ifabbo seal
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- LipSurgence™ matte lip tint:
LipSurgence™ lip luster:
PRODUCT REVIEW: K-Q10 Moisturizer Derma Quest Skin Therapy
Derma Quest Skin Therapy K-Q10 Moisturizer
K-Q10 Moisturizer is part of Derma Quest Skin Therapy Age Management range, aimed to combat the physical signs of aging.
I received a sample and really love the feel of the cream. It left my skin feeling moisturized and smells amazing – light and citrus-y.
courtesy of DermaQuest Skin Therapy
The K-Q10 formula contains peptides and powerful anti-aging ingredients to lift and firm, fight free radical damage and reduce fine lines while addressing all aging areas of concern. Some of the benefits are increased moisture retention, natural exfoliation and promotes collagen production because the Dermox SRC and UGL Complex. I definitely noticed a softening of my fine lines and wrinkles during my testing of this product (typically a test period is 30 days).
Choc full of nourishing ingredients, here are a couple of others that are of note:
Co-Enyzme Q10: helps stabilize cell membranes while bringing more oxygen into the cells and to the mitochondria, the tiny factories in the cells that maintain cell function. This generates healthy cell renewal and protects fat molecules in the cell membranes from becoming oxidized or infused with free radicals. Since free radicals contain highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons, Co-enzyme Q10′s remarkable donor activity (of electrons) neutralizes these villains, making it an ideal antioxidant. Through this activity, Co-Enzyme Q10 performs as a cellular bodyguard, protecting the cells from the ravages of free radicals and allowing the production of healthier cells.
If you cannot use AHA’s, the Glucosamine works as a skin exfoliator to accelerate skin renewal.
courtesy of DermaQuest Skin Therapy
DermaQuest Skin Therapy was founded by award-winning cosmeceutical chemist Sam Dhatt in 1999. DermaQuest Skin Therapy is committed to advancing the practical science of skincare. All products are manufactured, packaged and distributed from their state-of-the-art Northern California facility. DermaQuest Skin Therapy products are paraben-free and do not test on animals.
What new product have you tried? Love them? Let me know!
Age Management Ingredient of the Month: Vitamin E
Age Management Ingredient of the Month: Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful super antioxidant and when used on the skin it is helpful in protecting skin cells from the damaging free radicals that can be the result of pollution, medications and UV light. Vitamin E also assists in regulating Vitamin A- it allows it to work more efficiently in the skin due to its adaptogenic properties.
Vitamin E helps combat the effects of aging, reducing wrinkles and fine lines by decreases the free radical damage that ages skin. Vitamin E in lotions, creams, oils etc, depending upon the concentration of the vitamin, can protect the epidermal layer (the outermost, that you touch and see) of the skin from the early stages of UV damage and sunscreens that contain Vitamin E preparations can also become more efficient.
These preparations and sunscreen should be applied to the skin 20 minutes before the skin is exposed to the sun to allow the Vitamin E to be deeply absorbed into the epidermis layer of the skin.
Vitamin E has been shown to protect the cells in the body from the effects of other toxins, free radicals and pollution. The most important biological function of Vitamin E is to protect lipids from free radical damage and oxidation. Lipids are themselves are very important as they are the building blocks of cell membranes and other biochemical structures and the skin’s barrier function. If left unprotected, lipid based structures are very vulnerable to oxidation and will disintegrate in hours. This generally leads to dehydration of the skin-which we all know is THE MAIN SYMPTOM OF almost every disease and disorder of the skin.
As part of you’re A.C.E in hole for great skin, using Vitamin E in or a part of your daily skin care regimen can greatly improve the quality of your skin. Look for a lotion or cream that has all three building block vitamins or serums that feature C+E as they work longer and the Vitamin E prevents oxidation of the Vitamin C.
How do I add Vitamin E to my daily regimen?
Eating our vitamins is just as crucial as applying them to the surface, as I have shared with you in prior posts. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in many nuts, fruits and vegetables. According to the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance, an adult needs 15 milligrams of vitamin E every day, and vegetable oils — such as corn oil, olive oil, sunflower oil and wheat germ oil — are a good place to start.
Fun Fact I did not know: one tablespoon of wheat germ oil will give you more than 100 percent of your daily vitamin E allowance.
