get smooth, young, radiant looking skin this vday, with Algenist

When it comes to skincare, we're always hoping for a major discovery that will give us back the skin of our youth. That's why Alegenist products are somewhat of a miracle.

What started as a renewable energy project in San Francisco has turned into an unexpected discovery. Algenist comes from a team of scientists who were studying microalgae-based energy solutions when they uncovered alguronic acid, a powerful compound with never-before-seen potential for younger-looking skin. Algenist focuses on the ability of effective, bioactive ingredients to deliver visible anti-aging results to the skin.

Combining advanced biotechnology expertise, the regenerative power of Alguronic Acid, and targeted skin bioactives in every formula, Algenist anti-aging products correct, enhance, and protect the skin.

Algenist works by increasing cellular regeneration to slow and repair signs of aging. Stimulating skin cell regeneration, eliminating old, damaged cells and promoting the growth of new, vital skin cells, produces noticeable improvements in skin texture and appearance.

Firming & Lifting Cream ($94 for 2 US fl. oz.), an ultra-firming and restructuring cream tightens and lifts while reinforcing the skin structure. The unique combination of Alguronic Acid + ProPeptide³ boosts production of skin's key structural proteins: elastin, collagen, and proteoglycans to rebuild firmness and tone the skin. Facial contours are redefined to create a more toned and sculpted appearance...which means you'll get your cheeks back, lose a couple of chins and see your entire face look smoother and more radiant.

Firming & Lifting Eye Gel ($68 .5 US fl oz), a lightweight, refreshing gel, combines Alguronic Acid + ProPeptide³ to stimulate synthesis of skin’s key structural proteins, rebuilding skin density while firming, tightening and lifting the delicate skin around the eyes. Eye contours are redefined revealing a recharged and youthful appearance...so you can say goodbye to fine lines and not-so-fine ones too. If you're planning on making eyes with someone this Valentine's Day, use this eye gel first.

Firming & Lifting Intensive Mask ($52 2.7 US fl oz.), a unique gel mask, restores skin elasticity, structure and suppleness. Alguronic Acid + ProPeptide³ promotes elastin, collagen and proteoglycan production to help reduce the effects of aging and gravity on the skin. It feels surprisingly lightweight on your skin and seems to tighten without making your face feel like it's about to crack off. Skin appears immediately firm, toned and sculpted so you feel good about your skin after just one use.

Algenist products are available at Sephora and QVC. For more info, go to www.algenist.com.

DNA Renewal: the anti-aging miracle

Who doesn't want to turn back the clock a couple of years when it comes to skin care? Decrease some of those fine (or not-so-fine) lines, smooth your skin's surface and look brighter, firmer and more radiant overall? Now there's help, with DNA Renewal Foaming Cleanser ($28) and DNA Night Renewal ($130), both designed to repair photo damaged aging skin.

I have to admit: I tried them reluctantly as I've tried so many products that promise the same youthful effects. But I tried them each for a few weeks, giving me time to see the fruitful results. My skin not only feels softer and smoother but I definitely see some optimistic retexturizing results. Fine lines seem finer, deep lines seem more subtle. Granted, there's no surefire way to go back to the old days but every little bit of skin renewal helps!

The Foaming Cleanser's gentle, non-irritating formula genlty washes away dirt, oil and makeup, leaving clean, vibrant skin. Its unique ingredient, AHC, a glycolic sugar acid, is combined with amino acid for slow, controlled release, reducing stinging or irritation that's typically associated with standard AHA's. Apply it with a washcloth or soft brush before bed or in the AM then rinse thoroughly with warm water.

The Night Renewal lotion has an advanced liposome delivery system to maximize cell repair while your body sleeps. It works overtime to regenerate cells and counter photo-aging damage to restore skin's vitality. Ideal for dry and stressed skin, smooth it on before bedtime and you'll wake up looking and feeling more youthful.

To order and get these amazing results for yourself, go to www.dnaegfrenewal.com.

expert advice: don't shun the sunscreen

After this endless winter, spring is finally starting to show its face. Which means summer isn't far behind. As the weather warms up, don't leave home without your SPF.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 70 percent of adults do not apply sunscreen regularly and more than one-third of the U.S. population reported experiencing sunburn in the previous year. These are alarming statistics, especially since melanoma and sun-induced skin cancers are increasing each year. Here, Dr. Ranella Hirsch, noted Boston dermatologist, explains how to properly apply sunscreen so your skin is protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Q: When should you use sunscreen?

