August Favorites.

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It’s that time again! With August coming to a close in a few days, here are some of my favorite things from this last full month of summer.

food.

Three words: Frozen. Nut. Butter!

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HEAB introduced me to this life changing snack, and I’m never turning back.

Another favorite snack/dessert is also of the nut-butter-category: almond butter mousse.

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And lastly, the batter bowl.

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Kind of like overnight oats, but kind of not!

exercise move.

Jumping jacks! No surprise there. Combine with a some full-body strength moves, and you’ve got a pretty decent workout on your hands.

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To add intensity to your basic jumping jack, when bringing your legs together and arms down, pause for 2 seconds in a squatting position.

beauty product.

Sometimes people ask me if I’m wearing false eyelashes. Nope – just Maybelline Lash Stiletto mascara. True story.

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I swear there are magical lengthening properties in this mascara. Go get it!

fashion.

Denim button-down boyfriend shirts. Yes, I said denim.

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Since everyone and their mom adopted the flannel trend (which, I haven’t given up on just yet), I decided to move on to denim. The best part? My version was bought at WalMart. Keep sulking, Urban Outfitters model. It’s not my fault you spent $60 when I only spent $7.

band.

Arcade Fire has been a favorite band of mine for a while, and their new album The Suburbs pushes all the right buttons.

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workout song.

Moving on to a completely different genre of music, Taio Cruz’ Dynamite has all the fixin’s for a great workout song.

And when I say workout song, I really mean dance all night song.

television show.

Oh, 30 Rock, where have you been all my life?

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I don’t think I’ve ever literally LOL’ed at a television show until I finally started watching 30 Rock. Better late than never, right? Kenneth is quite possibly my favorite sitcom character ever.

movie.

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I hadn’t even heard of Repo Men while it was in theaters. It was a risk paying to watch this On Demand – especially because I’m not usually a fan of action films. But Repo Men was definitely worth the $4.99…and no, not just because Jude Law is in it.

current event.

The Ground Zero Mosque controversy is one that I find incredibly fascinating.

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Without going into my political views (which I most likely will never do on GMH), I find it very interesting to witness how this issue has caused Americans (myself included) to wrestle with the relationship between their morals, politics, and concept of democracy.

blogs.

Health for the Whole Self. I love visiting Katie’s blog because I know that I’ll come away feeling like I learned something or was challenged in some way. What more can I ask for in a blog?

Rhodey Girl Tests. After Sabrina’s session about healthy entertaining at the Healthy Living Summit, I can’t wait to host dinner parties of my own. Her recipes and ideas make entertaining seem a lot less intimidating than I once thought.

quotes/verses.

“I have wandered away like a lost sheep; come and find me, for I have not forgotten your commands.” – Psalm 119:176

“Don’t you realize that in a race everyone runs, but only one person gets the prize? So run to win! All athletes are disciplined in their training. They do it to win a prize that will fade away, but we do it for an eternal prize. So I run with purpose in every step. I am not just shadowboxing. I discipline my body like an athlete, training it to do what it should.” – I Corinthians 9: 24-27

“If you’re feeling frightened about what comes next, don’t be. Embrace the uncertainty. Allow it to lead you places. Be brave as it challenges you to exercise both your heart and your mind as you create your own path towards happiness, don’t waste time with regret. Spin wildly into your next action. Enjoy the present, each moment, as it comes; because you’ll never get another one quite like it. And if you should ever look up and find yourself lost, simply take a breath and start over. Retrace your steps and go back to the purest place in your heart… where your hope lives. You’ll find your way again.”

  • What were your August favorites?

July Favorites.

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If you haven’t noticed, in addition to my love for all things health-related, I’m also a huge fan of pop culture. And fashion. And current events. And music. I’m just so well-rounded, what can I say? ;) (totally kidding, haha).

So here’s a recap of some of my favorite things from the month of July!

food.

VitaTop French Toast. A breakfast that’s decadent and healthy? Count me in.

