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Laser treatment

All About Laser Treatments

If you’ve ever considered laser treatments for your skin concerns but have been worried about looking like a lobster for several months, we’ve got some good news. Laser treatments have advanced significantly since their inception and while there are treatments that will leave you looking like you just got a sunburn, there are also procedures and treatments that provide great results with minimal side effects.

What is a Laser and How Does it Work?
The word laser is actually an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. What this boils down to is that lasers work by generating a concentrated stream of pulsed bright light that can be strategically controlled and directed over the surface of the skin. Unlike a regular white light bulb that contains a spectrum of colors, lasers only contain one specific color. These intense rays of light are used to destroy unwanted pigments, hair or other skin concerns. Lasers are classified as either ablative or non-ablative.

Ablative Lasers – Ablative lasers work by targeting the surface of your skin (epidermis) as well as the lower, deeper (dermis) layers of skin. In order to penetrate to these lower layers of skin, ablative lasers injure or ablate the surface of your skin. Ablative lasers can be used to:

  • Fade skin discolorations
  • Remove sun damage
  • Reveal healthier skin
  • Improve appearance of deep lines and wrinkles

Non-ablative Lasers – Non-ablative treatments target the lower layers of your skin, but they leave the surface of your skin undamaged and intact. Non-ablative lasers are used to:

  • Improve or eliminate redness from broken capillaries or rosacea
  • Remove superficial spots
  • Improve appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Stimulate collagen production

Types of Lasers
Laser technology has advanced significantly since the treatments were first offered. Today’s lasers are able to provide more precise results with less damage and side effects. Some of the most common types of lasers used for laser therapy include:

  • CO2 Pulse Laser – This ablative laser is one of the oldest lasers in use. It provides significant results following therapy, but the side effects are intense with the potential for skin to remain red for up to two months following treatment.
  • Erbium YAG Laser – Another ablative laser, this machine is less invasive than the CO2 Pulse Lasers, but it also does not treat wrinkles as deeply as those machines. There is also the Variable YAG Pulse Laser, which is a popular option for its ability to work almost as effectively as the CO2 Pulse, but without as much damage.
  • Fraxels – These non-ablative lasers are some of the most frequently used because they deliver impressive results with minimal side effects and risks. The name is derived from the word fractional, which is how fraxels work. Instead of one, steady stream of light, fraxels pinpoint target the skin with a polka-dot type pattern of light that causes less tissue damage. Fraxels are used for a large range of skin concerns from wrinkles and stretch marks to hyperpigmentation.
  • Long-Pulsed YAG Laser – This laser is also non-ablative and is used mainly for wrinkles and reducing the appearance of acne scars. These lasers, while less invasive than others, provide more subtle results than others.

What to Know Before Laser Therapy
That’s definitely a question for your doctor to decide. If you are considering laser therapy, it is a great idea to do some research, but remember that your doctor is the expert. Look for offices that feature multiple types of lasers, because an office that only has one may use it on your skin to keep your business, but it may not be the most effective or safe treatment for you. Laser therapy costs range widely depending on the type of laser, the number of treatments, your location and what type of laser therapy you are having done. Laser therapies come with varying amounts of pain. The majority of laser treatments do not require numbing before the treatment, but if you are having deeper resurfacing done, your doctor may use “…a topical anesthetic or a combination of a topical and pain injections plus anxiety drugs such as Ativan or Valium,” says Brian Biesman, clinical assistant professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville.

Laser treatments are an effective way to treat a large number of skin concerns from resurfacing to deep-set wrinkles. Prior to undergoing any type of laser therapy, we recommend doing some research to find a doctor that you trust and the laser treatment that is right for you.

Portrait of smiling mature woman with white hair

Makeup Tips for Mature Skin

It is so easy to fall into a beauty rut, using the same cosmetic products decade after decade. However, your skin, as well as your features, change as you age, meaning that your makeup products and application techniques need to evolve too.

From foundation to lipstick, here are some guidelines when it comes to makeup for mature skin.

Start With Your Skin

The best-looking makeup begins with good skin, which is why this should always be your initial focus when evaluating cosmetics.

Before applying any makeup to your face, you need to ensure that your skin has been thoroughly cleansed. Exfoliating it will be a bonus, as this will clear away any dead skin cells and rough patches from the surface of your skin, giving you a blank canvas to work with when it comes to your makeup.

Immediately after exfoliating, you need to moisturize your skin.

This is even more important for mature skin…

Why?

