Beauty is More Than Skin Deep

Sorry I have been gone for so long

2009-02-03T19:32:00.001-08:00

Many of the emails that I have received so far have a common commodity........usually the same questions are asked. I will try to answer those questions as best as I can:

I usually apply the texturizer for under 45 minutes depending on how much growth I have. On average, I try to apply a texturizer on a bimonthly basis, although there are occasions when I apply sooner because of too much growth.

As many of you know by now, my texturizer of choice is Silk Elements

Winter Styles desperately needed

2008-12-12T02:54:00.000-08:00

Some days I feel like I'm on the verge of pulling a Britney Spears. Tired of pulling my hair back. Oh well

A conditioner that strengthens

2008-12-08T22:49:00.000-08:00

I was away for a bit. It is now extremely cold and I am wishing I did not have to style my hair daily. I wish I had the patients for braids or some other style. I am currently in search for that perfecty leave in conditioner that strengthens my strands. If you have any suggestions please feel free to share.

Curls from my first roller

2008-10-21T18:08:00.000-07:00

I did a quick roller set on Saturday evening. I was surprised how smooth the curls came out. Would love to try this out again, however it is torture trying to sleep with those darn rollers! My setting lotion was s-curl moisturizer with cantu strengthening for added shine.

My newest Addiction from Sebastian Collection

2008-10-05T06:09:00.001-07:00

Happy Sunday. Hope you guys gave thanks this morning for the breath of life. Down to business, I am two months post texturizer, and you know what that means when you have 4zzzzzzzzzzzzz type hair. The new growth becomes a little poofy. I am torn between applying a texturizer or just do some tiny box braids. As of now, I have not decided since I do not like braids.

It was during this time of hair anguish that i stumble upon "Texturizer, body builder"from Sebastian Collection. According to the 8.5 floz, beautifully shaped bottle: It can be used to separate, sculpt and define. It goes further to say this product will help treat all hair styles to a new kind of fluid texture.

I picked up a bottle and as soon as I got home plastered some on my thick mane. I was SHOCKED! My hair made a complete 360. It became so flat, I was able to pull it back in a bun. The naked eyes would NEVER have been able to guess that I was 2 months post texturizer. Amazing. Just amazing.

By the way, this sebastian collection product has a liquid gel feel with the absent to flakiness or the hardness that most gels provide. I love, love, loved it. If you are looking for a way to tame those strands, definitely give it a try!

Prive Sample sale in New York this week

2008-10-01T15:29:00.000-07:00

Today I was fortunate to visit the Prive sample in New York today. The sale is being held at the Chelsea Market located at 75 ninth Ave, corner of 15th street. This sample sale started today and will continue through Oct 5th. The hours of operation are: 10am to 7pm.

Some of the brands on sale include: Vince, Theory, 7 for all mankind, James Perse, Rock and Republic, etc. Did I mention that all items are priced at 35-80% off.
Unlike the Hermes jungle sale last week, this one was bearable and the items much more affordable. Rock and Repulic really caught my eyes but I have never paid over $100.00 for a blazer and today I was not willing. Several celeb type t-shirts from brands I cannot remember were are low as $15 and $25. I left with a dress and plan to check out a shimmery type Rock shirt that I may wear if I get to go to see Tina Turner at MSG.

Funny, I had never heard of vince or James Perse...

Oh well

Beauty and Politics

2008-09-27T08:54:00.001-07:00

In recent times there have been such a whirlwind around Sarah Palin that I could not help but wonder the following:

If Sarah Palin had the looks of Janet Reno, would she have taken off like wild fire? If Hilary Clinton was a little younger and sexier, would she have cinched the Democratic nomination?
How much does looks play in getting elected today? Had Barack Obama have Al Sharpton's hair(ie relaxed hair), and the looks of Flava Flav, would he have advanced this far?

Sarah Palin is no doubt... hot, but what would be hotter if she stepped out of hiding and allow we the general public to know who the real baraccuda is. It is almost laughable and sad that the woman who could be VP in a few weeks is being shielded from all forms of media scrutiny. In case the Mc.Cain camp does not realize, this sends such a strong message to the undecideds.

What do you think?

Silk Elements... My favorite Texturizer

2008-09-23T05:52:00.000-07:00

I have been texturizing my hair for a few years now and have tried several brands on the market. However, silk elements won my heart over. If I am not mistaken, it is only sold at Sallys Beauty supply.

I always use the regular, not the coarse.

Do you have a favorite texturizer? Which texturizer would you NEVER use again?

By the way, I think silk elements texturizer is sold exclusively as Sallys. Here is a link to sallys:

www.sallybeauty.com

For those who have never heard of Sallys, they have something for every hair type.

More Pictures of texturize hair

2008-09-22T16:13:00.001-07:00

These are just a few pictures of my texturize hair. When I am no longer lazy, I will post some more! Thanks for visiting and feel free to ask any texturize hair questions you may ask. I am not an expert but I will do my utmost best to answer...

