Skin Tips

Acne scars and dark spots: What you need to know for clear skin

Acne is bad enough on its own, but when it goes the extra distance and leaves scars and dark spots, it really becomes a hassle. Sometimes the formation of spots and scars is dependent on genetics, and sometimes it's because the acne wasn't left alone and the skin became a war zone. Despite the reason for your dark spots and acne scars, they have one thing in common: everyone wants to know how to get rid of them and get clear, clean skin. To get the expert tips on how to get rid of acne scars and dark spots, we went to cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Oscar Hevia. Below are his tips for clear skin.

Beauty High: What's the difference between an acne scar and an acne mark? Are there any treatments for reducing the appearance of acne scars?

Dr. Hevia: Marks can mean different things to many people. Scars, by definition, are permanent. In the case of acne scars, we're talking about defects of the skin known as "pock marks," or dents. These defects respond best to fillers.

What can we do to diminish the appearance of acne marks? 

Acne marks are usually the discoloration of the skin after a blemish has subsided. They typically fade on their own within 2-3 months. Sometimes, chemical peels can speed up the removal of marks, and cortisone injections to the pimple, especially early on, can reduce or eliminate the mark that follows.
What treatment do you recommend for dark spots? 

I love to talk about brown spots, also referred to as "dark spots." That is a subject many people don't understand. There tends to be a lot of myths and misinformation about dark spots and how to treat them. The treatment performed on dark spots will depend on how dark the spots actually are. For example, you might have someone who is very light in skin tone and has brown spots – it doesn't look good. This is a classic example that a laser treatment would not work for. Often times, these patients will go through the laser treatment and by the end it appears the spots have become lighter, but after two weeks, the spots appear again. Therefor, for the lighter color dark spots, you would either do a chemical peel or use a bleaching regimen product to lighten the spots.

Natural Home Remedies For Under Eye Wrinkles

When it comes to skin care, there is nothing as disheartening as under eye wrinkles. Under eye wrinkles are a normal part of the aging process. There exist a number of natural home remedies to get rid of under eye wrinkles.

Eye wrinkles are a common problem that affect many us of these days. Appearances of fine lines around the eyes and under eye wrinkles are a normal part of the aging process. As you age, your skin will naturally grow thinner. As it grows thinner, it is much easier for wrinkles to form. Typically, these wrinkles tend to appear around the eyes before they appear anywhere else. Some wrinkles are caused by repetitive motions, so the act of smiling, when it crinkles up your eyes can lead to laugh lines. Although, there are several reasons why you have wrinkles under your eyes, the end result is that collagen, which is used to fill in the facial area, is lost. When that happens, wrinkles form easily. When it comes to skin care, there is nothing as disheartening as under eye wrinkles. Although it is difficult to stop wrinkles from happening, you can work on tightening the face and reducing their appearance. Removing eye wrinkles can be achieved naturally. Stick with healthy lifestyle habits, which will safely heal and repair the skin around your eyes.

Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Under Eye Wrinkles
There are many natural remedies that can be used to moisturize and soothe the delicate skin around your eyes and to remove those annoying wrinkles. There are several effective measures for preventing under eye wrinkles. The first step that you should take is to protect your overall health.

Practice good eating habits. An eye wrinkle home remedy that is much easier to take is to consume the right diet. Eating the proper diet that is rich in antioxidants can greatly improve the health of your skin. Try to consume more fruits, vegetables, fish, and nuts that will provide your skin with the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it needs to delay wrinkles on the face and under the eye.

Exercising will help reduce the wrinkles under your eyes. Exercising keeps your skin and muscles tight. When the skin and muscles become loose, you see wrinkles.

If you are not getting enough sleep, chances are you have puffy bags under your eyes or even dark circles. Both of these conditions serve to make under eye wrinkles more noticeable. To get rid of under eye creases and folds, plunk yourself in the bed, enjoy eight hours of sleep every night, and experience the difference. It is good for the skin under your eyes and good for your entire body.

One of the easiest things to do is to make sure the skin under your eyes is refreshed. You will need to regularly rinse your face with cool water to assist your pores and skin stay fresh and beautiful. One of the best and easiest remedies for wrinkles is water. If you are drinking at least eight glasses of water a day, you will notice a difference in the quality of your skin especially the skin under your eyes. Dehydrated skin dries out, making it more prone to wrinkles. Water hydrates the skin, keeping it soft, supple, and younger looking for long.

Avoid and prevent your body from even the slightest of stress as this affects your skin. This makes the signs of aging visible in your skin. Therefore, you have to do only those issues that you are excited about and stay joyful and content.

UV rays increase free radical production, and free radical damage is believed to play a role in all wrinkle formation. So you can help prevent eye wrinkles and wrinkling anywhere by protecting your body from overexposure to the sun. Too much sun can increase the number of wrinkles under your eyes. It is a known fact that sunlight is a cause of premature aging. Overexposure to the sun damages your skin and speeds up aging like nothing else. A proactive measure that can be taken to aid in the prevention and reduction of under eye wrinkles and crow’s feet is making sure to always wear sunglasses when outdoors. Smoking can increase the look of fine lines on the face and create other skin imperfections, so avoid smoking to get rid of wrinkle problems.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Under Eye Wrinkles

There are various homemade remedies that can help reduce wrinkles. Here are a few remedies that help in reducing the effect of old age on eyes. Since the area near and around eyes is sensitive, it is advisable to first check on a small area before applying anything to the entire surface.

