Get your video recorders ready and make your own 1-3 minute video because beauty guru Bobbi Brown wants to hear from you – “How does using Bobbi Brown Cosmetics make you feel pretty powerful?”

Check here for more info on the Pretty Powerful Contest.

Three Grand Prize winners will win a trip to New York City to participate in a Master Class with Bobbi Brown.

Tips and Considerations for Laser Hair Removal (iStockphoto)

As a medical aesthetician, I frequently perform laser hair removal treatments.  I wanted to share some of my insights with all of you.

Over the course of several treatments, the process of “laser hair removal” will effectively diminish hair growth in a specified treatment area.  So – YES, it does work.  The reduction of hair is gradual and cumulative with each treatment.  Probably the most important consideration regarding this procedure – because of the fact that there are so many millions of follicles that can potentially grow hair on one’s body – it’s not realistic to expect every single follicle in a treatment area will permanently be disabled from producing hair.  This means there can be no promises or guarantees that “all hair is gone forever”. Perhaps the process would be more accurately termed “laser hair reduction”.

Selective photothermolysis is the primary principle at work in the treatment of removing unwanted body/facial hair utilizing optical energy/lasers.  Briefly – a laser beam at a specific wavelength is applied to the desired treatment area.  The optical energy is absorbed by the melanin in the hair shaft and converted to thermal/heat energy.  This heat travels down the hair shaft and dissipates in the follicle.  For effective treatment to occur, the hair must be in the actively growing anagen stage (the root and bulb of the hair is attached at the base of the follicle during this phase).  By traveling to the root of the hair/base of the follicle this heat destroys the anatomical structure of the hair follicle but does not destroy the tissue surrounding the hair follicle.

With that simple overview in mind, here are some additional essential considerations:

• Due to the nature of selective photothermolysis, optical energy (at ideal wavelengths for hair removal) is basically converted to thermal energy when the presence of pigment/melanin is detected.  Therefore, ideal candidates for laser hair reduction have darker hair and lighter skin. In some cases, various lasers can treat individuals with darker, more pigmented skins (like Candela’s GentleYAG) or lighter hair (blonde, gray, or white).  However, it is important to note that the BEST results are observed with the greater contrast of darker hair on lighter skin.
• As briefly mentioned earlier, the hair must be in the actively growing anagen stage to be effectively treated. All the hair in a specific treatment area is at various stages within the hair growth cycle – either anagen (actively growing phase – hair bulb attached at root of follicle), catagen (transitional phase – hair bulb has detached from the root), or telogen (resting phase – no bulb is present and hair is shed).  Because the hair is attached with a bulb at the root of the follicle in only anagen stage – that is the only time the thermal energy is able to reach the root of the hair and the base of the follicle.  Growth cycles vary between areas of the body as well.  This means that treament for for long term hair reduction requires multiple sessions at various intervals in one area in order to achieve the desired clearance of hair.  The average number of sessions required to effectively clear hair in a desired area is approximately 6-8. The number of treatments required can vary from one individual to another.  Sessions are on average spaced at 4-6 week intervals. The time between treatments can also vary based on the individuals response or the specific area of the body being treated.  In the final few treatments, when very little untreated hair remains – sessions may be placed even further apart – as much as 16 weeks.
• The treatment area should be shaved prior to treatment. When hair is not shaved prior to treatment, the laser is passed over the treatment area and hair is typically singed at the surface (creating that unappealing burnt hair smell).  This typically generates more heat at the surface of the skin – which can also create more discomfort.  More importantly, the thermal energy is often absorbed by the hair above the surface of the skin – rather than traveling all the way to the root of the root of the hair at the base of the follicle.  This can cause the treatment to be less effective.  Patients may even shave the day of the treatment.  Please consult with your specific technician regarding their preferred protocol.  In some areas, technicians may want to see the hair first and mark the area they will be working in before shaving then treating the area.
• Avoid tanning – especially in the treatment area. We all know that UV exposure ages our skin, but tanning also produces more melanin/pigment in the skin.  This diminishes the contrast between hair and skin.  This also increases the thermal energy/heat absorbed by the skin – which can increase the level of discomfort and the risk of burn.  Some laser hair reduction providers may have to turn you away (until you “lighten up”) if you have too much sun exposure.
• Hair does not immediately disappear after treatment.  It takes approximately 2 weeks for hair to be shed from the follicle post treatment. Stubble will appear in the days following laser treatment – the hair is being pushed to the surface.  Do not wax or tweeze these hairs – allow them to shed naturally.
• DO NOT wax or tweeze the treatment area prior to treatment or during the course of treatment. Again, consult with your specific provider – they will give you a detailed explanation of dos and don’ts.  Waxing and tweezing remove hair by the root – this prevents effective treatment.  As weird as it may sound, that means shaving only during the course of your treatment…and that includes areas like the lip and chin for women.  I know, I know – I hear many moans, groans, questions and concerns when I tell a female patient she can only shave or nothing between treatments.  We’ve all heard the myth that shaving makes the hair grow back thicker and darker, but it’s simply not true.  Because shaving leaves the root intact and cuts hair off mid shaft – when stubble appears it is thicker/darker than the finer/lighter tip of a hair.  This can give us the impression that hair is indeed thicker and darker – but it really is not and the growth of hair is unaffected.
• The body can convert inactive or dormant follicles to grow hair later in life as a result of many factors: hormone imbalance, pregnancy, menopause, disease, medication, obesity, etc. Most individuals and areas respond in a predictable fashion to the laser hair process.  However, in some areas hair growth may be more hormonally driven.  A common example of this is the chin for women.  Laser treatments can effectively treat hair follicles in this area – however, the treatments are not affecting the underlying issue causing the growth – the hormones.  Hormones will continue to recruit dormant follicles to produce hair in some stubborn areas.  Areas where hair is growing due to hormone levels may not respond as well or may require an additional number of treatment sessions than other areas.  Also, when patients present conditions such as hirsutism (excessive and increased hair growth in females) or hypertrichosis (hair growth amount that is considered abnormal) the response to laser hair reduction is less predictable and may require more treatments.
• Does it hurt? This is really hard question to answer – as the answer varies widely.  Everyone’s pain tolerance is different.  Some patients feel nothing at all, but some find the process bearable but quite uncomfortable.  I have experienced a full range of pain tolerances while delivering the exact same treatment protocols.  Most patients receiving laser hair removal say the sensation feels like a rubber band snap, a pinch, or a little flash of heat.  In addition to the variance in individuals pain tolerance – no two individuals hair growth is exactly the same.  When hair growth is more dense or more than one hair grows from a follicle in a particular area, more sensation can usually be felt.  Generally, the more pigment/melanin present by way of hair or skin in a given area – the more thermal heat will be generated.  The more thermal heat – the increased chance for discomfort.  Some providers recommend or utilize numbing sprays/creams for individuals that find them helpful during treatment.  As for my personal experience and opinion, I find the treatment way more comfortable than waxing and infinitely more rewarding.
• Please know that effectiveness can vary based on the skill of the technician and/or the equipment being used. Hopefully, these tips will give you a lot of the information you need to have successful treatments.  My personal experience has led me to determine that my preferred equipment (as both a patient and a technician) for laser hair reduction is created by Candela (either a Candela GentleLASE, GentleYAG, or GentleMAX).  I feel their equipment is specifically designed for the purpose of hair reduction, offers premium results, and I feel it offers great comfort during treatment.  That being said there are many other manufacturers and types of lasers that offer satisfactory results with regards to hair reduction.  (Please see this article for more technical info on lasers and effective wavelengths for hair reduction.  Also, please reference this useful chart that compares various laser, the technology/wavelength used, and their relative effectiveness for hair reduction.)  Generally speaking, Alexandrite, Nd:YAG, or Diode laser technologies work best for hair reduction.  When becoming a patient for laser hair reduction, please speak with your provider regarding the type of laser they use – do your research to evaluate if the equipment being used offers optimum results for you.  Also, various equipment calls for different treatment protocols.  With some equipment the area is covered with a thin layer of gel but not with others.  Also, it’s my recommendation that IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) does not provide a satisfactory result for permanent hair reduction.  IPL operates at multiple wavelengths and is not as effective as equipment operating at one single wavelength.

Please feel free to leave comments with additional concerns or questions.  You may also email me directly (see my email address in the EMAIL tab of the main control center box located in the upper right hand of the page).

It’s that time of year again…

Honestly, it doesn’t usually get that cold in my parts of Texas…so we get off pretty easy here. However, we do have a couple of cold fronts that take our temperatures down below freezing…and we even got some snow in unusual places this December!

Skin can really take a beating in these winter conditions…and my favorite coping cream for the hands is Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve.  This hand cream is rich with avocado and sesame oil – so it’s rich but not at all greasy.  It also forms a protective barrier against harsh conditions while soothing and hydrating chapped hands.

