How To Properly Apply Self Tanner

Everyone has seen that one person who obviously has self tanner on and it looks a little funny. You can usually tell because not all areas of the body are evenly coated, some might not even be covered at all. Or the worst, it turned out kind of orange. If you are looking for that summer glow and are more of a DIY person, then here are some steps to show you how to apply self tanner and have it looking great.



1. First start by exfoliating your entire body. This will remove any dead skin, so you have an even slate to start with. If you have any dry areas such as knees or elbows, apply a moisturizer after exfoliation. You want you skin to be moisturized so the tanner takes properly. Drier skin has a harder time fully taking the color.

2. If you are using a gradual tanner, stick to once or twice a week. Using it too often will make it turn weird colors and its meant to darken over time not immediately.

3. Don't shave after you used self tanner. Shaving removes hair but it also tends to remove the top layer of skin. Doing this will leave you patchy. Shave a few hours before apply the tanner and then wait 48 hours or so till you shave again. This gives the product plenty of time to fully soak in.



4. Using too much. If you are applying a full tanner, you can do it every 10-14 days. Anything more than that is too often and will leave you either too dark or turn you orange.

5. When getting coverage on your hands and feet, apply it to the hands and smooth it to the fingers and same for the feet. This will give a more even coverage.

6. To get the most natural looking results, use gloves.

7. To keep your hands from washing off, avoid washing your hands for at least 1 hour after applying tanner. The longer you can wait, the better.

8. Always do a patch test first. This will allow you to see what color it turns to so you can decide if the color is right for you.

9. Make sure you rub moisturizer into your hairline. If you don't, one of two things will happen. You will either have a dark circle around your hairline or a light circle where nothing it. Just use a little lotion to keep this from happening.

10. Never skip an area. This will make it obvious that your tan is fake. Make sure you cover your ears, upper lip, hands, feet and neck. Use a mirror to double check your coverage.

11. Avoid using the same products on your face and your body. They make different formula's because the body ones tend to be heavier and will clog your pores and the face ones are lighter to help prevent that.

12. Don't sweat your tan off. Nothing looks worse then watching your tan slowly sweat and run down your body. To keep your tan strong, apply baby powder to your armpits, chest and any other areas your sweat a lot in. This will help you avoid a streaky, blotchy, mess of a color.

13. Always moisturize daily. Keeping your skin moist is the key to making your tan look fresh and to keep it lasting longer.

Its summer time so try out this tips next time you apply your self tanner! I am sure you will notice a big difference in how it goes on and looks.


~aphrodite

Know Your Sunscreen

Protecting yourself from UVA and UVB rays is extremely important, especially now that its warm out and most people are going to be spending a ton of time outside. If you do not use sunscreen it will lead to premature aging, skin spots, and possibly even skin cancer. Here are some things you need to know and some products with SPF in them that you may want to try.



1. Never Skip. Put applying sunscreen into your daily routine. Whether it is actual sunscreen or a moisturizer with SPF in it, be sure to apply it every day. Any time you forget, that is aging your skin by creating fine lines and wrinkles. 

2. SPF 30. Every day before you leave, make sure you apply an SPF of 30. That is the daily recommendation by the American Academy of Dermatology. Use a nickel sized amount for your face, so you get optimal coverage. Most people tend to use less then that.  

3. Chemical & Physical. There are 2 different types of sunscreens chemical and physical. Chemical absorbs into your skin, which can take up to 30mins to fully soak in. This one is great to apply at work on your break so your skin has time to fully soak it in. Physical immediately starts protecting your skin as soon as it is applied. This is great if you are at the beach or outdoors and need to reapply. You should apply sunscreen when outdoors every 2 hours.

4. Nothing Is Completely Water Proof. Even if you use waterproof sunscreen, it doesn't last. Once you are out of the water, you should put it on again. Even if you are just running errands, the sunscreen can sweat off. Apply every 2 hours.


5. Roll on SPF. They make a balm or roll on SPF that is great for applying to your face, ears, neck and lips. This are areas that you might not think about burning but they do, and it hurts.

6. Spray Sunscreen. The spray versions are a quick and easy way to apply sunscreen. Make sure you rub it in and spray every where. When you don't rub it in properly, it can lead to a disaster.

7. BB or CC cream. BB and CC creams are tinted foundations that you apply to your face and neck. They also have moisturizer and SPF in them. This is great if you are going to an outdoor event. They give even coverage, and a smooth, even skin tone. 