Grape Seed Oil

Grape seed oil has skin moisturizing and nourishing properties. It is especially effective for repair of the skin around the eyes and in the repair of stretch marks. This natural ingredient helps to combat wrinkles and rejuvenate the skin. Grape seed oil is rich in antioxidants such as proanthocyanidins, which help in reversing the damages of skin aging. That is why many women use grape seed oil for wrinkles. If applied on dry skin, it keeps the skin hydrated, and as everybody knows, hydrated skin is less likely to get fine lines and wrinkles than a dry one. Buy from Amazon for discounts and free shipping

Vitamin E

Vitamin E can also help reduce and avoid under eye wrinkle. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and the oil is very thick, so it hydrates dry skin very well. Vitamin E will penetrate your skin with powerful antioxidants and will lubricate the delicate eye area, help wrinkles appear less noticeable, and help prevent the formation of new wrinkles. Each night before going to bed, squeeze the liquid out from the vitamin E capsule and smear it under your eyes where you notice the wrinkles. Using the grape or pineapple during the day and vitamin E at night will show faster results. Buy from Amazon for discounts and free shipping

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil works wonders for wrinkles and wrinkle prevention. Massaging coconut oil into the area of your skin that is wrinkled, under the eye, will help. After using coconut oil for a week, you will begin to see results. Continue using coconut oil on a daily basis to prevent under eye wrinkles from coming back in the future. Buy from Amazon for discounts and free shipping

Avocados

Avocados are great for your skin. It decreases under eye wrinkles very effectively. Take some mashed avocado and apply it around your eyes. As the natural oil contained in the avocado helps turn on your skin’s natural oil production, the skin looks younger and more attractive. Buy from Amazon for discounts and free shipping

Cucumber

You may use cucumber to deal with your wrinkled eye. This is one of the most effective natural home remedies not just for under eye wrinkles but for crow’s feet. Put cucumber slices on your eyes. The cucumber slices will reduce the eye wrinkles, fine lines, and puffiness so your eyes feel reenergized afterwards. Buy from Amazon for discounts and free shipping

Lemon Juice

You can also use lemon juice for reducing wrinkles around the eyes. Dip a cotton ball in lemon juice and apply around your eyes twice daily morning and at night. Make sure you do not get the lemon juice in your eyes. After a few weeks, you will find a noticeable reduction in wrinkles. Buy from Amazon for discounts and free shipping

Castor Oil

Castor oil is one of the oldest known wrinkle treatments. It helps to heal under eye wrinkles. Apply and massage a few drops of castor oil to your under eye area at night after cleansing your face. This will keep skin smooth and supple and reduce signs of aging. You should repeat this treatment 1 to 2 times per week after eye wrinkles have diminished to keep under eye wrinkles from redeveloping. Buy from Amazon for discounts and free shipping

These are just a few of the useful remedies that help to remove under eye wrinkles. You may try the above-mentioned natural home remedies for wrinkles and keep watching your under eye wrinkles and lines vanish.

However, when you get to the medium, darker spots, they respond well to laser treatment. Patients can receive laser treatment to get rid of the bulk of the dark areas and then, after one week, you can either use a chemical peel or lightening agents to further lighten the entire face.
What exactly is a stretch mark and is there anything we can do about them? 

Stretch marks are scars from the inside out. There is, to this day, no product that is going to get inside the dermis of the skin (where the damage occurred to cause the stretch mark) and remodel your collagen to such an extent that your stretch mark will disappear. Remember that stretch marks do improve. Many that are still in the purplish red zone tend to fade out. What's not going to work for stretch marks is once you've reached the final stage of white stretch marks, that's where you've reached the end point as far as the collagen.

Face Care Routine
1. CLEANSING Women who wear makeup - see Uma Thurman - should carry out a routine of cleansing, toning and moisturing turn back the clock each evening, as well as washing the face in the morning. 5 Minute Makeover Cleansing will remove old make-up and the grime and grease that have been accumulated during the day.

• Remove mascara Lashes Unlimited with a cotton bud dipped in eye-dipped in eye-cleansing lotion. To make the job easier keep your hair off your face.
• Remove the eyeshadow - Artistic Palletes - by gently wiping it off with a pad of clean cotton wool moistened with eye-cleansing lotion.
• Pour a little face cleansing cream into the palm of one hand and dab it generously over the nose, chin, forehead and cheeks --- using two fingers of the other hand.
• Massage the cream into the skin, starting under the throat, using a gentle upward motion.
• Continue massaging the cream up to the forehead, using the fingertips.
• Gently massage the cream from the eyes to the nose.
• Massage cream back over the chin, which is particularly prone to blackheads. Use the index finger.
• Remove the cream from the face with tissue pads in each hand. Start under the chin and work over the cheeks and on to the forehead

2. TONING Toners remove all traces of dirt, make-up or cleanser that remain after cleansing.

• Immediately after cleansing apply toner to the forehead and cheeks on a pad of corron wool
• Apply the toner to the crevices around the nose.
• Apply the toner to the crevices around the chin.

