To prevent FRIZZY HAIR
1. STAY HYDRATED. Frizz occurs when dry hair absorbs water from the air, but cream-based moisturizing shampoo and conditioner can prevent it—just be sure to rinse well so hair doesn't look dull or greasy. And lather up only a few times a week: "The natural oils that accumulate in the meantime are good frizz-fighters," says hairstylist Nathaniel Hawkins.
2. DRY THE RIGHT WAY. To keep waves smooth, apply styling lotion to damp hair, then let it air-dry—and resist the urge to tousle. "The more you put your hands through it, the more likely you are to create frizz," says hairstylist Garren. To make straight hair sleek, point the dryer toward the ends— "going against the grain, even a little, can cause frizz," he says. And keep blow-drying until every bit of dampness is gone.
3. COAT WITH CAUTION. Use silicone drops or spray to combat frizz, but don't overdose. Apply a drop or spritz to your palms first, then rub them together and pat them over frizz, starting at the ends and working toward the crown (you can always add more later).
4. OIL WELL. To further ward off frizz, give your hair a twice-weekly oil treatment (pros like jojoba oil). Work about a tablespoon through dry hair, first with your hands, then with a synthetic-bristle paddle brush (boar bristles would just soak up the oil). Leave it on for as long as possible before shampooing as usual; even five to ten minutes helps.
5. CUT AND COLOR CORRECTLY. Avoid overlayering, which makes short pieces stick out and get fuzzy. If you have coarse or curly hair, stay away from razor cuts, as they rough up the cuticle and exacerbate frizz. By contrast, nearly blunt cuts can help weigh down frizz. As for color, steer clear of a full head of highlights or a solid blonde: "Bleaching deteriorates the outer layer of the hair, making it coarser and frizzier," says Hawkins.
To prevent FLATNESS
Sleek and chic is all well and good, but hair that's so flat it reveals your skull's contours is another matter. Here's how to turn up the volume.
1. LAYER IN MODERATION. Keep hair close to one length. "When you overlayer it—which people mistakenly do in an attempt to create volume—you risk taking away too much bulk and actually decreasing the volume," explains Hawkins, who thinks "an angled or graduated bob that's lightly layered works beautifully."
2. COLOR SMART. Lightening your base color one or two shades "gives the look of more volume," says colorist Rita Hazan of the Rita Hazan Salon in New York City. (Glazes and semipermanent dye "won't do the trick because they are stains, which actually smooth the hair even more," she says.) For women who don't want to change their color, consider using dye for texture—it ruffles the cuticle just enough to create body. In the hands of a skilled colorist, the ensuing damage is minimal—but it's still damage, so try this strategy only a few times a year to see how your hair responds.
3. REVERSE IT. Condition your hair before you shampoo, suggests Hawkins. "You'll still get the moisture and elasticity, but you'll wash out any residue that can weigh down fine hair." On days when hair is really dirty, he recommends shampooing, conditioning, and then shampooing again.
4. DRY WITH CARE. Creating volume in fine hair is like making a soufflé—overwork it and the whole thing falls flat. When blow-drying, work on large sections, holding the nozzle a few inches from the hair and keeping it moving.
5. RAISE IT UP. To boost volume once the hair is dry, lift three-inch sections and allow them to drop through a mist of medium-hold hair spray, says hairstylist Jimmy Paul, "then spray your entire head with dry shampoo and scrunch; the result is hair with lift and a lovely, seemingly no-product finish." For those who hate hair spray, apply mousse to a vent brush and then to damp hair—it won't squeeze the air out of the mousse. "Coat the brush with mousse and run it through one side of your hair, then refuel and do the other side," Hawkins says.
To prevent GRAY ROOTS
1. SHAMPOO, CONDITION, DEEP-CONDITION. Avoid color-spiked shampoos, which, over time, can make your hair color look fake, according to Hazan. But do use conditioner at your roots, since grays tend to be coarse and wiry. To keep conditioner from leaving your hair limp, look for formulas with lightweight hydrators such as vitamin E, or flower oils (try Philip Kingsley No Scent No Colour Conditioner or Herbal Essences Body Envy Volumizing Conditioner). Once a week, massage a deep-conditioner into your roots, wrap hair in a towel that's been soaked in hot water and then thoroughly wrung out, and cover your head with a shower cap, suggests hair-stylist Oscar Blandi of the Oscar Blandi salon in New York City. Let it marinate for up to five minutes, then rinse.
2. BE THREE-DIMENSIONAL. Color that is multitonal—with a neutral base and two different warm highlight shades— "creates a background where gray roots can blend in," Hazan says. The one exception: redheads, who should instead apply a single-process shade as close to their natural color as possible.
3. TAKE ROOT. Between color appointments, disguise the gray with an at-home root-touch-up kit that's a shade lighter than you think you need, says Hazan. The idea isn't to cover regrowth completely—just to diffuse it until you can get to the salon.
4. CREATE AN ILLUSION. When you've gone too long between dye jobs, the simplest way to hide grays is with volume at the roots. "A little height can camouflage up to an inch of growth," says colorist Reyad Fritas of New York City's Frédéric Fekkai salon. When hair is damp, spritz texturizing spray at the roots, flip your head upside down, and blast roots with a blow-dryer. Or, when hair is freshly blow-dried, place Velcro rollers at the crown and let hair cool.
5. DON'T BE PLUCKY. Avoid tweezing grays (no, not because of that whole "two will grow back" business). "When you pluck gray hairs, the regrowth sprouts straight out from your head," Hazan says. Plus, many women don't realize how much they're pulling out.
To prevent OILINESS
For all the benefits of hair that's slightly dirty—it's lower-maintenance and easier to style—there's a fine line between a healthy shine and an oil slick.
1. DO IT DAILY. Oily hair should be shampooed every day, but resist the urge to use the strongest lather you can find; deter-gents can dry the scalp so much that oil production increases to compensate, says New York City dermatologist David E. Bank. Instead, wash with a gentle shampoo one day, and one that exfoliates the scalp the next (look for salicylic acid on the label; try Philip Pelusi HaiRX Exfoliating Shampoo Treatment). As with the pores on your face, unplugging the follicles on your scalp can help normalize oil production.
2. CONSIDER YOUR CUT. Oily hair that is longer than shoulder-length can "start to separate and look like bad extensions," says Blandi. A slightly layered cut will help. And think twice about getting bangs, particularly if you have oily skin—they can lead to breakouts on your forehead.
3. DON'T BE STRAIGHT. Flatirons make oily hair look oilier. Instead, Blandi recommends slightly teasing at your roots and just under the top layers of the hair with a paddle brush. Or pull hair into a loose, low twist—anything too tight will only highlight the grease.
4. BE CHOOSY. Thickening spray can be your best friend, since its key ingredients counteract greasiness, says Paul, who recommends misting it over damp hair, section by section. Avoid shine enhancers and pomades—they can turn greasy in your hair, Hawkins says. (To make hair shine, simply dampen the bristles of a paddle brush and run it from your scalp to the ends.) For curls, rake through a dime-size blob of gel— "most contain alcohol, which absorbs some of the oil but still gives you some style," Blandi says.
5. BLOT AND GO. To combat oiliness quickly, spray dry shampoo on a brush and work it in from roots to ends. In a pinch, you can also use facial blotting papers or translucent face powder at the roots ("it's better than baby powder, which tends to clump," says Hawkins). To apply, part hair at the crown and, using a large bronzer brush, dust on some powder, then massage it into the roots. (Continue parting and applying until you've absorbed most of the oil.)