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Blue Diamond nailed it once again with these butter toffee flavored almonds.

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I’m not a huge fan of candy, but Charms lollipops seem to make for the perfect 2am snack.

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exercise move.

For some reason, I used to hate the plank. Somehow it’s become one of my favorite moves.

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Tip: while in plank, alternate moving your feet to the left and right then back to center. Feel the burn.

beauty product.

Winning MAC’s Lady Gaga Viva Glam lipstick from Emily’s giveaway was one of the best things that has ever happened to me. July just screams for bubblegum-colored lips!

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fashion.

I’m all about the southwestern print these days…

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…as well as oversized shirts.

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And polka dots are making a comeback in my book! (side note – my old AIM screen name was polka dots 318).

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band.

Best Coast. Listen to “Our Deal” and “Boyfriend.” Bethany Cosentino’s voice is delicious.

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song.

Islands by The xx. SMOOTH.

television shows.

I will shameless admit that I am hooked to this season of Roberto The Bachelorette.

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Ohhhh Real Housewives of New Jersey. No explanation necessary.

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movie.

When In Rome wasn’t a particularly good film…

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…I guess this just goes to show you that I’ll fall for any cheesy romantic chick flick. Don’t hate.

current events.

Praise GOD that the oil leak was capped this month.

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And, on a completely and utterly shallow note, I couldn’t help but find interest in LiLo going to jail. I sincerely do hope she can get the help she needs! WE LOVE YOU LINDSANITY LINDSAY.

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blogs.

How Sweet It Is – Jessica’s phenom recipes and her sarcastic humor is a winning combination. LOVE.

Can You Stay For Dinner – Andrea not only has an amazing weight loss story, but she exudes honesty and beauty. Her recipes are killer as well!

quotes/verses.

“We learned everything we needed to know in kindergarten. Boys are stupid.”

“The only way to find true happiness is to risk being completely cut open.”

“It is of the LORD’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” – Lamentations 3:22-23

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” - Philippians 4:6

  • What are YOUR July favorites?

Favorite Things: Summer Edition

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Hey loves. Happy Memorial Day! I can honestly say that I’ve been waiting for this weekend for quite a while now. Why? Because it’s the unofficial start of summer! To me, Summer is the perfect time to relax, spend time with friends, and take a few days off from work here and there ;) I also can’t help but love Summer fashion trends (which, Ali did a fab post on the other day). So with the summer season on my mind, I let me share with you some of my Favorite Things: Summer Edition.

French Braids

When I was a kid, I was strangely obsessed with braids. In fact, I would only color the Barbies in my Barbie coloring book that had braids! And as I’ve gotten older, that obsession hasn’t faded (although, I’ll color just about anything now :P). That’s why I’m glad to see that french braids have come back with a vengeance. I’m a huge fan of the classic, long french braid, but I’m also loving all of these side braids going on. Now there’s no excuse for you short-haired ladies to miss out on the french braid lovin’!

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Not only is braiding a super cute look, but it’s gets the hair out of your face and is much quicker to do than a full blow dry. And if you have long hair, taking out the braid will leave you with a fun wavy look!

Coral Nailpolish

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You’re looking at the queen of dark nailpolish. But during the summer I like to take the opportunity to tuck those away and bring out the bright, summery colors. Pastel nailpolish is all the rage right now (which I love) but my favorite is still a gorgeous coral shade.

Gladiator/Strappy Sandals

Glad-Sans were introduced to us a few seasons ago, but this is a trend that I can’t give up on yet.

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The perfect sandal can bring shorts + t-shirt from eh to sass-attack.

Sunglasses

I’m an accessory girl, plain and simple. And sunglasses? They’re in my top 5.

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I recently broke my favorite pair of fake Ray-Bans (RIP), but it gave me the opportunity to snag my new faves.

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While I’m not hating on the big, Nicole Richie style shades, I suggest switching it up a bit this Summer by trying out some new shapes and styles!

