Bob Root - Keys Founder, Author at

Trust Me – All An Illusion

The Authentic™ Truth: How Brands Pay Through the Nose So You Can Pay Through Yours Certain things just happen every spring. Rains come, flowers grow, and I am inundated with customer questions about why we are not in XXX magazines’ “Best Of” and why we are not on the preferred list of this group or that cause. The simple answer is that I am not willing to pay tens of thousands of dollars to magazines, NGOs, or Influencers for a quick ego fix. In today’s marketplace, nothing says “trustworthy product” quite like a perfectly filtered Instagram post from someone who was paid $85 million to hold it. Welcome to the wonderfully authentic world of modern marketing, where sincerity comes with a price tag and your favorite influencer’s enthusiasm for that revolutionary face cream lasts exactly as long as their contract stipulates. The Genuinely Artificial Influence Economy Did you know that in 2024, influencer marketing investment is expected to reach a modest $24 billion?[2] That’s right-mere pocket change for the privilege of having someone with perfect teeth tell you which protein powder changed their life (this week). Cristiano Ronaldo, that struggling athlete you may have heard of, somehow manages to scrape […]

Our Inspiration is You

The Hidden Force Behind Great Products: How Testimonials Inspire Engineering Teams Our customers are the center of our universe. Our first four products were developed for me, and the 40+ products we now have are created because our customers have asked for them. Each is uniquely appreciated by us and our customers. When I need an uplift, I read the testimonials and comments below. They not only lift me, but they inspire our entire team, especially the engineers and developers of our next generation of products. So, if you are thinking of sharing your thoughts and impressions, rest assured that they will be read and inspired to help us create new products that will help many. Wendy Steele Keys CEO and Founder. Testimonials for Keys® Post Chemo “I just wanted to tell you how much we appreciate your product. We found it in Chucks in Vancouver, WA. Our son, after chemotherapy treatment began to break out in rashes while bathing. After many attempts at even organic soaps, we had him tested. He is allergic to 4 different chemicals. . . . Keys is the only product that has worked.” *June 27, 2023* Dermatitis Issues “I wanted to reach out because […]

Parabens: BHAD- Big Hairy Audacious Deal

Skin Disorders Associated with Paraben Exposure: A Comprehensive Review Parabens, a class of synthetic preservatives widely used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products since the 1950s, have been the subject of extensive research due to their potential cutaneous and systemic health effects. While their primary function is to prevent microbial growth and extend product shelf life, concerns about their role in skin disorders have persisted. This review synthesizes current evidence on parabens’ dermatological impacts, focusing on allergic contact dermatitis, skin irritation, exacerbation of pre-existing conditions, and secondary complications. Key findings indicate that while paraben-induced allergic reactions are rare (0.9–2% incidence), they disproportionately affect individuals with compromised skin barriers. Furthermore, emerging data suggest parabens may contribute to premature skin aging through keratinocyte alterations. Allergic Contact Dermatitis (ACD) Pathogenesis and Clinical Presentation Allergic contact dermatitis to parabens manifests as a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction, characterized by erythema, edema, papules, vesicles, and pruritus at the site of exposure[2][9][11]. The mechanism involves haptenization, where paraben molecules bind to skin proteins, forming immunogenic complexes that activate T-cell-mediated responses[11]. Notably, the **”Paraben Paradox”** describes the phenomenon where reactions predominantly occur on damaged or eczematous skin rather than intact epidermis[4][11]. This is attributed to enhanced percutaneous absorption […]

SkinSaver Airless are a Must for Natural Skincare

“Keep Your Natural Skincare Pure: Airless Containers Lock Out Contaminants and Lock In Freshness” This could save your skin! One question I constantly get is why Keys® uses these funny-looking containers. The answer is that they are our secret to preservative-free products. It always begins with history. Around twenty years ago, I was sitting in one of the first EWG meetings prior to the Natural Products Expo East tradeshow. As luck would have it, I was sitting next to Dr. Jane Houlihan, the chief scientist at the Environmental Working Group. The subject was, “How would manufacturers remove parabens from natural products in the next ten years?” I remember asking Jane, “What is a paraben?” She looked at me with a funny smile and said they are chemicals that kill bacteria. I asked how it kills only bad bacteria, and she answered that parabens kill all, good and bad. Like it or not, human existence is 100% based on friendly bacteria. Punta! To the dismay of the big natural brand managers, We started the Expo East tradeshow the next day, telling the world that Keys® has no parabens, and the manufacturers all lined up at our booth wondering how we could […]

The Top 10 Skincare Myths: Busted

Skincare is serious business—until it isn’t. We all need some fun, right? Here is a serious, not-so-serious look at some myths that seem to prevail over every generation. While we all want glowing, flawless skin, the internet is a breeding ground for myths that make us question everything, from cucumbers on our eyes to slathering toothpaste on zits. Let’s dive into the top 10 skincare myths and laugh our way to clearer skin. 1. Myth: Hot Water is Great for Your Skin *Reality Check:* Hot showers feel like a warm hug, but your skin? It’s crying for help. Hot water strips natural oils and leaves your face drier than a desert. So, unless you’re aiming for “reptile chic,” stick to lukewarm water. 2. Myth: You Can Shrink Your Pores *Reality Check:* Pores aren’t doors—they don’t open or close. Splashing cold water on your face won’t magically shrink them, leaving you shivering. The best you can do is keep them clean to make them *look* smaller. Sorry, pore perfectionists. 3. Myth: Chocolate Causes Acne *Reality Check:* Chocolate doesn’t cause acne, but stress might—and let’s be honest, life without chocolate is stressful. Moderation is key, so enjoy your sweet treat without blaming […]

New Customer Sign Up Discount

Tell Your Friends and Family Keys® Pure Skincare has always been about blending nature’s wisdom with modern science, but now there’s an extra reason to celebrate: First-time customers can unlock a 10% discount on their inaugural order! For over two decades, Keys has championed clean, chemical-free formulas that prioritize skin health, and this new offer makes diving into their cult-favorite products even sweeter. Why Your Skin Will Thank You Keys® isn’t just skincare—it’s a commitment to transparency and efficacy. Founded by melanoma survivor Wendy Steele, the brand avoids synthetic fillers and harsh chemicals, opting instead for nutrient-dense ingredients like colloidal oatmeal and sunflower seed oil. Their concentrated formulas mean a little goes a long way, saving you money (and shelf space) over time. Fun perks of joining the Keys® family: – 10% off your first order** – A warm welcome to cleaner beauty. – Free USPS shipping** on domestic orders over $75. – Two free samples** with every purchase (hello, guilt-free testing!). More Than a Discount: A Community Keys® rewards loyalty beyond your first purchase. Refer a friend, and both of you earn $10 off future orders through their referral program[5]. For aspiring entrepreneurs, their CO-OPPORTUNITY program offers a 30% […]

Why Keys Quality

Why Keys Quality Products Are the Most Cost-Effective Solution: The Keys® Pure Skincare Difference In today’s world, where hype and misinformation often overshadow substance, investing in quality skincare is not just a choice—it’s a necessity. Keys® Pure Skincare stands out as a beacon of trust and effectiveness, offering natural, chemical-free solutions that prioritize your health and well-being. Here’s why choosing quality products and partnering with Keys is the smartest decision you can make for your skin and peace of mind. The True Cost of Quality: Why It Pays Off While high-quality skincare products may come with a higher upfront cost, their long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. Unlike conventional products filled with synthetic fillers and harsh chemicals, Keys® Pure Skincare uses nutrient-rich, whole-natural ingredients that harmonize with your skin. This ensures: – Efficacy: Keys products are designed to solve specific skin problems, from irritation to post-cancer recovery, delivering visible results without the need for additional treatments or products. – Longevity: Concentrated formulations mean you use less product per application, saving money over time – Safety: Free from harmful chemicals, Keys products reduce the risk of allergic reactions, clogged pores, and other issues caused by inferior formulations Choosing quality skincare […]

Revolutionizing Men’s Grooming

Revolutionizing Men’s Grooming: The Multifaceted Benefits of Island Rx Liquid Soap for Skin, Scalp, and Hair Restoration For modern men seeking a streamlined yet effective approach to personal care, Island Rx Liquid Soap emerges as a groundbreaking solution that bridges dermatological science with centuries-old herbal wisdom. Developed through rigorous experimentation by Keys Pure Skincare founder Wendy Steele during her recovery from melanoma treatment[1][14], this Castile-based formulation represents one of the most significant advancements in multifunctional grooming products. With clinical observations of improved hair density in 72% of users within six months[6] and documented cases of eczema reversal in 89% of clinical trial participants[1], the product’s unique alchemy of saponified oils and phytocompounds offers transformative benefits for both cutaneous health and follicular regeneration. Historical Formulation Meets Modern Dermatological Needs The foundation of Island Rx’s efficacy lies in its adaptation of an 18th-century Castile soap recipe, enhanced through phytotherapeutic innovations. Unlike conventional sodium lauryl sulfate-based cleansers that strip the acid mantle, the saponification process here uses cold-pressed olive oil (Olea europaea) combined with coconut (Cocos nucifera) and jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) oils to create a pH-balanced surfactant system[14]. This preserves the stratum corneum’s structural proteins while maintaining an optimal 5.5-6.0 pH range critical […]

Windsurfer Liquid Soap: Blending Masculine Aromatherapy and Performance

Windsurfer Liquid Soap: The Ultimate Men’s Grooming Essential Blending Masculine Aromatherapy and Performance-Driven Design Windsurfer Liquid Soap has emerged as a revolutionary product in men’s grooming, combining the invigorating properties of masculine essential oils with the practical demands of an active lifestyle. Designed initially for competitive sailors, this lime-citrus Castile soap has evolved into a cult favorite among runners, surfers, gym enthusiasts, and eco-conscious consumers. Its unique formulation leverages aromatherapy principles tailored to male preferences while addressing the functional needs of quick-rinse efficiency, chlorine removal, and environmental sustainability. This report explores how Windsurfer’s blend of citrus essential oils, athletic-performance design, and biodegradable credentials positions it as the optimal head-to-toe solution for modern men. The Science of Masculine Aromatherapy in Windsurfer Soap Citrus Essential Oils and Male Preference Dynamics At the core of Windsurfer’s appeal is its strategic use of **lime and citrus essential oils**, which research identifies as having broad popularity among men[2][8]. Unlike floral or sweet fragrances often associated with feminine products, citrus oils like lime deliver a crisp, energizing aroma that aligns with cultural perceptions of masculinity. Studies in aromatherapy indicate that 72% of men gravitate toward citrus, woody, or spicy scents for their perceived freshness and association […]

Achieving Radiant Glass Skin & Slugging

Achieving Radiant Glass Skin & Nourished Complexions: A Modern Guide to Clean Beauty with Keys® Nextra NeoRetinol and AvoJel For women aged 20–45, skincare is more than a routine—it’s a ritual. Concepts like *glass skin*, *slugging*, and *clean beauty* dominate beauty conversations, but understanding how to integrate these trends with science-backed, natural products is key. Let’s decode these terms and explore how Keys® Nextra NeoRetinol and AvoJel can elevate your skincare journey. What Is Glass Skin? Glass skin refers to a luminous, poreless complexion that mimics the smooth, translucent appearance of glass. This Korean beauty trend emphasizes hydration, even texture, and a radiant glow[2][3]. Achieving it requires a multi-step regimen focused on deep moisture and gentle exfoliation. Keys® Nextra NeoRetinol: Your Glass Skin Ally Formulated with Element 6™, a proprietary botanical retinol alternative, Nextra NeoRetinol supports collagen renewal and skin regeneration without irritation[1][6]. Its blend of organic oils—including avocado, green coffee, and cucumber seed—delivers intense hydration while antioxidants combat environmental stressors[6]. Beta testers report dramatic improvements in fine lines, dark spots, and overall radiance, making it ideal for daily use to achieve that coveted lit-from-within glow[6]. Steps to Glass Skin with Nextra NeoRetinol: 1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle, pH-balanced […]

Da Vinci Coded Natural Skincare

How Innovation in Natural Skincare Mirrors Leonardo da Vinci’s Observations of Nature Despite the business I am in, I am not a chemist. If you have read my story, you know that I used my engineering high tech background to develop skincare products after Wendy Steele’s brush with deadly melanoma. If she had not reacted to all the chemical-laden prescription creams, I would probably still be in high-tech. That and a deep connection with Pfizer created Keys®. I would not trust an engineer who says Da Vinci never influenced them. I recently watched a marvelous documentary on PBS about Da Vinci and the connection of his designs to his observations of nature. Worth a watch. Leonardo da Vinci, one of history’s greatest polymaths, revolutionized the way we understand the world by meticulously observing and learning from nature. His ability to blend art, science, and engineering into groundbreaking innovations serves as a timeless example of how human ingenuity can be inspired by the natural world. In the realm of natural skincare, this philosophy holds true as brands like Keys Skincare take cues from nature’s structure and processes to create innovative, effective, and sustainable products. The Leonardo da Vinci Approach: Learning from […]

Galleyon Castile Spearmint Soap Saved Me

A First-Hand Story My years of affiliation with the National Institutes of Health and being a natural-born geek have had some great benefits. One was interesting to say the least. I am getting older, and despite everything I do, some parts sare wearing out. My eyes have been overworked since I was able to read. I am the poster child for Apple and too much screen time. With that, the years have generally been kind to my eyes. Still, I have become a model presbyopia king, wearing glasses for distance and closeup. Dual glasses hanging by strings from my neck just screamed, ‘Old guy.’ Through my scientific connections, I discovered a new technology and a cure for my eye problems. It is a relatively new surgical technique in which aspheric lenses replace my old ones, and UV light is used to adjust them to bring me to my now 20/10 vision. Yes, my eyeball lenses. Remarkable. So, how does this connect to Keys® Galleyon soap? Over the years, we have found many uses for this wonder soap by listening to our customers’ experiences. During my eye surgery recovery, my eyelids were itchy and burning. The Doctors prescribed drops, which […]

Keys®, A Legacy of Natural Excellence

Living in a Strange World Why do we need a breakdown to have a breakthrough as humans? I just received another heartfelt thank you note from a customer who said how Keys MetaCare resolved a five-year skin problem within a few months. I am the same way, so the pot cannot call out the kettle, but it does confuse me why we don’t take the time to discover the truth over the hype. Just because Taylor Swift uses something is not a reason to overlook sincerity and dedication to excellence. We started Keys® in desperation after my then-girlfriend’s bout with Melanoma skin cancer. Truth, engineers don’t consternate; they innovate, which is exactly what I did when creating Keys® Island Rx soap for her. Since then, all 50 of our products have been developed from problems our friends and customers have detailed to me. Yeah, it’s just another hero’s journey that was fraught with all sorts of lurking dragons. But here we are 21 years later, saying the same stuff to new faces. In the realm of skincare, where the market is saturated with promises of eternal youth and flawless complexions, Keys® Skincare stands out as a beacon of authenticity and […]

First Principles Thinking and Natural Skincare – The Science

First Principles Revolution: How Keys Pure Skincare is Redefining Natural Beauty Through Scientific Innovation There is a method to my madness. I have lived First Principle Thinking in my career as a scientist, engineer and high tech CEO. It is a proven science based on the teachings of Aristotle. We at Keys do not slop things together in hopes of finding out some brilliant blind staggering luck evolution when it comes to our products. There is science behind what we do. What Is First Principles Science First principles thinking is a powerful problem-solving method that breaks down complex problems into their most fundamental, indisputable truths and builds solutions from there. Unlike conventional reasoning by analogy, which relies on existing assumptions and solutions, first principles thinking requires questioning everything until you reach basic truths that cannot be reduced further. Core Elements – Foundation Building The process starts with identifying absolute truths about a situation, similar to how scientists approach problems by questioning everything and seeking proven facts. This method requires systematically doubting all assumptions until only indubitable truths remain, a technique known as Cartesian Doubt. Breaking Down Complexity First principles thinking involves: – Identifying and defining current assumptions – Breaking problems […]

Understanding Who We Are as a Company

Are You Curious Who We Are? Understanding a brand’s values is crucial for consumers as it helps them make informed purchasing decisions that align with their personal beliefs and preferences. Here’s why it’s important for consumers to know what a brand stands for: Aligning with Personal Values. Consumers increasingly seek products and brands that reflect their own values and beliefs. According to an IBM study, purpose-driven consumers who choose products and brands based on alignment with their personal values now represent the largest segment (44%) of consumers. When consumers understand a brand’s values, they can choose to support companies whose practices and ethics resonate with their own, whether that’s sustainability, social responsibility, or innovation. Building Trust. Brand trust is foundational for creating loyal customers. Transparency and authenticity are two keys to building trust through brand communication. When consumers are aware of a brand’s values and see those values consistently reflected in the company’s actions, they are more likely to trust and feel connected to the brand on a deeper level. This trust can lead to repeat business and advocacy. Differentiation in a Crowded Market In a highly competitive marketplace, brand values help differentiate a company from its competitors. A strong […]

2025 Significant and Historical

Weird Science – Being a scientist and engineer by profession and nature, I tend to drive my friends and Wendy a bit crazy with my approach to things. Analytics and numbers reign supreme with me. What infuriates them more is my philosophy of having no opinion or POV. Just give me the facts. How is it that I am also a Chill Music composer in my spare time? Well, here we are in 2025, so my brain immediately thought, “What is the significance of the number 25?” The number 25 has historically held significant religious, mathematical, and cultural importance. In Biblical tradition, it symbolizes “grace upon grace” and represents the Law, according to Saint Augustine. The number played a crucial role in religious service, as Levites had to be 25 years old before beginning their temple duties. Religious Significance • The Temple of Solomon was 25 cubits high • The Catholic Church declares a Holy Year every 25 years, with the Pope traditionally opening the “gold gate” at St. Peter’s Basilica • Muhammad was 25 years old when he married Khadidja Mathematical Properties • The number 25 has unique mathematical characteristics as it is: A square number (5²) • […]

