Tuesday, June 23, 2009
How To Chose The Right Foundation For Your Skin Color and Type
How To Find The Perfect Foundation For Your Skin
With correctly chosen products and proper application, foundation can be used to reduce imperfections and enhance glowing skin. Other benefits include toning skin, soothing skin, hiding blemishes and added protection against earth’s elements such as sun, wind and air.
Some makeup counters such as Prescriptives and Clinique offer custom blend services. These can be costly though. For some, the luxury of personal and individualized products may not be an option. However, the right foundation can still be found. This will only require trial and error, determination and patience.
There are so many different formulas and ingredients in makeup products. An important ingredient that is most beneficial is a foundation with an SPF of 15. Protection from UVA and UVB rays will yield high rewards later.. less wrinkles. Also consider your skin type, if it is oily then look for oil-free bases. Dry skin can opt for hydrating or moisture-rich formulas. If you are acne prone then look for foundations that won’t clog pores. These are labeled noncomedogenic.
When you look for your foundation, be sure to purchase a shade that is as close to your natural color as possible. For best results, try purchasing the foundation in daylight so it will accurately reflect its true match. Ask for a mirror and observe the result near a door or window to see how it will look in natural light. Also, be sure the foundation has undertones that will match your skin color. For many, it is either pink or yellow. If you need a concealer for extra coverage, purchase both the concealer and foundation from the same product line to ensure a perfect match.
I’ve read articles that suggest applying to the wrist or even the forearm, but I believe when testing your chosen shade, it should be applied to the jaw line. This is, after all, where it will be worn. Just be sure the product you try has not been handled inappropriately to avoid transfer of bacteria.
Lastly, whenever I go shopping (whether clothes or makeup), I always like to bring a helpful friend along. Helpful customer service at makeup counters is great, but I still prefer the advice of an honest friend. Just in case.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
The Truth About Oily Skin: Important Facts Tips and Advice
Oily Skin Facts and Care Tips
Oily skin occurs when sebaceous glands are overactive. Although the natural oils (sebum) produced are important, too much can have negative effects as well. The most prominent of this is acne.
There are several methods of treating oily skin:
Oil blotting papers can be used to help control excess oil. Although this will not stop oil production, it will reduce surface oil on the skin.
Retinoids are commonly used. There are many varieties including over the counter (OTC) and prescription strength. Regular use will dry the skin and reduce oils.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) such as glycolic acid will also remove excess oil present on the skin. Not only that, it is used to exfoliate dead skin cells that often clog pores. Other AHAs include lactic acid, citric acid and mandelic acid.
Anti-Androgens can be applied topically or taken orally to control sebum protection. This is a drug that blocks sex hormones that are responsible for stimulating sebum.
It is worth adding that there is a difference between reducing oil and eliminating oil. Many people with oily skin believe oil is a “culprit” and strive to be oil free.
This is not effective and, instead, will result in more oil production. Natural oils are very important so deprivation will trigger a defense mechanism to produce more oil.
Simple ways to avoid stripping your skin of too much oil is to cleanse no more than twice daily, avoid any harsh products that contain alcohol and refrain from aggressively scrubbing skin.
Although other factors instigate over production (genes are a major contributor); with careful skin care oily skin can be controlled.
Oily skin occurs when sebaceous glands are overactive. Although the natural oils (sebum) produced are important, too much can have negative effects as well. The most prominent of this is acne.
There are several methods of treating oily skin:
Oil blotting papers can be used to help control excess oil. Although this will not stop oil production, it will reduce surface oil on the skin.
Retinoids are commonly used. There are many varieties including over the counter (OTC) and prescription strength. Regular use will dry the skin and reduce oils.
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) such as glycolic acid will also remove excess oil present on the skin. Not only that, it is used to exfoliate dead skin cells that often clog pores. Other AHAs include lactic acid, citric acid and mandelic acid.
Anti-Androgens can be applied topically or taken orally to control sebum protection. This is a drug that blocks sex hormones that are responsible for stimulating sebum.
It is worth adding that there is a difference between reducing oil and eliminating oil. Many people with oily skin believe oil is a “culprit” and strive to be oil free.
This is not effective and, instead, will result in more oil production. Natural oils are very important so deprivation will trigger a defense mechanism to produce more oil.
Simple ways to avoid stripping your skin of too much oil is to cleanse no more than twice daily, avoid any harsh products that contain alcohol and refrain from aggressively scrubbing skin.
Although other factors instigate over production (genes are a major contributor); with careful skin care oily skin can be controlled.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Finding The Right Skin Care Cosmetic Product For Your Skin
How to Find The Right Skin Care Cosmetic Product
Beautiful and healthy skin is desirable and boosts confidence and self-esteem. For some people, being beautiful is natural and effortless. Others shun cosmetics, either because they feel it can be harmful to their skin or they lack the patience and/or desire to use skin care cosmetics. Regardless, there is still a vast number that regularly use skin care products.