Dr. Hirsch: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that a broad-spectrum water-resistant sunscreen of at least SPF 30 be used year round.

Q: Where should you apply sunscreen?

Dr. Hirsch: Sunscreen should be applied to any exposed skin. This includes, minimally, the face, décolleté, and backs of hands and forearms, but should be adapted for an individual’s weather and clothing.

Q: If you’re using a sunscreen on your face, what should the order be (if you’re also using makeup etc.?)

Dr. Hirsch: Always apply sunscreen first.

Q: When should you apply sunscreen?

Dr. Hirsch: Always apply at least 30 minutes before going outdoors.

Q: How much sunscreen needs to be applied to the face and body and how often should you reapply?

Dr. Hirsch: One ounce, or the amount needed to fill a shot glass, is considered to be an ample amount to protect exposed skin. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours and more frequently if you are sweating or swimming.

Protect Your Skin: Vichy Capital Soleil Soft Sheer Sunscreen Lotion provides water-resistant broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection in a lightweight, non-greasy formula. The sunscreen contains a unique combination of effective UV filters with Vitamin E and White Grape Polyphenol, powerful antioxidants to protect skin at the cellular level.

Vichy Capital Soleil Soft Sheer Sunscreen Lotion is available in SPF 30 ($27.50, 5 fl. oz.) and SPF 60($29.50, 5 fl. oz.) and is sold at select CVS/pharmacy, Duane Reade and Walgreens stores, and sold online at www.vichyusa.com.

the new age

To Botox or not to Botox...that is the question. Everyone wants to look younger. But you don't have to invest in plastic surgery or Botox injections to get a youthful look. Gerald Imber, M.D. (www.drimber.com), a renowned plastic surgeon, offers some basic tips that will help you begin to slow and reverse the effects of aging.

DON'T…

Don’t Smoke. The result is loss of elasticity, sagging and wrinkles.

Don’t gain or lose weight repeatedly. Skin that does not respond to weight loss by shrinking looks loose, empty and haggard. The older you are or the more weight you need to lose, the more likely this problem will arise. Avoid significant weight gain, lose slowly and, above all, find your optimal weight and maintain it..

Don’t get too thin. Hollow cheeks and thin skin makes an adult look frail, weak and old.

Don’t Run. At least don’t be a long-term, long-distance jogger. The loss of fat padding in the cheeks as well as the constant rising and pounding down which lifts and pulls the facial skin away from the underlying muscles and bones causes the skin to sag. These things have a negative effect on one’s appearance.

Don’t do Facial exercises. They cause wrinkles.

Avoid the Sun. It’s the primary accelerator of loosening and wrinkling of the skin. It causes pigment changes, sunspots and other unsightly eruptions.

Don’t Passively Stretch Skin. When you prop your hand on your cheek or wash and apply products in a downward motion, you are passively stretching your skin.

DO…

Cleanse, use anti-oxidants and moisturizers.

Towel off briskly for exfoliation. It helps remove heaped-up dead skin cells and allows healthy young cells to reach the surface. Always go from the down to up direction to avoid stretching the skin downward to help gravity. Be gentle and do not apply much pressure.

Apply skin treatments and serums to clean, dry skin.

Make sure anti-oxidants penetrate the skin.Vitamin C and vitamin E are among the most potent antioxidants for treating the skin, but if they can’t get into the skin, they can’t work their magic. Dr. Imber created Youth Corridor (www.youthcorridor.com) Antioxidant Boost Skin Serum with 10% Vitamin C, E and Melatonin to allow a larger dose of antioxidants to penetrate through the keratinized layer of the skin due to melatonin’s lipophillic nature.

Moisturizers with a sun screen are a must to protect from the sun. If a sunscreen is used separately it should be applied before the moisturizer so it can penetrate.

Feel like you can't follow all of these commandments? Don't fret. You might get frown lines. Just do what you can and you'll be looking younger in no time.

national sun protection day: protect your skin from the sun with Anthelios

Today, Thursday, May 27th is National Sunscreen Protection Day. Why all the hype about lotioning up? Here are the facts:

~1 in 5 Americans will get skin cancer.

