Browsing Tag

health

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor

Double What?

Some of you may be familiar with or heard of the double cleanse. This isn’t an OCD bathing ritual; it’s an important step in the care and cleansing of your skin, namely your face of course.

The purpose or ideology behind the double cleanse is that you are using an initial cleanse, usually done with an oil based product, to actual break down makeup and debris (visible or not) from the surface of the skin. After the first cleanse is complete you move on to the second cleanse where you are able to massage with the cleanser to remove any impurities from deeper within the pores.

Let’s fine tune the steps and make some suggestions….

Some products here at the Skintourage that we find effective are:

  • Circadia: Vitamin Veil
  • Wheat germ oil
  • Shu Uemura cleansing oils
  • Pur minerals : Mineral Melt
  • Coconut oil
  • DHC: Deep Cleansing Oil

This process is done in the evening to prepare the skin for its detoxing and repairing stages done during sleep. In the morning using only your cleanser will suffice. To begin the double cleanse you will start with dry hands and dry face. Emulsify dime size amount of the oil in your hands and begin to massage onto face. Immediately you will notice all makeup begin to break down. Unless you want to people to think you’ve gone mad by rubbing your makeup all over your face, this should be done in private. Once you feel that all makeup is broken down you then can remove oil and residue with a damp or dry cloth.

  • I know most of you are cringing at the thought of oils on your face, especially if you are oily. Rest assured that this will not cause your skin to become more oily, and should assist in the control of breakouts, not cause more.

Now that all makeup is removed you are able to start with the cleanser of choice for your skins needs. Keep in mind that cleansers, much like shampoo are on the skin for a very short uneventful amount of time. To short of a time to remove any impurities the way most people use them. Be sure to use a mild cleanser, if most cleansers do anything its strip any moisture and natural oils from your skin. That equals irritation, dryness and in some cases overproduction of sebum (oils), none of which anyone wants. Choose your cleanser carefully. The tight, dry or itchy feeling after you cleanse is not a good sign.

When properly cleansing the skin you need to apply a small amount of cleanser and emulsify in hands. The face should be slightly damp as well as the hands as you begin to massage and knead the skin. No pulling tugging or stretching, this is slow and gentle. You are kneading the skin to help purge the pores. Don’t forget the neck, and even décolleté. This cleaning process should last anywhere from 1- 3 minutes. Rinse skin with hands or cloth. Follow with toner to remove any remaining residue. Optional to follow with facial scrub as recommended, then be sure to apply all necessary treatments and moisturizers.

This may seem over the top, extreme or time consuming, but trust me your skin will thank you for it. Plus you’ll thank yourself when receive complements on your glowing skin!

December 10, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics

10 Reasons We’re Cuckoo For Coconut Oil

By Emmy Downey, Esthetics Instructor

This nut may fall close to the tree but its powers reach far beyond the sand.  Smear it, cook with it, eat it – there’s almost nothing it can’t do.  We’re talking rich, raw, pure virgin coconut oil – the godly grease that seems to be the hottest thing to drop lately.  From the outside in and back again, here are 10 ways to indulge in this tropical multi-tasker:

  1. Your new favorite moisturizer Comparable to that of mineral oil, coconut oil is a safe, effective moisturizer for all skin types and offers up to 20% UV protection (the actual SPF value is still up for debate so be sure to protect yourself accordingly).
  2. A split-end hair treatment Ladies, we’re talking natural nutrition for your hair and for the bros with fros, you could give it a go too.  Next time your frays are feeling fried, work a bit of coconut oil through your hair to spruce up those dead ends (warning: a little goes a long way!).  Apply before bedtime and wash it out in the morning.  You’ll be ready to brave your day with soft locks straight from the tropics.
  3. A natural eye-makeup remover Smear a little bit of coconut oil on a cotton ball and eye makeup be gone!  It even works on waterproof mascara after those long days at the beach.  Play on sun lovers!
  4. A kitchen staple Coconut oil won’t burn thanks to its high smoke and boiling point, making it a staple in the kitchen.  It can be used to grease pans (and wooden cutting boards too), to cook with and even to replace butter in your baking at a 1-to-1 ratio (it’s a game changer for vegan/gluten-free baking).
  5. A natural bug repellent Fight off the little fellas by mixing coconut oil with peppermint oil extract.  Your skin will thank you; the bugs won’t.
  6. A twist on a ‘pop’ular snack Mix with butter and toss on your popcorn for a (mostly) healthy snack.  Ryan Gosling movie marathon, here we come!
  7. Lip balm Keep your pucker soft and supple by rubbing a little coconut oil onto your lips.  It works as a softening agent and even provides a little bit of sun protection.
  8. A natural healing agent Applying coconut oil to scrapes and cuts will help create a shield over the wound and protect it from dust, bacteria and viruses.  On bruises the oil speeds up the healing process by repairing damaged tissues and on bug bites it keeps itching at bay.
  9. A fitness and energy boost A spoonful of coconut oil won’t necessarily help the medicine go down (then again it probably could do that tot) but it does serve as a great endurance pick-me-up for athletes and has also been prove to fire up your metabolism.
  10. Shaving cream Coconut oil lessens irritation on the face and neck, detoxifies skin as you shave, and moisturizes all at once.  Also, the oil makes it easier and faster to clear razor blades as they are used.
November 19, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics

Anti-Everything DIY Mask

By: Emmy Downey, Esthetics Instructor

This mask is definitely one of my favorite summer face treats. It’s incredibly hydrating, soothing, and it wards off acne. And if you’re anything like me, your skin has just about had it with the dreadful mix of humidity, sun and pollutants… and the zits popping up are proof. But rest assured, a few treatments of the popular oatmeal, honey and yogurt mask + the secret anti-aging and anti-acne ingredient, strawberries! – and your skin will be rejuvenated for another month left to melt in the heat.

But this mask isn’t simply reserved for the troubled complexion. It happens to be the ideal treatment post sun, especially if you have (gasp!) unintentionally burned your skin. I have offered up this exact recipe to many of my friends who have had tanning mishaps and, within days, their skin is back to normal, burn be gone, no permanent damage (thanks largely to the incredible benefits of organic yogurt).

What You’ll Need:

Quaker Oats rolled oats

Organic honey

Organic yogurt – plain

3 Strawberries

Benefits of the Ingredients:

Oatmeal is a natural, gentle exfoliator. It also soothes a variety of itchy skin conditions like eczema and insect bites by relieving dryness. Overall, oatmeal is a natural healer.

Honey binds moisture into the skin and is full of antioxidants so it is wonderful for sun damage. It’s also good for acne because it helps to absorb impurities and dirt.

Yogurt contains enzymes and lactic acid to hydrate and soothe. It can also even the skin tone.

Strawberries are high in Vitamin C, the benefits include lightening, tightening and brightening the complexion. Ideal for acne-prone skin as strawberries are a natural source of AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), a natural exfoliator.

Instructions:

Blend 1/4 cup of dry rolled oats until the consistency is that of powder. Pour into a bowl. Add 3 tbls of organic yogurt and 2 tbls of honey and mix. Honey may need to be submerged into hot water to make it more malleable.

*If you choose to use strawberries, put them into a blender and mince. Add into the mix (including the juice) and stir well. If the consistency becomes too watery, add more oats.

Let the mixture stand for 10-15 minutes so that the oats are well coated in the moisturizing ingredients of honey and yogurt. Apply to clean skin. Keep on for 10-20 min and then rinse off.

Extras:

Try using just rolled oats – unblended – and water as a light exfoliater and or simply slather on yogurt as a natural healer/ soother, especially good for a sunburn! You can alternate between all three: wash, mask and pure yogurt soother.

September 10, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor

How Far Would You Go To Be Tan?


