Posts Tagged ‘Skin Care’

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Dry Skin Solutions

Thursday, February 2nd, 2012

As a licensed esthetician for almost 8 years now, I’m thrilled to be joining the Beautyfix Blogging team as an ongoing contributor, where I’ll be able to share my insight on skin and beauty. This is my first blog post and I’m excited for everyone to check it out!

Dry skin symptoms can be a problem during the winter months. Skin dryness can feel unbearable and make you want to drench yourself with tons of body moisturizer to prevent itching. As if the itching wasn’t bad enough, flakiness, cracking and even redness can make your skin look like a skin condition gone wrong. No matter what, dry itching skin is unavoidable during the winter season.  Here are a few tips on how to prevent dry skin that can help bring back some relief to survive the winter months!

  1. Moisturize several times a day. Winter cold can strip away any moisture in your skin due to low humidity levels in the air. A rich moisturizer like Shea Butter works to seal in moisture keeping skin hydrated.
  2.  Placing a humidifier in your bedroom is a great way to bring back high moisture levels in the air. Since heaters create dry, hot air, they actually zap moisture from your skin causing it to become even drier.
  3. Avoid doing any facial treatments with ingredients like acids or alcohol that may be too harsh or irritating on your skin. Soothing facial products like milky cleansers, moisturizers with antioxidants and alcohol-free toners work best and won’t strip away any natural moisture your skin produces.
  4. Pamper and massage your feet with petroleum jelly before going to bed. Leave jelly on and throw on a pair of dry cotton socks to lock in as much moisture as you can get during your beauty sleep. Petroleum jelly protects skin by preventing any further water loss even chapped lips benefit from it too.
  5. Keep a travel size hand cream handy in your car, purse or desk. Hands constantly exposed to winter cold can make the delicate skin on your hands itch and crack if not hydrated on a regular basis. Applying hand cream and wearing a pair of gloves when going outside can help keep hands hydrated throughout the day.

 

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The Cheapest, Quickest Way to Look Better!

Tuesday, January 31st, 2012

I recently went to Thibiant spa in Beverly Hills and had the most amazing facial I’ve ever experienced. During my session, it was brought to my attention that I was suffering from mild dehydration and my skin was showing it.  I had no idea I was dehydrated and this was a real eye opener on how damaging the results of dehydration can be in regards to overall beauty and skin care. I am clearly not drinking enough water and it is showing on my skin.

Drinking Water is one of the most important things you can do to maintain your skin’s collagen. Our skin loses water nearly every minute of the day. Since the body is composed of mostly water, it only makes sense that we should have to drink lots of water to replenish the skin.

People with any skin type can have dehydrated skin, which often looks sallow, worn, dry, and wrinkled, none of which are desirable descriptions. Drinking plenty of water will help to keep skin’s collagen intact and when people are properly hydrated their skin will show it!

Most people will find that after drinking enough water their skin takes on a more youthful, healthy look. The good news is, in order to cure dehydration all you need is your kitchen sink.  Drink, Drink, Drink! Don’t wait until you are thirsty rather drink before you get thirsty. Drinking your water is the cheapest, quickest way to look better!

Here are some things you can do to make sure you are getting enough water each day:

Carry a water bottle

Carry a water bottle with you throughout the day and refill it when it is getting low. Not only will this encourage you to drink more water, but it will be easier to monitor how much you are actually drinking throughout the day. 

Monitor your intake

Really monitor your intake of water on a daily basis to make sure that you are getting enough. Follow the water bottle suggestion above and be sure to count how much you are drinking and refilling each day. On the average, a person should drink eight 8-ounce glasses every day.

Add drinking two glasses of water to your daily skincare regimen

Drink, cleanse, moisturize, etc. Then drink again! Do this morning and night and you can add 4 glasses of water to your day!

Make a bet with a co-worker to see who can drink more water in the course of a day

Two of my co-workers often ask each other how much water the other has had and if one of them has had a higher number of bottles, then the other is off to the kitchen to refill and catch up! This is a great way to encourage each other and to motivate yourself. 

