Different Skin Types, Different Foundation

Makeup or foundation is often thought of as an essential part of a woman’s regimen; we like to think we can’t go out of the house without it. With the many different skin types, foundation is now formulated to meet the needs of each person’s skin type, from dry skin to oily. But how do you know what type of foundation is right for your skin type? There are three general foundation types: liquid foundation, loose powder foundation and pressed powder foundation, all formulated differently to match your skin type or preference.

Liquid foundations are best when used on normal to dry skin types. Generally liquid foundations contain ingredients that are going to be more hydrating or moisturizing to fit dry skin needs. I recommend trying Jane Iredale Liquid Minerals, which include Cool, Neutral and Global Tones, so you can find your perfect color.

Loose powder foundations hit the makeup market around the 1970’s and become the new must-have for many women. The loose powder is formulated to meet the needs of almost any skin type, but is best used for normal to combination skin. Try Colorescience Foundation w/Brush in your matched color. Women who like to wear light coverage tend to prefer this foundation type.

Pressed powder foundation is best used for combination to oily skin types and works well to conceal blemishes, pigmentation issues or redness in the face. Because pressed minerals tend to cover more, women who like full coverage prefer this type of foundation. I suggest Jane Iredale PurePressed Base in either Cool or Warm Tones.

Protect Your Skin for Winter Activities

With winter weather in full swing, we can look forward to winter sports and activities. A change in weather can disrupt our skin's normal functioning; cold weather such as snow and rain can result in dry, chapped skin, moisture loss and an overall dull appearance of the skin.

Prepare your hands and feet with an application of Yu-Be Tube or Yu-Be Jar before putting on you socks or gloves. One application is enriched with Vitamin E and B2 for soft, moisturized skin all day. For intense hydration, more than one layer can be applied throughout the day to hands and feet, even the lips.

For optimal protection for outside winter activities, one should make certain to apply sunscreen prior to sun exposure. Mustela Sunblock Lotion SPF 50 is great for toddlers and young children, whereas Glycolix Elite Defense Sunpads SPF 30 work excellent for those in a hurry, or who don’t like to spend a lot of time applying sun protection.

A few simple skin care steps such as these will keep your skin looking its best even in the winter months.

Copper Peptides – The Anti-aging Ingredient

Copper is the third most abundant trace mineral found in the human body. It is responsible for formatting one of the most important antioxidants in the body as well as being responsible for collagen production in the skin. Copper also helps to maintain healthy skin by accelerating regeneration and repair tissue, increasing wound repair and reversing the affects of aging on the skin.

Utilizing copper peptides in your skin care regimen will help to prevent and protect the skin from premature aging. I recommend Neova Day Therapy SPF 20 as your daily moisturizer; you’ll get the copper peptide benefits as well as sun protection. An eye cream is a must, as this is the area that often first shows signs of aging. I suggest Neova Eye Therapy both day and night. For night use, I suggest Neova Night Therapy; the antioxidant benefits are useful at promoting collagen and elastin formation.

Keep in mind that most humans do not consume enough foods containing copper; therefore they, as well as their skin, are not getting the necessary nutrients. Proper use of peptides will ensure healthy skin inside as well as out.

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles & Stretch Marks

StriVectin-SD was initially formulated to treat and prevent stretch marks on the body; however it has recently became one of the most popular anti-wrinkle/anti-aging products on the market. StriVectin-SD has a unique blend of firming agents, elasticizers and complex hydrating properties that combat and confront the sagging and slackening of skin.

StriVectin-SD can be used up to three times daily to provide superior firming to the skin in all parts of the body, even the face. Used on its own, this product is amazing; combine it with a great skin care regimen and expect unparalleled results.

Aging is a part of life, but that does not mean we have to look our age. StriVectin-SD will not only prevent aging but can also reverse aging. I recommend using this with a powerful vitamin C serum underneath such as SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic and a full spectrum sunblock like Citrix Antioxidant Sunscreen SPF 30 or La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX. Expect great results in no time.

Treat and Prevent Scarring

Facial scarring can be the result of many causes, including acne, dermatitis, picking of the skin, trauma, etc. Once scars are present, it is nearly impossible to remove them completely without surgical procedures; however you can treat them to an extent, make them less visible.

Treating existing scars can be done with alpha hydroxy acids as well as retinol products. I recommend trying Refinity Rejuvenating Hydrogel – 15% AHA either at night or during the day if sun protection is worn. A full spectrum sunscreen is best; I like Glytone Waterproof Sunscreen SPF 30. If worn during the day only a retinol product is a good pm choice to correct scarring. Try Afirm 1x initially and if tolerable gradually move up to the Afirm 2x or 3x. Again sunscreen protection is essential to correct scarring and should be worn at all times.