To prevent DANDRUFF
Despite common misconceptions, dandruff is not just dry flakes; it's a scalp-specific form of eczema, says Bank. "There's an overgrowth of a harmless yeast, and one way the skin tries to get rid of this excess is to shed affected cells," he explains. Here's how to fight the flakes.
1. SHOP RIGHT. Alternate between a shampoo that kills the yeast (look for ketaconazole or pyrithione zinc, which is found in Head & Shoulders) and a formula that exfoliates with salicylic acid (such as Neutrogena Maximum Strength T/Sal). If your hair is colored or damaged, choose a gentle dandruff shampoo; try DHS Zinc or PureOlogy AntiFade Complex DandruffScalpCure. Dab the medicated shampoo only where you need it on the scalp, and rinse it out. Then apply a moisturizing shampoo to the shaft, says Garren.
2. WASH WELL. Thoroughly massage in the shampoo and leave it on the scalp for at least a minute to allow the active ingredient to work. Then rinse with warm—not hot—water. Follow this routine daily until the flakes abate (depending on their severity, you could see improvement after a few days). Then just repeat a few times a week for maintenance. If you haven't noticed improvement after a month, see a dermatologist. You may need a prescription-strength treatment, such as a steroid lotion.
3. LIGHTEN UP. Dark hair colors make dandruff obvious, so consider dyeing your hair as light as your skin tone will allow, or simply get highlights.
4. CUT THE CHLORINE. Shampoo as soon as possible after you get out of the pool. Any residual chlorine can exacerbate dandruff, says Bank.
5. HIDE IN STYLE. Certain styling tricks can help make flakes less noticeable. First, avoid a ruler-straight part and flatironed or blunt-cut hair. A simple, part-free twist is a better option: "The twist will help keep you from touching and scratching your head and creating new flakes," says Hawkins. If you'd rather leave hair down, blow-dry it with a few Velcro rollers at the crown to obscure the scalp, he says.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Beneficial Ingredients to include in beauty products
Calendula
The English Marigold, otherwise known as Calendula Officinalis, has long been used to heal wounds, reduce inflammation, and relieve chapped skin and sunburn.
Having a long history in the medicinal arena, it also gain accolades in modern-day skin care.
The oil extracted from the brightly colored petals is thought to have detoxifying properties, acting as an antiseptic while also soothing the wound.
This allows the user to treat a variety of skin ailments, such as acne, eczema, and sunburns. Even those with the most sensitive of skin will find that it gently comforts and calms dry, damaged, and irritated skin.
Milk
Milk is good for your body.
Dairy-based products are beneficial to skin because of the hydrating properties they contain—they prevent dryness by promoting moisture.
Rich in beta-hydroxy acids, milk also acts as a natural skin conditioner. By exfoliating old skin cells, milk soothes and softens to produce smooth, glowing skin. Another important nutrient in milk is lactic acid, which not only helps to gently clean and soften skin, but also stimulates skin cell renewal.
Anyone prone to breakouts, excess oil production and/or who are lactose intolerant may want to avoid using milk-based products.
Seaweed
Seaweed filters hundreds of gallons of water daily; allowing it to soak up a complete spectrum of chelated minerals like zinc, selenium and magnesium.
And because it also synthesizes at least a dozen vitamins like Vitamin C, seaweed is considered one of the most nutrient-rich substances on earth.
Seaweed helps to cleanses, tones and soothes the skin. It not only regenerates and tones body tissues, but also improves circulation; this helps skin maintain its youthful appearance and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Seaweed can benefit hair as much as skin by boosting moisture and shine.
Rice
Rice has long been used as both a skin treatment and beauty enhancer in many different countries.
Each form has a specific purpose to make your skin healthy and luminous:
Seeds: Folk medicine practitioners have used rice seeds to treat various aliments such as psoriasis, inflammation, dryness and eczema.
Starch: Women in Europe and Asia began to use rice to soften and beautify their skin after discovering that the starch in rice is a natural talcum that soothes and softens the skin.
Bran: Rice bran has been found to offer intense moisturization, anti-aging properties and UV protection.
Powder: The addition of rice powder to mineral foundations can soothe skin irritations, provide a cooling effect and allow those with sensitive skin to wear a powder foundation minus the itchiness that can occur with mica-based products. Rice powder aids in smooth application by adding a silky texture to makeup formulations.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide (nahy-uh-sin-uh-mahyd) is part of the Vitamin B group and is water-soluble.
It is functionally identical to Niacin; however, it is not as irritating to the skin.
It has several benefits including anti-inflammatory properties, it increases skin barrier function, decreases skin pigmentation, decreases redness, stimulates collagen, decreases fine lines and wrinkles, and it is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores.
Finally we have found an ingredient that is a "hole in one." Because of the anti-inflammatory, skin barrier and anti-redness properties, Niacinamide is commonly used by acne and rosacea sufferers; however, it has also shown superior anti-aging properties and is great for anyone's skin.
Pomegranate
It has been long revered as a symbol of healing and longevity. Recent studies have shown that this ancient fruit has powerful antioxidant properties, beneficial in topical skin care.
Rich in ellagic acid, the pomegranate promotes the regeneration of cells in the two most important layers of healthy skin, the epidermis and dermis. The fruit extracts prolong the life of cells in the dermis called fibroblasts. These cells produce the skin's essential structural fibers, including collagen and elastin. As skin is exposed to sun damage and other aging factors, the ability to heal diminishes.
Pomegranate extracts help repair and restore the skin's ability to heal quickly, thus helping to reverse the signs of aging.
The English Marigold, otherwise known as Calendula Officinalis, has long been used to heal wounds, reduce inflammation, and relieve chapped skin and sunburn.
Having a long history in the medicinal arena, it also gain accolades in modern-day skin care.
The oil extracted from the brightly colored petals is thought to have detoxifying properties, acting as an antiseptic while also soothing the wound.
This allows the user to treat a variety of skin ailments, such as acne, eczema, and sunburns. Even those with the most sensitive of skin will find that it gently comforts and calms dry, damaged, and irritated skin.
Milk
Milk is good for your body.
Dairy-based products are beneficial to skin because of the hydrating properties they contain—they prevent dryness by promoting moisture.
Rich in beta-hydroxy acids, milk also acts as a natural skin conditioner. By exfoliating old skin cells, milk soothes and softens to produce smooth, glowing skin. Another important nutrient in milk is lactic acid, which not only helps to gently clean and soften skin, but also stimulates skin cell renewal.
Anyone prone to breakouts, excess oil production and/or who are lactose intolerant may want to avoid using milk-based products.
Seaweed
Seaweed filters hundreds of gallons of water daily; allowing it to soak up a complete spectrum of chelated minerals like zinc, selenium and magnesium.
And because it also synthesizes at least a dozen vitamins like Vitamin C, seaweed is considered one of the most nutrient-rich substances on earth.
Seaweed helps to cleanses, tones and soothes the skin. It not only regenerates and tones body tissues, but also improves circulation; this helps skin maintain its youthful appearance and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Seaweed can benefit hair as much as skin by boosting moisture and shine.
Rice
Rice has long been used as both a skin treatment and beauty enhancer in many different countries.
Each form has a specific purpose to make your skin healthy and luminous:
Seeds: Folk medicine practitioners have used rice seeds to treat various aliments such as psoriasis, inflammation, dryness and eczema.
Starch: Women in Europe and Asia began to use rice to soften and beautify their skin after discovering that the starch in rice is a natural talcum that soothes and softens the skin.
Bran: Rice bran has been found to offer intense moisturization, anti-aging properties and UV protection.
Powder: The addition of rice powder to mineral foundations can soothe skin irritations, provide a cooling effect and allow those with sensitive skin to wear a powder foundation minus the itchiness that can occur with mica-based products. Rice powder aids in smooth application by adding a silky texture to makeup formulations.
