Youth and Beauty Blog

Skin care refresher course

2009-06-17T08:03:00.001-07:00

When it comes to skin care, we have a wealth of information, products, and procedures at our fingertips. All of the options we are given can be overwhelming when it's time to select the right methods for our skin.

Whether you are in the market for anti aging, acne control, or just plain skin care, the best things you can do for your skin begin right in your own bathroom.

There are four basic rules you should always remember when it comes to good skin care.

1) Define your skin type. Press blotting paper onto your cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Oily skin will be oily all over; combination skin will be oily in the T-zone; dry skin will be tight; sensitive skin will look red.

2) Buy the basics. In the morning, counter sun with a lotion infused with antioxidants like vitamin C and green tea, plus a sunscreen. At night, fight fine lines and wrinkles with a lotion that has a retinoid or peptides.

3) Don't go overboard. Products designed to fight blemishes or wrinkles tend to be strong, which means piling them on may irritate skin. If you plan to apply a retinoid lotion at night, counter it with a mild cleanser.

4) Stick with it. Most antiaging products take at least three months to work, antioxidants require a couple of months, and bleaching creams about a month. Be patient- and diligent.

Remember, good skin care does not have to be overwhelming, expensive, or complicated. Begin with a simple, effective routine and home, then build on it by incorporating treatments from your dermatologist or esthetician.

Using sunscreen the right way

2009-06-17T07:54:00.001-07:00

Summer is here, and that means long days in the Treasure Valley sun. Soaking up the rays can be fun, but don't let them harm your skin. Here are ten things InStyle magazine tells us we should know about sun exposure and sun screen.

1. Choose a formula. Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection and an SPF of at least 15. iF you will be outside for a while, look for a product with physical blocks like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These create a better reflective barrier between skin and rays than chemical sunscreen alone.

2. Get a number. It also pays to understand the numbers: An SPF of 15 gives you 94 to 95 percent UVB coverage, while an SPF of 30 bumps up your protection to just 97 percent. Don't let a high number breed a false sense of security.

3. Give yourself time. Put on your sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before heading out the door so that the chemical ingredients have ample time to react with your skin and start working.

4. Reapply, reapply, reapply. Apply another coat after 20 minutes in the sun, then every two hours thereafter. These extra coats reduce UV exposure by 15 to 20 percent.

5. Get full coverage. It will take about a shot-glassful of sunscreen to cover you from head to toe. Apply clear formulas in particular in small, circular motions all over to make sure you don't miss a spot. A spray can help you cover har-to-reach areas.

6. Be safe. Bug repellant, body lotion and high temperatures are all potential saboteurs. And while you should use a water resistant formula if you'll be in and out of the pool, there's no need to take chances. Be safe and reapply after swimming, especially since toweling off can also remove sunscreen.

7. Are you sensitive? In the summer rethink your wrinkle-fighting regimen: Products with glycolic acis or retinol make skin photosensitive. Try a cream with kinetin instead.

8. Remember your eyes and lips. Don't forget a protective lip balm, since lips are also susceptible to sun damage. And if sunscreen bothers your eyes, try a designated eye cream with SPF 15 (it will contain fewer irritants).

9. Protect your face. Look for a smooth, comfortable formula that contains not only sunscreen but also hydrating ingredients. (this will save you a separate step of applying moisturizer in the morning.) Apply to a bare face, with makeup on top.

10. Tan safely. If you can't get over your hankering for a bronze, try sunscreen with self-tanner built in.

The best cardio for toning your arms

2009-06-10T07:33:00.001-07:00

Cardio burns fat all over, but the following forms of cardio will give an extra boost to your arms.

1. Swimming. The water cools you off but also provides full-body resistance you don’t encounter on land. Your arms are key for propelling you forward, so you’ll sculpt strong, sleek swimmer’s arms while burning as many as 680 calories an hour.

2. Cardio machines with moveable handles. Focus on pushing and pulling with every stride. Start by doing 1 minute with arms and 1 minute without, then gradually increase. If your machine doesn’t have handles, bend your elbows and pump your arms as though you’re power walking.

3. Rock Climbing. Grasping overhead handholds gives your upper body a fresh workout, and you can blast up to 750 calories an hour as you figure out the best route to the top. Find indoor climbing facilities nationwide at indoorclimbing.com.

4. Kickboxing Classes. Throwing punches and jabs is a great way to get your heart pumping and melt up to 680 calories an hour.

5. Canoeing or Kayaking. Paddling down a river is the perfect family adventure- and it burns up to about 500 calories an hour.

6. Walking with poles. Studies show it can boost your calorie burn by more than 20% without making your walk feel any harder. Find poles and more info at walkingpoles.com.

Add a little resistance training in a few times a week and you’ll have tank top worthy arms in no time.

Get a natural glow for summer

2009-06-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

A healthy, golden glow can restore youthfulness to our look, but baking in the sun is not the answer if anti-aging is on your list of concerns. Self-tanners are great, but must be used with cautioned. The goal is to look sun-kissed, not sun-baked. For a perfect summer glow, the following products get an A+.

For a Custom Tan

Try Physician’s Formula Bronze Booster Glow-boosting Loose Bronzing Veil. This bronzer has an adjustable dial, allowing you to control the depth of your tan.

For an Allover Tan

Try L’Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Luminous Bronzer Self-Tanning Lotion ($10, drugstores). This self-tanner provides a moisturizing, streak-free finish.

For Highlighted Cheekbones

Try Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess SunBlush Illuminator ($32, department stores). The pink and gold tones, when swooshed together, give you a flattering blush.

For Additional Hydration

Try Almay Smart Shade Bronzer ($9, drugstores). This rich, creamy formula glides on white, then transforms into your perfect personal hue.

For a Bargain

Try E.L.F. Allover color stick (eyeslipsface.com) on your eyes, lips or cheeks to add a hint of tint- at just $1, you’ll get serious bang for your buck.

Shrink your belly with foods that prevent or eliminate bloating

2009-06-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

Belly Bulge is a good way to zap your confidence; especially when it comes to summertime and swim suit season. While many people suffer from belly fat, some of you might simply suffer from “belly bloat”.

One of the worst culprits for this problem is a slow digestive system- a problem that commonly affects women, especially as we age.

