I've been in the skincare industry for close to 30 years and I've never been able to get my arms around the sunscreen SPF (sun protection factor) theory relating to UVB. Obviously I know the importance of sunscreen and definitely use it and encourage and promote it. But in my opinion, from an expert point of view the two widely accepted theories contradict one another.

I decided to visit skincancer.org and get some definitive answers once and for all. The website is so comprehensive, informational and the best resource that I've found for information on sun damage and skin cancer and how it relates to over-exposure to UV light. However, when it came to my question regarding the exact meaning of SPF it still made me feel unsure about which definition is right or at least the best way to look at it. I'm not questioning them at all (I know they are correct in both instances, it just simply doesn't make complete sense to me). Without a doubt their team of dermatologists and experts are probably the best in their field but still to me (or the way my brain works) I still don't see how the two theories completely support one another. I don't know why I can't just let it be. I guess because when I give one definition to a reader and then they question it because their understanding was the other; I feel both inept and I would never want to give out such crucial information when I may be wrong.

Here are the two definitions from skincancer.org:

What Is SPF?

Most sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher do an excellent job of protecting against UVB. SPF — or Sun Protection Factor — is a measure of a sunscreen's ability to prevent UVB from damaging the skin. Here's how it works:  If it takes 20 minutes for your unprotected skin to start turning red, using an SPF 15 sunscreen theoretically prevents reddening 15 times longer — about five hours.

Another way to look at it is in terms of percentages:  SPF 15 blocks approximately 93 percent of all incoming UVB rays.  SPF 30 blocks 97 percent; and SPF 50 blocks 99 percent.  They may seem like negligible differences, but if you are light-sensitive, or have a history of skin cancer, those extra percentages will make a difference. And as you can see, no sunscreen can block all UV rays.

The former description is the way I've always been taught and the way I've explained it to both my clients and my readers. In other words, by using a factor (which to me and my dense brain denotes a mathmatic formula) you can determine the amount of sun protection by simply using the number on the sunscreen and multiply it by the time it normally takes you to burn. I've always considered it in increments of ten minutes which makes it easy to understand. If you were to be in the sun for ten minutes without any sunscreen at all obviously you have zero protection (except for of course our body's own protection such as melanin) and possibly burn, but if you were to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 before you go into the sun you would get 150 minutes (10minutes x 15 SPF) of protection. Of course this is if absolutely none of it was washed or sweated off, etc. I'm talking about an ideal situation just to keep this explanation simple. To me that explanation of what SPF means, makes sense.  However, when you skip to scenario two, they give you percentages of protection by still yet using the SPF number. Here's where it stumps my brain and perhaps one of you can help me out with this.

Ok; here we go. Please don't shoot me!  Now, if we all can agree that the SPF factor is by the amount of time spent in the sun how can they all of a sudden use percentages of blockage? If an SPF is15 and you can stay in the sun 15 times longer and you were indeed in the sun less time than the150 minutes allowed by the factor that seems to me that the efficacy of block is already established. Why then can you say SPF 15 blocks 93%,  SPF 30 blocks 97%, and so on if all things were equal in terms of time? In other words, if you were in the sun the amount of time that the factor recommends why wouldn't they all be considered equal in terms of percentages?

Perhaps it would make sense to me if they used another term for coverage (percentage wise) instead of SPF.  Whew! Am I making any sense? Please help! I'm sure I'm way overthinking this but I'd sure love any input you folks could give me.

Having completely confused you; please always use sunscreen no matter how you interpret the sun protection factor and enjoy the great outdoors! Also, don't forget to apply in the winter and cloudy days as well. The damaging ultraviolet rays don't care if it's clear and 85 degrees or cool and cloudy. The one thing we can all agree on in this skincare industry is, those rays will get ya either way.

The second issue I think we can safely agree on is to use sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection and has the seal of recommendation by the Skin Cancer Foundation such as DDF Matte Finish Photo-Age Protection.

 

My girls are always telling me they hate the way my mascara looks on me. They say it's all clumpy and looks like a bunch of spider legs. As sweet as they are, they have a way of telling me things I'd just as soon not hear. For instance, one time I was driving my car and as I was holding onto the steering wheel my youngest daughter started flicking the fat (or I guess the loose skin where a tricep once resided) under my arms. She was as sweet as can be and I know she didn't mean it as harshly as I took it. I looked over at her with a look of "thanks a lot!" And we both started laughing. However, the point being, I know where I stand with my girls and with the way they perceive how I look and how I should look.