Niacinamide
Niacinamide (nahy-uh-sin-uh-mahyd) is part of the Vitamin B group and is water-soluble.
It is functionally identical to Niacin; however, it is not as irritating to the skin.
It has several benefits including anti-inflammatory properties, it increases skin barrier function, decreases skin pigmentation, decreases redness, stimulates collagen, decreases fine lines and wrinkles, and it is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores.
Finally we have found an ingredient that is a "hole in one." Because of the anti-inflammatory, skin barrier and anti-redness properties, Niacinamide is commonly used by acne and rosacea sufferers; however, it has also shown superior anti-aging properties and is great for anyone's skin.
Pomegranate
It has been long revered as a symbol of healing and longevity. Recent studies have shown that this ancient fruit has powerful antioxidant properties, beneficial in topical skin care.
Rich in ellagic acid, the pomegranate promotes the regeneration of cells in the two most important layers of healthy skin, the epidermis and dermis. The fruit extracts prolong the life of cells in the dermis called fibroblasts. These cells produce the skin's essential structural fibers, including collagen and elastin. As skin is exposed to sun damage and other aging factors, the ability to heal diminishes.
Pomegranate extracts help repair and restore the skin's ability to heal quickly, thus helping to reverse the signs of aging.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
How to hide dark circles?
It had always been a frustrating concern for me to hide my dark circles and bags with make-up.
Concealers only improves my under eye appearance but it does not totally eliminate it.
Here is an article by Marie Claire.
For Bags:
To stop eye-bags before they occur, the night before an important event, steer clear of salt, alcohol and caffeine, which can cause puffiness. Don't use a cream eye moisturizer before bed; go for a gel formula, instead. If you wake up to puffiness, apply ice or anything cold (such as chilled spoons or tea bags) to your eyes. Engage in aerobic exercise to help drain fluid.
For Circles:
First, prime your skin with a shimmer-containing cream to reflect light. Gafni (makeup artist Ramy Gafni of Ramy Beauty Therapy) recommends Prescriptives Vibrant or Dimish by Estée Lauder. Then, apply a yellow-based concealer one shade lighter than your skin directly to the blue rings. Set the concealer with a thin layer of loose or pressed powder.
If all else fails, Gafni has a diversionary tactic to draw attention away from under the eyes. Apply a dark brown or black eyeliner to upper lashlines only. Follow with a coat of mascara to the upper lashes only. Add a neutral shimmery eye shadow to lids to brighten your whole face.
Concealers only improves my under eye appearance but it does not totally eliminate it.
Here is an article by Marie Claire.
For Bags:
To stop eye-bags before they occur, the night before an important event, steer clear of salt, alcohol and caffeine, which can cause puffiness. Don't use a cream eye moisturizer before bed; go for a gel formula, instead. If you wake up to puffiness, apply ice or anything cold (such as chilled spoons or tea bags) to your eyes. Engage in aerobic exercise to help drain fluid.
For Circles:
First, prime your skin with a shimmer-containing cream to reflect light. Gafni (makeup artist Ramy Gafni of Ramy Beauty Therapy) recommends Prescriptives Vibrant or Dimish by Estée Lauder. Then, apply a yellow-based concealer one shade lighter than your skin directly to the blue rings. Set the concealer with a thin layer of loose or pressed powder.
If all else fails, Gafni has a diversionary tactic to draw attention away from under the eyes. Apply a dark brown or black eyeliner to upper lashlines only. Follow with a coat of mascara to the upper lashes only. Add a neutral shimmery eye shadow to lids to brighten your whole face.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Improve the shape of your face with simple exercises
1) Getting rid of a double chin :
Sit on the chair and tilt your head back, looking up at the ceiling. With your lips closed, start making a chewing motion. Do this 100 times each day. In a few weeks you should know a slight difference
2) Making your skin tighter and establish more of a cheek bone :
With your lips closed, sitting on a chair. Suck in your cheeks. Suck them in 100 times, with your lips completely closed.
3) Get firmer jaws :
Stick out the tongue and try to reach the end of your nose a few times
OR
Keep your mouth shut and try to lower your chin. Do this with your lips tight.
4) To prevent wrinkles :
Wash your face with very cold water to tighten the skin.
A secret tip from Paul Newman
Read the whole story from here
Sit on the chair and tilt your head back, looking up at the ceiling. With your lips closed, start making a chewing motion. Do this 100 times each day. In a few weeks you should know a slight difference
2) Making your skin tighter and establish more of a cheek bone :
With your lips closed, sitting on a chair. Suck in your cheeks. Suck them in 100 times, with your lips completely closed.
3) Get firmer jaws :
Stick out the tongue and try to reach the end of your nose a few times
OR
Keep your mouth shut and try to lower your chin. Do this with your lips tight.
4) To prevent wrinkles :
Wash your face with very cold water to tighten the skin.
A secret tip from Paul Newman
Read the whole story from here
Beauty Myths : True or False
When we were young, didn't our Moms always say you can't do this, else that will happen? Just to make us scared?
And those myths just get passed down over the years from grandparents to parents to children...without ever knowing whether its true?
So here's a total of 16 beauty myths from Total Beauty with facts from wrinkles to acne
True or False? Was Mom right, afterall?
And those myths just get passed down over the years from grandparents to parents to children...without ever knowing whether its true?
So here's a total of 16 beauty myths from Total Beauty with facts from wrinkles to acne
True or False? Was Mom right, afterall?
Monday, July 20, 2009
The Right Ingredients for your Eye Concerns
Isn't it frustrating that the eye cream never seems to work?
Even when its so expensive?
Are we even getting the right eye cream to address our concerns?
Here's a quiz for you to find out!
Read more from Total Beauty
Even when its so expensive?
Are we even getting the right eye cream to address our concerns?
Here's a quiz for you to find out!
Read more from Total Beauty
Pills for Beauty
The list of recommended supplements to look better:
USE ANTIOXIDANTS FOR ANTIAGING. Vitamins C and E, alpha-lipoic acid, selenium, and CoQ10 all fend off free radicals in the environment, preserving collagen and elastin (skin's "plumpers") and slowing fine-line accumulation.
"B" SMART ABOUT FIRM SKIN AND FORTIFIED HAIR AND NAILS. Even a mild vitamin-B deficiency will show up as brittle tips or slack skin.
OMEGAS FOR ALPHA SMOOTHNESS. To calm irritation, consider essential fatty acids (omegas-3 and -6): Recent evidence suggests they can calm psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
HYDRATE WITH HYALURONIC ACID. It is successful topically. So how about taken orally? It may also help skin stay moist.
POLISH WITH PROBIOTICS. Lackluster skin may be a reflection of a compromised intestinal tract. Probiotics can keep skin radiant by minimizing yeast overgrowth.
ZAP ZITS WITH ZINC. To regulate the oil production that can cause flareups, think zinc.
Read more from Marie Claire
USE ANTIOXIDANTS FOR ANTIAGING. Vitamins C and E, alpha-lipoic acid, selenium, and CoQ10 all fend off free radicals in the environment, preserving collagen and elastin (skin's "plumpers") and slowing fine-line accumulation.
"B" SMART ABOUT FIRM SKIN AND FORTIFIED HAIR AND NAILS. Even a mild vitamin-B deficiency will show up as brittle tips or slack skin.
OMEGAS FOR ALPHA SMOOTHNESS. To calm irritation, consider essential fatty acids (omegas-3 and -6): Recent evidence suggests they can calm psoriasis, eczema, and acne.
HYDRATE WITH HYALURONIC ACID. It is successful topically. So how about taken orally? It may also help skin stay moist.