Happy New Year and Thanks

Dear Keys® Customers, As we reflect on an extraordinary 2024, our hearts are filled with immense gratitude for your unwavering support and trust in our natural skincare products. Thanks to you, this year has been our most successful yet, and we couldn’t be more thankful for the community we’ve built together. Your commitment to clean, natural skincare has inspired our team to reach new heights of excellence. Every formula we’ve crafted, every ingredient we’ve sourced, and every package we’ve shipped has been infused with our dedication to your well-being. Our team has taken pride in going above and beyond – from providing personalized skincare consultations to ensuring each product meets our rigorous quality standards. We’ve been deeply moved by your stories of transformation and your excellent feedback about how our products have made a difference in your daily routines. Your satisfaction has been our greatest reward, and your insights have helped shape our vision for the future. Looking ahead to 2025, we’re more excited than ever about the innovations we have in store. Our research team is exploring groundbreaking natural ingredients, sustainable packaging solutions, and advanced formulations that will take your skincare journey to the next level. We remain committed […]

Introducing Keys CO-Opportunity Program

Turn Your Passion for Clean Beauty into Profit: Introducing Keys CO-OP Program Transform your love for natural skincare into an entrepreneurial venture with Keys CO-OP, an innovative program that empowers beauty enthusiasts to build their own micro-business. How It Works The Keys CO-OP program offers a straightforward path to becoming a clean beauty entrepreneur. Members receive an attractive 30% discount on all purchases of $250.00 or more, enabling them to share premium skincare products with their personal network. Program Benefits Financial Advantages – 30% Off product discounts – Opportunity to earn while sharing products you love – Direct sales to your community Business Structure – Simple, direct-to-consumer model – No complex marketing schemes – Personal relationship-based sales Membership Requirements (For US and Canada Only at this time) Getting Started – Register on KeysPure.com – Minimum orders of $250 – Process all transactions via credit card – Receive shipments at your registered address Sales Guidelines – Direct sales to friends and family only – No online marketplace presence permitted – Sample products available for customer trials – All sales are final Shipping is Additional – Domestic Free shipping does not apply. Orders shipped via FedEx Ground This program represents a unique […]

Keys® is Adding Blue Sky Social

Why Keys is Adding Blue Sky Social to Our Communication Plan Keys, a company dedicated to providing pure and natural skincare products, is always looking for innovative ways to connect with its audience. With the evolving landscape of social media, we are excited to announce the addition of Blue Sky Social to our communication strategy. This decision aligns with our mission to foster authentic connections and provide transparent communication with our customers. Here’s why we believe Blue Sky Social is the perfect platform for us: Decentralization and User Control One of the most compelling reasons for incorporating Blue Sky Social into our social media plan is its decentralized nature. Unlike traditional platforms that are controlled by a single entity, Blue Sky operates using the Authenticated Transfer Protocol (AT Protocol), which allows users to have more control over their data and content. This aligns with Keys’ values of transparency and user empowerment, as we believe that our customers should have control over their interactions and personal information. Enhanced Privacy and Security In today’s digital age, privacy concerns are paramount. Blue Sky’s decentralized structure ensures that no single company has full control over user data, reducing the risk of data breaches or […]

Revolutionary Skin Care: Deep Penetration vs. Surface Protection – Which Reigns Supreme?

Revolutionary Skin Care: Deep Penetration vs. Surface Protection In the ever-evolving world of skincare, two titans are battling for supremacy in revolutionary skin care: super-penetrating collagen-level skin lotions and humectant-emollient moisture barrier lotions. At Keys®, we now make both because we believe they are valuable in preserving skin health. Let’s dive into the fascinating differences between these skincare powerhouses and discover which one might be the secret to your skin’s radiance. That is why we now offer both kinds of skincare regimens in a full spectrum of skincare. The Deep Dive: Super-Penetrating Collagen-Level Lotions Imagine a lotion so advanced it could slip past your skin’s outer layers and work its magic deep within. That’s precisely what super-penetrating collagen-level lotions aim to do. Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid: This molecule is like a moisture magnet, attracting and holding up to 1000 times its weight in water Betulinic Acid: Derived from birch bark, this compound works to stimulate collagen production and fight signs of aging. These ingredients work together to dive deep into your skin, hydrating from within and encouraging your skin to produce more of its own collagen. The result? Plumper, firmer skin that looks younger and feels smoother. How They Work: […]

Keys® Nextra NeoRetinol and Nextra Body Differences

What are the differences between Keys® Nextra NeoRetinol and Nextra Body? Purpose: Nextra NeoRetinol is designed for facial anti-aging, while Nextra Body is formulated for overall body skin health and hydration Active Ingredients: Both products contain Keys Element 6™, but Nextra NeoRetinol has a higher concentration specifically tailored for the face. Nextra Body includes additional moisturizing ingredients like Hyuralonic acid and Betulinic acid from Keys® Miras extract. Can I use Nextra NeoRetinol on my body and Nextra Body on my face? While you could use them interchangeably, it’s best to use each product as intended for optimal results: Nextra NeoRetinol has a potent anti-aging formula for delicate facial skin. Using it on the body may be less effective and more expensive than using Nextra Body. Nextra Body is a richer, more emollient formula that may feel too heavy for facial use. What results can I expect from each product? Nextra NeoRetinol: Reduces fine lines and wrinkles, evens skin tone, enhances texture, and promotes a brighter, more youthful complexion. Nextra Body: Deeply hydrates, softens, and improves overall skin health for the body. Helps diminish the appearance of uneven skin tone, rough patches, and crepey skin. How do I incorporate these products into my skincare routine? […]

Nextra Body New Product Coming November

Coming November 2024 Glow Beyond Limits with Nextra Body New Product Unveil radiant skin with the all-new Nextra Body—a revolutionary skincare solution designed to nourish and rejuvenate your skin from head to toe. Nextra Body is infused with a blend of natural, skin-loving ingredients that work harmoniously to: Hydrate Deeply: Lock in moisture for a supple, youthful glow Brighten Naturally: Illuminate your skin tone and reduce dullness Smooth Effortlessly: Minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Protect Holistically: Defend against environmental stressors Transform your skincare routine with this luxurious formula that leaves your skin feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to shine. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or simply want to enhance your everyday radiance, Nextra Body is your go-to for achieving luminous skin. Be the First to Shine with Nextra BodyJoin our exclusive list to receive early access and special launch offers when Nextra Body debuts this November. Don’t miss the opportunity to elevate your skincare game and embrace the beauty of glowing skin. Join Our List Here Step into a world of radiant possibilities with Nextra Body. Your journey to luminous skin begins here.

Embracing Natural Wellness and Using Western Medicine Wisely

Taking Responsibility for Your Health: Embracing Natural Wellness and Using Western Medicine Wisely In today’s fast-paced, convenience-driven world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of relying solely on Western medicine to fix our health problems. We often seek quick fixes in the form of pills and procedures, neglecting the importance of natural wellness and preventive care. However, to truly achieve optimal health, we must take responsibility for our own well-being and make conscious choices that promote balance and vitality. The Disconnect Between Wellness and Repairing Health Problems Western medicine excels at treating acute illnesses and injuries, but it often falls short when it comes to promoting overall wellness and preventing chronic diseases[1]. This disconnect stems from a focus on treating symptoms rather than addressing the root causes of health issues. By relying solely on Western medicine, we risk masking underlying problems and creating a cycle of dependence on medications and interventions. Embracing Natural Choices for Optimal Health To bridge the gap between wellness and repairing health problems, we must embrace natural choices that support our body’s innate healing abilities. This includes: – Nourishing our bodies with whole, nutrient-dense foods: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and […]

How Medications Can Deplete Essential Nutrients

How Medications Can Deplete Essential Nutrients and Disrupt Skin Health Many common medications can deplete the body of essential vitamins and minerals over time, potentially leading to nutrient deficiencies and health issues[1][2][3]. This drug-induced nutrient depletion often goes overlooked but can have far-reaching effects on overall health and well-being. Some of the most frequently prescribed medications linked to nutrient loss include[1][4]: – Oral contraceptives: Can deplete vitamin B6, B12, folate, vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc – Cholesterol-lowering statins: May reduce levels of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – Antibiotics: Can diminish B vitamins, vitamin K, calcium, magnesium, and iron – Antacids and acid-blocking drugs: May lead to deficiencies in B12, calcium, magnesium, and zinc – Diuretics: Can deplete potassium, magnesium, calcium, and zinc The mechanisms by which medications cause nutrient depletion vary. Some drugs interfere with the absorption of vitamins and minerals in the gut, while others increase their excretion via the kidneys[5]. Long-term use of certain medications is more likely to result in significant nutrient loss compared to short-term use[6]. Impact on Skin Health In addition to medications, many chemicals found in everyday products can negatively impact skin health by disrupting the skin microbiome – the collection of beneficial […]

Keys New Referral Program

Keys New Referral Program How to Maximize Your Rewards with the Keys® Referral Program Referral Program Keys Skincare: I Need Your Help For more than two decades, Keys Skincare has been dedicated to creating natural, chemical-free products that solve skin problems and help people look and feel their best. Our commitment to using the highest quality, whole ingredients in therapeutic proportions has resulted in countless success stories from our beloved customers. Tearful Testimonials Over the years, we have received heartfelt testimonials from individuals whose lives have been transformed by Keys Skincare products. Our customers have shared their emotional journeys with us, from those struggling with persistent skin issues to others simply seeking to maintain a youthful appearance. One customer wrote, “I had given up hope on having clear skin until I found Keys. Your products have given me back my confidence and changed my life.” Another shared, “I never thought I could look this good at my age. Keys have been my secret weapon against the signs of aging.” These stories are a testament to the effectiveness of our carefully crafted formulas and the power of natural, chemical-free skincare. We Need Your Help As a small, family-owned business, we rely […]

Future of Natural Skincare

The Future of Natural Skincare: Innovations to Watch For In 2024 Nowadays, much of the natural products industry seems stalled and very introspective. Keys® has always been an innovator in our engineering culture. Much of the marketing and celebrity hype has quieted down, but the industry, in general, has stopped innovating. A few of us are carrying the torch of innovation and discovery. There are lots of exciting things going on behind the curtains. So what will the future bring for skincare. When Keys® started, many phrases and words we used were unheard of in the skincare industry. Our affiliations with the National Institutes of Health and Universities enable us to explore major trends that are now somewhat common phrases. Microbiome, Probiome, and Science Based Skincare are fairly common, and much of the industry has adopted them without necessarily understanding what they mean. Innovation is a constant model, or companies and products die. As much as people think the industry has advanced, it still has a long way to go in understanding ingredients that are still undiscovered, but the combinations of ingredient interactions are a virtually unexplored science. The natural skincare industry is constantly evolving, with new innovations and technologies […]

Good Good Hydration 🎶

The Importance of Good Hydration for Anti-Aging Skin Good hydration is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful skin. It plays a crucial role in various aspects of skin health, including texture, appearance, and overall tone. This article will explore the importance of hydration for anti-aging skin and discuss how to maintain optimal hydration levels for a radiant complexion. Benefits of Hydration for Skin Health Prevents wrinkles and aging skin: Well-hydrated skin is less prone to the premature appearance of wrinkles and acne. Adequate hydration helps maintain the outermost layer of the skin, which flushes away toxins and carries nutrients to skin cells. Improves skin texture and appearance: Hydration affects the texture and appearance of your skin, making it softer and smoother. Dehydrated skin can appear dull, feel tight, and be more prone to inflammation, congestion, and breakouts, Enhances skin elasticity: Proper hydration levels help the skin become plump and improve its elasticity, making it less likely to crack and develop irritations and blemishes. Promotes a radiant glow: Many people report increasing their water intake results in a more radiant complexion. How to Maintain Optimal Hydration Levels Drink adequate water: Aim for between 5 and 8 glasses of water a day to […]

Luminos: A Revolution in Makeup, by Design

How Does Luminos Work…A new generation of makeup by design. By Bob Root, Keys Technologist Authors note: Everywhere I go, women and men come up to me and say, “Show me that Luminos thing you do?” They are talking about a little illusion I do with Luminos that is more than an illusion. I turn my hands, palms down, show them the back of my hands, and then rub Luminos on the back of just one hand. Two seconds, and I show them the back of both hands again, side-by-side. The Luminos hand is clear, and smooth and any redness is gone. I move from one lighting area to another to show them that the illusion remains in any light. Then I explain how a TV show inspired its creation. The first question is, “How did you do that.” I answer…Magic! Painting Faces Luminos Background – How it began! Keys was thrust into the Hollywood scene with our Eye Butter. Invited to present Eye Butter to 300 Hollywood makeup artists I was exposed to a lot of industry jargon. What struck me the most was that the makeup artists called themselves “face painters.” As Eye Butter grew in popularity, I […]

New Luminos PLUS with Zinc Oxide for Problem Skin

We are happy and super excited to announce a new product called Luminos PLUS with Zinc Oxide. It is a wide-range anti-aging product because it protects and restores across many fronts. Luminos PLUS Zinc Oxide is another tool in staving off aging caused by our environment. We are still 100% advocates of covering up with UPF clothing, a big UPF hat, UV protective sunglasses, and sunscreen on exposed areas. Luminos PLUS is a way to fight back time. luminos PLUS is genuinely a bit of a time machine that even makes this guy look better and younger.

The Mythical Origins and Evolution of Acidic Skin Treatments

The Origins and Evolution of Acidic Skin Treatments: From Historical Curiosities to Modern Skincare The Origins of My Interest Recently I got into a squabble with the author of a paper published on NIH PubMed. The author quoted the basis of their paper on two dudes that I would have to categorize as snake oil salesmen from the 1890s as a basis for why people need to use acid treatments on their face to balance the skin. Basically, the two dudes were pitching apple cider as a toner for women to use for a more youthful appearance. Now over a hundred years later, things have still not changed much in the natural skincare industry. My rub is that the PubMed author based their paper on a non-fact-based sales pitch that has lived in perpetuity for this long. The concept was to mildly shock the skin in an opposite direction pH-wise. It may have been true over 100 years ago when most people had alkaline skin, but today the real trend is that people are too acidic. Introduction The quest for flawless and radiant skin has led to many beauty rituals and treatments throughout history. Among these practices, the use of […]

Keys® Element 6 in Nextra: The Natural Alternative for Youthful Skin

Element 6 is a patent-pending tocopherol triterpene compound comprised of six different Amazonian sustainable tree fruits and seeds processed using cyrogenisis extraction that has the skin anti-aging properties of Retinol, but without the traditional side effects. There are no reported reactions or allergens. Nextra’s Element 6 has been in development for over five years and is a blend of six ingredients from five tree species found in the Amazon. All are abundant, sustainable, and very effective by themselves. Combined, they create a single compound that mirrors the benefits of Retin-A with none of the side effects. Some Retinoic side effects include dryness, scaling, redness, photosensitivity, raw peeling skin, non-daily use, and UVA hypersensitivity. Element 6™ basic ingredients are a trade secret and will not be divulged, nor will the proprietary process be discussed. Keys believes it is a significant discovery and creation as a “pure” upgrade to Retin-A and Retinol. Element 6™ far exceeds the performance of non-retinoic oils and ingredients recently promoted by skincare product makers. Introduction In the quest for youthful, radiant skin, many individuals turn to various skincare products and treatments. While traditional anti-aging ingredients like retinol have long been popular, there is a rising star in […]

Dramatic Skin – Keys® Reflex Probiome® – Collagen Restoring

Reflex ProBiome – The Back Story Reflex is one of the oldest new products we have. I know that does not make sense. It does to me because I developed Reflex almost five years ago and have been testing it since under a code name. My problem was that the delay had nothing to do with developing the product, packaging or refinement. My problem? At least three of the ingredients I needed were not available in quantities greater than a few gallons. If you keep in mind that I need thousands of liters or gallons to bring a product to market, a single liter is only good to prototype and lead to frustration. As if it was a sign from the heavens at this place in space and time, providers showed up with production quantities of high-grade organic virgin avocado oil, virgin Tamanu oil, and our own ability to volume extract our Muras. Later in the article below, all the ingredients are described, and it was the fact that I could buy ample quantities of raw materials without compromising quality that facilitate the launch of our new product by its real name. Reflex ProBiome is unquestionably a big deal because […]

Ayurvedic Skin Care at Keys® – Neem & Karanja adaptogens

Neem & Karanja Adaptogenic Skin Care Keys MetaCare MetaClean and RediCare use Neem and Karanja oil as the adaptogen basis of the ayurvedic skin care properties. We have eight (8) products that use Neem and Karanja for their adaptogenic ayurvedic skin care properties. Ten years of service to our has made both MetaCare and RediCare revered for their functionality and efficacy. MetaClean is a remarkable Castile Soap. Natural Therapies! Our dog products using Neem and Karanja are among our most popular. Urban Shield Gel is a go-to therapy product. Our ForceX insect repellant uses Neem and Karanja to deter flying and crawling insects. The big deal is that Neem and Karanja oil are adaptogenic skin therapies with a proven track record with our customers. So what are adaptogens? Adaptogens are herbs that have been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for hundreds of years. They are known for their ability to reduce fatigue and the toxic effects of stress, and they adapt to what the body needs, regulating the body’s systems. Here are some ways our adaptogenic products can help in skincare: Improve skin hydration: Studies have shown that adaptogens can improve skin hydration, leaving it looking and feeling smoother […]

Eczema – It’s Probably the Chemicals in Your Life!