Because one of the main skin issues that mature skin faces is a lack of moisture, as skin loses its ability to retain moisture as it ages. This can result in a rough and dry complexion, which will only end up being accentuated, rather than hidden, by your makeup.

A thick and rich moisturizer is best, and it should also contain plenty of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and resveratrol

Another bonus to moisturizing before applying any makeup?

It will give your face a smooth and dewy finish, meaning that your makeup will just glide effortlessly on afterwards.

woman applying primer or moisturizer

Primer

Primers are not strictly essential, but do have quite a few benefits, especially when it comes to mature skin.

Here are a few of the reasons as to why you should be using a primer:

  • Hides visible pores
  • Smooths and softens the skin
  • Gives makeup a base to grip on to, meaning it lasts for longer 
  • Prevents foundation from oxidizing and changing color

When choosing a primer for mature skin, you want the formula to be a lightweight and moisturizing one, without containing any shimmer. As with any product you use, try to pick one that contains added antioxidants. If your skin is sensitive, look for a primer that contains soothing ingredients, such as niacinimide or green tea. 

Foundation

When it comes to choosing a foundation for mature skin, thick formulas, or loose powders, are a big no.

woman applying powder foundation

Why?

These products will only end up settling into any creases in your face as your skin moves, making any fine lines or wrinkles so much more visible.

Instead, go for a light liquid foundation, or a cream foundation.

Wondering what the main differences between the two are?

Well, a cream foundation is more opaque, meaning that it provides better coverage if you have age spots or broken capillaries. Using a cream foundation means that you will likely need to use less concealer on any of these blemishes.

Another bonus to using a cream foundation formula is that these will usually be more moisturizing, making them great for drier skin types.

On the other hand, a liquid foundation will tend to have a lighter texture, and, if you only have a few minor imperfections, a liquid foundation will likely do the job.

When it comes to actually applying your foundation…

Begin at the center of your face, and use a foundation brush to blend this outwards.

Wondering how to stop your foundation from settling into any lines or wrinkles?

This is often inevitable, no matter which foundation you choose. When this happens, all you need to do is blot the area with a Q-tip, before fixing it up with some powder.

Alternatively, if you are dealing with fine lines rather than deeper wrinkles, try pressing a finger gently against your skin, rocking it back and forth in a slight rolling motion. This will help to disperse the foundation that has settled into your lines.

Don’t like using foundation but still want a bit of coverage?

Try a CC cream instead. These are actually perfect for mature skin, because not only will they disguise any redness or imperfections, but they will also refine your skin’s texture.

Concealer

While some may strongly believe that a concealer should be applied before a foundation, it should really be the other way round.

Why?

Because your foundation will already cover up quite a few imperfections, so you will only need to use the concealer on areas that actually need the extra coverage

Want to know the best way to use a concealer to hide blemishes?

Simply dab a small amount onto your blemish, and then use the tip of a brush to blend this into your foundation, until you cannot see it any more.

In addition to using your concealer to cover up any blemishes, you can also apply it in a way that will help to give your face more of a lifted appearance.

How?

Use your concealer to draw a triangle on your cheek, with the base of the triangle underneath your eye, and the other two sides pointing down towards your cheek. Then, blend it in.

woman using concealer under her eyes

So, how do you actually go about choosing a concealer for mature skin?

Well, just like with your foundation, liquid or cream formulas are best. Liquid is usually preferred by those with mature skin, as its lightweight texture means that it is less likely to gather in wrinkles and creases during the day. If you opt for a cream, you may need to set it with a powder afterwards to ensure that it does not crease.

You will also likely need two different shades, one for underneath your eyes and one for your face.

Here are some tips on choosing the two shades:

  • For underneath the eyes, choose a concealer that is one or two shades lighter than your natural skin tone. However, do not go any lighter than this, otherwise you may end up with an obvious light circle around your eyes
  • For the face, your concealer needs to perfectly match the shade of your foundation

Blush

While a cream blush looks great on bare skin, a powder blush tends to be the better option if you are also wearing foundation. However, in order not to dry your skin out, you need to make sure that you opt for a powder that has a fine and light texture.

When it comes to color, do not be tempted by strong and harsh shades. As the face ages, it becomes more angular, and stronger shades of blush will only make this seem hollow.

Instead, go for a softer shade, such as apricot or rose, making sure that it complements your skin tone.

Woman applying makeup

When it comes to actually applying your blush…

Many tend to apply this on the apples of their cheeks, but this often only ends up drawing attention to sagging skin.

What should you do instead?

Apply your blush to the highest point of your cheekbones, using a large brush to lift this upwards, making sure that you do not apply any color too close to your nose.

