Making the world prettier, one blog at a time
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Fall Lipstick
How fun is it to wear dark lipsticks in the fall?! I love wearing light eye makeup and focusing mainly on my lip color. Burgundies are very flattering and always make you look done up. You do have to try on a few shades to find the right one for you. I have found one that suits me and plus I have got a lot of compliments on. It is from MAC and its a satin finished called MEDIA.
New Concealer
I recently bought a new concealer from BENEFIT called ERASE PASTE. Not only does it hide dark circles underneath eyes it brightens that area so you won\'t look so tired, it is very creamy. However, it doesn\'t last very long. You need very little bit of it so it should last you a long time. A little pricey but if you split up into a long period the cost a day is pretty low. I would buy this product again*
Cost: $26.00
Sold @ Sephora
Cost: $26.00
Sold @ Sephora
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Accomplishments
I was stuck in my home town a few years before I got pregnant. After I had my daughter, working at Dennys did not do it for me anymore. I moved to a bigger city to expand my education. Being a single mom at 20 my options for school were limited. I decided to go into the medical field. It seemed like its a field were jobs will always be available. To be a Medical Assistant is a very wide range option . You can work anywhere from plastics to derm to pediatrics to neurology. The schedule seemed like a nice thing to (no weekends and M-F 8-5) It took me 35 weeks of school and 5 weeks of an externship. Luckily i did my externship with the dermatologist i work for now. So u may say i dont know alot about OBGYN or cardiology but i can school u in dermatology. Ive been there almost 6 years. It was at 4 years where the doctors gave me an opportunity to go get laser training. I went to phoenix twice for 2 days at a time. Two ten hour days that is. It was very fast paced but in the end i aced it and love what i do. Im a certified medical laser technician as well as a laser safety officer. I have used lasers to remove hair as well as freckles and vascular growths. Slowly but surely, it has paid of and all the sacrifices were well worth it. 
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
ZeltiQ/ FREEZING FAT
Zeltiq
Zeltiq is a new way of sculpting. It works by the mechanism of "FREEZING FAT"
* in the old days, women used to go out horseback riding in the cold weather and the inner thigh areas would be indented in losing the fat there
* some children got dimples due to eating popsicles. The idea that cold on selective fat can affect fat cells and this developed the insight behind CRYOLIPOLYSIS
Unfortunately, we all have stubborn fat. No matter how healthy we eat, or how many crunches we do(not that I do any) or how much beer we cut back on, there are areas that don't respond to these drastic changes.
With coolsculpting, the problematic area of fat is sucked into a hand piece thats attached to a machine. The machine delivers COLD temperature to the area. Mind you that there are two sizes of handpieces. A large which works on areas like the lower tummy, or the small which helps with lovehandles, upper abdomen, inner thighs, and backfat. The machine sucks the area in for one hour making the skin cold enough that after 7 minutes in, your NUMB!
The idea is that about 25% of the fat cells die with the cold. At the end of the session the machine gives you a little massage in the area which helps break down the fat cells even more.
This is one hour per area. Before pictures are taken from all different angles
No downtime, no cutting, no scars, no wound care, and no risks!
Price @ my office is Large: $1250.00 and Small $750.
We have packages that can save you some money when you need more than one treatment.
I had this done on a little bulge on my upper abdomen. The feeling is a little uncomfortable. You feel like you can't catch your breath, until the provider tells you to breath in and out and then you relax. The nice things is that while hyou have the machine attacted, you can be reading, sleeping, watching a movie etc.
Once the hour is up, the machine lets go of the suction and someone massages down your skin which ends up looking like a "stick of butter" LITERALLY.
The skin is red and sometimes a little bruised which really looks like a big hicky.
The only bad part is that this can sometimes be annoying afterwards because it feels numb and the tingling INSIDE of the area makes you feel wierd.
The results are not immediate. AT our office we have patient's follow up 2.5 months later and do the after pictures.
I was very happy with my results. I can not have another treatment done in the same area because there is nothing to pinch
Have in mind that not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. It is not a weightloss procedure but meant for people who are at their ideal body weight that just need help CONTOURING the bumps. Look at it as not having to wear SPANX anymore.
Zeltiq was on national TV on Dr. Oz and Oprah. We were the first office in Tucson AZ to have this machine and have had alot of success stories.
Not only am i a firm believer in Zeltiq, but I was lucky enough to be trained to use the machine and be the operator.
Zeltiq is a new way of sculpting. It works by the mechanism of "FREEZING FAT"
* in the old days, women used to go out horseback riding in the cold weather and the inner thigh areas would be indented in losing the fat there
* some children got dimples due to eating popsicles. The idea that cold on selective fat can affect fat cells and this developed the insight behind CRYOLIPOLYSIS
Unfortunately, we all have stubborn fat. No matter how healthy we eat, or how many crunches we do(not that I do any) or how much beer we cut back on, there are areas that don't respond to these drastic changes.
