Think, Feel and Look Beautiful. Ageless Beauty Inside Out

Posts tagged “Skin Fitness

How Celebrity’s keep their Skin Looking Young and Healthy

Many of the world’s hottest female celebrities are over forty years old and their skin still looks young and radiant. Take for example Jennifer Lopez, Heather Graham, Jennifer Aniston, or Halle Berry. None of these women are still in their twenties, although based on their skin they look as if they could pass for it.

How do they do it?

Beautiful HalleI have followed many popular celebrities to learn the tricks they use and the beauty routines they use to achieve such impressive results. They take exceptional care of their skin, because they know how crucial it is to their success as actresses. Fortunately, anyone can follow the same regimen and get the same results.

The Beauty Routine Celebrity’s Use to keep their Skin Looking Healthy:

They Never Leave Home without Sunscreen

Skin damage from sunlight will accumulate with continued exposure, whether or not a person is actually sunburnt. In addition to sunburns and deadly skin cancer, other effects of too much UV Ray exposure include wrinkling, premature aging, and a somewhat leathery appearance to the skin. Celebrities cannot risk their skin looking old before its time, so they never leave home without sunscreen. They apply moisturizers with built in sunscreen daily, add on extra sunscreen when they know they will be outside for longer periods of time, and always wear sunglasses that have UV protective lenses.

Many celebrities even go one step further and wear sunscreen when they are inside, since UVA rays have a powerful way of finding you through windows and reflections off of shiny surfaces. Your skin can never be too protected, so there is no harm in wearing an oil-free sunscreen all day long.

Celebrities Love to Exfoliate

Celebrities like Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Felicity Huffman, and Kate Walsh are all committed to their monthly facials. Exfoliation removes dead skin-cells and rejuvenates new cells. It also brings more oxygen to the skin’s surface which inspires collagen production. Stripping away the old skin is a natural and effective way to keep your skin looking and feeling young.

Celebrities Value Constant Cleansing

Heavy makeup used in the movies or on television can quickly clog pores and make skin look older than it should. Most beautiful actresses make sure that they thoroughly cleanse their skin at night and remove all traces of makeup. A good facial cleanse will make your skin look young and fresh.

Ample sunscreen, regular exfoliation, and daily cleansing are really all it takes to stay young and beautiful like your favorite celebrities!


How Your Facial Shape Affects Aging

how face shape agesCan the shape of you face really determine how well you will age?

I have always emphasized the importance of nutrition, physical activity, moisturizers, and regular exfoliation when it comes to preventing premature aging of your skin. Unfortunately, there are also some factors in the aging process that you simply won’t have any control over.

Genetics, skin-tone, and even the shape of your face will all play an important role in how you will physically age. Certain people are blessed with attributes that will naturally keep them looking younger longer.

A Full Face Will Maintain Its Youthful Appearance

The first attribute that you hopefully have is a round or heart-shaped face. You probably won’t appreciate the shape of your face while you are young since it will look fuller (fatter), but it won’t always be that way. The fact that a long, thin face looks skinnier means it is also more prone to fat loss which is not a good thing when it comes to aging. Facial skin that has a greater number of fat cells will maintain a youthful appearance longer.

A Baby Face Can Hide Your Age

Although the model industry might favor chiselled features and a more angular shape, scientists have proven that having a baby face when you are young will help you look younger longer. A baby face is characterized by round cheeks, large round eyes, a small jaw, and a large curved forehead. These attributes create an angelic childlike appearance that will convince people someone is considerably younger than their true age.

High Cheekbones Can Keep You Looking Young

High cheekbones are popular in high fashion, and when it comes to appearing younger. The upside-down triangle that they create counteracts the natural drooping of your face. Having high cheekbones supporting your face will naturally reduce the amount of sagging, so you appear younger.

Unfortunately, some of us were born with long, skinny faces with low cheekbones and angular features. This doesn’t mean that we are doomed to age quickly. If you take proper care of your skin by eating right, exercising, moisturizing, exfoliating and regular facial treatments, you will look younger longer regardless of the shape of your face.


Beauty Tips of The Week: How to Achieve that Springtime Glow Inside & Out

Spring Glow with exfoliationSpring is the season of rebirth and rejuvenation. It is a time for spring cleaning everywhere, which should include your skin and pores. You can start this spring with a healthy glow inside and out by shedding your old skin using a nutrient-rich homemade exfoliating scrub. Exfoliation will gently remove the old skin while breathing life into new and more radiant skin.

Give Your Skin a Sugar Scrub

Exfoliating your skin is refreshing for the mind and body, plus it goes a long way toward improving the appearance and health of your skin cells. A sugar scrub is especially effective because it is gentle enough that it won’t scratch or burn your skin. It is a great choice for sensitive skin, but everyone should use it because unprocessed sugar contains natural glycolic acid that will give you a more nourishing exfoliation and improve the circulation in your skin.

Antioxidant Sugar Scrub

There are so many different types of antioxidant-rich sugar scrub recipes that you can create on your own at home. The most basic method is to combine a cup of sugar with half a cup of olive oil. Mix these two household staples together and you will have a sweet and effective way to rejuvenate your skin.

For a full-body dose of antioxidants, try adding a tablespoon or two of green tea into the mix. Green tea can heal, strengthen, and brighten your skin naturally. It is also an excellent way to nourish your body on the inside. If you do not have green tea, you can stir in a touch of honey for more moisture.

Oatmeal Exfoliating Scrub

Ground oatmeal is a wonderful and effective base for an exfoliator, because it will absorb and remove impurities while leaving your skin feeling nourished and hydrated. It also has been known to soothe and heal sunburn, dry skin, and acne. It is also ideal for people with sensitive skin, as it won’t scratch or burn. Mix a tablespoon of oatmeal and a teaspoon of olive oil with 1/4 teaspoon of salt. The salt will enhance the oatmeal’s exfoliating properties.

Morning Antioxidant-Rich Raw Juices

Another way to cleanse your skin and bring out its natural glow is a morning ritual of antioxidant-rich raw juices. Natural fruit and vegetable juices contain a significant amount of vitamins and antioxidants that will cleanse your body of preservatives, toxins, and other chemicals that seep into your skin due to the pollution in our environment. Drinking the juice of dark berries like acai berries, black currants, blackberries, and blueberries or the juice of dark vegetables like beetroot and broccoli are all great for naturally giving your skin that springtime glow.