Be sure to always protect your skin from the sun, don't forget your SPF.

~aphrodite

How To Have The Ultimate Brows

Your eyebrows are the basic outline of your face and are meant to enhance your features. Having bad eyebrows can really put a damper on your self confidence and the way others perceive you. Follow these steps to get the best brows possible.  And also learn somethings that you could be doing to ruin your perfect brows.


The Perfect Brow Kit
Brow Gel- makes thin eyebrows appear thicker.
Brow Pencil- to fill in your brows. powder finishes are better.
Brow Conditioner- used to help thicken the thinner areas of your brows. (avoid applying to the whole brow. it will only make thick spots longer.)
Tweezers- to tweeze those random stray hairs.


The Right Shape For You
Just like a haircut, there are certain brow shapes that look best on certain face shapes. You want the arch of your brow to start at the outer edge of the pupil. The rest depends on the face shape.

Square Face. 
Square face means strong jawline. To distract from this, have a more bold, thick brow. Fill in your brows and let them be a bit thicker to pull the focus away from your jaw.

Round Face.
To counteract the roundness of your face, have sharp, angular brows. You want your brows to have lots of structure to them.

Long Face.
Avoid extending your brows up and avoid high arches. Instead to make your face appear shorter, make your eyebrows longer. You want your brows to extend just past the corners of your eyes. If it is thin, then use a light powder to fill in this area.

Heart Face.
Avoid heavy aches, sharp points and heavy filled in brows.  You want to keep a soft arch that hugs your brow bone. This will deter from the pointed chin.

Filling In Your Brows (The Right Way)
1. Fill In Bald Spots. Use a shade 2 shades lighter then your brow color and make short, angled strokes in the direction of the hair growth. Avoid drawing outside of your natural brow shape, it will look funny. For best results, use 2 different pencil colors one slightly lighter then your hair and one slightly darker for a more natural affect. Use lighter color from the start to the arch and the darker color from the arch to the tail.


2. Bulk Them Up. As long as you do not have thin eyebrows, you can use a tinted brow gel. Sweep in the opposite direction of hair growth, and then use whats left to sweep in the direction of the hair growth. Cover both sides makes them appear fuller.


3. Apply Powder. Use a small, brush with powder over the pencil. The powder should be in between the color of your skin and the hair color for more natural results. it will also blend the pigments.

4. Sweep. Use a brush to sweep upward and remove any excess product and soften any harsh lines.


5. Never Tweeze Gray. By tweezing gray hairs, you are just changing your brow shape and creating thin spots. See a professional and have them dye it for you. They make special dye for your lashes and brows. It is great and lasts for quite some time.


6. Fake Higher Arches. Use a highlighter or cream shadow above and below our brow that is one shade lighter then your foundation to create the illusion of a higher arch. Use your finger to blend the product until it is gone.

Brow Mistakes 

1. Keep Products Off Your Brows. Any liquid product like lotion or moisturizer can soak into the hair follicle and can cause the hair to fall out as well as prevent new hair growth. If you wouldn't put in on your scalp then avoid putting it on your brows.

2. Use The Right Mirror. Use duller lighting to tweeze your brows. It will keep things in a better perspective. Avoid magnifying mirrors. They over amplify the area which will cause you to lose perspective and over pluck.



3. Do Not Over Trim. Trimming brows should be minimal to keep them even and neatly shaped. You just need to trim the long, straggly ones. Length keeps them fuller, otherwise they can become choppy and uneven.

4. Start Your Brows Right. Look at yourself in the mirror. Where do your brows start? If they are inline with your nostrils, they are too far apart. This will actually make your eyes and nose seem wider. They should start at the bridge of your nose. It can help to slim the look of your nose, and make wide eyes look closer together.



5. Avoid Too Much Brows. Avoid over using pencils and avoid using pencils that are more than 1 shade darker than your brow color. By doing this you will enhance your eyes not distract from them and avoid the over filled in look.

6. Good Brow Pencil. Use a wax pencil to hold the hair in place. An angled pencil with a light formula will give a more natural look. Again make the shade is the right one for you.



Getting the perfect brows is not an easy thing to do especially if you are trying to do it on yourself. Skip the hasle. Brow bars are becoming extremely popular. Google brow bars in your area and go get your brows done by a professional. Use these tips for up keep and to recreate the looks at home! Have a great day and even greater brows.

