Exfoliate Much?

Exfoliating is the one thing you can do 1-3 times a week to get a great glow. Exfoliation is the removal of the oldest dead skin cells that cling to the skin's outermost surface. Exfoliation is an important part of both facials and body treatments. When done correctly, exfoliation leaves the skin feeling smoother and fresher looking. Exfoliation also makes penetration easier for other facial products like serums and toners. Check out some of the options below to get your skin ready for summer.

Body Scrubs & Exfoliants by Bliss
Face Scrubs & Exfoliants by The Body Shop

St. Ives Apricot Scrub
Bliss Blood Orange + White Pepper Sugar Body Scrub
The Body Shop Tea Tree Exfoliating Pads
Clean and Clear Deep Action Exfoliating Scrub

Unnecessary Evil: Hyperpigmentation

As if dealing with huge mountain sized zits isn't traumatizing enough, the after-math of such zits are far worst than the zit itself. Yes I'm speaking about dark spots also known as Hyperpigmentation. If you had a chance to read my skin woes then you know that I am no stranger to acne.  I dealt with it as a tween, teen and grown-ass woman but what I've grown to realize its not necessarily the pimple that I loathe (they are usually gone within a week) its the dark spots that are left behind to remind me of the pimple for months on in. Of course I wouldn't dare pop the pimple as a matter of fact I would avoid it like the plague but once the inflammation went away I was still left with a "friend".  

During one of my many visits to the dermatologist, I was able to gain a better understanding of this common skin condition. After being told "only time will fade the scars" I learned about the causes, effects and treatments that can help fade spots faster.  

Hyperpigmentation is a condition that is caused by an increase in the skin’s melanin production. Melanin is the pigment that gives color to skin and hair. Unfortunately, due to the high levels of melanin in our skin, individuals of color are highly susceptible to this common plight; the darker the skin, the more prone to discoloration an individual will be.

There are many factors that will trigger or intensify the appearance of dark spots and scarring. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a direct result of acne. PIH is a discoloration that occurs following an inflammatory wound to the skin; this can include pimples, cuts, burns, picking, etc. When such a trauma takes place, skin cells are automatically triggered to regenerate and produce melanin in order to heal the wound. But the result is typically excessive levels of pigment that surpass the intensity and lifespan of the original spot. Aside from acne, certain drugs and antibiotics can also cause hyperpigmentation, as well as cosmetic procedures like laser hair removal and microdermabrasion. It’s important to note that dark spots are triggered, and extremely intensified, by direct exposure to sunlight as well. Thus, lack of sunscreen use will only make matters ten times worst.

There are both natural and chemical treatments for hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation is not permanent so dark marks will eventually fade but this can be a very lengthy process. Natural solutions such as glycolic acid, cocoa and shea butters and Vitamins A/C/E are great for targeting marks because they heal damaged cells.

Another popular option is a chemical lightening agent called Hydroquinone. Hydroquinone is available in varying potencies, typically 1-2% (over-the counter) or 3-4% (by prescription only). It works by blocking the enzymes responsible for melanin production. Thus, it should only be applied directly to the dark spots (otherwise, you will be lightening your regular skin as well). It is strongly advised that products with hydroquinone be used at night, as they can have reverse effects when exposed to sunlight; spots will actually become darker. Even once the creams have soaked into the skin overnight, sunscreen is an absolute must. It is very important that races with darker complexions also protect the skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

For me, my previous accutane treatment and clarisonic helps keep breakouts and hyperpigmentation at bay. I still get random flair ups that leave the dreaded 'dark marks' but I just dab vitamin E oil to help speed the fading process and I WEAR AN SPF 45 MOISTURIZER EVERY-SINGLE-DAY {Aveeno Positively Radiant}!

Here are some products you can to try to rid your skin of hyperpigmentation and help achieve flawless skin: 

• Ambi Even and Clear Targeted Mark Minimizer {ambiflawlessskin.com}
• Vitamin E Oil {puritanspride.com}
• Fellow blogger Glamour Puss swears by Clinique Even Better Clinical: Dark Spot Corrector {sephora.com}
• Black Opal Dual Complex Fade Gel {amazon.com}
• Palmer's Scar Serum {drugstore.com}

Do you have issues with hyperpigmentation? What do you use to help fades the 'dark spots'? 

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Snacking Your Way to Clear Skin!

