Beauty News

Laurie Schur, Director/Producer
Laurie transitioned into documentary film in the last few years after a 25-year career as a psychotherapist. She created the idea for “The Beauty of Aging” out of a desire to find inspiring models of aging for herself and other women.  "Greedy for Life" introduces Shirley and Lavada, two women over 80 who share proof it's not age but attitude that counts.

"I also appreciate your work...thank you for creating an alternative to plastic surgery."

Watch the trailer:  www.Beautyofaging.com
 

The Coffee Facial

Coffee Facial – Susan Lark, MD has an interesting newsletter and she suggests that coffee grounds can enhance your face and body.  She says it whisks toxins out of your skin, battles acne and other blemishes, softens skin, exfoliates and more.  The coffee oils moisturize your skin and she says that hundreds of coffee's antioxidants can protect skin against fine lines and wrinkles.  Oh my goodness!

Yes, it's a little messy but once you try it a few times, you'll get the hang of it.  Keep it on five minutes.  Rinse off in the shower and then follow with your moisturizer.  One note:  Starbucks Coffee will gladly allow you to have their grounds slated for use in the garden so stop by and ask for a small amount of used coffee grounds and try coffee grounds on your face and body.

Want Fuller Lashes?                           

 Fuller lashes are possible when you learn that washing your eyelids and eyelashes will stop bacteria, inflammation, staph and even more that causes eyelashes to thin.  My optometrist told me that washing your eyelids with soap, massaging the lids and lashes for ten seconds then rinsing them well will help your lashes grow thicker and fuller.

Summer Makeup Tips

 1.    Use sun block/sunscreen every day to protect your face, neck, chest and back of hands.   You do need daily sun to boost your Vitamin D levels but try to get that in the early morning or late afternoon so that you're not at risk for burning or damaging delicate skin.  With just 10 minutes of direct sun you can pick up about 12,000 IUs of vitamin D.

2.      Go light for lips.  Now that summer is here, put away those dark lipsticks and choose light, subtle and sheer glosses.  I love ColoreScience lip glosses that taste like chocolate.  Go to www.colorescience.com  or call 866-426-5673 for the nearest location that stocks these fine products.

3.      Stay away from heavy foundations so that wrinkles are less apparent.  If you want the best look, try mineral makeup.  Just make certain you moisturize first, allow it to penetrate then begin the mineral application using soft, gentle, circular motions.

4.      Use bronzers and blushes to add extra color and pizzazz.  Find flattering shades without sparkles for a natural looking effect.

5.      Choose a hat with a generous brim and add sunglasses so you're set for a day in the outdoors.

6.      Manis and pedis will assure pretty hands and feet.  Colorful, bright toenails in trendy colors will make white slacks and skirts pop.

Timeless Beauty
  A poem by Agustina Crespo

Beauty is timeless and so we are told,

To turn back the clock and avoid getting old,

 We must cut and scrape and inject our faces,

but these things do harm for they leave their traces,

 They take our power, put our fates in the hands of so called professionals,

Who seems quite in command of telling us how we should deal with aging,

 Showing us photos of the war they are raging,

 Another soul reaching for the fountain of youth,

 Searching the mirror for the surgeon's proof,

I look at it all and find it quite tragic,

 For all that is needed is to do Facial Magic®

How you can stop dry skin

 1)     Take cooler showers – not baths.

 2)     Moisturize when skin is towel-damp

 3)     Use moisture laden non-soap cleanser only on the groin and underarms.

 4)    Stay away from itchy clothing and dry air.

 5)     Check your medical conditions and medications.

Love Your Belly, Butt and Thighs!

Prevention Magazine writer, Karen Asp, says that our abs, thighs and hips are our biggest problem areas - no wonder, sitting as much as we do, I think we can easily begin to "spread".  Not a good thing.  She brings exercise info from Tracey Mallett, certified Pilates instructor and creator of the Renew You Sleek and Lean DVD.  These exercises are very similar to those taught through Jack LaLanne's President's First Lady's Health Spa; they require very little time to execute and boy do they work to strengthen lax muscles. 

Flatter Abs Using Denise Austin's Secrets!

Our clothes always wear better when our abs are tighter.  Agree? Well, Denise Austin says flatter abs are about attitude and food and you can do this without one single crunch! 

Denise will introduce you to the five flat belly foods via Prevention Magazine; I must say that I'm not a proponent of using canola oil or soybean oil but I really love grape seed, olive and sesame oils.

