Seniors, It's Your Time To Shine

Fall brings the start of yet another school year. And with each new grade we acquire the ever entertaining school picture. Photos that depict our evolutionary juvenile progress. The photo with the bangs that our mom’s cut crooked, oh the many different hairstyles! How about the teeth as they fell out and then required the braces? And, who didn’t struggle with adolescent acne and the big zit that hit just in time for picture day?  Let’s face it, our school years wouldn’t have been remembered in at all the same way if we didn’t catalog those years. With that said, most of us later, genuinely do appreciate that our parents found our school pictures invaluable.

Before we know it, twelve years and many memories later we find ourselves in our final year of high school as young adults, visiting colleges, preparing with what will be the next big phase of life.  There will be other photographs, and new memories created but none that will quite mark the end of an era like our senior photos do.Your senior photo is really your time to shine. These photographs are the opportunity to commemorate and celebrate your achievements.

I know that we all want senior photos that we can look back on and smile, and because parents will invest a significant amount more for these school pictures, I have asked my best friend professional photographer Tana Urizar from Tana Photography to contribute to this blog post. I think she has an incredible eye and does an amazing job. She has photographed my children forever and shot my daughter Nicole’s senior photos and we love them. She gives some really great professional suggestions for helping you have a good experience and getting the best results with your photo session. I hope that you will find her piece helpful.  

To all of those little people that I have watched grow into lovely young adults, I wish you so much happiness in life and the very best senior year ever.

Be happy in your skin,

Donna

                                                            

Senior Photo Homework Assignment

Your senior photo session will be an important part of your final year in high school. It may be one of those few times in life when a professional photo session is all about YOU! To make it one of the best experiences, it’s important to put some thought into how you’ll look and what to wear.

Begin with some prep work and search in magazines and online for “looks” that you’re drawn to, styles that look like you and fit your personality. Select hair, makeup and outfits that are a bit more special, making you feel great and giving you confidence.

It takes research to find something that’s more than just “every day” but not going too far out in left field, where you feel the style just isn’t you.

If you’re a young woman, makeup is an important part of your senior photos. Extra emphasis on the eyes will give your portrait more impact, since eyes are often the first detail a viewer looks at in a photo. A little extra liner and mascara, which may be too much on a regular day, will actually help keep your images from looking “flat”.

Photo sessions are one of those times when professional makeup application can be really helpful. Look for a makeup artist who understands what you’re wanting, offers helpful suggestions and is someone you trust. Check beforehand on their fees or what their minimum purchase is.

Your clothes are another important part of your session, making the difference between “I look great” and “not much effort.”  Give yourself at least two outfit options, maybe three: casual top and jeans, skirt or semi-casual outfit with dress shirt or sweater, and maybe a dress for girls and for guys, dress pants paired with a dress shirt. Add some interest to your look with statement jewelry, personal accessories and the latest footwear. Avoid tennis shoes, logos, and bright or overpowering colors. Remember to go for a cohesive look that feels special.

Definitely put in some research time when selecting your photographer. Look at local websites and blogs, ask your friends whom they suggest and see whose style fits your personality best. Don’t be intimidated to call and ask a photographer the questions that are important to you. They’re use to answering client questions every day over the phone and email. It’s one of the ways to find out if their vision fits yours. Your photographer may either suggest locations or may ask you about places that are important to you. If there’s a location that you’d love to include, your photographer may want to check it out first for lighting and opportunities.

Your senior photo session will be exciting and fun- and it’ll definitely go by fast. So, get some sleep the night before, do your pre-session homework and you’ll feel and look your best!

www.TanaPhotography.com

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tana-Photography-Weddings/131328483606894

     

Follow up to the truth in aging

Hi Friends,

Well, it's great to see that some of you are reading my blog post, thank you for that! I had a few readers ask if there's a product that I would recommend based on the information in the last posting?
We all  know as with most things not one suits all. We are all seeking to improve various things and we have different skin types and conditions. So to choose one anti-aging or wrinkle cream, I really wanted one that would suit most everyone. I think Bioelements Sleepwear is just that. You may already know that as we sleep our entire body is working to heal and restore itself. Our skin, being the bodies largest organ is no exception. Our bodies temperature is raised slightly as we sleep and the conditions are just right to receive good healthy, effective ingredients to work hard.  I can tell you from personal experience that myself along with every client that's ever tried it, loves sleepwear. The other reason I really recommend this product is that it comes in a formula for every skin type. There is the regular sleepwear for all skin types other than oily. For my oilier clients they have an oil control formula. So it's perfect for everyone. Because Bioelements is a custom blended line another wonderful thing is that it can have additional ingredients added to suit your specific skin's issues.  However, you will only find it in professional skincare locations. But, the price point is good and another reason I like it for my clients. It's priced at $62. and should last you about 4 months.  If anyone is interested in trying this product let me know and I will offer you an introductory price of $ 45. just because I think you will love it!