For some, the desire to be tanned will take them to the extremes of self injections with an unapproved illegal tanning drug called Melanotan.First developed in pill form in 1991 at The University of Arizona, Melanotan 1 was revealed to be an effective sunless tanning solution with low short term side effects.With continued research the formation of Melanotan 2 was introduced, but with increased short term side effects. Melanotan itself is a synthetic analog* of  a naturally occurring hormone A-MSH(alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone) which is present in individuals exposed to UV radiation, causing the process commonly known as tanning. A-MSH is present in greater amounts in individuals with naturally darker skin tones. Melanotan 2 is similar to Melanotan 1, itself a cyclic lactam analog of A-MSH; however, its peptide chain is shorter, and it shares other functional and structural differences (allowing for passage through the blood-brain barrier, and also making it significantly more effective for tanning. Melanotan will not do anything for people with albinism or vitiligo because these patients do not have skin cells with receptors for melanin.

In social circles Melanotan is referred to as ”The Barbie Drug” due to certain side effects such as loss of appetite, darkening of the skin, and increased labido. Other side effects include blue coloring of the lips, intense nausea and vomiting, facial flushing, fatigue, as well as increased freckling, moles, and hyperpigmentation. The Melanotan injections are given in the stomach on a weekly basis while a gradual tan develops. The skin will slowly darken on it’s own, but can be increased by exposing oneself to UV Rays. Once the injections are discontinued the skin should fade back at a normal rate. That’s not always the case though. Especially when you are talking about freckles, moles, and hyperpigmentation.

Melanotan is illegal and has not had the stringent safety and effectiveness testing that all medicines need before they are licensed for use. This means that the long term side effects of this treatment are not known. In addition to the possible side effects of Melanotan itself, there are also other potential dangers. Using non-sterile water to prepare the injections can cause serious blood infections, and sharing needles spreads blood-borne diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. Injections by untrained individuals can cause skin and tissue damage, and might result in permanent or life-threatening injury.They currently have research grade Melanotan 1 and 2 available for all those research chemists out there (anyone)to test out on their lab-rats(themselves).

However, you have to use this at your own risk because these kits are not FDA approved and not intended for human consumption.

There are many sites and videos for and against Melanotan. Two examples are below.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwmBr32_uLc&feature=related against

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5BlATY8LQ–I for

*A synthetic analog is a:

Synthetically created compound that differs from the Natural compound

Both in its structure and function.

July 9, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Esthetics

“Bacne” vs. the Swimsuit

Summer is just around the corner and we need to clear up a few things about bacne.  We’ve been so focused on our faces this winter and spring that we neglected our backs and now they are speaking out by breaking out.

The Skintourage is here to give you a few pointers on getting rid of and keeping away that unwanted “BACNE”.

Cleanse:  You will want a frangrance-free and anti-bacterial cleanser.  Many people over-cleanse the skin with harsh soaps and use vigorous scrubbing tools and products. The use of Alkaline-based surfactants or soaps not only rob skin of moisture, but also provide a bacteria-loving environment. This can also exacerbate the breakouts and slow down the healing process.

Tone: Spritz your back with an oil- and bacteria-controlling toner. Many bacne sufferers will try mentholated and alcohol astringents, which provide a cooling sensation, however in most cases these are SD alcohol-based, which strips the skin of lipids, causing the skin to over-produce oil. Look for alcohol-free toners in “smart trigger” packaging that allow for easy spritzing over your back.

Exfoliate gently: Many people use loofahs and brushes to try and rid the skin of back acne, which only worsens the condition. The use of such tools causes micro-lacerations in the skin, making it once again a hospitable environment for bacteria to breed and grow. A gentle fragrance-free scrub should be used instead. Lightly massage it over the area and rinse off.

Don’t squeeze and pick: Seek out the help of a licensed esthetician for  a back treatment to clear impactions, gently exfoliate and moisturize appropriately.

