ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Lifting Treatment for the Neck and Bust

Now we are getting serious, . . . toning the skin of the neck and breast at the same time. It is simple and logical; the continual strain of breast tissue helps gravity along as it weakens the tissue of the neck.

This product is loaded with some great botanical oils like sunflower, macadamia, jojoba, and buckhorn, offering nourishment and regeneration while boosting the health and tonicity of the tissue. These oils are rich with anti-oxidants, flavonoids, vitamins C and E, beta carotene, the essential Omega’s 3, 6, and 9, not to mention revitalizing collagen and some essential minerals needed for regeneration and repair. Don't get the wrong impression, with all these oils this treatment cream does not have an oily slick to the product, but instead a soft emolliency that disappears into the skin. The shea butter component enhances the benefits of the oils, being rich with essential fatty acids (EFA’s) Omega 3,6,9, and ensures the restorative properties of this product. This treatment cream also contains Padina Pavonica, an incredible algae that applied topically stimulates collagen production and improves the elasticity of the skin.

There are also a couple of algae extracts that will promote metabolism and regeneration. The iodine content will promote lipolysis (breakdown of excess fatty tissue) and address that extra cushioning that often appears under the chin as we age. If you are sensitive to algae ingredients, this product may not suit you, but for everyone else this product will offer the “wow” factor you are looking for.

MATIS PARIS Le Cou Enriched Neck Cream

Macadamia oil has a great affinity with the skin as the composition is similar to sebum allowing for soothing and nourishing hydration properties. It also gives this neck cream a beautiful creamy texture without leaving a heavy feeling on the skin. Other interesting botanical ingredients help promote collagen synthesis and moisture absorption which result in the skin on the neck being revived.

There are even a few ingredients like cecropia obtusa bark extract to help work against the build up of fatty tissue under the chin. The elderberry extract and tannic acid will help fade pigmentations and tone and smooth the skin. This cream is loaded with vitamins A, E, C, B’s and minerals like potassium and copper. It will help provide the necessities for the cellular regeneration and repair of the skin, including those oh so important dermal proteins to firm and promote the elasticity of the skin. The polyphenols and vitamins also provide a nice cocktail of anti-oxidants to protect from further degradation (aging) caused by free radical damage. You will see results with this product, especially if you apply from the decolette up the neck and slightly over the jaw line.

Neck Care

A waddle is cute as long as it is not referring to someone’s neck. The neck area is often forgotten when cleansing and applying protective treatment creams until one day we wake up and panic at the lines and loose skin on our neck. The neck area gets a lifetime of abuse from sun, clothing, and being forgotten. The area just under the chin usually escapes the glare from the sun as it is shaded by the chin, but the sides and lower portion suffer dearly. The pigmentation that occurs on the sides of the neck from photo damage (sun) is enhanced as this area is also where we often put perfume, . . . a definite 'no-no' for sun exposed areas.

Muscles that contribute to the firmness and contour of the jaw begin to age and relax causing a weakening in the tonus of the neck. Many women over time develop an increase in the adipose (fatty tissue) just under the chin contributing to the weight, or heaviness, of the neck area and loss of jaw definition. The texture and color of the skin becomes uneven, ruby points and skin tags may develop (especially along the base of the neck), all of which can be improved with some well deserved attention.

The neck area should be treated as automatically as the skin of the face. Cleansing, toning, regular exfoliation, mask application and a cream should be applied to the neck daily. If you are serious about slowing, preventing, or repairing damage to the delicate skin of the neck there are many specific products to care for this area, not to mention treatments that can do wonders. There are incredible serums, masks, creams, light treatments, microcurrent treatments, even exercises all to be considered before invasive procedures. Stay tuned . . . reviews to follow.

Best Of . . . Anti-Aging - Top Five Things - Part 2

3. PROPER SKIN CARE AND BODY CARE
Select proper skin care for your face and body and reap the healthy benefits of glowing skin. Always wear a good sunscreen. Protect your skin from moisture loss by using a good hydrating cream. Moisture loss causes the surface layers to thicken (duller complexion) and contributes to an older appearance. Find products that offer anti-age actives, such as anti-oxidants (a must), peptides or ingredients to promote regeneration. Change up your skin care products a few times a year for better results. Don't forget to indulge in regular exfoliation treatments. Exfoliation helps keep the surface of the skin in good health, promotes new cell regeneration, and allows for better penetration of your skin care products.

