Tag Archives: skincare

Nutrition for Healthy, Glowing Skin

It’s true, the skin is the biggest organ in the human body. It also plays a key role in detoxification. Dealing with skin problems, particularly as an adult, isn’t just frustrating; for many, it’s embarrassing and can have profound effects on our self-esteem and confidence.

Acne is a major problem, and not only for teenagers. I see an increasing number of adult clients complaining of skin issues and desperate to find solutions. Aside from acne, other common and troublesome issues include psoriasis, eczema, rashes and hives, and athletes foot. Unfortunately, the conventional mindset for addressing all of these skin problems is often missing the mark. While topicals, ointments, gels, lotions, and cleansers might be able to help with symptoms temporarily, the real goal must be getting to the root of the problem.

So what is at the root of poor skin health? It is important to understand that if you are experiencing a skin condition, this is a sure sign of another underlying problem.

Some common triggers of skin conditions:

  • Undiagnosed food allergies/sensitivities
  • Excessive past or current exposure to environmental toxins
  • Reactions to personal hygiene products
  • Excessive sugar in the diet
  • Dehydration
  • Lack of healthy gut flora

Here are seven essential steps to treating skin from the inside out.

Hydrate!

Simple hydration is not to be underestimated in both causing and treating skin conditions. Simply put, we cannot detox properly without adequate hydration. Water flushes toxins from our body, and if there isn’t enough of it, skin problems are far more common. Shoot for half of your body weight in ounces per day, and opt for clean, filtered water whenever possible. If you are a coffee/caffeine drinker, your quantity of water should be increased, as these beverages act as diuretics, which are substances that increase urine production in the body, which promotes dehydration.

girl drink water

Discover Hidden Food Allergies or Sensitivities

Acne is a very common symptom of a food allergy or sensitivity. The foods to which we most often react include gluten, dairy, soy, corn, eggs and grains, although an individual can be allergic to just about anything. A food elimination diet is the best (and least expensive) way to begin uncovering potential sensitivities. This involves eliminating commonly allergenic foods for no less than one month, and systematically reintroducing them in order to pinpoint which might be problematic.

raw egg in plate

Eliminate Dairy

Particularly if you’re dealing with acne, eliminating dairy in the diet should be step number one. A 2005 study released by the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found a positive correlation between dairy intake and teenage acne, but this goes for adults, too. Dairy includes primarily milk, cheese, and yogurt, and some may or may not do well with butter. (Ghee, a clarified butter, is a great alternative.) Eliminate dairy completely for at least one month, and see if you notice changes. If not, move on to the more extensive elimination diet described above.

Cut Out Sugar

A close runner-up to dairy, refined sugar is a major player in skin issues. The main reason for this has to do with hormones, as excessive sugar in the diet leads to blood sugar imbalance, which negatively affects our hormone levels. Instead of refined (table) sugar, opt for maple syrup, raw honey, and naturally sweet foods such as whole fruit.

honeydew

Focus on Fats

Fortunately, our society’s obsessive fear of fats is slowly but surely dissipating, which is great news for our skin. It is true that commonly used cooking fats such as canola, soy and corn oils, along with deep-fried foods, are oxidized (rancid) before even leaving the supermarket. These fats can wreak havoc on our body systems and skin, as they create free radicals that are damaging to cells and a leading cause of systemic inflammation. However, a focus on nutritious and skin-healthy fats such as coconut, olives, flax, walnut and avocado oils, avocado, grass-fed butter, ghee, and raw nuts and seeds can be very beneficial.

coconut oil

Go Easy on the Alcohol

This can be a tough one but is extremely important in order to achieve healthy skin. Since alcohol converts to sugar when consumed, it creates problems similar to those described above with refined sugar consumption. Furthermore, alcohol congests the liver, which is our primary detox organ. Proper detoxification is essential to clearing up skin problems.

Include Probiotic-Rich Fermented Foods

Every qualified nutrition professional knows that healthy digestion is at the root of most skin problems. If our digestion is impaired for any reason — leaky gut, undiagnosed food allergies, lack of digestive enzymes or sufficient stomach acid, or an improper balance of gut flora — this can have profound effects on our skin health. Including probiotic-rich fermented foods on a daily basis is a great place to start, and the best options are raw sauerkraut, kimchi, coconut kefir, and kombucha tea.

sauerkraut

While some skin conditions might not respond to these dietary changes and could require the guidance of a nutrition or integrative medicine professional, many of my clients find that their skin issues, especially acne, clear up after several months of these changes. Remember, skin issues are rooted in an underlying problem, and discovering which problems are affecting you is the key to achieving healthy, glowing skin.

Is Double Cleansing the Secret to Clear Skin?

If your nightly routine involves a solitary face wash, then you may be underachieving. Inspired by Korean and Japanese skincare methods, double cleansing is increasingly becoming the beauty ritual of choice for a healthy, blemish-free complexion. But is it the right method for you? We’re helping you decide by taking a closer look at this popular skincare trend.