3. MOISTURIZING Without moisture, the skin will not remain smooth and supple. The face is exposed to the drying effect of the weather, so moisturizers -- which form a film over the skin -- contain and augment the natural moisture.

• Using the tips of the fingers, dot moisturizing cream lightly all over the face.
• Press the fingers of both hands into the center of the forehead and work the cream slowly outwards. Pat the cream gently around the eyes.
• Work the cream around the jawline, chin and mouth with the middle fingers of both hands.
• Massage the cream over the throat with alternating hands, using upward strokes from collar-bone to chin.

Removing Dead Skin Cells Reveals Better Looking Skin

Three Fundamental Skin Care Techniques No Woman Should Skip
(1) Cleanse skin no more than twice daily with a mild cleaner that doesn’t over dry you skin. Be sure to use a cleanser meant for your skin type (2) Gently exfoliate your skin on a daily basis to remove dead skin cells and expose newer, healthier glowing skin underneath. (3)Apply a moisturizer. A moisturizer with sunscreen of at least SPF 15 should be applied during the day.
For more helpful advice and products for healthier skin check out the skin store. This skin resource not only offers helpful skin advice, but breaks down products by function, skin type, skin condition and active ingredients making it easier to find the perfect fix for your skin.
This is a great product and very affordable you can buy ST Ives at Walmart-$5.99
I use this on my skin twice a week and this product cleanse my skin very good.
If you want your skin to look brighter and better, exfoliation can certainly help! While most people understand exfoliating treatment processes and a routine skin care regimen including exfoliation can buff your dead skin cells off and give you silky results, very few people know how to properly do it. Exfoliation is often something people think they can only get at a dermatologist’s office or in a spa. However, you can get similar results right in your own home, every week. All you need to do is know which products to use and what techniques work best. Use these helpful tips to help you learn how to use the best technique, reduce irritation and get smooth results.

• Try Exfoliating Gloves:The first step to getting great exfoliation results is to learn how to do it. To get the best results and to softly remove dead skin cells, don’t use a hard sponge to exfoliate. A sponge can create breeding ground for bacteria, because they tend to stay damp. You can get great results for dead skin removal by using exfoliating gloves. Simply lather a cleanser on them and lightly scrub your skin. Just be sure to rinse the gloves well after each use and let them air dry. Some people prefer to use the most costly methods, like microdermabrasion, but you can get great results using these techniques and a good cleansing product.
• Don’t Scrub Everyday if Skin is Irritated:Remember, you should only be exfoliating two to three times a week. When you exfoliate more than this, you can end up with irritated skin. Most people are terrified of exfoliating because they do it too often, use harsh products during the process or just don’t know what technique to use. To avoid getting bad results, you can also choose to use a soft rag when exfoliating as well, instead of a hard sponge. Of course, if your climate is warmer and you frequently experience more oily skin issues and oil production or perspiration, you’ll have more dead skin cells and may need to exfoliate more often.
• Use Specialize Facial Scrubs Only:Be sure to use exfoliate skin products that are specifically designed to be used on the facial areas. If you’ve struggled with irritation after using an exfoliating product on your face, it may be because you’re using a body exfoliant cream instead of a cream designed specifically for the sensitive areas of the face. If you’re confused about which products will work best for you, simply visit your nearest Clinique or Sephora counter for assistance.
• Don’t forget to moisturize! Exfoliation can leave your skin extremely smooth and can even give you a healthy glow. To ensure you get the silky results you desire, always use moisturizer several times a day if you exfoliate regularly. When you exfoliate, the dead skin cells are indeed removed. However, your skin can begin to dry out and get flaky if you don’t keep moisturizer on it at all times and can even bring on more wrinkles. When you do so, exfoliating can make your skin brighter and your skin tone will be more even. It can also lead to smaller pores and reduce the occurrence of pimples.
• 
  Botox is incredibly popular, but although Botox is a bargain in comparison to other injectables or traditional plastic surgery, it still carries a pretty hefty price tag - at least $10 a unit, with most people requiring between 20 and 40 units every four or six months to "erase" their wrinkles. This year, though, the FDA has approved another botulinum toxin, Xeomin. It's very similar to Botox, but one small factor could make it much cheaper.
  
  
  Xeomin is a version of botulinum toxin that has already been available to doctors for years. It helps stop muscle spasms, so it's become a common treatment for people who have chronic neck or eyelid twitching. It's similar to Botox in effectiveness, lasting time, and safety. Where it differs however, is in storage and preparation. Xeomin could start a price war simply because it's powdered and doesn't need to be refrigerated. Botox and previously approved alternative Dysport are both liquids that must be refrigerated at all times, so shipping and storing them isn't easy. Xeomin, on the other hand, can sit on shelves for years and is simple to mix into saline for injection. And Xeomin's creator, Merz Pharmaceuticals, just lowered its price by 20 percent, making it even more competitive. It's a lot less effort and expense for providers, and the hope is that they'll pass the savings along to consumers.