Be happy in your skin,
Donna



A much-coveted overnight creme containing a scientific "dream team" complex of topical calcium, time-released retinol, cranberry seed oil and protein peptides.  Works all night long to revitalize firming collagen and elastin, replenish antioxidants, improve moisture retention and strengthen the skin's protective barrier layer.

KEY INGREDIENTS:

TOPICAL CALCIUM PCA: Strengthens

CRANBERRY SEED OIL: Protecting, elasticity-promoting

RETINOL: Smoothes, regenerates

PROTEIN PEPTIDES: Helps stimulate collagen

TOCOPHEROL: Vitamin E – moisturizing

BERGAMOT OIL: Antiseptic

Truth In Aging

Hi Friends,
I want to share with you one of my favorite sites for product information and honest consumer truth about personal beauty and beauty products. Below I have listed the link for you. Explore the site, I think you'll find it very interesting and informative. One recent article that I have listed for you below rates Consumer Reports
wrinkle creams that don't work. Something to keep in mind when choosing a wrinkle cream. A product is  going to be more effective if it is properly delivered into the skin. I have never believed that because you pay a lot of money for a product means that it necessarily works better. But, what I do know is that in order to deliver better ingredients into our skin (rather than it just laying on the surface) we do have to pay for the technology in a product that provides that delivery system. Look for words like serums, liposomes, ceramides, and peptides they work as vehicles delivering (good) ingredients into the deeper layers of skin.  So, paying for a product if it's doing the job is a little more money well spent.