~aphrodite

Keeping Your Skin Healthy

Using the right products for your skin is extremely important. What may work for someone else, may not work for you. The different skin types are sensitive, oily, dry and combination. We will go through what each skin type means, what you need to focus on, and what types of products you should look for to use.

Sensitive Skin
You can tell you have sensitive skin by if you have burning, flaking, or redness after using any type of products. When using products look for sensitive skin on its labels, and look for organic/all natural products to help minimize the chance of reaction. Everyday you should use sunscreen, because redness is caused by inflammation which can be increased if you are not using sunscreen. Use a calming moisturizer that has ingredients like oats, vitamin e, or cucumbers that well help to sooth the skin. Avoid peels or harsh exfoliants. They will continue to irritate your skin and end up doing more bad then good. Stick to cooler products that come from a fridge to reduce irritation and calm the skin quicker. Use a natural oil like olive oil or coconut oil on your skin if it becomes dry.

Oily Skin
The amount of oil that your skin has has nothing to do with the amount of moisturizer you use. It is from the amount of sebum your skin produces. So when you use products made for other skin types, at can cause your skin to produce more oil then it currently is. Be sure to still use moisturizer, but look for one that is water based so it hydrates your skin without adding excess oil. You can use stronger products that contain retinol and hydroquinone because oily skin tends to be thicker and has less irritation. Avoid picking at pimples. It causes dark spots and scars that may not be visible while you are younger but can become more prominent as you age.

Dry Skin
Dry skin usually has a dry, rough and sometimes flaky texture to it. This can be from too much tanning, the wrong products, or not drinking enough water. You should drink 80 oz or more water each day. Your cleanser should be one that is hydrating and has moisturizing ingredients in it like ceramides or hyaluronic acid. Dry skin means that the enzymes that help remove dead skin cells have slowed down that has caused a build-up on your skin. Use a gentle peel or exfoliate once a week. Avoid harsh scrubs like salt scrubs. It can dry your skin our more, so try a sugar scrub instead. Layer products on your skin, like a face serum then top it off with a moisturizer to get more bang out of your prod

 
Combination Skin
This means you have spots of your skin that are dry and some spots that are oily. You have to treat the oily zones different then the dry zones. Use an salicylic acid toner on the oily spots to help minimize and unclog pores. If you don't have large pores, then use a essence lotion to help balance out both oily and dry skin. Apply a moisturizer on top. Use a mask once a week. Look for one that has glycolic or lactic acid formulas. Make sure to leave it on your face for 10 minutess or less so it doesn't irritate your skin. Clay masks usually work the best.

 

Try out these tips to help control the skin you have and make it look better then ever. 

~aphrodite

Rules For Women To Follow & Break Part 2

In continuation of the last post, we left off after learning what rules women in the 30's and 40's should follow or break. Now for our lovely ladies in there 50's or 60's, here are some rules that should be followed and that should be broken. Enjoy.

50's
During your 50's, most women go thru menopause, which makes women stop producing estrogen. Estrogen helps keep the skin hydrated and glowing. Without estrogen the skin becomes dry, sensitive, and can even being to sag. Now we cannot fix all the places that begin to sag with out surgery but we can fix some areas. 

You may have noticed that your hair is not quite as thick as it once was. This is because your hair follicles have began to shrink, and it is not producing as much hair as it once was. Some people may continue to have more hair than others. To give the appearance of fuller hair your can use a bigger round brush at the crown of your head. This will allow you to get more volume on top. Now you need to slow down the thinning process and maybe even create more hair growth. You can do this by using shampoo and conditioner designed for thinning hair. There are a few different brands out there so it us up to you which one you should choose, but look for one that has minoxidil in it. It is the only drug approved to stimulate aging follicles and to help the regrowth process of the hair. 

You may have realized that you skin is much more sensitive and and redder then it used to be. Estrogen helps to reduce inflammation, and now you are becoming sensitive to your normal products.  Try using a redness relief treatment to help reduce the irritation, and redness of your skin.

As you age, you may begin to lose color in your hair and eyebrows. If the color on your eyebrows has begun to fade, try using an eyebrow pencil to fill it in. Not a fan of having to fill them in everyday? Then go a spa or salon and get them tinted. It is an easy 10 minute process and it will give you brow color for 3 to 4 weeks. 