Eczema is a catchall term for a lot of doctors. The cause is unknown, but some of us suspect chemicals in everyday products. Common culprits for chemically induced eczema are sulfates in laundry detergents, PEG (propylene glycol) in just about everything, and parabens (a biocide in most products). So, we have heard from our customers that finding the cause of skin irritation is much more important than giving it a name. Doc’s want to name it so they can prescribe steroids and topical antibiotics. This seems to make things worse, with usually a fast relief and then a return of the irritation with a vengeance. Our customers tell us that our MetaCare and RediCare do an excellent job of getting rid of the symptoms and keeping them away. The secret is the Neem and Karanja oil we use, along with high-quality ingredients. MetaCare is a nice soothing lotion, and RediCare is the same basic formula in a sprayable lotion that is good for larger areas. The trick seems to find out what is bothering the skin. Sleuthing the cause is the best solution. Look to those laundry detergents that mostly use sulfates and optical brighteners (phosphorus). Most imported clothing has […]

RediCare – A Featured Star of the Keys Line with Many Uses

RediCare began just after Hurricane Katrina decimated New Orleans, Louisianna. We had an excellent therapeutic lotion named MetaCare that contains Ayurvedic Neem and Karanja oil. What happened next was the creation of a new product called RediCare.

Keys® Regimen for Dog Lick Granulomas and Hot Spots

The Back Story Our mascot, a Bichon Frise named Jasper, is sometimes an ironclad mess of compulsive behavior in the form of a lick granuloma. Driven by allergies, neurosis, or the spring weather, he starts incessant liking that creates one or more lick granulomas. Sometimes it is on a leg and sometimes in a challenging area like on a hip. Then there are those ever-present hot spots that need to be looked after before becoming a granuloma. All dogs can be tricky hiding their licking, and Bichon, like Jasper, is extra crafty. First, What is a Lick Granuloma A lick granuloma, or acral lick dermatitis, is a dog skin condition. It is a self-inflicted wound caused by excessive licking or chewing of a specific skin area, usually on the front legs or paws. They often start as hot spots and bloom. The area affected by the lick granuloma is often hairless and can become infected if left untreated. The underlying cause of the excessive licking is usually related to stress, anxiety, boredom, or allergies. These bumps are red and form scabs that irritate him even more, causing more licking. The solution is two use four of our products. Three are […]

Buddy and Annie’s Story – A Dedication To Our Best Friends

Why We Love Our Dogs We must take care of them as much as they take care of us. We celebrate this time of year as a symbol of spring and the joy our dog and this season bring. We focus on our dogs. A Short Story About Annie & Buddy. Dedicated To All The Keys® Dogs. Once upon a time, in a quiet suburban neighborhood, lived a young girl named Annie and her loyal companion, a golden retriever named Buddy. From the moment Annie laid eyes on Buddy, their connection was instant. They were inseparable, forging a bond that would last a lifetime. Buddy was more than just a pet to Annie; he was a true friend, a confidant, and a source of unconditional love. Whenever Annie came home from school feeling down, Buddy was there, wagging his tail and showering her with affection as if to say, “Everything will be alright.” Buddy had a way of making even the ordinary moments extraordinary. They would spend countless hours exploring the nearby woods, chasing squirrels, and splashing in the river. Buddy’s playful antics would make Annie burst into fits of laughter, banishing any worries or stress that might have burdened […]

Keys® Tortuga – Makeup Remover

An Aquarian Man’s Perspective You can imagine that being in my business that I receive a lot of beauty and skincare publications, both online and some Luddite ones in paper. I am always a sucker for the ones that the headline starts with, “Learn About The Latest Trends In…..” The one in particular that inspired this article was one whose headline was “Latest Hollywood Trends in Makeup Removal.” It went on, “Using Cold Creams to Remove Makeup.” First is a funny story when I was about 6 years old, I walked in on my mother in the bathroom, and I was permanently scarred for life when she turned around, and her face was covered in cold cream. I ran! I must admit laughing out loud reading this latest Hollywood trend article because my mother growing up, only used cold cream for makeup removal and night moisturizing in one easy step. Anyhow, I learned that she would come home from work and remove her war paint, as she called it, and apply cold cream all over her face and eyes. She let it sit for a few minutes and then meticulously removed it with a tissue. She would leave the remnants […]

Mendacious Trends or Just Plain Lies

UnNatural Trend In The Natural Products Industry. “Smiling Faces Sometime Tell Lies.” Mendacious and lying have similar meanings, but the two are not interchangeable. Mendacious is more formal and literary, suggesting a deception harmless enough to be considered somewhat bland. Lying is more blunt, accusatory, and often aggressive. You might yell, “You lying rat!” in an argument, but you would most likely stick to the more diplomatic, “Aren’t you being somewhat mendacious?” in a business meeting. Mendacious can also imply habitual untruthfulness, whereas lying is more likely to be used to identify specific instances of dishonesty. It is hard to be funny about what appears to be the new normal. Article after article is paid lies, and it is the hottest revenue stream for many online and print publications. I see articles daily in all the glamor and natural publications that often start with the headline, “The Top Ten Dermatologist Recommended Wrinkle Creams,” or “I’m A Dermatologist, and I use ___________ For My Daily Skin Regimen.” So naturally, I get the question, “Why is Keys® not mentioned in these articles? The reason is simple: they are clickbait, fake, or paid for. Weekly, I get emails from salespeople offering a placement for products in magazines like People, Vogue, etc., from agencies specializing […]

Keys® Island Rx Foaming Wash – Try It for a fresher clean

Island Rx Foaming Wash – Feel the Micellar difference. The Keys Island Rx Foaming Wash is a natural skincare product that cleans and nourishes the skin. The core Island Rx liquid soap was designed and made nearly twenty years ago for our CEO and founder, Wendy Steele. Her skin was so sensitive post Melanoma, and all the prescription products worsened it. Regular Castile soaps like Dr. Bronner helped, but they were still too harsh and alkaline. Island Rx was invented for her as a safer and milder alternative. Most Castile soaps have a micellar set of properties. Later, we put Island Rx into a foamer to air-dilute the micellar cleanser to make it even milder. Island Rx Foaming Wash has the highest concentration of micelles available today in a whole natural form. Island Rx offers people a way to cleanse the skin without scrubbing the face. The micelles bind to oil, removing makeup and debris while hydrating the skin. Combined with our milder version of Castile, it is a gentle alternative to harsher sulfate chemical cleansers. Here are its features, benefits, and advantages: Features: Made with natural ingredients, including saponified olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera, and more. […]

Keys® Product Formulations – A Formulators Perspective

I receive a lot of very interesting questions every month that are escalated to me by our customer service. A question often enrobed in suggestions is in regard to Vitamins and the benefits of ingredients in our products. I am pleased and amazed at the complexity of the questions from our customers and the suggestions I receive. First, please remember that my team are engineers and not chemists. Every product starts with a clean slate based on the functionality we are trying to achieve. So, each ingredient may look like a single add, but each being the “whole” version brings a complexity that we engineers call features, benefits, and advantages (FBAs). An ingredient like avocado oil may seem like one ingredient, but the nature of the whole oil brings many features. Each with a benefit and advantage. Many chemists will add a chemical version of a Vitamin when the whole ingredient brings a better performance plus more features, benefits, and advantages to the completed product. Indeed, this is a complex subject to grasp, even for formulators. Often, one whole ingredient will have ten features, and even a more complex theorem will interact with the features of another element at a […]

Keys® Essential Prime Ingredients and Actions

This article explains some of our key ingredients and their actions…Why we use them in our products.

Phthalates – Diabetes + Hair Loss

So what are Phthalates? The Everywhere Chemical Phthalates are perhaps the nastiest chemicals found in personal care products. The FDA banned them for food, but not personal care. Perhaps the FDA has forgotten that skin absorption is the same as ingesting chemical In my book, Chemical-Free Skin Health®, I spent much time explaining Phthalates. Here is a quick summary What are phthalates? Phthalates are a family of artificial chemical compounds developed in the last century to be used to manufacture plastics, solvents, and personal care products. They are colorless, odorless, oily liquids that do not evaporate quickly and do not chemically bind to the material they are added to. How am I exposed to phthalates? Ingestion, inhalation, skin absorption, and intravenous injection are potential exposure pathways. The ever-present use of phthalates as an additive to PVC (polyvinyl chloride) products to make them flexible and to personal care products to make fragrances last longer in the past 50 years has resulted in widespread general population exposure. Phthalates are readily absorbed into the human body and quickly converted to their respective metabolites. Unlike some chemicals, they pass out of the body quickly in urine and feces. Phthalates can interact with each other […]

Island Rx For Hair Growth

Island Rx Liquid Soap/Shampoo has been a Key® staple product for nearly twenty-four years. It was the product that Pfizer scientists applauded for its efficacy and clean-green design. It was one of our first four products and was the first developed for Wendy’s fight with Melanoma. Over the years Island Rx has been around, we discovered some interesting properties of Island Rx liquid soap that were pretty amazing. One of many was hair growth in men and women with short thinning hair. Why? Island Rx’s base soap is Castile-like. We mixed oils to ensure that the hydroxide used to saponify was complete. This meant the soap would still be slightly alkaline at a lower pH than most Castile soap. We add avocado oil, clary sage essential oil, and blood orange essential oil. This is important as years later, we have discovered one, if not the prime, reason for hair growth. To be clear, we have heard for years from men and women with fine and thinning hair that Island Rx worked for and then re-renewed their hair growth. On top, we heard that their hair was fuller and denser. The way appears to be very simple. Most conventional shampoos contain […]

Keys® VaporJel & Eye Butter for Chapped Lips

Why Invent Something New When It Already Exists Over the years, we have received hundreds of requests for lip balm for chapped and cracked lips. I have resisted because we already have two great products that do the job better than any waxy lip balm I could design. Keys® Eye Butter and VaporJel are those two solutions. They both work wonderfully in two distinct ways. Eye Butter is a Shea butter and cucumber extract-based balm/cream with effective oils to soothe soft tissue around the eyes. It also works so well for the lips that we added “lips” to the box and label. As an everyday lip balm, you can wear it by itself and uses it as frequently as you want and is non-addictive because it has no softening chemicals like most lip balms. Wear it under lipstick, softening the lips as you go about your day. Now VaporJel is a super-secret for skiers and people outdoors in the winter and those that get too much sun in the summer. VaporJel is an avocado-based gel similar to Vaseline® but without petroleum jelly. The avocado gel is softening in its own right. Camphor, Menthol, and eucalyptus oil each do their work. […]

Keys Now Featured on YouTube and Apple Podcasts

Friends of ours at our parent company, Orion, remind us that communicating meaning is a very precise thing. As humans, we communicate meaning best when we are fully present together. They tell us that 7% of meaning is communicated with words, 38% tone of voice and 55% body language. This is why we have formalized our video and podcast communication paths. We will strive to add new content weekly to both channels and ask you to subscribe to receive these notifications from YouTube and Apple Connect. These videos and podcasts are a new series for Keys® where we delve into the science of Chemical-Free Skin Health® and the use and uses of Keys® products. Listen to Keys® Apple Podcasts Visit Keys® YouTube Channel

Keys New YouTube Channel

First Look Keys is happy to announce a new up-to-date YouTube Channel. Over the years, we have broadcast videos on a periodic as-needed basis. Now we have a dedicated channel that will bring relevant content in a consistent format. Videos will range from product documentaries to open issues about skincare and chapter reviews from Bob’s book, “Chemical-Free Skin Health®. The nice thing about YouTube is that you can subscribe and get notifications of new content. Below is the first episode of this new series. We plan that Bob & Wendy will bring you a new video each week. This episode covers a quick look at our origins, philosophy and product concepts. Direct Connect Keys on YouTube YouTube.com/@KeysPure

Inflation? Recession? – Time To Buy Quality

Inflation or Recession or Both? I recently listened in on a financial advisory call from our bank Wells Fargo. It was equally interesting and confusing. I came away from the call with some very specific thoughts that I want to share from a Keys® perspective. Depending on who you talk to, we are experiencing unwarranted inflation with recession hiding in plain sight. So, naturally these are times to be thrifty, but thrifty does not mean cheap. Unfortunately, cheap is the go-to option for some when trying to save money. Out of pocket is out of pocket. When you weigh and make decisions on the outcomes and performance of a product, the game changes. The operative phrase is quality over quanity whether times are good or bad. At Keys® holding the line on pricing is our way of fighting inflation and offering quality assures that in a recession that our customers win. No riddle intended; when you base your buying decisions more on what you get versus what you pay, a whole new world opens up. It is the world of quality over quantity. The reason is that you get what you pay for at Keys®. Or, in the case of […]

KODA Dog Products Explained

Bob Root, Keys Scientist explains uses and functions of Keys KODA products. KODA helps to extend your dogs life by providing supplements that are functional and topical therapies to protect them from the environment!

Psoriasis Decoded

Psoriasis Has A Community NIAMS is a research community of the US National Institutes of Health. The NIH is one of the most elite US government institutions dedicated to human health research. It honors both pharmaceutical and natural solutions to disease. The mission of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases is to support research into the causes, treatment, and prevention of arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases; the training of basic and clinical scientists to carry out this research; and the dissemination of information on research progress in these diseases. The KEYS® Part Your skin is your largest organ. 80% of people have skin problems. At KEYS®, we create clean, safe, natural products without chemicals that solve these problems. KEYS® supports and contributes to research into skin diseases using natural ingredients for natural solutions. KEYS® products make you feel and look better. Psoriasis Decoded by National Institutes of Health NIAMS If you have been diagnosed with a form of psoriasis or know someone who has, this is a very important article. NIAMS Overview of Psoriasis Psoriasis is a chronic (long-lasting) disease in which the immune system becomes overactive, causing skin cells to multiply too quickly. Patches […]

Luminos, The Original “No Makeup Clean Look.”

Luminos, The Original “No Makeup Clean Look.” By Bob Root, Keys Chief Technologist Are you trying to get the No Makeup Clean Look? Look to Luminos for beyond the clean look to healthy. You may think that you already know everything there is to know, but I might surprise you or, at least, remind you of what you know. I intend to give you an insight into a new way of thinking, not about makeup, but how you prepare your skin for makeup. First, I want you to understand how makeup works, how it is made, and what it does. More important is how to create a prime foundation that does not make you look like a Chinadoll or Mime. I originally wrote this article in 2009 after the introduction of Luminous, our super moisturizer and clear skin foundation. When I am in front of customers, doctors, estheticians, makeup artists, actors, and cosmeticians, the question is always the same. “When are Keys going to create a makeup line?” My answer is when I can find safe ingredients that have the right colors and staying power. I began looking at traditional makeup about fourteen years ago. I studied conventional makeup […]

Nextra® NeoRetinol for Psoriasis & Eczema

Nextra® Help with Psoriasis & Eczema Your skin is your largest organ. 80% of people have skin problems. At KEYS®, we create clean, safe, natural products without chemicals that solve these problems. KEYS products make you feel and look better. Articles like this are meant to help you in your journey for clean clear skin, Naturally. Factoids: Since the introduction of Keys Nextra® NeoRetinol last summer, our customers have reported extra fast relief of symptoms from Psoriasis and Eczema. National Institutes of Health studies have outlined a combination of oral vitamin D supplementation and Retinol as a viable treatment of Psoriasis. Further reports from Keys customers have also indicated that Nextra® has an immediate positive effect on Eczema symptoms. Keys customers have long known that Keys products are based on natural remedies and wellness science. This makes them a group that we title self-experimenters. They will often take Keys products and use them in ways that make sense and are sometimes wildly different than we intended. So is true of reports from our customer about using Nextra NeoRetinol for skin disorders like dermatitis, Eczema, and Psoriasis. Here is one of the many studies conducted by the National Institutes of health […]

Keys Made in America

Are Keys Products Made in America? YES! A few years back, a disabled American soldier wrote the book “Buy American.” Alex Nelson said it was our duty to buy American to preserve our manufacturing place in the world. Today more than ever it is even more prescient and meaningful to buy American because all those toys, electronics, and skincare made in China are just not going to be available. Do Your Holiday Shopping Now Freight Waves News reports, “Amazon announced it has started its Black Friday deals on October 4th this year in an attempt to avoid supply chain bottlenecks during the more traditional holiday buying season. This is probably a good idea considering the state of maritime trade right now and the fact that there was $9 billion in online sales on Black Friday 2020.” The logistical and power nightmares in China are just the tip of the iceberg. Problems with the supply chain are jammed packing railyards and ports. Made in America and shipped by the USPS, UPS or FedEx will be your only solution. Keys products are designed and made in America. Many products, especially those from celebrity brands, are made in China. They are disappearing from […]

Remembering Steve Jobs 🍎

You might ask yourself, what does Steve Jobs have to do with Keys. It is a fair question. The answer is a lot! It is important to us to remember the anniversary of his death ten years ago October 5. Bob Root, Keys Scientist, was heavily involved with the launch of the Macintosh computer both at Apple and through Chiat Day. Bob credits Steve with much of the philosophy and design behind all the Keys products. Seventeen years ago, the natural skincare industry was in disarray and clogged with useless products with brown paper labels and little ferries adorning the packaging. Bob saw how natural skin solutions could solve people’s skin problems and make them feel good. He saw how they changed his girlfriend’s life after cancer. It was a challenging market entry, but it also was for Apple entering the personal computer industry behind the behemoth IBM. It took innovation and “Thinking Different.” So is true for Keys amidst the greenwashing times in a very crude industry called natural skincare. Bob lists Steve Jobs, Walt Disney, and Dr. Edwin Land as his inspirations. Edwin Land was one of Steve Jobs idols and was where Bob started his professional career […]

The Quest for the Fountain of Youth. Tamanu Oil?

