BBQ’s and pool parties come hand in hand during these summer months. While men don’t even flinch about summer time, women tend to go into detox mode. All we need is a little bit of preparation tips & tricks to get the ball rolling and come prepared when that pool party arrives. So instead of biting your finger nails and becoming a detox princess, follow these guidelines…
After you’ve marked your special date on your calendar, the preparation can begin. You know you will be in a bikini soon, so what immediately comes to mind? Maybe we need a little bit of color, or spot treatments to concern areas? With the few weeks leading up to the event, we can exfoliate our body just like our faces a few times a week. This will get rid of all of the dead skin on the surface so that when we are ready to reveal our skin it will look healthy and smooth. In between exfoliation sessions, don’t forget about shaving. I know I am probably not the only one who likes to borrow good men’s shaving products. Grab some Jack Black Supreme Cream Triple Cushion Shave Lather. I say if it’s strong and comfortable enough for a man, then it would be bliss for a woman. After you shave, don’t forget to prevent and protect your freshly shaved areas with some ingrown hair/ bump fighters! For a suggestion, try Whish Flawless Bump Fighter.
The next prep step would be to pick out and apply a self tanner. We want to look golden and sun kissed at our events but without harm from the sun! We suggest that you take a look at the following self tan products:
They are all different options for different types of needs. They range from creams, to lotion/milk textures and even gel textures. These will get you glowing quickly and what a way to help slim up your figure too! Now that you are pretty much ready to flaunt your pool party body and smile, there are a few other items you should remember to stay flawless. Be sure you remember to always wear your preferred SPF products for the face and the body! If you need, there are always some relaxing and soothing after sun products as well. Click here for more info on after sun care.
You can also protect your hair during these weekend water & sun celebrations with products like:
Well I think we’ve pretty much covered as much as possible on how to prepare from head to toe. You should feel tan, toned, smooth and fit to stun when you arrive at your summer soiree. Oh, and don’t forget those designer shades!
We’re offering special 15% discount exclusive to our readers. Use promo code BLOG15 at SkinStore to save 15% for a limited time. It’s our way of saying “thank you” for being loyal readers!
Offer ends Monday, July 19, 2010.
Certain products are excluded from offers. Each product detail page indicates if the promotion does not apply. Sale pricing, promotional codes and other special offers cannot be applied toward prior purchases. Promotional codes may not apply to already discounted items.
It’s no secret that glowing skin resonates with youth and good health. Here are the cardinal rules that you can follow to ensure pretty, radiant skin.
Diet: A healthy diet provides for healthy skin. To ensure that your complexion glows eat lots of vegetables, berries, fruits, healthy grains, calcium-rich foods like milk, yogurt and buttermilk. Incorporate healthy proteins like chicken and tofu, and omega-rich foods like fish and nuts. Eating healthily will not only make you feel better and healthier, it’ll also contribute to pretty, fresh, youthful and glowing skin!
Antioxidants: it’s a buzz word for a good reason. Antioxidants ward off aging (and many health problems) by protecting our cells from free radicals and oxidative stress. While a diet rich in antioxidants will contribute to healthy skin from the inside out, antioxidant-rich topical treatments that we apply to our skin will also help to ward off oxidative stress externally, resulting in a bright and even complexion. Topical antioxidant treatments come in many forms; serums, gels, lotions, creams, even built into cleansers and sunscreen products that we use… so there’s no excuse to not use an antioxidant product!
Sunscreen: Everyone should wear a sunscreen daily, even when it’s overcast the sun’s harmful rays penetrate through the clouds and can seriously damage our skin. Sun damaged skin is dull, lackluster and drab. It can also develop sun spots and excess freckles, resulting in an unsightly and uneven coloration. Skin cancer is caused by sun damage and can be prevented through regular use of sunscreen. There are many available sunscreen formulations on the market, so everyone will have their favorite (& no excuse to forgo one)!
