DIY BROWN SUGAR SCRUB

Photo Credit: Carlos Saqiid

Ingredients:

* 1/2 cup of Turbinado Sugar
* 1 tbl of Almond Oil (or grapeseed oil, sesame oil, coconut oil)
* 8-10 drops of Rose Oil (or your favorite essential oil)

Mix ingredients together and place in a glass jar.  Store in a cool dark place.  Stand in your shower.  Before wetting your skin, massage scrub dry onto your body.  For best results use twice weekly.

While Sephora's store shelves are stocked with many different brands of brown sugar body scrub, some which we absolutely love like Fresh Brown Sugar Body Polish and Archipelago Brown Sugar Scrub, it is really quite simple to make your own.  It only requires three ingredients, a glass jar and five minutes of your time.

Sugar may ruin your teeth, but it has many great benefits for your skin. First of all, sugar is hydrating.  It is a natural humectant, which means that it will draw moisture from the environment into your skin.  Secondly, sugar is an excellent exfoliant as it is a natural source of glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) which dissolves dead surface skin cells to help reveal healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

Lastly, sugar can be more beneficial for your skin than salt as it is gentler.  Salt is too harsh, it can cause microscopic tears in the skin and can actually strip the skin of natural oils causing dryness.

When choosing a type of sugar for your body scrub, be sure to use turbinado sugar because it is naturally coarser than granulated brown sugar providing a more thorough exfoliation.

You're So Sensitive

It occurred to me just the other day while at work that 3 out of the 4 women who were seeing me for the first time began a discussion about their skin with the ever so popular statement, "I have very sensitive skin." Emphasis on "VERY."

Well the truth is, most people have sensitive skin to one degree or another. In spite of your skin type- normal, oily, combination, dry; ethnicity; or age, everyone may experience skin irritation. The skin can react to a variety of things such as weather conditions, hormonal changes, sun exposure and skincare products. Often times the skin may suffer an allergic response like itching, swelling, small bumps or hives caused by irritating cosmetic ingredients, animal hair, dust, pollen or mold. 


Just think about the number of cosmetic and skin care products that we use on any given day. It's a safe bet that the average woman uses about 10 different skincare, makeup and hair products per day with each one containing at least twenty different ingredients; chemically-produced ingredients that are likely synthetic and no doubt harmful to not only the skin, but our overall well-being. In keeping all of that in mind, it is only natural that most of us will experience some sort of skin irritation almost daily. And we wonder why we're so sensitive to everything. Well, for most of us, the answer resides within our bathroom cabinets.

We all have the potential to develop sensitive skin. Therefore, everyone should be sure to treat their skin with the utmost care. Be kind to your skin. Choose products that are absent of synthetic fragrances and other irritating ingredients including- parabens, sulfates, propylene glycol and mica. Remember that less is more. A product will not be any more effective if you use it more than what the directions call for. Your bath towels and bed linens have the potential to harbor bacteria so be sure to change them frequently. Also, be sure to wash your makeup brushes weekly.

Don't fear facials. Instead view them as an opportunity to revive the skin. Let the therapist know that your skin is easy to react to products. Be prepared to inform her about products that you currently use and products that have irritated your skin in the past. Also, tell her about any medications that you are currently on, as they too may be the cause of skin irritability. This way she has a clue about what to use and what to avoid. 

Our skin is our body's first line of defense against harmful elements. Protect it the way it protects you.

Neck Respect

The most delicate areas on our bodies, the skin of our necks, décolleté and bust, are also the most neglected areas of our bodies. “Due to lack of care and protection, they’re usually the first areas to start sagging and developing age spots,” says Louise Peck, Ph.D. and founder of HydroPeptide in a recent article entitled, "Neck Deep" featured in DaySpa Magazine (Oct. 2010). “The skin on the neck is thin, has virtually no subcutaneous fat, is prone to loss of moisture and circulates blood poorly,” said Peck.