4. MEDITATION - No matter what method is chosen there is no doubt that meditation frees your body and mind from stress. Stress is one of the main contributors to free radical activity in our bodies, (degeneration of tissues, mutation of cells, disease). Meditation is a big key to anti-aging because of the biochemical changes that occur in the body as a result. The deep relaxation associated with meditation provides many proven benefits, such as lowering stress hormones (epinephrine), lowering blood pressure, promoting an elevated state of healing, lowering pain thresholds, strengthening the immune system, boosting heart function, lowering cholesterol, keeping the arteries clear, reducing pain, dealing with fatigue, and offering a longer and happier life. EEG studies of the brain show a boost in the intensity of the alpha wave while in a relaxed, receptive state which kicks into gear good mental health and creative concentration. Is it any wonder why meditation is an enormous part of the anti-aging movement? A perfect inner state of peace is beauty personified. A beauty that doesn't diminish with time or age.

5. LAUGHTER
Laughter is considered the best medicine there is. Mark Twain said, "the human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter."A hearty laugh relieves stress-releasing b-endorphins giving the, I feel re-energized, I feel great feeling. Scientifically proven, good laughter can instantly lower blood pressure in hypersensitive people. The Dr. Lee Berk reveals a healthy connection between laughter and wellness and reports the evidence is "mind-blowing." He says that, "laughter brings about a state of eustress, which in psychological terms is the right opposite of distress." Laughter enriches blood vessels with oxygen enhancing the body's blood circulation. Blood circulation gives the skin a glow, boosts your brain function, and enhances a sense of wellness. The one who laughs the longest, laughs last.

Best Of . . . Anti-Aging - Top Five Things - Part 1

What are the top five things I can do to combat the aging process and have a more youthful look?

A youthful look, . . . well, other than your genes (and we don't mean your Levis) that will definitely depend upon how well you take care of "all" of you. Having a young face on an old body just simply does not work. The whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Serious anti-aging programs do not singularly focus on wrinkles and sagging skin, but address the very 'heart' of your health. In keeping with that thought, here are our top five things you can do to fight the age bomb . . .

1. DIET
There is no question that an anti-aging diet offers a 'live longer, live healthier' life. A healthy diet needs to be well thought out and balanced in concert with your body type and should include all of the food groups, preferably in variety. Fruits, veggies, green tea along with foods that are loaded with anti-oxidants are a good bet. It has been suggested that eating small amounts 3 to 5 times a day is the best way to go. Foods rich in anti-oxidants, or phytonutrients, neutralize the free radicals that are responsible age related troubles, such as memory loss, heart disease, cancer, and help win the battle against oxidative stress (too many free radicals) that are responsible for these conditions.

Dr. Perricone, a board certified clinical and research dermatologist reports that, "age related changes may be reversed by consuming foods and beverages that are rich in a variety of compounds, including antioxidants, and are anti-inflammatory, such as cold-water fish and richly colored fruits and vegetables." He goes on to say, "foods classified as pro-inflammatory can accelerate aging such as, saturated or trans fatty acids, sugars and starches, insulin levels surge and trigger a response that accelerates the aging process."

Also, your body needs 1 gram of protein for each kilogram of body weight, and preferably complete proteins (offer the 8 essential amino acids), amino acids are the building blocks for the proteins in our body, and proteins are the building blocks for most of our body tissues (collagen, elastin, fibroblasts, antibodies, skin cells included.) If you work out you may need to increase the amount of protein. The six essential nutrient constituents needed for healthy tissues are proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. If the nutrient requirement is not supplied there will be cellular atrophy, which promotes free radical activity and accelerates aging.

Last, but certainly not least, drink lots and lots of water each day. A good guide for this is to remember your body needs half your body weight in ounces of water each day. For example, if you weigh 130 lbs. you will need to drink 65 ounces of water per day, which is approximately 8 full glasses, . . . and no, that does not include the water in your coffee.

2. EXERCISE AND SUFFICIENT REST
Exercise is essential for healthy tissues which equals healthy bodies. Exercise triggers the body cells to regenerate, giving us healthier cells, tissues, bodies, minds. Not to mention, exercise is a great way to rid stress and improve cardio vascular, which means your cells will get more oxygen and allow for better regeneration and detoxification. Consistency is key, so once or twice a month won't cut it. A little every day is great, or at the very least, three times a week is highly recommended.

Now, about the rest of the equation. Getting enough sleep every night is very, very important. It is a sacred time when your body restores its energy levels, repairs and regenerates tissue, builds bone and muscle, and works hard at strengthening your immune system. It is a time when your mind de-stresses and emotional healing takes place. Is it any wonder why medical professionals insist that sleep deprivation poses definite health risks? Everyone must pay attention to the nurturance of sleep and ensure a solid 7 - 8 hours each and every night, . . . no more, no less.

