Q. What hairstyles are popular this summer? I feel like I need something new.
A. Hairstyles are part of the fashion industry and are therefore always posting new trends. Last summer the hottest trends in hair were the pony tail and the precision (sharp edged and angled) cuts. This year the pony tail returns; big and fluffy with a top bump-up in the crown or sleek and tight to the head with a straight ponytail. The bob is still popular but the blunt, angular precision cut version has given way to a more easy-care version. This year the asymmetric bob is popular, with one side longer than the other. The bob also is going softer with more gradual lengths being cut in to add volume. The fringe or bangs are wispier and the whole look is more relaxed. Fringe (bangs) are hot hot hot this year. Long side swept bangs, short baby bangs, and wispy chopped fringe are all making the fashion cat walks. Layers are also popular on the model circuit this season. The look is layers and textures with a natural almost unstyled feel that’s free and full of movement. Pay attention to all the stars and shows this summer and you’ll also find that short hair is everywhere. There will always be long hair and thus the continued popularity of the pony tail but short hair is really in this summer. For awhile all the celebs were growing out their hair or opting for hair extensions to get instant length but not this summer. This summer all those long tresses are being cut short. You’ll see short hair on magazine covers and on many of your favorite actresses. Color trends have changed for this season as well. Wild hard edge color has given way to softer and more traditional color options. Blonde and golden brown highlights as well as soft strawberry reds are the trendy choices. The possible exception to this trend is platinum. This white blonde color is everywhere and is one of the most popular with summer short cuts. Remaining in style is the color combination of blonder or lighter on the top and darker or browner around the base line of the hair. Overall, the word for the summer of 2010 is, “easy”. The look is carefree and easy with softer edges, softer color and more free-form cuts. Personally, I think taking it easy for the summer is a great trend. I plan to embrace it.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Monday, June 21, 2010
Q. What is the best way to keep my child from getting sunburned?
A. The best way is to keep your child out of the sun but that is certainly not the most practical. If you can have your child avoid the harshest times of day, 10am to 4pm for direct sun exposure that is very beneficial. Use a broad spectrum, UV A and UV B protection, sunscreen daily. According to an article by Pediatrician Dr. Iannelli, M.D. children are still getting sunburned and suntanned with the primary cause not being that parents forget to put on sunscreen but that many don’t put it on correctly. It only takes a few minuets to put sunscreen on properly. It should be applied 30 minuets prior to sun exposure because it takes time for sunscreen to work. If you apply the protection prior to your child going outside you can do it before they even get dressed. Dr. Iannelli suggests you follow the same routine each time you apply sunscreen. You’ll develop a consistent way of application and won’t forget places on your child’s body and your child will get use the routine. Apply sunscreen generously. Most parents don’t apply enough. The amount of sunscreen that could fill up your child’s hand is usually enough. Larger children have larger hands so this is a good measure. Use whatever form of sunscreen you and your child tolerate best, lotion, gel, or spray. Start with one area of the body, like an arm, and apply a thick layer. Rub it in or spray it on completely before moving on the next area. Go from area to area and take special care not to miss spots like the back of the neck, ears, feet, the backs of arms and legs. Dr. Iannelli also suggests you save the face for last. Children tend to dislike this application the most and it’s best left for last. Use a sunscreen with at least SPF of 15 or 30 and re-apply every two hours. Be sure not to use sunscreen on babies under the age of 6 months. Many companies have sunscreens designed for kids. They are usually more hypoallergenic and easy on children’s sensitive skin. While you are taking care of the kids don’t forget about yourself. Have a fun summer!
