Wednesday, July 23, 2014

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

Thursday, July 17, 2014

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.

Wednesday, July 2, 2014

Beach Tips That Will Keep You Looking Great During The 4th Of July

Every one loves spending there 4th of July at the beach or barbecuing with the family. Looking good while being in the pool or any water is not usually easy and can cause drying of your skin and hair. These are some great tips to keep your hair and skin, looking great, and feeling soft.

Sunscreen
Using sunscreen is the best form of protection against UVA (anti-aging rays) and UVB (burning rays). Any form of SPF will do, (especially if you still want to get some color), and it is best to use a spray form that is water proof. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before doing any outdoor activity, and if you are going to be in the water, be sure to reapply your sunscreen every 3 to 4 hours to keep from getting burned. 

Body Lotion/Face Moisturizer
Even if you are not going to be in the water, it is important to keep your skin moisturized, as well as protected from sun damage. Aphrodite's Head Esthetician Susu recommends to use Epionce's Active Shield Lotion. It has an SPF of 30, and is great for all skin types. It is perfect for your face and body, just do not apply on your eyelids. It is also great for everyday use. It offers protection against UVA and UVB rays, and is also Paraben- Free.

Hair Protection
Before you go out into the sun, your hair needs to be protected. Aphrodite Stylist Tina recommends to use Paul Mitchell's Color Protect Locking Spray. The spray offers UVA and UVB protection for your hair. It absorbs into your hair and extends the life of your color. It also adds a great shine. Use this everyday after styling your hair and before leaving the house. 

While your at the beach, your hair needs protection just as much as your skin does. Your hair is damaged from being in water, as well as from the sun. While your at the beach, Aphrodite Stylist Emily recommends to have the Healthy Sexy Hair Beach Duo with you. It contains a Soy Renewal Beach spray, which is great to spray on your hair just after getting out of the water. It is a leave in conditioner, that keeps moisture in, while protecting and healing the hair from environmental damage. It also contains the Soya 22 in 1. This is a leave-in treatment, that absorbs into the hair shaft to rebuild and protect the hair from roots to ends. They work off each other and are made from soy and argan oil.



Make-up For the Beach
While your at the beach, you want the look of fresh, bare skin on your face, without really having no make-up on. The best things to keep on hand are a tinted lip balm (that has UV protection), and waterproof mascara. The lip balm is great to add a pop of color to your lips, while protecting them from getting sunburned and becoming dry. Pink is usually a great shade to go with it. Wearing waterproof mascara is great because it will really make your eyes pop, and you do not have to worry about getting raccoon eyes from your mascara running. Reapply your lip balm every hour or so to keep your lips extra moisturized.


These tips will help keep your hair and skin looking great during your 4th of July weekend. Have a Happy 4th of July!!!

~aphrodite





Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Hot Nail Colors for Summer!

Having your nails done is an absolute must in the summer, especially your toes. Getting a pedicure is a must to have your feet looking and feeling great at all times. Wearing sandals and going to the beach can be hard on our feet and they need a little love every now and them. And if your getting your toes done, might as well get your hands done too. Here are some great nail color ideas for the season!

Matching Hands & Toes

If your someone who has to have there hands and toes match, there are some great options to be in the same color palette, but do a lighter version on your hands and a darker version on your toes. They will compliment each other, and will still match (even if they are different colors). 


                 Hands                                                                                     Toes
                 

Color Combos
If your some one who doesn't mind not matching there hands and toes, these are colors for you. They are different, but are fun and still go together. The key is to have one that is is shimmery and one that is more neutral or just a solid bright color.
                                       Hands                                                                           Toes
Neutral on Hands, Bright on Toes
If you are someone who isn't really into have a color on your hands, there is another option. Doing neutral colors on your hands are great. Then you can do any color on your toes, and you don't have to worry if you want to change the colors on your toes because it will always match. Here are some great toe polish colors.