~Skin cancer is the #1 cancer, topping breast, prostate and lung. 90% of early Melanoma can be cured, if caught early.

~Over 2 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed every year, worldwide. This figure is set to double between 2000-2015.

Feel like you're just sitting idly by doing nothing for the cause? To show your support, purchase the Limited Edition SOS SaveOurSkin Orange Ribbon Pin ($5) from La Roche-Posay and proceeds from each sale will help support the Women’s Dermatologic Society and SOS mission. Check out http://www.sossaveourskin.com/ and Share Your Story. You’ll help spread awareness and La Roche-Posay will help you protect your skin with an SOS gift certificate redeemable toward the purchase of any Anthelios product. My favorite: Anthelios 40 Sunscreen Cream, complete with Parsol 1789, Mexoryl SX and both UVA and UVB protection. The best part: It doesn't contain Vitamin A, often used as an antioxidant in sunscreens, which has recently been reported to increase the spread of melanoma. Other great Anthelios products to try: Anthelios SX Daily Moisturizer ($29.95), Anthelios 45 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Body ($34.00) and Anthelios 60 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Face ($27.90). Go to http://www.laroche-posay.us/ to purchase your orange ribbon now.

breakthrough beauty: get a slim stomach for summer

prettyisprettydoes

gives you

an exclusive preview

of FOX TV's Good Day Dallas

Breakthrough Beauty feature...

as reported by Susan Redstone

Time was when you'd gain a few pounds...then eat salads for a few days and lose it again. No longer. Once you hit 30, there's a greater chance of accumulating fat around your waistline that refuses to budge. Whether it's because of past pregnancies, menopause or excess weight, abdominal bulges and bumpy skin may be becoming all too familiar. Sure, exercising and eating right can help but a new topical treatment makes the process a little smoother. Lierac Paris introduces Morpho-Slim Stomach and Waist Resculpting Firming Concentrate ($55). It contains anti-cellulite and firming action, synthesizes collagen and promises other great perks. Just apply once or twice daily for a minimum of 28 days and watch your stomach appear flatter, your skin become firmer and your unsightly bumps on thighs and buttocks look smoother. What's more, it dries quickly for immediate dressing and has a pretty floral scent. How does it work? Active caffeine empties the fat cells and brown algae extract triggers tightening. As the number of fat-storing cells decreases, your waist appears re-contoured and refined. I'm only on day two but I am determined to be diligent and will keep you posted on the outcome. Hopefully, I'll see results in time for summer. Available next month at select European Skincare Centers at CVS/pharmacy, Duane Reade and Longs Drugs, www.beauty.com, www.cvs.com and

www.lierac-usa.com.

scrub, slough, smooth

A good body scrub is the key to maintaining soft, smooth skin during the winter. Thankfully, LA-based Stark Waxing Studio delivers--with its Stark Body Scrub ($24). Finely ground walnut shells slough off dead skin cells and the gentle lather releases the invigorating scent of fresh chamomile, lemon verbena and peppermint. For extra smoothing, use the Stark Exfoliation Mitt ($9) daily to promote smoother, healthier skin and prevent and release ingrown hairs. Tip: Exfoliate skin dry then repeat once in the shower. The net-like surface is gentle on skin but rough enough to make a difference in your skin's texture. Finish with Stark Soothing Oil ($23) made from apricot seed oil which nourishes and softens skin, organic lavender oil, an anti-inflammatory, and organic peppermint oil which relieves irritation. Massage into dry elbows, knees, heels and anywhere your skin needs a little smoothing. It really heals and it smells great too. This three-step routine is easy to follow and can really save your skin this season. Check out these products and others at www.starkwaxingstudio.com.

expert advice: moisturizing tips from Rhea Grous, La Suite Skin Care

Rhea Grous is a certified esthetician and well-rounded beauty expert. Sure, she has degrees from the prestigious Catherine Hinds Institute in Boston and trained at The Decleor Institute in Paris, but her real skill is evident in the personal experience she offers her customers. Formerly the number one requested and booked esthetician at Manhattan’s Bliss Spa, she now works her magic at the La Suite Skin Care studio in Greenwich, CT. Here, she shares her expertise with us and helps us combat dry, winter skin...