Go here to read Denise's advice and to print the Pilates movements. Get yourself ready for summer!  Give it three weeks and let's see how you fare!

Will Eyelash Growth Boosters Harm Your Vision?

Long, full eyelashes whether fake or real, complete our look, especially for evening.  Recently, several of my aesthetician friends began sporting longer lashes.  The results were startling but then we began to hear rumblings that the product they were using might be suspect.  You can read the story for yourself.

5 Tips to Winterize Your Skin

Old man winter blusters and spews cold, dry air outside and over-heated homes and offices offer dry, warm air.  Just like the Santa Ana winds that sap the moisture right out of the air, the very same drying conditions can damage your skin.

#1  Watch your shower temperature.  Too hot water is drying so alternate with cooler water temps to stimulate your skin.

#2  Use sesame oil before you shower.  Apply it liberally on your limbs and torso allowing it to penetrate at least ten minutes before showering.

#3  Sunblock protects and nourishes skin so use it daily before applying foundation.  Remember that the sun can damage your skin every day.

#4  Stay hydrated with filtered water.  Drink your quota daily!

#5  Wash your face before bedtime and moisturize your neck, chest, back of neck, hands and face thoroughly.  Harsh toners with alcohol and irritating scrubs need to be avoided now.

Best Anti-Oxidant Foods

This site has terrific info regarding what foods contain beneficial free radical fighting properties.

http://www.fatfreekitchen.com/nutrition/antioxidant-foods.html

Women Dying To Look Beautiful

Another young, vibrant woman died during a liposuction procedure in Toronto.  How sad that this talented, successful, single mother lost her life hoping to rid her tummy of a little mound of fat.

 It is most bizarre that her "surgeon" had no specialties and no hospital privileges. She, "the surgeon", was training in family medicine but she is not listed as an accredited family practitioner with the College of Family Physicians of Canada.

 The scenario of allowing untrained and unqualified practitioners to call themselves cosmetic surgeons that actually perform surgeries is repeated many times a day in many areas of the world.

 In the US plastic surgeons must undergo licensing and adhere to strict regulations, but there's little to stop general practitioners from calling themselves cosmetic surgeons and performing such procedures. 

 Family doctors, physicians, not trained in plastic surgery are performing cosmetic procedures because injections that plump and paralyze, liposuction, surgery and other procedures are very, very lucrative to their bottom line.  They are in it for the money.

This is a growing public health risk and lax standards permitted this to happen.

http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/news/story.html?id=08c1a100-c8e8-4d49-8a32-99b22b6a5ffe&p=1

Highest Anti-Oxidant Foods

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition released a list of the top thirty six foods that contain the highest per serving content of anti-oxidants.  You might be surprised to learn that blackberries came in #1 and sugar-free chocolate came in #36. Walnuts, strawberries, artichokes, cranberries, coffee, raspberries, pecans, blueberries and cloves were in the top ten.

Lymphoma and Broccoli

Growing up on a farm afforded me farm fresh produce during the summer months.  My parents had a vegetable garden; I learned to can fruits and green beans but I do not remember ever eating broccoli as a child or teen. 

My mother died of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma at a young age; I don't think she ever ate broccoli; rather, I remember her eating fat from pork chops and pickled pigs feet.  Here are eight common symptoms of Lymphoma.

Research now indicates that adding lots of broccoli, Brussels sprouts and Cauliflower to your eating plan can greatly reduce the occurrence of NHL.  I learned of this study from the Bottom Line's Daily Health News December 14th edition.

These findings were published in the June 2006 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition:

According to lead researcher Linda E. Kelemen, MSc, ScD, assistant professor of epidemiology at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota, disease-fighting antioxidants in foods such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts may have a protective effect against this dangerous lymphatic system cancer that will afflict 58,870 new people in 2006.

In the study, researchers found that...

• People who ate the most vegetables per week (20 or more servings) had a 42% lower rate for non-Hodgkin lymphoma than those who ate the fewest (8 or less servings)
   

• Leafy greens such as spinach and green salad and cruciferous vegetables (Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, etc.) provided the greatest protection.
   

• Two nutrients in particular, lutein and zeaxanthin (high in leafy greens, spinach and broccoli), were singled out for their potent antioxidant action.
   