Best Of . . . Blue Light Therapy

Narrow band blue light therapy can definitely shed light on the treatment of acne. Initially used to treat jaundice in newborn babies, blue light is now offering a powerful role in reducing the negative effects of acne. In fact, 85% of patients using this type of phototherapy experience success. Blue light has the ability to penetrate (given the right wavelength) the skin deep enough to reduce, and possibly control, acne causing bacteria without damaging the skin. Its purifying and antibacterial properties kill p.acnes, the bacteria that causes acne inflammation, and in doing so, calm and regulate the sebaceous gland. Simply put, bacteria cannot thrive under LED blue light. This color in the spectrum of light therapy produces encouraging results for those who suffer from mild to moderate acne. Affected skin is given the ability to heal 150 - 200% faster enabling the skin to quickly recover and show significant results. In fact, with as little as two, 15 - 20 minute sessions per week, results are visibly noticed within the first two weeks of treatment.

In one predominant study, after a four week period of time the test results illustrated a 60% reduction in 80% of the patients (American Academy of Dermatology). A treatment schedule of 12 weeks may result in remissions lasting for as long as three to eight months. This type of skin treatment is completely non-invasive, painless, and could cut down on the use of those messy ointments and creams. Non invasive, no pain, no downtime, plenty of results. There are a few warnings noted for those with severe forms of acne as this type of treatment may not produce the same positive results. It is important to check with a doctor beforehand. One other note of caution, eyes should never be exposed to blue light and goggles must be worn.

* If you need assistance locating a spa or salon offering this type of procedure in your area, email us at beautyeditorpost@gmail.com

Best Of . . . Red Light Therapy

RED LIGHT THERAPY
Red Light Therapy is the one of the most efficient, non-invasive anti-aging treatments available. Phototherapy uses an intense red light with the proven ability to biologically alter the skin tissue and heal wounds by stimulating circulation and renewing cells. Studies by NASA have shown that the use of red light on the skin will stimulate the fibroblasts into producing 5 times the amount of collagen. Fibrolasts are responsible for the production of elastin and collagen and maintaining the integrity of the skin. Properly treated in a professional environment, Red Light Therapy, has the ability to easily penetrate the skin and stimulate cell turnover. Since the loss of collagen is one of the main factors in the visible signs of aging, anything to promote its production should be a major priority in a proactive anti-age skin care program.

Red Light Therapy has the potential to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles, tone the skin, refine the pores, stimulate circulation, diminish hyperpigmentation, and reverse signs of sun damage. Its ability to renew skin cells will "bulk up" the skin giving the appearance of a more youthful contour. The downfall? One treatment will not give dramatic results and therefore a series of six treatments is usually recommended in one week intervals. Other timing issues? It will normally take about 14 days to notice a difference and begin to feel a firmer skin as collagen needs time to be created. The cost? The pricing varies in each Spa/Salon but an average price range for one 20 - 25 minute "stand-alone" treatment will cost approximately $75. Highly recommended.

* If you need assistance locating a spa or salon offering this type of procedure in your area, email us at beautyeditorpost@gmail.com

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

IN HONOR OF ALL MOM'S TO BE . . . FIT PREGNANCY - CASA MADRONA
ENTER BY SEPT. 21ST
One (1) winner will receive: BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Synergy, Cord blood banking from Cord Blood Registry (processing & banking & storage fees), 4 - 100 oz bottles (64 loads) bottles of Dreft, basket of Stretch Mark Products from ET Browne, a Graco sweetpeace soothing center, 1 Igrid & Isabel cami, 1 Igrid & Isabel tank, 1 Ingrid & Isabel legging, 1 Ingrid & Isabel pant and 2 bellabands, Stelaprotect Body Milk, Stelaprotech Face Cream, Cleansing & Soothing Diaper Wipes and Dermo-Cleansing from Mustela, Peg Perego Skate, Primo Viaggio SIP 30/30, Skate Borsa, Playtex bottles and gift basket, Tiny Love Monkey Island Gymini & Sweet Island Dream Mobile, Skip Hop's first Duo Diaper Bag & Pronto, Stokke Tripp Trapp, The First Years True Fit Convertible Car Seat.

The prize also includes a 5-day/4-night "And Baby Makes Three" babymoon vacation courtesy of Barefoot & Pregnant at Casa Madrona. Barefoot & Pregnant at Casa Madrona 5-day/4-night "And Baby Makes Three" babymoon does not include airfare. This escape includes:
• Transportation to and from the airport (or hotel parking)
• Bay or Garden view accommodations for two
• Four in-room continental breakfasts for two
• Romantic picnic lunch
• Two dinners for two
• Complimentary gift basket
• Prenatal spa services: Total Relaxation massage, Barefoot & Pregnant Signature Facial, Revive! hand and foot treatment
• Two Daddy spa services
• Private birthing session
Total retail value $10,025.