With coolsculpting, the problematic area of fat is sucked into a hand piece thats attached to a machine. The machine delivers COLD temperature to the area. Mind you that there are two sizes of handpieces. A large which works on areas like the lower tummy, or the small which helps with lovehandles, upper abdomen, inner thighs, and backfat. The machine sucks the area in for one hour making the skin cold enough that after 7 minutes in, your NUMB!
The idea is that about 25% of the fat cells die with the cold. At the end of the session the machine gives you a little massage in the area which helps break down the fat cells even more.
This is one hour per area. Before pictures are taken from all different angles
No downtime, no cutting, no scars, no wound care, and no risks!
Price @ my office is Large: $1250.00 and Small $750.
We have packages that can save you some money when you need more than one treatment.
I had this done on a little bulge on my upper abdomen. The feeling is a little uncomfortable. You feel like you can't catch your breath, until the provider tells you to breath in and out and then you relax. The nice things is that while hyou have the machine attacted, you can be reading, sleeping, watching a movie etc.
Once the hour is up, the machine lets go of the suction and someone massages down your skin which ends up looking like a "stick of butter" LITERALLY.
The skin is red and sometimes a little bruised which really looks like a big hicky.
The only bad part is that this can sometimes be annoying afterwards because it feels numb and the tingling INSIDE of the area makes you feel wierd.
The results are not immediate. AT our office we have patient's follow up 2.5 months later and do the after pictures.
I was very happy with my results. I can not have another treatment done in the same area because there is nothing to pinch
Have in mind that not everyone is a candidate for this procedure. It is not a weightloss procedure but meant for people who are at their ideal body weight that just need help CONTOURING the bumps. Look at it as not having to wear SPANX anymore.
Zeltiq was on national TV on Dr. Oz and Oprah. We were the first office in Tucson AZ to have this machine and have had alot of success stories.
Not only am i a firm believer in Zeltiq, but I was lucky enough to be trained to use the machine and be the operator.
Chamomille shampoo: Liquid Gold
Chamomille Shampoo
So its an old wives tale that Chamomille cures everything. It has been in families for years as the cure to pink eye, period cramps, and rashes. I, however, am a firm believer that this is a NATURAL lightener for hair. My mother never tried it on my when I was younger so Im not a good model to follow. ( my highlights are all bleach)
My daughter was born with VERY DARK HAIR!! I was devastated. I immediately started bathing her with the chamomille shampoo in hope of some day lightening her hair to a point where it was lighter.
See for yourself, Ill attatched some pictures of when she was born so you can see how dark her hair color was when she was born and how light and golden her hair is now.
No chemicals, no tinting, no coloring. This is an all natural way of given the hair a glowing color while leaving it glossy.
Again, everything I write about might not be scientifically proven, but I write on experiences for me. I write about what I know and what I have tried.
So its an old wives tale that Chamomille cures everything. It has been in families for years as the cure to pink eye, period cramps, and rashes. I, however, am a firm believer that this is a NATURAL lightener for hair. My mother never tried it on my when I was younger so Im not a good model to follow. ( my highlights are all bleach)
My daughter was born with VERY DARK HAIR!! I was devastated. I immediately started bathing her with the chamomille shampoo in hope of some day lightening her hair to a point where it was lighter.
See for yourself, Ill attatched some pictures of when she was born so you can see how dark her hair color was when she was born and how light and golden her hair is now.
No chemicals, no tinting, no coloring. This is an all natural way of given the hair a glowing color while leaving it glossy.
Again, everything I write about might not be scientifically proven, but I write on experiences for me. I write about what I know and what I have tried.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
What do I put in my hair
I have experimented with so many hair products in the last years. I came up with my own "stuff" by mixing 3 individual products every night and apply it to my hair after I take a shower. It has been keeping me happy for 4 years and I wont switch or change.
Might not be MAGIC for everyone but its cheap products making up a very effective treatment for my hair.
The 1st product is Garnier smoothing milk, 2nd is Garnier leave in conditioner and I mix in a little of the generic Paul Mitchell Super skinny Serum. The last product is sold at Sallys and as you can see it also reduces drying time!!!
apply a small amount to the palm of your hand of each product mix them together and apply to the bottom half of your hair.
Might not be MAGIC for everyone but its cheap products making up a very effective treatment for my hair.
The 1st product is Garnier smoothing milk, 2nd is Garnier leave in conditioner and I mix in a little of the generic Paul Mitchell Super skinny Serum. The last product is sold at Sallys and as you can see it also reduces drying time!!!
apply a small amount to the palm of your hand of each product mix them together and apply to the bottom half of your hair.