• The mineral zinc (common in certain nuts and seeds) also demonstrated a protective effect against NHL.  Nut Chart

Now you know – it's broccoli with everything and Brazil nuts on the side for better health!   Sincerely, your body is your most important asset.  It thrives on healthy, natural foods and plenty of filtered water. 

Always rethinking my eating plan, I hope you enjoy this info so that you, too, can thrive.

This is the link to sign up for your Bottom Line Secrets Daily Health News:
http://www.bottomlinesecrets.com/e2/e2_signup.html

Stressed Out Skin

If you see unwanted pimples and red spots on your chin, you're long overdue for a blue tooth or headset.  According to spa owner, Cindy Barstop, founder of Completely Bare salons in NY, her clientele has clogged pores and breakouts tied to cell phone use. 

If you have annoying breakouts regularly use Daily Lift and Vitamin C Serum. Make certain to clean your face before bedtime and invest in a handless headset for clearer skin, better posture and a lot less tech neck.

Plasticized.com is website devoted to introducing their readers to the newest, latest and sometimes not so great information regarding plastic surgery, the cosmetic industry and the entertainment industry snafus.  This site is pretty irreverent and not for the faint of heart!www.plasticized.com/weapons_against_aging/index.html

3 Steps for Youthful Hands

Your hands and face are the only areas regularly exposed to the environment and this exposure to the elements can cause hyperpigmentation (those dreaded “age spots”.   In addition, our hands can suffer loss of volume making our veins and tendons look more pronounced and the skin look thinner.

So what are your options when your hands are a dead give-away of aging?
 

1. Wear sun block daily and reapply every 2-3 hours.

2. Exercise your hands – lift weights, stretch your fingers, clasp a small ball.

3. Exfoliate and moisturize.  Use the Daily Lift on the back of your hands three times a week, follow with the Vitamin C, moisturize and then protect with sun block.  Be aggressive so your hands look sensational!

Exfoliate for Glowing Summer Skin

If you want your makeup to look sensational this summer, exfoliate those dead, gray skin cells that dull your skin.  Cells that accumulate day after day, week after week, month after month, block the effectiveness of serums and moisturizers making your skin look blotchy and unhealthy.  Daily Lift, our gentle alpha hydroxy, will work to quickly to lift spent skin cells on your face and neck; the Facial Magic Microdermabrasion Cloth will remove unwanted dead cells from your arms, legs and torso, leaving your skin refreshed and renewed.  Follow these treatments with serums and moisturizers to soothe and nourish thirsty skin.

Bad News for Plastic Surgery

"FAKE breasts are a turnoff, men say, and wrinkles beat Botox." These are just two of the findings in a new poll by Zogby International which asked 1,000 men and an equal number of women what they find sexy.

"The news is bad for plastic surgeons - while Botox and silicone get pumped into female bodies by the tanker-load, it seems men prefer the natural look. Only 6 percent of men said they preferred Botox to wrinkles, while 69 percent deemed breast implants not sexy."

And only 30 percent of men prefer makeup on their mates; 50 percent would rather they ditch the lipstick and go unadorned.

The message for women: "From wearing makeup to Botox, it ain't what you think it is," said John Zogby, president of the polling firm.

What’s a woman to do?  Use Facial Magic and Luscious Lips! 

1. Go easy on blush and eye shadows.  They can be more aging especially in bright sun light.  One makeup artist I know recommends that blush be applied after the eyes and lips colors are in place.  This way the tendency to overdo the blush is minimized and the application is youth enhancing.

2. Sheer facial foundations work best in spring and summer.  Treat yourself to a mineral make-over; try  new blushes and lip colors that are fresh and lively.  Just the ticket for shedding the old winter look.

3. Remember, the back of your neck and the back of your hands need sun protection, so use sunscreen in these often forgotten areas that are sensitive to sun’s damaging rays.   Sun damage contributes to 80 percent of wrinkles and skin damage.

How to Look 40 at 60
 

1. Eat a healthy diet – horrible eating habits will take their toll eventually and your face and body will show the ill-effects.
    
2. Take your anti-aging supplements daily – Vitamin C, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Beta Carotine, Vitamin E, Evening of Primrose and Selenium.
    