Eyes

Did you know that your eyes change shape as you age?

Your eyelids become more hooded, while wrinkles around the eyes can also affect their shape.

So, what is the best way to deal with this when it comes to eye makeup?

A subtle wash of a light colored shadow is really all you need, with satin finishes in particular helping to brighten up the eyes. Matte and sparkly shadows do not work too well on mature eyes, as these tend to settle into the fine lines on eyelids, making them looked creased.

If you do decide to go for a shadow with some sparkle or shimmer for a special occasion, keep this away from the outer corners of your eyes, as it will only emphasize fine lines. Instead, keep the sparkle for your inner corners, the center of your eyelids, and your brow bones.

What about eye liner?

This is great to make your eyes really pop, but a liquid or gel formula can sometimes be too harsh on mature eyes, making an eye liner pencil your best option.

Do you find an eye liner pencil difficult to apply?

This is a common issue, but an easy solution is to just make sure that your eye liner pencil is soft, so that the color comes out smoothly and easily.

When applying your eye liner…

Make sure that you apply more to your top lash line than your bottom.

Why?

Because this helps to prevent your eye liner from dragging your eyes down. Eyeliner on your lower lash line will also make your eyes look much smaller, and will draw attention to any dark circles. Try to also ensure that the line you draw becomes thicker towards the outer edge, because this will give you a lift in an area where mature eyes tend to droop.

Do not forget about your eyebrows either…

Eyebrows naturally thin with age, and filling these in can really subtract decades from your appearance. Use either a light colored brow pencil or a shadow, as you want the color to look subtle and natural. Make sure that you blend this in well, following your eyebrow’s natural shape and ensuring that they do not look as though they have been drawn on. 

Just like with your eyebrows, your eyelashes will also naturally thin with age…

Mascara is great for this, but do not be afraid to experiment with individual false eyelashes, as these are perfect for filling in any gaps.

Giving your eyelashes a curl before applying your mascara can also make a huge difference, as this will instantly open up your eyes, making them appear bigger and brighter.

When applying mascara to mature eyes, you would be best off staying away from your lower lashes, and only applying it to your top lashes.

Why?

Because mascara on your lower lashes will only emphasize any dark circles or crow’s feet, whereas a deep, black mascara on your top lashes only will make your eyes look brighter and whiter.

Lips

Your lips will change quite a bit as you age, becoming much thinner, with wrinkles appearing around them. 

This means that you will want to use makeup in a way that plumps your lips out, so that they appear fuller and smoother.

How can you do this?

With a sheer, moisturizing lipstick. Neutral shades are usually best, as you want to enhance the shape and color of your lips without drawing too much attention to them. The most flattering shades for mature lips tend to be a color that is only slightly darker than your natural lip color.

senior woman applying lipstick

Try to avoid dark or bright lipsticks, as well as those with a satin finish.

Why?

Because these often only end up drawing attention to thinner lips, as well as to fine lines.

Don’t forget about lip liner either…

This can be used to give your lips a slight boost in volume, while also preventing your lipstick from bleeding into any wrinkles or lines. All you need to do is trace the lip liner around the outside of your lips, so that you have slightly over-lined them. However, make sure that the shade of lip liner you choose matches the shade of lipstick that you are going to be wearing with it, and try not to be too heavy-handed when applying the lip liner

Wondering whether or not you should be wearing lip gloss?

The answer is no. While there is no denying that lip gloss can really help to plump up your lips, it will also highlight every single fine line that is on your lips, so is best avoided.

In order to really look your best as you age, your makeup needs to evolve in the same way that your face and features do. From your eyes to your lips, make sure that you are constantly assessing each individual feature, so that you can determine exactly what they need in order to really shine.

Woman applying sunscreen

Protect Your Skin from UV Rays and Chemicals with Safer Sunscreen

Wearing sun protection everyday is crucial if you want to age gracefully and keep your skin healthy. However, you might be leery of using a sunblock every single day due to the potential damage they may cause. There are those who believe that sunscreen does more harm than good due to the chemicals it contains being absorbed into the skin. But, you may not have to choose between no sun protection and sunscreens that penetrate the skin. Researchers at Yale University have developed a sunscreen that remains on the surface of the skin, making sun protection safe and simple.

What are Sunscreens and How do They Work?
Sunscreens are products that combine various ingredients for the purpose of preventing UV rays from reaching your skin. There are two types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. UVB rays are primarily responsible for causing visible burns, while UVA rays cause deeper skin damage, leading to signs of premature aging such as wrinkly or saggy skin.