The secret behind my highlights
Half the battle is getting someone who knows about hair coloring and will be a perfectionist when its comes to the work.
I happen to go to a very talented hair stylist who is also one of my bffs in the bordertown of Agua Prieta Sonora border to Douglas, AZ
She has been my stylist for years! (info upon request)
Anyways, ever since I can remember I have cooperating with keeping my highlights in tiptop shape by using a "purple"shampoo. This takes away the brassy yellow and leaves my hair plantinum/silverish. When used too often the hair can actually take on a purple shade. I wash with it every other day and alternate a regular shampoo. It is sold at Sallys Beauty Supply as Shimmer Lights Original Conditioning Shampoo. Its about $8... There are a variety of shampoos with the same concept that might be more appealing to you.
I happen to use one from Mexico that is pretty thick and enriches my hair.
Here are pictures of my hair after being on this shampoo for years.
I happen to go to a very talented hair stylist who is also one of my bffs in the bordertown of Agua Prieta Sonora border to Douglas, AZ
She has been my stylist for years! (info upon request)
Anyways, ever since I can remember I have cooperating with keeping my highlights in tiptop shape by using a "purple"shampoo. This takes away the brassy yellow and leaves my hair plantinum/silverish. When used too often the hair can actually take on a purple shade. I wash with it every other day and alternate a regular shampoo. It is sold at Sallys Beauty Supply as Shimmer Lights Original Conditioning Shampoo. Its about $8... There are a variety of shampoos with the same concept that might be more appealing to you.
I happen to use one from Mexico that is pretty thick and enriches my hair.
Here are pictures of my hair after being on this shampoo for years.
Chemical Peels
Facials seem to be a big hit nowadays in spa's and salons. Yes they feel amazing and leave your skin feeling nice and soft. HOWEVER, do they really have any impact or correct or protect your skin in any way? Probably not.
Facials are a nice fRU fRU way of pampering, but dont look for any improvement in skin texture, acne, or pore size when doing a facial.
The deal is, if it doesnt hurt, its probably not doing much.
Chemical peels on the other hand, are superficial enought that the down time is quick and easy, but aggresive enough to give you results!
A chemical peel, also known as chemexfoliation or derma-peeling, is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin. In this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which causes it to "blister" and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. The new skin also is temporarily more sensitive to the sun.
Chemical peels are performed on the face, neck, or hands. They can be used to:
Enough with the smart facts, let me tell you what this does for me..
I get chemicals once a month (when im lucky) They range from 40%-70%.
Once the acid gets put on my face, i feel BuRNING and TINGLING. It last for abouot 5 minutes and then dies down. The area is then "NEUTROLIZED" and it feels like the "fire was put out". The immediate results are redness and "frosting". For 2-3 days My face will peel and be red. Sometimes the acne is more visible during this time.
But once the peeling is done, OMG can you tell the results.
GLOWY PERFECT FLAWLESS Skin....!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It exfoliates and makes it so that my makeup goes on a clean surface, last longer and looks smoother..
Chemical peels at my office are $100. I offer somthing similar to my friends :) for cheaper.
Here is a picture of me 3 days after my last chemical peel.
Facials are a nice fRU fRU way of pampering, but dont look for any improvement in skin texture, acne, or pore size when doing a facial.
The deal is, if it doesnt hurt, its probably not doing much.
Chemical peels on the other hand, are superficial enought that the down time is quick and easy, but aggresive enough to give you results!
A chemical peel, also known as chemexfoliation or derma-peeling, is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin. In this treatment, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which causes it to "blister" and eventually peel off. The new, regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. The new skin also is temporarily more sensitive to the sun.
Chemical peels are performed on the face, neck, or hands. They can be used to:
- Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth
- Treat minor wrinkles caused by sun damage, aging, and family history
- Improve the appearance of mild scarring
- Treat certain types of acne
- Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches due to pregnancy or taking birth control pills (melasma)
- Improve the look and feel of skin that is dull in texture and color
Enough with the smart facts, let me tell you what this does for me..
I get chemicals once a month (when im lucky) They range from 40%-70%.
Once the acid gets put on my face, i feel BuRNING and TINGLING. It last for abouot 5 minutes and then dies down. The area is then "NEUTROLIZED" and it feels like the "fire was put out". The immediate results are redness and "frosting". For 2-3 days My face will peel and be red. Sometimes the acne is more visible during this time.
But once the peeling is done, OMG can you tell the results.
GLOWY PERFECT FLAWLESS Skin....!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It exfoliates and makes it so that my makeup goes on a clean surface, last longer and looks smoother..
Chemical peels at my office are $100. I offer somthing similar to my friends :) for cheaper.
Here is a picture of me 3 days after my last chemical peel.
NO MAKeUP ON !!!!
