blog

Eat, drink and look younger!

Sat, 30 Mar 2013 12:34:14 +0100

Your mother was right when she said "eat your fruits and vegetables"! Your skin is your largest organ and the most exposed to elements both inside and out. You can slap on the most expensive creams, but without knowing the whole story you will be sadly disappointed with the results. The great news is that your skin is one area where you can make a noticeable difference to the way you look, FAST. Incorporating these easy and delicious tips, you can start looking and feeling younger within weeks.

EAT

Foods rich in vitamin A help form and maintain healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes. It is also known as retinol because it produces the pigments in the retina of the eye. Polyphenols, found in berries, play a major role in keeping the skin healthy. Flavonoids are among the most beneficial nutrients that you can derive from plants and plant products. They are antioxidants found naturally in plants. Antioxidant-rich foods include berries, grapes, pomegranate, walnuts, almonds, black beans, cooked tomatoes, eggplant, spinach, whole grains and superfoods such as seaweed. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C. Other great sources of vitamin C include papayas, carrots and citrus fruits.

A mutually beneficial relationship exists between flavonoids and vitamin C. Each substance improves the antioxidant activity of the other, and many of the vitamin-related functions of vitamin C also appear to require the presence of flavonoids. Vitamin C has shown positive results as UVA/UVB protection, decreasing hyperpigmentation (brown spots) and increase collagen production, all factors in aging skin.

For that young, dewy look, you need to seal this water into your skin. To do that, you need to eat healthy essential fats. Not only do they make your cell membranes stronger-which helps prevent harmful toxins from being absorbed-they also keep moisture from getting out. Without plenty of omega 3, 6 and 9, drinking water is like trying to fill a paddling pool with a hole in it. Be sure to include at least one serving of these essential fats per day such as salmon, unsalted nuts, seeds, avocado, and vegetable oils such as canola oil, olive oil and safflower oil.

DRINK

I am sure you have been told a million times to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Well, you are going to hear it one more time. Drinking water regularly can help muscles increase, fat to be lost, and skin to shine, creating a better version of the body you have.

Elderberry and cranberry juices are good choices for their immune boosting and anti-bacterial properties. Avoid high sugar juices, especially from exotic fruits such as banana and mango, because sugar is the ultimate skin-ager.

The polyphenols in red wine and green tea contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that detoxify and help repair cell-damaging free radicals in the body.

ADD A LITTLE SPICE TO YOUR LIFE

Some foods and herbs may alter the effects of some prescription and non-prescription medications. If you have allergies, are currently being treated with medications or have an illness, you should first talk to your health care provider.

LOOK YOUNGER with these 5 Skin Care Basics

Cleanse and Tone
Exfoliate (facial scrubs and fruit enzyme peels work to soften and break down and digest dead skin cells.)
Nourish (serums and masks)
Hydrate (day and night creams or lotions with hyaluronic acid)
Protect (sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 15 or more)

10 Deadliest Skin-Aging Sins

Research shows that there are, in fact, two distinct types of aging. Aging caused by the genes we inherit is called intrinsic (internal) aging. The other type of aging is known as extrinsic (external) aging and is caused by external or environmental factors. Here are some of the worst extrinsic factors.

Smoking
Sun exposure
Sugars
Alcohol
Stress
Lack of sleep
Bad food choices
Dehydration from lack of water intake, using too hot water or exposure to very cold and hot temperatures
Harsh cleansers or products containing toxic ingredients
Lack of exercise. Exercise helps to tone your muscles and get your blood flowing.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trudy_Albert

5 Tips for creating a Stress-Free Zone

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 16:58:23 +0100

(version français ici)

Stress is a fact of life. We are all born with instinctive stress responses to deal with emergency situations or threats. We developed these stress responses once upon a time to help excite our bodies to the point where we would be able to escape predators and outperform competitors. When a potentially dangerous situation arises, stress hormones are released into our bloodstream.

However, today stress is chronic and ongoing and we are now living at such a pace that we activate these stress hormones all the time. The burden that this constant state of arousal can put on our bodies and brains is incredibly unhealthy and draining. This is why it's important now that we take proactive steps to counteract that stress.

One way we can combat chronic stress is by creating an escape for ourselves - a 'stress free zone' - whether that's a room in our home, a happy place somewhere outdoors or a place we go to mentally.

1. Keep it EXCLUSIVE.

The first and most important thing is that the space you create to be your stress free zone actually is stress free. Shut out problems. Create a space that blocks out the things that might stress you out and where you can really get away from things. No voices, no phones, no text messages, no computers, no watch or other device that may pull you away. Anything that beeps or rings to alert you of messages should be shut out. This may mean you need to learn to say "no", or at least "not right now".

2. Keep it PERSONAL

Take a mental vacation with images of things that make you smile and feel good. Loved ones, the beach, a mountain view; it's your vacation so it can be whatever resonates with you. Maybe you just need to completely clear your mind of any thoughts. It can be helpful to add things that can heighten your senses such as:

The power of nature. Plants add beauty to a room- but don't stop there. A tabletop fountain or a Zen garden can be a peaceful addition.
The power of smell. Odors affect our mood and can help us concentrate, hence the power of aromatherapy. For example, citrusy scents such as lemon and orange can help eliminate anxiety and increase concentration. Lavender, cedar wood and rosemary help reduce stress.
The power of light. If you choose to de-stress in the morning to start fresh, then open the curtains. Natural light influences circadian rhythms, the "master clock". If you want to unwind and slow things down, choose dim lighting in an amber shade that you get from candle light or a fireplace. At bedtime, you may want to use a sleep mask to block out light altogether.
The power of sound. Music has been used as a healing force for centuries and been shown to affect portions of the brain. Download recordings of nature sounds like trickling water or ocean waves and play them as background music for relaxation.
The power of breath. Breathe more mindfully. Take a full breathe - inhale deeply into your belly, then allow every last drop of air to release on the exhale. This simple action blocks the stress response and cues your body to relax, making you less likely to get fatigued and more able to think clearly. Take 5 minutes twice a day

3. Keep it CLEAN

A messy space stresses people out and it's hard to relax when you're surrounded by clutter and things that need putting away. The best way to keep it clean is to simply reduce the things in your space. If you have lots of clutter to deal with, set aside 15 minutes a day to organize your space. Separate things by what you can donate to Goodwill, throw away or pack away for safe keeping.