And here are a few sneaky ways to prevent bacne in the first place:
1. Avoid waxy hair products that may come into contact with the skin on your back.
2. Wear cotton clothing versus synthetic fibers, which can trap oil and dead cells.
3. Pillowcases should be changed at least every other day and sheets twice a week. Avoid using fabric softeners on bed linens as they may cause a breakout.
4. Avoid tanning beds. Many believe that this will speed up the healing of breakouts; however, the effects are only temporary. UV exposure increases cell production, causing more breakouts.

June 11, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor, Nail Technician

You asked–We answered

As skin care professionals, the most common question we all seem to get asked is…What products do you use?  Our skintourage bloggers put together a list of our top favorite “must have” products. Make sure to let us know what your must have products are! We want to hear from you.

Christen Brummett, Esthetics Arts Department Head:

Smashbox Makeup Primer-As someone with oily skin, I tend to shed makeup very quickly so having a makeup primer is a must if I plan to have makeup on my face for more than 2-3 hours.  I love Smashbox’s Primer because it is super lightweight and silky feeling (due to all the silicone); it doesn’t break my face out and keeps my makeup on all day.

Skin Ceuticals CE Ferulic Acid-This stuff is amazing!  The combination of Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Ferulic Acid provides a power pack punch of antioxidant protection.  This is one of the few products I have used that I really saw results in my skin.

Dermalogica’s PreCleanse– Used before your normal cleanser; it gets all the makeup off and smells amazing.  Not to mention, it is a fabulous brush cleanser!

April Genshaw, Esthetics and Cosmetician Instructor:

NYX Milk Eye Pencil-Perfect color base to make eyeshadow colors pop.  I still use over a regular eye primer.

Coconut Oil-Fabulous for removing makeup before cleansing, hydrating skin treatment and cortex strengthening hair treatment.

Agadir Hair Spritz-Dual Purpose thermal iron enhancing spray, firm hold hair spritz.

Lip Balm-I’ve yet to find a favorite, but I always have to have something.

Lisa Johnson, Esthetics and Cosmetician Instructor:

Temptu Airbrush Foundation-it’s easy to apply, soft natural matte finish and lasts all day long without touching up.

Mirabella Lip Definer in Clear-Gives you the protection from bleeding and feathering lipstick without the worry of the “ring around the lips” look when the lipstick fades off.

Lime Crime Lipstick (any color)-Has amazing color that lasts all day without looking dry or cracked.  The color is vibrant and it comes in many unusual shades.

Circadia Vitamin C Serum-Not heavy and dries quick.  Helps with my aging skin and gives me a nice glow.  It’s my “must have” product.

Moroccan Oil – My only must have for my hair.  It cuts my blow dry time in half and helps repair any damage to my hair and leaves my hair soft and tangle free all day. It doesn’t weight my hair down or make it oily like many other products.

Emmy Downey, Esthetics Instructor:

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20-It’s sheer and lightweight with a hint of color.  I get that perfect healthy looking glow.  Plus, I get my daily dose of sunscreen.

Urban Decay’s 24/7 Concealer Pencil-Perfect for hiding those dark circles and blemishes.  It’s a creamy formula that dries matte and stays put.

Therametics Lip Balm-“Heaven on a stick!”  An anti-aging lip balm that soothes and repairs dry chapped lips.

Hempz Body Moisturizer-100% pure natural hemp seed oil along with Vitamins A, C and E help to give your body a dramatic dose of hydration.

Mona Green, Esthetics Instructor:

Circadia Honey Cleanser-A micro-exfoliating cleanser that is gentle enough to use every day, without disturbing the protective lipid barrier.

Circadia Vitamin C-Heal and calms the skin while neutralizing free radicals.  It prevents collagen deterioration while restoring firmness, diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and smoothing uneven texture.

Circadia Night Time Repair-Encourages cell turnover, boosts radiance, increases elasticity and enhances the skin’s natural repair system.

Jennifer Hubbard, Nail Technician Instructor:

Green Stuff-My wonderful makeup remover and I use it to shave with.

Fake Bake-I love the look of a beautiful tan but don’t want to expose myself to the UV rays of a tanning bed.

