October 13, 2011
Shopping for anti-aging beauty products can be overwhelming and confusing. Let us take some of the guesswork out by identifying the most potent ingredients in the fight against fine lines and wrinkles.
1. Niacin. Niacin, otherwise known as vitamin B3, promotes cell turnover while it repairs sun damage and protects from further assault. These products will protect against the sun’s rays and supply the skin with vitamin B3 to replenish skin’s moisture barrier.
2. Vitamin A. This powerful vitamin is essential for proper cell function and not only fights off wrinkles, but will reduce oil and the size of the sebaceous glands that lead to acne. Not everyone can tolerate taking vitamin A orally, but a topical application will work well, due to its ability to turn over cells.
3. Retinol. This is a type of vitamin A, and a go-to ingredient often used in products for its collagen-boosting properties.
4. Peptides. These amino acids are proven to speed healing and restore collagen, which helps smooth the skin and ease wrinkles.
5. Hyaluronic acid. This powerful, naturally occurring molecule is found in abundance in young skin. As we age, it diminishes. Plastic surgeons often opt for a hyaluronic acid-based filler to restore facial volume.
6. Marine botanicals. Manufacturers of wrinkle-reducing creams and serums turn to plants from the sea for their ultra-hydrating effects on human skin.
7. Glycation fighter. Sugar is not only bad for your waistline, it also causes inflammation and prematurely wrinkles skin. Glycation occurs when oxidized glucose covers the surface of proteins in the body and makes them work less effectively. When this happens to collagen, wrinkles and aging skin emerge.
8. Antioxidants. Inflammation caused by bad choices (like smoking) and environmental stress (like pollution) can lead to premature aging that often results in wrinkles. Antioxidants can repair and protect against the damage inflammation causes, inside and out.
9. Infrared light. Exposing the skin to warm infrared light is believed to engage the fibroblast cells that, in turn, boost collagen and elastic production. The result? Smoother skin, smaller pores, fewer fine lines and better overall tone within a few weeks.
10. Glycolic acid. You may have heard of this when speaking to your plastic surgeon about a chemical peel, but it’s also found in many products. This acid easily absorbs into the skin, making it ideal for topical application. Not only does it exfoliate away fine lines and discoloration, but it also fights acne.
January 26, 2011
Discoloration, also known as hyperpigmentation, can arise from a variety of different aggressors. Lighter skin doesn’t contain very many melanocytes or melanin (which is responsible for giving skin and hair their color), making it more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. However, discoloration can affect all skin tones and types.
Light skin tones tend to have a pink undertone and can burn easily in the sun. Acne scars, sun spots, bruising and broken capillaries are more apt to show up on lighter skin because it is thinner and fair.
The most common skin tone among Caucasians and Asians, light- to medium-colored skin has beige or yellow undertones, and hyperpigmentation of all forms can be a common concern.
Darker skin types—think Latinas and those of Mediterranean descent—have medium or olive skin tones and are more prone to acne scarring, sun damage and prolonged hyperpigmentation.
Very dark skin types are most common in African Americans. Although it has more melanin, very dark skin can burn (even though it doesn’t show as much), is prone to sun damage, and is more susceptible to developing brown spots.
Whether your hyperpigmentation is brown, pink or red, the discolored portion of your skin is basically signaling that it’s been damaged. In terms of how deep damage can go within the skin, it’s mostly dependent on the color, size and age of your hyperpigmentation.
January 24, 2011
Collagen and peptides are found in plenty of skincare products, and their benefits and sources vary greatly. Now, researchers have found that a certain combination, featuring a collagen tripeptide from a specific seafaring source, may be the answer those with sensitive skin have been looking for.
The San Gallicano Dermatological Institute recently identified two compounds with individual abilities that add up to relief for sensitive skin when combined in a lotion. The first, a gluco-oligosaccharide, helps protect skin from infection without inducing bacterial resistance; the other, a collagen tripeptide, stimulates fibroblast production—and it just happens to be acquired from fish skin.
Together, when applied topically, study volunteers with sensitive skin experienced a decrease in inflammation, roughness, and trans-epidermal water loss, as well as an increase in the uniformity of skin’s surface. Researchers also found a stabilization in pH.
