Many of us do not realize how good we have it until it’s going or gone.  Unfortunately, this applies to skincare as well. In your 20’s, your skin is at it’s most supple, plump and wrinkle-free. While you might suffer from occasional bouts of acne due to hormones, collagen stores are plentiful and there’s not a crow’s foot in sight. The most you may have to do is cleanse, tone, apply sunscreen and get on with your day. But make no mistake, doing something is preferable to skipping a skincare routine all together. Doing nothing can really backfire as you age. Preventative care is what you are aiming for now.

By your 30’s the skin might start to show signs of aging, depending on how much time you spent in the sun and how little you did or did not follow a skincare regimen in your 20’s. Crow’s feet might begin to show around the eyes, and laugh lines may appear around the mouth. Sun spots and hyper-pigmentation can also be a new cause for alarm. These new signs of aging will appear not only on your face, but on your hands, neck and decolletage area as well – anywhere that gets constant sun exposure will be at risk. Collagen levels also begin to drop in your 30’s and 40’s and skin will slowly begin to thin and sag. If you make an extra effort to care for your skin from an early age, then you can do much to prevent the early signs of aging.

If you were not one to start early with a skincare regimen and have noticed those small signs of aging creeping up, never fear. There is a lot you can still do to prevent future skin damage and even repair or reverse your age spots and wrinkles. Besides your basic daily skin care routine – cleansing, toning, moisturizing – it is important to also use a few anti aging skin care products. Nowadays there are many different products and treatments available in the market to prevent signs of aging. Some products might be laden with chemicals, acids and other ingredients promising fast, extreme results. It is up to you and perhaps your dermatologist to determine the products that will be most effective for your skin type.

Custom-blend, powdered herbal facial mask

Vivoderm is natural-based skincare line that always recommends using products that are as gentle and chemical-free as possible. One of the most successful products in the Vivoderm Natural Skincare line is the 100% herbal Anti-Aging Mask.

This mask and the entire Vivoderm line was developed over 40 years ago by the Vivoderm founder, holistic dermatologist, Dr. H. Adhami, and used on thousands of patients in his private practice. *

Dr. Adhami believes the best treatments will help revitalize and repair your skin, not chemically burn or peel it away.  The Vivoderm Anti-Aging Mask is 100% herbal and natural and does not contain any chemicals or preservatives. Instead of peeling away the top layer of damaged skin, the way a chemical acid or peel would, the anti-aging mask allows the skin to heal and regenerate naturally with the absorption of pure enzymes and vitamins. The most powerful anti-aging herbs found in nature; Marshmallow, Rosemary and Aloe Vera, reduce inflammation and soothe skin while Lavender and Mint purify and refine the appearance of pores.  Two powerful antioxidants, Vitamin E and Green Tea along with other therapeutic essentials, repair free-radical damage.

And unlike pure clay masks, this self-mixed facial mask uses actual pulverized herbs along with natural pro-active enzymes and vitamins to reduce age spots and discoloration, boost vitamin intake and provide nutrients and anti-oxidants to your skin. It can also be custom-blended to suit your changing skin needs. If you need more moisture or a pick-me-up, blend the herbal mask powder with plain yogurt. If your skin is oily, use water, toner or witch hazel to change the consistency and effect.

This mask was also designed to increase cellular turnover, skin circulation and perk up and invigorate dull, damaged skin. The medium-grain texture of the blended herbs creates a natural exfoliate to help remove top-layer dead skin cells and create a smoother skin touch and feel. Gentle exfoliation also minimizes pores and discolorations, purifies the skin and removes black heads. Natural yogurt enzymes act as a gentle skin lightener; minimizing sun, acne and pregnancy spots while protecting skin against future damage.

We believe after the very first use you will start noticing the difference in your skin to reveal a radiant, fresh and more youthful complexion. Full size kits, refills and sample kits are available at www.vivoderm.com

* After regular use, many patients reported a dramatic change in their skin. Finer lines, smoother skin, smaller pores and reduced discolorations were typical effects.

• Size – 3.2 oz.
• 100% natural and herbal and contains no preservatives or chemicals.
• FULL KIT comes with convenient porcelain mixing bowl and scoop.
• Actual dry pulverized herbs – not a clay mask.
• No animal testing. No parabens.
• Mix with equal amounts of water, toner or yogurt before use.