A. The best way is to keep your child out of the sun but that is certainly not the most practical. If you can have your child avoid the harshest times of day, 10am to 4pm for direct sun exposure that is very beneficial. Use a broad spectrum, UV A and UV B protection, sunscreen daily. According to an article by Pediatrician Dr. Iannelli, M.D. children are still getting sunburned and suntanned with the primary cause not being that parents forget to put on sunscreen but that many don’t put it on correctly. It only takes a few minuets to put sunscreen on properly. It should be applied 30 minuets prior to sun exposure because it takes time for sunscreen to work. If you apply the protection prior to your child going outside you can do it before they even get dressed. Dr. Iannelli suggests you follow the same routine each time you apply sunscreen. You’ll develop a consistent way of application and won’t forget places on your child’s body and your child will get use the routine. Apply sunscreen generously. Most parents don’t apply enough. The amount of sunscreen that could fill up your child’s hand is usually enough. Larger children have larger hands so this is a good measure. Use whatever form of sunscreen you and your child tolerate best, lotion, gel, or spray. Start with one area of the body, like an arm, and apply a thick layer. Rub it in or spray it on completely before moving on the next area. Go from area to area and take special care not to miss spots like the back of the neck, ears, feet, the backs of arms and legs. Dr. Iannelli also suggests you save the face for last. Children tend to dislike this application the most and it’s best left for last. Use a sunscreen with at least SPF of 15 or 30 and re-apply every two hours. Be sure not to use sunscreen on babies under the age of 6 months. Many companies have sunscreens designed for kids. They are usually more hypoallergenic and easy on children’s sensitive skin. While you are taking care of the kids don’t forget about yourself. Have a fun summer!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Sunscreen and breakouts
Q. I have not been able to use sunscreen because it breaks me out. What do you suggest?
A. As I mentioned in last week’s column, I am often asked about how to navigate the summer and protect your skin. I am devoting several weeks of the column to these types of questions. One question I do get asked frequently is the question about skin that reacts to sunscreen. Many people have sensitivity to popular sun protection products. The most common allergic reaction to sunscreens is a reaction to papra-aminobenzoic acid or PABA. This is an active ingredient in many products. Fortunately, with the increased awareness of the dangers of over exposure to the sun the market place has responded and many choices of PABA free sunscreens are available. Preservatives, perfumes and alcohol can also provide problems for some people. The choices are not as vast when you are looking for preservative free products or fragrance free products but they are out there. You will most likely have to pay a little extra for these products but the benefit is worth the price. If you can’t find a product that works for you over the counter, ask your dermatologist to prescribe a sun protection cream for you. There are many options available. Wearing protective clothing and avoiding the worst times of day, 10am to 4pm are additional ways you can protect your skin. It’s worth repeating some of the tips I gave about sunscreens in last week’s column. Adults should use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, with 30 being more preferable. If you have dry skin, opt for a cream or lotion. If you have oily skin, try a gel product or an oil free lotion. If you are going to have long exposure time in the sun or are out during the most dangerous times of day then consider using a complete sun block like zinc oxide. It will stop all sunlight from reaching your skin. Think about the white sun block you see on the nose and shoulders of lifeguards. Apply all your sun protection 30 mins. prior to going in the sun and reapply every 2 hours. If you are perspiring or are in the water, reapply more often. Children under the age of 6 months should not use sunscreens without the advice of their doctor. These young children need to be covered and kept out of the direct sun. Next week I am going to deal with a question about protecting children from the sun so look for this information then. Summer time is about having fun in the great outdoors. Take the time to protect yourself and your family and enjoy.
A. As I mentioned in last week’s column, I am often asked about how to navigate the summer and protect your skin. I am devoting several weeks of the column to these types of questions. One question I do get asked frequently is the question about skin that reacts to sunscreen. Many people have sensitivity to popular sun protection products. The most common allergic reaction to sunscreens is a reaction to papra-aminobenzoic acid or PABA. This is an active ingredient in many products. Fortunately, with the increased awareness of the dangers of over exposure to the sun the market place has responded and many choices of PABA free sunscreens are available. Preservatives, perfumes and alcohol can also provide problems for some people. The choices are not as vast when you are looking for preservative free products or fragrance free products but they are out there. You will most likely have to pay a little extra for these products but the benefit is worth the price. If you can’t find a product that works for you over the counter, ask your dermatologist to prescribe a sun protection cream for you. There are many options available. Wearing protective clothing and avoiding the worst times of day, 10am to 4pm are additional ways you can protect your skin. It’s worth repeating some of the tips I gave about sunscreens in last week’s column. Adults should use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, with 30 being more preferable. If you have dry skin, opt for a cream or lotion. If you have oily skin, try a gel product or an oil free lotion. If you are going to have long exposure time in the sun or are out during the most dangerous times of day then consider using a complete sun block like zinc oxide. It will stop all sunlight from reaching your skin. Think about the white sun block you see on the nose and shoulders of lifeguards. Apply all your sun protection 30 mins. prior to going in the sun and reapply every 2 hours. If you are perspiring or are in the water, reapply more often. Children under the age of 6 months should not use sunscreens without the advice of their doctor. These young children need to be covered and kept out of the direct sun. Next week I am going to deal with a question about protecting children from the sun so look for this information then. Summer time is about having fun in the great outdoors. Take the time to protect yourself and your family and enjoy.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Q. This summer we are not taking a vacation away from home. I would like to use the spa as a way to enjoy some personal time instead. I think of it as an escape. What services would you consider fun for the summer?