Beauty Tips of The Week: Cleansing Your Skin from the Inside

exerciseEighty percent of how your skin looks on the outside will depend on how healthy your skin is on the inside. The outer skin acts like a filter that absorbs nutrients and expels toxins. If it is not getting enough nutrients or it is ingesting too many toxins, it will throw it off balance and cause blockages in the natural flow.  Clogged skin cells will result in dry, wrinkled and lack luster skin.

By detoxifying and cleansing your skin from the inside, you can remove these toxins and breathe life back into your skin. An effective skin detox will improve your digestion and nutrition absorption, enhance your immunity, give you an increase in energy, all while clearing your skin cells of harmful toxins.

Here are some powerful tips for cleansing your skin from the inside: 

Drink Plenty of Water!

Water is essential for detoxifying. It not only delivers nutrients to our cells and keeps our kidneys functioning well, but it also aids in eliminating wastes and toxins. To maintain healthy skin, you need to drink at least six glasses of water every day.

Dry Skin Brushing

The skin is the body’s largest organ used for eliminating toxins and waste. Dry skin cells accumulate on the outer layers of the skin and when you use mineral-oil based moisturizers or wear tight-fitting clothing, it can cause these pores to clog.  Dry skin brushing is used to remove the outer layers, allowing the pores to breathe and detoxify more effectively. Brush your body (except your chest and face) for about 10 minutes in a circular motion when your skin is completely dry. Do not scrub so hard that you skin turns red. Follow your dry skin brushing with a cool or lukewarm shower or bath. Do not use hot water, since it will dry out your skin.

Eat Plenty of Fruit

Antioxidants help protect the skin from environmental damage, as well as premature aging. Make sure a variety of antioxidant-rich fruits are a daily part of your detox. Some great choices are blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, cherries, pears, pomegranates and plums.

Sweat Out the Toxins

Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. Any type of exercise that will make you sweat will work. The idea is to increase your blood circulation, relax your muscles and most importantly, get rid of excess toxins through sweating. You can also detoxify by sweating it out in a sauna.

You can cleanse and detox your skin by drinking plenty of water, dry brushing your skin, eating fruits rich in antioxidants, and sweating out the toxins. When your body is clean and clear on the inside, it will reflect in your skin.


It’s never too late to Care for your Face

I recently attended an event and a woman approached me. She had heard about my Skin Fitness Facials and was interested in having something done for her skin. She had such a beautiful face but I could tell right away that her skin was neglected. When I was speaking with her, I originally believed her to be in her early 50s, but later found out that she was only in her late 30s. She told me that she had never dealt with acne issues and always had beautiful skin. Then, one day when looking in the mirror, she noticed she looked about 10 years older. As she examined her skin she noticed crow’s feet on the side of her eyes, droopy cheeks, lines around her lips and on her neck. She told me that she eats well, drinks lots of water and exercises, but has some indulgences and bad habits like tanning during the summer.  When I asked her what she was using for her skin, she said whatever products she had easy access to, from beauty store samples to drug store buys. She felt that because she already had beautiful skin, the products didn’t really matter, just as long as she was using something. In terms of facials, she received them once or twice a year for special occasions like birthdays and vacations.

This woman’s story is pretty typical of what I hear from new Skin Fitness clients. The bottom line is that most women don’t put the time or effort toward the skin maintenance that they should when they are younger. Therefore, when aging starts to take its toll, its effects are worse than if skincare due diligence was performed in earlier years. But is it ever too late for your skin? And can you reverse the aging process? The answer is that it’s never too late.

Skin care is like any other aspect of your life – take exercise for example – you get what you give. The more you put into your time at the gym training your body, the better benefits you reap. Skincare is the same in this regard because the better you train your skin, the better it will look.

For women who are just now noticing premature aging on their faces, I have created a special 3 month Intensive Face and Neck Program. The program includes:natural face

  • Weekly facial and neck treatments to help Correct, Repair, Rejuvenate and Restore tired, stressed, damaged and overly aged skin.
  • A 28- day beauty calendar for at-home and skin care products. This booklet will help to guide you on your skincare recovery plan, with quick tricks, expert tips and advice on how to get your skincare routine back on track.

The Intensive Face and Neck Program would make a great start if you want a fresher, more radiant looking you.


Beauty Tips of The Week: How to Tighten a Sagging Neck

sagging neckI am often asked if there are any real solutions for sagging skin on your neck. It is an unattractive nuisance that just emphasises the fact that you are getting old. Fortunately, there are some proven methods for tightening up that droopy, wrinkled skin that seems to hang down from your chin.

Women (and occasionally men) who are frustrated and fed-up with the excess sagging neck skin can turn to surgical options like a neck lift or Tumescent liposuction to trim down that troublesome sign of aging. A neck lift requires a small incision to pull the muscles up and secure them to the bone around ear. Tumescent liposuction is done by removing fat from the neck, cheek, and chin to firmer up its overall shape and contour.

Give your neck some TLC

Don’t worry these invasive surgeries are not the only answer to the sagging skin on your neck. Serums, moisturizers or neck firming creams that contain Retinol, Collagen, Peptides, Vitamin C, E, Seaweed, Aloe Vera and Mineral Rich ingredients are ideal. Look for anti-aging products that are specifically formulate for tightening sagging skin. Moisture-rich facial masks are also beneficial for aging skin.

One great, all-natural face mask for sagging necks is a mixture of Milk, Honey, Green Tea powder, Egg whites and Aloe Vera. Take two tablespoons of Milk and add a few drops of Honey, Egg whites, one tablespoons of Aloe Vera and half tablespoons of Green Tea powder. Just leave it on the skin on your neck and face for 15 to 20 minutes before washing it off. A facial mask made with a mushed banana should also work just as well.

Exercise Your Neck into Better Shape

The neck is made of many complex muscles and tendons that are linked to your jaw and facial muscles. These neck muscles can be tightened and toned using several easy at-home exercises. Believe it or not, sticking your tongue out and saying “ahhhh” is one of them. This silly exercise will actually firm up the skin directly beneath your chin. Forming an O shape with your mouth and using your tongue to trace your lips will also have the same positive effect.

You can lie on the floor and grab your neck with both hands (one on each side) and then lift your head off the floor using your neck muscles. If done properly, you will feel the contraction of your muscles in your hands.