My Henna treatment... Pictures included

2008-09-20T08:06:00.000-07:00

Picture of texturize hair in a bun just before henna treatment. This was my 3rd henna treatment. Can you see a little color? I have never, ever used any form of chemical dyes on my hair.

The picture below was taken after a henna treatment.

Earlier this week, I proceeded to do another henna treatment san indigo and was quite pleased with the rinsing out process. Unlike my first henna treatment, the henna washed out with only a few rinses. Thank God.

I had purchased indica, (not indigo)which is a type of herbal hair color to dye my hair jet black but decided against it for the time being. This time around, it does not seem like the henna gave me brown hues. My hair does feel stronger and a tad bit dry hence the reason I soaked it with scurl activator last night. I also slept with a shower cap under my silk cap. Hair felt extremely moisturized this morning.

Pictures of Texturize hair

2008-09-18T08:59:00.000-07:00

Above are pictures of my texturize hair. Sept. 2008. To achieve this look, I simply braided my hair overnight using only cantu shea butter grow strong strenghtening treatment. Very simple.

I am feeling lazy today, so do not expect any long posting. I will upload a few more texturize pictures soon. Bye now.

Copying my texturize photos is forbidden. Should you desire permission to reproduce any segment seen here, please feel free to contact me, failure to do so will result in hefty fines being imposed. Thanks for visiting.

Why my texturize hair loves Cantu

2008-09-16T06:12:00.000-07:00

Hello there my texturize friends. Thank you for checking in. By now you know that I am not a product junkie. I try to keep my texturizer regimen quite simple. Somedays I choose to spot the wet, curly look; other times, I spot the dry look. Well, yesterday I was so pleased with my texturize hair outcome...it was the dry curly look. The previous day I did a hot oil treatment with vatika and amla oil. In the evening I only used one product to braid my hair: Cantu shea butter, grow strong strengthening treatment. I had 6 braids at the front and 5 braids in the back.

The result was quite impressive. The dryness that is very characteristic of braidouts was absent. My texurize hair felt really silky and moisturized. This was my first braidout using cantu shea butter grow strong. Did I mention that this product is so light, yet gives you a powerful shine. Stay tuned. I will post a few pictures later. Thanks for stopping by.

Your Texturizer buddy

Texturize Hair: All about the products

2008-09-15T06:36:00.000-07:00

Keeping texturize hair beautiful requires proper moisturizing products. As previously mentioned, I have been spotting a texturizer for several years therefore I have experimented with a number of reasonably priced items.

Shampoo:

Conditioner: Every woman should have at least 3 different types of conditioners. Almost on a daily basis we have different cravings, likewise, our hair has different needs on different days. Texturize hair loves a clean scalp. Products respond very well to clean and healthy hair. One of my favorite conditioning moisturizers is from Trader Joes. It is very affordable, costs under $3.00. In the past I use this Trader Joe conditioner almost on a daily basis especially during summers. I am trying to refrain from wetting my hair everyday. It's a challenge, really, since there is nothing more heavenly than have lukewarm water drenching the hair. Very relaxing. Ok. We were talking about conditioners.

Another favorite moisturizing conditioner which I discovered only a few months ago is: Olive oil Deep conditioner by Africa's Best. This beauty is the bomb! When my Trader Joe's conditioner finished unexpectedly, I did not even rush to replace my bottles. I had Africa's Best. I never thought I would say this but it goes a little further than Trader Joe's when it comes to moisturizing. And remember, texturize hair needs all the moisture it can get.

Did I mention the best part? Africa's Best is under $4.00 and is forumulated with extrra virgin olive oil. I guess one could always add evoo to any not so moisturizing conditioner... Remember, I am no expert. All I know is that texturize hair needs a lot of moisturize to give those curls an extra omph!

Your Texturize hair friend
Texturizer.

Pictures of textured black hair

2008-09-14T14:22:00.000-07:00

Pictures of textured hair

Here is a picture of a texturizer. This texturize picture was taken sometime during Spring of 2008. Keep in mind, I am my own worst photographer, so bare with me. The first textured picture featured is what I call the dry texturize hairstyle. To achieve such fullness, I simply braid my hair at nights. It is textured pictures like these that have a few questioning my 4b hair type. I do not go through life thinking about hair textures. What I am most concerned about is spotting a healthy hair of head.

It really grieves me to see so many black women go bald in their experimentation of weaves. (Before the weave gals jump on me, I am not saying that weaves are a no-no.) In fact most things done correctly, including weaves can produce great results. KFC everynight anyone for a year? Hello...

I would really like to help steer black women on the right path to achieving healthy, fuller hair. And it would not hurt if that hair type is texturize. That's all for now

What is a Texturizer

2008-09-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

What is a texturizer? Many wonder whether a texturizer is a type of relaxer. Others question whether a texturizer is natural. And the questioning continues. I think that a texturizer is a mild form of relaxer, but it is still a relaxer. Because processing times for texturize hair is far less than that of a relaxer, damage to one's hair is miminized in the texturizing process.