In order to find and use skin care products that are most favorable your skin, you want to have optimal skin condition. Great skin will enhance the cosmetics effects on your skin. Ideally, you don’t want to hide or cover problematic skin. Instead, you want to enhance great skin.
Formulating and implementing a skin care routine is at the top of your list. If you are blessed with great skin, this will maintain it and keep your skin disease-free. For problem skin, proper routines will help correct and prevent further aggression.
The four basic principles of skin care should be applied. This includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and protection (sunscreen). See my first post about the essential steps of skin care for a more detailed report.
When finding skin care cosmetics you want to carefully consider what active ingredients it is comprised of. Also, it is very important to use products most suitable to your skin type. Consider any skin disorder you have. If this is the case, you should talk with your dermatologist before you decide to use any skin care cosmetic.
Most labels can be of somewhat assistance. They will advertise “for all skin types” or “for oily skin” and things of that nature. Be sure that the product is labeled noncomedogenic. This simply means that it will not block pores. But don’t stop there. You should test the cosmetic products by doing a simple skin patch assessment.
This is done by applying a small amount on a small area of skin, preferably somewhere discreet.. Just in case the product fails to be compatible with your skin type. Wait at least a few hours and check the reaction to that particular product. I like to wait eight hours because I often wear makeup this amount of time.
Avoid products that contains synthetic fragrances, parabens and sulfates to name a few. For a more complete list visit Science Skincare, my sister blog, that delves deeper into skin care and its properties. Be sure that there are no chemicals that you may be allergic to in it. Don’t use harsh products. An example is a product with high alcohol concentrations. Please remember to check and only use products that do not support animal testing.
I know the active ingredients list can be intimidating, but it is well worth investigating when it comes to your skin’s health. Most pharmacists are willing to help answer any questions you may have. I’m always friendly with my local pharmacist and in exchange, I get to badger him with questions. Although they can not diagnose, they can answer many questions and may have other excellent recommendations.
Remember and heed the “more isn’t better” warning. Apply the a sufficient quantity, not any more or any less than necessary. Be gentle by not rubbing too hard and follow the right application procedure. This post on tips for proper skin care product application will provide you with more details.
Finding the right skin care product and knowing how to use it optimally is another way to address and achieve glowing skin.
Beautiful and healthy skin is desirable and boosts confidence and self-esteem. For some people, being beautiful is natural and effortless. Others shun cosmetics, either because they feel it can be harmful to their skin or they lack the patience and/or desire to use skin care cosmetics. Regardless, there is still a vast number that regularly use skin care products.
In order to find and use skin care products that are most favorable your skin, you want to have optimal skin condition. Great skin will enhance the cosmetics effects on your skin. Ideally, you don’t want to hide or cover problematic skin. Instead, you want to enhance great skin.
Formulating and implementing a skin care routine is at the top of your list. If you are blessed with great skin, this will maintain it and keep your skin disease-free. For problem skin, proper routines will help correct and prevent further aggression.
The four basic principles of skin care should be applied. This includes cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and protection (sunscreen). See my first post about the essential steps of skin care for a more detailed report.
When finding skin care cosmetics you want to carefully consider what active ingredients it is comprised of. Also, it is very important to use products most suitable to your skin type. Consider any skin disorder you have. If this is the case, you should talk with your dermatologist before you decide to use any skin care cosmetic.
Most labels can be of somewhat assistance. They will advertise “for all skin types” or “for oily skin” and things of that nature. Be sure that the product is labeled noncomedogenic. This simply means that it will not block pores. But don’t stop there. You should test the cosmetic products by doing a simple skin patch assessment.
This is done by applying a small amount on a small area of skin, preferably somewhere discreet.. Just in case the product fails to be compatible with your skin type. Wait at least a few hours and check the reaction to that particular product. I like to wait eight hours because I often wear makeup this amount of time.
Avoid products that contains synthetic fragrances, parabens and sulfates to name a few. For a more complete list visit Science Skincare, my sister blog, that delves deeper into skin care and its properties. Be sure that there are no chemicals that you may be allergic to in it. Don’t use harsh products. An example is a product with high alcohol concentrations. Please remember to check and only use products that do not support animal testing.
I know the active ingredients list can be intimidating, but it is well worth investigating when it comes to your skin’s health. Most pharmacists are willing to help answer any questions you may have. I’m always friendly with my local pharmacist and in exchange, I get to badger him with questions. Although they can not diagnose, they can answer many questions and may have other excellent recommendations.
