Best Products for Dark Spots

Hyperpigmentation, or dark spots, can develop due to trauma to the skin, health issues,
adverse reaction to medications, sun exposure or pregnancy. However, discoloration of the skin can be treated using a dark spot corrector that uses the right ingredients without being harsh to the skin, such as Alpha Arbutin, Sepicalm-S and Resveratrol.

Alpha Arbutin- removes dark spots quickly and safely by blocking the effects of melanin on the skin and is a compound derived from organic materials.

Sepicalm-S:- This compound reduces scarring caused by acne and is one of the most powerful anti-pigment and anti-inflammatory compound agents on the market.

Resveratrol- Has been clinically shown to reduce 50 percent of melanin production and is another powerful melanin blocker used to correct dark spots.

The product's packaging should clearly state what kind of ingredients are in the dark spot corrector and be manufactured by a reputable company. Consumers who buy a more expensive dark spot corrector may not always have a high quality product. The best products for dark spots on the market should ideally be available at a good value that uses the most effective ingredients to correct the overproduction of melanin that are also safe to apply to the skin on a regular basis.

What Is Lip Cleanser?

For years, women have heard the same advice. "Take off your eye makeup at night!" experts have urged. They warn of possible infections, clogged pores, and a whole litany of ills that will befall the woman who does not heed the warning. The advice is good; it is a wonderful idea for women to make a habit of removing their makeup...all of their makeup.

Yet somehow, in the sea of warnings, these same experts forget to remind women to clean one of the most visible parts of their faces—the lips. Taking excellent care of the lips makes perfect sense, but for some reason this practice seems to have fallen by the wayside. This is unfortunate, because the lips are one of the first things that people notice about others when they speak. The eyes may be the window to the soul, but the lips are a window to the personality.

Fortunately, many women have started to wise up within the past year, integrating lip cleansers into their beauty regimen. Especially with all of the wonderful lipstick pigments on the market, and the resurgence of retro styles with deep pigments, lip cleanser has become even more imperative within the past few years.

Many of the products on the market excel at cleaning the lips, while simultaneously nourishing them with essential ingredients. These new products use soothing blends to lift out impurities, while leaving the lips clean and luscious. There are no harsh detergents or chemicals. Many of these cleansers use soothing ingredients such as shea butter, rice extracts, and cocoa butter to accomplish the job.

The point is to cleanse the lips, but also leave them healthy and refreshed. With so many environmental foes (sun damage, wind damage, harsh cosmetics), the lips already battle many challenges on a daily basis. Paying special attention to one's lips should take on the same precedence as all other aspects of a woman's skincare regime.

Simple step for applying false eyelashes

While many women crave the look of long, luscious lashes, they often wonder, "How do I use false eyelashes?" While intimidating at first the application of false lashes is actually very simple. The first step is choosing the right lashes to achieve the desired look. Today, there is a large variety of false eyelash choices ranging from natural to super dramatic and statement making. The many options also include gems, colored lashes, and even feathers.

The first step in using false eyelashes is to line up the false lashes with the natural lash line and trim the length to fit. For a more natural look, trim the lashes to fit only the outer half of the eye. The lashes can also be cut into two or three sections to make the application easier. Eyeliner can be applied before the lashes to hide the lash line, and an eyelash curler can be used to enhance the look.

The next step is to apply a thin layer of the adhesive to the false lashes. Let the adhesive set for one minute to ensure it is tacky. Be sure to choose an adhesive safe for use around eyes.

Using a mirror positioned below the face, close each eye and gently line up the false lashes along the lash line. Once the lashes are properly positioned, press down firmly. The false lashes should be held as close to the base of the lashes as possible. If necessary, use a cotton swab or tweezers to maneuver lashes and to push them into place. Hold in place for several seconds then allow several minutes for the glue to dry completely.

After the glue has dried, finish application of eye makeup including mascara and eye shadow.
To remove lashes, use eye makeup remover to loosen the adhesive. The lashes can then slowly be peeled off. Clean off the remaining glue from the false lashes and then store until you are ready to wear again.