ANTI – AGING FACIAL MASK INGREDIENTS 
Ingredients: Avena Sativa (Oat Flour), Secale cereal (Rye Flour), Starch, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary), Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow), Anethum Graveolens (Dill), Lavendula Angustifolia (Lavender), Mentha arvensis (Mint), Origanum vulgare (Oregano), Yogurt Powder, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera), Cuminum (Cumin), Ocimum basilicum (Basil), Green Tea, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Calcium Panthothenate (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine-HCL (Vitamin B6), Biotin (Vitamin H).

by Rhonda Allison

(Excerpts from April 2016 issue of Dermascope magazine, featuring the Vivoderm Anti-Aging Mask).

Milk has been used throughout history to care for the skin. Many people are familiar with Cleopatra’s fabled milk baths and, as it turns out, numerous other noble women throughout history followed suit. These women realized the youth-preserving benefits that milk provided the skin. Milk is immensely rich in nutrients, including proteins, lipids, vitamins, minerals, and, of course, the ingredient that is responsible for its cell-regenerating abilities: lactic acid.

Today, lactic acid is used in aesthetics and skin care to deliver a host of benefits to the skin and correct signs of aging, acne scarring, dehydration, discoloration, and more.

What is Lactic Acid?
L-lactic acid is a keratolytic alpha hydroxy acid that is also known as ‘milk acid.’ It is gentler than glycolic
acid and provides exfoliation without provoking irritation. It also softens the skin, increases desquamation, stimulates cell regeneration, improves the skin’s texture, and has natural brightening abilities.

(Chemical / Technical Details)

Lactic acid is also chiral in that it contains two optimal isomers. Essentially it has two parts: a left-handed part and a right-handed part. This is why lactic acid is often accompanied by an ‘L.’ This letter denotes the
chirally-correct molecule of the acid is being used. The ‘L’ form is absorbed more easily by the skin and increases the overall performance.

The body naturally produces lactic acid during normal metabolism and exercise. When the demand for energy spikes in the body, such as during strenuous or power workouts, glucose is broken down and oxidized to pyruvate, which then stimulates the production of lactate. This process is beneficial because it helps ensure energy production is maintained. Even during rest, lactate continues to be produced as a result of metabolism in red blood cells that lack mitochondria.

Some research has even shown lactate to play an important role in early-stage development for brain metabolism and as an energy source for the brain in the metabolism of neurons.

L-lactic acid is an important alpha hydroxy acid that may be used in peels, facials, and homecare regimens to help correct the signs of aging, hyperpigmentation, some acne and acne scarring, uneven tone and texture, and more.

While many alpha hydroxy acids are derived from fruit, lactic acid is most-commonly derived from fermented milk or sugar (or yogurt) and is considered a non-toxic, active, and organic substance.

Common Uses for Lactic Acid

Although L-lactic acid may be used to help correct numerous skin issues, it is particularly beneficial in the treatment of aging. It also works well for sensitive skin and skin of color, which may be more prone to dryness, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and discoloration. Acid selection will, of course, always vary by person and should be chosen based on specific skin type and goals.

In treating aging skin, L-lactic acid really shines. It stimulates cell turnover and collagen production to firm sagging skin, sheds pigmented cells, brightens the overall tone, and delivers hydration beyond the surface. Because of its exfoliating capabilities, this acid allows for more efficient penetration than other pro-youth ingredients.

It also increases dermal and epidermal thickness, thus revealing more firmness and less fine lines and wrinkles. While lifting epidermal cells, lactic acid stimulates the synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid at the cellular level, resulting in smoother and younger-looking skin. In the treatment of acne, L-lactic acid helps to loosen follicle impactions, reduce corneocyte cohesion, and thicken the corneum layer. It also helps stimulate cell turnover and tissue regeneration while delivering important hydration and brightening benefits.

For hyperpigmentation and other sun-induced discolorations, L-lactic acid is beneficial for many skin types and provides exfoliation and skin-brightening support. It is also gentler than glycolic acid and typically does not induce skin irritation.

When properly used, L-lactic acid is an invaluable tool in the treatment room and at home to correct the visual signs of aging, effectively treat acne, and brighten and even the skin tone. Taking a daily milk bath is not necessary, but a daily dose of lactic acid will provide many benefits for your skin.

Anti Aging Facial Mask
Vivoderm Natural Skincare
310-270-0986
vivoderm.com

As we start aging our body battles in order to protect itself from the harmful effects of the environment. Our skin takes the biggest brunt of the aging process.  To combat the aging process, it is essential to add vitamins and minerals so that you can keep your body in good shape.  We all know we should do our best to not abuse our body: including smoking and drinking excessive alcohol – as that can not only be detrimental to your overall health but extremely bad for your skin care goals as well. With age our skin fails to produce collagen and elastin naturally. One way to encourage new cellular growth would be to use a 100% herbal, anti aging facial mask which would help you to get back that younger-looking skin.