Exfoliation: Just as everyone should wear a sunscreen, everyone should also exfoliate. Exfoliation is key to smooth, radiant skin. Exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells (which make the skin look lifeless and dull) and it helps to even the skin tone, so if you have existing sun damage or hyperpigmentation, exfoliating regularly can help to lessen the appearance of bothersome spots. Manual exfoliants have small granules to remove dead skin cells- look for products that contain jojoba beads, which are rounded particles that effectively scrub the skin. If you prefer a chemical exfoliant an alpha hydroxyl acid will do the trick; look for products that contain glycolic, lactic, citric, malic or mandelic acid. If you prefer a very gentle exfoliant, try enzymes which eat dead skin cells without disturbing the healthy skin barrier.
Hydration: Hydrated skin is plump and dewy, so everyone must use a moisturizer (even the oiliest skin types need to hydrate with a light, oil-free moisturizer). A moisturizer will lock hydration into the skin so treatment products can work more effectively- and a moisturizer will ward off premature aging too!
Remember that you can fake a little bit of a glow too- use illuminating products that boost the skin’s radiance, here are some of our favorites:
Philosophy Divine Illumination; what makes this anti-aging moisturizer especially unique are light diffusers and natural skin enhancers that help give skin luminosity for a healthy glow.
Stila Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15; Skin instantly looks softer and younger with this handy multi-tasker. It delivers a hint of sheer coverage, subtle shimmer, SPF 15 and added moisture in one effortless application.?
If you are not familiar with Jurlique, you may want to look at the great products they have to offer. If you are already an avid Jurlique user, you should check out their new Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator. This is a great treatment you can add in to your regimen a few times weekly. You can leave this on for only 5 minutes to achieve clear radiant skin.
This exfoliator contains natural fruit extracts and enzymes to resurface and brighten the skin the natural way. Jurlique’s signature ingredient marshmallow root will detoxify, soothe inflammation, and condition the skin. This product also contains willow bark extract which helps to stimulate cell renewal and is a natural antiseptic and anti-flammatory.
This product is suitable for all skin types, but people who want a skin boost are going to love this product. The Fruit Enzyme Exfoliator will also assist in the effectiveness of other products that you may be using. It is going to help to firm, even out skin tone, and reduce fine lines.
As always you will want to wear a daily sunscreen if you are going to be using this product or any others that have skin resurfacing results. Jurlique Sun Lotion SPF 30+ would be an excellent choice. This is a broad spectrum sunscreen with Vitamin E to give the skin additional protection and antioxidant benefits.
As we all know, many changes occur while going through menopause. Decreased estrogen levels cause the skin to become thinner and more prone to damage. It is crucial to keep the skin hydrated and protected from harmful UV rays. Besides the standard sunscreen and moisturizer routine, women can also make beneficial diet choices for added skin benefits. The next time you prepare a meal, try to incorporate these ingredients:
Essential Fatty Acids: Load up on foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon and nuts. Omega-3 keeps skin hydrated and supple. A weekly sushi splurge will keep your skin glowing from the inside out!
Phytoestrogens: In recent studies, women who consume high amounts of soy had fewer complaints regarding menopause symptoms. Individuals who eat soy consistently had fewer hot flashes, increased bone density, and a lower risk of heart disease.
Polyphenols: Grape polyphenols, found in red wine and grape skins are beneficial for pre and post menopausal women. Resveratol, found in grape polyphenols has been proven to lower the risk of coronary heart disease. Don’t be modest; indulge in a glass of wine over dinner and cheers to better health!
This is a follow up to my article about essential oils. Here are some products SkinStore carries that you may find helpful that contain aromatic blends of essential oils and extracts to calm the mind, refresh the body and beautify the skin.
Hair
Phyto Phytopolleine Botanical Scalp Treatment: This product has a blend of 100% essential oils to stimulate the scalp and promote hair growth while controlling oil production. Essential oils include lemon peel oil, rosemary, sage, cajeput, and cypress.
Rene Furterer Complexe 5 Regenerating Plant Extract:You will want to keep this product in your shower and use once a week, trust me! It has a pleasant citrus smell that makes you feel like you are really treating yourself and your hair to something wonderful. Essential oils include orange, lavender, and thyme.
Body
Kerstin Florian Aromatherapy Harmony Body Oil:This is an old favorite of mine, and it works great for at home spa treatments. Mix a few drops with an unscented lotion, massage into skin and enjoy. Essential oils included in this product are lavender, geranium, mandarin, and grapefruit oil.