Cut-Off Shorts

We’ve all got a pair of jeans that we haven’t worn in years, so why not do some snipping and put those denims to use?

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I got 2 years out of those jeans, and about 3 out of the cut-off version. Why bother spending $60 at Abercrombie & Fitch when you can get the real deal for nada? Trust me…the Daisy Duke isn’t going away anytime soon.

Salad

I don’t know about you, but my appetite changes quite drastically during the warm, Summer months. I want cold, light, and refreshing food…so what’s better than a monster-sized salad?

Cantaloupe

…Same thing goes for fruit, but specifically cantaloupe. I tend to associate cantaloupe with Summer because growing up, that’s when my mom would always have fresh-cut cantaloupe in the fridge. It’s just so juicy and fresh. YUM!

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Ice Cream

Do I really have to explain this one? :) Sometimes I think that ice cream should be a food group of its own…especially during the Summer. I have absolutely no problem eating ice cream multiple times a week, and I most likely will. While I love a good sundae from time to time, my favorite treat is a simple vanilla cone with rainbow sprinkles.

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No Make-Up

…I mean, you’re probably going to sweat or swim it off anyway! Trust me, going sans-make-up is such a refreshing and freeing feeling. There’s just something so real about looking at yourself and others with your natural (and in my case, freckley) face.

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If this is something that’s tough for you, that’s all the more reason to do it. Going a few days without make-up is a great way to force yourself to embrace your natural beauty and boost your self-confidence.

Sunless Tanner

I’ve made it no secret that I’m a huge fan of sunless tans. While I’m not entirely against spending time in the natural sun (with sunscreen, of course) roasting your skin is sooo 2005. There’s no shame in getting a little help from sunless tanner, kay? Kay. St. Tropez and Jergens are hands down my top picks.

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Romp It!

In my mind, the romper is the trend of all trends this season.

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Word to the wise: a good fit is a must when it comes to rompers, so take your time finding the perfect one. And you don’t have to spend your whole paycheck for a good romper; I found both of mine at Marshall’s for less than 15 dollars each!

The BEACH!

Woooo!! Just thinking about the beach puts me a better mood. I can’t think of anything more relaxing than sitting by the ocean and listening to the sound of the waves rolling in. And I may be 23, but homegirl is still all about playing in the ocean…boogie boarding included.

Look, even though we’re all celebrating by barbecuing or going to the beach, let’s not forget the real reason for this holiday. Let’s remember those who have and are serving in the armed forces, and especially those who have died doing so. If it were not for those brave men and women, we would not have the freedoms we have today that we so often take for granted. So in the midst of today’s celebrations, take a second to just be thankful for those who have fought for our nation.

  • What are your favorite Summer foods, trends, and places to visit?
  • What are your plans for this Memorial Day?

Tan Free Tuesday & Southwest Style Quinoa Casserole.

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For lunch today I threw together an easy dish of Southwest Style Quinoa Casserole.

southwest quinoa casserole

This was a delicious and filling lunch…especially for after a workout. The casserole included:

  • 1 serving cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 of a cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup frozen pepper & onion stir-fry veggies, defrosted
  • 1/4 cup black beans
  • 1 tbsp Cuban-Style Mojo sauce
  • 1 tbsp coconut oil

There are no instructions for this other than to simply combine all of the ingredients and heat through! Simple as that. Not to mention that these sort of casseroles are a great way to use up leftovers and pack an easy, one-tupperware lunch.

quinoa with black beans, chicken, and veggies

Tan Free Tuesday: Prevention Article Review

Today’s Tan Free Tuesday article review is actually one that my mom found while scanning through Prevention at the doctor’s office. Thanks Mom! :)

Prevention Magazine, June 2010

The article, titled Sunscreens Under Fire, addresses a few of the criticisms that have been brought up about sunscreen. The first topic, which I found to to be the most relevant, was regarding the fact that most sunscreens don’t provide protection from harmful UVA rays.