Snacking on nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts, can also help you get your daily dose of vitamin E. Almonds will give you the most bang for your buck — an ounce of almonds gives you 40 percent of your daily vitamin E intake, while an ounce of peanuts gives you only 11 percent [source: Office of Dietary Supplements]. Plus, the almonds give your heart a healthy boost!
Aside from oils and nuts, certain fruits and vegetables can also provide you with vitamin E. One sweet potato, for example, can give you 40 percent of your daily allowance, and a mango or an avocado can give you at least 15 percent. Apples, asparagus, turnip greens, spinach and tomatoes can help you get there as well, but you’ll need more than one serving — they each account for less than 10 percent of your daily allowance.
Do you use Vitamin E now? How are you getting it and are you using a cream that has it?
Be Strong, Be YOU!
UPDATE- Wellness Journey
Hi geeks4beauty!
I hope the weekend treated you well. I am giving you a quick update on my wellness progress, as I know many of you are working on your fitness too!
I had an injury which set me back longer than I had anticipated- 3 weeks to be exact. Then I had another health scare on Easter and was in the hospital for observation. Scary….but I am wiser and stronger.
Let’s check the new stats I have achieved- and I am PROUD of MYSELF- YOU SHOULD GIVE YOURSELF AN “ATTA GIRL/BOY” TOO!
BP: 116/78 WOOHOO!!! I DID add one Rx to achieve this on Dr’s orders.
WEIGHT: 150 lbs- Not where I want to be. I am now able to work out more and have gotten back on my bike. I have also added more yoga as I need the stress reducing benefits NOW more than ever.
Food/Beverage Habits and Behaviors that I have changed:
1. NO MEAT 3 days a week- surprisingly I do not miss as much as I thought I would. My family does not seem to mind too much either- BONUS! as it is always hard to be the LONE WOLF IN YOUR WELLNESS QUEST. Thankfully they too are on the journey with me!
2. No alcohol- not even wine. Not forever but for now. While I was never a daily drinker, I did and do enjoy a few drinks after the work week. I have replaced with home made soda waters with all the trimmings of a good cocktail, but without the excess calories from rum (my fave and my way of supporting my relatives-many work for Bacardi and Seagrams- on La Isla Verde- Puerto Rico for those who have never had the pleasure of visiting).
3. MORE SLEEP- I have written about sleep deprivation and what it can do to your skin- but know that lack of sleep activates hormones that can cause you to GAIN weight even if you are doing everything else right. Who couldn’t want more beauty sleep especially if it helps you slim down for better health!
Here is one of the soda waters my son and I made this weekend- Delish and helps digestion!
Homemade Ginger and Lemonade Soda:
1 liter of club soda
Fresh Ginger grated about 2-6 tablespoons depending on how much you like ginger and its zing- We LOVE ginger so ours had a lil spicy kick to it.
Fresh Lemon Juice to taste
Simple Syrup to taste (I buy mine at Fresh and Easy or Trader Joe’s or you can make from scratch- sugar dissolved in water and simmered until thick and syrupy- put in a resealable container and put in fridge) My son adds more, I did not add more than a teaspoon, maybe less maybe more.
Mix well and serve over ice and garnish with lemon slice. You could sugar the rim if you so desired but note that adds calories.
Thank you for joining me on my quest. Please share you successes and challenges so we can learn and grow together!
Be Strong, Be YOU
Chandra
Posted in General Information, Ingredients A to Z, Skin Types
Tagged digestion, fitness, ginger, health tips, home made soda, lemon, lemonade, weight loss, wellness
APRIL is ROSACEA AWARENESS MONTH
April is Rosacea Awareness Month!
What? Why? Now What?
WHAT is Rosacea?
“Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha) is a common but poorly understood disorder of the facial skin that is estimated to affect well over 16 million Americans — and most of them don’t know it. In fact, while rosacea is becoming increasingly widespread as the populous baby boom generation enters the most susceptible ages, a Gallup survey found that 78 percent of Americans have no knowledge of this condition, including how to recognize it and what to do about it.“ courtesy of rosacea.org
According to the National Rosacea Society, here are some stats on how rosacea sufferers feel about this incurable condition:
76 percent of rosacea patients said their condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem
41 percent reported that it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements
When asked how this disorder affected their professional lives those mong rosacea patients with severe symptoms (grades) responded:
88 percent said rosacea had adversely affected their professional interactions
51 percent said they had even missed work because of their skin’s condition and appearance
WHY did this happen to ME?