Sunscreens use SPF (sun protection factor) to indicate how well a sunscreen protects your skin against damage from UVB rays. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, SPF serves as a guide for how long you can safely expose yourself to the sun after applying sunscreen. “Here’s how it works: If it takes 20 minutes for your unprotected skin to start turning red, using an SPF 15 sunscreen theoretically prevents reddening 15 times longer – about five hours.”

Woman holding sunscreen bottle

What is “Safer” Sunscreen?
There is some general concern that sunscreens may actually do more harm than good. Some claim that the use of sunscreen creates a vitamin D deficiency, though many dermatologists do not believe this to be true. The other concern regarding sunscreen is that the chemicals within the sunscreen are absorbed into the skin thus entering the bloodstream and having deleterious effects. Nano particles that are designed to reflect or absorb cancer-causing UV rays may cause hormonal problems if they enter into the bloodstream, and some believe that this actually increases the risk of skin cancer. The dilemma becomes determining whether sunscreen protects against or encourages skin cancer.

Researchers at Yale University set out to address the problem chemical absorption and have created a sunblock that uses nano particles that are bio-adhesive. This means that rather than sink into your skin, sunblock remains on the surface of your skin. To make this possible, researchers at Yale developed nano particles with a surface that is rich in aldehyde groups. Aldehyde groups are what allow these nano particles to stick to the skin, not penetrate beneath it. Michael Girardi, co-author of this study, explained the motive for the research and the results stating, “commercial chemical sunblock is protective against the direct hazards of ultraviolet damage of DNA, but might not be against the indirect ones. In fact, the indirect damage was worse when we used the commercial sunblock.”

What are the Benefits of “Safer” Sunscreen?
If larger particles of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are used in sunblock, they do prevent the product from sinking into the skin. However, many people won’t use these sunblocks because they are a very opaque white color. With the new Yale sunblock, there are nano particles (which makes the sunscreen transparent) that merely stick to the skin’s surface as opposed to going deeper. Major benefits of this new sunblock are:

  1. Does not penetrate into the skin or enter the bloodstream
  2. Is waterproof
  3. Is transparent.

When you protect yourself from ultraviolet light, you maintain healthy, youthful skin. With this promising development from Yale University, you can wear your sunblock each day without worrying about any damage that the chemicals may do to your body. Add sunscreen to your daily routine and apply about 20 minutes before heading out the door. Use about one ounce (the size of a standard shot glass) of the product and if you are going to be in the sun constantly, reapply every two hours or after immersing yourself in water.

Woman eating an apple

Skin Benefits of Apples

You’ve heard it said that “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and when it comes to your dermatologist this may have some truth. Apples contain tons of flavonoids, a diverse group of plant pigments with antioxidant properties, in addition to polyphenols and vitamins C and E. Learn how to use this delectable fruit for beautiful skin below.

Acne Treatment
One of the most buzzed about uses for apples in skincare is their ability to fight acne. Apples are full of water which is important because balanced hydration is a key component to clear skin. Additionally, apples are a source of dietary fiber and aid in healthy digestion, which also plays a role in healthy skin. Apples also contain vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps your skin fight further damage from free radicals. Eating apples or drinking natural, pure apple juice can help provide these anti-acne benefits. You can also make your own face mask by mashing half of an apple, adding milk cream and letting the mixture sit on your skin for 15-20 minutes. Keep reading to learn how to use apples as a toner for clearer skin.

Hydrates the Skin
We already told you that apples have a high water content and they also have vitamin E, an ingredient that helps keep skin soft and hydrated. You can hydrate your skin with apples by eating them, or you can do another DIY facial treatment for maximum moisture benefits. Thinly slice half of an apple and place these slices on your face. Leave them on your face until the slices are dry (this is a great time to take a bath, grab a book or catch up on your favorite TV shows). Added bonus, this apple facial treatment adds hydration to your skin, and also balances the oils on your face.

Brightens the Complexion
If you want to achieve that goddess glow, apples are your friend thanks to their levels of collagen and elastin. These two ingredients are essential for skin that looks plump, young and radiant. An apple mask (see the one we mention above for skin hydration) can help provide a youthful glow, and simply incorporating this fruit into your diet helps to brighten and lighten your complexion as well.

Natural Toner
Apples help stimulate blood circulation and they help tighten your skin as well. To use apples as a toner, either use raw apple pulp or grab a high-quality, unfiltered bottle of apple cider vinegar. Look for bottles that specify that the apple cider vinegar is raw, unfiltered and that it “contains the mother.” Simply wet a cotton ball or cotton pad with the apple cider vinegar and sweep over your face and neck.