What is Double Cleansing, Anyway?

Let’s face it (pun intended): it’s hard enough to force yourself to wash your face even once sometimes before hitting the sheets — and now you have to do it twice? How much do we really have to suffer for beauty?

More than we already do, apparently. The one-and-done approach doesn’t always cut it when it comes to getting your skin thoroughly clean, and it makes sense. Relying on one product to dissolve makeup and deep-clean your pores is a little ambitious at best; and it assumes that all the dirt, oil, and germs on your face will get eliminated in one measly wash.

Double cleansing harnesses the power of oil-based cleansers and foaming or lotion-based cleansers for the best of both worlds. Excessive? Perhaps. But effective? Absolutely.

woman washing her face

4 Skincare Benefits of Double Cleansing

  1. It helps prevent breakouts. Washing your face twice ensures that you go to bed with bare skin — and that means less chance of a breakout tomorrow. Lingering makeup and oil can clog pores and lead to pesky pimples — and who has time for that?
  2. It dissolves makeup and environmental pollutants. Each day, your skin encounters more than just concealer, foundation, and contour. It also deals with a daily dose of environmental pollutants that can wreak havoc on your complexion. Washing your face with two different cleansing formulas means all that gunk goes right down the drain.
  3. It enhances your skincare products. When your face isn’t fully clean, your favorite moisturizers and serums simply can’t perform at their very best. A study conducted by Lancome found that anti-aging products applied to thoroughly cleansed skin produced results twice as fast. In addition, an Olay study revealed that well-cleansed skin absorbed 30% more anti-aging product overall. (Wow.)
  4. It’s gentler on your skin. Another benefit of cleansing twice? It’s actually a gentler approach compared to many single-wash facial cleansers (which can be surprisingly harsh and drying). Double cleansing allows you to remove makeup using less abrasive products, making it perfect for sensitive skin types. Even better, using an oil-based cleanser first helps your skin retain its natural moisture.

How to Double Cleanse Your Skin

Step One: The Oil-Based Cleanser

Apply an oil-based cleanser to your face, massaging the oil into the skin for at least 30 seconds. Splash your face with lukewarm water just like they do in all those skincare commercials, but always complete the process with a soft washcloth (and not just your hands) for a better clean.

Contrary to popular belief, oil-based products don’t make oily skin oilier. In fact, they’re incredibly gentle and effective at dissolving makeup, sweat, and your daily SPF. What’s especially great about oil-based cleansers is they’re better able to break down oil-based products and silicones (and most makeup is oil-based, FYI). That’s why this first wash is particularly ideal for fans of a full face.

josie maran

Try: Josie Maran Cleansing Oil, $32

Step Two: The Gentle Cleanser

For your second act, you’ll want a cleanser that’s not oil-based. What does that mean, exactly? For starters, it means you have lots of options. Foaming cleansers are a good choice for oily skin types and work well for acne-prone complexions, while non-foaming cleansing lotions are better suited for those with dry skin. This second wash knocks out any residual oils and deep-cleans your pores. As a general rule, go for something lightweight, and apply the product within 60 seconds of your first wash to help retain moisture.

double cleansing

Try: Fresh Soy Face Cleanser, $38

Step Three: The Hydrating Moisturizer

After you’ve dried off your skin, it’s time to lock in hydration with your preferred moisturizer. If your skin is typically very dry (or if you suffer from eczema or psoriasis), you may want to limit your double cleansing to a few times per week. Now, go get your beauty sleep!

Do you already double cleanse your skin, or are you thinking about giving this intriguing technique a try? Keep the conversation going in the comments!

What’s in Julie Steines’ Makeup Bag?

An award-winning children’s book author, philanthropist, and new mom, Julie Steines and Norbert—her seven-inch-tall, three-pound sidekick with fluffy gray ears and a tiny tongue that’s always sticking out—are best known for bringing love and comfort to people in need at places like hospitals, nursing homes, homeless shelters, and disaster areas. A modern Cinderella, she believes that beauty is being the best possible version of yourself inside and out.  “I would tell my daughter [Parker] that less is more and that the most beautiful thing she can wear is her smile,” Steines told Beyond Words. “When wearing makeup, I would advise her to choose natural products that enhance her features.”

From earth-toned eyeshadow to organic coconut oil,  we’re digging through Julie Steines’ makeup bag to discover her favorite beauty brands and products.

 

Julie Steines’ Makeup Bag Must-Haves

“I store my makeup products in a simple bag made by Sephora called The Weekender,” Steines said. Vegan and cruelty-free, it features a built-in hanger, a seven-piece brush holder, and zippered compartments. Available in Frosted Light, License to Leopard, Sweet Perspective, and Sparkle & Shine, this nylon, quilted bag also has dividers that keep compartments organized. “That’s important because as a new mom, for me, simplicity is a priority.”

weekender pephora license to leopard

“I don’t wear lipstick, just gloss or shimmer,” Steines said. “I like neutral shades or light pink, mainly so I don’t have to worry about it smearing on my teeth!”  If she could only wear one brand of lip gloss for the rest of her life, she’d choose Burt’s Bees lip products. One-hundred percent natural, they’re made with soothing shea butter and nourishing beeswax that’ll leave your lips looking shiny, soft, smooth, and irresistibly smoochable.