I can’t remember when exactly it was…but at some point in all my internet surfing I stumbled upon esthetician extraordinaire Renée Rouleau.  I started follwing her on twitter and then became a fan on facebook.  I must confess I love reading her tweets, updates, and blog posts filled with great skin care advice.  She clearly knows her stuff!!

I was recently visiting some family (over the holidays) in the Dallas area, and made an appointment for a facial at the Plano Renée Rouleau Skin Care Spa location.  Here’s a copy of the review I posted on yelp.com –

Dallas Divas, are you falling down on the job?!?

Why are there no reviews for this fabulous skin care clinic in Plano?  Renée Rouleau is (after all) listed as the best facials in Dallas by InStyle Magazine (Oct 09).

I found Renée earlier this year on twitter, and was transfixed by her down to earth beauty advice and glowing esthetics resume (including a list of notable celebrity clientele).  I’ve been scheming to make a trip to Dallas for a facial ever since…I finally got my wish today.

Highlight of the visit – Renée called to personally chat with me before I was ushered back for my blissful treatment.  She is extremely responsive with her facebook and twitter accounts – and she took the initiative to call for me after we’d exchanged a view brief messages.  She was SO gracious and genuine!

The spa is clean, cozy, and nicely appointed.  The staff is extremely welcoming and sociable.  (Clearly people here like what they do and who they work for!)  There was nary a trace of the Dallas snob factor I recall from when I once lived in the big D.

My esthetician was professional, friendly, easy to talk to, and knowledgeable.  My facial bed was like my own personal warm cloud.  Seriously, I’m an esthetician, too…this was hands down the most cozy/comfy facial bed I’ve ever been in!!  My treatment (Vitamin C facial) was pleasantly relaxing and thorough.  My skin felt like a dream after…12 hours later my skin STILL feels awesome.

As far as skin care products go, I’m definitely a label reader – and I like what i see on Renée’s products.  I picked up a cleanser and toner duo for myself and another for my Mom.  I also snagged a delicious smelling Triple Berry Smoothing Peel.  All of this with NO PRESSURE from my esthetician.

Seriously, if you’re looking to give a great one of a kind gift, treating yourself, or need some serious help with your skin – this is a fabulous spot.

I will have to add reviews of the products I purchased SOON!

So, I just recently got married (to the man of my dreams) on November 29, 2009.  Our wedding came off perfectly…small & intimate – without a lot of fuss or frivol.

First and foremost – big props to my wedding photographer Katherine O’Brien.  She took some amazing photos.  She didn’t require much prompting on my part – she just sort of intuitively knew were the good shots where and captured them.

I will have to go into detail on my whole wedding look in another post – but I wanted to rave about the MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Invisible Cover Foundation I used.  I’ve been eyeing this foundation since IMATS 2009 in Pasadena, but I only finally picked it up a few months ago.  One of my makeup artist friends was raving about it and that sealed the deal for me.

As the pictures show – this makeup came off FLAWLESS in photos.  It delivered an airbrushed effect.  The formula is oil-free and medium to full coverage (it’s buildable).  There’s no SPF – to turn your face white in flash photography.  The purpose of this makeup is to even out skin, make it look flawless, and appear invisible in film/print – even in HD.  I have to say – it lived up to that expectation.  Spherical pigments provide a soft-focus effect that really gives skin a nice glow.

I would say it took about 2-3 pumps to build my perfect coverage – I applied using a MAC 190 Foundation Brush over the MUFE HD Microperfecting Primer in Neutral.  I also set and finished with the MUFE HD Microfinish Powder.  I’m not sure I’d jump to using this combo for everyday – it is beautiful in real life – it’s just a little bit of a high maintenance application.  One thing to note – I think this looks best when skin texture is in great condition.  I made sure to take care of my skin leading up to the my wedding – so that I would only be working to even out the color of my complexion and conceal blemishes.  If I had somewhat dry or flakey skin – I’m not sure I would’ve liked this matte finish foundation.

Here are a few more pics -

I recently started using some SkinCeuticals products…I’d say it’s been about a month. That’s enough time to see the initial results of a skincare regime. The line’s mission “is to improve skin health. Dedicated to this purpose, we make one simple promise — provide quality products backed by science.”  There is a great deal of scientific research and information (clinical trials) backing up these skin care products.

