A professional skin care regime is one of the most important parts of maintaining your skin’s health. Your skin is not a smooth surface like a sheet of glass. On the contrary, your skin is more like a riverbed, full of little lumps, bumps, crevasses and holes. You can give these dermatological names such as fine lines, pores, sebaceous glands, etc., but at the end of the day the fact remains your skin is far from a flat, smooth surface.

Because of this and because your skin is a living, breathing part of your body and fulfils several major functions including temperature regulation, immune defence, protection from the external environment, etc., you will need to look after it if you wish to have it work at its optimal level and hope to have good, healthy skin into your late 70’s and beyond.

What about the type of products I should use for my skin care regime?

You should always choose natural skin care products as many commercially mass-produced skin care products utilise potentially toxic chemicals and highly modified ‘natural’ ingredients.

Wildcrafted Herbal Products hand makes a range of holistically-natural skin care products suitable for your particular skin type. These products are based on traditional naturopathic principles and utilize herbal extracts and essential oils to produce lasting effects.

Their products are designed to benefit your skin’s health for the long term and include only the best ingredients suitable for your specific skin type.

Daily Skin Care Regime

Cleansing your skin

Cleansing your skin is one of the most important steps if you want to maintain a healthy, vibrant and youthful looking skin.

As well as providing the basis for an advanced skin care regime, effective cleansing can actually improve the quality of our skin, enhancing its radiance and keeping it looking younger for longer.

Thorough cleansing is one of the most important steps of a complete skin care regime. Cleansing of your skin should be done morning and night to ensure the removal of surface impurities, make-up, and stale skin oils. When regularly performed cleansing will enhance the skin’s ability to breathe and maintain its other important functions.

One of the best ways to do this is to make cleansing your skin part of your daily skin care regime.

This is how you do it:

First, moisten your face with lukewarm water. Then apply a small amount of facial cleanser. Gently spread the product over your skin, using light, circular movements. At this stage, spend an extra minute massaging the product into your face to boost your skin’s circulation and help decongestion.

Secondly, be sure to be gentle, your skin is a delicate organ and needs to be treated with care and respect.

Lastly, rinse off the cleanser, using lukewarm water and pat your face dry.

If you are still using ordinary soap, STOP. You are seriously compromising the health of your skin. Throw it away and start using a quality cleanser.

Toning your skin

Toning is the second step in your daily skin care regime. These days, women often leave this step out and yet it is just as important as the cleansing of your skin or the moisturizing. It is a must include step. The one or two minutes it takes are worth every second if you desire to have healthy, vibrant skin with a minimum of lines and wrinkles. Don’t leave this step out.

You have just spent time cleaning your skin, ridding it of stale oils, makeup, dead skin cells and other impurities, now you have to tone your skin.

A quality cleanser may contain such ingredients as clay. This helps to remove dead skin cells and other impurities, but may not rinse off totally. This is why you need to use a quality toner.

Firstly, it removes every last bit of the cleanser such as the fine clay particles and other residues from the cleansing process.

Secondly it will close the skin’s pores to protect it from further loss of moisture, which invariably happens when cleansing your face.

Thirdly it provides nutrients and restores the pH balance of your skin.

Now that is worth spending a minute or two, isn’t it?

Moisturising your skin

This is the third part of your daily skin care regime and should also be done morning and night using a day crème in the morning and a night crème before retiring.

A quality moisturiser protects your facial skin from environmental damage, provides nutrients for the skin and prevents loss of moisture, thereby slowing down the aging process.

In addition, a moisturiser should help to maintain the acid mantle of your skin, which is part of your immune system and if the pH of your skin becomes too acidic or alkaline, the acid mantel is compromised.

Weekly Regime

To complete your skin care regime, you should set aside a few minutes once a week, preferably at the weekend to deeply cleanse and nourish your skin. Your weekly treats should include, the use of a Facial Mask and Exfoliation.

These treatments encourage cellular repair, step up collagen production and help strengthen, tone and firm up your skin.

Facial Clay Mask:

Using a clay mask will help to draw toxins from your skin, whilst moisturising and nourishing the skin at the same time. There are different clays that will work for specific skin types and choosing the right products containing the clay that is most suitable to your skin type is important. There are 3 basic clays: Green, Yellow and Red.

Exfoliation

Think of Exfoliation from this perspective. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, soothes the skin and improves its tone. Dead skin cells are the very top layer of your skin. Applying moisturiser to dead skin cells does not make sense, does it? So exfoliation, removes the dead skin cells, promotes blood circulation and helps to invigorate and prepare the skin to more easily absorb any moisturising product you apply.