According to Prevention magazine, recent research suggests that you can now get your digestion moving and beat the bloat with a few easy menu and lifestyle changes.

Put all of these ideas into effect now, and you will feel slimmer, sexier, and more confident in time to enjoy the entire summer.

Eat These:

Two kinds of fiber. Constipation distends your belly. One easy way to get rid of constipation is with a good breakfast cereal that guarantees your body a daily dose of fiber. This will get your digestive system within a day or so and help to keep it that way. The best breakfast cereals to do this job are cereals with both insoluble fiber (from bran) and gel-like soluble fiber (from psyllium). The types of fiber work together to pull water into your colon and speed up the elimination process.

Suggestion: Eat 1/3 cup of Kellogg’s All-Bran Buds every morning.

Potassium-Rich Foods. Foods such as bananas and potatoes help your body get rid of excess water weight, minimizing your middle. The extra fluid is typically present because the two main minerals that control the amount of water in your body- potassium and sodium- have gotten out of balance. If your sodium level is too high, your tissues hold on to fluid. You can restore this equilibrium by increasing potassium intake to about 4,700 mg per day. To achieve this, you need to consume about 4 ½ cups of produce daily, especially produce rich in potassium.

Be careful though. Food is a safe form of potassium but supplements are not. They can cause potassium to build up in your body and lead to abnormal heart rhythms and even heart attacks.

Suggestion: 1 medium baked potato with skin, 1 medium banana, 1 medium papaya, ½ cup steamed edamame, ½ cup tomato sauce, ½ cup cooked spinach, 1 medium orange.

Yogurt with Probiotics. Research published in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics shows than an imbalance of bacteria in your belly can cause your digestive system to slow down and your belly to puff up. But yogurts than contain live bacteria, or probiotics, can help reduce this.

Suggestion: A daily 4-ounce container of low-fat or fat-free yogurt containing live, active cultures.

More fluids. Drinking a sufficient amount of water supports the other ways you’re trying to flatten your belly. Aim for eight glasses of water each day plus fluid-rich foods like fruits and vegetables.

Suggestion: Tap water is an excellent option because it has no calories, salt, sugar, or additives. And it’s free!

Don’t eat these:

Sodium. Sodium makes you retain water which puffs up your belly. You should eat no more than 1500 mg of sodium each day.

Suggestion: Stop salting your food at the table. When cooking, try Mrs. Dash, which is sodium-free instead of salt. Be sure to check the sodium amount of the label of pre-packaged foods. These are usually high in sodium.

Candy, Soda, and Gum. When air from any source reaches your digestive system, you experience it as gas and a bloated belly. Eating or drinking quickly, sipping through a straw, sucking on hard candy, or chewing gum can make you swallow air.

Suggestion: Chew slowly with your mouth closed. Avoid all carbonated drinks. The fact that they are diet does not free your from a bloated belly!

Sugar Alcohols. Low-cal sweeteners (found in flavored waters, low-carb, diabetic, and sugar-free foods) are not completely digested. They are fermented by bacteria in the large intestine causing gas and diarrhea.

Suggestion: Check food labels to avoid these sugar alcohols. Common ones are sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, and lacitol.

Raw Produce. Fresh fruits and vegetables are healthy, but they’re also high-volume foods that take up room in your stomach, distending it.

Suggestion: Spread fresh produce consumption over the day, so at any sitting you’re not eating more than one-third of the recommended daily total of 4 ½ cups. You can also shrink product by cooking it.

NEVER run out of TAIslim

2009-04-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

Not a good idea. Somehow, my shipment didn't come in before I ran out (I guess I gave too many trials away) and now I feel lost. I guess the only way to truly appreciate how good the benefits really are is to go without it for a few days. I'm really looking forward to my next case. Until then, I'll be picking myself up off the floor every morning searching for some energy....

still going strong

2009-04-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know. I've been a slacker. Between spring break, traveling, and house guests, I have neglected to post my progress with TAIslim. But things are still going very well. In fact, after using the product for a month, I can officially say that I'm convinced. I feel more energetic, youthful, happier, and not to mention, I'm finally back into my size 2 jeans (without having to improvise the button with a ponytail holder.) I did notice that midway through the month I began wondering if it was definitely working. But TAIslim seems to be a steady way back to health. I feel like my eating habits have truly changed with the help of TAIslim.

I hope it's going well for all of you who are using it. I'll continue to keep you posted.

Taislim Days 8 &9

2009-03-16T17:27:00.000-07:00

Okay, I've been a slacker. My sister was in town so my computer got a little neglected this weekend. But I did make some mental notes of some TAIslim info I wanted to share with you.

1) TAIslim is much more effective when taken on an empty stomach. Make sure the TAIslim is the first thing you consume in the morning. You will feel the effects that much more... especially the appetite suppressant effects.

2) Take one ounce before dinner too. You will still sleep at night. I did feel a little restless the first two days, but it levels out on about day three. That one extra ouce before dinner helps to curb night time cravings.

3) Work out in the a.m. if possible. I have my biggest energy bursts in the morning, so my workouts are that much more effective.

4) Try doing high-intensity intervals to increase the burning of abdominal fat. The TAIslim gives you more energy allowing you to intesify your workouts. For example, run at 6.2 or higher for one minute, then walk at 4.0 for one minute. Do this for 20-30 minutes. You'll feel awesome afterwards. I increase my running speed by .2 every interval until I reach up to 8.0.

5) Include lots of fiber in your diet. I started the banana diet before I began drinking TAIslim. While I can no longer eat two bananas before each meal (I'm too full with TAIslim), I eat at least one banana or apple. The added fiber makes you TAIslim experience that much better. The claim with TAIslim is that you can eat whatever you want and still burn fat, but eating healthy just feels so good!

6) Always mix your TAIslim with water. While the drink can be taken alone, it tastes better with water. Besides, we need more water than we normally get anyway, and this will ensure you get your fill. Also, add some ice and will be refreshing!

I weighed myself at the gym this afternoon, and lost one additional pound. I didn't have much to lose in the first place so I'm getting pretty close to leveling off, but I still my midsection tightening up more each day. I just finished my period and my bloating and cramping were extremely minimal compared to normal-- a huge plus.

Taislim Day Seven

2009-03-12T21:33:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I guess I was a little hard on TAIslim and the whole "period cravings" last night. I was just so bummed, but my husband reminded me that I usually had cravings for about four days before my period. This time I only had them for four hours. And they've stopped.

