|
To purchase PCA sunscreen at Q Esthetics Laser Clinic, please visit one of our two convenient clinics at Toronto downtown (Atrium on Bay),Toronto midtown (Eglinton/Mt.Pleasant) or Thornhill (Bathurst/Steeles).
It’s not called base for nothing: The right foundation sets the stage for your whole makeup palette. The overall effect you want is dewy, to help compensate for any drier-looking or rough-textured skin. Here are some simple steps to help you find—and apply—the perfect foundation.
A hydrating or satin-finish liquid foundation is your best choice, especially as hormone levels dip and your skin gets drier. A product that contains moisturizing glycerin or hyaluronic acid will help remedy dryness. You may be tempted to reach for a cream foundation, but these can actually be more drying — and that will make your skin’s texture rougher and accentuate lines. Thicker, creamier formulas are usually made to provide fuller coverage for uneven skin tone, age spots, and more, which means they’re packed with pigment. They may start out looking fine, but as your skin absorbs the hydrating ingredients the pigments can start to look cakey. However, if you like a creamy formula’s coverage, try using it with a richer face moisturizer or a hydrating primer. You may also consider a foundation with added antioxidants and peptides, anti-agers that can boost your makeup’s performance.
The rule that says your foundation must exactly match your skin tone doesn’t hold up any more. Your complexion tends to grow paler with age, so a matching shade can leave you looking pasty (or, in the case of brown skin tones, ashy). “Today, if I put on the ivory tone I wore in my 20s, I’d look like Bette Davis in Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?” says Sandy Linter, makeup artist and Lancôme’s beauty-at-every-age expert. Warmer base shades have fewer pink undertones, so they counteract ruddiness in light-skinned women. Linter keeps the life in her skin by using a slightly warmer tone that’s a shade deeper than her old one. If you’re wary of going up a full notch, mix your current shade with the next darkest on the back of your hand, and then apply with a foundation brush.
Using a damp sponge or brush, smooth foundation over your entire face — including under the eyes, on the eyelids and brow bones, along both sides of your jawline, and onto your neck.
The anti-aging bonus of regular exfoliation? Your skin will absorb more moisturizing plant oils, collagen/elastin boosters, and antioxidant ingredients from your other skin-care products, such as cleansers, moisturizers, and serums. Your makeup will also go on more smoothly, so you’ll need less and look more fresh-faced. Start your facial clean-sweep today and get ready for the compliments!
Do you hop into bed still wearing your mascara? Try out every new skin product to hit the shelves? These common mistakes may not seem like a big deal, but over time they can take a toll on your skin and leave you looking prematurely aged.
Don’t worry: It’s not too late. Here, we break down your bad skin habits and show you how to avoid them—and look 10 years younger.
The No. 1 way you’re aging your skin? Not wearing sunscreen daily.
“The sun is the primary cause of skin aging,” says Neil Sadick, MD, a New York City–based dermatologist. The sun can reach you on cloudy, rainy, or snowy days as well. Plus, Dr. Sadick adds, “skin-damaging UV rays can penetrate through glass, so you need to apply sun protection even indoors.”
He suggests choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which blocks both types of UV rays, UVA and UVB, with an SPF of at least 30. Antioxidant-fortified formulas containing ingredients such as resveratrol, vitamin C, idebenone, or coffee berry can offer additional protection.
Your face isn’t the only area that needs a little TLC. Overexposure to sun affects your hands and neck just as much as your complexion. These areas show signs of aging, like dark spots, dryness, and loss of firmness, notes Dr. Sadick.
Treat your neck and the backs of your hands as you would your face by generously applying moisturizer and sunscreen. While you can buy body-specific products, they aren’t necessary. Those formulated for your face will work just fine, Dr. Sadick says.
Thanks to fluctuating hormones, women over 40 routinely experience acne problems. But using a spot treatment to relieve red spots will only dry out the skin, leaving a raw and irritated area—and it won’t help heal the pimple either.
Instead, says Carolyn Jacob, MD, director of Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, treat your entire face with an acne-fighting cleanser or moisturizer once a day. It’s your best bet for preventing future breakouts.
You may find it tempting to fall into bed after a busy day—or a late night on the town—without cleaning your face. But skipping a cleanser at night can lead to breakouts later.
During the day, environmental toxins (like dirt and pollution) build up on skin and invade pores, which can cause complexion problems, says Dr. Sadick. So don’t hit the sack before you wash. Use a good cleanser and save your skin. Keep a box of cleansing towelettes bedside for added convenience—simply swipe and sleep.
If you’re frustrated that your new anti-aging moisturizer isn’t doing its job, stick it out longer before switching. Bouncing from product to product may leave you with the impression that nothing works for your skin.
