Are basq products only for pregnancy?

No. While these products were created to be gentle enough for pregnancy they are meant to beautiful enough for any woman to use any time. We have found that many women love the fact that the line cares for skin gently and effectively. The line is intended for use pre, during and post pregnancy.

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How is basq different from other maternity skin care lines?

From the quality of the ingredients to the beauty of the packaging, basq delivers an upscale, beautiful experience.

• basq only offers targeted products that address specific changes during pregnancy
• and never repackages general skincare as "maternity."
• The line is based on formal research with hundreds of pregnant women, new
• moms, Obstetricians and Midwives to understand the wants and needs of pregnant
• women.
• A three-step safety process to ensure that each ingredient is appropriate for use
• during pregnancy.
• The use of aromacology, which blends the psychology of fragrance with the skin
• advantages of aromatherapy, helps the mind and body fully benefit from the power
• of essential oils.
• The products are on par with the best names in luxury skincare, but designed for
• maternity and new motherhood.
• Exquisite packaging that conveys the luxurious beauty and sophistication of the line.

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What were the core findings of basq's research with expecting and new mothers?

Basq spent close to a year interviewing hundreds of pregnant women and new mothers as well as Obstetricians and midwives to understand what women really want from maternity skincare. When it comes to pregnancy style or beauty, women expect the best during these months. There was no shortage of opinions on what it means to be pregnant; but there was unity on how most women view their experiences:

• I'm still Me, baby and all — I'm as savvy as ever in what I expect.
• Why not experience pregnancy with as much beauty and style as possible?
• Honestly, with all the changes I've had to make, I'd love a little TLC just for me.

Extraordinary effort was undertaken to reflect these attitudes and philosophies in every aspect of the basq line.

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How do women feel about their skin during pregnancy?

Women were very clear about the DO's and DON'T of pregnancy skin care:

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About basq Products


What are the specific skin issues the basq line addresses?

Our research with health care providers, pregnant and new moms showed there are four core issues that women believe require new solutions during pregnancy:

1. Stretch marks and itchiness as the belly expands
2. Blemishes, break outs and combination skin as hormones change
3. Tired, swollen legs and feet that come with carrying excess weight
4. Fatigue and trouble sleeping that come with body changes and anxiety.

Basq offers a product to deal with each of these issues: Resilient Belly Oil, Rebalancing Face Cleanser, Soothing Foot Relief and Sweet Dreams Aromatherapy.

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What is aromacology?

Basq products are based on the science of aromacology -- the blending of Aromatherapy (the body benefits of essential oils) and the psychology of how scent affects the mind. Aromacology is the study of "scents" and their effect on one's mind, mood and health. As part of the solution to a physical issue, basq products offer a more holistic curative effect that cares for both the body and mind.

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What does the name basq mean?

Quite simply: Basq in this moment … it's yours to enjoy.

basq is a playful spin on the notion of basking in this special time. However one feels about the experience of pregnancy, everyone can agree it is an extraordinary time. We chose "basq" as it summarized the experience our products brings to women.

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How was basq developed?

The basq team worked with experts in the fields of aromacology, skin science, product safety and women's health. Over a years' worth of research was conducted with hundreds of pregnant and new mothers, doctors and midwives to determine what women wanted and what was needed during pregnancy.

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How does basq handle safety?

At basq, we take many steps to ensure safety:

• Expert team of advisors from the fields of Aromatherapy, Cosmetic Chemistry,
• Product Safety and Women's Health.
• Products are tested for sensitivity and allergy by an independent clinical lab.
• Ingredients are screened for appropriateness based on The Cosmetic Toiletry
• Fragrance Association and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Board guidelines.
• Extensive research on essential oils safety is conducted, using opinions from
• medical and aromatherapy experts.
• Exclusion of any oil whose safety was at all questioned by industry experts.

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Are Basq products all natural?