The demonstrated normalization could mean that this combination will appear in future formulas aimed at treating sensitivity. However, because of the fish-derived portion of the mixture, vegans with sensitive skin would need to continue looking for another option.
November 8, 2010
 We know how much you love that perfect pink lipstick. Or the eyeliner that’s been sharpened down to no more than a nub. But there comes a point when you have to let go and accept the reality that your favorite beauty products eventually become breeding grounds for bacteria. This article will tell you how to know what’s still good and what’s past its prime.
November 5, 2010
Waxing is a popular option for removing hair from the legs, bikini, underarms and face. However, in order to get the best results, you need to let your hair grow out for three to four weeks.
Although somewhat painful—imagine a bandage being quickly ripped off your skin—nearly all hair and skin types can use this method of hair removal, except, perhaps, for extremely sensitive skin, since wax can potentially tear or burn.
You can ask your aesthetician to apply a pre-waxing oil, which prevents hot wax from sticking to the skin, so it adheres only to the hair for a less painful experience.
You should stop using any products that contain retinol three to four weeks prior to your waxing appointment, since retinol encourages cell turnover and renders skin more sensitive.
To schedule your waxing service at Rizzieri Aveda School, contact 856-988-8600 x0 today. You can review our waxing services at www.rizzierischools.com
October 22, 2010
Consisting purely of minerals and pigments found in nature, mineral makeup is all-natural and free of ingredients that can harm the skin. Both those are only a couple of the reasons it may be time for you to make the switch to mineral makeup.
Perfect for oil or acne-prone skin, mineral makeup is noncomedogenic and does not encourage bacteria growth, meaning it won’t clog pores or cause breakouts.
Mineral makeup foundations and powders are considered physical sunscreens (which is recommended for acne-prone skin) because they utilize physical blockers like titanium dioxide to reflect the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Natural ingredients, like mica, make mineral makeup a good choice for sensitive, easily irritated skin types; and it’s even safe to use a couple weeks after noninvasive treatments like chemical peels and laser resurfacing.
Mineral makeup is often touted as a miracle worker, but not all mineral makeup is created equal. To find true, high-quality mineral makeup, look for brands that incorporate zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and don’t use fillers such as fragrances, colors, binders, preservatives and other chemicals.
To check out the Aveda line of mineral make-up, visit the Aveda Lifestyle Store at Rizzieri Aveda School in Voorhees, NJ.
September 29, 2010
BEAUTY WITHOUT BORDERSJAPAN* The Allure: that porcelain complexion *
Secret Ingredients: rice and seaweed
Rice Body Rub: In the old days, rice bran was a substitute for soap. You’d bring your little cotton pouch to the local bath house and fill it up with the bran. Then you’d soak and scrub your whole body, including the face. People still do this. Beyond sloughing off the dead skin layer, rice bran oil is known for its potent vitamin E and other antioxidants that brighten the skin. To see for yourself, fill a pouch with rice bran, and rub your body. If you’re bathing, leave the bag in the tub and let the nutrients seep into the water.
Kelp Face Pack: Seaweed has long been used in Japan as a beauty aid. The best recipe for a face mask requires about 7 ounces of raw seaweed (if you can’t find any, reconstitute the dried kind.) Thoroughly soak the kelp to rinse out the salt; then drain and place in a pan with 16 ounces of water, and cook at a low heat, stirring, for 10 minutes. Next, pour it into blender and make a creamy paste, mixing in a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice once it cools. Refrigerate for three days (freeze what you won’t be using) and apply for 20 minutes.
Sun Style: Ever considered opera gloves for the car? Japanese women are so picky about their skin aside from using the traditional umbrella in the summer, they wear long gloves—past the elbow—when they’re driving. They want to make sure the sun from the window doesn’t age their hands or arms.