A. This is a trend across the country, people staying home and taking mini escapes instead of spending money on a huge vacation. The practice has even been named…
stay-cations. Some people opt for one full spa day as a major event during their
stay-cation. Others like to enjoy multiple spa days over the course of the summer, making them feel like the spa is part of the fun summer at home experience. If you’re looking for a full spa day you should call the spa and ask what packages they have on their menu of services. Most have full and part day packages at special prices. If you don’t find a package that has all the bells and whistles you are looking for ask if you can customize a spa day package. Most large spas will accommodate you in this way. My personal preference would be to break up the services and enjoy many great days in the spa over the course of the summer months. Start your season off right with a great pedicure. Nothing says summer like a freshly painted set of toes in some new sandals. I’d next opt for a day in the salon getting some fun hair highlights. Sun-kissed pieces of blond mixed in to your current color will give you an instant lift. Don’t forget about sunless spray tanning. You’ll feel like you’ve been on vacation but your skin will thank you for avoiding the damaging UV rays of the beach. In your question you asked me what services I would consider fun for the summer. If I were making the choices I’d definitely go for a facial and even a back facial. Your skin can take a beating in the summer. Weekends at the ballpark, or out in the yard… a facial will help you keep a healthy glow. A back facial will get your ready to show off in your summer clothes and bathing suits. Speaking about weekends at the ballpark and doing yard work, massage is a great way to ease the stress of extra physical activity that goes along with longer days. You might like to opt for the more exotic and try a combo service of body exfoliation or polish and massage. You’ll feel smooth and relaxed. Finally, if you want to really glow this summer go for teeth whitening. Whatever services you choose you are smart to set aside the time early and get them scheduled and written in your calendar. Its easy if to get trapped at home doing busy work and the summer can fly by. Don’t let that happen, think about using the spa as an escape and a personal treat this year.
A. This is a trend across the country, people staying home and taking mini escapes instead of spending money on a huge vacation. The practice has even been named…
stay-cations. Some people opt for one full spa day as a major event during their
stay-cation. Others like to enjoy multiple spa days over the course of the summer, making them feel like the spa is part of the fun summer at home experience. If you’re looking for a full spa day you should call the spa and ask what packages they have on their menu of services. Most have full and part day packages at special prices. If you don’t find a package that has all the bells and whistles you are looking for ask if you can customize a spa day package. Most large spas will accommodate you in this way. My personal preference would be to break up the services and enjoy many great days in the spa over the course of the summer months. Start your season off right with a great pedicure. Nothing says summer like a freshly painted set of toes in some new sandals. I’d next opt for a day in the salon getting some fun hair highlights. Sun-kissed pieces of blond mixed in to your current color will give you an instant lift. Don’t forget about sunless spray tanning. You’ll feel like you’ve been on vacation but your skin will thank you for avoiding the damaging UV rays of the beach. In your question you asked me what services I would consider fun for the summer. If I were making the choices I’d definitely go for a facial and even a back facial. Your skin can take a beating in the summer. Weekends at the ballpark, or out in the yard… a facial will help you keep a healthy glow. A back facial will get your ready to show off in your summer clothes and bathing suits. Speaking about weekends at the ballpark and doing yard work, massage is a great way to ease the stress of extra physical activity that goes along with longer days. You might like to opt for the more exotic and try a combo service of body exfoliation or polish and massage. You’ll feel smooth and relaxed. Finally, if you want to really glow this summer go for teeth whitening. Whatever services you choose you are smart to set aside the time early and get them scheduled and written in your calendar. Its easy if to get trapped at home doing busy work and the summer can fly by. Don’t let that happen, think about using the spa as an escape and a personal treat this year.
Monday, May 24, 2010
The spa is for dad's too!