4. Keep it SIMPLE

Who has time to unwind today? Unless you keep your stress-free time simple and short you probably won't be able to fit it into your busy schedule.

Laughter. Find whatever tickles your fancy and makes you happy. Laughter has been shown to lead to reductions in stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine. When laughing the brain also releases endorphins that can relieve some physical pain. Laughter also boosts the number of antibody-producing cells and enhances the effectiveness of T-cells, leading to a stronger immune system.
Music. Music is one of the easiest ways to distress. Relaxation music or your favourite playlist can have a profound and immediate influence on your mood and mindset.
Play time, walking or exercise. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to manage stress. The best thing is that it doesn't have to be strenuous. Walking is a great way to get started. Stretching can also relieve muscle tension. Even everyday activities such as housecleaning or yard work can reduce stress.
Photos. Every once and a while, looking though photo albums of loved ones can bring back great memories that make us happy. Photos can also be of things or places. Some researchers believe that humans have a fundamental, genetically rooted need to affiliate with nature and other life forms. They call this "biophilia." Just looking at photographs of serene natural scenes has some invigorating effects, replenishing our cognitive senses, according to studies.
Comfort. Loosen your clothing, take off your shoes and get comfortable. Surround yourself with comfort and softness, including your seating and the things you touch.

5. Keep it REGULAR

Daily commitment is crucial. You don't need to be connected 24/7 so make sure you keep at least 15 minutes a day to unwind. With a little practice and dedication you will have everyone wondering why you are so happy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7546049

Seasonal Facials

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 17:44:40 +0100

(version française ici)

Seasonal Facials

Just like nature, our skin changes with the rhythms of the seasons. It reacts to the humidity levels, UV rays, wind, cold and heat. It is exposed to dust, dirt and pollution on a daily basis.

Your skin continuously produces sebum (oils) and sweat. The skin also constantly generates new skin cells at the lower layer (the dermis) and sends them to the surface (the epidermis). As the cells rise to the surface they gradually die and become filled with keratin. These keratinized skin cells are essential because they give our skin its protective quality. But they are constantly sloughing off to make way for younger cells. As we age the process of cell turnover slows down. Cells start to build up unevenly on the skin's surface, giving it a dry, rough, dull appearance.
Exfoliation delivers a tighter, firmer, smoother look and feel of skin.

Why Exfoliate?

When done correctly, exfoliation is an important part of both facial and body treatments to leave the skin feeling smoother and fresher looking. Exfoliation removes the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the skin's outermost surface (epidermis). It stimulates the production of new skin cells and collagen and makes it easier for facial products like serums and lotions to penetrate.

Common types of exfoliation

Mechanical Exfoliation. The dead skin cells are physically rubbed off with an abrasive. Examples of mechanical exfoliation include
• Scrubs (with sugar, salts, coffee grinds or seeds) should use small, round, gentle abrasives like jojoba beads. Stay away from something harsh like apricot scrubs, which can cause micro-tears in your skin.
• Rub-off cream (gommage mechanical peel) that you apply in a thin layer, let dry for a few minutes, then rub the product off and it takes the dead skin with it.
• Brush (rotary bristles)

Microdermabrasion is a process that is achieved by using a highly controlled spray of fine micro-crystals under pressure and vacuum. It is also available in crystal-free, or diamond-tip. Most effective as a series of 4-6 treatments, this procedure acts to remove the outermost layer of skin by a gentle abrasion or a polishing type process. (feels very similar to a rough cat's tongue) Microdermabrasion is effective in reducing fine lines, fine crow’s feet, mild age spots and superficial acne scars and acne marks.

Chemical Peels provide a deep detoxifying and cleansing effect without being overly irritating to most skin types. This treatment stimulates blood circulation and renews the cellular systems to help brighten and clarify your complexion. Results have shown that long-term use of chemical peels encourages the stimulation of collagen growth in the skin, which slows the development of lines, wrinkles and sagging skin.

Types of Chemical Peels

Enzymes (biological or herbal), alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) or betahydroxy acids (BHAS) loosen the glue-like substance that holds the cells together, allowing them to slough away. These facial peels are a form of chemical exfoliation. Chemical peels can either be very gentle or very aggressive, depending on how the strong the peel is. Body treatments might use mild chemical exfoliants like pineapple enzymes.

What you need to know about exfoliation

· Over-exfoliation triggers the inflammatory response, leading to a compromised lipid barrier that won’t function properly, a sensitized skin condition, and accelerated premature aging.

· Be extra careful when exfoliating delicate skin of your face. It's easy to over-exfoliate. Talk to a good esthetician about the product and frequency that is best for your skin.

· Over use of peels can remove too much of your protective layer and end up exposing the living dermis.

· Microdermabrasion can make thin, aging skin even thinner if you get too many treatments too quickly.

· Avoid the sun after microdermabrasion or peels.

· Never use body scrubs on the face. They're too rough.

· Never wax if you've had a peel recently. It might expose raw, living skin, which will have to scab over to heal.

How often should you get a facial?

It is recommended that you get a facial with each change of season, or every three months or so. Your skin reacts to the changing seasons and it is important to ensure that you are continuing to use products according to what your skin is requiring. For example, when the season gets colder, you will notice changes in your skin. Oily skin may become more normal, or those normal skin types might feel their skin is suddenly drying out. In the Spring, you may notice dulling of your complexion from the build up of dry skin cells. In the summer, you may experience break-outs from the higher humidity and sweating. Consulting a skin care specialist who can analyze your skin on the spot or during your facial treatment can help ensure that you are following the proper skin care regime for your particular needs.

The Spring Facial is refreshing: This is a perfect time to clear out the winter blues. Welcome spring with an invigorating Orange & Grapefruit vitamin facial to re-energize the skin. Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as copper, the Spring Facial will nourish and fortify the skin.

