Thursday

Copy Celebs Smoldering Eyes

To copy the smoldering eyes of celebrities on the red carpet, stay away from blue hues -- which can make you look like you have under eye circles. Instead, go for black, gray, brown or if you want "color," use dark green shadows and liners. Then, follow these steps:

1. Apply a cream concealer over your eyelid to create a smooth base for your eye shadow.

2. Use a pencil liner (black or gray looks best) to trace your top lash line from the inner corner to the outer. Then, use the same pencil to dot between your lower lashes. Smudge both lash lines with a cotton swab or an eyeliner brush.

3. Sweep powder shadow (brown, gray and dark green all work with black or gray liner) over your lid and into your crease, blending the color up and outward.

TIP: To prevent color from fading and give your lids a more shimmery finish, pat a cream shadow over the concealer on your lid first, wait five minutes, then top with a matching powder shadow.

4. Dust a lighter, neutral eye shadow (such as ivory) over just your brow bone.

5. Finish with two coats of black mascara.

Wednesday

9 Key Elements Make It Work - Guaranteed

It's a fact: More than 90% of the visible signs of aging can be avoided and people are looking for a way to regain 100% of their youthful beauty and feel great. That's why Arbonne went beyond the "basics" back in 1998 with the introduction of NutriMinC® RE9, a ground-breaking, U.S. and Swiss Patent-pending skin care system including 9 REsult-oriented elements to combat the visual signs of aging.

Listed below are the 9 key elements your skin needs to regain the youthful appearance that you once had:


1. Bio-Hydria Complex: Proprietary blend of seven plan nutrients that soften and condition skin:
• Comfrey Root Extract skin-softening agents
• Cucumber Extract cooling, soothing, astringent properties
• Birch Leaf Extract cooling, soothing, astringent properties
• Watercress Extract stimulating effects
• Clover Blossom Extract soothing abilities
• Gingeng Extract conditioning properties
• St. John s Wort (Hypericum) normalizing effects

2. Nanospheres: Infused with free radical fighting antioxidant vitamins, penetrate deep into the skin to protect, condition and adjust to skins specific needs.

3. Vitamin C, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate: A biologically-active form of vitamin C promotes collagen, elastin and ground substance (the strength and elasticity of the skin).

4. Elhibin & Stimu-Tex: Elhibin, a revolutionary, plant-derived skin protectant, contributes to skin’s elasticity, softness and smoothness.
Stimu-Tex, a unique, plant-derived skin moisturizer, helps to improve the appearance of the skin’s epidermal lipid layer, minimizing water loss and helping skin metabolism.

5. Alpha Lipoic Acid: A powerful antioxidant that penetrates skin quickly and absorbs into the skins cells to increase cell metabolism.

6. Kojic Acid: A highly effective, natural skin lightening agent that reduces the appearance of long-term sun and environmental damage.

7. Copper: Visibly smoothes, softens and firms skin. Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines while promoting younger looking skin.

8. Alpha & Beta Hydroxy Acids: Activate healthy cells while diminishing the appearance of the fine lines and wrinkles.

9. Peptides: Improve the skin roughness and lessen the appearance of wrinkle volume and wrinkle depth.

Using a product with all 9 of these key elements, you can enjoy:
• 117% Increase in Collagen type I
• 327% Increase in Collagen type IV
• 287% Increase in Glycosaminoglycans
• Over 6 months of use ,the mean surface area occupied by deep wrinkles can be reduced by 68% and mean wrinkle density by 46%

How To Apply Blush


Apply blush to your face to resemble the natural glow of your cheeks and watch the compliments flow in! A hint of blush.. and you can look fresher and prettier. The trick lies in choosing the right blush color and learning how to apply blush correctly. However, blush often remains the most misused makeup cosmetic. When it comes to applying your blush, remember that less is best.


Determine your face shape before applying blush. Do you have high cheekbones? Concentrate blush on the center of the face. Do you have a rounder, more full face? You would look good with dusty pink or rose blush at the outside of the face near the hairline.

Blush warms with the heat of the body to a more intense hue, which is one reason to apply it very sparingly.

