Program blurb says.

‘In Britain and America cases of asthma, eczema and hay fever have trebled in the last decades and food allergies have increased by over 500%.

People have become allergic to everything from penicillin, rice, dust, pollen, to various forms of nuts.

Before the Second World War, allergies barely registered, but today our bodies are reacting to everyday substances. This documentary asks if we are becoming allergic to the 21st century’.

View - Allergy Planet.

Sylvie xx

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I was lucky to read this one on persistence by the 30th US President, Calvin Coolidge (1872 - 1933) in a book recommended to me when I was just 20 years old.

I sometimes think about this quote when the going gets tough.

‘Nothing in the world can take the place of Persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan 'Press On' has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race’.

Of course, it is not easy to persist and succeed.

It takes more than simply reading a book or listening to someone else’s story of success

But we can all take what we have, decide not to not hold ourselves back and ‘give it a go’.

Sylvie xx

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If you are exfoliating your face once a week then just run the exfoliant softly over your lips as well. You don’t really need a separate exfoliant to do this job. 

Some women use a toothbrush or flannel. Whatever method you choose is fine but most importantly follow this with a nourishing lip balm.

SCOUT Cosmetics Nourish and Shine (petroleum free) Lip gloss is an excellent choice to apply to lips at night before bed. One of m own beauty routine staples.

4 Lipstick Tips

1. Wearing a light or bright shade of lipstick will accentuate thin lips.

On the other hand dark, rich or muted shades will make large lips appear smaller.

2. Matte shades of lipstick are better suited for day wear and lip-gloss can add glamour to a night time event.  Sometimes though I like to mix it up.  This is just a suggestion.

3. If you just want a sophisticated air apply a dot of lip gloss in the center of your lower lip.

4. You can also do this with our illuminate powder. While you have the illuminate out, Why not apply a small amount above your Cupid's bow (especially at night) to highlight a sexy pout.

 Sylvie xx

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Well it is easier than you think, let me tell you why! 

No experience necessary!

A key part of the SCOUT philosophy is to show women how to enhance their natural beauty and individuality. 

One of the most rewarding things about facilitating SCOUT clinics is showing women how simple and easy it is to choose and apply makeup and use skincare.

SCOUT Consultants come from all walks of life.

In fact, you definitely do not have to be a makeup artist or beautician.

Like their clients, they each have individual preferences and styles.

Some wear little makeup; others would be lost without it.

Some strongly prefer natural products; others simply love the look and feel of SCOUT mineral makeup, skincare and hair care.

Our Consultants quickly find that doing one or two makeovers at a clinic is a snap.

We will show you how easy it is, to simply and expertly show ‘everyday women’ how to take care of their skin, apply makeup and make the most of their natural features, effortlessly.

Our most successful Consultants are people just like you. 

They love SCOUT products and have a genuine desire to share their experience with you.

Our training is fun and informative and along the way you will connect with other SCOUT consultants to quickly form a supportive and enriching network.

To be a SCOUT consultant no experience is required.

And many women also rediscover that using makeup is a lot of fun!

Sylvie xx

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I often think of the line when Marty Balsam says of Audrey Hepburn’s character; Holly Golightly: "I love the kid. She's a phony, but she's a real phony."

While we may not seek to create a whole new world and persona for ourselves as she does, we are almost wired to put forward a good impression for other people,.I think it is completely natural to put our best foot forward, so that people may begin to know and hopefully like us.

As a former flight attendant, I know it quickly a good impression can create good chemistry and I often feel energised when someone new engages me in a positive, friendly way.

You may hate small talk but being aware of how to ‘break the ice’ can do wonders for our confidence and take the stress out of social or business situations.

While it is true that ‘you never get a second chance to make a good first impression’ and people may form an opinion of us in the first ten seconds or so, it is still possible to stay a little natural while being aware of a few simple rules and not feel your are following a script that just isn’t you.

Fortunately, we do not all have to be quick-witted or well read or travelled to make a good first impression

So unlike the iconic Holly Golightly, retain a bit of authenticity and simply ‘be yourself’.

This is something I remind myself when I am feeling a little insecure.  Being myself is a genuine expression of who I am and whenever I think of this, I instantly relax.

Here are some simple ideas to keep in mind.

They are in addition to the must do’s of appropriate attire, punctuality and manners which should go without saying:

 - Focus on the other person

The easiest way to get things flowing is to show interest in the other person and ‘be a good listener’ without bringing the conversation back to yourself.

We often like to share impressive things about ourselves, but it may be better to keep in mind 'How am I making the other person feel?'

By actively listening, encouraging someone to talk about themselves and responding genuinely without bringing it all back to you, there is an opportunity to build a rapport without any long pauses.