Another good skin toning exercise for your neck is shoulder shrugs. Shoulder shrugs are easy to do and will quickly firm and tighten your neck muscles. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and raise your shoulders up towards your ears using your shoulder and neck muscles. How simple is that?

Sagging skin on your neck can be stubborn and hard to fix, but don’t lose hope. If you use quality moisturizes daily, use firming facial masks weekly, and then do these simple exercises whenever you can squeeze them in, I promise the skin on your neck will respond. You can quickly and naturally restore its former elasticity by following this proven regime.


LED Light Therapy to Rejuvenate Your Skin

LED Light Therapy for Skin RejuvenationThere are so many different products and techniques available for skin rejuvenation and it is hard to know which methods can be truly trusted. I personally recommend LED Light Therapy, since it is the most effective and non-invasive skin rejuvenation system available today. Light emitting diode technology has been used in the medical industry for decades for reparative eye surgeries and other delicate operations.Recently the same technology has been proven to reduce wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite, and acne scars without any dangerous side effects.

LED Light Therapy turns back the Clock

All it takes is a few simple treatments and it will make your skin look and feel younger. Even after the very first LED skin treatment, patients will notice a significant decrease in the lines in their skin. They will have fewer signs of aging, improved moisture, a more balanced skin tone, and an overall healthier glow.

How LED Light Therapy Works

LEDs produce lights at different frequencies which can penetrate more deeply than traditional laser therapy while causing less physical damage to your skin. The LED light stimulates skin cells, causing them to produce collagen and elastin. The combination of those two skin rejuvenating superpowers will make your skin’s texture feel and look healthier.

LED Light Therapy will also increase circulation in your skin which will reduce inflammation and redness. For the treatment of acne scars or other flaws in your skin, the increase in collagen production will soften and reduce the amount of scar tissue at the damage site.

LED Light Therapy Treatments

Prior to each treatment, the skin will be thoroughly cleansed to completely remove all makeup, dirt, and oil. The patient will lie under the light panels for approximately twenty minutes while the light therapy works its magic. The lights emitted are warm and relaxing, so many people tend to fall asleep during treatment. Since it is a completely safe and non-invasive treatment, there is absolutely no recovery time necessary.

The number of treatments will vary depending on your current skin issues and the results you want to achieve. Some patients may only require a few treatments and others that suffer from more extensive skin trauma or chronic conditions that affect deeper layers of tissue may require a more long-term program. I will always work with each person to develop a treatment regime that is catered to their specific skincare needs.

Add this therapy as part of your facial treatment and your skin will look like you just had 8 hours beauty sleep.


It’s All about The Eyes

Healthy younger looking eyes

Lately, I have been receiving a lot of questions about how to make the eyes look younger, as well as how to correct dark circles, puffy eyes, droopy eyelids, crow’s feet, and fat under the eyes. As far as treatment goes, Radio Frequency and Dermapen therapy can both significantly help with tightening and strengthening the skin around the eyes.

Radio Frequency Therapy

Radio frequency therapy involves the use of electrical pulses for the reduction of wrinkles without damaging the skin. It is a method that transports heat energy to areas of the skin in order to inspire fresh collagen growth.  Radio frequencies offer women who want younger eyes essentially a facelift without surgery.

The skin is gently warmed with a blast of radio frequency waves encouraging collagen to rise to the surface of the skin. This strengthens the skin and reduces dark circles under the eyes. There is no skin incision in the process, so the recovery time is relatively short. It also will not burn the skin like invasive laser therapy.

Dermapen Therapy

Wrinkling around the eyes is caused by habitual facial expressions, smoking, sun damage, aging, and poor hydration. Dermapen also helps to slowly minimize fine lines and restore collagen in the skin around the eyes. It effectively stimulates new skin by micro-needling the surface with the Dermapen’s vertical stamping method. This precise stimulation can be done quite quickly and the recovery time is minimal.

Radio frequency and Dermapen are both safe and effective treatments for tired eyes, but there are natural home-based solutions that can also help keeps your eyes looking young. Here are five simple tips to naturally brighten your eyes and maintain their youthful appearance.

1.  Get the Right Nutrition & Hydration

Your eyes respond to the nutrients you consume and the amount of hydration you receive, the same way the rest of your body does.  Water, Vitamins A and C, and Zinc are all necessary to eye health and eye appearance.

2. Tea Bags will Wake Up Your Tired Eyes

Tea bags are a great at-home beauty remedy to perk up puffy or tired eyes. The caffeine helps to shrink the underlying blood vessels and draws out some of the liquid that causes the swelling. Place the tea bags in hot water for a minute and then into ice water for a few seconds before applying them over your eyes.

3. Cleanse Your Face Nightly

Thoroughly removing all of your makeup every night is necessary for your eyes and eyelashes. This will keep the skin around your eyes feeling clean and refreshed.

4.  Apply Eye Cream at Night

Take care of the sensitive skin around your eyes by applying eye cream every night. Nourishing your skin with eye cream will keep that delicate skin healthy and soft, while making your eyes look brighter and younger.

5.  Enjoy your Beauty Sleep

Sleep is essential for young and vibrant eyes. Try to aim for eight hours every night and if you still wake up with puffiness around the eyes, try using a cold compress to bring down the swelling.

6. Choose the right ingredients 

Choose products that contains these ingredients: Peptides, Eyeliss, Haloxyl, Vitamin A/Retinol, Vitamin C, Collagen, Stem Cell, Green tea, Cucumber, Arnica, Honey, Rose Hips.


Beauty Tips Of The Week – Six super ways to avoid acne breakouts!

There is no doubt that having acne is frustrating! It seems like the more you try to prevent it, the more new pimples appear the next day.  It is hard to stop impurities from clogging your pores when they are in the very air that surrounds us.  That is why it is necessary to do whatever you can to keep the oil and dirt from coming in contact with your face or other areas on your body that are susceptible to acne.

Here are the six super ways to avoid acne!facial breakouts

1)      Cleanse your face and neck at least twice a day to prevent environmental toxins from settling into your pores.

2)      A healthy diet and regular exercise are both necessary for keeping your skin looking its best. Green tea, tomatoes, and berries are rich in antioxidants that will benefit your skin.