Dr. Jacob recommends that you give a new product at least six weeks to produce a change in your complexion. “One skin cycle takes 30 days [for new cells to reach the top layer of skin], so in order to see a real difference in texture, tone, and clarity, you need to use it for more than a month,” she says. If the product contains anti-aging ingredients, wait even longer. Your skin takes about four months to regenerate collagen and elastin, she says.
If a new moisturizer is good, then the combination of a new serum, toner, and night cream must be better, right?
Not so fast. If your skin gets irritated after you use a handful of new products, you won’t know what’s causing the problem and assume they’re all irritating. Instead, “start with one at a time, and integrate a new product every two weeks,” says Dr. Jacob. That way, you’ll be better able to identify what’s aggravating you, or know what combination of them makes your skin go haywire. Plus, you’ll also save some cash by buying only what you need.
Getting insufficient shut-eye can age skin prematurely—and, in the short run, result in dark circles and a lackluster complexion. During the day, our skin cells are battling against an onslaught of stressors, like UV rays and pollution. Sleep is vital because stress hormones drop to normal levels at night, giving cells time to repair and rejuvenate, says Dr. Jacob.
Plus, stress raises the levels of the hormone cortisol, which increases oil production and can lead to bouts of acne, according to Dr. Jacob. So make sure you’re not depriving yourself of the sleep you need.
Taking care of your hands and feet will help stop hard, rough skin developing. Follow these tips to help prevent corns and calluses:
Always wear well-fitting shoes. Avoid wearing high heels and don’t try on, or wear, other peoples’ shoes.
Moisturise your feed with foot cream after washing and carefully drying your feet, but avoid applying the cream between the toes.
Use a pumice stone to gently smooth hard skin away on a regular basis.
Use protective gloves when performing repetitive tasks and avoid standing for long periods of time as much as you can.
Avoid walking around barefoot or in flip-flop sandals or open slippers.
Use a protective corn pad or soft cotton to relieve pressure on the affected area.
If you’ve developed bothersome corns and calluses, you should see a specialist right away to prevent the condition from worsening.
PARIS (Reuters) – France’s health regulator has opened an inquiry into acne drug Diane-35, which is also used as a contraceptive, after four deaths linked to the drug in the past 25 years.
Health regulator ANSM said on Sunday that Diane-35, produced by German drugmaker Bayer, is authorized in 135 countries and sold in more than 116. Last year about 325,000 women in France used the drug, ANSM said, adding it would publish its report next week.
ANSM said the four deaths were due to thrombosis linked to the use of Diane-35. Three other deaths possibly connected to the drug, reported by the media, were linked to other health issues, the agency said.
Diane-35, also sold as Dianette in some countries, reduces acne for women by regulating hormones, according to several medical websites. The drug is also used as a contraceptive.
Earlier this month, ANSM said it was studying the possibility of limiting the use of third- and fourth-generation contraceptive pills after a woman sued Bayer over alleged side-effects such as embolism, or blood clots.
(Reporting by Geert De Clercq; editing by Jane Baird)
Back to Acne Treatment Toronto
It’s believed that keratosis pilaris effects more than 50% of the world’s population. Though there’s no way to prevent or cure keratosis pilaris, you can help smooth away the annoying bumps through simple lifestyle changes:
Use lukewarm water rather than hot water and limit shower time or bath time to less than 10 minutes because hot water and long showers or baths remove oils from your skin.
Use gentle soaps like Basis or Dove that are made for sensitive skin and dry skin. After washing, your skin should become soft and smooth, not tight or dry.
After cleansing or bathing, gently pat your skin dry with a towel and immediately moisturize your skin with a moisturizer that contains lanolin, petroleum jelly or glycerin.
Use a humidifier is another effective way to keep your skin moist by adding moisture to the air inside your home. You can use a portable humidifier or install one with your furnace.
Daily sunlight provides you with more vitamin D which is beneficial to clearing your keratosis pilaris. But you should always use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to avoid sun damage.
Foods like salmon, walnuts, flax & hemp seeds, liver, sweet potatoes, carrots and leafy greens, that are high in omega fatty acids or vitamin A can really help moisturize your skin from the inside out carrying away your body’s toxins that cause skin inflammation.
Squeezing or picking your bumps can aggravate the condition, and even cause scarring in some cases.
Looking for a more effective way to put an end to your keratosis pilaris? Consult a dermatologist or skin specialist for a thorough assessment, they will discuss treatment options to best suit your needs.
From adult acne to dry skin to cellulite, we’ve got you covered with 30 tips for every ailment you can think of.