After years of my girls nagging me about my clumpy mascara I thought I'd start looking for a new brand. This was tricky because being a contact lens wearer my eyes are sensitive. The one I had stuck with all those mortifying years (according to the girls) didn't bother my eyes at all. In addition, I thought it made my short, skinny little blonde eyelashes look so volumized. I guess I was fine with the clumps. At least you could see them! That is until I found Stila Major Lash Mascara. I was so amazed how it just glided on and my lashes came out looking gorgeous. No clumps; no little triangles of stuck together hairs; just long, black separated lashes. The wand has a brush on it that's about the size of a toothbrush (that's a tad bit of an exaggeration), but for me it gave me so much control. I loved the large brush. It was easy to use on both the top and bottom lashes. The size of the brush helped, not hindered; and believe me I have some little eyes! But with Stila Major Lash Mascara my eyes look huge. I finally have gorgeous eyes, and my daughters finally approve!

 

 

I just sat through an educational training in men's skincare. I was so impressed with one of the topics the brand rep touched on. She was teaching us about her company's products for thinning hair which has long been a major concern for men in this beauty industry. She was one of the first professionals to explain (or in my opinion), be honest about what triggers hair regrowth.

Oftentimes when you're being approached by a salesperson selling balding or thinning hair products, I feel, they leave you to believe that the product itself goes in and sort of drops seedlings of hairbud nutrients (if you will) instead of in actuallity, as far as I know, it's exfoliation, stimulation, circulation and scalp movement (along with depositing nutrients). There are indeed ingredients that are fabulous for your scalp but none are the absolute end all as to why you'll notice hair growth (with the expection for proven pharmaceuticals).

If you've ever felt the scalp of a bald man it's usually very tight and almost looks coated with a residue. This build-up needs to be exfoliated away in order for hair growth. Additionally moving the scalp via massage or soft brushing will also encourage hair growth. Think of the beautiful princess who brushes her hair one hundred strokes every night before bed. It really works! Those gorgeous locks are from the stimulation, not just because she's a princess in a fairty tale.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from hair loss take a look at products and/or brands that exfoliate the scalp, increase stimulation and circulation, and incorporate massage or brushing into the regimen. I think you just may see better results.

However, if you're already using hair loss products under the care of a physician, obviously only use as he or she has directed.

My sister's been going through some tough times and depression and anxiety finally weaseled its ugly head into her emotional state of being. Kind of like when your immune system is compromised a simple cold virus will take ya down to chinatown. She didn't want to succumb to anti-depressants so I got online to find some alternatives. The one that seemed to be the most impressive seemed like one she would never go for. I came across a few articles suggesting a sad and lonely human can find happiness through the unconditional love of a pet. Problem is my sister has never been a "pet person."

So what do I do? I push a pet on her anyway. Now I'm not suggesting by any means everyone do this because this is one thing that could backfire and then the poor pet may still be without a home. That would be cruel. But I knew that if she didn't accept it I would just keep the little dog myself and give her a good home whether I needed to be in that position or not.

It turns out the little half Shih Tzu half Lhasa Apso was the best thing to ever happen to her. I don't want to sound overly dramatic but I seriously think that little sweet puppy saved my sister's life. Linda not only feels better, but she looks better as well. She has become much more outgoing and at the same time so much more relaxed. She's the Linda I used to know. It's like seeing a complete transformation in a person. Everything seemed to change in her when she was so down. She gained weight and didn't care so much for her appearance. Now she looks like a million bucks. She loves taking care of herself now and has a renewed sense of excitement when it comes to beauty and well-being. I've been staying with her a while and she keeps getting into my skincare products. I'm wondering if the dog cost more or less than the amount of products she's used up! But it's been so well worth it. She's obsessed with the Kinerase Ultimate Regimen Kit and Kinerase Multi-Vitamin Minerals and Nutrients Supplements. I have never seen her look more gorgeous. She's now happy and beautiful from both the inside and out!

Doing taxes are hazardous to your looks, skin and your well-being. I'm frazzelled. I stayed up half the night doing my taxes and I swear I look like I've aged 20 years. It made me realize when we do things in a rush we not only feel bad, but sometimes look horrific as well. The point I'm trying to make is to really try and slow down. There is definately something to the saying, "take time to smell the roses." If I would just incorporate organizational skills into my life I know I would look and feel better. I need to make a change, and I need to do it now.