So far, I’ve used the Gentle Cleanser – A creamy cleanser with a hint of citrus fragrance for sensitive or traumatized skin.  This cleanser is calming and soothing and removes makeup and impurities – great for use after various skin rejuvenation procedures (laser treatments, IPL, chemical peels).  I prefer to use this cleanser at night – to take off the day & makeup.  I massage a small amount over face, neck and chest – splash with water – and remove the remainder with a warm wet washcloth.  I’ve also used the Simply Clean cleanser – A skin refining gel cleanser (slightly foamy) that is great for oily/combination skin.  I tend to use this one in the mornings – when I need a bit of exfoliation with my cleansing.  This cleanser is formulated with 5 hydroxy acids for gentle exfoliation of dead skin cells (smoothes out rough texture) – it also helps clarify the skin (prevents/heals breakouts).

In conjunction with the cleansers, I’ve used the Equalizing Toner.  Optimal for combination or oily skin, Equalizing Toner helps balance, refresh, and restore the skin’s protective pH mantle while removing residue.

The SkinCeuticals line is probably best known for it’s vast array of preventative topical antioxidant serums.  These serums are formulated with top ingredients that work to neutralize damaging free radicals that come from UV exposure (UV radiation is known to cause 90% of photoaging – fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation).  These serums are also formulated with Vitamin C (a patented technology using L-ascorbic acid) which is required for the skin to synthesize collagen.  It may take 2-3 months to observe some visible changes in the skin (diminished appearance of lines, wrinkles, and sun spots) – but improvements in the texture tone and clarity of skin are observable within a few days.  I’ve tried the breakthrough Phloretin CF – a new class of preventive and corrective topical antioxidant treatment.  This serum combines phloretin, vitamin C, and ferulic acid – prevents premature signs of aging and corrects existing photodamage and prevents cell mutation by shielding skin’s DNA.  Clinical trial – before and after pictures of consistent use of Phloretin CF are pretty amazing.

By far, my favorite product I’ve tried is the Hydrating B5 Gel.  As the name suggests – this formulation contains vitamin B5 (helps with tissue repair and to replenish nutrients) and hyaluronic acid (binds moisture to the skin).  This lightweight gel gently moisturizes the skin and quickly absorbs leaving skin feeling supple and smooth.  This treatment is recommended in conjunction with the antioxidant serums because it helps to boost their effectiveness.

I’ve been using the Physical UV Defense SPF 30 which is great for sensitive and easily irritated skins because it’s an all physical non-chemical sunscreen.  It’s lightweight, PABA-free, oil-free, and fragrance-free.

One of my other favorites is the Retinol 0.5.  This formulation contains .5% pure retinol and is enhanced with the latest stabilization and delivery technologies to provide maximum efficacy.  Retinol 0.5 helps reduce appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, ages spots, blemishes, and blotchiness.

I’ve really enjoyed the science combined with elegance in all of these SkinCeuticals products.  I think they are also improving the appearance of my skin.  My skin is clearer and brighter.  My skin is also more even (a particular patch of redness on my left cheek has almost totally disappeared).  I also like that I’m using products proven to do to some preventative work as far as aging goes – I’m 34 now…and just starting to see those first few fine lines.  I think the biggest proof for the efficacy of this line is all the compliments I’ve received from friends to clients on how great my skin has been looking.  I’ve definitely been going more days without foundation or powder!

I wanted to make sure you guys were all aware of a brand new kind of members only shopping site…the kind that features spa treatments and skin care brands…that’s MY kind of private sale shopping site!!! How about you?!?!?!

The site is called The Skinny (follow link for an invitation).

Membership gets you weekly, exclusive invites to shop marked-down goodies (up to 75 percent off). Stock is limited, though, so it’s best to get in there early. The Skinny features brands like Perricone MD, Lisa Hoffman, and DermaQuest.

I’m happy to support (good) sites founded by fellow aestheticians and/or makeup artists.  Aesthetician Lauren Fornes and her pal SF-based Paige Steinman teamed up to launch The Skinny, and Lauren provides sound product recommendations based on your skin type.

Home Chemical Peels – 5 FAQs
By Rhonda Allison

After undergoing years of damage from exposure to the sun and tanning booths, men and women find their skin has become blotchy, wrinkled, or leathery. Chemical peels can remove this build-up of dead skin and stimulate the regeneration process to reveal fresher, healthier skin. Below are 5 FAQs about home chemical peels.