 Light Gray


 Bright Blue


 Teal


 Bubble Gum Pink


 Bright Fuchsia 

To keep your polish lasting longer, while in the sun and pool, apply sunscreen onto your nails. It will keep the color from fading. Apply a top coat every other day to help keep them shiny. Also, apply hand cream or moisturizer before swimming because water can dull out the color. 

These are the hot nail colors for the summer. Hope your nails look great all summer long!

~aphrodite




Tuesday, June 17, 2014

Aphrodite's Favorite Summer Trends and Products

Along with hot weather, and gorgeous tans, summer has some great trends in the world of hair and make-up. It is a great time to change up your look, and play around with different products. Here are some of our favorite summer trends and favorite products that are great for summer.

Summer Trends:


Braids

Braids are the perfect hairstyle for any occasion. There are some many different types to try! You can have something casual like a fishtail, or just a hanging braid, or go for something more sophisticated like a french braid or rope braid. Any look can be played up for a wedding or summer party, or played down for a more casual beach look. You can do a side braid into a bun or ponytail which are great if you are going out. Braids will always be in style for a fun summer look.

Changing Up Your Hair

You can change up your hair in so many ways, from deciding to go for a new cut, maybe just add some bangs or layers, or even change up the color. Your hair is a great way to express your personality and style. Love your long hair but want something new? Add some layers to give it that extra something. Curious about getting bangs? Find some you like and give it a try! What to add a little something to your hair? Highlights are the ultimate go to for summer. Just a few all over to enhance your skin tone, and some dimension into your hair. And if you really want to do something fun, try a colored ombre! Purple, red, blue, or pink are all fun options. Remember to always have your hair colored and cut by a professional. They know what they are doing, and it will keep you from having accidents involving your hair. 

Pedicures

Pedicures are the MUST DO of the summer. Everyone wears open toed shoes in the summer and nobody wants to have unfinished feet and bare toe nails. Pedicures are a great form of relaxation, and will leave your feet looking and feeling great. There are some great polish trends for the summer as well. Go for a vibrant color next time you get a pedi. Orange, yellow, hot pink, and lavender are all great options. Even if your not into any of those colors, any color you chose is better than unpolished toes.

Great Summer Products:


The Wet Brush

The wet brush is probably one of the greatest new products out there. It makes brushing your hair when wet much easier and less painful. Take it with you anytime you are going to be near water, and once your done in the water just simply add product of your choosing and brush your hair. You will notice less pulling on your hair then a normal bush, and its perfect for all hair types. Use it wet or dry and the wet brush will become your favorite brush to use.

Redken Anti-Snap

Anti-snap is a great summer product because there is no washing it out. It is a leave in treatment that can be used after a shower, or you have been in the water. Just 2-3 pumps, rub together and apply all over your hair (focusing on the middle and ends.) Anti-snap is used to help strengthen and repair damaged hair, while protecting its natural shine. It is quite obvious why we love it so much. Stop in and buy one today!

Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask

This mask is a great addition to your regular hair services, especially in the summer. This hydrating mask hydrates and conditions the hair to help improve texture, elasticity, shine, and even makes it easier to manage. This is great for the summer because people are constantly outside, and in water, which causes hair to become dry and dull. Come in once a week, and get this conditioning treatment to keep your hair in great shape. 

This summer trends are great to try and play around with, while these summer products are great to use all year around. Come in and try one of these summer trends today, or pick up one of these great summer products. We wish you healthy hair, and great looking toes!


~aphrodite

Tuesday, May 6, 2014

2014 Summer Trends

Hair, nail, and make-up trends change as quickly as the seasons do. Summer will soon be here and you should prepare yourself with the hot trends for this year. 

Hair
This summer it is all about the grown out highlights. The grown out highlights is basically the ombre look, but more of a softer transition from dark to light, or light to lighter. To get the best look possible, be sure to have your stylist cut your hair to something that flatters the look. Get a deep conditioning treatment a few days or a week prior to the coloring. This will help protect your hair before the coloring process. Also get a treatment after the coloring process, to help repair any damage done to your hair. It is the summer, so rock your natural waves!