My skin has been going a little crazy lately. I've been getting really tiny bumps popping up sporadically on my face. I don't think that its anything that I'm using because I rarely change my regimen. It could be the change in the weather or the fact that I've been slacking on my water intake. Who knows, but it has to stop. So I did a little research on things that I can eat to help with the current condition of my skin.

For those who don't know, I posted about my skin woes a while back. Its been about a year since I've come off of Accutane (acne treatment), I'm contemplating if I should go back and ask for another three month dosage but I know my dermatologist will laugh in my face. If I'm still having trouble after the new year I'm definitely going back. Accutane has done wonders for my skin and I'm a little obsessed now (lol but true). I know one things for sure, I love having clear skin and I do not want to go back to dealing with acne.

Read on for healthy snacks that will have you on the path to clear skin:

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Berries [Strawberries, Blackberries, Cranberries]: Berries are chock full of antioxidants! Antioxidants helps to protect your skin from harmful free radicals, gives your complexion a radiant glow, and fights the molecules that damage skin cells which leads to premature signs of aging . Berries also help the body produce collagen which keeps skin, soft, youthful and supple.

Nuts [Walnuts, Brazil Nuts]: Walnuts & Brazil nuts are high in Fatty Acids, so they help lend a supple, smooth appearance to your skin. Brazil Nuts are high in Selenium which helps fight free radicals and also improves the elasticity of the skin.

Oily Fish [Prawns, Tuna, Salmon, Sardines]: The Fatty Acids present helps to prevent dryness, clogged pores, and improves skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis due to healthier cell membranes. Fatty acids regulate the health of the cell by keeping toxins out, and allowing nutrients in. Healthier cell membranes means that your cells are able to retain more moisture, and more moisture means younger looking skin.

Citrus Fruits [Oranges, Lemons, Grapefruits]: Citrus fruits contains high levels of Vitamin C [otherwise known as Ascorbic Acid] that is instrumental in keeping your skin health and youthful. Vitamin C [often found in most anti aging serums and treatments] is a water soluble vitamin which means it cannot be stored by the body. This is why it's important to consume at least a few servings of Vitamin C daily. The Vitamin C found in Citrus fruits acts a powerful antioxidant that aggressively fights free radicals while keeping your skin smooth and firm.

Dark Green Vegetables [Spinach, Kale, Broccoli, Watercress]: Like many of the foods mentioned before this food group, dark green veggies are high in antioxidants. The Vitamin A present in green veggies also helps regulate the production of sebum, which is good news to those with oily, acne prone skin. Vitamin A strengthens the cell membrane and also regulates the release of toxins from the cells.

Source

Want a New Skin Care Regimen? Take a Look in the Fridge!

I recently got rid of a lot of beauty products in my bathroom cabinet and stocked my fridge with natural goodies that are said to make the skin glow... take a look-see.

Brighten with Papaya: Cut a slice of ripe papaya and remove the seeds and pulp (save the pulp for a snack later—it’s great for digestion). Rub the inside of the papaya peel on your cleansed face, focusing on lines around the mouth and eyes, crow’s feet, thinning temples, neck and hands. Let it dry for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse with tepid water. This mask can be done twice a week. “The enzymes in papaya exfoliate, repair sun damage, diminish age spots and smooth skin. Your skin will look brighter, with a more polished finish,” says Macan-Graves.

Exfoliate with Oatmeal: Combine 1 tsp honey and 1 tsp olive oil. Separately, prepare a packet of plain oatmeal, using less water than called for so it forms a thick paste. Next, add the honey and olive oil mixture to the cooked oatmeal. Apply as a scrub, gently rubbing it in small circles over your skin, avoiding the eye area. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry. This mask can be done twice weekly. “The oatmeal in this scrub exfoliates, while the honey and olive oil moisturize,” says Argenti.

Cleanse with Olive Oil: “Believe it or not, I love to cleanse with oil,” says Argenti. For this facial, she combines 1 Tbsp plain Greek yogurt with 2 tsp olive oil and 1/2 tsp lemon oil (not to be confused with lemon juice; lemon oil is an essential oil that can be found at health food stores). The mixture should be a little bit runny but not easily poured out. Massage it over skin, then immediately wipe it off with a washcloth soaked in tepid water. This can be done daily. “You want to use good-quality oil and you’ll be surprised at how clean your skin will feel,” says Argenti. “You don’t need a harsher product, even for skin with acne. Just be careful around the eye area…[the mixture] tends to be very sticky.”

