My Beauty Space : Product Reviews, Tips and Experiences

A friend of mine who happens to be about one month away from giving birth to her first child - a baby girl, and I were shopping the other day at the mall, and she had wanted to find a product that she could rub into her belly and other parts of her body she felt might expand a little more during her pregnancy, to prevent stretchmarks from forming.  I had always heard that Shea Butter, which is a natural emollient, but tend to be fairly expensive in its pure form, was one of the best creams or lotions that you could use during pregnancy on your belly and thighs and other areas of the body to help prevent stretch marks from forming

Stretch marks come in different forms.  I, for example, have a few stretch marks just from growth spurts and weight gain and loss in my youth, on the sides of my thighs.  Those, on me, look like little white streaks across my skin, going vertically down toward my feet.  Some people may have stretch marks that are a purplish hue though, not everyone has white ones like me.  Basically, many times, stretch marks do appear as white, almost like their is an absence of melanin in that one area.

Stretch marks occur when we have sudden expansion of skin, such as in pregnancy, or when we have a large weight loss, following up a large weight gain.  Essentially, it’s the skin’s elasticity that makes us get stretch marks.  When we grow too fast for our skin’s elasticity to keep up, what we’re left with in those areas is what is called stretch marks, the absence of elasticity and the consequential hyper or hypo pigmentation in that area.

Using a highly emollient cream such as shea butter or cocoa butter has been known to help immensely to prevent and help “repair” stretch marks.  Also, a well known anti aging and wrinkle skin care cream that started off as a stretch  mark cream called Strivectin has been said to help many women get rid of stretch marks.  Whatever the choice is, it is important that the skin in these areas be adequately and constantly moisturized, as this is the biggest reason stretch marks appear - lack of elasticity and moisture. 

As I told you, I decided that I did want some very subtle lip plumping, just to try it out because I’ve always been curious about it, and so I decided to get that done after I found out that fillers would not be the best option for someone my age who is trying to get rid of minor crows feet and lines around the eyes, but Botox would be.  So, I had the doc do a little lip plumping on me with Juvederm, which is basically identical as I’m told to Restylane.  I was offered both products, but ultimately decided to go with the Juvederm personally. 

The experience was not bad at all, but I must tell you, I’ve had several oral surgeries this past year and a half, so I was used to getting shots in and around my mouth for pain numbing.  I was shot up with Lidocaine around my mouth area several times.  The worst part about that was the fact that you can actually feel the liquid go underneath your skin and it is a rather squeamish feeling, especially if you don’t like needles. 

At one point, I started to think about it a little too much, and just balled up my fist and took it like a woman, and from then on it wasn’t too bad.  I had to sit there for a little while as the numbing effects too hold, and I could barely talk.  I felt, as I had with the oral surgeries, that I could talk, but my mouth wouldn’t move.  It’s a bizarre feeling to say the least, and you definitely would want to do it some time when you have no where to go for the next few days because the likelihood of local bruising is fairly high and it is hard to cover up. 

The Juvederm costs $500 per syringe, and they can store the rest of the syringe for you for up to six months if they happen to not use the whole thing at once.  Yes, it’s not cheap, but if you want some more definition to your mouth or generally want larger more naturally plumped lips, it’s a good option. If you want a lot of plumping, be cautioned that you can very easily go through more than one syringe though.  I wanted only subtle plumping, so I did end up with some of the syringe leftover.  My results were very cool. 

It was kind of neat because my lips seemed to not only be fuller, but also they had more color and definition to them, so the need for lipstick and tinted glosses was minimized, which I liked.  I think I may have the top lip plumped a bit more next time, since I have to go back again in the next six months anyways and use the rest of the syringe. 

It did seem to go down a bit so far, and it’s about two weeks later now, but many times I guess patients do require a second treatment for desired results. It’s fun, I’ll say that!  It’s not for the squeamish or needle-shy, but if you can take a little prick here and there, you’ll be fine.  I feel my results are truly natural looking and a great natural looking way to plump the lips, especially since I’m not personally a fan of overly plumped lips. 

As I had said before, I recently had a consultation with a cosmetic dermatologist and esthetician about possibly receiving restylane injections into my crows feet as well as some other fine lines, and possibly to get some minor lip plumping, and was basically advised that Restylane and Juvederm, another cosmetic filler used on skin for wrinkles and plumping, is mostly for people who have deeper wrinkles, as mine have not progressed far enough to be injected or “filled” by an esthetic filler based in collagen (hyaluronic acid, which is actually a component of collagen, to be precise).