This morning I drank TAIslim, and was so glad when I did. I felt sluggish getting out of bed this morning. The TAIslim gave me an added boost. I wasn't hungry at all, so I forced myself to eat half a yogurt. Drank TAIslim again at 11:30 and ate a turkey sandwich. Went to Costco, bought snacks for the kids, drove the kids through McDonald's, not tempted, went home and unloaded the groceries. Let the kids have a little bag of Famous Amos cookies. Jersy begged me to try one of hers. I didn't want it, but I ate it anyway. No TAIslim before dinner tonight. I don't feel like I need it. Made southwest chicken wraps, ate one. Then Kelly and her girls wanted to do something with me and my girls, so we decided to go out for dessert. I ordered Creme Brulee, my favorite. The Creme Brulee was small... I thought, "I can eat this." Finished about 3/4 and then wanted to throw up. I hadn't felt that full in a long time. Now it's 10:39. I'm going to bed. Today I ate:

1/2 a yogurt
1 turkey and provolone sandwich
1 mini famous amos cookie
1 chicken wrap
3/4 creme brulee

I never felt hungry and my mood was great all day. Can't wait to drink it again in the morning.

Day 6 on TAIslim and my skin is glowing!

2009-03-11T21:50:00.000-07:00

Because of the green tea in TAIslim there are several anti-aging benefits with this product. My skin just looks so much brighter than it did a week ago.

Today was a weird day. This morning I had the TAIslim, then ate 3/4 of a banana. I was full after that. I didn't want a mid-morning snack at all, so things were going pretty well. Then I drank the TAIslim at 11:30, and headed off to the park with the twins, my sister, and her four little ones. We stopped at Artic Circle (a fast food joint up here) and picked up food for Kelly and the kids. I brought a banana and salad with shredded cheese and spicy ranch dressing from home. That was cool, I wasn't even tempted by the cheeseburgers. After the park, we went back to Artic Circle, and everyone had ice cream... not me... once again, not even tempted. So we get home, and I decided that an oreo sounds pretty good, so I ate one. Then we picked up Dominoes for dinner, and I ate a slice of pizza. I was a little disappointed in myself, and wondered what was going on. I went to the church with Macy and Kendall, and on the way home I stopped and had an ice cream cone. I walked in to tell Jeremy and said what the heck is going on? Why do I suddenly want junk? He said, "Maybe it's that time of the month." I just rolled my eyes... like he knows, right? Then I went into the bathroom to change into my pajamas, and sure enough. So.... the TAIslim did great in the morning, but didn't do much for those "time of the month cravings" They're pretty powerful though. I don't know if anything would cure those. Aside for a little bloating (not nearly as much as usual) my stomach is still tighter and flatter than before.

Taislim Day five

2009-03-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

My favorite about this drink today is how much mental clarity I have. I'm able to focus better and put my thoughts into action. Of couse I love the fact that I'm losing weight too. I gained ten pounds after moving to idaho... needed to pack on insulation... so this is helping it to fall back off.

TAIslim Day four

2009-03-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

I weighed myself at the gym yesterday morning. I lost four pounds!!! Some of it is probably water weight, but much of it was body fat. My stomach feels tighter and flatter... probably because there is less body fat on it.

TAIslim Day Three

2009-03-08T21:40:00.000-07:00

So far, the biggest benefit I've noticed besides the appetite suppression, is probably how much calmer I feel. Things that used to get under my skin just don't bother very much the last few days. I'm liking this stuff... a lot. I'm going to weight myself tomorrow, so I'll post any lost pounds on tomorrow's blog.

I actually look forward to waking up in the morning and drinking my TAIslim. I love the energy and how good I feel... that's a big plus in the morning.

TAIslim Day Two

2009-03-07T21:27:00.000-08:00

Day two on TAIslim felt a little more normal than day one.

I did get the energy after drinking the juice, but it was more gradual and felt a little more natural this time. My mood felt positive, but in a calmer way. My appetite was suppressed again. For the entire day, I ate:

one banana
a few dried cranberries
a few pistachios
a half of a chicken salad sandwich
a thin mint girl scout cookie
half of a cheese crisp
water

My stomach felt flatter and tighter today than yesterday, and my jeans were a little loose (these same jeans have been tight for four months).

The detoxification definitely began today, but I feel better and stronger because of it.

Day two was a good day. I hope this continues.

TaiSlim Day One

2009-03-06T18:14:00.000-08:00

Today was my first day on TaiSlim. This is what I noticed.

1) Within five minutes I felt a surge of energy. The energy felt good, I wasn't jittery and my heart did not race. It was about 6:00 a.m. but I felt like I could go and jog about 3 miles. So far so good.

2) Within ten minutes, I begin to feel mental clarity. I have a book to finish and I felt like I could do it right then and there (if the twins would ever let me). In this ten minutes I also felt my mood become much more positive. I was actually looking forward to the twins waking up and hoped they'd wake up a little earlier than usual.

3) 15 minutes later I decide it's time to eat. However, I wasn't feeling very hungry. But wanting to stay healthy, I opted for a banana. I couldn't finish the last bite. I felt very full.

4) 3 hours later, I begin to feel a little hungry. I made a peanut butter and honey sandwich and had some pistachios. After that I'm feeling pretty full.

5) At 11:00 I drink the TaiSlim again, then head to mall with my sister. On the way to the mall, I begin to feel my heart race slightly and I'm a little jittery. I decided that next time I would only take one ounce instead of two.

6) My sister and I walk around the mall until 2:00 when I finally begin to feel a little hungry. Olive Garden sounds good. I opt for the all-you-can-eat soup, salad, and breadsticks. I eat one small bowl of salad, half a bowl of soup, and a breadstick. I'm stuffed. I do, however, make room for the complimentary Andes mint and the end of the meal.

7) Drinking the TaiSlim before dinner is optional, but I decide to go ahead and have one more ounce. I begin to feel my mood lift once again. I eat a small bowl of crumbly bleu cheese salad with cranberries, almonds, and sunflower seeds. Once again, I'm stuffed.

8) Now it's almost 7:30 and I'm pretty sure I won't eat anything for the rest of the evening (but if I do, I'll let you know).