I was diagnosed with Rosacea along with Eczema (Ocular and Auricular) and Peri- Oral Dermatitis simultaneously, yeah I know I scored!
The odds of having all 3 on the same face is like 1 in 7 million, my mom said to me “Mama, you must have thought you were in the line for chichi’s (boobs to my spanglish challenged geeks4beauty)” and then laughed and told the whole family. I mean MY WHOLE FAMILY- MY BROTHERS, SISTERS, 12 AUNTS, 10 UNCLES, 5 NIECES, 4 NEPHEWS, 26 COUSINS, 4 GRANDPARENTS and any else who she thought needed a giggle. She did not understand that it was going to change my life. I can laugh now and share this story with abandon, but at the time all I could feel/think was “WHY ME, WHY MY FACE, WHY NOT SOMEONE ELSE?”
It would be the second reason why I got into my beloved skin care industry. (First, because of my Brother, who was picked on daily for his severe acne, until we discovered how to treat his acne). His skin looks great these days and he rarely has the same type of breakouts, YAY- Greg!)
Rosacea’s cause is unknown and to date there is no cure, however, today with understanding ingredients, triggers (things that can cause your skin to flare up) and aesthetic and medical help is available that can control the signs and symptoms of this potentially life-disruptive disorder.
If you are displaying any one of the following warning signs; this is a signal to see a dermatologist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment before the signs and symptoms become increasingly severe:
i. Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
ii. Small visible blood vessels on the face
iii. Bumps or pimples on the face
iv. Watery or irritated eyes
There are levels/subtypes of severity just like for acne. See Below:
Subtype 1: erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
Subtype 1 (Fig 1) is characterized by flushing and persistent central facial erythema. Telangiectases are common but not essential for the diagnosis.
Fig 1. Subtype 1, erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, is characterized by flushing and persistent central facial erythema. Telangiectases are common but not essential for diagnosis.
A, Mild; B, moderate; C, severe.
Subtype 2: papulopustular rosacea
Subtype 2 (Fig 2) includes persistent central facial erythema with transient papules, pustules, or both in a central facial distribution. Burning and stinging may also be reported.
Fig 2. Subtype 2, papulopustular rosacea, includes persistent central facial erythema with transient papules, pustules, or both in central facial distribution.
A, Mild; B, moderate; C, severe.
Subtype 3: phymatous rosacea
This subtype (Fig 3) may include thickening skin, irregular surface nodularities, and enlargement. Phymatous rosacea occurs most commonly as rhinophyma but may appear elsewhere, including the chin, forehead, cheeks, and ears. Patulous, expressive follicles may appear in the phymatous area, and telangiectases may be present.
Fig 3. Subtype 3, phymatous rosacea, may include thickening skin, irregular surface nodularities, and enlargement. Patulous, expressive follicles may appear in phymatous area, and telangiectases may be present.
A, Mild; B, moderate; C, severe.
Subtype 4: ocular rosacea
Ocular rosacea (Fig 4) may include watery or bloodshot appearance (interpalpebral conjunctival hyperemia), foreign-body sensation, burning or stinging, dryness, itching, light sensitivity, blurred vision, telangiectasia of the conjunctiva and lid margin, or lid and periocular erythema. Blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and irregularity of the eyelid margins also may occur. Meibomian gland dysfunction presenting as chalazion, or chronic infection as manifested by hordeolum (stye), are common. Some patients may experience loss of vision as a result of corneal complications (punctate keratitis, corneal infiltrates, ulcers, or marginal keratitis). An ophthalmologic consultative approach to treatment may be required.
Fig 4. Subtype 4, ocular rosacea, may include watery or bloodshot appearance, telangiectasia of conjunctiva and lid margin, or lid and periocular erythema. Blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and irregularity of eyelid margins also may occur.
A, Mild; B, moderate; C, severe.
NOW WHAT?
There are certain triggers for rosacea, and not all may apply to you. Learn yours by keeping journals of when you get a flare, how long it lasts, what you see/feel, and what you ate, drank and how mush stress you were under. This will help you adjust your life to your disorder, thus ensuring your confidence in presenting your best skin to the world.