“I don’t use concealer unless I have a red carpet or television appearance,” she said. “On a daily basis, I love Juice Beauty CC cream because it has subtle mineral-tinted coverage, mineral SPF, and moisturizer.” Not tested on animals, it comes in Natural Glow, Desert Glow, Warm Glow, Sun-kissed Glow, and Deep Glow. A blend of fruit stem cells, it erases fine lines and wrinkles while making your skin glow like a goddess.

stem-cellular-cc-cream-desert-prd
Image courtesy of Juice Beauty

If ever there were a beauty cure-all, it’s coconut oil. “Instead of lotion, I generally use organic coconut oil in the shower,” she said. A hot topic from the tropics, it has an unusually long shelf life—two to three years.  A jack-of-all-trades beauty staple, it also has a natural SPF 4. It even reduces under eye bags, irons out fine lines, heals chapped lips, and gives your skin a glowy, dewy look. “It works great as a makeup remover and in lieu of shaving cream,” Steines said.

Lipsticks may get all the love for being multitaskers, but the title truly belongs to your eyeshadows: your makeup bag’s secret double agents. Makeup artists use neutral and earthy color palettes for everything from touching up hair color to concealing tattoos. So it no wonder she’s obsessed with Urban Decay’s Naked Ultimate Basic Eyeshadow Palette—whether she’s strolling the red carpet with her husband, Home & Family-host Mark Steines, at Children Hospital Los Angeles’ ‘Once Upon a Time Gala, or popping in for a Today Show segment.

“I’m open to trying new things as long as they are safe,” Steines said. “I did try those magnetic lashes, and they were a bit too clumsy for me.” While she usually dresses up her eyes with Mineral Fusion’s waterproof mascara and eyeliner, her makeup bag has at least one daring item: Greensparkly Eyeliner by Urban Decay.  Completely vegan, this dreamy and creamy formula dries in 30 seconds and has a metallic, tropical hue that’ll have everyone batting their eyelashes at you. (Pun totally intended.)

Green Sparkly Eyeliner Urban Decay
Image courtesy of Urban Decay

To make her perfume last all day, she sprays her ankles, knees, elbows,  collarbone, hair, and hands with Philosophy’s “Falling in Love” or “Fresh Cream”. One smells like blackberries. The other smells like vanilla. “They are subtle, clean, and fresh,” Steines said.

When it comes to shopping, Steines is just like the rest of us: she loves affordable makeup finds.  She recently purchased Yves St. Lauren’s Touche Eclat Neutralizers:  one-click highlighters that instantly cancel color imperfections.

She also bought a variety of skin care items by MyChelle. “I love their line and I believe a fresh face starts with good skin care,” she said. The brand is an essential part of her daily beauty regimen. In the morning, she cleanses her face with Creamy Pumpkin Cleanser. Then she follows that with Supreme Polypeptide Cream. “In the evening, I always…wash my face and neck before bed,” she said. “Then I apply either Remarkable Retinal Night Cream or Remarkable Retinal Serum. I also dab Vitamin E oil all around my eyes and put Alba Un-Petroleum Jelly on my lips.”

Image courtesy of Mychelle

Julie Steines keeps  it simple and stylish with vegan and cruelty-free makeup that reduces her beauty carbon footprint. Which natural beauty brands do you use on the regular basis? Tell us in the comments section below!

10 Beauty Myths Debunked

There will always be an unspoken bond and instant level of trust formed between women, so when we played telephone with these commonly held beauty beliefs, we didn’t question what we heard. We took it as fact and kept it moving right down the line.

Beauty truths like sunscreen being one of the best anti-aging products you can use, and picking your face being one of the worst things you can do for your skin, are inarguably true. So they all must be created equally, right? While there are plenty of beauty basics that are fail-proof and proven true time and again, there are some major beauty myths floating around out there that just don’t hold up.

We’re here to set the record straight and save you from wasting any more precious time (that could be spent doing better things like crafting the perfect blended eyeshadow) following a ritual that won’t do you any justice. Next time you hear these 10 beauty myths, you can be sure to throw caution to the wind and never mistake them as a rule again.

10 Beauty Myths Debunked

Myth 1: You have to wash your face in the morning.

The truth is, you’re not going to be picking up much dirt or bacteria after a good night’s rest (unless you’re to bed with your makeup on!). In fact, over washing your face can lead to dryness and irritation by stripping the skin of its natural oils and sebum. For sensitive skin, a good rule of thumb has always been less is more. Wash your face when it’s necessary, and leave it alone when it needs to be left alone. A simple toner in the morning followed up with moisturizer should be plenty enough.