They both did say that mostly they can treat people in their forties or thirties with more advanced folds and wrinkles with Restylane or Juvederm, which is the exact same thing as Restylane.  The difference I was told is just that my particular physician preferred to work with Juvederm over Restylane because he felt he had more command over it, and also that it was smaller particles and he felt it gave a nicer finished look, in his opinion.  He still left it up to me though.

So, since they did not feel that I could be satisfactorily treated with Restylane or Juvederm, at least for the wrinkles I was targeting as well as preventive maintenance against future deep lines and wrinkles, what they did recommend was Botox.  I have to admit, Botox is not appealing to me, and I did tell them so, and that I would definitely have to think about that one before I agreed to be treated with it. 

I expressed my concerns about not being able to express myself if I had Botox injections, and they told me that the days of “frozen face” were over, and that mostly that was caused by people who overused it, or had too many things done to their face.  He said that now, they can actually better select the minimal muscles to relax, whereas before they may have relaxed too many before the process was perfected, resulting in the look of surprise, or no expression that I was concerned about. 

He really expressed confidence in the product.  I was advised the cost of Botox wrinkle and anti aging regimen and regular maintenance would be about $250-300 for my face, which amounted to what he called 25 units.  They call each tiny injection (which I guess is basically a very quick, minor prick) “units” and usually the units run around $12 per unit. 

I went to a cosmetic “medical spa” near where I live in the Akron area called Evo Medispa, which by the way, is a very pleasant experience, great people and a pleasant environment that is tranquil and pleasing to the eye.  I’m still on the fence about getting Botox, which I would probably have to get 3-4 times per year to keep the muscles relaxed, but I may still do it. 

I do know that I still will be doing occasional peels to prevent and reverse sun damage and even my skin tone, but I’m also interested in something that will really help prevent those deep wrinkles from forming, and Botox may be the best solution for someone my age, and for the goals I want to accomplish for my skin.   

UP NEXT : My full story of my experience at Evo Medispa with lip plumping with Juvaderm hyaluronic acid-based skin filler. 

Here’s my experience with a chemical peel and microdermabrasion combination treatment.  First of all, I’m not really sure about the effects of the chemical peel, since I was under the impression that my skin would actually flake off more, revealing newer skin with less discoloration and a fresher look, but I did not peel too much as I expected.  Upon reading further about the chemical peel, I was surprised to learn that you really do not start to actually “peel” until your second or third treatment.  So, I guess I would have to go back and get another treatment to see if it would really make my skin actually shed.

As far as how my skin looked after the combination treatment, it really did look great.  The day after, my skin had almost a shiny look to it, like it had been exfoliated and scrubbed clean, but it was not tight or dry feeling at all.  Of course, I piled on the moisturizer though and sunblock to make sure my skin did not get any sun exposure.  The esthetician who performed that combo treatment on me warned me several times that she’d pretty much kill me if I allowed my face to get any sun exposure for a week or so after the treatment, so I took it seriously!

The only part that I wasn’t sure about was that she was not as agressive with the microdermabrasion as I wanted her to be, and this was because she was combining it with a chemical peel, so that did make sense.  I could tell that the microderm machine was not turned up a whole lot, as I did not experience any discomfort during that part of the treatment. 

The chemical peel she did was a combination of acids, which I was told was lactic acid, salicylic, and glycolic.  When it was applied after the microdermabrasion, she told me that she wanted to rate the level of tingling, and when it reached a seven out of ten, she would stop applying the layers, which just felt to the touch like she was applying an astringent with cotton balls.  I did start to feel the tingling with each progressive layer, and she stopped after just two to be safe and make sure we didn’t over do it.

Over all, my treatment at Evo Medispa in the Akron Ohio area was a very pleasant experience, and I will most likely go back and get this combo treatment done again as a great anti aging and wrinkle skin care method as well as helping with my leftover acne scarring and some unnevennes in my skin.  I feel since the treatment that it has evened my skin out a bit, and also that it has given it a more supple look and softened the fine lines around my eyes a bit, so it was worth it. 

Which brings me to my next question….I wonder if you can buy similar peels online?  Hmm…….more to come!   