What is texturizing? I will spare you the monotony and not delve into any of the fancy terms as laid out by the experts. Texturizing is a type of relaxing technique that allows one to achieve a mildly different hair texture, that is usually softer, fuller, wavier and more manageable. A hair texturizer is supposed to loosen one's natural curl pattern. I have noticed that many of us who desire texurize hair have unrealistic expectations with regards to our final texturize hair outcome.

Ladies and gents, please be advised that if your natural hair type is a la Danny Glover or Samuel Jackson, do not expect your end product to produce hair like Alicia Keys. I hate to be the one to burst your bubble but it is just not happening. I have noticed vast differences in results with texturizer hair from folks who claim to have the same hair type especially 4b. The varied texturize hair results highlight the 'fact' that there may be different types of 4b hair.

Now that you know the definition of texurize hair and texturizing, go ahead get your texturizer and I will be too thrilled to experiment with your natural hair... at your own risk of course! Please feel free to suggest topics that you wish to be covered about texturize hair. I am not an expert but will try my utmost best to be resourceful to you.

Your partner in kkrime,
Texturize hair

Texturize Hair

2008-09-13T20:04:00.000-07:00

African-Americans and texturized hair: In my opinion a far better and healthier option than bone straght relaxer. Keep in mind, I am not an expert... Texturized hair, like many things in life can be a pain and a blessing. In the coming weeks, I will delve into other aspects of texturized hair.

This is a wet version of my texturizer. The photos were taken sometime in the beginning of 2008, therefore, I cannot accurately name the products used. However, since I am not a product junkie, I would perhaps have used a combination of texture my way curl keeper from Africa organics, along with scurl activator. It's all about trial and error when it comes with experimenting with texturize hair. As the old mantra goes: Practice, practice, practice. My hair type sans texturizer is around 4b.

I am a firm believer that knowledge is power. Years ago when I first began experimenting with texturizers, I had no idea what I was getting into. All I wanted was versatility. I knew a texturizer would be my best friend in this region. And thankfully with much pain and frustration, and bad hair days, I found a few beauty staples to keep my texturize hair looking fabulous! (Yes I said it!) Fabulous texturize hair!

If you are new to texturize hair I would be more than happy to answer you the curious mind; so feel free to drop a note on any texturize hair question that you may have. Like I said before, I am not a texturize hair expert, but I know a few little pointers that may just steer you in the right direction in achieving fantastic looking texturize hair. Best of luck!

I remain your dearest friend and advisor,

Texturize hair

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

2008-09-13T19:03:00.000-07:00

What is green, quite affordable (under $4.00) and will suck the gunk right off your skin? You guessed right, Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque. Who would have thought something so affordable would deliver such great results?

I first started using Queen Helene almost 8 years ago and have never looked back although I have been promising myself to give the aztec clay a try.

Queen Helene Mint Julep mask promises and delivers the following:

Will Dry up acne pimples

Rinse away blackheads

Shrink enlarged pores

I use it whenever I have a zit coming on or during my weekly/biweekly facials just after steaming. Again, queen helene mint julep masque is worth every penny.

My Aveeno Journey Begins

2008-07-06T08:05:00.000-07:00

Today I officially begin my aveeno cleansing pads journey. Since the pads are quite big, and my face is quite small (I kid you not), I will be cutting each pad in half. This way I get more bang for my buck.

I will keep you posted as I undertake this Aveeno journey. After all, all those beauty awards it has garnered since it debuted should say something.

Grapes For the Face

2008-07-05T20:20:00.000-07:00

This week I have noticed my skin to be more radiant. Chances are it was a combination of things... The yogurt facial mixture which I last posted about and also GRAPES. Yes, you read right, grapes.

I remember hearing one beauty expert recommend that we should apply grapes to face...just burst it open and rub face. Leave on for 15 minutes and then rinse. I wish I had photos to share, I did not even bother wearing making for the third day in a row. I am so excited.

I also purchased aveeno cleansing pads since I had heard so much about it. Will write a review soon.

As you depart, do not forget to drink plenty of water, Eat your fruits and veggies and apply grapes to face!

Green Tea Bag: Hidden beauty secret

2008-07-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

I have listened time and time again to beauty editors speaking about products with green tea, so I decided to conduct my little experiment. For almost an entire month I drank 2 cups of green tea and upon sipping the tea, I would use the tea bag as a facial cleanser. Simply put, I would just rub the tea bag over my face and neck. Did I mention that I only used the teabags when they were somewhat hot... This opens up pores so I would normally rinse my skin with cold water to close the pores or take advantage of applying a clay masque to draw out impurities. Rest assured, your skin will thank you. Make sure you apply a moisturizer after since your skin could become dry. Buena Suerte!