Some common Rosacea triggers:
Food/beverages: Liver, yogurt, cheese (not all), sour cream, spicy foods, avocado, tomato, citrus fruits, chocolate, vanilla, vinegar, yeast extract (not bread), alcohol consumption, hot in temperature beverages and foods.
Temperature/Weather: extremes in hot/cold, saunas, hot tubs, hot baths, wind, sun, cold, heat.
Medical conditions/Medications: menapause, chronic cold, caffeine withdrawal, chronic flushing conditions, vasodilators, topical steroids.
Emotional: stress, duress, anxiety, depression
Skin Care products/Ingredients: alcohol based, physical exfoliants, hydro-alcoholic or acetone substances, hair sprays, any item that causes redness, tingling, or burning on contact (witch hazel, fragrance, menthol, peppermint and eucalyptus oil are most common to cause flare).
Some products I have personally tested and am currently using to combat my rosacea (and other skin disorders) are listed below. They have not caused any irritation for me except the initial rosacea purge that can occur when switching/trying new products, BUT as you can see above THERE ARE INDIVIDUAL TRIGGERS that YOU and your derm must work out for YOU.
courtesy of Skin 2 Skin Care
Skin 2 Skin Care: the entire line has been a GOD SEND to my skin! EcoCertified Organic Vegan and Cruelty Free Age Management for ALL SKIN TYPES/COLORS!
It is formulated using the least amount of irritants for problematic skins, uses the HIGHEST concentrations of PEPTIDES that are EFFECTIVE for the skin, and does not contain any artificial fragrance- the essential oil blend that is used is a blend of healing oils that will reduce redness, irritation, increase the skin’s natural metabolic function and hydrate deeply. So not ONLY ARE YOU HEALING BUT YOUR ARE MANAGING YOUR AGING!!!! Trust- this is NOT THE NORM, usually you have to treat your rosacea, then once it calms down you can address aging concerns- but the caveat is that YOU KNOW YOU WILL TRIGGER A FLARE. Remember geeks4beauty- INFLAMMATION=AGING.
Originally developed by the founder Ken Simpson, for his own skin challenges- Radiation Therapy damage due to treating his brain tumor. Ken is a world renowned cosmetic developer for many top companies and organizations seeking private label products, His first product was Aging Intervention Cream- and his philosophy is to use certified organic ingredients, the most effective peptides sourced from nature, while avoiding synthetic parabens, phtalates, petroleum derived ingredients, sulfates, and any animal derived or tested ingredient. His motto “If it is not good for the client’s skin, their health and the planet than it is not good for Skin 2 Skin Care.” The line is both Vegan and Cruelty Free (PETA approved).
FULL DISCLOSURE: I have just joined Ken and his partner Mike to grow the Skin 2 Skin Care brand. This would NEVER interfere with my opinions and recommendations as I ONLY seek out partnerships with brands I actually use or will use personally.
courtesy of absolution paris
Absolution Paris: bespoke organic skincare
Developed in Paris, France as an offering of eco luxury and the ability to mix and match as well as customize your crams with serums to boost your skin’s vitality and overall health.
Free of most of my ingredient triggers (alcohols, artificial fragrance, certain emulsifiers and parabens), and delivers smooth, soft and glowing skin. Rich but not heavy, hydrating with lasting results.
SAMPAR PARIS: One of may ALL TIME FAVE Lines- though these days it is hard to find. Designed by Patrick Sounigo, a leader in French aesthetics, to address the damage that environmental stress can have on the skin. Using the Urban Advance Complex- shea butter extract, probiotic sugars and mint extract- SAMPAR PARIS Skin care delivers hydrated, protected and balanced skins. Offering collections that address different concerns from ageing to oily/problematic skin. It is on my faves 4ever list, though it is fast being replaced by Skin 2 Skin care based on results, availability and price point.
Please remember geeks4beauty, not all rosacea is the same just we are each unique individuals- YOU have to find what works for YOU. I just hope I can offer a little guidance on this skin challenge.
Go to www.rosacea.org to download your Rosacea Diary in order to get a handle on yours today!
What are some of your fave products to keep your rosacea in check?