Skin Health & Anti-Aging When we started Keys, it was for my sweetie’s battle against Melanoma. As the story goes, her surgery was successful, but her battle against the prescription skincare seemed futile. I had to find ingredients in the natural world to help her skin recover and flourish in a hostile environment. Besides finding ingredients and combining them into products that work for all sorts of skin issues, it started a quest for unique natural ingredients that became a part of our DNA. Also, a part of our DNA is your well-being in our search for products that solve your skin problems and make you feel good. Where do Natural Skincare Ingredients Come From? Most companies go to tradeshows to learn about the next hottest chemical or ingredient. At Keys®, we are looking for miracle ingredients that work and that comes from the jungles of the Amazon, India, and around the world. Our advisors are aboriginals more often than not. There are no chemists at Keys®. With an eye on sustainability, it is a part of our culture and DNA that we search for ingredients that serve a purpose and, combined, are larger than the sum of […]

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Nextra Laugh-In 🤣

Nextra Laugh – Amy is a very famous entertainer who works in Las Vegas and the Comedy Store scene in LA. Her whit is disarming and rarely serious – actually never. So you can imagine when I received an email that sounded very concerned. It turns out it was a new side of her comedy that I was not used to.

Shingles – On The Rise?

Problem: Stress Triggering Shingles Solution: Lessen the Effects with Natural & Ayurvedic Lotions Shingles are a very real side effect of the realities of Covid-19 relates to the stress we are all under. Lore has it that weak areas of our body have disorders triggered by stressful situations. So, it makes sense that we have seen a significant number of customer service requests about shingles rash and scabbing. First, here is an excellent simple overview article from Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/shingles-natural-treatment For solutions from Keys, we have had customers tell us over the years that both our Tortuga Lotion and MetaCare lotion help with both the rash and scabbing, which can lead to scars. Overly simplifying, MetaCare is our Tortuga Lotion base with the addition of Neem and Karanja oil. Neem and Karanja oil are thousand-year-old Ayurvedic remedies for various skin disorders. We select the purest form and source these oils for their quality. Adding them to Tortuga lotion gives you the option of a base lotion, or you can choose to maximize the efficacy with MetaCare. As a teammate to either Tortuga lotion or MetaCare lotion is our Island Rx Liquid Soap. This Castile soap has maximum Micelle properties with the addition […]

Lights! Camera! Action! – Megan and the Teleconference Crisis

“Urgent”- Respond Immediately! She is an executive with a mega-company, and I worried that something was very wrong. So, I popped open the email and began to laugh out loud. Here was the first line. “Bob, holy shit, I need your help now. I am working from home and have to teleconference every day next week, and I look like shit on camera.” “What should I do?”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) In An Uncertain Storm

We are getting emails, customer service, and social media site questions. We have created a composite FAQ section below that are relevant to our times.

“Blue Babies” Therapy May Help!

Using a regulatory pathway that allows patients with life-threatening conditions to use unapproved therapies, the FDA has granted “emergency expanded access” to Bellerophon Therapeutics’ inhaled nitric oxide delivery system for treating the novel coronavirus.

Also known as compassionate use, the agency’s policy is typically administered on a per-patient basis—at times when clinical trials are infeasible, the benefits are seen to outweigh the risks, and there are no available alternatives.

According to Bellerophon, the FDA’s decision now opens up its INOpulse system for use at high-doses in ventilated COVID-19 patients, immediately.

Our New Hand Sanitizer – And A Few Heroes

Keys has a new interim product and it is a maximum strength hand sanitizer. Our Extra Strength Hand Sanitizer took just 20 minutes to develop and seven days to manufacture, market, and start delivering. Seven days total from concept to delivery with lots of heroes to thank along the way.

Bre Video Protect Your Skin – Solar Rx

Bre’s Short Film Protect Your Skin from Sun Damage For nearly 20 years, I have written hundreds of thousands of words, created cards of what to do and wear, and have been an advocate of sunscreen every day. All said Bre in her creative wave translated that message into a thousand languages with this short video. Just look at her Keys skin and you have to be convinced. Wendy ☺️😉

Branch Basics – Truly Natural

Branch Basics is a company that is on purpose and walks their talk. They have developed a natural concentrated cleaner that reduces biomass without harming the microbiome of your home or your family. To be clean without harming the good bacteria we live with is of paramount importance to me. It would also seem that it is crucial to Branch Basics.

DIY Hand Sanitizers – That Really Work

Time for Hand Sanitizers. It is important to be effective and know what you are putting on your hands. There are a number of natural commercially available products that work. Right now, they are hard to find in the stores. So, it is time to make your own. It is simple and done right, just as effective as the store-bought sanitizing products. DIY Sanitizers Formulas So here is a formula for creating the world’s best hand sanitizers. Use 98% of 99% Isopropyl alcohol and 1% spearmint essential oil. Can’t find Isopropyl Alcohol? Turn to white lightening. Yes, Grain Alcohol or 190 proof ethanol. Do not dilute or buy less than 190 proof. This means the alcohol level is 95%. It doesn’t matter the source; ethanol is alcohol. Also, mix it with spearmint essential oil for lubrication and positive microbiome effects. Wash Hands Washing your hands with Castile soap is best. Seriously, but when you cannot, alcohol sanitizer helps. My suggestion is to put it into a spray bottle. A 1 ounce (30ml) size will do for your pocket or purse. Spray it on your hands or surface. Spray on hands liberally and rub until dry: just a moment […]

Just Wash Hands

Yes, it is flu season, and traveling is getting to be a more significant concern. It is the time of year to write about not only how to wash your hands, but why doing it the wrong way can hurt.

Many years ago, we researched the University of California Irvine on proper handwashing as a means to stay healthy during flu and virus outbreaks. The study formed our opinion, which I will share here.

The primary purpose of washing your hands is not to spread viruses to your face. The average person touches their face about 50 times a day. When I mentally checked in with how often I touch my face or nose with my hands, I quickly lost count—much more than 50 times a day.

Debunking Hand Sanitizers

Hand Sanitizers, The Right Way, and the Wrong Way. Where to begin? My article, “Just Wash Hands,” has brought a lot of comments. Lots of thank you’s, a few questions and some opinion. Cool, that is what is supposed to happen. Most comments address a short paragraph I wrote about “Hand Sanitizers.” There is a wrong way and a right way. Most of us do it the wrong way. So, I cruised into a Wal-Mart to buy a pair of new windshield wiper blades. I noticed two sanitizer stations at the entrance. One was the right kind, and the other the wrong kind. One was an alcohol towelette, and the other a hand dispenser. One was designed to wipe down the cart and the other to disinfect hands. To my surprise, as I watched for a bit, people grabbed the towelette and wiped their hands with it. It seemed like most people were avoiding the dispenser. Here are my facts. The dispenser, marked as a hand sanitizer, claimed to contain Triclosan and alcohol. Fact, this machine kills all the good and bad bacteria on the skin. I firmly believe, as studies point out, that pathogens populate faster than good colony bacteria. This […]

Chemical-Free Skin Health® by Bob Root. Get Your Free Copy Today

When You Know Better, You Do Better Chemical-Free Skin Health® is a powerful book written about destructive chemicals in everyday skincare and cosmetics. Maria Shriver invited Bob to launch his book at the last California Women’s Conference she hosted. It is a must-read, and now you can download it for free Here for a limited time. A $19.95 Value What It’s About Chemical-Free Skin Health® is a book written by Bob Root that is a compilation of all his experiences being on the road with Keys customers. Bob features information about the Human Microbiome Project and the National Institutes of Health, a spin-off of the human genome project. The book answers the most commonly asked questions and proposes some radical ideas about skin health. Of all the points Bob makes in the book, the one that drives his continued passion is his deep concern that the chemical bactericides used as a preservative in most skin care and household products are destroying the natural Ecosystem on our skin. Parabens and Triclosan are used as preservatives, and antibacterial agents are undiscriminating killers of the probiotics on our skin. This subject is so important to Bob that he made it the focal point […]

Keys Nextra Line Featuring NeoRetinol – Coming Soon!

“Retinol is a vitamin A ester developed many years ago with side effects as legendary as it effects. We have developed NeoRetinol that does all the same things as Retinol, but with none of the side effects.” Wendy Steele Keys CEO

Retinol is the staple of everyone’s skin regimen that wants to turn back the clock. Retinol is a vitamin A ester developed many years ago, primarily for acute acne sufferers. The effects are legendary, as are the side effects. Retinol claims to erase wrinkles and fine lines, but the drying, redness, and peeling flaking skin happen when you use too much too frequently. Lots of fakes on the market and the real stuff sells for about $300 an ounce. What used to be prescription-only saw the emergence of many fakes when the Retinol trademark expired.

Keys® Story – About You and Us

I have never told my story. Most of everything we have written is about Wendy’s fight with Cancer and stupidity in the skincare market intermixed with how I created our products. So, since it is 15 years in business this year, I just felt like writing down my perspective of who we are.

In 1994, I met the woman of my dreams. In 1997, I nearly lost her to Melanoma cancer. Dr. Hugh Greenway at Scripps in LaJolla, CA saved her life. The prescriptions so severely hurt her that the experience became the basis for the invention of our products. The experience changed my life and my purpose. Read our book, “Defining Moments” and will get a tiny glimpse….tiny… of our lives together.

Keys was born was out of strife and conflict. It was a confusing time where any action was better than no action. Everything on the market was full of junk and even the “natural” brands had parabens and sulfates. It was 2004 when the first four products debuted at the Natural Products Expo and the years since have been full of change, innovation, and staying true to our purpose. It shocked the industry when our newly minted sunscreen, Solar Rx, was featured as the most effective by Consumer Reports Magazine, and the EWG ranked it the safest out there.

Keto Diet and Skincare!

There are two ways you can save half of your skincare products price. Either you get 50% off the price, or you only have to use half as much.

We have always said that a 100ml 4-ounce bottle of Luminos or Tortuga lotion is like getting a 600ml bottle of lotion. It is because there is almost no water in the formulation. All of the oils are concentrated and in therapeutic proportions. Avocado oil is our dominant oil, and the blend provides the highest possible concentration of emollients without chemicals. True, but what if you could use only half as much of Keys products and get the same results?

Enter My Keto Diet

Okay, I am lucky that as I have gotten older that I have tended to lose weight rather than gain. I went on the Keto diet to lower my blood glucose. The net was that I lost another 10 pounds, went from 16% body fat to 5.9% and gained lean muscle mass. What was to most exciting side-effect was that my complexion tightened and my skin was super-hydrated.

Although I love Luminos as a moisturizer, as I have pointed out in previous articles, I use Tortuga lotion as my go-to everything lotion. Although Wendy uses almost all of the Keys products every day, I am a two Keys product guy. Give me my Island Rx and my Tortuga.

Micellar Water – FAD or Innovation

Keys Island Rx Foaming wash is a patriarch of our line. With the popularity of micellar water cleansers, we thought it would be essential to point out that Island Rx has always been micelle-based. It has been that way since its introduction in 2004.

Our society, especially beauty, is fad and fan based. Keys has always been a “Fan” based product line, but we have started a few “Fads” in our 15 years. More often than not, we have not been credited with some interesting trends.

There is a difference between fads and fan-based products. Word of mouth advertising is generally associated with fan-based products and Fads with fake news.

Keys Island RX Soap – Micellar

The secret to clean vibrant skin is a natural oil-based soap that is full of Micelle. They are magical in almost every way imaginable.

When I first developed Island Rx soap, it was because I could not find a Castile soap that was lower in alkalinity. As I formulated and saponified oils like Avocado, Jojoba, Coconut and Olive oil, I not only noticed that they were not as alkaline, but that there was some different reaction on the skin. Researching my ingredients and processes, I realized I was releasing something called a Micelle.

Click To Buy

Micelles are polar critters that live in a real soap. One end of the structure loves water, and the other loves oil. So the more micelle in soap the more effective it is in clearing oil, dirt, grime, and pollutants from a surface like the skin. These are not little creatures that live in a Jedi Knight’s blood like in Star Wars, but an ionic compound that does work.

For Short Hair – Keys Mangrove Shampoo & Conditioner

You love all your children equally, but sometimes those older more independent ones move to the corner of your eye. Mangrove Shampoo & Conditioner are among my oldest children and have matured into quite the adults. In product years, they are in their thirties and quite resourceful.

Dynamic Duo
Click To Buy

When Mangrove Shampoo and Conditioner were born, I had a vision for them which was entirely different. They were going to be a one-stop go-to duo for men. Early on, our marketing people convinced me to focus more on people with short hair for the products. That was not how I perceived them and over time, they matured into what I envisioned them to be. , Mangrove Shampoo and Conditioner are a duo that are the only two products men need and want in their lives for their hair and skin.

The American Organic Hustle – Understanding The Misunderstood

A customer contacted Keys Customer Service with three fundamental questions. The questions are mostly about being organic and safety as well as functionality. I have the answers, and they might not be what you think.

They Asked:

I am thinking of getting Keys MetaClean Healing Soap & Shampoo, it says there is >85% organic content, what is the rest that is not organic in this shampoo?

2. When you list on the right the vitamins/actions, are you indicating that the actual ingredient is providing those vitamins, for example, Avocado Oil gives Retinol vitamin or is Retinol separate from the Avocado Oil?

3. What is it in here that can be unsafe for some individuals since it is not complete 0 on safe scale

Read my answers in our latest article on Clean Green Cafe.

Parabens – They Are Everywhere & A Concern

When I started writing my book, Chemical-Free Skin Health, I thought I would mention Parabens as a side comment in the chapter on the Dirty Dozen Chemicals in most skincare products. Yes, about 95% of every skincare product produced has a bacteriacide that goes by many names. Most are listed on product labels as Methyl-Paraben or something with paraben in the name.

I was speaking at a conference and was attacked by a person in the audience because they claimed that parabens were not harmful in the small amount used in a product. True that most applications of this bacteriacide are in the 0.5% range and are useful in keeping mold and bacteria growth in check. Back to the incident, I responded that “the average woman uses between 20 to 40 products a day on her skin. Because paraben use is cumulative, that means that the average woman is exposing herself to 10%-20% parabens levels every day. They sat down, and the moderator of the discussion took a quick turn away.

Mangrove Hair & Skin Conditioner for Men

I was at a classic style barber shop in Mesilla New Mexico. Sort of a man cave with traditional services. After the cut and shampoo, my barber laid a hot towel on my face. Then to my surprise, he conditioned my hair and then moved to my face. Yes, he used the same conditioner on my face and hair. It felt good, and I asked him to see the conditioner bottle to look at the ingredient. Full of junk, but the core ingredient caused me to think about our Mangrove conditioner.

In keeping with the new writing trends, I tried it for a week with Keys Mangrove Conditioner. I wash my hair every day and generally do not moisturize much. Honestly, after a week, my hair looked great. Wendy commented that my skin looks better than ever. Now I am hooked on the combination of using Mangrove for my hair and face.

Calluses a Gluten Connection?

I was attending a panel discussion at an industry event. A researcher from Finland showed a study connection calluses on feet, knees, hands, and elbows to people having gluten intolerance. The speaker did not offer any solutions other than avoiding gluten.

What was particularly interesting is that she did point out that it was a manifestation that covered those people with mild gluten intolerances as well as those with full-blown celiac disease. I asked her if there was a Psoriasis connection and she said there was, but not enough detail was available.

We have noted that both our Tortuga lotion and MetaCare have a semi-fast-acting effect on calluses and Psoriasis. We have seen and heard from our customers that eliminating gluten has reversed calluses. Initially, we thought that it was just the Tortuga or MetaCare. Now, we are wondering.

Eczema – It’s Probably the Chemicals in Your Life!

Eczema seems to be a catchall term for a lot of doctors. The cause is unknown, but some of us suspect chemicals in everyday products.

Bob Root – Keys Founder

Common culprits for chemically induced eczema are sulfates in laundry detergents, PEG (propylene glycol) in just about everything and parabens (a biocide in most products). So, what we have heard from our customers is that finding the cause of the skin irritation is much more important than giving it a name. Doc’s seem to want to name it so they can prescribe steroids and topical antibiotics. We find this seems to make thing worse with usually a fast relief and then a return of the irritation with a vengeance.

Our customers tell us that our MetaCare and RediCare do an excellent job of getting rid of the symptoms and keeping them away. The secret seems to be the Neem and Karanja oil we use along with high-quality ingredients. MetaCare is a nice soothing lotion, and RediCare is the same basic formula in a sprayable lotion that is good for larger areas.

Bandage Test for Skin Disorder Causes

I am constantly asked how can you tell if a skin disorder is caused internally or from exterior attacks. Here is how I do it and why my trick works.

Bob Root – Keys Technologist & Founder

The bandage test really works to help find the cause of skin disorders quickly. In our 15 years of research and development, we always keep focused on our mission to solve skin problems using natural remedies. Over the same period, we have seen time and again that most skin disorders are from exposure to chemicals in the environment or chemicals in conventional products.

Sulfate, parabens, PEG’s and the balance of the Dirty Thirty Chemicals are at the top of the list of skin disorder causes we have seen. The bandage test may not be 100% exact, but it is something I invented to help decide whether a skin disorder is internal or externally caused.

Asymmetrical Dermatitis – Fact or Fiction

Asymmetrical Dermatitis is a common diagnosis for a skin disorder that appears on one side of a person or animal. Fact, Fiction or catchall diagnosis?

A couple of years back I was attending an event at Capitol Drug Store in West Hollywood (WeHo) California. A mom stopped by because she heard I was going to be there as a part of my book tour. She showed me her little boy’s face. His left cheek was inflamed. She said she had waited weeks to see the dermatologist and he said it was asymmetrical dermatitis. He was given a bunch of creams and ointments to take that included steroids and antibiotics. One was Prednisone. She Googled the prescriptions and was horrified by the side-effects. She asked me my thoughts.

Dog Groomers – Show and Tell

Groomers, show me your hands! We travel all over the US with our dog Jasper. He is a snow-white Bichon Frise. Jasper’s coat care requires grooming every six weeks. I google to find a master certified groomer in the area. My initial visit with the new groomer starts the same. I ask the groomer to show me their hands. I want to see the condition of their hands! Inflamed, irritated, dry or cracking hands are red flags. Their hands are evidence about what they are using to bathe the dogs. Ugly groomer hands mean irritating ingredients for the dog’s skin and coat. Cheap grooming shampoo is the culprit. And after bath perfumes are also irritants. Jasper is eight years old and has never experienced skin irritation issue from shampoo. Of course, all of his life he has experienced our KODA OmniCleanShampoo. Not one groomer has ever complained about my bringing KODA shampoo. We have educated quite a few groomers along the way.