Exfoliation also helps speed up the rate of cell turn over. Another word for exfoliation is scrubbing. Using a facial scrub at least once a week, makes your skin more receptive to creams and treatments. However care must be taken not to over exfoliate.

The aim is to remove any dead cells from the skins surface without disturbing the healthy cells beneath.

In conclusion, to follow a skin care regime is like taking out an insurance policy on the health and vitality of your skin. Can you afford not to follow a complete, daily skin care regime?

Danny Siegenthaler is a doctor of traditional Chinese medicine and together with his wife Susan, a medical herbalist and Aromatherapist, they have created Natural Skin Care Products by Wildcrafted Herbal Products to share their 40 years of combined expertise with you.

Join our Natural Skin Care Newsletter – it’s fun, free and Informative and you receive a free eBook on natural skin care.
© Wildcrafted Herbal Products 2004 - 2005

Anti-aging products have permeated the market place in the last several years. As we all age, our goal is to age gracefully and maintain the healthiest skin that we possibly can.

As we work to repair skin damage from years of living, such as wearing moisturizer with SPF 15 to prevent sun damage and achieving a healthy diet, we also want to improve skin nourishment. Skin nourishment is the only way to get and maintain better skin tone and complexion. Healthy skin is easily recognized by the clear, unblemished, rosy glow of the skin.

Skin nourishment needs vary from person to person, skin type to skin type. Although most natural anti-aging products do not contain harsh chemicals, we need to be pro-active and understand what natural ingredients are best for our skin, and choose our products accordingly.

A lot of anti-aging products are botanically based. What this means is that the skin products key ingredients are made from plants and herbal extracts, oils, fragrances and vitamins. Understanding what the individual botanical ingredients are meant to do for our skin is the first step in choosing the best natural skin care products for our age and skin type.

Different botanical extracts meet a variety of skin nutrition needs. Following is a botanical glossary of some commonly used botanical extracts that are found in today’s anti-aging products.

Astringents: Alfalfa, Citrus, Orange peel,Lemon, Ivy, Dandelion, Plantain Antibacterial: Dandelion, Eucalyptus Antioxidant: Grapefruit Anti-microbial: Honeysuckle, Thyme Aromatic: Lavender Anti-inflammatory: Mugwort, Mulberry, Pansy Emollient: Algae, Passionflower Fruit Extract Exfoliate: Apple, Green Tea, Sugar Cane Calms, Reduces Response to Irritation: Chamomile Cleans, Conditions: Rose Petal, Carrot, Ginseng, Lemongrass, Sage, Yarrow Moisturizes: Aloe Vera, Mugwart, Orchid, Passionflower Fruit, Wheat Germ 

Protects Skin: Wheat Germ, Alfalfa, Aloe Vera Reduces Oiliness, Refines Pores: Birch Leaf, Cucumber, Rosehips, Witch Hazel Removes Impurities: Cucumber, Watercress, Witch Hazel Tones, Stimulates, Rejuvenates: Cornflower, Lemongrass, Nettle, Watercress Smoothes, Soothes, Softens: Althaea, Irish Moss, Kelp, Sage, Nettle, Papaya, Rose Petal, Balm Mint, Clover, Kelp, Lavender, Licorice, Marjoram, Green Tea, Plantain, Yarrow

Astringent extracts will tighten up the skin and close up pores. This is done by causing contractions or shrinkages of the skin tissue and drying up pore secretions.

Antibacterial extracts contain ingredients that destroy or inhibit the growth of bacteria, particularly in the case of bacteria that cause blemishes.

Antioxidant extracts reduce the effects of free-radical damage. Free-radical damage can be caused by the presence of oxygen or any compound that contains an oxygen molecule (such as carbon monoxide, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide), sunlight, and pollution. Theoretically, when free-radical damage originates from natural environmental factors and fails to be cancelled out by antioxidant protection, then wrinkles appear.

Anti-microbial extracts destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, giving your skin an additional level of cleanliness.

Anti-inflammatory extracts reduces certain signs of inflammation, such as swelling, tenderness, pain, irritation, or redness.

Emollient extracts soothe and soften the skin by slowing the natural evaporation of water from the skin.

Extracts that assist in Exfoliation address many of the systemic causes of blemishes by systematically stripping off dead, scaly skin and exposing the full healthy glow of living, healthy skin cells.