Myth 2: Makeup causes acne.

removing makeup

 Speaking of sleeping with your makeup on, otherwise known as the biggest beauty blunder under the sun, wearing makeup alone doesn’t cause those pesky breakouts. It’s forgetting to thoroughly take it off at the end of the night that does the real damage. This is not to say that all makeup products can’t adversely affect certain skin types, or that it will heal any existing acne, but that the real culprit is the bacteria and sweat buildup from a full day’s wear of makeup that’s an open invitation for clogged pores and acne-breeding bacteria.

Myth 3: You need to switch up products for maximum effectiveness.

It’s often been said that your skin or hair will “get used” to certain products and that you’ll need to switch up products up for maximum effectiveness. However, if you’re noticing that months later skin is no longer changing, it’s actually reached a threshold and is maintaining the positive improvements achieved.

Imagine trying to fill a cup that’s already full. You can’t add anything more, but nothing’s being taken away. And while it isn’t bad to switch up products or try something new, it isn’t a rule to reach your desired results. When it comes to hair, flat, dandruffed, or damaged hair is usually due to product build up from hairspray, serums, oil, or heat tools, which is often overlooked.

Try going without those products to see if you do need to change up your shampoo, or try a clarifying shampoo once a week and continue regular use of your favorite ‘poo.

Myth 4: Drinking water keeps your skin from drying out.

This is a major myth that’s out there since it’s so easy to confuse. While beauty starts from within and diet plays a major role, skin can still look dry even if you’re drinking 8 glasses of water a day. This is because it’s oil that keeps skin moist, not water. If you’re not hydrating properly, that can give the skin a wan appearance, but it won’t make skin look anymore hydrated if you’re not moisturizing consistently, too.

Myth 5: Shaving will cause hair to grow back thicker.

shave legs

Hair is widest at the base and most narrow at the tip. This is why when the hair starts to grow back in between shaves, the hair gives the illusion of being more thick, stubbly, and dark since each piece is short and growing in unison. The longer the hair is, the thinner it appears.

Myth 6: Use of castor oil increases the growth of eyelash and eyebrow hair.

While castor oil has long been regarded as nature’s Rogaine, application of the oil itself does not affect the rate of hair growth. However, when applying the oil, it’s suggested use is massaging it onto the desired area for a few minutes. It’s the stimulation that’s associated with the massage action that likely causes boosted hair growth.

Myth 7: Hair products, serums, and oils can repair split ends.

split ends

While products can temporarily “glue” split ends back together for an extended period of time, they cannot magically make a split end fuse back into one solid hair strand. Some swear by shea butter or Argan oil, which are actually very effective at sealing rough ends, though not permanently. The only true “remedy” for split ends remains a good trim followed by protective styling.

Myth 8: Brushing hair more will make it shinier and grow faster.

Remember being that little girl standing in the mirror with her paddle brush in hand, eagerly counting down each hair stroke knowing that with every stroke made, you were closer to having the shiniest, most glamorous hair of your life? Well, what you didn’t realize back then was that the Marcia Brady method of stroking hair over 100 times a day does more damage than good. Over-brushing actually irritates the scalp and causes more breakage.

Instead, focus on gentle, quality strokes that still remove the same amount of impurities. On top of that, steady stroking will distribute oil evenly from the scalp to the ends, flattening hair to ultimately reflect more light and stimulate the scalp, resulting in shiny, healthier hair.

Myth 9: White spots on nails means a vitamin deficiency.

Contrary to popular belief, white spots on nails don’t actually mean you’re low in iron, calcium, or vitamin d. Some superstitions even say it means you have a secret admirer. But most often than not, these white spots are formed due to a previous injury caused to the nail.

Myth 10: Test foundation color on your wrist to find the best match.

woman foundation

Find yourself running back-and-forth from the beauty store to return a mismatched foundation color, only to pick up another dud? That’s because matching your face color to your wrist will get you nowhere. The wrist is one of the lightest parts of your body, and won’t provide an accurate foundation match. Instead, find your foundation color by testing the product out on your jawline or neck and matching it to the natural complexion of your face.

4 Powerhouse DIY Face Masks for Troubled Skin

Let’s admit it – when you’re desperate to fix your face, you’re willing to try any and everything. When it comes to facial products, I’ve been a stranger to nearly none. What I’ve found is that no matter what new product I come across that promises me clear skin in the morning, it’s only nature that can truly get the job done for me. That being said, not all natural remedies are created equally.

These natural face masks are fail-proof for those of us that have to work for our complexions. Whether it’s cystic acne, hyper-pigmentation, eczema, blackheads, sensitive or oily skin you’re dealing with, these four powerhouse pantry ingredients are going to bring your skin redemption. The key is remembering that while there are no overnight fixes, consistent application is going to get your skin to where you ultimately want it to be.

 

Honey Face Mask

Spot-treat and heal the skin
honey face mask

Honey has incredible antibacterial and healing properties. It prevents new acne from forming and actively treats existing acne. It’s soothing and keeps skin supple while it works.

Spread an even layer of honey over your face and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.

This can be used every night, with many people even swearing by it as a face wash.