Daily moisturizing is the best defense against dry skin. Applying lotion right after you step out of the shower seals in the moisture that your skin has just absorbed. And since hands are often the first indicators of aging, invest in a heavy moisturizer to keep in your bag, car, and office.
“Greens like spinach and arugula are packed with naturally occurring antioxidants,” says Robyn Flipse, MS, RD. For a radiant and blemish-free complexion, add a side salad to your lunch or dinner.
Jodi Ranson, an esthetician at Utah’s Golden Door Spa, recommends honey for taking care for dry, cracked lips. “It helps to heal wounds and hydrate parched skin, plus the anti-viral properties make it a good cold sore remedy, too.”
“Topical retinoids have been shown to improve the skin’s texture and the appearance of fine lines,” says NYC-based dermatologist Dr. Ariel Ostad. “So, for women looking for potent anti-agers, retinol is the one must-have ingredient to help keep skin young.”
Stop stretch marks and scars from getting darker with sun exposure by slathering them with a thick layer of sunscreen. Apply a scar-minimizing topical at night to repair damaged tissue while you slumber.
Yakking away on your cell phone for hours can lead to breakouts and rashes along your jaw line and cheek. Keep antibacterial wipes handy to swipe your phone clean and help your skin stay clear.
“A Mediterranean diet full of fish, fruit, vegetables, olive oil, and tea provides the skin with the good omega fatty acids,” says Dr. Macrene Alexiades, director of an NYC-based research clinic and private laser and aesthetic dermatology practice. “This diet also has the antioxidants your skin needs to maintain a healthy glow and reverse sun damage.”
We know you don’t apply hair products to your face, but the residue can end up there anyway. Next time you apply hairspray, cover your face with a clean towel to protect your skin. Also, use a sweatband when you hit the gym to keep the products from dripping down when you begin to sweat.
Not getting enough Zzz’s can cause stress, which leads to breakouts and a dull complexion. Bottom line: Don’t deprive your body and skin of sleep-it uses that time to regenerate and recover from your day-to-day activities.
Squinting in the sun can contribute to those crow’s feet, so always sport sunglasses with UV protection. Those with light-colored eyes have heightened light sensitivity, but brown-eyed beauties should shade their peepers, too.
“Whether it’s a facial, massage, or even a pedicure, be sure to pamper yourself,” says Dr. Howard Murad, founder of Murad Skincare. “Your health and appearance are positively influenced by increasing your emotional and mental well-being. A visit to the spa is a foolproof way to promote stress relief and relaxation.”
The skin around your eyes is the thinnest, so it shows the first signs of aging. Even if you’re in your 20s, preventative care now will keep your eyes looking healthy for years to come.
“When you exfoliate, you’re evening out the skin’s surface by revealing fresh cells underneath,” says Annet King, director of Global Education at the International Dermal Institute and Dermalogica. “Exfoliate regularly to remove the dead, complexion-dulling skin cells that can give you a dull appearance.”
Add a few cups of milk to your next bath to take advantage of its lactic acid, a natural skin-softener. Darrell McCurtain, a therapist at the Golden Door Spa, suggests throwing in a few teaspoons of honey for an anti-bacterial bonus.
When your body heats up, sweating helps it keep your core temperature down. Unfortunately, this can irritate skin and cause breakouts. To remedy, look for a body wash that lists salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide as an ingredient on the label.
Avocados contain healthy fats and vitamins C and E to keep skin plump, bright, and hydrated. Keep a sliced one in your work fridge for a super-quick snack.
“Carrots and tomatoes are stocked with phytonutrients and antioxidants, both of which protect against damaging free radicals,” says Robyn Flipse, MS, RD. “The beta carotene and lycopene found in them also protect your skin from sun damage and repair skin cells.”
“Sleeping in certain positions may result in sleep lines,” according to The American Academy of Dermatology. After a while, these lines can turn into deep-set wrinkles, so hit the sheets backside-first.
There are thousands of reasons why smoking is bad for you, but did you know second-hand smoke can also be harmful to your skin? Though you may not be lighting up, being around smokers can cause skin sagging and speed up the wrinkle process.
Need yet another reason to work out? Exercise gives your face a healthy glow by increasing blood flow. And when you sweat, it clears the body of toxins and removes dead skins cells so new ones can grow. Without regular exercise you may see an increase in age spots, so grab your running shoes and hit the gym.
“The hair in the bikini area tends to be coarse and thick, which is ideal for waxing,” says Katherine Goldman, owner of Stript Bar Wax in San Francisco. “Plus, since the hair is pulled out from the root, it grows back thinner over time.” As if you needed another reason to get a bikini wax…
Cucumber slices may be the international symbol for eye de-puffers, but anything that’s chilly will work to tone down darkness and bags. The coldness restricts blood vessels, which reduces swelling and puffiness. Limit your application of bag-erasers to about five minutes to get the best results.