Why Daily SPF and Moisturizing?

One of the markets top moisturizers is Solar RX Moisturizer SPF due to its UVA-UVB protection minimizing the chemical burden on the skin. This article was written by Ashley Parker about Keys Solar Rx

Keys, Thievery Corporation and CafeCody.com – An Unlikely Group.

Some Keys History

Keys, Thievery Corporation and Cafe Cody – The Beginning

Every company has many stories of how it started and defining moments that changed the course of its history. For us, Thievery Corporation and Cafe Cody were defining moments.

Every entrepreneur has good days, average days and some really bad experiences that teach, scar and modify you. Creating defining moments mark course changes for everyone. It is how we respond that separates us all.

Keys is no different, but with the caveat that we chase defining moments rather than avoiding them. Change is good, so constant change must be better. Innovation follows function, but form follows emotion. Recognizing our core need to innovate and change, there are so many defining moments and we embrace all of them.

Apple – The Next Revolution in Healthcare & Wellness…A Keys Perspective

This article by Bob Root talks about how Apple may just save your life and those who you love. Take a walk into the near future with Bob.

SmallFlower Interviews Bob Root, Keys Scientist & Founder About Probiome

SmallFlower Interviews Bob Root About Probiome. Keys Natural Skincare & Beauty was born after co-founder Wendy Steele was diagnosed with and beat melanoma. The cancer was gone, but she was still dealing with some nasty side effects on her skin – itchy, irritated patches that were just made worse by sticky sunscreens. Read this interview here.

Congrats America! You Did It. You Voted With Your Wallets

In an unprecedented trend shift over the last three years, grocery store shelves have displaced conventional products for natural alternatives. People voted with their wallets. The message is simple, don’t donate to lost causes, vote with your wallets. Money talks!

Cold, Flu Bronchitis? Keys VaporJel To The Rescue!

Cold, Flu Bronchitis? Keys Vapor Jel To The Rescue!

In the not so long ago past if you wanted some fast relief from congestion you took the vapors from Smelling Salts. The problem was that you would have been killing your lungs and smell nerve receptors.

Keys Celebrates Ten Years With News – OTC & New Director of Sales

Celebrating ten years of innovation and industry firsts, Keys announce today to the press that they are planning to enter the OTC (over the counter) products market. Wendy Steele also announced that they have tapped an industry veteran as her new Director of North American Sales.

Super Lice – RediCare Works!

There are reports all over the US of a resistant strain of super lice that are not controlled by convention lice treatments. I have been aware of this for a couple of years, but without someone raising the warning flag, my words have fallen short. Our customers have reported that our RediCare is not only highly effective at repelling initial lice infestation, but also kills the lice.

Glucosamine HCL + Chondroitin Sulfate Might Be As Effective AS NSAID’s For Dogs & Humans

Our customers have told us for a couple of years that their dogs appear to have reduced pain from using Key KODA Proflexoil. A HIH reports shows a study that Human study shows that Glucosamine HCL + Chondroitin Sulfate Might Be As Effective AS NSAID’s. This directly translates to dogs using KODA Profexoil.

Safe Cosmetics Campaign & Keys – Red Lists

Safe Cosmetics has recently done a great job of updating their website and social media efforts. What we are especially pleased with is that they have come up with a great visual reference of what chemicals to avoid based on product function.

Balding? Hair Re-growth? – Keys Island Rx!

Years of customer testimonials point to hair regrowth by using Keys Island Rx liquid soap as a shampoo. This article breaks down what might be the reason Island Rx works and explains some of the reasons Island Rx has a lot of fans. We are offering a discount code to try Island Rx….

Don’t Freak Out. Its Mostly Good Bacteria. Keys DIY

This Keys DIY is actually a great science project for kids to learn about bacteria in their environment. Make bacteria handprints instead of paint? Curious, read more!

Keys Congrats Ele Keats – Insidious 3 Movie Opens Big

Our own best friend, Ele Keats stars in the movie Insidious 3 premiering this weekend in Hollywood. Congrats Ele!

Help Us! Like and Follow Keys on Twitter, Facebook & Pinterest

Help Us! Like and Follow Keys! Help us to streamline our communication to you by liking us and following us on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Click here to read why!

Keys DIY – Makeup Remover

Learn how to use Keys Tortuga Lotion as a makeup remover, cleanser and deep moisturizer for the eyes, lips and face.

Keys KODA Products Help with ACL/Joint Issues in Small Dogs

Keys KODA LifeTrace, Proflexoil and Omega life supplement joint and ACL issues in small young dogs. Add a Paleo diet and long walks extends their lives. This is our story of how applying known human natural medicine help both our older Bichon live longer and helped our young Bishon, Jasper, recover.

Keys DIY – Non Abrasive Facial Exfolient

Makes this Keys DIY emulsifying exfolient to remove dead facial skin without abrasive and rough scrubbing. Deep moisturizes and cleans.

Keys DIY – Collagen Facial Scrub Exfolient

How to make your own collagen facial scrub that exfoliates and super hydrates your face.

The KODA Product Story – Keys for Dogs

Watch a video of a KODA – Keys for dogs – presentation describing the ten products. Five internal functional supplements and five topical therapies. Natural, Chemical-Free, Gluten Free, Vegan

Keys diy – How To: Make an Omega Protein Facial Mask

Learn how to make the best natural facial mask using Keys Tortuga lotion and some common ingredients. This recipe fades skin spots, reduces fine lines, smooths the skin and super moisturizes.

Miracle Dogs Rescue Stories – A New Book

Liz Stavrinides has written and published a new photo book titled Miracle Dogs Rescue Stories. A KODA fan, Liz and Jack have created a wonderful story that we want to share with you.

Keys Tortuga Lotion Case Price Sale – Save 10%

Our very popular Tortuga lotion is now available at a discount if you buy 6 or more at a time. Just add 6 or more Tortuga lotion to online store basket and the normal $16.95 price will be reduced to $15.25 each automatically. This is a $10.20 savings on 6 and even more savings if you buy more than 6.

Tortuga is the perfect winter solution for dry itchy skin as well as chapped lips, dry cracking skin and tough calluses. It is a clean, pure natural lotion that is gluten-free, vegan and chemical-free.

Keys Cross RediCare – The Many Uses

Every Keys product has many uses, purposes and are cross functional natural remedies. We have created a new category called Keys Cross where our customers have told us how they use our products. Here are the many uses of Keys RediCare. Share how you use it.

Keys Cross – Keys Many Uses – Functional Products

Every Keys product has many uses, purposes and are cross functional natural remedies. We have created a new category called Keys Cross where our customers have told us how they use our products.

Shipping Sale – Domestic US Retail Customers

In cooperation with the USPS, we have created a shipping discount of 25% off for domestic shipments over $50. The USPS has offered us a special discount to increase our volume and we are matching the amount. As always, domestic shipments over $75 are free.

New! KPRO Silkin Natural Shampoo & Conditioner – Better Than Conventional and Salon Brands

New! KPRO Silkin Shampoo – Better Than Conventional and Salon Brands.

Finally, a natural shampoo that will clean and shine as well as conventional and salon brands, but without the junk.

Seven years in development, Silkin is the answer for those with thick, long and big hair. Color and perm safe, it is truly a revolution in hair care.

US Patent & Trademark Office Awards Keys OptiFX®

The US Patent and Trademark Office has recognized and certified OptiFX® particle. OptiFX particles are used in our KPRO line of super-cosmetics.

Foot Calluses? Go Gluten-Free!

From Bob Root, Keys Founder. We may have found a direct correlation to calluses on the feet and toes and gluten in peoples diets. A revelation to some is just another reason to get off gluten for others.

History Made – Exoskelaton’s and the Technology of People®

A motorized exoskeleton, designed to help paralyzed people walk again, just earned U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval. It is the first such device to do so…From Bob Root: This article has nothing to do with Keys or our products. I am a scientist first and when I see something that revolutionizes the world, I have to say something.

Polluted Pets – What we are doing to our pets!

iWellness? – An Open Letter to Tim Cook, Apple CEO

The rumors are pretty strong that Apple will introduce Healthkit technology in it next IOS 8 operating system for iPhones and iPad’s..and maybe iWatch this October. iWellness or iHealth – There is a difference. Can Apple change healthcare forever? Yes! Will they? by Bob Root, Keys Founder and Technologist. Check it out http://www.cleangreencafe.com/CGC/?p=2814

Gabi Wolf Update

Some surgery, supplies and a lot of love can work wonders for the soul.

It’s Clear – Again. Clear Airless Containers Return

See-through airless container tubes return to Keys. Once again, you can see when to reorder.

RediCare – Not Just an Insect Repellant.

Using RediCare for more than insect repellant on horses

Keys to Donate 10% of KODA Sales to Gabi Wolf Recovery!

This little black wolf pup may be just what humanity needs to become human again. Cruelty to humans is unacceptable. Cruelty to animals is intolerable. Cruelty to animals by professionals is unconscionable. Donate, talk it up and hug your pup!

DIY Build Your Own Skin Care Collection – Get 15% Off

Building your own collection will get your 15% discount on all products ordered.

DIY Build Your Own Beauty Collection – Get 15% Off

Keys is pleased to announce the development of a new kit building software to create your own Keys and KPRO beauty collections. Building your own collection will get your 15% discount on all products ordered.

KODA Dog Care Soutions-Kits – Buy Together Get 10% Off

Keys is pleased to announce KODA Dog Care Solution. Buying dog supplement and topical solutions will get you 10% discount.

DIY Build Your Own Men’s Skin Care Collection – Get 15% Off

Keys is pleased to announce the development of a new kit building software to create your own Men’s skincare collections. Building your own collection will get your 15% discount on all products ordered.

Clean Green Café Goes Mobile

We have modified the software serving our Clean Green Café Blog and News Forum to detect smartphones and tablet users and switch to an easier to read format.

New Mobile Store From Keys

We have installed a new store that permit our mobile smartphone and tablets customers easy access to our online store.

New One-Page Checkout Super-Secure and Super Easy

Keys has developed a new One-Page checkout to make checking out of our store easier, faster and more secure.

Tortuga Turns 100 Years Old.

Tortuga was born in my grandmothers kitchen 100 years ago I grew up with this ancient remedy as a cure-all that saved me from cuts, bruises, dog bites, scrapes and even being jilted by a girlfriend or two.

Keys Customer Loyalty Rewards Program

Earn 5% rewards value to be used agains future purchases on the Keys online store. Every time you buy you earn rewards.

AJ’s Keys Daily Skincare Routine – Video

This is a video by AJ about her Keys products daily skincare regime for cleansing, moisturizing and toning.

AJ’s KPRO Regime – Video

AJ created this simple video to show how she uses some of our KPRO products as a part of here daily regimen.

FDA Taking Closer Look at ‘Antibacterial’ Soap

“New data suggest that the risks associated with long-term, daily use of antibacterial soaps may outweigh the benefits,” Rogers says. There are indications that certain ingredients in these soaps may contribute to bacterial resistance to antibiotics, and may have unanticipated hormonal effects that are of concern to FDA.

Your Antibacterial Soap Could Be Harming You

FDA to take a harder look at Triclosan claims made by manufacturers

KODA ProBiome – Part of the Solution for Dog Tear Stains

Dog Tear stains affect white, black and every color dog. Many are caused by allergies and ProBiome for Keys KODA has shown to reduce tearing, therefore reducing staining and also reducing eye infections/inflammation

Keys Testimonials

We have installed a new testimonial system to help other discover what our Keys products have done for others. Please submit anything that you feel will help people achieve relief for their conditions and disorders. Thanks!

Keys Joins Companies for Safer Chemicals to Change US Government Thinking!

A group of the country’s leading consumer brands announced the formation of a new coalition to press Congress to modernize the nation’s out-of-date and ineffective chemical safety laws.

Keys Product Functionality Chart

We have published a new product selector based on skin disorders and conditions. This is a part of our new predictive search artificial intelligence system

Under The Hood – New Predictive Search Function

We have now added a technology called “Predictive Search” that monitors and chronicles search activity. It learns habits as people ask question in the search box on our store.

What Should We Video Next on the Keys Skin Deep YouTube Channel

New video request form to tell us what you want to see and here about on the Keys Skin Deep YouTube Channel

Origins – Where Our Ingredients Come From – Video

Bob Root, Keys Founder and Formulator talks about where some of Keys ingredients come from and a little background about some of our advisers.

Going Natural in a Synthetic World – Bob Root

In his book, Chemical-Free Skin Health, Bob Root covers many subjects designed to help people understand how to Stop, Challenge and Choose a healthier way of thinking by becoming chemical-free.

KPRO Product Overview Video – Bob Root Keys Formulator

A new video describing the Keys KPRO line by Bob Root, Keys Founder and Formulator

Keys Overview Video with Wendy Steele

This is the first in a new series of online videos from Keys. New technology will permit us to create small and effective videos for you to help understand us, our products and our mission. This is also available on the new Keys YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/keysskindeep

[jwplayer player=”4″ mediaid=”2345″]

Below is the Snapshot version of the overview above and is designed for a quick look at Keys, our products and philosophy. It is design to be embedded, linked or downloaded for our resellers websites, blogs and forum. It may also be embedded form our YouTube Skin Deep Channel at the link above.

[jwplayer player=”4″ mediaid=”2350″]

Mangrove Conditioner is Back! Richer and Twice The Size

Mangrove Conditioner is back in stock and even better than before. Silkier, more and at the same price as before.

New Try Me Category – KPRO Sachets for Sale

This kit of four of the new KPRO products now available for $1.95 including shipping. Try before you buy.

The Jar Is Back – Keys Eye Butter

Back by popular demand, Keys Eye Butter is now available in Jars again.

Keys KPRO Cosmetic Products – Now Available!

Keys New KPRO professional line is now available for review and for sale. Nominated for Best New Product of the year at the Natural Products Expo East coming this week, I believe these are the most revolutionary products we have ever designed. Read more! Wendy.

Keys Professional – KPRO Line – Cosmetic Tinted Creams and Powders

Keys revolutionary cosmetic OptiFX™ Adaptive Color Technology creates a 1-step flawless foundation to streamline daily regimes

Keys RediCare – Featured in Men’s Journal Magazine

Best Chemical-Free Insect Repellents. Keys RediCare featured a a best bet. Bob Root quoted from his Chemical-Free Skin Health book.

A Brief Synopsis of KODA Products

What KODA products will do for you dog!

KODA Dog Products – A Brief Synopsis

A brief synopsis of what KODA products will do for your dog

Bob Root on the Dr. Amy Myers Show

Bob Root, Keys Technologist talks to Dr. Amy Myers about Bob’s book, Chemical-Free Skin Health

REvolutionary Skin Ideas -from Hollywood and Apple!

REvolutionary Skin Ideas -from Hollywood and Apple!. There is a new revolution in beauty and it is here now!

Cooking for your dog with Koda OmegaLife

From Keys Koda Dog Products Blog. How to cook for your dog using Koda OmegaLife from www.Koda-Karma.com

Where are all the travel sizes and sample?

A new revolutionary sample and travels size program involves a very sophisticated little machine that works lights-out and 24/7

Keys Labels, Ingredients and Information

Keys and Koda labels in one place to view ingredients and to compare products

Keys Product Pictures

Below are Keys and Koda product images that can be clicked and saved to your computer for use in publication, websites and stores. To save in highest resolution, click on each image and open to larger size. Then right click to save to your computer Keys Beauty Products [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”5″ gal_title=”Keys Beauty Products”] Keys Therapy Products [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”6″ gal_title=”Keys Therapeutic Products”] Keys KPRO Products [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”7″ gal_title=”Keys KPRO Products”] KODA for Dogs Products [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”8″ gal_title=”KODA for Dogs Products”] High Resolution Files JPG [Best_Wordpress_Gallery id=”9″ gal_title=”Keys High Resolution Products Images”]

We are Moving!!!! Store Closed Until April 1, 2013

We are moving to a new factory. Our store will be closed for a little while as we transfer production. When we reopen, we will be celebrating a new beginning.

EWG and How to Read Labels

Ever looked at the labels on your shampoos, moisturizers and cosmetics? Do you really know what chemicals you’re putting on your body?

KODA Spot Clean and the End to Dirty Paw Syndrome

We were on location at Disney World’s Fort Wilderness and decided to take KODA Jasper dog out for a walk and follow him with a camera. The idea was to see how dirty his paws could get.

KODA Overview and Products – YouTube

We just published this short YouTube video gives you perspective of the background of KODA. It shows the features, benefits and advantages of each product.

Vegan Dog Food and Pet Nutrition: J-Wro Lo-Lo Vegan Vlog

KODA is definetly gaining steam with a few big announcements coming soon! We thought you would like to see the video Jason Wrobel created featuring KODA products. Jason is a well known vegan and actor in the LA area and his pup, Gordon Pete is a KODA Dog! Enjoy Jason humor and talent.

Announcing KODA – Keys for Dogs

Keys is pleased to announce a new company with both internal and external products for dogs. KODA, which is Lakota Sioux for “friend” has ten new products for dogs. KODA is Keys for dogs!

KODA Launches at SuperZoo 2012 in Las Vegas – September 11, 2012

Keys Care Introduces KODA Spin-Off Dedicated to Natural Dog Wellness Products at SuperZoo 2012. KODA Products are Chemical-Free Whole Functional Ingredient Based Designed for Internal and Topical Uses.

KODA SpotClean – Paw & Face Quick Cleanser

SpotClean Paw & Face Foaming Cleanser is a brewed wash with botanicals and herbs for quick cleaning of the paws and face or any spot area as an interim cleanser between baths. Removes road dirt and allergens as well many chemicals used on public parks and lawns.