Bad Botox

Home Remedies for Puffy Eyes:
Natural Ways to Reduce Swollen Bags Under Your Eyes

Many people suffer from under eye puffiness, bags or dark circles under their eyes. There are many treatments to help you with this problem and like all things that concern your beauty there is a range from natural remedies all the way up to doctor specified treatments.

Allergies (seasonal, pet, dust, etc) can cause puffy eyes. Cold cumcumbers are an easy remedy for puffy eyes..

What causes your puffy eyes? There are several causes for under eye bags, puffiness, or dark circles. Some of these are: heredity, water retention, toxin build up, a change in weather, hormones, allergic reactions, as well as health issues or complications from medications. Having allergies may cause you to wake with puffy eyes from time to time. Sleeping with your head elevated slightly can sometimes help alleviate this by helping the sinus cavities to drain. Preventing the allergic reaction by avoiding your known allergens will help you to avoid an occurrence of puffy eyes. You may also want to take an over the counter medicine like Benadryl to help avoid the allergens that cause your reaction. How can you prevent puffy eyes? One of the steps you can do to prevent your under eye puffiness, bags, and dark circles is to have a healthy well balanced diet and stay well hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will help your body flush itself of any toxins as well as reduce the chance of water retention. Limiting your caffeine intake can also help reduce water retention. Sodium is also a big culprit in helping the body retain excess water and to reduce the bags under your eyes you may want to drastically reduce the salt in your diet.

Allergies (seasonal, pet, dust, etc) can cause puffy eyes. Cold cumcumbers are an easy remedy for puffy eyes..

What causes your puffy eyes? There are several causes for under eye bags, puffiness, or dark circles. Some of these are: heredity, water retention, toxin build up, a change in weather, hormones, allergic reactions, as well as health issues or complications from medications. Having allergies may cause you to wake with puffy eyes from time to time. Sleeping with your head elevated slightly can sometimes help alleviate this by helping the sinus cavities to drain. Preventing the allergic reaction by avoiding your known allergens will help you to avoid an occurrence of puffy eyes. You may also want to take an over the counter medicine like Benadryl to help avoid the allergens that cause your reaction. How can you prevent puffy eyes? One of the steps you can do to prevent your under eye puffiness, bags, and dark circles is to have a healthy well balanced diet and stay well hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will help your body flush itself of any toxins as well as reduce the chance of water retention. Limiting your caffeine intake can also help reduce water retention. Sodium is also a big culprit in helping the body retain excess water and to reduce the bags under your eyes you may want to drastically reduce the salt in your diet.

How To Fight Against Wrinkles How you choose to treat wrinkles and other signs of aging depends on what stage of your life you're at. In your 20s, when wrinkles are just beginning to appear, sunblock is the best course of action. At that stage, skin can still repair itself, and wearing sunscreen regularly will prevent further damage and help the skin regenerate itself. An alpha-hydroxy acid product is also a good idea, because it will lightly exfoliate the dulling layer of dead skin and give it a smoother, clearer look. When your 30s start to creep up (with a few more lines and wrinkles in tow), retinol products and prescription retinoids, such as Retin-A or Renova (the more moisturizing form), are the next line of defense. Both are designed to plump up fine lines and stimulate skin to produce collagen, although Renova is the only product approved by the FDA clinically proven to reduce wrinkles. If your skin is starting to show signs of dryness, moisturizer will hydrate it and make wrinkles look less apparent but won't make them disappear. When wrinkles become stubborn, usually around your late 30s and early 40s, it's time to see your dermatologist, who can prescribe a skincare regimen to help keep wrinkles at bay. In addition, she has various chemical peels in her anti-aging arsenal. Peels come in varying strengths, depending on the severity of your wrinkles and age spots. Light, glycolic acid-based peels, done once a month over the course of a few months, will help smooth some of the fine lines (although they won't have much effect on deep wrinkles), fade brown spots, and even out overall skin tone. TCA (trichloracetic acid) peels are a bit stronger and reserved for deeper wrinkles. They are used at varying concentrations and leave skin red and sensitive for a few days. Phenol peels are used for very severe discoloration as a last resort. The downsides of phenol peels are that they can leave the skin permanently lighter and involve more risks than more gentle peels. Laser peels are a newer weapon that only require a single treatment but are reserved for very severe wrinkling. Depending on the type of damage you wish to get rid of, this could be an alternative to a facelift and should be performed only by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon who has substantial experience using lasers. The additional drawback is the healing process; count on severe redness and peeling for at least a week.

What to do about oily skin If you have oily skin and you'd like to do something about this condition, here are some good tips for you: Cleanse only two or three times at the very most with a product made for your skin type. Washing more often will only strip the skin of oil which simply stimulates the oil glands to replace it. Rinse thoroughly and then finish off with a toner/astringent on the oily areas of your skin. The astringent can be used throughout the day to help control the excess oil that

Alpha Hydroxy Acids: Good or Bad?

