ADVICE FROM THE PROS
Medi Spa in Tampa, FL.
The folks at It's a Glam Thing (IAGT) are huge fans of Stunning Looks Medi Spa in Tampa, FL. Kristen Thornley Walsh, A.R.N.P., M.S.N is the star there. She is so knowledgeable and runs the show. I caught up with her recently while waiting in between services. I asked her a few questions and I'll share her answers with you here.
IAGT: What are the medi-spa's three most popular procedures?
Kristen: BOTOX Cosmetic, Laser Skin Resurfacing and Injectable Fillers.
IAGT: What are benefits of these procedures?
Kristen: BOTOX Cosmetics is one of the most popular and effective treatments for facial lines and wrinkles. BOTOX injections smooth the signs of aging by relaxing underlying facial muscles. BOTOX Cosmetic can take years off of the face's appearance by eliminating frown lines, crow's feet, and other minor facial wrinkles. It temporarily paralyzes the muscles that cause wrinkles while giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance.
Laser skin resurfacing uses laser energy to rejuvenate the skin and reduce the effects of aging, sun damage, and facial skin imperfections on the skin's surface. Also known as a laser peel, this procedure utilizes a safe, effective laser to dissolve the molecular bonds of damaged skin cells until a smoother, more uniform skin appearance is revealed. We use advanced laser skin resurfacing techniques to remove damaged outer layers of skin and stimulate new skin cell production of collagen to create smoother, younger, healthier-looking skin.
Fine lines, and other visible signs of aging have long been an unavoidable reality. Now cosmetic injectable fillers provide new forms of non-surgical facial rejuvenation and wrinkle treatment. We offer a range of cosmetic injections and dermal fillers including Juvéderm, Restylane, Radiesse, ArteFill and Sculptra that increase volume, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin's overall contour.
IAGT: What if any are are the possible side effects of these procedures?
Kristen: The most common side effect of Botox injection is a pin-point bruise which is usually avoidable if ice is held to the skin prior to injection. In rare cases a patient can have lid lag or brow heaviness due to the Botox placement. These side effects are always temporary and rare if Botox is performed by an experienced injector.
The most common side effects of lasers is redness and swelling. In rare cases, a patient can have bruising, blistering or pigmentary changes which usually resolve within a few days to possibly a few weeks.
The normal side effect post filler injection is transient redness and swelling. A small pinpoint bruise is also possible and usually easily hidden with make-up.
IAGT: What is the down time, if any, with these procedures?
Kristen: For Botox, in just a few minutes, the injections are complete. Results can be seen immediately with complete results showing after just a few days. Follow-up treatments are recommended within four to six months. The recovery period following BOTOX treatment is typically very brief. Although patients should refrain from participating in particularly strenuous activities for 24 hours, they can resume most normal activities immediately.
With Laser Skin Resurfacing, the length of the procedure ranges fifteen minutes to one hour, depending on the size of the treated area. The recovery time for laser skin resurfacing patients varies depending on the type of laser used and aggressiveness of the treatment. However, there is generally no downtime associated with Harmony or Fraxel® laser treatments, and patients can expect to return to their normal activities almost immediately after the procedure. Redness, swelling, and minor irritation sometimes develop, producing an overall sensation similar to mild sunburn; these effects usually last no longer than four or five days.
And, with injectable fillers, the recovery is generally very easy and there is normally no downtime. Patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately after treatment and may only experience minor swelling for about 24 hours.
IAGT: What age group do you see getting these procedure?
Kristen: Our most popular age group for all procedures is late 30's to mid 60's and we see both men and women getting these procedures.
BOTOX®, Juvéderm™, Restylane®, Radiesse®, ArteFill® and Sculptra™ are trademarks.
See what else is happening at the Stunning Looks Medi Spa: www.veincentertampa.com
Keeping Your Tummy Trim Over 40!
It seems the number one question women over the age of 40 are asking us is how to keep their tummy's fit and trim, and avoid that dreaded middle-aged bulge. There are a host of contributing factors, ranging from behavioral to biological that can promote weight gain of the mid-section. However, there may be a few other unsuspecting culprits lurking in the foods we eat everyday. These ingredients masquerade under indiscernible chemical names and are none other than food additives.
We caught up with Diane Manning , President of LABELWATCH.com to get the real scoop on additives. LABELWATCH.com is the first and only website that compares the additives, ingredients and nutritional facts in foods. In short, the site takes the guesswork out of deciphering food additives and helps people choose the best brand-name foods for themselves and their family. Here's what we learned from Diane and her groundbreaking web site.
It is important to understand that many food additives are not only harmless, but are also necessary to ensure a healthy food supply. However, there are a few we should all avoid, especially once we near that big 40-year mark. The following additives have been shown to have a toxic or even carcinogenic, biological effect that may result in bloating, digestion problems and other metabolic disorders. The end result for many is unwanted and unnecessary weight gain that lands right in the mid-section for many.
LABELWATCH.com's Top Five Additives To Avoid For People 40+
1. Chlorine
We all know chlorine is a bleaching agent used to remove stains from our clothes, but what you may not know is it's also used to bleach our foods, primarily refined flour. As a food additive, this agent has been linked to a chemical reaction in the body that has been shown to destroy beta cells in the pancreas, which in turn can promote diabetes. Use of chlorine as a food additive is not allowed in the European Union due to these health concerns. Bleached white flours (such as enriched wheat flour) have been linked to bloating, weight gain and digestive problems such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) especially in people who are sensitive to wheat. So, reach for products that are chlorine-free and contain only 100% whole grains.
2. Benzoyl Peroxide or Calcium Peroxide
This additive is commonly used as an acne and antifungal medication, and as an antiseptic in many cough medicines. Peroxides are also used as chemical-bleaching agents in refined flours, dairy products, starches and rice. There is growing concern that foods containing peroxide agents may leave trace amounts of benzene (a known carcinogen) when baked. It's true that the level of benzene that forms during the baking process is quite small (which puts consumers at a very low level risk of cancer) but it's best to avoid any risk. Look for products that are free of peroxide bleaching agents.