The Summer Facial is calming: Summer skin is prone to dryness and inflammation due to sun exposure. It can also be irritated and shiny from excess oil production. The Summer Facial is ideally suited for cooling and calming irritated, damaged or sun-affected skin.

'Tis the Season to be GLAMOROUS!

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 15:16:42 +0100

(version français ici)

‘Tis the Season To Be GLAMOROUS!

It is officially party season and I am going to share some beauty tips to make you sparkle throughout the festive season. Just a few twists on the average beauty routine may be all you need to feel festive. With the party season in full swing and so much to do, this cycle is sure to rejuvenate.

Be Proactive

Start planning your Party-Season Beauty Look now, to get noticeable results later. Studies show that 59 per cent of women suffer from dry and dehydrated skin during the winter months. Face, body, lips and hands become chapped, flakey and dull thanks to weeks of moving between cosy central heating to the frosty outdoors. The truth is that your skin is the canvas of a great look. So plan ahead and entrust your beauty regime to the professionals. For a winter indulgence, go for a richly moisturising facial and eyebrow shaping, an invigorating all over body scrub and a pristine pedicure. After this delightful combo, you will look refreshed and feel fabulous.

It’s Party Time

So it’s party time and you’re thinking “how will I make it to tonight”? What's needed now is a one-on-one appointment with yourself.

Think about nourishing your body on the inside as much as the outside. If you don’t have time for a meal or you will be having a late supper and need a little something to tide you over, skip that boxed meal. Treat yourself to a fruit smoothie and a multi-vitamin. A good protein source like fish is also a perfect base to build upon before your big night. It’s quick and well worth it when you step out looking and feeling great.

Don’t fret with the time and frustration of doing your own hair unless you are sure you can pull off something great on your own. Otherwise, plan ahead and book an appointment with your trusted hairstylist who can set you up with a fun and sexy party style.

Book the bathroom and indulge in hours of pampering to get you back to the vision of beautiful radiance that you really are. A good bath is the cornerstone of any true rejuvenating experience. This gives you time to tune everything out and spend some quality time with numero uno (you). Run the water at a temperature that isn't too hot if you already had your hair done. Just warm enough to soothe tired muscles, but not too warm to lose that beautiful hair-do. While bubbles are mostly for aesthetics, there is an abundance of bath products available for you to mix your own perfect recipe of indulgence. Infusing essential oils into a bath and lighting fragrant candles in the room will set the beneficial powers of aromatherapy into action. Round off the experience with a cup of peppermint tea to help digestion.

The bath is a great place to put on a facial mask. If your skin is feeling dry, use a moisturizing mask. If you have combination or oily skin, a clay mask will help purify. Always seek the advice of a beauty profession to make sure you have the proper products for your skin type on hand.

If you opted to do your own hair, the bath is also a great place to put on a conditioning hair mask and perfect those limbs by smoothing on a silky cream for a careful shave. Before you get out of the bath, grab a hand of sea-salt mixture and give those elbows, knees and heels a scrub.

Once you dry off, the first and most important step is to moisturize. Pay special attention to your thighs and feet when applying your lotion of choice, giving them a mini-massage as you work it in.

Now that your body is feeling fantabulous, it's on to the face. Gently rinse any facial mask that you may have applied.

Apply your facial serum and moisturizer. Always apply your serum first, then your moisturizer. Give your skin about 10 minutes to absorb the moisturizer before applying any make up. While your moisturizer is penetrating, give your hands some TLC with an exfoliating hand scrub, followed by a luxurious hand-and-nail cream.

With your body, face and mind now in happy harmony it's time to move on to make up. This is the season of smoky eyes, glossy lips, and a little bit of bling.

The secret to great looking make-up is the perfect foundation base. Choose a light fluid foundation rather than a heavy matte one. Too much coverage will not only highlight fine lines and wrinkles, but will also make your skin look overly made-up, which looks aging.

When using eyebrow, lip or eyeliner pencils, keep the tip of your lip pencil sharpened. Use a tissue to softly round the edges to prevent any harsh lines. Regularly sharpen your eye pencils to keep them pointed.

Smokey eyes are always a favourite look for the Holiday Season. Creating them takes some practice and it might be worth paying for a make-up lesson a few weeks ahead of time so you can practice. Check out our 4 Steps to Smokey Eyes. Another option is to book a make-up artist for those special dates.

Eyebrows are the frame of your face. If you're not confident to shape your own perfect arch, book a professional and get them tweezed, waxed or threaded. Don't be tempted to over-pluck -- overly skinny brows will make you look dated! Brush the brows straight up with an eyelash comb and trim straggly hairs with a pair of nail scissors and plucking stray hairs that might have grown in.

Red lipstick is a predicable choice, but it can be a hard colour to pull off. It also makes lips look thinner. Bold and beautiful looking lips needn't mean bright: luscious deep pinks, rich chocolates, glossy nudes and berry hues can be just as show stopping. If you're colour shy, start with a gloss for a hint of colour, then graduate to a rich pigmented lipstick. If you're going for look-at-me lips, play down the eyes and cheeks so they are not competing with your lips.

Soft cheeks will finish the look. A natural cream cheek tint will give subtle definition. A silky soft powder blush in peach or soft pink will highlight your cheeks and give a luminous and radiant glow.

Top it all off with a little Bling!

This is the perfect time to bring out your favorite jewellery pieces, or have fun with some new winter-themed accessories that really represents the holidays.

Just have fun!

Read more beauty articles: http://www.ebemobile.ca/blog.php

Creating the Smokey Eye

Sat, 03 Nov 2012 13:07:33 +0100

(Version française ici)
Today’s Smokey eye look goes beyond the traditional black and greys to include softer, neutral shades of browns, taupes and mauves. It’s up to you to go with the depth you are looking for. Remember to have the essential tool like the right brushes and eye shadow powders. Here are the basics:

Before applying any eye shadow, whether it be for a Smokey look or not, always apply an eye shadow primer to the entire eyelid. This will stop the colours from fading or caking.