For Oil- and Blemish-Prone Skin Lift & Tighten use Lemon Juice: Combine 2 Tbsp plain yogurt with 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (the juice of one lemon) and apply to your cleansed face and neck. Let it dry for 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll feel the mask tighten on your face and neck, which creates a lifting and firming effect. Leave it on longer (up to one hour) for even more face-lifting effects. Once done, rinse with tepid water followed by a cool rinse. This mask can be done two to three times a week or whenever you need a face lift. “This instant face-lifting mask helps fade age-spots, acne scars and even helps keep blemishes and acne in check. It also gets rid of uneven-looking skin tone,” says Macan-Graves.

Tone with Tea Bags: This toning eye treatment helps to “de-puff, relax, refresh and energize your skin,” says Argenti. “It’s much more cooling than the traditional cucumber slices.” After cleansing your skin, brew a cup of chamomile or green tea and allow it to cool. Then soak two clean, round makeup sponges in the tea and squeeze out any excess liquid. Place one on each of your eyes for 15 minutes. Do this daily. “You need to use an alcohol-free toner on your skin to cleanse and tighten pores. Alcohol is very detrimental, and tea works just as well,” adds Argenti.

Soothe Dry Skin with Honey and Apple Cider Vinegar : Combine 2 Tbsp honey with 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Apply to your clean face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water followed by a cool rinse. This can be done three times a week. “This mask heals, moisturizes and balances the pH of the skin,” says Macan-Graves. “Honey is a humectant and natural antibiotic that heals and moisturizes. Apple cider vinegar helps balance the pH of skin and soothes damaged skin.”

Moisturize with Fennel and Oatmeal: Macan-Graves recommends oatmeal and fennel to help moisturize dry skin. Grind 1 Tbsp oatmeal in a blender and set aside. Add 1 Tbsp fennel seeds to 1/2 cup boiling water to make a tea. Allow the seeds to steep for 10 minutes; strain the seeds and discard. Let it cool down to room temperature and then combine 1 Tbsp of the fennel tea with 1 Tbsp ground oatmeal and 1 Tbsp honey. Apply the mixture to your clean face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water followed by a cool rinse. This mask can be done twice weekly.

Brighten with Sour Cream and Honey: Combine 2 Tbsp sour cream with 2 Tbsp honey and 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Apply to your cleansed face and leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water followed by a cool (not cold) rinse. This mask can be done twice a week. “This mask heals, exfoliates, brightens and moisturizes skin. It refines pores, fades acne marks and prevents blemishes from coming up,” says Macan-Graves.

I faithfully use olive oil and castor oil to cleanse my face at night. I exfoliate with brown sugar and raw organic honey once a week and I detox with Sour Cream and Bentonite Clay once a week.

Full article can be read here. 

The Skinny on What's in Your Favorite Skin Care Products...

Ever wonder what the acronyms and abbreviations on your favorite skin care items mean? Want to know what which work best for dry, oily or acne prone skin? Listed below are some of the most common ingredients found in your beauty products. I am no dermatologist so remember always consult your doctor first.

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Antioxidants: Antioxidants protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Foods such as strawberries, blueberries, and dark chocolate contain antioxidants. They can also be found in skin care items via grape seed oil extracts, alpha lipoic acid, vitamin C, etc.


Alpha Lipoic Acid: It’s a newer, ultra-potent antioxidant that helps fight future skin damage and helps repair past damage. Alpha-lipoic acid has been referred to as a “universal antioxidant” because it’s soluble in both water and oil, which permits its entrance to all parts of the cell. Due to this quality, it is believed that alpha-lipoic acid can provide the greatest protection against damaging free radicals when compared with other antioxidants. Alpha-lipoic acid diminishes fine lines, gives skin a healthy glow and boosts levels of other antioxidants, such as vitamin C.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Creams and lotions with alpha-hydroxy acids may help with fine lines, irregular pigmentation and age spots, and may help decrease enlarged pores. Side effects of alpha-hydroxy acids include mild irritation and sun sensitivity. For that reason, sunscreen also should be used every morning. To help avoid skin irritation with alpha-hydroxy acids, it is advisable to start with a product with low concentrations of AHA Also, make sure you ease into it. You want to get your skin used to alpha-hydroxy acids, so you should only initially apply the skin care product every other day, gradually working up to daily application.

Beta-Hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid): Salicylic acid also has been studied for its effect on skin that has aged prematurely due to exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. It exfoliates skin, and can improve the texture and color of the skin. It penetrates oil-laden hair follicle openings and, as a result, also helps with acne.