3. Wash your face at night and be diligent with your skin care regimen. 
    
4. Get out and move – A sedentary lifestyle is passé so take 15 minutes every day and do something physical.
    
5. Keep the sun off your face and hands by using sun block, wearing sunglasses and a hat.
    
6. Think about coloring your hair or adding a few highlights.
    
7. Smile often and act, speak and move with youthful confidence!

   8.     Keep up your Facial Magic exercise routine.

What is the Diamond Face Lift?   Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a surgical technique that uses a diamond-coated disc to literally sand-off the superficial layer of the skin. True dermabrasion is associated with some bleeding, requires good anesthesia, and can provide dramatic cosmetic improvement of facial wrinkles.  I think this is the "diamond face lift". 

The term "micro-dermabrasion" refers to an ineffective technique that only provides temporary feelings of smoothness, and does not improve deep wrinkles.

Old fashioned dermabrasion using tumescent local anesthesia is probably the most successful technique for eliminating deep wrinkles on the upper lip. The success of dermabrasion depends on a high degree of surgical skill. Some cosmetic surgeons do not have experience in doing the dermabrasion procedure. Lip wrinkles which are not too deep can also be treated by laser resurfacing.

Dark hair on our upper lips is sometimes more than a nuisance.  We tweeze and tweeze, dermaplane, and sometimes resort to shaving this area just to rid our faces of those pesky, hormonally imbalanced produced hairs.

The good news is that in less than 15 minutes, the Cool Glide laser, the only laser machine approved by the FDA for treatment of all skin colors, can effectively reduce or eliminate dark hair without discoloring the skins pigment.

There is no need to suffer from painful electrolysis ever again, as your unwanted hairs can be safely removed from any part of your body in the shortest possible time imaginable. What a thrill to feel that you can accomplish hair removal from any part of your body in the most extreme shortest time, and have it done without any discomfort or pain.

The treatment is simple, easy, and smooth, because this new technology has a cooling effect on skin during treatment, and there are no side effects. This laser hair removal system can be as permanent as the old needle electrolysis. Neither treatment is a one time shot because humans regardless of gender or color have three dominant hair growth cycles. Only one cycle out of the three is the only time that the hair follicle or root can be destroyed. This cycle occurs 4 to 6 times each year. Therefore, it will require several treatments to eliminate your unwanted hairs. 

My sister has had a very nice result using Cool Glide; the cost for her upper lip and around her mouth was $250.00. (She had approximately 25 pulses @ $10 per pulse)  She has scheduled another treatment as it was recommended that she wait 6 to 8 weeks before resuming her treatment.  Not only has her facial hair been dramatically decreased, she believes the laser may have stimulated collagen production as upper lip lines are diminished.

Our Vitamin C Serums use Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, the potent and stable form of Vitamin C, to stimulate skin cell regeneration, production of collagen, elastin and other important components of the skin.  The state of the art formulas plump your skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles as it lightens skin tone and age spots.  MAP is potent and you will be pleasantly surprised to see your skin texture become more resilient.

Vitamin C Serum is always applied first to clean skin.  Liberally apply this skin enhancing formula twice daily to your face, neck, back of neck, chest and the back of your hands.  Gently massage it into your skin using your fingertips

Allow the preparation to absorb into your skin before following with moisturizer and sun block for daytime.  At bedtime, apply retinol after Vitamin C Serum and follow with your nighttime moisturizer. 

Recently a Facial Magic user handed me an article from Vogue Magazine that addressed the 3-D face, a contrast to the wind tunnel result of aggressive facial surgery.  A 3-D face is one with youthful contours, a fresh face with volume rather than flat features.

The article goes on to list how different injections: Hylaform, Cosmoderm, Restylane and others, as if these needles bearing drugs are the only way to give your face the look of resilience. (It is not!) These very temporary fillers are expensive and additional injections are indeed a serious financial commitment because they must be repeated and repeated to maintain the desired look.

The article also discusses the Feather Lift, a less invasive suspension technique from Moscow that lifts the cheeks, eyebrows and jowls; even though this procedure does not have FDA approval, and the results far less dramatic than a traditional facelift, the procedure usually produces good results.  As with most procedures, the patient will be sore and puffy with bruising and swelling. See a slide show at the following site:

http://www.aptos.ru/main.phtml?p=k_apt1&l=en

I still believe that Facial Magic is the best method to lift, contour and tone your face.  Our process is natural, totally non-invasive and the results are certainly as good if not better than any surgical procedure.

Stick out your tongue.  Are the edges of your tongue scalloped?  Then chances are you may have rosacea.

Perhaps you have notice red bumps on your cheeks and you are certain it is not acne.  Some of you may look like you are blushing, others may discover pustules on your nose or forehead; what is really maddening is that nothing seems to cure the condition. It is estimated that almost twenty percent of the population suffers from this mysterious aliment known as rosacea.