3)      Choose high quality makeup that is oil free and use it sparingly.  Heavy makeup will clog your pores and make it easier for new acne to develop.

4)      Try not to touch your face. You would be surprised at how much bacteria is on your hands, even if you are constantly washing them. Our skin is naturally oily, so even clean hands can still spread acne to your face.

5)      Clean your cellphone often or don’t put it up to your face.  There are countless germs that will linger on your cellphone that you do not want to transfer to your face.

6)      If you suffer from acne, it is not a good idea to use an oil based sunscreen. Covering your skin in an oily substance will clog your pores and cause further breakouts.

You can break the cycle of acne by following these six simple steps and taking better care of your skin. Your skin is the outer shell that signifies your internal health. By investing a little time and energy into caring for your skin, it will have a beautiful healthy glow instead of bunch of stubborn pimples.


Rejuvenate Your Skin with Dermapen® Therapy

I am always looking for the latest and greatest trends in skincare and recently I have been following closely the incredible progress of Dermapen® dermapenawardtherapy. This powerful and effective new technology safely resurfaces your skin and promotes self-rejuvenation. It is quickly replacing more drastic non-laser techniques like punch grafting, subcision, and CROSS technique due to the superior results it provides.

The Dermapen provides the same (if not better) results without using a manual rolling micro-needling device. Dermapen uses a flexible spring-loaded trigger with stamping technology that rapidly pierces the skin at ninety-degrees. Dermapen should only be performed by a trained physician who can specify and control the depth of penetration.

Stimulates Healthy Tissue Growth

Dermapen therapy involves smooth and precise micro wounds to the skin that will stimulate
DermapenbeforeandafterDermapentherapyhealthy growth of new tissue without the heat damage caused by traditional lasers. Patients who have tried both techniques experienced less pain and a shorter recovery time using Dermapen. When it is used for generalized resurfacing of your face, future applications of skincare products like anti-ageing serums will be better absorbed into the skin.

Targets Tough to Reach Areas

I would highly recommend using the Dermapen for targeting very small sections that cannot be accurately targeted using larger devices. Thanks to its more ergonomic design, it can be used to easily reach difficult areas like the sides of the nose, the area surrounding the eyes, the lower and upper lip, as well as heavily scarred tissue and fine lines. The Dermapen can also be used to target your entire face for complete rejuvenation.

Used to Treat Many Common Issues

Although Dermapen is normally used to treat acne scars and fine lines, there are many possibilities using this new technological advancement. The Dermapen can reduce stretch marks, remedy pigmentation issues, and it can even be used to treat Alopecia (hair-loss) by stimulate and rejuvenating hair follicles.

New uses for this technology are constantly being discovered. The Dermapen creates tiny holes in the skin tissue that will encourage the development of new blood vessels and restore the skin tissue that has been treated. The micro needling process will also inspire your body to manufacture elastin and collagen which are necessary for smoother skin.

I was the first in NYC to offer Dermapen and I have seen incredible results adding this therapy into my Skin Fitness Level 4. The demand is high among those who need skin correction, repairing, and skin rejuvenation, as well as post skin trauma recovery. I encourage everyone to try this therapy to see how it can improve their current skin concerns and for prevention of pre-mature aging.

I will usually recommend a series of Dermapen treatments that will vary based on each individual’s personal concerns. Any treatment I perform will always begin with a thorough skincare consultation to determine the best course of action, as well as a detail explanation of the entire process. I want my all of my clients to be as comfortable with the treatment process as I am.


Beauty Tips Of The Week – Superior Skincare Using Simple Solutions

Achieving beautiful and flawless skin does not need to be expensive or time-consuming. There are simple solutions in your home right now that can have a powerful impact on the look and feel of your skin. This article will give you the simplest solutions available for some of the most common and complex skincare issues.avocado

Hydrate Your Skin with Avocado

You can apply a nourishing avocado face mask a couple times per week to prevent dry skin. Avocados are high in vitamin C and E which are both essential nutrients for your skin. They are also a good source of essential fatty acids which will soften the texture of your skin. Making an avocado face mask at home is as simple as mashing a ripe avocado and leaving it on your face for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also mash a banana into the mix for additional nutrients.

Soothe Tired Eyes with Food

Most people have heard of placing cucumbers over your eyes to reduce puffiness (which works), but there are other ways to reduce the tired look in your eyes if you don’t have a cucumber handy. You can dip a cotton ball in milk or lavender oil and place it over your eyelids. Chilled teabags or strawberries can also be placed over your eyes to rejuvenate them.

Sticky and Sweet Cure for Chapped Lips

Honey is a powerful moisturizer and due to its amazing healing and anti-bacterial properties, it will effectively treat chapped lips. All you need to do is apply a little pure honey directly onto lips and allow it to work its magic. This will speed up the healing process by helping to retain the moisture in your lips. You can also apply a paste of honey and glycerin on your lips before you go to bed to prevent cracking.

Clean Pores by Adding a Little Spice to Your Life

It may sound a little odd, but a parsley compress and a thyme cleanser are both effective methods for unclogging your pores. For the parsley compress, pour 8 oz. of boiling water into a dish with a handful of fresh parsley. Allow it to cool down and then apply it to the troubled areas on your skin using a cloth. Fresh parsley is a natural astringent that unclogs pores and removes excess oil from skin.

You can create a thyme cleanser by combining 3 to 4 tablespoons of dried thyme with one and a half cups of hot water. Let it sit for around 30 minutes, filter it and then keep the liquid in a glass bottle inside of your fridge. You can unclog your pores simple by washing your face twice a day with this simple mixture.

Clean Oily Skin with a Citrus Tonicgrapefruit

Oranges, lemons, tangerines, and grapefruits can all clean oily skin without using any harsh chemicals. Start with an all-natural lotion or moisturizer base and add a few drops of any of these citrus fruits (or a combination of these fruits). This citrus remedy is best applied in the evening to prevent oil from absorbing into your skin as you sleep.

Next time you go to the market or make out your grocery list, make sure to include a few edible items that can help improve your skin, as well as your diet. If you already have these items in your house right now, why not test them out? They are the easiest and least expensive skincare methods available, so they are certainly worth a try.


Skin Care Beauty Tip of the Week

Rejuvenate Your Skin with Exfoliationface manual exfoliation

Exfoliating your skin on a regular basis will help refine your complexion, tighten your pores, and prevent acne, while making your skin look radiant and smooth. It literally strips away dead cells and breathes life into new, healthier skin cells.