Water Every Hour

If you work an 8-hour day, have one glass every hour on the hour. When the work day is done your quota has been met.

Already dehydrated? Try this:

If you are already suffering from dehydration, try drinking a gallon of water a day for one week. You should notice an immediate improvement in not only your skin, but your overall mood.

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How to Prevent and Restore Aging Hands

Tuesday, January 17th, 2012

Much like a women’s neckline, our hands can reveal so much about our age. Old looking hands can put a damper on one’s overall appearance. To women both young and old, it is very important to incorporate our hands into our daily skin care regimen and is much too often neglected. For younger women, let this be a reminder-take care of your hands now! For older women, it’s never too late to prevent further damage and to start taking action to help reverse the signs of aging.

Our hands are constantly exposed to the harsh abuse of the environment, more frequently than the rest of our bodies. While we should always wash our hands frequently, the contact with water, soap and other every day chemicals can also cause dry and chapped skin. 

Here are some things you can do to restore aging hands:

Wear Gloves:

Not only is this helpful to keep your hands warm in the harsh winter weather, but wearing rubber gloves while cleaning, gardening or doing the dishes will help to protect your hands from harsh chemicals and keep them from drying out.

Moisturize:

This is such a simple step that makes a huge difference. After washing your hands, apply a lotion or hand cream. At night, try applying a hand cream that contains growth factors and promote new collagen formation.

Apply Sunscreen:

 Many people have a hereditary predisposition to Liver spots which are rounded brown or black, flat patches of skin. Although nothing can be done about the role heredity plays, excessive sun exposure should be avoided as this is another factor that can cause spots and discolorations. Protect your hands, just as you would the rest of your body by applying sunscreen with min. SPF of 15. If spots have already formed, explore the possibility of bleaching creams which can be applied to help fade spots and discoloration.

Heated Paraffin Wax Treatments:

Paraffin treatments are warm and the heat helps to increase blood supply to the treated area. A paraffin wax hand treatment both hydrates and smoothes the skin and can easily be done at home. This is especially beneficial in the winter months when hands tend to crack and be more dry. Paraffin helps restore the moisture content.

Manicures:

Try an age-defying manicure and if you don’t do it yourself, be sure to go to a reputable spa or nail salon with good sanitation to prevent any infections.

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New Year, New You: Beauty Resolutions

Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012

2012 has arrived! It’s a new year which means we get a fresh start. This is an opportunity to make some Beauty resolutions and stick with them for a new and improved you! Here are some tips to help you turn over a new leaf and create a new beauty routine with beautiful skin.

Experiment with your look

Now is a great time to introduce a new look you’ve wanted to explore. Perhaps it is a subtle change, like finding a new fragrance as your signature scent, or trying a new hair-do/style/color.  Trying new beauty products can help spruce up your routine as well. There are so many great new products that can help simplify your beauty routine and enhance the look you are working to create.

You’re sexy and you know it

Treat your body right this year and remember what goes inside shows on the outside. Make sure to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water, this will give your skin a healthy glow. Eat healthy foods, take a multi-vitamin every day and exercise at least 3-4 times per week for 30 minutes each time. All of these things will help improve your circulation/overall health and the benefits will show in your beautiful skin. Lastly, be confident, walk with good posture and smile, these things are so easy to do and extremely beneficial.

Don’t skimp on skin care

Your skin can make or break your look and overall confidence. Work hard on doing things that will benefit your skin, leaving it radiant and youthful.  Exfoliate your skin at least 1-2 times a week, moisturize daily and include an SPF for protection. Spoil yourself with a face mask once a week. This not only helps with relaxation, it’s like giving your skin a present! You will be relaxed, refreshed and your skin will be radiant. 