Melvita Plant Oils Hemp Oil: This is wonderful body oil and it can also be used on the face. You can use this product alone or with a moisturizer. It is extremely hydrating without any greasy sticky leftovers.
Archipelago Botanicals Grapefruit Body Lotion: This lotion has a nice fragrance without being overpowering. There are plenty of essential oils such as orange, grape seed and jojoba oil to hydrate and protect your skin.
Face
Sundari Essential Oil for Dry Skin: This is a great skin booster for someone with dry dull skin looking to add some hydration. A blend of almond, sesame, orange and rose oil make this an excellent product for repairing and brightening the skin.
Yonka Pamplemousse PG:Works great for those oily combination skin types. It also will help lighten and brighten your skin with Yonka’s custom blend of essential oils.
Juice Beauty Oil Free Moisturizer: This is a nice matte finish moisturizer that works best for oily to combination skin types. It instantly hydrates your skin with a blend of fruit extracts such as apple, grape, and aloe juice. Antioxidants of Vitamin A,C, B5, and E have also been included to protect the skin.
Bath products
Molton Brown Intoxicating Davana Blossom Foaming Bath Oil:Contains a blend of essential oils that are just what your skin needs to stay fresh and hydrated. Also makes a wonderful gift for someone would could use a little luxury.
Jurlique Lavender Silk Finishing Powder:This light textured powder works perfect for anyone that wants to hide a little shine on their face, without covering up your best features.
DuWop Venom Gloss Berry Chill: This adds gloss and shine while hydrating and conditioning your lips because it contains jojoba and avocado oil. It also has a plumping effect, so pucker up!
Poof…wrinkles be gone! Don’t you wish it was that easy to make wrinkles vanish from your pretty face? We all know that with consistency and the use of the right products, over time an even complexion can be attained. What is sometimes overlooked however, is products that can give instant gratification to your long days.
Instant gratification products are products that will fill in, plump, and create an even appearance to the skin. Usually after application, they will start working in about 1-5 minutes and will provide results that last anywhere between 6-8 hours throughout the day. There are two main ingredients that are in instant gratification products as well as various others. First there is Argireline which acts to keep the muscles in your skin relaxed and smooth by blocking transmission from the muscle to the skin. Next you’d want to look for GABA in your products for instant results. GABA stands for gamma amino butyric acid and it is a breakthrough complex that releases the skin’s own muscle relaxers to calm and relax the skin. So if you want a smooth canvas before makeup application or a smooth clear complexion to display, look for instant gratification products. An added bonus is that with most of these types of products you’ll also receive long term benefits with continued use as well. Here is just a short list of some recommended instant gratification products:
We’ve all heard the age old saying, “You are what you eat,” but can you really eat your way to a better complexion? Nutrition experts agree that what you put in your body not only determines your overall health, but also plays a vital role in how gracefully you age. The next time you head to the supermarket, add these super foods to the top of your list!
Barley: The power of whole grains is undeniable. Soluble fiber, which is found in whole grains like barley regulates blood sugar levels and insulin. The stabilization of blood sugar prevents the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin, which in turn keeps you in your prime.
Buckwheat: Rich in collagen boosting monounsaturated fatty acids, Buckwheat is an anti aging all star by way of increasing skin elasticity. Buckwheat can be found in many Asian noodle dishes, rice, porridge and pasta.
Ginger: A great anti-inflammatory agent, ginger aides troublesome conditions like acne and psoriasis. Say adios to your red, inflamed skin and hello to your favorite spice!
Kiwi: Often overlooked, the kiwi fruit contains the highest density of vitamin C of any fruit. Potent with antioxidant powers, the kiwi is a free radical scavenger! This translates simply into this: the more kiwis we eat, the fewer wrinkles we will have.
Oysters: Next time you’re in the mood for some sushi, go for oysters instead! Oysters are packed with the mineral zinc, which aides in skin renewal and repair.
Papaya: Is your skin looking dull and lackluster? Not to worry, simply throw a papaya in the shopping basket! This delectable delight is loaded with glow worthy ingredients like vitamin C, carotene, and flavonoids.
Wheat Germ: Stimulating wheat germ promotes cellular turnover. Just sprinkle a tablespoon of wheat germ to your yogurt, oatmeal, or cereal and you’re on your way to a more radiant, glowing complexion.