1. The Smokey eye starts with a black eyeliner around the entire eye. Don’t worry too much if the line is a little uneven. You will be smudging it out anyway. To smudge the liner, use an angle brush to blend and soften the entire line on the top lid as well as smudging out the bottom line.

2. Apply the darkest colour to the lid, focusing on the outer corner of the eye and smudging the color close to the lash line. Use a mat charcoal, dark brown, grey, taupe, dark blue or mauve to the lid. Again, it depends on the look you are going for. Blend, blend, and blend some more. This is the key to achieving a Smokey look.

3. Dab a light colour to the inner quarter of the lid. Depending on the colour of the Smokey eye you chose, go with champagnes, vanillas, creams, or shimmers of gold, silver or white.

4. A medium tone in the same color family as your lid color, but lighter, should be used in the crease, just above the darker Smokey shadow on your lid.

5. Use a light nude to highlight the brow arch, applying it right below the eyebrow.

Once you have completed your Smokey eye look, curl your lashes and add two coats of black mascara.

Don’t forget to define your eyebrows. Fill them in using a brown eyebrow or eye shadow with an angled make-up brush. This is a softer look than using a pencil. If you prefer using a pencil, be sure to lightly brush the eyebrow with an eyebrow brush to soften the pencil line.

Keep the rest of your make-up very subtle so not to compete with your fabulous eyes. Keep your lips neutral in soft pinks or caramel.

Apply a subtle finish of rose or tawny blusher to the apples of your cheeks and blend away the edges into your hairline.

Here are a couple of great video tutorials:

http://youtu.be/pWIk5c7jRuw and http://youtu.be/Qrz61B8Qn0k

Find the right combination - for your skin

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:21:40 +0100

What is Combination Skin?

If you have some areas of your face normal or dry and tight, while other areas are more shiny and oily, you probably have combination skin.

Although this is a very common skin type, it is also one of the most difficult to deal with. You are literally dealing with two different skin types and need to treat them that way. Dry areas tend to be the cheeks. The forehead, nose and chin (T-Zone) will be shiny and may also be prone to pimples and blackheads.

What Causes Combination Skin?

A variety of factors contribute to combination skin—hormones, weather, products, and the over or under activity of your skin’s oil glands. Sometimes it is just genetics. When it comes to combination skin, the causes and combinations are different for everyone.

What Products Work for Combination Skin?

This is where it really gets tricky. It is critical to use products that will work harmoniously to treat and protect both the normal to dry areas and the oilier areas. Otherwise you may make matters worse.

For example, if your oily areas are of concern and you turn to a product that is too harsh you will over stimulate the oil glands causing them to produce even more oils. You will also be drying out the already dry areas even further. On the other hand, if your dry areas are what concern you the most and you turn to a product that is too emollient for the T-Zone, you may cause breakouts and your skin will feel greasy. The dryness may be cause from a lack of moisture (water) in the skin and not a lack of oils at all. There is a difference between dry and dehydrated skin and it is important to know what you are dealing with.

It is always best to seek the advice of an experienced skin care therapist who can analyse your skin and suggest a proper skin care regiment. Sometimes it will take some trial and error to get it just right. It may be necessary to change your skin care routine and products with the changing season as well. Your skin reacts differently to the changing seasons. During the cold, dry winter you may require a different skin care routine than you would use during the hot and humid summer months.

Some product lines offer combination skin care kits as a good starting point. If you are dealing with two very different skin conditions, you may actually need to use different products to treat the different areas of your face. For example, you may need gels, liquids, or oil-absorbing products for your T-zone and creams or lotions or the drier parts of your face. You may also need specific products to spot treat problem areas like break outs or dry patches.

Basics on How to Take Care of Your Combination Skin

Start with a gentle cleanser

Regardless of your skin type or whether or not you wear make up, cleansing is the first step to every skin care regime. Your skin continuously produces sebum (oils) and sweat, it sheds dead skin cells and it is exposed to dust, dirt and pollution on a daily basis. Proper cleansing will remove all of this accumulation and contribute to a healthy, radiant complexion.

Always wash with a gentle, water-soluble cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its essential oils. If you have more oily areas, a gel-based or mild foaming cleanser will work best. If you are experiencing more dryness, a light weight cleansing milk is ideal. Avoid bar soaps or bar cleansers.

Cleansers are not on your skin long enough for active ingredients to actually penetrate so there is no need to spend a lot of extra money on cleansers that market a list of beneficial ingredients.

Use a toner

Using a toner helps ensure that all dirt, oils and left over cleansing residue are completely removed from your face. It is important to find a formula that is especially designed for your skin type. My preferred directions for use are to apply the toner to a cotton pad and wipe the entire face and neck. The toner is not rinsed off.

Avoid toners containing alcohol and fragrance which can strip and irritate the skin. Look for natural skin care lines that will provide the added benefit of targeted herbal extracts for your skin type. Astringents or clarifiers are usually meant for oilier skin types. Skin fresheners and misters are designed for dry skin. They aren't as astringent and may contain moisturizing and calming ingredients. Again, some lines will offer toners for combination skin types.

Toners also aid in product penetration. It is best to apply your protective day lotion or cream while your face is still damp from the toner.

Moisturize

Facial skin is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your body. Facial moisturizers are designed to protect, balance, nourish and provide just the right amount of moisturizing to protect from daily elements and pollution. There are umpteen kinds of moisturizers out there, but it basically breaks down to three categories; products that seal moisture into the skin, products that smooth the skin and products that attract moisture to the skin.

Let’s start with oily skin. Oily skin not only looks shiny and oily, it is. It has excess sebum (oil production). Oily skin requires protection and hydration. If sebum is the problem, we tend to want to get rid of it, right? Wrong. Your skin needs some sebum for protection and it will, as a defense response, produce more sebum if you strip it away. Many products for oily skin are very harsh and can dehydrate and even damage your skin. Look for light weight products that provide moisture (water based hydration) protection in the form of humectants. In humid climates, humectants also attract moisture from the air. Products containing BHA (also known as salicylic acid) work best to penetrate through the oils of your skin to improve its texture and colour. Avoid creamy products containing occlusives and emollients that seal in moisture. This will trap in sebum and cause blemishes.