 Quit nasty habits

It’s never too late to stop a bad habit. Smoking, biting your nails, pulling eyelashes, over excessively twirling your hair these are all things that you should file in the past with 2011. Try finding something new and healthy to substitute this act. Perhaps it’s chewing gum, or going to yoga or doing something different with your hair. Small changes in your routine can make a big difference.  

What are some of your beauty resolutions for 2012?

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The Healthy Skin Benefits of Ginger

Friday, December 23rd, 2011

Flickr Source: ShellyCakes

With all the sweets the holidays have to bring, Ginger in particular, is an ingredient used in many iconic recipes. Gingerbread, Gingerbread men, Gingerbread houses, Ginger snap Cookies, Gingerbread latte’s and (I’ll stop there). Wouldn’t it be great if you could sneak a few healthy skin benefits into eating a soft, spicy Gingerbread man? Well, allow me to make you feel better about yourself for eating those delicious Ginger snacks this holiday (I just had one). I’ll share with you some healthy skin benefits of Ginger (which is used in some form for most of the above mentioned goodies).

Ginger has over 400 chemically active ingredients and is a good source of potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper and vitamin B6. It is an antioxidant, which means it inhibits harmful free radicals that cause aging skin and skin damage. Its potent anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols, promote smoothness and an evened skin tone. Externally, Ginger works magic on the skin increasing radiance and decreasing inflammation that may contribute to conditions such as acne & psoriasis.

Ginger is a miracle plant that brings health to the skin. It cleans and kills acne-causing bacteria while making the skin smooth, supple and light. It is energizing, improves circulation and has the ability to lighten age spots while acting as an energy booster in aromatherapy and spa treatments.

Now that you know a few of the healthy skin benefits that Ginger can bring to you, check out these great ways to use Ginger in skincare.

And of course a recipe to eat!

Happy Holidays!

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Beautyfix Spotlight: All Day Moisture Body Lotion by Belli Skin Care

Friday, November 18th, 2011

By Jenna

Don’t let the info on the bottle fool you. Belli skin care is a luxurious skin care line formulated for expecting and new mothers and anyone who’s wanting a good skin pampering. They combine medically proven treatments with holistic benefits of aroma taste and of course massage. Belli Skin Care is physician-formulated and tested for prenatal safety but their amazing formulations can benefit anyone. In this season’s kit, like OB-GYNs and mothers, we’ve fallen in love with their All Day Moisture Body Lotion.

The first reason I fell in love with this hand and body lotion is the smell. The smell is heavenly, lemony fresh and is present immediately upon application. The citrus scent is lovely, not overpowering or too heavy, but just enough to awaken your senses.

Any body lotion has pass three tests to make my beauty shelf. It has to smell good, rub in well while hydrating and help alleviate dry, itchy skin in any season. Belli’s Body Lotion does all three and more with its non-greasy formula. Its texture is uber buttery and absorbs quickly into your skin while giving you a little glow without the grease, making it all the more luxurious. This moisturizing body lotion is made with Shea butter, chamomile and lemon oil that soothes and hydrates in any weather. This body lotion has been my go-to lotion every day since the weather has changed. Personally,  I find it to be an amazing complement to my morning skin care routine. Pre-warned, tried and Beautyfix tested, this mommy friendly body lotion is a perfect addition to any woman’s beauty cabinet.

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Beauty is in Order!

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

The question of order often arises in one’s skin care regime and could possibly be one of the most confusing subjects in all of skin care. It is important to note that everyone’s skin responds differently to different treatments and there is no order of skin care application that is going to be perfect for everyone. When using multiple skin care products, the decision of what order to apply them is greatly based on your own personal preference, but a general rule of thumb is to apply your products from thinnest to thickest or lightest to heaviest based on the vehicle your products are in.

All skin care products consist of an active ingredient, which is then dissolved in a lotion or cream or an ointment, which is considered the ‘vehicle’. Skin care products that are lighter, such as moisturizers and serums, should be applied first, while heavier creams would be second and heaviest, like ointments would be applied last. This is how your skin can get the benefits of all the products and all the active ingredients.