According to the article, “In a recent study of 13 popular sunscreens, only 5 offered a high degree of UVA protection (though not the highest possible amount); the majority yielded only a medium level. Those are scary findings, considering that UVA accounts for more than 95% of the UV rays we’re exposed to and triggers far more free radicals that lead to wrinkles and brown spots.”

Wait…what?! I don’t know about you, but I find that to be very disheartening. To make sure that you’re getting proper UVA protection, the article recommends making sure your sunscreen contains the following ingredients: avobenzone, Mexoryl, and zinc oxide. Also look for sunscreens that include antioxidants. Here are the sunscreens that Prevention recommends as being safe and effective.

tanning article from Prevention magazine

Another concern that is addressed is whether the ingredients in sunscreen can raise the risk of breast cancer. According to this article, no studies have proven that sunscreen can increase the risk of breast cancer. However, this is an issue that I wouldn’t mind doing some more research on.

Regarding sunscreen possibly leading to a vitamin D deficiancy, the article recommends getting more vitamin D through food sources and supplements. “‘It’s so easy and a whole lot safer than frying your skin in the sun,’ says James Spencer, MD, a clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.”

To read the full article with more facts and advice when it comes to sun protection, pick up the June issue of Prevention!

[Repinski, K. (2010, June). Sunscreens under fire. Prevention, 62(6), 61-67.]

  • What brand of sunscreen do you usually wear? What SPF?

Tan Free Tuesday: Holey Mole-y!

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Hi darlings! I’m glad to hear that you learned a thing or two from the Allure article. Now get ready to learn even more about how to spot potentially dangerous moles. Alex from I Eat Asphalt put together this amazing post to share with you all. Alex actually works at a Dermatology practice, so this lady really knows what she’s talking about! Enjoy =)

Holy Mole-y?

Gracie has provided a ton of great info about the dangers of tanning and sun exposure, but I will be the first one to admit that I did the tanning regime while in high school and college. I’m currently working for a Dermatologist, and let’s just say I’ve been scared into lathering myself with SPF 30 every day… even when working in an office with fluorescent lights. If you are guilty of one too many sunburns, start checking your skin periodically. Changing or irregular moles can be serious and should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Identifying a potentially cancerous mole is as easy as A-B-C-D-E.
A = Asymmetry. If you draw a line through the mole, are the two sides equal?
B = Border. Are the borders uneven or scalloped?
C = Color. Is the mole one solid color, or is it several different shades? Is it brown or has it changed to red?
D = Diameter. Cancerous moles are typically larger than the size of a pencil eraser. Does this mole look larger than other moles?
E = Evolving. Has this mole changed in any way (color, size) or started to bleed or itch?

Okay, so maybe your mole is just a little funny looking but isn’t as bad as the descriptions above. Sun exposure can cause several different types of pre-cancerous and cancerous skin lesions.

A general irregular mole is a Dysplastic Nevus, which is an unusual benign mole that may resemble melanoma. People who have a DN are at an increased risk of developing a skin cancer later in life.

A large, crusty skin lesion is most often an Actinic Keratosis, which develop from chronic sun exposure. AKs develop when ultraviolet light from the sun damages cells in the skin, specifically affecting the keratinocytes which give skin its texture. AKs are the most common pre-cancerous lesion.

The most common type of skin cancer is Basal Cell Carcinoma occurring the basal cells, which line the deepest layer of the epidermis. Nearly all reported basal cells occur on areas of the body that were chronically exposed to the sun, such at the face, neck, back and shoulders. Basal cells often do not resemble other irregular moles and have a separate class of characteristics.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. SCC arises in the squamous cells that make up most of the skin’s epidermis. Squamous cell carcinomas may occur on all areas of the body, but is most commonly seen in areas with high sun exposure. Here’s a startling fact: Frequent use of tanning beds multiplies the risk of developing a squamous cell by 2.5 times. Squamous cell carcinomas typically appear as a thick, rough, scaly patch that can bleed if irritated.