Honey is a great overnight spot-treatment too, just be sure to keep your hair tucked away and your pillowcase protected. To experience extra-strength healing from honey, try manuka honey, which has the most antimicrobial properties of them all.

 

Egg White + Lemon Face Mask

Lighten, repair, and tighten skin
egg white

Egg whites work to repair tissue damage, tighten pores, and firm the skin, while lemon helps to lighten scarring and discoloration, and to loosen blackheads and whiteheads. If you have sensitive skin, skip the lemon juice altogether.

Mix one egg white and around 1 teaspoon of lemon juice together.

Beat mixture until you create a foam.

Use a makeup brush to apply this mixture to your face.

Leave it on for 15 minutes and rinse.

This can be used every other day. 

 

Bentonite Clay Face Mask

Stop acne, exfoliate, and shrink pores
brown clay mask

Consider bentonite clay your body’s plunger and cystic’s acne worst nightmare. Bentonite clay is best known for being able to draw out skins most stubborn toxins, stopping acne flare ups in their tracks, and shrinking pores. It is also an excellent exfoliant.

The classic recipe calls for bentonite clay and apple cider vinegar. Use a wooden or plastic spoon to mix both ingredients together in a non-metal bowl to form a paste.

Avoid letting metal touch the clay, as it will also absorb properties from the metal.

If you find that the apple cider vinegar is too harsh for your skin, use water to mix with it instead.

You can add essential oils for more benefits or to counteract the smell of the vinegar.

Leave mask on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse it off in the kitchen sink to prevent clogging!

 

Turmeric Face Mask

Lighten and repair skin
turmeric mask face

Turmeric is an almighty antioxidant with superior anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It effectively reduces skin inflammation in the form of skin conditions such as eczema and works wonders in lightening skin pigmentation. Turmeric’s healing powers help to repair skin damage and scarring. Traditional recipes for this mask call for mixing turmeric powder with yogurt or milk and almond oil. My hands-down favorite mask borrows ingredients from the others in this list with turmeric as it’s star.

Mix equal parts turmeric powder, bentonite clay, and buttermilk powder. (Buttermilk powder contains lactic acid which aids in the exfoliation process and makes skin feel extra soft afterward.)

Add enough honey and milk to make a thick paste.

Using a makeup brush or your fingers, spread this mixture all over your face, avoiding your eyes, and leave on for 15-20 minutes.

The Health and Beauty Benefits of Collagen Supplements

Collagen may sound like some sort of anti-aging gimmick, but the truth is that collagen is one of the most prominent proteins found in our bodies. Collagen is found not just in our skin, but also in our muscles, bones, blood vessels, tendons, and our digestive system.

Here are some of the reasons collagen supplements have become extremely popular recently, and why you should consider taking them to improve your health, from the inside out!

 

Collagen improves digestion

Collagen soothes the lining in your stomach, heals damaged cells, and provides your body with essential amino acids. Those amino acids that come from increased collagen production helps to heal the lining of your digestive track through reducing inflammation and irritation within your body.

 

Collagen boosts your metabolism

Collagen boosts your metabolism by providing lean muscle mass and by allowing your body to properly absorb the nutrients you consume throughout the day. As we age, collagen levels naturally deplete in our bodies, but that’s when we need it the most. With increased collagen production,  our muscle mass increases, posture becomes better, our bones are stronger and we’re able to burn more calories – who doesn’t want that?

 

Collagen helps to curb your appetite

Collagen is the perfect meal replacement. The best part is is that collagen can be easily added to just about anything- I like putting a scoop in my coffee and smoothies in particular! A study actually found collagen to be more satisfying and filling than any other source of manufactured protein.

 

Collagen can reduce anxiety

Collagen contains glycine, an amino acid with major anti-anxiety properties. A lot of us don’t have enough glycine naturally in our system and low glycine levels can cause a lot of problems in our bodies, including anxiety. A simple dose of collagen can do wonders for not just our overall health, but our mental health as well.

 

Collagen promotes a good night’s sleep

The glycine found in collagen that helps to boost our mood can also help you sleep better at night. While you may think that collagen would make you drowsy because of that, you’d be wrong- collagen can also be used to help keep us awake and alert throughout the day.

Daily essentials: our Collagen + Yacon Syrup 👋 #ZINTing

A post shared by Zint (@zintnutrition) on

Collagen improves the health and the appearance of your skin

Collagen production begins to decrease as we age, due to pollution, excess sun exposure, etc. The decrease of that natural collagen production leaves us with wrinkles and poor elasticity. As we increase our levels of collagen through supplement intake, our skin can become firmer, smoother, and our skin cells care able to turnover normally, increasing the elasticity and circulation. Collagen has also been found to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite due to that increased skin cell turnover and the improved elasticity that comes with it.

 

Collagen helps to reduce joint pain

Collagen production isn’t just beneficial for our skin; it’s also essential to having healthy joints. When our bodies don’t produce enough collagen, our joints, tendons, and ligaments become swollen and stiff. Collagen helps to create a barrier that allows our joints to glide smoothly without pain.