www.truthinaging.com  See article below

Be happy in your skin,
Donna

The September issue of Consumer Reports has a round up of wrinkle creams that don’t work.  After testing beauty brands that included Aveeno, ROC and L’Oreal, on had 79 people for 12 weeks, CR pronounced them all failures in the anti-aging department with Garnier performing “slightly better than the rest”.  Talk about a frenzied attack on a straw man. You don’t have to test these to know that they don’t work, you just have to look at the ingredients.
Consumer Reports doesn’t say how it went about selecting the products in the test, but what struck me is how similar they are – as well as being uniformly absolutely awful. Some of them are so awful that I hope the testers got danger money. Even the winning Garnier Nutrioniste Ultra Lift Anti-Wrinkle Firming Moisturizer ($16) is stuffed full of irritants (like triethanolamine, which is frighteningly high up on the ingredients list, toxins (such as octinoxate, a sunscreen active that should not be used by pregnant women) and fillers (eg the stabilizer, polyacryloyldimethyl taurate).
The CVS contender is so bad, it’s almost funny – CVS Firming Anti-wrinkle Moisturizer ($12) seems to have tried to clone the winning Garnier but perversely left out anything that might remotely make it worth using  -  which is basically a smidge of argan oil.  The only thing that  could remotely be considered an active in the CVS is soy protein. I imagine that CVS considers retinyl palmitate to be a positive, but since it has been linked to cancer in sunscreens, I do not.
One of the more expensive products to be tested by Consumer Reports was Aveeno Active Naturals Ageless Vitality Elasticity Recharging System ($40). Its much-touted botanicals – blackberry leaf and dill, which are, by the way, the only things worth a tout – make a sadly token appearance at very end of the ingredients list.  And its “biomineral concentrate” is just silly – a mix of silicones with zinc and copper powder (not to be confused with copper peptide). There’s a spot of vitamin E, but otherwise this is basically an over-priced sunscreen and one that might give you cancer rather than prevent it. Several of its sunscreen actives are unstable and oxybenzone is a photocarcinogen, it has demonstrated an increase in the production of harmful free radicals and an ability to attack DNA cells; for this reason, it is believed to be a contributing factor in the recent rise of melanoma cases with sunscreen users. Some studies have shown it to behave similarly to the hormone estrogen, suggesting that it may cause breast cancer. It has also been linked to contact eczema.
The most shocking is the pricey Lancome Renergie Double Performance Treatment Anti-Wrinkle Firming ($80). The next time anyone says that my Five Best anti-aging serums are expensive, I am going to close my eyes and think of this. It is the world’s most expensive petroleum jelly – the fourth ingredient after highly sought after water and silicone.  What you are ostensibly paying for is hydroxyproline, a component of collagen – however, the body makes its own and a deficiency only happens if you are deficient in vitamin C (source), and anti-inflammatory butcher’s broom.
For those aren’t already too depressed, the rest of the rest in the Consumer Reports test were: Equate (Walmart) Advanced Firming Anti-Wrinkle Face & Neck Cream ($8), L’Oreal Revitalift Face & Neck Day Cream ($17), ROC Multi-Correction 4-Zone Daily Moisturizer ($19).
Ingredients in Garnier: Active Ingredients: Ensulizole 1.7%, Octinoxate 7.5%. Inactive Ingredients: Water, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Myristyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Triethanolamine, Palmitic Acid, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Titanium Dioxide, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Acrylates Copolymer, Alumina, Argania Spinosa Kernel Extract†, Beeswax, Benzyl Alcohol, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Cetyl Alcohol, Citral, Coperinicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Disodium EDTA, Ethylparaben, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Linalool, Methylparaben, PEG-20 Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Retinyl Linoleate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Stearyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Fragrance.
Ingredients in CVS: Active Ingredients: Ensulizole (1.7%), Octinoxate (7.5%). Inactive Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerine, Myristyl Myristate, Stearic Acid, Triethanolamine, Palmitic Acid, Titanium Dioxide, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, PEG-100 Stearate, Beeswax, PEG-20 Stearate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyl Dimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinyl Palmitate, BHT, Tricaprylin, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Myristoyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Fragrance, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate.
Ingredients in Aveeno Revitalizing Day Moisturizer SPF 30:  Active Ingredients:  Avobenzone (3%, Sunscreen), Homosalate (12%, Sunscreen), Octisalate (5%, Sunscreen), Octocrylene (1.7%, Sunscreen), Oxybenzone (3%, Sunscreen). Inactive Ingredients: Water, PPG-3 Myristyl Ether Neoheptanoate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Hexylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Silica, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Maltodextrin, Hydrogenated Palm Kernel Glycerides, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate / Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Isohexadecane, Bisabolol, Fragrance, Polysorbate 20, Disodium EDTA, Cetyl Hydroxyethylcellulose, Cetearyl Glucoside, Urea Sodium PCA, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polysorbate 60, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Leaf Extract, Peucedanum Graveolens (Dill) Extract, Polyquaternium-51, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Methylisothiazolinone, Mica, Titanium Dioxide. Biomineral Concentrate:  Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Trisiloxane, Silica, Zinc, Divinyldimethicone / Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Tocopheryl Acetate, Copper Powder
Ingredients in Lancome: Water/Aqua, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Cyclopentasiloxane, Petrolatum, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate SE, PEG-40 Stearate, Myristyl Myristate, Hydroxyproline, Zea Mays Kernel Extract/Zea Mays, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Stearic Acid, Caffeine, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Sorbitan Tristearate, Disodium EDTA, Ruscus Aculeatus Root Extract/Ruscus Aculeatus, Methylsilanol Mannuronate, Soybean Protein/Glycine Soja, Palmitic Acid, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Methylparaben, Butylparaben, Fragrance/Parfum, Blue 1/CI 42090, Yellow 5/CI 19140, Red 4/CI 14700, B5949/2
Ingredients in L”Oreal: Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane, Glycerin, Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum), Myristyl Myristate, Shorea Robusta Seed Butter, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, PEG 100 Stearate, Cera Alba (Beeswax), Glyceryl Stearate, PEG 20 Stearate, Acrylamide Sodium Acryloyldimethyltaurate Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Isohexadecane, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Capric/Caprylic Stearic Triglyceride, Acrylates Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Polysorbate 80, Acetyl Trifluoromethylphenyl Valylglycine, Retinyl Acetate (Vitamin A), Polycaprolactone, Crithmum Maritimum (Crithmum Maritimum Extract), Methylparaben, Diazolidinyl Urea, Butylparaben, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Fragrance, Benzyl Salicylate, Benzyl Benzoate, Linalool, Hexylcinnamal, Limonene, Citronellol, Butylphenyl Methlyproprional, Geraniol, Alpha Isomethyl Ionone, Benzyl Alcohol, Amyl Cinnamal
Ingredients in ROC: Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (8%), Octisalate (4%), Octocrylene (3%) Inactive Ingredients: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Ascorbyl Glucoside, Behenyl Alcohol, BHT, Bisabolol (L-Alpha), Butylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) (Shea Butter), C30 38 Olefin/Isopropyl Maleate/MA Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Copper Gluconate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disodium EDTA, Ethylparaben, Fragrance, Glycerin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolyme, Isononyl Isononanoate, Laureth 23, Laureth 4, Magnesium Aspartate, Methylparaben, Mica, Phenoxyethanol, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 60, Propylparaben, Retinal, Sodium Hydroxide, Squalane, Steareth 2, Steareth 21, Styrene Acrylates Copolymer, Titanium Dioxide, Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E), Water, Zinc Gluconate