Extracts that calm and soothe the skin contain proteins such as vitamin A, sugar, starch, vitamin B1, iron, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, and calcium. These proteins assist in cleansing pores; giving the skin a healthy glow and reducing response to irritations. Algae extracts are very popular for these types of skin care extracts.

Extracts that reduce oiliness, remove impurities and refine pores are gentle cleansers that remove oils, and impurities from the skin; thus allowing the pores to remain free and clean.

Extracts that rejuvenate and stimulate the skin act as agents to produce a temporary increase of cell activity to help restore the original health and glow.

Extracts that tone, soothe and soften skin contain anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that give us the toning and softening, and provide that wonderful soothing feeling.

As you shop for anti-aging products with a better understanding of what the botanical ingredients are meant to do for your skin, start slow. Some extracts can irritate sensitive skin, especially those that are for exfoliating and anti-oxidants. Too much of a good thing is too much. Test skin care products on your own skin for at least a week to allow time for your skin to respond.

I recommend that you purchase your anti-aging products from one company for consistency. This will help ensure that the ingredients in each product compliment each other, and not counter-act each others affects once they are applied to your skin.

I selected Arbonne as my supplier as they have botanically based anti-aging skin care products that are available for all types of skin care and skin care needs. After much research I specifically selected the Arbonne line of products because of the benefits they provide.

Botanically based, Arbonne anti-aging skin care products are available at http://www.ultimatehealthcare.myarbonne.com These skin care products compliment each other, and are available for all types of skin, all ages of skin, and skin nutrition requirements. And, if you go there right now, I have a free special waiting for you.

Anti-aging products have permeated the market place in the last several years. As we all age, our goal is to age gracefully and maintain the healthiest skin that we possibly can.

As we work to repair skin damage from years of living, skin nourishment needs vary from person to person, skin type to skin type. Although most natural anti-aging products do not contain harsh chemicals, we need to be pro-active and understand what natural ingredients are best for our skin, and choose our products accordingly.

A lot of anti-aging products contain botanical oils. What this means is that the skin products key ingredients are made from plants and herbal extracts, oils, fragrances and vitamins. Understanding what the individual botanical oils are meant to do for our skin is key to choosing the best natural skin care products for our age and skin type.

Different botanical oils meet a variety of skin nutrition needs. Following is a basic botanical glossary of some commonly used botanical oils that are found in today’s anti-aging products.

Anti-bacterial: eucalyptus,

Anti-inflammatory: Evening Primrose, Matricaria,

Anti-irritants: Matricaria

Astringent: Baby oil, Tea tree

Conditioner: Evening Primrose,

Emollients, Skin Softeners, Smoothes, Apricot, Avocado, Camellia, Coconut, Corn, Evening Primrose, Grape Seed, Hazelnut, Joyoba, Kukui Nut, Macadamia Nut, Olive , Safflower , Soybean oil, Sunflower, Sweet Almond, Wheat germ

Essential Oil: Matricaria

Lubricant: Coconut, corn, peanut, sweet almond

Moisturizes: Hazelnut, Jojoba, Matricaria, Wheat germ

Nutrient: Sesame Oil

Reduces Oiliness, Refines pores: Camphor,

Stimulates, rejuvenates: Rosemary Oil, Peppermint, Tea tree

Antibacterial extracts contain ingredients that destroy or inhibit the growth of bacteria, particularly in the case of bacteria that cause blemishes.

Anti-inflammatory extracts reduces certain signs of inflammation, such as swelling, tenderness, pain, irritation, or redness.

Anti-irritant oils have antiseptic, sedative, analgesic, anti-inflammatory properties for the skin.

Conditioning oils are a natural source of fatty acids and are used to promote smooth skin.

Emollients, smoothes, softens, Emollient oils soothe and soften the skin by slowing the natural evaporation of water from the skin. Extracts that smoothe and soften the skin contain proteins such as vitamin A, sugar, starch, vitamin B1, iron, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, and calcium. These proteins assist in cleansing pores; giving the skin a healthy glow and reducing response to irritations.

Essential oils maintain the odorous principles of the plant material from which they are derived. Aromatherapy is the use of pure essential oils to enhance physical or mental well being. Essential oils are distilled plant essences that may be used to make ourselves feel better. Aromatherapy is the process of diffusing pure essential oils, and thus plant essences, which then is absorbed through inhalation and our sense of smell. For skin, this particular oil has antiseptic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Lubricating oils are used to relieve skin itch and dryness. All skin types can benefit from lubricating oils as they are usually high in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and contain many naturally occurring Vitamins such as A, B1, B2, B6 and Vitamin E.