My food intake for the day consisted of:

7/8 of a banana
1/2 of a peanut butter and honey sandwich
a handful of pistachios
a small salad from Olive Garden
half a bowl of Chicken & Gnocci soup
one breadstick
a small crumbly bleu cheese salad

I never craved sweets. I even walked past See's candy (my favorite in the whole wide world) and wasn't even tempted to stop. All in all, day one went pretty well, and my stomach stayed flat the entire day. My jeans even feel loose right now. Every one tells me it gets even better on days two and three.... I'll let you know.

Here are 27 reasons to drink TAIslim every day according to the brochure.

1) Lose Weight!

2) Fight unhealthy belly fat

3) Enhance your energy levels

4) Turn on your body's thermogenic power and burn fat

5) Control your appetite and curb cravings

6) Feel fuller longer

7) Absorb fewer calories from the foods you eat

8) Cleanse and detoxify

9) Fight insulin resistance

10) Up your fiber intake

11) Improve regularity

12) Maintain colon health

13) Banish bad bacteria that may be causing you to gain weight

14) Keep a healthy heart

15) Maintain normal, healthy cholesterol and triglycerides

16) Inhibit dangerous lipid peroxidation

17) Improve absorption of minerals

18) Fight metabolic syndrome

19) Support normal blood pressure

20) Increase your antioxidant power

21) Maximize any exercise

22) Keep focused

23) Alleviate everyday stress

24) Improve your mood

25) Build healthy muscle

26) Improve your immune defenses

27) Support thyroid health

In the mean time, if you're already sold and can't wait to try it, the website is thinagain.taislim.com

TaiSlim Diet

2009-03-06T05:13:00.000-08:00

Okay, everyone knows I'm all about trying new beauty products, whether it be a tube of mascara or an anti-aging cream. So, last night I attended a meeting to support a friend in need who is selling and using TaiSlim.

Taislim is a diet drink that promises four things:

1) It fights abdominal fat. Taislim contains a constituent of the Goji berry which is clinically shown to decrease the body's production of stress hormones that cause you to accumulate unhealthy belly fat.

2) It enhances metabolism. Clinical results on Taislim have demonstrated a dramatic increase in the body's calorie burning potential, giving you the energy to maximize your workout performance.

3) It helps control appetite. Taislim supports a positive mood, suppressing appetite and between-meal cravings to help you to cut unwanted calories.

4) It cleanses and replenishes. Taislim's fiber provides gentle cleansing and detoxifying action to promote regulartiy and healthy microflora, while slowing the absorption of food to improve metabolism.

At the meeting I attended last night, there were a few people who I know and trust that have been taking TaiSlim and absolutely LOVE the results they are getting. That's great, but I am a skeptic at heart, and I tend to research everything, so I will be trying this product for myself and keeping all of you updated on my progress. Wish me luck!

The Brazilian Butt-lift

2009-01-26T08:31:00.001-08:00

A Brazilian Butt-lift? Sounds weird, but it seems J-Lo has inspired this procedure. Apparently Jennifer Lopez has done for the Butt what Pamela Anderson did for the breasts. Before you get confused, the Brazilian Butt-lift isn't so much about getting a big butt. It's about enhancing the hips, butt, waist area. So what is the Brazilian Butt-lift?

A Brazilian Butt-lift is a butt augmentation procedure that results in a more youthful, perky butt.

How is the procedure done?

Unwanted Fat is removed from certain areas of the body. After the fat is purified, it is re-injected into the butt. This procedure involves hundreds of injections. The upper region of the quadrant is filled so that the butt looks lifted and perky.

What is the difference between Butt implants and a Brazilian Butt-lift?

A Brazilian Butt-lift is a series of injections. During a Butt Implant procedure, silicone implants are actually inserted into your butt. Butt implants would be recommended if you don't have enough body fat stored in your abdomen for the injections. The fat transfer method in the Brazilian Butt-lift has a lower rate of infection than the Butt implant method.

How is the fat injected in to the buttocks?

The buttock is first contoured by performing liposuction in the areas around the buttocks to make them stand out more. Common areas the fat is removed from include the back- directly above the butt, the stomach, and the thighs.

The fat suctioned from these areas is carefully processed and purified such that only a fraction of the donor fat removed will qualify for re-injection to the buttocks. In order to get enough qualified fat, the physician must liposuction at least 2 areas of your body. After liposuction, Dr. Rodriguez carefully purifies the fat so that only the best donor fat cells are re-injected back into your buttocks for augmentation. The fat is then placed or transferred in to the buttocks.

Small amounts of purified fat are injected into different areas of the buttocks and at various depths so that the patient will get the highest permanent absorption rate. Thus, the procedure usually involves 'hundreds' of micro fat injections. Correct injection methods are essential to achieve a uniform, smooth, natural appearance to the buttocks.

How long do fat injections last?

If the fat is harvested, processed, and injected correctly, the result should be long lasting. The procedure should not require touch ups or a second round of fat injections.

What is the down time with the Brazilian Butt-lift procedure?

In order to ensure optimal, permanent results, you must not sit directly on your buttocks for about three weeks. Most people can return to work in about two weeks, provided you only do a minimal amount of sitting. A special garment to control swelling must be worn for two weeks. There may still be a small amount of swelling for up to six weeks, but after four weeks you can return to all normal activities.

okay, back to reality

2009-01-26T06:45:00.000-08:00

I know it's been over a month since I've posted. I got a little carried away with my relaxation time during the holidays. I visited family, had family visit, and tried out a couple of spas.

Like everyone else, I make News Years Resolutions. Not in the formal, write them down, keep a log or journal, announce them to everyone sense. Instead I keep these little goals in my head. It's just a mental note I make to myself every January 1st. I'm not sure why. Maybe it's so I won't look like a loser or a quitter when I stop trying to achieve them. If I dont' tell anyone, no one will know if I stop, right?

One thing I can tell you, though, is that most of my resolutions have something to do with beauty. I know, I know, it seems shallow. But notice I said most, not all.

So here is to a new year of beauty. No matter what your resolutions were for the year, I hope you reach your goals as much as possible.

Tired of Shaving?