Prettyisprettydoes: Does everyone need moisturizer?

Rhea Grous: Yes! You need moisturizer to hydrate the skin. Lack of hydration can lead to sensitivity, outbreaks, and other skin issues. Any condition from oily to dry skin can be magnified when lacking water, moisture or hydration.

PIPD: What's the most important factor to consider when buying a moisturizer? Are there any key ingredients they should definitely have for them to be effective?

RG: It's important to read the ingredients and avoid color, fragrance and too many preservatives because they increase the chance of irritation and allergic reaction. Moisturizers these days are PRIMARILY focused on anti aging; we each have to choose what's right for our skin. Humectants, which increase water levels in the skin, are a huge benefit for moisturizers. Vitamins fight environmental damage which can be caused by free radicals. Peptides signal your skin to make more collagen, and might act like Botox. AHAs and BHAs offer antiaging and exfoliating properties and help retexturize skin. It's a good idea to look for these in your night moisturizer. Retinols are antiaging, accelerate exfoliation, improve appearance of fine lines and helps reduce sun damage. These are also great in a

night moisturizer that can work while you're sleeping.

PIPD: Does your moisturizing routine need to change based on the season (ie: hot weather vs. cold weather)?

RG: Absolutely, weather changes our skin's needs. In general, warm weather gives the skin more of everything and skin tends to prefer a lighter version of its usual moisturizer. Additionally, this is NOT the season to forget sunscreen -- it should be a must!! Many moisturizers include sunscreen these days (sunscreen in a moisturizer is automatically a day cream). VS night cream which usually has a retinol or alpha hydroxy. In winter, the harsh elements tend to rob the skin of water. Look for a moisturizer to spike the humectants and increase water levels.

PIPD: Any product recommendations?

RG: La Mer products, which are oil-based, are an incredible way to moisturize dry skin. The moisturizer is the best in the business. La Mer also has an incredible oil-absorbing moisturizer for those that are super oily. Both are expensive but worth it. Skinceuticals' Face Cream is water-based, hydrating and has antioxidants to protect and shield the skin of free radicals that promote aging. SkinMedica products range from inexpensive (under $50) to expensive ($112). They are water-based and, therefore, compatible with most people's skin. They have antioxidants and epidermal growth factors which are great for healing and promoting new cells (available from a doctor or the internet). G.M. Collins products are in the same range as above. There are creams with peptides as well as antiaging options. Peptides are very popular these days as they aid in minimizing wrinkles. This is a great option for those who don't want to Botox, and a great choice for those who use Botox since it helps to extend the lifespan of the treatment. One of my favorite lines is a drugstore brand called La Roche Posay. Redermic (about $44) has all the bells and whistles, but no peptides. A water-based cream containing vitamins, humectants (like sodium hyaluronate and glycerin) and a silicone ingredient that makes the product soooo silky and helps fill in wrinkles. It reads beautifully on the skin at a low price point and is easily accessible. Plus, it comes in normal to combination skin as well as normal to dry. The company's Effaclar moisturizer is great for oily skin and runs about $25. It's a great way to mattify the skin in the morning while still treating it.

For more info on Rhea and La Suite Skin Care, go to www.lasuiteskincare.com.

winter skin relief: mayday, mayday!

The weather outside is frightful. Well, here in NYC, anyway. Whipping winds and frigid temps have left my face feeling dry and chapped. Even my usual soothing moisturizers don't seem to take effect. Thank goodness for Ren's Mayday Mayday Rescue Balm, designed to soothe dry, chapped irritated skin. It feels like a shield against the cold--as is definitely the must-have accessory I can't leave home without this month. After just one application, my skin felt softer, smoother, more moisturized and ready to brave the elements. There are all kind of great ingredients inside: Ceramide, phospholipids and essential fatty acids to help repair skin and restore softness, elasticity and comfort, lactic acid to reduce peeling and chapped skin, and chamomile and pink violet help to calm redness and soothe minor irritation (and give it a pretty scent!). It's especially great for dry skin on lips, hands, knees, elbows and any spot that needs a little extra attention. My only regret is that it comes in a small tube (1.7 fl. oz.)--I will need more in no time! Go to www.renskincare.com to order.

your acne could make you a winner!

