For better or for worse?

Could this be a 'skin and paraben' marriage made in heaven or hell?   'For better, for worse, for richer, for poorer'  as the case may be, hmmm,  let's move on...

Parabens are cheap 'preservatives' which are added to many cosmetic & skincare products to give it long shelf life and kill off bacteria.  There are different types and are often found listed right at the end of the 'ingredients' panel of your cosmetic & skincare based product.  Methyl and propyl parabens are also used as additives in some foods.  (We're not liking the sound of that either).

The image to the right shows the Paraben family, become familiar with the names so you know what you're looking out for.

What harm, if any, can parabens do?

Parabens interfere with the body's natural production of hormones and are known as endocrine disruptors. They also act like the hormone 'oestrogen' (that's 'estrogen' to our American friends) and it has been said that parabens cause, contribute or increase the risk of cancer, yet this is still in debate in the world of science.   Past research showed that the chemicals were safe, taking into account that the chemicals would be absorbed quickly, metabolised and excreted as waste.

Since then, science has shown that over time chemicals build up in the body tissue and increase toxic build up and the chance that they can interfere with normal hormonal functions increases.  We need to look after our skin sensibly, it is the largest organ after all and thankfully there are companies who create products which are paraben FREE!

Brands such as Temple Spa prefer to use natural oils, such as grape seed, vitamins or extracts which protect the skin's health, preserves the quality of the product, finds and depletes toxins and also provides moisture.  Naturally, the products will cost a little more, but they are also 'concentrated' so a little goes a long way.  Whereas with the paraben based products, they are 'cheap as chips' and you will need more product to cover the skin's surface.  Therefore toxic build up is inevitable over time.

is the way to be! 

Crimson love, Crimson Catz, XX

Cos he's worth it...?

 Another special day is slowly creeping upon us, yes, it's Father's day and what best way to celebrate it but to spoil 'em rotten!

Most of the time, guys have the idea of their most wanted gift in their head, but never mention it until they get hit with another pair of socks, just like last year, and the year before that.  Their little sulky face tells another story when they say 'they're not bothered about it'.

We know that deep down inside they wanted something to play with, like a keyring that makes a million silly noises, or a very expensive dream car which they can zoom on the chicane with.
When they're taking a little while longer in the bathroom, it's because they're actually checking out your 'lotions and potions'.  


Distant unsure words of 'I'll be there in a minute' echo while he checks out your new 'eye cream' or tries to find something useful to help his morning shave.
Times have turned around somewhat, as we ladies no longer use 'his' razor but instead 'him indoors' wants to try to find something that will aid his appearance in many ways.

So there is help on the horizon, and even if you...the wife, girlfriend or whatever you happen to be, don't get him it, then he will always treat himself, but hide it away in an obvious place! (Sadly for you guys, women know where everything is kept - it's built in I'm afraid).

Let the head man become 'Head boy for a change, he'll feel like all his Christmas's have come at once!   There's nothing to say that you can't use a little something of his, once in a while...let yourself go 'wild',  we know you want to! 

If you really have no ideas, have a chat with us via our email catz@crimsoncatz.com, on twitter @CrimsonCatz or even on our facebook fan page and hey, why not join us?  It would be lovely to meet you!  

Oh, and one final thing, enjoy  Father's Day! (June 19th, 2011).  

Crimson love, Crimson Catz, XX