Rule to Break: Skipping Shimmer. To create a natural glow, you should use sheer, reflective colors. Just do not go overboard on the glitter part. Keep it light, simple, and natural looking. Use a shimmer lip gloss, with an eyeshadow or blush that have the words luminescent, radiant, or glowing in the name. They are light-diffusing particles that give a more flattering look. They also sink into the skin rather than sitting on top of it.

60's

Just because you are a little older doesn't mean you have to have short hair.  Keeping your hair around shoulder length can actually knock up to 10 years off of your look. Because the texture of your hair has changed, be sure to not let it get too long. It can loose and body, and if its thinner the ends will look straggly.

You may notice that no matter how much moisturizer you use, your skin still is dry and sore. Try using one that contains ceramics, phospholipids or jojoba and borage oil. Use it twice a day once in the morning once before bed to keep your skin moisturized at all times. 

This is the time when your lashes are thinner and your eyes seem smaller. To make your eyes appear more open and your lashes fuller, use a thin line of eyeliner to make your eyes pop. Stay away from black, and go for a lighter color. Black can have the opposite effect and make eyes look smaller. Also avoid the lower lashes. It can emphasize dark circles and puffiness.

Rule to Break: Exfoliate. Although exfoliation is necessary to get rid of the dead skin cells, avoid exfoliating too much. Since your skin is as elastic as it once was, too much exfoliation can cause redness, irritation, burning and bruising. So instead go to the spa once a week for a lint enzyme or glycolic peel. It will leave your skin feeling soft and smooth.


I hope this helps you get a better understanding of what you should use on your skin, and why you are reacting differently to products you once loved. Try a few of these tips out and see what works best for you. You can always see a doctor for recommendations.

~aphrodite

Rules Every Women In There 30's & 40's Should Follow & Break

When your body hits its 30's, it begins to change again. Skin and hair can become more oily or dry than it was before. Having children will also change the hormones in your body. There are certain hair and skin care rules that you should follow to get the best looking skin and hair possible. But there are allows rules you should bend or break. Here are some skin tips to help you in your 30's, and 40's.

30's

Everyone says that your 30's are supposed to be your prime. When you feel the most comfortable in your skin, hair and body. For your hair, be sure that every time you wash it, you use a conditioner. Your scalp no longer produces the amount of oil it did when you were in your teens. You need to be careful because your hair is more fragile from coloring, styling and general wear and tear, it also produces less oil. The scalps natural oil its what helps to give it strength and elasticity. Conditioner can help replace the oil production. Condition your hair after each shampoo, and once a week use a mask. 

Your skin is the largest the largest organ in your body, and the only one you can see. What you do to your skin in your teens and twenties will effect the aging process of your skin. Start a intense skin care regimen. Start by washing your face and then exfoliating. The exfoliate will remove the dead skin cells from your face. Apply sunscreen every day to protect from anti-aging and burning rays. Since your skin absorbs the best when you are resting, apply a night time cream to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Also be sure to add a vitamin c serum into your morning and night time route to help restore your skins natural glow. 

When your under lots of stress, your body reacts in different ways from brittle nails to hair falling out to rashes on your skin and dark circles under your eyes. This is when a good concealer is needed. Invest in two different ones. For under your eyes, go for something with peach or yellow tones to reduce the appearance of dark circles. For the redness, something with green tones to neutralize the red. To cover the rest of your face, contour with a lightweight tinted lotion for a flawless, natural look.

I am sure you have been told by a dermatologist, your esthetician or even your own mother to not pick at your skin because it will lead to scarring. Well you still should not pick at acne, but you can touch your face. Use your hands when washing your face, or applying products. When your pores do not get enough oxygen, your skin will look dull. Once a week after you shower, because the steam allows he pores to open, put on a mask that is clay based to pull out any extra bacteria and clogged pores. Any bad acne, should be extracted by a trained professional.

40's
After following the same beauty trend for years, have you begun to notice your hair doesn't have as much oomph, your skin isn't as bright, and your make-up tricks don't work as well as they once did? No need to worry! It is time for a little upgrade. 

After you hit 40, you hair texture can change from hormones to become, wavier, straighter, or courser. Some women even experience hair loss from pregnancy or hormones as well. It is time to go with it and change up our styling routine a bit. For curly hair, play up the texture by using light weight mousse to enhance the curl. For straight hair, use a root lifter to add volume in the crown area. For course hair, use more moisturizing products like daily moisture shampoo and conditioner, or a moisturizing treatment. If you are one of the women who are suffering from thinning hair, switch to a shampoo and conditioner that is created for thinning hair to help keep it from thinning more. 