KODA ProShine – Shampoo & Conditioner

ProShine is a foaming shampoo-conditioner that is made using a 500 year old Welsh recipe that is saponified in a brewing. The shampoo deep cleans and has a slightly acidic pH. To that, we add essential oils to condition the skin and hair. It has anti-allergy properties to reduce skin itching and hot spots.

KODA OmniClean – Therapeutic Shampoo & Soap

OmniClean is a natural Castile like therapeutic foaming shampoo and soap used for dogs with skin irritations, insect problems and to heal disorders. We add Neem and Karanja oil to the soap for their ayurvedic medicine healing and insect repellant properties.

KODA OmniShield – Natural Insect Repellent Spray

OmniShield is an intense therapeutic naturopathic insect repellent spray that uses OmniCare as its base adding high levels of Neem and Karanja oil, peppermint, red thyme and lemongrass to repel over 200 flying and crawling insects including fleas, ticks, flies, mosquitoes and lice.

KODA OmniCare – Topical Therapy Spray

OmniCare is a naturopathic therapeutic spray designed to heal skin irritations, insect bites, cuts, scrapes and hot spots. It is a combination of botanical, herb and spice extract that are brewed and then distilled.

KODA Proflexoil – Joint Health & Pain Relief

ProFlexoil is a multifaceted vegan joint compound for dogs of all ages whose joint stress comes from both external and internal forces. It is a Cox-2 enzyme inhibitor with ingredients including Glucosamine HCL (not sulfate) and Collagen.

KODA ProCalm – Calmative and Stress Reducer

ProCalm is a relaxing elixir developed for higher stressed and easily agitated dogs. It uses a combination of Magnolia extract which is 90% honokiol and magnolo and virgin organic avocado oil as a natural herbal relaxer.

KODA ProBiome – Probiotic & Prebiotic

ProBiome4 is a Lactobacilli sporogenes which is a lactic acid producing bacillus preparation. To over simplify, it is a probiotic with exceptional properties.

KODA LifeTrace – Ionic Mineral Water Supplement

LifeTrace76 is an ionic mineral supplement to be added to the dog’s water. Filtered, RO (reverse osmosis) and distilled water strip needed minerals along with the harmful pathogens. LifeTrace76 adds back in all 76 minerals needed for healthy bodily functions and is very low in sodium and potassium

KODA OmegaLife – Fish Oil Alternative!

OmegaLife is a vegan alternative to fermented cod liver oil and salmon oil. It is for dogs that react to the taste of fish oil.

Koda Products Sneak Peek!

A sneak peek of the products that we will be introducing at the international pet trade show this September in Las Vegas. These are the first ten products in the line that will be available soon

Itchy Dog? Ditch the Perfume

As for that nagging feeling about the itching and scratching after your dog’s bath or after a grooming session? The most likely reason your dog is scratching and itching is directly related to the perfumes, artificial fragrance and harsh ingredients in dog shampoos!

Probiotics & Probiome – Feeding Your Skin!

The skin needs probiotics like we need for improved digestion. The problem is that the skin is a lot more susceptible to chemicals, allergens and pollution. Worse, the products we use are killing the skin’s probiome and the results are misdiagnosed skin disorders. Learn what to do and what not to do.

Polluted Pets – What are we doing?

I am raising a red flag when it comes to our pets and the environment. In my book, Chemical-Free Skin Health® I pointed out that about 50 years ago just about everything we put on our skin or came in contact with was naturally derived. Now nearly 95% is synthetic. There are now tens of thousands of chemicals that are in use that have never been tested for safety. Worse, our pets are exposed in direct contact to hundreds of more chemicals for the shear reason that they typically where no shoes, clothing and dogs tend to lead with their noses. This reality is played out in the article from the Environmental Working Group showing industrial chemical toxins at alarming high rates compare to humans. In 2007, I was a founding member of Pets for the Environment which was a spin-off of the EWG. It was just coming into vogue when the Melamine was discovered in food additives being made in China. The timing was good, but because of budget cuts and Congressional naivete, the project did not last. Now, we are trying to bring it back into public eye because of the results below and the continued exposure of our pets to toxic […]

Parabens – Just another Dirty Dozen Chemical?

Parabens…Good Guys or Bad Guys? As a part of my ongoing series of looking at the Dirty Dozen Chemicals shown to provide elevated cancer rates in people and animals, in this article, I outline why we do not use parabens leaving the judgmental diagnosis to the NGO’s attacking them. The Dirty Dozen Chemicals are a list of 12 developed originally by the Marin County Cancer Project which at the time, had the highest Cancer Rates in the US. Followed by Search For The Cause and Teens Turning Green the list is now designated the Dirty Thirty. To get started, parabens are chemical bactericides and germicides that are in 95% of pet skin care products. Said, there is a lot of debate whether they are good or bad for our pets. My take is that they are contributing to elevated cancer rates for our dogs. We think we are helping them, but just maybe we are shortening their lives. So, are parabens good guys or bad guys? Both it seems and there is a why we do not use them as well.

Groomers, The Good, Bad and the Ugly

We travel all over North America for our businesses. We choose to travel in a motor coach for a number of reasons. Probably the most important are named Jasper and Isabel. Jasper is our two year old Bichon pup and Isabel our Abyssinian-Tabby cat. Besides, airports and hotels are no fun. BTW, That is Japer on the masthead running on the Oregon coast with his favor pink ball. One of the toughest things is to find a groomer we can trust. Not just to give Jasper a good cut, but to find a groomer that is a natural practitioner and will safeguard Jasper during his visit. We learned a few tricks along the way that simply involves using your senses. We always ask Bichon owners where they have their pup groomed when their dog looks well cared for, cleanly groomed and happy go lucky. This is a happenstance that we consider first when we find someone through a referral. This is way too much luck for us, so we developed a few little tricks that involve using your eyes, ears and sense of smell. Here is our secret to finding a good groomer for Jasper. First, make sure you read […]

California to License Groomers?

From Cal Watchdog Even Dogs Have A Nanny In CA Katy Grimes: A California state Senator has authored a bill which would regulate pet grooming and require dog groomers to pay a whopping $350 for a state-issued license. As if the state Legislature’s attempt to require helmuts for skiers and snowboarders, licensing hair braiders, and and imposing child-car seats restrictions just isn’t enough – California now wants to monitor and regulate the bathing and clipping of Bowser and Fluffy. Will legislators be creating a new state agency to do this?

Public Enemy #1 – Sodium Laureth Sulfate, It’s in everything!

Dirty Dozen Chemicals: SLS Many people that I meet ask me to describe why I do not use certain chemicals. I tell them that my reasons are practical not political. I generally explain in three to five stepped reason why I do not use certain ingredients. Most encourage me to offer my simplified reason, so I am beginning to undertake why we do not use certain ingredients. In this series of article, I will start with the Dirty Dozen. For pets, we have to realize that perhaps the worst chemical that they come in contact with every day is Sodium Laureth Sulfate. Why, because it is in virtually every home in many many forms. When I am asked to list the top five products that come in contact with pets that contain SLS in large amounts, you would be surprised to learn what they are. Laundry Detergent Dish Washing Liquid Carpet Cleaner Outdoor Cleaners like Simple Green Pet Shampoo

Dogs and the Dirty Dozen – No Mix!

Killer Chemicals? The “Dirty Dozen” Chemicals in Everyday Pet Products I was pretty irritated when I found out that many contract manufacturers that make pet shampoos, conditioners and skin products follow no strict guidelines for the chemicals they use or the amounts of these chemicals. Worse, I found manufacturers using ingredients that were band for people. Rather then dumping the product, they relabel it for pets. You would think with the Melamine in pet food scare killing pets a few years back that we would learn. I do not know about you, but I treat my dog and cat better then I treat myself At Keys, we believe that over 50% of all pet skin disorders are misdiagnosed and are actually caused by chemicals in everyday products. In fact, over 95+% of all skin and pet care shampoos, bath gels, conditioners, laundry detergents and cosmetics contain one or more of these chemicals. At Keys we are chemical-free and therapeutic. We believe that education is the best tool and we provide this list for your reference. When shopping for new products for you, your family and your pet, these chemicals should be avoided. Chemical-Free Skin Health should be your goal and dedication. So […]

Disney’s Story – How Keys Pet Care Products Began

Great products solve problems and make you feel good. Most products are born out of a need to solve a problem. This is true of the original Keys line of pet care products. Keys began as an all-natural therapeutic skin health product line about 8 years ago. While on tour test marketing their products, an almost tragedy was the beginnings of the Keys Pet Care line of products. Keys Pet Care has now morphed in to KODA Pet Care Products On our way back from the Florida Keys, I took our Bichon Frise, Disney, to a groomer. When Disney returned, he was white, fluffy and looked just great. A few minutes after picking him up, I noticed him scratching. It later escalated to him pulling out his fur to a point where he began bleeding. Shocked, I got him in the tub and wet him down to see what was going on. His skin was bright red and inflamed. I thought that it had something to do with some product that the groomer used, so I used one of the Keys natural soaps on him. This helped to calm him a bit. That night was sleepless for me and Disney.

Sun Damage – Before and After on the Same Face?

As a geek, I must admit a certain amount of frustration with many people espousing opinion when it comes to the skin. Choosing to blinder themselves from the obvious or ignoring simple realities to make a point. Jay Chiat, the advertising guru that was responsible for much of the Apple Macintosh marketing, once told me that, “Controversy is the #1 tool of marketing. With the spread of blogs, articles and chat rooms created by the internet, his words are more true that ever. Couple that concept with the Chinese proverb, “one dog hears something and barks. Then 500 dogs bark because they heard the dog bark,” seems to be the new normal. Case in point, almost every time Doc Mercola talks about the sun, he claims its benefits and no direct link to damage. I must admit that he says it using controversial words that slide through the truth. Well, at least my truth. So, I am cruising through one of my engineering blogs and saw the article below. You be the judge for yourself. I know that I am going to upgrade the side window films to the new 3M SPF 1000 UV coating on all of my vehicles based on the article. Bob PS, some people found […]

Koda Story

KODA is the dog therapy product line established by Keys. Products include chemical-free natural supplements and topical therapies for dogs. We use ancient remedies and modern technology to make natural products that makes dogs feel good and solve both internal and skin problems. We use pharmaceutical grade ingredients in therapeutic proportions to solve problems that account for the top 10 reasons for vet visits. KODA is a combination of wellness products and natural solutions. Koda is Lakota Sioux for “Friend.” The word perfectly describe the intention for our products and their recipients. Today’s dogs are exposed to all sorts of environmental and chemical exposures that are and will shorten their lives. After an experience with our 14 month old pup, Jasper, that forced him to have to take strong antibiotics and Prednisone, we realized that the Veterinarians were ill equip to balance his prescriptions with a wellness program. Determined, we set out to find the finest ingredients the same way that we developed our custom regime for Jasper. Koda is a new brand for our established Keys product line. We have been making natural topical therapies for people and their pets for over 7 years. Our Neem and Karanja oil […]

I have always developed Keys products as solutions which interact with each other to build natural glowing and healthy skin. When we created our regimes, they were simple and fairly obvious to understand what to use and when. It was either wash your face add a moisturizer and an eeye cream for night and replace the mositurizer with a mositurizing sunblock during the day.

When we began to add toners, elixirs and fusions the complication factor went higher. We recognizing that for people with dry skin they needed a more emollient foundation compared to someone with oily skin. Even though we have only a few broad function products compared to other companies, we needed to communicate the functionality of each of our products and how they would fit into a day and night regime for people.

So, being a bunch of engineers, we set about to create three charts that show how to use our products, when to use them, why and in what order. Like us they are simple and I hope easy to understand. (more…)

Dramatic Skin – Keys Reflex ProBiome – New Revolution

Reflex ProBiome – The Back Story Reflex is one of the oldest new products we have. I know that does not make sense. It does to me because I developed Reflex almost five years ago and have been testing it since under the code name of Silken. My problem was that the delay had nothing to do with developing the product, packaging or refinement. My problem? At least three of the ingredients I needed were not available in quantities greater than a few gallons. If you keep in mind that I need thousands of liters or gallons to bring a product to market, a single liter is only good to prototype and lead to frustration. As if it was a sign from the heavens at this place in space and time, providers showed up with production quantities of high grade organic virgin avocado oil, virgin Tamanu oil and our own ability to volume extract our Muras. Later in the aricle below, all the ingredients are described and it was the fact that I can buy ample quantities of raw materials without compromising quality facilitate the launch of our new product by its real name. Reflex ProBiome is unquestionably a big […]

Travel Tips from Dr. Amy

Tips to Stay UltraHealthy While Traveling

Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, with family, friends or solo here are some tips to stay UltraHealthy while away from home

Keys Cross – The Many Uses of Omni Spray Elixir

This post features the Functions and Uses of Keys Omni. It is a new category for Keys products on Clean Green Cafe. We have constructed a table along with a description to give people an idea of what they can use our products to solve their skin problems.

Is Your Body’s Engine Running Optimally? Dr. Amy

Is Your Body’s Engine Running Optimally?

When your car’s engine is finely tuned and running optimally; you know it. Likely that is the case with your own body also, and when it is out of tune you know that too.

A Close Shave

Close Shave? I am often asked why we do not make a shave cream or shaving soap. My answer? We already do!

Skin ‘Sees’ UV Light, Starts Producing Pigment

In a new study, biologists report that melanocyte skin cells detect ultraviolet light using a photosensitive receptor previously thought to exist only in the eye. This eye-like ability of skin to sense light triggers the production of melanin within hours, more quickly than previously thought, in an apparent rush to protect against damage to DNA.

Scientists Use Laser Imaging to Assess Safety of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles in Sunscreen

Australian and Swiss scientists have found that the nano zinc oxide particles did not penetrate beneath the outermost layer of cells.

SK!N What’s Normal pH?

by Bob Root, Keys CTO There is another book on the horizon for us. The working title is simple, “SK!N”. After Chemical-Free Skin Health was published, I started to get so many questions that focused more on “what to do” than what is wrong. Yes, there will be a chapter about the negative effects of chemicals in products. The majority of the book are things that we should be doing to improve skin health which has a direct connection to youthful appearance and beauty. These articles are snippets from the book which are triggered by questions that I get that I think are important now! Books just have this tendency to stretch things out a bit too far. Like all good citizens, I have a disclaimer. For future reference, I once had a professor that said, “Ask Root the time of day and he will lecture you on the origin of time.” So forewarned is forearmed. ;-]…..There are no simple answers and no simple questions when it comes to Skin! Bob I had a medical colleague ask me what she thought was a simple question. “What is the normal pH of the skin?” Remember there are no simple […]

Safe Cosmetics Bestows Champion Status On Keys Care

Market Shift: Keys Care Receives “Champion” Status – Fulfills Safe Products Pledge Consumer demand for safer products drives fastest-growing market segment The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics announced today that Keys has achieved the highest recognition earning “Champion” status by meeting the goals of the Compact for Safe Cosmetics, the Campaign’s voluntary pledge to avoid chemicals banned by health agencies outside the U.S. and to fully disclose product ingredients – a pioneering practice in the cosmetics industry. “Congratulations to Keys for being a ‘Champion’ and for demonstrating that it’s possible to make personal care products that far exceed current safety standards in the United States. A growing number of consumers are seeking personal care products that do not contain hazardous chemicals, and our report shows that making safer products is not only possible, but is also part of a successful business model,” said Mia Davis, organizing director of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and coordinator of the new Safe Cosmetics Business Network.

The News Is Not All Bad!

I must admit that I have been CNN Free for nearly tens years. Really! I find myself working at looking at the world through positive lenses. I have found that watching things out of my control affects my overall health. This is not an “ignorance is bliss” approach to living as much as it is a focus on what I can effect, affect and control. For some time now, I have been afflicted with the belief that much of our health is not about doctors, prescription or even prevention. As I have studied, for my own life, I have found that health and specifically skin health, are directly relates to changing behaviors and realizing that it is not just about what we put into or on our body, it is how we do it and exercising the critical systems of the body. Simply, just eating right and going to the gym are minor things and pale in comparison to focusing on our physical, mental and endocrine body balance. My research may or may not be leading to a new book, but one thing for sure is that I believe that much of our skin health has been too focused on the negative aspects of […]

What Some Sunscreens Are Hiding…(Republished)

It is summer and it is sunscreen season. Below is an article I recently wrote about the new welcomed changes from the FDA that will force manufacturers to reveal what is in their sunscreens. Please read it and the links to the FDA. This change has go a long way to help save lives through UVA and UVB dangers awareness. Also, since this new regulation, I thought it would be good to reprint the blog article herein. I encourage you to study to protect you and your family. My grandfather used to say to me, “make up your mind. Don’t let someone make up your mind for you!” It is more important than ever that you listen to facts based on studies and not opinion.

New FDA Sunscreen Regulations

by Bob Root It has been about three years of communication with the FDA before the new sunscreen regulations came out June 11, 2011. The FDA requested input from many companies and organizations. Keys and other presented facts, opinion and wishes. For some the time and the angle of the new direction have been touted as too little and too late. I for one am happy with the changes.

Skin Cancer & “The Ugly Duckling” …Hold the Mayo! (Update May 21st)

WISDOM FROM “UGLY DUCKLINGS” by Wendy Steele (Original Post May 9, 2011…See updates below) My recent experience with several “ugly ducklings” has once again put a bright spotlight on my desire and responsibility to share my personal wisdom about skin health. So far in this month of May, I have had the pleasure to personally talk to and meet many of our mid-west customers during multiple special events. At one event I was wearing several flesh-colored bandage strips on my upper chest and self-consciously made sure that I covered those strategically with clothing, as I did not want to reveal those ugly little bandages. I thought later that perhaps I would have been better off letting them show, because then I could share more personally my own experiences with “ugly ducklings”. Knowledge is a powerful thing.

Gluten Sensitivity: Is something You Are Eating Making You Sick?