AUSTRALIA
* The Allure: wild, luxurious hair *
Secret Ingredients: rainforest plums and desert limes
Kakadu Plum Paste: Aussie hairstylist Kevin Murphy became obsessed with natural beauty as a result of eczema. His favorite discovery is the kakadu plum. The Aborigines have been using it medicinally for 40,000 years. The dumpy little rainforest fruit has the highest known vitamin C content of any plant on the planet. Its antioxidant power saves hair from serious dye-job damage. Try it by mixing one part kakadu plum liquid extract—health food stores sell it (or you can squeeze the liquid from gel capsules)—and five parts virgin olive oil. Apply the paste ASAP post-coloring, and sleep in it before washing out.
Desert Lime Spray: Another Down Under treasure is the desert lime, a plant that flourishes in scorching temperatures. You may be able to find desert lime locally or online in an extract or tea. If so, boil it up and strain it a few times until you get a clear liquid. Once it cools, pour into an atomizer and use it to spray your hair before you work with a hot blow dryer or styling iron.
EASTERN EUROPE
* The Allure: fresh-faced model appeal *
Secret Ingredients: milk, olive oil, egg white, grapes
Milky Skin Wash: Eastern European women are extremely vain. These women have always taken every effort to look wonderful, even in Communist times when so little was available and they had to rely on home remedies. A tried-and-true remedy is milk. We know about Cleopatra taking milk baths. The reason is the lactic acid, which now, we chemically alter for peels. But you can just use a little milk to rinse your cleanser off and it’s great for the skin. If your complexion is dry, she advises, use whole milk; if oily, go for low fat.
Milky Skin Mask: For a more concentrated dose, boil a little milk until it gets a crusty surface. Once it cools, add a teaspoon of spoiled yogurt (leave it out until it gets that yucky look) and mix into a mask you can wear for 20 minutes.
Egg White Oily Skin Lift: A little egg on the face apparently makes an amazing mask for oily skin: Beat a few whites until they’re not tacky, stir in a bit of baking soda, and add some shredded lemon and grapefruit peel. Brush on the mixture and let it harden. You’ll feel a undeniably youthful, fresh lift.
Olive Buff: Women ‘schmear’ themselves from head to toe in olive oil, and stay in it for hours, and when they rinse it all off, the skin is like silk. You just have to be careful because your face can break out.
Grape Splash: The juice of grapes (packed with antioxidants) is also great for your skin. Rub it in, and if you crush the seeds, you’ve got a great scrub, too.
PAKISTAN
* The Allure: silky skin *
Secret Ingredients: almonds, orange peel, watermelon, extra virgin olive oil
Almond Scrub: Like rice bran and grape seeds, the almonds make a good exfoliator. The home remedies really haven’t been surpassed by high-tech microdermabrasion products. As for the coconut oil, it has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties and may be good for keratin, which the outer layer of skin is made of. You can whip up your own scrub with coconut oil and finely ground shells—if you can’t find the young almonds, use coconut shell (soak first & shred it.)
Scalp Balm: Patients with dry, itchy scalps, should rub on some extra virgin olive oil and wrap their head in a warm towel. The oil is great for the hair, too.
Crushed Orange Watermelon Mask: Another skin secret from her homeland: Take a dried-out orange peel and crush it into a fine powder. Add a little lemon juice, water, or in the summer, mashed watermelon, and apply the mixture on your face for 20 minutes before going out for the evening. It smells good, your makeup goes on easily, and your skin looks so nice and bright.
GLOBAL WATERS
Soak. Soaking is a universal beauty secret we often pass up in favor of the rush-hour shower.In Japan, they worship water. Toji is the word for bathing, and it’s been a traditional therapy ever since the Samurais started fighting. Aside from the minerals and healing qualities of certain waters, an obvious benefit is relaxation—and we know a zen mind can translate to beaming skin. Take a half hour, drawing a nice, warm tub, and throwing in a touch of sake. It’s fantastic for the skin, just don’t drink your bath!
July 28, 2010
Want smooth, pretty, age-defying skin? We thought so. Who better to learn from than the pros who think about dermal health all day long? From what you eat to when you wash your face, here are 7 small changes that can make a big difference in tone, texture, and overall glow.
1. Suds up at night
The most important time to wash your face is before you hit the sack. Dirt, bacteria, and makeup left on overnight can irritate skin, clog pores, and trigger breakouts. Remove this top layer of grime with a gentle face wash, which also allows anti-agers to penetrate deeper for better results. Because oil production dips with hormonal changes in your 40s, cleansing twice daily can dry out your complexion and make wrinkles look more pronounced.