Copper Peptide: Copper peptide is often referred to as the most effective skin regeneration product, even though it’s only been on the market since 1997. Here’s why: Studies have shown that copper peptide promotes collagen and elastin production, and also acts as an antioxidant. It also promotes production of glycosaminoglycans (think hyaluronic acid, as an example). Studies have also shown that copper-dependent enzymes increase the benefits of the body’s natural tissue building processes. The substance helps to firm, smooth, and soften skin, doing it in less time than most other anti-aging skin care products. Clinical studies have found that copper peptides also remove damaged collagen and elastin from the skin and scar tissue because they activate the skin’s system responsible for those functions.

DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol): If you’ve heard of fish referred to as brain food, you can thank DMAE. This substance is naturally produced in the brain, but DMAE is also present in anchovies, salmon and sardines, boasting the production of acetylcholine, which is important for proper mental functions. DMAE in skin care products shows remarkable effects when applied topically to skin, resulting in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles.
 
Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs): If your skin is dry, prone to inflammation, and frequently dotted with white heads and black heads, you may be lacking essential fatty acids, nutrients that are crucial to the production of skin’s natural oil barrier. Without an adequate supply of EFAs, the skin produces a more irritating form of sebum, or oil, which can result in problems.
The solution, says Sullivan, may be to balance two of the key EFAs, omega-3 and omega-6. While most folks get plenty of omega-6s (in baked goods, cooking oils, poultry, grains, and many other foods), omega-3s are often lacking. They’re found mostly in cold-water fish, including salmon, sardines, and mackerel, flaxseed, and flax and safflower oils. Taking supplements, such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil, may also help keep your skin smoother and younger-looking.

Hyaluronic Acid: Skin care products containing this substance are often used in conjunction with vitamin C products to assist in effective penetration. Hyaluronic acid (also known as a glycosaminoglycan) is often touted for its ability to “reverse” or stop aging. In news reports, you might have heard of hyaluronic acid as the “key to the fountain of youth.” This is because the substance occurs naturally (and quite abundantly) in humans and animals, and is found in young skin, other tissues. and joint fluid. Hyaluronic acid is a component of the body’s connective tissues, and is known to cushion and lubricate. As you age, however, the forces of nature destroy hyaluronic acid. Diet and smoking can also affect your body’s level of hyaluronic acid over time. Skin care products with hyaluronic acid are most frequently used to treat wrinkled skin.

Hyrdoquinone: Skin care products containing hydroquinone are popularly referred to as bleaching creams or lightening agents. These skin care products are used to lighten hyperpigmentation, such as age spots and dark spots related to pregnancy or hormone therapy (melasma or chloasma). Some over-the-counter skin care products contain hydroquinone, but your doctor can also prescribe a solution with a higher concentration of hydroquinone if your skin doesn’t respond to over- the-counter treatments. If you are allergic to hydroquinones, you can use products containing kojic acid instead.

Kojic Acid: Kojic acid is a more recent remedy for the treatment of pigment problems and age spots. Discovered in 1989, kojic acid has a similar effect as hydroquinone. Kojic acid is derived from a fungus, and studies have shown that it is effective as a lightening agent, inhibiting production of melanin (brown pigment).

Retinol: This is a derivative of vitamin A, and you will see that a lot of skin care products contain retinol. Retinol’s stronger counterpart is tretinoin, which is the active ingredient
in Retin-A and Renova. If your skin is too sensitive to use Retin-A, retinol is an excellent alternative. Here’s why skin responds to skin care products with retinol: vitamin A has a molecular structure that’s tiny enough to get into the lower layers of skin, where it finds collagen and elastin. Retinol is proven to improve mottled pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, skin texture, skin tone and color, and your skin’s hydration levels.You may also hear about retinyl palmitate. This falls into the same family as retinol, but if the skin care product you choose contains retinyl palmitate, you will need to use more of this product than one that contains retinol to get the same effect.

Selenium: A number of scientists believe this mineral plays a key role in skin cancer prevention. Taken in supplement form or used in a cream, this mineral helps protect skin from sun damage. If you do spend any time in the sun, selenium could help reduce your chance of burning. 