Favorite mask for over 9 years: Quenn helene Mint Jupep. Love, love, love it!

My latest Natural Addiction

2008-07-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

My latest Beauty addicition:

Orange peel: Dried and crushed
Plain yogurt
Few drops of lemon
Teaspoon of Honey
Pure Coconut Milk

Combine all to face for 15-20 minutes. Your skin will thank you. By the way, the scent of the concotion is heavenly. Try it and let me know what you think.

This mixture is great for getting rid of dark spots. Afterall, we all can do without those ugly acne scars and dark spots!

Get Rid of Dark spots

2008-05-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

Lately I have embarked on a honey and lemon combination to fade dark spots. And from the look of things, I think it is a winning combination. The acne scars left from those damn zits are slowly fading. So excited. The only problem I am experiencing since using the honey and lemon combination is an extremely oily face. Someone suggested I substitute the honey with cucumber juice. Since I don't own a juicer, I will find a way to squeeze the living hell out of those cucumbers!

Before the year ends, I would have gotten rid of almost every acne scar provided I stick to my various regimens. Persistence is the key... I can do it!

How to get rid of dark spots

2008-04-30T22:26:00.001-07:00

As we age, few of us are lucky enough to have that flawless skin, so we find ways to eliminate such a problem. Billions of dollars are spent on beauty products worldwide, both prescription and non-prescription.

As one who is battling acne scars, I have done it all. So many products have failed to deliver their claims. It gets frustrating at times, therefore I try my very best to limit my use of so many skin care products.

Getting rid of dark spots is a long and tedious task but totally worth it. In trying to keep expenses in check, given the slowing economy, I have done extensive research on natural products that helps to get rid of acne scars or dark spots.

The number one product that many swear by to get rid of dark spots is Vitamin E. I could attest to this one. Sometime last year, I got a burn from applying hydrogen peroxide on a zit. I had allowed the cotton to sit for about 6 minutes and was greeted with a dime sized burn. I went to CVS and purchased their store brand vitamin E oil. It retailed for under $5.00, and contained roughly 25,000 IU. Because the dark spot was fresh, I saw great results in a week. In under two months my dark scar was completely gone. How I wish I could just splash this oil on my face to go out. Since I never leave the house without SPF, it would be impossible to use any type of oil in the morning.

Next favorite combination is: Lemon and honey combined. Yes, you heard right. It is getting really late so I will post the others under a new heading later. Thanks for visiting. Ciao

Lee

Trader Joes Conditioner

2008-04-16T05:51:00.000-07:00

At the time of writing, this is one of my favorite moisturzing hair conditioners. This conditioner from Trader Joes is all nautral and smells so citrusy. At first I was worried about the drying out factor but thankfully I never had to deal with it. For 2.99 it is my magic potion. Best thing about this conditioner: moisture filled so that one can use it on a daily basis. Love, love, love this Trader Joe's conditioner.

Will post a photo later!

Fade Dark Spots

2008-04-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

Olay Definity deep penetrating foaming moisturizer:

Since I am bent on getting rid of all my facial acne scars, I decided to do my research and realized there was a common denominator from beauty experts: Olay Definity deep penetrating foaming moisturizer.

Though, not too happy with the almost $27.00 price tag, I decided to give it a try. According to Olay, this product:

Inspired by high definition technology, new Olay Definity Deep Penetrating Foaming Moisturizer helps reverse the appearance of past damage coming from beneath the skin's surface.
Unique aerated serum foam actively combats the look of skin discolorations to revitalize luminosity.
Glucosamine Complex hydrates to allow the natural rebuilding of collagen, diminishing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Lightweight formula absorbs quickly for a smooth, weightless feel.
Active foaming action feels rich and luxurious as it penetrates to condition skin at the source of past damage.
Over 8 weeks, the appearance of dullness, brown spots and uneven skin tone diminish.

I was quite impressed with Olay Definity deep penetrating foaming moisturizer that I switched to their Definity UV moisturizer, SPF15. There has definitely been improvement in the clarity of my skin. I plan on switching to another one of their cheaper lines, with similar ingredients. To read more about olay, or to get a free skin consultation online, you may visit their website: www.olay.comIn addition, if you have any recommendations with other products to fade acne scars, do not hesitate to post. We’re in this together.

Best Dermatologist in New York

2008-04-15T10:21:00.000-07:00

Ask anyone how many Native Americans they know, and the answer will be nil. Ask anyone if you know of anyone with a skin problem, and the answer will be a resounding: YES.

Recently, I was fortunate to have come across a dermatologist in New York by the name of Dina Strachan (pronounced Strawn). Dr. Strachan was extremely polite and thorough. She makes you feel so welcomed. Such treatment is a rarity in a lot of medical facilities where one usually feels so pressured to get out of a doctor’s office quickly.