3. Potassium Bromate
This additive is used to expand the volume and refine the texture of bread. In the baking process, bromate for the most part breaks down to form a benign bromide. There is concern, however, that bromate bas been linked to cancer in animals, and therefore any residual bromate remaining in foods could be problematic. Most importantly, bromate has been banned virtually worldwide except in Japan and the United States. It is rarely used in California because a cancer warning might be required on the label. Therefore, look for breads and baked goods that are made with non-bromated whole grain flours.
4. Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
MSG is an amino acid that's used as a flavor enhancer in many foods. Studies conducted in the 1960s, revealed that large amounts of MSG fed to infant mice destroyed nerve cells in the brain. As a result of these studies, public pressure forced baby-food manufacturers to eliminate use of MSG in their products. In addition, many studies have shown that some people are sensitive to MSG. Complaints include bloating, headaches, nausea, weakness, wheezing, increased heart rates, and burning sensation on skin. So, choose products that use natural seasonings and herbs to enhance flavor, instead of chemicals.
5. Sodium Nitrite (Sodium Nitrate)
Sodium nitrite or nitrate gives cured meats that nice red color. Unfortunately, nitrites/nitrates in food can lead to the formation nitrosamines, a potent cancer-causing chemical. In fact there have been several studies that have linked the ingestion of these additives by children, pregnant women, and adults with various types of cancer. While the scope of these studies have not, beyond a reasonable doubt, proven that eating nitrites/nitrates causes cancer, it's best to just avoid them. Therefore remember to reach for Nitrite/Nitrate-Free bacon, sausage and other cured meats.
The good news is that by eliminating these undesirable additives that interferes with metabolic function, we not only promote a healthier body, but we may also eliminate some of those undesirable pounds as well. As we age, or better yet at every stage of our life, it's best to avoid any potentially harmful food additives. As a standard rule of thumb, remember to reach for minimally processed, wholegrain products, fresh fruits & vegetables, lean proteins, and "good" fats such as mono & polyunsaturated fats to help keep you healthy, vibrant and fit into your forties and beyond.
To find out more about the brand-name foods that you eat and to find the best foods for your health and waistline, go to LABELWATCH.com and start a healthy online shopping list today. Visit www.labelwatch.com.
Hot Pants Cosmetics
It's a Glam Thing (IAGT) caught up with Brooke Boles recently and learned that she has some exciting things going on including a new baby girl! Here is some history on Brooke and her company.
Created in 2003 by Brooke Boles, Hot Pants Cosmetics is a flirty line of fashion inspired makeup that has been winning the hearts of celebrities and makeup artist since its launch. Brooke is an actress and model who has made numerous TV appearances and has been featured in top beauty magazines. She has appeared on QVC with the Hot Pants Cosmetics line . Most recently she has taken on the role of Mom to a beautiful baby girl! Brooke created Hot Pants with the goal of turning each woman’s beauty routine into a journey of creative and fashionable expression. IAGT asked Brooke for some advice on making the proper make-up color choices. She reminds us that makeup is an accessory like a belt or bracelet. "It should compliment the fashion choice regardless of the season and must work with the total look. Most importantly, you must know your best colors. The way to do this is try different color swatches on to see which colors make you look alive and which colors make you look drab. Focus those lively colors into your makeup wardrobe," says Brooke. She loves color on the eyes! "The Op Art Mineral Collection creates endless color combinations from twenty one products for the eyes and lasts 8 to10 hours with no creasing." She told us about these two beautiful color combinations that have been showing up on the runways and how anyone can incorporate them into their wardrobe.
Rose and Gold: "Start by applying the Hot Pants Illusion Clear Eye Base to the entire lower eyelid to prevent Pigments from creasing. Next, sweep Rococo (rose) Pigments on lower lid and blend into crease. Then, layer Gothic (gold) shadow in the middle of the lower lid to make the whites of the eye pop. Blend Buttercream on the brow bone as a highlighter. For a look like you just ate a strawberry, try Lip Lust in Tongue Tie."
Lavender and Smokey Silver: "Apply the Hot Pants Illusion Grey Base to the entire lower eyelid to prevent Pigments from creasing and to add more depth. Next, apply Fauvism (lavender) pigments in the inner corner of the eye to the middle of the eyelid. From the middle of the eyelid to the outer corner, sweep Vorticism (smokey silver) to create a soft wing. Trace the outer lower lash line with Vorticism for more intensity. Highlight the brow bone with Minimalism (pearlescent beige). Lips should be sheer and nude with Lip Lust in Gold Rush."
Flaunt it with more hot looks from Brooke & Hot Pants. Find them at www.hotpantscosmetics.com.
.
Dream Bathroom
Image you can have your dream bathroom now and one of America's top designers can design it for you! Los Angeles' Elina Katsioula-Beall (MFA, CKD) of DeWitt Designer Kitchens started designing in her native Greece. Her design journey took her to Hollywood where she embarked on a career in theater, television and film. Elina has earned numerous theatrical awards and three Emmy Nominations as an Art Director to the Oscars. She is president of DeWitt Designer Kitchens in Studio City, CA. It's a Glam Thing (IAGT) asked Elina to share one of her bathroom designs with us. She tells us about a Los Angeles client's design wishes and how she made them come true.
“A spa of my own – to relax and decompress” was the request of the single, over-stressed Los Angelino artist for her new, in-progress house. An ardent lover of space and simple, monumental elements, she wanted the bathroom suite of her new house to bring forward soothing, “green” materials and evoke the outdoors.