So let’s say that your dermatologist has identified a suspicious lesion and confirmed the diagnosis with a biopsy. What are your treatment options? Most pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions are removed through a local surgery. These procedures can be completed in the doctor’s office without anesthesia, and often have both short healing times and minimal complications. The only major side effect is scaring from stitches. Several other options exist to treat lesions, which are evaluated based upon the patients past medical history, medications and age.

The only way to prevent these lesions is protective skin measures. This means applying an SPF of at least 15 every day. This will not only help prevent a nasty growth, but will also help to keep you wrinkle free. And that is a beautiful thing my friends.

Sources
Skin Cancer Foundation: http://www.skincancer.org/
American Academy of Dermatology: http://www.aad.org/public/

A HUGE thanks goes out to Alex for this wonderful post. You’re the best, girl! :)

  • Have you ever experienced a strange-looking mole? Did you get it checked out by a doctor?

Tan Free Tuesday: Allure article review

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Back when I first began addressing the issue of tanning, my girl Emily (aka my go-to beauty expert) told me that there was an article about tanning in the latest issue of Allure.

The other day I finally picked up a copy and was so excited to see how much great information was provided. I even caught myself highlighting certain phrases a la my college days :P I’m going to do my best to point out what I thought was some of the most interesting and helpful advice provided in the article, titled Sun Haze.


“When ultraviolet rays burn us, they a) suppress the immune system of the skin, weakening its defenses against toxic pollutants, viruses, and bacteria and b) damage or cell’s DNA.”

“SPF numbers don’t tell you anything concerning protection against UVA rays…look for a sunscreen that promises broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB.”

“Never apply less than a teaspoon of sunscreen for the face…aim for at least one tablespoon for each arm and each leg and use even more on the chest and the back. The key is to slather, not just dab.”

‘The sunscreen should be applied thickly enough that it takes about five minutes to sink in…put it on about a half-hour before you go into the sun.”

“The spots we [usually] miss: the back of the neck, ears, lips, hands, upper lip, temples, between the eyes, and the tops of the feet.”

“Sunburns even once a year can increase the risk of melanoma.”

“Let’s put it this way: How bad are cigarettes, mustard gas, and arsenic? Last July, the International Agency for Research on Cancer equated tanning beds to these dangers, and added them to its highest-risk category - unequivocally carcinogenic to humans. ‘One burn in a tanning bed equals 10 to 12 sunburns,’ [David] Bank says.”

“People who use tanning beds before age 30 increase their lifetime risk of melanoma by 75 percent.”

This red box provided what I thought to be some of the most interesting information.

  • “The hand lamps in nail salons emit UVA light comparable to that of tanning beds, according to an article in Archives of Dermatology.”
  • “Dark skin is susceptible. When melanoma is diagnosed, it tends to be more likely to have dangerously spread in African-American and Hispanic people, a study has shown.”
  • “Exercise and caffeine consumption may reduce sun damage, research suggests. These behaviors seem to increase the destruction of UV-injured cells that could otherwise turn cancerous.”
  • “Diet may help avert the recurrence of skin cancer. Among people with a history of skin cancer, eating about one ounce of leafy green vegetables per day on average was associated with a 54 percent reduced risk of squamous-cell carcinoma.”

The article also suggested the following skin-care products for sun damage protection/repair.

….I’m personally interested in the Coppertone Sensitive Skin Faces and Skineuticals Sheer Physical UV Defense. The oil and stickiness of sunscreen is what I dislike the most, so I’m glad to see products coming out that are more application-friendly =)

I hope you all found this article helpful! If you want more information feel free to email me, or pick up your own copy of this month’s Allure!

Newman, J. (2010, May). Sun haze. Allure, 114-122. Contributing health experts: David Bank, Linda Franks, David J. Leffell, Ellen Marmur, Robert Schiestl, Ava Shamban, Howard Sobel.

  • Did you learn anything new from that article?
  • Do you wear sunscreen? Be honest! ;)

Tan-Free Tuesday: reader stories and tips.