POLISH WITH PROBIOTICS. Lackluster skin may be a reflection of a compromised intestinal tract. Probiotics can keep skin radiant by minimizing yeast overgrowth.
ZAP ZITS WITH ZINC. To regulate the oil production that can cause flareups, think zinc.
Read more from Marie Claire
Beauty food to make you look gorgeous
What to eat for glowing skin?
Spinach, broccoli and other dark green veggies.
How?
- rich in minerals and vitamin A
Benefits:
- antidote to dry skin and wrinkles
Olive oil, flaxseed oil, and fatty fish like salmon-all "healthy fats"
Benefits :
- make your skin supple and glowing
Drinking fresh-squeezed vegetable juice with lemon juice and cayenne pepper
How?
Vegetable juice boosts energy and the cayenne increases circulation for a healthy glow
Benefits :
- gives an instant rosy-cheek effect.
Courtesy from Marie Claire
Spinach, broccoli and other dark green veggies.
How?
- rich in minerals and vitamin A
Benefits:
- antidote to dry skin and wrinkles
Olive oil, flaxseed oil, and fatty fish like salmon-all "healthy fats"
Benefits :
- make your skin supple and glowing
Drinking fresh-squeezed vegetable juice with lemon juice and cayenne pepper
How?
Vegetable juice boosts energy and the cayenne increases circulation for a healthy glow
Benefits :
- gives an instant rosy-cheek effect.
Courtesy from Marie Claire
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Salon Review : Salon Esprit
Salon : Salon Esprit
Location : Vivocity #01-73
Tel : 6376 9578
Stylist : Sharon Chai
Esprit started this Esprit salon in Vivocity 2 years ago but this was my first time being in there.
This salon, situated right in the Esprit store, also provides manicure and pedicure services.
The whole place looks and feels posh. Mirrors all around, good-looking male stylists and some pretty workers. Their standard colour code for work seems to be white matched with black leggings as per my observation on a Saturday.
I was there at 11am and the salon was pretty peaceful except for soft music in the background and a few lady customers. I was immediately shown to the seat where Sharon did a quick review of my hair structure.
A menu of the drinks selection was offered to me. I was impressed that they have a wider selection than most salons. I get to choose hot/iced cocoa, orange juice, Earl Grey Tea, Lipton Tea, Coffee, etc
Magazines were immediately placed on the shelves beside the mirrors. Quite prompt service, I will say.
Upon knowing my intention for a colouring job, Sharon took out the colouring board and recommended me some colours. A dark colour for a base and a slightly lighter colour for my highlights. I emphasized to her that I prefer brown natural tones than reddish tones.
She says she understood and asked me to leave the colouring combination to her. I trusted her choice but I was slightly disappointed with the end result.
Anyway, she told me she will do the haircut first, before the colouring and then she disappeared literally without a word. I waited for 20 minutes and was really getting impatient. I hated waiting in salons which is what every salon always did, except for Supercuts.
I seriously think that since I am the customer and I am paying for your service and your time, the stylist should not use my time to entertain other customers. The focus is just so incorrect.
Finally, Sharon came out, with an assistant in tow, known as Ah-Yen. I overheard Sharon telling her to do the colouring job first. I will expect Sharon to inform me of the change in decision from haircut to hair colouring.
Basically, Sharon did not do much. She just mixed the colours and give a few pointers to Ah Yen and off she goes. I was left in the hands of Ah Yen who was quite service-oriented. Serving me drinks, bringing me more magazines and asking if I require more drinks.
Sharon only came back to me, after the hair colouring and treatment was done to start on the haircut. She did not express on the intended haircut she wanted to do on me and just start snipping off my hair.
She did not suggest haircuts that will look softer on me but just do whatever she think its good.
She just gives a nod when I told her what I want.
I was disappointed with the colouring job because I really dislike red colour on my hair but she actually did a burgundy colour on it because she says red looks good on fair skin.
Goodness, was she listening when I told her I am more inclined towards brown natural tones?
The base colour was so dark that its almost black and she claimed that its to cover my grey hairs.
All in all, I spent $188 for 2 tone colour, $48 for cut and $68 for treatment which is a whopping $325.28 after GST. Thank goodness, I was using the 1 for 1 promotion with my sister who have the Esprit card and we shared the amount.
I did not think the amount was well-spent in the salon with the simple haircut. $188 for just a 2 tone colouring job was just too expensive, without any treatment included. It was misleading for them to quote $98 and above for 2 tones when my sister called them.
There were a number of male Cacausians customers of this salon. The influx of customers are still manageable during the 4 hours I was there.
Location : Vivocity #01-73
Tel : 6376 9578
Stylist : Sharon Chai
Esprit started this Esprit salon in Vivocity 2 years ago but this was my first time being in there.
This salon, situated right in the Esprit store, also provides manicure and pedicure services.
The whole place looks and feels posh. Mirrors all around, good-looking male stylists and some pretty workers. Their standard colour code for work seems to be white matched with black leggings as per my observation on a Saturday.
I was there at 11am and the salon was pretty peaceful except for soft music in the background and a few lady customers. I was immediately shown to the seat where Sharon did a quick review of my hair structure.
A menu of the drinks selection was offered to me. I was impressed that they have a wider selection than most salons. I get to choose hot/iced cocoa, orange juice, Earl Grey Tea, Lipton Tea, Coffee, etc
Magazines were immediately placed on the shelves beside the mirrors. Quite prompt service, I will say.
Upon knowing my intention for a colouring job, Sharon took out the colouring board and recommended me some colours. A dark colour for a base and a slightly lighter colour for my highlights. I emphasized to her that I prefer brown natural tones than reddish tones.
She says she understood and asked me to leave the colouring combination to her. I trusted her choice but I was slightly disappointed with the end result.
Anyway, she told me she will do the haircut first, before the colouring and then she disappeared literally without a word. I waited for 20 minutes and was really getting impatient. I hated waiting in salons which is what every salon always did, except for Supercuts.
I seriously think that since I am the customer and I am paying for your service and your time, the stylist should not use my time to entertain other customers. The focus is just so incorrect.
Finally, Sharon came out, with an assistant in tow, known as Ah-Yen. I overheard Sharon telling her to do the colouring job first. I will expect Sharon to inform me of the change in decision from haircut to hair colouring.
Basically, Sharon did not do much. She just mixed the colours and give a few pointers to Ah Yen and off she goes. I was left in the hands of Ah Yen who was quite service-oriented. Serving me drinks, bringing me more magazines and asking if I require more drinks.
Sharon only came back to me, after the hair colouring and treatment was done to start on the haircut. She did not express on the intended haircut she wanted to do on me and just start snipping off my hair.
She did not suggest haircuts that will look softer on me but just do whatever she think its good.
She just gives a nod when I told her what I want.
I was disappointed with the colouring job because I really dislike red colour on my hair but she actually did a burgundy colour on it because she says red looks good on fair skin.
Goodness, was she listening when I told her I am more inclined towards brown natural tones?
The base colour was so dark that its almost black and she claimed that its to cover my grey hairs.
All in all, I spent $188 for 2 tone colour, $48 for cut and $68 for treatment which is a whopping $325.28 after GST. Thank goodness, I was using the 1 for 1 promotion with my sister who have the Esprit card and we shared the amount.
I did not think the amount was well-spent in the salon with the simple haircut. $188 for just a 2 tone colouring job was just too expensive, without any treatment included. It was misleading for them to quote $98 and above for 2 tones when my sister called them.