As key materials, we chose pebbles and bamboo to set the “green mood,” and had them rest on a bed of quiet roman travertine. Silver vein-cut travertine for the counters is accentuated by recycled sage glass tile, framing the mirror, and reappearing in the shower wall and shampoo alcove.
Thinly streamlined bamboo cabinetry for her vanity and make-up area responds to her eco-friendly style and grants storage for toiletries, cosmetics and jewelry. The bamboo, in tile form, covers the tub deck and moves on the floor to frame a stone mat consisting of eight hand-selected, pattern-forming travertine tiles.
The protagonist is the wall behind the bath tub, a natural tapestry of sand-colored pebble rocks which offers the spa-like backdrop she longed for. Slim Italian sconces wash its stunning texture with a hidden halogen source, so that the light does not come directly in her eyes while she is bathing. There is a large shower for 2 people with 6 shower heads and a built in stone bench.
Personalized to her tall, slim figure, the vanity vessel sinks and faucets sit proud on the countertop, and though unexpectedly high, they seek to become proportionate to the monumental, recessed mirror. Recessed halogen lighting and additional sconces dim to the correct level in order not to compete with the soft candlelight glow.
This “spa of her own” is now her home –a home where she can soak in the bath tub and wash away the dust of Los Angeles and the stress of her days. - Elina
Top 10 Skin Care Rules
 Recently It's a Glam Thing caught up with mother, model & actress Monica Olsen of SKIN by Monica Olsen. We were introduced to her new organic and chemical free skin care line. Monica shared her Top 10 List of Skin Care Rules to Live By. Here it is!
1. Before applying makeup, start with a clean palette. Clean and moisturized skin helps prep the skin before the application of color. For a non-foaming cleanser, try RESTORE MSM Facial Cleanser.
2. Take a daily multivitamin. Plant-based multivitamins are the best because they actually get absorbed into the blood system because the body recognizes them as food. Try CLEANSE which promotes internal balance.
3. Throw out any beauty products that contain alcohol. Alcohol dries out your skin and can cause flaking. Plus, it’s a free radical that causes skin irritation and allergic reactions. For your deodorant needs, DRY Antiperspirant and Deodorant is aluminum and alcohol free.
4. Same thing for anything containing urea. Urea is animal urine. Do you really want that on your face or body? Urea is used because it gives a nice, silky feel to skincare products, but there are natural ways to get that feeling.
5. Avoid excessive sun exposure and wear sun protection all the time, not just when you are on vacation. I have a great product called SAFE Waterproof Sun Protection which is all-natural sun protection. Also for the “war on wrinkles” I urge you to use THE CURE Wrinkle Reducer which has higher levels of CoQ10, Argireline, and Matrixyl then most and it also uses a special liposome delivery system.
6. Avoid anything with parabens. Parabens can cause skin irritation and have been found in breast tumors.
7. Drink lots of water. I’d say about 8 glasses a day.
8. Be a discriminating consumer. Do your homework and read the ingredients labels of all the products you haves. For additional information, check out skinbymonica.com. I have compiled a list of additional ingredients to avoid.
9. Remember that your skin is a reflection of what’s going on inside, be aware of what you consume.
10. Love yourself & check out www.skinbymonica.com & improve your skin, hair, and ambiance.
About Rosie Johnston
It's a Glam Thing (IAGT) has been hearing so much great stuff about Rosie Jane Cosmetics and founder Rosie Johnston. We were able to secure some time with Rosie for a quick Q&A and here is what we learned:
IAGT: How did you get your start in the industry?
Rosie: I finished makeup school and had just moved to London. I was working part time in a video shop, a photographer walked in talking about how he was going to be shooting Kylie Minogue next week and I asked him if he needed a makeup artist. Everything started from there.
IAGT: What would you tell a woman who feels like she is hopeless at applying makeup?
Rosie: Not to give up. A lot of brands make it pretty confusing when it comes to choosing products and then applying them. Try starting with some basics…mascara, cream blush and lip gloss. As your confidence builds, start adding some more products, eyeliner, eye shadow, etc.
IAGT: Is there an easy way for women who wear glasses to apply eye makeup?
Rosie: Try doing it with a dual hand mirror. One side magnified the other normal. You can hold the mirror as close as you need to. Do one eye at a time if need be. Also try going for products that are goof proof, like the Rosie Jane Eye Define. You can practically be blind and still make this liner work for you.
IAGT: Who is your favorite celebrity to work with?
Rosie: Probably Poppy Montgomery because she's my sister so we always have a lot of fun together.
IAGT: Tell us about the new Eye Define that just came out?
Rosie: Eyeliner is the hardest cosmetics product to master. Realizing that the most common eyeliner is black, I wanted to add a natural and unique spin on the typical black eyeliner. 'Night' is a slightly shimmery smokey black, so the line it creates is not as harsh. It’s a more natural finish and with the angled tip, it is so easy to use and get a really defined look.
IAGT: What are some tricks for women to look polished but not overdone?
Rosie: When it comes to makeup, to me less is always more. Women should just be defining what they have. Always keep it simple. Normally a good coat of mascara, pink cheek, and flushed lip is all you need to look pulled together and radiant.
IAGT: What is the biggest makeup mistake women make?
Rosie: Not wearing mascara even when they have naturally dark lashes. Or getting all dressed up and only putting lipstick on, with no other makeup. Makeup is just as important to your overall look as the outfit you choose to wear.
IAGT: How can women use makeup to look younger?
Rosie: Keep your lip color light; just try using a natural lip liner and a tinted gloss. Dark colored lipsticks tend to make women look older. Don't wear too much and just keep it simple.
IAGT: Do you have any secret application tips to share with us?
Rosie: Try using a white iridescent eye shadow just in the inner corner of your eyes. It gives an instant pick me up and looks stunning.
IAGT: Anything you would like to add?
Rosie: Just remember makeup is all about layering. Start with less and build from there.