The skin on our necks, décolleté and bust should be treated with the same amount of care that is given to our faces. Though the skin on our bodies tend to differ slightly from that of our faces; the neck, bust and décolleté skin is more fragile. They must be cleansed twice daily, moisturized and protected with SPF 30. Since aging of the skin is connected with a loss of moisture, use products that are extremely hydrating. It's actually best to use products that are formulated for the face. Hydrating serums, because they penetrate deeper, work great. Simply expand your product application to these areas. In an effort to defy gravitation, it's best to apply products in an upward, outward direction.


Show Your Neck Some Respect

Look for products, foods or supplements that contain these ingredients:

• Essential oils containing vitamin F including grapeseed and evening primrose oil, which increases fatty acids providing greater moisture.
• Nut/Seed oils such as walnut, sunflower and flaxseed.
• Green tea provides antioxidant protection and increases circulation.
• Lactic acid gently exfoliates and reduces melanin production.
• Vitamin A promotes cell turnover.
• Vitamin C provides antioxidant protection and helps even skin tone.

What are these bumps on the back of my arms?

What are these tiny hard bumps on the back of my arms?  I hear this question almost daily from my clients. After a brief inspection, my usual response is, "It looks like Keratosis Pilaris."

Keratosis Pilaris (KP) is a common skin disorder seen in many people of all ages. It usually appears as numerous small, rough, red, or flesh tone bumps on the back of the upper arms, legs, buttocks, and sometimes cheeks. It is also known as "chicken skin" mimicking the bumpy flesh of a chicken. Aside from it not being very attractive, it is a harmless condition that is not contagious.

Though anyone can get KP, it is most commonly found on adolescents. Also, females may be more frequently affected than males. The exact cause is unknown, but it may present itself as a genetic disorder as well as a condition of extremely dry skin. The problem may also have to do with the overproduction of keratin, a protein found in the upper layer of the skin, hair and nails. The bumps in KP seemingly occurs from an excessive accumulation of keratin at the opening of each hair follicle. It can improve with age, or will often become milder during the summer months. But, in general it is a condition that can see periodic highs and lows where at times it can appear to be worsening and at other times greatly improving. It can also persists in adults who are aged well into their 40s and 50s.

There is no known cure for KP. But, there are treatments available that can improve the appearance of it. Although there are a number of treatments that prove to be effective, be aware that not all treatments will work the same for everyone. KP will sometimes spontaneously disappear completely on its own without treatment. Some of my clients have had temporary improvement following a consistent skincare routine of using mild cleansers (avoid soap) and moisturizing the affected area frequently with creams or lotions.

The best results may be achieved with a combination of at-home treatments like using lubricating products (2-3 times daily) and gently exfoliating (2-3 times wkly); and professional treatments like monthly facials, chemical peels and microdermabrasion.

See below for a list of over-the-counter products that I recommend for at-home treatment of KP.

Non-Fragrant Cleansers

• Cetaphil
• Aveeno
• Vegetable Glycerin Moisturizing Bars
• Dr. Bronners Magic Soap (Unscented)

Moisturizers

• Lubriderm
• Curel
• Cetaphil
• Epicuren

Gentle Exfoliators

• Archipelago Sugar Scrub
• Fresh Brown Sugar Scrub
• Aromafloria Salt Glow Scrub

It's Time To Upgrade Your Moisturizer

As the days grow cooler and the humidity level decreases your skin may feel a bit dry. If this is the case for you, then it's time to upgrade your moisturizer. Swap out your lighter weight lotions for richer, more hydrating creams. Eminence Organic's has a great selection to choose from. Sweet Red Rose Whip Moisturizer is one of my faves. Better yet, for the month of October when you purchase this product $5 will be donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation.


Be sure to choose creams that are suitable for your skin type. And avoid using products that contain skin drying ingredients such as sodium laureth sulfate, parabens, and propylene glycol.


Tips to combat dry skin:

• Apply creams immediately after leaving the shower, locking in the skin's natural moisture.
• For chronically dry skin, find treatments that contain selenium, or alpha-hydroxy acid.
  