Melanoma Mayhem

If you have ever been to see an Esthetician for skincare of any kind one of the questions you’ll hear asked, is do you wear an SPF?  As a skincare provider it has been drilled into our heads throughout our education and continues into the field with the emphasis on the damaging effects of sun exposure in everything we do. So it is in our fiber and you’ll hear us continually reminding our clients, family, and friends. With each generation we have the responsibility of educating young people on how to limit tanning because of the melanoma/skin cancer link.

There are several misconceptions about cancer and sun exposure and then there’s the truth. Teens believe that skin cancer only happens to people over 40. Did you know that melanoma is the No. 1 cause of cancer death among 15-20 year olds? Do you think tanned skin looks healthier than pale skin? Tanned skin is actually an indicator that the skin has been damaged, so there is no safe tan. Another myth is that tanning beds are safer than the sun. Tanning beds can expose the skin to four times the UVA and two times the UVB rays. People are unable to feel the UVA rays on their skin but, they contribute the most to skin aging and skin cancers. A big one we hear more often now days is that, wearing sunscreens will cause vitamin D deficiency. Humans only need 20 minutes of noontime sun exposure to make about 1000 IU’s of vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements have been found to be as effective as sun exposure and the body doesn't know the difference. Damaging rays are present from sun up to sun down year-round, so yes we should be protecting ourselves even on cloudy days.

Don’t be fooled, skin cancer caused by cumulative sun exposure comes in three different distinct forms, varying in severity. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common and the least severe. Next is squamous cell and is a more serious condition. Malignant Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and not always found on areas exposed to sunlight. Recognize the signs and symptoms or ABCD’s of melanoma. Look for changes in the skin, especially the size and color of moles. Be aware of scaliness, oozing, bleeding, or changes in the appearance of a bump or nodule. Watch for spreading of pigmentation beyond a moles border along with changes in sensation, itchiness, tenderness, or pain. Melanomas on young people are found more on the trunk of the body, rather than on the head or neck as on elderly people. The incident of melanomas on lower legs of females is significant.

SPF stands for sun protection factor. UVA rays are shorter rays absorbed by the outer most layer of skin that cause tanning. UVB rays are longer and can penetrate into the deeper dermal layer burning the skin. Look for SPF that is a broad or full spectrum of coverage protecting from both UVA and UVB. With the higher SPF, the concentration of ingredients is higher. Some self tanners have SPF in them as well.

I recommend a SPF of at least a 30 containing antioxidants as an anti-inflammatory agent to repair and strengthen the skins protection barrier. Aveeno has a spray spf  of 85 love the spray on application. Loreal, has a self tanner with an 15 SPF both can be found at Ulta

As a skincare professional I feel it my obligation to seize the opportunity to educate younger people especially, about the importance of protecting their beautiful young skin daily. The attitude is shifting that paler skin is the real look of beauty rather than tanned leathery skin. Protect what you have so you don’t have to correct it later. Millions of dollars are spent each year repairing the damage over exposure to the sun has created. Spend your money now on beautiful hats, sunglasses and self tanners with SPF. Enjoy the sun each day safely.

                        Be happy in your skin, Donna  

Reach Out and Touch Someone

Yesterday was Mother's Day and I couldn't help thinking of all of those
wonderful mom’s that I know and what an important job we have. Our girl's learn
from us how to be women and mom's themselves one day. And from us, our
boys learn how to value and treat the women in their lives.
 I remember my children as babies especially my son loving baby massage and how after their baths to settle them down I would gentle massage them and watch their squiggling little bodies
become still and relaxed. Still both my children are very responsive to touch
because I’ve never stop touching, hugging, or kissing them. The only difference
now is that I can’t always get away with doing it in front of their friends
but, that will never stop me from trying!  I think that most know me as a very touchy person. I love to touch, hug,and, be hugged. That is what I learned growing up by example and my extended
family still hugs all the time. I hope that is just one of the things my
children are learning from me.