 

Collagen is great for hair, teeth, and nail health

Collagen is most commonly known for it’s amazing effects on our physical appearance. While it’s great for our skin, it’s equally beneficial for our hair, teeth, and nails! Collagen protein is what makes up our nails, teeth, and hair. Supplements allow us to increase the natural production of collagen to strengthen our bodies. Collagen has even been found by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology to reverse the signs of hair loss.

Collagen naturally detoxes your body

Collagen works to detox your system, increase blood flow, and improve heart health by minimizing the damage that is done to your liver by toxins.

The Beauty Treatments You Should Never Do Yourself

Sometimes, it’s hard to splurge on yourself ; you might try to cut corners on your beauty regimen to save some time and money. While it’s fine to do your own hair and makeup for certain occasions, some treatments really do require a professional hand. Here’s our short list of beauty treatments you just shouldn’t do yourself.

 

Hair cut

Don’t cut your hair yourself. There’s a reason why hairstylists receive the amount of training they do – “because cutting hair ain’t easy.” I learned this the hard way. For a few years, I cut my own hair and did my mother’s. I was becoming quite a pro, at least so I thought. However, confidence turned into cockiness because one fine day, I did the unimaginable to my hair. I decided to try something new with my tresses and read about how to do layers online. The end result: my layers were uneven, if you could even call them layers. I ended up trying to level everything off and call it a day, but it didn’t look right; I had destroyed my lovely lady locks.

hair cut

A distressed me hopped into the car and went down to the local salon in an effort to fix the ruination – it only made matters worse because they had to cut off a great deal of hair to fix the problem. I was crushed when I looked into the mirror and saw my long, luscious locks were gone, gone, gone. Learn from my mistake and see a pro next time you want to try a new cut.

 

Dark to light hair

I religiously went to the salon (as I should have) and shelled out lots of my hard-earned money to turn my hair from a natural black color to blonde. I would let it grow out a little too much and have black roots with near white-blonde hair. Looking back, it looked ridiculous. I finally went back to my natural hair color, which was easy to do and I matched my color perfectly myself. I couldn’t be satisfied with that, though.

hair swatches

About a year later, I had an itch to give myself caramel highlights. I followed the directions precisely, but when I rinsed my hair, I noticed it was yellow and orange, and not caramel at all. My highlight-placement skills were a bit off as well. I had no time to fix it because I had to go to work in about an hour. Never again will I try to go blonde on my own, and neither should you.

 

Chemical peels

A rule of thumb for beauty treatments – if it has “chemical” in its name, it’s best to leave it to the experts. Chemical peels are effective at making the face look more youthful. It helps to reduce sun damage, age spots, and scarring. However, the abrasive chemicals used can burn your skin or cause a serious reaction if not done properly. After you mess up a chemical peel, you’ll be thankful for those age marks when you finally get the irritation to subside, so be safe and get it done by a professional from the start.

chemical peel

 

Acrylic Nail Removal

After getting acrylic nails done, I decided that instead of getting them filled or having them professionally removed, I would do it myself. ”I am a beauty DIY expert,” I thought to myself. I grabbed a butter knife and popped each one of my nails off, not surprisingly leaving huge holes in my real nails. Afterwards, my nails didn’t grow out at all, so I had short, stubby, holey nails that I waited for quite some time to let grow in naturally.

nails

Take it from me: spend the money and get your nails removed professionally! Once you do the damage from pulling the nails off, you’ll be stuck with an unfixable disaster for weeks to come that isn’t worth the time or money you saved.

 

6 Lifestyle Changes That Can Seriously Improve Your Skin

While we can probably all agree that there are some beauty products that we can’t live without, we ultimately know that achieving great skin starts with good, consistent habits. And much like a regular skincare routine, these changes will require some upkeep to make noticeable changes, but simply consider it as part of a daily routine to maintain your best skin possible! Here are six simple lifestyle changes you can start making today, for skin that will start to glow tomorrow.

 

1. Wash your face with “soft” water

At least 85% of water in the U.S. is hard water. What’s hard water? It’s water that has a high dissolved mineral content. The high mineral content prevents soap-like products from creating a rich lather and allowing substances to properly dissolve, which ultimately leaves a soapy residue on our skin. The residue that’s left can lead to clogged pores, skin irritation, and even acne.

steamy shower

While it might feel a bit strange, try using a bowl of distilled water or bottled water to wash your face. It may just be the trick in finally healing your acne. You’ll also want to cleanse your face and neck with distilled water after you’ve showered, as the residue from your shampoo and conditioner is likely to be left on your face and possibly clogging pores.

 

2. Wear your hair up while you snooze

The natural oils in our hair, not to mention the products we put on it at night, throughout the day, and even shampoo and conditioner, can all end up on our skin. Products that end up on our face can clog your pores and cause irritation, and means you might wake up with unwanted breakouts. To avoid this, keep your hair out of your face by putting it up into a loose ponytail or bun before bed.