Preventing scarring is easier to do. For those with acne, avoid picking at the skin, as this can cause permanent scarring. If the skin is picked at or traumatized to a point where a scar is likely, sunscreen use will again help to prevent worse scarring. In addition, studies also show that topical or internal use of vitamin E can help to reduce scars and their appearance.

Remember that if damage is done to the dermis layer of the skin, the scar will not be able to be completely removed - that is why these preventative measures should be taken - but scarring and the appearance of scars can be reduced.

Anti-Aging Neck Creams

Many women who are looking to keep their skin youthful-looking and radiant focus only on their faces, and seem to ignore anything below the jaw line. This leads to a noticeable difference in appearance of the face and that of the neck and decollete - the area where the neck turns into the chest. Incorporating an anti-aging product designed specifically for the neck will help to enhance the youthfulness achieved with facial creams, moisturizers and treatments, addressing sagging skin, fine lines and sun damage that is common on this area.

Products I suggest:

Swan - Firming Neck Treatment by Z. Bigatti is a moisturizing treatment that adds firmness to the delicate skin around the neck.

Dr. Brandt V-Zone Neck Cream is formulated with a glycolic compound that rejuvenates the skin while reversing years of sun damage. It can be used on the neck and decollete.

Advanced-C Neck Firming Cream is a non-greasy cream by Cellex-C formulated with L-Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C) that reduces fine lines and wrinkles while promoting elasticity.

Nuxe Paris Nuxuriance Serum is an ultra-concentrated formula designed for women in their 50s undergoing hormonal imbalances that plumps the skin of the face and neck to diminish signs of aging.

A true multifunctional product, StriVectin-SD is designed to eliminate stretch marks on the midsection, but has been clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles on the face, neck and decollete.

Body Acne - Treat and Prevent It

A large number of people suffer through facial acne in their teen years and/or their adult years. However a number of people also suffer from body acne, including acne on their chest, back, buttocks, etc. Body acne is just as, if not more so, embarrassing for many people; it can lead to social anxiety and lack of self confidence.

Just like facial acne, body acne can be treated. With a body care management program, your skin can become clearer and experience fewer breakouts in general. Daily cleansing with an antibacterial cleanser on the affected areas is best. DDF Salicylic Wash 2% works to control acne congestion such as pimples and blackheads, treating the acne at the cause of the problem.

Spot treating at the exact area of congestion will limit too aggressive of treatment over the entire body and directly approach the area that is of concern. Applying Glytone Acne Treatment Masque a few times a week will absorb excess oil that causes bacteria build up leading to acne.

Lastly, a light moisturizer such as Glytone Body Lotion with Alpha Hydroxy Acid ingredients will gently exfoliate the skin, sloughing away skin cells that build up on the skin.

A simple, three step regimen such as this is easy and works well. Body acne is just as common as facial acne and should be treated just as facial acne is.

Protect Your Skin All Year Round

Sun protection is the key to maintaining healthy and beautiful skin. Why? Sun exposure is the number one contributing factor to premature aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and dull, sagging skin. A common misconception is that sunscreen is not necessary during the fall or winter. Not true. Sunscreen is essential, even on dark, overcast days. Both UVA and UVB rays can penetrate through the clouds on these overcast days causing the symptoms of premature aging.

Protect your skin from UVA and UVB rays by applying a sunscreen before going outdoors. Try La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX. This sunscreen offers the highest UVA protection available and is FDA approved.

For water sports or outdoor activity, a waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen is best. Application should be done 15-20 minutes before sun exposure. Glytone Waterproof Sunscreen SPF 30 is very water resistant and contains a high SPF for ultimate sun protection.

For those that do not like anything heavy or greasy feeling, but still need the sun protection I suggest NeoStrata Daily Protection Sunscreen SPF 29. Also try Colorescience Sunforgettable (SPF 30) – All Clear. Its powder finish will leave your skin feeling like there is nothing on it.

When you least expect it is when sun damage is done. Keep yourself and your skin protected all year long and look forward to healthy and beautiful skin.

Makeup Tips to Concealing Rosacea & Redness

Rosacea is a skin condition that affects a large percentage of people worldwide. Although it is very common, its cause is unknown and any cure has yet to be discovered. Symptoms of rosacea include redness of the face - mostly the cheeks, chin, nose and forehead - visible blood vessels in the face, pimples or bumps on the face and watery or irritated eyes. Case studies of rosacea have proven that nearly 70 percent of rosacea sufferers say this condition has lowered their self-esteem. Another 40 percent of sufferers stated that rosacea and its symptoms have lead to them avoiding public contact and social gatherings. Rosacea sufferers can avoid becoming one of these statistics by learning some tricks and tips to conceal and camouflage rosacea and the redness associated with it.