2008-12-17T05:59:00.000-08:00

It used to be that we either had to shave our legs every day, or deal with that annoying stubble. But that has all changed. Today, with the remarkable advances in laser technology, unwanted hair is being removed safely and affordably. Laser Hair Removal has been extensively researched, tested and proven highly effective in permanently reducing unwanted hair. Laser hair removal works on just about any treatment area of the body where smooth skin is desired...underarms, face, neck, legs, shoulders, back, bikini line, you name it.

How does laser hair removal work?

Before your laser hair removal appointment you will be advised not to wax your legs, and you need to have hair follicles in order for the process to work. Hair grows in three distinct cycles. First, the active or growth cycle (Anagen); next, the dormant cycle (Catagen) and, finally, the fall-out or shedding cycle (Telogen). Laser Hair Removal is most effective during the growth cycle (Anagen).

The pigment in the hair follicle absorbs the laser light and converts the light to heat. The heat, in turn, damages the follicle and destroys its ability to re-grow. It is important to treat each follicle during the growth cycle for maximum hair reduction.

When you arrive for your laser hair removal appointment, the laser technician will apply a topical anesthetic to the treatment area to minimize discomfort, if desired. This generally takes about 30 minutes to take effect. During the procedure, the laser technician will cool your skin before, during, and after each laser pulse to protect your skin and make treatments more comfortable.

The laser pulses for just a fraction of a second, heating the hair follicle and impairing its ability to re-grow. Significantly less hair grows back with each treatment, ultimately resulting in your goal of permanent hair reduction. The number of laser hair removal treatments required varies from individual to individual.

Hair growth cycles differ on different parts of the body. Your skin and hair color, coarseness of hair as well as age, metabolism and other individual factors influence hair growth rate. An experienced technician will work with you in designing a schedule to optimize your results.

A New Rival for Botox?

2008-11-23T10:07:00.001-08:00

After years of being the only FDA approved injectable botulism toxin, Allergen Botox™ is about to have a competitor. Medicis Pharmaceutical, a Scottsdale based company, announced Monday, May 19, that federal regulators are reviewing their own version of the wrinkle-smoothing formula. Reloxin™, an aesthetic injectable being developed by Medicis and their European partner, Ipsen, has been submitted to the Food and Drug Administration for review. They said Monday that their application has been accepted.

Medicis already sells Restylane™, an aesthetic injectable used as a dermal filler for wrinkles and folds. The Scottsdale based company expects that Reloxin™ will have FDA approval and be ready to sell in early 2009.

Finally, A New Affordable Wrinkle Filler!

2008-11-20T09:16:00.001-08:00

There is a new wrinkle filler in town, and the good news is that it’s affordable. Elevess is an FDA-approved wrinkle filler that provides a comfortable way to fill out facial wrinkles, such as smile lines, to help you get back the smoother, younger-looking skin that makes you feel good again, and it costs about 30% less than its competitors, erasing wrinkles as well as strain on your bank account.

Elevess is the first FDA-approved injectable wrinkle filler to combine hyaluronic acid and lidocaine, a local anesthetic that improves patient comfort, and provides physicians with a new alternative for their aesthetic practice. Designed for durability, based on its proprietary cross-linking technology and high concentration of hyaluronic acid, Elevess is manufactured by Anika Therapeutics and distributed by Artes Medical.

See what Elevesse can do for you. Ask your physician about this comfortable, affordable new treatment.

How Can Regular Exercise Affect Anti Aging?

2008-11-19T14:49:00.001-08:00

For those that want to look and feel younger, anti aging products may be the first place to go for that help. But, many people overlook the health benefits of staying home for those anti aging treatments. Anti aging is all about providing the body with the healthiest of choices. Exercise can prove to be better for the body and thus, better for anti aging than any bottled product.

Lack of exercise goes hand in hand with aging. Inactivity leads to the loss of muscle tone and strength. Your posture and muscles will deteriorate over time due to lack of activity and may cause the skin to sag resulting in that aged look. Lack of exercise can also lead to back pain and health problems over time.

At South Western Medical School in Dallas, TX in 1966, five healthy twenty-year old males spent three weeks of their summer break resting in bed. This must have seemed like a dream come true. At the end of the three weeks, the dream had turned into a nightmare. They had

Faster resting heart rates
Higher systolic blood pressure
A drop in the heart's maximum pumping capacity
Fall in muscle strength.

Each of these problems can also be associated with premature aging and the natural aging process of the body. Thus proving the link between a lack of exercise and activity and the aging aspect many are trying to avoid. As the study moved further, the effects of the addition of exercise to an otherwise sedentary lifestyle were phenomenal.

The young men then began an eight-week exercise program. This plan more than reversed the adverse effects of being sedentary. Some of the measurements were better than at the beginning of the experiment.

A study of this magnitude shows that even the most aged persons can reverse some of the effects of aging by simply making a few changes in their everyday lifestyles. These changes do not come from a bottle or a syringe, they come from moving your body more tomorrow than you did today!

In the January28, 2008 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, doctors in London, GB found the cells of those who enjoyed leisure time exercise showed slower cell changes related to aging. Their cells appeared the same size as sedentary people ten years younger.

The best advice comes from the CDC. Do thirty minutes of moderately intense exercise five days a week. Do something that will raise your heart rate to that of taking a brisk walk. Or, do twenty minutes of vigorous physical activity three days a week. Participate in an activity that will raise your heart rate to the equivalent of jogging.

Taking the time to care for your body through a regular exercise schedule will prevent the effects of aging from a cellular level. The benefits of exercise have been shown in study after study. Exercise more, age less! The secret to anti aging and exercise is just that simple and just that easy to accomplish.

17 look younger secrets

2008-11-19T13:13:00.000-08:00

♥ DRESS YOUR AGE ♥ You can BE your daughter's best friend- just don't try to LOOK like your daughter's best friend.

♥ WHITEN YOUR TEETH ♥ Whitening your teeth is the fastest way to look 10 years younger. Visit the Smile Enhancement page for more information on tooth whitening.

♥ GET SOME HIGHLIGHTS ♥ Having highlights, especially around your face, will brighten it!

♥ YOU GLOW GIRL! ♥ A sheen finish on your cheeks will give you a youthful glow- save your powder for the T-zone.

♥ PONYTAIL IT ♥ A ponytail can serve as an instant face-lift- it pulls your face back and accentuates your cheekbones.