100% herbal anti aging face mask

There are so many anti aging skin care masks available in the market, you say – so how do you choose?  First, always go for skin care products or facial masks that are suitable for your skin type. With the help of the face mask you will be able to reduce fine lines and wrinkles from your skin. Among the plethora of products which are suitable for your skin you should try out the anti aging mask from Vivoderm. It is absolutely natural and contains no chemicals or preservatives. The herbal texture is such that the nutrients and vitamins get absorbed into the skin very easily. The texture is also excellent for use as a facial scrub at the same time.

The mask exfoliates dead skin cells and reveals naturally glowing skin. With rugular use, you will slowly notice that the fine lines and wrinkles are disappearing. The Vivoderm herbal face mask also helps in protecting your skin from future skin damage. It helps to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and cleanses your skin by removing the black heads – increasing your skin’s freshness and firmness. Use this mask at the end of the day, twice or three times a week and see how your facial skin transforms in front of your eyes.

Excessive exposure to sun can lead to skin cancers. Hence, proper sun protection is essential. Most people are not aware of the risks related to the risks of sun exposure and the basic ways by which they can protect themselves from the sun. Exposure to sun can also lead to skin aging. So, if you want to stop the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles then start a skin care regimen today. There are different skin care products that helps in keeping your skin protected from the harmful effects of the sun.

Using zinc cream can prevent sun damage

Among the various products you can choose to go for the sun damage duo package offered by Vivoderm. It includes a zinc cream and an anti wrinkle eye care cream. The zinc repairing facial cream helps in protecting your skin from further sun damage whereas the cream for the eyes reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

The zinc repairing facial cream contains 15% natural zinc oxide infused with Vitamin A and E and the anti-inflammatory properties of Comfrey and Chamomile. The product helps to maintain the moisture of the skin while reducing the acne breakouts and visible aging signs. It repairs the skin making it smooth and firm. It regulates oil production and promotes a blemish free complexion.

The anti wrinkle eye cream provides a moisture boost to the soft skin around the eyes. It helps in cell renewal and lessens the appearances of wrinkles and fine lines. The cream is infused with Beta Carotene, vitamins and Aloe Vera that protects your skin and also hydrates it by preventing the appearance of future wrinkles that is caused by sun exposure.

Pregnancy hormones give women a natural glow in their skin. However, sometimes women face an increase in melanin which results in skin darkening. For most women this discoloration fades away after a few months of giving birth. There are ways of minimizing this discoloration which you can try it at your home.

During this time if you go out in the sun the problem is going to go worse. Hence, it is advisable if you slather on some sunscreen every time you go out. Doctors advise to use it daily. Choose for lotions that come with zinc oxide. This blocks the UV sun rays more effectively.

You must use natural face packs when you are taking care of your skin after pregnancy. There are many home-made recipes which you can go for. Orange pulp lightens the skin tone to some extent. Puree an entire orange and then apply this mixture to the affected areas for about 15 minutes and then rinse it away. You can also go for a milk mask which would include almond oil, lime juice, honey and whole milk in equal parts. Then, leave it on your skin for 30 minutes and wash it. Then again, there are also herbal face masks available in the market which you can choose to apply.

Skin exfoliation is very important as part of your skin lightening and beauty routine. With exfoliation you can encourage cell turnover and bring about fresher skin on the forefront. You can use a scrub or make one on your own with olive and sugar. You can also try lotions that would contain hydroxyl acids.

You must take into consideration your diet if you want to get desired results. Include a lot of folic acid in your diet. Folate rich foods include beans, eggs, dark green vegetables, and eggs.

After the age of thirty, chances are that you are searching for the best skin care products in the market that will make your skin look young and fresh again. Don’t panic if you have begun to notice fine lines and small wrinkles developing – you are not the only one.  Unfortunatley, this is just part of the process of aging. With time, your skin will loose its elasticity and that plump collagen cushioning will flaten and sag if you don’t take proper care of your skin.

Many people, in desperation, start trying different products or “miracle cures” to make up for the neglect they gave to their skin in their twenties. If youa re currently in your twenties, it would be wise on your part if you start paying attention to your skin and treating it with care. Some of the natural reasons for your deterioration in skin quality are season change, hormonal change and age.

To treat your skin right, before doing anything you must determine the skin type. You can find great online quizes to determin if you are oliy, dry or combination or look for the Fitzpatrick scale for skin tone and color.