If you have area of dry skin on your face, try adding a serum under your daily moisturizer or treat those specific areas with a more emollient cream at night. Many moisturizers rely on a combination of humectants, occlusives and emollients to attract and seal in moisture as well as improve skin texture, while also repairing and hydrating. Be sure to consult a skin care specialist to find the products and routine that will work best for you.

Some lines will offer moisturizers for combination skin types and it may take some trial and error at first. Be sure to consult a skin care specialist to find the products and routine that will work best for you and remember that you may change product types to suit the changing seasons.

Protect from sun damage

The sun’s harmful rays continue to penetrate all year round, making sunscreen a daily essential no matter what your skin type. Using a broad spectrum SPF 15 or higher (30 or higher preferably) year round is a must to prevent wrinkles and other signs of aging skin! Look for non-oily preparations or tinted moisturizer containing SPF. If you have sensitive skin and irritated skin, choose sunscreens with ingredients such as flower and fruit extracts (chamomile, calendula, and cucumber) to provide healing and soothing properties that neutralize skin irritants and regulate moisture.

Exfoliate to remove built-up skin cells

Exfoliating once or twice a week with a product appropriate for your skin type effectively sloughs off dead skin cells to reveal the newer, smoother skin, lightens dark spots, allows your other beauty products penetrate more effectively, and helps retain moisture. Some exfoliating products are gentle enough to use daily. Be sure to consult a skin care specialist to find the products and routine that will work best for you.

For combination skin, try using an exfoliating product that combines physical beads (to manually remove dead skin cells) and digestive enzymes like papain, derived from papaya, that digest and breakdown dead skin cells. This allows for thorough exfoliation with less friction, thus a deep and gentle exfoliation.

You may also look for products that contain solutions such as AHA (alpha hydroxy acid such as glycolic and lactic acids) or BHA (beta hydroxy acid, also known as salicylic acid) products:

AHAs are preferred for sun-damaged and dry skin because they have the added benefit of improving moisture content.
BHA is preferred for oily, acne-prone skin and for treating blackheads and white bumps. Its oil-soluble qualities allow it to deeply penetrate the oil in the pores and exfoliate accumulated skin cells inside the oil glands that can clog pores. BHA is great for anyone struggling with blackheads and enlarged pores!

Spot-treat the different skin types on your face

If you are experiencing the occasional break out, spot treat with a product containing benzoyl peroxide. Another option is trying natural skin care products that have blemish serums that minimize skin imperfections with a blend of essential oils that purify and clarify the complexion.

If you have dry or tight patches, apply a hydrating primer/serum to the dry areas at night or under your make up.

Your eye area is the driest part of your face, so be sure you don’t forget to apply an eye specific gel or lotion to that area.

Weekly Care

Once or twice a week, incorporate an deep cleansing treatment mask to help draw impurities and excess oil from the skin’s surface promoting cell rejuvenation. Look for products targeted to prevent clogged pores while calming and healing irritated skin.

Invigorate stressed, weary complexions with an intense hydrating mask designed to deeply cleanse and replenish lost moisture leaving the skin feeling firm and refreshed.

Choose quality products

Look for high-performance formulas that deliver antioxidants for increased long-term skin health and bioactive raw ingredients that help to balance the skin, restore moisture content, and assist with cellular regeneration,

Avoid those that use common ingredients like mineral oil, lanolin, artificial colors and fragrances or other cheap fillers. Other ingredients to avoid include parabens, petroleum, sulfates or detergents, synthetic preservatives, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Products should be packaged in an opaque, airtight container (avoid jars) to keep the active ingredients stable and bacteria-free.

Eat, Drink and Look Younger!

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 12:44:12 +0100

Your mother was right when she said “eat your fruits and vegetables”! Your skin is your largest organ and the most exposed to elements both inside and out. You can slap on the most expensive creams, but without knowing the whole story you will be sadly disappointed with the results. The great news is that your skin is one area where you can make a noticeable difference to the way you look, FAST. Incorporating these easy and delicious tips, you can start looking and feeling younger within weeks.

Eat
Foods rich in vitamin A help form and maintain healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes. It is also known as retinol because it produces the pigments in the retina of the eye. Polyphenols, found in berries, play a major role in keeping the skin healthy. Flavonoids are among the most beneficial nutrients that you can derive from plants and plant products. They are antioxidants found naturally in plants. Antioxidant-rich foods include berries, grapes, pomegranate, walnuts, almonds, black beans, cooked tomatoes, eggplant, spinach, whole grains and superfoods such as seaweed. Vitamin C has shown positive results as UVA/UVB protection, decreasing hyperpigmentation (brown spots) and increase collagen production, all factors in aging skin. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C. Other great sources of vitamin C include papayas, carrots and citrus fruits.

A mutually beneficial relationship exists between flavonoids and vitamin C. Each substance improves the antioxidant activity of the other, and many of the vitamin-related functions of vitamin C also appear to require the presence of flavonoids.

It's also important to know that a disrupted digestion prevents proper absorption of nutrients, thus starving your skin of the raw material to keep it looking young. Certain foods and supplements can help improve liver function and liver detox systems are enhanced by broccoli sprouts, seaweed, and dark greens.

Drink
I am sure you have been told a million times to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Well, you are going to hear it one more time. Drinking water regularly can help muscles increase, fat to be lost, and skin to shine, creating a better version of the body you have.

According to the MayoClinic, water is used for a variety of functions in the body, such as moistening tissues and protecting internal organs, dissolving nutrients to be absorbed by the body, lubricating joints and regulating body temperature. Water helps the kidneys flush out waste products as well as help in oxygen transport to the cells of the body.

Elderberry and cranberry juices are good choices for their immune boosting and anti-bacterial properties. Avoid high sugar juices, especially from exotic fruits such as banana and mango, because sugar is the ultimate skin-ager.

The polyphenols in red wine and green tea contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that detoxify and help repair cell-damaging free radicals in the body.

Put it on everything

Try adding fla xseed, ginger, garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, honey, lemon and lime to your food and drink to add a punch of flavour that harbors a powerhouse of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, stomach-soothing, and liver-and heart-protecting effects.