Q. I always get my mom a spa gift card for Mother’s Day, what could I get my dad? Is a spa gift card good for a man too?
A. Yes it is! More and more men are discovering the joys of spa treatments. I suggest you put an actual service or spa treatment on the gift card and not just a card for a set dollar amount. Many men have no idea what to use the money for or what is available. Massage is still the most popular spa service for men. They usually feel comfortable with the treatment partly because they have an understanding of what they are getting. Many other spa treatments have names and associations that confuse non-spa goers, especially men. Some spas use very feminine terms for treatments like pedicures, manicures or facials. The smart spas are changing that up and re-naming services to target the male client. Usually these re-named services are variations of the tried and true spa treatments but with twists that make them more male friendly. How about a Hand and Foot Detailing for Men? It sounds like something they would do for their car. He might enjoy a Man-icure or a sports pedi. The facial is one service that has been associated with women so strongly that many men shy from trying it. The Man’s Skin Treatment, however does not sound like anything his wife would want to have. Just re-naming the service is not enough. The services should actually have some uniquely male oriented elements. In the pedicure for men you might see an emphasis on deep tissue massage of the feet and calf along with essential oils like lemon grass or sandalwood instead of lavender or rose. The Men’s Skin Treatment will concentrate on the more oily male skin type and deep poor cleaning with a great neck and shoulder massage as well. If you are confused by all the choices ask the spa if they have a spa package set up just for men. Many do. That will help you take the guess work out. If you just want to opt for one service that your dad will love, still go for the massage. It’s a great starting point. Once he feels comfortable in the spa he’ll be more willing to try some other options. If your dad is shy about the idea, get a couple’s massage that could include both he and your mom. This gift becomes an event they both look forward to, and will appreciate.
A. Yes it is! More and more men are discovering the joys of spa treatments. I suggest you put an actual service or spa treatment on the gift card and not just a card for a set dollar amount. Many men have no idea what to use the money for or what is available. Massage is still the most popular spa service for men. They usually feel comfortable with the treatment partly because they have an understanding of what they are getting. Many other spa treatments have names and associations that confuse non-spa goers, especially men. Some spas use very feminine terms for treatments like pedicures, manicures or facials. The smart spas are changing that up and re-naming services to target the male client. Usually these re-named services are variations of the tried and true spa treatments but with twists that make them more male friendly. How about a Hand and Foot Detailing for Men? It sounds like something they would do for their car. He might enjoy a Man-icure or a sports pedi. The facial is one service that has been associated with women so strongly that many men shy from trying it. The Man’s Skin Treatment, however does not sound like anything his wife would want to have. Just re-naming the service is not enough. The services should actually have some uniquely male oriented elements. In the pedicure for men you might see an emphasis on deep tissue massage of the feet and calf along with essential oils like lemon grass or sandalwood instead of lavender or rose. The Men’s Skin Treatment will concentrate on the more oily male skin type and deep poor cleaning with a great neck and shoulder massage as well. If you are confused by all the choices ask the spa if they have a spa package set up just for men. Many do. That will help you take the guess work out. If you just want to opt for one service that your dad will love, still go for the massage. It’s a great starting point. Once he feels comfortable in the spa he’ll be more willing to try some other options. If your dad is shy about the idea, get a couple’s massage that could include both he and your mom. This gift becomes an event they both look forward to, and will appreciate.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Foods that are kind to your skin
Q. Can some foods really make your skin look better?
A. Yes. Whole fresh foods are good for all of your body including your skin. Certain foods are better than others at helping your skin stay clear, younger, and healthier. There is a book I love and recommend all the time titled, SuperFoods by Steven G. Pratt, M.D. and Kathy Matthews. It goes through an entire list of foods that are really good for you in every way. Some super foods for your skin include, strawberries, oranges and other citrus, red peppers and broccoli for their high levels of vitamin C. This essential element helps skin build collagen for support. Wild salmon, walnuts and omega-3 fortified eggs all fight the effects of free radical damage in the skin. It’s the omega-3 fatty acid in these foods that is the hero. Omega-3 has been shown to reduce inflammation caused by stress and sun damage. When you want to eat veggies opt for lots of color. Dark orange foods like sweet potatoes and squash, leafy deep greens like spinach and any red vegetable will be packed with vitamin A, in my opinion the super star performer when it comes to the skin. Vitamin A regulates cell production and cell turn over, helping skin do what it does best. Having new skin cells to replace old ones is the very core of what our skin function is all about, cell turn over creates smooth fresh new skin. Get hooked on nuts too. Almonds are one of the best nuts as are sunflower seeds because they are full of vitamin E. This vitamin gets a lot of attention because of its healing properties. This antioxidant protects the skin from UV damage and helps the skin stay hydrated. If you suffer with some acne issues try and eat a diet that is low in sugar, lower in carbohydrates. These foods keep your insulin levels steady and new research shows that spikes in insulin and sugar levels cause the hormone androgen to elevate and cause breakouts. Lastly don’t forget the hardest working element in our diet, water. Skin needs water just like the rest of your body. Skin cells are mostly water. Six to eight glasses a day should do it. It may be tempting to read this and think you just need to supplement by taking individual vitamins daily. Not true. It’s the whole foods that are so good for you and your skin.