The power of touch is way beyond what we imagine. There is scientific
evidence showing that skin to skin contact is beneficial to human health.
Unfortunately, touch has become a touchy subject. We Americans are among the
most touch-deprived people in the world despite our enlightened attitudes.
Americans don’t touch each other more for fear of having our intentions
misunderstood and this is enough to scare some people from giving just a simple
pat on the back. In addition, we are adding to that lack of touch as we  move
farther away from face to face human communication with technology.
Researchers consider the effects of touch deprivation to be worse than
physical abuse. Humans need to connect. We need to receive touch and we need to
give it for genuine happiness.  The stress hormone, cortisol is reduced with hugging. Cortisol is associated with anger,anxiety, physical tension, and weakened immunity. The University of North
 Carolina noted in a study that a mere 20 seconds of hugging boosted oxytocin levels, which improved heart function. Touch nurtures, relaxes, and heals. Touch is an innate behavior for giving and
receiving love which all of mankind wants and needs.


 Did you know that there is a“National Hug Day” on January 21^st? (ok we missed for this year)
However, I wish that we could see everyday as an opportunity to touch and to
hug. Bring touch into your life. Care for yourself by getting those endorphins flowing, as some massage therapist say“The issues are in the tissues” have a massage or facial and feel the stress
drain from your body and spirit.  To all of those wonderful moms out there I hope that everyday can be Mother’s Day for you. Don’t ever stop touching and hugging and don’t forget to take a hug for yourself.

Be happy in your skin,
Donna


  

Skin Resurfacers, exfoliation, peels, and microdermabrasion

When we are younger our skin renews itself at a faster rate. As we enter our thirties the renewal rate begins to slow down and this results in thicker, duller-looking skin. During this time the oil producing glands also slow down and the skin will become dryer. This is all a natural process and there isn’t a skincare product that can stop nature. However, there are products and procedures that can undo the signs of nature. Exfoliation, peel and resurface, these terms are one in the same in that they are all designed to remove the outer most layers of dead skin cells and speed up the skins renewal process leaving it brighter, smoother, younger looking. Exfoliation peels or resurfacing can also safely address and correct many skin problems such as brown spots from the suns damage, wrinkles, acne, and loss of elasticity depending on the strength used. To demonstrate this process tries to imagine your skin with its many layers like that of an onion. These resurfacing treatments can remove the brown, dry, and rougher surface layer revealing the newer flesh beneath.     

There are many forms of resurfacing. The two more common forms used are referred to in my industry as Chemical {peels} and Mechanical {microdermabrasion}. It is up to you and your skincare provider to determine your skin type and the level of resurfacing you which to achieve.

Some chemical resurfacers commonly used are glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids.   

These chemical types accomplish their goal by dissolving and peeling away dead skin cells. These acids are available in varying strengths depending on the client’s desired results. At home peels, the kind you can buy at a drug store have the lowest percentage of acid. They are very mild and you won’t see much difference in your skin. They can be present as an active ingredient in daily cleansers for a steady and very gentle removal of the surface skin.www.loreal.com  Spa peels are slightly stronger than at home products. They are done usually in a series. The result can be immediate depending on the skins condition. Glycolic is a good anti-aging resurfacer. Salicylic acid is the best resurfacer for acne and hyperpigmentation. Lactic is considered very mild yet effective for sensitive skin types. Chemical resurfacing {peels} administered by a dermatologist typically are performed with higher percentages than what you would find at a spa. From mild at 20% to a deep 99% depending on what you hope to achieve and your skin type. Medium and deep peels cause the skin to redden and slough off. It will take generally at least a week to heal but can have long-lasting results depending on the peel.

Microdermabrasion is a mechanical or crystal resurfacer and performs an immediate exfoliation. The difference being, when chemical is used, the new cells are generated as old ones slough off. Microdermabrasion is achieved by spraying high-grade micro crystals across the skin’s surface through a rod. The crystals are removed with a powerful electronic vacuum.  Both are done in a spa or doctor’s office with a well trained skincare professional. There are less aggressive and less effective forms of microdermabrasion that can be used at home.  www.neutrogena.com     

The ultimate result is the same for either mechanical or chemical.