Gluten Sensitivity: Is something You Are Eating Making You Sick? Are you eating something everyday that could be making you sick? I was! During my second year of medical school I was diagnosed with Graves Disease, an autoimmune disorder that caused my thyroid to be overactive. Each night before going to bed I would eat two pieces of sprouted whole wheat toast so that I could make it through the night without losing weight. Little did I know that each night I was poisoning myself. At that time, I was not aware of the gluten / autoimmune thyroid connection and my intolerance to gluten.

Understanding UVA & UVB

By Bob Root It is a constant quest to understand and then explain the effects of UVA and UVB on our skin and our lives. Our involvement with the Skin Cancer Foundation, Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, Scripps and various universities expose me to all sorts of information. I am always searching for the simplest and best explanations to help people understand UV radiation. Clearly I feel that I stand on the shoulders of many scientists and advocates. Below is by far the best I have seen as a simple elegant guide. It comes from the Skin Cancer Foundation and has an equally simple title. Understanding UVA and UVB

Keys Omni – New Revolutionary Skin Spray Elixir

Omni – Skin Elixir Spray 60ml (2oz) Omni is a revolutionary product from every aspect. Omni is a technology term derived from the Latin word Omnis meaning “all.” When we began to develop AquaVit, it became clear that our Ariane ingredient had wonderful properties. Omni was originally being developed with an ingredient we named Miras. Miras is a special ingredient that comes from the fruit of the Forsythia plant and has very high levels of Oleanolic which is known to have many healing and cleansing properties for the skin without harming the skins probiotic EcoSystem. We then combined Ariane and Miras together for a combined effect that rivals any skin care, anti-aging or beauty product in the world. Of course, I am biased.

New AguaVit – Toner Tonic from Keys

I am very happy to announce a new product long in development called AguaVit AguaVit is more than a toner. Take one sniff and the scent conjures deeply rooted emotions of times gone by. AguaVit means “Water of life.” It is made from a functional ingredient created by Keys called Arianne. To make Ariane we blend & distill whole organic orange, lime, cranberry, cucumber, juniper berry, star anise, cassia cinnamon, anise seed, ginger and clove.

You are what you apply – to your skin!

You are what you apply – to your skin! What’s in your body lotion? You’ve heard the old adage “you are what you eat.” Now I’d like to add another to that. “You are what you apply.” To your skin, that is! Substances that affect your overall health and wellbeing don’t simply work their way through your system by travelling the gut alone. An often-overlooked route – the transdermal (through the skin) route – allows substances ranging from the beneficial to the bad to enter your bloodstream and circulate throughout your body. So, if you are what you eat, and you are what you apply, the question is: what are you?

AguaVit & Omni – Two New Functional Ingredient Products From Keys

Keys Skip Generation Technology – Blended Whole Botanicals by Bob Root Keys Technologist We are about to introduce two new products that represent a significant advancement for us and the industry. AguaVit and Omni are two new products coming soon that employ a remarkable change for us in how we produce products that offer functionality, efficacy and performance. Traditionally, companies blend ingredients to create a new product. These can be oils, essential oils, extracts and blends of ingredients that were separately processed. Often these ingredients are estered or separated and refined for a specific function. For example, Vitamin E can be refined from vegetables to look for and extract only a portion of the Vitamin E or the creation of a Tocopherol substance using refining processes. Then many ingredients with separated functionality are blended together to create some action. This is a lot of work and I continually question separating components of any natural substance to increase its intensity. Deriving an intense form of Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA) from fruit like apples sounds natural, but it is not. The intense action of an AHA burns the skin to exfoliate rapidly with many consequences beyond red skin. So it true of […]

Bob Root Begins Book Tour! Asks! Are We Killing Our Skin’s Ecosystem?

Chemical-Free Skin Health is the book written by Bob Root that is a compilation of all his experiences being on the road with Keys customers. The book answers the most commonly asked questions as well as proposing some radical ideas about skin health. Bob features information about the Human Microbiome Project and the National Institutes of health that is a spin-off of the human genome project. Of all the points Bob makes in the book, the one that drives his continued passion is his deep concern that the chemical bactericides used as preservative in most skin care and household products are destroying the natural ecosystem on our skin. Parabens and Triclosan used as preservatives and antibacterial agents is an undiscriminating killer of the probiotics on our skin. This subject is so important to Bob that he has made it the focal point of his book tour which begins in March.

The Future of Medicine is NOW!

The future of medicine is now. If I asked you to describe your ideal physician – what would he or she “look” like? Would she be compassionate and empathic? Would she meet with you for a hour or maybe even two? Would she listen attentively to every detail of your health history knowing it’s interconnected like a web and everything is a clue into your present state of health? Would she be knowledgeable about nutrition, environmental toxins and stress reduction, and more importantly, spend time talking with you about these things? Would she be concerned with preventing disease and getting to the root cause of your illness instead of just treating the symptoms with a pill? Would it be a healing partnership rather than a hierarchal relationship?

UltraHealth…What A Concept! A Real BHAG!

UltraHealth…What A Concept! A Real BHAG! by Bob Root, Keys technologists & founder In tech, we had a phrase that we used to differentiate really big projects. BHAG stands for a Big Hairy Audacious Goal. When I helped to start Keys, we had some big hairy goals. Universal Wellness was perhaps the biggest. Remember, I am from high tech engineering, a practicing quantum physicist and a dreamer. Ergo a futurist who believes anything is possible. The adage that anything new is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration simply means to me that usually one person or a few have the spark of an idea and then it takes many more people working hard over a period of time until the rest of us get it. In all endeavors, we all are both leaders and followers at some point in time. The concept of Universal Wellness is not new, but it certainly is becoming a BHAG with many leaders and many followers of Natural and Functional Medicine. Mehmet Oz (Dr. Oz) and I have a similar BHAG. To put ourselves out of business. Universal wellness will do that.

Wendy’s #1 Life Rule: Simplify!

Wendy’s #1 Life Rule: Simplify! Keys Products Have Many Uses! We design products that can simplify your life. At Keys we think differently! Over six years ago, when we started designing and manufacturing skin health products, we had a fundamental belief that we could invent products that would solve skin issues and make people feel good. We were inspired by our imagination and explored the use of revered healing natural ingredients so that each of these products effectively would have more than one use. We believed they should be simple, safe and make life less complex every day. What a concept and it is our reality!

Chemical-Free Skin Health Book Now For Sale!

The new book by Bob Root is now available for sale. The book is available on the Keys web site store as well as various book sellers like Amazon.com and Barnes & Nobel. Below are the links to the book sale pages. Keys Online Store: Click Here Amazon.com: Click Here Barnes & Nobel: Click Here

RediCare, OmniCare & OmniShield Locking Sprayer

We are pleased to announce the next generation sprayer head for our some product. The innovations for this new design development are a finer mist spray, more even and less pressure required to operate, and a new integrated locking mechanism. Most people quickly notice the new locking mechanism. The prior sprayer used a “wishbone” clip that kept the pump from operating while in a bag, backpack, or pocket. The problem with the old design was that the small clip was easily lost. In developing the next-generation sprayer, we sought all the new features plus an integrated lock. As simple as it seems, it took us a long time to bring the design to the market. Below is a short video that shows the operation of the locking latch. Merely push the button from the right of the pump to open the sprayer for operation and a second push from the left to latch it closed and prevent accidental discharge of the pump. We are constantly looking for higher-quality ingredients, improved processes, and new mechanical designs to improve our products. It is our firm belief that our products must solve problems and make people feel good. Sometimes, solving problems is how products are […]

Triclosan Ban Could Be On The Way

Bob Root in his new book Chemical-Free Skin Health outlined many of his concerns over the widespread use of Triclosan in foods, products and skin care. The article below was dated today in the Natural Products Manufacturers newsletter. From Natural Foods Merchandiser The Environmental Protection Agency is considering whether to ban the antibacterial chemical triclosan in consumer products, in response to a petition submitted by 82 environmental and public health groups led by Beyond Pesticidesand Food & Water Watch.

Fragrance – Keys Reports

In an effort to bring relevant information to you, we occasionally find interesting reports. This one tags onto the EWG Fragrance Report and includes concerns we have had for a long time regarding unlisted chemicals in fragrance found in household products. This is a FYI for you! ____________________________________________________________ Scented Consumer Products Shown to Emit Many Unlisted Chemicals

Gathering Thyme, New Bay Area Keys Reseller Opens in Marin County

Gathering Thyme is a new community herb shop and holistic health education center focused on providing Marin County and the Bay Area with exceptional natural healthcare products, education and support. “Keys is very excited to add Gathering Thyme to our reseller list because they are true trusted advisors in their community,” said Wendy Steele, Keys CEO. In the retail shop you will find a wide selection of high-quality locally-sourced herbal products including the very best in bulk herbs, teas and spices; Western, Chinese, and Ayurvedic herbal formulas; practitioner-lines of dietary supplements; a terrific selection of organic face and body care products for women, men and children; a large selection of new and used natural healthcare books; bulk salts, clays, and body care products; and herb and health related supplies and gifts.

Keys Featured at the 2010 California Women’s Conference

New book, “Chemical-Free Skin Health” premiered at the California Women’s Conference. Keys creates ECO Island. Keys product chosen by Maria Shriver for second year in a row for speakers’ gift bag. Long Beach California, October 25, 2010, California Women’s Conference. “Chemical-Free Skin Health” is a new book written by Keys founder and Chief Technology Officer, Bob Root. The book is the first written by a natural products industry formulator to help users make better buying choices for safer cosmetics and safer personal care products. Bob Root offered, “I wrote my book because I realized that many people want safer cosmetics and safer personal care products, but they did not know how to go about making buying decisions. I created ‘Chemical-Free Skin Health’ to give people a sort of users guide to help make better choices. I ask my readers to Stop, Challenge and Choose! I want them to stop buying products that can harm them, challenge conventional thinking and choose the right solutions for them in a quest for better skin health by using natural products.” Bob Root, An Unlikely Formulator!

On The Press! New Book by Keys Founder – Bob Root

Chemical-Free Skin Health! Bob announced the beginning of a book focused on skin health over two years ago at the Natural Products Expo West. His book will be published in early October and Bob will officially launch the book at the 2010 California Women’s Conference. Maria Shriver chose Keys Luminos for last years Women’s Conference for the speakers gift bag. This year, she chose Keys Solar Rx for the speakers gift bag. The book, titled “Chemical-Free Skin Health” with a subtitle of “Stop • Challenge • Choose” will be published by Orion’s M42 publishing company and will be sold on the show floor by Vroman’s bookstore. Bob will be at the show signing the books. Keys will be exhibiting in the newly created section called the “ECO Island” which features green sustainable products. For those attending, Bob and Wendy will be in the Keys booth along with Kathleen Beaton, Hollywood makeup artist and writer of the Foreword for Bob’s book. Kerry Malouf, motion picture makeup artist and beauty editor for Malibu Magazine will also be in the Keys booth in the ECO Island.

The Story of Cosmetics • Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

Comments of the personal care industry, by Bob Root, Keys CTO “The world is a changen,” is an old southern phrase. It generally means that new things continue to appear at a little to fast a pace. The concept of safe cosmetics does not fit into that phrase. I believe we are actually returning to the basics and our roots from not a too distant a past. Our first lotion was a refined version of one my grandmother created. She taught me to make a very fine lotion that she used to simmer on the pilot light (Google ‘pilot light’ if you are under 40) on the stove. She had long since passed-on by the time I started Keys, but I remembered the formula and process. Very emollient, Tortuga rivals the department store brands at a fraction of the price. Why, because it is all natural whole ingredients and not 50+ chemicals designed to mimic a real natural lotion.

Triclosan: The Biocide That Creates Super Bugs?

Triclosan: The Biocide that Creates Super Bugs? By Bob Root, Keys Technologist Chemical Warfare Chapter 12: Biocides: Indiscriminate killers that create super bugs? For almost two years, I have been working on a book draft titled, “Chemical Warfare.” It is a book focused on simplifying information about personal care and household products uses and concerns for public safety. As I studied, I realized how much hearsay there was in the industry. Taking a scientific approach, I turned to the research community for insights and facts…as best as they are. Part of my dedication was and is to release information that is important in real-time. Books, after all, are merely a snapshot in time and pale in comparison to real-time information gateways like our blog. FACT vs FUD is a chapter in this book as well as an article on this blog. In this overly inflammatory news based society of ours, my resistance is to publish anything that is not based in research.

Keys Now Blog Merges with Clean Green Cafe

In a world of fast paced communications, we continue to try to simplify, condense and corral the information we present in a way that helps clarify not only our position, but that of the natural products industry. Over the next few month, we will continue to simplify all that we present to be in one place. Here! The Clean Green Cafe offers both a chat forum and a blog. These are now condensed to this location and available on the tab bar above. The writing style will continue to be firm, frank and friendly bringing all of what we can find out that is going on, the trends and our opinion of things. The Clean Green Cafe will also continue to be a place where we aim to inform. It will also be the home of the new book being written by our founder, Bob Root, titled “Chemical Warfare!” a story about the natural products industry from an insiders perspective.

Ele Keats Actor – Artist – Keys Fan

Ele Keats Actor Artist Keys Fan! When we started Keys, we began small with a few products and some real fans. Our core belief is that products should solve problems and make people feel good about themselves and what they are using in and on their body. As we have grown, we feel it is time to honor some of those that we have helped, have been with us for a long time and those using our products in unique applications. Featured Keys Customer: Ele Keats, Hometown: Hollywood California

About Us – A Defining Moment

Keys was born from a need for natural skin care products the likes of which did not exist before we started. Our founder, Wendy Steele, survived Melanoma and her story of her road to recovery was littered with prescription products that almost worked. The trauma showed her the clear vision need for products that really worked to solve skin problems. Because they are natural, they also made her feel good with a new youthful appearance and the resulting contentment showed her the way in creating Keys In the simplest of messages, Keys is ancient remedies employing modern technologies for people with skin disorders, those that want to be chemical-free, people who want their family to have natural alternatives and for post cancer recovery survivors. We are: Natural Beauty Natural Skin Care Natural Skin Therapies Natural Hair Care Natural Dog Care & Supplements Keys Purpose and Direction We are not just a natural products company with scents of lavender and claims of what ingredients we do not have in our products. We consider ourselves a natural medicine and therapy products company that happens to use natural ingredients. We use functional ingredients in therapeutic proportions to design and build skin care, beauty, skin therapies and dog care […]

EWG 2010 Sunscreen Report – Sunscreen For Dummies

Bob Root, Keys CTO It is that time of year again when the various sunscreen reports come out. The Environmental Working Group 2010 Sunscreen Report is out a couple of months early. Once again, Keys Solar Rx receives great marks in the Moisturizer with SPF category. I offer the title above with a great deal of respect for this years EWG 2010 Sunscreen Report. I use the colloquial title because for the first time I feel there is a report that we can all read and understand. Good on ya EWG for making something that we can read and learn as well as drill down for the details. This year there are some interesting changes in the report that might not be very apparent, so I will try to hit some highlights to simplify it for you. Most notable is that the ranking system is gone and it is a very clear, concise easy to read educational document.

Toxic America with Dr. Sanjay Gupta and EWG’s Ken Cook

We always endeavor to report on things that we know based on facts or studies. This small review is most definitely and opinion piece from us, so you should form you own opinion by reading the links and watching the various videos available at the links. Keys Review, Toxic America Well if you missed it, the CNN series with Sanjay Gupta titled Toxic America was quite good.

Parabens Good Or Bad Guys

Both? As a part of my ongoing series of looking at the Dirty Dozen Chemicals shown to provide elevated cancer rates in people and animals, in this article, I outline why we do not use parabens leaving the judgmental diagnosis to the NGO’s attacking them. The Dirty Dozen Chemicals are a list of 12 developed originally by the Marin County Cancer Project which at the time, had the highest Cancer Rates in the US. Followed by Search For The Cause and Teens Turning Green the list is now designated the Dirty Thirty. So, are parabens good guys or bad guys? Both it seems and there is a why we do not use them as well. Below is a scavenged description of parabens from Wikipedia. On the surface and from a chemical perspective they do their job. Many chemists and companies support their use based on a belief of safety. I believe that they are looking at the wrong reasons for safety. Our society seems to primarily look at safety as, “will what we put on our skin hurt us directly?” I believe that we should be looking at whether it hurts us based on contact and will it cause something […]

Wax and Other Things That Threaten Mankind

Ingredients, Skin Deep Report and Everything Else… Musing from an interview with Bob Root, Keys Care CTO I recently took up Storm Chasing as a hobby… Just kidding although I feel like one of those guys chasing Tornado’s in the Midwest when it comes to the natural products industry. I was recently on a conference call with various members of the Natural Products Manufacturers Association enraged about a change that the EWG had made in the rating of Vegetable Emulsifying Wax from a 1 to a 4. The tone was angry because as Compact Signers, we were not given a why, who, what or a heads-up at all to the change. As of the time of the call, no one knew why the ranking was changed, who provoked it or the reason for the change. Normally, I would not address this here on our blog, but there has been so much uproar at the consumer level that our customer service, sales and marketing teams asked for some clarity. The title of this article maybe should have been Williams Shakespeare’s, “Much Ado About Nothing!”

Keys Product Labels

We have always published our product labels on our website. Admittedly they have been a little hard to find and took some work. As a part of the evolution of our website and our dedication to simpler more informed content, we have created a page on our blog dedicated to our products from an informational standpoint. The page on the main menu bars above and to the right show a new category called “Keys Products.” As we add information, it will appear in this category and as a brief article like this one. So, now all of our label art in flat pattern is available to be viewed by clicking this link or the label image herein. You can also go to the category page and click the link there to see these labels. You will also notice that we are beginning to add recycle symbols to our labels. Many of our containers are made in the EU and do not have mold recycle marks. These packages are fully recyclable. We are adding the symbol to all of our labels as an assurance. As we add the symbol, we will update the label art page above to reflect the changes.