Botox
Botox
Another one of my guilty pleasures. Botox. I have been exposed to Botox primarily because of where I work. However it took me 2years into my job to take advantage of this free service. I'm hooked. At first I was #1 scared of the injections #2 didn't think I needed it and #3 didn't want the maintenance.
The injections don't hurt at all. In fact we usually put some ice on the injection sites and this numbs up the area where the Botox is injected to. Honestly I think the ice hurts more than the injection but that\'s just me.
I always thought I didn't need Botox and I could wait until I hit 40s to start tasting wrinkles. The reality is that you want to treat the area before the wrinkle forms to prevent the wrinkle from getting to bulk to the point where Botox will only temporarily soften the line. I have been treating the forehead, glabella ( between the eyebrows) and on each eye. By age 40 I won't have a wrinkle because of the proactive approach.
It is a pain in the but to get the Botox every 3-4 months but the suite results are so worth it. Many people think Botox is dangerous and risky. It wears off so it can\'t give you any permanent damage.
Here a some of my before and after Pictures. The before pictures aren't as bad as when I started doing it because I've maintained it up to now. But on the eye area you can definitely see the difference when I smile
All in all I love how smooth my face looks
Botox can be quite pricey but there are different prices around town. At the office I work for they charge a total of $12.50 per unit
A standard treatment is: 12 units on forehead, 20 units on glabella, and 12 units per eye. Total of 56 units for the upper face equals to: $700.
We offer the super special here 4 x a year when you save $150 when doing the whole upper face so it comes down to $550. There is a points reward program that you get points after each treatment and right before you come in for another treatment you print out the coupon and it discounts at the checkout usually $50 or more..
Another one of my guilty pleasures. Botox. I have been exposed to Botox primarily because of where I work. However it took me 2years into my job to take advantage of this free service. I'm hooked. At first I was #1 scared of the injections #2 didn't think I needed it and #3 didn't want the maintenance.
The injections don't hurt at all. In fact we usually put some ice on the injection sites and this numbs up the area where the Botox is injected to. Honestly I think the ice hurts more than the injection but that\'s just me.
I always thought I didn't need Botox and I could wait until I hit 40s to start tasting wrinkles. The reality is that you want to treat the area before the wrinkle forms to prevent the wrinkle from getting to bulk to the point where Botox will only temporarily soften the line. I have been treating the forehead, glabella ( between the eyebrows) and on each eye. By age 40 I won't have a wrinkle because of the proactive approach.
It is a pain in the but to get the Botox every 3-4 months but the suite results are so worth it. Many people think Botox is dangerous and risky. It wears off so it can\'t give you any permanent damage.
Here a some of my before and after Pictures. The before pictures aren't as bad as when I started doing it because I've maintained it up to now. But on the eye area you can definitely see the difference when I smile
All in all I love how smooth my face looks
Botox can be quite pricey but there are different prices around town. At the office I work for they charge a total of $12.50 per unit
A standard treatment is: 12 units on forehead, 20 units on glabella, and 12 units per eye. Total of 56 units for the upper face equals to: $700.
We offer the super special here 4 x a year when you save $150 when doing the whole upper face so it comes down to $550. There is a points reward program that you get points after each treatment and right before you come in for another treatment you print out the coupon and it discounts at the checkout usually $50 or more..
Get the best eyelashes!
I get many compliments on my eyelashes on a daily basis. I have confessed to everyone my secret, at least part of it and its Latisse. I, in no way, receive commission from selling it so I only talk out of experience. (see LATISSE blog post for more details)
Aside from Latisse, I have read by many of my fellow bloggers that a vaseline is VERY helpful in keeping lashes healthy. Before Latisse was ever invented, I used to use HAIR CONDITIONER on my lashes when I would shower. Im talking about my HIGH SCHOOL days 10 years ago, I had the idea that eyelashes are still hair and should be treated carefully with careful washing as well as conditioning. Now, vaseline is a good product for anything from makeup-removing, to wound healing, to moisturizing. I have found a GREAT PRODUCT that is based from vaseline that I use to remove my eye makeup everyday.
Albolene (unscented) is a moisturizing cleanser that leaves your skin very soft and gently removes your mascara. I have noticed that my eyelashes dont fall out as much when I use this product. It also leaves them very conditioned and healthy looking. This product can not be used alone in my opinoin because I do like the foamy cleansers as well. Rubbing Albolene breaks down the makeup, but the foamy cleansers remove it from your skin. (I use the OBAGI cleanser). The eyelids get very dehydrated and need to be treated with sensitive products and both the Doctor I work for and I use it and we both have HUGE eyelashes. Coincidence? Probably not since both of use the same 3 products for our eyelashes.
Albolene is over the counter but could be ordered online. Its less than $10 for a huge size and so worth it.