The number of sessions within a permitted time frame will vary depending on the level being used.  With all resurfacing the skin will be sensitive after, so it is especially important to wear a sunscreen with at least a 30 SPF.  Depending on the depth of the peel, the price for chemical or mechanical can range from $150 to $1500 and up. I recommend that if you are going to do something more invasion that you consider having it done on a Thursday or Friday so that you have the weekend down time. These are just a few of the more affordable options for maintaining healthy more youthful complexion skin. Remember though, beauty is skin deep ugly is to the bone!  Visit me for a resurfacing consultation www.thehairstudiosalonspa.com

Be happy in your skin,

Donna 

Beautiful Brows, How to get the perfect pair

Creating beautiful brows can be super intimating for a lot of us. The basics of shaping brows haven’t changed much over the years. The thing that has changed is going from a thinner brow to a fuller more natural well groomed brow. The beginning of the brow should align with the inner corner of the eye. Brows that are too close can create a frowning appearance. Brows are usually fuller toward the center and become thinner as we move toward the arch and the outside corner. Our genes dictate the way a person’s brow naturally grows and the angle of the arch. The key is grooming them in within their natural outline so that they will appear balanced and best frame the eye. We can create more of an arch to open up the eye. The brows usually end naturally at the outside corner of the eye. Our job when grooming is to clean up those areas outside the brow frame.

Waxing the brows is probably the most preferred way to groom. Those with very little hair may prefer to just tweeze. I recommend using a hard wax over a thin wax removed with a strip. Look for salons that carry both. Hard or sometimes called {blue wax} is applied a little more thickly and is peeled off without a strip. It works by shrinking around the hair and adhering less to the skin. This is the preferred wax for sensitive areas like the face, bikini and underarms. If you are using any kind of topical medication for acne or anti-aging then you would absolutely want to use hard wax as strip could pull off the skin in the areas waxed. Hard wax because it pulls less on the skin tends to hurt a little less as well. Depending on the person, most people  can maintain their wax once a month.

To naturally enhance a thin or sparse brow, I recommend using a brow powder or pencil. When choosing a color try to not go more than two shades darker than your hair color. When applying use feathering strokes rather than drawing on a line like your Aunt Lucy! The idea is to keep them as natural looking as possible while allowing them to really enhance your face. Don’t be bashful about seeking help from A professional, their trained input can help you get the brows you’re seeking. The price to wax ranges from $10-$20. Always make sure that the professional spends the time to consult with you first. Your professional should want to know of the skincare products and medications being used. This is an opportunity to discuss the best way to have perfect brows.

I am happy to extend to you a complimentary brow grooming for mentioning my blog when you visit me at
www.thehairstudiosalonspa.com

Be happy in your skin,

Donna     

Acne Anxiety

As an Esthetician one of the more common skin conditions I see clients for is acne. Acne is not a just a teenage condition. Most acne will clear by the early twenties but, many people continue to struggle into their 30s, 40s, and even later. Women are more affected than men. The skin on our face, back, and chest contain more hair follicles. Hair follicles contain glands that produce oil. The cells lining the follicle should be shed and when the body produces excessive oil those cells become sticky and aren’t able to shed. The blocked pore than cannot receive oxygen and bacteria will grow in the absence of that oxygen therefore forming a breakout. Our oil glands are influenced by genetics and hormones. We inherit the number and size of our oil glands from our parents.

In adolescent acne there is an overproduction of oil and bacteria. Sadly, some women do not outgrow persistent acne because of lifespan hormonal influences. Acne is most likely to occur mid month before ovulation and before the onset of menses. Menopause can elicit acne when ovaries produce less estrogen and while adrenal glands continue to produce androgen. {Androgen is the male hormone responsible for the facial hair, deeper voice and oil production.}

What works and what does not work in treating acne? 

Most dermatologists will prescribe a long-term antibiotic generally used for 6 months to a year. In addition to antibiotics, a retinoid cream, a derivative of vitamin A that works to unblock pores by continuing to peel off the dead layers of skin. Retinoid cream is a great anti-ager but, can be over irritating.

In extreme cases of acne Accutane may be used with more serious potential side effects. Oral contraceptives have been shown to be effective in clearing acne in women by suppressing the overactive oil glands and can be used as a longer-term therapy. Some people respond to expensive blue and photodynamic light therapy. These work by healing as they reach deeper into the skin.

 These may all work for a while and then acne suffers find themselves feeling desperate again for a solution. I believe a more realistic and more sustainable approach requires implementing a committed home care regime and periodically adjusting topical products during the first several weeks. Using the right products is only half the battle. Using them correctly is the other half.Without 100% compliance of a home care regimen you will not clear your skin. This is especially key with teenagers reluctant to make skincare a part of their routine. It takes three to four months for most acne to heal because it takes that long for acne lesions to form and come to the surface. Diligent home care and patience will prevent new acne lesions from forming.

 Cleansing morning and at the end of the day before bed with a gentle wash {no scrubbing} and cooler to warm water, not hot water to open the pores.

I recommend using a cleanser containing salicylic acid ranging from .5 to 2%. Salicylic is a common ingredient in acne treatment products and encourages the shedding of dead skin cells while reducing inflammation. The shedding of the skin cells will allow your treatment products to penetrate the pores. Some common products containing salicylic are Noxzema, oxy and stridex products.