- Don’t interrogate the other person

Relax and ask questions with the focus on the other person.

However, avoid interrogating a new acquaintance and remember to speak slowly. Often nervousness makes us talk too fast.

- Stay positive

 It sounds simple but if you are in a negative frame of mind – hide it.

Consciously suppress the bad mood when you meet someone new so you don’t come across as a complainer or sulk.

You do not want to bring the other person down. There is plenty of time later for revealing yourself slowly.

- Eye contact, your smile and your posture

Unconsciously, I think we read a lot into a person’s body language.

This means keeping a healthy level of eye contact, projecting a genuine smile and maintaining a relaxed upright posture.

It shows you are focused on them, happy to be with them and not a slouch (literally).

Be careful not to stare people out as this can quickly give the impression of arrogance.

- Get in sync

Generally, we are attracted to others who we can relate to and feel comfortable with - people broadly like us.

So adjusting your posture, voice, words and gestures to resonate with those of a new acquaintance is important.

- Use flattery sincerely and sparingly

I find most people have good ‘bull___’ detectors, so use flattery carefully and sincerely.

Your credibility is key and it is better to focus on the other person's accomplishments or achievements than to say you ‘like their tie’.

You don’t want to look like you praise everyone and you never know, an assertive new person may ask you what it is about their tie you like.

- Do onto others

Cut others a bit of slack if they make a bad impression on you.

Allow them the opportunity to recover the situation and demonstrate some self awareness.

I am not saying to suffer a fool gladly but we all know it is hard to be social sometimes and your understanding will elevate you instantly in their eyes.

- Try to remember names

It is not easy, but try to remember a person’s name. It shows you have made an effort and they are important.

- Laugh but stay away from humour

Be careful with humor. Being witty is great but don’t come across as sarcastic because you don't know who the other person is or what sensitivities they may have.

 Sylvie xx

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A lip liner is used to give your lips a neatly defined border and is really worth the small effort it takes to apply.  

Lip liner is applied before applying lipstick as it works as a guideline.

The lip liner prevents the colour from moving out of the lip outline. 

For everyday use, a lip liner should be the same shade as the lipstick you use or neutral.

Apply all other makeup before putting on lipstick and lip liner, then:

• Make sure your lips are free of any traces of lip stick or gloss;
• If the pencil is too pointy, rub it gently on a tissue till you get a slightly rounded shape of its point;
• Draw the outline of your lips to form the desired shape. The line should be thin and close to the natural lip line;
• Using feathery strokes, start from the centre of the upper lip and draw towards the each corner. Do the same with the lower lip; 

• Connect the lines together to form a smooth profile. And always blend downward as blending upward makes liner more likely to bleed; I don’t like harsh lines so I like to then colour in the lips using the lip pencil.; and finally
• Apply lipstick covering the area within the outlines and ensuring the lip lines are not visible after applying lipstick.

You may find the following ideas worth a try:

• To give thin lips a fuller look, use a lighter shade for the lip liner pencil. The line should be drawn slightly past the natural lip line;
• To give the lips a lusher look, you can blend the edges using a sponge applicator. Applying gloss completes the process.
• For making your lips appear smaller, apply the foundation over the edges of your lips and draw the lip shape with a liner just inside your lip line. Apply lipstick over this.
• Avoid lip liner colour that is darker than the lipstick colour. The lipstick begins to fade as time passes, and the liner stays intact exposing the odd line around your lips.

Remember to touch lips up after a meal, as lipstick easily transfers onto coffee cups, water bottles and wine glasses.

Sylvie xx

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It has natural healing qualities on the scalp and skin.

Aloe Vera is used to relieve burning, itching, minor cuts and first and second degree burns.

But what is in it that makes it so wonderful and how can Aloe Vera benefit your skin?

Aloe Vera is classified as a medicinal plant and is part of the lily family. 

While it has a significant water content  it also contains an abundance of nutrients such as:

• Vitamins and minerals;
• Enzymes;
• Saponins (soapy substances that provide antiseptic and mild cleansing abilities);
• Amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein;
• phenolic compounds, which contain antioxidant properties; and
• lignin, chemical compounds found in plants which may help assist healing of damaged skin and increase blood flow.

The vitamins found in Aloe Vera include B complex, folic acid, vitamin C and Carotene.

Aloe Vera also contains salicylic acid which contains aspirin like compounds making it ideal for the treatment of minor burns.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties also help reduce pain and the risk of infection.

When used topically, Aloe Vera may also help to increase oxygen to the skin layers which has been linked to a strengthening of skin tissues. 

Because Aloe Vera can help retain moisture in the skin, it is great for all skin types, including dry. 