College Student's 3 Must Have Beauty Products

Campus life can be busy and hectic so please consult this list before going back-to-school shopping.

The College Student's 3 Must Have Beauty Products:

(1) Sunscreen

Regardless of the her age, skin type, or climate, she should be using sunscreen on her face and body every day. The sunscreen lotion should contain broad spectrum protection from premature aging and burning of the skin. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 products are optimal. Though there are products higher than SPF 30 including SPF 70 products at higher price points, they have demonstrated limited effectiveness over SPF 30 products. Failure to use sunscreen can cause premature aging and wrinkling of the skin, not to mention skin cancer.

(2) Lip gloss/Lipstick or both

She should stock up on her favorite color but also find a fun color too. College is a great time to experiment with looks and combinations of colors so she could wear them individually or together. Lipstick or lip gloss is a natural accent that can brighten her entire face. Lip products with sunscreen are the best choices.

(3) Mascara

In case she gets out of bed at 7:45 am for her 8:00 am class, mascara is the must-have product that is quickly applied and instantly brightens her eyes. Black is the most popular color, but black/brown or brown mascaras are also fun. Twenty something's can easily pull off thick lashes on a clean face so she should find a thick applicator.

The College Student's 3 Must Have Beauty Products is a straightforward list. Simplicity is key. She should find products that she likes, are within her budget, and are fun to use. While sunscreen is not necessarily considered glamorous, there are tinted sunscreen products and a variety of fragrances that make them fun to use also. There is plenty of time when she enters the workforce for more beauty products, resist the urge to buy all of them now and let her natural beauty shine through.

What Can I Do For My Dry Skin?

Many women who have problems with their skin ask the same question, what can I do for my dry skin? Dry skin has different causes. Being exposed to the elements including extreme heat, cold, and wind, all take a toll on your skin.

How Dry Skin Moisturizers Work

Moisturizers work by retaining water in the outmost skin layers, to keep skin hydrated, and keep it from drying out again. The type of moisturizer you choose to keep your skin healthy and youthful looking, depends on your skin type.

If your skin is naturally very dry, it's even more important to keep it moisturized to protect it from the elements. When the skin dries out too much, it can result in flaking, itchy skin which causes even more problems.

Moisturizers For Extremely Sensitive Skin

When you experience itching, burning, or flaking skin, you should use a daily skin lotion that's especially for sensitive, or compromised skin. Natural growth factors, especially zeatin and kinetin, can help to heal skin that's damaged by the sun. Skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis can also be soothed by applying skin lotion for sensitive skin in a daily basis.

Moisturizers For Mature Skin

As you age, your skin loses moisture and elasticity, and it's important to keep it protected, especially when you're exposed to sunlight. Broad spectrum skincare products such as sunblock that protects against the sun's harmful rays, are especially beneficial for mature skin. A sunblock with added L-ascorbic acid, is an effective moisturizer.

Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant, and is effective in protecting the skin against free radicals. As we age, free radicals accumulate in the skin, making it difficult to repair. Resveratrol moisturizing products used at night, can repair the skin damage, improve elasticity and firmness, and give the skin a youthful appearance.

Moisturizing serum used around the eye area, can diminish the appearance of fine line and wrinkles. A moisturizing serum with added Vitamin C can also help to improve dark circles underneath the eyes. With daily care, the appearance of your skin will improve, it will be moisturized and healthier.

Top 5 Summer Must Haves

Summer is many people's favorite time of the year. However, do you have everything you need to stay gorgeous for it? With these top 5 summer must haves, you'll be guaranteed to be the envy of everyone from the beach to the bar.

1. Oil Removing Wipes

Spending time in the heat, sun and humidity, our faces can become real oily real fast. However, carrying around a packet of oil removing wipes, which can be found in the skin care section of your local supermarket and easily fit into your purse, can be a quick fix to this problem.

2. Self Tanning Lotion

Everyone longs for that gorgeous summertime glow. However, tanning can cause a whole mess of problems, from wrinkles to skin cancer. Putting on a little bit of self tanner can give you a healthy version of your summertime tan.