Nails
This summer on your toes it is all about the bright, glossy reds. Not red-orange or red-blues, I am talking RED! Pick like a cherry red, with a shiny top coat. It is a classic look, but be sure to fix any chips quickly because they really stand out on red nails. And avoid any glitter. It takes away from the classic look. For your hands, it is more of a simple natural look. No need for long fake nails, natural nails are best for the summer. Use a lighter, transparent color and apply thin even coats, allowing drying time between the coats. Nobody wants ridged or streaky polish. 







Eyes
Change up your look this summer, and add a bold pop of color by using eyeliner. Pick a bold eyeliner color and apply. To make it stay longer, apply a thin line of the same color in eye shadow on top of it. This is a fun way to change up your everyday look, and keep it fun. Be sure to apply mascara on your lashes, other wise your make-up will look unfinished. 




Lips
This summer skip the boring old skin color lipsticks and reds for a bright orange. Before applying, use a heavy lip balm so the color really stays on the lips, and doesn't rub off. Pick your shade and apply. The orange will brighten any skin tone! Because you are going so bold on your lips, keep the rest simple. You’re already making a statement, no need to over do it. 






Keep these trends in mind for when ever you are going to a party, event or even hanging out on the beach. You will have people wanting your look and dying to know where you get your hair, and nails done, as well as what make-up you are using. Be yourself and have fun.

~aphrodite


Thursday, March 20, 2014

How To Properly Remove Your Make-up

Removing your make-up at the end of everyday is necessary to keep your skin from getting clogged pores, acne, and dirt built up on your face. Using just soap and water is not going to cut it. Soap is too harsh for your face. It can cause dryness and irritation to your skin. The skin on your face is more sensitive then the skin on the rest of your body to products. Follow these tips and combined with the right products you will have make-up easily removed along with fresh, clean skin.

Removing Eye Make-up
Removing eye make-up is one of the easier processes. If your make-up is not water proof, then use a mild eye make-up remover on a damp cotton round. Gently press the pads on each eye for 10 seconds before wiping. Do not rub your eyes. Rubbing causes redness and irritation. Gently wipe your eyes, starting from the inside corner and gently wiping across the eye. Run cotton rounds under warm water, squeeze out excess water and repeat until all make-up has been removed. 
For heavy or water proof make-up use an oil based eye make-up remover. Hold on your eyes for 15-20 seconds and begin removing, but do not scrub. The oil will loosen up and help cut threw the make-up without damaging the skin.
After removing the make-up, add a little bit of remover and water to a q-tip. This will allow you to remove the remaining make-up residue from the lash line. Gently wipe the top lash line from the inner corner out and then repeat on the bottom lash line. You can also wipe it up your lashes like mascara. 


Lips & Face
Removing make-up from your lips and face is done just how you would wash your face everyday. Start by damping your face with water. Add a quarter to half dollar sized amount of cleanser to your hand and rub together. Make sure it lathers really well, if it doesn't just add a bit more water. Cleanse your face with your hands In circular motions starting at your forehead and working your way down. Be sure to get your nose and lips. Cleanse your face like this for 5 minutes then rinse. Repeat the cleansing process for a 2nd time. Be sure to use warm water because it allows the cleanser to get deep into the pores to remove the dirt and oils. Rinse. Towel dry your face. If there is no excess make-up then spray 2-3 sprays of a toner made for your skin type into your hands and pat onto your face. Apply a pea sized amount of moisturizer on your hands, rub together and pat onto your face. Your cleansing is now complete.

If you are not sure about which products you should use or what skin type you are, seek help from a professional. You should get monthly facials, to help remove excess dirt, and to remove the dead skin. The esthetician will direct you as to which type of facial best suits your skin. So remember to wash your face every morning and night, as well as to get monthly facials.

-aphrodite