Now that you know your skin type it is time you start taking care of your skin. You must practice some daily skin care routine so that your skin remains smooth and soft. A daily routine should include cleansing, toning and moisturizing. If you have dry skin, then opt for a cream based cleanser. Make sure you practice your skin care routine at least twice daily.

If you see that your skin is showing signs of aging then you should also look for herbal anti-aging products which are best for you during this time. Herbal products may not work as fast as some chemical-based products – like acid peels – but they are usually less abrasive and more effective over time. So, there is nothing to freak out about.

One more thing…also take into consideration excessive sun exposure. Your skin is not that strong that it can resist the harmful rays of the sun. With time and too much sun, your skin will darken and tan – and wrinkle. Always apply a sunscreen every time before you go outdoors.

many women today have also jumped into getting botox as soon as they see the first wrinkle. This will only prevent your skin from healing and balancing itself naturally and will create an older appearance faster than before. Try out a daily skin care routine and some herbal face packs and creams before you take drastic cosmetic measures and you will surely get desired results over time. There are so many great herbal, natural products available in the market from which you can choose today. For detailed analysis you can also consult a dermatologist for your individual needs.

Hands are the first part of your body that shows signs of aging. Hence, they need quite a lot of pampering so that they remain soft and supple for a long time. Beautiful well kept hands are essential as it tells a alot about how you care for yourself. Dressing up in fancy clothes will be of no use to hide hands that have been negleted.  Taking good care of your hands takes little time and has big rewards.

A few hand care tips can be extremely beneficial for you. The skin on your hand is extremely delicate and thin, hence you need to moisturize your skin at least four times a day. You should use a mild exfoliator on your hands once every week to remove rough spots and calouses. Apply a light moisturizing cream on to your hands every night before going to bed to keep skin soft and supple. If you are going out in the sun apply sunscreen lotion so that your hands don’t get unnecessarily tanned or darken age spots. Excessive exposure to sun can also bring about wrinkles and age spots early. Hence, to avoid this you can choose to follow a daily skin care regimen for your hands and treat them to some TLC.

Our hands have few oil glands to keep them naturally moisturized, so they get dry very quickly. When they come in contact with detergent, chemicals and dirt the skin gets further damaged. You can adopt special treatments like herbal therapies and warm oil soaks that can keep your hands soft and supple for a long time. Mix a few drops of rose water, glycerin, and lemon juice and massage it on your hands daily for best results. You can also try out cornmeal which is a great scrub for cleansing hands and softening them wonderfully.

With a little effort, you too can have hands that defy your true age.

There are different skin problems from which women suffer. Patchy skin has become a very common disease or condition of skin, which women face. It is actually irregular colors on skin that appear as patches. Women have more sensitive skin and hence the occurrence of patchy skin is more common in them rather than men. There are different face packs that keep the skin glowing and eliminate the impurities from your skin. The skin texture can be enhanced by using treatments such as steaming, massaging and toning.

Skin aging is inevitable. However, you can definitely delay the signs by using herbal skin care products and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. No genie would grant your wish of stopping the biological clock. Hence, anti-aging skin care is highly essential. Some of the common signs of aging are wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots.

According to dermatologists sun damage is one of the main factors for the aging skin condition. Other factors are genes and hereditary. Never go outdoors for more than 10 minutes withou suncreen or protective clothing.

“You are what you eat;” Therefore, maintain a healthy diet so that it can have positive effects on your skin. Include food items that have vitamin E in it. It is an anti-aging powerhouse and protects cells from getting damaged.

Some home remedies for anti-aging treatments are as follows:
1. Use grated cucumber as a face mask.
2. Put fresh Aloe Vera gel on your facial skin
3. Massage your face with almond oil before sleeping
4. Use of avocado on skin can be highly beneficial
5. Sandalwood oil is also good as an anti aging treatment
6. Milk, honey and glycerin are also good for battling against skin aging
7. Use a face pack made from crushed grapes for 15 minutes and wash it with warm water

If you smoke, you MUST quit – or at least try to cut down gradually, then quit.  Similarly you need to give up on alcohol too if you want to stop your skin aging. Stress and lack of sleep are also two of the vital aspects for premature skin aging. Drink lots of water so that your body system remains detoxified at all times. With a healthy body you will be able to maintain a healthy and young skin for a long time.

What is the Derma Roller or Skin Needling?

Recently, while walking around at the 2009 Beauty Expo in Long Beach, CA, I noticed a large number of booths selling these small rolling devices, covered with many short needles. Curious whether these were new parenting tools to scare unruly children or for skincare, I decided to research it further. The cosmetic representatives claimed these new facial rollers could increase collagen production and reduce wrinkles.