All basq products use hand selected blends that are chosen for their beauty, safety and efficacy. Basq Resilient Belly Oil and Sweet Dreams Aromatherapy are natural oil blends which do not require preservatives because oils are naturally resistant to bacteria growth and spoilage. Water based products such as our Soothing Foot Relief and Rebalancing Face Cleanser are not all natural as they require preservation to prevent bacteria growth and spoilage. In an effort to provide maximum safety, we choose gentle ingredients and gentle reliable preservation systems.

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Which preservatives are used and are they safe?

Potassium Sorbate is used in the Rebalancing Face Cleanser and a combination of Parabens is used in the Soothing Foot Relief. The preservatives were chosen for their safety in preventing bacteria growth and help in maintaining the stability, freshness and life of the product. Parabens are the most widely used group of preservatives found in cosmetics and it is estimated that more than 90% of all cosmetic products contain some form of paraben. We chose time tested ingredients as there may be a potential safety risk in using newer preservatives that have no long standing track record of safety. As well, many natural preservation systems do not provide the same length or effectiveness of preservation throughout the life of the product.

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Concerns about Stretch Marks


What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are small, depressed streaks in the skin caused by tiny tears in the elastic supportive tissue that lies just underneath the skin to help it stretch. Stretch marks usually appear on the abdomen in the later stages of pregnancy when the belly is rapidly expanding to accommodate a growing baby. Women can also get them on their buttocks, thighs, hips, or breasts. Stretch marks can often appear after dramatic weight loss or growth spurts and are treated the same way.

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Does every woman get stretch marks?

No. In fact many women do not get stretch marks. Today's experts agree that the occurrence of stretch marks is highly dependent upon how elastic one's skin is and the rate of weight gain. Gaining weight rapidly, carrying multiples or a big baby can impact whether you get stretch marks.

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Can stretch marks be prevented?

Women can do a lot in the fight to prevent stretch marks. Bolstering the skin's elasticity and resiliency with deep, regular hydration is the best preventative defense. Experts recommend that women hydrate and nourish their skin several times daily both as they try to prevent stretch marks and help skin bounce back after pregnancy.

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How does Basq Resilient Belly Oil work?

The select ingredients in Basq's oil blend were specifically chosen for their ability to tone, replenish and soothe skin as it stretches. The blend includes a powerful combination of high grade EFA's (Essential Fatty Acids) rich oils for deep hydration, Vitamin E for skin strength, Wheat Germ, Grapeseed and Rosehip Oil for scarring and Eucalyptus to soothing itching.

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Why are EFAs important in skin hydration?

Skin research has shown the EFA's (Essential Fatty Acids) help nourish the skin so it can keep it natural resiliency and bounce. EFAs are a part of the lipid layer, and help maintain the suppleness and elasticity of skin. They cannot be ingested by taking vitamins orally but must be absorbed through the skin. These fats have long been known as necessary for the body's functioning, their deficiency results in the skin losing moisture and leading to hardening and drying. Only recently, however, has their role in skincare become clearly understood and EFAs are now widely used in products for intensive skincare. Basq's oils which include Hazelnut, Sweet Almond, Rosehip, Grapeseed, Sunflower and Wheatgerm are rich in EFA's. These oils are quickly absorbed by the skin and their benefit is they work with the body to naturally nourish and replenish skin as it stretches.

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How do Vitamin E rich ingredients help skin?

When applied to the skin, vitamin E helps promote healing, protecting cells from free-radical damage and reducing itchiness. Its key biological function is to protect lipids from oxidation and free radicals. Lipids are the building blocks of healthy, strong skin cells.
What does Wheatgerm Oil (Triticum aestivum) contribute?

A primary element in keeping skin healthy is making sure the structure of the epidermis (outer layer of skin) is intact. Wheat Germ Oil is a natural moisturizing factor (NMF) and helps prevent individual skin cells from losing water creating the smooth, non-flaky appearance of healthy, intact skin. It is also a valuable source of Vitamin E and a natural antioxidant. Wheat Germ Oil is used to prevent and reduce scarring and speeds up healing of cuts and wounds.