The order of operations for beauty begins with cleansing, then exfoliating, toning, serum, moisturizer, sunscreen and makeup. Be sure to stop and allow your serums to penetrate before applying another product. If you put the heavy product on first then the light product is not able to penetrate through to your skin. However, if you apply the light ingredients first, then the heavier ones will be able to penetrate through and be absorbed into your skin. It is important to note that anything medicated or prescription-strength (like acne or rash cream) should go on first, after cleansing and toning. Medicated products need to go on next to your skin so they are most efficient. Following the correct skin care sequence will allow your beauty products to work optimally. Your skin will be clean, hydrated and protected to make you look your best.

At night, just repeat the steps, except for makeup and sunscreen and stay beautiful!

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Turn the Tables of Aging

Thursday, August 18th, 2011

source: prphotos.com

They say 40 is the new 30. Whatever it is, all of these women look amazing and some of them are well past 40. Forget the fountain of youth, these ladies have found an entire sea. Linda Evangelista (43), Cindy Crawford(42), Elle MacPherson (44), Diane Lane (46), Christie Brinkley (54) and most recently Madonna who just turned 53, to name a few. Here are some tips that we learned from these fabulous ladies on how to be hot over 40, because let’s face it, they set a pretty good anti-aging example.

Positive Self Image

Having confidence in yourself at any age is a key part in looking your best. Make eye contact, smile and (yes, just like mom used to say) stand up straight.  Posture and the way you carry yourself can make or break your overall presentation. Remain positive in your outlook about aging. Your good energy will be sure to attract others.

Plenty of Exercise

Keep your workouts interesting so you don’t get bored and want to quit. Christie Brinkley once told People magazine she keeps her workouts interesting by exercising with Dance Dance Revolution. Elle Macpherson adds biking and surfing to regular gym sessions and Marisa Tomei likes to mix up her cardio with hula hooping and dancing.

 Diet

Elle Macpherson swears by fish oil and steers clear of cigarettes and alcohol. Christie Brinkley eats only organic foods, which are rich in minerals and vitamins. Madonna has made it no secret that what she cuts out of her diet is as important as what she allows in. No processed food, caffeine or dairy passes the Material Girl’s lips, but she does consume plenty of spring water, lean protein, grains, organic fruit and veggies every day.

Skin Care and Cosmetic Enhancements

Signs of aging start to show as less collagen is produced and skin loses its elasticity, so firming and anti-aging ingredients become vital allies. These ladies know that a great face starts with a great base. It’s obvious that they have taken precautions throughout the years, and incorporated basic skin care steps like exfoliating, moisturizing and using sunscreen on a regular basis.

Let’s not fool ourselves, fact is, many of these women have had some help with Cosmetic Enhancements, such as Botox injections, collagen and vitamin injections, etc. Enhancements like these, if done correctly and in moderation, can take years off and keep your skin looking vibrant, healthy and wrinkle-free.

These fabulous women have provided us with some great tips on how to age like a celebrity and getting older has never looked so good!

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Love Your Decolletage: Bust Your Way Out of Acne

Thursday, June 9th, 2011

Flickr Source: SeanLaRue11

June is Acne Awareness Month, celebrating solutions for the most common skin disorder in the United States. Nearly 80% of people will experience some form of acne during their lifetimes. The chest, along with the face and back, are the most common areas for acne to develop. Chest acne is just another form that can be caused from several factors including: hormonal imbalance, high levels of stress, tight fitting clothes, pollution, medications and sadly, genes.

Recently I have become somewhat obsessed with my décolletage when it comes to caring for the skin. I have always heard people say “you can hide your age on your face, but the neck and chest reveals the truth.”  Having smooth skin on the chest and neck area tends to become more of a struggle as we get older. Not only do we have to be sure to wear sunscreen to prevent wrinkles and aging skin, but rashes and acne break-outs put a damper in sporting our favorite tops and dresses and it requires much needed attention especially during the summer months.