 And its unique moisturising properties can be of great benefit for oily and combination skin, for which oil based moisturisers may be too rich. 

Sylvie xx

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All SCOUT Cosmetics products are designed and manufactured to the highest standards to ensure quality, natural integrity and freshness.

A SCOUT product has three attributes:

• It is made from pure  - high quality ingredients;
• It is formulated by experts and manufactured to exacting Australian and international standards; and
• It must be effective and be a delight to use.  The scent and texture must be engaging and subtly work on our emotions to uplift, centre and enliven our spirits.

All products have a guaranteed shelf-life of 18-24 months from the time of opening.

Products contained in jars should be used within 3 months of opening and remember to replace the lid after use & keep water out.

To guarantee a longer shelf-life we recommend storing SCOUT products below 30ºC and keep them away from heat and direct sunlight.

If you live in an area where the ambient temperature is higher or it is regularly humid, store the sealed product in the fridge.

We have a 100% Personal Satisfaction Money Back Guarantee on all products.

We want you to try our products and if you are not satisfied with the product after trying it, simply return it to your Consultant within 14 days of receipt and we will refund your money or replace your product.

Remember, your satisfaction is our priority.

Sylvie xx

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It is a key ingredient in SCOUT Pomegranate and White Tea Rejuvenating Crème   as it is a strong natural anti-antioxidant with skin protecting, astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.

Pomegranate Liquid Extract is an entirely natural and pure active ingredient that excels as a moisturising, anti-ageing and skin restructuring agent in all skin care applications.

It is used in moisturiser formulations as it assists in the reduction of the appearance of age lines & wrinkles.

Effective hydrating agent it leaves the skin supple smooth and young looking. Also claimed that it stimulates collagen synthesis in the skin.

Pomegranate extract is pressed from the seeds of the pomegranate fruit which is rich in antioxidants, essential vitamins and minerals.  Pomegranate is reported to have more antioxidant properties than red wine and green tea.

It is high in ellagic acid, an antioxidant which may also help combat free radical damage.  It is also high in pnicic acid, a compound similar to linoleic acid (CLA). 

It is also considered to possess anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Products incorporating pomegranate may even help to relieve symptoms of eczema, psoriasis and sunburn. 

Sylvie xx

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When formulating the range, I really wanted to make ‘multi-use products’ and for them to be suitable for both men and women - Unisex.

I have seen a few product stories and discussions lately about men’s grooming and there seems to be an accepted idea that men’s skin is materially different to women’s and therefore needs differently formulated skincare products.

While I am happy to celebrate the differences between women and men, when it comes to skincare, I think the idea of having dedicated skincare products is incorrect and overdone.

It is very important to use a high quality skincare product.

However, while men’s skin may be thicker and oilier, it is not the product that should be different but the skincare routine, frequency of use and general approach men adopt.

Different skins

There are important physical differences between men and women’s skin, including,

• Besides having thicker more prominent facial hair, Androgen (testosterone) stimulation results in an increase in skin thickness in men. It is widely reported that a man’s skin is up to 25% thicker than a woman’s.
• A man’s skin also thins gradually with age, whereas the thickness of a woman’s skin remains constant until about the age of fifty. After menopause, her skin will thin significantly, which will continue as she ages;
• A man’s skin texture is also tougher.  
• There is also a difference in the composition of oil and its production. After puberty, oil secretion is greater in males than in females, which may explain why men have more prolonged periods of acne.
• Regardless of age, men also have a higher collagen density than women. Because collagen content is directly related to the signs of skin aging, it has been reported a woman’s skin is about 15 years older than a man’s of the same age.
• Men also sweat up to twice the amount of women and are more prone to sweating, which is stimulated by an increase in body temperature.

Are products really different

Not in my experience.

The ingredient lists are very much the same between so-called men’s and women’s products.

There does not appear to be any real evidence for the necessity to have separate formulations and it is more of a marketing ploy.  

Caring for a man’s skin

Both men and women need to ‘restore - maintain - preserve – protect - their skin. But men do need a different approach to how they care for their skin:

• Most men shave which provides daily exfoliation which can help keep skin softer and smoother. So their need for exfoliation is less than a woman and the focus should be only on areas away from the beard;
• However, shaving can also cause ingrown hairs on the face and neck and irritating ‘shaving rash’. So an Aloe Vera based product is a perfect daily aftershave lotion to eliminate inflamed skin;
• Unless a man gets very dirty in his work or playing sport, it is a good idea to avoid using bath soap on their face. I also find most men require less cleansing than a woman with weakly cleansing and daily shower water being sufficient except for those with oilier skin types;

Both men and women can enjoy using the same skincare products.

Sylvie xx

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