Moisturizing oils are used to soothe sunburn, and condition the skin. Moisturizing oils are an excellent organic way to maintain healthy skin without clogging pores.

Nutrient oils soften, hydrate and rejuvenate the skin, and are effective on every area of the body.

Oils that reduce oiliness, remove impurities and refine pores are gentle cleansers that remove oils, and impurities from the skin; thus allowing the pores to remain free and clean

Rejuvenating and stimulating oils act as agents to produce a temporary increase of cell activity to help restore the original health and glow.

As you shop for anti-aging products with a better understanding of what the botanical ingredients are meant to do for your skin, remember to make sure that your product is formulated without mineral oil. Mineral oil is occlusive oil that can interfere with skin functions as well as advanced delivery systems. To fully understand the effects that mineral oil products may have on your skin, try this test at home: take a soda cracker and immerse it in mineral oil for 10 minutes. The cracker will be leathered and hardened, just like our skin.

Botanically based products differ from company to company. The information provided by each company will differ based on what the focus is for the product. Most botanical oils can be used for multiple purposes. Botanicals are also currently not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so care must be taken when entering into this arena. Skin reactions will vary from skin type to skin type, age of the skin, current skin issues, etc. Please be cautious when trying new botanical products and use small amounts until you are sure how your skin will react.

I recommend that you purchase your anti-aging products from one company for consistency. This will help ensure that the ingredients in each product compliment each other, and not counter-act each others affects once they are applied to your skin.

All these years we have kind of taken herbs for granted, and have not recognized the huge abilities they have. People a couple of centuries ago were more aware of what herbs can do. I became fascinated with the herbal side of things and wanted to learn more. As I started to research with experts in the field, I wanted to share the knowledge. I’m just beginning my journey, and will continue to share.

Traditionally lives have been divided into phases of youth, middle age and old age. As these are getting longer according to the Promise the last part is swiftly becoming the phase with the longest number of years. No wonder focus on anti-aging has reached massive portion.

When lives were assigned 70 years there was little concern of spending the last half dozen watching sunsets and maybe even receiving the honor of giving speeches to more youthful but bored listeners.

With the possibility of an additional 50 some quality thought must be assigned to just how these could be spent. Anti-aging is more relevant now than ever across a life.

The original life season is being extended with a planned purpose. Those who choose to ensure that the end will be better than the beginning will already have an awareness of the new job ahead but maybe not the level of commitment.

There will be an inbuilt amount of God given anti-aging within the tasks and assignments. Our contribution to these should include a basically simple and healthy diet with exercise and fresh air but more significance will come from the attached enthusiasm, passion and commitment. In the current era the former issues have been given priority with little emphasis on the fire from the heart.

Copyright 2006 Patricia Little

Patricia Little is a writer and the editor of a re-released classic ebook- it will show you how to get the best of health and wealth out of all your future years. For more go to ==> http://www.Young-at-Sixty.com

Remarkable "How I Became Young at Sixty" brings renewed vigor to your body, and hope to your mind. You Can Get your Free ebook "How I Became Young at Sixty" by going to http://www.Young-at-Sixty.com/get-your-f-r-e-e-ebook.htm

The state of our hair very often reflects the state of our health. Long, silky, healthy hair can radiate beauty, fitness and youth!

Hair extensions are becoming an increasingly popular way of instantly getting that long beautiful hair some of us can only dream of! Growing your hair long takes 5-6 years at an average of 1 cm per month! Hair extensions can give you around 21 inches of thick hair in just a few hours!

There are two main types of hair extensions. Hair extensions can be made out of synthetic fibers and are referred to as synthetic hair extensions or out of human hair and referred to as human hair extensions. Human hair extensions tend to be the preferred kind of hair extensions because they look and feel a lot more natural then the synthetic kind. Also, heat cannot be applied to most synthetic fibers causing some inconvenience if a person needs to use some hair appliances. The downside of human hair extensions is that are usually much more expensive then the synthetic ones! Notwithstanding, there is no fixed price for human hair extensions because this differs according to the quality, style and length of extensions required. Hair extensions that are untreated and uncolored usually cost more because they are more durable!