 

3. Invest in silk pillowcases, and wash them weekly

The smooth fabric of silk works wonders at keeping the skin’s moisture intact, preventing creases and wrinkles, unlike cotton which causes more friction and resistance. A hypoallergenic silk pillowcase further works to ensure the fabric won’t irritate the skin. Other benefits of silk? It adjusts to your rooms temperature, keeping you cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and leaves you hair silky smooth in the morning.

It’s extremely important to wash pillowcases on the regular, too. We spend the bigger bulk of our days collecting oil, grease, and dirt that gets left behind on our pillowcases and ends up accumulating and spreading even more bacteria on our face. Pillowcases should get a good wash at least once a week to avoid transferring all of that grime back onto your face.

 

4. Wash up before and after your workout

If you choose to forego cleansing your face pre-workout, you risk clogging your pores by sweating up against all of the oil, dirt, debris, and makeup that is on your skin. Even when you use a towel to wipe away your sweat after a good workout, if you didn’t start with a fresh face, you’re actually pushing dirt and debris further down into your pores, leading to enlarged pores, collagen breakdown, and future breakouts.

sweat workout woman

Alternatively, if you skip a post-workout shower, or at least a good hair rinse, you’re allowing the sweat build-up to sit on your hairline and clog pores. Aim to wash up within half an hour of your workout, and while it’s tempting to run errands in your fashionable gym wear all day, be sure to change out of sweaty workout clothes right away.

 

5. Start sleeping on your back

Unfortunately, there is such a thing as “sleep wrinkles”, and they form once skin is constantly compressed against your pillow night after night and also causes decreased elasticity. Sleep  wrinkles disappear on younger skin, but are there to stay with aging skin. The key to preventing them is sleeping on your back. Not only does sleeping on your back prevent wrinkles, it also allows for clearer skin (because skin isn’t in constant contact with the dirt and bacteria on your pillowcases or sheets throughout the night), firmer skin, and even better back alignment.

 

6. Wipe your cell phone down regularly

 Our cell phones are easily one of the things with which our hands are in contact most throughout the day. And though it’s not visible to the human eye, our phones are covered in  bacteria. When you push your phone against your face to make a call, you put your skin in direct contact with that bacteria, and the pressure causes you to sweat and trap oils in the process. If you use headphones to make your calls, the dirt and oils from your phone still accumulates onto your hands, making it to your face sooner or later. Excessive cell phone use can even effect the definition of your jawline, as there is a constant downwards tug on the delicate lower skin of the face.

cell phone toilet

Ideally, phones should be cleaned daily for clear skin. Spritz a microfiber cloth with alcohol and wipe your phone down all over. In addition to that, remove your case and thoroughly clean the rest of your phone once a week.

5 of the Best Anti-Aging Products Under $50

Whether you’re 22 or 82, you’ve definitely thought about aging and the effects it has or will have on your skin. The great thing about the products mentioned here is that they can be used as preventative measures to slow down the signs of aging and also to reduce the signs of aging on those who have already started experiencing it. Read on for our picks of the best anti-aging products for under $50.

 

No.7 Protect and Perfect Intense Beauty Serum ($29.99)

 no 7 face creamThe No.7 Protect and Perfect Intense Beauty Serum is one of the best anti-aging products on the market. Protect and Perfect is loaded with key ingredients like pro-retinal, which helps to increase collagen production, larch extract, which helps to firm the skin, vitamin C, which is an amazing anti-oxidant, and glycerin to moisturize the skin. The British Journal of Dermatology published a study about this No.7 favorite, stating that all of the anti-aging claims made are in fact true! Not only does this serum have the benefit of making you look younger long-term, it also provides instant results. This serum hydrates and plumps your skin, and fills fine lines.

 

L’Oreal Age Perfect Eye Renewal Eye Cream ($24.99)

l'areal age perfect cream

Some of the first tell-tale signs of aging happen around our eyes, including dark circles, puffiness, redness, crows’ feet, and under-eye bags. That is why anti-aging products formulated specifically to reduce the signs of aging and the appearance of wrinkles around our eyes is so essential for looking our best. This L’Oreal eye cream can hydrate, firm, and tone the area around your eyes and smoothe the eye contour, all within hours. It can also diminish dark circles, reduce the appearance of under-eye bags, smooth out crows’ feet, reduce eyelid crepes, and revitalize your entire eye long-term. This product has amazing reviews so it’s definitely worth picking up considering that the price is so reasonable.

 

Olay Total Effects 7 In One Anti-Aging Firming Treatment ($22.99)

olay 7 benefit face cream

This night cream is said to reduce the appearance of fine lines and winkles, firm skin, even skin tone (so important!), reduce the appearance of age spots, improve texture, provide moisture, and give skin an amazing glow. Olay has been around since 1952 and for good reason – their products are effective! You need to moisturize your skin anyway, so why not garner these seven beauty benefits while you’re at it?

