Cynthia Besteman was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011 and threw out all of her toxic skincare products when she realized that they weren't the "natural" products they promised to be. In 2015 Violets Are Blue is launched. She used her knowledge and passion for naturally-derived skincare ingredients to formulate a consciously-produced line of products, each one a true labor of love. In addition to developing new products for the Signature and Beloved lines, Cynthia provides patients at the Mt. Sinai Dubin Breast Center in NYC with a gifted package of Beloved products upon their first day of chemotherapy. She is also proud to have created a company that supports women helping women, with 10% of the purchase price of all products going toward skincare donations for cancer patients.

Born in Seattle, Cynthia first landed in New York City determined to find her way as an actress, after completing a major in theater at the University of Oregon. She worked on Broadway for 10 years before checking out the real estate scene and quickly became one of the top brokers in the city. After receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in 2011, Cynthia's successful career in the cutthroat world of New York City real estate came to a skidding halt.

While undergoing treatment, one of her first actions was to toss out all beauty products containing unsafe chemicals and synthetic fragrances, leaving her medicine cabinet bare. She was shocked by the mislabeling of many skincare and beauty products that were classified as "natural" while containing parabens, sulfates, and other chemicals known to work as endocrine disruptors linked to cancer and reproductive concerns.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Cynthia wanted to bring dignity back to the women being treated for breast cancer. She created her "Beloved" line which is specifically formulated for women dealing with cancer.

Cynthia wants women dealing with breast cancer to be called "warriors" instead of "thrivers and survivors" as she believes that puts too much pressure on people.

She helped with the Cancer Wellness Expo in New York City – inviting "ultimate warriors" to come together.

Loves speaking about her journey – because you can go through something and come out better. She launched her company in her 50s. She says if you know you want to make changes in your life – take action.

As long as you have the passion or start the journey to find the passion – it's exciting.

CYNTHIA'S 3 BEST TIPS FOR LIVING A GOOD LIFE:

1. Be authentic to you not to anyone else.
2. It's never too late to start something new. It makes you feel younger.
3. Find humor in every circumstance.

RESOURCES MENTIONED

Safer Cosmetics article with more information on the cosmetic industry.

EWG

Violets are Blue Skincare on IG

Michele on Instagram

This episode was sponsored by Design a Life You Love, A Woman's Guide to Living a Happier and More Fulfilled Life. My book includes 52 inspirations, one for every week of the year, each with practical tips to guide you to self-love and success on your own terms. It's a short book that you can read in about an hour, but includes life lessons that will last a lifetime.

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