Prior to my visit with Dr. Strachan, I had visited a very prestigious Tribeca skin center. (I will not mention the place). I spent no more than 2 minutes with the dermatologist. She was is such a hurry to usher me out…it is an extremely busy practice. By the way, it was my Family doctor who referred me to this place. Frustrated, I decided to google: black dermatologists in New York. That’s how I came across Dr. Dina Strachan.

Curious as to why I visited? I had been suffering a little from bacne(back ance), you know the tiny little white stuff sticking out on your back at times. Well this was one of my problems. Though it was not severe, I wanted to get rid of them especially since summer is round the corner. Within one month of using the products that Dr. Dina Strachan had prescribed, I was beach ready! I am not kidding. I wish I had before and after pictures to show you.

My next problem was acne scars and mild acne on my chest and face. Since I began using the products, I have seen an almost 95% decrease in breakouts. The best thing about the regimen, is that I get to use only TWO products. They are suitable for face and body.

As I write, my chest has cleared significantly, but it still has a little way to go. After all, it these dark spots had been there for years, therefore I do not expect them to fade in a month.

My chest is weird. Yes, really weird. I have this thing that seems like Goosebumps all the time. Can’t wait to get rid of it totally…

If you are tired of suffering from acne scars, acne, pimples, dark spots, and other skin conditions, give Dr. Dina Strachan a try. I assure you, you will not be disappointed. My next appointment is in two months…so Dr. Stachan could monitor my progress.

According to her website: “ She has a special interest in ethnic skin care and the management of common conditions affecting ethnic populations such as melasma, keloid scars and facial moles.” She treats all skin types, not just ethnic skin.

Her official website is: http://www.dinastrachanmd.com/

In case you're wondering, the products which were prescribed to me were: Oscion6% cleanser(benzol peroxide) and ziana gel.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to post! We’re all in this together.

Baking Soda: Miaracle in a Box

2007-12-03T17:22:00.000-08:00

If I were stranded on a desserted island, this is one thing I would love to have with me: Baking soda. The uses of this very affordable, even cheap powder is phenomenal. Not only can one use it as a tooth paste, but also as a great exfoliant.

I am sure that like me, a lot of you are frustrated with spending so much money on products that are way too harsh for our face. Look no further. For under 1.50 baking soda promises to give you very supple and clean skin at first try. So go ahead........ after all it is only 1.50. And if you're lucky you might just get if for .99cents!

Get Rid of Acne and other problems

2007-08-03T09:53:00.000-07:00

This is a skin saver for under $5.00! Nixoderm has been on the market for over 40 years and has proven time and time again to be very effective in getting rid of pimples and other skin imperfections.

But be warned, if you have sensitive skin you would have to perhaps dilute it with a mild moisturizer. Just apply nixoderm at nights and usually by morning time, you pimple would be gone. What I like most about this product is that it takes away the acne marks with it! What more can one ask for?

The following dermatologist recommended ingredients can be found in nixoderm: Benzoic Acid 6% w/w, Salicylic Acid 2.5% w/w, Precipitated Sulphur 4.6%.

Nixoderm is available at many of your favorite beauty stores. Even the Asian markets or the food markets sometimes stock up on this beauty staple. I will stop here and let you examine the reviews from acne.org site.

http://www.acne.org/nixoderm-reviews/237/page1.html

Straight from the Dermatologist

2007-07-19T12:39:00.000-07:00

For those of you who believe that spending $100.00+ is the answer to perfect and flawless skin; Think again. One of the nation's most respected dermatologists Dr. Fran Bolden-Cooke wrote a very brilliant article in NY Times entitled: The Cosmetics Restriction Diet (Jan 4th 2007). In the article she encourages simplicity when using skin care products: Less is always more. The article reads:

DR. FRAN E. COOK-BOLDEN, a dermatologist in Manhattan, is an advocate of skin-care minimalism. When a patient recently arrived for an appointment toting 20 different products she was using regularly — including an eye cream, a vitamin C cream, a wrinkle serum, a pigmentation cream, a mask, a peel, a scrub and “some sort of special oxygen detoxifying cream” — Dr. Cook-Bolden said she confiscated all but three.

“It gave me a headache just to look at all of those products,” Dr. Cook-Bolden said. “Just two products, a gentle cleanser and a good sunscreen, are enough daily skin care for most people, and you can buy those at a drugstore or a grocery store.”

Dr. Cook-Bolden is part of a back-to-basics movement among dermatologists. At a time when beauty companies are introducing an increasing number of products marketed for specific body parts —including necks, creases around the mouth and eyelids — or for apocryphal maladies like visible pores or cellulite, these doctors are putting their patients on cosmetics restriction diets.
They are prescribing simplified skin-care routines requiring at most three steps: soap; sunscreen every day, no matter the weather or the season; and, if necessary, a product tailored to specific skin needs, whether a cream for pimples or pigmented spots, or a vitamin-enriched moisturizer for aging skin. Each product, they say, can be bought at drugstores for $30 or less.
Among those doctors who have become experts at uncluttering their patients’ vanity tables and medicine cabinets is Dr. Sarah Boyce Sawyer, an assistant professor of dermatology at the School of Medicine at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
“My New Year’s beauty resolution for patients is: cut down on skin-care products and cut your skin-care budget,” Dr. Sawyer said. “Cut down on those $100 potions.”
For some doctors, simplifying skin-care routines is a way to make patients follow a regimen or a means to soothe irritated skin. But some dermatologists are also suggesting patients use fewer, less expensive products because they believe there is little scientific research to justify buying an armload of pricey cosmetics, Dr. Sawyer said.