CLICK HERE TO BE DIRECTED TO THE PAGE TO BUY IT
And last, but not least, I use a great mascara. I have tried EVERY type of mascara from dirt cheap ones, to the most expensive ones. I always always fall back on ZOOM LASH by MAC. Price wise its about $16.00. However, it will enhance every single lash with the best volume and length. Major drama. Lasts all day. Creamy, velvety formula builds density and conditions. Feels light, supple. Ultra-sculpted brush has three-sided fibres to embrace and separate each lash, hugging every curve. Coats in one stroke from root to tip. No smudging. This is sold at MAC counters. (online, dillards, nordstrom)
So this might not work on everyone but I DO SWEAR by these 3 products.. I think it will get you as close as possible to false eyelashes.
**excuse my pimple on the glabella... eyebrow waxing always makes me get one.
Aside from Latisse, I have read by many of my fellow bloggers that a vaseline is VERY helpful in keeping lashes healthy. Before Latisse was ever invented, I used to use HAIR CONDITIONER on my lashes when I would shower. Im talking about my HIGH SCHOOL days 10 years ago, I had the idea that eyelashes are still hair and should be treated carefully with careful washing as well as conditioning. Now, vaseline is a good product for anything from makeup-removing, to wound healing, to moisturizing. I have found a GREAT PRODUCT that is based from vaseline that I use to remove my eye makeup everyday.
Albolene is over the counter but could be ordered online. Its less than $10 for a huge size and so worth it.
CLICK HERE TO BE DIRECTED TO THE PAGE TO BUY IT
And last, but not least, I use a great mascara. I have tried EVERY type of mascara from dirt cheap ones, to the most expensive ones. I always always fall back on ZOOM LASH by MAC. Price wise its about $16.00. However, it will enhance every single lash with the best volume and length. Major drama. Lasts all day. Creamy, velvety formula builds density and conditions. Feels light, supple. Ultra-sculpted brush has three-sided fibres to embrace and separate each lash, hugging every curve. Coats in one stroke from root to tip. No smudging. This is sold at MAC counters. (online, dillards, nordstrom)
Friday, August 24, 2012
Bleaching creams
Many of us have our imperfections on our face. Whether we like it or not, we all earn little freckles and signs of sun damage with our years. As we get older, freckles start looking less cute and more annoying.
Visiting the drug stores and the mall counters, you see all the products promoting its effect to LIGHTEN the brown spots we have. But how effective are they?
Working in derm has showed me the potential in the RX treatments compared to over the counter, mall brand creams. When it comes to lightening brown spots, many aspects should be taken into consideration. Will you be using sunscreen afterwards? Whats causing the pigmentation? (pregnancy, hormones, birth control, sun?) Whats my budget? Will I be able to tolerate my treatment.
In my experience I am mostly impressed with one ingredient. Its a prescription only so you know it cant be sold anywhere, meaning it actually can be aggressive enough to WORK!
When looking for bleaching agents, look for HYDROQUINONE. Hydroquinone is a prescription grade cream used for erasing brown spots, freckles, and melasma (otherwise known as the pregnancy mask)
***There are rumors, on this being a carcinogen. This was cleared by the FDA and is considered a safe product when used as directed and under the care of a physician.
The 2 products I rely on with HQ are OBAGI and compounded creams which have the ingredient as well as Retin A. The Retin A and HQ work AMAZING together and while one bleaches, the other exfoliates. This combo is very effective and not only have I experienced the results of it, but my mother, sisters, and patients are thrilled with the outcome.
The product we sell at work is called HQRA.($50)
HQ:Hydroquinone, R: Retin A and hydrocortisone. The hydrocortisone cuts back on the irritation that retin a can cause. This is a night time product only and should be used very wisely with small amounts.
ALWAYS use sunscreen when treating pigmentation because it can come back just as easy as they did in the first place.
Here is my regimen with ObAGi:P
Wash skin with Obagi Cleanser, Prep the skin with step 2 which is the Obagi Toner. Step 3 is missing on my kit only because I have the *HQ* in step 5. Step 4 is glycolic acid which helps with acne. Step 5 is the important part of the whole kit. It contains the 4% HQ and as you can see it is called BLENDER because you blend it with a pea-size of Retin A. Step 6 is sunscreen. The nice thing of these products is that they are all numbered and labeled AM and PM.
OBAGI is my favorite line, not only with these products but with everything that they have made. This is sold at MDs offices as well as the internet. Its actually pretty cheap @ Amazon.
I seriously Recommend this line!!!!
Visiting the drug stores and the mall counters, you see all the products promoting its effect to LIGHTEN the brown spots we have. But how effective are they?