According to Rosacea.org the primary signs of this life-disruptive disorder are:  flushing, persistent redness, bumps and pimples and visible blood vessels.  Rosacea can also produce eye irritation, burning or irritated skin, rough and dry facial skin, thickening skin, and facial swelling. 

Dermatologists are helpful to diagnose and prescribe medically proven treatments.  Various oral and topical medications are typically prescribed; while recently lasers and intense pulsed light therapy have been used.

The following web page may provide the information you are seeking:

http://www.rosacea.org/patients/faq.html

Dull, dry, and gray skin.  Layers of dead skin cells sitting on our faces prevent even the most aggressive moisturizers from truly providing fresh, young, healthy looking skin.  

Our skin cells live about 21 days.  As they mature, they move from our basal layer of the epidermis to the surface.  These old cells become flat, dull and unable to hold needed moisture.  Unfortunately, when these cells die, they stick to the surface of the skin, dulling our complexion.

These dead cells need to be removed frequently to reveal the living skin below.  Regular use of the DailyLift, our signature alpha hydroxy, will release dull, environmentally damage skin cells, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, even your skin tone, and minimize pore size.

In addition to frequent use of an exfoliator, you might want to consider supplementing your regime with a scrub or a masque.  These two products deeply clean your skin and unclog pores.  Tellurian Scrub is great for the entire body and I recommend a total body scrub once or twice a week because dead skin also collects on our torso and your body moisturizer will work more efficiently when you regularly slough off the dull, old skin. 

Want that glorious St. Tropez tan without damaging your skin?  Here are three steps to a bronzed, streak-free summer tan without the damaging rays:

1.     Exfoliate your skin, including arms, legs, knees, and elbows.  Apply Skin Smoothing Scrub to dry skin before entering the shower.  Rinse off the scrub, then shave your legs and thoroughly dry your skin.  You will notice how silky your skin feels and this silkiness aids the application process of the self-tanner.

2.     Some body parts absorb the tanning properties quickly so be certain to wash your hands thoroughly with soapy water and avoid direct application to the knees, elbows and heels.  Apply the tanner in long, broad strokes and then rub the tanner into your skin.

3.     Allow the tanner to dry before donning clothes.  Follow with a moisturizer and sun block/sunscreen when outside or under office lighting as self-tanners have no sun protection.

Yes, it is a fact. Our eyebrows slowly move downward and you notice it most when your eye shadow dances away and your eyes look tired. 

A lax forehead muscle causes this downward slide.  This vertical muscle is simply flaccid and needs to be contracted (repositioned) with exercise.

By performing the Upper Eye exercise, you are causing the forehead muscle to become stronger, thus lifting the eyebrows naturally.  As your forehead strengthens, forehead lines become less apparent.

 Upper Eye Exercise

"Women are looking for miracles in a bottle," says San Francisco cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Richard Glogau, "but as a general rule of thumb, if a topical agent has a significant effect, it's going to be regulated by the FDA and classified as a drug." He recommends looking for a product containing glycolic acid or retinols, which can have some subtle effects over time. He also encourages healthy eating and sunscreen every day, as skin can repair itself over time if it is protected.

Lasers are one of the most recent advances in hair removal. But they have their limits.

A report in Dermatologic Surgery found that the percentage of permanent hair removal through laser treatment varies dramatically depending on the site.

If you have laser hair removal on your upper lip, you can expect it to permanently remove 40 percent of the hair.

If you use lasers to remove leg hair, about 56 percent will be removed.

If you zap your back, a 50 percent hair removal is a safe estimate.

But in the bikini area, you'll find the amount of permanent hair removal is only 15 percent.

1)     Faithfully perform the Facial Magic routine

2)     Wash your face every night before bedtime

3)     Apply every “face” product to the back of your hands

4)     Eat less sugary foods

5)     Curl your eyelashes

Todd, our resident programmer, came back from a few days rest raving about how good he was feeling.  He said his energy had improved in three days after beginning a regimen of Alpha Lipoic Acid combined with L-Carnitine.  He had read an article in the November 2003 Reader's Digest, entitled “The End of Aging” describing how Bruce Ames, a professor of biochemistry at the University of California at Berkeley, has tackled aging, paying particular attention to the possible link between free radical damage and cancer.