There are two types of common exfoliators:

There are chemical or acid-based products that are applied and left directly on the skin to dissolve the dry cells. These usually include ingredients like Glycolic Acid, AHAs and BHA, or natural enzymes like pumpkin, pineapple, and papaya.

The other type is a physical exfoliator, which will include a little extra effort on your part (unless you ask a professional to do it for you). These exfoliators include various types of facial brushes, beads, scrubs, and sponges. Using a combination of both chemical and physical exfoliators will have the greatest impact on the health of your skin.

For most skin types, this would involve a mild alcohol-free Glycolic Acid Serum or AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) applied underneath your moisturizer. This will give you an intensive exfoliation without being too harsh on your skin. You should combine this exfoliation regimen with a mild facial scrub once or twice a week to remove any dissolved skin cells.

If you have sensitive skin, it is better to use exfoliators that contain enzymes instead of acids, since these tend to be gentler on delicate skin. If you have severely sun damaged skin, you are better off choosing stem cell therapy to truly rejuvenate your skin. Stem cell therapy is a proven skincare method for giving your skin back its youthful glow.

Choosing the Right Product for Exfoliationageless_system___4e417e72c6d08

Have you ever walked into the skincare aisle at a drugstore and felt completely overwhelmed because of all the skincare choices?

Choosing the right skincare product can be challenging, especially if you are not sure about what you need. Look for exfoliators with enzymes that are designed to naturally loosen and remove aging cells, oil, and debris. A quality exfoliator will give you smoother and softer skin by decreasing fine lines, reducing pore size, and balancing pigmentation. One exfoliator that I am confident will do all of the above is our Correct Lotion.

Give your skin back the life it deserves with exfoliation!


How to turn dry skin into smooth, supple skin

Dry, itchy skin is uncomfortable and unattractive; fortunately it is also unnecessary and it can be prevented with proper care. Whether your dry skin is caused by harsh winter conditions or over exposure to the sun, there are simple ways you can reverse the effects and restore your skins’ natural texture.

A few quick tips on how to turn dry skin into smooth, supple skin:

1. Moisturize, moisturize, and then moisturize again. Use a moisturizer with sunscreen during the day and a nighttime moisturizer that you can wear overnight.

2. Only cleanse your skin once per day. If your skin is particularly dry, cut back on your usually cleansing routine and avoid harsh chemicals or soaps that may further dry out your skin.

3. Use a humidifier in your home. The forced air that is used to cool your house in the summer and heat it in the winter will dry out your skin. Running a humidifier will combat this by keeping moisture in the air.

4. Take omega and collagen supplements. These will help lubricate the skin on the inside, making it soft and luxurious on the outside.

5. Exfoliate on regular basis to remove dry surface skin. This will make it easier for your moisturizer to absorb into your skin,

6. Stay hydrated inside and out. Make sure that you are drinking plenty of water and try an hydrating mask once a week

7. Don’t take long showers or baths. A long hot bath can quickly dry out your skin, so limit your bathing to 10 to minutes at the most. Avoid bubble baths completely, since they will further dry out your skin.

8. Use sunscreen regardless of weather. Sunscreen protects your skin and slows down the aging process. It can also help to moisturize your skin and renew its smooth texture.


Should you add a serum to your skin care routine?

Women with radiant and flawless skin are not usually born that way. Most women with beautiful skin have a morning and evening routine designed to keep it that way. They exfoliate, they cleanse, and they moisturize every day. Some women even take their skin care to the next level by using a serum.

What’s All In It

A serum contains concentrated amounts of highly active anti-aging ingredients. They are formulated to address specific skin concerns such as wrinkles, firming, age s

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ate deeper into your skin. Serums deliver vitamins, retinol and antioxidants to the skin to make it look and feel younger.

pots and discolorations. Serums usually address needs that are not covered by most moisturizers. The structure of the molecules inside a serum is smaller than those inside of a moisturizer, allowing the serum to penetr

How To Use

Always apply a serum to freshly cleansed skin. The idea is to allow the serum to soak into your skin before you apply your moisturizer. After cleansing your face, pat your skin with a towel, and while your skin is still moist, gently apply a few drops of the serum. It is better to apply the serum directly onto your skin rather than mixing a few drops into your moisturizer. It is the direct application of the concentrated serum on your skin that will give you the best results.

There are a variety of serums available and choosing one will depend on what you need. Some are for day use, others for evenings, and some are formulated to target specific skin concerns, such as wrinkles, uneven texture, or hyperpigmentation. There are serums designed to work on your skin at night when your epidermis is in repair mode. These serums may not be recommended for daytime use, if they contain ingredients that make your skin more sensitive to sun exposure. Always read the label to be sure.

If you want your skin to have that luxurious glow and smooth texture, try adding a serum to your daily routine. It may just be that missing ingredient that brings out the very best in your skin.


The Oscar’s Highlighting Real Beauty!

oscars beauty

Did you watch the Oscars?

If you did, you may have noticed that many of the celebrity’s faces looked more natural than previous years. The women looked real instead of having fake puffy lip, tight Botox skin and an overwhelming amount of heavy makeup. Hollywood’s elite is now choosing to show off their natural beauty. They are embracing their age and using real solutions to keep their skin looking fabulous.

What is their secret?

Celebrities are getting their red carpet skin ready using tightening facials, oxygen therapy, and skin resurfacing to reveal glowing and radiant skin. They also rely on a proven skincare regime designed to improve skin condition and prevent aging. One thing they will never forget before the big night is to get their regular facials. It is a necessary part of their lifestyle, just like going to the gym.

Many of your favorite stars are also taking advantage of the green beauty detox diet. The green green dietbeauty detox is based on eating ample amounts of nutrient-rich vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds. Instead of getting your protein from chemical altered meat, the green beauty detox gives your skin the protein it needs from organically grown, all-natural sources.

Plant food sources have more antioxidants, minerals and vitamins than animal sources. Plant proteins, cholesterol and fats are also healthier than those found in animals, especially if the plants were grown in organic soil. On the green beauty detox diet it is best to eat smaller amounts of plant protein throughout the day. This will help increase your energy level and allow you to maintain it all day long. Make sure to eat a little plant protein, like rice, tofu, soy milk, nuts and seeds with every meal.