Working in derm has showed me the potential in the RX treatments compared to over the counter, mall brand creams. When it comes to lightening brown spots, many aspects should be taken into consideration. Will you be using sunscreen afterwards? Whats causing the pigmentation? (pregnancy, hormones, birth control, sun?) Whats my budget? Will I be able to tolerate my treatment.
In my experience I am mostly impressed with one ingredient. Its a prescription only so you know it cant be sold anywhere, meaning it actually can be aggressive enough to WORK!
When looking for bleaching agents, look for HYDROQUINONE. Hydroquinone is a prescription grade cream used for erasing brown spots, freckles, and melasma (otherwise known as the pregnancy mask)
***There are rumors, on this being a carcinogen. This was cleared by the FDA and is considered a safe product when used as directed and under the care of a physician.
The 2 products I rely on with HQ are OBAGI and compounded creams which have the ingredient as well as Retin A. The Retin A and HQ work AMAZING together and while one bleaches, the other exfoliates. This combo is very effective and not only have I experienced the results of it, but my mother, sisters, and patients are thrilled with the outcome.
The product we sell at work is called HQRA.($50)
HQ:Hydroquinone, R: Retin A and hydrocortisone. The hydrocortisone cuts back on the irritation that retin a can cause. This is a night time product only and should be used very wisely with small amounts.
ALWAYS use sunscreen when treating pigmentation because it can come back just as easy as they did in the first place.
Here is my regimen with ObAGi:P
Wash skin with Obagi Cleanser, Prep the skin with step 2 which is the Obagi Toner. Step 3 is missing on my kit only because I have the *HQ* in step 5. Step 4 is glycolic acid which helps with acne. Step 5 is the important part of the whole kit. It contains the 4% HQ and as you can see it is called BLENDER because you blend it with a pea-size of Retin A. Step 6 is sunscreen. The nice thing of these products is that they are all numbered and labeled AM and PM.
OBAGI is my favorite line, not only with these products but with everything that they have made. This is sold at MDs offices as well as the internet. Its actually pretty cheap @ Amazon.
I seriously Recommend this line!!!!
Clarisonic Brush (PRO)
I am very fortunate for working in derm. I get easy access to the latest skin care products. In my years there, I have been lucky enough to get my hands on a Clarisonic Brush. I read reviews on EVERYTHING.. so of course I read into the possibility of investing in this. The brush comes in many different forms. There is PRO which is only dispensed at MDs office and then there is the over the counter Clarisonic which has less speeds. There is also a very CUTE small travel size clarisonic, MIA. They come in many colors and might seem like a big cost, HOWEVER, I have seen so many clients buy EXPENSIVE products at the office and by all means get what the product promises at a low standard.
Clarisonic cleans your skin to the last pore. This being said, anything you put on your face after you use the Clarisonic will penetrate so much more!! The traditional techniques of cleaning our faces leave traces of dirt and oil trapped in our pores. Clarisonic Systems use a sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to gently, yet throroughly remove 6x more makeup than using the hands alone.
It leaves the skin feeling and looking healthier and cleaner. It reduces oil and the appearance of pores.
I am very pleased with my brush and love the fact that 1. you can charge it easily with the stand it comes with without replacing batteries and 2. you can get it wet in the shower.. It is timed so you know exactly how much time is needed per area.
Prices on the Classic Clarisonic vary but are around the $200 range. The MIA is a little over $100. Here are some pictures of MY OWN CLARISONIC. I have had it for years and have dropped it 100s of times and its still working as good as when I got it. EXCUSE the cut on my thumb, LOng Story..
Clarisonic cleans your skin to the last pore. This being said, anything you put on your face after you use the Clarisonic will penetrate so much more!! The traditional techniques of cleaning our faces leave traces of dirt and oil trapped in our pores. Clarisonic Systems use a sonic frequency of more than 300 movements per second to gently, yet throroughly remove 6x more makeup than using the hands alone.
It leaves the skin feeling and looking healthier and cleaner. It reduces oil and the appearance of pores.
I am very pleased with my brush and love the fact that 1. you can charge it easily with the stand it comes with without replacing batteries and 2. you can get it wet in the shower.. It is timed so you know exactly how much time is needed per area.
Prices on the Classic Clarisonic vary but are around the $200 range. The MIA is a little over $100. Here are some pictures of MY OWN CLARISONIC. I have had it for years and have dropped it 100s of times and its still working as good as when I got it. EXCUSE the cut on my thumb, LOng Story..
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Retin A/Tretinoin
Retin A or the generic form of it(tretinoin) is a key ingredient to healthy skin. Many me be familiar with the medicine (yes this is a prescription) because it is a common acne treatment dermatologist give out like candy.