Got zits? Flaunt them! For this contest, anyway. Whether you have mild acne, severe acne, cystic acne, or extremely oily and congested skin, share your story with the skin care specialists at Mario Badescu and let them help you once and for all. All you have to do is tell them how your skin problem has affected your life, how it has made you feel, and what you have tried over the years that hasn’t worked. Mario Badescu will choose five of these stories and help those who need it most to achieve amazing results. Those five lucky winners will receive a personalized one-on-one skin care consultation with an expert consultant as well as a complete customized Mario Badescu Skin Care regimen, tailored specifically for your skin care needs. So get your thoughts together and rehash your worst acne catastrophes...then get set to celebrate the skin you've always dreamed of. Go to www.mariobadescu.com to submit your story.

beauty on a budget: get suspended

Forget about the red carpet. The launch of new Vaseline Sheer Infusion ($7.99-$9.99),featured anything but. Instead of starlets stepping out into the spotlight, the company treated beauty insiders to an afternoon of trapezing to illustrate the product's suspension theory. Stylist and Just Try It On! author author Susan Redstone swung into action, trying her hands (and legs!) at the trapeze. She managed to perfect moves that even rivaled Sheer Infusion's innovative methods (see the pic for proof)! But back to beauty...Composed of ultra-moisturizing ingredients like Stratys-3, Sheer Infusion infuses and suspends moisture, providing ultimately hydrated skin that's soft and smooth, not dry or flaky. Glycerol Quat delivers optimal moisturization, staying on top of the skin to deliver moisture where it needs it most. Glycerin penetrates skin for immediate, long-lasting moisture at the core. Hydroxy Ethyl urea lures moisture to the deeper layer and keeps it there. Go to wwwww.vaseline.com for more info.

beauty on a budget: be wrinkle-free

Make the most of your beauty sleep--wake up looking younger than you did the night before! Garnier Nutriste Ultra-Lift Pro Deep Wrinkle Night Cream ($16.99) boosts skin’s natural repair process to reveal younger skin while you snooze. As we age, our body's natural repair system slows down, causing loss of skin firmness, elasticity and the deepening of existing wrinkles. Deep Wrinkle Night Cream works deep under the skin’s surface to restore elasticity and plump deep wrinkles from within. The result is firmer skin and decreased deep wrinkles. The rich yet lightweight formula absorbs completely without feeling sticky or greasy. Studies show that many women see firmer skin overnight and, in just two weeks, 86% of women felt firmer skin. Clinical studies show deep wrinkles are visibly reduced in four weeks. Just apply to face and neck nightly. The best part: You'd think a fancy night cream that does all this work would cost you your weekly paycheck. Not so. The price works just as well for your budget beauty routine. Available in mass market retailers nationwide. Go to www.garnier.com for more info.

keep your cool

I've been so busy lathrering up my son with the Anthony for Little Men Foaming Hair and Body Wash that I forgot about the company's mini bottle of The Cool Fix ($25) I had stashed away in my weekend bag. Just in time for Labor Day--the last official day to wear my swimsuit! As the debut product in a new brand called Shaveworks from Anthony Logistics, this all-in-one gel lotion soothes ingrown hairs, razor burn, irritation, redness and everyday common hair removal concerns. The Cool Fix prommises instant gratification. Yeah, right, I thought. But when I needed it most, I dabbed some on some razor burn and was quickly relieved. The best part: A percentage of all sales will be donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. The second best part: The palm-sized bottle fits inconspicuously inside your beach bag for easy access. Available at Sephora stores nationwide and www.sephora.com.

miracle oil

Talk about the all-encompassing beauty product: Whether you want to minimize scars and stretch marks, add moisture, even skin tone, or even make your skin look a few years younger, Bio-Oil ($11.99 for 2 ounces, $19.99 for 4.2 ounces) is the answer. The advanced formula is a rapidly absorbing dry oil that targets all of the above without leaving skin feeling greasy. Just smooth some on your skin for a healthy dose of some of my favorite ingredients: vitamins A and E, calendula, lavender, rosemary oil and chamomile extract through PurCellin Oil. How it works: This unique oil creates a thin, non-greasy, protective layer on your skin to prevent dryness and guard against moisture loss while allowing skin to absorb all the vitamins and natural herbal ingredients and allowing skin to breathe. On a serious note, I have friends with stretch marks who have tried everything and swear by Bio-Oil to reduce the appearance of their unsightly lines. If you just want to glisten, add a few drops of Bio-Oil to your favorite body bronzer and smooth it over your skin. You'll get a sexy, summer shimmer. Pick up a bottle of Bio-Oil at Walmart, Target, Walgreens, CVS and other leading drugstores.