There were a number of male Cacausians customers of this salon. The influx of customers are still manageable during the 4 hours I was there.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Review on Skinlite Age Care Eye Gel Mask
I bought these eye masks from Sasa on a whim because I simply have a weakness for eye masks. I am just so obsessed in making my eyes look better.At $7.90 for 3 pieces, I did not find itcheap since I never even heard of the brand. But since it was made in Korea, I decided to give it a try.
It claims to visibly helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles and leaves eye zone moisturized and soft.
Main Ingredients : Contains Ginseng, Green Tea, Vitamin A & E, and Aloe Vera.
This eye mask unlike the common essence-soaked cresent shape-like patches, is actually a 1 piece long dry gel-like mask.
The mask is folded in half with a backing paper inbetween. Just peel off the backing and you are ready to use the long patch.
There is a slight fragrance which reminded me of lychee fruits and it feels cooling on my under eye area. But there is no great news to share because it does not work.
And at times, my under eye area will feel itchy if I did not remove it by the stated duration of 15mins to 20mins.
Frankly speaking I actually prefer essence-soaked eye masks because dry masks feel surreal and it made me wonder if it actually deliver any beneficial nutrients to my skin.
It does not deliver its claims and I am on my way to use other masks.
Super Food For Your Face
Courtesy from Primped
Other than just slathering expensive potions of cream, your daily diet also plays a part in how your skin looks.
Blueberries: As an antioxidant, it protect us from skin damaging free radicals, which cause the ugly side effects of premature ageing, also known as fines lines, wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity.
Pomegranate: Helps to produce and preserve collagen, making your skin appear smooth, soft and most importantly, younger. It’s also packed with vitamin C which helps to protect the skin against sun damage and helps to heal scars.
Spinach: It contains antioxidant compounds that promote firm skin. It also contains other goodies you might have heard of, vitamins B, C, and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Nuts: Containing essential Omega-3 fatty acids which help to prevent water loss in the skin cells. They also contain vitamin E, which will help repair sun damaged skin. Try walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds.
Green tea: Full of antioxidants, it also helps to fight free radicals just like what blueberries do.
Other than just slathering expensive potions of cream, your daily diet also plays a part in how your skin looks.
Blueberries: As an antioxidant, it protect us from skin damaging free radicals, which cause the ugly side effects of premature ageing, also known as fines lines, wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity.
Pomegranate: Helps to produce and preserve collagen, making your skin appear smooth, soft and most importantly, younger. It’s also packed with vitamin C which helps to protect the skin against sun damage and helps to heal scars.
Spinach: It contains antioxidant compounds that promote firm skin. It also contains other goodies you might have heard of, vitamins B, C, and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Nuts: Containing essential Omega-3 fatty acids which help to prevent water loss in the skin cells. They also contain vitamin E, which will help repair sun damaged skin. Try walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds.
Green tea: Full of antioxidants, it also helps to fight free radicals just like what blueberries do.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Free SKII samples for grabs
SKII is currently giving out a free 30ml sample.
Just answer a questionaire and you are on your way to get a facial treatment essence.
Just click here
Just answer a questionaire and you are on your way to get a facial treatment essence.
Just click here
Skin Care Ingredient : Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid (otherwise referred to as HA) is an ingredient that can be found in an increasing number of skin care products geared towards increasing hydration and boosting the effectiveness of daily moisturizers.
Its helps to store water in the skin, providing essential moisture to body processes
A substance naturally found in the body, Hyaluronic Acid works to absorb water and lubricate skin tissue. Young skin contains high levels of this chemical and as a result appears full, plump and smooth. As we age, our levels of Hyaluronic Acid decrease, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
Skin loses elasticity and becomes dry because moisture is lost and that’s because hyaluronic acid in between your cells have decreased. To keep skin hydrated, it’s important to have hyaluronic acid at optimal levels.
HA can hold hundreds of times its weight in water and is often used in moisturizing formulas.
As derived from here, HA works by attracting moisture from the air and sealing it into our skin. However if you live in a relatively dry climate, the usage of hyaluronic acid alone might cause skin dehydration. The reason is that when there isn't enough moisture in the air, hyaluronic acid will instead take moisture from you skin to seal them on the surface. So if you decide to use a hyaluronic acid in a dry climate, make sure you have a face spray with you at all time. That will solve the dilemma.
Hyaluronic acid has many functions throughout the body, especially in the connective tissue. In the skin, some of its known roles are the following:
- Holding moisture
- Increasing viscosity and reducing permeability of extracellular fluid
- Contributing to mechanical resilience and suppleness of the skin
- Regulation of tissues repair
- Regulation of movement and proliferation of cells
- Regulation of immune and inflammatory responses
Source :
Smartskin
Its helps to store water in the skin, providing essential moisture to body processes
A substance naturally found in the body, Hyaluronic Acid works to absorb water and lubricate skin tissue. Young skin contains high levels of this chemical and as a result appears full, plump and smooth. As we age, our levels of Hyaluronic Acid decrease, resulting in fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
Skin loses elasticity and becomes dry because moisture is lost and that’s because hyaluronic acid in between your cells have decreased. To keep skin hydrated, it’s important to have hyaluronic acid at optimal levels.
HA can hold hundreds of times its weight in water and is often used in moisturizing formulas.
As derived from here, HA works by attracting moisture from the air and sealing it into our skin. However if you live in a relatively dry climate, the usage of hyaluronic acid alone might cause skin dehydration. The reason is that when there isn't enough moisture in the air, hyaluronic acid will instead take moisture from you skin to seal them on the surface. So if you decide to use a hyaluronic acid in a dry climate, make sure you have a face spray with you at all time. That will solve the dilemma.
Hyaluronic acid has many functions throughout the body, especially in the connective tissue. In the skin, some of its known roles are the following:
- Holding moisture
- Increasing viscosity and reducing permeability of extracellular fluid
- Contributing to mechanical resilience and suppleness of the skin
- Regulation of tissues repair
- Regulation of movement and proliferation of cells
- Regulation of immune and inflammatory responses
Source :
Smartskin
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Skin Care Ingredient : Coenzyme Q10
There have been a sprout of skincare products touting to have beneficial Coenzyme Q10 for for the skin.
So what is exactly Coenzyme Q10?
Also known ubiquinone or CoQ10 in short, it is a vitamin-like compound that is present in all cells.
An antioxidant, it protects the cells from the damage caused by the free radicals in the body. Free radicals are produced during the normal process of producing energy, however, as we get older, the body starts producing too many of these free radicals. This can be damaging for people whose bodies are not producing enough CoQ10 and other antioxidants to control these.
Free radicals are the main culprits commonly implicated in causing skin aging. Oxygen and nitrogen free radicals are produced by cigarette smoking, environmental pollution, less than adequate nutrition, pesticides and other chemicals in the food, and most importantly, from the UV action upon the skin. When UV radiation interacts with the skin, it produces an excessive amount of free radicals which destroy collagen, elastin and other proteins in the skin.
As we get older, the amount of CoQ10 that the body produces decreases. Various external factors such as aging, stress and some medications can lower the levels of CoQ10 in the body.
As a result, the ability of cells to withstand stress and regenerate declines. Unfortunately, the levels of CoQ10 in the body almost inevitably decline with age. In fact, CoQ10 is regarded as one of the most accurate biomarkers of aging since its decline correlates so well with the aging process.
CoQ10-depleted skin may be more prone to the damage by free radicals, which are particularly abundant in the skin since it is exposed to the elements. Thus, CoQ10 may boost skin repair and regeneration and reduce free radical damage.
Studies have shown that Co-enzyme Q10 applied directly on the skin helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
After the age of 30-35 the body becomes less able to create enough co-enzyme Q10 to meet its energy needs. This is made worse by bad eating habits, stress, infection or certain drugs. Co-enzyme Q10 can significantly suppress the expression of collagenase, an enzyme which destroys collagen. In addition, it can penetrate the outer layers of the skin and exert antioxidant benefits deep in the dermis.