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is an extract from a plant native to Australia. Tea tree oil was used as a topical treatment by the Aboriginal people for centuries. Tea tree oil has been used traditionally as a topical antiseptic and antifungal treatment. So far, the scientific evidence for tea tree oil is uncertain. Human studies of tea tree oil in treating acne, fungal infections, vaginal infections, dandruff, gum disease and other conditions have been inconclusive. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, tea tree oil is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

UVA/UVB rays: Many people do not realize that there are two different kinds of protection against sun damage to the skin. Chemical sunscreens penetrate the skin and absorb the sunlight. They are invisible on the skin, but they can cause irritation. The second type of protection, physical block (made of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide), lies on top of the skin to create a light-reflecting shield. Because blocks are not absorbed by the skin, they can be less irritating. Using a sunscreen with a level of SPF 15 or higher is the key.
Sun damage relates to the kind of rays reaching your skin. Ultraviolet B rays (UVB) are the longest ultraviolet rays. UVB rays are responsible for sunburn and cause most skin cancers. UVB rays are much stronger than UVA rays, even though UVA rays are longer rays that penetrate the dermis and the precious collagen and elastin fibers. UVA rays only burn in large doses, and this is therefore the type of UV ray used in most tanning beds and booths.

 
Vitamin A: If your vitamin A levels are up to snuff from the foods you eat, adding more probably won’t do much more for your skin. That said, if those levels drop even a little below normal, you’re likely to see some skin-related symptoms, including a dry, flaky complexion. That’s because vitamin A is necessary for the maintenance and repair of skin tissue. Without it, you’ll notice the difference. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamin A.
Topical vitamin A is the form that makes a real difference in your skin. Medical studies show a reduction in lines and wrinkles, good acne control, and some psoriasis relief, all from using creams containing this nutrient.
 
Vitamin B Complex: When it comes to skin, the single most important B vitamin is biotin, a nutrient that forms the basis of skin, nail, and hair cells. Without adequate amounts, you may end up with dermatitis (an itchy, scaly skin reaction) or sometimes even hair loss. Even a mild deficiency causes symptoms.
Most people get enough biotin without even trying. It’s found in many foods including bananas, eggs, oatmeal, and rice, plus your body also makes some biotin on its own.
But recently, greater attention is being paid to topical preparations containing B vitamins. These creams can help give skin an almost instant healthy glow while hydrating cells and increasing overall tone. Niacin, a specific B vitamin, helps skin retain moisture, so creams containing this nutrient can help your complexion look plumper and younger in as little as six days. Niacin also has anti-inflammatory properties to soothe dry, irritated skin. In higher concentrations it can also work as a lightening agent to even out blotchy skin tone.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is the only antioxidant that is proven to stimulate the synthesis of collagen, which is essential since your body’s natural collagen production decreases as you age. Sun exposure will also accelerate the decrease in collagen. Studies have shown that vitamin C helps to minimize fine lines, scars, and wrinkles. It is important to be choosy when selecting a vitamin C product. Vitamin C in its most commonly found forms is highly unstable when exposed to oxygen, making it useless. Also, many topical vitamin C preparations do not penetrate the skin enough to make a difference. If you are considering using a topical vitamin C preparation, ask your dermatologist which product will be the most effective for you.
 
Vitamin K: As the nutrient responsible for helping blood clot, Vitamin K won’t do much for your skin from the inside. But studies presented to the American Academy of Dermatology in 2003 showed that topical vitamin K works well to reduce circles under the eye as well as bruises. In research published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2002, doctors from the University of Miami School of Medicine found that skin treatments with vitamin K cream after laser surgery significantly reduced bruising. When combined with vitamin A in a cream, vitamin K can be even more effective for those dark circles. In a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, doctors from the Nippon Medical School in Tokyo found that the topical application of a gel containing a derivative of vitamin K, as well as vitamins A, C, and E, was effective in reducing dark under-eye circles while also decreasing wrinkles.

Zinc: The third skin-friendly mineral is zinc, important if you have acne. In fact, sometimes acne itself is a symptom of a zinc deficiency. Taken internally or used topically, zinc works to clear skin by taming oil production and may be effective in controlling the formation of acne lesions or help those already on your skin to clear sooner. Food sources of zinc include oysters, lean meat, and poultry.

Source: WebMD

Skin Woes

As someone who has dealt with acne from the time I hit puberty until less than a year ago, I know a little bit about this subject. Here you are 25 and your face is STILL breaking out! Acne usually begins with blackheads. Contrary to popular opinion, blackheads are not dirt. They are the result of oil and dead cells that get trapped in a pore that blocks the duct and mixes with bacteria. The secretion turns black through exposure to the air. Women with overactive oil glands and large pores are most prone to blackheads and pimples. Red pimples, also known as papules, develop when blackheads become inflamed and they spread when touched with dirty fingers. If the pimple becomes inflamed, a whitehead can develop. This is the type of blemish that can burst and may eventually scar.