While in Italy in the mid 1990's, Ames learned that a dietary supplement, acetyl-L-carnitine, or ALCAR, was being marketed as a pick-me-up and according to this article, he understood why:  ALCAR is a natural biochemical that helps cells produce energy.  When he returned to the states, he began feeding his old rats this amino acid and within weeks, they seemed re-energized.

However, ALCAR did not lower the free radical levels so he introduced the anti-oxidant, Alpha Lipoic Acid to the rats diets.  The article quotes Ames as saying, With the two supplements, these old rats got up and did the Macarena.  The brain looked better; they were full of energy.  The results were equivalent of making an 80- year-old person look and act middle-aged.

These two nutrients can be purchased at most health food stores and the recommended dosage is 200 milligrams of alpha lipoic acid and 500 milligrams of acetyl-L-carnitine.  I, too, have begun taking these supplements and my energy level has soared, so you might want to try this combination as well.

Exfoliate regularly.  Regularly using a body scrub will keep your skin looking toned.  Dry, flaky skin and rough patches will be greatly eliminated. 

Drink Green Tea.  Anti-oxidants are like angels that take care of our skin boosting its elasticity.

Eat salmon, halibut and cod.  These high in Omega-3 fatty acids fish contribute to your skin's good health.

Wear sunscreen.  UV damage is sneaky and these damaging rays speed up aging – fast!   UV rays are present in most offices so protect your face, neck, arms and hands with our no-chemical, natural SunBlock.

Wash your face before bedtime.  Sleeping with your makeup on will most likely result in enlarged pores.  So cleanse and moisturize nightly.

Botox can result in the development of fine lines and wrinkles in other areas of the face.

Botox cannot be used on the throat, neck areas, around the mouth and eyes.

Botox requires more painful injections to maintain results.

Botox is costly; treatments range from $200-$600.

Botox can result in undesirable side effects including allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, unusual muscle weakness, chest pain, headaches and dizziness.

When we see aging in our skin, it is a sign that we are not giving it the care needed to sustain its healthy appearance. 

When we neglect our faces, premature aging takes over and we are left with inflammation and damaged skin cells.  Our complexion may even look gray and very unhealthy.

This is when topical preparations that penetrate the epidermis for renewal become very important.  Vitamin C will stimulate collagen production and act against free radical damage.  Alpha Lipoic Acid is a most powerful anti-oxidant that has the ability to heal by increasing the cells metabolism.  Magic Daily Lift will gently lift environmentally damaged cells that cause grayness and that less than vibrant look.

Cymetra, Micronized AlloDerm Tissue is tissue replacement.  It is an injection that can replace collagen and other products to smooth your overall look. 

Does it work?  Is it painful?   Yes, it can work but do not expect miracles.   Yes, it is painful; one user who wanted larger lips stated, "it was the worst pain I have experienced. I could not stop the tears falling down my cheeks." 

Collagen is injected with a smaller gauge needle, Cymetra is delivered with a 26-gauge needle packaged with lidocaine.  Why?  It's painful!  Sharon and Janice work in a plastic surgeon's office; they tell me this is an expensive and painful method and their patients are not terribly happy with the results.

Recently a micronized from of AlloDerm termed Cymetra has become available. This material is rehydrated with lidocaine in the physicians office before injection. Because it is human derived, (cadaver material!) no skin test is required by the manufacturer. Clinical trials of 200 patients to date show no evidence of allergic reactions, however, transient bruising, redness, and swelling occurred.

Acne, the most common skin problem in the world, is usually not from poor hygiene but rather from the use of harsh cosmetics that can clog the skin (more on that!), lack of sleep, stress and not drinking enough water.

Just a few weeks ago while in Auckland (yes, again!), I attended a special conference where certain cosmetic products were available.  Even though I had an interpreter, I could not communicate effectively to ascertain the ingredients of a wrinkle fighting cream as they were written in a language I did not understand.  Being an adventurous Sagittarius, I bought this cream to see how beneficial it was for my skin.  After the fourth day of use, I noticed small bumps forming under my skin and in three days, those small bumps were raging, full-blown eruptions that were horribly painful and very unsightly.  Needless to say, I had a first hand experience with a breakout caused by a product and I was very stressed by my appearance.

Immediately upon my return to Los Angeles, I began researching acne and learned that 50% of professional women experience outbreaks due to stress.   The breakout gave me loads of stress.