Your 40's are the time of menopause. Your skin changes and all the damage from the years prior begin to show up. To help reduce the appearance of these, and to help prevent more from appearing, switch to anti aging products packed with vitamin a and c. They will help keep skin clear, looking fresher, smoother, and fuller. If you have sensitive skin, consult with your dermatologist or esthetician to find products that are fit for your skin.

Make-up can actually make you look younger or older than you actually are. Wearing lots of make-up  can age you rather quickly.  Use light sheer colors that won't sink into fine lines and make you look tired, but will rather give you a glow. Sheer colors are more forgiving than dark, heavy colors, so update your make-up to sheer colors.

You should wash your hair as little as possible. You should not wash your hair everyday but only washing it once a week can stimulate hair growth, especially during this time when hair growth is the most important. Oil and dirt will build up on your scalp will put your scalp at risk and prevent future hair growth. Going 3 days between each shampoo should be your max.


I hope these rules will help you to having healthier looking hair and skin. Next week will be a continuation of this post for women in there 50's and 60's.

~aphrodite

Things That Could be Ruining Your Skin: Part 2

In continuation of the post from last week, here are more things that can be ruining or damaging your skin.

1.) Wearing Dirty Sunglasses. We all wear sunglasses on those hot summer days, but did know that bacteria can become built up on them? Especially on the nose piece. The bacteria can cause breakouts and skin irritation. Be sure to use a hand wipe or baby wipe to wipe off your sunglasses at any part that sits on your face before wearing them.

2.) Not Getting Enough Sleep. The recommended amount of sleep the average person should get each night is 8 hours. Not getting a full 8 hours of rest can lead to dull, tried looking skin, and black circles under your eyes. If you are someone that has a hard time falling a sleep, try going to bed an hour before you normally would. Also avoid any sugar or caffeine after 5pm so it makes it easier for you to go to sleep.

3.) Too Much Sodium.  Many people do not realize how much sodium can be found in every day foods and drinks. Too much sodium is not only bad for your health, but it dehydrates your skin. Be sure to check the labels on your food, and try to cut back on some of the salty things you eat. While you are eating something salty, drink water so you are adding hydration back into your body. Also use a daily moisturizer.

4.) Squinting Your Eyes. Your eyes are one of the most important senses. By wearing old glasses or contacts you are straining your eyes and causing them to do more work then they have too. In return, this causes fine lines and wrinkles in the corners of your eyes. Be sure to visit the eye doctor once a year, to avoid unnecessary wrinkles.

5.) Waxing Too Often. Waxing is a great way to remove unwanted hair on you face and body, but did you know that waxing to often can increase skin irritation. Waxing removes the hair from your skin, but can also remove the top layer of skin as well. You should wait 4-6 weeks between each waxing session to allow your skin time to recover, and to allow the hair time to grow so it is at an ideal length for waxing.

6.) Forgetting Your Lips. Keeping your lips moisturized and hydrate is something that every man and woman needs to pay attention too. You can easily forget to apply your lip balm when going outside in winter or even just on an everyday basis. After brushing your teeth in the morning, apply lip balm (preferably one with spf) and continue to apply throughout the day. At night, especially on a cold winter day, apply vaseline on your lips so they are moisturized during the night while you sleep. You can even apply vaseline to the end of your nose if it is dry.

7.) Dirty Pillow Cases & Sheets. Dirty pillow cases and sheets doesn't mean just dirty in appearance, they can look clean but still be harboring dead skin cells and bacteria. Which means every night this is what you are sleeping on. If you are washing your face properly and still experiencing breakouts, this may be the reason why. Your should wash your pillow cases and sheets at least once every two weeks, but you can wash them once a week as well.

8.) Over Exfoliating.  Exfoliating your skin is great, and needs to be done to remove dead skin cells and dirt build up from your face. There can be too much of a good thing. Stick to exfoliating once a week for your face, doing more can strip the skin of its natural oils which keep it healthy, and it can also remove layers of skin. For your body, you can do it 2-3 times a week. If your skin becomes irritated, slow down the exfoliation.

9.) Stress. Stress is not something you can always avoid. Some people tend to get more stressed out then others. Stress can cause breakouts, rashes, and fine lines in your face. Take at least 30 minutes a day, and do something that relaxes you. This will help to calm your body down, and reduce your stress level.