Some foods and herbs may alter the effects of some prescription and non-prescription medications. If you have allergies, are currently being treated with medications or have an illness, you should first talk to your health care provider.

Look Younger

5 Skin Care Basics

Cleanse and Tone
Exfoliate (facial scrubs and fruit enzyme peels work to soften and break down and digest dead skin cells.)
Nourish (serums and masks)
Hydrate (day and night creams or lotions with hyaluronic acid)
Protect (sunscreen and lip balm with SPF 15 or more)

10 Deadliest Skin-Aging Sins

Smoking
Sun exposure
Sugars
Alcohol
Stress
Lack of sleep
Bad food choices
Dehydration from lack of water intake, using too hot water or exposure to very cold and hot temperatures
Harsh cleansers or products containing toxic ingredients
Lack of exercise. Exercise helps to tone your muscles and get your blood flowing.

Five Ways We Can Help You Maintain Your Well-being

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 16:18:14 +0100

As we age, we are all presented with challenges at some point and at different levels. As aches and pains set in, some seemingly simply tasks have now become daunting due to limited mobility or vision?

We may require some assistance to continue enjoying healthy and fulfilling lives, and that is perfectly fine. Often, the real challenge is finding information on what is available and getting access to practical assistance for peace of mind.

· Personal Safety and Mobility: Accessibility can be an issue at stores and large malls from architectural design, long hall-ways, heavy doors and crowds. Lousy weather makes it difficult and dangerous to walk or drive. Walking conditions, aside from bad weather, can also be challenging due to high traffic, short street-crossing lights and even the landscaping. Finding appropriate transportation can be frustrating and costly.

o How we can help: WE COME TO YOU! We eliminate all of these frustrations and stresses by delivering the perfect union of professional beauty services infused with the comforts and security of home. You can simply stay where you are and relax. We take care of everything, with all the material necessary to carry out your beauty treatments. After all, there really is no place like home.

· Self-care and Personal Hygiene: Having someone assist us with our health and beauty rituals can make a huge impact when we choose to continue to live well.

o How we can help: Regular manicures and pedicures should not be considered a luxury. Arthritis or vision problems make it extremely difficult and possibly dangerous to grip nail clippers, bend and tend to our nails. Proper foot care is particularly crucial to our health and well-being. This should all be considered part of the proper supports to have in place for assisted-living.

· Healthy Lifestyle and Attitude: As Satchel Paige put it, “How old would you be if you didn’t know your age?” The individual actions and choices we make can encourage a sense of well-being.

o How we can help: Staying active helps maintain good physical and mental health. How we look will also positively affect our outlook. When our skin feels soft and glowing, our face glows as well. Eyebrows can do wonders for your face when kept trimmed for a polished look. But this can be a daunting task for those with limited mobility and vision. We will breathe new life into your skin using only the highest quality products and techniques specifically designed for mature and delicate skin.

· Social Acceptance and Respect: Increasing our opportunity for social interaction provides awareness and a better appreciation for each other’s values, cultures and situations. Inter-generational interaction is another refreshing way to learn and build relationship.

o How we can help: Our experienced and professionally trained beauty staff provides only the highest quality services with a focus on serving convalescing and senior customers. We are a small family business that a continuum of trusted staff that can’t be found with most businesses today. Our company values are honesty, integrity and respect. These values are part of everything we do.

· Creating a Healthy Environment Geared to Limited Autonomy: Resourcefulness is part of living independently for as long as possible. It is possible to maintain levels of independence with the appropriate surroundings and support.

o How we can help: We can save all the stresses of having to make special arrangements to get to and from a beauty salon or spa. We take every precaution and effort to adapt our beauty treatments to an environment suited for seniors and convalescing people. We provide peace of mind by always confirming our appointments prior to the appointment date and offering follow-up calls.

At the end of the day, making life better for the people in our lives and community is a primary goal.

We all deserve to be pampered!

Trusted in-home service

Professional qualifications

Bilingual staff

Spa-quality services, techniques and products

Referral Program

CPR certified

Tips To Preventing Eye Bags and Dark Circles

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 12:41:37 +0100

Do you wake up in the morning with bags under your eyes that make you look like you are more amphibious than human? What caused them and how can you prevent them? Below I will discuss some tips on how to get rid of bags under eyes so that you can wake up looking radiant! You will also learn common symptoms and the leading causes of puffy eyes and dark circles.

Choose the right eye treatments

Some wrinkle creams plump up the skin to reduce wrinkles which may give your eyes a puffy appearance. If puffiness is an issue, be sure that you choose products with anti-inflammatory properties. If dark circles are the issue, look for products that help strengthen blood vessel walls. There are a variety of products and treatments that will help reduce the appearance of your bags by reducing the discoloration, reducing inflammation and tightening the skin around the eyes. Speak to an experienced skin care professional for advice.

The rumours of the hemorrhoid treatment Preparation H are true (only the product produced in Canada). It contains Biodyne which can help deflate under-eye bags by reducing swelling on a very temporary basis. Be certain to use only the cream form, not the oil form, which can make the bags look worse. Be very careful when you apply it you don't want to get this into your eyes.

Sooth

You can apply cool compresses directly over your closed eyelids and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes. Some options include moistening two tea bags and resting them over your closed eyes. Tea helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Regular or herbal teas, cucumber slices, the back of a chilled spoon, or equal parts cool rosewater and witch hazel soaked in cotton work as well. It's really the cold that is working by temporarily taking down the swelling and tighten skin.

Bedtime

Getting a good night’s sleep can do wonders. Having 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep for the right is ideal. What also may help is using an extra pillow when you sleep, or a wedge that props your headboard up higher. Elevating your head will help keep fluids from setting around your eyes over night.

It’s important to drink plenty of water during the day to flush out your system, but drinking a lot of fluids before bedtime can increase your body's fluid retention and the likelihood it will settle around your eyes during sleep. Stay away from drinks at bedtime or restrict yourself to only a few sips.