♥ USE BROW GEL ♥ Brushing your brows upward and keeping them in place with brow gel is a good way to fake youth.

♥ SHINE ON ♥ Use an illuminating foundation or mix a tiny amount of shimmer powder in moisturizer. It will brighten your complexion and take years off!

♥ WEAR A GOOD BRA ♥ A good bra will make you look younger by making clothes fit better on your body.

♥ BRUNETTES BEWARE ♥ Too dark colors accentuate wrinkes- if you go dark, be sure and add dimension as one flat color will age you.

♥ CHILL ON THE HAIR-DO ♥ Over-styled hair is aging, wearing it more natural will take years off.

♥ PUMP IT UP ♥ Wearing a shoe with height will put a spring in your step and elongate your legs to make you look years younger.

♥ LEAVE THE 80'S BEHIND ♥ Put your powder and ice-blue eyeshadow in a time capsule and kiss them goodye.

♥ DON'T DO DRAB ♥ Add color to your wardrobe and avoid all black. Look for jewel tones that flatter your skin.

♥ PERFECT YOUR EYEBROWS ♥ Perfecting your eyebrows creates an instant lift.

♥ ADD SOME BANGS ♥ Bangs, whether full or wispy will instantly soften your face, making you look younger.

♥ LESS BLUSH IS MORE ♥ Blush should look natural- like you aren't wearing any. Too much blush can age you.

♥ GLOSS IT UP ♥ Matte lipsticks are drying and aging. Be sure to apply a light layer of gloss over liopstick.

Affordable Anti-Aging for a Slow Economy

2008-11-17T06:10:00.000-08:00

Staying young these days doesn't come cheap. From anti-aging products that cost as much as a car payment to anti-aging spa treatments that you have to finance, it seems that maintaining youth is only for the rich and famous. There are some affordable treatments out there, but in a slow economy, even those can seem unattainable. Most of us see the valuable benefits these procedures have to offer and would never want to give them up completely, but sometimes our pocket books make decisions for us that we just don't like. So how do we combat aging when money is tight?

First and foremost, we shop for discounts! Med spas around the country recognize the slowing economy and are offering extreme price cuts on their products and procedures right now. In some cases, a microdermabrasion can cost as little as your next pedicure! So before you give up hope on ever getting another spa treatment, surf the web for a med spa near you and check out what specials they are offering.

Second, we turn to our own homes for products and methods of anti-aging. Listed below are some very valuable, yet inexpensive things you can do to keep yourself looking young with very little money out of pocket.

1) Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Don't underestimate the benefits water gives to your skin. Dry skin makes you older, and the best way to combat dry skin is by hydrating from within. In addition, drinking an adequate amount of water restores shine and elasticity to skin, and fights acne. Health professionals advise adults to drink at least 64 ounces of water every day.

2) Don't forget your vitamins and supplements! A daily multivitamin can support overall skin health, wellness, cardiovascular, and bone health. Another one you should add to your daily vitamin intake is CoQ10. CoQ10 is a powerful anti-oxidant that is needed for energy production to allow vital organs to function properly. CoQ10 also provides protection from free radicals, which in turn helps to slow the aging process. Essential fatty acids, such as fish oil and flax seed, help to maintain health at the cellular level, thus, slowing the aging process.

3) Eat Healthy! Foods with plenty of antioxidants play an important role in promoting collagen production, which is crucial for healthy, youthful skin. Some yummy foods that provide plenty of these antioxidants are dark chocolate, berries, and nuts. Dark, leafy greens are also high in antioxidants and combat damage from free radicals before it happens. Protein is also essential to maintaining overall health and youth, by promoting muscle development and increasing the body's supply of collagen and elastin. Eat plenty of chicken, fish, almonds, and eggs for a diet high in protein.

4) Don't skimp on sunscreen! Prevention is the best weapon in the fight against anti-aging. UVB rays from the sun damage skin cells, and slow production of Hyaluron, a major skin component necessary to aid tissue repair. Choose a moisturizer or foundation with an spf of at least 15 to help fight the sun's harmful rays.

5) Exfoliate! Exfoliating eliminates dead skin cells, leaving skin softer, smoother, and more luminous. In addition, it helps to promote the production of new skin cells. Choose a cleanser with a mild grain for daily exfoliation, or select a deeper exfoliation product to remove that top layer of skin twice a week. Go to your local drug store for a great exfoliation product that won't infringe on your budget.

6) Moisturize. We already talked about hydrating from within, but wearing moisturizer every day will keep your outside layer of skin healthy and soft.

7) Exercise is powerful! Cardio keeps your hearth young and healthy, and gives you youthful energy. But aerobic exercise is not the only thing we need to stay young. Strength training is crucial because it increases muscle tone, and improves balance and posture. Strength training also decreases the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

8) Finally, get plenty of sleep. Sleep is your body's opportunity to rebuild, repair, and re-energize. Millions of cells at our skin's surface die off each day due to environmental influences, dry skin, and sun damage. An adequate amount of sleep (about 8 hours) is the only regenerator than can truly undo the effects of the day. Without enough sleep, our skin is unable to rebuild dead and dying cells, and that is when aging occurs. Don't forget the power of snoozing when it comes to anti-aging!

Med spa treatments are very valuable, so keep shopping for those discounts, but while you do, don't forget to hydrate, eat healthy, prevent sun damage, exfoliate and moisturize, and get plenty of exercise and sleep. Keep these rules as part of your daily routine will create a fountain of youth right in your very own home.

View tips for looking younger here.

Raising Confident Daughters in a Vanity-Obsessed World

2008-11-14T05:48:00.000-08:00

As the mother of three daughters, I am continually plagued with apprehension about their well-being. Are they happy? Are they being treated properly? Am I raising them to be assertive, yet kind? Are they confident? Of all these concerns, I am most preoccupied with their self-confidence. A person who possesses confidence usually has everything else fall in to place for them. They are happy because they are self-assured. They are treated properly because they think too much of themselves to let anyone treat them otherwise. But how is it possible for young girls to be confident when they are besieged with images of size zero celebrities and models who have perfect hair, skin, clothes, and everything else? We all know these images are not real of course. Thanks to super high-tech computer programs, these women can be airbrushed into a creepy-perfect, unattainable image that only leaves the rest of us wondering: What's wrong with me?