3. Sea Spray

Beachy waves are the must have hairstyle of every summer for as long as we can remember. The best way to get them is by taking a quick shower and tousling your hair with a bit of sea spray. Your hair will be admired by everyone at the beach.

4. Lightening Spray

Summer is the perfect time to experiment with a lighter hair color, especially since you don't have to worry about damaging your hair from bleach or making such a big commitment. Simply spray a little lightening spray in your hair before you head out in the sun and you can enjoy your hair being a few shades lighter in no time.

5. Waterproof Makeup and Sunscreen

Whether it be the beach, pool or simply just sweating, faces getting wet and makeup being runny can be a serious annoyance. Getting waterproof makeup and sunscreen can help your face stay beautiful throughout the day and will come off easy with makeup remover before bed.

With these top 5 summer must haves, you'll be all set to have a beautiful and fun summer.

What Can I Use to Reduce Acne?

People are judged by their appearance, whether they like it or not. Acne affects social interactions and may even destroy intimacy. In some cases, it has a negative impact on employment and income potential. 

Everyone knows the basics of acne prevention: scrub the face with soap, eat less chocolate and zap pimples with antibiotics. Unfortunately, the common advice is often wrong. Acne is a serious matter for teenagers and adults, and the pressure is on to find effective treatments to reduce acne.

Over-the-Counter Ingredients

Most people do not need expensive medicines or topical products to treat acne. Simple solutions often work best. Over-the-counter (OTC) products are convenient to purchase and less expensive than prescription medications. However, the sheer variety of products makes it hard to choose the right one.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), many over-the-counter ingredients can treat the factors that cause acne. The key is finding them in a form that people like and will use as directed. Here are the most common OTC ingredients known to reduce acne. 

Bacteria-Killing Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that cause acne. Daily use of this ingredient can reduce flare-ups. Benzoyl peroxide is found in acne creams, gels, washes and pre-moistened cloths. When combined with prescription medications, it can improve their effectiveness. High concentrations can irritate the skin.

Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

Salicylic acid, also called beta hydroxy acid, removes dead skin cells that clog the pores. It is found in acne creams, washes, facial scrubs and cleansing pads. Used with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid is effective for acne control. Overuse can dry or irritate the skin. 

Sulfur for Spot Treatments

Sulfur is another effective over-the-counter ingredient for acne treatment. It suppresses acne-causing bacteria and unclogs skin pores. Sulfur works best for spot treatments that target single pimples rather than large areas of skin.

Other Supporting Ingredients

Some OTC ingredients support the work of benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and sulfur. Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and retinol are two examples. Alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin, but some people find them too drying. Many creams, lotions, cleansers and cleansing cloths contain AHAs. 

Retinol is derived from vitamin A. It opens pores and gives the skin a radiant appearance. Retinol is a common ingredient in OTC and prescription products. It is also found in anti-aging products that treat adult acne. 

Over-the-counter products are effective for most people if they are used consistently. If they do not improve acne within eight weeks, a dermatologist can prescribe a more effective treatment. Doctor-prescribed treatments usually combine OTC products with prescription medications. 

What skin products should men use?

A man with clear, healthy skin gives others the impression of youth, energy and confidence. Attaining great skin requires a bit of attention, but with the right skincare products, getting healthier skin is easier than ever.

Men’s skin products are tailored to men’s needs, without the feminine perfumes and packaging used for most women’s skincare products. A simple, effective skincare regimen, when performed daily, keeps skin looking its best.

A clean, adequately moisturized face is the best defense against blemishes. Pimples, blackheads and whiteheads occur when dirt and oil clog pores, causing unsightly spots or bumps. A daily cleansing and moisturizing routine removes excess oil and ensures that the skin is moisturized enough that its oil glands don’t overproduce. The best products to use will depend on the individual’s skin type, but may include a cleansing gel or cream, toner and moisturizer.

Men who shave their faces may experience several dermatological issues as a result. These may include ingrown hairs, razor burn and redness. The best way to reduce the negative effects of shaving is to prevent them from developing. A high-quality shaving cream or gel will help achieve a close shave without stressing the skin. To prevent and treat ingrown hairs, treated exfoliating pads may help remove dead skin and inhibit the development of red bumps.