Circulation

Lightly tap your upper and lower lids to nudge fluids away from the eyes. This also gets the fluids circulating to other areas in your body. A splash of cold water will help get your circulation moving so that fluids trapped in the eye release into the rest of your body.

Nutrition and lifestyle

Your skin is the fingerprint of what is going on inside your body, so particular attention to your diet is needed to reduce many chronic skin conditions, including puffiness. Certain foods, such as cranberries, blueberries, bilberries, tea (green and black), black currant, onions, legumes, and parsley contain antioxidant pigments that may help to strengthen blood vessels. Eating kidney-balancing foods will help eliminate toxic build-up in our bodies.

Avoid alcohol and tobacco which contain toxins that may lead to stress, fatigue, and hormonal changes; all of which may lead to fluid retention and swelling and dark circles around the eyes.

Stay away from salty foods

Your bags could also be a result of excess salt intake, cigarette smoking or food sensitivities, which is a good reminder that the greatest beauty secret is a healthy lifestyle. Foods with high salt and MSG contribute to puffy eyes so try to stay away from dinners that contain too much salt or sodium.

Concealer

Make-up and proper skin care can help improve the look of some of these problems. When covering dark circles that are reddish or bluish in colour, choose a peach-colored concealer; Beige or white concealers can make the darkness look gray

When covering puffiness, avoid light coloured or light-reflecting concealers on the puffy area because it can make the area look puffier. Instead, use a concealer one to two shades darker than your foundation on the puffy area to reduce the appearance of volume. If your skin is sensitive, look for unscented products (fragrance can cause irritation) and avoid those containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid. Both can be irritants to delicate skin around the eyes and cause swelling or redness.

Surgery

Bags under the eyes can be the result of accumulated fat in the eye area. This happens when the septum surrounding the eyeball weakens, causing the outer layer of fat within the socket to sink forward – making it look like you have literal “bags” under your eyes. Unfortunately, the only permanent fix for these bags is a surgical procedure called blepharoplasty, which is designed to remove excess fat, skin and muscle around the eyes.

If surgery is not for you, there are still some temporary fixes such as injectable wrinkle fillers that will soften facial creases for several months. The filler is injected just under the puffy area to even out the look and remove the indentation caused by the puff.

As with any medical procedure, there are some serious risks involved with either of these options. Be sure to choose a qualified, trained, and experienced dermatologist or a board-certified plastic surgeon that has extensive expertise in the specific treatment you are receiving.

Skin lightening treatments

You may have varying degrees of darkness under the lower lid making you appear dragged out, tired, and older than you are. This could be a true pigmentation condition known as dark circles, or far more commonly, simply dark shadows that develop as part of the same aging process that causes puffiness to appear.

If you pull the lower eyelid skin taunt and the darkness goes away -- it's purely an illusion and not a true pigmentation condition. The most common solution is to use certain types of laser or IPL -- intense pulse light -- treatments. These treatments use heat to vaporize the extra vessels so the color is less noticeable under the skin. If, however, pulling your skin still leaves you looking at a dark discoloration, you have pigmentation issues -- a more common problem for darker skinned individuals. In this case skin-lightening treatments can help.

What Causes Dark Bags Under Eyes?

Aging

The skin under the eyes is thin and delicate to begin with. As we age, skin and the fat pad under the eyes becomes thinner and its elasticity weakens, causing blood vessels and underlying fat to become noticeable. This gives the appearance of dark circles and bags. Sun damage can make it worse because it weakens the skin.

Poor circulation and fluid retention

Blood vessels under the eyes can become dilated and engorged, which can contribute to dark circles. A lack of sleep can make skin appear more pale, which allows blood vessels to be more visible through the skin, giving the appearance of bluish or dark circles.

If you wake with puffy eyes, fluid retention throughout the body is usually the culprit. This generally means that body fluids have settled overnight in the eye area and sometimes can be traced to activities of the previous day. Usually the swelling subsides after a few hours and the fluid is re-absorbed by your body.

Lack of quality sleep

Puffiness under the eyes is a common symptom of sleep deprivation or oversleeping. When we are tired, or if we overslept, our circulatory system slows down and water collects in our body at certain points. If water is not being properly carried away through your body’s circulation system, it collects around the eyes simply because there is space there for it to do so.

Medications

Certain medicines, particularly blood pressure medications, can cause the blood vessels to expand and dilate. While this increased blood flow usually is not apparent in other areas, it can cause a visible tint below the very thin skin under the eyes.

Allergic Reaction

You had plenty of sleep but still wake up to puffy eyes. Bags under eyes can also be attributed to an allergic reaction. Perhaps you're allergic to a food you ate or the feathers from your down pillow. Under eye bags caused by allergic reactions can be alleviated with an antihistamine like Benedryl. If your eyes are puffy, red, and itchy, your under eye bags may be caused by an allergic reaction.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes during menstruation also lead to puffy eyes. Many symptoms during menstruation can cause under eye bags like fluid retention. If you retain water during your period, an over the counter product like Midol will help reduce puffy eyes.

Allergies and Hay fever

If you have a feather comforter and find that you often wake up with bags under your eyes it can be a sign that you are allergic to feathers. Try switching to quilts and pillows filled with cotton or synthetic material.

Dark circles under the eyes can be the result of allergies to airborne substances, such as pollen, dust, and pet dander, because people rub their itchy eyes. People with hayfever may notice them at the height of the season. Food allergies or sensitivities can also contribute to dark circles.

Sometimes, a chronic sinus condition or a nasal allergy can result in under-eye puffiness. The continual swelling and deflating that goes on can contribute to loose skin and eventually bags. So, if you find yourself with a stuffy nose, pain over the brow or cheek bone, or watery, itchy eyes at the same time your eyes look the puffiest, it's important to see an allergist.

Medical conditions

Puffy eyes are usually only a temporary worry, however you should be aware that some medical conditions can cause symptoms resembling round pouches around the eyes such as a thyroid condition or a kidney problem. Iron deficiency anemia may cause a bluish tinge below the eyes. Dark circles under the eyes can be a sign of dehydration. It is best to rule out any underlying medical causes before you begin any treatment.