Another very affective product in fighting acne is Benzoyl Peroxide. Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) is available in many forms such as gels, creams, and cleansers. Proactive repairing lotion and clearasil are a couple products containing BPO. It has the ability to reduce the number of skin surface bacteria, is an effective antiseptic and anti inflammatory. BPO should be introduced gradually into your daily regimen as a treatment. Less than 1% are allergic to BPO. Use a 2% BPO for three nights for no more than 15 minutes and every third night increase the wearing time 15 minutes until you’ve reached 2 hours. After two weeks of two hours wearing time you should be good to wear it over night. BPO has a bleaching quality so be sure to use white towels and sheets. Do not spot treat as the pores around a breakout are likely blocked also so, treat your entire face staying away from the sensitive eye area.

Avoid the temptation to pop a pimple as you run the risk of spreading bacteria and aggravating acne or scarring. A skincare professional can do proper extractions. When using any acne treatment your skin will be extra sensitive to sun and burning only adding extra irritation. Always use a water based SPF.

 Continuous use of salicylic and BPO products is necessary to obtain and maintain positive results. If you stop your pores will again clog with excess oil and dead skin and acne can return. Be ready to shed a few tears and skin cells on your way to beautiful skin but, you can get there with discipline and determination.

 

Be happy in your skin,

Donna

What do you see when you look in the mirror?

 As we enter our forties, fifties, and beyond remember it's not about looking younger it's about looking as good as you can at your age.  I watched Oprah yesterday and on the program were four supermodels of  past decades. Without naming them I will say that they all looked pretty amazing. Their skin was bright and healthy, with tiny lines around their eyes and mouth. Not all the signs of aging were erased. One had a slightly less natural look which is probably the result of too many fillers. I want to help you find ways to improve your looks without changing your face and what makes you who you are.
 I truly believe that a beautiful face starts with beautiful skin. Remember baby oil and iodine? Baby Boomer's really weren't educated on the damages effects of the sun. Beauty was suntanned skin. Genetics play a big part in how well we age as well as our life style like our diet, smoking, stress, sleep habits and bottom line is some of it is just out of our control. As we age our skins metabolism slows down and we deal with changing hormone levels. Whew....no wonder we can't keep up!
There's nothing more beautiful than skin that has a natural healthy glow. I want to take you through some nonsurgical options as the number of treatments can be overwhelming. The following is a list of some options and treatments that a good dermatologist and or esthetician can do for you. In order to keep your attention and give you a chance to process I'll list them and give more detail on each as I blog.
 Lets' start with the benefits to having a spa facial. followed by other skin savers like retinoids, growth factors, chemical peels, laser skin rejuvenation, injections with botox and fillers, ablative laser resurfacing for brown spots. And the makeup face lift!
Spa Facials with your esthetician: I get asked a lot, how often  should I have a facial? You could have a facial once a month if your budget allows. Ideally, once a quarter with the change of season will benefit your skin. Facials are the perfect combination of results and incredible relaxation. One of the main focuses of facials is to exfoliate and clean out the pores. This is important because the pores are the largest pathway for penetration of active ingredients from our skin care products and oxygen into the skin. When pores are cleared you have less likelihood of breakouts as bacteria cannot flourish in the presence of oxygen. Exfoliation can be done by your estheticain by using fruit enzymes, peels, and microdermabrasion. They all take off the dead layer of skin revealing fresher smoother skin. Massage will stimulate lymphatic drainage ridding the skin of toxins. Toxins rob the cells of the ability to regenerate. { this is also why we choose products with antioxidants} Because of physiological changes, sun, and smoking our capillary walls become less permeable {meaning less blood flow to the skin tissue cells} massage and oxygen unblock those capillaries making them better able to deliver nutrients to our skins cells. Finally one of things I like to tell my clients is that establishing a  relationship with your esthetician gives you that go to person with questions about changes in your skin and any other concerns as they arise. She will know your skin as well as you do if you maintain that relationship.
Be gentle with your skin, more isn't always better.
Be happy in your skin,
Donna    

Is it just me?