The derma roller is a very small rolling device that contains 192 micro points made of surgical steel. While it goes by different names, ‘skin needling,’ ‘dermaroller,’ or ‘meso roller,’ among many others, it appears to be a simple and natural method that promises to prevent skin aging, restore collagen, smooth out scars, pitted skin, and stretch marks – or your money back in some cases.

Research On Skin Needling

The skin needling device is used along with your normal skincare routine to remove acne scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, fine lines. Representatives say it can even help with big pores, black heads, and white heads. This micro needling or skin needling anti-aging technique is also used to perform collagen induction therapy (CIT). Studies show that when this device is rolled over the skin, it creates small puncture wounds which cause the body to produce collagen in an attempt to heal the skin. Our collagen production falls dramatically after about age 35 or so.

How the Derma Roller Works

Published instructions say when you roll this device over the skin it creates small puncture wounds into the top layer of the skin. This puncturing will then cause a type of wound-healing reaction for the dermal layer to begin production of collagen fibers, elastin, and other skin cells that helps to fill in lines, wrinkles, remove stretch marks and fill in deep pitted scars – also allowing the derma roller to be a great acne scar treatment.

In addition, the derma roller allows for optimum absorption of any anti-aging cream you may use afterwards. Each time you use the derma roller, the collagen building effects continue for weeks- smoothing stretch marks, acne scars, fine lines and wrinkles.

Unlike other skin rejuvenating techniques, the derma roller doesn’t require downtime for healing. And, unlike chemical or laser peels, the derma roller can be used safely by women and men of color because it doesn’t affect skin pigmentation.

The Studies

In 1994, Dr. Philippe Simonin, a Swiss Dermatologist, performed a study on 600 people divided into two groups – the skin-aging group and the scar reduction group. Published results found that in the skin aging group there was a 40% significant improvement and an impressive 60% improvement in scar reduction group.

Another doctor, Dr. Andre Camirand, a plastic surgeon from Canada, found that skin needling improved the texture and depression of scars and also improved over-all skin color and texture. He also found this remodeling process can go on up to 12 months from each treatment.

Further study results by plastic surgeons and dermatologists claim in that addition to reducing the appearance of sun damage and wrinkles, (such as crows feet), skin needling can help lessen or remove stretch marks, cellulite, acne scars, surgical scars and smooth out pitted skin and dimpling.

In addition, it allows maximum absorption of your best wrinkle creams or any anti aging creams. Each rolling session can stimulate collagen to reduce wrinkles and scars – like a mini-instant face lift.

~ R. Dupree

By Van Le | Skin care has come a long way in recent years, and the numbers say it all.  Current estimates assert the skincare industry generates over $2 billion annually.  That’s not to say our mothers and grandmothers never took care of their complexion.  Many of the tips our mothers taught us still ring true today — in fact,  some of the most effective remedies for healthy skin have been passed down from generation to generation.  The following are easy, no-cost techniques to prevent premature skin aging.

Don’t Smoke

Smoking causes so much damage to the skin that the term “smokers’ face” was coined to describe the shallow lines and wrinkles caused by cigarettes.  Even more shocking, a study published in the British Medical Journal featured a doctor who could distinguish a non-smoker from someone who has been smoking for ten years or more based on their facial features alone.  A single cigarette contains thousands of toxins that seep into the bloodstream and affect the appearance of skin.   In addition, scientists have calculated that every cigarette takes ten minutes off your life.

Wear Sunglasses

Long before they became fashion statements, sunglasses served a humble purpose: to protect the eyes from the sun.  Skin near the eyes is extremely delicate, and since we can’t apply sunscreen to these areas, we need the UV protection provided by sunglasses.  Not wearing sunglasses can also cause you to squint, which can lead to wrinkles over time.

Get Adequate Sleep

While  we sleep, our body generates new skin cells, repairs damaged ones and strengthens collagen.  Doctors recommend seven to eight hours of sleep each night for maximum performance during the day.  In addition to under-eye bags – the tell-all sign that you’ve been up all night – lack of sleep can cause skin to appear dull, puffy and wrinkled.

Sleep on your back

In a perfect world, we would get our beauty sleep every night.  However, in today’s fast-paced world, eight hours of sleep each night, every night is not always possible, therefore, it’s important to make the best of the time we do have to rest.  We are up and about at least 12 hours a day, and gravity can take its toll.  Sleeping on your back instead of stomach promotes circulation, and reduces wrinkles since your face is not buried in a pillow.