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Hello, my little tan-free beauties! :D It’s now week two of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month. I’ve got quite a loaded post for today’s Tan-Free Tuesday, including two readers’ stories, so let’s get started!

Melanie’s Story

I recently just canceled my tanning membership for various reasons. I’ve been tanning since the age of 19. I’m a Hispanic American and as you may obviously know, many Hispanic people are naturally tanned. I was an exception and am pale as a ghost…or I was. My entire family has the “natural” glow so I was always made fun of for being “white” by my family, my friends, and just random people. I felt the need to keep up or try to live up to them. I wanted to fit in because being “white” was not cool. After I started tanning, some of my family members would tell me that they didn’t like my tanned skin and that they loved my “porcelain” skin. WHAT?! You call me names and then say you miss my “white” skin??? I’m 22 years old now and I’ve quit tanning FOR GOOD. Why? Because I don’t feel the need to live up to my family and friends. My health is far more important than to please them. I quit because I don’t want that risk of getting skin cancer (I KNOW IT CAN HAPPEN TO ME OR TO YOU…SCARY), I don’t want to wrinkle/age faster than what I should, and I never really know if those tanning beds are really clean. Not only that, I have freckles and when I tan they come out even more… I just want people to know that there REALLY are light skinned Hispanics and I’m one of them. I’ve learned to embrace my skin now because it’s beautiful and clean and taken care of. Now, I’m the “white” family member or friend and I’m totally okay with it.

(source)

Michelle’s Story

I started tanning when I was 17 and worked at a hair salon that had a bed and a hex (stand-up tanning booth). I first went for my senior homecoming dance because all the other girls were and it was free since I worked there. I’ve always been freckled and very pale, and even though I didn’t get very dark from the tanning it gave me a burst of color that made me much more confident. I got so many compliments and felt so much cuter that somehow a few months turned into 9 years.

My first year of college I got a job at a tanning salon and went to tanning seminars and learned a lot about different lotions and different products to better enhance tanning. I never even thought about my skin being damaged really I wasn’t worried about it. But in the back of my mind the fact that I couldn’t be honest about my tanning to my mom or my little sisters that looked up to me I knew it wasn’t a good choice. Yet that still didn’t stop me. Even as a very poor college student I still continued paying a monthly fee to keep up my tan.

Then last year I got a random text message from my mom saying “do you still tan” and the fact that it was just an something that was never talked about it really startled me. She then sent me an article on new facts about tanning and skin cancer and how it was just as bad as smoking for your health. For some reason that one article helped me to completely stop I went that day and canceled my package. I haven’t tanned in over a year. Several times in the last year I’ve thought about going again and honestly its been hard. But my skin is much more soft and healthy and I’m actually starting to like my true skin color. I know that my future self will always thank me for quitting when I did.

- MKG from MoveLoveCook

Reader Tips: Self Tanning

Some of you left comments with great self-tanning tips last week, so I wanted to take the opportunity to share them!

  • Tracey @ I’m Not Super Human - I pick Jergen’s Natural Glow, since it builds over time. Here’s a tip, though: If you’re fair-skinned, stick with medium. The pigments in it are better so you don’t turn orange. It’s much more natural than the light version.

  • Alison - I used to use Coppertone Endless Summer self-tanner and loved it. However, it’s super hard to find nowadays! I haven’t used self-tanner at all this year and am learning to embrace my pale skin. It’s easier said than done!

(source)

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  • Lily @ Lily’s Health Pad - I am naturally fair skinned and freckly. I used to apply self tanner all the time. But A couple years ago, I gave it up. I’ve come to appreciate my natural color, and I don’t mind rocking the white- even in the summer!
  • Nicole @ Making Good Choices - I love Jergens for everyday use..I usually just use that on my arms though and it leaves a nice amount of color all year round (I like to think anyways!)
  • Michelle @ Give Me The Almond Butter - I like Nivea sun-kissed products. They dry really fast and don’t have the icky smell of Jergens natural glow.