Obviously the correct skin care products are going to eliminate rosacea symptoms; however a quick makeup application is very useful to ensuring limited redness and a chance to go out in public worry free.

After applying your daily skin care regimen, such as products made by Rosacea Care, try applying a primer with a pale yellow base color. I recommend Colorescience Line Tamer, a smoothing, soothing skin brightener. Application can be done all over the face or in areas of concern only. Next apply Colorescience Corrector w/ Brush – Yellow Rose of Texas. This mineral powder contains a yellow base, which neutralizes red undertones, and provides your skin with SPF 20, perfect for reducing rosacea breakouts. Next you should apply your color matched foundation. I recommend a color that does not contain red undertones, as this is exactly what you are trying to eliminate. Regular makeup application should follow these easy steps. A quick tip: avoid blush. Generally rosacea causes the rosy cheek look so you won’t need it.

Although there is still not a known cure for rosacea, a simple routine such as this will allow you to cope with rosacea and not feel embarrassed when out in public.

Keep Age at Bay

A new report says that 60 percent of Americans think that "middle age" is now 60 years old. This change in viewpoint is most likely due to the fact that the Baby Boomers, that influential generation, are now themselves in or approaching their 60s (and not willing to admit they are "past their prime"). Also responsible for this shift: advances in anti-aging skin care technology.

Products like Babor Mimical Control Cream,
Freeze 24/7 Anti-Wrinkle Cream and
StriVectin SD help to eliminate the formation of fine lines and wrinkles by rebuilding the structural elements of the skin. Each of these have been called safe, painless and cost-effective treatments to Botox.

Another popular treatment in-office treatment is microdermabrasion. Again, advances in skin care technology have allowed people to experience similar results with at-home products. DermaNew's Facial Rejuvenation System and Total Body Experience help to diminish signs of aging such as wrinkles and discolorations. Clarisonic is another skin care tool that uses two oscillating brushes to remove build-up of dead skin cells on the face and body, resulting in a rejuvenated complexion.

With such amazing new skin care technology, it's no wonder that Americans are feeling younger and looking younger.

Treat Sensitive and Reactive Skin

Sensitive and reactive skin can at times be difficult to treat, especially during the dryer, colder times of the year. Truly sensitive skin is usually a skin type with which you are born. Reactive skin is often mistaken for sensitive skin, however it is different. Reactive skin is this way because of something that has been done to the skin.

Both sensitive and reactive skin can be taught, with the right skin care treatments, to become resistant to certain aggressors that cause further sensitivity and reactivity in the skin. In addition, truly sensitive skin, meaning sensitive because this is the skin type you were born with, can also be trained to become less sensitive.

A simple skin care regimen is the answer to treating these skin types. I suggest cleansing with Phytomer Accept Neutralizing Cleanser, morning and night. After cleansing you may apply Phytomer Accept Neutralizing Cream to hydrate the skin as well as calm it.

With a very simple regimen such as this, one must keep in mind that sunscreen is absolutely essential. Try La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX. It provides you with the fullest UVA and UVB protection one can get from a sunscreen.

Bath and Body Treatments - Relax for the Holidays

The Holiday season can be a stressful time of year. Relax and take time out for yourself with a nice bath and treatment products. Baths can help you de-stress from work, school and the basic day to day routine that, at times, can drive you nuts, especially during the hectic Holiday season.

Start by emptying the contents of Phytomer Oligomer Sea Water Bath Lyophilized into your bath. Next, start filling up your tub with warm to hot water; approximately 94-100 degrees feels great. Once the bath is filled, get in and relax for as much time as you need. Add a little something extra by turning on some relaxing music and getting a glass of your favorite drink. For a little extra internal health stimulation, add Dr. Brandt Anti-Oxidant water booster. It comes in three great flavors: Lemon, Green Tea and Pomegranate.

Treat your body while in the bath by exfoliating with Phytomer Exfoliating Shower Gel. Exfoliate the entire body, but really concentrate on areas that tend to get drier like the elbows, knees, feet and hands. You can also treat your face by applying a mask. I recommend Phytomer Ogenage Revitalizing Mask. Let the mask sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse.

Once finished, lather your body with a completely hydrating and sweet smelling lotion like Phytomer HydraContinue Moisturizing Body Milk. Phytomer products make great bath treatments because they are all formulated with deep sea extracts that provide nourishing trace minerals and vitamins. Remember, all of these products work great not just for you, but as gifts for loved ones, too.