Exposure to direct sunlight is healthy in moderation, but too much sunshine may result in sunburns, brown spots and, in extreme cases, skin cancer. Using sunscreen daily will protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. A moderate SPF 15 sunscreen allows a gradual tan to develop over time without burning and damaging the skin.

Using the right men's skin products consistently will result in fewer wrinkles, dark circles, blemishes and dryness. Small changes will occur immediately, with more dramatic improvements over the first several weeks.

How and Why to Use a Facial Toner

As any skin care professional will tell you, the three main steps to an optimal skin care regiment are 1) cleanse, 2) tone and 3) moisturize. There are, of course many other skin care products you can add to this basic routine if your skin has specific problems such as acne blemishes, redness or signs of aging like fine lines or wrinkles, but these are in addition to, not instead of, the basic three steps.

Skin Routine Step 2: Toner
Toners are used after cleansing and before moisturizing. Using a toning product further removes dead skin cells and debris that cleansers leave behind. They come in different formulas for different skin types: sensitive, problematic, dry and normal. It is important to use one specifically formulated for your specific skin type, so read the labels and do your research. Every major brand will have one that matches your exact skin care needs.

Toning products are typically applied with a cotton ball or cotton pad. If you have highly congested pores or active breakouts, you must not ever skip this step of your routine. They remove blackheads and further exfoliate to remove flaking dead skin cells (debris). It also acts as a Ph balancer which calms the skin and reduces redness and inflammation due to acne and rosacea. Toning can also reduce the skin’s production of oil if you have acne prone or problematic skin. For people with dry skin, toning balances the Ph and also makes the skin more receptive for Step 3 which is moisturizing. The moisturizer will be more deeply absorbed by skin that has been properly toned. An added bonus is that you will end up using less product with your moisturizer when your skin is toned first. The moisturizer goes on more easily onto toned skin.

Different toning products use different active ingredients, depending on the type of skin it is meant to treat. For example, the ones for sensitive skin often contain witch hazel, rose water and green tea extract, all of which effectively tone the skin without being too harsh. Products for acne prone or problematic skin often contain stronger ingredients such as hydroxyl or salicylic acids which are necessary to remove deeply imbedded impurities, particularly on the forehead, nose and chin. Toning products for dry skin are much like the formulas for sensitive skin, with aloe and chamomile extracts that aid the skin in sloughing off dry skin flakes and absorbing moisturizers.

What Can I Use to Reduce Acne?

People are judged by their appearance, whether they like it or not. Acne affects social interactions and may even destroy intimacy. In some cases, it has a negative impact on employment and income potential.

Everyone knows the basics of acne prevention: scrub the face with soap, eat less chocolate and zap pimples with antibiotics. Unfortunately, the common advice is often wrong. Acne is a serious matter for teenagers and adults, and the pressure is on to find effective treatments to reduce acne.

Over-the-Counter Ingredients

Most people do not need expensive medicines or topical products to treat acne. Simple solutions often work best. Over-the-counter (OTC) products are convenient to purchase and less expensive than prescription medications. However, the sheer variety of products makes it hard to choose the right one.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), many over-the-counter ingredients can treat the factors that cause acne. The key is finding them in a form that people like and will use as directed. Here are the most common OTC ingredients known to reduce acne.

Bacteria-Killing Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide kills the bacteria that cause acne. Daily use of this ingredient can reduce flare-ups. Benzoyl peroxide is found in acne creams, gels, washes and pre-moistened cloths. When combined with prescription medications, it can improve their effectiveness. High concentrations can irritate the skin.

Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

Salicylic acid, also called beta hydroxy acid, removes dead skin cells that clog the pores. It is found in acne creams, washes, facial scrubs and cleansing pads. Used with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid is effective for acne control. Overuse can dry or irritate the skin.

Sulfur for Spot Treatments

Sulfur is another effective over-the-counter ingredient for acne treatment. It suppresses acne-causing bacteria and unclogs skin pores. Sulfur works best for spot treatments that target single pimples rather than large areas of skin.