It is so much more than that though. Basically, retin a is a VITAMIN A component. Its an exfoliant that keeps the skin clear and clean. It also promotes collagen and being that the typical human being stops making collage at the age of 35, this is a restart to the collagen making machine. Retin A is also notorious for treating sun damage and precancers. Since it exfoliates the top layers of the skin, the cell turnover makes you have a clean complexion at all times, with clean pores and even skin tone.
Retin A is used in combination with bleaching creams and this makes them more potent. Obagi is a very popular cosmeceutical that works hand in hand with retin A.
You can get a prescription by asking a dermatologist and maybe a primary care. You can even get this in Mexico for pretty cheap ($-20) The only downside to Retin A is that it can be irritating if not done right. There are 2 strengths of this. 0.025% which is very mild, 0.05% which is standard, and 0.1% which is for people with very hard and oily skin, It comes in cream and gel. I wouldnt recommend gel unless you have severe oily skin. This is more aggressive
Retin A is a night time cream to be applied to a clean face. The best way of applying it is the following:
Make sure face is clean, start by opening your retin a. Mind that there are many different brand names for this. I happen to use one called Atralin. Its not as harsh and i get free Samples
Then get a small pea siZe amount on your index finger. More is not better in this case
Then apply the pea sizes amount to face by dividing it to 5 small pease: forehead, nose, cheeks and chin
Then break down each of the 5 drops of retin a to smaller sized peas around that area like this
Now, you should have a face covered with little dots. Please avoid eye area and lips. These are too sensitive. Gently rub in dots to the area.
after you rub in all of the dots you should have a very invisible thin layer of medication. 
Go to sleep and wash off in the mornig.
Enjoy the benefits of retin a!!! I recommend you start retin a regimen 2-3 times a week. Your skin will peel and be pink-red for 6 weeks. This is all part of the Retin A boot camp. By week 7 the exfoliation process continues but the redness and peeling should be over. Now you should continue retin a for the rest of your life or until you stop caring about your skin.
It is so much more than that though. Basically, retin a is a VITAMIN A component. Its an exfoliant that keeps the skin clear and clean. It also promotes collagen and being that the typical human being stops making collage at the age of 35, this is a restart to the collagen making machine. Retin A is also notorious for treating sun damage and precancers. Since it exfoliates the top layers of the skin, the cell turnover makes you have a clean complexion at all times, with clean pores and even skin tone.
Retin A is used in combination with bleaching creams and this makes them more potent. Obagi is a very popular cosmeceutical that works hand in hand with retin A.
You can get a prescription by asking a dermatologist and maybe a primary care. You can even get this in Mexico for pretty cheap ($-20) The only downside to Retin A is that it can be irritating if not done right. There are 2 strengths of this. 0.025% which is very mild, 0.05% which is standard, and 0.1% which is for people with very hard and oily skin, It comes in cream and gel. I wouldnt recommend gel unless you have severe oily skin. This is more aggressive
Retin A is a night time cream to be applied to a clean face. The best way of applying it is the following:
Make sure face is clean, start by opening your retin a. Mind that there are many different brand names for this. I happen to use one called Atralin. Its not as harsh and i get free Samples
Then get a small pea siZe amount on your index finger. More is not better in this case
Then apply the pea sizes amount to face by dividing it to 5 small pease: forehead, nose, cheeks and chin
Then break down each of the 5 drops of retin a to smaller sized peas around that area like this
Now, you should have a face covered with little dots. Please avoid eye area and lips. These are too sensitive. Gently rub in dots to the area.
Go to sleep and wash off in the mornig.
Enjoy the benefits of retin a!!! I recommend you start retin a regimen 2-3 times a week. Your skin will peel and be pink-red for 6 weeks. This is all part of the Retin A boot camp. By week 7 the exfoliation process continues but the redness and peeling should be over. Now you should continue retin a for the rest of your life or until you stop caring about your skin.
My History in Dermatolgy
I happen to work for a very reputable derm office in Tucson, AZ. Ironwood Dermatology has 4 physicians and a physician assistant who does strictly cosmetics. This has helped me expand my interest in beauty so much. I started school determined to be a Medical assistant and specialize in plastics or cosmetics. I was lucky enough to do my externship at this office. Its been 5 years and although the place is very busy, I get a chance to experience first hand what the skin goes through.
I have been rewarded by the physicians with a certificate and license to practice lasers. I am a Certified Medical Laser Technician/ I did my studies in a laser school in Phoenix AZ. I have used the laser hair removal machine many times and am currently undergoing treatments myself.
A big advantage to working with dermatology is that I get to try alot of the cosmeceuticals that are out there. Not to mention all the advice on skin care I get at the drop of a hat. Since Ive been working there I have become such a knowledgeable piece to their practice because I research all the products we carry as well as test them on myself. I am very fond of OBAGI products which I will later do a Blog on.
I am exposed to Botox, fillers, and procedures on a daily basis and see the different scenarios on which they fall into place.