Another skin secret of the stars is natural cell reviving treatments. Dead cells can build up on your face, causing your skin to lose its healthy glow. Makeup and heavy moisturizers will only make the problem worse. Exfoliating and using a light moisturizer is essential, especially during the dry winter months. Celebrities are performing five simple steps to natural revitalize their skin cells and the evidence of its success was obvious on Oscar night.

What can you do to have Red Carpet glow?

Follow these five simple steps:

The first step is to remove your makeup using an oil-based makeup remover before cleansing. Do not use harsh soaps, since they will further dry out your skin. The next step is to exfoliate a few times per week to remove dead skin. The third step is to tone your skin with a gentle astringent after cleansing to remove the excess oils and prepare your skin for moisturizer. The fourth step is to moisturize your skin with a light, oil-free moisturizer that contains sunscreen. The fifth and final step is to nourish your skin by taking vitamins C and E supplements. Sexy skin can be as simple as those five steps.

Another big trend in Hollywood is using natural skincare solutions. Simple all natural products can give your skin that youthful glow that radiated on the red carpet Sunday night. For example, papain which is found in papayas and pineapples can gently remove dead skin cells, decongest clogged pores and help improve skin texture and cell rejuvenation. You can blend some fresh papaya and use it as a mask, or grind some papaya enzyme tablets into your moisturizer to turn it into a hydrating, exfoliating mask. Olive oil is also a great cleanser and moisturizer, plus it helps remove makeup and soften scabs caused by acne. Many celebrities have also discovered that washing your face with chilled green tea is a great way to reduce redness and skin irritation.

Aging gracefully is not easy, especially when the years you have lived are obvious in your face and skin. By trying a green detox for your skin, using a natural cell reviving regimen, or adding all natural beauty products to your routine, you can bring out the best in your skin even if you don’t have the financial means of your favorite celebrities.


Skincare Myths Debunked

skincare-benefitThere’s a lot of buzz surrounding new beauty treatments, must-have products and new regiments that promise to make you look your best. Amid all the hype are the facts that you need to know about some of the biggest skincare myths today.

Here’s the skinny on common beauty misconceptions:
Myth: The best way to clean facial skin is give is to give it a good scrub.
Fact: Facial skin is much more sensitive than the rest of your body. While infrequent (once/weekly) gentle exfoliating can help to clean pores, you should never scrub your skin, for danger of irritating it. In fact, scrubbing skin can actually remove beneficial oils.

Myth: Soap and water is a tried and true way to wash your face.
Fact: According to the American Academy of Dermatology, using a sweet smelling soap or hand soap may actually be bad for your skin. Most deodorant body soaps are designed specifically for the body – not the face. Choose a face cleanser that is designed specifically for your skin type – oily, dry or combination.

Myth: You don’t need to apply sunscreen if you’re wearing make-up.
Fact: Whether it’s bright and sunny or overcast and bleak outside, you still need to protect skin equally. While some foundations have built-in SPF, the amount you’d have to apply for them to be as effective as lotion with SPF is mind-boggling. Unless you’re going to layer on 15 coats of SPF foundation, apply protective lotion instead.

Myth: Toner is good for your skin.
Unless a dermatologist or aesthetician has actually recommended a toner for your skin type, this product can strip skin of its natural oils. Steer clear of toner unless you have very oily skin and have been directed by a professional to use one.
Have a question about a beauty myth you’ve heard or read? Contact me to find out what’s fact and what’s fiction.


A Vitamin C Boost for Skin

Each and every day, skin is evitcserumxposed to harmful pollutants and dangerous UV rays. Even when it’s overcast or cloudy, skin is still at risk. These environmental factors take their toll on skin, advancing the signs of aging and diminishing collagen levels. There is however, a natural and safe solution for helping to slow the signs of premature aging while protecting skin from the elements.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and essential nutrient that is beneficial for the body’s immune system, as well as a strong contributor to beautiful, radiant looking skin. Unfortunately, many people fail to get enough Vitamin C in their day-to-day routine, which results in a dull and dry appearance.

Fortunately our lab has created a serum that includes multiple forms of Vitamin C, which are artfully combined and proven to be far more effective than simply taking just one supplement. My new antioxidant Vitamin C serum is packed with three derivatives that work alongside each other to produce unbelievable results.

The powerful ingredients offer the following benefits:

  • Magnesium Ascorbate Phosphate is a known antioxidant that helps to fight free radicals, maintain cellular longevity and stimulate the growth of collagen.
  • Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate helps to protect the skin, impact collagen growth, and improve skin’s appearance by killing off problematic bacteria.
  • Ascorbyl Glucoside provides a range of benefits, by working with an enzyme in the skin called   α –glucosidase, which helps to brighten skin by suppressing Melanin synthesis and reducing the amount of existing Melanin.

This combination of Vitamin C is designed to protect against the adverse exposure to the elements and inevitable toxins that your skin encounters on a daily basis.

To find out more information on my new Vitamin C serum, which will be available exclusively to my VIP clients first, contact me today at Julie@jlskinfitness.com.


How to Care for your Skin During and Post Pregnancy

Pregnancy Skin TipsPregnancy is a special time that results in many changes in the body, including a spike in hormones, which can greatly affect the tone and appearance of skin. Many women wonder what they should do differently during pregnancy in order to keep their skin vibrant and healthy. And while it’s true that smart skincare practices like drinking plenty of water, using sunscreen and moisturizing can provide some benefits, there are a number of extra things that are suggested pre and post pregnancy to keep skin looking its best. Here are a few of my top tips:

Pay attention to your body – It’s not uncommon for women to develop dark skin patches during pregnancy, but the sooner they are treated, the better. Consult with a licensed aesthetician who can provide safe product recommendations, and remember to wear sunscreen, as it helps to treat and prevent melasma (dark spots). Also, avoid products containing soy, which can actually worsen dark spots.

Remember to moisturize – During pregnancy, skin can become very dry, so it’s important to keep it hydrated. Drink 8-10 glasses of water each day, eat water based foods such as fruits, and try a humidifier, if needed. Also, in order to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, moisturize the belly and legs daily with a natural lotion, especially one containing Shea or cocoa butter and Vitamin E. Massage into skin after bathing for maximum absorption.