“We have good medical evidence on prescription products,” she said. “But the science is fuzzy with a lot of cosmetics.”

Unlike drugs, cosmetics are not required to prove their efficacy.
Prescription medications like Accutane for acne and over-the-counter drugs such as sunscreen ingredients must undergo rigorous clinical testing before they gain approval from the Food and Drug Administration. But cosmetics are not subject to the agency’s scrutiny before they go on sale. The F.D.A. defines cosmetics as topical products that do not alter the structure or function of the skin.

Dr. William P. Coleman III, the vice president of the American Academy of Dermatology, said consumers should view moisturizers and wrinkle creams as no more than superficial treatments.

“You have to think of cosmetics as decorative and hygienic, not as things that are going to change your skin,” said Dr. Coleman, who is a clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. “A $200 cream may have better perfume or packaging, but as far as it moisturizing your skin better than a $10 cream, it probably won’t.”
According to F.D.A. regulations, beauty manufacturers are responsible for the safety of their cosmetics and for their own marketing claims. Although many beauty companies perform studies on their products, they are not required to conduct clinical trials on the level of medical research or to make their proprietary research available to the public.

Dr. Mary Ellen Brademas, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at New York University Medical Center, said the paucity of rigorous published science on cosmetics makes it difficult to determine how well creams work, whether they cost $10, $100 or $1,000.
“People are spending $450 on a jar of cream just because it is made out of something exotic like salmon eggs or cocoons,” Dr. Brademas said. “But the cheapest products work just as well as the more expensive ones.”

A study of wrinkle creams published last month by Consumer Reports concluded that there was no correlation between price and effectiveness. The study, which tested nine brands of wrinkle creams over 12 weeks, also concluded that none of the products reduced the depth of wrinkles by more than 10 percent, an amount “barely visible to the naked eye.”

The Consumer Reports study found, for example, that a three-step regimen of Olay Regenerist products costing $57 was slightly more effective at reducing the appearance of wrinkles than a $135 tube of StriVectin-SD or a $335 combination of two La Prairie Cellular lotions.
“I am seduced by fancy packaging as much as the next person,” Dr. Brademas said. “But I have a theory that all these skin-care things come out of the same vat in New Jersey.”

John Bailey, the executive vice president for science of the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association, an industry trade group in Washington, said that skin care varies widely in price because of amounts spent on research and development of ingredients and product formulas, and the cost of manufacturing and packaging.
Skip to next paragraph

Lars Klove for The New York Times
CUSTOMIZE CARE Depending on your skin, Dr. Madfes said, you might add an acne cream like Clean & Clear ($5.29), a retinol cream like Neutrogena’s ($6.99), or Olay Total Effects ($19.99) “to retard redness.”
Related
Drugstores Bank on Snob Appeal (but Can You Pronounce It?) (January 4, 2007)
But, he said, it is difficult to measure performance differences among products.
“Cosmetics don’t have the same quantitative analysis as drugs, so you don’t have a set gauge you can use to determine perceived and actual benefits,” said Dr. Bailey, who has a Ph.D. in chemistry. “Ultimately, consumers will have to try products out and find what works best for them.”
THE back-to-basics skin-care regimen is based on practicality rather than marketing claims. It does not rely on exotic ingredients grown on far-flung islands hand-picked by natives only under a full moon.
Dr. Diane C. Madfes, a clinical instructor at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, said that basic skin care requires washing one’s face to remove dirt, sweat and bacteria, and using sunscreen to impede sun damage. People who worry about wrinkles, pimples, dry spots or pores may want to add one or two treatment products, she said.
Dr. Cook-Bolden, who has been a paid consultant for several mass-market cosmetics brands, suggested a mild liquid cleanser for the face. Instead of using toners, which may strip skin, or gritty exfoliation beads and microdermabrasion systems, which may irritate skin, she recommended using a washcloth to slough off dead skin cells.
“If you have dry, sensitive skin, you just pat the washcloth on your face gently in a circular motion,” she said. “If you don’t have irritated skin, you can put more speed and pressure on the washcloth.”

Dermatologists disagree whether a moisturizer is then needed. Dr. Brademas said it is superfluous.

“Moisturizer is optional unless you are in the Arctic,” said Dr. Brademas, who favors Vaseline petroleum jelly for dry hands, feet, knees and elbows. “I’m not sure moisturizers do very much except for creating a smooth surface so that makeup can go on without drag.”
Dr. Cook-Bolden took a more agnostic position.