We know it’s tempting to mess with that pimple, but resistance is key. Popping and picking at the skin on your face will push dirt and bacteria deeper into pores, which only results in more breakouts.
“Toners are a handy product to keep in your arsenal to help balance pH levels in your skin,” says Jennifer Yen, founder of Purlisse Skincare. “Look for ones that are free of irritants like alcohol, fragrance, citrus, menthol, color, and other aggressive extracts.”
Your skin needs more water than you normally drink, so look for products with sodium hyaluronate, more commonly known as hyaluronic acid, to help bring it to a normal pH level.
Laying on the lotion is good for your skin, right? Not quite. “Over moisturizing can cause you to break out, and can even give you milia, the tiny white spots that are formed when dead skin cells get trapped,” says Dr. Debra Jailman, M.D., a New York City dermatologist. So, think twice before you slather.
“Skin cells are some of the most rapidly rejuvenating cells in the body. Take away adequate rest, and they suffer,” says Colorado-based dermatologist Dr. Meg Lemon. “The body depends on sleep for every single thing it does. When skin cells don’t turn over quickly enough, our skin looks dull and lifeless, and so do we.”
Do you have little red bumps on the backs of your arms? You’re most likely suffering from keratosis pilaris-a common condition that stems from blocked hair follicles. Abrasive scrubbing can exacerbate symptoms, so try using a lotion with alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids to dissolve the bumps.
A brighter complexion is on everyone’s wishlist, but the trick to getting one is easier than you might think. “Rub a lemon on your face!” suggests C.O. Bigelow proprietor Ian Ginsberg.
“Foods like salmon, herring, and trout provide our skin with oils that lubricate cells and reduce inflammation,” says Lisa Drayer, MA, RD, nutritionist and author of The Beauty Diet: Looking Great Has Never Been So Delicious. “They are also heavy in omega-3 fatty acids, which play a key role in keeping our skin smooth.”
It’s believed that more than one third of the world’s population are suffering from hair loss. While we cannot stop natural hair loss, there are many preventable types of hair loss that can be avoided through simple lifestyle changes. Here are some tips to stave off unnecessary hair loss:
Dirt increases the chance of infections caused by bacteria, which can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Wash hair with mild shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair type. Avoid rinsing hair with very hot water and always dry and comb your wet hair gently.
Getting a good night’s sleep, managing pressure, and avoiding stress, is important for our overall health and that includes our hair health. People are less likely to experience hair loss when they’ve had adequate sleep and feel comfortable within their environment.
Exercise increases blood circulation which is vital for optimum hair growth. Physical activity also improves our overall well-being, which reduces the risk of illness and the use of medications, thus preventing hair loss caused by drugs and disease.
Similar to our skin, our hair is comprised of about 20% water. Water helps carry off toxins from both our skin and hair. Drinking 4 to 8 cups of water a day are required to maintain vibrant, healthy hair.
Like other parts of our body, hair also requires energy for peak performance. Protein, iron, and Vitamins A, B, C and E are among the most important nutrients to support healthy hair growth. To strengthen your hair, add the following nutrient rich foods to your diet: meat, fish, dairy, eggs, squash, oranges, lemons, apricots, raisins, avocados, spinach, beans, green peppers, kale, carrots, nuts, and sesame.
Along with a balanced diet, multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplements may also be beneficial for hair growth. Talk to your doctor to find out which supplements are right for you.
Constant heating can make hair brittle and fragile, even damage hair follicles. Set your hair dryer on low temperature levels or let your hair dry naturally.
Frequent use of chemicals like hair dye may cause hair breakage and hurt your scalp, thus affecting the hair growth.
Tight hairstyles such as pigtails, braids, or cornrows can cause traction hair loss due to frequent twisting or pulling of the hair.
Studies have shown that excessive alcohol consumption may prevent nutrients from being absorbed properly by the body. Smoking can also destroy hair follicles by interfering with the blood and hormone circulation of the scalp.
Massaging stimulates the blood circulation of the scalp; this can help lead to healthy hair by increasing the amount of nutrients being absorbed.
Looking to put an end to hair loss? Consult a hair therapy specialist for a thorough assessment, they will determine if you are a qualified candidate and discuss treatment options to best suit your needs.
(HealthDay News) — Acne, the most common skin disease, is not a dangerous condition. But it can lead to permanent scarring.
Womenshealth.gov says these factors can trigger bouts of acne in women:
In order to have a good facial, the first step is to find a qualified esthetician that brings with them years of experience. We’ve collected a few tips to keep in mind when searching for a knowledgeable esthetician:
