Category: Cosmetics

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3 Ways to Keep Your Skin Soft

SoftBabySkin-Dec10-istockGet skin that’s silky smooth

 The winter can really dry out your skin and make it become chapped and flaky. Hot showers always feel so good on a chilly night, but while the steam can be good for the skin, too long in a hot shower can make the skin feel rough and leathery. Colder weather doesn’t have to mean scaly skin. So what is the best way to keep skin soft and silky this winter? Here are some tips on how I keep things smooth:

For the face: 
Use a gentler face wash or one with exfoliating beads and wash face in a soft, circular motion without rubbing too hard or scrubbing with a washcloth. When you step out of the shower, cake on the moisturizer. Apply one heavy layer and let it set in. If your face soaks it up quickly, add a second thinner layer. Also, your face can feel dry after a night’s sleep, so add a thinner layer of moisturizer after your rinse your face in the morning and before you apply your makeup.

For the lips:
Find a conditioning lip treatment or lip balm that moisturizes your lips and keeps them satiny smooth. I discovered a new product – Jouer’s Conditioning Lip Treatment – which keeps my lips soft for hours. It also gives a pretty sheen which doesn’t require lip color, which makes for a perfect, natural look. Also, when choosing lip color use one that doesn’t dry your lips out. Some glosses and lipsticks are too sticky that they don’t glide on the lips, but rather just make them chap easier.

For the body:
Use a body oil in the shower to keep skin soft and apply a thick body cream right out of the shower. For rougher spots like the elbows and knees, use a loofah in the shower to exfoliate and soften the skin. If your feet become rough, apply a thick layer of moisturizing body butter cream and slip on some soft socks or slippers.

What tricks do you have for keeping your skin soft during the harsher winter months?

SUBMITTED BY
Writer
In her 30’s from San Diego, CA
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How to Get Beautiful Skin During the Winter

5-Beauty-Tips-For-Skin-Care-001During the cold winter months, the weather can take its toll on your skin. In order to reclaim a glowing, immaculate complexion, try one of these beauty tips! You’ll look dewy and refreshed in no time.

Step 1: Dry, Flakey Skin

The best way to get rid of those dry patches is to exfoliate! You can either do this manually with a Clarisonic or use the more affordable version with a brush. Your other option to exfoliate is with a peel or serum. I highly recommend http://ziamex.com/products-page/exfoliation/a8-so-aha-8-solution/ since they have all natural derivatives of glycolic, salicylic and lactic acids to buff away those dead skin cells all the while replenishing your skin with hydration from apple, watermelon and lentil extracts. I then follow up with a hydrating serum, http://ziamex.com/products-page/moisturizer/hya2-sodium-hyaluronate-gel/.

Step 2: Red, Splotchy Skin

To conceal ruddy skin, there are a couple of effective ways to do this. If you’re not a big makeup-wearer, I recommend Bare Minerals Redness Remedy as it lightly conceals for a natural look. However, it is also a skincare product, so it has calming ingredients to soothe your skin. All of my clients with rosacea or slight redness absolutely love this product since it goes on before makeup or can be worn alone for a beautiful, bare-face look.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a full coverage look, then I suggest using a natural brand concealer. Typically, natural brand products contain less chemicals and fragrances. Unfortunately, these chemicals usually lead to sensitivities and redness in the first place. So that’s why it’s important to read what ingredients are in your makeup products when you are prone to flushed skin.

Step 3: Dull, Lackluster Skin

Again, exfoliation is key, but another way to illuminate your complexion is with a highlighter. They are available in liquid or powder form. Apply to the high points of your face such as above the brows, tops of the cheekbones, cupid’s bow of the lip and bridge of the nose.

Step 4: Winter Skin-Saving Tips

*Use a milder cleanser during the winter. In fact, I use fragrance-free baby wipes to remove my makeup, which help to retain my natural oils and moisture.

*If you are prone to drier skin in the winter, switch your usual lightweight lotion or moisturizer to a cream version. If this is too heavy for you in the day, then just use at night.

*Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Both internally and externally. So while drinking your 8 cups of water per day, mist on a hydrating spray or warm up some moisturizer in your hands and pat gently on the face.

SUBMITTED BY
MUA & Esthetician
In her 20’s from San Diego, CA
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The ABC’s of BB Creams

7The universe of BB creams—also known as beauty balms (or interestingly, blemish balms), is just starting to hit its stride.

The next step up from tinted moisturizers, BB creams are available from both prestige and mass brands, and all offer a unique twist on benefits and functional pay-off to entice consumers. Chief among these benefits are skin hydration and smoothing as well as brightening, makeup priming and skin protection from SPF; a sheer or light tint to help hide discoloration and redness, and antioxidants and other free-radical fighting elements.

In addition, many BB creams now feature light-diffusing properties to help soften the appearance of fines lines and wrinkles. Tall order for one cream! To get a better idea of just what consumers really think of all that BB creams do and deliver to the skin, we asked more than 400 women to share their thoughts, impressions and take-aways—here’s what they had to say for themselves: Awareness of beauty balms is high. Nearly 100 percent of women have heard of BB creams, 83 percent feel they understand how to use BB creams and 80 percent of women are using them. Of that group, nearly half are using their BB cream on a daily basis and 41 percent a few times a week. When she uses this product, most women are applying it just as they would their moisturizer—with their fingers (80 percent), with only a small percentage opting to use more advanced artistry techniques such as makeup sponges (15 percent) or a makeup brush (5 percent) and two-thirds would replace their favorite moisturizer with a BB cream. It appears consumers view BB creams as a functional, “work-horse” sort-of product, like a moisturizer or sunscreen rather than a finishing product, like foundation or powder, and these hybrid products are fitting seamlessly into her daily beauty regimen (a coveted spot for any product), adding value and benefits to her overall daily beauty experience.

Of the many benefits that beauty balms provide (and there are dozens), leading benefits for consumers include the multi-functional/all-in-one effect (75 percent), the lightweight feel (67 percent), the moisturizing properties (65 percent), the sheer color (56 percent) and the SPF (55 percent). Touted benefits that didn’t score as high were surprising including: added antioxidants (35 percent) and oil-free formulations (36 percent). Given that consumers with dry skin would naturally need a more hydrating formula and not be attracted to an oil-free beauty balm, the low appeal scores for an oil-free formula are perhaps not surprising.

But a lower appeal for added antioxidants seemed contrary to the kinds of benefits women most often demand from their moisturizers, and suggests when it comes to formulating new BB creams or balms, brands should more closely look at what they are promising in order to differentiate their offering from the pack in a way that she’s seeking. As far as BB cream performance goes, consumers are generally satisfied. Ninety-six percent agree BB creams make their skin feel smooth, hydrated (95 percent) and their skin look flawless (79 percent). Additionally, 85 percent of women agree BB creams layer well under foundation, and 81 percent agree they are ideal for all skin tones. However, where BB creams still need to improve is in the tints and colors provided. Only 79 percent feel the sheer tint of most BB creams work on all skin tones, and only 74 percent feel they offer enough coverage to forgo wearing foundation.

Her biggest frustration? Knowing which BB cream to pick; half of women feel it is hard to know the right beauty balm to choose, 31 percent feel they are too expensive and 30 percent feel they don’t offer enough coverage. In fact, when it comes to cost, most consumers feel prices on the lower end of the cost threshold are ideal, and a majority (59 percent) are only willing to pay between $10 and $20 for a beauty balm, and less than 20 percent are willing to pay more than $30. As BB creams continue to flourish, the next great skin care product—CC creams, only just now making their entrance into the U.S. beauty landscape—are already garnering significant consumer awareness. Nearly half of all women (47 percent) have heard of CC creams. It would seem multi-functional products are here to stay.

by Alisa Marie Beyer

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What happens when you turn 40?


When you enter your forties, you might start noticing more wrinkles and fine lines around your eyes, mouth and forehead. On top of that, your complexion may start looking duller. However, if you practice a good skin care routine and care for your skin you can enhance your complexion and diminish the appearance of the signs of aging. Here are some tips to care for your skin during your 40’s and maintain its good health.

Re-evaluate your skin type

As we grow old, our skin ages and looses collagen and elastin fibers. As a result, the skin tends to become dry and saggy. Even if you had normal skin throughout your life, you will start noticing that your skin becomes drier as you age; this is a signal that you need to change your skin care products and use ones that cater to dry skin types.

Upgrade your skin care regimen

Up till now, you may have been practising a regular skin care regimen of cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing which was working fine. However, once you enter your forties, you need to re-evaluate your skin and upgrade your skin care regimen to suit the changing needs. Your forties are a time when you start to see the results of how you have treated your skin so far – this will further decide how much you will need to adjust your skin care regimen. If you have always worn sunscreen and practised preventive care, then your skin probably will not show much of a difference. However, if you have been neglecting skin care all these years, you will see wrinkles and fine lines become more prominent as you approach your forties.

Use anti aging skin care products

It is high time to start using anti aging skin care formulations. These skin care products contain specialized ingredients that help soothe the skin and fight against the signs of aging. Look for ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids and retinoids. They not only stimulate the collagen production within the skin cells but also help diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Treat acne

Acne is a common skin concern during the forties because of the hormonal fluctuations that the body goes through. Adult acne is a serious skin concern. Therefore you need to use special acne skin care products that identify the root cause of acne and treat it from the roots.

Go low on make-up and cosmetics

When women hit their forties, they generally end up using heavier make-up in order to camouflage the aging signs and make their skin look radiant. However, this has a detrimental effect on the skin; heavy foundation and excessive compact powder can actually create a cakey impression and highlight the wrinkles and fine lines on your face. Moreover, the harsh chemicals contained in these products may seep into your skin and further degrade the internal tissues. Instead you should use creamy and hydrating skin care products that don’t highlight the age lines but makes the skin appear smooth and supple. Look for ingredients like petrolatum and glycerin in your cosmetics.

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What is Hyper Pigmentation?

Hyper pigmentation refers to skin that has turned darker than normal where the change that has occurred is unrelated to sun exposure. Hyper pigmentation is caused due to excessive production of melanin. Melanin is the pigment that is solely responsible for the color of the skin. Hyper pigmentation occurs due to the excessive secretion of melanocyte stimulating hormone that enhances the production of melanocytes. The melanocytes produce the pigment melanin. Hyper pigmentation affects the areas that are not exposed to light like the genital areas, armpits etc.

Hyper pigmentation may be caused by internal and external causes. Internal causes include hormonal imbalances such as pregnancy. An external cause for hyper pigmentation is sun exposure. Sots of brown may appear with sun exposure without the use of a sunblock.

There are a few types of hyperpigmentation that is based on the cause of the excess melanin and its appearance on the skin. These include melasma, age spots or liver spots, freckles, and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. It is also related with a number of diseases such as Addison’s disease and other sources of adrenal insufficiency, in which the hormones induce melanin synthesis.

Hyperpigmentation treatment

•Topical Whitening / Bleaching creams – Although Hydroquinone is one of the best-established topical agents for reducing skin pigmentation it is now a banned substance in most countries around the world. Their are excellent alternatives however, Arbutin, Kojic, Licorice, Vitamin C to name but a few. Most creams will take several weeks to produce results because even though the synthesis of new melanin is blocked quickly, the existing melanin takes a relatively long time to migrate out of the skin in the process of natural exfoliation.

•Hydroxy Acid Peels – They increase cell renewal rate and correct hyper pigmentation marks. Alpha hydroxy acids are water soluble acids and can help remove hyperpigmentation.

•Laser resurfacing – Normal laser skin resurfacing works by evaporating the first few layers of damaged skin to leave behind a fresh, evenly toned skin. Hydroquinone or mild chemical peels are often recommended before laser resurfacing for best results.

•Intense pulsed light – IPL is a type laser that leaves no scares, can sometimes heals freckles or other mild sun spots without using peels or hydroquinone creams beforehand.

Skin hyperpigmentation is not a life threatening condition. Nevertheless, you should consult with your doctor to confirm that it is not melanoma, a form of skin cancer. In addition, you should see your doctor if you experience unexplained darkening or lightening or any skin sore or lesion that changes the color of the skin.

* published by www.articlesbase.com

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How to Reduce Wrinkles

The first impression is very important. Blemished skin with wrinkles is not everyone want. If you feel your skin is no longer elastic, then wrinkles may already develop. But is there any way to erase wrinkles.

In fact, you can only slow down the development of wrinkles. You can depend on the modern dermatological products and home remedies to help you reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

1. Exfoliating your skin promotes the body to produce new skin cells since it gets rid of dead and dry skin cells. Therefore doing it twice weekly benefits your skin. The hydration also increases the skin absorption of the cream.