expert advice: peel appeal with Dr. Jennifer Linder

Sometimes I find myself looking in the mirror and wishing I could turn back the clock a bit. I would love to be able to erase all the results of late night partying, excessive sunbathing and summers as a lifeguard at some of the most chlorinated pools in town. What I really need is to start with a clean slate--in other words, give my skin a fresh perspective. So I turned to Dr. Jennifer Linder, M.D., a dermatologist and Chief Scientific Officer for PCA Skin, a company known for its skin peels, to ask for her beauty advice. "There is no reason to be afraid of chemical peels, especially superficial chemical peels," says Linder. "If done correctly, they are not only incredibly safe but also affective with minimal downtime. There are several different kind of peels from superficial chemical that trigger only mild flaking with minimal downtime to deeper chemical peels that result in more redness, peeling and therefore may require some downtime. Many people do not realize that there is a huge difference between these two types of chemical peels. The superficial chemical peels can be very effective--especially when performed in a series--and are, therefore, my favorite peels to recommend. In contrast, the peels that patients are more commonly nervous about are the deeper chemical peels that trigger more peeling and redness. Patients still get a nice result but they need to be prepared for some downtime with deeper peels. The word chemical can sound scary as well but it is important to realize that many of the chemicals that are used for peeling are the same ones that are found in natural foods we eat like citrus, sugar and milk.

Different methods of chemical peeling have been used for centuries, starting with Cleopatra who used lactic acid peels to keep her famous face looking fresh. Fortunately, we now have truly identified the most beneficial solutions for topical use. Some of the deeper peels can be aggressive and these have lead to the fears surrounding chemical peel treatments. These concerns were only heightened when Samantha on Sex and the City had a deep chemical peel. These deeper treatments can create a significant amount of discomfort, redness, downtime and visible flaking. Because of possible side effects of the deeper peeling solutions, these treatments should only be administered by a physician. In most circumstances this type of aggressive treatment is not necessary. On the plus side, there are superficial and medium depth peel options out there that do not create this effect. In general, I recommend superficial chemical peels especially if you are skeptical of or nervous about peels. I recommend asking for superficial peels that are blended with other beneficial ingredients such as skin brighteners (to reduce discolorations), hydrating ingredients and skin-strengthening antioxidants. These added ingredients will increase the outcomes and decrease the risk of side effects. I personally recommend PCA SKIN’s comprehensive line of chemical peels. They truly are the gold standard for peels and there are multiple options for the technician to choose from so you will get a treatment catered to your specific skin concerns.

PCA requires all skincare professionals to take training before purchasing the treatments so you know you are receiving the treatment from someone who knows exactly how to administer it for the safest, most dramatic results. You will still get the exfoliation benefits of a typical chemical peel without the downtime. These types of treatments allow you to return to daily life immediately following their application and the result is healthy, beautiful skin. I personally have a PCA Peel once a month because it leaves my skin healthier and more glowing. There is absolutely no reason to be afraid of superficial chemical peels. Superficial peels can be used to treat all types of skin conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, visible aging and even rosacea and sensitive skin. Anyone with normal skin is also a candidate for preventative treatments to help prevent early onset of visible aging. Superfical peels can also be use to maintain results once a skin condition has been cleared.
The deeper, more invasive treatments I referred to are typically only necessary for those with severe textural scarring and very deep wrinkling. I personally prefer injectable fillers for these types of issues over these more aggressive peels because of the possible side effects. In general, superficial chemical peels, especially the PCA peels are beneficial for all skin types and ethnicities. One can be absolutely confident that they will have beneficial outcome that results in healthier more beautiful skin." If you're still hesitant about trying a skin peel but would love to learn more about PCA Skin products, try the newest product in the collection--just launched last month. PCA Perfecting Face & Body Hydrator SPF 30 is a UVA/UVB moisturizer with pigment control. Loaded with five melanogenesis inhibitors--bearberry, licorice root extract, kojic acid, mulberry root extract and lactic acid--it works to reduce existing skin discoloration while preventing future hyper pigmentation.