By Anna Lynn Sibal

The term �alpha hydroxy acids� is becoming more and more of a popular term among those of us who are conscious of the beauty products that we use for our skin. There are even some beauty companies out there that use the alpha hydroxy acid content of their products as a focal point for their marketing campaigns. But just what are alpha hydroxy acids? Alpha hydroxy acids, or AHA for short, are compounds that are taken from sugars found in milk and fruits. Alpha hydroxy acids are known to be effective in rejuvenating the skin, making wrinkles disappear and heal the damage caused by photoaging on our skin. AHA does this by exfoliating dead cells off the skin, which in turn encourages the skin to grow cells to replace the old ones. AHA also induces the production of elastin and collagen, the compounds responsible for the reduction of wrinkles and the suppleness of the skin.
Alpha hydroxy acids can now be found in a wide range of beauty products � eye creams, moisturizers, foundations, toners, cleansers and facial masks. However, just like any other skin product, AHA should be used discriminatingly, because it is not a miracle potion. If used incorrectly or used too much AHA can irritate the skin. Ironically, as much as AHA can cure photoaging damage, it can also increase the skin�s likelihood to get damage from photoaging. Pigment scarring is also associated with the excessive use of AHA. Thus, it is very important to exert care when applying alpha hydroxy products on our skin. The best way to do it is to choose one or two products among the number of products that we use for our skin to contain AHA, then use other beauty products that do not have AHA. This will decrease our chances of getting our skin irritated. Better have those two products that you need to contain AHA to be your exfoliant and your moisturizer. AHA, after all, basically works as an exfoliant, and moisturizer is always left on to let the skin absorb it. The skin must absorb the AHA ingredient of the product in order for AHA to work; thus, using cleansers with AHA do not make sense. Cleansers are just washed off before the AHA can be absorbed by the skin. Always, always, always use a sunscreen when using a product with an active alpha hydroxy acid ingredient. Remember that AHA increases our skin�s vulnerability to damage from sunlight. Applying sunscreen generously on the skin, especially the part of the skin treated with AHA, is a definite must in order to protect the skin from the negative effects of exposure to sunlight. Because too much alpha hydroxy acid can be dangerous to the skin, better use a product with only the right levels of AHA in it. The ideal AHA concentration in any product should be around 5% to 8%, and with a pH level of three or four. Any more can do more damage than good for our skin.

Allergies (seasonal, pet, dust, etc) can cause puffy eyes. Cold cumcumbers are an easy remedy for puffy eyes..

What causes your puffy eyes? There are several causes for under eye bags, puffiness, or dark circles. Some of these are: heredity, water retention, toxin build up, a change in weather, hormones, allergic reactions, as well as health issues or complications from medications. Having allergies may cause you to wake with puffy eyes from time to time. Sleeping with your head elevated slightly can sometimes help alleviate this by helping the sinus cavities to drain. Preventing the allergic reaction by avoiding your known allergens will help you to avoid an occurrence of puffy eyes. You may also want to take an over the counter medicine like Benadryl to help avoid the allergens that cause your reaction. How can you prevent puffy eyes? One of the steps you can do to prevent your under eye puffiness, bags, and dark circles is to have a healthy well balanced diet and stay well hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will help your body flush itself of any toxins as well as reduce the chance of water retention. Limiting your caffeine intake can also help reduce water retention. Sodium is also a big culprit in helping the body retain excess water and to reduce the bags under your eyes you may want to drastically reduce the salt in your diet.

Natural Cures & Treatments at Home

There are many natural remedies that have been used over the years to help aid in the reduction of puffy eyes. Check out the following list below for things you have at home that will reduce eye puffiness.

• Cool cucumber slices, one for each eye, applied for about 5 minutes.
• Lavender as a soothing topical treatment applied to the eye area or in a floral water mixture can reduce swelling.
• Chamomile, green tea or other cooled tea bags placed on they eyes for about 5 minutes.
• If you use eye cream in the morning, try keeping it in the refridgerator for a cooling am eye treatment.
• Sleeping on a slight incline with an extra pillow to reduce morning under eye puffiness (also helps relieve heartburn too).
• Keep two clean spoons in the refrigerator to decrease eye swelling. In a pinch, two spoons can be placed in a glass of ice water to chill them on demand.

Choose the treatment best suited and based on what you have on hand to help get rid of your puffy eyes. Once you have completed that treatment you can apply makeup to help hide any remaining puffiness.

Over the counter quick fixes

When turning to over the counter treatments you will notice that many of them utilize natural ingredients as well. Many people notice that gel ointments work better and more quickly then creams, but keep in mind that everyone is different and your results may vary. Be sure to buy products that clearly state they are for puffy eyes. If you have allergies, a daily allergy pill with the active ingredient of Loratadine can work to reduce eye puffiness as well.

Possible Medical Causes of Puffy Eyes

There are also many serious health concerns that can cause puffiness or dark circles under or around the eyes. A few examples of these conditions are a thyroid condition, and diabetes. If you have chronic puffiness, dark circles, or bags under your eyes you should consult a physician to determine if the bags are a symptom of a more serious health concern.