Xoxo
Chandra
Posted in Detox, EcoCert, General Information, Products, Sensitivity, Skin Conditions, Skin Disorders, Skin Types
Tagged absolution paris, age management, anti aging, beauty, cosmetics, healthy skin, rosacea, rosacea awareness, rosacea skin care, sampar paris, skin 2 skin care, skin care tips, what is rosacea
Age Management Ingredient of the Month- Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a key ingredient to healthy cellular function. Vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. It is used to:
- Form an important protein used to make skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels
- Heal wounds and form scar tissue
- Repair and maintain cartilage, bones, and teeth
Vitamin C is one of many antioxidants. Antioxidants are nutrients that block some of the damage caused by free radicals.
- Free radicals are made when your body breaks down food or when you are exposed to tobacco smoke or radiation.
- The buildup of free radicals over time is largely responsible for the aging process.
- Free radicals may play a role in cancer, heart disease, and conditions like arthritis.
*sourced from nih.org
Vitamin C is crucial for reactivating Vitamin E (allowing it to work longer and stronger in the skin), is important for protecting the lipid (oil)structures of cells, preventing the oxidation of vitamin A (as we learned in last month’s post Vitamin A is part of our skin A.C.E in the hole for great skin).
It is an effective tyrosinase inhibitor (tyrosinase is the key enzyme that triggers pigmentation disorders), preventing hyperpigmentation (dark spots and areas of discoloration) by slowing down the production of melanin. Vitamin C is used in the skin, but is utilized first for other bodily functions and is not produced by the body, so it is one of the key vitamins to show deficiency. The skin gets less than 5% of what we ingest so be sure it is in your daily diet (citrus fruits, cherries, mango, pineapple, watermelon, and green leafy veggies, etc are good sources), use supplements (some recommend up to 4000mg when deficient). Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water. Leftover amounts of the vitamin leave the body through the urine. That means you need a continuous supply of such vitamins in your diet.
Topical products for the skin are crucial for feeding the skin you are in. There are several forms of vitamin C, including L-ascorbic acid, which has the appearance of water. The forms of vitamin C that are proven most stable and effective are: ascorbic acid, L-ascorbic acid, ascorbyl palmitate, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, retinyl ascorbate, tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and are found in OTC skin care. However, L-Ascorbic has received the most buzz, as it was the form first researched at Duke University by Dr. Pinnell (Colven and Pinnell, 1996)
If it is not packaged to mix fresh per use or in airless, or dark glass- it loses some of its effectiveness as it oxidizes, and turns amber, orange or in some cases brown. You must use daily and consistently to see results, but to gain full benefits of using at its most potent.
Some of my faves are:
- courtesy of Skinceuticals
Skinceuticals SERUM 20 AOX+. Buy online at www.skinceuticals.com, $118 msrp.
- courtesy of John Masters Organics
john masters organics Vitamin C Anti-Aging Face Serum. Buy online at www.johnmaster.com, $30 msrp.
- courtesy of Keihls
Kiehls Powerful Strength Line Reducing Concentrate. Buy online at www.kiehls.com, $58-77 msrp.
- courtesy of Philosophy
Philosophy Turbo Boost Vit C Powder. Buy online at www.philosophy.com, $35 msrp. *MY FAVE* cause you can add to any of YOUR EXISTING CREAMS!
What are some of your favorite Vitamin C products?
Xoxo
Chandra
UPDATE- Beauty Confessional My Wellness Journey
hey there geeks4beauty!
I have had a setback…bummer, I know. Who hasn’t on their wellness quest? My setback was an injury, more specifically I pulled my round ligament that helps hold the uterus in place. I am not pregnant- as this injury occurs mostly during pregnancy, however, I am a bit over my ideal weight. With the additional abdominal weight anyone can pull this ligament when over exerting or straining. I was turning over in bed…okay you can stop laughing now, I did. I assume this happens more often than not and many are to shy/embarrassed to disclose.
Anyway, I was unable to workout for 2 weeks due to this injury (and due to attending Women 2.0 PITCHFEST in NoCal). But, I am happy to report that I am still in the hunt!
New stats: BP steady at 143/65 (still a lil elevated on systolic reading, but MUCH better than previous numbers). Weight: 143 lbs steady (no fluctuations which is normal as I did not exercise except for walking short distances and modified caloric intake).
What did I eat to help maintain the 12 lb loss? Plenty of H2O as usual.