It is important to mention that no food is meant to be a cure-all for any condition, though there are certainly health and skin benefits contained within them. Keeping apples around your house encourages you to eat healthier and provides you with a staple for DIY facial treatments. When eating the apples, be sure to leave skins on because that is where much of the nutritional benefits are contained. Have fun enjoying this fall food that elevates your health while improving your skin.

Woman scratching her skin

Do You Have Rosacea and Not Realize?

You may have not heard the term rosacea, but you may have the condition. Rosacea frequently goes undiagnosed because it has symptoms that are so similar to other conditions, such as acne. Here, we present you with important information about rosacea and how to identify the most commonly experienced symptoms of rosacea. If you suspect you may have rosacea, seek attention from a doctor or dermatologist.

What is Rosacea?
According to the National Rosacea Society, Rosacea is a chronic disorder that usually occurs on the facial skin, often characterized by remissions and flare-ups. Many people have observed that the occurrence of rosacea any time after age 30 as a redness on the nose, cheeks, forehead or chin that might come and go. In some cases, rosacea might also occur on the chest, neck, ears or scalp.

Presently experts are still unsure of what exactly causes rosacea, but they know that it is a progressive condition. Over time, this redness tends to become more persistent. If left untreated, pimples and bumps tend to develop, and in severe cases the nose may become bumpy and swollen from excess tissue.

Who Gets Rosacea?
While rosacea can affect anyone, experts believe that those with fair skin that blushes or flushes easily are at the greatest risk for developing rosacea. Additionally, the disease is most most commonly diagnosed in women but the most severe cases tend to be in men. There is not a particular cause for men having more severe cases than women, but researchers believe it is simply because women seek medical attention for symptoms of rosacea far more quickly than men do.

Currently it is estimated that 16 million Americans suffer from rosacea and 95% of those 16 million were entirely unaware of the condition and the signs and symptoms prior to actually being diagnosed. Often people with rosacea will attribute the symptoms of a red face and bumps or pimples to an acne problem.

Symptoms of Rosacea
So much of what causes rosacea is unknown, which can make it difficult to correctly identify the condition. The symptoms of rosacea vary greatly between cases, but there are some frequent symptoms to look for:

  • Blushing or flushing
  • Constant redness
  • Bumps and pimples
  • Small but visible blood vessels

Other symptoms may include:

  • Eye irritation
  • Burning, stinging, itching or feeling that the skin is tight
  • Facial edema (swelling)
  • Raised red patches (known as plaques)
  • Thickened skin
  • Skin that appears dry near the center of the face

What to Do if Symptoms are Present
If you experience the above symptoms, there is a possibility that you are suffering from rosacea. There is no cure for rosacea but with a correct diagnosis and medical intervention, it is possible to treat and manage the condition. The first thing to do if you suspect you may have rosacea is to make an appointment with a doctor or dermatologist. This is an important step in the process because every case is vastly different meaning that treatment must be tailored to your specific problems.

Often, oral and topical medications are prescribed to get rosacea symptoms under control. Your doctor or dermatologist may prescribe both a topical medication and a short-term oral medication. This combination speeds the process of controlling rosacea symptoms. Typically once the rosacea is under control, use of the oral prescription ceases and topical medication is used long-term. In addition to medications for rosacea, lifestyle changes are also important. Sometimes rosacea can be triggered by irritants or environmental factors. Avoid rosacea triggers when possible. Additionally, proper skin care is important in the management of rosacea. Check with your doctor or dermatologist to be sure you are using gentle, yet effective products in your skin-care routine.

It is not uncommon for those with rosacea to be unaware that they have it. If you suspect that you may have rosacea, it is important that you seek medical attention. Rosacea is a progressive disease and left untreated it can significantly worsen and be permanently damaging. With proper diagnosis and treatment, rosacea can be well managed and treated.

Woman cleansing makeup

Washing Skin the Correct Way, Avoid These Mistakes

Washing your face is easy, right? A total no-brainer; splash some water on your face, rub cleanser in, rinse off and dry. Not exactly. While cleansing your skin doesn’t require thorough research or years of practice to master, there are some pretty common face washing mistakes that you might not even know you’re making. Cleansing is the most essential part of your skincare regime, because if you don’t properly wash your face, the products that you apply after cleansing can’t work properly. The following four simple tips help you avoid common mistakes, master washing your face and give you beautiful skin as a result.