4 Best Ways to Exfoliate Your Face:
Removing Dead Skin Cells Reveals Better Looking Skin

If you want your skin to look brighter and better, exfoliation can certainly help! While most people understand exfoliating treatment processes and a routine skin care regimen including exfoliation can buff your dead skin cells off and give you silky results, very few people know how to properly do it. Exfoliation is often something people think they can only get at a dermatologist’s office or in a spa. However, you can get similar results right in your own home, every week. All you need to do is know which products to use and what techniques work best. Use these helpful tips to help you learn how to use the best technique, reduce irritation and get smooth results.

 

• Try Exfoliating Gloves: The first step to getting great exfoliation results is to learn how to do it. To get the best results and to softly remove dead skin cells, don’t use a hard sponge to exfoliate. A sponge can create breeding ground for bacteria, because they tend to stay damp. You can get great results for dead skin removal by using exfoliating gloves. Simply lather a cleanser on them and lightly scrub your skin. Just be sure to rinse the gloves well after each use and let them air dry. Some people prefer to use the most costly methods, like microdermabrasion, but you can get great results using these techniques and a good cleansing product.
• Don’t’ Scrub Everyday if Skin is Irritated: Remember, you should only be exfoliating two to three times a week. When you exfoliate more than this, you can end up with irritated skin. Most people are terrified of exfoliating because they do it too often, use harsh products during the process or just don’t know what technique to use. To avoid getting bad results, you can also choose to use a soft rag when exfoliating as well, instead of a hard sponge. Of course, if your climate is warmer and you frequently experience more oily skin issues and oil production or perspiration, you’ll have more dead skin cells and may need to exfoliate more often.
• Use Specialize Facial Scrubs Only: Be sure to use exfoliate skin products that are specifically designed to be used on the facial areas. If you’ve struggled with irritation after using an exfoliating product on your face, it may be because you’re using a body exfoliant cream instead of a cream designed specifically for the sensitive areas of the face. If you’re confused about which products will work best for you, simply visit your nearest Clinique or Sephora counter for assistance.
• Don’t forget to moisturize!Exfoliation can leave your skin extremely smooth and can even give you a healthy glow. To ensure you get the silky results you desire, always use moisturizer several times a day if you exfoliate regularly. When you exfoliate, the dead skin cells are indeed removed. However, your skin can begin to dry out and get flaky if you don’t keep moisturizer on it at all times and can even bring on more wrinkles. When you do so, exfoliating can make your skin brighter and your skin tone will be more even. It can also lead to smaller pores and reduce the occurrence of pimples.

 

Washing, Toning & Moisturizing:
Daily Skin Care Routines for Morning and Evening

Your dermatologist has likely told you that establishing and sticking with a great skin care regimen is essential for many reasons. Practicing great skin care habits can help you protect your skin from harmful environmental factors, can help you slow the skin aging process and can keep blemishes and other unsightly skin problems at bay. However, many women find the idea of creating a skin routine a little overwhelming and most often think they don’t have time to devote to the challenging task. The good news is, there are many easy skin care tips you can do every day, without spending a lot of time on your facial area.

  Instead of merely decorating your water glass with a lemon slice, squeeze that lemon into your water. Many physical ailments can be remedied using natural vitamins, minerals and whole foods. Lemon water is one such natural remedy that has engendered positive results. It should be noted that packaged and pasteurized lemon juice will not aid in health. The lemons must be fresh--the heavier the better when choosing them at the grocery store. At about 50 cents each, lemons are an affordable health remedy worth trying. Known for their fresh, clean taste and antiseptic qualities, lemons just may be the natural answer to some of your health concerns.

  Aid Digestion

Lemons can also relieve symptoms of indigestion, such as heartburn, bloating, gas and cramping. Drinking lemon water regularly will aid in the cleansing of the bowels, which helps eliminate constipation and diarrhea. A teaspoon of lemon juice in half a glass of water helps relieve heartburn. The juice of three to four lemons can also help ease the pain and decrease the flow of excessive menstruation, according to Ann Heustad in her article, "The Amazing Health Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water." It is best to mix the lemon juice in cool or warm water. Avoid extreme temperatures of water, "as they damage gastric stomach lining," Dr. McKeith suggests.

 

 

Stimulate the Liver

According to Kloss, lemon water dissolves uric acid and other poisons in the liver, liquefies bile and helps relieve malaria cases. Lemons are high in potassium and are extremely effective in treating biliousness, a symptom of liver disorder, which causes constipation, headaches, vomiting of bile and loss of appetite. People with liver complaints should drink the juice of one lemon in warm water one hour before breakfast each morning, according to Kloss.

Cleanse Your System

Jethro Kloss details the value of lemons in his book, "Back to Eden." He describes how lemons prevent sepsis, or bacteria buildup, in the body. They are also anti-scorbutic, a term referring to their ability to prevent disease and to help purify the body of impurities. In her book, "You Are What You Eat," Dr. Gillian McKeith states, "A warm cup of water first thing in the morning (and even better with a squeeze of lemon) goes right through the bowels and cleans mucus out from the day before. Drink another cup in the evening too."