Limit Your Stress Level

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but not all stress is bad.  There are two kinds of stress: eustress and distress.  Eustress keeps us energized about life and stems from exciting events such as starting a new job, getting married or simply getting on a roller coaster ride.  Unfortunately, most of us are more familiar with distress (negative stress) which can weaken our immune system and cause hormonal changes that result in pimple breakouts.  Participating in stress-reducing activities such as exercise, spending time in nature and yoga is key in balancing eustress and distress.

Doing your best to implement these tips to prevent skin aging and overall health will keep you looking your best for years to come.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare and anti-aging, you can also link to http://www.bestskincareforme.com

You may have seen an infomercial on television or come across an ad on the internet that claims their product will completely diminish your wrinkles. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If a product really had the capability to get rid of deep wrinkles 100%, you would hear it all over the news and it would probably be on Oprah.

This is not to say that absolutely no wrinkle treatment will ever work. You just need to remember that there is no magic treatment. The best way to have great skin is by preventing. Protect your skin from the sun and take care of it both inside and out. Think about it, what if you had put on SPF 30 sunblock every 2 hours everyday of your life since the day you were born? You would probably look years younger and possibly have not a wrinkle in site!

Now I’m sure you haven’t put on that much sunblock. Chances are since you’re reading this article, you already have wrinkles and aging skin and you are looking for something to help get rid of them. You want to know, do facial wrinkle treatments really work? Some treatments work, some don’t. Some treatments do what they say, some don’t. You want to find the treatments that don’t promise the world and that deliver.

Next to daily SPF, the next best thing you can do for your wrinkles is moisturize. You should use a moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or higher in the morning and use a night cream in the evening. Another important way to keep your skin hydrated is by drinking enough water. You hear it time and again to drink enough water because it’s important and helps so many things.

In addition to washing and moisturizing your face, you can add an occasional peel. A peel removes the dead skins cells from your face and a layer of skin to reveal your most beautiful skin possible. It will give you a glow if you have a quality product. If a peel seems too expensive or harsh, you could use a facial scrub, but you won’t get the same effect. If anything, I would suggest a less frequent peel supplemented by scrubs. Also, don’t go crazy with peels because they are abrasive.

Finally, there are all the “Anti-Aging” products. You can find lotions, serums, toners, and just about anything that claims to diminish wrinkles. Some products work for some people and not others. You really need to do some of your own experimenting. If you have dry skin look for a nice moisturizing anti-aging lotion. Stay away from things you know you are allergic to and keep an eye on ingredients that don’t work before buying another product. Give every product at least a week or two, unless you are reacting badly to it, before you give it up and move on. It takes some time for most products to produce results.

Spending a bomb to buy a facial product with claims of having all natural ingredients for beautiful skin and having drastic results on its usage is very depressing for any beauty conscious woman. We see wide varieties of cosmetics available in supermarkets, department stores, health food stores as well as internet and TV.

Not everybody has the same skin type. What product works on your friend’s skin, might not work for you and vice versa. If you buy a product for your skin type, it could have adverse effect as there could be some chemical or ingredient which could cause a reaction on your skin. Moral of the story – “Not all cosmetic products work well for everyone’s skin”.

Cosmetics labeled as having “natural ingredients” do contain some amount of artificial chemicals or elements. With over priced cosmetics made from natural ingredients, many people have started preparing beauty products at home. Making a facial mask at home with all the ingredients available in the kitchen is quite easy and inexpensive.

– Create a salon like atmosphere while doing a facial at home. Ideally they tie your hair in high ponytail or make you wear a band around head. Choose to do what ever you feel comfortable about.

– Start by splashing tepid water all over your face. Massage your face gently with water. Repeat it twice or thrice and let your face air dry.

– While your face is still damp, massage vitamin E on your face. Let your face soak the oil for 5 minutes or so. Use a mild soap to remove the oil from your face.

– Again splash your face with water at room temperate. Repeat it for 2 or 3 times. Avoid towel drying your face.

– Next make your facial mask. Blend 1 egg white or fresh Aloe Vera juice of same quantity, 2 tsp vegetable oil and 1 tsp pure apple juice in a clean bowl.

– Dip your hands in the facial mask and apply the mask to your skin. Start with your chin, move upwards and then outwards skipping the area around the eyes and lips.

– Now you have to just sit back and relax. Cover your eyes with wet cotton balls or cucumber pieces. The mask has to dry completely. An ideal time for a small nap.

– Mask takes anywhere from 20 – 30 minutes to dry. You feel your skin tightened when the mask is dry. Splash water all over face and gently remove the mask with light massage strokes on your face. Continue doing this till your face is cleared of the entire home made facial mask. Let your face air dry.