The Myth About Eye Creams

Paula Begoun writes there is no evidence, research, or documentation validating the claim that the eye area needs ingredients different from those you use on your face or neck area. She also states that, "cosmetic companies put whatever ingredients they want to into their eye products and usually give you half as much but charge you twice as much as the same product for your face." Again, your comments?


Wow. Pretty serious accusations against cosmetic companies. In our opinion this statement points a cynical finger at all cosmetic manufacturers and belittles all of the wonderful research and development going on in a very credible industry. It is no secret that we strongly disagree. Eye creams play a very important role considering the eye area is about 1/5th of the thickness of the skin on the rest of your face. Face creams are designed to care for specific skin types and conditions, for example, they may have a matifying action or oil control for seborrhea (oily skin), a healing action for blemishes, give emolliency relief for dry skin, or even have a high SPF to protect us from sun damage. These ingredients would certainly not be beneficial to the delicate skin of the eye area. Nor would you want to use essential oils in products around the eyes as commonly used in face creams. Using a product that is too heavy on the mobile eye lids will cause puffiness or tearing, and with long time use will contribute to congestion in the small pores of the eye lids, a condition that is frustrating, not to mention hard to get rid of. When professional estheticians, or skin care therapists, see this type of congestion it is a dead give away that a product that is too rich is being applied to the eye area. You can find more information by clicking here to read a previous post we wrote on this very topic.

Thanks for sending these statements our way. There is so much to respond to that we will continue on our next post. Come on back . . .

SKINCEUTICALS Hydrating B5 Masque

The Hydrating B5 mask has a beautiful creamy gel texture, rich with hyaluronic acid that ensures superior hydration for the skin. Hyaluronic acid is a powerful hydrator and is a key component of the skin. It will hold up to 1000 times its weight in moisture. The other key active ingredient is Vitamin B5, which promotes healing and secures cellular defense, essential for the health and well being of skin cells.

The light texture of this mask gives emolliency to the skin, but is not oily. The softening hydrating action is intensified with the recommended application. This is a mask that is applied in a generous layer, ideally at night on a clean skin, left for fifteen minutes, and then massaged into the skin. Do not remove this mask. It is left on the skin to work overnight revealing a radiant, hydrated skin in the morning. For a much needed moisture boost, apply the mask, leave for ten to fifteen minutes, and massage it in. This mask will show you a visible change in your skin. Guaranteed.

SIRCUITSKIN Cool Lychee Wa™

Cool Lychee Wa offers the skin a thirst quenching treat while promoting ultimate hydration to eliminate those fine lines caused by superficial dehydration. Improving this condition will protect the deeper layers from moisture loss, which is one of the primary factors to address when trying to prevent aging and the breakdown of collagen.

This mask also offers a cocktail of different plant extracts from green tea, lychee, and mangosteen (referred to as the Queen of Fruits), each possessing powerful anti-oxidant properties to neutralize free radicals and protect the skin cells and collagen from damage. These anti-oxidant activities are reinforced with Vitamins E and C, ensuring that this mask is not only boosting hydration, but offering anti-aging protection to the skin. The hydrating, soothing actions of the Monk's Pepper Berry and lecithin, combined with the refreshing touch of menthol, will not only leave your skin hydrated, but also invigorated.

A thumbs up to Sircuitskin as there are no artificial preservatives, colorants or fragrance added to this product. This is definitely a mask you will want to use on a regular basis.

SPA SWEEPSTAKES - ENTER TO WIN

HYATT RESORTS SUMMER GIVEAWAY
ENTER BY SEPT. 15TH
One (1) Grand Prize: Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000) in Hyatt Gift Cards or Hyatt Check Certificates Redeemable at Hyatt Resorts located in North America, the Caribbean or Mexico ("Gift Cards"). Gift Cards are redeemable only for purchases of merchandise or services from Hyatt Resorts located in North America, the Caribbean or Mexico. Total value of prizes to be awarded is $19,800.


PAMPER ME GREEN ECO SPA VACATION SWEEPSTAKES
ENTER BY SEPT. 17TH
One (1) Grand Prize: Roundtrip coach-class air transportation for two (2) from a major commercial airport near winner’s primary residence in the US (determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion) to Milwaukee, WI; one (1) two-bedroom suite for three (3) nights at The Osthoff Resort and the following from The Osthoff Resort’s Aspira Spa: two (2) one-hour spa services (details determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion); spa lunch for winner and guest for two (2) days; a spa welcome basket including Aspira signature bamboo/cotton hand towel for winner and guest; and unlimited use of resort and spa amenities for length of stay. Approximate Retail Value (“ARV”) of all prizes in this contest: $3,350.