Other Supporting Ingredients

Some OTC ingredients support the work of benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and sulfur. Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) and retinol are two examples. Alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin, but some people find them too drying. Many creams, lotions, cleansers and cleansing cloths contain AHAs.

Retinol is derived from vitamin A. It opens pores and gives the skin a radiant appearance. Retinol is a common ingredient in OTC and prescription products. It is also found in anti-aging products that treat adult acne.

Over-the-counter products are effective for most people if they are used consistently. If they do not improve acne within eight weeks, a dermatologist can prescribe a more effective treatment. Doctor-prescribed treatments usually combine OTC products with prescription medications.

Exuviance Brightening Gel

Behind all of the aging celebrities in Hollywood, there are teams of people working endlessly to make each star look even younger than they were yesterday -- an impossible task! Many celebrities opt for plastic surgery and a lot of dermatological treatments to keep skin looking young. If you're like me, you are far from considering yourself Hollywood royalty, yet you still want that young, fresh looking skin. (At an affordable price!!)

Enter your new best friend: Exuviance Brightening Gel. This gel works to even skin tone, brighten, and smooth your complexion giving you a glow that any celebrity would envy.

Brighter -- It is infused with natural brighteners Kojic Acid, Vitamin C, Mulberry Extract, Bearberry Extract and Licorice, skin will become noticeably brighter and more radiant.

Smoother -- New cell growth is promoted by the use of Polyhydroxy and Alpha Hydroxy Acids (PHAs and AHAs) - including Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid and Gluconolactone. Sloughing off old, dull skin cells and revealing the new, fresh skin underneath gives your skin a smooth, silky appearance.


Even -- Use this brightening gel on your hands, chest, and face to banish any dull spots or discolorations. With an all over even complexion, your skin will appear brighter and more youthful.

Developed by dermatologists, Exuviance Brightening Gel is oil free! That means it can be worn under makeup and any other creams that are a part of your daily regimen without leaving you greasy by the end of the day.

There! The secret is out! Adopt the brightening gel into your collection of beauty tricks and tips, and you will forever have smooth, bright, youthful skin. With a complexion this flawless, you'll be able to teach those celebrities a thing or two. Watch out, Hollywood!

Clarisonic Pro for Face and Body

The basic cleanser may not be sufficient for removing oil from the skin. In people with a persistent acne condition or underlying health condition that causes breakouts, the Clarisonic pro for face and body with 4 speeds may be the ultimate solution.

A more powerful cleaning experience

Imagine a much more powerful cleaning experience, superior to the traditional method. Magnify the hand cleaning six-fold and you have one of the most incredible, innovative body cleansing experiences around. Shifting between the various settings available increases the cleaning power by a minimum of 25 percent.

Advantages of the Clarisonic pro

• Fine lines and wrinkles soften
• Oily problem areas are gradually corrected
• Blemishes occur far less frequently
• Dryness and skin irritation symptoms alleviated
• Capable of removing up to 6 times more makeup from skin
• Skin cleansing product performance enhanced with Clarisonic

Customized settings to recreate your individual cleaning experience

Separate modes for face and body make it quite the handy device. Settings dedicated exclusively for the face are perfect for a range of skin types. Delicate speeds are perfect for those with the most sensitive of skin conditions. Universal settings can accommodate most skin types, taking cleansing to another level. Alternating speeds provided gently lift excessive levels of debris lodged deeply within the pores. Body brush head attachment automatically shifts the device to body cleansing mode. The Clarisonic cleansing brush alternates between multiple settings, delivering a thorough, powerful cleansing experience for the head and neck areas.

Settings available

• Speed 1: Delicate
• Speed 2: Universal
• Speed 3: Powerful
• Speed 4: Prescriptive

Clarisonic has created the ultimate body cleansing experience. People with skin conditions will appreciate the improved cleansing experience. Those with sensitive skin can benefit from the scrubbing action without having to worry about damage to the skin. Those will oily skin can more effectively remove the oil trapped deep beneath the surface of the skin with the Clarisonic pro for face and body 4 speeds.