Woman using a cleanser

Know Your Cleanser
The first step in washing your face begins far before you make it to the bathroom sink. Picking the right cleanser for your skin type goes a long way in helping you wash your face most effectively. The most popular formulas for facial cleansers are foaming cleansers, gel cleansers or cream cleansers. While it is impossible to say with 100% certainty which cleanser type is best for your skin, there are general guidelines. Oily and acne prone skin probably won’t do too well with cream cleansers, as they can be a bit heavy. Stick with gels or foaming cleansers if you struggle with breakouts. Dry skin works excellently with cream cleansers that clean the face without stripping essential moisture. Normal skin can pick from any of the options.

Once you have the correct cleanser, it is important to read the directions. Yes, it seems silly but different products have different methods of cleansing. For instance, if you use a gel or foaming cleanser, you want to apply it on a face that is already wet. The right face wash and following the directions do wonders for your skin.

Woman taking a shower.

Skip the Hot Water
Hot water may feel relaxing on your face as you wash, but it is a terrible way to care for your face. Washing with hot water causes your skin to lose necessary moisture. Hot water removes natural oils, can increase inflammation and rosacea and is overall too harsh on your skin. Stick with lukewarm water when you wash your face.

Woman cleansing her face with a wipe.

Lose the Wipes
Facial cleansing cloths are so convenient and require so little effort that it is incredibly tempting to use these as your primary means of cleansing. However, doing so is doing a disservice to your skin. While wipes are great for use after a gym session or to remove makeup, they do not clean deep down into your pores, leaving dead skin cells, sebum and other debris inside. Some facial cleansing wipes are ineffective at removing makeup, dirt and other pollutants from your day that they end up just moving them around your face. If you are a face wipe junkie, go ahead and use them but always follow with proper cleansing.

Woman wiping face with a towel.

Using a Dirty Towel
This one is kind of a pain, because nobody wants to do laundry constantly. Using the same towel that you do for your hands in your bathroom is a serious no-no because it contains bacteria, and when the towel presses against our face, bacteria is transferred negating your great cleansing. Likewise, using last night’s towel is a bad idea. If possible, purchase an inexpensive pack of towels or washcloths in a color that is entirely different than any other towels you have in your home. This way, even on nights when you’re so tired you are pretty much on autopilot, you will recognize immediately if you grab the wrong towel. It is somewhat inconvenient to use a new wash cloth every single time you wash your face, but your skin will definitely thank you.

Other things to consider when it comes to cleansing are avoiding over-washing (twice per day is plenty) and over or under-exfoliating your skin. Use gentle chemical exfoliants as opposed to harsh scrubs to exfoliate. Additionally, facial cleansing brushes are amazing, but using them every single time you wash your face can severely damage your skin. Aim to use your cleansing brush several times a week or only at night. Washing your face the right way is a cinch once you know what to do and the reward of healthy, radiant skin is well worth the extra effort.

Woman applying moisturizer.

How to Take Your Skin Care to the Next Level

Taking good care of your skin is important in all stages of life. Everyone wants a beautiful, radiant and clear complexion, but sometimes it can seem absolutely impossible to achieve. The first step in taking good care of your skin is a routine that includes washing, toning (if necessary), exfoliating, moisturizing and always applying your sunscreen. Next, remember that what you put into your body is just as important as what you put on your skin. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals will help improve your skin’s level of clarity and radiance. If you are looking to up your skin care game, and take it to the next level, we have some great ideas for doing so.

Dermatologist examining a woman's face.

Consult a Professional
You go to a doctor when you have other problems with your body, so why not when you are having skin issues? Your skin is the largest organ of your body and provides the first line of defense against damage. A dermatologist can assess your skin and provide you with products or treatments that target your specific areas of concern. It can be especially beneficial to see a dermatologist if you are concerned with sun damage, premature aging and acne.

If you have relatively clear skin and want to treat it to some extra TLC, make appointments for facials with an esthetician. These facials typically involve warmth to open your pores, a mask or other treatment and professional pimple extraction. Like a dermatologist, your esthetician can provide treatments and products that address what you are most worried about when it comes to your skin. An additional treatment that can be especially helpful for wrinkles and fine lines is a facial massage. A facial massage generally provides extra moisture and is a great way to pamper your skin while relaxing.

Take Supplements
You may already take supplements meant to improve your overall health and well-being, but have you considered looking into supplements for your skin? We have several suggestions for supplements that can help skin tremendously. Take your skin care to the next level by nourishing your skin from the inside out.

Resveratrol Capsules from Vine Vera.