  1. Throw away the brush that comes in the compact -- it’s too stiff, too small, and the bristles are not shaped correctly to create a natural look. Use a good brush for your blush. Find a quality blush brush that is the size of the apple of your cheek for perfect application. A full round brush can give a professional look to your blush makeup. A bigger brush gives better results – one with a dome-shaped head and generous fibers. Also remember that you should not use the same brush to apply powder that you use to apply your blush.
  2. Grin like a happy fool into the mirror. This will allow you to see where the apple of your cheek appears.
  3. Dip your blush brush into the powder and always shake off the excess before applying it to your face. Brush it lightly over the apply of the cheek, moving toward the ear with short, up-and-down vertical movements.
  4. Blend the blush in with one soft horizontal stroke on top of the vertical strokes, and blot a tissue on top to remove the excess, or lightly cover with powder. There shouldn’t be an obvious patch or line of color on the cheeks. Sweep powder blushes in one direction only.
    If you are feel particularly washed out, you can brush a light stroke of blush across your forehead up by your hairline or just above the brows where the sun would hit your face…. But be careful not to overdo it!
  5. Be sure to do the ‘blush test’. When you are done with applying your makeup, stand back, look in the mirror. Check to see if your face is ‘balanced’. You should have on just enough blush to make you look as though you are blushing… hence the term ‘blush’. If you have on any more than that you need to tone it down.
  6. To soften blush, apply some powder over your blush. In the evening, you have a little more liberty… so you can go a bit heavier according to the look you wish to achieve.

Blushers are available in powder, cream or liquid and in a wide variety of tones. Liquid and cream blush should be applied before powder. Powder blushes are easier to apply than cream blushes. Cream blushes must be dabbed on each cheek and gently blended with the fingers. You can use a sponge to smooth it out.

Dry Skin: Cream blushes work best
Oily Skin: Consider using a powder blush; however, liquid and gel are also great.
Rosier Cheeks: Consider gel or liquid tints

Remember to blend quickly!

Tuesday

Summer Essentials

Sun Days

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whenever possible, limit your exposure to the sun during these hours.

Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen

Always use sunscreen — with an SPF of 15, at least — on all exposed skin 15 minutes before sun exposure. Re-apply every two hours, and after swimming or perspiring.

Extra Protection

Hats with wide brims offer great protection for your face, ears and the back of your neck.

Lose Your Shadow

Not all shade structures (umbrellas, trees, etc.) offer complete protection from the sun. If you can see your shadow, you’re not in the shade!


Lip Saver

Lips can get sunburned too! Be sure to apply a Lip Saver, SPF 30 to avoid burning and chapping.

Monday

What is Rosacea?

What is Rosacea and Are There Any Rosacea Treatments?


Rosacea (pronounced "roh-ZAY-sha") is a condition of the skin often referred to as adult acne (although it shouldn't be confused with acne) that causes red blemishes to form on the nose and cheek area. Rosacea is a condition that afflicts millions of Americans alone, and usually manifests between the ages of 30 to 40. The condition, unfortunately, often worsens with time. Rosacea is a common skin condition characterized by redness, pimples, and broken blood vessels. Rosacea is not 'picky' about its victims. Both men and women have been diagnosed with it; however, the condition is usually worse in men because men generally wait a long time before seeking treatment for the condition.


General redness, broken and enlarged capillaries often accompany these areas. The cause of the condition is unknown but it is suspected that genetics play a role. In its mildest form, Rosacea can be difficult to recognize. In some cases, Rosacea may also occur on the neck, chest, scalp or ears. Over time, the redness tends to become ruddier and more persistent, and visible blood vessels may appear. Left untreated, bumps and pimples often develop, and in severe cases the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excess tissue.


Sometimes, oily skin accompanies Rosacea. Flare-ups of this condition have been associated with the consumption of alcohol, spicy foods, citrus, hot beverages, tobacco, external heat and sun exposure. People with Rosacea should avoid these irritating factors. Menopause may also be a factor.


Rosacea, in short, is a skin disorder that can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, embarrassment, and lower self-esteem. It is no wonder that so many people are looking for possible Rosacea cures and potential Rosacea treatments. It should be noted that fair skinned people, such as those of Celtic, Irish, and Scandinavian origin are particularly susceptible. The cause of Rosacea is still unknown, but most experts believe it could be a bodily response to bacteria. Oral antibiotics are often prescribed, not as Rosacea cures, but as Rosacea treatments.


Unfortunately, there are no proven Rosacea cures yet. However, there are various Rosacea treatments that you might want to investigate; these will require seeking the advice of your physician, dermatologist, or a skin care consultant. Oral antibiotics are often prescribed, not as Rosacea cures, but as Rosacea treatments. Among the most popular are tetracycline and erythromycin. These will help more with the acne-like flare ups associated with Rosacea, but less helpful for the ruddy complexion and conspicuous blood vessels.


As well as antibiotics, there are also some prescription topical medications that are often prescribed for Rosacea treatments. One of the most popular of these is Metronidazole, which is an antibiotic cream. These topical Rosacea treatments can help more with the redness of the condition. Again, they are not Rosacea cures, and they may have side effects.

Some of the Rosacea treatments for the embarrassingly conspicuous blood vessels include having laser therapy or electro surgery performed. All available Rosacea treatments should be addressed with your doctor as some can have serious side effects.


Although hardly constituting Rosacea cures, what follows are some lifestyle tips and suggestions for those with this condition:


1. Sunlight can exacerbate Rosacea, so use sunscreen, or wear clothing that limits your sun exposure (such as a hat). Also, try to cut back on activities that put you in direct sunlight for long periods of time.

2. Stress can aggravate Rosacea as well. Try to make time for meditation or other relaxation techniques everyday. Yes, this may be difficult for some, but at least try to relax!

3. Hot weather, hot water, and hot, spicy foods can all make the condition worse. Keep cool!

4. Alcohol can cause flushing of the skin, which makes the visible signs of your Rosacea more noticeable.

5. Profuse sweating and flushing from exercise can worsen the condition.

6. Use a very gentle cleanser without harsh chemicals.


Although the items listed above are not Rosacea cures, they should help you control your condition's severity. Unless directed otherwise by a physician, some specific over-the-counter skin care products may help to ease the discomfort and negative effects of Rosacea. Make sure they are mild and contain no harsh chemicals that may further irritate your skin. An example is Arbonne's Baby Care product line. This is a very gentle, botanically-based product line without harsh chemicals and with soothing properties that has been proven to be very effective for reducing redness and swelling for people of any age with Rosacea.

What is Eczema?

Eczema ... also known as atopic dermatitis ... is a rough, red, patchy rash that is usually associated with extremely dry skin. Often it forms large infected patches on the fronts of elbows and the backs of the knees. These patches are extremely itchy, which If scratched could make the infected area worse.

Many experience hand Eczema ... scaly, split, bleeding dry hands. It's not contagious but does seem to run in families. In certain cases Eczema can be the result of an allergic reaction occurring on the skin. The cause of Eczema is not known, but aggravating factors include hands that are in frequent contact with soap and water, harsh household products and vegetable juices, such as potato and onion juices.

Diet Myths Revealed

Say goodbye to strict diets, enjoy a midnight snack, visit your favorite not-so-healthy restaurant ... and if you save enough room,order dessert! You read right! Now read on to find out how a significant number of dieting "don'ts" are myths, which have become accepted over time. Learn health facts versus fiction by reading about six typical diet myths listed below, along with matter-of-fact ways to approach them.

Myth 1: Eating late at night will cause you to gain weight.

Fact: Whether you eat first thing in the morning or right before you go to sleep, your body turns excess calories into fat. Plan to eat what calories your body can burn off naturally throughout the day.

Myth 2: A strict diet will work better than a flexible one.

Fact: A rigid diet can make you feel deprived, tired and unmotivated. Maximize your weight loss potential with a diet that features an adjustable meal plan, nutritious and beneficial products, and useful dieting tools.


Myth 3: When dieting, avoid all less-than-healthy foods.

Fact: Celebrating your weight loss progress with one of your favorite treats is a great form of motivation. Discipline is key to reaching your dream figure, so it's okay to indulge with a treat on occasion.

Myth 4: Skipping meals will help you lose weight.

