Some of you know that my rosacea — usually just an irritating flushing or blotchiness on my face — has escalated in a lot of unfortunate ways over the last few weeks. Instead of surrendering to daily antibiotics and topical steroids, I’ve been searching for lifestyle changes and natural products to help me manage the condition. And lo, I have discovered the glory of Jojoba Oil.

I bought a bottle of Dessert Essence brand Jojoba Oil at Whole Foods for about $12-15. Every time I wash my face, I take a drop or two of oil, rub it on my hands, then lightly smooth it onto my neck and face while they’re still wet. That’s it. And after just a few days, I can honestly say it’s the best moisturizer I’ve ever used in my life.

I have dry, super-sensitive skin, and the jojoba feels amazing going on. It’s soothing and refreshing, and I love that I’m not putting any chemicals on my skin. It’s purported to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties as well, which are both excellent for my rosacea. Not only that, but I see a marked decrease in wrinkles, especially around my eyes.

In short, my face has never felt healthier.

Apparently jojoba oil is good for people with oily complexions, too. And it can be used for a whole bunch of other purposes as well. I haven’t tried any of those yet, but I’m definitely going to. If you want a little more info, I’ve posted a great video from a woman who’s been using jojoba for five years below. I have only two tips so far:

  • Don’t apply it directly to your face; distribute the drops across your hands first and use them to pat or smooth it on.
  • Apply the oil to wet skin, not dry, so it glides on.

Jojoba oil: no chemicals, healthier skin, and CHEAP. If I use this bottle just for my face, it’ll last at least six months and maybe more. I cannot recommend it enough.

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Kung Fu Party

February 19, 2012

Every year my kung fu school hosts a Chinese New Year’s party. This year we were treated to an awesome display: a group of martial artists (whose name I can’t remember) performed a gorgeous Tai Chi sword form and a traditional lion dance. I got wobbly video of the latter: I had a fantastic time [...]

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Above World Release Day!

February 14, 2012

After years and years of working and waiting, Above World is finally out in there in the wild. I’m going to steal a page from my buddy Sarah Prineas and take this opportunity to post the book’s dedication and acknowledgements. Today is also Valentine’s Day, which is fitting since my heart is overflowing with love [...]

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Martial Arts Tricking

February 13, 2012

Here’s a great short film (only 8.5 minutes long) about the new art of Martial Arts Tricking. Many of the tricking shots were filmed at my martial arts studio, White Lotus. So many nights when I was there (in kung fu or weapons class), I’d find myself watching the ring of trickers taking turns on [...]

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New Interview at So I’m Fifty Blog

February 8, 2012

Pam Torres (who blogs at “So I’m Fifty”) asked me so many cool questions in her interview, that I actually learned things about myself. I had no idea that could even happen! If you feel like it, take a look at the interview and the rest of Pam’s awesome blog: World Building Technique: An Interview [...]

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First Fan Art

February 5, 2012

Samantha Ling is an amazing friend. Not only did she read and critique an early draft of Above World, she has offered all kinds of support and friendship every step of the way. In fact, I’ve even hidden a mention of her the book itself as a small thank you. Now Sam has done something [...]

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January Reads

February 1, 2012

I read some wonderful books in January. Finnikin of the Rock (Lumatere Chronicles #1) by Melina Marchetta This is epic fantasy with gritty, modern-day themes. I struggled a bit at the beginning, but a plot twist around the end of Act 1 (my distinction, not the author’s) completely hooked me and I gobbled up the [...]

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Book: The Hearts of Horses

January 13, 2012

The Hearts of Horses by Molly Gloss came highly recommended by several trusted friends, and wow. I’m not much for writing reviews. When I love a book, I don’t want to turn on the critical part of my brain that looks for flaws or tries to analyze what worked and why. I just want to [...]

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Painted Miniatures

January 13, 2012

I’ve played Dungeons & Dragons since I taught myself at 12, but I only painted lead miniatures while I was at college and for a few years after that. So 20 years ago, for those of you who want the math. I recently unearthed my old box of painted figures and took a few pictures. [...]

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