Would You Try That?

There are hundreds of beauty products from different companies out there. Some that actually work and have a loyal following; others that aren’t worth a second glance. I must say, there are some wacky products out there (for a look at as-seen-on-TV products, check out Katie’s blog!). This post will look at some of those wacky beauty products. You can decide if you would use these products, or if they’re not worth your time (and money).

Mascara Shield

No more “Raccoon” eyes! Mascara Shield lets you apply makeup cleanly and evenly, with­out smears or streaks on your eyelids. Just position this handy shield beneath bottom or top lashes when applying mascara so it goes directly to your lashes, not your lids!

Neck Genie

A neck exerciser that takes years off your appearance! Neck Genie helps firm and tone your neck and chin for a more youthful look. The 2-minute-a-day neck exerciser uses progressive resistance to gently lift the muscles that cause sagging of the chin, neck and jaw as you age. Slim your neck without costly surgery, needles, or pain! Safe, easy-to-use device comes with storage case and instructions for neck exercises.

Nail Art Pens

Unique pen and fast-drying formula allows anyone to “Design & Go!” Create nail designs over any nail color. Fine-tip pen makes it easy to control and draw precise lines for a French Manicure. One reviewer suggests do not use on bare nails or it will stain your nails. Also, make sure your nails are dry before using the Nail Art Pen or it will ruin your manicure.

These are just a few products I came across. Please share your thoughts and if you have any products that we should try or stay away from!

Do-it-yourself Face Masks

A couple posts back, I discussed how you can save time and money on your regular beauty routine. Some might not realize, but most of your beauty products are right in the kitchen. Homemade remedies such as face masks and hair treatments can work just as well as store-bought beauty products. And the good thing about it is that results can be even better when you do it yourself. I have been experimenting with different face and hair masks for quite some time, and I have had varying results. Most of the masks got a thumbs up!

 Many ingredients like eggs, cucumber, yogurt, oils, honey and oatmeal are great for the face. They are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and other nutrients that are beneficial for your body. You can combine many of these ingredients and tailor it to how you want. Make up your own homemade face mask or use some of the recipes below:   

Egg White Face Mask

Ingredients:

·         2 egg whites, separated from the yolk and placed in a bowl

·         2 tablespoons of plain yogurt (I like Greek yogurt)

Preparation:

Separate the egg whites from a couple eggs and place them in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of yogurt (do not use flavored yogurt!). Mix them up and apply to face. Leave on face for a few minutes then rinse face in warm water, followed by a warm washcloth.

Oatmeal and Yogurt Face Mask

Ingredients:

·         1 tbsp oatmeal, finely ground

·         1 tbsp live, organic yogurt (skip the flavored stuff)

·         A few drops of honey

Preparation:

1.    Add the yogurt to the oatmeal in a small bowl and mix together.

2.    Warm a few drop of honey. To do this, warm a spoon under hot water for a minute, then add a few drops of honey to the spoon.

3.    Stir the honey into the yogurt and oatmeal mixture.

4.    Apply the mask to the face. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then rinse off with several splashes of warm water. Follow with a warm washcloth.

5.    Apply moisturizer.

Cucumbers for the Eyes

According to Discovery Health, Cucumbers have an anti-inflammatory effect that reduces puffiness. The vegetable not only has a high water content, it but it's often stored in the refrigerator and comes out cold. This means that the water hydrates your skin, and the cool temperature decreases the flow of blood to the space around your eyes. Together, additional hydration and reduced blood flow can sooth the skin around your eyes and alleviate swelling.

Next time you’re lounging around, cut two thick slices of cucumber and place them over closed eyes for 10-15 minutes. Do this once a week to eliminate tired eyes.

NOTE: Not everyone will achieve the same results. Please use at your discretion and discontinue if you feel any itching, burning, or other weird sensations on your face.

Feel free to share any other recipes that we should try out!

Attention Men: Hydrate Your Skin

After thinking of what I could possibly write about for the guys in the class, I've decided I would talk about moisturizing. Regardless if you are male or female, everyone should moisturize his or her face (and body). Why? Because elements like cold weather and water (after showering and shaving) can cause your skin to dry out. Skin can become chapped and painful. Your skin will begin to feel very tight on your face. Moisturizers can help prevent the skin from drying out and helps deliver nutrients like Vitamin D to the skin. So yes men, you can and should moisturize too! Finding the best moisturizer can be a challenge; your face could be normal, oily, dry, or combination skin. A dermatologist can help determine what type of skin you may have. Here is how you can find out your skin type on your own:

1. After washing your face, dab your nose and forehead (t-zone) with a tissue

2. Determine your skin type:

Normal skin shows neither oil nor flaking skin. It should feel supple and smooth. If you have it, consider yourself lucky :)

Oily skin is characterized by the grease on the tissue. It is also common for a person with oily skin to have large pores and a shine.

Dry skin may feel taut or show flakes of dead skin. It is associated with small pores. Moisturizing is important for this skin type.

Combination skin is most common. It exhibits traits of all three of the above skin types. Usually, the skin is oily in the T-zone and normal to dry elsewhere.

Now time to find that moisturizer!

For the Guys:

Nivea Men Energizing Hydro Gel - $7
It's minty and stimulating and works when you just need a pick me up and are feeling dry and burnt out toward the end of the day.

L’oreal Men Expert Hydra Sensitive 24h Moisturizer -$12

Maintain your skin with our first strengthening moisturizer and after-shave that immediately soothes razor burn sensation and reduces skin sensitivities in 4 weeks.

Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15 - $12
Gives you moderate protection against damaging UVA and UVB rays that are responsible for premature lines and wrinkles. This moisturizer is lightweight, fragrance-free and suitable for use under makeup or after shaving.

For the Ladies:

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel - $25

For oily skin, Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel contains an oil-free hydrating formula that feels light and silky on the skin, according to reviewers. Users say that it provides just the right amount of moisture without leaving the skin too greasy or dry.

Olay Classics Active Hydrating Beauty Fluid – Sensitive Skin - $11

Replenish sensitive skin with an exceptionally mild moisturizing formula that soothes dryness without leaving behind a greasy feel.

Nivea Visage Gentle Cleansing Cream – $9

Gently purifies and soothes without drying out the skin leaving a soft and supple feeling.


Happy Moisturizing!