Tuesday, January 27, 2009

A List...

Exfoliation, is normally a good mantra to live by, you should definitely resist the urge to try out microdermabrasion and abrasive skin treatments while on holiday. That's because they remove the top layer of skin and leave the new layer unprotected against the harsh elements.

The same principles apply to those long hot showers that seem so appealing when you've just come in from the slopes. They may feel soothing but the downside is that too-hot water damages your body's protective oils and contributes to flaky, itchy and broken skin.

Opt for lukewarm or cold water (if you can bear it) and don't stay under the jets for more than 10 minutes. Pat your skin dry, and apply an emollient cream to seal in moisture.

Don't skimp on your tresses either. Using a high-quality shampoo and conditioner will keep them in good condition and a little hair serum will prevent frizziness. It's more important not to neglect your poor exposed hands. Always wear gloves outside and, after washing, treat them with lots of rich hand lotion containing a strong SPF.

The great thing about all this exercise in the fresh mountain air is that it gives your cheeks a natural rosy glow and foundation isn't really necessary. But if you hate the idea of appearing barefaced in public, then opt for a little tinted moisturiser with an SPF.

It's a different story when it comes to apres ski. So treat your skin to a rehydrating face mask before applying cosmetics.

Finally, it's a sure bet that Heidi, Kate and Victoria always take care to never roast themselves in front of a hot fire when they come in from icy cold weather, because that just dries out your skin. The rapid contrast in temperature can also break capillaries, leading to red thread veins, which is not exactly the A-list look you're trying to capture.


More:http://www.independent.ie/health/alternative-health/bring-that-alist-look-to-the-slopes-1614512.html

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

For Better Skin

In a windowless room, 49 barefaced women sit quietly as their skin is pinched, poked, and examined by technicians. They’re then photographed with a special skin-evaluating camera. It’s not exactly a glamorous scene.

Nonetheless, this is where beauty products begin. After this skin harassment, the scientists, who are from Olay, hear the results of the product tests. Gathered in a tight huddle, they whisper excitedly, repeating the words “what if”: What if these results hold up? At week 24 of the study, the final data was collected for three of their new Pro-X products, and the numbers suggest that the regimen is comparable to the prescription anti-aging cream Renova — currently the gold standard for diminishing wrinkles.

Ever since the explosion of creams that hyped themselves as better than Botox (and weren’t), skin-care companies have scrambled to rival professional treatments such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels. And now, Olay is among a growing number making products for the beauty aisle that may deliver the power of the prescription counter.


Source : http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28528070/