Circadia Mandiclear Peel with Vitamin A Accelerator-This is my favorite peel.  I love the way my skin looks and feels afterwards.  It glows and feels a lot tighter.

Enjoy Smooth and Shine Serum-This is the only serum that I have found that keeps my hair shiny and smooth without leaving the feeling of heavy oily hair.

Coconut Oil-This is the only product that will penetrate into the hairs cortex.  This doesn’t leave your hair with the heavy oily feeling that other products can.

Check out this website to see how you can become a skin care professional too!

May 7, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics

Foods that Keep Your Skin Looking Fabulous

We have all heard the old adage “Beauty Is Only Skin Deep.” Well, recent research has shown that is not the case. Beauty actually begins on the inside, specifically in your gastrointenstinal tract. The foods you eat, and thus the micro/macronutrients you put in your body have a direct correlation on how healthy your skin is.

Here are a few things to make sure and keep stocked in your fridge this summer to keep you skin glowing:

Sweet Potatoes
Thanks to the large concentration of beta carotene found in sweet potatoes, they’re great for your complexion, and their protective qualities can even defend against sun exposure (but still use sun block, please).

Kiwi
A perfect summer snack, this tart-tasting treat is chock full of vitamin C (in fact, it contains more per serving than almost any other fruit). This vitamin C, in turn, helps the collagen in our skin stay firm. Other options for vitamin C: broccoli, strawberries, tomatoes, and, of course, oranges.

Sunflower Seeds
More than just a treat, sunflower seeds contain vast amounts of vitamin E, an antioxidant that slows the aging process of your skin, and can keep you looking younger for longer. You’ll also get a ton of Vitamin E from whole-grain cereals, Swiss chard, spinach, and more.

Tea
Full of antioxidants and phytonutrients, tea is a great break from the eight to ten glasses of water you should be drinking a day.

Salmon
This delectable fish is bursting with omega-3 fatty acids, which are proven to stave off the body’s production of inflammatory substances. This, in and of itself, can decrease your number of wrinkles, clogged pores, and troublesome fine lines.

Blueberries

Referred to as one of the “super foods.” This powerful little berry is choc full of antioxidants that help with cell repair and cell turnover.

April 30, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor

Sugar + Wrinkles

If a slimmer waistline and New Years resolutions haven’t curbed your sweet tooth, maybe the desire for smooth skin will. Experts now believe that a lifetime of overeating sugar can make skin dull and wrinkled.

At blame is a natural process known as glycation, the sugar in your bloodstream attaches to proteins to form harmful new molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs for short).

The more sugar you eat, the more AGEs you develop. Collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep skin firm and elastic, become dry and brittle with AGEs, leading to wrinkles and sagging. The good news is: it’s never too late to turn back the clock by topically applying retinoids and vitamin c daily.

April 9, 2012 by
Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Master Instructor

Skin: What does it show us?

By Jennifer Hubbard
The skin is an incredible organ. It can go from a beautiful glow to an outbreak of blackheads and whiteheads in a matter of days. What causes this you might ask? Well, there could be all sorts of things that factor into the skin turning into a hot mess.

Breakouts can be caused from your menstrual cycle, hormones, stress, a change in makeup, the food that you are eating or weather conditions. One thing you don’t think about is your health. If you become sick your skin will become dull or breakout. If you have a toothache, you might have an outbreak of whiteheads start showing in your neck and chest.

Breakout Due to Toothache

Breakout Due to Toothache

These can turn into skin abscesses which can develop anywhere on the body. They occur when a bacterial infection causes pus to collect in the skin. Skin abscesses can develop under the surface of the skin (subcutaneous) or on the skin (cutaneous) and can drain naturally and disappear without any treatment.

Larger abscesses can be treated with antibiotics to clear the infection and surgery to drain away the pus. Without treatment, an abscess may continue to get larger and more painful until it eventually bursts.

March 19, 2012 by