I write this article, not because I am an expert on how to raise daughters, but because I was raised by an expert- my mother. I am one of seven girls, all fairly close in age, who survived growing up in a very small house with only three tiny bedrooms, and two very tiny bathrooms. Since one of the bathrooms belonged to Mom and Dad, the other was shared by me and six sisters. This arrangement did not exactly foster any opportunities to primp. "Get in and get out" was the motto for just about everything that took place in our daily routines. We didn't have lavish wardrobes, and we used our make-up until we were scooping up every last bit of blue eye-shadow with cheap applicators just so it would last one more day. The amazing part of this story is that out of the wacky chaos we embraced from day to day, came seven very feminine, yet strong, confident, and happy women who started off as goofy, messy-haired, freckle-faced little girls who flounced about with holes in their jeans and dirt on their faces.

We were not neglected. In fact, we were far from it. We just had very wise parents who decided to let us find confidence in who we were rather than how we looked. My mother encouraged our creativity, even when it came time to fix our hair or choose an outfit. She wanted us to feel good because of something we did rather than because she spent hours making us look perfect. "It's more important to be beautiful on the inside," was a phrase very familiar in our home. My mother taught us that when we are attractive in our words, thoughts, and actions, we radiate beauty to our physical appearance as well.
My mother instilled in us these simple truths when it comes to beauty:

1. Don't obsess over your physical appearance so much that you neglect who you are as a person.

2. Don't focus on being a certain size. Focus on eating healthy and having fun outdoors.

3. Be lady-like in your words and actions.

4. You don't have to show more skin to be more attractive.

5. Focus less on yourself and more on what you can do to help others.

As I struggle with what to do for my own daughters in this much different day and age, I always go back to those five principles. Example is the most powerful form of teaching. And while I may not be the role-model of their choice, I will definitely be the role-model with the most lasting influence.

The Three Make-up Items a Woman Should Never Go Without

2008-11-13T05:38:00.000-08:00

In my profession as beauty editor of azbeauty.org, I often have the privilege of attending some of the most renowned day spas and salons in Arizona. These visits commonly involve a brief, yet informative meeting between me and the spa owner.

Such was the case during a recent visit to the famed Pucci Salon & Spa in Scottsdale, Arizona. Pucci has been ranked in the top 200 Salons in the country by Salon Today Magazine, and has been named a top spa by Elle and In Style magazines. The qualifications that go along with these honors are met and exceeded at the direction of Debora Capaldi, make-up artist, and owner of Pucci Salon & Day Spa.

This was my second visit with Debora, and in both meetings with her, I found myself observing the careful, seemingly flawless way her make-up was placed on her face. I decided to summon Debora for a few make-up tips for myself. I wanted to know what three make-up items a woman should never go without. After a quick, but invaluable conversation with the artist, I learned the three must-haves for make-up, and why we must have them.

The first of the three is concealer. Always start with a good palette. Concealer is a must! Debora Capaldi says, “Concealers are important to even out the tone of your skin. Most women have shadows or darker tones under the eyes. The eye tissue is the thinnest on your face so it needs to be evened out. Never put foundation under the eyes because it may be too drying or too moisturizing depending on your skin type. Concealers also work great on your eye lids as an eye shadow base.”

Second, don’t forget lipstick! According to Debora, women should “select a lipstick in a color that compliments your make-up palette (have a professional choose the colors for you!). Whether it be red or nude, lipsticks moisturize and emphasize your lips and make you feel sexy. You can have nothing on for make-up but don’t forget your lips!”

Lastly, never leave out moisturizer. “Never, ever go without moisturizer”, Debora expresses, “Especially if you live in a dry climate, like Arizona. Moisturizing gives you suppleness, makes fine lines disappear, and it feels good. It gives skin life and prevents you from looking tired. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize!”

To test her theory, I decided to have a day without make-up- except for the three must-haves. After washing my face as usual, I applied plenty of moisturizer, then concealer in all the right places, then spent time giving myself soft, supple lips with the perfect shade of lipstick. I must admit, my eyes felt somewhat naked, but my skin looked and felt smooth and even, and my lips definitely felt sexy.

Whether you’re a glamour girl in a hurry, or the natural type wanting to look your best, remember that with concealer, lipstick, moisturizer, and a dose of confidence, you can’t go wrong.

At Med Spas, the Clientele Are Not the Only Ones in Need of a Makeover

2008-11-12T05:27:00.000-08:00

For any woman who wants to look her best, med spas are the greatest invention since push-up bras and self-tanners. Med spa services provide an overhaul for just about any cosmetic conundrum with a wide range of treatments just shy of plastic surgery.

Considering the astounding results offered by med spas without the invasiveness, costs, or downtime associated with plastic surgery, why are more women and men not bolting through the doors of these cosmetic breakthrough establishments? The answer is plain and simple: Med spas need a makeover.

To put a new spin on an old phrase, a med spa by any other name would probably smell sweeter. The term spa treatment emits a feeling of relaxation and beauty all rolled into one. But add the word med into the mix, and those feelings are instantly coupled with anxiety and apprehension. What Marilyn did for Norma Jean might just be the answer this industry needs. Try something like Rejuvenescence Spa or Advanced Beauty Spa, and not only will reservations be eased, but interest will peak.

Now that we've integrated a name change, let's explore a facelift. In look and feel, most med spas resemble that of a doctor's office on casual Friday. While they are clean, sterile environments as they should be, they are far from inviting and welcoming. Consider warm, rich colors and soft lighting in a spa-like waiting area as opposed to bright lights and stiff chairs. Clients desiring the services of a med spa also desire luxurious surroundings.

Finally, a great personality doesn't always equal a less-than-appealing physique. In this case, nice med spas don't finish last. This is a concept Olivia Burnes, owner, and spa manager at Changez Medispa in Goodyear, Arizona, understands very well. At a recent visit to Changez, I observed Olivia in her interactions with me as well as other clientele. Olivia possesses the ability to engage customers in such a way that is reminiscent of a reunion with an old friend.

In a recent interview with Olivia, I asked what set her med spa apart from a typical doctor visit. She replied, "We greet everyone personally, and I, in particular like to chat with everyone as much as possible to get to know them and practically become like friends. We try to make them feel like they are part of our family here. We make sure they are comfortable and that all their questions have been addressed."