Breakfast DAILY- though I did skip once or twice, BUT could immediately tell the differences on days I did eat breakfast. One of my FAVORITE for breakfast is quinoa with blueberries and almond milk- I prepare the quinoa in the almond milk so its a bit more creamy and top with fresh blueberries. Super antioxidants and brain food from blueberries, a complete protein in the quinoa and a heart boost from the almond milk.
SNACK: 6 oz Protein shake with Acai and mango. Acai and Mango are known to assist in reducing inflammatory responses in the body- which in turn can reduce blood pressure, stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. when your adrenal glands are stressed they release hormones that can actually contribute to weight gain and lethargy. If you need to chew for your snack- a handful of almonds, about 15 and 1 ounce of dark chocolate chips (60% or higher) are delicious and nutritious. Or you can have a banana with a tablespoon of wheat germ sprinkled over.
DINNER: Our family now eats a vegan/vegetarian meal 2 times a week. One of our favorites for winter is whole wheat pasta with raw tomato and garlic sauce. It is super easy and yummy in your tummy- even my carnivore hubby eats this as long as there is crusty toasty bread. See Recipe below:
Raw Sauce with Whole Wheat Pasta
1 box (16 oz) of your have Whole Wheat Pasta- we use Barilla
1 lb of Organic Roma Tomatoes OR 1 can of San Marzano Whole Peeled Tomatoes
4-6 cloves of Fresh Garlic (we use WAY more as we LOVE garlic- please use what you like)
1 tablespoon of lemon zest
1 teaspoon of lemon juice FRESH ( you can use bottled though in a pinch)
1 tablespoon of tomato paste (we use the one in the tube- much easier to use what you want and store remainder)
1 tablespoon of Virgin Coconut Oil (not EVOO in this one as I like the addition of this flavor and the health benefits of coconut oil)
I teaspoon of Red Chile Flakes
Fresh Basil and/or Parmesan Cheese to taste
Chop tomatoes- make sure to taste as you go and discard bitter/not fully ripened ones as they will make your sauce bitter, add to large pasta bowl. If using canned- crush with you hands over large pasta bowl.
Chop garlic- we make it medium fine so as not to get a big chunk, add to bowl with chopped/crushed tomatoes .
Add lemon juice and zest to bowl to allow tomatoes to marinate, release juices.
Boil 4- 6 quarts of water. I do not add salt to this dish as we are limiting salt intake. You can- add enough to make it salty like the ocean- it helps the pasta cook better and flavors it beautifully ( I MISS SALT, btw).
Once pasta is cooked to your taste (we like it al dente- this helps in digesting pasta properly- when you overcook pastas- it can allow the sugars in the pasta to dump to quickly into your system- thus adding to weight gain some say) Strain, but save a little of the water to bind your sauce and pasta.
Add pasta, tablespoon of coconut oil, and parmesan if you are using to bowl with tomatoes and garlic and TOSS gently add a little of the pasta water to bring it all together and top with freshly torn basil.
Serve immediately. Makes 4-6 servings and is also a great base for cold pasta salad you can add tuna to next day.
DESSERT: I have a sweet tooth, nit as bad as my husband’s, but I still have one. I LOVE dark chocolate- so I will have an ounce when I feel like it as it has so many health benefits and has been used in and on our skin for thousands of years in Central and South America. Other desserts I love are frozen bananas pureed into a “ice cream”- I swear you will love this. I sometimes top it off with coconut cream whipped up with a lil vanilla extract and stevia or agave nectar for sweetness.; homemade dark chocolate covered dried cherries, raisins with toasted pumpkin/sunflower seeds. Fresh seasonal fruit. All are DELISH!
What are you eating and doing on YOUR wellness journey?
xoxo
C
Posted in Body, Detox, General Information, Products, Uncategorized
Tagged beauty, diet, Health, skin health, weight loss, wellness
Age Management Ingredient of the Month
Hi there, my geeks4beauty!!!
I have been asked numerous times to cover ingredients that really work to address aging skin. So I thought I could start by featuring one world class ingredient with a proven track record of success for overall age management, once a month. If you have specific questions, you can always shoot me an email!
(glossary of ingredients is coming along, but SLOWLY as I do have to earn my living…lol)
I will cover the science, and what products are using this active ingredient. Sound Good???
Most notable ingredient for age management is Vitamin A.
courtesy of wikipedia
WHY?
RESULTS DON’T LIE!