Fact: Skipping meals can backfire. When your metabolism plummets,hunger pangs can occur and prompt overeating. Take a healthy approach instead: Keep your metabolism going strong by eating regularly.

Myth 5: You'll lose weight faster by cutting out certain foods,like carbs, fats and dairy products.

Fact: Our body benefits from all types of food, such as fats, dairy and carbohydrates. Talk to your primary care physician before making any changes to your diet.

Prevention and Protection Are Key to a Youthful Appearance

Let's get one thing out of the way right now. You are beautiful. No doubt about it. But, what you may not know is that almost all of the skin care products that you have used to help you look younger and more beautiful today may not keep your skin beautiful as your age increases. And to make matters worse, most of the skin care products on the market today contain a lot of additives and preservatives that, quite frankly, I wouldn’t want in my own backyard, much less sealed up tightly in a pretty bottle or cute jar on my bathroom counter.

I know that you put forth your best effort to present yourself to the world and to look & feel your best. To do this, you are probably buying cosmetics, lotions and skin care products from only the best department stores or that have the most attractive packaging. Maybe you purchase products that are the most expensive because that means they contain only the best ingredients. That is not always true. .... During my research, I have found that prevention and protection are key to a youthful appearance. You need a comprehensive skin care approach that addresses both of the aging factors: Intrinsic Aging and Actinic Aging.

OK, so just what is Intrinsic and Actinic aging?


Intrinsic Aging: 10% of our aging process: In our mid-20s, the natural aging process beings. This is also know as Intrinsic aging and it is genetic, not much we can do about that. It is a continuous process that causes collagen production to slow down, and causes the elastin (the substance that enables skin to snap back into place) to have a little less ‘spring’. Our skin’s ability to reproduce collagen and elastin slows down 65% between the ages of 20 and 80. Our skin begins to thin at a rate of 6% every 10 years. As we age, our skin’s ability to hold moisture declines, and our skin become dehydrated. Our dead skin cells do not shed as quickly as before, and the turnover of new skin cells may decrease slightly. While these changes usually begin in our 20s, the signs of intrinsic aging are typically not visible for decades.

Actinic Aging: 90% of the visible signs of aging: Actinic aging is caused by years of skin exposure to UVA and UVB rays. That's right... sun damage. For those of you that like to play golf, outdoor sports, relax on the beach or by the pool, or even in a tanning bed need to be careful! Some of the typical changes that occur due to Actinic aging are that our skin starts to look leathery and thick and will have irregular pigmentation. Blood vessels may be visible on the surface of your skin, and deep furrows develop in the skin- in addition to wrinkles. Years of Actinic aging, starting from childhood, is responsible for up to 90% of the unwanted characteristics of aging skin.

By the time you have reached adulthood, you have had decades of exposure to free radicals that destroy cells. You’ve been exposed to UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the sun’s silent killers. You don’t feel them, but they are the primary cause of skin cancer and wrinkles. Did you know that UVA rays penetrate through clear glass windows that do not have a UV coating? UVA rays also destroy collagen and elastin, which creates sagging.

UVB rays have an immediate, harmful impact on your skin. Damage from UVB rays takes place within the very first minute of walking outside. These rays are those that cause your skin to ‘burn’, and with that you increase your risk for skin cancer.

Don’t get too freaked out. The good news is that only 10% of how you age is directly related to your genes. The other 90% is due to how many free radicals you’ve been exposed to that destroy your skin.

Using the right products, with the right ingredients, can reverse the signs of aging. Some products have 3 of these ingredients and some have maybe 1 or 2 of them, or none at all. First, you need a skin care product that doesn't contain mineral oil, so that the ingredients can actually get below the surface of the skin and rebuild the damage you've been exposed to. Secondly, look for products with a combination of Vitamin C, Copper, Elhibin & Stimu-Tex, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Kojic Acid and Peptides (to name a few).

When choosing any product that you are going to put on your skin, remember that the skin absorbs everything very quickly. Many products on the market today contain harmful chemicals and other ingredients that can cause additional skin problems. Anything that you put on your skin will be absorbed into your bloodstream. Your skin is your body's largest organ and needs all the TLC it can get!