“If you need a moisturizer, moisturize,” she said. “If you want less moisture, use a lotion. If you want more, use a cream. And if you have acne-prone skin, use a gel or a spray.”
Although the dermatologists interviewed for this article disagreed about moisturizer, they agreed on one point: the importance of sun protection, including hats, avoidance of midday sun and the use of an effective sunscreen. They recommended that consumers look for formulas that include ingredients — like zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or Mexoryl SX — that impede damage from the sun’s longer wavelength UVA rays, a protective effect that is not indicated by a product’s SPF rating.

Beyond soap and sunscreen, Dr. Madfes said that one or two additional products might be added to personalize a skin-care routine.
“People who see wrinkles around their eyes are going to reach for an eye cream,” Dr. Madfes said. “Someone who looks in the mirror and sees large pores may want to use a cleanser with salicylic acid, which can reduce clogged pores.”
She is also a proponent of night creams that combine retinol, a form of vitamin A that may help speed up the turnover of skin cells, and antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E or lycopene that may help thwart environmental damage to the skin. People with skin conditions like severe acne or people interested in topical anti-wrinkle drugs should consult their doctors about prescription medications, she said.
On an expedition last week to a CVS Pharmacy at Columbus Circle with a reporter, Dr. Madfes examined the product labels on skin-care items from a variety of mass-market brands and recommended a few basic products, including Cetaphil cleanser and La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX sunscreen.

“Higher end, more expensive products may look better in the box and feel better on your face, but they don’t necessarily work better than less expensive products as long as you look for ingredients that are known for efficacy,” Dr. Madfes said.
But she did see one benefit to splurging.

“The thing is, when someone buys a $200 cream, they are going to use that cream,” Dr. Madfes said. “So, in the end, their skin may benefit.”

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/04/fashion/04skin.html?x=1184990400&en=ed54e10c9909cb2c&ei=5070

Achieving a More Radiant Smile

2007-07-17T06:36:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves a beautiful smile........ well, let's hope. And as many of you know, many people still refuse to go to the dentist simply because of bad past experiences. I strongly recommend that you keep testing the waters until you find the dentist you are most comfortable with. You can always solve this problem by getting a referral from trusted friends or from your online community.

In the meantime, between dental breaks you would be happy to know that there are everyday foods that can aid to you achieving a bright smile. (courtesy of Today's show). Some of these foods include:

Carrots, green tea, black tea, oranges(or vit. C foods) etc

Here is a very informative link from msnbc:

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/19784992/

Remember you always have the option of purchasing otc teeth whitening kits. However, you should keep in mind that having healthy gums and strong teeth are prerequisites for teeth bleaching. It is highly recommneded that you find out from your dentist whether you are a candidate for otc teeth whitening.

If all else fails, remember the old tradition of oil pulling....... come on, just google it!

Summer-proof makeup

2007-07-13T18:11:00.000-07:00

Avoid looking like a toasted, burnt bagel this summer! Here is a very intersting link(courtesy of ivillagelive.com) with some of the best beauty products that would not embarass you this summer.

http://ivillagelive.ivillage.com/on_sale/estee/0,,bq8zx57s,00.html

And remember if you know of any other products, feel free to share!

Spas For Less in NYC

2007-07-12T10:56:00.000-07:00

At such low prices, pampering yourself is a must. Here are a list of affordable spas in the NYC area. If you know of any please do not hesitate to share:

Elite day spa: offers facials for as low as $31.20 including tax. Located at: 24 W 39th St, between 5th and 6th right next to Lord and Taylor. Not great on ambiance but they get the job done and very cheap. Ask for Mara or Angela. (212) 730-2100)

Randee Elaine Spa & NY Laser Center

Though ambiance is not the greatest, however it is very neat. Located in the west village, this spa charges only $30 for a Brazilian. They offer a Deep Pore Cleansing Facial which includes: a deep cleansing, followed by a gentle enzyme peel. In addition, you receive a face, neck, and shoulder massage, exfoliation, extractions, masque and a nutrient-rich moisturizer. 60 minutes: Only $50 (212) 229-0399 180 7th Ave South, Greenwich Village.

New York International Beauty School:

If you’re looking for an extreme make over on a low budget, NY International Beauty School is your answer. You can get a makeover from a student in training. Services range from hair coloring and cutting to facials. Prices range from $5 to $18! No appointment necessary.500 Eighth Ave., 8th Floor, between 35th and 36th Sts.; 212-868-7171

The Perfect ShapeAt the Perfect Shape, eyebrow threading starts at a meager $5.00. Waxing ranges from $10 to $45. They also offer facials! They are constantly praised for their superior services. All Indian staff. 295 Park Ave. South, between 22nd and 23rd Sts., 212-473-7400

Christine Valmy International School:
Only $27 for an hour and a half facial. It is advisable that you call a week in advance for an appointment with one of Valmy's students. All students are supervised by an instructor.
They are located at 437 Fifth Ave., 212-779-7800

Emerald Spa

Please be advised that prices and locations do change periodically. I do not take personal responsibility for the prices that are quoted in this posting. Good luck and may you have a blissful experience!!!!!!!!!!!!