 

Vichy Liftactiv Supreme Night ($50.00)

vichy face cream 

This anti-aging product by Vichy is perfect for all skin types. It contains a breakthrough ingredient called Rhamnose. Rhamnose is an ingredient that is naturally derived from plants and has been proven to rejuvenate skin and fight the signs of aging, which makes it an obvious ingredient to include in an anti-aging product. The best thing about this product is that it also contains a gentle exfoliator, which helps to remove dead skin cells, allowing the product to absorb more effectively into the skin. This product also promises to keep your skin properly moisturized for up to 24 hours.

 

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum ($23.99)

neutropenia face cream

The key ingredient that makes this serum so effective is hyaluronic acid, which is basically just a crazy word to explain an intense moisturizer. This serum is so intense that you may only want to use it a couple of times a week to prevent irritation. This product also promises to fade the look of wrinkles, brighten skin tone, smooth texture, and diminish age spots (like every other product on the market) but this one seriously works! All you need is a pearl-sized amount on a cleansed face every day and you’re good to go. This product also works well as a makeup primer!

*All images from Polyvore.com

The Best Moisturizers This Season

Moisturizer is a staple in our everyday beauty routine, but an absolute necessity in these cooler months. With those harsh, frigid days just around the corner, we’re rounding up the best new moisturizers (all for under $100!) that will keep your skin feeling smooth all holiday season long. Consider these a drink of water for your face.

 

Combat Dryness

AHAVA Time to Hydrate Active Moisture Gel Cream

ahava moisturizer
Ahava Time to Hydrate ($42)

This gentle gel helps maintain skin’s natural moisture. The source of its magic is dead sea water, minerals, and beauty oils such as sweet almond, avocado, and jojoba seed oil. Cell metabolism is enhanced and the skin is strengthened to better combat environmental attackers with its use.

 

Correct Tone

Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Bright SPF 30

dr andrew weil moisturizer
Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Bright SPF 30 ($53)

This oil-free moisturizer has been clinically proven to improve and brighten uneven skin tone. With Rosa Roxburghii and White Peony, both power flowers that are chock-full of Vitamin C, along with melanin-binding Palmaria, dark spots and discolorations are visibly diminished. The SPF 30 helps prevent new sun damage from forming.

 

Highlight

First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Illuminating Moisturizer

first aid beauty moisturizer
First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Illuminating Moisturizer ($34)

Your weapon against those dull skin days, this effective moisturizer brings the pretty. Enriched with sodium hyaluronate and light-reflecting particles, this works to hydrate and illuminate the appearance of the skin, giving you that highly praised dewy glow.

 

Brighten

Garnier Skin Active Clearly Brighter

garnier moisturizer
Garnier Skin Active Clearly Brighter ($15)

This affordable brightening formula makes the skin more radiant and smooth with an antioxidant complex of vitamins C & E, pine bark essence, and the gentle exfoliator lip-hydroxyl acid (LHA). This moisturizer is great for the winter months with its light, non-greasy formula and floral fresh scent. Users report that it’s good for sensitive, acne-prone skin as it doesn’t cause breakouts.

 

Afternoon Pick-me-up

 H2O+ Beauty OASIS Quench the Day Hydrating Mist

h2o+ moisturizer
H2O+ Beauty OASIS Quench the Day Hydrating Mist ($18)

 

This is hydrating mist is a mineral rich spray made of thermal water, vitamin e, aloe vera, and sea grass and water lily extracts. It’s a refreshing “to-go” moisturizer that also doubles as a makeup setter. Good for those who need their moisturizer to wear light, this formula is also free of parabens, mineral oils, and phthalates. Spritz this conditioning mist throughout the day to keep skin hydrated.

 

Anti-aging

IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream

it cosmetics moisturizer
IT Cosmetics Confidence in a Cream ($48)

 

This best-selling rejuvenating cream took over seven years in the making in collaboration with top plastic surgeons to perfect its highly effective anti-aging properties. By combining collagen and hyaluronic acid, fine lines and wrinkles are filled, while the look of pores and discoloration are reduced. It joins niacin, peptides, and a super ceramide complex to completely drench your skin in a moisture-fest.

 

Soothe

Mario Badescu Honey Moisturizer

mario badescu moisturizer
Mario Badescu Honey Moisturizer ($25)

With the smallest ingredient list in the pack, this vitamin moisturizer keeps skin supple, nourished, and exfoliated by including ingredients like honey extract, orange, and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA’s). This light moisturizer is geared toward sensitive, problematic skin because antibacterial and super-soothing honey is behind it.

 

Ultra-hydrating

Origins Drink Up-Intensive Overnight Mask

origins mask
Origins Drink Up-Intensive Overnight Mask ($26)

A best seller in the Origins skincare line, “Put dry skin to bed” is the slogan of this ultra-rich and hydrating mask. It repairs dryness while preventing further face drought. Star ingredient Japanese seaweed helps repair skin’s barrier to deter future dehydration. Made with avocado and apricot kernel oils, this fruity-scented mask is going to be your best friend this fall.