Although we can cover it up if needed, Chest acne can be embarrassing to deal with. Who doesn’t want to feel confident and sexy when they wear that low neck-line? Before you throw away those low neck lines and sexy strapless tops and dresses, consider the causes of chest acne and determine the things you can do to treat and prevent it.

Here are some suggestions to help keep chest acne at bay:

Don’t use excessive amounts of products

Be aware of the products/items that you put on your body such as lotions/deodorants/body powders etc. as too much of a product can often times clog pores causing a rash or breakout.

Don’t pick

It may give you a sense of instant gratification, but don’t fool yourself, picking at a pimple is never a good thing. Not only does it irritate the skin but it can cause infection and scarring. Try to keep your hands off the infected area as much as possible and wash your hands frequently.

Use antibacterial soap/gel geared toward acne

Avoid using a loofa or sponge when you wash the affected area, as the harsh material can often irritate the skin. You should also apply a cream or gel after cleaning the area. Something with benzoyl peroxide is good for acne or if you want to go the natural route, make a lotion by mixing rose water and lemon in equal quantities and apply it over the acne. Glytone Back/Chest acne spray is a good item to use with 2% salicylic acid for controlling acne.

Avoid Tight Clothing

Tight clothing can irritate the skin and can also cause chaffing and inflammation. Cotton is the best fabric you can wear because it is light and breathable.

Good Hygiene

Good hygiene and utilizing the right products with the right ingredients for your skin type are very important for preventing acne. Remember to always wash acne prone areas immediately after excessive sweating. DermStore esthetician Jenna Kulp suggests that you also change your pillowcase and sheets at least 2-3 times a week so you’re not sleeping in a breeding ground for bacteria.

Bare your décolletage this summer and feel good doing it. Say hello to v-necks and goodbye to chest acne. Caring for your skin and using the right products will make a big difference in keeping your acne at bay.

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Exercise Your Way to Healthy Glowing Skin

Tuesday, May 24th, 2011

Did you know that exercise is not only one of the best ways to shed excess fat and keep the extra weight off but it also slows down the aging process that naturally occurs in the human body? Exercise should be considered an important part of any skin care regimen, improving your overall skin health and quality. It plays a big role in how young and healthy your skin looks and feels.

Flickr source: Method Fitness

Increase Circulation

Exercise increases circulation and delivery of nutrients to the skin cells. It gets the blood flowing, and that increased blood flow carries more oxygen and nutrients to the skin that improve skin health, supporting all the effort you make with other skin care products and moisturizers on the skin’s surface.

Reduce Acne and Stress

Exercise will get the body moving and will therefore create sweat. Think sweat is a bad thing? Sweating helps the body to eliminate dirt and oil which is similar to getting a facial. It can help to keep your pores cleaned out and help remove harmful chemicals that are stored deep in them. According to experts, exercise can prevent the development of acne because it helps control stress hormones that trigger acne in the first place. People who are prone to stress related spots and pimples will find that when they adopt an exercise program, the overall benefits will be a clearer complexion as the pores become unclogged due to the increase in sweat produced. If you find you have aggrevated breakouts when you exercise you do need to discover the source. Exercise related acne is most often triggered by something you put on your body rather than something you do with it.

Improved Collagen Production

Another benefit of exercise is improved collagen production.This helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and keeps your skin looking younger. It can help prevent the early signs of aging such as skin sagging and wrinkling. That means by exercising regularly, you can be sure to have healthy and beautiful skin at all times.

Exercise is one of the best anti-aging practices that you can apply. You don’t necessarily need to register to the nearest gym. For people who are only getting started, a quick jog around a few blocks or a 30-minute walk in the park can go a long way when it comes to anti-aging efforts and your health. Simply set aside a few minutes of your time each day for some physical activities and exercise. In the end, you will realize how such simple activity can actually boost not just your health in general but also your skin tone and overall complexion.

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