Not only can stress produce adult acne, there are other factors too:  not drinking enough water, skipping meals, lack of sleep and not taking vitamins.  I was guilty of all of these and now that I am taking better care of myself, the acne has disappeared.

Can you provide instructions for applying under eye concealer?

My friend, Marlene, swears that the Bobbi Brown under eye concealer works like no other.  The cream is applied first with a brush and then the next application is a powder that ‘sets' the cream so that it stays in place.  Their color representative will help you determine the right shade that works for your skin tone.

How can I eliminate enlarged pores?

Pores seem enlarged when they are blocked with oil so washing your face twice daily is recommended.  My aesthetician friend, Sharon, once told me that if you don't wash the makeup off your face at night, you are in danger of creating larger pores, so be certain to take the time for your nightly beauty routine.

Your diet may be a culprit, too.  Stay away from refined foods and enjoy the fresh fruits and vegetables that are available during this summer season.

Retinol 40 certainly helps refine pores and I recommend that you switch to an oil-free foundation

Fat Injections - Anti-aging solution 

Fat injections will not delay or stop the aging process but injections of fat harvested from your abdomen, thighs or buttocks can decrease frown lines and wrinkles.  Usually the injected site will see about a 30% improvement so multiple visits are recommended.

Puffiness and bruising can accompany this procedure that runs $1000 - $2500 and results last 6-24 months.

Did you know that exercise not only strengthens your body, but also reinforces your skin? When you subject your body to pressure in a workout, you also exercise your skin. The increase in blood circulation increases the renewal of cells and makes the capillaries stronger. In this way, you prevent your facial skin from becoming bloated, wrinkled and wealed. (Må Bra, January, 2003)

Get rid of wrinkles in your forehead

The first step in having a wrinkle free forehead is to recognize that if you are expressing yourself using your forehead, you will create wrinkles.  When you feel your forehead moving upward and you notice it is wrinkling, stop the action by gently touching your forehead with your ring finger.  Get in front of a mirror and watch how you express yourself.  If you are creating those wrinkles, you can stop them!

Here's an item so weird you'd probably guess it was phony if you heard it during The Mike Walker Gossip Game on Sterns Friday show -- but it's absolutely TRUE!  Priscilla Presley says she has never used Botox, and has no forehead wrinkles because Elvis used to slap me in the forehead every time I looked up! He'd tell me not to use my forehead to look up, only my eyes. POW! I still feel his hand there . . .

Most of the 90,000 Americans who are expected to be treated with Botox this year will receive it for conditions that are not approved, especially the cosmetic treatment of facial wrinkles, frowns and crow's-feet.  According to the FDA, Botox is one of the rare drugs that is prescribed more for unapproved than approved conditions.

Botox does not cure, and because its effects are temporary, injections are often repeated every few months.  Botox improves some conditions that were once considered psychological in origin.   Toxin injections have relieved such ailments as chronic tennis elbow, writer's cramp, tremors, tics and continuous sweating from palms.  There is an ongoing study to determine Botox usefulness in treating stroke patients.

The most frequently reported adverse effects of Botox are headache, respiratory infection, blepharoptosis (droopy eyelid), nausea, and flu-like symptoms.  http://www.targethealth.com/031498.htm  

The 100 circle exercise for the eye area.  Why does this work?

The very delicate under eye area needs this gentle massage technique to help stimulate blood circulation.  Remember, you must be certain that when you perform this exercise your ring finger must be generously lubricated to prevent further moisture loss and to insure that the ring finger glides around the eye.

It's very easy to slide into a "comfortable look" without even realizing that you are starting to look like a granny. Today a woman of 50, 60 or even 70, isn't the same woman who lived a generation ago. So, with this in mind, I have collected a few tips that will help you update your style quickly and easily! 

1. Don't leave the house without your fragrance. It is however, important to consider the people you will be socializing with. If someone is allergic, by all means do them a favor and leave it at home.

2. At one time, woman that were grandmothers, always wore their hair short and permed. You don't have to go that route. If you like your hair short, by all means have it cut, but make it trendy.

3. Fashion is another area that can catch us up, quite badly. There is nothing worse than a baggy pair of slacks with a blouse that has seen better days, covered with an oversized sweater... If you are really stuck for ideas, turn to a catalogue. They will feature models in your age group, sporting outfits that will suit you too. Either order the outfit, or go shopping for something similar.