Remember and heed the “more isn’t better” warning. Apply the a sufficient quantity, not any more or any less than necessary. Be gentle by not rubbing too hard and follow the right application procedure. This post on tips for proper skin care product application will provide you with more details.
Finding the right skin care product and knowing how to use it optimally is another way to address and achieve glowing skin.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Essential Anti Aging Skin Care Tips & Advice
Anti Aging Skin Care Tips
Really, what is the first thing you see when you enter any major department store? Row after row of cosmetic counters offering the latest skin care breakthrough!
Sure, promises in a jar may help. But what may help even more is being knowledgeable and proactively using it to ward off premature aging. Here are a few tips for anti aging skin care:
1. Maintain healthy eating habits: A well balanced diet is key to maintaining proper body metabolism. Raw fruits and vegetables are the best source of fiber! Be sure to have a good variety in your diet. It is important to avoid oily and fatty foods that lack essential nutrients. Foods with high oil and fat content often leads to obesity and other diseases which accelerates the aging process.
2. Stress disturbs the body metabolism and speeds up the aging process. Sometimes a relaxing bath and aroma-therapy helps reduce stress. A full night of sleep and exercising regularly is proven to help reduce stress.
3. Drinking the recommended 8 glasses of water per day helps flush toxins from the body. Absence of toxins make you less prone to disease.
4. Exercise also flushes out the toxins in the form of sweat. It will strengthen and tone your body and help keep stress at bay. To completely remove toxins, a warm shower should follow your exercise routine.
5. Avoid chemical based products for your skin. Natural skin care products are the best option and care beneficial in your anti aging skin care routine.
6. Avoid any excessive and harsh application of skin care products, as it is very harmful to your skin.
7. Never ignore skin disorders. This may lead to permanent skin damage. Try OTC (over the counter) medication. If the symptoms persist, visit your dermatologist and seek his/her advice.
8. Vitamin C based skin care products are very popular but must be used cautiously. Vitamin C oxidizes quickly which makes it harmful to skin. Proper storage will help prevent or prolong oxidation. IF the vitamin c product turns yellowish brown due to oxidation, it is no longer should be discarded immediately.
9. Always use suncreen to protect against UV radiation. UVA and UVB rays are the most significant contributors in aging. Choose a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and check to be sure that it is broad spectrum.
So there you have it.. though the latest magic in a jar may do wonders, these simple tips will surely enhance your anti aging skin care routine!
Really, what is the first thing you see when you enter any major department store? Row after row of cosmetic counters offering the latest skin care breakthrough!
Sure, promises in a jar may help. But what may help even more is being knowledgeable and proactively using it to ward off premature aging. Here are a few tips for anti aging skin care:
1. Maintain healthy eating habits: A well balanced diet is key to maintaining proper body metabolism. Raw fruits and vegetables are the best source of fiber! Be sure to have a good variety in your diet. It is important to avoid oily and fatty foods that lack essential nutrients. Foods with high oil and fat content often leads to obesity and other diseases which accelerates the aging process.
2. Stress disturbs the body metabolism and speeds up the aging process. Sometimes a relaxing bath and aroma-therapy helps reduce stress. A full night of sleep and exercising regularly is proven to help reduce stress.
3. Drinking the recommended 8 glasses of water per day helps flush toxins from the body. Absence of toxins make you less prone to disease.
4. Exercise also flushes out the toxins in the form of sweat. It will strengthen and tone your body and help keep stress at bay. To completely remove toxins, a warm shower should follow your exercise routine.
5. Avoid chemical based products for your skin. Natural skin care products are the best option and care beneficial in your anti aging skin care routine.
6. Avoid any excessive and harsh application of skin care products, as it is very harmful to your skin.
7. Never ignore skin disorders. This may lead to permanent skin damage. Try OTC (over the counter) medication. If the symptoms persist, visit your dermatologist and seek his/her advice.
8. Vitamin C based skin care products are very popular but must be used cautiously. Vitamin C oxidizes quickly which makes it harmful to skin. Proper storage will help prevent or prolong oxidation. IF the vitamin c product turns yellowish brown due to oxidation, it is no longer should be discarded immediately.
9. Always use suncreen to protect against UV radiation. UVA and UVB rays are the most significant contributors in aging. Choose a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and check to be sure that it is broad spectrum.
So there you have it.. though the latest magic in a jar may do wonders, these simple tips will surely enhance your anti aging skin care routine!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Correct Application of Skin Care Products
Proper Skin Care Application
My last post was about basic skin care so I thought this would be relevant. Its generalized and applies to everyone, as did the last post.
At one time I slathered on countless products unaware that it was far less effective than I intended. That realization changed my method of application and it has helped tremendously.