These were more things that could be ruining your skin. I hope you have beautiful skin for years to come.

~aphrodite



*Article from http://healthyliving.msn.com. 32 surprising things that ruin your skin. Skin & Beauty

Things That Could Be Ruining Your Skin

Keeping your skin soft, fresh, and clean is a daily habit. Did you know that you could be doing things that are ruining your skin daily? Here are somethings that could be ruin your skin and how to prevent them from doing so.

1. Too Much Chlorine.
Chlorine is only something you need to worry about during the summer, but chlorine can dry out your skin and even change the color of your hair if not properly washed off. To be sure that you have gotten rid of all the chlorine, use extra sudsy soap. It will keep the chlorine from clinging to your skin, or body products.

2. Sleeping With Your Make-up On.
Sleeping with your make-up on can cause clogged pores, and bacterial infections which both cause acne. Wash your face at night and remove any make-up. If you are someone who tends to forget, leave make-up removing wipes next to your bed so you will remember when you get ready for bed.

3. Caffeine.
Caffeine helps to dry out the skin, and magnifies wrinkles in your skin. To balance out the caffeine in coffee, tea or pop drink lots of water. Water will hydrate your skin and help enhance its natural glow. You can even add lemon, orange or cucumber to add extra flavor.

4.Popping Pimples.
Everyone tends to see a white or black head on there face and the first thing they think of is, "I need to pop that." Well picking at the skin on your face will push dirt and bacteria into the pores and can cause more acne. Instead, use water as hot as you can stand it (but not so it is burning) to open up your pores and exfoliate your face if you do not have time to see an Esthetician, other wise set up an appointment to get a facial, and the technician can direct you to use products that will help with your breakouts.

5. Long Hot Showers.
Hot Showers are great every once in a while, but the hot water actually strips away the outer layer of your skin. Be sure to limit the amount of time you are in the shower. It is best to gradually cool off the water, the longer you are in there, and it won't be as cold when you get out.

6. Testing Too Many Products.
When testing perfume, cosmetics, lotions, or cleansers, use a small patch on your arm. That way you don't risk having an allergic reaction on your face. Limit your self to just a few products, that way you minimize the amount of smells, and chances to have a reaction. Some products don't mix well with others.

7. Not Drinking Enough Water.
Many of us are culprits of not hydrating ourselves properly. By not drinking enough water, we are actually speeding up the aging process of our skin. It causes rough, shrunken skin. So hydrate, hydrate, hydrate to give yourself beautiful, glowing skin.

8. Getting Hair Products O Your Face.
If you have ever had your hair done by a hair stylist and they used hair spray on your head, you will notice how the cover your face in the process. This is not only to protect your eyes but your skin as well. Hair products can cause skin irritation and breakouts. Be sure to cover your face when using hair products, and to use a sweat band at the gym to keep products from sweating out onto your face.


These are 8 things that could be ruining your skin. I really learned a lot and hope you learned something too. Hope this helps you to have healthier, glowing skin.

~aphrodite



Article this post was based from was found on healthyliving.msn.com.

Bad Habits That Could Be Causing You Acne

It doesn't matter if you are young or old, male or female, acne is a problem that everyone has. It can pop up at anytime and can be caused by a number of different reasons. It can be hard to figure out what causes acne and how to prevent it. Here are some ways that you may be causing acne upon yourself and how you can stop it.

1) Using make-up with ingredients that can cause irritation. You should avoid products that contain artificial color, artificial fragrance, lanolin, mineral oil, petroleum, and isopropyl myristate. Artificial color is found in products like lipstick and blush, and can cause breakouts around the mouth and on the cheeks. Artificial fragrance can cause breakouts and skin irritation because your skin is sensitive to certain smells. Lanolin, petroleum, and mineral oil are all forms of oil. They can be good if you have overly dry skin, but if your skin is oily, it will cause more oil to form in your pores, which creates zits. Isopropyl myristate is a product used in toners that can make your skin feel less greasy, when in reality it is clogging your pores. If you stay clear of these ingredients, it will help you to have acne free skin.

 2) Over drying your face. If you have oily skin, you tend to dry it out to get rid of the excess oil. Well, your skin will correct itself throughout the day if it is dry, so be drying out your skin you are actually producing more oil on your face. Keep your skin hydrated by drinking lots of water, and use a mattifying moisturizer. It will soak up the excess oil on your face, with out drying it out.