4. Shoes... what can I say. By all means wear something that is comfortable, but know when to toss them.

5. Florals should be reserved for comforters at best. I have yet to see an article of clothing covered in flowers that doesn't somehow make you look matronly.

6. Keep your jewelry classic looking, and it won't let you down. Those plastic pearls that were popular twenty years ago, pack them away. 

Shirley Bragg

Look younger with a shimmery foundation and use light reflective Tellurian Eye Treatment under and around your eyes to disguise fine lines and wrinkles.  And don't forget to curl your eyelashes!

Applying False Eyelashes 

 There are many suggestions on how to apply lashes and I found the following from Mr. Joel's website.

How To Apply False Lashes...

Increased poise, better posture with this bum exercise:

Let your femininity sparkle!  Lunges and squats can really make a difference in our carriage and poise so that's why “ten a day” of these easy, combined movements will make a difference in your step.

Stand in front of a full-length mirror if possible.  Position your feet about a shoulder width apart, your arms straight at your side for balance and your hands balled into a fist.  Take a big step forward with your right leg (24-26”) and plant your foot.  Slowly bend your right knee slightly (you'll feel the resistance in your upper thighs).  Now return to the starting position with your legs a shoulder-width apart, slowly bend both knees slightly, your arms at your side, for balance, your fist balled and your back straight.  Begin with your left foot and complete the movement by combining the lunge then the squat.  Alternate the lead legs for 5 reps each leg for the first ten days.  Move to 10-12 reps each leg.  If you feel off balance when you begin, grab a medium high-back chair and hold on with first your right hand and then your left hand.  As you gain poise and strength, you can then proceed to the regular exercise.

Get rid of Flabby Arms Fast

I learned this exercise at Jack LaLannes Presidents-First Ladys Health Spas: Triceps

Stand in front of a mirror with your feet about a shoulder width apart.  Working one arm, hold a 5-pound dumbbell behind your head, elbow bent so your elbow is pointing at the ceiling.  Support your elbow with your free hand.   Slowly extend the weight upward to fully extend your arm (the dumbbell will be vertical).  Keep your arm close to your head, now slowly allow the weight to drop behind your head and then again, extend the weight upward.  (If it has been a while since you picked up a dumbbell, start with 3-pound weights).   Immediately you will feel the stretch in the abdomen and upper torso, as the back of your arms are contracted.  This is the perfect time to improve your abs as well as your arms.  So let us begin:  Stand with your feel one shoulder width apart facing a mirror.  The weight is in your right hand, your elbow is bent so that it is pointing to the ceiling, and your free hand is cradling your elbow.  Tuck your tummy which means tighten your abs and hold the contraction.  Slowly extend the weight upward, fully extending your arm, count 1,2 and then allow the weight to drop behind your head. Keep your arm close to your head and slowly allow the weight to drop behind your head.  Do 12-15 repetitions.  Now switch the weight to your left hand.  Keep your legs about one shoulder width apart.  Hold the dumbbell behind your head, elbow bent so your elbow is pointing at the ceiling.  Support your elbow with your free hand.  Contract your abdomen.  Slowly extend the weight upward to fully extend your arm (keep the dumbbell vertical).  Keep your arm close to your head and slowly allow the weight to drop behind your head.  Extend the weight upward.  Complete 12-15 repetitions.  Do this exercise once or twice a day.   If you must sit, say at your desk or your vanity, sit erect and contract your abs so that your posture is improved and your tummy can be flatter.

LOOK YOUNGER INSTANTLY!   

Use the Daily Lift Facial Mask to tone and tighten your skin.  The tightening effect is cosmetic and temporary, but using these masks have other benefits as well – cleaner pores and better conditioned skin.  Only the Facial Magic exercises can dramatically affect skin's firmness and texture.

EYELINER SEEM TOO HARSH? 

If you don't like the intenseness of your eyeliner, soften it by applying a similarly colored eye shadow with its brush or wand, slightly smudging near your lashes to diffuse the line.

Better Cleaning of Your Face

Always use a clean washcloth or sponge on your face so that bacteria are not encouraged to invade your face.  Apply a dime size amount of cleanser to your face, neck and chest with your fingertips.  Allow your cleanser to sit on your face at least 20 seconds after it is applied.  Use warm, tepid water and your washcloth or sponge to remove the cleanser using delicate, upward strokes. There is no need for rubbing or scrubbing.  Pat your face dry with a clean towel and begin your skin care routine.

Beauty Tip Archives
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