I felt a noticeable difference in the smoothness of my skin. Plus, one of my best girlfriends struggles with eczema and Although, the magical cure is still unavailable, we can use high quality products (best, at a reasonable price) that make a difference. Each product is formulated using natural oils and butters to give you the results that they promise. Skin Free offers products that all natural for delicate, sensitive and very dry and damaged skin. While Blue Ridge Gypsy Studio has organic essential oils and blends that will renew your energy and reliever you from stress and tension. There are so many unanswered questions about skincare and aging, we went ahead and posed a few to this expert and owner, Julie Hilton.
Skin Free Skincare is currently available at specific CVS stores on the east coast and slo in 2500 Walgreens stores.
HHM: Tell us a little bit about the history behind Skin Free and Blue Ridge Gypsy Studio.
All products distributed by Blue Ridge Gypsy Studio™ are designed and formulated by owner and practicing pharmacist, Julie Hilton, who has over 30 years experience in compounding and natural skin care. “I started the Studio in 2000 when my husband and I moved to the Blue Ridge of Virginia. Our friends were calling us “gypsies”, so the name evolved naturally.”
“Working in a typical retail pharmacy setting, I was constantly frustrated when asked to recommend products for patients with difficult skin problems, especially those with fragrance allergies. I recognized a void in the market and knew that I could offer effective and affordable products to fill it. Atopic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis are life-long conditions and need to be addressed for the long term. Patients with diabetes or renal disease, pregnant women,babies, the elderly, and patients treated with radiation therapy can all benefit from quality natural products. Even people who just have dry, sensitive skin can appreciate wholesome natural skin care products.”
“Since I personally suffer from chronic allergies and eczema, I understand that it is very important for people with these conditions to maintain the integrity of their skin and reduce their exposure to antigens to help prevent acute outbreaks. These diseases can be quite debilitating and cause increase depression, work loss, and pain.”
Naturally occurring vegetable oils and butters contain indigenous nutrients, antioxidants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDS), and antibacterial agents that petroleum-based oils just don’t have. Natural oils absorb into the skin and do not feel greasy. They also come from replenishable sources, which is a great environmental concern.
“I hope that SkinFree™ products will become widely used and be truly helpful to the ever increasing patient population who need products such as these.”
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HHM: In what ways do you believe organic skin care differs from brand names?
I’m not sure you have the right verbage here. Skin Free & BRG are organic, but we are working hard to Brand them nationally. Skin Free is available nationally in 2400 Walgreens stores, on the east coast inabout 300 CVS stores in VA, MD, and DC and the products are on drugstore.com, cvs.com & walgreens.comIn all we have about 3000 retailers across the country.
What makes us different is the care that we take in eliminating toxic ingredients from our formulas and using Fair Trade organics whenever possible.
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HHM: What would you recommend as a MUST-HAVE for Happy Hour Mommies?
The soaps, the Balm for winter skin, the facial scrubs to promote youthful clear complexion.
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HHM: When is the appropriate age to start anti-aging treatments?
This will always vary for individuals. If you have extremely dry skin,begin moisturizing with a great product as soon as possible. Use products specific for your skin condition. Prevention always works better than corRection!
I have to say our Firming Matrix Creme is incredible. I always have my doubts when a new ingredient appears that makes lavish promises. The Matrix in this creme works! My 56 year old face is glad I found it. The Corrective Face Nectar gets a lot of rave reviews from people who need darker spots and scars to fade.
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HHM: How do you spend your happy hour?
I spend my happy hour on my deck with my handsome husband watching the sunset over the Blue Ridge Mountains.
I had to give my two cents as well (this is Shannon). I received the Acai Scrub for Sparkling Skin and tried it out tonight. It was awesome. It looked like grainy mud, as though I went in the backyard and collected it myself but is relatively odorless. I massaged it into my skin in circular motions and rinsed with warm water to find my skin silky smooth. I even convinced my hubby to give it a shot (don’t tell anyone!). He asked the same thing, “What are you having me put on my face? Did you get mud from the backyard?” But ultimately, once he tried it, he was impressed and completely satisfied. I am always a little weary to try new skin products from companies I am not used to, but the scary part is over and I now have a new line of skincare that I can use.
Toni Danielson, ad agency working mom of a big brown-eyed little man, wife to an amazing husband, Digital Media Lover. Blogger. Infographic-obsessed. Expat. Happy Hour Mom. BBall Wife. Not all in that order. Join me in my journey to become the ultimate Happy Hour Mom!
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