A. Yes. Whole fresh foods are good for all of your body including your skin. Certain foods are better than others at helping your skin stay clear, younger, and healthier. There is a book I love and recommend all the time titled, SuperFoods by Steven G. Pratt, M.D. and Kathy Matthews. It goes through an entire list of foods that are really good for you in every way. Some super foods for your skin include, strawberries, oranges and other citrus, red peppers and broccoli for their high levels of vitamin C. This essential element helps skin build collagen for support. Wild salmon, walnuts and omega-3 fortified eggs all fight the effects of free radical damage in the skin. It’s the omega-3 fatty acid in these foods that is the hero. Omega-3 has been shown to reduce inflammation caused by stress and sun damage. When you want to eat veggies opt for lots of color. Dark orange foods like sweet potatoes and squash, leafy deep greens like spinach and any red vegetable will be packed with vitamin A, in my opinion the super star performer when it comes to the skin. Vitamin A regulates cell production and cell turn over, helping skin do what it does best. Having new skin cells to replace old ones is the very core of what our skin function is all about, cell turn over creates smooth fresh new skin. Get hooked on nuts too. Almonds are one of the best nuts as are sunflower seeds because they are full of vitamin E. This vitamin gets a lot of attention because of its healing properties. This antioxidant protects the skin from UV damage and helps the skin stay hydrated. If you suffer with some acne issues try and eat a diet that is low in sugar, lower in carbohydrates. These foods keep your insulin levels steady and new research shows that spikes in insulin and sugar levels cause the hormone androgen to elevate and cause breakouts. Lastly don’t forget the hardest working element in our diet, water. Skin needs water just like the rest of your body. Skin cells are mostly water. Six to eight glasses a day should do it. It may be tempting to read this and think you just need to supplement by taking individual vitamins daily. Not true. It’s the whole foods that are so good for you and your skin.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Using Bar Soaps
Q. I always use bar soap and my friend tells me I am damaging my skin. Is that true, is bar soap damaging to skin?
A. Not as a general rule. Bar soap has really gotten an undeserved bad reputation. Most bar soaps are not bad. Spa Magazine’s January edition quotes Jennifer Reichel, M.D., director of Pacific Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, as saying, “Some bar soaps can be very gentle and moisturizing and do not necessarily trap oils and chemicals.” The soaps that are best to avoid are the ones that contain synthetic detergents and high amounts of perfume. These can be over drying and the chemicals can be detrimental to your skin. Organic soaps and soaps with emollients like coconut oil, she butter or olive oil can be very good for your skin. Your question was if bar soap was damaging. You did not ask if bar soap is the best choice of cleaner for your skin. In truth, your friend may be aware of the fact that while not damaging, there could be cleansing solutions that are better choices for you. If you have any skin care concerns such as, anti-aging, acne, or dryness the skincare industry is full of real effective cleansers that can target these problems better than the simple bar of soap. Your face especially may benefit from targeted higher end cleansers. That said, many soaps in bar and pump formulas are effective, safe and many times beneficial in cleansing your skin.
A. Not as a general rule. Bar soap has really gotten an undeserved bad reputation. Most bar soaps are not bad. Spa Magazine’s January edition quotes Jennifer Reichel, M.D., director of Pacific Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, as saying, “Some bar soaps can be very gentle and moisturizing and do not necessarily trap oils and chemicals.” The soaps that are best to avoid are the ones that contain synthetic detergents and high amounts of perfume. These can be over drying and the chemicals can be detrimental to your skin. Organic soaps and soaps with emollients like coconut oil, she butter or olive oil can be very good for your skin. Your question was if bar soap was damaging. You did not ask if bar soap is the best choice of cleaner for your skin. In truth, your friend may be aware of the fact that while not damaging, there could be cleansing solutions that are better choices for you. If you have any skin care concerns such as, anti-aging, acne, or dryness the skincare industry is full of real effective cleansers that can target these problems better than the simple bar of soap. Your face especially may benefit from targeted higher end cleansers. That said, many soaps in bar and pump formulas are effective, safe and many times beneficial in cleansing your skin.
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