Summer Skin Care Tips
Recently, It's a Glam Thing caught up with soap star turned Emmy award nominated make-up artist & founder of (true) PROMISE skin care, Gail Johnson. We asked Gail to share some of her expert advice with us. Here is what Gail has to say about summer facial skincare.
"Summer is my favorite time of year! It's hot, sunny, there are vacations, parties and everything's outdoors. There's one problem. Your skin and summer have a love, hate relationship. Here are some simple tips to follow to keep your summer skin happy, healthy, beautiful and wrinkle free. I know, I know. We hate the feel of heavy, greasy sunscreen, especially on our face. It's sticky, slimy and thick. But the choice of not wearing sunscreen or low spf leaves us with sun damaged, prematurely aged, wrinkled, spotty pigmented skin and that's not an option either. We've all seen otherwise beautiful girls who have such damaged body & facial skin that the deep lines, dehydrated skin and creases are evident even when they make the slightest gesture.
Take the highest SPF broad spectum UVA-UVB waterproof sunblock you can find. Personally, I like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch. Before applying, spray your skin with a liquid moisturizer that contains NA-PCA or Hyaluronic Acid. I like Focus 21 all purpose skin & hair moisturizer. This will do two things. The spray will let the sunscreen glide on easily so it won't be thick, greasy or heavy and the sunscreen will act as a shield to hold these vital moisturizing nutrients on the skin. It's a win, win situation. This is also a good time to start conditioning yourself to wear small traces of sunscreen under your eyes and on the eyelid itself. Get used to it. Pat it on gently, obviously avoiding any area too close to the eye. Krinkled skin on eyelids screams sun damage and age. Plus, the sunscreen mixture will act like a primer for any mineral makeup/powder/foundation you choose to wear over it. Now, go outdoors, have fun and be gorgeous! Happy summer."
- Love, Gail Johnson -
Christopher Hopkins, The Makeover Guy
Not long after my second appearance on Oprah, a woman flew to Minneapolis from Virginia for a makeover. She was a 54-year-old pastor’s wife who had grown her hair for six months to “give me something to work with.” We didn’t click at first. She seemed to contradict herself, explaining she liked the length (which was almost to her shoulders and very layered) but wanted to look classy. She didn’t want a color change (it was salt and pepper), but wanted to look more youthful. She wanted easy care and to look natural, but she enjoyed setting it in hot rollers and the feel of moving, voluminous hair. She then wanted me to tell her what I would do if she hadn’t said anything.
Guess what. She needed to go short and blonde. She dragged her feet and was extremely indecisive. There was more going on here than just a haircut. After much repetitious dialogue, I pulled out my last stop, which usually goes something like, “Well, you flew all the way here for a makeover. You can go home looking basically the same, or you can look great. Which do you want?”
“To look great,” she replied tentatively. “Then you need to let go and let me make it happen.” She agreed but with trepidation, which is not the best way to begin a new look. So, with more than a little concern, I spun her away from the mirror and began to cut her hair. First the nape, then the sides. When I turned her back toward the mirror, she began to cry. “What’s wrong?” I asked while taking deep, cleansing breaths. “I don’t know why I am crying,” she said.
Having gained the attention of much of the rest of the salon, I tactfully tried to find out what was bothering her. “I’m so embarrassed,” she whispered. “Wait, I’m not embarrassed. I’m crying because I love it! It’s as if you’ve unlocked part of me that has been missing for years!” With a sigh of relief, I turned to those pretending they weren’t really looking and said, “Happy tears, tears of joy—chat amongst yourselves.”
Months later she sent me this letter:
Dear Christopher,
On the 15th of January of this year, I came to your salon for the thrill and fun of a makeover. Little did I know you would work a ransom. Years ago, when I was a young girl, I remember walking into the local barbershop with instructions from my mother to get my hair cut and to make sure I told the barber that “the back must be shingled.” He did it, and I walked out a captive to the haircuts of ease and lost to any sense of style. Over the years, some forty-six of them, a cry has gone on inside me for just the right look, the one that would suit who I was. As I sat in your chair that Saturday morning, you worked your expertise and I began to cry: You were working a magic that made me feel like a butterfly coming out of a cocoon. I had been found. It’s now almost two months since that day, and my sense of wellbeing has been constant. I am so grateful to you. It may have been simply a pairing of face shape to hairstyle on your side of the chair, but on my side it was a touching of the soul.
Like many, this woman was sort of “in denial." Her mind was mixed with messages of aging gracefully vs. fighting it every step of the way. But at some point, often in my chair, a woman is literally face-to-face with reality. Her self-esteem and self-image inseparably intertwined.
Studies confirm that strong self-esteem determines in large part our personal and professional fulfillment. Certainly, we all have good days and bad days, and days when we feel more assured than others. But managing the image you reflect in the mirror better equips you to face the day with confidence.
-Christopher Hopkins, The Makeover Guy-
Love Your Color With Robert Bachelor
 Sarah, our It's a Glam Thing "Get Glam" roving field producer/director, spoke with Celebrity Hair Stylist Robert Bachelor (Universal City, CA), who has worked with the likes of Helen Hunt, Eva La Rue & Mike Myers and has been featured in national fashion magazines, on national television shows such as Entertainment Tonight and Inside Edition. Robert tells us how to "Get Glam" Hair Color that we'll LOVE!
IAGT: So tell us Robert, how do we get the hair color we want and love?