• Use pure coconut oil or avocado oil to moisturize extremely dry skin.
• Shower or bathe with warm water - not hot.
  
• Avoid prolonged exposure to strong wind, chlorine, and cold weather.
  
• Don’t soak in the tub too long. Pruned skin is a sign that the natural oils in your skin have begun to decrease.

Photo source: eminenceorganics.com

Custom Cleansing Facial

Custom Cleansing Facial for Julie.

Filmed by Vignette Experience

Q & A: Someone told me that stress causes acne. Is it true?

Q: I have been under a lot of stress lately. I struggled with a mild case of acne as a teenager, but haven't had any problems as an adult until now. I'm almost 30 years old with a face full of acne! Someone told me that stress causes acne. Is it true?

A: No, stress does not cause acne. It can, however, trigger acne in people who are prone to it. Studies have shown that high levels of stress can cause an increase in cortisol, a hormone released by the adrenal gland, which increases the production of sebum (oil) in the oil glands. Acne occurs when oil glands produce too much sebum resulting in pimples, cysts and blackheads.

Though stress may not be the cause of your acne, it certainly will continue to aggravate it unless you get it under control! Find ways to relieve your stress: meditate; take long walks; surround yourself with positive people who bring you peace. It's important not just for your skin; but, for your mental and physical wellbeing.

Custom Cleansing Facial

Are you doing what you love? I am. And it's a wonderful feeling.

The Ever Dreadful Dark Spot

Hyperpigmentation or dark spots and splotchy skin are often the results of either too much unprotected sun exposure or the ugly consequences of mindlessly picking away at annoying pimples. But for people with darker complexions, gradual changes in skin tone can occur at any time and can be extremely tough to treat.

The good news is there are treatments available that can offer visible improvement. Schedule time with your aesthetician to determine which ones will work for you.

The following ingredients can be effective in fading skin discoloration:

• Kojic Acid
  
• Hydroquinone
  
• Retinoic Acid

These ingredients can be found in high percentages in professional treatments and lower percentages in some over-the-counter products.

Other highly effective treatment options include:

• Chemical Peels
  
• Microdermabrasion (with an infusion of Kojic Acid solution)
  

Unfortunately, there is no cure for the ever dreadful dark spot. It can reoccur even after seeing improvement. Avoid over-exposure to the sun. Those of you who have a deeper skin tone and are prone to dark spots it is wise to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. And, for goodness sake ... stop picking at your skin!

My Skin Breaks Out After Waxing! Why?

www.tandhoneywax.com

There are two possible reasons why you may breakout after any waxing. When the hair is pulled out, the sebaceous or oil gland becomes overly stimulated and causes a pimple like reaction. Another reason is that if there is already bacteria present in the lower layers of the skin, the trauma to the skin can cause it to surface.

Most clients do not experience reactions beyond redness and minor irritation. Unfortunately, your skin therapist cannot predict or guarantee who may react, but provided below are a few guidelines to help minimize irritation and possible breakouts.

• Avoid the sun immediately after waxing and wear sun screen; recently waxed areas are prone to hyperpigmentation (permanent darkening of the skin) if exposed to the sun.
• Avoid heavy exercise for at least 24 hours after waxing.
• Do not use exfoliating products (AHAs, scrubs, etc) and loofahs for at least 24 hours after waxing as they will likely irritate your skin.
  
• Avoid tight clothing after waxing, especially in the waxed areas. Tight clothing may result in irritation and ingrown hairs.
  
• Routine waxing helps the skin get accustomed to the procedure and may minimize irritation.
• Unfortunately, no hot bath, hot shower or in the case of a Brazilian, sexual intercourse for 24-48 hours (I know ... bummer). While your pores are open, they are vulnerable to irritation by the extreme temperatures and infection by bacteria.

*These guidelines pertain to any type of waxing including: Back Waxing; Brazilian and Bikini Waxing; and Eyebrow, Lip and Chin Waxing.