PCA SKIN daily care products are available through physicians and licensed skin care professionals throughout the United States and on www.skinstore.com. For a referral to a clinical practice that carries PCA SKIN products and professional treatments including PCA Peels, call 1.877.PCA.SKIN (722.7546).

give the gift of caring with Curél

I know about dry skin. In fact, I douse myself in ultra-thick moisturizing creams religiously as part of my nighttime beauty regimen. I am constantly trying to soothe and smooth rough elbows, knees, hands and feet. So when Curél came out with limited-edition Continuous Comfort Moisture Lotion for Dry Skin with time-released moisturizers ($8 at drugstores nationwide--it features the iconic Red Cross symbol), I just had to have some. Designed to hydrate and relieve skin for 24 hours, the non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, doesn't clog pores and is dermatologist recommended. Plus, it smells great!

Through its ongoing support of the American Red Cross, Curél goes beyond skin’s surface to nurture the people who need care the most, donating funds to the organization that helps heal communities in times of crisis. Collaborating for the second time, Cynthia Nixon and Curél are proud to launch the “Share the Gift of Caring” campaign in support of the American Red Cross. Log on to www.curel.com to dedicate a portion of Curél’s donation to someone you love, then encourage them to share the gift of caring by doing the same!

The American Red Cross has donated $250,000 and plans to donate $10,000 more. And you can click on the website to donate $1 of that $10,000 in a friend’s name. Your friend will receive a message from Curél letting her know that you care, and she will be invited to share the gift of sharing with someone else—creating a chain of donations from the Curél brand on behalf of real people across the United States.

A great gift and an amazing product for a superb cause--plus you get silky, smooth skin in the process!

a healthy diet for your skin

The next time you head for the salad bar, shake some salt on your dinner or pass on the onions, keep this advice from Kimberly Snyder in mind. Not only has she created an innovative product line called Envision to provide cutting edge skin care but she knows how to treat skin from the inside out. Here, she shares five simple tips to great looking skin through healthy eating. Bon appetit!

1. Max out on raw greens. The living enzymes in uncooked greens and vegetables assist digestion, detoxification and rebuilding, thus free up enzymes that can be used on repairing and rebuilding your skin. But these valuable enzymes, proteins and vitamins can be destroyed when they're heated up so you don't get the same benefits when you cook them. Sp pack as many green salads, veggies, sprouts and herbs into your diet as you can. Try my favorite Green Smoothie recipe on www.kimberlysnyder.net.
2. Switch to Celtic sea salt. Its sun-dried so its 70 minerals, trace elements, enzymes and marine microorganisms stay intact. Other salts are kiln-dried which allows valuable minerals and other nutrients to evaporate. Normal table salt is the worst of all, as it is composed of irradiated and denatured sodium chloride. It has no nutritional benefit and depletes skin of its natural hydration. 3. Eat more onions! It has a considerable amount of sulfur to cleanse skin and liver, and rebuild connective tissues like collagen. Onions are also a good source of usable quercetin which helps eliminate free radicals, protect and regenerate crucial vitamin E and decrease capillary fragility. 4. Add sea vegetables to your diet. They're 12 times richer in minerals than average vegetables and a good source of iodine which helps regulate metabolism, iron, B6, B12, magnesium, which opens up about 300 different pathways of detoxification. Throw dulse, hijiki and arame in salads or make nori wraps stuffed with salad (all available at your local health food store). 5. Snack on figs. They're an excellent blood purifier. Blood transports nutrients to the cells throughout the body and face, so the cleaner the blood, the more beautiful your skin. Pus, the tiny seeds in figs are packed with nutrients and draw out and dissolve waste, mucus and toxins from the intestinal tract.