ROBERT BACHELOR: Stylists aren't mind readers and they don't have a crystal ball, so before any color is pulled from the shelf and mixed into the bottle, you and your stylist should be sharing the same vision. Good communication is the best way to get the hair color you've had in your mind's eye out of your head & on to your head. I believe pictures are one of the best ways to communicate color. Hence, a picture is worth a thousand words can be taken literally when it comes to coloring hair. Each of us perceive color differently and the words we use to describe color can have different meanings. Is a stick of butter yellow, cream colored, warm beige or the color of a pale winter sun? Now imagine how hard it would be to describe a specific color of red hair. Make certain you and your stylist/colorist are both "seeing" the same red. Bring pictures of your favorite color to your stylist/colorist. And the pictures don't have to be just hair! How about a picture of iced tea sitting in the sun to convey the concept of light golden brown or a picture of a gemstone, such as a Tiger's Eye, to convey the colors you want in your highlights! I had a client bring in a picture of a wheat field to describe the natural, earthy blonde she was looking for.
IAGT: Wow, that's such atypical advice! I've typically chosen my desired color from a hair color swatch.
RB: Hair color swatches can be useful as another visual aid but they are not the way to pick the final color formula. Ultimately, it is up to your stylist/colorist to mix the formula that will deliver the desired end result. Swatches are almost never made with human hair, instead they are manufactured by color companies to demonstrate approximations of their individual colors. They look, feel and reflect light quite differently from human hair. If your stylist looks at the swatch you have chosen, reads the back and says ...okay then, 7RO it is, you might be sitting in the wrong chair. It is vital that the stylist understands more then the basics of color. He or she should have the breadth and depth of experience in color mixing and equally as important, proper application techniques to bring your combined vision to life.
IAGT: Blending color and visions to create my perfect amber gold highlights: that sounds a bit like alchemy!
RB: It's really the Art of Color, although I've been called an alchemist. Just remember, we might not know what makes good art, but we do know what we like. There are many stylist/colorists out there, including me, who think of themselves as artists. We studied long and hard, attended fashion and hair shows, taken all the classes, and practiced our art on family, friends and manikin heads. We earned the right to think of ourselves as such. However, you, the Client, are our patron and the one we serve and not the other way around. Don't be intimidated or railroaded into something you don't want to wear. We are born with an innate sense of who and what makes us feel our best, so we should trust our instincts. A true artist will support and collaborate with you so the end result will be the most flattering and gratifying for you.
more on: www.RobertBachelorSALON.com
Get Glam tips from Mezhgan
 Warm nights, the smell of BBQ and thoughts of a splendid vacation are signs that summer is near. While we welcome the season with open arms our skin doesn't. Mezhgan, American Idol’s Hollywood makeup artist and creator of Me by {Me}zhgan cosmetics, shares some tips on how to stay protected from the sun while maintaining a fresh sun-kissed look. This is what Mezhgan has to say:
"Did you know 90% of wrinkles are caused by the suns rays? Don’t leave home without your sunscreen! Don't rely on the sunscreens that are in your cosmetic products and moisturizers for protection either. You should use a separate high SPF sunscreen for better protection. You can call it your own personal fountain of youth.
To get that sun-kissed look without the sun damage, use self tanners. There are so many good ones on the market now that there are no excuses for not using one. There is no more ooompa loompa orange. They have perfected the golden tan from a bottle. Pink cheeks are in for the summer. Dust a little on the apples of your cheek just to give you that fresh, in from the sun look. Bronzers! Gotta love bronzers! Keep one handy at all times. Don’t get me wrong there is no worse look than an over bronzed diva but it is the best beauty secret out there. Dust a little on the cheeks nose and forehead for an instant pick-me-up."
Mezhgan tells us these are 5 must-have items for your summer makeup kit.
an eyelash curler - "This is the best way to look awake after that summer party you went to last night!"
a bronzer - "Use your bronzer to give your foundation a little color as you get a little darker."
a dewy foundation - "Use one that gives you a healthy glow and brightens your skin. Try luminous {me} by Mezhgan foundation. http://www.mebymezhgan.com/
a nude gloss- "This gives you that barely there look!"
sunscreen- "Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. Oh and did I say sunscreen?"
"Your makeup is always going to look it’s best if what’s underneath looks its best so protect it! Have a great summer and look good doing it! Check out my new cosmetic line Me by {me}zhgan at www.mebymezhgan.com and don’t forget to tell a friend about {me}!"
Summer Hair Trends
 It's a Glam Thing (IAGT) recently sat down with top Hollywood Hairstylist, Barry Halkides and asked the talented stylist about some of the hottest trends for Summer 2008.
IAGT: Barry, what do you think will be the hottest cut this summer?
Barry: "I still believe the ‘Victoria Beckham Bob’ will be hot for this summer. It has been around for a while but it is still going strong and women across American can’t get enough of it. Katie Holmes’ bob only reinforces this trend. Katie’s is similar to Victoria’s with the exception of very heavy fringe in the front. The current bob phase is only a trendy version of the classic bob that we have seen in decades past. It is simple, flirty, elegant and looks great on most women."
IAGT: What do you think about summer highlights?
Barry: "The blonder the better for the summer. As we transition into summer, think blonde, blonde and blonde. I recommend professional salon foils or if your hair is short, it can be biolaged. This is a color technique for shorter hair where highlight foil techniques are for longer hair. Always ask your stylist what is best for you. The one product I would recommend to everyone for protecting your color against the sun, ocean, lake and pool damage is the Soleil Line by Kerastase."
IAGT: Do women come in and sometimes want stylish cuts that perhaps are not appropriate for their facial structure?
Barry: "Yes, this happens a lot. There are styles that women want and I know that it won’t fit their face. The pictures they bring in are never what they will totally get. In general, women with narrow faces should go with shorter hair and women with rounder faces and bigger jaw lines should consider more mid length hair styles to below the shoulder. If you are polite and present photos and other ideas, most women will understand and follow your lead."
IAGT: Can you think of any other summer trend ideas that you want to mention?
Barry: "Yes! Ladies that have longer hair always look great in the summer with their hair slicked back into a ponytail. It is also practical for keeping you cool in the hot weather. My suggestion would be to put some sort of a wax or pomade that is pliable to slick back any sort of loose ends or baby hairs. I suggest Bumble & Bumble Styling Wax and New Bumble Spray de Mode."