Smart Suntanning - Avoid Effects of UV Rays

by Kathryn D'Imperio Heading for the beach? Grab your shades, your towel and your sandals, but don't forget some sun block even if you are desperate for that golden glow. Studies show that more than one million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year, and a strong correlation is linked between those who worship the sun and the disease itself. According to scientific research, such a thing as a �healthy tan� does not exist. Tanning is, in essence, the skin�s reaction to damage already done, and a defensive attempt to protect itself from further harm. The UV (or Ultraviolet) rays are the most threatening component of a natural suntan. Two types of UV rays, UVA and UVB, negatively affect the skin by deeply penetrating our skin and potentially damage gene composition. UVA rays (the predominant type) tend to cause skin cancer after prolonged periods of time. Sunburn and the redness associated with sun exposure result from UVB rays, which are also a strong risk factor for skin cancer. Personal tanning methods available today attempt to eliminate the UV rays from coming in contact with the skin, yet you have to wonder how safe you are when shutting yourself in a tiny tanning booth for 30 minutes at a time! Salon Options:
Popularity of tanning beds tends to soar as teens strive for the prom-perfect hue and women of all ages aim to avoid the pasty white complexions they suffered long enough through the winter. Though they are thought to be only slightly more protective than getting a natural tan due to the controlled environment, risks are still associated with tanning beds as the exposure to UV rays is still present. Did you know there is a recommended allotment of time that one should not exceed in the course of a year when using a tanning bed? According to the British Photodermatology Group (BPG-a branch of the British Association of Dermatologists), one should not surpass 10 sets of 30-minute sessions twice a year, or in other words, 10 hours of exposure per year. I am willing to bet most of us blow ten hours of sun exposure out of the water on each vacation we take! Natural Tanning Options:
If you simply cannot avoid worshipping the sun on a gorgeous day, consider using sunscreen with a low SPF. This will still allow tanning, but the skin will receive at least a small degree of protection from the powerful rays. Be especially cautious when in or on the water, as the sun may badly burn the skin without any warning signs. Hats and t-shirts can provide a degree of protection when one is enjoying the weather, playing sports or simply relaxing on a nice day. Some individuals should exercise extreme caution when exposed to the sun, including those with very fair skin, those who burn often or tan poorly, those who have many freckles or moles, those under age 16, and those who have a history of skin cancer themselves or in the family history. Even if these conditions do not apply to you personally, it is still very important to be smart about your own exposure to the sun. Sunless Self-Tanning Options:
A safer method of tanning than natural tanning and visits to the salon, self-tanning products have taken leaps and bounds in technology-far beyond the �orange tone� so many worry about experiencing. Self-tanning products come in several forms-lotions, gels, wipes, sprays, and now, even a pill! The pill stimulates the pigment to change without any exposure to the sun, which is actually thought to be a positive preventive alternative to harmful sun exposure. For those who still enjoy the trip to the salon but don�t feel the need to visit a tanning bed, a new tanning-spray treatment is available at some salons. It is quick, about a 30 second application with instant results. All of these tanning options involve the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA.), which is responsible for the change in skin tone. Many of the products available also contain moisturizers and vitamins to help the skin remain healthy and soft while not exposing the body to any UV rays. Even with an artificially produced tan, it is vital to practice protective measures to prevent sun damage. A simple sunblock will do, in addition to monitoring your exposure to the sun. No matter which tanning option you settle for if you simply must have that glowing tan, use caution when you bask in the rays at the shore or wherever. Keep these important points in mind whenever you are exposed to the sun for a significant duration of time:

• Do your best to avoid falling asleep while tanning. We all know how tempting it is to take that relaxing nap to the sounds of the surf, but you could wake up fried to a painful crisp!
• Even if you are determined to go home with some color, try a very low SPF level sunscreen. Something as low as SPF 15 will do more good for your skin than bare exposure!
• When you do experience sunburn, keep aloe and cocoa butter on hand. Aloe is known to soothe the skin, while cocoa butter helps in keeping skin soft and smooth while also repairing it and preventing peeling after sun damage.

Under Eye Puffiness Puffiness under your eyes Common causes of this puffiness are lack of sleep and drinking excessive alcohol. To reduce the puffiness, you can apply a cold compress until the area returns to it's original state. If alcohol is the culpret, increase your intake of fluids to rehydrate the skin.

Step 1:
Cleansing the Face Morning and Evening

One of the most important steps to any beauty regimen is daily cleansing of the facial area. At minimum, you should cleanse your face twice a day, in morning and in evening. Whether you choose a facial cleansing bar or a foam wash for the task doesn’t matter. However, you should be sure the cleanser you use is right for your skin type. If you’re not sure, visit a makeup counter at your local department store to find out what type of skin you have.
Cleansing is extremely important in the morning, so you can be sure any dirt that collected in the night is cleared away before you apply cosmetics. In the evening, it’s important to wash away the dirt and makeup from the day. With today’s modern products, cleaning your face should only take you a few minutes and every woman has at least two minutes to spare in the morning and at night!

Step 2:
Apply Toner to Tight and Clean Pores at Night

Whether you have dry, normal, oily or combination skin, it’s important to use a toner right after you’ve cleansed your face at night. A toner further removes dirt from your face and works to tighten your pores. Again, be sure you choose a toner specifically for your skin type, to see the best results. To apply toner, simply wet a clean cotton ball with it and swipe it across your face. If you’re in an extreme hurry, you can always choose to hit the most important areas like your forehead, nose and chin. Many people make the letter “I” across their face, with their toner cotton ball, if they are in a hurry.