(source)

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine - favorite self-tanner is L’oreal sublime glow mist. it’s a gradual tanner, and it’s super easy to apply!

(source)

Thanks so much, lady loves!

Must-Reads

Alex from I Eat Asphalt commented last week, and I was excited to hear that she actually works for a dermatologist in nearby Philadelphia! She gave me the link to the American Academy of Dermatology Fact Sheets, all of which are incredibly helpful and interesting. Some of my favorites are:

Thanks Alex!! That’s it for this week’s edition of Tan-Free Tuesday. If you’d like to share anything for next week, please feel free to leave a comment letting me know!

Subway Giveaway Winners

#14: Lisa (I’m an Okie) - “I want the egg white omelet on Flatbread! The flatbread looks SO good.”

#19: Jennifer (shesafitchick.com) - “I would get tuna & veggies.. yum!!”

#38: Katherine - “I would also love to try the egg & cheese breakfast sandwich on an English muffin!!”

Congrats! :D Please email me with your full name, email, and mailing address.


  • What’s your favorite sunscreen?
  • What pressure (if any) do you feel from your peers or society when it comes to being tan?

Tan Free Tuesday: Christie's Story

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Christie’s struggle with Melasma

Hey GMH followers! This is Christie from ‘Roller Koester Run’. Don’t you just love Gracie’s blog?! When I heard that her and Quinn from Daily Moderation were paying homage to May being National Skin Cancer Awareness Month I knew I wanted to help out by sharing my tanning related story, so here goes.

I grew up the typical teenager. I loved being out in the sun and trying to get as dark a tan as possible. Being Italian, my skin has a naturally olive tone than tans quite easily and never burns. i always used this as an excuse to not use sunscreen. Shoot, pass the oil or any other darkening complex! I also played sports all summer, so was constantly in the sun. And don’t go thinking that, as a Michigan girl, I got pale in the winter. Shoot, bring on the tanning salon!

Things began to change for me about 2 years ago when I began developing Melasma. Melasma is a darkening of skin pigmentation that is mostly caused by the sun (some researchers suggests that oral contraceptives or patches, aka- birth control, may cause this as well). Now this wasn’t the darkening that you look for in a tan. They are irregular patches on your face, commonly found on the upper cheek, nose, lips, upper lip, and forehead.

face with Melasma(source)

For me, it’s my upper lip and both cheeks. Awesome right? NO, not at all actually. No girl wants darkening on her upper lip!

The worst part? There is no 100% cure! I have been getting treatments every few months for the past 2 years or so and they are not cheap. The treatment I get is called Fractional Laser Resurfacing. It brings the darkened pigment to the surface and then it sloughs off as dead skin cells do.

(source)

The procedure itself stings, but only takes a few minutes. Immediately after it feels like a bad sunburn for about an hour or 2. The treatments have definitely helped me, but the darkness does come back after a few months and especially if I slack on the sunscreen. I just wish I had know, I definitely would’ve avoided the tanning salons and at least used something with a small amount of SPF in it.

Another bummer is that you can’t get treatment for this while pregnant. If you follow my blog, Roller Koester Run, you know that I am about 3 months pregnant now! Pregnancy can actually make this worse, as some women get it just during pregnancy due to the influx of hormones. I am at the point now where I would get another treatment, but can’t. The hard part is that every girl wants to feel beautiful and it is hard to with dark patches on your face.

So, to wrap it up, it’s like those girls on ’16 & Pregnant’, or people who gets STDs. They say things like, “It won’t happen to me”, but it can! It can happen to anyone. Just think, this isn’t even the worst of it, I am not even delving into the topic of skin cancer! So protect yourselves ladies. Stop going to the tanning salons and go to CVS and buy some tinted lotions already!

Christie
http://rollerkoesterrun.wordpress.com/

Further Reading

Can you relate to Christie’s story?

Do you have a tanning experience that you’d like to share?