Resveratrol Capsules
Our Resveralife Resveratrol capsules are formulated with ingredients that target and treat a wide array of skin care concerns. Our unique blend includes antioxidants such as resveratrol, green tea, pomegranate and acai. In addition, it contains enzymes to remove toxins and grape seed extract to help build healthy skin.

Vitamin B3 capsule

Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3 is particularly helpful if you struggle with acne. Forms of this vitamin include niacin and niacinamide. This vitamin supplement could be replaced by tweaking the diet to include more vitamin B3 rich foods such as eggs, green vegetables, meat and milk. Additionally, while you can certainly supplement your diet with this vitamin, preliminary research suggests that this is a skin care component that works most effectively when applied topically.

Salmon with green leafy vegetables.

Lifestyle Changes
In an ideal world, everyone would have the perfectly balanced nutritious diet and an active exercise regimen. However, we don’t live in a perfect world so we have to make do with the best we can. When it comes to skin care and your diet, be sure that you are eating a significant amount of fresh produce. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals that are absolutely essential to great skin such as vitamin B, C, A and E in addition to other antioxidants. To increase your intake of resveratrol through diet, add a glass of red wine to your evening.

Woman going for an evening walk

Exercise does not have to be going to the gym and doing an insane amount of work, it can be as simple as cleaning your house or going for a walk. You do need to be sure that you get moving and active at least three times a week, though many doctors recommend five days per week of moderate cardiovascular activity.

Taking great care of your skin pays off in so many ways. You will more confident about your appearance and more likely to get other areas of your body as healthy as your skin. Try adding some of the ideas to your skin care routine and watch the clarity and natral radiance of your skin improve

Woman sipping wine while taking a bath

Incorporating Resveratrol Into Your Skin Care Routine

Taking care of your skin not only yields a radiant complexion, it is also beneficial to your health overall. A good skin care routine not only includes actions such as washing, exfoliating and moisturizing, it also requires that you use high-quality ingredients. Certain ingredients benefit skin of all types and ages and one of these is antioxidants. Antioxidants are incredibly important in your skin care routine because they fight free radical damage and help minimize premature signs of aging.

Grapes growing in a vineyard.

Of all the antioxidants available in skin care products, one stands out above the rest as an anti-aging superstar:  resveratrol. Resveratrol is a chemical that naturally occurs in many forms of plant life to fight off would be attackers. This magic polyphenol is found in nuts, the skin of grapes, berries and red wine. Adding resveratrol to your diet does positively impact your health, and applying it topically can dramatically improve the appearance of your skin.

The skin has the ability to repair itself and does much of this work overnight. However, as you age, your skin’s ability to regenerate nightly decreases. Resveratrol, and other antioxidants, help your skin repair overnight. Resveratrol boosts the production of other beneficial antioxidants within your skin cells and can stimulate collagen production.

With all of the incredible benefits of incorporating resveratrol into your skin care routine, you would think all products would carry this ingredient. The one issue with resveratrol is that it previously would destabilize when exposed to air and light, making it a difficult addition to skin care formulas. However, scientists have worked hard to discover ways to stabilize resveratrol and it can now be found in many products.

Woman cleansing her skin

A good skin care routine begins with a clean face. A mild, gentle cleanser removes dirt and debris from the face without stripping your natural oils and moisture. Oily skin types may benefit from the use of a toner to help reduce excess oil. Exfoliation is an important skin care step that some feel unnecessary. However, exfoliation removes clogged dirt, oil and dead skin cells allowing for healthy regeneration and for skin care treatments to penetrate the skin more fully. In the evening, after proper exfoliation, applying a treatment product with resveratrol can help your skin repair damage.

Friends having wine in a restaurant.

When you add resveratrol to your diet it helps benefit your health and your skin. However, using resveratrol topically allows you to fully experience and appreciate all of the advantages resveratrol has for your skin. This powerful antioxidant yields healthier, more radiant skin for all ages.

Man applying anti-aging cream.

Common Guy Skin Issues and How to Fix Them

Because the composition of male skin is different than females, it also comes with a different set of common issues. Like females, guy skin issues can occur at any point during life and it’s best to be as prepared as possible and to take preventive measures when appropriate. Below, Resveralife discusses some of the most common guy skin issues and include how you can fix them to get the best skin possible.

Man getting his skin examined for skin cancer.

Skin Cancer
Starting off on a serious note, men are more likely to get skin cancer than women are. A 2013 study found that one in every 50 men suffer from melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer), while only one in 35 women will deal with melanoma. A possible contributing factor to the men being more prone to melanoma is that men, generally speaking, do not apply sunscreen as regularly as women leaving them unprotected against harmful UV rays.