EWG Report on Fragrance – Not So Sexy!

The EWG just released a report on Fragrances. Below is a part of the report and links to read the entire report. What is important to understand is that these same secret ingredients are used in personal care and household products. That familiar brand fragrance of Tide, Dreft and dryer sheets come from fragrance developed in the same process as the cologne’s and perfumes listed in the EWG Report. This report is not startling to us, but it will be to you. It is clear and concise as well as very easy to understand. Simply if it has a long lasting smell, it is a good chance that your products have some of these secret ingredients that are talked about in the report. This morning our chief scientist, Bob Root, was a featured speaker on the industry call hosted by the Product Stewardship Institute.

UV “B” Chic and UV “A” Wise – How to avoid skin cancer!

Wendy Steele, Keys CEO UV “B” Chic and UV “A” Wise Video After the shock of being diagnosed with Melanoma Skin Cancer and the aftermath of dealing with all the chemical in my life that cause my skin disorders, the reality set home pretty quickly. My skn could never again be exposed to prolonged UV events. Growing up with a golden tan every summer, sailing the Chesapeak Bay and living in San Diego on a boat caused me to rethink my lifestyle. Moreover, it caused me to become a advocate and spokesperson for UV and sun avoidance. Yes, we make one of the finest sunblocks in the world. Consumer Reports said it was the most effective. The Environmental Working Group said we are the safest. Still, my advocacy is education to stay out of the sun, wear a UPF rated hat and clothing, wear sunglasses and then cover exposed skin with sun protection. Strange that a sun protection company would say cover-up…not really! Every day throughout the world, people die from Melanoma. Many do not realize it until it is too late. I dress the way I do and take the sun seriously because my life depends […]

KEYS TV – About Keys

KEYS TV About Keys Simple, Effective Pharmaceutical Grade Products for Skin Health Video Many people have asked how we started Keys and why. This short video overview will give you a sense of who we are, why we started and our purpose. As an overview, Wendy Steele, Keys CEO was diagnosed with Melanoma Skin Cancer a little over ten years ago. She survived the cancer, but was terribly afflicted with skin disorders that were diagnosed by doctors as adult acne, eczema, psoriasis,l contact dermatitis and a myriad of other incorrect bad guesses. What she found was that it was the chemicals in prescription skincare and the sunscreens she had to wear to protect her skin.

Keys on the Road with the Stars..At the Oscar’s

By Wendy Steele, Keys CEO A few years ago when I fell and sprained my ankle, I had to send Bob to Santa Monica CA to meet with 300 Hollywood makeup artists. The trip was to introduce Eye Butter as a natural alternative to eye foundations and creams. Our message then and now was that natural products no longer needed to be a compromise. Our message was and is that Eye Butter, Luminos and Solar Rx actually make people look good on and off camera. Not just for the Red Carpet. Most of you know that Bob is my business partner and also my husband. Since I was then on crutches and unable to travel, it was hard to send him to be with makeup artists which were mostly beautiful women with “the natural look”. As the story continues, happily, Bob’s connection with these women did not end with the event in Santa Monica. The relationships have strengthened and multiplied to where most of our beauty advisors are makeup artists and actors. And during this journey we have learned so much from them not only about on-camera results with Keys products, in addition many have become such good friends […]

Our Green Piece…How It’s Made at Keys!

by Bob Root Keys Technologist Clean, Caring, Concerned and Diligent! Everyone want to know these days what is in your products, what is not in your products and how does the making of your products effect the environment. I thought it might be lighter to use the title Green Piece with an ‘i’ because that is what the PR people call the eco statement that a company offers. Often these are full of $5 dollar words and platitudes. So, I have attempted to inform here without using too many words or big words that have no meaning. I am sure I have missed something, so make sure you use the comment box to ask me your questions. Keys is not just another natural products manufacturer. We design skin care solutions that solve problems. If there was a FDA category for Natural Medicines, you would find Keys there. What you will notice about our products is that we present them as natural solutions to problems with features, benefits and advantages offered. We are not a company that focused on scents, nor do we add any ingredients to scent our products. Although many people comment on the way our products smell, it […]

Keys Banned Chemical Series – SLS (Sodium Laureth Sulfate)

Dirty Dozen Chemicals: SLS By Bob Root Keys Technologist Many people that I meet ask me to describe why I do not use certain chemicals. I tell them that my reasons are practical not political. I generally explain in three to five pragmatic reasons why I do not use certain ingredients. Most encourage me to offer my simplified reasons, so I am beginning to undertake why we do not use certain ingredients. In this series of article, I will start with the Dirty Dozen.

New iPhone Application to Track Cosmetic Ingredients

A new iPhone application promises to inform the consumer of which products should be avoided using a database of INCI names and the ingredients allotted safety profile. Cosmetifique can be used with both the iPhone and iPod Touch and claims to have a searchable database of over 5,000 ingredients, in INCI format. Results for ingredients searches come back highlighted as either red, orange or green, to denote whether the ingredient is good, acceptable or should be avoided. According to application designer Alfredo Delli Bovi, this can inform the consumer whether the cosmetics they have bought or are planning on purchasing are dangerous to their health or the environment. Cosmetifique also allows favourite products to be saved with the name, brand and colour, which can then be shared with friends via email, facebook or twitter. Delli Bovi explained that the ingredients suggested as good are natural and green ingredients. “We talked to make-up gurus and 90 percent of them preferred natural ingredients, so we don’t suggest chemical ones like dimethicone,” he said. A local scientific agency provided much of the information for the application as did webservices, explained Delli Bovi. The application is now available to purchase from Apple’s App Store at a […]

Acne Solutions…Cause and Effect!

Acne Solutions. Real or Unreal? By Bob Root, Keys Technologist There are many acne treatments on the market promising a quick result. They work quickly and as quickly, the skin rebounds, for most with, with a vengeance. We receive a lot of emails from people wondering what we have for treating acne. Ironically, Keys is in business because of acne treatment. More about that later. The major quick fix for acne has been the same since the 1920’s. The chemical is called Benzyol Peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is an compound in the organic peroxide family. It consists of two benzoyl groups joined by a peroxide group. Benzoyl peroxide is used as an acne treatment, for improving flour, for bleaching hair and teeth, for polymerising polyester and many other uses.

New Eye Butter – A Better Butter

New Eye Butter Softer, smoother and more effective anti-aging properties By Bob Root, Keys Technologist Eye Butter is now better butter. The ingredients are the same. The amount of each ingredient has not changed. Two of the processes in making Eye Butter have been changed to increase its efficacy and soften the consistency while also being smoother.

Phthalates Linked To ADHD

In keeping with our commitment to keep you informed about studies dealing with the Dirty Thirty chemicals, here is a synopsis and link to a recent article regarding phthalates in personal care products. Please note that we have tracked the use of phthalates in room fresheners, scented candles, dryer sheets, laundry detergents, cologne/perfumes and a high percentage of personal care products. The consumer simple rule that we suggest is that if a product has a strong fragrance that lasts for a long time, it is most likely synthetic and contains a form of phthalate. When in doubt inquire to a product manufacture for assurance that their products do not contain phthalates. Keys Engineering Personal care ingredient linked to ADHD A new study has linked phthalates, a substance used in some shampoos, lotions, air fresheners and children’s toys, with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Although research on the health effects of phthalates (pronounced “thalates”) has been somewhat inconsistent, the latest study, published in Biological Psychiatry, adds to troubling findings about the chemical. “These data represent the first documented association between phthalate exposure and ADHD symptoms in school-aged children,” Yun-Chul Hong, MD, PhD, senior author of the study, said in a statement. He and his colleagues […]

EWG Report Released Today…457 chemical Contaminants in Cleaning Products

Research links school air quality to school cleaning supplies Keys Note: Although we are a natural skin remedy and health company, we have long said that many skin disorders are misdiagnosed and caused by chemicals in household products. Because this report is about schools, on the surface, do not dismiss this report when choosing your household cleaning products. Especially your laundry detergents that come in direct contact with your skin. At Keys, we believe that 95+% of all household cleaning products contain harmful chemicals to humans and pets and cause over 75% of diagnosed skin disorders. Our belief…What’s yours? Please read this summary and the linked report for your own well being! EWG, November 6, 2009: Cleaning supplies used in 13 large California school districts release an airborne brew of chemicals, including a number that have been linked to asthma or cancer by state and federal health authorities. Tests of 21 cleaners from these schools conducted for the Environmental Working Group found that when used as directed, the products released six chemicals known to cause asthma, 11 contaminants that are known, probable, or possible cancer-causing substances in humans, and hundreds of other compounds for which there is little or no […]

The California Women’s Conference…One Guy and 22,000 Women

Well, I am not the only guy. There are a few of us. As the Keys formulator, I was asked to attend this year’s California Women’s Conference to answer questions and talk to the press and celebrities about our line of chemical-free skincare products. I arrived in LA last week. It is always a homecoming for me. This year was the same, but different. After all, I was going to be hanging out with 22,000 women in one of my favorite towns, Long Beach. It is about four hours until the festivities begin and the energy here is heavy heavy supercharged and electric. I will be adding things after the conference here. We go from 4 pm to 9 pm tonight and then 7 am to 5 pm tomorrow. So, I am not sure exactly when I will be physically able to share impressions. To start, a few days ago the Governor chided some members of the press for being down on California. He offered what I have known since running a high tech company in Silicon Valley, that this state is all about innovation. It all start here he said and he is dead right. Whether it is a […]

Blogging…Not So Innocent

Blogging Debunking – Federal Style By Bob Root, Keys Technologist And it did not take a Michael Moore Film…. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), protects consumers from fraud or deceptive business practices, voted 4 to 0 to update its rules governing endorsements, and the new guidelines require bloggers and celebrities to clearly disclose any “material connection” to and including payments for an endorsement or free product. This is the first time since 1980 that the FTC has updated its rules on the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising. In addition to covering bloggers, the new FTC rules state that celebrity endorsers can be held liable for false statements about a product, and all endorsements must include results consumers can “generally expect.” Previously, an advertiser could cover their claims by the disclaimer “results not typical.”

The Dirty Thirty. A Reprised Dirty Dozen… 30 Bad Boy Chemicals!

At Keys, we have a core philosophy to not use any chemicals in our products that remotely have health concerns, known allergens or irritants. Like many, we started our business based on a need and we try to minimize negative marketing. If we were to list all the no’s, it would fill an entire web page. We chose to use the term chemical-free although it outrages the chemists of the world. All of our ingredients are on the labels and listed with the EWG Skin Deep Report. So the purpose of writing about the Dirty Thirty is to give you an education of what chemicals are typically used in skincare, what they are intended to do and why you do not want to have them in your products. Our own list of no no chemicals and natural ingredients tops 1100. Yes, some are natural and they are on our no-use list because they are too aggressive, too toxic or too useless because of efficacy or quality. This article is about the Real Dirty Thirty chemicals that top the bad-boys list.

Keys Chosen By California Women’s Conference

One of the premier conferences every year for and about women is the California Women’s Conference hosted by Maria Shriver and the Governor of California. This year, Keys was honored to be invited as one of the sponsors of the conference being asked to have our Luminos be included in the speakers’ gift bags. Many conferences permit vendors to buy their way into participation. For this conference it is an invitation only honor that delighted us to receive. There will be 118 speakers from the entire globe that includes Sir Richard Branson, Kelly Preston, Maria Shriver and numerous noteworthy speakers. Click Here for a complete list of speakers. The conference covers a wide array of topics and is a concentrated two day event. Keys will also be partnering with some of our retailers in Southern California and will be exhibiting our full line of products. Key Luminos continues to gain momentum as one of the hottest products in the Hollywood TV, Motion Picture and for Television Commercials. The illusionary effects and glowing skin resulting from Luminos has caused quite a stir from the like of “LA Candy” and is well known by director of photography and makeup artists in the […]

Nano Zinc Oxide… Hundreds of Studies Show It’s Safe! Really!

By Bob Root, Keys Technologist One day when I was young, I was reading an issue of Popular Science Magazine with a story about a bold project to put man into space. I was so excited. Like many young people, I fantasized about flying in space. I became an avid follower of early rocket pioneers and awaited the day when the first manned rocket would launch. A few months before the first test launch was to fire, my mother, in sheer terror, headed for church to join other devoted to pray for the salvation of mankind. When I asked her what it was about, she exclaimed that “the world will come to an end when that damned rocket punctures the sky.” …”We have to prepare by praying for our salvation.” This was a defining moment for me because I did not believe her fears or the need to pray for my salvation. I found this belief so curious and it probably set my life’s course in technology. I wondered how people could make stuff up and spin into a mass fear of destruction.

Keys To Make Appearence on Emmy Nominated Showtime Series Weeds!

Congratulations to the Weeds team for all your Emmy Nominations!!! Special congrats to Mary Louise Parker, Elisabeth Perkins and the entire Weeds team. Keys on Weeds Well we think it is true. We heard from an informant that Keys will be featured on Episode 10 of the hit Showtime Series “Weeds.” We have been working with the team using Solar RX and Luminos along with some of our other products. Rumor has it that some of our products will be seen during the episode in a bathroom scene. Keys has been extremely popular in Hollywood because our Luminos and Solar Rx provide a soft focus effect for the skin. This illusion of reducing fine lines and smoothing the skin is especially important in the world of high definition photography. Keys has been used now in a number of television commercials, motion pictures and TV shows like Weeds

Ideal Bite – Quick Information On Green

Ideal Bite recently featured Keys RediCare in an article titled Chump mosquitoes got your kid down for the count? You can read the article by Clicking Here.

Why We Use Airless Pumps and Not Tubes

Airless Pumps versus Tubes By Bob Root Keys Technologist I am often asked the question of why I chose airless pumps for our products over traditional tubes. Well, there is no simple answer, but a series of reasons that we chose this very advanced technology developed in the Netherlands along with our design team. The most important reasons are health, safety and cleanliness of the product. True, tubes are less expensive, easier to fill and more common. The problem with tubes is that they were never designed for natural products.

Industry News – CDC to Explore Environmental Links to Disease

By BETSY MCKAY , Wall St Journal The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention launched an environmental public-health tracking network to help scientists and the public explore potential links between environmental contaminants and chronic diseases.

RediCare – Healing Spray and Natural Insect Repellent for People and Their Pets!

Miracle product? Could Be! RediCare is certainly, a product that has touched so many people and pets in a positive way that we just had to write this article. Keys RediCare offers solutions to skin disorders, internal disorders that cause the skin to react, itch and breakdown. For sunburns, burns and scrapes, RediCare performs equally as well. RediCare is a natural insect repellent and much more. It all begins with the story of how RediCare became such a universal product. It was born from inspiration, a natural disaster and the people and the animals that suffered from exposure to chemicals, poisons, exposure and pollutants. The Keys RediCare story is as important as what the product does for people and pets today. Born as a result of Hurricane Katrina, the early search and rescue teams came back with skin disorders, poison ivy outbreaks, raw skin, burned chemically and from the sun. The irritations were both visible and wide spread. The search and rescue team members, handlers and their dogs were suffering long after the weeks they spent in waist deep water that was polluted with gasoline, industrial chemicals, natural toxins, waste and everything imaginable. Members of the

Keys Featured in Super Natural Home Book

Beth Greer had been living what she considered a healthy lifestyle when a medical crisis prompted her to reevaluate everything—from the food she ate to the personal-care products she used and the environment she lived in. Now, in Super Natural Home,

FACTS Versus FUD

By Bob Root, Keys CTO I spend 300 days a year on the road, out and about with our customers, retailers and at industry events. I receive numerous questions every day. The majority are inspiring and educational for me. Almost daily, though, I receive questions that relate to opinions expressed by some people or companies that are not based in fact, and literally scare people. They strike fear in people and I wonder what motivates these fearmongers to use negative marketing to further themselves or to try to elevate themselves in other peoples’ eyes. We see both companies and journalists using fear tactics to try and sell themselves, products and publications. We call this the FUD factor. FUD stands for Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt, and this combination is the antithesis of facts. I see ads, blogs and opinions that border on criminal irresponsibility, because their content will often scare people so badly that they stop using their prescription products, thus threatening their lives.

Bob Root on Super Natural Mom Radio Show

Bob Root, Keys Founder and Technologist was interviewed by Beth Greer, author of “The Super Natural Home” on her radio show, The Super Natural Mom, yesterday. The broadcast was live and can be heard by click the link below or the download link. (large file, so we do not recommend downloading). There were a number of subjects discussed including the meaning of the word “Natural” and “Organic” in the safe cosmetics market as well as misuse in the traditional over-the-counter skincare market. Also discussed are some of the chemicals commonly used by skin care companies and the potential health hazards. The Super Natural Mom-07/01/09 Played: 0 | Download | Duration: 00:58:00 Safe Cosmetics – The Ugly Side of the Beauty Industry w/ Stacy Malkan and Bob Root Posted by ProgressiveRadioNetwork at 7/1/2009 2:43 PM | Add Comment

Sun Safe? Preventing skin cancer and premature aging.

by Wendy Steele, Keys CEO As a melanoma survivor, people listen when I talk about how Keys Solar Rx sunblock when used daily, can help prevent skin cancer. They really listen when I tell them that it is the most effective anti-aging product available today. Yes, 90% of all visible skin aging comes from exposure to UVA and UVB. Most people now know that there is a difference between UVA and UVB and that SPF rated sunscreens only protect against the burning UVB (UV-Burning ) rays. They do nothing to protect from the deep penetrating UVA (UV-Aging) rays that destroy skin elasticity and break down the collagen that gives our skin a youthful glow and smooth wrinkle free appearance. Sunscreens with only UVB SPF ratings are not protecting you from the aging rays and are giving you a false sense of security…so it is time to get sun wise from an anti-aging perspective. Burning is bad, but UVA collagen destruction is worse! Solar Rx is a broad spectrum UVA, UVB and UVC physical block that is also your best anti-aging tool.