I started my change with a spa day to rejuvenate myself. However, I can't afford a spa day so I did it by myself at home. The first thing to do is take a long bath. I used Philosophy Falling In Love Bubble Bath. Next I applied Korres Quince Body Butter and took a nice long time to massage it in. It's a fabulous cream that works well on extra dry areas such as heels as well as the whole body. I love it! Before bathing I lit a Sundari candle. I love their whole line of scented candles. I chose Sundari Gulkand Scented Candle for balance.

Next I needed to rejuvenate my face. I decided to go with a peel type facial. I needed to exfoliate all the dull skin. I used Ole Henriksen Micro Mini Peel System. My face has never been smoother and more revitalized. Next I treated my puffiness and dark circles under my eyes from staying awake virtually the whole night before with Decleor Vitaroma Wrinkle Prevention Eye Contour Cream. It instantly soothed my eye area.

After this whole "slowing down" revelation I decided two things 1) I will never pay another dime to a day spa and 2) I will try and remember how I felt that long miserable night and how I looked the next morning. It's time to get organized and take time to smell the candles and bubble bath!

 

Has anyone known anyone who has had gastric bypass surgery? I was in church last Sunday and ran into my daughter's ex-boyfriend's mother. At first I didn't even recognize her, but at second glance I knew that I somehow knew her. I figured it was my problem with memory and recall since my daughter's death. I've noticed I don't remember names or even faces ever since she passed away. I've read that memory loss is normal in grief and bereavement. However, this time it wasn't my impaired recall, it was a complete change in the woman's appearance. I recognized her beautiful smile but still yet I couldn't put a name to her face. It was Jill. Beautiful Jill. She has always been beautiful but after not seeing her for a year I did not recognize her because she had lost over a hundred pounds.

My gorgeous friend beforehand, now had a body to match! What a stunner. I had always been very leery of gastric bypass because of my nursing background and had always heard it was a very dangerous surgery. However, seeing the transformation (not just in body; but in confidence, self-esteem and attitude) that she had encompassed seemed to help me with the processing of outweighing the risks. However, keep in mind this was an ideal outcome. Not all surgeries for obesity have the same great results.

The patient must be an ideal candidate. Be sure you're completely informed, and in the care of a qualified surgeon with expertise in this type of surgery. You need to be fully aware of complications and expected outcomes. I've known of two different people who didn't have the same good fortune as Jill. One gained the weight back and one had to have surgery to repair the loose, excess skin. Here is some information I found on WebMD about the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery, so be sure to take note. Additionally write down all your questions for your surgeon before you head to your consultation.

Fewer than 3 in 200 (1.5%) people die after surgery for weight loss.³

After a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass:^{5, 3}

• An iron and vitamin B12 deficiency occurs more than 30% of the time. About 50% of those with an iron deficiency develop anemia.
• The connection between the stomach and the intestines narrows (stomal stenosis) 5% to 15% of the time, leading to nausea and vomiting after eating.
• Ulcers develop 5% to 15% of the time.
• The staples may pull loose.
• Hernia may develop.
• The bypassed stomach may enlarge, resulting in hiccups and bloating.

Somebody help!!! I moved from a Southern California beach to a dry mountain town in Northern Cal. I can't take how my skin (especially my hands) feels. I tried a lotion from the pharmacy called Gloves in a Bottle but it didn't help. My hands are so seriously dry I'm embarrassed for anyone to touch them. I have some all time favorites that I've ordered but I won't get them until Friday. For my face I always go with Atopalm MLE Skin Repair Kit. The cleanser and cream make my face, neck and decollete feel and look gorgeous. I normally use it all winter long but typically not in the summer so I needed to re-purchase. For long term care of my dry skin (legs, arms, hands and feet) I love Stiefel Lacticare Lotion. For instant relief I can hardly wait for my L'Occitane Shea Butter Body Lotion to arrive. All stellar for relief of dry skin; but does anyone have any suggestions for something I can go buy before my shipment gets here?

I've noticed with talking to many women the number one reason they head to the cosmetic surgeon's office seems to be when they are depressed or in angst over a recent broken relationship. My suggestion is to wait on doing anything rash. It's been my experience that when a woman gets anything cosmetic (especially permanent treatments) done under duress they are unhappy with the results. Usually it's because they choose to go overboard or get too much. This is the time when their decision making process seems to be compromised. I find if they wait a few weeks they tend to pick something more reasonable such as Botox or Juvederm as opposed to procedures such as liposuction or facelifts. This is not the time to make such decisions. Additionally they seem to find it doesn't "fix" the way they feel. I am not a psycho-therapist and don't claim to be anything as such. I am just using my years of experience to deduce this theory. I feel one should use the same principle when weighing what to do in terms of plastic surgery as one would do when purchasing a big ticket item. For instance, if you go to the car dealer the salesman knows he or she needs to close the deal before you leave, knowing full well that if you go home to ponder it for a day or two you will change your mind. I know that when I've applied that concept I am so thrilled I didn't make the large purchase. A cosmetic surgeon is not only a doctor but a business man as well. He or she (if unethical or perhaps oblivious to the situation) will know if you're in a fragile state of mind you may be more apt to get the ball rolling with a bigger procedure. Having said that there are many extremely ethical surgeons who would never suggest surgery until you are fully informed and in a better place of mind to make such a decision.