It's true that, although other factors do contribute, many skin care products only fail because it is being applied incorrectly. So here are a few skin care application tips that I implement and that I hope will prove useful to others.
Some products are simply better than others. Or they may work better with one person's chemistry than another. It boils down to whether the active ingredients work and whether sufficient amounts have penetrated deeply enough into the skin.
But using the few tricks I suggested will greatly improve the amounts of active ingredients penetrated. This will increase the efficacy of your skin care products giving you much better results!
My last post was about basic skin care so I thought this would be relevant. Its generalized and applies to everyone, as did the last post.
At one time I slathered on countless products unaware that it was far less effective than I intended. That realization changed my method of application and it has helped tremendously.
It's true that, although other factors do contribute, many skin care products only fail because it is being applied incorrectly. So here are a few skin care application tips that I implement and that I hope will prove useful to others.
- Properly cleanse skin before application. Applying your products directly out of the shower or bath is best because skin is moist. Don't wipe skin dry, instead use a towel to gently pat your skin. Active ingredients are able to penetrate better when dissolved. When cream has dried, the rate of penetration decreases exponentially.
- Did you know that warm skin absorbs products much better? Make sure your skin is warm by applying a warm towel if needed.
- When the top layer of skin is composed of dry, dead cells it is too thick for active ingredients to penetrate deeply enough to have an effect. This is why exfoliation is necessary. But becareful not to over exfoliate.
- Short, firm strokes should be used to apply your product(s). It is best to use your middle finger. But use your ring finger around delicate eye area, it has the least amount of pressure. Do NOT rub or stretch your skin. Gently use your fingers and tap the area for half a minute.
Some products are simply better than others. Or they may work better with one person's chemistry than another. It boils down to whether the active ingredients work and whether sufficient amounts have penetrated deeply enough into the skin.
But using the few tricks I suggested will greatly improve the amounts of active ingredients penetrated. This will increase the efficacy of your skin care products giving you much better results!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Basic Skin Care For All Skin Types
(note - this site (Skin Care Therapy Blog) is not associated with Google.com or Google Adsense and you are encouraged to visit Google directly for more information.)
No matter what the skin care regime you choose, it nearly always boils down to these four basic skin care steps: cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and sunscreen.
You should cleanse no more than twice daily to avoid distressing your skin from excessive scrubbing. For most, morning and nightly cleansing is sufficient. Any more will will likely aggravate skin. Your cleanser of choice should keep your skin hydrated.
Exfoliating is removal of dead epidermal skin cells and is a natural process that slows down as skin ages. As a result, skin looks dull and rugged. Regular exfoliation exposes living cells. The most commonly used methods are microdermabrasion and peels. Be sure to avoid large grains. Large grains rip skin and can cause scarring. Ideally, exfoliation can be incorporated into your skin care routine once or twice a week.
Moisturizing regularly is essential in skin care. Moisturizing provides a protective layer that will seal in needed moisture. Find a brand that is neither greasy or slick.
Sunscreen application is perhaps the easiest way to thwart aging. Sun damage is one of the main causes of wrinkles. Be sure it contains either zinc oxide, avobenzene or titanium dioxide. Also, be sure that the sunscreen used is at lease SPF 30 and is broad spectrum.
There is an endless source of information available regarding skin care. No matter what new discovery developes, the basics of skin care as outlined above should never be neglected. Instead, the basic care should be incorporated with your preferred skin care regimen.
No matter what the skin care regime you choose, it nearly always boils down to these four basic skin care steps: cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing and sunscreen.
You should cleanse no more than twice daily to avoid distressing your skin from excessive scrubbing. For most, morning and nightly cleansing is sufficient. Any more will will likely aggravate skin. Your cleanser of choice should keep your skin hydrated.
Exfoliating is removal of dead epidermal skin cells and is a natural process that slows down as skin ages. As a result, skin looks dull and rugged. Regular exfoliation exposes living cells. The most commonly used methods are microdermabrasion and peels. Be sure to avoid large grains. Large grains rip skin and can cause scarring. Ideally, exfoliation can be incorporated into your skin care routine once or twice a week.
Moisturizing regularly is essential in skin care. Moisturizing provides a protective layer that will seal in needed moisture. Find a brand that is neither greasy or slick.
Sunscreen application is perhaps the easiest way to thwart aging. Sun damage is one of the main causes of wrinkles. Be sure it contains either zinc oxide, avobenzene or titanium dioxide. Also, be sure that the sunscreen used is at lease SPF 30 and is broad spectrum.
There is an endless source of information available regarding skin care. No matter what new discovery developes, the basics of skin care as outlined above should never be neglected. Instead, the basic care should be incorporated with your preferred skin care regimen.
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