A change of hairstyle is often enough to make you look more sophisticated, younger or simply different. Hair weaves are a good idea for those who fancy some braids, dreadlocks or simply a fuller head of hair and a different look! Hair weaves are another form of hair extensions and can also be made out of synthetic or natural hair. There are three types of hair weaves:

(1)Bonded Hair Weave - This is the least durable kind of hair weave and only lasts 1 month until it would need to be replaced. This kind of hair weave gets glued to the scalp

(2)Braided Hair Weave - This is a 2 step procedure. The natural hair is braided along the center of the scalp (under the hair) and then the hair weave gets sown into the braids. This type of hair weave normally lasts around 2 months.

(3)Fusion Hair Weave - This is the most lasting kind of hair weave, since it needs be changed every 3 months. This procedure involves waxing the hair weave to the natural hair.

Both hair extensions and hair weaves require considerable maintenance. The hair need to be treated with gentle respect and cleaned and moisturized daily with a good conditioner. Remember, that while natural hair gets the necessary oils and moisture from your scalp, hair extensions and hair weaves don’t! Also, depending on the style and procedure for your hair extensions/hair weaves, you might also have to visit the hairdresser every 6 weeks to fix your hair extensions due to your natural hair re growth.

Whichever kind of hair extension you choose, always consult your hair specialist for advice, and pick the safest procedure. Finally, enjoy your beautiful hair!

Natalie Aranda is a freelance write. She writes about family, love, relationship, hairstyles, and beauty. She has enjoyed the convenience of hair extensions to create instant beautiful hair weaves.

Sunless tanning is growing in popularity and is one that health-conscious people as well as doctors can agree on. Your “fake” tan or tan in a bottle can save your life. You are avoiding skin cancer from harmful UV rays. You will also look better as you age because your sunless tan requires no exposure to UV rays which are known to accelerate wrinkles and aging.

Sunless tanning products are designed to be easy to apply although it may sometimes be a little time-consuming. If you do it regularly, you will find that it gets faster and easier. The tan lasts for about 8 or 9 days with most porducts, and you will have to reapply to maintain a tan. While it may seem like a lot of trouble, it is well worth it to protect your skin and your health. If a tan is really that important to you but you don’t want to increase your risk of sun damage, then you should not mind taking the extra time to apply sunless tanners.

If you haven’t tried sunless tanning lotions recently, you may not know how improved and advanced they have become. You no longer have to worry about turning yourself orange or looking like you need to bathe. Spotty, splotchy and orange sunless tanners are a thing of the past. Sunless tanners take about 3 to 4 hours to start developing and will reach peak coloration 24 hours after application. You get a great golden tan that appears natural as well. If you do use the tanning bed occasionally, you can use the sunless tanning products to maintain that tan so you spend less time in the damaging rays.

Sunless tanning is a great option for people who cannot tan in traditional sun UV rays. For example, people with fair skin, freckles, red hair or very light blonde hair can have difficulty tanning in natural sunlight. You should also avoid it if you have had sun damage in the past, a family history of skin cancer, are taking medications that increase your sensitivity to the sun and for several other reasons. Sunless tanners let these people get the look they want with no risk to their health.

The most important benefits to sunless tanning are the health benefits. It is a fact that exposure to UV rays causes skin cancer and creates signs of early aging with wrinkles and sun spots. Most people who are concerned with their looks enough to want a great tan will also be concerned about not getting early wrinkles and other signs of aging. Sunless tanning products are a great alternative to tanning beds and can help to maintain the look of a a healthy tanned appearance year-round without the associated risks and aging effects.

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S.A. Smith is a freelance writer, contributor, and editor of the Tanning Skin Care information portal which reports on the latest sun tanning trends, beachwear, lotions, skincare and healthier sunless tanning alternatives.

Anti-aging does require basic levels of common sense. Certain standards are essential but a declining level and list of tasks attached to household cleanliness and care must not be embraced simply because it’s expected and accepted as the years progress.

By the time a certain age or season is reached many earlier interests lose fire, drive and focus. To the younger observer this could be interpreted as the beginnings of old age in a parent, a neighbor or a friend.

To the recipient a blindness or excuse seems to blanket the mind and even if in good health not all reminders are strong enough to be observed.

Not as many old clothes hit the bins, the garden starts to look wild, even the car may not leave the garage as often with a fresh shine.

The beginnings of all this are planted as very subtle thoughts of reduced importance which will grow into visual signals observed by family and neighbors that a change has taken place place. This must be avoided at all costs.

A daily schedule is essential, even a weekly completion of household and personal tasks is important but the primary focus whatever this is should be given superior recognition. There’s nothing wrong with this coming from the kitchen, the garden, the car or the head, providing this is strong , sound, healthy and happy.