If you have a more chronic condition, your doctor should be made aware of any ongoing symptoms you're experiencing because there could be an underlying medical condition.

Genetics

Dark circles under the eyes can run in families. They tend to be more noticeable in people with fair skin or deep-set eyes.

5 UNISEX SKIN CARE TIPS FOR THE FALL

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 12:18:14 +0100

5 UNISEX SKIN CARE TIPS FOR THE FALL
Analyze. Cleanse. Exfoliate. Moisturize. Sunscreen.

Analyze your skin

• When the season gets colder, you will notice changes in your skin as well. Oily skin may become more normal, or those normal skin types might feel their skin is suddenly drying out. If you aren't sure whether your skin needs a new regime, consult a skin care specialist at a local day spa who can analyze your skin on the spot or talk to a consultant at a cosmetics counter.

Cleansers

• Consider your facial cleansing routine. If you have been using a gel or foaming cleanser over the summer because it feels squeaky clean, these same cleansers may irritate your skin during the colder months. You may want to opt for a milkier cleanser. • Reassess your body cleanser. If you notice your skin is dry and flaky, try a creamy body wash or gentle, soap-free product that is hydrating as well.

Exfoliate

• Exfoliation is key in the dryer months and has so many benefits! Exfoliating once or twice a week effectively sloughs off dead skin cells to reveal the newer, smoother skin, lightens dark spots, allows your other beauty products penetrate more effectively, and helps retain moisture.• For your face, use exfoliating product that combines physical beads (to manually remove dead skin cells) and digestive enzymes like papain, derived from papaya, that digest and breakdown dead skin cells. This allows for less friction, thus a gentler exfoliation.

• You may also look for products that contain solutions such as AHA (alpha hydroxy acid such as glycolic and lactic acids) or BHA (beta hydroxy acid, also known as salicylic acid) products: AHAs are preferred for sun-damaged and dry skin because they have the added benefit of improving moisture content. BHA is preferred for oily, acne-prone skin and for treating blackheads and white bumps. Its oil-soluble qualities allow it to deeply penetrate the oil in the pores and exfoliate accumulated skin cells inside the oil glands that can clog pores.

• For your hands, I find oily based scrubs are perfect for fall and winter because you are getting the exfoliating benefits with the extra bonus of hydrating oils. For your body, look for scrubs that contain “polishing” ingredients, such as oatmeal, ground almonds, sugar and sea salt Another tip to remove dry skin this fall is to use an exfoliating loofah or glove while bathing.

Moisturize and hydrate

• I can't stress this enough; if you want to keep dry skin at bay, you must hydrate your skin on a daily basis. The best time to apply your lotion to your body is right after you've dried off after bathing. Seal in the water that's already being absorbed into your skin. Look for products containing goat milk and naturally occurring humectants such as Hyaluronic Acid (HA). Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to hydrate your skin and offset the lack of humidity in the air. Use humidifiers throughout the house or at least in the bedroom.

• Your hands are in and out of water and exposed to harsh weather so you need to moisturize them frequently. That's why it's so important to have hand cream with you at all times and remember to wear gloves outdoors in the winter.

• Your face is the most exposed part of your body and demands extra attention in dryer, colder months. You many need to over-treat your skin with thicker creams instead of lotions to will provide stronger barriers against the harsh environment and apply a night repair cream. Consult a skin care specialist to find the products that will work best for you.

Protect your lips

• Start moisturizing your lips early to prevent cracked & chapped lips this winter. I suggest using a non-petroleum based lip balm as it has been found that petroleum based products can have a drying effect on your lips.

Sunscreen

• Just because you may not be lying on the beach doesn't mean you can forget the sunscreen for the next 6 months. The sun’s harmful rays continue to penetrate all year round, making sunscreen a daily essential. Using a full spectrum SPF 30 year round is a must!

FEATURED INGREDIENTS

Adzuki Bean (whole, raw bean: ground) - Ground adzuki bean has been used in Japanese skin care regimes for centuries. Geishas treasured it, as their secret for smooth, soft skin, helping them to achieve a flawless complexion. Adzuki is a very gentle, yet effective exfoliant. It deep cleanses without dehydrating or abrading, leaving the skin firm and smooth.

Geranium has great value in skin care and can be used on any type of skin. Properties for skin include: analgesic, anti-irritant, antimicrobial, potent antioxidant, antiseptic, astringent, balancing, cell-regenerating, rejuvenating and warming. Having a minty-fruity floral top-middle note with rosy undertones, geranium oil is one of the most feminine fragrances of the essential oils. Its properties for the mind include: balancing, calming, cooling, refreshing, relaxing, soothing and uplifting. It promotes feelings of happiness and peace, and eases anxiety, depression, panic, stress and tension.

Goat milk is jam packed with nutrients and natural moisturizers that benefit the skin. Its benefit can particularly benefit people with sensitive skin or those suffering from skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It is easily absorbed into the skin, bringing with it moisture and restorative proteins, minerals and vitamins. Goat's milk also contains over 50 nutrients and naturally occurring Alpha-Hydroxy acid (AHA) to exfoliate skin.

Cranberry Seed (whole, raw seed: ground) Ground cranberry seeds possess impressive amounts of antioxidant phenols which are beneficial for all skin types. This high antioxidant content is responsible for cranberry’s anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties.

Cranberry is also said to offer anti-bacterial properties that are beneficial for oily and acne-prone skin types. The cranberry seed is high in potent enzymes, which dissolve dead cells and remove sebum from the skin’s surface. Cranberry is commonly used in skin care to: exfoliate, tone, soften, smooth, brighten dull skin and treat acne conditions. It's important to remove expired skin to promote healthy new skin. But it's important to do this without being harsh. Our scrub gently exfoliates, cleanses, detoxifies and regenerates skin cells. Enjoy once daily or weekly.

We take great pride in offering only the highest quality organic and nature inspired products, to ensure that you receive the best possible results.

Pangea Organics, Nature’s Natural Solutions (NNS), OrganicSpa, Cures by Avancé, Action de Gala, Zenbiotic, ObeyYourBody, Cleopatra’s Choice, Skin Perfection and more…