The best thing to do when pondering plastic surgery is wait till you're feeling better about the situation you're in. Additionally, do your homework. Ask others for recommendations for good, ethical surgeons. Start with something introductory such as perhaps an injectible filler and Botox (if you're pondering a facelift, for example) and see if that may just be the ticket for you. Oftentimes, if a little is good a lot is better is a falsehood. Remember that less is more!

Never again will I buy a necklace, bracelet or earrings to accessorize my new outfit. One of my daughter’s best friend’s came over the other day to visit and I noticed she was visibly upset. I asked her what was wrong assuming it was boyfriend trouble but soon found out that wasn’t the case.  She had been out shopping for a necklace for her Homecoming dress and couldn’t find one. They either didn’t match her dress or they were way too expensive for her tanning parlor wages. Part of me felt I should say, “Well honey that’s just life, sometimes we can’t get everything we want.” Then I realized how really important it was to her to be as beautiful as possible for her last Homecoming dance. I remembered my sister had purchased a bunch of beads and findings about a year or so ago. I had her dig them out and it was a smorgasbord of beaded bliss. Haley’s eyes got as big as frying pans. She quickly ran out to the car to grab the dress and started picking  and choosing perfect colors to match the different hues in the dress. Not only did she save a lot of money her accessories were even more cute than had she bought them already made. To finish off the look we found jewel toned eye shadow that matched the ensemble perfectly. Check out the cool WebPages I found so that you too can save money and get the look!

http://www.auntiesbeads.com/

http://www.skinstore.com/store/category.asp?catID=6864

 

Being a Taurus my best feature is said to be my neck. I’m not so sure I agree. However, I suppose I would have agreed some 20 years ago. Since then, however, the sun, aging, a few extra pounds and gravity has taken its toll. I decided it was time to do some research and find out how I could remedy the shortening of my neck as well as the drooping, wrinkling and even the double chin I never knew I had until I caught a glimpse in a dressing room mirror in a department store. At first I hoped I had just stumbled into some bad lighting but unfortunately that wasn’t the case. The neck had changed, definitely it had changed.

I researched high and low for the best ways to improve my aging neck. The first way was easy, I discovered. By simply wearing a v-neck top I would elongate the appearance of my shortened neck. Next I needed to even out the skin tone from the sun damage and firm up the sagging neck. I had heard women rave about Alchimie Forever Alexandrite Neck Illuminating and Firming Gel. Wow, were they ever right. It lightened my darkened spots and indeed lifted my drooping neck. I am so impressed. You have got to try it if you’re experiencing the same neck issues I was dealing with. You are gonna love me for this one, I promise!

This year is all about natural. Who isn’t in that natural mode? Everyone is recycling, fleeing to the farmer’s market and conserving energy.

There are more and more natural lines of beauty products. However, my friend Denise and I decided it would be fun to make our own body scrub. We’ve seen recipes floating around and figured that we could come up with something of our own.

So on a chilly and windy afternoon after our book club meeting, Denise and I went about coming up with the perfect natural body scrub. Our goal was to use ingredients typically found in most households. After a few attempts, we declared the winner.

Ingredients:
½ cup corn meal
2 teaspoons avocado
4 tablespoons lemon juice
4 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon banana
4 drops lemon grass essential oil

Directions:

Combine avocado and banana in a bowl. Mash the two until smooth. Add the remaining ingredients and mix until a uniform paste forms.

Gently massage body scrub onto damp skin for about 30 seconds using circular motions. Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Follow with your favorite moisturizer.

Will we be giving up our favorite packaged scrubs? Absolutely not. While this was a fun activity, it is quite messy and any unused portion has to be discarded since we’re dealing with perishable food items. However, I do have to say that the scrub left my skin feeling super soft and smooth and on days where I have a little extra time and the weather is lousy, I’ll definitely try it again.
If you try this recipe, let me know what you think. Does anyone else have any homemade skin treatment recipes to share?