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What should every woman know about the use of essential oils during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, essential oils can calm or invigorate the senses and provide real skin benefits. With leading aromacology experts, basq selected essential oils and plant extracts most appropriate and helpful during pregnancy. For example, Eucalyptus has a wonderfully uplifting scent that also works to soothe itchiness as the body expands.

It's important to note that the recommended concentration level of essential oils during pregnancy is different than the level recommended for everyday use. In addition, several essential oils can be too potent for pregnancy and lead to unwanted side effects, from skin irritation to more serious problems.

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How can one determine if Essential Oils are safe?

Essential Oils are not regulated by the FDA and studies are not conducted on pregnant women to conclude safety for pregnancy. There are several leading essential oil experts who publish research findings and offer their opinions on safety, however sometimes there are differing views among experts. Based on a compilation of expert industry opinions, basq provides an educational list online citing which oils should be avoided during pregnancy. basq makes a point not to use any essential oils that have been cited by experts as inappropriate for pregnancy. For example, we choose to exclude Clary Sage, Rosemary and Peppermint from our pregnancy products as these have been cautioned against by experts in the essential oils field for use during pregnancy. When evlauating products it is always best to review the available literature and consult with your health care professional.

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Concerns over Uneven Skin & Blemishes


What causes a woman's skin to breakout during pregnancy?

During pregnancy elevated hormone levels can bring a variety of skin changes, including blemishes and unbalanced skin. As hormone levels rise, pores production of oil increases, leading to oily skin. In some pregnancies, the increased oil can cause that wonderful "pregnancy glow" that some women get. But for others, oily skin can mean an uneven complexion on the face and body.

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Are blemishes during pregnancy common?

Obstetricians and midwives ranked blemishes or skin imbalances as the second chief concern of their patients in an informal basq survey. Yet, this issue is often not discussed openly by women. Blemishes and skin problems can really impact a woman's self-esteem, especially with all the physical changes one experiences during pregnancy. Many women are unsure what if anything can be done for these symptoms.

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How can uneven skin be treated safely?

It is important not to strip or dry skin but to gently exfoliate and remove impurities, excess oil and dead skin cells. Skin must be hydrated and toned to bring back balance. Harsh ingredients should be avoided as many are not recommended for pregnancy.

Which ingredients should be avoided for the treatment of blemishes during pregnancy?
Many over-the-counter treatments use ingredients that are not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing. Some commonly used medications that are not recommended for use during pregnancy are:

• Tetracycline (an oral antibiotic that has been linked to poor bone growth and discolored teeth in babies)
• Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide (common ingredients in over-the-counter acne treatments)
• Tretinon and Retinol (commonly found in cosmetics in extremely small percentages but can still be dangerous)
• Isotrentinoin (sold under the brand name Accutane)
• Some oral antibiotics (these are not recommended during pregnancy)

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How does the Basq Rebalancing Cleanser work to treat skin?

Gentle micro bead exfoliators lift away surface dirt, impurities and dead skin cells. Oak Root Extract, a mild astringent that causes no irritation, works to gently clarify the skin. A rich emollient blend that includes Ylang Ylang helps to balance, soothe and replenish skin. After each wash, a real difference in skin texture is noticeable and skin brightens with a natural balance and glow.

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How does exfoliating help balance skin?

Once the dead and damaged skin cells are removed (exfoliated) the outer layer of skin feels softer, smoother, and reflects light easier for a more youthful glow. Exfoliation removes plugged pores and allows for the release of natural oils that keep skin healthy. In addition, regular exfoliation decreases pore size and minimizes many types of superficial scars. All of the above contribute to making the skin look tighter, healthier, and more youthful.

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What is the "pregnancy glow"?

This facial shine actually has a biological basis. The increased volume of blood causes the cheeks to take on a blush, because of the many blood vessels just below the skin's surface. On top of this redness, the increased secretions of the oil glands give the skin a waxy sheen. The flushed face on some pregnant women is similar to the one non-pregnant people experience when they are excited, cry, or do anything that increases their heart rate (which pregnancy does constantly.)

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Why does skin get drab looking after birth?