Vitamin A has a 30+ year history of being effective in improving cell turnover, reducing the appearance of spots and lesions and stimulating collagen (one of the main proteins in the skin that gives it its volume, youthful appearance), reducing the appearance of dark spots, age spots, fine and deep lines and wrinkles alike. It was originally discovered to have these properties by Dr. James A. Fulton, during acne treatment trials and in 1969 he co-develops Vitamin A acid for topical treatment of acne with Dr. Albert Kligman and Dr. Gerd Plewig. Formulation subsequently purchased by Johnson & Johnson and marketed as Retin A®. Then in the 80′s, it was beginning to be used “off-label” for the treatment of aging skin. A star was born!
Retin A® is considered the gold standard in topical age management by top dermatologists worldwide.
HOW???
Vitamin A is a form of Retinoic Acid that has been shown to maintain normal skin health by switching on genes and differentiating keratinocytes (lower layer skin cells) into mature epidermal cells (uppermost layer skin cells). This means faster cell turnover which is what younger skin does without help.
Vitamin A comes in many forms- prescription as in Retin A®, and over the counter forms such as retinol, retinol palmitate, retinaldehyde. However, they all convert back to Retinoic Acid.
In the Rx form, it is dispensed in strengths from .025 to 1%. When using this stronger form, please note that it is also a more unstable form and can lose/change strength when not stored properly (ALL your cosmetics, skin care should NEVER by stored in your bathroom with shower- heat and moisture greatly affect your products chemistry; I use a tote to bring in my skincare and a separate one for my color cosmetics and keep them in my tiny linen closet- one day I’ll take a pic of my beauty regimen/loot and post). It also can have some minor side effects which will all subside with continued use. Side effects can be but are not limited to dry, scaly, peeling skin on areas of application, cracked skin at corners of mouth and eyes (AVOID EYE AREA, as this delicate tissue is already thinner than the rest of your beautiful face) and are NORMAL as your skin responds to the stimulation. Trust me (my skin is CRAZY sensitive) this will subside, unless you have an allergy- if you have a strange reaction- hives, bumpy red itchy texture- CEASE AND DESIST use, then go see your Doctor/Dermatologist ASAP.
The results can be astounding- softer,more even toned skin. Firm, youthful plumpness. Radiance- who don’t want more radiance???!!!??? Especially, after 40… glow on girls, glow on!
Other benefits are reduction in blackheads, skin congestion and acne breakouts- so if your one of my geeks struggling with adult onset acne- knock off 2 things on the “look your best” list- acne and aging!
Retinol, retinol palmitate, retinaldehyde- are all stabilized forms of Vitamin A, and they work the same way, just with less irritation and side effects and slower results in my opinion.
courtesy of wikipedia
If you are looking for efficient results- I recommend seeing your dermatologist and discussing starting out on the lowest dosage (.025%) of Retin A® and use as directed. I also do NOT recommend starting in late spring/early summer as Vitamin A and its derivatives can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and UV rays (A,B, and C). This can result in damage to your skin- deeper sun burns and irritation can lead to pigmentation disorders and deeper fine lines and wrinkles – the opposite of our youthful pursuit!
I start the day after Christmas (winter regimen is all about deep hydration as I am inclined to eczema flare ups then) and off by late March. I then switch to ingredients that boost the skin’s ability to protect it from the sun (vitamin c, pomegranate extract, etc- more to follow on these ingredients in future posts), during the summer months, then back to deep hydration for fall/winter. Spring cleaning always includes Retin A® in my spring regimen. As I am aging, I have found that I can start at a higher dosage (please, consult your derm), and acclimate to it faster if I am diligent with keeping my skin well moisturized. I usually am, but sometimes I fall off the wagon- hydration wagon that is!
OTC forms I LOVE that are both effective, reasonably priced, can be found at cvs.com, dermstore.com and in stores where available:
1. RoC Retinol Correction Serum
2. La Roche Posay Redermic
3. Skinceuticals Retinol 1%
4. Benev Retinol 1%
Next Age Management Ingredient of the Month is… Vitamin C.
Check back next month, my beautiful geeks4beauty, and thank you for stopping by!
xoxo
Chandra
Guest Post- The Beauty Prince shares Beautisol
Beautisol’s Need I Glow More Face Tanners; (New To Me)
- courtesy of Beautisol
I have to tell you about my wonderful experience with the Beautisol Face Tanners Need I Glow More?. Not only did I get a “glowing” tan, my skin got benefits according to my skin type. That’s right, you read correctly, skincare benefits for my specific skin type. Need I Glow More? is the first ever skin-type-specific face self-tanning lotion.