Copyright 2006 Patricia Little

Patricia Little is a writer and the editor of a re-released classic ebook- it will show you how to get the best of health and wealth out of all your future years. For more go to ==> http://www.Young-at-Sixty.com

Remarkable "How I Became Young at Sixty" brings renewed vigor to your body, and hope to your mind. You Can Get your Free ebook "How I Became Young at Sixty" by going to http://www.Young-at-Sixty.com/get-your-f-r-e-e-ebook.htm

Your Most Important Cosmetic? Sunblock by a mile!

Are you a skin care junkie? Is your bathroom closet overflowing with bottles and jars? Does the content of these bottles and jars actually do anything to improve your skin?

My guess is "sometimes". We all get seduced by promises of younger looking skin or banish wrinkles overnight. But the sad fact is a lot of the pretty looking products out there do not do what they promise and the wrinkles, acne, broken veins or whatever ails you is still there the next morning.

There is one cosmetic that stands head and shoulders above the rest - Sunblock.

Sunblock is the best preventative of aging skin you can buy in a bottle. It won’t make you look younger in a few applications, you need to use it regularly - like every day - but over time it will make a tremendous difference to the appearance of your skin.

Sunblock can be found as lotion, gel, roll on, or spray. If you’re on a tight budget you can usually buy a bottle for just a few dollars from a supermarket or drugstore. Test it on an inconspicuous part of you first in case you have an allergy to it! This is more important for the cheaper brands.

Use sunblock even if its cloudy outside. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate clouds by up to 80%, yes even if its raining. If you’re driving, UV rays can penetrate glass, they can also be reflected off glass or water.

And don’t just use sunblock on your face. Put it on your hands, feet, arms or whatever bits of you that are not covered up. This is not just for appearances, sunblock can prevent potentially fatal skin cancers and melanomas from developing.

Even if you have never used sunblock and you’ve already developed premature aging, its not too late! Regular use of sunblock and staying out of the sun can actually reverse some of the damage.

Make sure you use a sunblock which has a sun protection factor (SPF) of over 15 and apply it fairly generously for best results. Its also best to apply at least 20 minutes before venturing out.

Remember - prevention is better than cure!

Like to have better looking skin? http://www.holistic-facial-skin-care.com will give you detailed information on all facets of skin care. The author, Wendy Owen has had a lifetime interest in general and alternative health and skin care.

As you glance across virtually every print medium such as newspapers, magazines and catalogs, there seems to be one thing in common as far as hair cut styles is concerned. The long hair cut style is everywhere. So what are you supposed to do if you don’t have long hair and you really want the long hair cut style? Well, let’s see, human hair grows about ½” per month, so if your hair is at ear level, that would be almost two years to wait for that ‘hair cascading down your back’ look. And of course by the time you grow your hair out, the short hair cut style will be in.

“Don’t limit yourself to just adding length to your hair. Hair extensions offer a simple solution to fine hair and can add a little pizzazz to thick, curly or wavy hair in any color or style.”

Rod Sickler
Owner
Images by Rod & Company
Rantoul, Illinois

In today’s society, two-year waits are OUT and immediate results are IN. The beauty industry recognized the demand for instant long natural looking hair and thus today’s hottest trend was born—Human Hair Extensions. Hair extensions are not only for lengthening your hair, according to Rod Sickler, owner of Images by Rod & Company and Sexy Hair Concepts Artistic Team Member.

“Any hair type can support hair extensions”, says Sickler. Sickler makes hair extensions easy by creating cutting-edge hair styles for his clients. Some examples include sleek and straight hair, vivacious ringlets and striking color enhancements with the use of different highlighted and lowlighted hair extensions. He describes the hair extension process as very painstaking and challenging as it requires many hours and various techniques to complete. The rewards are many as he is able to re-invent hair, tweak techniques and fulfill his clients’ needs.

One of Sicklers’ hair extension clients, Holly Leach of Rantoul, Illinois, says she wanted to get hair extensions because she was ready for a change and wanted Sickler to re-invent her look by adding thickness and length to her thinning hair with European Hair Extensions. She was absolutely amazed at the results. “I came into the salon (Images by Rod & Company) looking one way, and came out looking totally different”, says, Leach. Leach has had her hair extensions for about 5 months now, with absolutely no issues and no complaints. She maintains the hair extensions with non-soy based conditioning shampoo and moisturizers from Sexy Hair Concepts, and uses hair dryers and curling irons with no problems. Leach concludes,”Hair Extensions are worth the time and money, when you can get fabulous-looking long hair instantly”.