Use this home made facial mask once or twice a week or depending up on the time you have on hand. You will feel fresh and have much younger looking face all the time.

Because of sun and weather exposure, years of minor scrapes and cuts, and for some, constant exposure to water and detergents, our hands sometimes age faster than other parts of our bodies, and detract from our appearance. Fortunately is it now possible to rejuvenate the hands, restoring their appearance and sometimes also improving the thickness and health of the skin on the backs of the hands.

Fun loving, hard working hands don’t get the sun protection they need. The backs of the hands are sometimes overlooked when sunscreen is applied – or the sunscreen is washed off or accidentally wiped away. Gardening gloves, golf gloves, bike gloves work gloves can help to protect our hands from sun and from trauma.

Daily moisturizing your hands is critical to keep your skin supple and prevent dryness and cracking. Wearing gloves and moisturizing in the cold weather helps protect your hands from chapping and cracking.

For some people, dry cracked hands are a chronic condition called contact dermatitis, or hand eczema. Often caused by your daily routine, one which involves constantly having wet hands (i.e. hairdresser, surgeon, homemaker), this condition results in red, scaly, and very itchy hands. If you suspect your have this, read more at http://www.eczemaguide.ca/basics/eczema_like/hand_eczema_hand_dermatitis.html

There are some solutions to rejuvenating the look and feel of your hands:

• There are numerous special hand creams available, more being introduced almost every week! Creams with vitamins A, C, E and alpha hydroxyl acids are key ingredients which can help prevent and restore your youthful looking hands.
• Restisol-A® 0.01% cream contains tretinoin (which prevents and corrects some aspects of sun damage) and also has an SPF 15 sunscreen. When Retisol-A cream is applied to exposed areas like the face and the backs of the hands EVERY morning – year after year – the aging process is slowed down, and sometimes after a year or two the skin will actually start to look and feel younger and healthier.
• Sunscreens which have the ability to stick to the skin (for example, Anthelios-45® Waterproof Sunscreen) can be very helpful on active parts of the body like the hands, and can also act as a moisturizer. The sunscreen should be applied before sun exposure, even if you are using Retisol-A as a base coat for your skin every morning.

When the skin on the back of the hands has become old looking and freckled – and sometimes also thinned out – it is possible to correct these problems and give your hands a fresh, more youthful look:

• Brown spots (sometimes called freckles, “age spots” or “liver spots”) can be faded using fading creams and also by using the Medlite C6 laser. Treatments take only a few minutes, are well tolerated, and great improvement is usually obvious within a couple of weeks.
• Thin skin on the backs of the hands can be quickly improved by treatment with Restylane™. This not only improves the appearance of the hands by making veins and bones less obvious, but also restores the fullness found in youthful skin and gives some protection against bumps and bruises. The benefits of a single treatment can be seen immediately and often last 6-12 months, sometimes longer.
• In some cases Artecoll™ can also be used to improve the thickness of the skin on the backs of the hands. Artecoll™ costs more to use, and several treatment sessions 2-4 months apart may be required, but Artecoll™ has the advantage of producing an improvement which can last for many years.

Like most things, prevention is your best solution. Keep your hands beautiful by remembering to moisturize, use a sunblock and protect your hands from exposure – the same way you look after your face. For more information on cleansers, moisturizers, sunscreens, and general skincare, go to SkinCareGuide.ca.

About the author:
Dr. Kevin Smith is a dermatologist in Niagara Falls, Ontario with a particular interest in protecting the skin and in correcting skin problems resulting from aging, rosacea and sun damage. He is an expert in the use of Botox®, fillers, lasers and intense pulsed light to maintain and enhance the appearance of the skin, and have lectured on those subjects across North America, and in Europe, Asia and Mexico. Read more at www.smithlaser.com

Most cleansers, makeup, and other beauty products are full of harsh synthetic chemicals that may be harmful to skin. Natural solutions for healthy skin care are better for you, support a cleaner environment and natural techniques work at least as well.

Essential oils are some of nature’s best helpers in almost every aspect of health. Many times more potent than dried herbs, essential oils contain all the healing properties of a plant in a very concentrated form. For this reason, they are best used in tiny amounts and are often diluted for skin care.

Sea salt is the world’s most mineral-rich exfoliant. The minerals in sea water are known to nourish and heal skin. The same minerals can be found in unprocessed, mineral-rich sea salt, and the coarseness of salt makes it a perfect exfoliant. Try the following whole-body sea salt scrub.