IAGT: Anymore last minute tips for us?
Barry: "I recently found the BLO & GO on itsaglamthing.com. I tried it and it is one of the best products on the market. My clients have a hard time blowing their own hair out in between visits to me at the salon and so in between I encourage them to purchase this product. It holds their hair dryer and gives them both hands to use to style behind their hair which is hard to do. It’s only available on-line but soon it will be in retail stores as well. Great product and a useful tool."
Barry Halkides is a stylist at the world famous Salon at the Beverly Hills Hotel.
Pencil Me In Cosmetics
 I love the look of soft pastel eyeliner but was not sure if it would look right on me. I asked Linda Eisner, founder of Pencil Me In Cosmetics what she thought. "Pastel pencils work for all skin tones. Apply the pencil in a thin line to your upper eyelid very close to your lash line." She suggests Pencil Me In’s Sky, Mint or Pink Lady. "At first it will seem like you are not applying enough color but after you apply your mascara you will be amazed at how the soft colors "pop" and show the beauty of your eyes. Apply the deeper more seductive shades under the eyes to help shape and complete the look." Try Pencil Me In's Boysenberry, Amethyst or Lapis. "There is no need to press hard or repeat the application when using our pencils as we use highly concentrated pigments."
LA fashion week
 After a whirlwind of LA fashion week wrapping up 3 shows, Monarchy, Bow & Arrow - by Alan De Rosario and the Flaunt Magazine closing show, celebrity wardrobe stylist and costume designer Michael Holdaway fills us in on the trends right now. "It’s a great time for fashion because almost everything is in." says Michael. " Every decade of trend is being showcased right now or has an influence on the runway. Dior is still heavily influenced by the 60’s mod, Galliano’s remake of the late 1800 Japanese peasant pant, Prada trying so hard to prematurely bring back 70’s elephant bell’s and a splash of 50’s still exists in Betsey Johnson and many other designers staples. It seems as though fashion has a main fashion artery of solid trend and then a bunch of veins leading off of that to accommodate every body type and style favorite.
For the main fall fashion artery every trendsetter, or style monger must have a double-breasted lightweight trench in his or her wardrobe. Whether it’s a beautiful vintage Burberry or a brand spanking new Dior, it is a must. Monarchy also is doing a ¾ trench at a reasonable price point that fits like a glove.
Accessories are a must this spring. A great lightweight spring scarf or ascot, bright cotton wrist gloves to match your outfit and a good bag. When I say good bag, I don’t mean luggage. I was on Rodeo Drive two days ago and saw a Blonde bombshell, about 5’2, 80 lbs, A size DD, with 6" heels who looked like she just stepped out of the playboy mansion walking in front of the Dolce store toting a bag that was 3 feet tall, 3.5 feet wide and about a food deep. It was ridiculous. Please make sure the bag you are carrying doesn’t look like it should be on wheels. If its big enough for you to get into its probably too big for you to carry.
Ladies, you want to make sure and put away your pointy boots and shoes for a while. They can be narrow but they should not be pointy. The same goes for the guys. A narrow shoe with a rounded toe is best. A hard point is not happening.
A good layering piece is still the vest. There are many vests out right now. In particular, Dolce came out with a 4-button vest with a lapel that was to die for.You can utilize it as a dressy look over a dressy button down shirt and a blazer over that or you can put it over a tee shirt with some skinny jeans, flats or tennis shoes and a good pair of sunglasses. Dress it up or down. You cant go wrong.
A good way to wear a tie if you are still going to wear one is that you take both ends of the tie in your right hand, the looped part in your left wrap it around your neck and put the ends through the loop. Let it hang. This will freshen up the tie if you’re going for a trendy look.
Also guys, go find yourself a good pair of lightweight beat leather, laced up boots with above the ankle to stuff your skinny jeans into. Another hot vintage item to mix into your wardrobe is beat up wingtip lace up shoes."
Have fun with your fashion. Feel comfortable. Wear it proud.
How to Look Great in a Photo
 We got some expert advice from Celebrity Photographer Russell Baer on how to look great in a photo everytime! "It is possible to get great photos even if you are not at a professional fashion shoot. Start by practicing to find the best angle for your face but don’t be afraid to try something different once in a while as well. Everyone has a good side. It is always helpful to know this so you can be prepared when you know you are being photographed."
Russell lets us know that we must keep these basic things in mind.
Always shift your weight when looking in a camera. That keeps you from looking stiff. Avoid standing straight on both feet.
Try to get your eye level straight on the camera as well. This gives less chance of getting the double chin (too low) or the up the nostril shot (too high).
Turning your hips to the side in a full length shot always makes you look slimmer.
Avoid starring at the camera too long. That helps the photo to look fresh. Try to wait till the last minute so you bring your energy to the camera just before the shot is taken. When there is a flash, wail till the redeye delay from the camera goes then get ready for your shot.
If you know you will be having your photos taken always wear colors that accent your eyes. Choose clothes that best define your body type. Stay away from bulky sweaters or jackets. They usually photograph on the heavier side. If you are wearing something you don’t like then chances are you will dislike it even more in a photo.
If you are planning to have your photo taken for a family event or reunion, make sure you get a good night's sleep the night before. Have your makeup done by a professional to really make a difference. The biggest stars in Hollywood know that a great makeup artist is even more valuable than all the botox in LA. You can find a decent makeup artist at the Mac makeup counters in most cities if you do not have access to someone you know.
Most of all have fun in your photos. "The most successful shoots that I have done always had an element of fun and playfulness involved. Sometimes actors bring me candid snapshots of themselves at a party and wonder why they can’t capture this in a portrait session. The answer is simple. They were keeping it light and having a good time when this photo was taken."