Step 3:
Use Moisturizer in the AM (with sunscreen) and PM (anti-aging)

Moisturizer is very important to help you protect your face from aging and to help repair the damage already done to your skin. Learning how to apply moisturizer is extremely simple. All you need to do is wait for your toner to dry completely and then apply your facial lotion all over your face. Blend it in gently (do not scrub) and wait for it to dry before applying your makeup. If you want extra protection, look for moisturizers with sunscreen built in. In addition, if you are more concerned about skin aging, look for varieties that offer added age reversal effects.

Remember, you only get one set of skin to live with for your entire life! So, treating it well even if you’re young is extremely important. Learning how to properly care for your skin can help you reduce the signs of aging, repair signs of aging, steer clear of blemishes and always show up with a clear and fresh face. Your makeup will go on smoother and you’ll feel more confident when your skin looks radiant and beautiful!

  What is SPF? How to Choose a Good Sunscreen

With millions of people suffering with skin cancer or sun related skin damage every year, the use of sunscreen is more important than ever before. The good news is more people are becoming aware of the risks associated with sun overexposure and are taking the necessary steps to protect themselves in the future. The even better news is there are a multitude of products on the market which make it very easy to take care of your skin and protect it from the sun’s damaging rays. However, many people are quite confused over which sunscreen they should purchase and use. There are many confusing terms often used on sunscreen packaging which make it difficult to know what can protect in the most effective way.

What Is SPF?
SPF is an acronym which stands for Sun Protection Factor. Bottles with higher SPF numbers will protect better against harmful UVB rays from the sun. Basically, the SPF number is an indicator of how long you can stay in the sun without burning. For instance, if a person usually gets burned in 15 minutes, a lotion with SPF 15 protection would allow them to stay in the sun 15 times longer (or for 225 minutes) without burning. It’s recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology that everyone wear a product with at least SPF 15. Of course, some people wonder if this means an SPF of 50 will protect loads more than lotions with SPF of 30. However, this is not necessarily the case. A lotion with SPF 50 only protects about 2% more than a lotion with SPF 30.

UVA and UVB

When you’re looking at lotions and sunblock products, be sure to check out the protection they offer from UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are those which result in the aging of the skin and they may cause skin cancer. UVB rays are those which can also give sunburn and are related to the cause of skin cancer.

Double Duty Sun Protection Beauty Products

There is no need to add extra products to your beauty regimen to get adequate sun protection for your skin. There are many skin care products that do "double duty," by adding sunscreen to moisturizers and foundations. Using these face products on a daily basis, even on cloudy days, is important for preventing wrinkles due to sun exposure. Thus, one factor to think about when choosing your daily makeup or moisturizer is whether or not it offers included UVA protection. Neutrogena offers high SPF rated products to help you combine both moisturizer and/or makeup coverage and skin protection in one product, simplifying your skin care routine. Many body lotions, like Eucerin's Everyday Protection SPF 15 Body Lotion, can add moisture to your skin while protecting it from daily sun damage.

Waterproof (Actually Means Water-Resistant) Sunscreen

While years ago white zinc oxide was required for beach goers, today there are many options when it comes to skin protection. You no longer are forced to look like a clown to get ultraviolet protection. Instead, you can now find water resistant sunscreen to help you be able to frolic in the ocean or at the pool without worrying about sun damage. However, waterproof and water resistant sunscreen is still somewhat degraded when it comes into contact with mositure. Reapply often. Be sure to look for a type that is both noncomodegenic and hypoallergenic. Also be sure to remember most “water resistant” lotion still need to be reapplyed at least every two hours to be effective.
With so many great products on the market for every day skin protection, there is no excuse to not protecting yourself from the sun’s harmful rays. Skin damage from the sun not only causes cancer but it can also cause things like early aging of the skin and wrinkles. While cancer is much more terrifying to consider, most women aren’t motivated to protect themselves due to it because they think it will never happen to them. However, all women are concerned about wrinkles so take action today and protect yourself from both!

Treatments - Lancome - Genifique

(151 reviews)

• Average Rating: 3.2
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• Package Quality: 3.7
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Try this product on your skin if you are the ages 30-50. Great product!!

 

Client-Age: 30-40 Skin: Acne-prone, Medium-Tan, her hair: Black, Eyes: Brown

I got this product about a week ago in my gradis @ Sephora and have been using it religiously on my customers.  At first, I didn't think the product made any difference at all and was a bit disappointed but resolved to use it diligently until I finished the bottle. I am 40 with beautiful skin so, I use this product on my client with some acne, acne scars, and both dry and oily skin. The biggest difference I've seen is that my acne has subsided considerably, and my client skin is much smoother. I do think it has made a difference in some of the dark spots that my customer have from previous acne, I suggest for her to exfoliate frequently so that may not have been a direct result of this serum. I am about halfway through my little bottle (about .6 oz) and usually use 3 drops per use. Now that I've used a decent amount of this product, I hope I get this product again. Or maybe I will purchased the product.