"Hair extensions are a huge self-esteem booster because they give women the opportunity to get the long hair style look without the wait" Guinevere Werr

Manager, The Spa East Bank Club, Chicago, Ill

Some women are concerned or have heard that hair extensions can cause damage to their natural hair, or even loss of hair. Guinevere Werr, Manager of The Spa at the East Bank Club in Chicago, Ill, says the fusion application method Sickler uses from So.Cap., an Italian company, does not create any damage to the natural hair since it is applied ¼” from the scalp and not directly on the scalp. Werr assisted Sickler with applying brown hair extensions with some highlight extensions to her sisters’ hair. She adds that Sicklers hair extension clients have lost almost no hair extensions and have had very little maintenance issues.

So where do you start if you are thinking of getting hair extensions? You must research the different types of hair used for hair extensions, the different types of attachment methods, the hair stylists’ education and training, any maintenance schedules and of course the cost.

There are a lot of different types of hair that are used for hair extensions. There is human hair and synthetic hair. Synthetic hair is used to add the high fashion colors, such as pinks and blues. Generally speaking, if you are going for the natural, it grew out of my head, look you should go with human hair. Human hair comes in many different textures and grades. The human hair must be strong and healthy to produce extensions that will last and wear without tangling or drying. European human hair is well- known as quality human hair used for extensions.

There are three basic techniques to attach the hair. They are fusion or strand by strand, weaving and bonding. There are many variations to these techniques and they are sometimes called by different names.

Fusion/strand by strand: This process is done strand by strand in small sections using heated adhesive sticks or glue specifically made for hair extensions. Extension hair is added directly to your own hair. Sickler uses the fusion method from the Italian company So.Cap. Hair is attached about ¼ “from your scalp and looks totally natural. Sickler comments, “No one can visually see that you have hair extensions. It’s up to you if you want everyone to know”.

Weaving is a process where a corn row or track is created around the head and close to the scalp. Extension hair is sewn on the tracks. Your own hair lies over the tracks for a natural look. Bonding is a process where bonding glue is applied onto the weft of the extension hair and then applied at the root of your hair. A weft is horizontal hair strands attached together at the top of vertically flowing hair strands. Wefts can be machine-made or handmade.

There are some disadvantages to each of these methods. Sometimes if the hair extension application method is not done properly, the hair extensions will simply fall out, or cause damage to your natural hair. Also, with additional pressure to your scalp from the weight of the heavy extensions, there could be some thinning of your natural hair and/or headaches as you adapt to the new weight. There have been some reports of allergies to the chemicals that are used. You should discuss the disadvantages of hair extensions thoroughly with your hair stylist so that there are no surprises.

The hair extension training and education your hair stylist has received is very important to the success of their work. Sickler received his hair extension training from renowned expert, Joseph Accola, and he keeps up-do-date on techniques by attending beauty shows across Europe where hair extensions are more popular than in the U.S. “Hair extension education and training are paramount to successful hair extensions for any hair stylist”, says Sickler. If you are looking for a hair stylist to do hair extensions and they don’t have the proper training, you could be very disappointed with the results.

After you have your hair extensions in place, you will need to schedule regular maintenance visits to check your extensions. How often you need to go back will depend on the type of hair and the method of attachment that was used. As your hair grows out, some of the hair extensions will need to be removed and replaced or touched up.

On a day-to-day basis you should treat your human hair extensions as you would long hair. Brush, shampoo, condition and moisturize on a regular basis. Some hair stylists will recommend specific high-quality hair care products to use with your extensions. You can also use hair dryers, flat irons, curling irons on most types of human hair extensions. Color treatments can be done on the hair extensions, but you should consult with your hair stylist before considering this. Monthly color touch-ups to your roots will not be a problem, as the hair extensions will not be touched.

Although it doesn’t hurt physically to get hair extensions, it may hurt you financially. There really is no way around this factor. To get good hair extensions on your whole head, you will need quality human hair, an experienced hair stylist, at least one assistant and about 6-8 hours of time. The ticket price can vary from $150-$2000 depending on what you are having done. Adding a few highlights or lowlight hair extensions can be quite less as the time and amount of hair needed is less.

In short, here are ten tips to follow after you have decided you want to get hair extensions and have selected a beauty salon. To find beauty salons that do hair extensions, you can look in the yellow pages or search online. The beauty salon directory at www.hairresources.com will allow you to search for ‘hair extensions in your City, State.