CoQ10 acts as a powerful free-radical scavenger, helping to guard against environmental damage known to cause fine lines and wrinkles, such as UVA and UVB radiation, cigarette smoke and air pollution.
It is important to keep in mind that products listing ubiquinone or CoQ10 among the ingredients must be stored properly in closed containers (air-tight pumps or capsules) and kept away from harsh light or direct sunlight.
Much like Vitamin C, CoQ10 can be rendered inactive by exposure to oxygen. Products containing CoQ10 are considered safe for all skin types; although anyone with a known sensitivity should avoid ubiquinone and its synthetic derivatives, idebenone or idebenol.
More information can be found here
Other studies found here
More about skin aging
So what is exactly Coenzyme Q10?
Also known ubiquinone or CoQ10 in short, it is a vitamin-like compound that is present in all cells.
An antioxidant, it protects the cells from the damage caused by the free radicals in the body. Free radicals are produced during the normal process of producing energy, however, as we get older, the body starts producing too many of these free radicals. This can be damaging for people whose bodies are not producing enough CoQ10 and other antioxidants to control these.
Free radicals are the main culprits commonly implicated in causing skin aging. Oxygen and nitrogen free radicals are produced by cigarette smoking, environmental pollution, less than adequate nutrition, pesticides and other chemicals in the food, and most importantly, from the UV action upon the skin. When UV radiation interacts with the skin, it produces an excessive amount of free radicals which destroy collagen, elastin and other proteins in the skin.
As we get older, the amount of CoQ10 that the body produces decreases. Various external factors such as aging, stress and some medications can lower the levels of CoQ10 in the body.
As a result, the ability of cells to withstand stress and regenerate declines. Unfortunately, the levels of CoQ10 in the body almost inevitably decline with age. In fact, CoQ10 is regarded as one of the most accurate biomarkers of aging since its decline correlates so well with the aging process.
CoQ10-depleted skin may be more prone to the damage by free radicals, which are particularly abundant in the skin since it is exposed to the elements. Thus, CoQ10 may boost skin repair and regeneration and reduce free radical damage.
Studies have shown that Co-enzyme Q10 applied directly on the skin helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
After the age of 30-35 the body becomes less able to create enough co-enzyme Q10 to meet its energy needs. This is made worse by bad eating habits, stress, infection or certain drugs. Co-enzyme Q10 can significantly suppress the expression of collagenase, an enzyme which destroys collagen. In addition, it can penetrate the outer layers of the skin and exert antioxidant benefits deep in the dermis.
CoQ10 acts as a powerful free-radical scavenger, helping to guard against environmental damage known to cause fine lines and wrinkles, such as UVA and UVB radiation, cigarette smoke and air pollution.
It is important to keep in mind that products listing ubiquinone or CoQ10 among the ingredients must be stored properly in closed containers (air-tight pumps or capsules) and kept away from harsh light or direct sunlight.
Much like Vitamin C, CoQ10 can be rendered inactive by exposure to oxygen. Products containing CoQ10 are considered safe for all skin types; although anyone with a known sensitivity should avoid ubiquinone and its synthetic derivatives, idebenone or idebenol.
More information can be found here
Other studies found here
More about skin aging
How to look slimmer in photos
Secret No. 1: Turn partially sideways to the camera, planting one foot in front of the other. Point your toe to the camera and place your weight on your back foot.
Secret No. 2: Pull head forward slightly to minimize any appearance of double chin
Secret No. 3: Hold arms slightly away from your body. This keeps upper arm flab from flattening out and therefore appearing flabbier.
Secret No. 4: Pull shoulders back, chest forward and gently suck stomach in.
Secret No. 5: Do not let the photographer snap the picture from below. This adds another 20-50 pounds to the 10 pounds automatically and annoying added by the camera.
Secret No. 6: Use objects you are holding to your advantage by placing them in front of parts of you you'd prefer to hide.
Secret No. 7: Wearing an entire outfit of just one color will do the trick as well, whether it be white, beige, brown, blue or red. One color tends to elongate your figure.
Read more from here
Secret No. 2: Pull head forward slightly to minimize any appearance of double chin
Secret No. 3: Hold arms slightly away from your body. This keeps upper arm flab from flattening out and therefore appearing flabbier.
Secret No. 4: Pull shoulders back, chest forward and gently suck stomach in.
Secret No. 5: Do not let the photographer snap the picture from below. This adds another 20-50 pounds to the 10 pounds automatically and annoying added by the camera.
Secret No. 6: Use objects you are holding to your advantage by placing them in front of parts of you you'd prefer to hide.
Secret No. 7: Wearing an entire outfit of just one color will do the trick as well, whether it be white, beige, brown, blue or red. One color tends to elongate your figure.
Read more from here
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Review on Beauty Credit CoEnzyme Q10 Eye Patch
Product Description
Hydrogel eye patch which contains coenzymeQ10 and gelatin delivers resilience and elasticity to dry and nonelastic eye area to regenerate and moisturize your eye area. CoEnzyme Q10 Eye Patch contains CoEnzyme Q10 anti-oxidants that fight against ageing. According to Beauty Credit , it helps to maximise the effects of eye cream through the use of hydro-gel as compared to an ordinary eye patch. It also firms sagging skin around eye areas.
Products with CoEnzyme Q10 are usually quite popular as it helps to fight against free radicals which causes aging. Refer to my article.
However, we also need to take note that CoEnzyme Q10 like Vitamin C can be inactivated by oxygen in the air.
I was hoping this product will be effective on me, since it contains the ingredient Q10 but well, I was disappointed. It gives a cooling, refreshing feel when laid on the undereye area but it does nothing more. It neither de-puff my eyes nor reduce any dark circles.
This eye patch is not the traditional eye mask where its wet and dripping with essence. This is a hydrogel patch which essentially meant a dry cresent-like patch to be laid on the under-eye area. The pair of patches comes packed in individual sachets and once teared open, it reveals 2 foam-like white patches pasted on both sides of a transparent sheet. It fits snugly on my undereye area as its quite sticky.
I will not be getting this product again but if you are keen to try, try getting it in Korea, its so much cheaper than getting in Singapore. I got it at $15.90 in Singapore.
Ingredients commonly found in beauty products
I stumbled upon Liz's blog while searching for some beauty products and here are the detrimental ingredients commonly found in beauty products.
ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS (AHA)
An exfoliant, commonly recommended by dermatologists and beauty salons, a high percentage of it not only removes dead skin cells but also your skin's protective layer. Long-term use can leave your skin more susceptible to UV rays, leaving your skin more exposed to the sun's damaging effect and, hence, skin cancer.
Your skin becomes thinner and more sensitive.
BENZALDEHYDE
Regular use of products with this ingredient can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, eyes, skin, lungs, nausea and pain. Long-term use can result in kidney damage.
COLLAGEN
Extracted from animal skin, it cannot penetrate the pores, hence collagen of this origin only clogs the pores and keeps the skin from functioning properly.
DEA, MEA, TEA (Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine, and Triethanolmine)
Found in shampoos, soaps, facial cleansers and any personal care products that foam, the three are hormone-disrupting chemicals and known to cause cancer. A recent report proved that DEA and MEA are readily absorbed into the skin.
Ethanolamines (Monoethanolamine aka MEA, Diethanolamine aka DEA, Triethanolamine aka TEA): common pH stabilizers; when exposed to oxygen/air form nitrosoamines, which may be irritating and/or toxic. The amount of nitrosoamines formed during typical use of skin care products with ethanolamines is unclear.