With the summer months and the possibility of excessive oils and perspiration to your face, you may want to use a different approach to your morning makeup routine.  There are a number of helpful hints to keep your makeup looking newer and fresher for longer in the hot weather.  One of the expectations you have from your cosmetics is that they will stay on in any climate.   The other expectation is that your makeup will enhance and flatter your appearance throughout the day.
 Before you apply your makeup in hot weather, use paper towels or professional face blotters (I believe there are several brands out that you can find in drugstores now, like Maybelline and even Cover Girl I think has some face blotters as well) to blot your face.  If your skin is oily or you have a lot of facial perspiration, don’t use a moisturizer under your foundation.  If you do apply a moisturizer, your foundation will not stay on. 

 When choosing a foundation, select one that is oil free.  A water based matte finish type of foundation will give you a natural even look without shine that should last throughout the day.  After applying your foundation, use a loose powder to keep your foundation makeup in place.  After the application of powder, apply your blush product. 
For the eye area makeup, try a waterproof mascara and, if you like eyeliner for a more dramatic look, select a waterproof eyeliner as well.  In hot weather, use mascara on top lashes only and don’t apply to bottom lashes as the chance of smudging is great.
 Throughout the day, travel with a pressed powder to reduce shine from oil and perspiration. Instead of using the applicator that comes with the powder, it is recommended to use sponge applicators.  This way, you can change the sponge applicators every few days so there is less chance of transmitting bacteria and oil back onto your powder compact.
 And, finally, if you’re going to be self tanning this summer, before you go out in that hot, sticky weather, make sure your self tanner has completely dried, and try to stay in air conditioning as long as possible while the self tanner “sets” as excessive sweating can ruin your self tan since it can make it streak and not take in the areas where you have perspired.  Of course, there are tons more tips I could probably share about hot weather and beauty, but that would take a lot of time!  If you have any to share, don’t hesitate to comment!  These few hints can help you look cooler and more attractive all day long even when the temperature climbs.

Another “guest article” written by my mom about sunscreen and why it’s truly the most important necessity in your vanity cupboard.  Sunscreens are an absolute necessity to use for all ages so we can go out and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air without worrying about sunburn and skin damage with premature aging resulting.  When purchasing a topical product for protection from the sun’s damaging rays, make sure to look for SPF protection on the label.  Some products are suntan lotions which will actually maximize the effects of the UV exposure rather than blocking the UV rays out. 
Other items of importance while reading the label on sunscreen products are protection from both UVA and UVB rays. 

This kind of sunscreen will protect your skin not only from sunburn, but also from the long term damaging effects of the sun such as premature aging.
For sunscreen to be the most effective, apply 15- 30 minutes prior to exposure to the sun.  After you have been in the sun for 15- 30 minutes, you should reapply.  If you either go swimming or perspire a lot, you should reapply your sunscreen.
 The SPF number rating on the label refers to the amount of protection offered by the product from the sun’s damaging rays.  The higher the number on the label, the greater protection factor it offers.  For example, a product with SPF 30 on the label would give more protection than one with SPF 15.
Many products used cosmetically as facial lotions and creams have SPF added to protect your face from the sun’s rays.  Look for cosmetic products with SPF added for more protection for your skin. 

Most products that add SPF to their moisturizers and anti-aging creams opt for the SPF 15.  While sunsceens help to prevent sunburn and are good to minimize premature aging, their role in preventing skin cancers are unclear.  It is still recommended to limit your time exposed to direct sunlight especially between the peak hours of 11:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M..   Wearing hats with a wide brim and protective clothing during sun exposure is also recommended.

I received this press release on a newer, all natural skin care company that is based out of Portland Oregon, which happens to be where my dad is living now, and it really  is beautiful out there.  Also, out in Oregon, there is a huge awareness of natural foods and healthcare, and almost anyone that lives in the area is conscious of their health and chooses to live a healthy lifestyle.  Organic food abounds and naturopathic medicine is the choice for most there…so I figured I’d post the press release for those of you that are interested in natural skin care and might want to take a look. 

Talulah Natural Skincare is a stand-out amongst the growing number of natural skin care companies. The unique difference is the implementation of the company’s mission to create a comprehensive line of pure, highly effective formulas with inherently healthy ingredients like organically grown botanicals, premium essential oils and vitamin rich plant extracts. Strong relationships with local farmers and businesses provide an abundance of artisan and premium ingredients. Harsh, synthetic and toxic materials simply do not make their way into the mix.

Each product is crafted by hand in small batches at Talulah’s Portland , OR kitchen before being bottled in healthful, easily recycled glass. Every step of the Production process is carefully managed to reduce waste and minimize environmental impact. Talulah Natural Skincare further gives back by donating 20% of their profits to various women’s charities every year.