Relax – While pregnancy can at times, be very uncomfortable, the more you take care of yourself, the better you’ll look and feel. Weekly facials can help to open pores, remove toxins and improve overall skin tone.

Take your vitamins – Prenatal vitamins, especially those rich in iron, calcium and folic acid are beneficial for preventing birth defects, ensuing healthy fetal development and keeping mommies-to-be looking and feeling their best.

I have created a treatment specifically made for mom-to-be and post-baby skin. To find out more details or to book a “babymoon” beauty treatment, please email me or visit my website.


Beauty Treatments: Quick fixes vs. Long-Term Results

face treatmentIn this day and age, speed is everything. Society is continually looking for faster ways to consume information, eat, shop, and even get beauty treatments. But faster isn’t always better – especially when it comes to taking care of your most valuable commodity, your skin.

Quick filler cosmetic treatments like Botox ®, Juvederm ® and Restylane ® provide immediate topical results, but they aren’t long-term solutions or a real fix for deeper skin damage and pre-mature aging. Skin doesn’t become any cleaner, healthier or renewed. In addition, some patients experience bruising, redness or even permanent skin damage from the chemicals or treatment process. But they do it all in the name of a fast beauty fix.

For sustainable results, the only real solutions are tried and true methods that include effective products and diligent practices during daily life. The Skin Fitness treatment model isn’t about a Band-Aid fix for deeper skin issues. Instead, it’s about addressing the core skin issues, by correcting, repairing, rejuvenating and preserving skin that is tired, stressed, aged or damaged.

Skin Fitness is a holistic approach that yields better results that reach far beyond the skin’s surface. The program includes a 4-step skincare process for facial skin renewal, a Glowing Skin diet that invigorates the skin as well as the body, and Skin Fitness facial workouts that help to sustain facial muscles and tone over time. Together, with other healthy lifestyles habits, like a diet rich in raw foods and a dedicated time to meditate and de-stress, Skin Fitness makes it possible to take years off of your face and actually maintain the results.

Sure, Skin Fitness takes time. But it’s not so much about setting aside the time – it’s about prioritizing and realizing that your skin is one of your most valuable assets. Taking care of skin now will make it easier and less timely down the road.


New RF Face and Body Tightening Treatment Launches January, 2013

cleanfaceWhile many people choose to go under the knife for surgical beauty treatments, recent advances in science and modern medicine have it made it possible to yield the same or similar results from non-invasive alternatives. One such option is the use of radio frequency (RF) to melt away fat and tighten the skin on the face and body.

Using the latest ultrasonic cavitation RF technology, you can now get the beauty results you’ve always dreamed of without the cost, pain or recovery time of plastic surgery.

Because I always want to bring my clients the best and most effective beauty innovations, I’m now offering several RF procedures.

About Ultrasonic Cavitation Radio Frequency

Ultrasonic Cavitation uses low energy and high frequency ultrasound waves to safely and painlessly find and destroy fat cells, which are located deep under the skin’s surface. The technology means that each layer of skin is targeted and treated differently with the optimal current for maximum results in a minimal amount of time.

Beauty Benefits

Radio frequency treatments can provide the following:

  • Increased tissue metabolism
  • Prevention of cellulite
  • Tightening of skin
  • Increased skin elasticity
  • Dissolution of fat
  • Body shaping of abdomen, legs, arms and buttocks
  • Non-surgical Face lift
  • Removal of acne, scars and stretch marks
  • Long-lasting results with little to no downtime

To find out more information about how affordable and easy these new treatments are, visit my website or to schedule an appointment, contact me today at Julie@jlskinfitness.com.

RF treatments are safe for most patients, but clients are advised to consult a doctor before proceeding with any new treatment programs.


Skin Care: Luxury Treat or Lifestyle Habit?

Skin Care at homeEveryone likes to look and feel good, but all too often taking care of other priorities can get in the way of taking care of ourselves. The days seem to fill up quickly and have us running from one task to another – tending to family responsibilities, children and pets, as well as work obligations and household chores. So where does taking care of ourselves fit into the mix? Many times “me time” gets pushed aside and workouts, skin care, relaxation and mediation moments are few and far between. But the truth of the matter is, the better care we take of ourselves today, the better we’ll feel, and the more we’ll have to give of ourselves to those around us.

Our skin is one of the most valuable assets we have, which is why protecting it is so important. The benefits of personal skin care are twofold: Treating skin well can help to keep it looking years younger, while also providing a feeling of beauty and a confidence boost from the inside out.

Establishing a daily skin care regimen is the first step toward better skin care. This doesn’t necessarily have to be a lengthy process, but instead can be just a couple minutes in the morning and a couple minutes at night where you correct, repair, rejuvenate and preserve your skin. Just as a window needs cleaning to remove dirt, residue and build-up, so does your skin. The environmental factors that we are exposed to everyday – pollution, smoke and steam, wind, sun, hot and cold temperatures, etc. all contribute to build-up on the skin’s surface. By taking just a few minutes each day to establish a healthy skin care routine, we can reap invaluable benefits for a lifetime.

Get started with a simple 28-approach to jump start your skin revival today. Contact me to find out more details on how easy it is to get started.


Skin Fitness MD Menu Featured in Glow Magazine Fall/Winter 2012

Recently, the Skin FGlowmagazineitness MD menu was featured in a spread in Glow magazine, a publication about beauty, health and wellness. The editorial highlighted the collaboration between the respected board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jon Turk and Medical Esthetician Emilia K as part of the newest Skin Fitness line extension. Here’s a quick re-cap with some of the highlights from the article.

As you know, the Skin Fitness program is based on the philosophy of correcting, repairing, rejuvenating and preserving tired, stressed and prematurely aged skin. The MD program combines the highly effective professional facial skin treatments procedures, with an at-home product line and glowing skin diet, for optimal and sustainable results.

All MD levels include the Skin Fitness Signature Facial, plus medical cosmetic treatment for comprehensive rejuvenation and are available exclusively at Dr. Jon Turk’s NYC offices.

Skin Fitness Signature Facial – Dermal Infusion Therapy

This 60-minute signature facial covers the four basic phases that the program is based on: correcting, repairing, rejuvenating and preserving skin. During this treatment, dermal Infusion therapy is used, in the form of the Dermapen, a skin resurfacing device with a variety of options that help to boost collagen production, smooth facial wrinkles and reduce pore size. This state of the art facial skin rejuvenation system can greatly improve the appearance of skin, and provide reduction of fine lines and skin tightening and lifting, all without the downtime or pain of laser or under-the-knife procedures.