3) Pressure. By constantly touching your face, or having something constantly exposed to your face, you are allowing the bacteria on the object to be forced onto your skin and into its pores. This will cause breakouts to form. Clean things you touch often, such as your hands, sheets, and pillow cases. It will help to minimize bacteria growth and keep it from going onto your skin.

4) Stress Pressure. If  you are constantly stressed out, this causes your hormone levels to rise, especially the ones that cause acne. Find ways to relax yourself and minimize the stress in your life. Your skin, body, and mind will all thank you.

5) Laundry. You always wash your clothes after wearing them once or sometimes twice, the same thing applies for your sheets, pillows, and towels. Your pillow especially holds tons of bacteria and dead skin cells, that you are lying on every night. Wash your pillow cases 1-2 times a week. After you shower, be sure to use a new towel every time, if you don’t, you are just putting all the dead skin cells, and germs back onto your body from your previous shower. Also you should wash your sheets once a week as well.

6) Hair Products. Women and men alike both use hair products, and if your hair is long enough to touch your face, it transfers those products onto your face and pillows. Be sure to wash your hair every night before you go to bed. Avoid hair products that contain oil, and silicone’s. They will weigh your hair down and clog your pores as well.

Keep on a daily skin care regimen. You should cleanse your face twice every morning then apply toner and moisturizer. Then at night repeat and add on a night cream. You should also receive monthly facials for a deep cleanse and exfoliation. They can also guide you to help you use the right products for your skin. 

Helping your skin receive what it needs and doesn’t need, from N to Z

I hope you all enjoyed the last blog post. To coincide with the last blog I posted, this is a continuation of that same article. The first half of the article was A to M, so now I will finish off with N to Z.

N. Neuromodulators. Neuromodulators, also known as botox, is used to smooth lines in your forehead and eye area by temporarily paralyzing the underlying muscle. If done correctly, your face will have a relaxed look, but if done incorrectly your face can become permanently paralyzed. 

O. Ozone. Ozone pollution from the decreasing ozone layer, does not help our bodies inside or out. Twenty minutes of high ozone exposure is a big factor in premature aging. Use a product with alkylguanine transferase in it. It has an enzyme in it that repairs ozone induced damage on the skin. Ozone pollution is only common in large cities, or places that have factories, so many people do not have to worry about this on a daily basis.

P. Pores. As we get older, sun exposure damages the fibers that help keep skin smooth and firm, causing pores to expand. In a shower, allow the water to get as hot as you can handle it, so the stem opens up your pores. Then use an exfoliant to clean your skin. After you get out, use an anti-aging mattifying lotion.  

Q. Q-10. Q-10 is an antioxidant and hydrator that strengthens the top layer of the skin, which helps it seal in moisture. It is also an anti-inflammatory.

R. Retinoids. Retinoids are a vitamin a derivative, that increases cell turnover and stimulates collagen production. The collagen production helps smooth skin, treat discoloration, and acne. Do not use every night at first, because there can be some irritation. Use a few times a week, and to ease into it.

S. Stem cells. Stem cells can regenerate indefinitely, and repair tissue they reside in. By apply stem cells from a plant, it can help you get your skin to act younger, which in return can help it look younger.

T. Tanning beds. Tanning beds are used to get UV rays into your skin, which makes it darker, but they also can accelerate the aging process of your skin and increases your risk of skin cancer. Instead go a more natural route and use a self tanner. You will have healthier skin and look younger, longer.

U. UVA & UVB rays. UVA rays cause aging in the skin and UVB rays cause burning in the skin. Both can cause skin cancer. Keep your skin safe, and use sunscreen everyday.

V. Veins. Veins can come from all sorts of contributions. The best fix is sclerotherapy, a procedure where a dermatologist injects the veins with saline. Injecting it causes the veins to collapse, and the blood to be rerouted. To help prevent spider veins, wear compression stockings or support hose. 

W. Water. Most people do not drink enough water on a daily basis, and water is what keeps your body running smoothly. Drinking to much water can be a bad thing as well. Over hydrating can flush out essential vitamins and electrolytes from your blood system. Drink 6-8 8 oz. glasses of water each day.

X. Extra Credit. Most creams do not combine moisturizing, firming or working all day into one. But now there is an all in one anti-aging cream. This Miracle Cream works for the face, neck, and eyes all day or night to firm skin, smooth wrinkles, and hydrate. 