Causes of Adult Acne
Stress
Bad Cosmetic Choices
Hormones
Birth Control Pills; Other Medication
Hereditary 

Treatments for Acne
1. Visit a Certified Dermatologist. Acne can be a medical condition exposing something that may be wrong internally so visiting a doctor is very important.
2. Wash at least twice a day with an oil-free beta-hydroxy or gel cleanser. If your breakout is more severe, beta-hydroxy cleanser will add extra cleansing.
3. Exfoliate four or five nights a week with a beta-hydroxy lotion or cream or a gentle scrub.
4. Use an oil-free moisturizer

Do Not
Pick or extract blackheads or whiteheads yourself. By doing so, you can spread the contents deep into the oil glands that surround the tissue and cause a cystic infection. If you have to, wash your hands and face and use two q-tips or tissues and gently squeeze the contents out our your skin. (Do not use your bare fingers) Follow-up with an antiseptic dab or tea tree oil – and don’t touch or you will introduce bacteria and create an infection – in other words a pimple.

What cured me? Accutane. Yep I went to extreme measures. While my acne was considered mild (at times) one month my skin would be flawless and the next month all hell would break loose (talk about an emotional rollercoaster) I was sick of it. I had been dealing with acne since I was ten-years-old and I was through with it, I literally begged and cried to my dermatologist so he finally put me on the drug. It was a hard five months but it was sooo worth it and now I can go makeup-less without feeling insecure.

Face Forward: Lets Discuss Skincare

If you want your makeup to look its best, your skin has to look its best. It is absolutely impeccable to find a skincare regimen that works best for your skin. Often times when our skin is breaking out its an indication that something is going on inside our bodies. Try cutting out sodas, sugar and fried foods if that doesn't help seek professional help. Most think that all skincare woes can be solved with a visit to your local drugstore but that's not always the case, not all products are created equally and often time we require something a little stronger than CVS can provide. Every diva should have a fab dermatologist in her rolodex to answer any skincare questions we may have. Once you find out what the problem is, you can start building a regimen that will keep your skin flawless, seamless and fabulous.

But before you start searching for a dermatologist in your area, lets make some lifestyle changes!

• Drink AT LEAST 64oz of water a day. Water is the best kept beauty secret there is. It keeps the skin dewy and hydrated while filtering kidneys and breaking down fats and toxins.
• Exercise at least three times a week. Ever notice how bright and healthy your skin looks after a good workout? Well sweating cleanses the skins of buildup and reduces the size of pores. Exercising also increases blood flow to all vital organs including the skin leaving is supple and soft.
  
• We are what we eat! So lets swap out the saturated fats and processed foods for fruits, vegetables and essential fatty acids.

There are some important steps you must take to ensure your skin gets all it needs. Once your dermatologist educate you on your skin type there are some basic steps you should take to help keep future problems at bay. Cleanse, Tone/Treat and Moisturize!

• Cleanse: This should be done twice a day to remove any product from the skin. Its also a good idea to exfoliate a couple times a week for a deep cleansing.
  
• Tone/Treat: This is the step most people skip. Most toners claim to tighten pores. This is also the time to treat your skin with any medications recommended by your dermatologist.
  
• Moisturize: No matter how oily your skin may be, moisturizing is very important. Some cleaners, toners and medications can leave the skin dry so its important to restore your skin's moisture. Moisturizers with SPF is great for protecting the skin from the sun and premature aging as well.
  

Spring is officially here and I know you want to pack away that heavy foundation along with your winter clothes. For lighter coverage try a tinted moisturizer, it will provide minimal coverage allowing your new fabulous skin to shine through!

Body Scrubs?

Do you use body scrubs? I recently bought Carol's Daughter Almond Sea Salt Body Scrub and I am IN LOVE. It smells warm and sweet... just heavenly. It leaves my skin feeling like silk and it does a great job locking in moisture. It naturally exfoliates for super supple skin and a healthy glow. I was blown away the first time I used it, it just smells sooo good. I use it about three times a week, and I always feel like I just stepped out of a spa!

This yummy recipe includes sea salt blended with avocado, jojoba and wheat germ oil. It's paraben, mineral oil, petroleum and artificial color free which means its great for you and your skin and you know how I love that.

You can find this at your local Sephora store or Carolsdaughter.com. She has many different fragrances to choose from so check them out and let me know what you think!