Cheap vs. Expensive Sunglasses

2007-07-10T08:28:00.000-07:00

When choosing sunglasses, most of us are in a qualdrum: Should we splurge on a brand name, or do we go to the nearest Strawberry store or even the street peddlers?

There have been a plethora of surveys on the topic: Cheap sunglasses vs. Expensive ones. Interestingly enough, the results are usually very consistent. In most instances both the cheap and the expensive sunglasses were found to provide sufficient protection from UV rays.

The only problem is that one can never be too sure when purchasing the sunglasses on the streets. Simply having a sticker that says UV protection is not always a gurantee that we are receivng great coverage. Unfortunately the only way we could tell if our cheap sunglasses provides us with UV protection is by having them tested at a lab.

I will continue to take a chance by purchasing the non-brand name sunglasses at stores that I trust. Afterall the difference in spending $300 vs. $7.00 is astronomical!

If you would like to read more on cheap sunglasses vs. expensive sunglasses, here is an interesting link:

http://health.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=150406

Go ahead...Keep those eyes protected! And remember, sunglasses are not just for style!

The Thruth about The Best and Worst Suncreens

2007-07-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

Summer is here and most of us are looking forward to spending as much time outdoors as we possibly can. While some of us have already stocked up on our sunscreens, the rest of can’t be bothered.

With the number of skin cancer cases on the rise, we cannot afford to neglect the importance of applying sunscreen before heading outdoors. In recent weeks, there have been several articles highlighting the fact that not all sunscreens are created equal. Most dermatologists agree that the majority of sunscreen lotions on the market today are good at screening out the sun's UVB rays: the ones that cause sunburn and skin cancers. However, few of these sunscreens offer protection against UVA rays, the harmful rays that seem to give us wrinkles. Don’t be discouraged!

Recent studies showed that lotions that contain the ingredients Oxybenzone, Titanium Dioxide or Parsol 1789 block out some UVA rays. Yes, only some!

That’s where Mexoryl comes in. Mexoryl is a chemical that tackles those mean UVA rays. According to Dr. Vincent DeLeo, chairman of dermatology at Columbia University:
"It produces a product which gives us almost perfect protection against sunshine," said chairman of dermatology at Columbia University.

I will not get too technical; however it is worth noting that helioplex (found in neutrogena’s products) is very effective in protecting us from UVA. In fact, in a recent study, Neutrogena's Ultra-Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock 45 came out on top for best UVA and UVB protection. This product retails for a mere $13.00 for a 3oz tube. In the event that you are not willing to shell out $13.00, you will be happy to know that No-Ad Sunblock lotion SPF 45 tested almost as high, for about half the cost of the Neutrogena.

For those of you who do not have the time, or are too lazy to spend time at the drugstore in search of the perfect sunscreen, here are a few helpful links:

Top 9 Best sunscreens: http://beauty.about.com/od/sunscree1/tp/sunscreenstop.htm

What Sunscreen works best: http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070611/LIFESTYLE/706110373/1039/LIFESTYLE02

So before you ran to the 99cents store to make such a huge Beauty investment, keep the following in mind: slathering on sunscreen today, will save you many visits to the doctor in the future! You too guys! Real men wear sunscreen!

*****Please do not neglect those lips. Get a lipgloss with spf 15! Last week I purchased a couple from Avon on sale for $0.79.

Welcome to Beauty Staples

2007-07-09T10:01:00.000-07:00

Television's most beloved judge, Judge Judy Sheindlin, was right on the money when she said: "Dumb is forever, beauty fades."

Dumbness can be reversed......... Get an education, Learn something new etc...
Can beauty be reversed?

Depending on your field, beauty may be given greater priority than being intelligent. Ask Paris Hilton or other women who constantly grace the cover of magazines. That is not to say that all models are dumb. Take Iman for example. Iman exemplifies everything great. She has it all: Brain, Beauty, Stable family and a Compassionate heart for causes dear to her. Other beauty and brains models include: Petra Nemcova, Melania Trump, Cindy Crawford, Tyra Banks to name a few. Absent from this list is Concessa Alfred.....(I know what you are thinking)

I strongly believe that both beauty and brains should be celebrated. Lady O (Oprah) is known for saying: " if you got it flaunt!"
Now what if you don't "got it"? Perhaps fake it?

We live in a time where everthing is readily accessible with the click of a button or a simple phone call. Life is too short to spend hours 'not feeling good about our selves'. This blog is dedicated to those of you who want to look like the starlet you are but do not have the finances of Heidi Klum.

So Cheers to Beauty and Brains!