Y. Yogurt. Yogurt has tones of pro-biotics and immune boosting cells, that when used on skin it hydrates and promotes good bacteria growth, while minimizing bad bacteria growth. You can use any type of yogurt on your skin as well.

Z. Zinc oxide. Sunscreens made from zinc help provide broad spectrum protection. They sit on the surface of your skin, instead of soaking in. This in turn makes them safer, more effective, and great for people with sensitive skin. 

I really hope you enjoyed this article and are learning a lot of great facts. Keep reading our blog for more great articles and tips.

~aphrodite

Shape Magazine: Your Skin, A to Z. January/February 2013. Author: Alyssa Kolsky Hertzig

Helping your skin receive what it needs and doesn’t need, from A to M

There are many products that your skin needs, and may not receive because you do not know what they are or because you did not know it effected your skin. I found this article that had some great notes in it and I wanted to share it this week. I have added some of my own input as well. I hope you find it very informative.

A. Antioxidants.  Antioxidants are the 2nd best thing to help fight against anti-aging. They help to fight against the effects of UV light exposure and cigarette smoke. Use products daily that contain vitamin c, green tea, or extract. These ingredients will give you the antioxidants you need to help protect your skin from unwanted exposure.

B. Bio-energy. Bioenergetics, which is a communication between cells, slows down over time. This results in an older appearance, and skin that doesn’t respond to rejuvenating ingredients. Use any anti-aging products that help reduce wrinkles, and have a heavier moisturizer. 

C. CC creams. BB creams (beauty balms) were the big thing in 2012. They have a combination of sheer coverage, moisturizers, and sun protectors.The new thing is CC (color and correct) creams. They offer more hydration and anti-aging ingredients. Look for products that contain vitamin c. It helps to soften fine lines, firm skin, and increase the natural glow of your skin.

D. Vitamin D. Vitamin D is responsible for the intestinal absorption of calcium and phosphate. The best way to get vitamin d in your skin is by taking supplements, or by sunlight. Apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, and enjoy some sun. The sunscreen will not block out any vitamin d absorption. 

E. Exfoliation. Exfoliation is very important, especially during the dry, winter months. Exfoliating removes dead skin cell build-up. If you do not already exfoliate, you need to ease into it because it can cause dehydration and irritation of the skin.For your face, find an exfoliate that is made for sensitive skin, and start out by using it once or twice a week. For the rest of your body, buy a lufa. Use with your normal soap of body wash twice a week at first and increase when you can.

F. Fractionated lasers. Normal lasers used in the skin, burn off the top layer, which can result in a long healing process and possible scaring. These lasers only treat a portion of your skin. The beams of light, trigger the natural healing process and growth of healthy cells. The cost is high, but in 2-3 sessions, it can even out skin tones, shrink pores, and increase collagen production, which reduces wrinkles. 

G. Glycolic acid-peels. If lasers aren’t your thing, try a peel. These peels are used to remove dead skin cells, but it is used for brightening your skin and clearing acne. To receive the best results, you will need about 4-6 sessions. If peels sound to scary, then try a problem skin facial instead. It will help to remove acne, and discoloration of the skin.

H. Hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a sugar molecule found in the skin and is used in facial creams. It is used as a softener and traps water into the skin. If it is injected, it give youthful volume to the face.

I. Idebenone. Idebenone is an antioxidant found in some anti-aging and intensive repair serums. It is significantly better and more effecting than vitamin c and e.

J. Jojoba oil. Jojoba oil is a hydrator used in face and body creams. It is a natural oil, that’s chemical make-up is similar to one found in our skin, so it is easily absorbed.

K. Vitamin k. Vitamin k is used in under eye creams, along with vitamins c and e to reduce dark circles. It does so by stopping leaking blood vessels. 

L. LED devices. LED lights are used to transmit low levels of light onto skin to help treat wrinkles and dark spots. The red light can be sued to help firm and smooth skin. Over time, LED light can help improve the signs of anti-aging. 

M. Melanin. Melanin is a substance that gives skin its color. If you have dark spots or discoloration, this can be from an over exposure to UV rays or light. Do not go in tanning beds, and when you are going to be exposed to UV light, wear sunscreen.

I hope you found this article as informative as I did. The rest of the article will be posted some time next week. Thank you for all of your support and kind comments. It really is greatly appreciated. 

~aphrodite

Article from Shape Magazine: Your Skin, A to Z. January/February 2013. Author: Alyssa Kolsky Hertzig.