- courtesy of Beautisol
Beautisol’s Need I Glow More? comes in two formulas for your face. The first one I tried was the Normal-Oily-Problematic formula. Because I sometimes become a little oilier during the summer months I wanted to try it first. It not only developed into a great looking natural tan, but during application you get the instant gratification of color. It is a nice bronzed looking color. No “orange-look” here. But what is also great, aside from the fabulous color, getting the benefits of great skincare as well. The Normal-Oily-Problematic formula is lightweight and did not feel heavy or greasy. It actually absorbs excess oil and purifies the skin. Because it contains Montmorillonite Clay and Niacinamide, it also helps reduce inflammation and helps improve acne.
- courtesy of Beautisol
Beautisol’s Need I Glow More? also has a Normal-Dry-Sensitive formula. This formula gives you the same great natural tan with the instant gratification as the other formula. But the Normal-Dry-Sensitive formula moisturizes, hydrates and revives the look of your skin. It has soothing ingredients to hydrate and has ingredients like ChroNOline which is a anti-aging peptide to help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. I have not used this formula yet, but I am confident I will have the same feelings as I do with the Normal-Oily-Problematic formula.
As with all the Beautisol tanning products, they are paraben-free, propylene glycol-free, sulfate-free and cruelty-free, they are PETA certified. They also all have the Pure Scent odor-eliminating technology. Therefore they don’t have that horrible self-tanner smell. In fact they smell amazingly fresh and clean.
Beautisol also has these cute application guides and tips.
- Beautisol Application Tips
Posted in Ingredients A to Z, Products, Skin Conditions, Skin Types
Tagged Beautisol, beauty, cosmetics, self tanners, skin care, tanning
Beauty Confessional- UPDATE
Hey there my geeks4beauty!
I have an update on my wellness goals! New STATS:
BP- almost normal without medications!!!! YAY! I am at 143/63- slightly high on systolic reading- BUT MUCH better!
Weight: 148 lbs down 12 pounds- mostly water weight.
What have I done to achieve these numbers???
1. Diet:
I changed the timing of meals with proteins to be featured earlier in the day as protein takes a long time to digest. So biggest meal of the day is breakfast- today I had egg white and spinach scramble with a little feta cheese with a couple of shakes of cayenne pepper. Cayenne pepper is known to stimulate fat loss and increase metabolism- for those who have done Master Cleanse, you know this is key ingredient in fasting beverage recipe. Minimum calories per meal are 300-450. I snack often with almonds, pistachios, raisins, dried cherries and dark chocolate chips and make my own no salt trail mix with rice chex cereal. My son and I started to pre – mix and store in mini zip lock bags. What low salt/sugar snacks do you eat throughout the day?
I have also limited salt and increased potassium and magnesium intake. I take 250 mg of magnesium every evening with my dinner. Dr. Oz recommends 400mg, but I am starting slow as I adjust to my new wellness plan.
My geeks know how I feel about hydration and my H2O intake has always been good (32-64 oz daily), now I am drinking 64-72 oz daily and more on days I work out (more to follow).
2. Exercise- As you know I have started SPX Pilates at The Sweat House in Huntington Beach (www.thesweathouse.net), and let me tell you- IT KICKS YOUR BUTT! In just 50 minutes I was sweating, working every part of your body at once and some I forgot I had.
You will be sore even after one session, Janine, my instructor states. She says she still is impressed with the total workout and she has been a fitness maven for 10+ years and has/does try ALL types of exercises as she gets bored. I am sore and have followed Janine’s direction of drinking plenty of fluids and to keep it moving to get rid of the lactic acid that builds up in the muscle. This is the source of the soreness. I also supplemented this with taking a couple of arnica tablets to aid in the swelling and soreness.
I am happy for the soreness, as I know I on my way to my wellness goals. What are you trying and how are you getting back your wellness?
xoxo
Chandra
Posted in Body, Detox, General Information
Tagged age management, beauty, Cayenne Pepper, fitness, Health, magnesium, potassium, SPX Pilates, weight loss, wellness