– 1 Cup Sea Salt

– 2 Tablespoons Apricot or Almond Oil

– 5-6 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil

1. Put salt in a bowl and add the oils.

2. Mix well.

3. Store in covered container until ready to use.

This recipe is best used in the shower after washing. Rub a small handful of the salt scrub all over your body in brisk circular motions. Afterwards, use a moisturizing anti aging skin care product.

Fatty oils restore skin’s moisture and flexibility. Part of the benefit of the salt scrub recipe is the apricot or almond oil it contains, which leaves a nice glow and moisture in the skin.

Using an oil cleansing method, surprisingly, is a simple and effective way to clean your face. Using olive oil, castor oil, and hot water leaves a lasting glow. Fatty vegetable oils can be used as moisturizers, makeup remover, cleansers if you want to stay all natural.

“I never paid much attention to my skin because I never had any skin problems. I never bothered with skin care products because I didn’t need to. Now I’m seeing wrinkles and spots forming, I guess it’s just too late to anything about it.” If this sounds like you, you may want to keep reading.Never fear, because there is still much that you can do to help your skin. If you are lost in sea of product choices, you can still be assured cosmetic dermatology can offer many alternative treatments.

Not surprisingly, many adults rarely consult a dermatologist that is until AFTER the signs of aging have appeared. Wrinkles, of course, are the chief complaint. Your skin may feel rough to the touch, and even sore, especially in drying environmental conditions such as on an airplane or in a low-humidity environment like the desert or high-altitude cities. In the winter, when indoor heating is used, your skin gets even more dehydrated, making the wrinkles look worse. Your skin may catch on rough clothing. You may also notice wrinkles on your neck or others parts of your body.

Those who have never had skin issues or were blessed to even have beautiful skin for most of the lives, are now desperate to address the skin wrinkles and many run to the dermatologist feeling a lot of regret. Although genes certainly play a role in one’s skin condition, decades of neglect, or even mistreatment of their skin is most frequently the source of their skin problems. Many say that if they knew then what they know now, they would have done things very differently and taken better care of their skin.
There are numerous explanations for unhealthy skin but the main causes tend to be an unhealthy diet, an ineffectual cleansing routine, and poor lifestyle choices.

Poor Diet
Your skin is a living, breathing organ of the body and it needs proper nourishment and hydration to look and feel its best. When your skin is deprived of the necessary vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that it needs it is unable to functional at optimal levels and the structure slowly begins to break down. This breakdown results in dry skin, blemishes, discoloration, wrinkles, and premature ageing.

In order to avoid this breakdown you need to feed your skin a varied mix of important nutrients each day. Ingesting sufficient amounts of vitamin A, a nutrient that can be found in citrus fruits and orange vegetables, can help you avoid dry skin and blemishes. Eating foods rich in the vitamin B group like brewer’s yeast or breads, or taking a vitamin B group supplement, can help you ward of skin discoloration, dry skin, dermatitis, shallow skin, and premature ageing.

To help discourage wrinkles, pale skin, sun damage, blemishes, and other unhealthy skin symptoms, nutrients like calcium, protein, iodine, niacin, folic acid, iron, and copper are very important to a healthy diet. Get these effective skin helpers by enjoying foods like mild, eggs, cheese, chicken, fish, leafy vegetables, fruits, and grains.

Poor Hygiene
Another common cause of unhealthy skin is poor hygiene. Whether this involves the failure to clean your skin often enough or the use of an ineffective cleansing routine, built-up dirt and grime can lead to blemishes, premature ageing, shallowness, dry skin, and wrinkles.

When your skin is not properly cleaned on a regular basis, dirt, pollution and other harmful substances are allowed to build up on your skin and clog the pores. Clogged pores result in breakouts, dry skin, and the reduction of cell renewal.

To get the most out of your cleansing routine make sure that you wash your skin twice a day, everyday. Also, make sure that you are using an effective cleanser like a soap that is specially formulated for deep cleansing. Make sure that you use gentle pressure when cleaning the skin, do not scrub or pull on the skin since this can result in tiny tears that are susceptible to irritation and infection. Finally, always follow your cleansing routine with a hydrating moisturizer that also contains a sunscreen in order to hydrate your skin and protect it from sun damage.

Bad Lifestyle Habits
Even if you enjoy a healthy diet and pay special attention to your skin care regime you can still be sabotaging the health of your skin by indulging in unhealthy habits. Habits like sun tanning, smoking, choosing fizzy drinks or sodas over water, and wearing heavy makeup can lead to the development of unhealthy skin. Avoid excessive sun exposure, always wear sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15, stop smoking and avoid those who smoke, drink plenty of water, and choose light cosmetics if you want your skin to stay young and healthy looking for years to come.