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a process where a variety of chemical solutions are placed on the skin to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells. It can be extremely helpful in treating skin suffering from photo aging, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, acne, and rosacea. After a peel, there will be a marked improvement in the appearance of fine lines, as well as in the texture and tone of the skin. Pore size is reduced, blemishes clear, and the skin exhibits a healthier, rejuvenating glow.

Myths and Facts about Home Chemical Peels

Myth: “Anyone can administer a chemical peel.”

The Reality: Not so. A peel causes an injury to the skin and caution must be taken to not use inappropriate acids or cause scarring.

Myth: “All skin peels are the same.”

The Reality: Just as skin issues and skin types are very different from individual to individual, so are skin peels – are you AHA sensitive? Glycolic acid and lactic acid must be timed and neutralized and not all skins tolerate as well. Do you have an aspirin sensitivity? Salicylic acid is a form of the same ingredient that is in aspirin. What is your Fitzpatrick? Dark skin will easily hyperpigment if the incorrect acid strength is used – fair skin could burn too much.

Your Best Option: Professional Chemical Peels

There are many contraindications to consider before applying chemical acids to the skin.A professional will be able to assess your skin more appropriately.You would not want a massive outbreak of herpes that could potentially scar your skin!

Three Types of Chemical Peels

There are three types of chemical peels. Progressive peels do not cause immediate exfoliation and remove only the outer layer of skin. With repeated treatments, the skin begins to experience mild sloughing. Mid-depth peels affect the skin to a deeper level, and exfoliation begins to occur within two to three days with light flaking similar to the peeling seen after mild sunburn. There is very little down time with a mid-depth peel. Deep peels affect the deepest intra epidermal layers. The skin will peel in large segments instead of flaking. The skin may become brown and crusty before peeling, which occurs three to four days after application. The process usually takes about seven to 10 days.

Who Can Benefit

Anyone will benefit from a chemical peel followed by home corrective skin care. Results will be most dramatic on those with an accumulation of dead skin cells and photo damage. However, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or who have been prescribed Accutane in the last 12 months should avoid chemical peels.

By using chemical peels to remove dead skin cells and stimulate the process of cell regeneration, individuals see new, fresher, healthier skin. Almost all find marked improvements in the skin’s tone and texture after a chemical peel. They are also easy, convenient, and affordable.

For more information on chemical peels, visit http://www.rhondaallison.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rhonda_Allison
http://EzineArticles.com/?Home-Chemical-Peels—5-FAQs&id=2288457

So, I was just checking in on one of my favorite beauty blogger’s sites – jolienadine.com & discovered her upcoming project: The Fairest.

image courtesy of thefairest.com

According to the About Us section on the site:

The Fairest is an exclusive, members-only online beauty destination where beauty lovers can participate in premier-brand, private sale boutiques, each open for 24 to 48 hours. Membership is free and members can purchase today’s top beauty brands up to 75% off of retail.

Our goal is to create an elegant and educational online boutique that showcases the best of beauty at irresistible prices. Sales are accompanied by commentary from tastemakers and experts in beauty. With this approach, The Fairest goes beyond a unique online shopping experience and provides its members with a trusted insider source of industry news and “What’s Next” in Beauty.

I recommend signing up now…I just did.  Sounds like Nadine is also looking for people to feature on Who’s The Fairest…check out her recent blog for more info on sending her your photos/info.

I hate that I’m so busy I don’t get to update much, but I wanted to share one of my newest addictions…

I was shopping in our local Natural Grocer’s, and came across the selection of Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps.  I’ve seen these soaps here and there – even on an episode of Weed’s.  So, I decided to try the Peppermint, and I looooooooooooooooooove it.

These castile soaps are formulated with: organic extra virgin coconut, olive, jojoba and hemp oils.  They’re delicately fragranced with pure essential oils.  Dr. Bronner’s soaps are also made with certified fair trade and organic oils.  They are not made with synthetic foaming agents, thickeners, or preservatives.  While a look at the ingredients wouldn’t lead you to believe the soap lathers – it produces a heavenly lather.  The peppermint in particular tingles, awakens, and refreshes the skin.  I must confess that peppermint in one of my favorite essential oils for aromatherapy…it provides such a clarifying and invigorating fragrance.

Dr. Bronner’s has several other scents to choose from – Lavender, Almond, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Unscented Baby-Mild, Rose, and Citrus Organge.

If you need a new shower gel or liquid soap – I highly recommend it.