1.After selecting a salon, schedule an initial consultation to discuss what you would like to have done and any concerns that you have. 2. Ask about what hair extension experience your hair stylist has and where they received their training.

3. Make sure the hair stylist listens and understands your needs and concerns. Does he/she communicate well with you?

4. The hair stylist should ask you about your lifestyle, health, hobbies and your normal hair routine

5. An analysis of your scalp and hair should be done at the initial consultation to make sure your hair is in a condition for successful hair extensions.

6. Ask to see before and after photos of hair extension clients

7. Ask for references and be sure to call them

8. Ask how often the average client needs to replace the hair. This is very important for anticipating future costs

9. Get a written estimate for your hair extensions with an itemized list of the services required to achieve your new look

10.Get a written maintenance plan. Plan should include recommendations for products, grooming tools, follow-up appointments and any special instructions.

Hair extensions have many advantages and several disadvantages that should be addressed, but if you want to create an instant long hair style, human hair extensions are the way to go

Perriann Rodriguez is the founder of http://www.hairresources.com and http://www.hairresources.net She is listed in the 2004 Who’s Who of Business and Marketing Professionals and U.S. Registry of American Writers. She is the author of the Ebook: 2005’s Most Popular Hair Extensions, available at http://www.hairresources.net, and over 100 feature articles.

If you’re like many women you are confused about how to choose the proper skin care. Or maybe you have some knowledge of what is available but you are not sure what is a good choice for you. Cosmetics come in many forms and deciding which is good for you is often a matter of personal taste. However, in order to make a good decision here is some basic information that you should know.

Cleansers: Are used to cleanse the skin of impurities and restore it to its natural oil balance.

Types of Cleansers

Soap: Almost everyone uses it. If you have dry or oily skin be sure your soap is helping correct the problem. Medicated soaps are meant for acne and problem skin, hypoallergenic soaps are meant for sensitive skin and there are drying soaps for oily skin and oily soaps for dry skin. If you have problem skin it is best to see a dermatologist.

Liquid Cleansers: Are made for all types of skin. A good cleanser goes deep into the pores to loosen and lift excess oil and makeup.

Creams: Are used for dry skin

Pad Cleansers: Are thick wad of absorbent material and are good for touch ups throughout the day.

Grains: Are coarse cleansers that are used for oily skin

Refreshers: Are used to complete the cleansing process. They help tone; sooth and rehydrate the skin keep complexions clear and clean.

Types of Refreshers:

Astringents: Are meant for oily and normal skin types. They usually have alcohol as an ingredient that will stimulate the complexion and close the pores. This is not a product to use on dry skin.

Toners: Are mild refreshers and are meant for normal and dry skin.

Fresheners: Are recommended for dry, sensitive or problem skin.

Moisturizers: Replenishes moisture and nourishes the skin.

Types of Moisturizers:

Moisturizers for normal skin: Helps maintain the moisture in normal skin.

Moisturizers for dry skin: Helps restore skin’s natural moisture balance.

Oil Control Moisturizers: Help control excess oil and prevent blemishes

Emollients: Are rich creams suited for extra dry skin that replenishes the natural supply of the skin’s oil. This moisturizing cream forms a protective shield that minimizes moisture evaporation and allows increased hydration of dry areas.

Masks: Exfoliates dead surface cells as it hydrates and moisturizes the skin.

Types of Masks:

Facial Masks for normal to dry skin: Help relax facial muscles and remove dry flaky skin.

Facial Masks for oily skin: Refines skin’s texture and deep cleans to help control surface sebum.

Pore Packs: Are designed to eliminate blackheads and reduce blemishes. Mostly used for oily skin.

Foundation Protection: Foundation protects the skin by keeping moisture in and dirt out with the added benefit of a flawless finish. This is a step that some women skip because they don’t quit know how to apply it and are not getting the right look. A couple of suggestions: make sure you have the type that is compatible with your complexion, test the color on your jaw line and it should be the same color as your complexion and make sure you have exfoliated (if not the foundation will show up as flaky).

Types of Foundation:

Full Coverage: used for normal to dry skin for extra hydration.

Medium Coverage: used for normal to oily skin.

Whatever your skin type take care of it by keeping it clean. Cleanse, tone and moisturize every morning and every night. Irregular or improper cleansing causes skin problems and makeup that is left on the skin will dull the skin’s surface; while oil and dead skin cells will clog the pores and cause blackheads.

Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.