Skin Fitness MD Menu

Level I

  • Includes the use Dermapen dermal infusion therapy, plus a single treatment facial filler session for an instant lift and glow.

Level II

  • Includes Selphyl® System as part of the Dermal infusion therapy, to stimulate collagen growth, improve microcirculation, reduce deep lines, lesson the appearance of scarring and help repair sun damaged skin.

Level III

  • Includes the use of Dermapen plus the FDA approved non-invasive RF device Exilis to tighten, smooth and polish skin’s surface, providing similar effects (but without any downtime) to laser therapy.

Level IV

  •  “The Works” includes a customized 8-week plan using elements from all levels to address aging issues of the past while mitigating aging effects in the future, for maximum facial rejuvenation without surgery.

To find out more information about the Skin Fitness MD program, visit my website at www.jlskinfitness.com or contact me today at julie@jlskinfitness.com.


Winter Radiance Cleanse Now Available!

True beauty radiates from within. It’s a positive feeling, a mindset, a set of emotions that project energy from the inside out, not only affecting our state-of-mind but also important aspects of our physical well-being. Negative emotions on the other hand can trigger all sorts of adverse physical changes, from lack of energy and a weakened immune system to premature aging and weight gain. That’s why it’s so important to take care of ourselves emotionally, as it affects so much aspects of our lifestyle.

Sometimes, the stresses, bad habits and pollutants from day-to-day life can take their toll, causing harmful toxins to build up in the body, thus delaying inner beauty from finding its way to the surface. However, periodic internal cleansing can help to detox the body, restore balance, and provide a new outlook on life.

The winter radiance cleanse is the answer for getting rid of that sluggish feeling and experiencing rejuvenation and renewal. It’s just the thing for bringing the body out of hibernation and jump starting a healthier and happier you this holiday season.

What is the Winter Radiance Cleanse?

While I have always offered a seasonal cleanse as part of the Ageless Beauty Program, the Winter Radiance Cleanse was co-created with holistic health and lifestyle consultant, board certified practitioner and nutritionist Meredith Geller.

The all-natural cleanse is a 3 or 7 day program that includes a healthful menu, recipes and a special supercharged herbal pack, as well as pre and post cleanse support sessions with Meredith.

Benefits of the Winter Radiance CleanseWinter Radiance7 Cleanse

The cleanse helps to promote true beauty from the inside out, enhancing vitality and healing the body of harmful toxins.

The Cleanse:

  • Removes build-up as a result of eating the wrong foods.
  • Improves digestion and gives the body time to recharge.
  • Floods the body with beneficial minerals and enzymes.

Prepping

Before each cleanse, program participants are encouraged to start a pre-cleanse 5 days out. During this time, certain foods and drinks are eliminated in order to prepare the body for the week ahead.

Getting Started 

The Cleanse can be performed as either a 3 or 7 day regimen, depending on your goals and lifestyle needs

The Winter Radiance Cleanse includes:

  • Menu and recipes
  • 15-minute pre and post assessment with Meredith Geller, plus unlimited email support
  • Herbal pack
    • 3-day pack: herbal teas + Natural Calm + bath salts
    • 7-day pack: herbal teas + Natural Calm + bath salts + MSM powder/Tocotrienols for smoothies
  • Skin Fitness Radiance Facial & Infra Red Body Wrap with Julie Lindh on the last day of (3-day) cleanse
  • Choice of RF Body Tightening Therapy or Skin Fitness Radiance Facial & Infra Red Body Wrap with Julie Lindh on the last day of (7-day) cleanse
  • Tips for a successful cleanse and instructions on how to stop the cleanse3phase glowing skin diet

Sample Menu

  • Breakfast: Green radiance juice
  • Snack: Green glow smoothie
  • Lunch: Enzyme-rich salad
  • Afternoon: Herbal tea
  • Dinner: Greens and steams

The Winter Radiance Cleanse is just one part of a healthy lifestyle and feeling beautiful from the inside out. It is recommended that the Cleanse be supplemented with infrared sauna treatment to improve blood circulation and burn calories, as/or a Radiance Facial with herbs, enzymes and clay to detoxify pores and skin.

The Winter Radiance Cleansing program is now available. Don’t wait until the New Year to celebrate a new more radiant self. If you are ready to make the transformation and enjoy a more energized holiday season, contact me today at Julie@jlskinfitness.com.


How to Fight Raccoon Eyes this winter

This time of year brings many fun things, but raccoon eyes aren’t one of them. Dark, puffy eyes and tired dry skin seems to be more prominent in the winter. This can be due to a number of factors, such as stress, lack of sleep, overconsumption of caffeine, too many cocktails or even just seasonal allergies.

But don’t fear! Here are some simple tips to help reduce the appearance of unsightly raccoon eyes and keep you looking fresh and rested over the holidays:

Protect your eyes – Even though it’s winter, sun damage is still a factor. Remember to wear a moisturizer with sunscreen and protect eyes with sunglasses when out and about; this is especially important if you’re planning on taking a winter vacation. If you do find yourself overexposed to the elements, try a cold compress such as chilled spoons or an eye mask to reduce swelling and bring blood vessels back to their normal size.

Take your vitamins – Aside from many health benefits, certain vitamins contain elements that are can keep you looking youthful. Vitamin K, which is found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, broccoli and kale helps to reduce inflammation. Vitamin A, which is found in pumpkin, apricot and mango, contains antioxidants that fight aging skin, while Vitamin C increases collagen levels. Iron also plays an important role in helping to reduce under eye circles and improve overall health. Having a hard time getting your vitamins? It’s a good idea to work vitamin and antioxidant eye creams into your routine for added coverage.

Get some R & R – The holidays can surely be stressful, so it’s important to remember to take time out for some much needed rest. You can help to put your body in a relaxed state by doing things like aromatherapy with scented candles such as Jasmine, Lavender or Vanilla. If you’re having a hard time falling asleep, try the old favorite of a cup of warm milk, or a cup of chamomile tea, which is a natural anti-inflammatory.

If you’ve tried to get rid of dark under eye circles, and aren’t having any luck, contact me for an appointment or product recommendation.


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