Have you ever heard the expression ? " Live the life you love and love the life you live "
I don't know if it is just me and, I don't think that it is. But, how many 40 going on 50 somethings have this
same sense of restlessness? Midlife crisis maybe but, I don't like that phrase because of  it's negative suggestion.
I don't want to ditch my husband and buy a convertible sports car ( although that sports car thing wouldn't be half bad} It's a valid stage of life. Our children are getting older, we're not getting any younger. our bodies are physically changing. And, now we are reassessing the next chapter as we are half way through the book. Beauty begins under the skin. If we are not happy and content on the in side it will be revealed on the out. I think it's okay to approach this phase of our lives with curiosity, valid questioning of what's next. Otherwise we may miss out on all the greats opportunities that come with that exploration.  Besides along with this age of self discovery we find wisdom and we are more free to feel and express exactly who we are without fear of judgement because really who cares what other's think. I hope that all my sisters address the needs of the whole body, mind , and spirit.
Be happy in your skin,
Donna

"Smile" You'll live longer

I love drinking coffee and red wine. They are both two of my favorite things in the world. I look forward to them most everyday. Life is about enjoying the things that bring us pleasure and living happily. But, unfortunately as a result of my indulgence I find that I want to occasionally brighten my smile. Initially when teeth whitening came about is was so expensive and not many of us could afford it. Still you can find many options unaffordable.
So, two things I wanted  to share with you so you too can have a brighter more confident smile. First is a link to a You Tube demo for whitening your teeth very effectively and affordably. Who doesn't like that?  None of us want to brighten so much that our teeth look blue like grandma's hair! Just a little something to make your smile fresher and brighter. {Watch demo on You Tube video to the right} Second, a tip for making your smile look brighter even without bleaching is to choose lip colors with plums and purpler bases over shades with oranges in them. The oranges will make your teeth look a little more yellowish.
So there you have it smile at everyone you meet you'll make their day and add to your longevity :}
Be happy in your skin,
Donna :} :} :}

Pick up the phone

I received a call from a friend last night and we hadn't talked in probably 6 years. I was making dinner and unloading the dishwasher. I almost didn't pick up the call as I was busy. I am so that glad I did, we laughed while catching up for two hours. I thought after, how our visit took us to when we were 19 again and it was like we didn't skip a beat. It did my spirit so  much good. Pick up the phone, those dishes aren't going anywhere and your family won't starve!  Isn't it funny how time passes and we age but, our mind and thoughts can remain much the same. Therefor, transferring us straight back to some youthful place in time. I think that it's a great asset, being able to take age acquired wisdom and access that youthful past while moving into the future.  

Keep your mind, body, and spirit healthy and youthful. Start each day with a compliment not a supplement to your diet with a good highly absorbable vitamin and mineral complex. I really like Melaleuca's Vitality 4 pack.
It offers an AM and PM pack because the body utilizes them better when distributed throughout the day. This complex, more than a vitamin also contains the minerals essential for nail and hair growth that sometimes thins with age (you will especially love this and see improvement.} In addition they contain a probiotic for improved absorption of nutrients and good digestive health. They contain the necessary calcium and a broad spectrum antioxidant that helps protect against free radicals and the causes of aging.  Sometime we will talk about what free radicals are and the role of antioxidants. We see those terms everywhere.

 Taking care of ourselves inside and out I think we would all agree is so important. So here's my gentle nudge to encourage you to stop put down the laundry or whatever is and  make that time for yourself.  You will glad you did.

Be happy in your skin,
Donna

I can't stop slathering stuff on my lips

 We ingest a freakish
amount of lip product each year.  Because our lips contain no oil
glands, they can feel dryer especially in colder weather. To help remedy
this, mix some raw sugar with vaseline and keep it in your shower to use as a
lip scrub twice weekly. The water will dissolve the sugar and the vaseline
because it is petroleum based will provide a layer of protection and limited
moisture.  For more do it yourself lip product recipes go to http://www.lemelange.com This
site will provide recipes and the necessary ingredients for creating your very
own lip balm.

For optimal moisture
and protection use products found in nature such as bees wax and shea butter.
Some manufacturers will add drying ingredients to their product so you'll feel
the need to keep reapplying over and over needing even more of their product.
During the day remember the SPF in your lip products as our lips contain very
little melanin for protection. Especially, those individuals prone to coldsores
the sun will exacerbate the breakouts. Likewise apply a good lip balm at night
while sleeping just like you would a night time moisturizer for the rest of
your face. Faithful use of a scrub and a good moisturizing lip product will
help minimize the fine vertical lip lines that we may see as we age. Smokers,
could start to notice these lines sooner. A product I would recommend is
LipKist by Arizona Sun. LipKist is affordable at $3. and contains an SPF with
beeswax and jojoba oil. It is great used alone or under or over your lip color.
You won't find it necessary to constantly reapply. Find LipKist @ http://www.arizonasun.com

Be happy in your skin,
Donna