You went for a gorgeous two-hour hike in the woods, brought back some great photos and uh-oh — you also brought back some poison ivy. When you accidentally brush up against this plant, the uroshiol oil rubs onto your skin, and can instantly create redness, raised bumps, blisters, and an insatiable itch. First and foremost, get out of the clothes you were wearing on the hike and wash the oil off Read more

Earlier this year, nearly 70 percent of you told me that you bite your cuticles. I have a confession. During particularly nervous moments, I sometimes do a little chomping myself. Ack! Recently, a manicurist gave me a little talking to after discovering my dirty little secret. Her solution? Tea tree oil, an antiseptic essential oil with antibacterial benefits. Not only does this product help heal Read more

Toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate — all chemicals considered dangerous for our bodies and the environment, and yet they are still found in many nail products. Sophie Uliano is the author of Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-Friendly Life ($15.25), where she discusses everything from choosing an earth-friendly lipstick to preparing eco-conscious treats. Last year, Uliano Read more

For someone like me who is constantly battling erratic pesky pimples, I've gotten to know the spot treatment market fairly well. And the newest product that I've tried and liked is called Espa Essential Tea Tree Gel ($33). This gentle botanical gel contains lemon (to detoxify), thyme (to soothe), evening primrose (to balance) and tea tree oil which helps attack bacteria and banish blemishes — Read more

Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the melaleuca alternifolia plant which grows exclusively and in abundance in Australia. The leaves are distilled, pressed and can then be used topically or aromatically (inhaled). Tea tree oil can be found in many over-the-counter beauty, household and first aid items. Take a look at my five-post roundup on tea tree oil for a more in-depth look at a Read more

Arezoo Kaviani worked at posh Mayfair salon in London for years, where she had a constant client waiting list. After much success she decided to venture out on her own. She now owns a private salon kitty-corner to the world-famous Harrods department store. Her specialties are extremely gentle waxing and facials, but she is so talented that her one-stop shop also offers a gamut of alluring body Read more