Russell Baer has photographed many of the most famous faces in the world. Some of his subjects include Eva Longoria, Rachel Bilson, Mariel Hemingway and Martin Sheen. His celebrity portraits have been featured in most magazines on the stands today including Cosmopolitan, Seventeen, People, Elle, Time and Newsweek.
You can see his photos online at www.russellbaer.com
Men's skin care
 We asked SKINN Cosmetics’ Dimitri James for some insight into men’s skin care and some product suggestions. "Men’s skin is thicker than women’s skin and has a higher cell turn over rate. This can lead to clogging , flaking, dullness and ingrown facial hairs. To avoid this use SKINN'S DermAppeal Thermo-Enzymatic Microdermabrasion Scrub . Used daily before shaving this will un-clog pores and smooth and refine skin bringing it to a new level of perfection. This product also prevents and treats potentially scarring in-grown hair. Our perfect moisturizer for men is Crease Release Day Treatment Cream. This non-greasy peptide rich treatment will help sooth shaving irritation, smooth out deep lines and redefine facial contours for an overall younger appearance." Actor Sean Kanan is a fan of Dimitri James SKINN Cosmetics.
Style Advice
 Looking for that perfect pair of earrings? Here are a few tips from Jewelz by L.A. to help you make your selection.
When choosing a pair of earrings the most important element to consider is your face shape. The four basic face shapes are: long or oval, round, square and heart-shaped.
For you lucky gals with long or oval-shaped faces, almost anything goes. You can wear chandeliers, hoops and even studs and they will look great on you. Remember to make sure that the earrings are always proportionate to your facial features. Jessica Alba and Sarah Jessica Parker have long or oval-shaped faces.If you have a round face, you will want to find earrings that will help elongate your features. Try a pair of nice drop earrings to add some length. You will want to stay away from hoop earrings and smaller studs. Also avoid large chunky earrings. Round face beauties include Christina Ricci and Cameron Diaz.Square-shaped faces look great with hoop or oval earrings. To help soften your features also try medium to long earrings that have slightly curved lines. It is best to avoid earrings with sharp angles as they will widen the appearance of your face. Demi Moore and Jessica Simpson have square -shaped faces.If you have a heart-shaped face, aim for earrings that are wider at the bottom such as teardrops or pyramid-shaped earrings. Hoops will also suit you. Make sure to avoid heart shaped earrings as well as earrings that are wider at the top. Heart-shaped beauties include Reese Witherspoon Scarlett Johansson.
Finally, always remember to keep your outfit and occasion in mind when selecting a pair of earrings. The perfect pair of earrings will give you that extra bit of confidence you need to stand out in the crowd. Visit www.jewelzbyla.com to find your perfect pair!
Mani/Pedi Tips
 Manicures and pedicures are as much about looking good as they are about good health. We contacted OPI’s Los Angeles based celebrity manicurist Beth Fricke and she gave us these simple steps to healthy and great looking hands & feet.
"After you have soaked a bit in the tub or shower, use a wet foot paddle or pumice stone to slough the dead skin off calluses on the feet. This should not be done more than a couple of times a week.To prevent odor, make sure to wash around the ankles and between the toes with a wash cloth. Try Clean Clogic's Exfoliating Bath Gloves. Make sure that any time you exfoliate, or take off a layer of skin by using a foot file or walking barefoot on sand or concrete, you put a layer back on with an application of lotion or oil.Cut toe nails straight across the top. Do not cut into the sides! Make sure that the sides of and under the nail are cleaned out. This will help relieve the pressure that causes in-grown toenail pain.
As for the hands, squared-off may be a stronger shape for longer nails, but active hands are best with short nails, rounded for a more functional feel and feminine look." We use 95° Degrees and Sunny’s manicure files. "With the cuticles, you want to clean them off the nail rather than push them back. Wrap a finger in a towel and scoot around the edges of the nail and/or brush the cuticles gently with a nailbrush. If you are in water a lot or just too busy for polish to dry, try a buff for a shiny, no-hassle look. Polish tends to last only a few days on the natural nail."
Learn Beth’s tricks to making polish last.
"Use a very soft buffer to smooth the nail out. Try Creative Nail’s Girlfriend Buffer. A quick wipe of Acetone polish remover gets any remaining oils off the nail surface. Use a good base coat." We like Dazzle Dry's base coat for natural nails. "Use one coat of color instead of two. This works especially well with sheer colors. Make sure you use a great top coat and polish the tips of the nail to seal it all in. A fresh coat every couple of days will ensure you have at least a week's worth of polish wear. It’s better for the nail to add polish than to use polish remover. A drop of oil at the cuticle will protect the polish from hair or dirt until it dries. It will also moisturize the cuticle and surrounding area. If you don’t have great cuticle oil like OPI’s Avoplex, use olive oil."
Beth’s work has been seen in and on the covers of magazines such as Elle, Redbook, Esquire and Glamour. She has serviced Hollywood’s A-Listers including Scarlett Johansson, Sheryl Crow, Hilary Swank, Lindsay Lohan, Rosario Dawson and Jada Pinkett Smith.
BLOandGO:
 We caught up with former runway model turned entrepreneur, Laurie Coleman and asked this busy wife and mother what inspired her to create the newest, hottest beauty product on the market, the BLOandGO. "I did runway for years and there never seemed to be enough hair stylists to accommodate all the girls so I would often start drying my own hair by placing a coat hanger over the door and rigging up my dryer. I continued this ritual while traveling in hotel rooms and at home while getting ready to go out. Finally a friend encouraged me to pursue a product to eliminate the hanger and I came up with the BLOandGO."
Laurie believes that the BLOandGO is a great product that really serves a practical need. "I know this product works because I use it everyday. My daughter and friends use it everyday too. Drying your hair can be exhausting. With the BLOandGO, it is like having an extra hand to stand over you and dry your hair, freeing up your two hands to style. It allows you to recreate the salon experience of a blowout. With this product you can clip your wet hair into sections and starting with the under layers, you can start blowing out with a round brush for curls or a paddle brush for a straight look or whatever works for you. After a while, you will come up with your own techniques for using this amazing product", explains Laurie.