FORMALIN
This substance is used in labs to preserve dead bodies. Usually found in nail polish, shampoos and skin creams, it causes allergic reaction when in contact with skin and its fumes are linked to asthma and cancer.
FRAGRANCE
Many of the compounds found in fragrances are carcinogenic or toxic. Most of the ingredients used for fragrance on a label are synthetic. Clinical observations by medical doctors have shown that exposure to fragrances can affect the central nervous system causing depression, hyperactivity, irritability, inability to cope and other behavioral changes.
There are over 200 synthetic fragrances used in cosmetics. There is no way to know which particular ones are in your product, since on the label it will simply say "Fragrance." Safety of most synthetic fragrances is an open question. Best to avoid them since they provide no skin benefits. True, it is good to have a nice smelling cream. However, apart from the questionable safety, frangrance may mask spoilage of your product, an effect you would want to avoid.
LANOLIN
While purported as a good skin ingredient, lanolin is actually a fat derived from wool. It is known to cause irritation and rashes to the skin.
MINERAL OIL
Found in lipsticks, lotions, makeup removers and liquid foundations, mineral oil is actually crude oil derived from petroleum. It coats the skin like a film, preventing pores from breathing, hence may interfere with normal perspiration and other skin functions
PARABEN
Used to prolong the shelf life of products, paraben may be widely used but it is also known to be toxic. Regular use can result in allergic reaction.
Parabens (e.g. Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl and Butyl Paraben): Used as preservatives; inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life of products. Methyl paraben may degrade releasing methanol, a potentially toxic chemical. However, the amounts of methanol that might be released from methyl paraben in skin care products are too small for any known systemic effects. Most people don't have an obvious skin reaction to parabens. However, more research is needed to determine whether they are truly nontoxic or may cause low level skin damage in the long term.
PROPYLENE GLYCOL
This ingredient can cause skin rashes and contact dermatitis. It has also been shown to cause damage to the kidney and liver. Commonly found in beauty creams, cosmetics, and cleansers.
SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (SLS)
Found in cosmetics, toothpaste and shampoos, too harsh levels of SLS will dry out the skin. When combined with other chemicals, it can also form carcinogenic compunds. SLS is actually used in labs to deliberately cause skin irritations for research purposes.
Avoid products with sodium lauryl sulfate unless time of contact with the skin is very short. Even skin cleansers should rather be without it.
SYNTHETIC COLORS
A popular dye used in mainly lipstick, these are believed to be carcinogenic especially Blue 1, Green 3, Yellow 5 & 6, and Red 33. Many contain coal tar, arsenic and lead.
Whether synthetic colors are completely safe or mildly damaging in the long run is unknown. Since they serve no useful purpose, they are best avoided (except perhaps when avoiding them means foregoing an otherwise great product). They are labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a color and a number, e.g. FD&C Red No. 6 or D&C Green No. 6.
TALC
Found in loose and pressed powders, blushes and baby powder, talc is a potentially harmful ingredient when inhaled.
IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA AND DIAZOLIDINYL UREA
Used as preservatives to prevent bacterial growth although ineffective against fungi. Known to be a relatively common cause of contact dermatitis. Two trade names for these chemicals are Germall II and Germall 115. Germall 115 may release formaldehyde, a potentially toxic chemical. Potential for low level skin damage in the long term is unproven but appears likely.
ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS (AHA)
An exfoliant, commonly recommended by dermatologists and beauty salons, a high percentage of it not only removes dead skin cells but also your skin's protective layer. Long-term use can leave your skin more susceptible to UV rays, leaving your skin more exposed to the sun's damaging effect and, hence, skin cancer.
Your skin becomes thinner and more sensitive.
BENZALDEHYDE
Regular use of products with this ingredient can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, eyes, skin, lungs, nausea and pain. Long-term use can result in kidney damage.
COLLAGEN
Extracted from animal skin, it cannot penetrate the pores, hence collagen of this origin only clogs the pores and keeps the skin from functioning properly.
DEA, MEA, TEA (Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine, and Triethanolmine)
Found in shampoos, soaps, facial cleansers and any personal care products that foam, the three are hormone-disrupting chemicals and known to cause cancer. A recent report proved that DEA and MEA are readily absorbed into the skin.
Ethanolamines (Monoethanolamine aka MEA, Diethanolamine aka DEA, Triethanolamine aka TEA): common pH stabilizers; when exposed to oxygen/air form nitrosoamines, which may be irritating and/or toxic. The amount of nitrosoamines formed during typical use of skin care products with ethanolamines is unclear.
FORMALIN
This substance is used in labs to preserve dead bodies. Usually found in nail polish, shampoos and skin creams, it causes allergic reaction when in contact with skin and its fumes are linked to asthma and cancer.
FRAGRANCE
Many of the compounds found in fragrances are carcinogenic or toxic. Most of the ingredients used for fragrance on a label are synthetic. Clinical observations by medical doctors have shown that exposure to fragrances can affect the central nervous system causing depression, hyperactivity, irritability, inability to cope and other behavioral changes.
There are over 200 synthetic fragrances used in cosmetics. There is no way to know which particular ones are in your product, since on the label it will simply say "Fragrance." Safety of most synthetic fragrances is an open question. Best to avoid them since they provide no skin benefits. True, it is good to have a nice smelling cream. However, apart from the questionable safety, frangrance may mask spoilage of your product, an effect you would want to avoid.
LANOLIN
While purported as a good skin ingredient, lanolin is actually a fat derived from wool. It is known to cause irritation and rashes to the skin.
MINERAL OIL
Found in lipsticks, lotions, makeup removers and liquid foundations, mineral oil is actually crude oil derived from petroleum. It coats the skin like a film, preventing pores from breathing, hence may interfere with normal perspiration and other skin functions
PARABEN
Used to prolong the shelf life of products, paraben may be widely used but it is also known to be toxic. Regular use can result in allergic reaction.
Parabens (e.g. Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl and Butyl Paraben): Used as preservatives; inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life of products. Methyl paraben may degrade releasing methanol, a potentially toxic chemical. However, the amounts of methanol that might be released from methyl paraben in skin care products are too small for any known systemic effects. Most people don't have an obvious skin reaction to parabens. However, more research is needed to determine whether they are truly nontoxic or may cause low level skin damage in the long term.
PROPYLENE GLYCOL
This ingredient can cause skin rashes and contact dermatitis. It has also been shown to cause damage to the kidney and liver. Commonly found in beauty creams, cosmetics, and cleansers.
SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (SLS)
Found in cosmetics, toothpaste and shampoos, too harsh levels of SLS will dry out the skin. When combined with other chemicals, it can also form carcinogenic compunds. SLS is actually used in labs to deliberately cause skin irritations for research purposes.
Avoid products with sodium lauryl sulfate unless time of contact with the skin is very short. Even skin cleansers should rather be without it.
SYNTHETIC COLORS
A popular dye used in mainly lipstick, these are believed to be carcinogenic especially Blue 1, Green 3, Yellow 5 & 6, and Red 33. Many contain coal tar, arsenic and lead.
Whether synthetic colors are completely safe or mildly damaging in the long run is unknown. Since they serve no useful purpose, they are best avoided (except perhaps when avoiding them means foregoing an otherwise great product). They are labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a color and a number, e.g. FD&C Red No. 6 or D&C Green No. 6.
TALC
Found in loose and pressed powders, blushes and baby powder, talc is a potentially harmful ingredient when inhaled.