Shifts in your hormones can have an effect on the hydration of skin as well as the overall glow. Often when skin looks dull, there is the need to better turn over cells to help rejuvenate skin and reveal more youthful skin. Natural skin exfoliation sometimes needs assistance. For example, when the skin type is oily, the skin has difficulty exfoliating or sloughing off the dead skin cells, due to the sticky nature of oil. When the skin type is dry, dead skin accumulates quickly creating a dull appearance to the skin, in addition to, inhibiting effective natural skin exfoliation and needed moisture absorption. Gentle daily exfoliation will help skin turnover to improve condition. Hydration is also critical to restoring luster and should be done daily.

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Concerns over Fatigue and Swelling


What causes swollen feet and legs during pregnancy?

During pregnancy the body produces approximately 50% more blood and body fluids to meet the needs of the developing fetus. This increase in fluid volume accounts for 25% of all weight gained during the course of pregnancy. The increased body volume translates into swelling, called edema, usually occurring in the feet, legs and ankles but also in the hands and face. Swelling starts to be noticeable in the fifth month and can increase during the third trimester.

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How can swelling in legs and ankles be reduced?

Doctors recommend elevating feet for a good 20 minutes to reduce swelling. Not only will raising the feet reduce fluid build up in those areas, it is a wonderful practice to give the body and mind a rest. Other ways swelling can be reduced or minimized are:
• Avoid standing for long periods
• Minimize outdoor time when it is hot
• Have your legs massaged
• Drink water which helps flush the body and reduce water retention
• Minimize sodium (salt) intake, avoid adding additional salt to meals

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How does Soothing Foot Relief help?

This lotion is specifically formulated to give a gentle cooling sensation that lasts long enough to help relieve aching feet and legs. The light gel consistency absorbs quickly, unlike lotions that coat the skin.The antioxidant rich ingredients help soothe and protect skin.  The wonderful, gentle scent was specifically created to help relax the mind as the gentle tingle of the lotion works to relieve tired legs for a more complete experience.

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Which Foot Relief ingredients help to soothe the body?

Green tea, eucalyptus, cucumber, aloe vera - This unique antioxidant rich blend helps relieve swelling and is appropriate for use during pregnancy. Eucalypus was chosen instead of Peppermint as a more appropriate ingredient for pregnancy.  Eucalyptus gives the same uplifting sensation but has added skin benefits as it is well known for relieving aches and swelling.

Lavender — Infused with a hint of lavender to help soothe the senses. When blended together with the other essential oils, the result is a wonderfully refreshing scent that promotes relaxation.

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Concerns over Trouble Sleeping & Relaxing


What does Basq's Sweet Dreams Aromatherapy do?

This unique Lavender blend was created to help women relax and sleep. Lavender is a proven sedative that helps reduce tension, ease stress and relax the body and mind. This synergistic blend includes a pear note and is blended into Sweet Almond Oil to soften the lavender.

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How can the Basq Sweet Dreams Aromatherapy be used?

Lavender is wonderful for promoting rest for both Mom & Baby.

For Mom:

We recommend the aromatherapy blend by dripped into the bath, dabbed on pulse points or used with a cool or warm washcloth.

When applied to pressure points the aromatherapy can provide a lasting, calming scent for the busy mom to be. In addition, it can help calm upset stomach that can sometimes accompany pregnancy or the reaction to certain scents.

The aromatherapy is also wonderful when dripped on a cool cloth and applied to the face or neck. Rapid fluctuations in the size of small blood vessels during pregnancy can cause facial flushing and hot flashes. This treatment can provide a wonderfully cooling, soothing way to calm the skin. When applied to a warm cloth, the aromatherapy can help soothe a stressed neck while the scent relaxes the mind and eases tension.

For Baby:

Lavender has been medically proven to help babies relax and sleep.  After baby arrives, mom should continue applying the blend to her body, especially her "baby nuzzle spots" of inner neck, shoulder and arms, to calm little ones and promote sleep.  While too strong for use directly on an infant, the scent of the oil is wonderful for soothing littles ones before naps and at bedtime.  Mom can dab a little on herself and make cuddle time that much more soothing.

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