Talulah Natural Skincare products can honestly boast:

100% Pure, Simple and Healthy Skincare
100% Vegetarian Formulas, (many are also vegan)
100% Organic Botanicals
100% Pure Plant Extracts
100% Cruelty-Free
100% Paraben and Phthalate Free
100% Non-Toxic and Gentle
100% Synthetic and Petroleum Free

Quality and integrity come first with Talulah Natural Skin Care both in the formulation of their products and in the development of their business. For more information, please visit www.talulahskincare.com or contact me with any further questions.

There is nothing as flattering to a person’s appearance as a clean, white smile with sparkling teeth shining through it.  Due to factors such as time itself, coffee drinking, and assorted vices like smoking, often teeth become darkened and discolored. Bleaching and whitening agents can be used to try to restore the white color, but sometimes these alone are not enough to get rid of unsightly discolorations.
 One solution to the discolorations or worn or misshapened teeth that mar your smile is the use of Cerinate Lumineers from your dentist.  Cerinate Lumineers are as thin as a contact lens and can be done without grinding or shaving your teeth prior to application. 

Despite being as thin as a contact lens, Lumineers by Cerinate are tough and strong.  Lumineers are made of a patented Cerinate porcelain and have been clinically tested to show they should last up to 20 years.  One of the biggest reasons people have been hesitant to get veneers for their teeth is the prospect of having their own teeth painfully ground down.
 Since there is no grinding down of your teeth, the process is reversible with Cerinate Lumineers. On the average, Lumineers can give you a custom made smile with two to three visits to the dentist.  For your first visit, the dentist makes an impression for fitting the Lumineers.  With the second visit, your dentist fits and bonds the Lumineers over your own teeth.
 For maintenance of your Lumineers, you should still do oral hygiene as usual, but use a low abrasion toothpaste.  With Lumineers, you may still eat or drink your favorite foods as usual, but make sure you visit your dentist every 6 months.  For longevity of Lumineers, you can ask your dentist about a 5 year warranty plan where they’ll be replaced at no charge if there would be a problem.

I said a few days ago how I was going to be doing a little experiment on doing your own body wraps “on the cheap” in your own home using simple medical Ace bandages which can purchased dirt cheap online and in stores, and a high quality cellulite treatment cream in combination.  The theory behind this is that the compression, combined with the herbal ingredients that actually tone and firm skin, will help to smooth out the lumps and bumps on the rear end, thighs and tummy, even if only temporarily. 

Well, the reason I got this idea was because I recently went and had a thermal or infrared body wrap, by a company called Formostar, that I believe is based in Germany.  Well, to clear that up, they are the  manufacturers of the product I was treated with, but I actually went and got it done in a tanning salon called Northcoast Tanning, which I highly recommend - great service, great pricing, and quality, in nearby Stow Ohio, where I live. 

I was surprised to see that this was one of the only locations in all of Ohio that offered this seemingly effective weight loss and body sculpting treatment, but to be honest I only found out about it by stumbling upon it while searching for my sister online to find a location around me that she could get a body wrap done while she was in town from California.  I was glad I did stumble on it, because when I did a little more research online about the Formostar wrap system, I found that the logic behind it made sense. 

Although the treatments are admittedly pricey, if it works, it could be a great jump start for anyone looking to lose inches or loose cellulite and regain smoothness.  The therapy I am having actually involves the infrared body wraps and an endermologie-like system called GX-99 that uses massaging heads to then get the cellulite smoothed out. 

Supposedly, in combination, these two work great to smooth out your rear end and thighs, the typical problem areas that women have and always hate to look at in the mirror - yep even “skinny girls” get it too!  I have yet to have the GX-99 performed, but will be able to once I’ve completed two of the Infrared wraps.  Let me tell you, if you do not like heat, sweating, and saunas, this is not for you. 

The whole idea is to heat the outermost layers of fat on the body to a temperature where the tissue is detoxified, and you will SWEAT like you’ve never sweated before.  I must say, that although I didn’t find the actual treatment to be pleasant (well, the first twenty minutes of the fifty minute treatment are fine, but the last 30 or so are rough because you really are hot), I felt very refreshed, and somehow invigorated afterwards.  I wasn’t drained from the heat and sweating like I thought I would be.  I do feel that it has improved my skin texture after just one treatment, and I feel “detoxed” as well. 

Supposedly, you start to see results sometimes after just two thermal wraps, but we have yet to tell that.  I will keep you posted on the whole experience of course, and then I will also keep you posted on my other cellulite treatment experiment that I’ll be doing on myself at home in the next month or so.