I see alot of the good, but then alot of the bad. SKin Cancers are biopsied everyday there. We do full skin exams on patients as young as 2-3 to as old as 90. Its so interesting to see the sun damage\'s effects on skin after years of tanning.
I plan to stay there in hope that some day, all the work on the side I do pertaining to cosmetics will benefit the practice.
If you are in the area and need of a good dermatology please look into this one.
http://ironwooddermatology.org/
Latisse
Latisse
Latisse is a prescription that is derived from the medication that controls an eye condition called Glacoma.
Allergan , who makes BOTOX, patented the idea and made it a universal product that beenfits anyone who tries it.
I personally have been using it for 2 years +.
It has done wonders to a point where I get compliments everywhere I go.
This is very different from Dabalash and the other products out there. Latisse is the only FDA approved product that has actual science supporting its clinical trials.
It is exclusive to a point where you can only get it if a DOCTOR gives you a prescription for it or dispenses it at their office.
Rumor has it that it turns your eye color to a different color. FALSE!
The only rumor that has a little bit of risk is that since this DOES make your eyelashes thicker, longer and darker, it can slightly pigment the lash line because its making the pigment cells darker so the hair comes out darker. Therefore skin may be affected, This, is reversible if you stop using the product.
However, I would rather use concealer and try to cover this up and have the benefit of amazing eyelashes. There is an employee of mine who is male and uses it for eyebrows. He is very happy with his results. The best advice I can give you is to throw away all the little brushes that come in the BOX. THEY SUCK! Invest in an eyeliner brush, a very fine one. Unscrew cap of Latisse and drop one drop into the cap, dip brush in it and apply medicine to the lashline (upper and lower). This is to be done at night on a clean face.
It is very normal to have some irritation at first but eventually your skin gets used to it.
Results can be apparent at about a month but MAXIMUM results are at 16 weeks so even if you see a great improvement, dont stop, it gets BETTER!
Latisse is maintenance, so if you stop using it, your eyelashes will NOT all fall out at one time. But as you lose them, they will grow back how mother nature intended you to have them.
Here are my pictures after using Latisse. Not much mascara is being used ladies, this is all natural.
Reviews and Swatches
When it comes to makeup, there are many trials on what fits your face and skin. What might work for your friend migth be very unappealing for you. For example, I watch alot of tutorials and am sold right away on products being used by the artist. I run and buy the products and I end up extremeley disappointed on how it looks on me.
However, I can always depend on 2 sites for advice.
The definition of a SWATCH is a representative portion; a sample. So for makeup, it might look very different on the picture or video, but when it comes to application on skin, the color changes depending on the undertone of the client. The following websites provide "samples" of the makeup.
Karla Sugar:
http://karlasugar.net/ is a website dedicated to reviewing and swatching makeup so that people like you and me have a better idea on what texture, color, and result we are getting for products. She discusses Drug store brands and high end makeup as well. She applies the colors on her arms and this gives you an idea on how the color turns out. She will also do a heavier coat on certain products so you can see the build up of color. This is a good resource to have on hand when considering investing in makeup.
Temptalia:
My other favorite site is http://www.temptalia.com/ Here is another site where they provide detailed reviews. You also get heads up on new products coming out and the pricing. This site applies to makeup all across the board from drugstore to high end.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
University of Makeup
University of Makeup
I have recently discovered an online school that provides with the training for makeup artistry. It was convinient for me because I am a full time employee at a dermatologist office. I have always had the urge to continue my education through aesthetics and cosmetologist. This online school provides dvds and videos as well as a very complete makeup kit.
I was hesitant to do this since the credibility of any online school is iffy. After reading many reviews online I failed to find a negative one. I went ahead and signed up to have a baseline certification and grow from there. Plus, youtube does not provide any certification for watching people do makeup on tutorials.
After careful research this seemed to be a very affordable deal! The site gives you options on how detailed you want the course. You can learn to do you own makeup as well as bridal. I, however, took a dive in purchasing the FULL MAKEUP COURSE.
The website provides the video tutorials by Annekke who seems to be the CEO. She is out of South Africa and if you can get past the accent shes actally pretty bright.
The makeup kit is INSANE, with every girls dream in color and shade. It quality is very good even though it is not BRANDED with any name.
With the purchase you get a hold fo more than 400 M-A-C Face charts. These are the faces that are posted at all the MAC stores demonstrating the latest trends in makeup.
You also become a member to a discount store within the university. This provides deals on you brand name makeup through the school.
So after watching all the videos, you perform your skills on models and send in before and after pictures. You will be graded on the makeup.
Once your practice and hours are in, you may take an online exam (you have to pay)
and by passing this you will be mailed a certification of completeing the makeup course.
I strongly recommend this to anyone who is trying to make the world a little more pretty
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)