2. You can avoid fines lines the natural way by cutting a piece from an aloe vera plant and then place this to the skin. It contains malic acid that can help prevent wrinkles. Another natural remedy for wrinkles is use papaya. It has enzymes that can shed off the top layer of the skin.

3. Keep your skin moisture all the times. Always apply a moisturizer after washing every morning. The harmful sunlight can cause fine lines to form. So, protect your face with a sunscreen of at least SPF 30. You can also try another natural way that is using fresh avocado since it contains vitamin E, an antioxidant.

4. In addition to using moisturizers on your face, fine lines can also be prevented by drinking lots of water and eating nutritious foods. Including foods which are rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids help in your daily diet can make your skin looks younger.

5. If you want to maintain overall health, then you can exercise regularly since it improves the blood circulation to the skin. If you don’t want all your efforts to be put into waste, then don’t smoke or drink alcoholic beverages.

6. Stress forces you to over use your facial muscular tissues. That is why stressed people usually have noticeable fine lines on their faces. The development of wrinkles can be accelerated when you frown or raise your eyebrows too often. Therefore, you should try to do them less often.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Beckie_Ingram

You don’t have to resort to laser surgery or collagen or Botox injection. If the above tips don’t help, then you should check out ZiamEXs’ many Anti Wrinkle solutions or here.

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The Secret to Great Skin

Not surprisingly, the state of your skin is affected by a combination of your genes, nutrition, general health, emotional well-being and exercise.

With today’s hectic lifestyles, keeping a positive outlook and minimizing stress and anxiety can be an ongoing challenge. Relaxation techniques learned through yoga, meditation, and deep breathing are effective stress-busting activities and they can help to get you back on the right track.

Add to this, regular exercise and a balanced diet that incorporates all of the food groups to give your body the needed ingredients to maintain conditions for optimal health, which can also promote a radiant complexion.

On the exterior, how you care for your skin can directly impact its appearance. Sun protection from a young age is a key factor that influences the onset of pre-mature aging. A minimum SPF30 sunscreen is generally the recommended level of coverage to look for. Finally, institute a basic twice-daily cleansing and moisturizing routine to remove impurities and restore hydration.

Skin Care Tips Content Developed By Skin Care Guide Dermatologists

 

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Adult Acne

Argh! You cleaned out your high school locker years ago and now you have acne pimples on your jaw this morning. You’re not alone — 1 in every 5 women over 25 has acne.

Adult acne, in contrast to the teenage type, occurs more often in women. For some women, this is the first time they had acne; we call this late-onset acne. For other women, their acne never stopped from childhood into adulthood; we call this persistent acne. Many of my women patients have other names for adult acne, but they cannot be printed here.

It Must Be Hormones

We like to blame everything on hormones. In the case of acne, hormones contribute, but they are not the only factor. Stopping birth control pills causes a change in hormones and is a cause for acne in adult women. Similarly, using progestin-only birth control pills affects hormones in such a way as to cause breakouts. Pregnancy is a time of dramatic hormone fluctuations and for some women, dramatic acne. Similarly, menopause can trigger outbreaks. Despite these known hormonal triggers, most women who have acne do not have hormonal imbalances (they are normal fluctuations in hormones). Foods or supplements that claim to balance women’s hormones don’t. So save your time and money, they won’t help your acne.

You Can’t Scrub Acne Away

Exfoliating to open pores can help, but only when done in moderation. Harsh scrubs or repeated microdermabrasion will irritate the skin and make acne worse. Instead, use mild chemical exfoliators such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid which are found in many women’s cosmetics and in acne treatments. Products that contain benzoyl peroxide also help to exfoliate and will treat adult acne.

Don’t Give Up Your Scharffen Berger Chocolate

Although myths of chocolate and pizza causing acne have been disproved, it is true that consuming cow’s milk (which contains hormones) as well as eating a diet high in carbohydrates (which causes inflammation) can contribute to acne. Eating chocolate once and a while, especially good chocolate, will not cause or worsen your acne.

Cosmetics Cause Acne

Many skincare products contain ingredients that clog your pores, triggering acne. Pantene shampoo as well as many hair conditioners have been known to cause this problem. Also, sunscreens are notorious for causing acne. If you notice that your acne is worse around your hairline or that it has flared since you started sunscreens, then try changing your products; it might be all you need to clear up your face.

Post written by Dr. Benabio Copyright The Derm Blog 2009

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