here comes the sun

We've all heard the warnings about protecting your skin from the sun. And women who protect their skin daily with SPF reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. According to Dr. Zein Obagi, it's never too late to incorporate SPF in your daily routine. To protect your hands from wrinkles, dry skin and sun spots: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 20 or higher. Keep one in your bag and one in your car since UVA rays are transmitted through glass. Try ZO Skin Health Oraser Daily Hand Repair SPF 20 ($65) to protect from UV damage, lock in moisture, even skin tone. To protect your face without clogging your pores or leaving a greasy residue: Choose ZO Skin Health’s Oclipse Sunscreen + Primer SPF 30 ($65). It's also a great makeup primer. ZO Skin Health products are available at select Nordstrom retailers and STUDIO at Fred Segal as well as online. To help encourage women to protect their skin this summer, Dr. Obagi is offering a special online deal until May 31st. Go to www.zoskinhealth.com, buy a full size of either product and get a travel size gift with purchase.

start multitasking

Sometimes I look in the mirror and can't decide which skincare issues to focus on. Try to find a skincare regimen that targets them all and you'll drive yourself nuts! That's why I was excited to try the M2 Skin Technologies system which features Mandelic and Malic Acid. Madelic is antibacterial and lipid-soluble, which means it can cut through oil and really clean and balance skin deep down. Malic Acid is a natural humectant and antioxidant to keep skin hydrated throughout the day while protecting it from free radical damage. The collection consists of an exfoliating cleanser, treatment serum and skin recovery moisturizer that promise to do everything from even skin tone and reduce acne breakouts to tighten pores and erase fine lines and wrinkles. First, I try the Exfoliating Cleanser ($19.50): The gel-based formula has subtle exfoliating properties so it's definitely not harsh on your skin but still feels like it's working. Though it smells slightly like anti-bacterial soap, it feels good when you add water and work it into your skin. Next, I apply Skin Refinish ($44.50), a pearly-looking multi-purpose serum with a high concentration of Mandelic and Malic Acid. As I leave it on for the required 10-15 minutes, I actually feel it tightening my skin and pores--almost like a lightweight, transparent mask. I don't want to wash it off, thinking I can use all the tightening I can get! I finish up with the Skin Recovery Moisturizer ($30.50), with potent anti-inflammatory ingredients. Designed to reduce redness and irritation while keeping skin hydrated, it also contains vitamins A, C, E and D to protect from free radicals. It's a bit strong for my sometimes sensitive skin. Nevertheless, I use it for a few days and find my skin adapts. In the end, Skin Refinish is my favorite and I can't wait to see the results after long-term use. Thanks to renowned laser surgeon Dr. Mark Taylor for figuring it all out for us! To order, go to www.skincarerx.com or visit www.m2skintech.com for more info.

get the point

It seems to be a trend--if you're a plastic surgeon, you have to have your own skin care line. Denver-based Plastic Surgeon Christine Rodgers is no exception, thanks to her newly launched skin care collection, En Pointe Skin Solutions--but she brings to the table her first-hand experience as a breast cancer survivor as well as a passionate ballet dancer. In fact, it was the physical and emotional healing benefits she experienced through practicing ballet that inspired the brand name which suggests enduring strength. En Pointe specifically addresses women's skin concerns such as fine lines, skin pigmentation, redness and irritation which Dr. Rodgers believes are the consequences of skin stressors like hormonal, environmental, physical, emotional and medical issues. So I set out to undo some 40+ years of stress I have already endured. After washing my face, I applied the Encore Renewal Serum ($85), designed to brighten, reduce pigmentation and minimize the appearance of age spots. Formulated with Dr. Rodgers' Bio-Energy Complex to smooth, hydrate and promote radiant skin, it smoothed on easily and absorbed quickly. I followed up with the Fouette Firming Moisturizer ($85), designed to deliver intense moisture, stimulate collagen production and protect against free radical damage. It felt thicker than I expected but absorbed just as readily, almost as if it was filling in my not-so-fine lines as I was applying it. I added a couple of dabs of the Pas de Trois Age Delay Eye Solution ($75) in an attempt to reduce puffiness, dark circles and wrinkles around my eyes, offering a more youthful appearance. All of the formulas felt smooth and creamy on my skin and had a subtle clean, natural scent. There's a cleanser, toner, and SPF too, as well as other nourishing treatments. As for the results, only time will tell. I'll have to keep you posted. But in the meantime, check out these innovative and therapeutic products on www.empoweryourskin.com.