Med spas, in your efforts to play Fairy Godmother to your many cinderellas, look inward for an equally-needed glam fix. Just a few small tweaks with the wave of a magic wand is all you need to dazzle at the ball. These changes will allow for a spark of interest in the eyes of those who matter most- your clients.

Rebecca Park-Stinson
azbeauty.org

Why Get Microdermabrasion?

2008-11-11T13:01:00.000-08:00

Microdermabrasion is a "mini procedure" used to rejuvenate the skin, lessen the signs of scaring, reduce fine lines, and soften the effects of acne. The top layer of skin is removed during this treatment, while promoting the production of new cells in the deepest layer of skin.

Microdermabrasion has been branded with the cosmetic nickname "The Lunchtime Peel" because it can be performed in a short period of time, patients can return to work immediately following the treatment.

Microdermabrasion can:

1) Make your skin look brighter and more luminous

2) Make your skin feel softer and smoother, allowing for more even make-up application

3) Make you look years younger by smoothing away fine lines and wrinkles

4) Reduce pore size

For 60% savings on Microdermabrasion from one of our AZBeauty Preferred Providers, visit our Diva Deals Page to find the coupon for a spa near you.

ANGEL-ika

2008-11-03T09:42:00.000-08:00

With all the anxiety over the slow economy lately, many people are hesitant to spend money on anything other than what is considered necessary to survive. Everyone handles these scary situations differently. Some people withdraw, while others work even harder. Some save every last penny, while others assume the "oh well, I still have to have a little fun" mentality. There have been reports of some people who resort to crime and dishonesty, while others go out of their way to reach out and make a stand for good in a world that so desperately needs it. Angelika Blake of Hair by Angelika is one of those people. She understands that times are hard and money seems scarce, but she also knows that there is good in everyone. Angelika is known for her campaigns of rewarding well deserving women in her community. She honored hard-working teachers in August and September by offering them a generous discount on hair services. In October, breast cancer awareness month, She reached out to breast cancer survivors with compassion at a time they need it most by providing a coupon for 25% off hair services for breast cancer survivors. And now, as the holidays are nearing, she is stepping up once again with an agenda that will not only provide to help for those in need, but will also get the men and women in her community involved in this same act of charity. Between now and December 31st, Angelika is offering 50% off color services to anyone who donates an item to Hope's closet and brings in the receipt. Thank you Angelika for getting involved, restoring our faith in people, and serving Arizon'a family. Get Angelika's Hope's Closet Coupon here.

Welcome to our Newest Advertisers!

2008-10-23T21:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome Deseret Aesthetics and Lifestyle Institute and Arizona Laser Skin Solutions, the latest advertisers to join azbeauty.org. Look for their videos coming to the website soon! Go to azbeauty.org for special offers and discounts from these med spas!

My Grandmother the Hottie

2008-09-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

For about the past thirty years or so, my Grandmother has had a 10x13 picture of herself sitting on her fireplace mantel. The picture was taken in the early forties when she was about sixteen. Anyone who walked through my Grandparents front door would comment on the picture. "You were a very beautiful young girl," was the typical remark. My Grandmother was always expecting these compliments and accepted them graciously. "Yes, I know. I was the most beautiful girl in Texas." My cousins and I usually giggled at the way she boasted, but Grandma made no apologies for her self-confidence. After all, it was part of what made her beautiful.
Grandma not only prided herself on her beauty, but also on her sex appeal. Once I went to her house in short shorts, and she looked at me proudly as if to imply that she was ecstatic that I was following in her footsteps. "You know", she said, "when short shorts first came out for women in the forties, they were considered scandalous and only hollywood actresses would be seen in them. No one in Texas had ever worn a pair. But I didn't care. On my sixteenth birthday, I got a pair of short shorts. Mother didn't approve, but what do you think I did? I put those shorts on with my best pair of high heels and my prettiest liptstick, and went walking down main street so all the boys could whistle at me. That was one of my best days." Only my Grandma.
To hear me go on about her, I can only imagine the image you must have in your mind. A self-absorbed woman with perfectly coiffed hair wearing a fur coat and lounging on a chaise. But what is truly amazing about my Grandmother is that in all her diva-esque glory, she raised nine kids on a truckers salary, cultivated a huge garden that provided the foods she claimed "made her beautiful", volunteered at the red cross, and quit school in the seventh grade to pick onions in a field which helped her mother support her younger siblings. She fed countless hungry neighbors with her beans and cornbread, ground her own wheat to bake two loaves of bread every day, cared for countless sick people in her own home, and invented her own methods of remaining beautiful when money was scarce. Vel Soap, Pond's Cold Cream, lots of exercise, and an old-fashioned healthy diet was all she needed to stay beautiful.
I had the great pleasure of sitting with her in the kitchen two weeks ago as she prepared for a long road trip (at the age of 79) back to Texas to attend her niece's funeral. She spent three hours in the kitchen boiling eggs, slicing vegetables, cutting fruit, preparing sandwiches, and filling water bottles so she wouldn't have to stop for that "horrible fast-food that will make me less pretty". All the while she explained to me the benefits of eating healthy. After she was finished in the kitchen, I kept her company while she did thirty minutes of cardio on a machine I'd never even seen in my life, one she'd ordered from an infomercial. When she was finished with that, she said, "Well, sweetheart, I'd like to visit with you more, but I have to go and get my beauty rest."
I hope to pass on to my three daughters the lessons my Grandmother has taught me about beauty. Get plenty of exercise, eat natural healthly foods, give service to those in need, and hold your head up high no matter what your circumstances. If you believe you're beautiful, others will believe it too.

azbeauty.org

look younger in 30 days

2008-04-13T21:57:00.000-07:00

Recently, I saw an advertisement for RoC Daily Microdermabrasion pads. The ad promised that I would look younger in 30 days if I used the pads as directed. So I bought them, and used them twice a day for thirty days. While I was skeptical at first, I must admit that I do look younger. I saw fine lines diminish, age spots fade, my pores are smaller, I have fewer break-outs, and my complexion is definitely brighter. My esthetician even made a comment about it the last time she saw me. Since these worked so well, I've decided to try all the RoC prodcuts. I might as well, since they cost a fraction of department store skin products. Try them and let me know what you think!

Happy Exfoliating!
http://www.azbeauty.org