In order to fix this skin issue, wear sunscreen every time you are going to expose yourself to sunlight (yes, even in the middle of winter). Experts recommend applying a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher about 20 minutes before you plan to be outside. You should use about a full ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your face and body. No matter how long-lasting a bottle says the protection is, reapply your sunscreen every two hours or after you immerse yourself in water.

Man examining his pimple in the mirror.

Excess Oil
Everyone is susceptible to oil production, but men have two times the amount of oil glands that women do. Not only do guys have double the number of oil glands, but they also produce five times more sebum (oil) than women do. Why do men make so much oil? The male hormone, androgen, is largely responsible for sending the signal to secrete sebum. This leads to oily skin and can be a major contributing factor in male acne.

Fixing this skin issue can be a bit tricky because acne affects people in different ways. First, finding a cleanser that has benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in it is a great way to begin the fight against acne and oil. Another important way to cure this problem is to remember to exfoliate regularly, two or three times a week. You can do this using  scrub designed to slough off skin cells or you can use a chemical exfoliant (that can be used daily) to clean out pores, remove dead skin cells and fight excess oil.

Business man with dandruff issues.

Flakes
Dandruff affects both men and women and occurs when yeast reacts to the excess oil produced by men’s oil glands. Often, dandruff manifests as itchy, flaky skin in white or slightly yellow colors. The areas affected by dandruff also tend to become red and in men, it is especially possible for the condition to spread to the face in areas such as between the eyebrows and around the nose.

The first line of defense in fixing this skin issue is to grab an over-the-counter dandruff shampoo with pyrithione zinc. If this does not work, try an apple cider vinegar treatment. Mix one part apple cider vinegar with two parts water and apply to hair. Let that sit for about 20 to 30 minutes then shampoo. If you are still struggling with flakes, head to the doctor and see what your options are.

Male skin definitely comes with a unique set of issues, but luckily they all have fixes. Take good care of your skin and use preventive measures, like sunscreen, to help avoid more serious skin issues later in life.

Man getting ready to groom himself.

Grooming Guide for Guys

Men have different standards and practices than women when it comes to personal grooming. It often requires a bit less time, a lot less product and is more of a maintaining personal appearance than working towards prevention of signs of aging. However, just because guys grooming is less involved than their women counterparts, that does not mean that it does not need to be done. Resveralife provides a complete grooming guide for guys.

Guy washing his face with water.

Face
Okay, so you probably aren’t interested in cleansing, toning, applying serums then eye creams then moisturizer, but there are a few things you can do to benefit your face. First, do make sure you exfoliate it about two to three times per week to help clear out your pores, reduce sebum and take away dead skin cells. You can use either a facial scrub designed to exfoliate or a chemical exfoliant such as Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Perfecting Liquid, which has salicylic acid to help gently exfoliate your skin daily.

Man applying a moisturizer.

Once your face is clean it is a good idea to add a bit of moisture back in. A bonus is if you use a moisturizer with a built-in SPF of 25 or higher. Look for moisturizers with vitamins A, C, E and resveratrol to help slow the signs of aging. And for men with a beard, investing in some beard oil to help soften and strengthen your facial hair is a great idea. Keep all facial hair neatly trimmed, including rogue eyebrow hairs and nose hairs.

Guy getting his back waxed in a salon.

Body
Body care for men is pretty much a functional issue. Keep yourself clean, prevent body odor and you’re good to go, right? Kind of. Of course you need to use soap of body wash to cleanse your body and a deodorant is definitely an important step in grooming. But there are other things you can add to your routine to take grooming a bit farther.

Chest hair is definitely becoming a more popular trend with celebrities sporting hairy, rather than waxed, chests. Still, if you have abnormally long chest hairs you can use your razor on a long setting to take down both the length and some of the volume.

While chest hair is pretty much the norm now, nobody likes back hair. This one you probably don’t want to attempt on your own. It sounds super “The 40 Year Old Virgin,” but waxing is what male grooming experts recommend. The back, as opposed to the chest, is far less sensitive to waxing and is one of the easiest areas for waxing. Before you go take a dose of Advil to help control inflammation and pain and afterwards do not apply any product to your back for about 24-48 hours to minimize irritation.

If your arm and shoulder hair bother you, you could go ahead and shave that as well, though waxing leaves the hairs that grow back a bit finer than when shaving.

The guys guide to grooming is undoubtedly shorter than one for ladies would be, but it is an important guide. Taking proper care of your body, and appearance, has a positive impact on your entire life.

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