Now, take a bite and remember… you are what you eat!
We always hear about the benefits of green tea in skin care as a powerful antioxidant, but what about red tea? Some of us may drink red tea, but what are the benefits when used in our skin care products?
Research suggests that red tea has two times the antioxidant benefits of green tea. It can protect the skin against environmental damage and free radicals. Red tea is said to contain more antioxidant properties then Vitamin C, and E. Researchers have also found that red tea contains 9 types of flavonoids, 5 of which are free-radical scavengers. Red tea can reduce bacteria and inflammation, making it a great treatment for acneic skin.
SkinStore.com carries a few product lines in particular that are known for using red tea as a key component in their products. Ole Henriksen has quite a few products that are formulated with African red tea. African red tea will strengthen the skin’s outer layer, soothe the skin, and can slow down the aging process. Ole Henriksen African Red Tea Foaming Cleanser was named the best natural cleanser at the Natural Health Beauty Awards in 2009.
Glytone also has a few new anti-aging products that are formulated with red tea flavonoids. Their research has shown that red tea has 30% more free radical reduction than green tea. This new anti aging line by Glytone contains an exfoliating cream, facial serum and eye cream.
As more research is being done regarding Red Tea, companies like Glytone and Ole Henriksen are showing us how effective this anti-aging ingredient really is.
When one is asked how to describe a “man’s man” how would they describe him? Would he be described as a man who is strong, loves getting his elbows greased up under the hood of his hot rod, or is he simply a loving husband or father figure? There are so many perceptions of a man’s man.
Personally, I think back to the days the old television show Home Improvement with Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor played by Tim Allen. His manly grunt has been heard around the world as each episode is filled with toys the like the, “Man’s Bathroom” …“Arr Arr Arr.” “The Tool Man’s” thoughts of a “Man’s Man” are portrayed through getting dirty, showing off to their significant other, going to the races, playing sports or going to an all you can eat buffet and stuffing your belly full. We all know that most ladies love the Brad Pitt’s, Ashton Kutcher’s and Robert Pattinson’s of the world; but lets face it, we cannot all be celebrities in the spot light. Sorry guys.
Recent studies have shown that men who shave regularly (5 times a week or more) have twice as much whoopee. Now what better way to feel like a man than to be closer to your significant other? “Arr Arr Arr” The study also shows that 78% of women would rather kiss a shaven man than one with facial hair. Personally, I like these stats and to keep me closer to the status of a “Man’s Man”, I use the Murad Man Cleansing Shave. The name says it all. With my sensitive skin it is hard from me to shave frequently, but with the help of this thick shaving cream and cleanser I can. I also use the Murad Man Razor Burn Rescue to prevent any shaving irritation.
Finally, I know that the smells of gasoline, oil or my personal favorite; the basketball court, are good enough, but I challenge you to use the Billy Jealousy Illicit Pearlized Body Wash and I am almost certain that the “Man’s Man” will throw this new national survey into a whole new category and your significant other will go wild. “Arr Arr Arr.”
Treat – Dark spots are a major set back when glowing, radiant skin is your goal. Treat them safely and effectively with SkinCeuticals Pigment Regulator am and pm.
Glow – Try adding a touch of bronzer to the areas of your face that light naturally hits. Too Faced Caribbean in a Compact – Sun Bunny lets you create versatile looks from a subtle glow or go for a bronzed beauty look, or anything in between.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your makeup. Try different looks for different occasion or even moods!
lotion/milk textures and even gel textures. These will get you glowing quickly and what a way to help slim up your figure too! Now that you are pretty much ready to flaunt your pool party body and smile, there are a few other items you should remember to stay flawless. Be sure you remember to always wear your preferred SPF products for the face and the body! If you need, there are always some relaxing and soothing after sun products as well. Click here for more info on after sun care.
It’s no secret that glowing skin resonates with youth and good health. Here are the cardinal rules that you can follow to ensure pretty, radiant skin.
When one is asked how to describe a “man’s man” how would they describe him? Would he be described as a man who is strong, loves getting his elbows greased up under the hood of his hot rod, or is he simply a loving husband or father figure? There are so many perceptions of a man’s man.
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