IMIDAZOLIDINYL UREA AND DIAZOLIDINYL UREA
Used as preservatives to prevent bacterial growth although ineffective against fungi. Known to be a relatively common cause of contact dermatitis. Two trade names for these chemicals are Germall II and Germall 115. Germall 115 may release formaldehyde, a potentially toxic chemical. Potential for low level skin damage in the long term is unproven but appears likely.
Some medication can raise the risk of sunburn
According to the Mind Your Body article, some medication can actually raise the risk of sunburn.
If you are one of those who take medication regularly then you might want to read further.
Most people know how to take care of their skin while under the sun like slathering sunscreen, wearing hats and sunglasses but few people will knew that some common medication will intensify the effects of sunlight, raising the risk of burning and getting rashes.
So how do these common medication raise the risk?
First, known as a photoallergic reaction, it occurs when a certain medicine or substance is applied to the skin.
Ultraviolet light from the sun transform the substance which provokes the immune system leading to irriated skin and eczema-like rashes which can happen after 24hours later.
Second type will be the phototoxic reaction which occurs after the person have taken the medicine and later spent their time under the sun.
Exposing the skin to ultraviolet rays excites molecules of the ingested substance, causing damages to the skin tissue like severe redness and sunburn which will be apparent immediately
Most common culprits of medicine are antibiotics like tetracycline, certain antihistamines and topical antimicrobials.
Tetracycline is an antibiotic used against many different bacteria. It is usually prescribed for infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract and skin as well as cholera, syphilis and acne.
As mentioned in Medicinenet, the side-effects include exaggerated sunburn therefore, sunlight or sunlamp exposure should be minimized during treatment.
More information can also be found here
Antihistamines are usually used to treat rash, hives, watery eyes, runny nose, itching and sneezingdue to allergies or the common cold. They can also be used to treat motion sickness, anxiety or as a sleep aid for insomnia.
They are drugs to treat the symptoms of allergies by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system in allergic reactions.
More information can be found here
However, none of it mentioned about any photosensitivity of the sun.
Topical antimicrobials are one of the most commonly purchased medications for simple abrasions and cutaneous infections to routine wound care as well as infected ecezema.
Antimicrobial is a general term given to substances including medicines that kill or slow the growth of microbes.
Examples of antimicrobial agents:
Tetracycline (one antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections )
Oseltamivir or Tamiflu® (antiviral that treats the flu)
Terbinafine or Lamisil® (antifungal that treats athlete's foot)
The best remedy is either to limit the use of the offending substance or take extra precautions like wearing sunscreen or wear protective clothing.
If you are one of those who take medication regularly then you might want to read further.
Most people know how to take care of their skin while under the sun like slathering sunscreen, wearing hats and sunglasses but few people will knew that some common medication will intensify the effects of sunlight, raising the risk of burning and getting rashes.
So how do these common medication raise the risk?
First, known as a photoallergic reaction, it occurs when a certain medicine or substance is applied to the skin.
Ultraviolet light from the sun transform the substance which provokes the immune system leading to irriated skin and eczema-like rashes which can happen after 24hours later.
Second type will be the phototoxic reaction which occurs after the person have taken the medicine and later spent their time under the sun.
Exposing the skin to ultraviolet rays excites molecules of the ingested substance, causing damages to the skin tissue like severe redness and sunburn which will be apparent immediately
Most common culprits of medicine are antibiotics like tetracycline, certain antihistamines and topical antimicrobials.
Tetracycline is an antibiotic used against many different bacteria. It is usually prescribed for infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract and skin as well as cholera, syphilis and acne.
As mentioned in Medicinenet, the side-effects include exaggerated sunburn therefore, sunlight or sunlamp exposure should be minimized during treatment.
More information can also be found here
Antihistamines are usually used to treat rash, hives, watery eyes, runny nose, itching and sneezingdue to allergies or the common cold. They can also be used to treat motion sickness, anxiety or as a sleep aid for insomnia.
They are drugs to treat the symptoms of allergies by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical released by the immune system in allergic reactions.
More information can be found here
However, none of it mentioned about any photosensitivity of the sun.
Topical antimicrobials are one of the most commonly purchased medications for simple abrasions and cutaneous infections to routine wound care as well as infected ecezema.
Antimicrobial is a general term given to substances including medicines that kill or slow the growth of microbes.
Examples of antimicrobial agents:
Tetracycline (one antibiotic used to treat urinary tract infections )
Oseltamivir or Tamiflu® (antiviral that treats the flu)
Terbinafine or Lamisil® (antifungal that treats athlete's foot)
The best remedy is either to limit the use of the offending substance or take extra precautions like wearing sunscreen or wear protective clothing.
Free suncare samples from La Roche-Posay
If you have always wanted to try out the sunscreen products from La Roche Posay, now is the best time because you can redeem their sun care product sample by just emailing them at lrp@sg.loreal.com
Try the trial sizes before getting the full retail sizes.
Their suncare products are available in
1) Ultra-comfort, melt0in cream texture for normal to dry skin
2) Ultra-light, extreme fluid texture for combination to oily skin
3) Ultra-practical, water and sweat resistant spray and gel textures for all skin types
Try the trial sizes before getting the full retail sizes.
Their suncare products are available in
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Thursday, July 2, 2009
Paying Tribute to Michael Jackson
As more news broke out on Michael Jackson, I cannot help feeling sad for him.
People ignored him when he was alive but now want a piece of him after realizing how much he is worth. As one said, he is worth much more dead than alive.
Once a legendary pop icon now reduced to a corpse. And he is only 50 years old.
I am not a fan of his, neither do I own an album or his MTVs but I grew up listening to his songs though not excessively or obsessively.
If one actually run through the lyrics of his songs, I guess you will notice that he seems to be trying to convey his feelings through all those songs.
You can sense his sadness and his utter helplessness in most of his songs. I just feel that in his own way, he was trying to gain back his childhood memories through his songs, through his Neverland ranch and through his sometimes bizzare actions.
Most people would comment that he is a child-like man, a child entrapped in the body of a man. One who does not seem to ever grow up.
Everyone is born differently, just because he was a pop icon, behaved differently from other iconic symbols, does that give anyone an excuse to spread rumours about him?
When one is a celebrity, their life will be under scrutiny, so hanging your child outside the window become big news, wearing PJs outside or to
court became news fodder.
Was his life meaningful? Was he happy?
He spent more than he earned. He borrowed money to keep his Neverland ranch going.
He was financially-strapped, physically-strained and mentally-stressed.
But so long MJ was happy, we should give him our blessings.
How about you? Are you happy?
People ignored him when he was alive but now want a piece of him after realizing how much he is worth. As one said, he is worth much more dead than alive.
Once a legendary pop icon now reduced to a corpse. And he is only 50 years old.
I am not a fan of his, neither do I own an album or his MTVs but I grew up listening to his songs though not excessively or obsessively.
If one actually run through the lyrics of his songs, I guess you will notice that he seems to be trying to convey his feelings through all those songs.
You can sense his sadness and his utter helplessness in most of his songs. I just feel that in his own way, he was trying to gain back his childhood memories through his songs, through his Neverland ranch and through his sometimes bizzare actions.
Most people would comment that he is a child-like man, a child entrapped in the body of a man. One who does not seem to ever grow up.
Everyone is born differently, just because he was a pop icon, behaved differently from other iconic symbols, does that give anyone an excuse to spread rumours about him?
When one is a celebrity, their life will be under scrutiny, so hanging your child outside the window become big news, wearing PJs outside or to
court became news fodder.
Was his life meaningful? Was he happy?
He spent more than he earned. He borrowed money to keep his Neverland ranch going.
He was financially-strapped, physically-strained and mentally-stressed.
But so long MJ was happy, we should give him our blessings.
How about you? Are you happy?
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