2. Be UV obsessed
Nothing is more important than wearing sunscreen (ideally, SPF 30) every day if you want younger-looking skin. Even 10 minutes of daily exposure to UVA “aging” rays can cause changes that lead to wrinkles and sunspots in as few as 12 weeks. If your moisturizer isn’t formulated with a built-in broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen, be sure to apply one daily to block both UVA and UVB rays.
3. Manage stress
Emotional upheavals can make your skin look 5 years older than your chronological age. Constant anxiety increases the stress hormone cortisol, which causes inflammation that breaks down collagen. It also triggers a chain of responses that can lead to facial redness and acne flare-ups. To quell inflammation, eat antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, oranges, and asparagus.
4. Use a retinoid
Research shows that these vitamin-A derivatives speed cell turnover and collagen growth to smooth fine lines and wrinkles and fade brown spots. Prescription-strength retinoids such as Renova provide the fastest results–you’ll start to see changes in about a month. To help skin acclimate to any redness and peeling, apply just a pea-size drop to your face every third night, building up to nightly usage.
5. Update your routine
Altering even one thing in your regimen every 6 to 12 months jump-starts more impressive improvements in tone and texture. When you apply products consistently, your skin slides into maintenance mode after about a year. To keep your skin primed for rejuvenation, substitute a cream that contains alpha hydroxy acids for your prescription retinoid twice a week to boost the benefits. Or bump up your OTC retinoid to an Rx formula.
6. Eat omega-3s
These “good fats” in foods such as salmon, flaxseed, and almonds boost hydration, which keeps skin supple and firm. The same isn’t true of the saturated fat in dairy products and meats, which increase free-radical damage that makes skin more susceptible to aging. Limit saturated fat intake to about 17 g daily.
7. Exercise regularly
Studies find that women who work out regularly have firmer skin than similar nonexercisers. The reason: Exercise infuses skin with oxygen and nutrients needed for collagen production. To keep your skin toned, make time for at least three 30-minute heart-pumping workouts per week.
January 4, 2010
Happy New Year! In honor of 2010, here are 10 beauty resolutions compiled from Julyne Derrick! Enjoy and make 2010 your best year ever.
1. No more studying your face for wrinkles.
You’re never going to be younger than you are right now. So much of your beauty comes from within. Try to remember this.
2. Enjoy the moment.
True happiness happens in the moment. Stop freaking out and savis the beautiful moments more.
3. More massages.
Massages feed the soul. Make an appointment to get one at Rizzieri School for the Healing Arts.
4. Less sugar.
Studies show that sugar can cause premature aging. Be more careful with the amounts of sugar that you put into your body.
5. More yoga.
Yoga is like being given a Zen injection.
6. Post-shower moisturizer.
Everyone suffers from the winter itch. Remember to slather yourself with moisturizer after each and every shower. You can purchase your favorite Aveda moisturizer at the Aveda Lifestyle Store at Rizzieri Aveda School.
7. Experiment with make-up.
To get out of a beauty rut, try a new eyeshadow color, or even a new lipstick. Your co-workers and friends will notice, and you’ll feel better. Schedule a make-up consultation with a senior Skin Care student by calling 856-988-8600 x 0.
8. Teeth whitening.
Changes your face! ‘Nuff said!
9. No more boring nail polish colors.
Instead of going without polish, or pearl colors, add something fresh (grays and mattes are in right now). You’ll stare at your own hands, and so will others. Ask for a recommendation at Rizzieri’s Nail clinics at our School on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings.
10. Compliment people.
Tell someone you like their best feature/lipstick/nail color. When you give someone a compliment, they automatically brighten. Sometimes people struggle with issues and need to be reminded of what makes them special!
June 8, 2009
Rizzieri Aveda School for Beauty and Wellness will be offering a Customized Wax Class on June 12th from 4pm -6pm. It will be taught by Michelle D’Angelo.
This class is available for Rizzieri students and alumni (generally from the skin care program.
Please contact admissions as soon as possible to hold your spot in this class!
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