She laughs, "My sister on the other hand, flips on the BLOandGO in the morning while she is drinking her coffee, applying makeup and brushing her teeth. She just positions herself under the dryer and cuts down the time on her routine."
Laurie continues, "Women are juggling more things than ever before. We don’t all have the time nor the money to run to the salon for blowouts on a weekly basis. With the BLOandGO we are acknowledging that time is valuable and we are helping women everywhere to look great and to have more time!" www.BLOandGO.com
Men's Style:
 Catherine Sanchez is VP of Beverly Hills Shoe Corp, Pacific Shoe Corp, distributors of Bacco Bucci and Mezlan Shoes and accessories for men. We asked Catherine what shoes every man should have in his wardrobe. Here is what this woman in a "man's shoe world" had to say: For an office shoe Catherine recommends the new Mezlan men’s "Haley" in brown "It is light, soft, very comfortable and looks great with a suite or dress clothes." As a casual dress shoe, "what comes to mind is the calf leather sport Bacco Bucci "Simone" shoe. This shoe look awesome with a great pair of jeans." For black tie go with the Mezlan printed, embroided tuxedo shoe. "Prince". "This is super cool, I especially love this shoe. It’s a great formal, fresh look." Weekend lifestyle calls for the new "Zetterberg" California construction soft shoe by Bacco Bucci. "This shoe can be worn with or without socks and is perfect with a casual pair of trousers or short pants." " My favorite men's sneakers are by Emma Hope. I love the color selection," says Catherine
Styling Tips:
We asked Dewey Fanone, International Artistic Director, at Fi Hair to share some styling tips with us. We asked him how to get beautiful CSI: Miami's Boti Bliss' fab natural hair look.
"For Boti's hair type and naturally styled look, you'll want to start with a good hold-anything moose to help build body," instructs Dewie. Massage the moose into your hair, then give it a good power-dry at a medium wind, high heat. When the hair is 80% dry, divide the hair into two sections (top and bottom). Starting on the bottom, divide the hair into smaller, two-inch wide sections. With the same blow dryer setting, take our 43 mm Gretchen brush and run it through your hair, styling layers with a slight bend. You can do this by using a curved stroke through the hair, withdrawing the heat for a few seconds and slowly releasing the brush. When finished drying all the hair, simply apply a small amount of texturizing matte-finish paste in your hands and lightly scrunch the hair to encourage definition of the layers. Keep using your hands and fingers to shape the style from the inside out. www.fihair.com
Skin Care Tips:
(photo credit to: Kevin Hees)
 Adrienne Janic, star of TLC's OVERHAULIN' and Ford Supermodel, walks into a room and jaws drop, really, I have seen it happen! She is stunning and has the most beautiful skin! "No matter how many women are in the room, Adrienne stands out. Not only is she drop dead gorgeous but she exudes personality, warmth & kindness," says her publicist Anthony Turk. In our quest for skin like Adrienne's we caught up with Celebrity Health and Lifestyle Expert Michelle Harris, Host and Co-Producer of ALIVE & WELL WITH MICHELLE HARRIS and asked her for some skin care tips. Michelle is a fan of regular at home facials. She shares these five easy steps to a healthy, salon quality facial at home.
"The First Step is cleansing. Simply apply cleanser with a cotton pad beginning from the neck up toward the hairline. The cleansing process should remove all dirt, make-up and excess debris. I use Reviva Labs' Organic Cleansing Milk. This is an all natural cleansing milk that contains herbs such as sage that work as an astringent and lavender, chamomile and aloe to soothe with vegetable extracts that penetrate deeply to flush dirt from pores.
Next apply toner. Using a moistened cotton pad, apply the toner to the face with a circular motion. This will remove any leftover cleanser while stimulating the skin, improving skin tone and balancing the PH of the skin. Then blot dry.""Try Obagi’s Nu-Derm Toner (www.obagi.com).
"With our skin prepped we are ready to exfoliate. As we age, dead skin cells accumulate on the skin's surface. This can dull the skin and block pores. Exfoliation helps to remove the dried, hardened skin cells to give skin a fresher look. Try Reviva Labs’ Light Skin Peel. Using your fingers apply the product in a thin coat over the face and throat. Don't forget your neck. Do not touch the face while the peel is drying. This particular peel takes about 3 to 5 minutes to dry. When the peel is dry it will get a flaky consistency. With a clean, soft, dry cloth quickly rub off the peel and the dead skin. The drier the peel is the easier it will be to remove. Use a spray mist to take off any leftover debris. This will also help to hydrate the face.
Now, we are ready for our mask. I use Reviva Labs' Hawaiian Seaweed Beauty Mask. It is made from Hawaiian seaweed, so it actually brings nutrients to the skin in addition to increasing circulation. This mask goes on easily. Apply a light coat over the face, being careful to avoid the eye area. Once the face is covered, wait 10 to 15 minutes for the mask to dry and then remove it with a wet towel.
After a cleansing, toning, exfoliation and our nutrient mask we are ready for the last step in our facial, moisturizing. When choosing a moisturizer, there are many ingredients to look for that are beneficial to skin. Alpha Lipoic Acid and vitamin C ester combat aging by fighting free radicals. DMEA may firm, tighten and give skin a lifted look. Other things to look for in a skin care product include soy and aloe which will calm and soothe the skin.The best way to apply moisturizer is to start at the neck and work your way upwards. For the areas around the eyes apply with little pats starting at the outer corner of the eye, working your way in, and then apply to the lid."
Alive and Well With Michelle Harris can be seen on AmericanLife TV Network
(Check back soon for more tips & tricks)
|
